How Does Heavy Rain Cause Flooding Inside My Milton House?

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

Inspect and clean rain gutters frequently to help prevent water damage to your home.

No Matter How the Flood Waters Invaded Your Milton Home, SERVPRO Has the Crews and Equipment to Clean Up and Dry Out the Mess 

Flooding is a problem that can strike nearly every home, regardless of its proximity to a waterway, pond, or lake. Torrential rainfall can and does find its way inside many Milton dwellings, plunging the lower levels into disarray and exposing building materials and contents to the risks of deterioration and secondary damage like mold. 

What Are the Ways Rain Water Turns into Flood Water in Milton? 

Roofs and Gutters

SERVPRO assessors often start at the top of your dwelling, where the rain lands first as it falls from the sky. Inadequate or poorly maintained roof gutters and drainage systems cause a significant percentage of the flood damage seen in Milton. Aging or missing gutters, clogged drain spouts, and storm-damaged roofs can admit substantial quantities of water into a home through the ground and seepage through the siding. 

How Do Defective or Damaged Gutters Cause Milton Flooding? 

The intersection of the roofline with the gutter system should be designed to move rain off the structure, with the fluids deposited far enough away from the house to flow into the ground harmlessly. Gutters attach below the edge of the shingles, carrying water along with a series of channels to downspouts connected at a 90-degree angle. The downspouts should drain the water to ground level and continue through extensions to flow at least 10 feet away from the foundation. If any of these parts of the design fail, the following can occur: 

Gutter Issues 

Missing gutters -- When your home does not have gutters, the rain falls directly down to the ground immediately adjacent to your foundation. The water pounding in a narrow strip erodes the soil near your house. Water begins to pool and can seep through cracks in the basement walls, flooding your lowest level. 

Improperly hung gutters -- If gutters are not canted or tilted appropriately toward the nearest downspout, the water can build up in the trough and eventually splash over. Again, any water puddles too close to the foundation can flow directly into your basement. 

Clogged gutters -- Water is trapped when gutters are full of leaves, sticks, and debris from the roof. It then pours over the edge to the surface next to your house and combines with the ground moisture. The resulting mixture can soon creep into your lower levels. 

Downspout Issues 

Missing downspouts -- Sometimes downspouts for your house are missing, or connections are corroded or otherwise unfastened. Rain flows from the roof or gutters down the side of the house that collects next to your foundation. Wet goes to dry, and the nearest dry space, unfortunately, is inside your home. 

Plugged downspouts -- Similar to clogged gutters, downspouts full of debris dam the water, causing it to flood into your home after it floods down the siding. 

Overwhelmed downspouts -- If a downspout drains more than 32 feet of gutter, it is likely to back up, sending rainwater directly to the ground. The next stop might be through a basement window or the semi-porous concrete or block construction of your foundation. 

Can Flooding Become Worse Depending on How You Landscape Around Your Milton Home?  

The ground next to your house’s foundation needs to slope away from your home. If not, water that falls directly down because of gutter or downspout issues can head inside to cause flood damage. Another common problem happens when groundwater percolates closer to the house after the surrounding ground becomes saturated. When rains in Milton repeatedly fall over hours or days, the soggy ground can force excess water to follow the slope towards and into your basement. 

Overland Flooding 

A variety of flash flooding and overland flooding can occur when a tremendous amount of rainwater falls in a short period. This type of flooding spreads like a fast-moving wave across your yard or over your driveway or sidewalks. Cracked or open windows, and walk-out doors, including garage doors, can let the water cascade inside. 

What Is the Answer to Flood Damage in Milton from Heavy Rains? 

Our highly-qualified team of managers and technicians do not discriminate, regardless of the source of the flooding in Milton. We assess the damage and then prepare a plan using industry best practices to extract and lawfully dispose of the floodwater, clean and disinfect affected surfaces, and dry out all wet spaces.   

Why worry about the cause of flooding in your house? SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties is available 24/7 to schedule a consultation at (845) 791-7647. 

Responding to Fire Damage When Your Milton Home Is Affected

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Explore your options with SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties.

Timely Fire Restoration by SERVPRO Helps Milton Homes

When a fire breaks out, notifying emergency services and evacuating from the building are crucial early stage actions since they help ensure timely containment and limit the chances of injury. Have you ever thought of the priority actions once the fire in your Milton home is contained? Fire damage can worsen even after the flames and embers die down.

The fire extinguished does not mean another cannot break out at your Milton home. The heat radiating from the flames reaches many house areas, leaving materials crisp, dry, and ready to ignite. Flames and heat can also interfere with some materials, such as compromising the insulation of electric cables and increasing the risk of shorts. SERVPRO technicians inspect the home and take actions such as stripping off the electrical to minimize the chances of a new fire. 

Fire inspection involves:

• Opening up concealed areas like walls
• Checking char depth
• Checking moisture levels in materials

The fire might only affect a section of your property, leaving the rest intact. However, smoke travels further and easily finds a way into wall cavities and other concealed areas. If the restoration done does not address these areas, the house might emit a smoky odor for a long time. Our SERVPRO technicians lift drywall panels and inspect insulation to determine whether to replace it.

Structural Stability After Fires

As the flames consume structural materials, they compromise their structural integrity increasing the chances of collapse. Injuries from collapsing ceilings can halt the restoration process. Our SERVPRO technicians prioritize structural inspection to ensure safety when working or using heavy equipment on the property. Checking the char depth, especially in frames and other solid materials, helps. 

Moisture is another crucial issue to address in the aftermath of fire since it creates many problems. Our SERVPRO teams have advanced resources for moisture inspection and removal. Penetrative and non penetrative moisture meters help with assessment, while air movers and dehumidifiers help with drying.

Moisture affects fire restoration because it:

• Sets residues
• Aggravates odors
• Can trigger mold

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties has what it takes to help you respond appropriately to fire damage making it "Like it never even happened." You can reach us at (845) 791-7647.

We Act Fast In Milton After A Flood

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Drying is a necessity when a property is hit by flood damage. This unit can dry out a 100,000 square foot building.

Actions That May Be Necessary To Deal with Flood Damage Cases in Milton

When your Milton property floods, it may require several restoration steps, apart from extracting water and cleaning soiled surfaces to reestablish normal conditions. These steps require advanced skills or sophisticated equipment for safer and faster completion.

Sanitizing the Property

One effect a flood damage incident in Milton can have is leaving your property contaminated heavily. Some contaminants involved include biohazards such as sewage, bacteria, and hazardous chemicals. Simple cleaning procedures cannot remove these contaminants effectively. Our SERVPRO technicians combine different chemical agents, including antimicrobial agents, disinfectants, and sanitizers, to clean the affected areas to sanitary levels. We also apply regular cleaning agents to remove all soils and stains, leaving your property looking clean.

Removing and Replacing Floor Materials

When the floodwater breaches your property, it collects on the floor. Therefore, it mainly affects floor materials, especially if they are porous types such as carpets and pads. Cleaning cannot remove all traces of soiling and contaminants from such materials. Our SERVPRO technicians help remove and dispose of porous floor materials. We help with the installation of new floor coverings too.

Repairing or Replacing Subfloors

Floodwaters easily penetrate beyond the floor surface, affecting subfloors. Subfloor materials such as OSB, Oriented Strand Board, and Plywood can be profoundly affected by such intrusion. Our SERVPRO technicians help with repairs or replacement of subfloors as part of the restoration process preventing long-term problems.

Deodorizing

It is common for property to develop a bad smell after a flood damage incident. The smell can be from the soils, especially if the flooding involves raw sewage. Bad smells can also develop from microbial growth processes. Our team takes steps to address any foul odors that develop. We mix water-based deodorizers with the cleaning solutions to break down any bad smells in the areas we clean. We also use specialized equipment such as ULV foggers, which atomize deodorizers, allowing them to pair with odor molecules hidden deep in materials.

Different challenges can arise when property floods. Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 to help manage an incident “Like it never even happened.”

How Can Water Removal Happen in a Basement with a Broken Sump Pump?

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Sometimes sump pumps can fail or the water damage is too much for them to be able to handle. Contact SERVPRO for efficient water removal efforts.

SERVPRO Has Advanced Water Extraction Equipment to Clean Up Water Loss in a Milton Basement 

If your Milton basement has water damage, you are not alone. Nearly 98% of basements receive water loss of some type during their service life. A broken sump pump is a common occurrence that can lead to a rapid backup of water and the need for fast removal because water degrades rapidly. If it has been standing longer than 48 hours, it requires handling as a category three biohazard, increasing the potential for more significant loss.

Why Does Water Damage Occur in a Basement?

The need for fast water removal in a Milton basement can happen due to any of the following common scenarios:

• Flash flooding
• Grade on the property directing water towards the home rather than away from it
• Broken pipes or supply lines
• Hot water tank failure
• Washing machine malfunctions in basement laundry rooms
• Poor drainage by the gutter system

Once it occurs, many basements have sump pumps that take care of the water. However, when the pump does not function properly, the amount of water can collect rapidly. 

What Should I Do First When My Basement has Water Damage?

If it is safe to do so, remove items from the basement floor to a higher place away from the water, or altogether remove it from the basement. In cases where entering is unsafe due to slip and fall accidents or the danger of shock, let the SERVPRO crew chief know upon arrival of any essential items that need removal. The techs will make it a priority to obtain those things for you. Large items that cannot get moved out, such as washing machines and dryers, can get placed on blocks to get them up and out of the water.

Water Extraction Methods in Basements

Since most basements have a concrete slab floor, floor coverings often get limited to floating floors and glue-down tile and carpet. None of these react well to extended exposure to water in Milton and usually require removal to dry the substrate underneath. The techs always inspect any removed flooring for the potential for cleaning, drying, and reinstallation to save the homeowner the cost of replacement. 

The water removal in a Milton basement goes rapidly as SERVPRO deploys multiple team members at the same time to make the initial extraction phase of mitigation as thorough as possible. Because they pull up embedded moisture, this assists in lessening the drying time needed. Commonly seen equipment is:

• Portable pumps that allow the techs to race around the basement
• Submersible pumps in cases where the water is more significant than two inches in depth
• Hand tools such as squeegees and mops 

Special Considerations for Brick, Concrete, and Masonry

Because brick and concrete have porous elements, they can be difficult to dry completely without professional-grade equipment. The technicians have a large selection of equipment to ensure that the basement gets dried and the interior humidity is lowered rapidly. This action is crucial in inhibiting the germination of mold spores, which can lead to broader issues. 

Determining the Basement is Dry

SERVPRO techs never rely on visuals to ascertain if a structure is dry. They take air moisture readings before and during the drying phase of mitigation. These readings get monitored carefully to ensure that drying goals for optimum air quality get attained.

What is That White Powder on the Bricks and Concrete?

After the cleanup of water in a Milton basement and drying, there can be white powder on the floor and walls if they are brick or concrete.

This substance is "Efflorescence," and although it is not pretty, it is a French term meaning "to flower out." The drying process causes salts within the masonry to rise to the surface and, once dry, become a powder. The techs use cleaning agents specifically for masonry to clean this residue away.

Inspection Before Running Basement-Based Equipment

If there is the potential that the HVAC or other equipment has gotten affected by the water loss in the basement, the techs may suggest bringing in a local expert to inspect the unit to make sure it is in good working order. A certified electrician should check electronics exposed to water before using them to ensure they are safe for reuse. 

When you need fast water removal in your basement or other areas of your home, call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647. The certified technicians arrive quickly and clean up all traces of the water loss.

Where Do Milton Homeowners Look to Restore Their Homes After a Water Spill?

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster here, Monticello, and the surrounding area.

Residents of Milton Call SERVPRO to Return Their Homes to a Dry, Safe State

What Can Homeowners Expect Once a Restoration Team Arrives?

SERVPRO begins every Milton restoration task with a dual approach: A complete inspection while removing any standing water with pumps. With most interior water spills from a failed appliance or a split pipe, the water is not contaminated, so our restoration teams can concentrate on removal.

Does Removal Fix the Problem?

Not completely. To further reduce the effects of water damage in Milton homes, our specialists also need to use extraction wands. These devices are smaller than pumps and ideal for drawing out water trapped in carpets and floorboards.

How Does SERVPRO Stop Further Damage When the Water Sat for a Long Period?

To prevent the permanent warping of flooring or the cracking and splitting of drywall and other paneling, our specialists set up several key pieces of equipment that draw or force out water from surfaces without touching them.

• Pedestal fans pull damp air out of the home and force it outside. This action provides a drier atmosphere, which not only increases natural evaporation but also augments the other equipment.
• Air Movers generate a warm airflow that specialists direct over the affected physical and structural property surfaces. They can use the devices to even direct it up to dry water-logged ceiling tiles. They can adjust the temperature to dry property without causing any further damage.
• Dehumidifiers allow our specialists to draw moisture from the air and surrounding property. This action helps not just lower humidity but also helps the air movers to operate more efficiently.

To learn more about SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties for a home here or in Monticello, call our offices at (845) 791-7647 today. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster here, Monticello, and the surrounding area.

Water Damage In Your Milton Coffee Shop

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

“Like it never even happened.”

Solutions for the Coffee Shop Water Damage You Did Not Order in Milton

There is nothing quite like the relationships built between coffee lovers and their favorite baristas in Milton. Customers rely on specialized roasts and a sweet treat or savory nosh on their way to work and school. Water in your shop should percolate through gourmet coffee beans or coax a lovely scent and delicate taste from carefully blended teas. After a water emergency, the percolation can be through layers of flooring and into building cavities, creating chaos, material damage, and noxious odors.

Espresso Emergency

Water damage in your Milton coffee shop can trace to the dishwashing station, the customer restrooms, directly plumbed espresso machines, or other water-consuming appliances or fixtures. A burst supply line, a loose hose, or a clogged sink or toilet can spell disaster, spilling water everywhere. You need a fast response from a certified team when the coffee break seems over.

Professional Yet Creative Approach

Although SERVPRO always follows industry best practices codified and taught by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), we adapt our response to your situation. As we assess your needs for water removal, cleaning and disinfection, and structural drying, our commitment to you also includes a range of ways we can keep the coffee perking. What you can expect, dependent on your unique business configuration, could consist of:

• Temporary closure, using our scalable crews and equipment resources to quickly turn the water damage around.

• Fast water removal using our commercial grade pumps and extractors.

• Thorough drying, balancing temperature, and air movement to facilitate evaporation of moisture from structural components rapidly.

• Dehumidification, employing the proper selection and positioning of equipment to remove the vapor for disposal.

• Containment of the affected area, with an opportunity to continue service, limited or complete, in a smaller space on your commercial property.

• Erection of sealed work areas, the atmosphere inside cleared by negative pressure air scrubbers.

• Vigilant monitoring and assessment throughout the job to ensure local officials are appropriately apprised and that regulations are followed.

Mold damage inspection and review of any other secondary damage.

Contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties with confidence if your small business experiences significant water damage. One call to (845) 791-7647 ensures a professional assessment and practical project plan.

Deodorization After Fire Damage in Milton

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

Don’t let fire damage overwhelm you, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties.

SERVPRO Provides Several Fire Restoration Services in Milton

One day you could be cooking dinner like everything is normal when suddenly an accident happens that puts your entire house at risk. Most people know the feeling when you are cooking something, and then the phone rings or something else distracts you from the task. It only takes a second of not paying attention while cooking for a kitchen fire to ignite. In fact, cooking mishaps are the number one way structural blazes get caused.

Even small blazes can cause fire damage in your Milton home. When it comes to kitchen fires, issues with your home can still arise even if the only things that got burnt were the food or grease you were cooking. The smoke coming from even the most minor fires can still travel around your house and harden when it touches cooler surfaces like walls, ceilings, or furniture. Smoke can also penetrate deep into any porous materials in your place, which can cause foul aromas to be present in your home. 

Ways We Can Help You After A Fire Ignites

• Fire Debris Removal
• Content Cleaning
• Fire Cleanups
• Smoke Remediation
• Wall and Ceiling Cleaning
• Structural Deodorization

During most restoration projects, burnt aromas exist in a building after a fire takes its toll. In some cases, removing all burnt debris and cleaning soot residues off all surfaces in a structure will remove unattractive odors. But in other situations, further deodorization steps must be taken if your home still smells burnt after all debris and soots have been removed. 

Depending on the situation, we can use methods like ultra-low volume (ULV) fogging, thermal fogging, or ozone generation to deodorize a structure.

If you ever have a small fire ignite due to getting distracted while cooking, call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647.

SERVPRO Offers Premier Fire and Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration for Our Ellenville Customers

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Can Secure and Restore Your Ellenville Home after a Structural Fire.

What to Expect from Professional Fire Damage Recovery in Ellenville

A household fire causes fear and chaos for Ellenville residents, and the aftermath poses many questions about how best to manage the cleanup. The soiling created by the flames, heat, and smoke is unlike the dirt and grime of daily living and does not respond in expected ways to conventional cleaning techniques. Our trained and experienced team of managers and technicians use effective methods, products, and equipment to achieve a successful recovery from the harm the fire wrought.

Contaminated Water Removal

When fire damages an Ellenville home, substantial quantities of water and chemicals from firefighting activity need management. The water presents a significant safety concern, exposing occupants and technicians to hazards, including slip and fall, possible electrocution, and the spread of now water-borne toxins from the fire debris and residues. We evaluate the residual water as Category 3, the most contaminated, and employ safeguards to isolate the space and shield workers as we extract and dry out the area. Options include:

• Using 6 mil polyethylene to build a containment barrier and employing air scrubbing and personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent drift.
• Protecting human exposure to hazardous materials.
• Tracking contaminants into unaffected areas of your home.

Toxic Fire Residue Cleanup

As a fire burns materials in your home, volatile gasses and hazardous particulates fill the air as smoke and then settle as soot. Inhaling or touching the residues can prove harmful to health, so SERVPRO crews continue wearing their PPE, and we recommend you and your family stay out of the work area. According to ongoing industry research into fire cleanup, our technicians match the various soot types to cleaning products and techniques that offer effective results. Expect that we switch strategies according to the soiling presented, as one fire can result in dry, wet, and protein-based soot.

Deodorization

Even after our best cleanup efforts, the burning materials' lingering stench continues the nightmare for you and your family. SERVPRO deodorization experts follow a multi-step protocol to remove malodors from our fire damage cleanup. If debris removal and deep cleaning prove ineffective, we have innovative equipment like hydroxyl generators and ozone machines that neutralize the odor-bearing particles through changes at the molecular level.

The team at SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties awaits your call 24/7 at (845) 791-7647. Let us show you what our training, experience, and equipment can do to restore your home after fire damage.

Factors Influencing Mold Damage Removal in Milton Homes

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Mold quickly grows and spreads. Call SERVPRO for fast, effective remediation.

Clearing Mold Damage Hinges on Fast Response to Milton Properties

Despite multiple factors influencing the salvageability and restorability of structural elements and contents exposed to mold growth, the most significant factor is how quickly experienced technicians like ours can reach the house. Early property inspections can help answer questions that focus on remediation efforts.

Where is the Mold?

One essential element of overcoming mold damage in Milton homes is where the organism is located. Basements, for example, are a specific area to experience mold and mildew development. Tracking moisture can help determine how far organisms have moved on the property.

What Materials Are Affected? 

Certain materials are more susceptible and likely to experience mold damage than others. The sensitivity of porous elements throughout your property plays a role in how complex later remediation and mold removal efforts become. Ultimately, several removal tactics are needed because many types of building elements are involved, including:

• Mats
• Drywall
• Wood
• Baseboards
• Ceiling tiles

Can Hosting Materials Be Salvaged?

It is always the focus of our responding IICRC trained technicians to preserve and protect hosting materials when possible. Often, we must evaluate the condition of these elements during the inspection process. If it is possible to salvage the affected areas for less money than replacing them, this becomes the most efficient solution. Remediation gets underway shortly after these determinations are made.

Can SERVPRO Complete Repairs? 

Because of our general contractor license, we can help when post-mold damage repairs are necessary. Replacement and reconstruction are often necessities after instances like black mold and destructive microbial colonization. We have capable professionals to offer controlled demolition and full-scale reconstruction for residences.

Several factors can influence the restorability of your home and its contents after mold exposure. Depending on the severity of the situation, there is an urgent need to begin remediation promptly. Give our SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties AMRT-Certified professionals a call today at (845) 791-7647.

Mold Remediation Is Cost Effective in Monticello

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

Count on SERVPRO for reliable and cost-effective mold remediation for your Monticello property--we make the stains disappear

Investing in Mold Remediation for Your Monticello Home Can Save You from Additional Expenses

Mold can show up in your Monticello home even when you are a conscientious homeowner. Excess humidity can become a breeding ground for mold, and you may wonder how to get rid of it. Your best option is to call a reputable company used to address mold issues in your area and rely on its expertise.

For Monticello homeowners, mold damage and restoration are our specialties at SERVPRO. When you detect or suspect mold, reach out to us and let us explore your home for telltale signs of bacteria. As we carefully inspect your home wearing personal protective equipment, we use industrial-grade tools to complete the job.

What are some mold removal techniques?

Not all homes require the same technique to remove mold and prevent a recurrence. Our SERVPRO team makes informed decisions depending on your specific needs. Some of the options available for mold remediation include-

• Soda blasting
• Antifungal spraying
• HEPA filter vacuuming

Mold can spread very easily, which is why our SERVPRO team puts up physical barriers to avoid cross-contamination throughout your home. Infrared cameras and moisture meters can help us detect the origin of the mold so we may address the source directly. 

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties is a knowledgeable resource when mold comes into your home. Call us at (845) 791-7647 as soon as you need us and let us leave your home, "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Safeguards Milton Properties with Rapid Water Extraction Using Advanced Equipment

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's skilled technicians can rig special equipment to mitigate water damage in Monticello homes

SERVPRO Uses Specialty Tools Used for Drying Milton Homes

Because so much can vary from one water loss emergency to the next, the damage to your Milton home might differ significantly from another incident. This knowledge makes the initial assessment and scoping of the job one of the most vital processes our SERVPRO team makes, as it not only catalogs the current loss and the expected migration of the water through the property but also relays to the responding technicians what tools they need to complete the restoration tasks.

From the initial contact that you make with our staffed emergency line, we can begin conveying information to our mobilizing unit regarding the specialty extraction and drying equipment necessary for the water damage in your Milton home. With many of these tools and devices designed specifically for certain loss situations, their deployment can mean saving our customers time and money on the restoration their properties need.

Drying Mats
Hardwood flooring can quickly absorb standing water and present substantial concerns for structural deterioration and failure. Before this trapped water in the wood planks can bind to the molecules in the wood, drying mats can draw out moisture to protect the flooring.

Positive Pressure Systems
Structural cavities can be a challenge to dry for even our experienced and well-trained SERVPRO technicians. To reduce the need for substantial controlled demolition, positive pressure systems force warm, dry air into cavities to begin evaporative drying without removing the installed construction materials.

Weighted Extractors
Carpeted floors can be a source of considerable absorption and moisture damages, and weighted extractors can press carpet and padding layers against the subflooring material to bring moisture trapped in the fibers to the surface. The onboard vacuum can discharge this collected water from the flooring to maximize drying efficiency.

These are just a handful of the specialty tools and equipment that can help to improve the efficiency and thoroughness of drying efforts in a water-damaged home. While not every loss situation requires these tools, when they are necessary, their use can save time and money. And we have them available, always, to provide our customers with the best service possible. Give our SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties team a call at (845) 791-7647.

The Right Approach to Commercial Fire Damage Restoration in Milton

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Charred walls in a Milton commercial property can cause pungent odors requiring SERVPRO for fire damage cleanup and restoration

Milton Businesses Benefit from SERVPRO'S Fire Cleanup Services

Commercial fires can be an unfortunate blight on your business's ability to trade effectively and harm your bottom line. Since business premises are often unoccupied outside of working hours and on weekends, fires can often cause severe levels of damage.

As a site manager responsible for your clients' Milton fire damaged business, it is vital to act quickly against the damage caused by fire, not least by bringing in qualified odor control technicians (OCT) to address indoor air quality issues. Combusting materials can release all kinds of particulate matter into an indoor space, including, but not limited to, odor particles. These are considered volatile organic compounds (VOCs), penetrating surfaces conglomerate in air ducts and porous materials. It is often impossible to isolate any single source of a smell which is why SERVPRO uses a multi-layered approach:

• Water removal if needed post extinguishing
• Indoor air quality issues, HEPA filtration with air scrubbers
• Smoke damage, including demolition and removal 

The first step in notifying us of commercial fire damage in your Milton business is via the phone. A dedicated administrator can take details of your fire damaging incident before arranging for the necessary restoration equipment to be stocked into our vans and trained technicians to arrive at your location. Time is of the essence in fire restoration, so we guarantee that the whole process from notification of loss to arriving on-site takes place within four to eight hours. Our OCT technicians can use several methods to help restore indoor air quality when addressing odor issues.

• Pellets are usually placed in ducts, cavities, or beneath the flooring to counteract any unpleasant fire odors. 
• Thermal fogging can also be used in ducts as well as larger spaces. Thermal foggers use chemical pairing agents to find and neutralize offensive sources.
• A more recent advance in odor control is Hydroxyl generators which are safe to use in occupied spaces, for example, shared office blocks. 

Get your business back to its best after a fire. Contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties for commercial fire damage restoration at (845) 791-7647.

What Are Preferred Tools for Flood Extraction in Monticello Homes?

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties when you have storm damage.

Flooding Requires Several Types of Extraction Devices in Monticello Properties. 

When flooding threatens area homes, we must work fast to remove standing water threats in the building. The longer water can pool, the greater the chances of irreparable structural damage and more widespread hazards from concentrated contamination.

Wet Vacuuming Options

With the likelihood of flood damage for Monticello homes throughout the years, from flash flooding to snowmelt threats causing rising water bodies, managing flooding is critical. We have experienced and trained professionals to mitigate loss, beginning with surface water removal. With smaller and more manageable amounts, wet vacuuming is preferred. This option can also help move some debris from the area or be used with attachments like:

• Carpet wands
• Weighted extraction
• Squeegee wands

Submersible Pumps and Trash Pumps

Removing standing water is always a matter of eliminating the surface moisture while simultaneously managing any floating debris and solid matter in the water. Particles can slow water removal and even damage the equipment if the right extractors are not selected to address this threat. Trash pumps are heavily used in this regard, as they do not require available electricity and can manage moving debris through the unit and discharge point. 

Muck-Out Cleaning 

Once the surface water has been removed from the property, our professionals remove any muck, mud, silt, and other contaminants that made it into the house with the floodwater. Shoveling out the heaps of debris reduces the potential bacterial and viral pathogens threatening the property and posing health risks for those exposed. Wet vacuuming is another effective method for removing matter from the floors and contents after a flood. 

With so much damage possible after a flood, mitigation and cleanup need to start as soon as possible. Our experienced and certified SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties team has intricate cleaning tools, potent products, and effective extraction and drying equipment to help. Give us a call today at (845) 791-7647.

What Types of Fire and Smoke Damage Threatens Milton Homes?

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

Let your local SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties professionals resolve your fire damage.

After a Fire, Many Areas of Milton Homes Require Attention From Experienced Fire Restoration Professionals. 

Incomplete combustion may not sound bad in terms of the destruction of your home, but it can create volatile environmental risks by producing aerosolized smoke particles and carcinogenic soot. Understanding how fire affects your home expressly illustrates why insurance providers encourage or require certified and experienced restoration assistance.

Airborne Threats and Contaminants

Fire and smoke damage in Milton homes is very noticeable in the air and the environment of the damaged areas. In many situations, microscopic particles can create hazardous conditions for those breathing the air before it is filtered with HEPA products. We have filtration tools and containment to manage airborne threats quickly.

Water Damage Concerns 

Fire suppression and extinguishment introduce another structural threat to the house: water damage. A high volume of water from the municipality's distribution system is pulled through a hydrant and hoses to put out the fire in your home. Much like the debris and smoke damage, water damage must also be extracted, dried, and affected surfaces cleaned.

Settled Soot Soils

Physical particles generated by the incomplete combustion of fuels like wood and organic matter create black soot threats for the house. The movement of these airborne particulates can be widespread, especially if the HVAC system was operational at the time of the fire. Our SERVPRO team prioritizes addressing the buildup of soot on surfaces and contents through various cleaning and restoration methods. Some of these include:

• Solvents
• Detergents
• Pressurized cleaning
• Controlled demolition

Understanding how smoke damage can impact your home or business can be critical in recovering a property after a disaster. With how quickly smoke damages spread in a structure, understanding its various forms encourages homeowners to pursue experienced restoration professionals like our SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties team to help. Give us a call today at (845) 791-7647.

Can Drying Prevent Water Damage to Subflooring in Milton Homes?

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

There is no job too big or small for your local SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties.

The Rapid Response of Restorers Can be Beneficial for Needed Water Cleanup in Milton Properties.

An advantage of the fast response SERVPRO provides is the care we can put into the restoration work we do to protect a structure and its contents better. With the destructive nature of water damage, even limited exposures can result in costly ruin. Effective drying solutions can prevent some of this property damage starting when our team first arrives.

Clearing Surface Water 

We must implement our water removal services before much of the official water cleanup for Milton homes can begin. Using a combination of submersible pumps and vacuums, we can eliminate pooling water on the surface of flooring materials before excessive penetration and saturation occur in many cases. The more we can limit water migration, the less direct damage the structural elements endure.

Powerful Moisture Tracking Tools 

We implement multiple moisture detection tools to determine if moisture has moved beyond the surface material into the subflooring underneath. Depending on the affected materials and type of flooring, numerous methods are encouraged to track the movement of damp pockets and work to eliminate this harmful moisture before greater problems result. Some tools include:

• Thermal imagery
• Hygrometers
• Surface moisture meters

Controlled Demolition and Drying Solutions 

Effective drying utilizes foundational tools in our inventory like air movers and dehumidifiers. The placement and frequencies of these pieces of equipment directly correlate with the efficiencies of effective water removal and drying. We have capable professionals for controlled demolition and reconstruction when great damage exists that drying cannot overcome.

With how incredibly water damage can impact a home or business, having the fast response of qualified water restoration professionals is crucial. Our SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties team is ready to help however you need when you call (845) 791-7647.

Who Can Help Restore My House After a Fire Damage in Monticello?

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless whether the fire starts in the kitchen or another room, quick action is needed to remediate. Contact our certified SERVPRO team right away.

SERVPRO Can Assist with House Fire Clean Ups in Monticello

Even though most structural blazes start in the kitchen or result from some heat source, they could still happen when you least expect it. Electrical shorts are one way a fire can start suddenly and unexpectedly. For example, a small leak in your roof could form in the winter causing moisture to get inside your ceiling's light fixtures. If H2O contacts electricity, a fire could ignite.

If your house in Monticello suffers from fire damage, it is wise to call in a professional restoration company. At SERVPRO, we have a highly trained team of professionals who receive training from the Institute for Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC). And, we can provide fast, 24/7 service to help you out when a disaster strikes unexpectedly.

One of the primary problems with fires is that they release uncombusted particles into the air in the form of smoke. The smoke can then travel throughout your house and cause foul odors and soot residues to exist on the surfaces of your contents and building materials. Anytime you have even a small fire start inside your house, our SERVPRO technicians can provide the following:

• Smoke Remediation
• Fire Debris Removal
• Water Damage and Fire Damage Restoration
• Structural Deodorization
• Fire Damage Clean Up

One of the first things we do when arriving at your property after an electrical short starts a fire is to inspect your home for safety hazards. If an electrical issue was the source, we begin by shutting the power off to your house until an electrician can repair the problems. We can then mitigate other potential dangers such as trip or fall hazards. 

If your ceiling lights ever contact water and a fire ignites, call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647. 

Mold Damage Remediation in Milton in the Wintertime

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

When water leaks go unnoticed, mold damage can often result. Contact our certified SERVPRO team to assess the situation and remediate the mold damage.

SERVPRO Can Provide Attic Mold Inspections in Milton

Several incidents can cause water to leak into your home in the winter. For example, an ice dam can form on your roof after a snowstorm. Once a dam forms, it can continue to grow as the snow melts and the water attempts to drain off your roof. If moisture cannot drain down your gutters like it is supposed to, it will find somewhere to go, and it could get underneath your shillings and leak into your attic.

Our SERVPRO technicians find that attics are common places for fungal contamination when conducting mold damage remediation in Milton. If your roof leaks due to an ice dam, there is a chance that moisture has been slowly entering your attic. If your roof trusses and insulation in your attic stay wet for too long, a fungus could form and then quickly spread throughout your attic. Once fungi form, they release microscopic, seed-like spores that could get into your HVAC system and contaminate other parts of your house. 

Most homeowners do not inspect their attic regularly, giving the mold more time to spread and grow. If you do ever notice a fungus in your attic, it is wise to seek assistance from a professional restoration company like SERVPRO. We can use the industry's most advanced technology to return your home to its preloss state. Our highly trained team can provide fast, 24/7 service when conducting the following procedures:

• Emergency Services After a Water Damage
• Water Extraction Services
• Repair Leaking Roofs After a Storm
• Black Mold Inspections
• Attic Mold Remediation
• Mold Damage Debris Removal

If you ever happen to look inside your attic after a snowstorm and notice a fuzzy black substance forming on your roof trusses, call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647.

Toilet Backups Can Cause Extensive Water Damage in Monticello

1/9/2022 (Permalink)

Overflowing toilets can often bring sewage into your home. Team SERVPRO is standing by 24/7 offering effective water cleanup services.

SERVPRO Can Provide Emergency Services for Water Damage After your Toilet in Monticello Backs Up

Most people have had to deal with a situation where their toilet clogs and backs up at some point in their lives. The problem can be easily fixed by cleaning up a small mess in many cases. However, if you do not notice the backup right away, a significant amount of sewage water could pour into your home. 

When conducting water cleanup in your Monticello home, our SERVPRO technicians first determine the source. Where the water originated can change the steps we can take to remediate your home. If you have a water supply line leak, the category one damage caused will be easier to handle since the H2O is clean. However, if your sink drain leaks or moisture comes in from the outdoors, we label the problems as category two since contamination could be possible. Category three issues occur when the source of the leak is a sewer line or muddy water coming in from the ground that is more than likely contaminated by harmful bacteria and viruses.

Our highly trained team at SERVPRO can help whatever the case may be. Our technicians are all trained by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) program, and we have the industry's most advanced technology at our disposal. We can provide fast, 24/7 service to assist you by conducting the following procedures:

• Water Extraction Services
• Repair Damage Caused by Ceiling Leaks
• Sewage Clean-Up
• Cleaning Up Water After a Sewage Backup

When dealing with category three scenarios, our main goal is to prevent the spread of contamination. If non-porous building materials or contents like your carpet or rugs got wet, we must dispose of them.

If your toilet ever backs up overnight and you wake up to a nasty mess, call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647.

Skilled Fire Damage Technicians Know What Factors Go into Planning the Restoration Process in Milton

12/24/2021 (Permalink)

Working with SERVPRO's trained fire and smoke restoration technician gives you the confidence that the job will get done right the first time.

SERVPRO Takes Time to Ensure Your Fire Damage Gets Handled Carefully to Bring Your Milton Property Back to Pre-Fire Condition

Even though your mind may jump right to rebuilding your home after a fire, it is crucial to ensure no steps get overlooked. Working with trained fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) that carefully assess fire-damaged homes for a living gives you the confidence you need that the job gets done right the first time. No matter the scope of the damage or the level of work involved, SERVPRO has you covered with proven techniques and industry knowledge.

SERVPRO is the team you need on your side when you have fire damage in Milton for several reasons. We go over all of the steps necessary to complete your restoration, keeping you informed the entire time. You can also look to us as a liaison to work with your homeowner’s insurance provider to ensure the claim goes as effortlessly as possible.

Factors we consider while handling house fire clean up include:

• Determining the severity of fire damage. A small, contained fire may only take a few days to complete the restoration. A more significant fire that impacts your structure could take several weeks to months to finish.
• The type and size of your structure. The layout and overall size of the home will also play a role in our restoration process. Single story, ranch-style homes generally get restored faster than multi-level homes.
• Smoke, soot, and type of fire. Protein fires in a kitchen put out sticky, pungent residue that calls for specialized techniques. Soot particles that may travel if your HVAC system is running at the time of the fire also create a unique set of challenges. Our SERVPRO team adapts and adjusts to achieve our restoration goals as quickly as possible – allowing us to select the right equipment and techniques for the job.

Your SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties team is prepared and ready to go when you need assistance with fire damage in your home. Contact us by calling (845) 791-7647.

When Your Monticello Business Has Flood Damage, Skilled Technicians Are the Best Choice!

12/17/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes, carefully remove as much of the excess water as possible with mops and wet/dry vacuums.

SERVPRO Offers Immediate Flood Damage Assistance to Minimize Cost and Downtime in Monticello

Any flood damage to your commercial or industrial property in Monticello can be devastating. Not only do you need to clear the water out fast to handle damage restoration, but you also need to limit the disruption for your employees and customers. SERVPRO is well-equipped and experienced in handling all sorts of flooding situations, including clean water and black water or highly contaminated water intrusion. We get there fast to assess the problem to formulate the best course of action.

Whether minor water damage or a large-loss event, SERVPRO is available 24/7 for commercial flood damage cleanup in Monticello. Following our initial assessment, we will go over the severity of the damage to help you make the right decisions for restoration. However, until we arrive, we suggest the following:

• If the flooding is internal, shut off the water source or get in touch with the appropriate party to have the water turned off.
• Carefully remove as much excess water as possible with mops or a wet/dry vacuum.
• Protect any carpeting, rugs, and office furniture from further damage.
• Do not enter any impacted areas where circuit breakers, electrical outlets, or equipment may have come into contact with water.

When it comes to emergency services water damage assistance, we will look at the materials and inventory throughout your commercial building to determine salvageability. As our crew performs water removal services and drying, we will also communicate to you what can be restored or move items off-site for further drying and restoration. Any areas with too severely damaged building materials will go through controlled demolition to replace them with brand-new materials.

Leave your commercial flood damage needs to our skilled water restoration technicians (WRT) at SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties. Call us at (845) 791-7647 for emergency response.

Frozen Pipes and Ice Damming Can Cause Costly Water Damage to Your Milton Property

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes and ice dams can leave a path of damage in your property. SERVPRO is standing by to restore your home.

SERVPRO Offers Water Damage Restoration in Milton to Help Reverse Issues from Frozen Pipes and Ice Dams

When you find that you have frozen pipes on your Milton property, it may seem as though there is no hope of getting to the heart of the matter. Once the temperatures drop during the winter months, know that you are not alone, and other property owners face the same issue. It is all a matter of locating the source, implementing water removal services, and getting your home back to pre-emergency condition. SERVPRO is there whenever you need us, 24/7, to make it "Like it never even happened."

Frozen pipes and ice damming in Milton may cause water damage, but SERVPRO has skilled technicians on staff to address it for you. If a frozen pipe does burst, follow these steps until we arrive:

• Turn off your home's water supply as quickly as possible.
• Contact SERVPRO to address the flood cleanup – we arrive within hours of your call.
• Only begin mopping if it is safe to do so – this means ensuring there is no live electricity nearby or other hazards. If you are unsure, wait for our crew to arrive.

Once our crew arrives, we will begin the water extraction and drying part of the water mitigation plan. These measures include careful moisture detection to ensure no moisture pockets remain, leading to mold or mildew growth.

You can try to avoid burst pipes in the future:

• If the pipes have frozen, shut off the water at your primary connection.
• Open all of the working faucets, leaving the water running.
• Turn on the faucet closest to the frozen pipe and start thawing it slowly and carefully with a heat pack or portable heater.
• Install insulation on vulnerable pipes.
• Open up bathroom and kitchen doors to allow warm air circulation around the pipes.

Handling Ice Dams

An ice dam may form once heated air melts snow on your roof, but the water dams behind the ice. Once the trapped water cannot flow into your gutter system, it could cause backflow under the roofing and into your structural elements or interior. SERVPRO is available for moisture detection and controlled demolition to help handle any damage caused.

Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 if you require assistance with frozen pipes, ice damming, and the water damage that occurs. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Can SERVPRO Minimize My Insurance Claim for Fire Damage in Milton?

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires are no DIY project. Call SERVPRO for fast and immediate fire damage restoration services. 24/7 365 days a year.

SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration in Milton Reduces Overall Insurance Claims

After a fire in a Milton home or business, many clients assume that everything has to be replaced. Everything is covered in smoke residues, debris from the fire, and chemicals or water from the efforts of the firemen. With all of the damage, the stress of the situation, looking for a place to live, and dealing with the insurance company, many people believe the least expensive solution is replacing all furniture, flooring, and contents. Many home insurance policies have a maximum total claim allowed and guidelines concerning these claims, which can be more confusing.

SERVPRO provides fire damage restoration to clients in Milton and surrounding areas. We have over thirty-five years working in the restoration industry with thousands of clients and insurance companies. Our experience has shown in many situations, it is less expensive to refinish, clean, resurface, or recover fabrics than to replace items damaged by the fire or covered in smoke residues.

We review every item and discuss our approach with our clients and the insurance adjuster to restore our client's home to its original condition, "Like it never even happened." Once everything is cleaned and deodorized, structural surfaces can be repainted, couches and chairs can be recovered, and many wood items can be refinished.

At SERVPRO, we do the right thing. We clean and restore when we can to keep the loss expense of the fire claim to a minimum and return your home to you as quickly as possible.

Our services include:

• Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration and Cleanup
• House Fire Clean Up
• Coordination of Insurance Claims 

Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties for fire damage restoration in Milton and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (845) 7917647.

Need Help Cleaning Up After Flood Damage in Monticello – Call SERVPRO

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO techs handle all storm damage restoration projects with care and efficiency. We use the latest technology and equipment for every disaster.

SERVPRO Provides Flood Damage Cleanup and Restoration in Monticello

Stormy conditions in Monticello and surrounding areas can cause all sorts of damage to our homes, including broken windows, damaged doors, punctures in exterior walls and roofs, as well as flooded basements. Heavy rain can inundate a home quickly, causing further damage to our homes' contents and the structural elements. The water may also contain chemicals and biological waste carried into the basement from floodwaters. Mold growth is also a concern if floodwater removal and drying are delayed.

SERVPRO provides emergency flood damage clean-up in Monticello all the protection your home needs after a storm. Our team can respond in less than four hours from your call. We can board up broken windows, doors, and wall punctures and cover the roof with tarps to prevent additional rainwater from entering the home. We also deploy high-capacity pumps and dehumidifiers to remove the contaminated water and begin drying the interior of your home.

Your non-porous contents can be cleaned, sanitized, and removed to a storage area for safekeeping until your home is fully restored. Porous materials that have absorbed chemical and biological wastewater will be examined and assessed for cleaning or disposal. Controlled demolition of interior walls may be required to access wall cavities and materials permanently damaged after absorbing water, swelling, and losing structural integrity.

SERVPRO professionals can also manage the repair and restoration of your home once it is cleaned and dried. We work closely with your insurance company adjuster to handle claims. Our services also include:

• Emergency response to storm and flood damage
• Floodwater removal, cleaning and sanitizing
• Dehumidification, controlled demolition and drying
• Flood damage restoration

Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties for flood damage restoration in Monticello and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (845) 7917647.

SERVPRO Helps Prevent Secondary Water Damage in Monticello Homes

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage happens from appliance mishaps, you need to call SERVPRO. Water damage restoration is a job for us.

For Help with Primary and Secondary Water Damage in Monticello – Call SERVPRO

Many homeowners open windows, turn on fans and mop up water after a water leak in their Monticello homes. Removing visible water is a great step; however, if there is water inside walls and cavities and the fans are not combined with dehumidifiers, humidity levels inside the home can remain high for an extended period. High moisture levels in the air inside homes can cause secondary damage. This damage may include delamination of carpets, buckling and cupping of hardwood floors, ceiling tiles moistening and crumbling, wallpaper falling from walls, drywall swells losing strength, and high humidity can also lead to mold infestations.

SERVPRO provides emergency services water damage restoration for homeowners in Monticello and adjacent areas. Our fast response (Less than four hours from your call) and water removal and damage mitigation action can significantly reduce the possibility of secondary damage after a water leak. Secondary damage from a water leak occurs when the humidity levels are high, and components inside your home absorb moisture and lose integrity. Ceiling tiles may crumble, drywall can swell and lose structural integrity, and wallpaper glue may soften, causing the wallpaper to fall.

In high humidity conditions, mold colonies can form in 24 to 48 hours and give off a strong, musty odor. Mold can cause health effects.

SERVPRO’s fast response and deployment of water removal equipment can limit the primary water damage and prevent secondary damage to other components of your home. Our services include:

• Water removal services
• Water damage repair and restoration of primary damage
• Prevention of secondary water damage from high humidity levels
• High capacity air movers and dehumidifiers to quickly reduce humidity levels and prevent mold infestations

Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties for water damage restoration in Monticello and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (845) 7917647.

Need Water Cleanup Done at Your Monticello Commercial Property? Call SERVPRO

10/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians are trained and experienced in all phases of commercial damage restoration.

SERVPRO can Save Monticello Businesses Time and Money by Offering Fast and Reliable Water Cleanup

Water damage to your commercial building can not only cause business operations to shut down, but it can also be expensive to repair as well. You need professionals like SERVPRO to perform fast and efficient water cleanup at your Monticello property to get your business back on track in the least possible time.  

When SERVPRO techs arrive for water cleanup at your Monticello commercial space, the priority is to remove any standing water, if present. The next step is to dry the structure as quickly as possible to limit the dwell time of the moisture on various surfaces. Several factors control the rate at which water evaporates from wet surfaces. Accordingly, SERVPRO techs use air movers and dehumidifying equipment to speed up the pace of drying. In some instances, it might be necessary for the SERVPRO techs to use heat to increase the rate of evaporation. 

What is the Heat and Air Exchange Drying System That SERVPRO Techs use During Commercial Water Damage Restoration in Monticello?  

A Heat and Air Exchange Drying System involves the usage of an indirect fired furnace to heat the airspace of water-damaged commercial buildings of Monticello. As heat can increase the rate of evaporation significantly, SERVPRO techs sometimes use an indirect-fired furnace fitted with a heat exchanger in some cases. 

The furnace takes dry outdoor air and heats it before introducing it into the drying sone that SERVPRO techs establish. As these systems circulate the heated air throughout the structure, it takes on evaporated water from the wet materials, increasing the air's humidity ratio. Indirect fired furnaces are set up outside the structure, and the process air stream is ducted into the building. These units can produce 100,000 to 800,000 BTU/hour (British thermal units per hour) of heat.

Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 for any assistance with water damage to your commercial properties.

How can SERVPRO Help Milton Residents with Flood Damage?

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians use thermal imaging cameras to find water and moisture in Milton homes to mitigate water damage

Quick Response and IICRC Certified Professionals Make SERVPRO One of the Best Flood Damage Services in Milton 

Thunderstorms can cause flood damage to your Milton property that can be difficult and expensive to repair. It would help if you had flood restoration professionals like SERVPRO who have the experience and training to minimize damage and speed up recovery. 

SERVPRO professionals use different types of equipment to restore flood damage to your Milton home to detect and remove moisture. After the SERVPRO techs remove the standing water from the property, the next step is to find any hidden moisture and remove it. We use inspection devices to locate the areas of the structure where water has intruded. Some of the devices that SERVPRO techs use for these purposes include- 

• Moisture sensors
• Thermal imaging cameras
• Moisture meters
• Thermo-hygrometers

What Thermal Imaging Cameras do SERVPRO Techs Use During Water Cleanup from Your Milton Home After a Flood? 

Thermal imaging cameras use infra-red light to detect the presence of moisture in your flood-damaged Milton home. While thermography using these cameras does not detect the water directly, it detects the difference in temperature between surfaces. 

For instance, as evaporation is a cooling process, the wet areas of the building generally have a lower temperature than the dry areas. The infra-red camera displays the cooler (wetter) areas darker than the warmer (drier) areas. 

Thermal imaging cameras are useful as they offer several advantages over other ways of detecting moisture. Techs can inspect difficult areas such as high ceilings and check more areas in less time using thermography than other moisture sensing techniques. 

If you need assistance with restoring flood damage to your home, call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647. 

Does SERVPRO Provide Emergency Services After Fire Damage to Milton Homes?

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage restoration is no DIY project. SERVPRO techs are here to help 24/7 365 days a year. Call now!

SERVPRO's Quick and Efficient Emergency Services Can Save Milton Homes After a Fire Damage Incident

Professional restorers like SERVPRO provide emergency services to protect the loss site as well as human health. When SERVPRO restorers arrive after fire damage to your Milton home, they have the following immediate objectives-

•  To prevent the fire and smoke to cause additional damage to the property
• To provide a safer work site to techs entering the structure
• To prepare the site for restoration work

The type of emergency services that SERVPRO techs provide after fire damage to your Milton home depends on whether the occupants are present in the structure or not. Not all fire incidents are alike, and sometimes, the occupants don't need to move out during the fire and smoke damage restoration. 

What is Emergency Services Provided by SERVPRO During House Fire Cleanup in Milton When Occupants Remain in the Structure? 

The emergency fire restoration services can make a part of the building 'liveable' so that the occupants can remain safe within the structure while the restoration work goes on. Some of the emergency procedures include the following-

• If strong odors are present, especially after protein fires, then s SERVPRO restorers may carry out deodorization procedures.
• Areas of your Milton home, such as the kitchen and bathroom, might need immediate cleaning.
• Technicians may also provide laundry and dry cleaning services to occupants for clothing items that are immediately needed.
• In most cases, if the damage is limited to a portion of the building, techs might establish a containment zone. It helps to restrict the movement of the occupants in these areas.   

A fire damage incident can be overwhelming and difficult to deal with on your own. Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties for professional assistance at (845) 791-7647. 

Fire and Smoke Restoration Happens Fast with SERVPRO in Milton Restaurants

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and odor control after a fire in your commercial building is prevalent. SERVPROs commercial damage restoration is top-notch.

How Does SERVPRO Carry Out Fire and Smoke Restoration in Milton Eateries? 

Restaurant fires are one of the most common commercial fire disasters reported every year. Even a minor fire can be quite destructive and temporarily put the restaurant out of business. Hiring professionals like SERVPRO for fire and smoke restoration of your Milton establishment can minimize downtime.   

One of the toughest challenges for SERVPRO technicians during your Milton restaurant's fire and smoke restoration is getting rid of the odor. Fires originating in the kitchen often involve burning organic material like protein, which can create a lingering odor long after the fire is put out. SERVPRO technicians use several deodorizing techniques to combat such odors. 

What are Pairing Agents That SERVPRO Techs Use During Smoke Remediation of Milton Commercial Spaces? 

Pairing agents are chemical deodorizers that combine with (or pair with) the odor-causing particle and render it odorless. SERVPRO techs use two different types of pairing agents during deodorizing commercial establishments-

• A humectant: It is a highly absorbent material that can combine with airborne odor particles and cause them to precipitate onto surfaces. Once they precipitate, SERVPRO techs can wipe them off. Wet foggers are used to dispense such deodorizing agents. 
• A counteractant: It is a material that chemically combines with an odor-causing particle and changes its chemical properties, making it odorless. Such deodorants can also destroy odor-causing bacteria. Thermal fogging is often used to apply such types of chemicals. 

That said, pairing agents are not the only deodorizing agents that SERVPRO techs use. We also use masking agents, enzyme digesters, oxidizing agents, and air purification systems to combat smoke odors in commercial properties. 

If you need assistance with a fire situation in your establishment, Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647.

How Can SERVPRO Help Monticello Homes After Flood Damage?

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

Storms may cause havoc to your home, don't fret. SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians are trained for any size storm damage restoration service needed.

SERVPRO Offers Quick and Efficient Service to Flood-Damaged Homes in Monticello

Flooding after a storm can be destructive for your home and its contents. It is crucial to safely remove water and start the restoration process after flood damage to your Monticello home as soon as possible. Hiring professionals like SERVPRO ensures that the restoration process can be done safely and efficiently. 

One of the biggest concerns of SERVPRO technicians during the restoration of flood damage to your Monticello homes is contamination. The floodwater accumulated on your property after a storm is considered contaminated and can cause issues if not handled properly. SERVPRO technicians use appropriate safety equipment and state-of-the-art tools to remove the standing water, dry the structure and decontaminate the premises.  

How do SERVPRO Techs Dry the Structure During Water Damage Repairs After a Flood in Your Monticello Home? 

It is important to dry the structure quickly after a flooding incident. SERVPRO techs use a variety of equipment to do this, including dehumidifiers and air movers. The dehumidifiers work by actively removing water vapor from the air and lowering the humidity ratio, thereby increasing the drying rate. 

SERVPRO techs use two types of dehumidifiers during flood restoration- refrigerant dehumidifiers and desiccant dehumidifiers. The refrigerant dehumidifiers are efficient if the temperature is above 500F, while the desiccant dehumidifiers work best if the temperature is below 500F. 

Materials such as carpet pads and drywall that are highly porous are most efficiently dried using a refringent dehumidifier. On the other hand, materials with porosity, such as hardwood floors and concrete, are most efficiently dried using a desiccant dehumidifier. SERVPRO technicians can use a combination of both types of equipment in tandem to increase the rate of drying. 

Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 for 24/7 assistance.

SERVPRO’s Water Removal Services Saves Milton Offices from Extensive Damage

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

No matter the size of the water damage your commercial building is facing, SERVPRO water damage restoration technicians has it covered.

Need Water Removal Service in Your Milton Office? Call SERVPRO

The cost of water damage to a business, both in terms of restoration expenses and lost time, can be reduced if you hire professional restorers promptly. SERVPRO's restorer team expedites water removal from your Milton office to ensure minimal damage allowing you to resume business as soon as possible. 

SERVPRO understands the importance of time during water removal from your Milton office. Our goal is to get the problem solved as efficiently and quickly as possible. SERVPRO’s 24-hour emergency services and industry-leading water removal equipment can handle any size disaster. 

Why do SERVPRO Techs Carry Out Controlled Demolition During the Water Cleanup of Milton Properties? 

Controlled demolition is often required during water damage repairs for two reasons-

• If the materials damaged are unsalvageable, and
• To expose hidden materials

Although SERVPRO technicians try their best to restore the damaged material, it becomes necessary to replace the material in some cases. The technicians often carry out controlled demolition to remove the unsalvageable materials, including flooring, ceiling, and walls. HVAC might also be dismantled if contaminated water enters the system. If the damage is extensive, some components of the HVAC system may need replacement. 

According to the IICRC’s S500 guidelines, restorers should open assemblies including walls, stairs, flooring, and wall base areas to access pockets of saturation and remove any unsalvageable material. Consequently, SERVPRO technicians might need to carry out controlled demolition of your commercial space during water damage restoration services.  

Whatever the reason for the controlled demolition, we never carry it out without the client's approval. Our technicians brief you regarding the situation and provide you with all the options before carrying out any such activity. However, we always strive to restore and not replace building elements and content whenever possible.

Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647. Our experts are available 24/7 to assist you. 

What is Needed to Clean After Flood Damage in Milton Homes?

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage restoration for your home is an easy choice. SERVPRO techs are trained and experienced in all phases of storm restoration.

Flooding can deposit solids and debris in Milton homes that require thorough cleaning. 

Flash flooding and similar circumstances can overwhelm a building's envelope and exploit structural vulnerabilities until flood restoration is required inside. With the pace of these disasters and how rapidly your entire house could suffer loss, we have the personnel and equipment to mobilize fast to help when these situations arise. 

How Does Muck-Out Cleaning Occur in Basements? 

Flood damage in Milton properties often means more than just water extraction from the affected spaces. Basements can especially be impacted by standing water and the debris/solids that intruding flash floods or natural disaster flooding can bring. Mud, silt, animals, infestations, and contaminants can all be ongoing concerns for the basement level of area homes until the situation gets resolved through cleaning and muck-out services.

Are Odors Part of Post-Flooding Cleanup? 

The threats of natural flooding situations also often include harsh odors. Sewage and other contaminants can leave strong smells in the affected spaces, and that typically requires more than surface cleaning solutions to overcome. We have several neutralizing tools and products to prevent lingering odors, including: 

• Thermal/ULV Foggers
• Hydroxyl Machines
• Ozone Generators
• HEPA 500 Air Scrubbers 

From flood extraction to cleaning in susceptible areas like the basement, our SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties team has become a trusted name to help. We have experienced professionals ready 24/7 at (845) 791-7647. 

When Can Electric Submersible Pumps Be Beneficial for Milton Homes?

8/12/2021 (Permalink)

Burst pipes and ceiling leaks cause water damage havoc in your home. Call the professionals at SERVPRO for fast and immediate service.

The choice of extraction devices is critical to improving the efficiency of restoration. 

Removing pooled water after burst pipes or ceiling leaks often requires more than just a single extraction device. When widespread standing water is a concern, our SERVPRO team can deploy electric submersible pumps to help. 

What Makes the Electric Submersible Pump a Top Choice? 

Electrical submersible pumps are among the most common choices for water removal in Milton homes. The units are relatively portable and can provide continuous, quiet operation until the water level drops below two inches. We can also supply an external energy source if the house current is not available.

Are Other Tools Used for Extraction? 

Choosing the right extraction and water removal tool depends on the location of the damage and the affected materials. These include: 

• Wet Vacuums – These portable units are among the most versatile for removing standing water in structural cavities or open areas. 
• Squeegee Wands – These devices are used in conjunction with stationary extraction tools and can remove the bulk of surface water on hardwood floors, tile, and concrete. 
• Truck-Mount Pumps – These are among the largest and most powerful extraction devices available to our professionals. The engine-driven suction power can quickly evacuate substantial standing water concerns. We also have independently fueled pumps.

The water removal process hinges on the use of multiple extractors and drying equipment in our inventory. As rapidly as water damage can overtake a home, our SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties team is standing by 24/7 to help at (845) 791-7647.

How Does Restorability Get Determined in Monticello Homes?

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration services by SERVPRO are top-notch. We are dedicated to having your home back to preloss condition.

A Full Inspection and Evaluation of Fire-Damaged Monticello Properties Identify Restorable Items. 

Fire damage can result from the combustion of several materials and fuel types. As leading restoration specialists, we can help to get cleaning and recovery underway as soon as possible. 

The Focus of Fire Damage Inspections

When fire damage in Monticello properties results in soil and soot deposits throughout the house, a thorough inspection of the residence can direct our SERVPRO professionals to needed cleaning efforts. Sample cleaning options can show where specific wet or dry cleaning practices will have the greatest impact. 

How Do Materials Get Categorized for Cleaning?

Because there are multiple cleaning and restoration approaches for varying materials and personal belongings caught in fire loss effects, categorizing the damage can help recovery start sooner. In many situations, building materials damaged by soot and smoke residues are classified as: 

• Washable – When materials affected can be cleaned with water-based cleaning products in our inventory, they are considered washable. Solvents and detergents are believed not to damage the underlying substrate. 
• Non-washable – Items and surfaces earn this classification when wet cleaning is not feasible because water-based products could cause additional damage to the material. 

Fire damage can overwhelm building materials and contents in a house. Because of how costly this situation can become without fast restoration, trust our SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties team to help. We are ready 24/7 at (845) 791-7647.

Major Water Incident in Your Milton Home? Call SERVPRO for Rapid Water Removal!

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

When a water disaster strikes, SERVPRO is the team needed for the job. We take water restoration seriously.

SERVPRO Executes Reliable Water Removal for Burst Pipes, Ceiling Leaks, and More in Milton

The stress involved with water clean-up in your home is something that nobody wants to deal with. Once you have an incident within your Milton household, be it a water spill or burst pipes, you want to ensure you have a team ready to start water damage remediation. SERVPRO comes out to your home as fast as possible so that the crew chief can inspect and assess the scene. Our emergency services water damage techniques are second to none, allowing us to take the burden off of your shoulders and making it “Like it never even happened.”

Whenever you have standing water in your home, you need to handle water removal in Milton before secondary damage becomes an issue. There are also several potential dangers to keep in mind to protect anyone living within your home, such as:

• Wet wood, vinyl, or tile floors can become a hazard with possible slip and fall accidents
• Ceiling leaks that cause materials to get soggy could sag and fall, leading to injury
• Any water or moisture coming into contact with electrical outlets or wires could cause shock
• Water left to fester too long will bring mold and mildew growth, which causes possible health effects

Why SERVPRO?

With our water removal services, we bring an assortment of advanced tools and equipment to each job. With the combination of our extraction, drying, and sanitization, you can trust your interior gets restored to normal once again. If necessary, we have authorized professionals to perform water damage repairs with the help of controlled demolition efforts.  

Call (845) 791-7647 to talk with us at SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties about your water removal needs. We are available 24/7, offering an emergency response.

Mold Damage Repairs are Better Left to Trained Technicians in Milton

7/18/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth is very rapid. SERVPRO uses the latest technology and equipment for every job. Mold remediation is our business.

Trust the SERVPRO Team for Mold Damage Assistance Should You Notice it in Your Milton Commercial Property

Milton commercial property owners or facility managers may not even realize black mold development has begun throughout day-to-day operations. For many of the projects that SERVPRO gets called for, mold removal and water damage restoration go hand-in-hand. Once you notice that there is an area of your business where mildew and mold colonize, the chances are good that you have a moisture issue or an underlying water leak that is the culprit. 

When it comes to mold damage in Milton, businesses can count on SERVPRO to handle every aspect of the project with care. We know that you cannot interrupt your daily operations for long, so we work to formulate the right course of action so you see little or no downtime. Some of the areas that our mold specialists cover when handling mold remediation include:

• Containment to limit tracking and disruption of mold spores
• Leak detection, moisture control, and removal of any standing water
• Working on reducing relative humidity within the space to normal levels
• Monitoring and adjustment airflow/air movement with fans, air movers, and dehumidification equipment
• Sanitization and deodorization with the application of EPA-registered antibacterial and antimicrobial agents

The relative humidity (RH) throughout the environment plays a vital role in any mold removal project. The RH is the level of moisture that holds at specific temperatures. Should the humidity be high, it turns into a breeding ground for mildew and mold. Therefore, our team follows best practices for containment, removal, and sanitization while wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Mold damage is no match for our specialized crew here at SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties! Call to have a team dispatched by dialing (845) 791-7647.

Monticello Residents Know to Call Professionals for Fire Damage Help

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Minor or major fire in a home is a distraction. Call SERVPRO for the fire restoration service e needed for your home.

Having SERVPRO Handle Fire Damage Saves Monticello Homeowners in the Long Run

Have you had a minor blaze in the kitchen or a small-scale electrical fire? House fire cleanup must begin as soon as possible so that you can battle foul odors and keep secondary damage from settling in. SERVPRO can come out to your Monticello home, begin an assessment, and start working once first responders deem the property safe for entry. Once we are on the job, our skilled technicians put together a course of action, including best practices for getting results while also saving you money – and time!

Cutting the Stress with Skilled Water & Fire Damage Restorations  

SERVPRO technicians receive training through the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Handling minor to significant fire damage in Monticello is what we do best, and our crew always works on a restore versus replace basis whenever possible. Some of the many ways that we address cleanup in fire-damaged homes include:

• Careful separation of any unsalvageable contents from items with restoration potential
• Full removal of charred items, building materials, and belongings to be disposed of according to local guidelines
• Water removal services and drying to address the fallout from fire extinguishing measures
• Detailed smoke remediation, including meticulous cleaning and application of odor control products
• Property preparation to get your home ready for controlled demolition where repair or rebuilding is required

Throughout your fire damage restoration project, our crew chief will keep you informed on all processes. In addition, we ensure your documentation is to help with a seamless insurance claim and readily available to answer questions or address concerns.

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties is the team you want in your corner when faced with fire damage in your home. Call (845) 791-7647 to have our Green Fleet dispatched as soon as possible.

Who Can Milton Homeowners Call for Exterior Wall Flood Damage?

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding in Milton can penetrate exterior walls, gush in as groundwater--Call SERVPRO for removal and cleanup

SERVPRO’s 24/7 Flood Damage Removal for Milton Homes Restores Structural Materials

Milton home flood damage can be damaging not just for interior structures but for external ones as well. Limited air movement capabilities caused by structural materials and vapor barriers can mean that microbial growth and water odors can linger without professional intervention.

Milton area SERVPRO techs possess the tools necessary to restore Milton homes after flood damage. Air movement equipment, EPA-registered biocides, extraction tools, calibrated monitoring devices, and commercial-grade deodorizers all work in tandem to return a property to a sanitary and structurally sound state.

Addressing Exterior Wall Flood Damage Removal with SERVPRO

After removing unsalvageable flood-damaged sheetrock, technicians can do the following:

• Remove insulation, extract moisture, and prepare the structure for drying. Flood-affected insulation, especially if it is made of a porous organic material like cellulose, is likely to require replacement
• Technicians can drill holes in the tops and bottoms of walls in areas where sheetrock has not been removed with flood cuts to facilitate airflow. This process is especially crucial when external facing walls feature cabinetry
• SERVPRO professionals can also determine if a plastic vapor barrier is present behind the affected wall that can hinder the drying process and plan accordingly

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties offers Faster to Any Size Disaster service when homeowners call (845) 791-7647.

How Can Monticello Homeowners Clean Bathroom Fire Damage Stains?

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

Even local fire departments trust SERVPRO for fire damage cleanup and restoration after a fire. Milton homeowners can too

Monticello SERVPRO Crews Use Specialized Cleaning Solutions for Fire Damage Stains

After a fire, Milton homeowners can feel overwhelmed by the cleanup process. Whether bathroom fire damage was caused by a candlelit bubble bath gone awry or an electrical failure with lighting or exhaust fans, consumer-grade products are rarely sufficient for cleanup.

SERVPRO professionals use EPA-registered antimicrobial solutions to address fire damage cleanup for Monticello property owners. Fast response to a bathroom is essential for preventing soot deposits from potentially corroding bathroom fixtures and plumbing.

SERVPRO Cleaning Solutions for Bathroom Fixtures

Restoration technicians at SERVPRO have access to a broad array of OSHA-approved cleaning solutions that address fire damage stains and odors on various surfaces. These include:

• Lightly-soiled fabric shower curtains, towels, and drapery can be cleaned with Dry Cleaning Solvent in SERVPRO’s Ultimate Dry Cleaning Machine
• Soils on wood cabinetry and ceramic tiles can be addressed with mild detergents like wood oil soaps, which are effective on surfaces varying from countertops and appliances to leather and vinyl
• Light-colored fiberglass fixtures in bathrooms typically require a liquid creme cleaner, such as SERVPRO’s Stain Scrub, which effectively removes discoloration without damaging the surface.

Contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 for mitigation services that make disaster-affected properties look and feel, “Like it never even happened.”

How Does Water Removal Training Save Milton Homes?

6/6/2021 (Permalink)

Milton property owners, business and residential, rely on SERVPRO to dry the site after a water damaging event

Milton SERVPRO Water Removal Technicians Perform Restoration Services

With home water damage claims increasing each year to an average cost of $10,234, Milton homeowners need to act fast to keep repair and replacement costs low. Professional water removal minimizes structural damage from moisture exposure and microbial growth.

Highly-trained SERVPRO professionals are available 24/7 to provide water removal for Milton homeowners. Whether the source is an appliance failure or a pipe leak, this Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-certified firm has the tools and techniques necessary to return a residence to a pre-disaster state.

SERVPRO Water Removal Training for Milton Technicians and Staff

SERVPRO’s rigorous training and education programs ensure that Milton technicians learn effective water removal techniques. These learning opportunities include:

• Employee Certification Training (ECTP), which is a self-paced training module for staff that covers restoration topics like fire and water restoration, as well as carpet and upholstery cleaning
• Franchise owners receive hands-on Initial Franchise Training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility, which also covers restoration topics related to fire, water, and mold mitigation
• SERVPRO e-Learning modules offer web-based training opportunities for technicians and staff who wish to stay up-to-date on restoration industry standards and expand their knowledge of disaster mitigation protocols

Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 for Faster to Any Size Disaster cleanup and restoration services.

Why do Milton Residents Count on SERVPRO for Mold Remediation Services?

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Mold damage remediation is no DIY project. SERVPRO has IICRC certified technicians for all of your mold remediation problems.

Techs at SERVPRO are Available 24/7 for Mold Remediation of Milton Homes

Once mold gets access to your home, it can spread very quickly. Mold remediation at your Milton property is a job for the professionals. The sooner the SERVPRO mold specialists can spring into action, the quicker is the remediation process. Our experts use the utmost care and precaution while doing mold inspections and mold removal to ensure the damage. 

Call SERVPRO immediately for mold remediation of your Milton property if you suspect mold damage. We can help you assess the situation and plan a strategy to remediate it safely and effectively. 

Early Signs of Mold Damage at Your Milton Home You Should Never Ignore

You can spot mold damage in its early stages and call in the SERVPRO experts for quicker remediation if you know how to read the early signs. 

• Moldy Smell- Even if there is no visible mold, a damp, musky odor in your Milton home can be an indication of mold. 
• Excessive humidity- A relative humidity of over 60% is very conducive for mold growth. Water damage can often increase humidity and cause attic mold and bathroom mold. SERVPRO technicians can help you with identifying the cause of increased humidity and remedy it
• Visible mold- Mold usually starts as few colonies in attics, bathrooms, and crawlspaces. Avoid disturbing the mold if you spot it and call professionals immediately. 

Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 for safe and efficient mold remediation.

SERVPRO Offers Reliable Water Cleanup Services to Milton Residents

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Water cleanup for your kitchen is a job for SERVPRO. Our technicians are trained and experienced in all phases of water mitigation.

Need Water Cleanup Service in Milton? Call SERVPRO

Water cleanup from your Milton home after a water incidence needs to happen promptly. Due to ceiling leaks, burst pipes, or basement flooding, water accumulation at your property is never a good sign. You need a professional water removal service to stop any further damage and initiate the restoration process. SERVPRO experts are here 24/7 to help you in dealing with any size disaster. 

When you call SERVPRO for water clean-up from your Milton home, our experts respond with fast action and state-of-the-art equipment. Our goal is to restore the water damage "Like it never even happened."

What Equipment does SERVPRO Techs Use during water damage restoration of your Milton home? 

SERVPRO experts use various equipment to achieve specific restoration goals during water damage remediation of your Milton home. Some equipment that we use are-

• Detection Equipment- Including Moisture meters and Thermohygrometers help in the detection of moisture in structure and contents. 
• Extraction Equipment- Truck-mounted and portable extractors can remove standing water from your Milton property. 
• Air Moving Equipment- Reduce the drying time by replacing wet, cold air with warm, dry air. 
• Dehumidifying equipment- Pull in the moist air and discharge dry, warm air that acts as a sponge absorbing moisture from moist surfaces. 
• Deodorizing Equipment- Ultra-low volume (ULV) foggers and thermal foggers dispense a mist of deodorizing agents that can penetrate sites where odor-causing residues accumulate. 

Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 for 24/7 service. 

SERVPRO Saves Monticello Businesses from Fire Damage

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial buildings with fire damage need the help of SERVPRO. We have the manpower and experience for any size disaster.

Monticello Businesses can Rely on SERVPRO for 24/7 Fire Damage Restoration Service.

A small village located within the Catskills region of NY state, Monticello was named after the famous Virginia estate of Thomas Jefferson. The locality has some of the best vistas and scenic natural surroundings. The town was built by two brothers Samuel F. Jones and John Patterson Jones, during the early 1800s.

The village grew steadily throughout the 19th century, although it never received a railroad and could not attain its full potential. A tragedy struck in 1909 when a huge fire wiped out the business section of the village in its entirety. The fire consumed as many as 40 buildings and caused the town a collective loss of over a million dollars. 

The local government was quick to rebuild the city after the incident. Old wooden buildings were replaced by fire-resistant brick ones, but the scars of the incidents took years to heal. 

Although the village of Monticello is small, it offers a lot to the visitors. From hiking trails to ski slopes, there is something to do all year round. Here is a short list of activities you can do while in the area-

• Thompson Town Park- Offers various outdoor activities, including hiking trails and campsites. During the winters, you can enjoy a superb cross-country skiing trail and even a sledding hill. There are plenty of barbecue pits and pavilions for enjoying the summer as well.
• Monticello casino and raceway- A huge 40,000 square-foot casino is full of slot machines and table games. There is an excellent dinner service here as well. You can even enjoy a concert here as well. The raceway hosts professional horse race events throughout the year as well.
• Lakes of Monticello- There are many lakes throughout the village. You can enjoy staple lake activities, including fishing, kayaking, and swimming. The Kiamesha Lake also has a campsite and two nature trails. 
• Holiday Mountain Ski and Fun Park- A popular destination during the winters, the park offers seven downhill ski runs. The park is also equipped with chairlifts as well. Skiing lessons are available for children and adults as well. During the off-season, the park turns into a full-service amusement park with go-karts, a mini-golf course, and batting cages. 

  Why Should you Wait for SERVPRO to Start Fire and Smoke Cleanup of your Monticello Commercial Space?

Fire damage restoration of your Monticello business is a job for the professionals. Trying to remedy the situation yourself can only worsen the damage and prolong the restoration process. SERVPRO technicians have the necessary experience and equipment to handle fire and smoke damage situations safely and effectively. 

SERVPRO technicians use several approaches based on science to eliminate the smoke and soot residue during the fire and smoke remediation. 

Getting rid of residue with agitation- Residues left behind after the burning of synthetic material such as plastic and polymer can be very challenging to remove. SERVPRO technicians use brushing, air, and water pressure and even high frequency sounds to loosen and eliminate these residues. 

• Chemical cleaning products- Our restorations experts carefully select various chemical agents to clean tough residues depending on the type of fire and smoke damage. We use both hydrophilic and hydrophobic agents to dissolve the residue. 
• Immersion cleaning- Small contents that can withstand immersion in a cleaning solution benefit from this method. It is an effective method but not usable in all cases. 

Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 for safe and efficient mold remediation. 

Floodwaters in Monticello Homes Requires Professional Water Removal Services

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Has your home suffered from a flooding event? Team SERVPRO is standing by with equipment and technicians to remediate the flood damage.

Flooding can bring debris and contaminants into your Monticello home that requires professional crews for water cleanup

Every year in the US, flooding causes over $8 billion in damages. Those who live where strong seasonal storms are typical are at a greater risk for water damage. If you are impacted by flooding, SERVPRO helps with things like a leaking roof from storms and sewage cleanup.

What Are the Hazards of Floodwater?

The flood damage in Monticello homes is often the result of contaminated water. The water present in a flood is considered black water and is highly contaminated. Homeowners should not attempt to clean this up independently, but instead, rely on expert water removal services. Here are some situations that can present themselves in floodwater:

• Large pieces of debris and dirt that get caught up in the water flow
• Electrical issues from downed power lines
• Electrical systems beneath flood levels
• Chemical contamination from nearby industry or medical facilities
• Bacteria and viruses and other hazardous material
• Dead animals and insects

Do not try to save the content of your home by going through contaminated water. Let the water damage remediation pros handle that. Our crew will salvage everything they can. For emergency service, water damage service, and more, contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647.

Fire Damage to Exposed Beams in a Milton Home

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

Regardless of the room the fire occurred in, team SERVPRO can help with remediation. We are standing by 24/7 for emergency calls.

SERVPRO technicians mitigate fire & smoke damage to structural elements with Precision in Milton

A kitchen fire in an open, farmhouse-style home caused smoke residue to spread quickly throughout the home. The exposed beams were impacted, and the home needs professional house fire cleanup. 

SERVPRO Technicians Safely Clean & Restore Your Home

The need for fire damage restoration in Milton can take many forms. In the case of these exposed beams, our crew used dry ice blasting. This is a dry process that uses CO2 pellets. It is a gentle and non-abrasive cleaning method. The pellets evaporate when they hit the surface of the item being cleaned. This process allowed us to restore the beams to preloss condition. Other benefits of dry ice blasting include:

• It produces no waste, so no need to worry about proper waste disposal
• It is non-toxic and eco-friendly
• It is quicker than traditional methods making it a time saver
• It is a money saver – fewer materials and less labor time
• No pressure washing, so no extra water to remove

When you require fire, and smoke damage restoration and cleanup, call the pros at SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647.

Water Removal in Milton is Easy with SERVPRO

4/11/2021 (Permalink)

Excess water requires quick action. Contact SERVPRO for water removal after an event. We are standing by 24/7.

Need emergency services? Water damage a problem? SERVPRO can help

Named after the English poet John Milton, Milton is a hamlet in Ulster County, NY. In the 1700s, Milton began, and it has a seafaring history. In its early days, it was home to a wooden mill, a pin factory, a wheel-barrow factory, and a plush and glove-lining factory.

Sarah Hull Hallock Library

The library is now opened for patrons to come in and browse. Computers are available by appointment. You can still do curbside drop-off and pickup. They have online classes, digital magazines, and local history presentations. Their day-by-day virtual calendar provides kids with a fun story and daily activities every day.

Famous People

Milton was home to Mary Hallock Foote, author and illustrator who wrote short stories about the West. Warren White was a resident and Union Army Civil War veteran. He also played Major League Baseball in its early days. Frank Skartados, a NY state assemblyman, called Milton home as well.

Great Places to Eat in Milton

If you enjoy eating at a good restaurant, Milton has some excellent places to choose from. Many places are open for dine-in now, as well as curbside pickup and take-out. Here are a few we think you will enjoy.

•   The Ship Lantern Inn – elegant and perfect for a special night out
•   Henry’s at the Farm – great menu and plentiful portions
•   Crew – fantastic burgers and steaks
•   Frida’s Bakery & Café – why not eat dessert first?
•   Rosticceria Rossi & Son – delicious Italian food
•   Shadows on the Hudson – amazing views of the river

Spend a Day at the Park

Milton has numerous places for folks to get out and enjoy the outdoors and fun activities. Burgess-Kimball Memorial Park has softball and baseball fields, a basketball and tennis course, volleyball, playgrounds, and picnic areas. They have a brand-new 17,000 square foot amazing playground kids will love. Marlene & Wilbur Trieble Passive Recreation Park is nice for those who love to walk. The Woods Hollow Nature Preserve has hiking and walking trails, sled riding, and a fishing pond. Two other parks that are great for walking or fishing are the Boice Family Park and Cottrell-Herrington Park.

Explore the Surrounding Areas

Milton is close to many great places to explore, such as New York City. With warmer weather on its way, now is the time to get out, check out some local spots, or take a day trip into NYC.

SERVPRO Provides Water Damage Repairs to Milton Residents

Whether you have burst pipes that have caused basement flooding or ceiling leaks from an overflowing bathtub, SERVPRO can help. Once you give us a call, we arrive quickly at the site. We take any necessary steps for emergency situations, do a scope, and then put together a plan of action. Water removal services can include:

•   Water extraction
•   Locating hidden water
•   Cleaning and drying the content
•   Blocking up furniture
•   Drying carpets and flooring
•   Controlled demo to allow for airflow
•   Returning your home to preloss condition

Each water intrusion is different, and we act accordingly. There is no job too big or too small for our SERVPRO team. If you need water damage restoration services, contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647.

What Should Property Owners Do When Water Damage Takes Place?

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration is no easy task. SERVPRO has the team and experience for any size job necessary.

It is Essential to Contact SERVPRO Restorers to Perform Water Cleanup in Your Milton Property

Water cleanup involves more than using a bucket and mop to dry the affected area. It requires the attention of a certified and experienced restorer with access to advanced equipment. To ensure effective water cleanup, hire a reliable restorer like SERVPRO.

At SERVPRO, we have a team of highly skilled restorers with decades of experience. When we receive your emergency call, we understand the importance of quickly performing water cleanup in your Milton property. With our team of restorers, and advanced equipment and tools, we can handle water intrusion incidents of any magnitude.

How do SERVPRO restorers dry the affected area?

Our restorers dry the affected area using hi-tech water removal and drying equipment. We also apply innovative restoration techniques depending on the damage. If water has saturated your glued-down carpet, we can use a self-propelled extraction tool powered by an independent motor, which moves the unit on the carpet at a consistent rate. We prefer the equipment since:

• It moves at variable speeds forward and backward.
• The device compresses water from the carpet using the extra weight of a restorer.
• It extracts water using a vacuum system.

The equipment helps speed up the drying process. Depending on the damage's intensity, it can take us several hours or days to dry your property completely.

When water damage occurs on your property, avoid handling the problem yourself. Contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties for professional water cleanup. You can reach us at (845) 791-7647. 

How Can Property Owners Handle Mold Damage?

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Mold remediation is not a DIY project. The IICRC certified technicians of SERVPRO have experience and training for the job.

It is Best To Let an Experienced Restorer Like SERVPRO Handle the Mold Damage in Your Monticello Home

Excess humidity or a water leak creates a conducive environment for mold to form in your property. Mold growth occur and it can spread quickly to other surfaces. If not handled fast, it can cause health effects to the property’s residents.

When you contact SERVPRO technicians on time, we respond fast to prevent further damage. The fastest response to mold damage in your Monticello home also cuts down the remediation cost.

Removing mold from an affected property is challenging. It is necessary to have mold removal skills and advanced equipment to handle it. Mold spores are microscopic and exist both outdoors and indoors. Other challenges of removing mold include:

• Mold produces a strong, musty odor.
• Mold spores can float in the air.
• Higher than average humidity in your property can support mold growth.
• Mold spores can grow into colonies when exposed to water.

When handling a mold infestation, we contain the affected area using polythene paper to limit mold from spreading. Our restorers can use microban, a quaternary, and a phenolic mixed with a detergent to treat the area. We combine the two products in a 9 to 10 pH range for effective cleaning. The product cleans bacteria and fungi and also counteracts odors.

Mold can cause health effects if not handled on time. Contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties to manage mold damage in your property effectively to make it “Like it never even happened.” Our 24-hour hotline is (845) 791-7647.

Help When Flood Damage Occurs in Milton Properties

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage is the after math of a storm. SERVPRO techs are ready 24/7 365 days a year for the restoration service you need for your property.

SERVPRO Technicians Offer Fast and Effective Flood Damage Restoration in Milton

A town in Saratoga County, in the state of New York, Milton hosts a population of 17,103 according to the 2000 census. The population has risen since the census held in 2010 recorded 18,575.

Most Milton residents believe that the town was named after John Milton, a poet, while others say that it is the shortening of "Mill-town" since it was an active milling area. 

Milton has a total area of 92.3 square kilometers (35.6 square miles). Water covers 0.06 percent or 0.1 kilometers.

The largest river Kayaderosseras Creek popularly known as Kaydeross flows through the eastern part of Milton town. The northern part of the county is the Kayaderosseras Range, where the river originates from flowing through several cities within the county. The Kayaderosseras River also serves as the boundary between the Town of Malta and Saratoga Springs before emptying into Lake Saratoga.

Places to visit in Milton town

Ship Lantern Inn: This fine-dining American restaurant in Milton town offers residents and tourists a Contemporary American Continental Cuisine. The hotel is in a building that has existed since the Revolutionary War. The family-owned and operated hotel prides itself on serving amazing food and offering high-quality services since 1925.

Locust Grove: Established by Samuel Morse over 150 years ago, the 200 Acer museum is a non-profit foundation that preserves the estate. The facility is free for residents and tourists to enjoy, visit, and for enlightenment. The last family to live in the estate was the Annette Innis Young family in 1975. The museum consists of:

• Elegant gardens
• Historic buildings
• Exciting public programs
• Modern exhibit galleries
• Miles of hiking trails 

Flooding history in Milton

The heavy rainfall in late June of 1972 associated with Tropical Storm Agnes caused the worst flood damage in New York State's history. On June 19, the flooding began in Westchester County, followed by widespread flooding in the Finger Lakes regions and the Southern Tier on June 23.

The flooding caused by the Tropical storm led to the deaths of 24 residents and displaced over 100,000 residents. The flood destroyed more than $400 million worth of private property and over $221 million of public property.

SERVPRO restorers can handle flood damage in your Milton property even without an electricity supply

When you involve SERVPRO restorers to help you restore your property, nothing stops or affects our restoration process. Our team of restorers understands storms can affect the electricity supply across your region. We, therefore, respond fully equipped with diesel-powered industrial generators that can run for long periods.

The generator can power fixtures such as:

• Wobble lights
• String lights
• Stand lights

The generator can also power our water extraction and drying equipment, among other equipment.

Safety is always our primary concern before and during our restoration process. Since water and flood-damaged areas contain various potential hazards to human health, we equip our team with personal protective equipment. Apart from the PPE, we also use equipment such as:

• Portable ground fault circuit interrupters
• Non-contact voltage detector
• Circuit analyzer 

When flooding strikes, contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties. We aim to minimize damage and get your property to its preloss state, "Like it never even happened." Talk to us at (845) 791-7647.

Professional Assistance While Battling Electrical Fire Damage

2/17/2021 (Permalink)

Affected by a recent fire and fire damage? SERVPRO is prepared with restoration equipment and experienced technicians. Call us today!

Milton Residents Look to SERVPRO for Assistance with Fire Damage of All Kinds

Winter is prime time for house fires, especially those that are electrical-related. To handle fire damage, you need skilled technicians on the job to look for all areas that must get restored. SERVPRO is available for 24/7 emergency response whenever Milton residents need fast action and efficient cleanup measures.

There are several potential causes for electrical fire damage in Milton. Not only could there be faulty appliances and electrical outlets, but there could be issues with frayed cords that lead to sparks. Other areas that we caution homeowners to keep an eye on include:

• Older homes that have outdated wiring – It is vital to ensure you are not overloading circuits. 
• Lighting fixtures should be used properly – Having a bulb installed that goes over the wattage recommendation could lead to fire hazards.
• Misuse of extension cords – Certain household appliances like dryers and refrigerators must be plugged into an outlet directly and not via an extension cord.

If you do suffer from damage after an electrical fire in your home, our SERVPRO crew gets to the heart of the issue for total cleanup and restoration. With our proven cleaning, controlled demolition, and attention to soot and smoke odors, we make it “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 when you need skilled hands on deck for fire damage cleanup. There is no electrical fire too big or too small for our IICRC-certified crew.

Is Hidden Water Damage Impacting Your Home?

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage is due to a hidden leak, it is imperative that you act quickly. Contact SERVPRO right away for remediation services.

Monticello Residents Get Results From Calling SERVPRO for Rapid Water Damage Assistance

Some homeowners may not realize they have a slow leak from a pipe or appliance until the damage is visibly noticeable. For many, half the battle is leak detection and cleanup services to ensure their Monticello home gets the attention it deserves. SERVPRO is ready to go 24 hours a day for emergency service, and our crew will make it look "Like it never even happened."

If you notice water damage in Monticello that seems to be stemming from a pipe beneath your floor or under a cabinet, we can help! Some of the issues we get calls for include:

• Leaks that lead to water damage or mold. You may have had a crack in a washing machine hose or a slow drip from a kitchen sink.
• Ice dams may form on your home's exterior that causes a leak and staining on your walls or ceilings.
• Condensation from a roof cap problem, a faulty exhaust pipe, or an increase in interior relative humidity.

SERVPRO features IICRC-certified technicians equipped with moisture detection tools to find the source of the problem. We root out all of the water damage, replacing any unsalvageable materials as we go. 

Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 when you need skilled water damage assistance. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster, and we'll arrive on-site and ready to work within hours of your call.

Flood Damage Could Leave Lasting Effects

2/7/2021 (Permalink)

Is your house under water? Contact SERVPRO to remediate the flood damage situation in your home.

SERVPRO Arrives at Your Milton Business Offering Proven Methods for Flood Damage Restoration

Saratoga County in New York state is where you will find the town of Milton. As of the 2000 United States Census, this town had a population of 17.103 people. The stories in the region say that the town got named after John Milton, a local poet. However, other sources say the name Milton came from shortening “Mill-Town” because of the early mill activity in the area.

Exploring Some of the History Surrounding Milton, New York

The region of Milton was part of the Kayaderosseras patent that took place in 1708, with the town first settling around 1772. In 1792, Milton was established as a town from part of the town of Ballston. Following that, a portion of the town was procured to make up the town of Greenfield in 1793.

Throughout the middle to late portion of the 19th Century, Milton was the location for manufacturing growth. A famous paper mill in the area was headed by George West, also known as the “Paper Bag King.” West is the inventor of paper bags with a square bottom, selling them by the millions shortly after the American Civil War took place.

Other factories in the area included those that crafted tools, folding boxes, and more.

Enjoying Recreation, Dining, and Various Activities in Milton

There is something for everyone in Milton, New York, including a vast assortment of seasonal activities, attractions, dining, and local events. Whether you are into skiing and ice skating, skateboarding, or exploring nature, you will find incredible areas to make memories with your family or for a solo day adventure.

• Buttermilk Spa – When you want ultimate luxury and relaxation, this Milton spa and wellness center has it all. Options include day spa visits, weekend retreats, and single appointments for a variety of services. Some of the service offerings include manicures, pedicures, massage, and the use of a pool, sauna, and steam room.
• Henry’s at the Farm – If you are looking for a dining experience, this is a local favorite offering a cozy, inviting atmosphere and rich menu selections. You’ll find this restaurant on the grounds of Buttermilk Falls, which also houses Buttermilk Spa. Top dishes at this restaurant include Coconut Shrimp Satay and Risotto Primavera. 

Call SERVPRO To Handle Flood Damage – We Are Here for Milton Businesses 24/7

Helpless and overwhelmed often explain how a business owner feels when an external flood threat is looming. Once the contaminated water breaches your building, you need to act fast to minimize damage and ensure your employees' safety. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster at SERVPRO, meaning we will give you the rapid response your Milton business deserves.

Skilled technicians best handle flood damage in Milton. We understand what to look for and how to deal with flood water of varying contamination levels. Some things to keep in mind

• Floodwater brings many potential health hazards
• Category 3 floodwater, or blackwater, contains a range of contaminants
• Gas and electricity should get shut off to the flood zone to ensure safety

When it comes to any level of flood damage restoration, our crew at SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties is on your side. Call us 24/7 for emergency service at (845) 791-7647.

The Entrepreneur Nation Milton Chapter Virtual Meeting

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage should be left to the professionals. Call SERVPRO so they can send out their technicians and latest equipment for the restoration project.

Online Meetup Connecting Professionals in Milton

Networking with others is an excellent way to develop or improve skills while keeping up with industry trends. Networking is crucial for career progress or business development because it creates an opportunity to get mentors, clients, or even partners. For your networking efforts in Milton to bear fruit, you need to find the right forums or platforms to interact with others. The Entrepreneur Nation Virtual Meeting is a perfect event to help you attain your networking goals since it connects entrepreneurs with related interests. 

Participating in the meetup is beneficial because:

• You engage with entrepreneurs looking for ways to support other businesses and grow the local economy
• The event is organized to connect businesses that can refer customers to each other
• It is an online event so that you can participate from the convenience of your home or business premises

The event is organized regularly on Wednesdays, giving you sufficient opportunity to meet the right people.

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties provides the necessary resources to renovate properties affected by fire damage in Milton. Call us at (845) 791-7647 whenever you need assistance.

Learn How to Declutter and Organize Any Space in Monticello Residences

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Storms can cause havoc. Especially when it comes to flood damage. Call SERVPRO for the flood damage restoration services needed for your property.

Virtual event to Teach Monticello Residents How to Utilize Space More Efficiently

Clutter can make your property and life seem out of control. Therefore, decluttering and organizing your space is a rewarding experience. However, you may have difficulty determining where to start or how much time you need to finish the process. It might sound unusual, but some lessons can help you declutter your Monticello home conveniently. You can get the lessons in your home through the virtual decluttering and organizing lessons organized each Monday, starting from 7 PM to 8 PM by Skillshare.

The lessons present several advantages, including:

• Introducing participants to tested methods of arranging and decluttering spaces
• Training by two professional organizers with over eight years' experience in the industry
• Access to follow up offline events where you can mingle and interact with others

The virtual workshops are designed to help people overcome three main challenges: uncertainty of where to start, the kind of effort needed, and time management.

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties helps clean up and organize properties after flood damage incidents in Monticello. Call us at (845) 791-7647 when the need arises. 

Local professionals Help Mitigate Damage after Water Intrusion in Milton Properties.

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Water removal is no easy task. Call the professionals at SERVPRO for the help you need. They have IICRC certified technicians for the job.

SERVPRO Responds Quickly to Water Removal Requests from Milton Residences

Milton is a hamlet in Ulster County, located on the West bank of the Hudson River. It was named after English poet John Milton, best known for his poem, Paradise Lost that he composed while blind. Milton is classified as a CDP, Census Designated Place. The United States Census Bureau defines CDPs for statistics and distinguishing such unincorporated communities from incorporated ones such as towns, cities, and villages.

The first settler on record in Milton was Captain William Bond after obtaining a patent from Queen Ann of England on June 12, 1712. The patent reserved the right to any tree deemed fit for masts for Her Majesty's Navy. Other notable early settlers include Edward Hallock, another seafaring man who relocated from Long Island to Milton in 1760. 

Unique Sites in Milton

One dominant aspect of the Milton area is the abundant tree-cover in most of its sections, making parks and other outdoor locations the best places to visit because of the greenery, ponds, and other calming features. They are also excellent for learning about flora and fauna of the area. Some of the top parks in the area include:

• The Milton Landing Park

The park was established in 2009 with land acquired earlier through grants from private foundations and the New York State. Most of the materials used to set up the park and the labor was provided by volunteers, indicating the importance of the park to the community. Although there are several parks in this Hamlet, Milton Landing Park offers the first public access to the Hudson River in the town's history. The park features a kayak launch site, a fishing pier, and picnic tables complete with cooking grills. There are benches too for those who want to sit and enjoy the views of the Hudson River. 

• Cluett Schantz Memorial Park

The park offers more than a green space for people who want to relax. There are courts for various sports, including basketball, softball, and Gaga Ball. There is also a playground for general play activities for kids or even adults. The Cluett Schantz Memorial Park has a pond where people can fish. A valid fishing permit is required for anyone above 16 years. For those under 16, they must be accompanied by a licensed person to enjoy fishing at the pond. People can also spend time jogging or walking around the park since there are paved and unpaved trails. Anyone who brings a dog must leash it while at the park. The park is convenient when holding events since there is a pavilion and a kitchen, with the necessary amenities. The charges for accessing the amenities vary depending on whether the user is a resident or non-resident of Milton, with non-residents paying a higher amount.  

• Youngs Park

The park is a baseball field best suited for kids that need to practice or compete with their peers. The field is set next to dense woods, making it a perfect place to enjoy fresh air, a cool breeze, and the sounds of birds as you watch kids take their swings. The park has various amenities, including benches.

Enjoyable Things to do in Milton  

Apart from spending time relaxing in a park, those seeking more enjoyable things to do in Milton can find various alternatives. Although it might be hard to find the same attractions found in big cities here, some of its offerings can leave a lasting impression.

• Prospect Hill Orchards

While most people know the best places to shop for vegetables, fruits, and other essentials, few ever get to enjoy the experience of picking them from the farm. The Prospect Hill Orchards offers a pick-your-own-fruit experience. Visitors can pick different types of fruits in different seasons. For instance, June is the time for sour and sweet cherries. In July and August, visitors can pick white and yellow Peaches, Plums, Apricots, Nectarines, and donut peaches. In September and October, Pumpkins, various types of Apples, and Pears are available. Apart from fruit-picking, there are engaging activities such as hayrides for visitors. 

• Holland Farms

This farm is located in what used to be a cotton field. Currently, they have pumpkins and allow visitors to pick some for the admission fee. The farm has a corn maze and also offers hayrides for visitors. There are many activities for kids, including slides, mini houses, and peddle carts. Visitors need to purchase seasonal passes to visit the farm for a day of fun. The farm is safe for kids and pets to run around without much supervision.

Which Water Removal Services Does SERVPRO Offer in Milton?

Sometimes you may opt to relax at home rather than going out. However, water spills can ruin your plans instantly since they can happen at any time, leaving a significant portion of the house unusable. After such an incident affects your Milton home, you need to initiate removal quickly. Apart from the initial damage the water causes when it comes into contact with materials, secondary damages develop when left to sit in the property over time. SERVPRO has IICRC certified water restoration technicians who can help you complete various water removal processes, including

• Fast extraction of standing water
• Specialized extraction from cavities
• Drying of wet materials

A burst water pipe releases a significant amount of water within a short period. Extracting all traces of such water can take longer when using mops and buckets. SERVPRO sends a team with state of the art extraction equipment reducing the time taken. The water might also penetrate beneath tiles or into wall cavities. Without specialized equipment, removal from such areas involves significant demolition. Our technicians use equipment like drying mats for such extraction.

Once water spills, it soaks into most of the porous materials in the house, including structural parts such as wall panels or cabinets and contents including furniture and upholstery. Drying helps remove all the excess moisture from the affected materials. SERVPRO technicians vary air currents using air movers to improve evaporation rates, among other steps to improve drying.

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties provides different services to help with water removal from Milton properties. Call us at (845) 791-7647 to help.

Milton Residents – Time to Jingle & Mingle at Nostrano Vineyards

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Does your business have water clean-up/ damage done? Call SERVPRO for the water restoration help needed to get you back in business.

Nostrano Vineyards in Milton, NY, is Hosting Jingle & Mingle for Shopping, Music, and More!

Area Milton residents already know how wonderful Nostrano Vineyards is for an impressive wine selection, events, and more. This holiday season, the time is here for the annual Jingle & Mingle with others in the area for a little bit of shopping, wine tasting, music, and other festivities. There will be several pop-up shops from local vendors, festive wine cocktails, local eats put on by Lola’s Café, a photo booth, and live music during this event. Festive attire is suggested for everyone in attendance to make this gathering over-the-top and memorable.

• Date: Saturday, December 14, 2020
• Time: Noon to 5 pm
• Location: Nostrano Vineyards at 14 Gala Lane in Milton, New York
• Cost: Admission is free to attend; pricing varies for food and beverages

Celebrating the season with friends and loved ones is something we can always get behind here at SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties. If you run a business in the area and require help with water cleanup and restoration, we will always help. We will come to your commercial location to start assessment and ensure everything is left, “Like it never even happened.” If you require services, you can reach us 24 hours a day by calling (845) 791-7647.

Video Chat with Santa for Monticello Area Students

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

Storms cause flood damage. If this has happened to you call SERVPRO for certified technicians to mitigate all of your water damages.

Social Distance Chatting with Santa Available for Free to Local Students in and Around Monticello, NY

All kids love to give their holiday wishes and wish lists to Santa before the big day. This Christmas, there is a need for social distancing to keep our families safe. This is why the Karate Quest Dojo/FitQuest Kickboxing Center is sponsoring a Video Chat with Santa to allow local kids from several surrounding school districts to have a bit of a chat with the big man himself. This event is free for all kids to participate in, but you must register in advance by contacting the sponsor. All chat calls are to occur via Zoom, and parents are encouraged to help their child when getting into the portal. 

• Date: Saturday, December 12, 2020
• Time: Noon to 4 pm
• Cost: Free for all students within the local school districts
• Ages: Suitable for children between the ages of 4 to 8

It is recommended that all parents have their child registered for this event on or before 12/8/2020.

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties is proud to be part of the local community for these and all other holiday events. Because storms may happen at a moment’s notice, you need to be prepared to get everything cleaned up. Should you find yourself dealing with flood damage, we can be there to take care of water extraction and drying. Call us at (845) 791-7647, and we will send a crew out as soon as possible.

Milton Residents Know to Call SERVPRO When They Require Powerful Methods to Handle Fire Damage

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

Fire and soot damage is very hard and unhealthy to get rid yourself. Call the pros at SERVPRO so their IICRC technicians can restore your home.

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties has the Manpower and Technology to Lessen Loss from Fire Damage

As a census-designated place and hamlet within Ulster County, New York, Milton is an area that has a population of 1,403 at the time that the 2010 U.S. Census was taken. Named after the famous English poet John Milton, you will find this hamlet situated right at the northeastern portion of Marlborough's town. 

People living within the town of Milton gives a sparse suburban vibe and an overwhelming sense of community. There are many beautiful natural parks in the area, and many residents are young families and professionals. When it comes to academics, the public schools within Milton are said to be above average.

Plenty of History to Reflect Upon in Milton, New York

In 1708, Milton's town and a significant portion of Saratoga County were wrapped up in the Kayaderosseras Patent. This was granted to the attorney general of New York, Samson S. Broughton, and 12 of his English associates. Before this, all land here was part and parcel of Albany County, which had been established back in the middle of the 1600s. Fast-forward to 1792, Charlton, Galway, and Milton towns were established from parcels of Ballston. Milton's town was fully established on March 7, 1792, by an Act of New York State Legislature. Other divisions of land throughout Saratoga County in 1828 made the towns as they are today.

Within the first portion of the 20th Century, mills in the area were beginning to move or close down for various reasons. Operations of the PP & J electric railway also had to close down operations in 1928. What saved employment in the area is that truck and auto production was still advancing, which lead to the development and improvement of Milton highways and roads. 

During the end of the 1900s, both moderate-size retail and residential development took place. Many residents commute for employment reasons all through the Capital District, which also includes various educational institutions, businesses, and government agencies. For many local Milton residents, the Saratoga County offices for local government remain a significant employer.  

Signature Experiences, Places to Wander, and Memories to be Made Throughout Milton, NY

There are plenty of charming stops along the way when you want to enjoy a few sights and local attractions. Whether you are looking for great outdoor activities or historical sites, there is no shortage of things to see and do in and around Milton, New York. Some of the top attractions in the region include:

Milton-On-Hudson Station - Although this is a disused train station along the Hudson River, this destination on Dock Road was added to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) 2007, and it is a great place to stop and look around. Passenger service stopped back in 1959, but you can still view the unique rectangular frame of the structure built in the late 19th Century for the West Shore Railroad. 

Milton Landing Park - This is a beautiful park located along the Hudson River where you can go for a walk along trails or bring your dog to the designated dog park within. When the weather is nice, you will find some grills and picnic tables. There is also a lovely boat landing and dock that you can use for fishing and more. Many people like to bring their canoes and kayaks to the water to go out for a little recreation and relaxation.

Enjoy a Meal or Drinks with Friends When You Visit Milton, NY, and the Surrounding Area

In addition to beautiful landscaping and exciting points to visit, there is no doubt plenty of great establishments where you can dine and have a beverage. Some choice locations in Milton include:

The Ship Lantern Inn – Known for incredible dishes and unique ambiance, the Ship Lantern Inn on Route 9W is a popular stop for locals and travelers alike. Perfect for business meetings, large groups, a romantic dinner out, or a special occasion, you will fish everything from artisan salads and seafood dishes to vegan specialties and more. There is also a patio offering outdoor dining when the weather is just right to make it a memorable sensory experience all the way around.

Frida's Bakery & Café – What would a town be without a quaint little place that you can visit for a cup of coffee and a delicious pastry? Frida's Bakery & Café is located on Main Street and open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Rated number one for desserts in Milton, you can either come in to sample the goods or bring something home with you. Popular options on the menu include colossal cinnamon buns, cupcakes, pies, cookies, and tarts. You can even call ahead and order for a special occasion to have something customized to your liking.

When Fire Hits Your Milton Home, You Need Prompt Attention to Lessen the Impact – SERVPRO is Available 24/7 for Fire Damage Cleanup

Fire not only rips through the contents of your home, but you may also have soot and smoke that finds its way throughout your HVAC system. SERVPRO knows how to locate and address all areas where soot deposits land, including your ductwork. Whenever you have a fire within your Milton property., you can trust that our IICRC-certified fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) have the skills and experience to bring your home back to preloss condition.

If you have fire damage in Milton, there are some initial steps that you can take until we arrive:

• Shut off your HVAC system to keep the smoke residue from spreading
• Close off any doors to the fire zone if you can do so safely
• Limit movement throughout your home to keep tracking of soot and debris into unaffected areas

Different types of soot present after a fire call for unique cleaning methods. At SERVPRO, we handle wet smoke, protein smoke, dry residue, and more. Call us at SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 when you need assistance with fire damage restoration. We are available 24/7 for emergency service, and we are Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Beautiful Views of New York in the Snow from the Franny Reese State Park in Milton.

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO says to our Milton neighbors, check out the hiking trails at Franny Reese State Park

Milton's Own Hudson River Walk Offers Stunning Vistas of Mid-Hudson Bridge Open for November.

What is the Franny Reese State Park?

Many towns and townships run alongside the Hudson River but few offer the highland pathways and views of Franny Reese State Park. Protected by Scenic Hudson these trails include a walk alongside a 19th-century carriageway rich with history, forestry, and vistas. With the winter weather rolling in you may choose to take part in cross country skiing and snowshoeing before taking the train back to Milton. Located at 129 Macks Ln, this state park is a must-see for families over the holidays.

Famous sites over the Hudson River

• The Hudson Valley River Trails loops up to 212 feet above the river providing stunning winter experiences and views of bridges, highlands, and the Catskill Mountains.
• Eight historic properties to see including the ruins of a 19th-century manor owned by William Morse.
• Walk across the 1.28-mile railway bridge originally built in 1889.

As cold weather draws in your business could be affected by damp conditions and mold growth. Contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647.

Monticello's Annual Wally Wine Fest to Continue with Safe Spacing and Seating.

11/8/2020 (Permalink)

The Sheriff's Dept stresses the zero tolerance regarding DWI's in the Monticello area. SERVPRO says, sip the wine, but not too much. Drive Safely.

Good News for Monticello Residents as the Annual Meet, Eat and Greet Festival Continues this November from the 21st.

When and where is the Wally Wine Festival taking place?

The yearly wine festival takes place across the 21st and 22nd of November. The Waterfront at Silver Birches plays host to live entertainment, bottle sales, and an independent wine marketplace. Book seats now through Eventbrite to claim a table. Sessions are two hours and run from 11 am to 7 pm each day. Every guest receives a commemorative wine glass alongside a selection of small plates and delicious wines.

Tickets and bookings

• General admissions start at $50 with four courses and three wines per course. Each course features eight wines to choose from.
• Platinum admissions start at $175 and include entry to the Venge Wine Dinner, which takes place this year at the Settler's Inn.
• Champagne brunch is optional for Ulster County residents at an additional $55 plus tips and tax.

Adverse weather conditions this winter could affect your home, requiring emergency flood removal. Contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 for assistance.

Water Intrusion in your Milton Business Could Cause Temporary Closure.

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster, can mitigate water damage to your commercial property in Milton and minimize customer distruptions

When Business Interruption Threatens Revenues, You Can Rely on SERVPRO to Provide Expert Commercial Water Restoration in Milton.

Ulster County is home to over a quarter-million acres of green space, the most famous small town in the world, Woodstock, as well as stunning camping trails and the Hudson River. Every year thousands of residents from nearby New York descend lap up the spas, river cruises, Milton's resorts, and the wider Ulster County area. Businesses in Milton pride themselves on relaxing and luxurious getaways for the active communities of New York. A water intrusion event can disrupt and inconvenience guests, which is why having access to an expert and local water restoration service is an essential part of running and maintaining your business.

There are commercial water restoration companies in Milton that can help repair your business and minimize revenue losses. Our team has experience dealing with saltwater erosion and groundwater flooding that can occur to companies and resorts close to the Hudson River. One way of managing these challenging impact events is to install vapor barriers in the lower regions of your resort. Vapor barriers help protect subfloors from sustaining condensation damages when crawlspaces or other subterranean parts of your business become saturated with water. SERVPRO technicians are experts at working around the typical building construction of resorts in Ulster County.

Things to do in Milton, Ulster County

The charming towns in Ulster County provide an all year-round guest experience with some of the most beautiful natural visages alongside the Hudson River. Nationally maintained forestry includes Catskill Park and the Forest Preserve. Waterfront towns offer fisheries, cruises, and unique dining experiences for tourists, as well as hiking and biking trails.

• The Marlborough Farm Trail offers year-round tours of its stunning orchards, vineyards, and agriculture. Set between the Catskill Mountains, which peak at over 1200 meters, and the Hudson River, this rural getaway is ideal for getting back to nature.
• The Falcon is a smooth Jazz venue overlooking the Marlborough Falls. Live music and a rotating menu of fresh fish, meat, and seasonal vegetables keep guests entertained and content all year round.
• Buttermilk Falls Inn and Spa is an exclusive Hudson River estate that boasts 75 acres of stunning green spaces, whirlpools, spas, and private baths. Wedding bookings and bridal packages are available throughout the year.

Commercial Water Restoration Companies Near Me in Milton and Ulster County.

Providing a running service for tourists throughout the year can be tough with plumbing or infrastructure issues and river tides, causing moisture problems in resorts. SERVPRO has an expert team of water restoration technicians in Milton who can arrive quickly during an emergency to provide exceptional mitigation and restoration for your business. We prioritize minimal business interruption when working and can contain an affected area efficiently to prevent it from bothering other guests or spreading to other parts of your business.

• Moisture problems can get worse over time and lead to mold growth. Our complete drying procedure can help to protect your business against secondary damages.
• With access to national-scale resources, our crew chiefs can quickly mobilize industrial dehumidification, extraction, and air-movement equipment to dry materials, contents, and the building assembly of your business.
• We are proud members of the Hudson Valley Home Inspectors Association and receivers of an Orange County Rising Star award for our work with the business community to help them overcome unforeseen disasters in commercial premises.

While Milton is home to some of the most refined natural beauty in Ulster County, it can also be subjected to freezing conditions and snow throughout the winter. Regular building maintenance can help to reduce the impact of frozen pipes or water intrusion events. However, accidents do happen. When an unforeseen event threatens your business, you can rely on us to provide expert and accountable restoration services.

Are businesses in Milton at risk of natural disasters?

Ulster County can sometimes fall victim to natural disasters. While these events tend to be rare, the impact of high winds can lead to a water intrusion emergency. The key to controlling losses in a water emergency is to limit exposure. The longer water remains in contact with materials or furniture, the more likely it is to cause permanent harm. Our technicians can help recover your business by extracting water quickly and establishing a robust drying strategy to prevent condensational or other secondary water impact types. We understand how a tourist resort relies on busy periods of the year for annual income and work quickly, as well as effectively, to return your business to its preloss condition.

How can SERVPRO help to recover my business after water intrusion?

Our commercial services team is capable of working in large structures and small businesses. We operate twenty-four hours a day and have production technicians on call should you need an out-of-hours service. By combining our industry-leading knowledge with state-of-the-art equipment, we can be confident of controlling water intrusion and returning the business to you, "Like it never even happened."

• We can mobilize large DX drying units to control humidity and temperature within larger spaces and increase the efficiency and control over conditions within your business premises.
• Exterior furnaces and industrial generators and lighting can be brought on-site if there is a need to shut off the main fault-lines temporarily.
• Our expert carpet cleaning services include pre-conditioning, rotary buffering, and treating carpet fibers with sensitive anti-microbial chemicals. We gently detach and reinstall carpets to reduce the risk of causing damage to your floors, carpets, or baseboards.
• We can thoroughly deodorize your property to avoid unpleasant water or chemical odors that may have occurred from the water intrusion or restoration. Using venting fans, we can create an air exchange to return your business to its normal state.

Maintaining a year-round service is crucial to local, tourist-based resorts and businesses. If something goes wrong, contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647.

What Can a Homeowner Do if They Find Water After Their House Gets Flooded?

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

When flood waters enter your home, call SERVPRO for extraction.

When You Need Flood Extraction Services in Your Milton Home, Call SERVPRO

Even though the season just technically changed, severe thunderstorms could still strike the Milton region and cause flooding conditions. During a storm, wind can destroy your roof or windows and create a leak. Water can also enter your dwelling from the outside if it rises from the ground or pours in from your lower door seals.

What is your approach when I have standing water on my floor?

Flood extraction inside your Milton home from a professional company such as SERVPRO can become necessary if you have an excessive amount of water built up on your floors. To start, we first pull out as much liquid as possible during the extraction phase using the following equipment:

•  Submersible Pumps: Sump pumps can be useful when extracting standing water more than two inches deep.
•  Heavy-Duty Extractors: Once most liquids get removed, we can then use a heavy-duty extractor to remove the remaining moisture from hard-surfaced floorings such as linoleum or tile.
•  Removal of Porous Materials: Since water entering your home from the outside could contain harmful bacteria, fungi, viruses, or parasites, our SERVPRO technicians must remove and dispose of any porous items such as wet carpets, rugs, clothing items, or upholstered furniture.

What is the next step after the extraction process?

•  Thorough Inspection of Building Materials: Once we have removed as much liquid as possible, we use specialized instruments to inspect your building materials like your drywall, subfloors, ceilings, and framing.
•  Calculate How Much Drying Is Needed: During the inspection process, we test both affected and unaffected sections of your house to figure out how wet your building materials got. We then use these measurements to formulate a drying goal and decipher how much drying equipment we will need.

When a storm forces water into your house, call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 24/7.

How Effective are Products Against Microbial Growth during Water Cleanup?

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

When water damages your home, call SERVPRO. We are here for all your water damage restoration needs.

SERVPRO Uses Water Restoration Products to Aid in Controlling Microbial Growth in Milton Properties 

After a water leak in your Milton home, it is essential to clean the impacted area thoroughly to prevent microbial growth. Without proper cleaning, secondary damage such as mold growth or strong, musty odors may occur. Professionals typically use chemical agents for effective cleaning after a water leak in your house. SERVPRO technicians use antimicrobials to limit microorganisms from growing. They also use specially formulated EPA-registered disinfectants such as Sporicidin and Vanquish to destroy 99% microorganisms from contacted surfaces. 

What are the Benefits of Botanicals Compared to Other Cleaners? 

SERVPRO Has Botanical Options for Customers Who Prefer Them Over Chemical Cleaning Solutions 

Water Cleanup in Milton does not have to include harsh cleaning chemicals. Some property owners and residents may have sensitivities to strong-smelling chemicals. In this case, SERVPRO technicians may choose to use a botanical such as Benefect or Concrobium. Botanicals contain thyme oil or citric acid in place of harsher cleaning chemicals. Another benefit of using  botanicals in water cleanup is that they tend to have a pleasant scent. 

What is the Difference between -Stats and -Cides? 

• Mildewstats and fungistats slow down fungi' growth on organic materials such as paper, leather, silk, or wool.
• Biocides are chemical agents that kill organisms. Virucide kills viruses.
• SERVPRO uses the term biocide to refer to any chemical agent or product that impacts microbial growth, such as bacteria or fungi.  

What Are Some Common Ingredients of Chemical Agents?

Phenolics such as Sporicidin are used as a disinfectant.

• Chlorines such as Vanquish are strong oxidizing disinfectants. 
• Quaternary Compounds such as Microban are effective, broad-spectrum, highly effective disinfectants.  

For assistance with water cleanup, contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647. We make it, "Like it never even happened."

How Does SERVPRO Decide What Happens First When a Fire Takes Place?

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration requires technical knowledge and specialized equipment. SERVPRO has what it takes to restore your home.

Our Technicians Put Safety First and Know How to Assess What Mitigation Needs to Happen Initially in Milton Homes after a Fire

In 2018 approximately 387,00 residential fires took place, according to the Insurance Information Institute (iii). Of those fires, 276,500 were single-family homes, 86,500 were apartment fires, and 24,000 were other types of dwellings. These fires resulted in 8,286 million dollars of property loss, up 2% from the previous year. Fires like this take place every year in Milton. Often families are left displaced and at a loss at what to do next.

What Gets Managed First During Fire Restoration? 

When a home has fire damage in the Milton area, safety issues get addressed first. Repair and restoration cannot take place until the building is secure. SERVPRO knows what the potential hazards are and where to look for them. Our technicians do a scope of the area to determine safety concerns. These are dealt with before emergency mitigation and restoration starts. Each job is different, but there are specific things techs look for, and these include: 

• Asbestos
• Contamination category of water (from firefighters)
• Electrical shock hazards and systems
• Gas leakage risks
• Lead, often in paints
• Off-gassing during combustion
• Slip or fall hazards
• Structural damage 

These issues must all be dealt with before SERVPRO crews can begin to restore the home.

How Are Safety Hazards Dealt with by Technicians? 

If any concerns need mitigating, there are protocols in place to manage the situation. With electrical issues, the power may have to be turned off at the source. The same process goes for other utilities as well. If structural components are compromised, they may need temporary support put in place or removed altogether. We have certified biohazard removal technicians who can handle hazardous material removal and disposal as mandated by law. Our technicians wear respirators and use air scrubbers to mitigate poor air quality.

What Determines Which Fire Residue Strategies Get Used During Restoration?

Our Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certified and Fire and Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) use their training and experience to examine the smoke residue present. They then choose the appropriate methods and products to clean impacted surfaces. They consider several things when putting a plan in place, including how the fire, smoke, and soot swept through the home. The conditions during the fire and the materials consumed are also part of the equation. There are different types of soot as a result that require specific cleaning methods. One room alone, such as a kitchen, can have more than one residue type from the fire damage. To clean properly, the FSRTs do the following: 

• Determine the kind of soot – wet, dry, or protein-based
• Use inconspicuous spots to test cleaning methods and products
• Implement the actions decided upon
• Clean each impacted surface area so restoration efforts can begin 

When Does Water Damage Cleanup Take Place? 

Our IICRC techs attack water intrusion before fire damage cleanup begins. Water is very corrosive and can destroy building materials rapidly. If left standing, mold develops quickly. Before moving on to fire residue cleanup, the crews deal with water extraction using pumps and other extraction tools. Contaminated water gets contained and treated with EPA-registered antimicrobials. Structural drying is the next step using air movers and dehumidifiers. 

The Smell is Awful – Does SERVPRO Handle That? 

Deep cleaning and negative pressure air scrubbers can take care of much of the foul odor. Removing charred and burnt items helps immensely too. But the smell still often lingers from the smoke. Soot particles, the smoke residue that has settled, can sink into the tiniest nooks and crannies. Our technicians work diligently towards eliminating the odors. We use advanced techniques that neutralize the scent-bearing particles by chemically altering those particles. This process can include: 

• Enzymatic Products
• HVAC ductwork cleaning
• Hydroxyl Generators
• Ozone Machines
• Thermal Fogging
• Time released pellets if needed 

Fire damage in Milton can leave a house in shambles. Even if the fire is contained to one room, smoke residue gets carried throughout the entire home. Professionally trained crews are needed to restore the house to preloss condition. At SERVPRO, our goal is to leave your home, “Like it never even happened.” 

We understand, as homeowners ourselves, how even small disasters can upset your family. We arrive fast to the scene and start putting a plan in place immediately. Once all safety issues are taken care of, we move on to cleaning and restoration. If it can be restored rather than replaced, that is the option we prefer, saving you money and preventing a loss of precious items. Not everything in a fire can be saved, but we do our best to help you decide what gets salvaged. 

Contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 for professional fire damage service. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

How Quickly Can I Get Water Out of My Milton Business?

9/12/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage can be overwhelming to manage on your own. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for professional remediation services.

For Thorough and Timely Restoration of Your Milton Operation Call SERVPRO

Are My Appliances Safe to Use After an Inlet Pipe Split in My Kitchen?

Restoring appliances after water intrusion is a part of any commercial water removal in Milton restaurants and other businesses. Our response team technicians can take care of excess water, minor rust, and other problems that do not require a certified electrician.

How Do Technicians Restore Them to Full Use Again?

After turning off the water, team members start by removing the water out of the restaurant using commercial-grade pumps or smaller extraction wands, depending on the level of the water. After reducing the standing water to a thin layer, they switch to long-handled squeegees to push the remaining moisture out the nearest exit.

To dry the ovens and other appliances, team members wipe down surfaces with dry cloths and sponges to prevent surface rust. Where possible, they remove outside covers to hand-dry as much of the interior as possible. While they complete this task, other technicians place air movers at each item to force warm, dry air underneath. These devices force moisture off the appliances and dry any water that may have been missed previously.

What About the Terrible Humidity in My Dining Area?

At the start of our restoration efforts, SERVPRO teams set up standing fans at the entrances and exits to immediately begin drawing the damp air out of your facility. If possible, they also install box fans in the windows to further increase air circulation and assist with their other restoration efforts.

To schedule a response team visit for your business here or in Monticello, contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 today. We are here to help get you back in business as quickly, and safely, as possible. 

Click here for more information about Milton.

My Home Office Is Fire Damaged – What Can Be Saved?

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Our fire damage experts can have your home office back to its original state, “Like it never even happened.”

Experienced Fire Mitigation Technicians In Milton May Be Able to Restore More Than You Think.

Milton NY, is a lovely waterfront town that began in the mid-1700s. It has a lot of history and historic buildings. The town is also home to old and new residential homes, many of which have home offices right now. A fire can strike any of these homes at any time.

Can My Wallpaper Walls Be Saved?

More than ever before, folks are working from home. Home offices have developed rapidly as a result. You may have turned an extra bedroom into an office or portioned off a section of the basement for office use. Whatever your choice, it is now an essential part of your home and work life. In this case, a small space heater caused a minor blaze that left fire damage in this Milton workspace. 

Your office is set up the way you need it to be for work but also for comfort. In this home, a delicate floral wallpaper adorned the wall. Matching drapes hung on the large window. Both of these are now covered with smoke residue. Thankfully, the charred and burnt damage is minimal. Restoring the wallpaper depends on the type and the extent of the damage. There are five basic kinds of wallpaper our SERVPRO technicians typically encounter. They are:

Paper – Dry cleaning is the only safe method for this as it is porous and can absorb cleaning wet cleaning products.

Vinyl – Nonporous vinyl coating helps this type resist moisture, so it is easier to clean versus paper.

Foil – Resists moisture, but care must be taken not to damage printing on top of the foil.

GrassCloth – Can only be dried cleaned. The film from the smoke may make it uncleanable.

Flocked Wall coverings – Dry cleaning is the best option, but is a fragile surface, so care must be taken.

The home office in this scenario had three walls that were cleaned using a dry sponge. The fourth wall was more heavily soiled. The wallpaper had to be removed and replaced. 

I Love My Lampshades

Lampshades are delicate. If the shade was an inexpensive one, it would be more cost-effective to replace it unless there is very light residue. If so, brushing, vacuuming, and dry sponging may work. If the lampshade was costly, restoration may be possible but can be a delicate procedure. Our content management teams can assess the damage and help you determine what can be salvaged.

My Drapes Match My Wallpaper

There are many factors involved in salvaging draperies. Different cleaning methods are required depending upon the type of smoke residue involved. Our fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) check:

• Type of fibers

• Dye stability

• Backing material

• Age

• Pre-existing conditions

Once they know what they are working with, they can use a combination of dry cleaning and hot water extraction methods to clean drapery and curtains. 

What About My Hardwood Floors?

The beautiful oak floors in this office were mainly smoke damaged except for the spot where the small heater was placed. There was some charring in that location. The goal is to remove the smoke residue without damaging the floor’s finish. Often damp mopping with a neutral pH cleaner does the trick. Charred areas should be worked on by technicians experienced in refinishing hardwood floors. If you had area rugs on the floor, these can be cleaned using carpet cleaning techniques or might be taken to the SERVPRO warehouse for cleaning.

Is There Hope for My Desk & Belongings?

Hardwood desks are items that have a good chance of being saved, especially when the fire damage is only due to soot. Again, the type of material and the extent of the damage are key factors. In this case, the outside was cleaned with a wet cleaning agent, and dry cleaning was used on the unfinished areas, such as drawer bottoms. Other items that may have been in your office we can often save include:

• Books

• Documents

• Photographs

• Clothing

• Furniture

• Personal items such as knick-knacks

Fire Damage and Restoration Services

It does not matter if the fire that impacts your home is a minor one or a major blaze. SERVPRO has 24/7 emergency fire mitigation services that are “Faster To Any Size Disaster.” There are no regular hours for disasters, and we understand that. We provide fire damage help as soon as possible once we receive your phone call. You want your home restored quickly, and we want that too. That is why we work during the holidays and at night. 

When you walk back into your home office, we want it to look, “Like it never even happened.” We have been restoring homes in the Milton area for years. Our customers are satisfied and know we are committed to customer service. Contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 for expert fire damage service.

How Do I Still Have Moisture After Cleanup?

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

Homeowners have to deal with many things which may include storm damage. Don't let the moisture take over your home. Contact SERVPRO right away.

SERVPRO Finds Hidden Moisture in Your Monticello Home.

Even after drying the floors and sopping up all the floodwater in your Monticello home, it is vital to continue the drying process by using industrial-strength air movers and dehumidification equipment. Throughout the water restoration process, technicians periodically check and measure moisture levels within your home.

Why Do I Need to Make Sure to Remove All Moisture?

Leaving Flood Water Unattended May Result in Secondary Damage.

Flood damage inevitably means hidden water in your Monticello home. Even if the flood only covered your floors' surface, it may have spread to the drywall or seeped into the subflooring. It can also go into the ceiling of your basement, potentially causing extensive secondary damage. Our trained technicians use moisture sensing equipment to detect moisture pockets that may not be apparent to the eye. If caught quickly, technicians can mitigate more severe damage.

What Might Happen if Moisture Goes Unnoticed?

• Warped flooring, walls, or ceilings if water remains undetected beneath the surface.
• Flooring or walls may need replacement if moisture is not caught in time.
• Microbial growth may occur, including the expansion of mold colonies.

What Equipment Does SERVPRO Technicians Use to Detect Water?

• Moisture Sensors: Have sharp probes to detect moisture in carpets and padding. Probes penetrate through all layers to accurately detect moisture levels.
• Thermal Imaging Cameras: These infrared cameras detect temperature changes that indicate the possibility of hidden moisture, typically within wall cavities.
• Moisture Meters: These can measure the actual moisture content in a material. There is a relative scale for measuring wood that ranges from 5% to 30%. Moisture meters may penetrate through hard surfaces, depending on the location of the water. 

For 24/7 assistance after a flood, contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster.

More information about Monticello.

Can I Get Fire Damage Cleanup Services For a Small Accident in Milton?

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

We're always ready to help!

Get in Touch With SERVPRO For Local Milton Fire Damage Cleanup Services!

You might worry your Milton home may not be entitled to fire damage cleanup services if the damage was minimal. However, here at SERVPRO, We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster. We do not care if your home has suffered a large fire or a small one. Everyone deserves to go back to living their life as if the damage never happened.

Many people have curious children, and sometimes curiosity can lead phoning for local Milton fire damage cleanup services. Visualize how you would feel if you suddenly smelled smoke and found your child dropping lit matches into your bathroom's waste bin. Due to its location, a small amount of smoke damage had stained your vanity and the adjacent wall. While it may not be a disaster, your bathroom deserves remediation too. Give SERVPRO a call, and our technicians can come to your home swiftly.

Is it Worth it To Get Professional Help?

You may find yourself wondering if you truly need professional help. In many cases, you can find ways to remediate the damages in your home. However, there are advantages to getting professional help, such as:
    •    Knowing the work is done by qualified professionals
    •    The comfort of allowing someone else to take the problem off of your hands
    •    Not needing to deal with the hassle of finding the right products

Here at SERVPRO, we bring our advanced technology to you. You do not have to worry about procuring any product. We come into your house with what we need.

What Advanced Technology Can You Use to Remove Soot and its Smell?

Our SERVPRO techs can use some of the following devices to clean up the fire damage in your home:
    •    Lubricative cleaning products, designed to lift grime from your walls and vanity
    •    Hydroxyl generators to deal with the malodor
    •    Fresh sealant paint, to suppress any lingering smells
    •    We always try to return your home to its preloss state, so you can live your life, “Like it never even happened.”

If your home needs fire damage restoration, call us today! Dial (845) 791-7647 to communicate with SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties. We're always ready to help.

What Can SERVPRO Do to Assist in Any Disastrous Event in Milton?

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

No matter the damages that occur, SERVPRO is ready help you Milton.

SERVPRO is a thoroughly trained restoration company for any of your Milton disasters. 

Dependability is a quality that you do not often measure the success of restoration companies by. However, since we have been actively serving Sullivan and South Ulster Counties since 1986, our formula for putting the customer first and exceeding their expectations has ensured our longevity in Milton and its surrounding areas. We are a family run business offering a comprehensive solution to restoration and recovery, including  and repairs. This approach is critical in saving our customers money and helping reconstruction restoration projects to complete more efficiently.

Fire 

One of the advantages of choosing SERVPRO for fire losses in your Milton home or business is our experience in these niches. With several of our technicians accredited through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in Fire & Smoke Restoration (FSRT), Odor Control (OCT), and Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning (UFT), we have the expertise to offer modern solutions to these destructive problems. We are prepared for the losses that you face in your home.

What Tasks Happen as Soon as Fire Restorers Arrive? 

Understanding how vital mitigation and emergency services are to the restoration of your Milton structure, we begin specific tasks as soon as we arrive. It is not uncommon for professionals to work alongside our in-house contractors to perform controlled demolition, debris removal, and other mitigation tactics to save you money.

Can SERVPRO Help Rebuild After a Loss?

Structural damage is a common occurrence after housefires. Our contractors can work to quickly assess the need for repairs and reconstruction throughout the property, and begin the preparation for these final tasks and the earliest mitigation stages with controlled demolition. With a clean and stable foundation for replacing discarded materials, we seamlessly transition into reconstruction after mitigation completes in your Milton home.

Commercial

While almost any disaster could impact your Milton business or commercial property, water and fire losses are among the most frequent. These two disasters embody the bulk of our callouts as a restoration provider, so they are the situations we stay most prepared to face. This readiness is especially prevalent with commercial properties because damaging effects can threaten your staff or customers. It is our business to get you back in business as quickly as possible.

How Can Professionals Deal with Substantial Loss Events? 

Many of the structures in the commercial districts of Milton and its surrounding areas can be thousands of square feet in size. Water, fire, and flood loss incidents can spread quickly through this open area, requiring powerful and efficient tools to overcome. In addition to trailered equipment like our desiccant dehumidifiers, we also are a large loss recovery team. This status allows us to pool our roster and inventory with other franchises throughout the area so that no job is too big for our team. Sister franchises and trusted contractors can help in this regard by adding to our already considerable:

• Resources
• Personnel
• Equipment
• Experience

What Solutions Can SERVPRO Offer for Thorough Cleaning? 

Restoration and recovery of your business do not always require a disaster taking place first. In the wake of current events, there has never been a more pressing need for a safe and sanitized environment. Through our new cleaning program, Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, we can help Milton businesses to reduce the spread and severity of viral pathogens, bacteria, and other contaminants.

Storm

While there have been countless severe weather events that have threatened the Milton area over the last several decades, it is often the harsh winters and intense summer storms that can wreak the most havoc on homes and businesses in the region. Because these events can strike without warning in many situations, our SERVPRO team remains prepared to address these concerns through a fast and confident response from both restoration professionals and contractors.

What Emergency Services Can We Provide? 

The emergency services that we provide initially to Milton homes and businesses can protect the property and allow a more natural transition into the mitigation services necessary. Flooding is a typical occurrence after structural breaches exist, as water penetration can now reach the inside of your home unabated. These emergency services can seal up structural breaches that allow for flooding, and address the most pressing concerns with standing water and contamination. These emergency services include:

• Extraction
• Controlled Demolition
• Board Up Services
• Roof Tarping
• Tree Removal
• Content Management

What Provides the Most Efficient Extraction? 

Removing standing water from your home after a flood can involve many tools. We have a vast inventory of water removal equipment, and the choice between these units varies based on the severity of standing water and its location in your Milton property. Natural flooding scenarios often require trash pumps and truck-mount pumps, while clean water incidents often get resolved with submersible electric pumps and wet vacuums.

Water

Weather is a cold snap that bursts a pipe in the middle of winter or a malfunctioning appliance in your Milton home, water losses are among the most common threats to your property. As overwhelming as these situations might initially appear, the fast response of qualified professionals like our SERVPRO team can be critical in protecting your home.

What are the Cutting-Edge Tools We Use for Water Removal? 

Mitigation is among the most critical elements of water recovery for Milton homes and businesses. Much of this has to do with extraction being a fundamental element of this phase. Water removal, especially standing water, can reduce penetration into porous materials and eliminate more significant concerns like deterioration or microbial threats. Extraction can involve many tools, but often this phase typically includes submersible pumps and wet vacuums.

How Can We Thoroughly Dry Your Damaged Property? 

There is no water loss incident that does not involve some degree of drying, so the choices in which equipment can do this most efficiently is a vital decision. Evaporative drying is often most effective through the combined use of several tools including:

• Air Movers
• Dehumidifiers
• Electric Portable Heaters
• Positive Pressure Systems
• Floor Mat Drying System

We can help your property however it needs after a loss incident. Give our SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties team a call today at (845) 791-7647.

After a Protein Fire in Milton, Do I Need Professional Assistance?

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

For 24/7 assistance after a fire, contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647.

Protein Fires Cause Strong Odors and Sticky Residue in Your Milton Home

Protein fires are a common type of kitchen fire. Often, Milton homeowners forget a piece of meat, poultry, fish resulting in a fire. It can happen to anyone, either you forget, or you may fall asleep. At first glance, protein fires do not seem like they caused a lot of damage. However, the potent smell can be a challenge for even the most seasoned professionals. Our fire restoration specialists are well-equipped with knowledge, products, and equipment, giving them the resources to tackle the damage after a kitchen fire effectively.

I Do Not See Residue, Can I Only Deodorize?

SERVPRO Conducts a Thorough Cleaning To Return Your Home to Pre-Loss Condition
Fire damage in Milton comes in many shapes and forms. It is crucial to begin the restoration process quickly for your home to mitigate secondary damage. Smoke residue and strong malodor become more challenging to remove the longer it sits on a surface. The most significant issue with protein fires is an unpleasant smell. However, protein fires also form a sticky, clear, or amber residue. Our restoration team tackles the stubborn residue with a multi-faceted approach.

What Should I Expect When SERVPRO Comes to My Home After a Fire?

    •    A project manager/lead scopes the damage to create a restoration goal and for insurance documentation.
    •    Our team begins working to perform any necessary repairs.
    •    Each impacted surface is cleaned thoroughly with appropriate cleaning solutions.
    •    Technicians begin deodorizing with masking and absorption agents.
    •    For the most stubborn cases, technicians fog the structure so the deodorizing agent can reach every nook and cranny.

For 24/7 assistance after a fire, contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647. We make it, “Like it never even happened.”

Do I Need to Replace My Carpet After Water Damage in My Monticello Home?

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

Water can quickly cause damage in your home. Call SERVPRO today to avoid additional water loss of your property.

SERVPRO Utilizes Water Extraction & Air Moving Equipment to Restore Carpets

Water damage to carpets caused by an overflowing bathtub or pipe burst can be a nightmare for most Monticello homeowners. Carpeting that is saturated in water acts like a sponge, holding in the water while slowly evaporating. If not properly cleaned and disinfected, it can lead to significant structural damage and musty smells. 

My Carpet is Soaked in Water, Can it Be Saved?

Air Movement is Critical

Water Damage to carpets in Monticello homes can be soaked up with a shop vac, but it’s generally nonproductive. Instead, it’s more productive to remove excess moisture and humidity from the home’s subflooring and the air in the house itself. SERVPRO uses air movers that move air over and under the carpet while they continuously monitor the humidity levels in your home until everything is dry and disinfected thoroughly.

Here are some factors to consider in regards to carpet replacement from water damage:

Since infectious organisms take approximately 72 hours to develop, if your carpet has been soaked in water for 72 hours or more, it should be replaced. However, it might be worth your time to talk to SERVPRO because they have been known to salvage water damaged carpets.

If the synthetic fibers on the underside of your carpet crumble into dust after your carpet is dry and cleaned, this is a good sign that your carpet should be replaced. Although carpet backing made from manmade polypropylene or natural jute fiber is mildew resistant, its binders will break down when subjected to water for excessive amounts of time.

If you have done your best to clean your carpet after water damage and are still noticing lingering odors? It might be time to tear it out and start over with new padding and carpet or call SERVPRO for an expert’s opinion on whether it’s worth saving?

How Does an Air Mover Work to Dry My Carpet?

Air movers work by increasing the evaporation rate by generating airflow over and under the carpet at the surface level. They force the moisture trapped inside the carpet into a vapor that replaces the moist air with drier air, allowing for a faster and more natural drying solution for carpets subjected to water damage. For an expert’s opinion and professional carpet cleaning from water damage, call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647.

More about Monticello.

What Does It Take To Restore Fire Damage In A Milton Bed & Breakfast?

7/12/2020 (Permalink)

Your Monticello, Gardiner, or Liberty bed and breakfast can regain its homely feel after a fire incident.

SERVPRO Helps Manage The Loss Site And Carry Out The Necessary Restoration Processes In Milton

The people visiting your bed & breakfast have different expectations, including spending time tucked away in their rooms or the common areas interacting with other patrons. When a fire incident affects your Milton facility, how you handle the restoration can have a long-term impact. SERVPRO has well-trained technicians who can help perform all restoration activities to the necessary standards.

What are the main restoration activities after fire damage in a Milton Ben & Breakfast?

    •    Availing site services for more convenience
    •    Sorting of damaged items
    •    Identification of working areas
    •    Management of contents

In an ideal world, everything affected by the fire would be dumped and replaced with new items. However, such an approach is extremely costly. Therefore, there is a need to identify and classify items by the level of damage so that only those deemed as ruined are disposed of. Our SERVPRO technicians help by grouping the items into three categories:
    •    Salvageable
    •    Unsalvageable
    •    Questionable

We base the decision on the level of damage as well as how the item in question is used. For instance, rugs or mattresses with only one section burnt are unsalvageable, while items like beds or other wooden furniture with similar damage are salvageable. The questionable category is for items with damage that is hard to classify as salvageable or unsalvageable. We can take such items offsite for specialized cleaning or other restoration processes.

What kind of services does a fire loss site need?

Fire incidents in Milton can create a variety of challenges that interfere with the restoration process or even create hazards. For instance, it might not be possible to use any of the toilets within the bed & breakfast during the restoration of fire damage. Proper set up of some services can help eliminate these challenges. Our SERVPRO crew chiefs make the necessary arrangements to have services like:
    •    Portable dumpsters
    •    Portable toilets
    •    Portable storage units
    •    Auxiliary power sources such as generators

The restoration process is likely to take time to complete. Lack of facilities such as toilets or even storage areas at the site can add more time to the restoration timeline since people have to leave the property to find them. Restoration processes also involve the aggregation of a wide range of waste items, including building materials torn down from the walls or ceiling as well as contents such as burnt beddings. The regular trash receptacles used at the facility cannot hold the extra waste. The portable dumpsters our crews provide, help solve this problem. We also lay plywoods on the driveway before placing the dumpster to protect it.

Why is the identification of work areas necessary?

The fire is likely to affect rooms differently. Work area identification helps map out all the affected areas within the B&B. When our SERVPRO production managers do this, they also collect useful information such as the total surface area of the affected areas and the type of damage in each section. We also note whether there are any "off-limits" areas based on your preference or other factors such as investigations into the cause of the fire. The information gained when assessing work areas helps us come up with an accurate estimate of the time the job is likely to take to complete. With an accurate estimate, you can inform your regular clients of the expected timelines when you can resume operations, which can cement your reputation as a professionally run bed and breakfast.

How are contents managed during the restoration process?

Managing contents at a fire loss site is a challenging process. Depending on the level of damage, a move out might be necessary, but in other cases, it is possible to clean them up within the loss site. Either way, content manipulation is necessary for convenience, as well as protecting them from further damages. Our SERVPRO crews combine different methods, including finding areas with minimal or no damage to act as temporary storage. The portable storage containers also help hold some items safely.

Content management must factor in the possibility of secondary damage to items. For instance, storing wet items among dry ones can spread moisture damage to items that were unaffected initially. Moisture is problematic because it leads to the setting of residues, sparks mold growth, and causes rusting in metal items. Our technicians take note of wet items and hold them separately.

Proper management of the loss site allows the exhaustive performance of restoration activities, including cleaning, demolition, and rebuilding, as well as deodorization, removing traces of the fire incident, “Like it never even happened.”

Your Monticello, Gardiner, or Liberty bed and breakfast can regain its homely feel after a fire incident. Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 to assist. We are available 24/7.

What Extraction Methods Work Best After a Flood?

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

No, this water pump is NOT part of SERVPRO's advanced equipment for floodwater extraction from Milton Houses

What Extraction Methods Work Best After a Flood?

Flooding in your Milton home can leave several inches or feet of standing water throughout the property that must get removed to restore the house.

With natural flooding especially, Milton homes can experience a substantial volume of water to contend with when restoration begins. Most property owners allow this recovery process to get handled by competent professionals like our SERVPRO team. The faster that experienced technicians like ours can get started on efforts like mitigation, the easier the overall restoration of your property will become. With situations like flooding, mitigation hinges on the removal of standing water and surface damage.

Addressing flood damage in Milton homes often begins with how effectively surface water can get removed. We have multiple tools and devices that can work to accomplish this objective. An extensive inventory of recovery tools is available to our technicians responding to your water emergency. The choice in extractors used for these circumstances varies based on the severity of the situation, the materials affected, the placement of the damage, and whether solids might be present in the standing water. Many of the conventional extraction tools that we use in these regards are:

• Truck-Mount Extractors
• Gas-Powered Trash Pumps
• Electric Submersible Pumps
• Wet Vacuums/Light Wands
• Weighted Extractors
• Carpet Wands

How Does Water Get Removed from Flooring?

Because surface water pools on flooring like carpets and hardwood, these materials can become immediately damaged through absorption and overexposure. Depending on contamination threats, it can be possible to recover saturated flooring materials with the appropriate water removal and drying techniques. Between technologies like carpet wands and floor drying mats, we can control the rate of removal for moisture and these materials to ensure that flooring does not become overly dried in the process.

Flooding can be a widespread threat to your home. Our SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties team can help with a fast and experienced response. Give us a call today at (845) 791-7647.

How do I Ensure My Whole House is Clean After a Fire?

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

You can trust that your home is in good hands with the experienced Technicians at SERVPRO.

A Professional Fire Restoration Service in Milton Can Successfully Restore Your Home After a Fire.

Milton residents need to protect their homes and personal property after a fire. Calling a professional team who trains to address the ramifications of fire damage is a great way to ensure a thorough cleanup. Don't let your inexperience threaten the health of your family.

Cleaning the fire damage in your Milton home goes beyond wiping down walls and a fresh coat of paint. Our SERVPRO technicians take a full assessment of the situation and react accordingly. Including structural elements such as drywall and columns, as well as your HVAC system, lets us develop a restoration plan that addresses the areas damaged by the fire.

How do I clean my HVAC system after a fire?

Your HVAC system comprises heating, ventilation, and air conditioning in your home. When a fire happens, our SERVPRO team concentrates mostly on the ventilation aspect of the unit, and we scrutinize it to assess the damage. The ventilation system can quickly spread smoke residue throughout your home, so its inspection is crucial to a job well done. When the waste is present, we ask several questions including the following-

Where was the fire located relative to the HVAC unit?

Is there a smell of smoke?

For how long did the fire burn?

When our SERVPRO technicians understand the magnitude of the damage, we can proceed with the repairs, including cleaning and sealing air ducts. Thankfully, you can rely on our expertise to perform these delicate tasks while preserving your HVAC unit and erasing traces of the fire.

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties is here to assist you in your time of need. Call us at (845) 791-7647regardless of the size of your fire incident and let us provide a comprehensive restoration plan. A job well done can save you time and money now and in the future. Like you, we want to leave your home, "Like it never even happened."

Want to see more about Milton?

How Quickly Can a Restoration Services Company Cleanup Water in My Home?

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

We are equipped to handle all of your water damage restoration needs.

SERVPRO technicians can reduce the drying time needed in your Milton home through their advanced extraction methods 

Using a professional firm to extract and dry the water from your Milton home can significantly reduce the amount of time needed to dry the structure and contents. The fast remediation inhibits the potential to have to deal with secondary losses caused by waiting too long for the cleanup efforts to start. Some of the more severe problems are: 

• Warping of wood floorboards
• Buckling or deterioration of sheetrock in walls and ceilings
• Delamination of tile  

What is the Difference Between Hiring a Professional Restoration Company for Water Removal and Doing it Myself? 

When you want to remove water damage rapidly from your Milton home, unless you have professional equipment and training in the restoration sciences, the job will not come out the same for you. The power of a portable pump, rover, or truck-mounted units are head and shoulders better suited for home cleanup jobs than consumer-grade wet/dry vacuums.  

Some Situations May Make the Water Cleanup Task More Challenging 

SERVPRO technicians undergo extensive training for handling numerous types of scenarios that arise from water loss in a home. The techs scope the property carefully to determine the water's migration path to ensure nothing gets missed during cleanup. Other actions that get commonly performed include:  

• Removal of wet fiberglass insulation using a specialized collection unit for drying outside the loss area for re-installation
• Cutting off buckled drywall to stop the wicking process
• Removal of the baseboards and toe kicks for extraction within walls and under cabinetry
• Drilling weep holes for drainage  

While beginning the cleanup as soon after the initial Milton water loss event can assist in lessening loss, it is not always possible. The longer water stands, the more it degrades, and the more dangerous it becomes to handle during cleanup. If your water loss has gone over 48 hours, it requires extraction and disposal as a biohazard. The technicians also use more potent antimicrobial and antibacterial cleaning agents to ensure any affected surfaces get returned to sanitary standards for reuse in the home.  

In cases where storm damage is the culprit for the water in the Milton homes, the SERVPRO techs perform temporary repairs to halt any further influx of water into the property. Damaged roofing gets securely tarped, and broken windows get boarded up. Keeping unauthorized individuals away is a priority for both the safety of anyone on-site and the security of the home and contents.   

Whenever needed, the techs put furnishings up on blocks and extract around them so they can get left in place and minimize disruptions to the home. This method stops the stain from hardwood furnishings from potentially bleeding onto the carpet and inhibits the wood legs from absorbing water and possibly swelling or cracking at the joints. In cases where seepage under carpet or tile occurred, the room will need to get cleared in the loss area to remove the flooring for drying the substrate underneath. 

Drying is another aspect of the restoration services that gets the best outcome through the use of professional equipment. SERVPRO techs have large numbers of air movers that they can deploy in large quantities to dry, even large-scale water loss situations rapidly. 

Specific drying applications for hardwood flooring allows the boards to get dried in place instead of requiring removal, drying, and re-installation. Drying mats lay flat on the surface and force the air directly into the wood. Drying mats allow the moisture embedded in the wood to rise, and any swelling or warping will usually reduce, thus saving the homeowner the cost of the flooring replacement.  

If the cleanup began quickly enough, a carpet might get saved through the restoration methods. Once the water gets extracted, the most crucial aspect is the complete drying of the carpet and pad. Using techniques such as "floating," there is more significant potential for full restoration of the floorcovering.  

The professional dehumidification equipment plays a crucial roll in the drying of the water loss areas. As the air movers cause the remaining, embedded moisture to come to the surface, the dehumidifiers capture it and port it off-site. This air movement creates a cycle of progressively drier air circulating and brings down the interior humidity. The process gets carefully monitored by the techs to ensure that pre-set drying goals get attained. 

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 is ready to handle any size water damage to your structure or contents 24/7. Call as soon as you need help, and our certified techs arrive quickly to restore your home to its preloss condition. 

My Home is Covered in Water, How Do I Get Rid of It?

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides advanced equipment and products along with trained technicians to mitigate damages to Milton area homes

Call in SERVPRO Water Restoration Specialists for Professional Removal in Milton

As our community in Milton is slowly coming out of one crisis, the weather is still ready with another. Flood water can be a costly problem for homeowners when it comes to replacing damaged property and restoring residences to a clean, safe condition.

So Why SERVPRO for Restoring My Milton Home?

SERVPRO specialists train to take care of the major issues in flood damage in Milton:

• Standing Water
• Dirty Water
• Removing Soil and other Contaminants
• Cleaning the Structure and Property
• Drying the Residence

What else makes SERVPRO better than the competition?

Our specialist teams also have access to a large inventory of industrial-grade cleaners and restoration equipment. If we do not have it on-hand, our office can quickly source it from another franchise nationwide. That means when it comes to removing standing, dirty water, our teams can arrive on-site and begin operations in a matter of minutes using pumps and extractors not available for rent or purchase at a big-box or DIY store.

If you have or had even a small amount of flooding in your home, call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 for professional restoration. We are here for you. 

How Do I Rid My Home of Lingering Smoke Odors?

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

A piece of SERVPRO's green equipment for combatting malodors after a house fire in Monticello

Hire SERVPRO to Clean and Restore your Monticello Home after a Fire

Most residential fires do not cause a lot of physical damage to Monticello area structures. Even a small fire, however, can generate an incredible amount of smoke which can leave odor-causing residues throughout your home.   

So Why SERVPRO for Getting Rid of the Odors?

SERVPRO understands fire odor cleanup in Monticello can be the most difficult part of restoring a home after an accident in the kitchen or garage. Our technicians have the latest training and use the latest restoration equipment to clean every surface in your home of smoke residues and remove affected property without creating additional damage in your home.

So how can SERVPRO remove all smoke odors without destroying my Home?

Where the odors penetrated deeply into the structure of your home, our technicians use a hydroxyl generator to create a cloud of particles the same size as the odors. These particles bind with the odors, changing them, and eliminating the smoke odors.

If you have lingering odors or any other damage left by a fire, call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties today at (845) 791-7647. We want to return your home to its original, clean condition. 

Do I Have to Hire a Professional Fire Restoration Service?

5/24/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO mitigate your fire and soot damaged home in your Milton area.

Cleaning After a Fire in Milton is Complex. Hiring Professional Technicians Mitigates Your Losses.

Milton homeowners may feel at a loss when there's a fire in their home. Hopefully, the damage is not widespread, even if the smell of smoke lingers in every piece of furniture in your house. Rather than cleaning up on your own, rely on a professional crew to give you a comprehensive assessment of the damage and educated opinion regarding the next steps.

SERVPRO is your local resource for fire damage in Milton. Our team trains under the tutelage of industry experts to understand the theory of fire and the science behind all cleanup efforts. When you call us at our 24/7 hotline, you tap into knowledge and experience and invite it to work for you. We can put our IICRC accredited crew to work to restore your home.

Can a fire restoration technician remove the smell of smoke?

The acrid smell of smoke is a frequent reminder of the fire, and it lingers long after the soot is gone. Our SERVPRO team pays close attention to the path of the fire and takes action to neutralize and kill the smell molecules. Some of the techniques we apply to remove the odor can include-

• Air Scrubbers with activated charcoal filters
• Deodorant pellets
• Ozone machines and hydroxyl generators
• Thermal fogging

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties eliminates the smell of fire and cleans your home. Call us at (845) 791-7647 and let us leave your house "Like it never even happened."

How Can I Remove the Smell of Fire from My Home?

5/24/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let a fire ruin your Milton home. Call the pros in SERVPRO to mitigate your fire issues.

When the Smell of Smoke Lingers in Your Milton Home, Call SERVPRO for Help

Not all fires are catastrophic, but that doesn't prevent them from leaving their trace in your home. Even a small kitchen fire in your Milton home can release enough smoke to trigger your smoke alarms and penetrate your clothing and upholstered furniture. Rather than mask the smell of smoke yourself, let a professional crew eliminate it.

Fire odor removal in Milton is a job for our SERVPRO fire damage restoration technicians (FRST.) Our team is up-to-date with the latest industry technology to apply the most efficient techniques and restore your home. Aside from removing soot and containing the damage, when you call our 24/7 hotline, you find an experienced team to guide you through the restoration process.

What are the steps to eliminate the smell of smoke?

Our SERVPRO staff understands the theory of fire and knows that malodor removal requires a specific set of actions to remove it effectively. Initially, all charred debris and contents must be removed from the site of the fire.

• First, we concentrate on odor containment by spraying an EPA-approved chemical deodorizer to stop further release of the smell into the air.
• Second, we counteract the existing smell molecules by neutralizing them.
• Third, fogging allows us to spray deodorizing solutions on all surfaces of your home.

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties can leave your home smelling fresh again. Call us at (845) 791-7647 and let us work for you. With our help, we can leave your home "Like it never even happened."

How Can I Save My Pictures After Water Damage?

5/24/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO the professionals in your Monticello area to fix your leaking pipes.

Let a Professional Team into your Monticello Home to Help Preserve your Memories

Water leaks can wreak havoc in your home in Monticello, but we often feel worse about wet pictures and documents than we do about ruined or even just damaged flooring. Hiring a professional water restoration technician can help you preserve your priceless possessions by applying industry best practices for the preservation of documents and those family albums.

Water restoration in Monticello is simpler with the help of SERVPRO. Our technicians are knowledgeable of the latest industry trends and techniques and apply them to your home. Our goal, like yours, is to restore normalcy to your household as soon as possible.

How are pictures restored?

Restoration of paper goods can be costly, but the benefit far outweighs the financial commitment. The key to water damage restoration is extracting water at a rate propitious to each material. Removing water too quickly can cause further problems in some materials such as hardwood floors when buckling and warping can become a consequence of excessive moisture. Paper items such as photographs and electronics can sometimes be restored, though there are typically lingering evidence of the mishap. Our  SERVPRO team can explain the process. Most of our drying techniques focus on sublimation and evaporation. We can freeze documents and photos to arrest the degradation caused by the water. At our facility we can place these items in a pressurized chamber and transfer the frozen ice into a gaseous state, by-passing that pesky wet water phase.

• Vacuum thermal drying
• Vacuum freezer drying
• Dehumidifiers

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties gives you peace of mind when you need it. Call us at (845) 791-7647 and let us help you keep your home "Like it never even happened."

Is Mold in my Commercial Building a Biohazard?

5/24/2020 (Permalink)

Are you having mold problems in your Milton Store? Call SERVPRO to handle the work for you.

Mold in Your Milton Commercial Property is a Biohazard.

Owning a commercial property in Milton can be a lucrative endeavor. Both you and your tenants are responsible for its upkeep, but when someone detects mold, it is up to you to take the next step. Calling a professional team specializing in remediation and biohazardous cleanup is the best you can do to protect the businesses you house.

In Milton, commercial mold damage remediation belongs in SERVPRO's capable hands. Our team is certified from the IICRC –the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification as AMRT-applied microbial remediation technicians. We can handle the toughest jobs while working as fast as possible so you can resume normal business operations. Like you, our goal is to mitigate the effects of the fungi while preserving your commercial comings and goings.

How do professionals deal with mold?

Some property owners believe a fresh coat of paint and household disinfectant is enough to contain mold. Our SERVPRO team knows that, although helpful, these are not solutions to the root of the problem. As we wear our personal protective equipment to survey your building, you may see us apply industry-grade techniques to eliminate and kill the mold. Some steps we may take depending on your specific circumstances include-

• Damp wiping and HEPA vacuuming for light mold infestation
• Dry ice or soda blasting
• Application of antimicrobial solutions

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties becomes your partner during mold remediation in your commercial property. Call us (845) 791-7647 and let us leave your building, "Like it never even happened."

What Can I Use to Remove Water in My Home?

5/24/2020 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO in Monticello for you home water restoration needs.

Dehumidifiers and Fans Can Help Dry Your Monticello Home

A leak in your Monticello home can cause more trouble than you might expect. What may seem like a small amount of water could cause your structure to weaken, mold to proliferate, cabinets to degrade, and your floors to buckle. Rather than allowing heat and a household fan to be responsible for water evaporation, call a professional company for advice and swift action.

When you live in Monticello, water restoration is a job for SERVPRO. Our team understands that success lies in restoring adequate humidity levels, and it takes constant monitoring and gradual adjustments to achieve that. Drying too quickly, or not enough, can be the precursor to bigger problems, which is why we use advanced technology to measure the relative humidity in your home and adjust our efforts accordingly.

How does a professional team dry my home?

Many homeowners instinctively open windows, set up fans, and maybe use dehumidifiers to eliminate excess moisture. Our SERVPRO team enhances those efforts by bringing specialized equipment into your home. For a more targeted approach, you may see our technicians using one or several of the following

• Wand extractors to access corners and hard to reach places
• Injectidry technology to push hot air within your wall cavities
• Drying mats to address humidity trapped under your floors

With our advanced equipment and training we can set up positive or negative airflow methods to enhance the drying process.

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties makes water damage a thing of the past. Call us at (845) 791-7647 and let us leave your home "Like it never even happened."

Should I Buy a Home with Water Damage?

5/23/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let a water damaged pipe get you wet in your Milton home. Call SERVPRO to mitigate the problem.

A Professional Company can Help You Assess Water Damage in a Property in Milton

It is common for homebuyers in Milton to find a home that meets their preferences but requires repairs. Some things, like paint, are easy to repair, but water issues may require further inspection. Understanding the extent of water damage in a potential purchase is crucial before you invest.

In Milton, understanding water damage is a job for SERVPRO. Our technicians train under industry experts to understand the consequences and threats water even can cause, including mold, a weaker structure, and compromised stability. When you call our 24/7 hotline, you gain access to our expertise to help you make a decision.

How can I restore water damage?

If you choose to proceed with the purchase of the home, our SERVPRO team can help you restore it. Our team is thorough in extracting water, normalizing humidity levels, and disinfecting the premises. Even if your flooring is showing damage, we can take action to restore it. For those items beyond repair, we remove them from home and dispose of them according to local ordinances. When we enter your home, you will see our technicians working with equipment such as-

• Pumps of varying sizes
• Infrared moisture meters
• Antifungal cleaning solutions

Whatever your needs are, SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties can help you. Call us at (845) 791-7647 and let us leave your new home, "Like it never even happened."

Should I Wait for an Insurance Adjuster or Begin the Cleanup After a Flood?

5/23/2020 (Permalink)

Having flooding issues in your Milton home basement? Call the pros in SERVPRO to handle your problem.

After Flooding in Milton, Call Your Adjuster and a Professional Water Restoration Service Right Away!

Floods typically create an area-wide emergency, and it may take a while before your insurance adjuster arrives at your Milton home. In the meantime, water is soaking your floors, walls, and personal property. Rather than leaving the issue unattended, call a professional service to help you assess the damage and propose a cleanup plan and water extraction and drying plan.

For flood damage in Milton, you can call SERVPRO for help. Our team is thorough in detecting damage throughout your home and putting together an action plan for its restoration. As we do our job, we document every step, and you can share this documentation with your insurance company as needed. This CCIS Contents Claim Inventory System program greatly simplifies your claims process and evidences non-salvageable structural elements and contents.

Is it dangerous to leave floodwater unattended?

Floodwater brings many organic detritus into your home, and leaving it unattended makes it easy for mold and microorganisms to reproduce and invade your space. Aside from the biohazard, your structural elements are also at risk when they sit in water for a long time. Your priority should be to let SERVPRO into your home and get to work by using-

• Pumps to extract water
• Dehumidifiers and air circulators to encourage drying
• EPA-approved disinfecting solutions to kill bacteria left behind

Our advanced equipment has specific uses and helps us successfully restore your home while mitigating collateral damage. At SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties, we are here to help. Call us at (845) 791-7647 and let us leave your home, "Like it never even happened."

What Does a Fire Restoration Company Do?

5/23/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO in Monticello to remedy your fire and controlled demolition in your home.

A Professional Fire Restoration Technician Can Address All Aspects of a Fire in Your Monticello Home

Accidents happen, and your home in Monticello may be the victim of a fire. The steps you take following the incident make a difference in the extent of repairs necessary to restore your home. Reputable fire restoration companies help you assess the damage and take targeted action to clean up debris and eliminate undesirable consequences.

Fire damage in Monticello is meant for our fire restoration technicians at SERVPRO. Our team is available around the clock to respond to your emergency and jump into action. Rather than letting the situation overwhelm you, let us inspect the damage and begin the water extraction and soot removal process.

What are the first steps in fire restoration?

Safety is the primary concern when entering your home. Once it is safe, our SERVPRO team takes stock of your home and begins extracting water left behind by firefighters, all while protecting any unaffected areas of your home. In terms of removing traces of smoke and fire, our team applies several cleanup techniques, namely-

• Using dry cleaning solvents
• Blast cleaning with soda
• Vacuuming

Our industrial-grade equipment and cleaning solutions help us achieve results elusive to the average consumer. Furthermore, our targeted approach protects your belongings from additional damage due to abrasive cleaning solutions. It starts with an inspection and assessment, works through charred debris removal along with any controlled demolition, to the finale. A happy Customer!

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties is ready to help. Call us at (845) 791-7647 and let us leave your home, "Like it never even happened."

Is My Business Safe to Reopen after A Fire?

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let a fire put you out of business. Call SERVPRO of Monticello for the help you need.

For a Safe, Clean Relaunch of a Monticello Business, call SERVPRO

Now that businesses in Monticello begin to reopen, the last thing owners need is another disaster, but they do happen. Accidents in renovation and rewiring can lead to a fire, which is horrible for any operation, but especially for a pre-school or other child care facility.

The Fire only Destroyed a Wall and a Stove, but what about all of this Ash?

That ash is really soot residue, the most common commercial fire damage in Monticello businesses. SERVPRO specialists train extensively to clean surfaces and remove the residue without causing additional damage. Response teams have a significant inventory of cleaning agents for every surface and access to a national equipment network that includes industrial vacuums and special filters that can pick up even the smallest residue particles.

How can I be sure my business is clean enough to reopen; especially now?

In addition to the cleaning service already part of our fire restoration program, we also offer Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. This service meets the exacting requirements of both the Centers for Disease Control and state agencies.

For more information about these and other business services, contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 today.

What Happens to My Home after a Storm Floods It?

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPROs response team handle the flood in your MIlton home.

To Restore your Milton Residence after a Flood, call SERVPRO Response Teams

Storm flooding not only can send hundreds of gallons of water into your home, but it also brings in the soil and bits of every other contaminant it picks up on the way inside. These can also cost Milton homeowners hundreds and thousands of dollars in replacement and restoration costs.

How Do the Teams deal with this problem?

For this part of flood damage to Milton homes, SERVPRO teams spray the standing water and every surface it touched with an anti-bacterial agent. This neutralizes the health threat so technicians can bring in pumps and other extractors to remove the water.

After removal, technicians wipe down the now exposed surfaces to neutralize and remove any remaining contaminants. The sooner they do this, the less damage there is to property items like building materials and fabrics. Carpets, however, must be removed and disposed of immediately.

How quickly can you get here?

We have an operator and a response team on standby 24/7, every day of the year. Our technicians can arrive at your home and set up pumping operations in just a few hours.

To learn more about what SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties can do for your home, call us today at (845) 791-7647.

How Do I Remove Standing Water from My Crawlspace?

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

Do you have a flood problem in Monticello? Call SERVPRO to go by and take care of your problem.

After a flood, Monticello homes can have flooded crawlspaces that demand immediate extraction and drying attention by our SERVPRO professionals. 

While it might not be possible to avoid flooding and other natural disasters in Monticello entirely, our SERVPRO professionals can help you with fast and direct restoration and recovery services for extraction and drying.

Because flood damage in Monticello homes can be destructive and devastating, it gets assumed that crawlspace flooding is less severe. In truth, standing water in or around your property can be threatening for multiple reasons. Our team must work quickly to remove the water from beneath the main floor of your house using powerful extractors like our truck-mounted pumps.

What Are the Threats of a Flooded Crawlspace?

Understanding the severity of crawlspace flooding can help homeowners to appreciate services like professional extraction, drying, cleaning, and even crawlspace encapsulation by our residential contractors. Some of the primary threats that this damaged space can allow include:

• Microbial Growth
• Structural Deterioration
• Bacterial and Viral Pathogens
• poor indoor air quality

Flooding is a destructive force that must get addressed as soon as possible after a storm loss. Our SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties team can help. Call us today at (845) 791-7647.

Can SERVPRO Clean My Monticello House After Water Damage?

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

Having problems with the idea of water restoration to your Monticello home? Call the pros in SERVPRO to take care of the issue.

Water losses can quickly spread throughout your Monticello house and leave a mess behind for you to clean. Choosing professional restoration services like our SERVPRO team provides ensures that you get not only efficient drying and extraction solutions, but also the full measure of our premier cleaning services as well.

Water cleanup for Monticello homes comes in multiple phases. It often has much more to do with revitalizing the look and feel of the property than removing literal soiling water losses caused. While minerals and chemicals in tap water can leave residues and stains, it can also dull surfaces.

What Must Happen to Restore the House Completely? 

Restoring a  Monticello residence after a water loss incident is often more complicated than homeowners might believe. Because of water migration and numerous affected materials and contents, recovery is a focused effort beginning as soon as our technicians arrive. We can revitalize the look and feel of your home through direct actions such as:

• Carpet cleaning
• Surface wipe cleaning
• Resurfacing wood flooring and cabinets

No matter how severe water losses might appear, we have the experience and equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.” Give our SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties team a call today at (845) 791-7647.

How Should I Clean Soiled Surfaces After a Fire?

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

Don't worry about the fire and soot damage from your Milton fire. Call SERVPRO to use their expert techniques to fix the problem.

Our SERVPRO team can help with abrasive cleaning approaches to remove soot and residues from damaged surfaces in your Milton home. 

Cleaning up after a fire loss incident is not a situation that most Milton homeowners are asked to handle on their own. Because of our experience in this arena, our SERVPRO professionals can help with practical solutions for removing soiling, debris, and residues. 

While fire damage in Milton homes can come in many different forms, removing a buildup of residues or soot from the house can make the work area less hazardous and better protected from continued damages. Cleaning off a wall, floor, or contents involves the several strategies from scrubbing down the painted surfaces to vacuuming loose debris and soot from surfaces. Our technicians have the tools and expertise to help.

What Abrasive Cleaning Approaches Work Best? 

Abrasive cleaning might not work on all surfaces, but there is a good chance that with the right circumstances, several of these approaches can be instrumental in restoring your fire-damaged home. These include:

• Vacuuming
• Brushing
• Steel Wool
• Soda Blasting

Cleaning up after soot and other residues can be a challenge for even our experienced SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties team. With our fast response and expertise, however, we can make it “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call at (845) 791-7647.

After a Fire, how much of My Home is Restorable?

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Don't fret over the house fire. Call SERVPRO of Monicello to remedy your problem.

Have SERVPRO Make that Determination for your Monticello Home

Disaster can strike any home in Monticello. Fire damage can be some of the most difficult to remove since it involves both physical destruction and removing multiple types of smoke and soot residues.

What does your service fix first?

That depends on the fire in your Monticello home. In most residential fires, there is primarily residue damage, so SERVPRO Restoration Technicians start with cleaning.

If your carpets are restorable, we cover them to avoid further residue contamination. Technicians then start washing or wiping down the ceilings, walls, and surfaces of the affected property. Each Restoration Team has access to a nationwide inventory of cleaning agents designed for every type of residue and the surface it covers. This specialization serves to remove the residue completely without additional damage to both structural and personal property like paneling and sofas. 

Will my insurance cover your work?

Every major insurance agency has a list of property items they prefer to replace or restore. Our teams coordinate with each one to make certain our actions meet their requirements to keep your cost to a minimum. Though we are not insurance agents, we work with the involved parties to simplify the claim process and expedite the cleanup and restoration.

Even if it was only a minor fire, call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties today at (845) 791-7647. We are here for you.

What Can I Do after Water Spreads Through My Residence?

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can mitigate your water damage house in Milton.

Bring in Water Restoration Technicians from SERVPRO to Restore Your Milton home

Storms can bring in a lot of flooding, but most water damage in Milton homes comes from smaller amounts spread from a broken pipe or a failed appliance. Even a few gallons can cost hundreds and thousands of dollars in restoration and repairs.

Can water damage cost that much?

If not dealt with quickly, yes. Water damage in your Milton home can cost if you wait. SERVPRO technicians rapidly begin work with water extraction devices to draw water from carpets and wood flooring. Fast removal prevents carpet layers from separating and reduces the swelling and cracking of floorboards when they absorb too much water.

To complete the process in your home, technicians use air movers to generate a flow of warm air underneath and over these surfaces to force out trapped moisture and release it into the air. They use dehumidifiers to capture the moisture and completely remove it from your home.

OK, I called; what can I do before you get here?

As long as it is safe to enter your home, you can perform these tasks:

• Turn on the air conditioner to maximize drying
• Remove any art and other high-value items to a dry, safe place
• Slip a sheet of aluminum foil between furniture legs and wet carpets

If you need us, call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647. We are here for you.  

How Can I Restore My Milton Restaurant After Fire Damage?

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO wants to support local businesses with a cleanup service that keeps their facilities looking, “Like it never even happened.”

Call Licensed Disaster Mitigation Pros to Remove Fire Damage and Odors from Your Milton Restaurant

Electrical fires, especially in vintage or historic buildings in the Greater Milton area, can come from such factors as overloaded outlets or old wiring. These fires can quickly become disastrous for business owners, who must compensate for structural and content losses as well as potential revenue losses from damage.

If your Milton eatery has suffered commercial fire damage, SERVPRO technicians can restore your business with EPA-registered, OSHA-approved sanitation solutions as well as cleaning solutions targeted at various types of fire damage soils.

Minimizing Fire Damage in Your Front of House

    •    Upgrade your sprinkler setup. Have a professional evaluate your sprinkler systems, and install newer models if needed. Make sure there are working sprinklers over the bar area.
    •    Mind your extinguishers. New York regulations require that fire extinguisher placement ensures maximum travel distance does not exceed 75 feet in commercial spaces. There should be at least one within 30 feet of commercial cooking equipment and in areas where flammable liquids are stored or used.
    •    Plan with your team. Make sure that staff is trained to use fire extinguishers and coordinate a watertight plan for minimizing fire risks in your business when possible. Many fires can be snuffed out before they expand, so acting fast is critical.

SERVPRO Restores Fire-Damaged Commercial Properties

SERVPRO’s soot cleanup process starts with dislodging and removing lighter soils before moving on to increasingly heavy ones. Not only does this process minimize the need to double over previously-cleaned areas, but it ensures that items are not treated with unnecessarily strong alkaline cleaners or blast media when a lighter cleaning solution or dry cleaning sponge would work.

SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties wants to support local businesses with a cleanup service that keeps their facilities looking, “Like it never even happened.” Call (845) 791-7647 to start the mitigation process.

For more about Milton click here.

What Happens to My Belongings When Restoration Starts on My Milton House?

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

You can trust that your home is in good hands with the experienced technicians at SERVPRO.

We Take Care of Your Fire-Damaged Contents and Belongings with On-site and Off-Site Recovery Solutions. 

Fires can be destructive to your possessions but do not always cause irreparable harm immediately. Prolonged exposures to lingering effects can ruin your belongings, and that is why our SERVPRO team works quickly to protect these items with on-site and off-site recovery solutions.

Content management is one of the vital elements to recovering fire damage in Milton homes. Disasters can engulf entire rooms or regions of the house, so identifying the effect on each item ensures that the appropriate steps get taken to make losses “Like it never even happened.”

What Can Be Done in My House to Protect My Belongings? 

After a fire loss incident, our professionals take to the intricate evaluation of affected materials and contents to determine what steps must get taken to restore them. Protecting your belongings is more than saving you money but ensuring that your return to your house is as welcoming as it was before the fire. There are three primary areas of focus, including:

• Surface Cleaning  

Soot and other residues can mar the surface of your belongings and furniture. Through on-site wipe cleaning with solvents to off-site submersion cleaning in our ultrasonic tanks, we can remove surface residues to restore the appearance of your possessions.

• Content Drying 

Extinguishing can lead to water damage to contents inside of the house in these affected areas. Drying, both on and off-site, can help to prevent secondary effects like deterioration or mold growth.

• Deodorization

Odors can be one of the most troublesome hurdles for our technicians to overcome, as many scents can become embedded in the materials themselves. Gaseous deodorization produced by ozone generators or thermal foggers can help.

How damaged contents in your home get recovered is not a one-size-fits-all situation. We have skilled technicians that can help to make real-time restoration decisions for your possessions after a destructive fire. Give our SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties team a call today at (845) 791-7647.

See more about Milton.

Will Professional Water Damage Cleanup Help Avoid Additional Loss in Milton Homes?

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

No matter when you make the call, we have the technicians who can assist you.

Having SERVPRO’s Experienced Technicians on the Job will Save you from Unnecessary Water Loss.

When a severe home-based water damage situation occurs, such as a hot water tank failure or toilet back up happens, one of the first things many homeowners do is hit the internet for quick answers on what to do. Unfortunately, there is a lot of bad advice. 

When a  homeowner has water damage in Milton, the number one worst thing that can occur is waiting to clean it up. The longer that flooring and other structural elements have exposure to the water, the more potential for loss that occurs. 

Why SERVPRO?

The certified technicians at SERVPRO are available 24/7. This responsive team arrives within four hours of the initial call and works until the home gets restored to its preloss condition. The techs achieve this level of professional mitigation through the combination of their extensive training, advanced equipment, and experience. 

The Type of Water Matters

Different kinds of water loss in homes require varying types of cleanup. A bathtub overflow or plumbing break is a clean water spill. There is very little danger of bacteria or contaminants unless the water degrades over a couple a days before it gets cleaned up. When a toilet backs up, this is a black water event and carries a rating a category three biohazard. It has the potential to be dangerous to touch or aspirate and cannot get handled in the same method as a clean water spill in the home for safety reasons. 

Why Home Cleanup Falls Short

Standard DIY advice includes pouring bleach into toilet overflow water can do extra damage to flooring. It has the potential to damage the seal on grout or ruin the adhesive holding tiles in place. Not to mention, it can cause bleaching or bleeding of the colors in rugs or certain types of flooring. 

Home water cleanup efforts may leave water behind. It is impossible to determine if the subfloor is wet through visuals, SERVPRO techs use equipment to "see" behind walls and under floors. This level of attention avoids secondary issues that missed water may cause. 

Contact SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 when water damage is the problem. The certified techs bring their state-of-the-art methods and equipment to make the water loss to the property, "Like it never even happened."

Find out more about Milton.

We Act Fast In Milton After A Flood

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Drying is a necessity when a property is hit by flood damage. This unit can dry out a 100,000 square foot building.

Actions That May Be Necessary To Deal with Flood Damage Cases in Milton

 When your Milton property floods, it may require several restoration steps, apart from extracting water and cleaning soiled surfaces to reestablish normal conditions. Many of these steps require advanced skills or sophisticated equipment for safer and faster completion.

Sanitizing the Property

One effect a flood damage incident in Milton can have is leaving your property contaminated heavily. Some of the contaminants involved include biohazards such as sewage, bacteria, and hazardous chemicals. Simple cleaning procedures cannot remove these contaminants effectively. Our SERVPRO technicians combine different chemical agents, including antimicrobial agents, disinfectants, and sanitizers, to clean the affected areas to sanitary levels. We also apply regular cleaning agents to remove all soils and stains, leaving your property looking clean.

Removing and replacing floor materials

When the floodwater breaches your property, it collects on the floor. Therefore, it mostly affects floor materials, especially if they are porous types such as carpets and pad. Cleaning cannot remove all traces of soiling and contaminants from such materials. Our SERVPRO technicians help remove and dispose of porous floor materials. We help with the installation of new floor coverings too.

Repairing or Replacing Subfloors

Floodwaters easily penetrate beyond the floor surface, affecting subfloors. Subfloor materials such as OSB, Oriented Strand Board, and Plywood can be profoundly affected by such intrusion. Our SERVPRO technicians help with repairs or replacement of subfloors as part of the restoration process preventing long-term problems.

Deodorizing

It is common for property to develop a bad smell after a flood damage incident. The smell can be from the soils involved, especially if the flooding involves raw sewage. Bad smells can also develop from microbial growth processes. Our team takes steps to address any bad smells that develop. We mix water-based deodorizers with the cleaning solutions to break down any bad smells on the areas we clean. We also use specialized equipment such as ULV foggers, which atomize deodorizers, allowing them to pair with odor molecules hidden deep in materials.

Different challenges can arise when property floods. Call SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties at (845) 791-7647 to help manage an incident, “Like it never even happened.”

See more about Milton.

SERVPRO Offers Premier Fire and Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration for Our Ellenville Customers

2/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Can Secure and Restore Your Ellenville Home after a Structural Fire

What to Expect from Professional Fire Damage Recovery in Ellenville

A household fire causes fear and chaos for Ellenville residents, and the aftermath poses many questions about how best to manage the cleanup. The soiling created by the flames, heat, and smoke is unlike the dirt and grime of daily living and does not respond in expected ways to conventional cleaning techniques. Our trained and experienced team of managers and technicians use effective methods, products, and equipment to achieve a successful recovery from the harm the fire wrought.

Contaminated Water Removal

When fire damages an Ellenville home, substantial quantities of water and chemicals from firefighting activity need management. The water presents a significant safety concern, exposing occupants and technicians to hazards, including slip and fall, possible electrocution, and the spread of now water-borne toxins from the fire debris and residues. We evaluate the residual water as Category 3, the most contaminated, and employ safeguards to isolate the space and shield workers as we extract and dry out the space. Options include using 6 mil polyethylene to build a containment barrier and employing air scrubbing and personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent drift, human exposure to hazardous materials, and tracking of contaminants into unaffected areas of your home.

Toxic Fire Residue Cleanup

As a fire burns materials in your home, volatile gasses and hazardous particulates fill the air as smoke and then settle as soot. Inhaling or touching the residues can prove injurious to health, so SERVPRO crews continue wearing their PPE, and we recommend you and your family stay out of the work area. Our technicians match the various types of soots to cleaning products and techniques that offer effective results according to ongoing industry research into fire cleanup. Expect that we switch strategies according to the soiling presented, as one fire can result in dry, wet, and protein-based soot.

Deodorization

Even after our best cleanup efforts, the lingering stench of the burned materials continues the nightmare for you and your family. SERVPRO deodorization experts follow a multi-step protocol to remove malodors as part of our fire damage cleanup. If debris removal and deep cleaning prove ineffective, we have innovative equipment like hydroxyl generators and ozone machines that neutralize the odor-bearing particles through changes at the molecular level.

The team at SERVPRO of Sullivan and South Ulster Counties awaits your call 24/7 to (845) 791-7647. Let us show you what our training, experience, and equipment can do to restore your home after fire damage.

Freezing Pipes causes Water Damage during winter storm

11/8/2018 (Permalink)

Basement floods after pipe break during Winter Storm

When pipes freeze in extreme winter weather and then thaw out as temperatures rise, these pipes tend to crack and burst, causing leaking and flooding. 

A home in New York without a working furnace, even for a couple of hours can cause serious risks.  Recently SERVPRO was called out to a home that was for sale in the  area to mitigate a water damage.  Upon entering the home, the technicians discovered several feet of standing water in the basement. Moisture from the basement caused extensive damage to the upper floors.  Most of the materials including walls, ceilings, floors, and cabinets removed due to the water damage.

Prevent frozen pipes from damaging your home by keeping your home’s thermostat no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.  If you will be out of the home for a lengthy period, consider shutting off and draining your water system. 

SERVPRO Professionals have the experience, expertise, and the resources to remediate damage caused by winter weather.

If you have damage due to bad weather, Call SERVPRO.

Mold Removal or Remediation?

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO today!

Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy.

A qualified restoration company understands the science behind mold and mold growth. SERVPRO  Professionals have the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business. Mold remediation focuses on getting mold levels back to normal, natural levels.

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same.

• Step 1: Call SERVPRO
• Step 2: Have one of our highly trained estimators come out for and inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
• Step 3: Call your local NYS licensed Mold Assessor and get a protocol for remediation.
• Step 4: Mold Containment
• Step 5: Air Filtration
• Step 6: Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
• Step 7: Cleaning Contents and Belongings
• Step 8: Restoration

Frozen Pipes. What do they mean for your Orange County Home.

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

Call us today at 845-342-3333

Extreme cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. In general, pipes are more likely to freeze when the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit.  This can occur a lot during the winters here in the Hudson Valley. The resulting water damage can be extensive. Outdoor pipes and pipes in unheated areas of the home can freeze if they are not properly insulated or if temperatures are severely cold. SERVPRO Professionals can quickly and safely repair water damage caused by frozen pipes.

Outdoor pipes most likely to freeze include:

• Outdoor hose bibs
• Swimming pool supply lines
• Water sprinkler lines

Pipes in unheated or partially heated areas are also at risk of freezing, including:

• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Garages

What to do when your commercial business has a fire?

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO For Fast, Friendly Fire Remediation Service

The word “fire” strikes fear in the hearts of most people and for good reason. Whether it’s your home or business it can bring life, as you know it, to a screeching halt. 

If your business or commercial property caught on fire, don't panic. Instead, call the professionals of SERVPRO and let us start cleaning up immediately. Acting right now is the key to limiting damages and expediting the restoration process, and choosing our team of industry specialists is the secret to attaining the sophisticated services you deserve. All of our IICRC-certified technicians will work with diligence and determination to get your commercial property back in pristine condition.

Knowing which steps to take in the face of a commercial fire can help prevent you from becoming anxious, losing money, and undergoing extensive property damages. To handle fire damage successfully and speedily, implement the following four tips:

1. Call The Insurance Company Immediately.

Be sure that you call your insurance company once the fire is out. This step is important because your insurance agent will work with you to file a claim and determine how much coverage you'll attain for the commercial damages.

2. Contact A Fire Remediation Expert.

In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your business may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts.

SERVPRO specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your business to pre-fire condition. Don't ever attempt to handle any of the cleanups, drying, or restoration processes on your own. Doing so could put you in peril of injury and illness.

3. Assemble Your Records.

In addition to contacting a fire remediation expert, make sure that you assemble your business's essential records. You'll want to have this information with you when you start working with your insurance company. To guarantee that you can have your entire files ready in a safe place, make a point to buy a fireproof safe where they can be stored. 

4. Get Permission To Reenter The Building.

Always ask the fire department or another local authority whether you can reenter your building. In some cases, a fire can weaken the structural integrity of the commercial property and make it subject to collapse. This is why you need to assure that reentry is safe for you and your employees.

Prevent Water Damage from Dishwasher Leaks.

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

A leak is inconvenient and even costly if you have to close down during cleanup.

Many restaurants in rely on dishwashers to keep things ticking over and ensure a regular supply of clean crockery for their customers. A dishwasher is a handy appliance for any eatery looking to save some time and make things run more smoothly. However, just like any appliance, a dishwasher might break down and cause water damage to your premises. A leak is inconvenient and even costly if you have to close down during cleanup.

SERVPRO recommends all restaurant owners take the following steps to take care of their automatic dishwashers and reduce the risk of water damage from leaks.

Tell Staff Not to over fill 
it is tempting to put lots of crockery and cutlery in the tray to get cleaner in each load. However, instruct your staff not to crowd the rack, as an over-filled dishwasher is much more likely to leak. It is better to do a couple of smaller loads than trying to fit everything into one big load.

Do Regular Maintenance On Doors 
Loose hinges, misaligned door latches, or broken seals, can all cause leaks. Sometimes the problem can be fixed by simply adjusting and tightening a few screws. You could use an epoxy patch kit to remedy minor seal breaks. However, if it is not possible to right the door or seal, it is better to replace it.

Check The Tub And Hose 
The tub and hose can both develop faults over time. Constant use might corrode the tub and make a hole, and aging hoses can become unstable or cease to fit properly. Check all the components of the unit regularly and replace it at the first sign of wear and tear.

Use The Correct Detergent 
Make sure every staff member knows which detergent is best. Always use a dishwashing detergent, and always follow the manufacturer instructions. The incorrect dishwashing detergent or too much of the correct cleaning agent might cause suds or even a blockage.

In the event of a leak, SERVPRO’s IICRC-certified technicians are on hand to help with cleanup. We extract water from your premises and use dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the surrounding area so you can resume business as soon as possible.

For help with water damage remediation in SERVPRO.
 

Do You Know How to Prevent Mold in Your Home?

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Do you have mold in your house?

Unless you are attempting to make blue cheese or penicillin mold is not something that you want to be messing with or run across in your home or business. Mold can grow anywhere with a lot of moisture present, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, or pipes as well as paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, and wood products. Mold can be a difficult and costly problem to fix, but it also can produce harmful allergens and irritants that can compromise your health.

According to the Mother Nature Network here are nine ways to prevent moisture indoors, and the mold that thrives on it.

1. Identify problem areas in your home and correct them.
2. Dry wet areas immediately.
3. Prevent moisture with proper ventilation.
4. Equip your home with mold-resistant products.
5. Monitor humidity indoors.
6. Direct water away from your home.
7. Clean or repair roof gutters.
8. Improve air flow in your home.
9. Keep mold off household plants.

How to Prevent Mold in the Attic

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Do you have Mold in your attic?

We’ve had a pretty rainy and hot summer here in Henry & Spalding counties. Those are some ideal conditions where mold thrives, since it requires moisture and high temperatures to spread throughout our homes. If you can see something resembling mold…it is probably mold.

Prevention and maintenance is key to keep your attic mold free. Call a professional roofing company to inspect your roof and check for leaks. A small leak over a long period of time can cause extensive damage in your home.  

Inspect your attic regularly and make sure vents are not blocked by boxes, crates, critters, or insulation. If your HVAC system is in your attic, check to see if there are any leaks or excessive moisture around the unit (pay close attention to the condensate pan and drain line.) Make sure ducts from the kitchen or bathrooms run to the exterior of your home and not just the attic.

Sprinklers Emptying Completely In A Strip Mall

10/29/2018 (Permalink)

Sprinklers can sometimes empty out, flooding whole businesses

Sometimes a normal day working at a retail store could go terribly wrong. The weekend before Christmas, a Dollar Store had this nightmare. In the back of the store a customer decided to start lighting cards on fire. This caused the sprinklers to go off. This sprinkler system emptied out completely flooding the dollar store, bridal store, office supply store and a large back corridor where shipments are received. There was over 100,000 square feet affected with anywhere from 1 inch to 3 inches of standing water left in the area. After the fire department cleared, this was when SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties were called in.

SERVPRO arrived quickly onsite to start scoping out the damages and what needed to be done first. The main priority was getting the water out of the areas and start drying as quickly as possible. SERVPRO called in all crews, a total of 15 people to work that Saturday. After 14 hours the first day, SERVPRO finally got all the water out of the areas ready to start the drying process. Demolition and disposal of some contents were completed both Saturday and Sunday of that weekend. Drying occurred throughout the week. SERVPRO not only set up equipment to get the stores open quickly on Sunday but continued to come back to the stores to setup equipment at night and return early in the morning to move equipment so the stores could stay open.

SERVPRO was there to help the commercial strip mall get back up and running as quickly as possible. We are truly ready for any size disaster. Call us 24/7 at 845-342-3333.

How You Can Prevent Mold in Your Commercial Building

10/29/2018 (Permalink)

Does your school have a mold problem?

Although not visible to the naked eye, mold spores exist almost everywhere indoors and outdoors.  Spores float in the air, grow on the ground and can even be present on indoor surfaces.  All mold needs to grow is moisture, warmth, oxygen and organic matter for food.   

Microscopic amounts of mold generally aren’t harmful.  However, larger populations can potentially cause serious health problems in those with allergies or weakened immune systems.

With back to school season rapidly approaching, school administrators around are preparing school buildings to be ready for the year.  Occasionally over the summer, mold can cause a potential problem.  

Below are three tips to prevent mold growth in your school district.   

Tip #1: Keep on the HVAC system.

Over the summer, some school administrators make the mistake of turning off HVAC systems in order to save money.  HVAC systems keep humidity in check and by turning them off you can potentially create the perfect environment for mold.  While it may cost more to keep the HVAC system running, it can ultimately save you money in the long run.  

Tip #2: Purchase a humidity sensor.

If keeping your HVAC system on in your school building is not an option, consider buying a humidity sensor.  Rather than running the HVAC system day and night, a humidity sensor can allow you to track the levels of humidity in the air and turn on the HVAC system when necessary. According to Sensors Online, a humidity sensor works by detecting changes that alter electrical currents or temperature in the air.

Tip #3: Keep a watchful eye on problem areas.

Remember, the perfect environment for mold is anywhere that has moisture.  Some problem areas might include storage areas, bathrooms or kitchens in a school.  The earlier you are aware of a mold problem, the less likely you are to suffer costly damages. 

The professionals here at SERVPRO are trained to help you with all of your mold remediation needs.  In as little as 48 hours, a minor mold issue can quickly spread through a home or business. Once you contact us, we’re dedicated to starting the remediation process quickly. This fast response lessens the mold damage, limits additional damage, and reduces the remediation cost.  We are available 24/7 and can be reached at (845)-342-3333.  

Building and Reconstruction Services

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & So. Ulster Counties.

When your home or business has been damaged by fire, water, or storm damage, the immediate concern should be temporary protective measures such as placing roof tarps to prevent additional damage, and boarding up to secure the building and remove water and debris.

After protecting and securing the structure, professionals at SERVPRO can begin the restoration process. Your home or business may need reconstruction work to get your property back to its preloss condition.

The professionals at SERVPRO can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keeps costs low.

SERVPRO can provide this continuity by supervising a full range of restoration services that will bring a building back to full functionality.

• Board Up
• Carpet Repair and Installation
• Document Drying
• Dry Cleaning
• Drywall Installation
• Drywall Removal
• Electrical
• Electronics Restoration
• Fine Art Restoration
• Furniture Restoration
• General Contracting
• Hardwood Floor Repair
• HVAC Services
• Linoleum Floor Repair
• Marble Floor Repair
• Move Out
• Painting
• Plumbing
• Portable Power
• Roof Tarp
• Roofing Services
• Scalable Resources
• Temporary Fencing
• Temporary Warehouse Space
• Tile Floor Repair
• Tree Removal

Are your Commercial Ducts in a Row?

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & So. Ulster Counties.

A building’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC) and subsequent ducts are the key component to air quality. HVAC and duct cleanliness have a direct impact on the functionality of the equipment as well, a clean system ought to function at maximum capacity. If your system is clean and properly functioning, it should provide you with positive indoor air quality and a lower monthly cost of running your HVAC system.

You can keep your commercial ducts in a row by changing the filters within the system regularly - it is recommended to change them every 90 days. Check any connections for damage. If you can see any damage to the connections, wires, or motors then the damage needs to be repaired immediately in order to keep your HVAC system safe and properly functioning.

You should annually inspect your HVAC system and ducts to see if there is visible mold, a surplus of dust and/or debris, and rodent infestation. Signs of a rodent infestation would be feces and odors in your system or noises occurring in the system. If your HVAC system and ducts have any of these signs then it is time to call in the professionals. SERVPRO has highly trained cleanup and restoration technicians that will provide you with a free estimate for your HVAC system and ductwork.

If you notice that your system isn’t working as well as it normally does such as an increase in electrical bill costs or the system is running more often than usual then it may be time for a cleaning as well. If your system is regularly providing you with maintenance issues such as improper temperature or humidity issues, these may be signs or symptoms of your HVAC system needing a checkup.

SERVPRO understands the significance of a properly functioning HVAC and duct system. We want to help you do all you can to maintain your system. When you are in need of professional cleanup and restoration of your commercial ducts call SERVPRO.

Fire Damage Restoration Process

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & So. Ulster Counties.

Having fire damage in your commercial property can be upsetting and shocking. When you experience such losses, you get reassurance from getting clear support and guidance in rescuing as much as possible from the fire damage. We are here to help you get your property back to its prior state before the damage. Our crew of technicians is experienced and trained to help you get back your home or commercial property as fast possible. We can fix any imaginable kind of fire damage. Fire damage comes in different forms and causes which include;

• Kitchen grease and stove burners fire
• Electrical fires probably due to overloaded electrical outlets and faulty wiring
• Accidental fire ignitions such as from flammables like propane and gasoline

These are just a few of the many probable causes of fire at your home or business property. If you experience such tragedies in the Hudson Valley, we are here to help you by;

Identifying the source of the fire

This helps us to come up with the best solution possible for restoration. We evaluate the degree of the loss so that we can determine the best approach to start the restoration.

Assessing the damage

In this process, we evaluate to see if there are further damages like water damages that might have resulted from the firefighting process. We then deal with the water damage if there is any.

Removal of items from the building

We will need to vacate the building to ensure that all parts are touched during the restoration process.

Structural restoration

This involves the cleanup of charred contents, evaluation of floor coverings and carpets that may need removal, inspecting the house for safety, disinfection and treatment of the areas and smoke odor removal.

Returning the items

We help you get the items back to their location assisting you to restore your normal life.

Fire damage is at times an inevitable tragedy, and we are here to see things get easier for you. Contact us for help. We are available 24/7 to offer you help whenever you need us.

Steps to Take After a House Fire

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & So. Ulster Counties.

A house fire is traumatic event that can certainly leave you with a mix of emotions. You’ll be nervous, worried, scared, upset, wondering what to do next, and just how to do it.  First things first…take a deep breath, try to relax, and know that everything will be more than fine. Ultimately you need to make sure that your family is safe and sound. Once you can confirm that, then you can tackle the recovery process of your home and belongings.

We’ve compiled a list of five things that you should do and be aware of after a fire.  This way, you can approach the rebuilding of your home in a cool, calm, and collected manner!

(1) Review with the authorities and the professionals as to when it is safe to enter the home after the fire.  The fire department will make sure that the fire is completely extinguished and then will go through their precautionary measures in order to deem the area ‘safe’.

(2) Know who to contact. First, contact any family members to let them know of the occurrence and the fact that you are safe. Review, and then contact your insurance company. A clean-up team, such as SERVPRO should also be one of the first calls made.  We can efficiently and professionally get you back into your home – it will be as if nothing happened!

(3) Get the fire report. Typically coming to you from the fire department, this correspondence will review the facts of the fire – the home structure, the area of the fire, as well as the time and date. In some cities and towns, you may need to call the fire department directly in order to get a copy of this report.

(4) Make sure to secure your property.  If you are not securing the property, you could potentially be making a bad situation into a terrible one – your home could be robbed of its remaining property, or, in some cases, another individual could be injured on the property (becoming your responsibility). You can ask the authorities and emergency services on the best methods in securing what is yours.

(5) Begin the clean-up process. Interior and exterior clean-up will most certainly be required, and more often than not there is damage that you cannot locate with the naked eye.  That said, you should definitely hire a professional service like SERVPRO to do all the thorough cleaning of all areas and of all soot, smoke, and odor.

Preventing Bathroom Mold

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & So. Ulster Counties.

What does mold need to grow?  In order for mold to grow, it needs oxygen, moisture, warmth and food.  The ideal spot for mold to grow would be a warm place (somewhere between 77 and 86 degrees), with a high amount of humidity or moisture, and organic matter, like cotton, paper or wood for the mold to feed upon.  This makes our bathrooms an ideal spot for mold growth.  Our bathrooms tend to be warm, they contain things like towels, toilet paper, and woodwork for the mold to feed upon, and they often have high levels of relative humidity from running water and steam from hot showers.  So what can you do to prevent mold from growing in your bathroom?  

First make sure that your bathroom is properly ventilated. Poor ventilation is one of the most common causes of bathroom mold.  Without proper ventilation, steam/moisture in the air from hot showers and running water, settles on bathroom surfaces and makes a perfect environment for mold growth.  Every bathroom should have a clean and properly functioning ventilation fan permanently mounted in the ceiling and it should be turned on every time someone showers.  They are inexpensive and can be purchased at most hardware and home improvement stores.  A properly installed and functioning, ventilation fan in your bathroom's ceiling will help move the air out of your bathroom and clear the humidity caused by hot showers and other running water.  It is important however to ensure that your ventilation fan has been properly installed and is venting the moist bathroom air outside of your home versus into your attic or some other room.  If it improperly vents into another area of your home, you are simply transferring your problem from one location to another. If your bathroom does not have a ventilation fan, instead of showering with the bathroom door closed, as most of us do, an alternative until a ventilation fan can be installed, would be to leave the bathroom door open while showering.  This will allow the steam/humidity to dissipate over a larger area reducing its impact.  Another alternative during warm weather months, or in warm climates, would be to open a bathroom window while showering or even putting a box fan in the window with the air blowing out of the bathroom versus in.  And of course, abstaining from very long, hot showers is always recommended when trying to prevent mold.   

Regularly cleaning your bathroom by wiping down all surfaces at least once a week will also help keep mold in check.  And when it comes to cleaning/preventing mold, wiping is always the best approach.  Molds are fungi that reproduce by releasing spores into the air.  Spraying bleach on mold may look like an easy fix.  When you spray bleach on mold it looks like it almost instantly disappears.  Unfortunately, when you spray bleach on mold, you are releasing the mold spores into the air.  Think of it like a mature dandelion that you have just gently blown upon and released the seeds floating into the air on their white dried flowers.  The mold spores that you have just released by spraying bleach upon them, float through the air and settle onto new surfaces, where they can begin to grow again if the conditions are right.  Wiping with soap and water, or another cleaner, and then throwing away any rags that may contain beginning mold spores is your best bet.

Also when it comes to mold in bathrooms, consider that caulk and grout are there to block or keep out water and moisture.  If you have missing or broken caulk or grout, water and moisture can get behind the tiles and mold can form behind the tiles where it's impossible for you to see or clean. It's important to regularly replace and/or maintain your bathroom caulk and grout.

Lastly, painting your bathroom with a mold resistant paint and/or primer will help you battle mold in your bathroom.  As indicated earlier, mold needs a food source of organic matter.  Drywall paper can be a source of food for mold.  Using a mold-resistant paint on bathroom walls can help stop mold before it starts by sealing off access to a food source.   

When Storms or Floods hits Orange County, SERVPRO is ready!

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orange County provides 24 hour emergency service.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As a leader in storm and water damage restoration, SERVPRO of Orange County has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home back to its pre-storm condition. Our restoration process puts an emphasis on scientific drying techniques, progress monitoring and documentation.

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technicians

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Orange County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United

Water Damage is NOT a DIY Job

8/17/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & So. Ulster Counties 24/7 365 days a year.

Despite the magazines, television shows, and Internet articles that may have you thinking otherwise, water damage restoration is a job that should only be performed by certified professionals. SERVPRO  technicians not only have the know-how to get the job done right, but they also have the specialized tools needed to thoroughly dry your home, preventing further damage and even mold.

Additional benefits of hiring a professional water damage restoration company:

1. Health Hazards: Depending on the source of the water damage, safety can become a concern. There are three varying degrees of water damage, ranging from clean water to black water, each more hazardous than the next. Black water, the most dangerous of the three, is water that has come into contact with fecal matter, a haven for harmful bacteria and disease-causing pathogens.
2. Hidden Damage: Water damage is not always obvious. Sometimes it is found inside walls and under flooring. If you attempt a DIY restoration and fail to diagnose hidden damage, the resulting issues could be extreme…and expensive.
3. Peace of Mind: Hiring a professional restoration company gives you the peace of mind knowing you have done everything in your power to rectify the situation.

Safety Precautions Following Residential Water Loss

8/17/2018 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Orange County!

When disaster strikes in your home, it is essential to be safe when dealing with damaged items in your household. 

The effects of water damage in a residential home can both be controlled OR worsened depending on the actions taken. Here are a few tips on how to safely control the situation before help arrives:

DO

• Remove any undamaged items away from the contaminated area
• Prop up any upholstery items to avoid further damage
• Place aluminum foil or blocks of wood under wood furniture to prevent damage to personal items
• Stay out of rooms that have sagging and wet walls

DON'T

• Attempt to remove water using personal vacuum or hepa-vac
• Leave any paper items on wet surfaces such as books or magazines
• use any electrical outlets or appliances In the affected water area
• Leave standing water alone for an extended period of time as it could cause mold to grow

Eliminating Heating Hazards This Winter

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives.

The winter season is in full swing! The days are shorter and temperatures are lower. No matter where you live, winter brings a change in weather. In an effort to keep our homes and workplaces cozy, many people use alternative heat sources like fireplaces, portable space heaters, and wood burning stoves. According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment is responsible for an estimated $893 million in property damage annually. Heating is the second leading cause of residential fire deaths, making it important to review ways to help reduce the risk of a heating-related fire. 

-Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove or portable space heater. Have a three foot "Kid-free zone" around open fires and space heaters. 

-Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed. 

-Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters. 

-Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home. 

-Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional. 

-Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer's instructions. 

Smoke Alarms Save Lives

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half. 

The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be install in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house. Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detectors requirements are met. 

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees or client to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation. 

Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance. 

-Install smoke alarms on every level of the home including the basement. 

- Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance. 

-Test smoke alarms at least once a month using a test button. 

-Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm "chirps" the battery is low and should be replaced right away. 

-Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

Fire Damage Mitigation in Orange County

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke can travel into many areas of the home or business leaving behind an unpleasant odor.

SERVPRO Uses Deodorization Methods to Rid Your Home or Business of Foul Odors

Sometimes after a fire ignites inside your Orange County home or business, there are more problems that get created than just burnt materials and contents. Smoke created by a blaze often travels to many areas inside the house. Smoke leaves behind soot residues and pungent, burnt odors.

After any severely burnt materials and contents get replaced, all of the soot residues inside the building get cleaned. SERVPRO’S fire damage technicians use specialized chemicals when cleaning that help eliminate foul odors. If unpleasant aromas still exist, then a final deodorization stage takes place.

When deodorizing an area, specific chemicals get used for different situations. Various odors exist based on what materials get burned during the blaze. Some deodorization techniques use chemicals that bond and react with the foul odor particles and neutralize them. Other deodorants mask unpleasant smells with more appealing odors.

To start, we apply deodorants to the air and affected surfaces. Many times deodorization gets accomplished by using hand pumps or electric powered sprayers. In more extreme cases, advanced equipment gets used during the deodorization process.

If our SERVPRO restoration experts believe that spraying chemicals does not complete the job efficiently, then other equipment gets used to create the original environment that caused the burnt odors to exist in the first place. During a fire, combustion causes smoke particles to become microscopic and penetrate many different materials. We use specialized equipment to break down chemicals so that they penetrate materials in the same way that foul odor particles did.

One way to mimic smoke behavior is with a Vaportek system. A Vaportek deodorization system consists of a compound of natural oils sealed by a membrane. The compounds then volatilize into the air and pass through the plastic membrane. Then, air currents distribute the chemicals into the air which react with and neutralize odor molecules upon contact.

Other ways to dispense deodorants into the building in the same way smoke entered, is to use fogging methods. When using a fogging system, deodorizing products get dispensed as finely divided particles in a mist. Depending on the situation we use either a wet fogging or dry fogging system to disperse deodorants into the air.

After an advanced deodorization system gets used inside your home or business, we often use powerful box fans to ventilate the area, so that dense chemicals do not exist in the air. For professional assistance with smoke deodorization call SERVPRO of Orange County any time of the day or night.

Flood Damage Affecting Orange County

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Basement flooding is often difficult to work with, having massive damage within a small confined space, SERVPRO Professionals can help.

Orange County Flood Damage

Throughout history, the area in which we live has battled with a reputation of slow moving thunderstorms that cause torrential rains and difficulty with hail storms that cause constant flooding. Heavy downpours leave our drivers stranded on roadways, while several inches of golf ball sized hail cause clogged drains and become major catastrophes that interrupt our daily routines. It's a constant battle that we all face, and it spurs to mind the questions of, "Why aren't we prepared?" and "Who do we call for help?" 

We have many services available to assist with restoring your  property in Orange County when flood damage strikes. You can start by contacting our locally owned and operated office to assess the flood damage on your property as soon as possible. Don't let this typically serious and costly disaster that affects your lives go unattended. Whether you have a single room or an entire building affected by flooding, we can help. We have the personnel and years of experience dealing with floods of all sizes. 

Any area of your home that is in direct contact with flood waters needs a damage assessment and professional inspection performed immediately. Quick and efficient services assist with preventing subsequent damage from developing. SERVPRO technicians understand that different areas of your home are more likely to be affected by flooding than others and should be prepared to defend against future damages. 

Basements commonly take on several inches or even feet of water at a time and water ends up resting in this low-lying area with nowhere else to go. Basement flooding is often difficult to work with, having massive damage within a small confined space, SERVPRO Professionals can help. To prevent costly damage to your belongings stored in your basement, you should consider storing everything a few inches off the ground for protection against flooding. 

SERVPRO uses extreme caution when working in a flooded basement. We have access to both portable and truck mounted water extractors that assist us in removing any remaining water, with water detection devices and air moving equipment that help dry the surrounding area as quickly as possible. Broken glass and other dangerous contaminants get caught up in the flood waters and may cause hazards that you should avoid.

Facts About Flood Damage

4/3/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding is important to take care of quickly.

Rivers, streams, and lakes are almost always overflowing their banks, given a couple of rainy days. 

With only a few inches of water, you can have many hundreds to thousands of dollars’ worth of flood damage in your home or commercial building. A flash flood can often bring a wall of water that is 10 to 15 feet high. New construction in your neighborhood can change runoff patterns in the area and can increase our flood risks. Most insurance plans do not include flood damage, and this must be purchased separately, in most cases. 

Some Other Interesting Facts About Flood Damage 

Prevention Tips:

 The average cost of flood damage is around $5,000 to $10,000 depending on the type of damage and where the water came from, so any tips that can help prevent this has to be worth the time to try them.

• An inspection and flushing your water heater once a year, by a plumber, can contribute to preventing it bursting on you and flooding the area.
• Replacing the rubber hoses on all appliances that use water with metal braided ones can help to avoid the failing of the rubber ones as they can get hard and burst. Check all hoses; even the metal braided ones every year. 
• Leaks from toilets are often indicated by a little leakage from the base. Ask everyone in the family to stand in the bathroom, after flushing and watching for any tell-tale leaks. 
• Do you know where to locate the main water shut-off? If a pipe burst, inside, you need to be able to get it turned off quickly. 
• If you have a sump pump, now is a good time to get it checked and think about a backup unit. 
• Always be looking for signs of plumbing leaks, such as on ceilings and walls; you are looking for stains and moisture on those walls and floors. 
• Leaking or even broken pipes are often gushing water, and it is not noticed because it might be hidden. Check out your water usage when no faucets are turned on; locate the water meter and take a reading, then use no water for an hour or so and read it again. Has it moved? If so, you have a leak someplace, so get a plumber to check it out. 
• Always monitor your monthly water bill. If it goes up a lot one billing cycle, you might have the need for a plumber to come in and check all connections. 
• Since a lot of water comes from inside your home and can damage many walls, floors, furniture and provide the moisture needed for molds to grow, doing whatever can be done to prevent leaks is a good exercise to undertake. 

Protecting yourself from a thunderstorm when you are outside

3/18/2018 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can strike unexpectedly. Be Prepared.

Finding yourself outside during a thunderstorm can be extremely scary.  While the safest thing you could do to protect yourself from being struck by lightening is to find shelter, sometimes shelter is too far away.  

Before going on any outdoor adventure, know the daily forecast and the weather patterns of the place you are going to visit.  If there is a high chance of thunderstorms for the day, opt to stay inside and plan your trip for another time.

According to the National Weather Service, there are still several ways you can protect yourself if you are outside during a thunderstorm and cannot find shelter.

1. Plan ahead.

2. Avoid open fields, the top of a hill or a ridge top.

3. Stay away from tall, isolated trees or other tall objects.  If you are in a forest, stay near a lower stand of trees.  

4. If you are in a group, spread out to avoid the current traveling between group members.  

5. If you are camping in an open area, set up camp in a valley, ravine or other low area.  Remember, a tent offers NO protection from lightning.  

6. Stay away from water and wet items, such as ropes, and metal objects, such as fences and poles.  Water and metal do not attract electricity but they are excellent conductors of electricity.  The current from a lightning flash will easily travel long distances.   

Snow could cause flooding

2/23/2018 (Permalink)

Excessive amount of snow fall.

This winter we have not had a crazy amount of snow but there was many days of a couple inch snow falls that add up. Outside it may look clear and the grass looks dry. Underneath the ground may lie the issue of high water tables pushing water into your home or business. 

Even though snow may be beautiful, it can be harmful to your home in many ways. Most times in the New York, flooding (water intrusion from the outside) is not covered under your insurance policy unless you buy flood insurance. At this point, the homeowner or business owner would be responsible for the clean up. 

Now the clean up could be as simple as extracting the water from concrete and placing drying equipment. The clean up could be complex when it is a finished basement with sheetrock walls and carpeted flooring. 

During the winter months when there is extensive water in the ground and the flood tables are high, check your basements regularly and be prepared for anything. 

SERVPRO is always here to help with any questions you may have during the process of flood water cleanup.

Water Damage Restoration in Sullivan & S. Ulster County

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

What Is Under The Carpet?

It is critical to deal with water damage as soon as it occurs, to prevent long-term issues. Waiting to deal with water damage could mean that the damage is irreversible. When objects become waterlogged and are left to sit, they can develop foul smells, and even become infested with mold. Working with our professional team, residents and business owners will be assured that your property is cleaned and restored quickly.

Types of Water Damage SERVPRO of Sullivan & So. Ulster Counties Treats

There are several types of watering and water damage that we can remove and restore; these include:

• Water damage from storms or weather
• Water damage from water pipes bursting
• Sewer line backup and water getting into homes or commercial properties
• Appliance leaks and malfunctions
• Water damage from firefighting efforts
• Toilet leaks, bathtubs, and more.

We specialize in cleaning up homes and commercial spaces that have experienced water damage. Regardless of the kind of water damage your home or business space has undergone, contact SERVPRO to discuss how we can help you restore your property quickly and safely.

Our Clean-up Process

Call our water damage and restoration team today, and we’ll send a highly trained restoration technician to your home or commercial property to assess the damage and provide a plan for the clean up and restoration. Our technicians and professional team will:

• Remove the water from the property or damaged areas of your property.
• Begin the drying and dehumidification process. We use state-of-the-art industrial drying machines that enable us to quickly and easily clear your home or office of unwanted and potentially dangerous water.
• Work to save as much of the original materials and surfaces as possible. Sometimes, though, it is essential to remove severely damaged surfaces, such as drywall, and flooring to reduce the risk of mold and odor developing.
• Clean and sanitize your property and begin restoring your home or office space so that you can't even tell there was water.

Our Water Damage Restoration Technicians are Highly Trained

We are the best water damage and restoration experts in the Sullivan & S. Ulster County area. We'll send a highly skilled and professional trained water damage restoration expert to your home or commercial property within hours of your call. Upon inspection and assessment, our experts will be able to provide you with real solutions to restore your property to its pre-flood state. We know dealing with water damage can be difficult, and our technicians will make the process easier and get you back to functioning order as soon as possible.

Mold

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

Understanding Mold

When it comes to mold, all homes and businesses are susceptible. Typically, it colonizes when an unsuspecting water source forms, often in the way of a leaky roof, burst plumbing, or other. Since it can take as little as 48 hours to spread and create allergens and other harmful agents that can cause health problems, you want the problem handled fast and efficiently. 

Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and may be accompanied by a variety of poor health symptoms. If you are noticing signs that your home or business has a mold issue, call in the professionals to inspect and assess your property. If mold is found, they have the training, equipment, and expertise to handle the situation.

Understanding Mold

The microscopic spores that mold is made up of can be found almost everywhere indoors and outdoors. Despite what some companies advertise, it is impossible to remove all mold completely from a home or business. To understand this better, take into consideration the following facts about mold: 

• Mold is made up of microscopic spores that float in the air. This allows them to enter your home via windows, doors, AC/heating systems, or on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

What is Black Mold?

Stachybotrys chart arum is the type of mold most often referred to as black, or toxic, mold. There has been a lot in the news recently warning about the dangers of black mold that have been alarming and confusing.

Since many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants, you should contact a qualified mold remediation company regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold can exist in the same house or structure.

Why Choose the SERVPRO Professionals of Orange County? 

Our professionals are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact them. A fast response lessens the damage and consequently reduces the overall costs of mold removal.

We specialize in water and mold damage restoration. It is the cornerstone of our business. Our team has the training and expertise to safely handle any mold situation, using advanced Mold Remediation Techniques and equipment for successful mold removal.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration in Orange County, NY

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

Restaurant kitchen fire

If you have a commercial building in that has been damaged by fire, it can be hard to know what to do once the fire has been put out. Not only will the premises be damaged by the fire, but the property may also have suffered water damage from the firefighting team and or sprinkler systems efforts to stop the fire. Other damage to your property may include:

• Discoloration of surfaces
• Corrosion (particularly of porous material)
• Soot damage
• Smoke damage
• Structural weakness or damage

Can I clean the property myself?

Firstly if you must enter the premises ensure that you know it is safe to enter but do not be tempted to try and start cleaning the property yourself. Not only could this be hazardous to you, without specialist equipment and materials you could end up causing more damage which can add to the restoration costs further down the line. If at all possible try to limit the amount of movement within the premises to ensure the minimum amount of soot and ash being entrenched in soft furnishings and carpets which may render them unsalvageable.

The best thing to do is to call our specially trained team who will ask you a few questions to ascertain the extent of your damage and find the best solution to restore your fire-damaged premises. We will then send our expert team of fire damage restorers out to inspect the fire damage and carry out an in-depth assessment. From this, we will decide the best plan of action to restore your premises.

What do Commercial Fire Damage Restoration companies do?

Whether your business is in Orange, Sullivan or So. Ulster Counties, fire damage is devastating and can cause extensive damage to windows, walls, and roofs. This means that it is imperative that your property is properly protected from the elements while the work is taking place.  SERVPRO will make sure that all openings to the outside are boarded and covered up as well as covering any holes in the roof of your premises.

If your premises is also water damaged, the SERVPRO of Orange County will use their specialized equipment to remove all water and moisture from your property using a combination of pumps and dehumidifying units to rid the premises of water before secondary water damage causes further issues.

Once we are sure that there is an acceptable moisture level in the property.  SERVPRO of Orange County will get to work removing the damage to the surfaces of the property removing all soot and smoke damage. Once this is completed, we can then clean and sanitize all recoverable items to pre-fire damaged conditions where possible using both wet and dry-cleaning methods and give advice where an item is beyond repair. During this process SERVPRO of Orange County will use industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment to remove any lingering odors caused by the fire. If we can save and restore an item, we will, which will save you paying for costly replacements.

Finally, we will start the full restoration process of your commercial premises involving minor repair, which can include replacing damaged drywall, painting and replacing carpet or flooring and also major repair works such as repairing damaged walls and roofs.

Five things you need to know about water damage

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

Secondary home where homeowners did not know a pipe broke causing more pipes to break downstairs.

You've seen the signs - a soft spot in the wall here, a strange splotch of color there. Signs of water damage can pop up at any time in your home and they're not something you want to ignore. Water damage can lead to foundation damage and subsidence, but can also pose a health concern to the people in your home, too. This type of damage can be serious business, oftentimes. With that in mind, let's take a look at five things you need to know when dealing with water damage in your house.

You're not always going to see it - You've made it through the worst of it and several inches of water have drained out of your home. After a few days of airing and drying out, you feel as if your house is almost back to normal. Chances are, however, it's not. Signs of such damage are not always apparent- mold, rot, decay, and structural damage can be happening below the surface, without you even being aware of it. Even visual signs of mold may not be present.

It's not just about property damage - To put it plainly, water damage can be a health risk. Once mold is airborne it can damage the respiratory system of anyone in a house, but especially children and the elderly. Taking care of damage from water in your home is not just about keeping up your property- it's about preserving the health of your family and loved ones, too.

You want to catch it early - Water damage spreads, and what was once a small spot of damage can quickly escalate into a much larger issue. If you suspect that there has been damage from water to your home, even on a small scale, it might be best to get a damage survey done by a professional who can quickly assess your problem and take steps to reverse damage as early in its progress as possible.

The source won't always be obvious - Short of having an all-out flood in your home, there are still several "smaller" events that can cause water damage to your home, including faulty pipes, cracks in the foundation, and even the lightest rain.

It takes professionals to fix it - Fixing water damage in your home is not a DIY project. Due to some of the severe after-effects of water damage, including health risks, it's always best to have the professionals take on your water damage repair. A restoration expert can survey the damage and give you an estimate of the work and cost you're looking at, allowing you to get a thorough picture of what you need to do to get your home safe and sound once again.

Pipe Burst? How to avoid it

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

Multiple pipe breaks in a secondary home that was not found for a week.

You’ve just parked your car in sub-freezing temperatures and you can’t wait to warm up. You get home and get ready to hop into a warm shower. You turn the knob, and nothing comes out. Your pipes are frozen. When you have problems with your pipes, it can be heart stopping. Your mind will immediately turn towards the potential bills, possible flooding, and the amount of time repairs will take. Burst pipes are one of the most common causes of water damage and you should know how to protect your home.

Protect your pipes from the cold

When temperatures fall below freezing, your pipes could be in trouble. Water expands as it freezes, and your pipes contract when they get cold. This combination of events can be detrimental to your home. Once your pipes burst, all you can do is deal with the damage. The only way to mitigate the effects is to take preventative action. Check out these tips!

1. In extreme temperatures, keep at least one of your faucets on. You definitely don’t need to turn it on full force, but a nice steady drip will keep water flowing through your pipes and prevent freezing.

2. Pipes located along outside walls and windows are at a much greater risk of freezing. Make sure that you direct heat to these areas when possible. Open your basement door and any closets that might house pipes so that heat can reach them. Open the cabinets in your kitchen to allow warm air to reach these important pipes.

3. Seal any leaks that allow cold air to seep into your home. Use weather stripping or plastic on windows and doors to add insulation.

4. You may need to raise the temperature in your home. Turn your ceiling fans on reverse to help push warm air back down to the coldest parts of your house.

5. Consider purchasing heat tape from your local home improvement store. You can place it on your pipes without professional help and it will aid you in preventing cracks in your pipes.

6. Before winter weather sets in, make a habit of disconnecting all outdoor hoses. This will allow pipes to completely drain so that there isn’t excess water hanging around when freezing temperatures hit.

7. Don’t let your heat drop below 55 degrees. If you’re going out of town, make sure you plan ahead so you don’t return to a flooded basement.

Don't let your electrical system cause a fire

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

Electrical fire in a diner cause by a faulty electrical wire

Most of us have grown up using electricity just about every day of our lives. Whether it is plugging in a toaster, watching TV, or even charging a laptop or phone, we’re surrounded by it. Electricity is essential, but can be a huge hazard to us if not used and maintained properly. According to Electrical Safety Foundation International (Esfi.org), home electrical fires account for an estimated 51,000 fires each year, nearly 500 deaths, more than 1,400 injuries and $1.3 billion in property damage. 65% of home fire deaths result from fires in homes with no working smoke detectors. ESFI gave a list of some electrical fire safety tips to keep you and your family informed on the proper electrical safety precautions.

Electrical Fire Safety Tips

• Make sure that there are smoke detectors installed on every floor of the building, inside each room and right outside of every sleeping area to ensure that the alarms can be heard even when sleeping.
• Test smoke detectors monthly to make sure that they’re working properly and have working batteries.
• Have your electrical system inspected by a certified professional to make sure that all of the electrical work meets the National Electric Code safety standards.
• Look and listen for signs of electrical problems such as, flickering or dim lights, buzzing or sizzling sounds from electrical outlets, or insulation and circuit breakers that trip repeatedly. If any of these or any other electrical problems are found, contact a professional as soon as possible for the issue to be inspected.
• Avoid overloading outlets with too many electronics. Consider having more outlets or circuits installed by a professional.
• In homes with children, install tamper resistant devices to keep children from getting electrical shocks or burns.
• Create an evacuation plan that can be used in the event of a fire.

Colorful Mold

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

No, that is not a floral design on that lamp shade. That is multiple different types of mold.

Did you know that the famous Black Mold may not be the dangerous type of mold? 

Mold can be several different colors, textures, shapes and sizes. Mold is defined as a fungus that grows on organic materials. These materials can be Sheetrock paper, dirt, cardboard, etc. The mold can appear on other items but there is probably something organic on top of the item that it is growing on. 

Many news outlets have made "Black Mold" the worst kind of mold but in fact it does not have to be. Pink colored mold that you see in the photo may be worse than black mold. One kind of mold can be presented in 4 different colors in one home. 

If you believe you may have mold in your home you should call a licensed Certified Industrial Hygienist to test the area. 

SERVPRO is an approved Mold Remediation contractor in New York State. We are always here to help.

High Humidity?

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

Water droplets on attic door on ceiling after a hot water pipe burst

In this area in New York there are several secondary homes that may not being checked up on or watched while the owners are at their primary home. This is dangerous to leave your home not monitored for long periods of time. 

If a pipe breaks, especially a hot water pipe, it will cause a very high level of humidity in a home. This will cause condensation to develop on many surfaces in the home. Condensation is defined as water that collects as droplets on a cold surface when humid air is in contact with it. As you can see in the photo, there was a very high level of humidity in the home causing the water droplets to form on the attic door in the ceiling. This probably formed within a very short period of time. The house was not found like this for over a week. 

Be prepared, if you are planning on leaving your home for an extended period of time, have someone check on your home. It will avoid serious damages like this that may not be covered by insurance. 

SERVPRO is always here to help!

Your home or business just had a fire - now what?

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

Fire does not discriminate - it can happen to anyone

The first 24 hours after fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings.  SERVPRO can help prevent fire damage from creating long term problems.  

Under normal circumstances, within one hour from notice of a loss, a SERVPRO professional will contact you to arrange a service.  Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO professional will be on site to begin mitigation services.  Finally, within eight business hours, a verbal job briefing will be communicated to the appropriate person.  

Until a trained professional arrives, there are several things you can do to lessen long term damage.

• Limit movement in the home or business to prevent further damage.

• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on carpeted traffic areas to prevent more soiling.

• If electricity is off, empty refrigerator and prop doors open.

• Wipe soot from chrome on faucets and appliances then protect with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.

• Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces.

• Do not attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture.

• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire or water.  

SERVPRO of Sullivan County professionals provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration.  These services help ensure your property and belongings are restored to preloss condition when possible.

The carpet looks dry - we do not need you

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

This business owner did not think the water made it to this office.

There are times that you may not need our services if it is a small amount of water damage. SERVPRO will never charge a home owner or business owner for a service that we do not believe they need. 

On the flip side, a lot of times a homeowner or business owner may not realize how much they really need SERVPRO's services. 

A lot of times before walking on a carpet or touching a wall - it may look dry. In a lot of situations this is not the case. SERVPRO's normal drying time with our commercial size drying equipment is 3 to 5 days. Unfortunately a small fan or dehumidifier may not be enough. 

As you can see in the photo there was quite a bit of water trapped in the bad underneath this carpet. The business owner thought the water did not reach this room. 

If you ever have a situation that you are not sure if you need us, we always are just a call away. We can walk you through it or come and provide you a free estimate. We are always here to help!

Icicles? Aren't they beautiful?

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

Beautiful snowy night with icicles - to bad there was quite a bit of ice damming damage inside this home.

WINTER

Winter is a beautiful time of year and most people in the northeast experience it. Winter can be a love/hate relationship for many people. Snow fall can be so majestic. 

After some serious snow fall normally comes some melting that turn into those amazing icicles hanging from your roof or the back of your car. What if I told you that icicles can be very dangerous to see on your home. 

Icicles that form are from the ice on your roof melting down and then refreezing when it hits the edge. The ice can continue to build up causing shingles to push back which is called ice damming. Once the shingles are pushed up and the ice starts melting you are more likely to start seeing some of that water come into your home.

Sometimes this is an easy fix once all the ice has melted. In some cases it is not that easy. Ice damming can cause some serious issues to your home and the water can enter the home in multiple areas. 

During the winter you should be prepared to have a company on speed dial that is able to SAFELY remove the snow off of your roof after a large snow storm to lessen the chance of the ice damming happening. 

If it is too late - do not hesitate to call SERVPRO. We can help in many ice damming situations and are very experienced in it. 

Building Cleanup

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

Condition of the building before our team went in.

At SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & So. Ulster Counties we understand the frustration that comes with damage to your home or property. This is why we work hard to ensure our customer’s satisfaction above all else. When looking at the picture you can see that this property faced a number of different issues that caused them to call us. The floor suffered water damage that led to a number of other issues. Our crew went in and used their SERVPRO tools to help get rid of the water and other damage the property suffered. We used air movers, air scrubbers, and dehumidifiers to remove all of the water on the property. Then we went back in and cleaned what we needed to in order to restore the property back to the desired state. 

Biohazard Bathroom Cleanup

11/15/2017 (Permalink)

Bathroom tiles after our services were provided.

Here at SERVPRO we take pride in our long list of services we provide to our clients. On this list is bio hazardous damage removal and restoration. These types of jobs are a sensitive topic but we at SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & So. Ulster Counties are always up for any type of job where it’s possible to give the customer a sense of relief and satisfaction. Not pictured here is where the blood on the floor of the bathroom was. The removal of this should only be done by trained professionals. Our crew went in with the proper equipment and tools they needed to remain safe while simultaneously fixing the damage. Pictured here is the tiles after our job was done. You can see the tiles have been restored to working conditions and no longer look like damage had ever taken place there to begin with.

Mold Remediation in Bathroom

11/1/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation in Bathroom

5/19/2017 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City and SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan we take pride in the long list of services that we provide. We are willing to help anyone that needs our help as a means of alleviating the stress they are going through.  As we have said time and time again mold is among the list of problems you do not know you have until it is brought up to your attention. Mold reproduces in dark areas usually exposed to some kind of water or dampness. No one wants mold in their life so it’s our job to make it so you’d never know the mold was there to begin with. You can see in the picture on the left that the ceiling has spots of darker coloring. This is primarily where the mold was reproducing. Our crew went in with the proper SERVPRO tools needed for mold remediation and made it "Like it never even happened."

Shed Fire

10/31/2017 (Permalink)

Outdoor shed fire that caused damage to another shed on the property as well.

Outdoor fire damage can sometimes happen very unexpected. When we arrived onsite and met with this insured, he was very upset about his shed burning to the ground because of all the memories he kept safe in the shed. SERVPRO is the company to call when you want someone to help walk you through the process. It is not always an easy situation to go through belongings that have burned and will not be able to be saved. 

SERVPRO not only cleans up debris and homes but we can also clean up outside debris from a fire. The steps that will be taken at this home are to inventory what we can, dispose of the items that are non-salvageable and try to clean the items that we can save. Unfortunately this is not always how it works. Sometimes there is nothing to save. 

We are a team that is there to help during any size disaster. Call SERVPRO, we are always here to help. 

Commercial Mold is Serious

10/25/2017 (Permalink)

This is the mold found on a wall of a commercial building in its utility room after water heater broke.

In certain large buildings undiscovered water damage could be unfound for a long period of time. There are certain areas that could even dry before being discovered. The photo with this blog shows an area showing after they had a small leak in one of the many boiler rooms. It is important to have checks daily on the areas where water damage could happen. Regular maintenance should be done on all machinery and equipment in the commercial building. You should also always have a plumber on speed dial just in case water damage arises. If this happens, the quicker you fix the damage; call SERVPRO to begin drying, the less secondary damage you may have. This building in the photo did not do their checks and balances. Once they had a large water damage that started coming down the hallway is when we discovered the mold growth behind the walls in the utility room.

Be Prepared, Have an Exit Plan

10/25/2017 (Permalink)

Important arrows marking the exit plan.

If you are a building owner with tenants or a property manager, you should always have an exit plan in case of a serious fire or water damage in the building. Part of the plan should be multiple exits for all occupants of the building and a meeting spot for each group of people. There should never be a question when an emergency arises where people should go and what to do. It is very important to have your occupants, staff or visiting persons apprised of this information and is prepared. The details of these plans should be both a visual drawing and written directions. If you are able to, the building should have arrows marked on all areas where the exit plan is activated. For example, take a look at the photo. Never forget, SERVPRO is always here to help in case of an emergency in your commercial building.

Unknown Water Damage Turned Mold

10/25/2017 (Permalink)

Mold found behind furniture after water heater burst.

Sometimes you may have water damage in a basement that you do not go into very often. Make it a point, set an alarm, to check your basement once a week. In the photo, this is a basement that does not get checked very often. The only way the homeowner found out something was wrong was when there water stopped getting hot during the day. When he entered his basement he noticed that the water heater had a slow leak that finally broke causing a large amount of water throughout the finished basement. After they called SERVPRO, we inspected the basement thoroughly to make sure we had a full understanding of what needed to be done. SERVPRO is fully licensed in New York State to handle all Mold Remediation Projects from start to finish.

Second Homes Not Visited Often Turns to Mold

10/25/2017 (Permalink)

Mold across the entire ceiling of this mountain home after visitors where not there for four weeks.

Many people in New York State have secondary homes in the mountains that only have visitors during the summer or parts of the winter for winter sports. Secondary homes should always have someone checking on the house at least once a week for the entire time that there are no visitors to the home. This will help avoid a situation like in the photo of this blog. This is a ceiling inside a beautiful mountain home that had sudden roof leaks after a large wind storm. When the homeowner arrived back at the home after four weeks away, there was a substantial amount of mold throughout the entire home. Since this was found in the summer, the humidity in New York caused the mold growth process to speed up and caused the whole home to be affected. We were able to start the project quickly and get the homeowners back into their gorgeous mountain home for the summer.

Dandelions and Mold

10/25/2017 (Permalink)

Mold is like Dandelions

Did you really think Dandelions and Mold had a lot in common? Believe it now, they really do. SERVPRO tries to educate their customers about mold and how it spreads easily. Think back when you were a child, you were walking home from the school bus, picked up the one Dandelion in the lawn and blew all the little seeds flew all over the grass. The next day, you start walking back from the bus; there is magically thousands of Dandelions now throughout the grass. Mold is like Dandelions; once you put air onto mold it will start to spread. This is why at SERVPRO we do not ever spray mold or Hepa Vacuum quickly. This will push the mold spores throughout the home or office and cause mold to spread to unaffected areas. If you find mold in your home or office, consider calling the professionals at SERVPRO first and they will help you through the process.

Storm Damage in Home

10/18/2017 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Orange County we understand how badly some storms can affect our customers. Not only do they do damage to the homes and businesses to so many individuals but they also cause a tremendous amount of stress. We are here to alleviate that stress and restore your home back to the way it once was prior to damage. This job classifies as storm damage as you can see the amount of debris on the floor when looking at the picture. Our crew went in with the proper tools to get rid of all the garbage and debris and make this home look like a home again. Our customer was very happy with the level of professionalism we provided. It’s easy to get worked up when something like this happens to you but don’t worry SERVPRO is #heretohelp.

What do you do when your commercial property has a fire?

10/16/2017 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties to deal with all of your fire damage needs on any commercial property.

Call SERVPRO for Commercial Fire Damage Restoration and Repair Service

Commercial fire damage repair may not be something you think you will ever need for your business, but the unfortunate reality is some businesses will experience a fire damaging event. Fires can be caused by an electrical shortage from overloading an extension cord to a lightning strike. Especially common are cooking accidents in restaurants. As soon as the flames are extinguished by firefighters, you may begin to worry what steps are required to resume business as usual. The best advice is to be prepared for this possible event and have a plan.

The Damage Caused by a Fire

When you experience commercial fire damage to your Chester business, you may reflect on the mess left behind in the charred ruins of the property. However, the damage you need to contend with will go far beyond the ashes. To repair the property entirely after experiencing a damaging fire, you will need to seek the help of a professional team like SERVPRO. Water may have to be extracted after the firefighters' efforts. The smoke damage may cause more of a problem that the burnt materials from the fire. While a fire may be contained in one area of the building, smoke can fill most or all of the areas, and it can cause significant damage and odors. Our trained Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technicians (FSRT) can resolve these issues. When smoke and water damage are dealt with appropriately, the structure will not show any aftereffects. "Like it never even happened."

A fire loss within your enterprise, whether a retail store, rental apartment building, professional office, or a warehouse, costs you customer goodwill and loss of profitability when business cannot be conducted. We can generate a corporate program called the Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS.) This report will categorize all affected materials, furniture and equipment, stock, electronics, and documents. We suggest what is salvageable, non-salvageable, or questionable. The final decision rests with you and your insurance company as to how we proceed. SERVPRO is a preferred commercial fire damage restoration company to more than 300 insurance companies, federal and municipal entities, and property management companies. We willingly coordinate efforts with your insurance adjuster to efficiently and economically restore your business in the best manner possible.

When to Make the Call

After you have dealt with commercial fire damage, you may ask yourself when do you need to make the call to a professional for assistance. The time to contact SERVPRO of Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties is as soon as the fire is out. Our business is to get you back in business. Rely on us, 24/7 for an immediate response, by calling (845) 342-3333.

Sullivan County Business Owners - Does your business have water damage?

10/16/2017 (Permalink)

You can trust the professionals of SERVPRO of Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties will get your business back up and running after a water damage

Water intrusion in one room can mean water damage in other rooms. This can only be the start of other damages. 

Water intrusions invade floors, ceilings and walls to find the lowest point in your business’ structure. Water from an overflowing bathroom stall or other water incidents will search for pinhole crevices and cracks in your floors and walls looking for a way to travel down in the building.

Some common signs of water damage in your business include:

• Water rings on the ceilings or walls
• Warped or cracked flooring
• Rust on the hot water heater
• A smell could develop

If your business has recently fallen victim to water damage, you may be wondering what you can do to mitigate your damages.  There is a critical period in which certain actions must be taken to preserve as much of your property as possible. SERVPRO focuses on keeping the business operational or getting the business back up and running quickly.

You can depend on SERVPRO of Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties to provide reasonable prices for water damage and other services in the area.  Our restoration services include cleanup after water damage, fire damage and storm damage.  Our trained and certified IICRC technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to begin your business’s restoration.  Whether the water damage is big or small, call us at 845-342-3333.  

Emergency Ready Profile FAQ

10/16/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is ready for whatever happens.

ERP FAQ

The marketing team at SERVPRO® of Sullivan & S. Ulster has been busy helping local businesses prepare for their next challenge by creating an Emergency Ready Profile® (ERP). Here are the most frequent questions we encounter when introducing the ERP to property managers and business owners.

What Is an ERP?

An Emergency Ready Profile® compiled by a SERVPRO® franchise professional is a document that organizes critical emergency information so that a property owner or manager can respond quickly and efficiently to a disaster. While many emergency plans focus on getting people out of a building safely, our plan aims to get everyone back in the building again as soon as possible.

What Will an ERP Cost?

There is no charge for an ERP. Homeowners are encouraged to download the SERVPRO® Ready Plan App to create their own personal Emergency Ready Profile® for their home. Commercial property owners and business managers can contact their local SERVPRO® franchise to have a professional come out and create the profile for them.

What Is in It for You?

With an ERP, you will be able to reduce business interruption and quickly mitigate a loss following an adverse event, saving both time and money. Important information like where to find your water, gas, electric and sprinkler shutoffs and key contacts for beginning restoration will be right at your fingertips in the SERVPRO® Ready Plan App, and you will be able to share this information quickly and easily with anyone who needs it.

What Is in It for SERVPRO®?

You may be wondering what’s in it for us if there is no charge for an ERP. That is a fair question. First, we hope that helping you prepare before you need our services makes it more likely you will think of us when disaster strikes. Second, we know that having this information organized ahead of time will allow us to better serve you should you choose to call us following an adverse event. However, even if you never use our services, we will still have the satisfaction of helping our community be better equipped to survive a disaster.

Who Has Access to Your Information?

Once we compile a commercial ERP, we deliver the following to the business owner or any approved personal at your company:

• A printed document ERP.
• A username and password for each user the mobile Ready Plan app version of your ERP, so you can immediately share it with all necessary parties at your discretion.

Here at SERVPRO® of Sullivan & S. Ulster the document is stored locally on our server, and the mobile version is stored in the SERVPRO® corporate Ready Plan app, in case you need us to respond to an emergency at your site.

Schedule Your Commercial ERP Today

Call us today to schedule your commercial ERP, so we can help your business be ready for whatever Mother Nature sends your way. Contact brittany.johnson@ocSERVPRO.com or 845-342-3333.

SERVPRO is Faster to Any Size Disaster

10/16/2017 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties and we will make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties is a part of a large franchise system. There are over 1,700 franchises in the country and Canada. SERVPRO of Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties is a part of the Large Loss Team. This means that we are prepared with equipment and man power to mitigate large commercial losses. These could include fire damage, water damage or mold remediation. SERVPRO is always on call ready to help. Any size disaster we can handle. We are ready 24/7 to help business owners mitigate their loss and open quickly after the disaster or figure out a plan to keep the business open. Any questions about how we prepare, feel free to call our office at 845-342-3333. You may ask for our office manager, Brittany. She is ready at any time to answer your questions

For Immediate Cleaning Service in Orange County, Call SERVPRO

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

We provide immediate service day or night!

SERVPRO provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in the Orange County area. We can 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 

Residential Services

Whether your Orange County home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Orange County commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: 

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Water Damage in Medical Facility

8/15/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orange County arrived promptly the night of the water damage to ensure this medical facility could re-open the next day.

Commercial buildings require a special attention to detail when it comes to water damage.  Many things must be taken into consideration when making a plan for remediation and restoration.  In a recent scenario, SERVPRO of Orange County was called in to address a water damage that was discovered after-hours in a mid-sized medical facility.  Construction in an adjacent unit caused a water supply line to break, causing water to flood into exam rooms, waiting rooms, offices and hallways.  Over a dozen rooms were affected in total.

SERVPRO of Orange County's water damage restoration team coordinated a plan with the facilities team and the medical staff beginning with the immediate extraction of all standing water.  Drying equipment was set up in each room to mitigate further damage that may have been caused by rising humidity levels.

We were able to prioritize essential rooms to make sure patients could still be seen for treatment the very next day.  Throughout the restoration process we kept clear communications with the medical team and coordinated their schedule with our restoration efforts so that they could continue to operate according to schedule.

Notice the careful removal of drywall shown in this photo.  Many medical facilities utilize a special kind of flooring that curves as it meets the wall.  Our technicians were able to detect moisture was being held inside the walls by wet insulation.  In order to dry the walls properly we had to remove a section of the sheetrock and cut out any wet insulation.  To do so, we cut one foot above where the flooring meets the wall so that the new sheetrock could be put in place without having to cause unnecessary damage to the flooring.

Fix Up Your Firebox

5/15/2017 (Permalink)

Unsightly cracked and crumbling mortar inside a fireplace can be fixed in minutes with a few simple tools.

The mortar in most brick joints consists of sand, lime, and Portland cement. But in a fireplace, that mix just crumbles away when subjected to roaring wood fires. For this application, masons rely on a refractory mortar made of magnesium silicate, which can withstand beat up to 2,000 degrees F. Yet even refractory mortar can fail as the brickwork expands and contracts with repeated fires. Fortunately, fixing those damaged joints is a snap, thanks to high-temp fireplace mortars packaged in caulk tubes.

Tools Needed:

• Nitrile gloves
• 5-gallon bucket
• Sponge with abrasive pad
• Grout-removal tool with triangular carbide blade
• Stiff-bristle brush
• Wet/dry vac
• Nylon-bristle brush
• Refractory mortar
• Caulk gun
• Tuck-point trowel

STEPS 

1. Wash the brick: Put on nitrile gloves, then thoroughly scrub soot off the sides of the firebox with an abrasive pad on a wet sponge. Soot dissolves fairly easily when wet. The washing also dampens the brick and mortar, a necessary step before repointing.
2. Dig out the loose mortar: Using a grout-removal tool fitted with a triangular carbide blade, scrape out cracked, loose, and crumbling mortar. Stop when the sides of the blade touch the edges of the brick. The blade’s triangular shape prevents it from going too deep (more than half the width of the joint). Clean the joints with a narrow, stiff-bristle brush and sweep up the mortar crumbs with a wet/dry vac.
3. Wet the joints: Go over all the scraped joints with a nylon paintbrush, dipping repeatedly into a bucket of clean water. Refractory mortar bonds best to a damp surface, and the brush bristles ensure that all of the old brick and mortar are moistened.
4. Caulk the joints: After slipping a tube of refractory mortar into a caulk gun, drag the tube’s nozzle over all the scraped mortar joints, leaving behind a fat bead of caulk. Make sure to fill any gaps between the hearth and the firebox floor.
5. Pack the mortar: Use a 3/8-inch-wide tuck-pointing trowel to smooth and press the soft mortar firmly into each of the joints, then scrape off the excess with the trowel’s edge. In corners, use a gloved finger to pack and smooth.
6. Wipe away the residue: Multiple swipes with a damp sponge with remove most of the mortar residue. Wipe the brick again in 24 hours, after the remaining residue dries to a haze. This mortar’s heat-resistant qualities kick in when it reaches 500 degrees. Either a heat gun or a small, brief fire will serve the purpose.

Keeping your firebox in tip-top shape is just one step in keeping your fireplace in good working order, and preventing home fires.

SERVPRO'S Reconstruction and Remodeling Services

5/8/2017 (Permalink)

A finished kitchen remodel that was done by our reconstruction team!

Did you know that in addition to water mitigation, fire cleanup, and mold remediation, SERVPRO also offers reconstruction services? After our pros are done with drying out a home or removing smoke-damaged materials, we can put homes back together just like they were before the damage occurred. The convenience and savings of working with one company to assist with mitigation and repairs can be significant. In addition to reconstruction after damage, we also do general home remodeling. Have you been considering remodeling your kitchen? We can help. Does your bathroom need an update? We do that too. From drywall to painting to framing and much more, we can assist with your reconstruction project!

Here are just some of the reconstruction services SERVPRO offers:

• Drywall repair and installation
• Floor repair and replacement
• Kitchen and bath installation and remodeling
• Cabinet and trim replacement
• Insulation installation
• Ceiling repair
• Fixture replacement
• Painting

Do you know how to shut off the water at your work?

5/4/2017 (Permalink)

Now that's a huge water damage!

Many workplaces always call's on the boss or the maintenance man when something goes wrong. What if they were home sick, or in a meeting and you need to locate the water shut off, where do you start? 

SERVPRO of Orange County can help commercial property in planning for a water, fire, storm damage. How, with a free Emergency Response Profile created by the SERVPRO Marketing Department. 

By having a plan of action and including it into your regular training at your office you can minimize the cost if an unplanned event happens like a frozen pipe, fire, or anything. 

Some property manager use this as a tool to keep everything organized in one central location. 

Is your business ready for a disaster. Even a simple pipe burst can cause a lot of damage and headache. With a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile it can have the critical information to minimize damages, provide the resources for the employees of the company, and provide property details and information. This is a FREE services that we provide to commercial properties. 

Make an appointment today to get started!

If the unthinkable happens, call your local SERVPRO of Orange County Professionals at (845)-342-3333 seven days a week 24/7 to help you avoid the cost and hassle of secondary damages.  We will help make it "Like it never even happened."

Preventing Puffbacks

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

During the Cleaning process after a puff back

A puffback is a messy furnace malfunction that occurs when an oil burner backfires, sending soot throughout the interior of a home. It can happen all at once, covering the interior in grimy soot, or it can leak soot more gradually.

Initially, many people mistake soot for dust and simply wipe it away. However, once cleaned, this “dust” often reappears and can sometimes be accompanied by a strong, oily odor. There are several steps your clients can take to prevent damage to their home. Remind them to:

• Have the oil-burning furnace professionally checked and cleaned annually.
• Keep an eye out for traces of soot around their home.
• Install a carbon monoxide monitor. Puffbacks (and the soot they create) will increase the carbon monoxide levels in their home. A carbon monoxide monitor can help to detect the puffback in its early stages.

If soot begins accumulating on objects or walls within their home, they should turn off the heating system immediately. Contact a heating professional to service the heater and restore it to proper working order.

Fortunately, if your client does experience a puffback, SERVPRO has the knowledge and experience to complete a thorough cleaning and removal of any soot and odors. Our Fire Restoration Team will respond immediately and make it look Like it never even happened®.

Ways You Can Prevent Fires in Orange County Caused by Clogged Dryer Vents

4/21/2017 (Permalink)

The best way to prevent fires, in this case, is to clean out the lint hose often.

Ways You Can Prevent Fires Caused by Clogged Dryer Vents

It is no surprise to most people that having a Orange County fire within the home is incredibly damaging to anything in its path. What you probably may not realize is that, most times, fires can easily be prevented from starting in the first place. Your household dryer is a great example of this since many homeowners deal with dryer related fires all the time and the usual culprit would be a completely clogged dryer vent. In this particular case, the fire can be prevented if you maintain your dryer well throughout the year and ensure that its vent is kept clean and clear of buildup.

There are over 15,000 calls to local fire departments every single year for home-related New York fires and smoke issues. The unfortunate part is that a lot of these fires are caused by clogged dryer vents within the home. Some of these fires are very minimal, but others have been incredibly damaging when not caught in time.

To understand how these types of New York fires start within the home, you may want to know more about how dryers work. Some homeowners who are new to appliances and home maintenance may not even know that their dryer needs to be maintained. The way that dryers work is by creating hot air in the drum itself, and this is the hot air that is going to dry up your clothing. You probably know of the small lint trap on the front of your dryer when you open its door, but excess lint passes through this filter and goes through the dryer vent. The dryer vent is often located on the outside of your home so that the hot air can be released outside. Because dryers get so hot, this hot air that is being pushed out of the dryer vent to the outside world can heat up any lint that has built up in that area and start a fire. Fires related to clogged dryer vents can cause tons of damage to a person's home.

The best way to prevent fires, in this case, is to clean out the lint hose often. This is recommended to anyone who happens to own a dryer. There are special tools and services that can help to get this particular vent cleaned for you.

According to the experts at SERVPRO, they offer some of the best tips for watching out for some of the obvious warning signs that your dryer is clogged and may result in fire at some point in the near future: 1. If it takes longer than about 45 minutes to dry your clothing, it could be a sign that the dryer vent is clogged. 2. Your clothes are roasting hot to the touch after they have gone through a dry cycle. 3. The flapper on the dryer's vent may not open entirely when the appliance is actually on.

Preventing a Fire with Your Dryer 1. You should clean the vent of your dryer at least twice each year. 2. Make sure to clean out the lint trap inside of the dryer thoroughly before each cycle. 3. For those individuals who are noticing any of the above-mentioned warning signs, make sure to contact a professional company to have the appliance repaired and cleaned.

For those homeowners who were not so lucky as to catch the warning signs in time, fire damage can be a daunting thing to clean up on your own. This is where the professionals of SERVPRO come in handy, and they can work diligently on your home's fire restoration when it is most convenient for you. Make sure to contact SERVPRO at the first sign of fire damage so that the issue can be addressed immediately.

For Orange County, A Fire Damage Restoration Guide

4/17/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Guide for an Orange County Home

As many homeowners know, fire damage to an Orange County home can produce extensive trauma on the part of the property owner. However, knowing what steps to take following this type of disaster, caused by nature or human error, can help you minimize emotional distress. You will also be better prepared to mitigate structural damage to your home by being clear-headed. Learn more about what steps you should take after your home has been affected by a fire, refer to this quick reference guide:

There are several steps you need to implement once fire damage has become a reality. 

1. Determine Where You Will Stay. 

Once a fire has occurred, it's important that you first determine whether it is safe to reenter your home. This decision to possibly reenter your Orange County house is reserved for minor fires, not flaming infernos. In the event that there are still signs of smoke, fire, or structural damage, you should never attempt to enter the premises. In this case, it may be necessary for you to stay with a family member or in a hotel. Determining where you'll stay is not the first step to take during the process of returning your life to a state of normalcy, but it can provide an anchor. In addition to determining where you'll stay if you cannot reenter your property, it's important for you to call your loved ones and friends. Provide them with a basic overview of the situation and they may be able to help you with shelter and advice.

2. Call The Professionals. 

After you've determined where you'll stay, be sure to contact your insurance company and then a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO. These experts will begin assessing the situation, determining a course of action, and then begin the cleanup, repair and if need be, the restoration of your property's structure. The clean-up process will involve the elimination of smoke and fire damage in addition to water removal. The water extraction procedure is of the utmost importance for lessening damage to furnishings, walls, and floors, and for stifling the growth of mold. A SERVPRO representative will also offer to communicate and coordinate the entire process with your insurance adjuster.

Dealing with your fire-damaged home in Orange County can be taxing and tiring, however, it doesn't need to be overwhelming. As a team of professionals with extensive experience in the smoke and fire damage restoration field, SERVPRO's skilled technicians can provide you with the detailed, results-driven services you need to restore your property to like the fire never happened.

Flooding from Clean Water can save you money. Call SERVPRO immediately to remediate!

4/10/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding from Clean Water can save you money. Call SERVPRO immediately to remediate!

The Three Types of Water that Can Flood Your Home

One of the major casualties of a flooded home is flooring, particularly carpets. Once it's soaked, both it and the underlying padding will potentially need replacing, which is an added expense that most homeowners would like to avoid. In the case of heavy flooding, whether it's from a natural disaster, broken appliance, burst pipe, or other water emergency, many people think that there's no chance their carpet can ever be saved. 
 
Homeowners who have experienced flood damage in Orange County are often unaware that it's not just the amount of water in a home that affects whether they'll have to get new flooring, but the type of water as well. Here's some information about the three types of water damage that can occur due to flooding and how each affects carpet and rugs. 
 
Clean Water 
 
If the flood damage in your home is caused by a burst pipe, malfunctioning appliance, or tub or sink that has overflowed, odds are it's a result of what's called clean water. Basically, this type of water is treated and contains no contaminants or waste and is the least risky to clean up. When you contact SERVPRO and you have flood damage resulting from clean water, we're typically able to save your area rugs, carpeting, and floor pads so you don't have to incur the extra expense of replacing it. 
 
Gray Water 
 
This type of water doesn't contain any solid animal or human waste, but it has been used. An example of this would be a toilet that's overflown or a broken washing machine that leaks a large amount of water mid-cycle. Flood damage from gray water comes with more risks than clean water, as it has significantly more potential to cause illness if it's touched. However, the threat of disease usually isn't present since there's no solid waste. Though the carpet pad that's been soaked with gray water has to be thrown out for safety reasons, the carpet itself can often be saved. SERVPRO will carefully clean and dry it so that you can save money by only having a new pad installed. 
 
Black Water 
 
This is the most dangerous type of water involved in flood damage and it's unsanitary because it either has organisms in it that can potentially carry disease or solid waste. If your home was flooded due to a natural disaster, storm, or sewage backup, it likely involves black water. While some area rugs can be disinfected by our team, cleaned, and thoroughly dried, carpet and padding need to be replaced for the sake of keeping your family safe. 
 

  

Improving your Air Quality in Orange County, NY

4/7/2017 (Permalink)

Dirty Air Ducts- Improving your Air Quality in Orange County, NY

People easily assume that low quality of air in their premises arise as a result of external factors, and that they have no control over it. However, this is not true at all. Actually, people contribute a very high percentage to the air quality in their businesses and homes. Therefore, if air quality is to be improved, it must start from within. In order to start the process of purifying the internal air, we must first understand what pollutes the air in our premises.

For the homes and businesses in Orange County, there are a few factors that could be polluting air in their premises. Pollen, paint, mold and any other allergen. After understanding the various factors that lower the quality of air, people of Tennessee can now take the relevant action to address the issue.

The easiest way to improve the quality of air in premises is cleaning. First, people of Tennessee need to understand that taking a little time off every day, washing and mopping their premises can mean a great difference in the quality of air they breathe. The process can start with the regular sweeping and dusting. This aims at removing pollutants that may be in the premises. However, this is not exactly enough. Mopping and scrubbing on a regular basis needs to be done. This will ensure that tough pollutants, which cannot be removed by mere sweeping and dusting, are gotten rid of.

The next vital step, after brushing and mopping, is to ensure that there is efficient ventilation in premises. Here, people got to understand that the duct is one of the most integral parts of the ventilation system. The duct should be cleaned and maintained on a regular basis.

Air duct cleaning starts with covering openings that get air into rooms. Covering these openings ensures that allergens will not spread into other rooms during the duct cleaning process. The second step that needs to be taken when conducting the duct cleaning exercise is ensuring that the fan is turned off. This ensures that dust, pollen and debris, coming from the duct, doesn’t spread throughout the premises. Next, be sure to check that the filters are in good shape. This is a precautionary measure to ensure that none of the pollutants falling off from the duct will be blown into the motor.

After checking these vital parts of the ventilation system, it is now time to start the air duct cleaning process. This will normally start with checking the air registers. Both the return and supply air register need to be thoroughly brushed of any dirt. Next, the power source of your ventilation system should be turned off. This ensures safety while cleaning up the dirt in the blower compartment. Lastly, the filter should be changed. This will definitely enhance the integrity of your ventilation. All these can be done individually. Alternatively a qualified company can be hired to conduct the duct cleaning. Of course, hiring a qualified company guarantees better results.

SERVPRO of Orange County, can help anytime with Duct Cleaning or making sure your Air Quality is at the optimum level. 

Are You Prepared for a Power Outage

3/24/2017 (Permalink)

Ready Kit

You may need to survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours or it might take days. Depending on the nature of the disaster road conditions may prevent help from arriving in a timely manner. 

Additionally, basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment and telephones may be cut off for days or even a week, or longer. Your supplies kit should contain items to help you manage during these outages.  If the power goes out keep your pipes from freezing by shutting off the valve that allows water to come into your home. Then, open any drain valves and all faucets and let them run until the pipes are empty (it's helpful to identify these valves in advance). Next, flush all toilets and pour denatured alcohol into toilets and sinks to prevent water in the traps from freezing. Do NOT use automotive antifreeze in case there's trouble with your water system; you don't want the antifreeze to contaminate your drinking water. You may, however, use nontoxic antifreeze that's made for winterizing motor homes.

Be prepared for a power outage by keeping necessary items centrally located in your home. Take the time to ensure that everyone in your family is aware of the "kit." Periodically check your kit to see that batteries operate properly. The following is a list of items that are suggested to keep on hand:

1. Flashlights for each family member
2. Battery-operated radio and clock
3. Extra batteries
4. Containers of bottled water
5. Canned, freeze-dried or dehydrated food, powdered milk, baby supplies for infants
6. Non-electric can opener
7. List of important phone numbers
8. First-aid kit

Following a disaster, there may be power outages that could last for several days. Stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils. The following items are suggested when selecting emergency food supplies. You may already have many of these on hand.

• Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. 
• Choose foods your family will eat.
• Remember any special dietary needs.
• Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.
• Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.
• Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and a can opener
• Protein or fruit bars
• Dry cereal or granola
• Peanut butter
• Dried fruit
• Nuts
• Crackers
• Canned juices
• Non-perishable pasteurized milk
• High energy foods
• Vitamins
• Food for infants
• Comfort/stress foods

These and many other helpful tips are available at ready.gov Here is the link to inter tips for before during and after a winter storm http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather 

Call SERVPRO of Orange County 24/7 t (845)-342-3333.

Water Damage in Orange County, NY

3/21/2017 (Permalink)

Muddy remnants from a water main break in Orange County, NY.

A water main break caused the lower level of this house Middletown, NY to flood.  SERVPRO of Howell/Wall received the call from the listing agent on this property who put is in touch with the owners. 

This one was a back breaker!  Two layers of vinyl flooring had to be removed as well as wet drywall.  After a long days work, we commenced strucutral drying.  Within 3 days the house was dry and clean. 

The customer was happy with the level of service he received and would definitely refer us to a friend.

Another job made to look "Like it never even happened."

Cleaning Myths and The Facts From Your Local SERVPRO of Orange County, NY

3/17/2017 (Permalink)

Ten myths about cleaning!

Myth: Newspaper does windows well

Fact: Wet newspaper tears easily and the ink can transfer to window trim, leaving more to clean. Use microfiber cloths to clean glass. They’re the best at cleaning without streaking.

Myth: Coca-Cola belongs in the toilet

Fact: Coke isn’t “it” when it comes to cleaning your toilet bowl. Coke is acidic, so it could be effective at removing hard water stains BUT soda could actually darken stains and the sugar could encourage bacteria.

Myth: Handwashing dishes is better than using a dishwasher

Fact: If your dishwasher is a decade old, this may be true, but today’s models beat handwashing by a mile. According to the Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star website, using a dishwasher that bears the Energy Star label can save some 5,000 gallons of water, more than $40 dollars in energy costs, and 230 hours in personal time over the course of a year, versus handwashing. And, because dishwashers heat the water to 140°F, they’ll sanitize the dishes, too.

Myth: Coffee freshens garbage disposers

Fact: Coffee grounds may act as a mild abrasive, removing gunk from disposer blades, but baking soda is a better choice: It’s also mildly abrasive, and because it’s a base it will counteract all the smelly acids that we put down the drain.

Myth: Vinegar cleans everything

Fact: Vinegar is an acid, so it can cut through dirt and can kill bacteria, but only if you use it at full or nearly full strength. Most people put a capful in a bucket of water, and that doesn’t do much. The acids in vinegar can damage natural stone and wood surfaces.

Myth: Hairspray removes ballpoint ink

Fact: This may have been true years ago, when hairsprays were formulated with more alcohol (which does remove ink) than they are today, but not anymore. Today’s hairsprays are full of stiffeners and hardeners that will just make the stain worse. Just use rubbing alcohol. It’s far less expensive than hairspray, and doesn’t include any extra ingredients.

Myth: Bleach cleans everything

Fact: Bleach actually doesn’t ‘clean’ anything—because it doesn’t remove soil. It can lighten stains, making things look cleaner, and it kills bacteria, so it’s better as a sanitizer than as a cleaner.

Myth: Feathers make great dusters

Fact: Genuine ostrich-feather dusters do attract dust, but they’re expensive and are generally not as effective as lambswool or microfiber options. Most feather dusters just spread the dust around. Also, they tend to drop feathers which is just leaving you more to pick up.

Myth: Cleaning solutions work instantly

Fact: Nope. We recommend allowing any cleaning solution to sit on the surface for two to three minutes. Always follow the directions on the product’s label. Some solutions, like disinfectants, need a full ten minutes to truly kill bacteria.

Myth: String makes the best mops

Fact: Industrial-style string mops may look impressive, but studies have shown that microfiber mops are about 20 percent more effective at removing dirt and bacteria. String mops are very absorbent, so they’re great at cleaning up big spills, but if you want to make sure you’re not leaving anything behind on the floor, use a microfiber mop.

Safety Tips for Winter Activities

3/13/2017 (Permalink)

Winter recreational activities may help fight off cabin fever, but they also can be dangerous.

Before heading outside, brush up on these safety tips for the slopes, rink, and more.

Dressing the Part

Staying warm is important for all winter activities. Protect yourself from hypothermia by wearing polypropylene undergarments — which absorb sweat but also retain heat — and layers of water- and wind-resistant clothing. And don't forget the essentials: hats, gloves or mittens, wool socks, and waterproof boots.

Hitting the Slopes

These safety tips can help reduce your chances of injury when you're downhill skiing or snowboarding:

• Take lessons on how to stop, slow down and turn.


• Never ski or snowboard alone.


• Always wear a certified helmet with wraparound goggles.


• Secure loose straps or clothing.


• Identify the appropriate trails for your skill level.


• Check your equipment before and after each run.

Skating Outdoors

Keep these safety guidelines in mind when ice-skating or playing hockey outside:

• Stick to ice at least 6 inches thick and free of ice fishingholes and other debris.


• Avoid ice that has formed over running water, such as a river.


• Always wear a helmet: Hockey helmets offer the best protection.


• Wear proper hockey equipment, including pads and gloves.


• Learn how to properly fall on ice.

Snowmobile Cruising

Inexperience and poor judgment are both leading causes of snowmobile crashes. Learn how to ride safely:

• If you are a novice, consider taking a snowmobile or snow machine safety training course before your first outing.


• Wear a helmet that meets the current Department of Transportation certification standards.


• Wear appropriate cold weather gear, such as a snowmobile suit, snow bib, jackets, and gloves, to cut the wind, repel water and allow ventilation.


• Always go snowmobiling in groups and notify someone at home where the group is headed and the expected return time.


• Always check the weather conditions before departing.


• If traveling in mountainous terrain, check for "Avalanche Conditions."


• Know the area where you're riding, if possible. There may be hazards, such as washouts (melted snow, flowing water or erosion impacting the trail, road or field), fences and drop-offs in unfamiliar areas.


• Before departing, check your machine's fuel and fluid levels to make sure they are sufficient for the trip. You should also check the machine's overall condition and operation.


• Never drive too fast for your comfort level, and keep speeds below 40 miles per hour at night.


• Stay on designated trails.


• Avoid driving on ice, but if it's the only option, wear a lifejacket.


• Always ride sober, which includes avoiding prescription medications that may affect how you ride.


• Be cautious when crossing roadways.


• Never approach wildlife.


• Carry a first-aid kit, water and non-perishable food in case of a mishap on the trail.

Source: https://learningcenter.statefarm.com/safety-2/family-1/safety-tips-for-winter-activities/index.html?cmpid=enews-dec15#sthash.e6T1EjVt.dpuf

Asbestos: Dangers and Removal

3/10/2017 (Permalink)

Dangers of Asbestos!

Asbestos has been heavily used in the recent past as a soundproof, insulator and fireproof material in all types of buildings. It was later determined to be the cause of serious and fatal lung disorders. It is generally not considered to be a hazard unless it is disturbed from the location it rests. Removal is important, but you want to make sure it is done by experts like American Restoration that are EPA/AHERA certified.

Dangers of Asbestos

The tiny fibers that comprise asbestos material are the real culprit when it comes to health risks. Once they are set free in the air they become a danger to any living person or animal that breathes them in. It can cause a rare form of cancer called mesothelioma, or simply attack the lung function in other ways. Exposure over time can prove fatal in some cases.

Asbestos Cleanup and Asbestos Removal

The fibers from asbestos are considered so toxic that you should not attempt removal on your own. This is a project that should be well-planned and carried out by a professional licensed team like one at American Restoration. Anything less could mean putting the lives of you and your family at risk for serious health problems on down the line. It is not worth taking the chance. Asbestos cleanup is a sound investment for the sake of safety.

Asbestos Abatement

Our experts at American Restoration will come to your location and make a determination as to whether it is actually asbestos material. You can trust experienced professionals that are EPA/AHERA certified to make the right call. They will formulate a plan for the safe removal from your home or business.

Forensics and Crime Scene Cleanup

3/7/2017 (Permalink)

Forensics and Crime Scene Cleanup

Forensic scientists and crime scene technicians both play an essential role in investigating as well as solving crimes. Another crucial aspect not to be overlooked is crime scene cleanup, which is a critical element following the advent of a crime, particularly violent crimes. In many cases, crime scene cleanup in both commercial and residential settings involves dealing with potentially hazardous materials, such as blood, excrement, semen, and other bodily fluids. Forensics and crime scene cleanup are separate but related areas that must work hand in hand to get the job done. It is not just a matter of solving a crime or determining the cause of an accident, there are also safety concerns to be addressed.

While crime scene techs analyze the accident or crime scene and collect evidence, it is the forensic scientists who analyze the evidence in order to gather clues pointing to a possible suspect, the cause of death, or other key pieces of information. While their roles are quite different, they work in league together and law enforcement counts on the contributions of these professionals to help them solve crimes. Meanwhile, those charged with crime scene cleanup must adhere to strict guidelines and protocols in place for public safety reasons.

The technicians that are tasked with handling such cleanup areas have special training and knowledge to thoroughly evaluate, sanitize, clean, and disinfect a crime scene area, minimize emotional distress related to the incident, and restore a property to its former status. Moreover, these techs must also make certain any hazardous materials involved are disposed of in a proper fashion and that public safety is a priority.

Technicians who are trained in this field are experienced with a wide variety of crime scene cleanup situations. Whether the crime scene involves an accidental death, homicide, suicide, or some other type of injury, these specialists are extensively trained in accessing the scene and handling the cleanup in a thorough as well as professional manner.

Forensics and crime scene cleanup are separate but related areas that must work together to get the job done. It is important to understand the differences involved in both fields. While crime scene technicians, who are often based at police departments or other law enforcement agencies, spend much of their time in the field, forensic scientists usually work in forensic labs, which are controlled, monitored, and contained. Crime scene techs visit a variety of crime scenes to collect evidence and spend much of their workday out in the field, as well as on their feet. They never know until they arrive at the scene what conditions might be involved or how long it will take to clear the scene. They must sometimes work very long hours to ensure all evidence is collected. Conversely, forensic scientists usually work in a laboratory setting, which are kept comfortable, safe, and not exposed to the elements. Unlike crime scene techs, scientists who specialize in forensics are well aware of the environment they will be exposed to on a daily basis and usually work a standard 40-hour week. 

Once forensics is in order and the techs have completed their collection, crime scene cleanup must be handled before law enforcement can release the scene and allow citizens access to the affected area(s). No matter what quantities of bodily fluids or other contaminants might be present at a crime scene, crime scene cleanup techs are trained to handle the cleanup process with a detail-oriented approach, as well as special attention to safety and security protocols. Much like forensics itself, the devil is in the details.

Forensics

Since forensics is such a specialized area, scientists who are trained in forensics require more formal education than crime scene technicians do. In fact, many crime scene techs start out as law enforcement officers. Crime scene technicians might have a two-year degree and some criminal justice training, especially at rural or smaller law enforcement agencies. Meanwhile, metropolitan or larger departments might require their crime scene technicians to have a bachelor’s degree in science or forensic investigation. On the other hand, scientists who specialize in forensics must have at least an undergraduate degree in a natural science, such as physics, biology, or chemistry. While crime scene technicians need specialized training in criminal investigation, forensic scientists often need only a science degree because they do not investigate crimes directly and are usually not in the field. Instead, they conduct scientific experiments and analysis related to forensics. However, some scientists who pursue this occupation opt to supplement their science training with graduate degrees in forensic investigation.

Other factors to consider in relation to crime scene cleanup include making sure the technicians involved are in fact experts in their field and properly trained, that no crime scene is too big or small to handle, and they are ready to assist those affected through their ordeal, no matter what is involved. Additional important features of a crime scene cleanup team include fast response, around-the-clock availability (24/7/365 days a year), current sanitation and decontamination techniques and/or equipment, as well as full service accommodations at all crime scene locations.

While forensic scientists and crime scene technicians both play an essential role in investigating as well as solving crimes, another crucial aspect not to be overlooked is crime scene cleanup, which is a critical element following the advent of a crime, particularly violent crimes. In many cases, crime scene cleanup in both commercial and residential settings involves dealing with potentially hazardous materials, such as blood, excrement, semen, and other bodily fluids. Forensics and crime scene cleanup are separate but related areas that must work hand in hand to get the job done. It is not just a matter of solving a crime or determining the cause of an accident, there are also many safety concerns to be considered. These safety concerns involve not only the affected crime scene areas, but public safety as well. Any hazardous materials involved in a crime scene must be disposed of in a proper fashion and public safety protocols must be adhered to in order for law enforcement to release the scene, as well as the public to be allowed access.

Why does my carpet smell?

3/2/2017 (Permalink)

Does your home have a mysterious bad smell?

If you've already checked the fridge and your trash bins and can't find the source, it could be that you're in need of a carpet cleaning or carpet deodorizer.

Just like stains, carpet fibers can trap odors, making them linger in your home indefinitely. If you think your carpet could be the problem, consider the possible sources of the odor.

Moisture or dampness

Sometimes, moisture can get underneath the carpet and carpet pad, leading to musty odors.

This moisture can come from humidity, spills or potted plants that drip onto the carpeting.

A flood can also cause carpet odor, such as when a finished basement floods during a rainstorm.

If not addressed properly, continued moisture exposure can cause mold and mildew to grow under the carpet padding. Not only will it increase the smell, it also creates a health risk.

Pet odor

When pets use the carpet as a bathroom, the smell can really linger.

Even after a carpet cleaning, the smell of pet urine may return. This is due to the gases released by the bacteria that are digesting the urine. If any of the urine remains in the rug fibers, it will continue to smell.

The same is true for vomit, another common problem associated with pets and carpeting.

These bacteria are activated by water, which is why the smell may intensify after a thorough cleaning.

Dry carpet cleaning treatments or treatments that use enzymatic odor removal products are the best solution for eliminating pet smells. Enzymes are particularly effective because they attack the bacteria, thus eliminating the source of the smell.

Cigarette smoke

If a smoker lives in the home, the carpet can collect the cigarette smoke odor.

While the homeowners may not notice the stench because they live with it, visitors or someone who purchases the home will definitely notice the smoke smell.

A professional carpet cleaner may be able to remove the smell, but if the smoking was excessive, a carpet deodorizer may not be enough, and the carpeting may need to be replaced.

Old age

Carpeting is made from fibers. Over time, those fibers break down. When the carpet begins to smell old, there is little that can be done.

Carpet cleaning cannot take the old, musty smell from carpet. This is when it simply needs to be replaced.

In addition to the smell, old carpet starts to release dust, which can contribute to indoor allergies.

Food and drink spills

Food and drinks that spill onto carpet can lead to odors.

Like pet smells, these organic products attract bacteria. As the bacteria break down, they release smelly gasses. Again, professional carpet cleaning is the best solution to remove the smell.

Once you find the source of your carpet odor, you can decide on the best treatment. For organic smells like pet odors or food spills, consider two professional cleanings to thoroughly remove the bacteria.

For other problems, like old age or mold, you may need to replace the carpet. Knowing where the odor is coming from will help you make the right decision for treatment.

How much snow on your roof is too much?

2/27/2017 (Permalink)

Snow roof risks

Snow levels totaled over 19 inches in the Orange County area after the Superbowl blizzard this weekend. When snow/ice on your roof exceeds 20-25 lbs. per square foot, your roof may be in the 'Danger Zone.' A roof rake can help to safely remove snow and prevent damage to your home. As the ice and snow begin to melt, it's the best time to check for leaks. Check for soft spots on your roof, ceilings, and walls. Look for signs of water around windows, showers, and toilets.

If you happen to have roof damage or water leaks from the snow, SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties is here to help 24/7! We provide emergency board-ups, water mitigation services, and reconstruction including roof repairs. 

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Other Interesting Articles

Orange County Water Damage Restoration How to Select A Restoration Company

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After The Storm Is Over-Mold Remediation In Orange County, NY

2/24/2017 (Permalink)

Got Mold? SERVPRO of Orange County can help!

Information on Mold Remediation in Orange County

Mold growth can begin anywhere from 2-3 days after a storm causes water damage.  The mold is a harmful issue, and it can negatively affect your health, house, and the contents within your home.  As the length of exposure to storm water damage increases, the chance for air spores that spread mold also escalates. Mold remediation becomes more challenging as the signs of mold growth that include musty odors, and discolored surfaces, become more apparent.

Act Fast

Our highly trained mold removal technicians use the latest technology and tools to quickly address your mold problem in a manner that effectively removes mold colonies. Unlike DIY techniques, our SERVPRO professional service does not carry the risk of improperly removing mold, in this way, expediting a more rapid return to a healthy home environment.  We are also trained and licensed to handle lead, asbestos and other dangerous materials that may show up during the mold removal process.

We are available 24 per day. Before your appointment, be sure to:

• Inventory damaged and missing goods for your insurance claim.
• Throw away all sealed and unsealed food and beverage contacted by storm flood waters. 
• Open windows and doors.
• Refrain from using electrical devices until it is safe.
• Remove standing water when possible.
• Use dehumidifiers and fans to ventilate your home; SERVPRO can perform this task upon arrival.

Our mold remediation technician will also determine if any contents in your home are salvageable.  Porous items that are wet for over 48 hours and cannot be completely dried and cleaned must be disposed of.

This list includes carpet, carpet padding, ceiling tiles, clothing, drywall, floor tiles, insulation, leather goods, paper, upholstery, wallpaper and wood items.

When our mold remediation expert arrives, he will:

• Apply biocides.
• Decide whether or not you can stay in your house during the mold remediation process.
• Determine if additional ventilation and containment is needed.
• Look for mold in the HVAC system and biological hazards in the home.
• Test for any additional mold after the mold remediation process.
• Use quick structural drying techniques.

Here are some more helpful links on mold:

EPA Mold Guide

IICRC 5 Principles to Mold Remediation

Storm Damage Issues in Orange County, NY

2/23/2017 (Permalink)

Storms can damage your home as they pass through. Call SERVPRO today to remediate!

Although snow is only expected for two days over the next week, we all know that the forecast can change on a dime. With the threat of a new polar vortex coming our way, now is the time to consider what to do if your home suffers damage from the coming weather.

Storm damage to New York homes does not have to be a permanent problem. Roofs can be fixed or replaced, and outside walls can be repaired. SERVPRO has a full construction division, so we are one of the largest restoration companies in the State of New York when it comes to putting the interior & exterior of your home back together after the snowstorms have passed.

First, our response team will remove any standing water or puddles that are in your home. As a company with a nationwide network available, we can use the exact size pumps needed to get the job done.

Next, we will use specialized vacuums and extractors to draw out the water from your carpets and floors. Technicians will then use heaters that are designed to touch and dry carpets without scorching the fibers or discoloring them. If the carpets have been under water for too long, the pads underneath may need to be removed and replaced.

As the carpets are dried out, commercial heaters and dehumidifiers will be used to dry out floors and walls. Besides the need to prevent wood floors from warping, returning your home to a normal level of moisture also helps to prevent the growth of mold.

If the water removed from your home has a large amount of dirt or other soil in it, you will need us to clean and sanitize the carpets and floors as well. We have a large inventory of cleaners and sanitization agents to accomplish this. If the water has been standing for too long, we may also need to apply deodorizing cleaners to furniture and walls to remove lingering odors.

Dealing with the aftermath of a severe storm is never simple. At this time of year, it can be a disaster. SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties is here to help you restore your home to its original state and hopefully get you back in the holiday spirit. Call us today at (845)-342-3333 to get started.

Sometimes, we feel like superheroes!

2/21/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orange County responds to hundreds of jobs each year.

Whether it be a burst pipe, a kitchen fire or mold found in the basement, most of our customers are dealing with a stressful situation and trust us to be the experts who can help them out. For our customers, having their home and belongings destroyed is a traumatic experience. The opportunity to come into a home in need with the knowledge, equipment and skilled workers required to repair the damage is greatly rewarding to us. 

We received the following testimonial from Linda C. on "Angie's List" that exemplifies why we love the work we do.  Thank you, Linda.  You made us feel like superheroes!

"We never realized before how important it is to clean air ducts. This fall, a family member with asthma experienced difficulties whenever the hot air furnace turned on. We kept the furnace off and contacted several NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaning Association) contractors and left messages; however no one returned our calls. After several days of waiting in the cold, a local (unnamed) service provider recommended SERVPRO. We were grateful to the local company for recommending a competitor, SERVPRO.  SERVPRO's response was fast and professional. We are completely satisfied with their work 

Professional workers from SERVPRO responded after urgent call from homeowner. Arrived the very next morning and worked for several long hours in a cold house until the work was finished.  We are completely satisfied with their work. Problem resolved. No more dust or contaminants in the air ducts, and family member with asthma experienced no further breathing difficulties after work was completed. We were able to use our furnace once again.  There is a noticeable difference in the air quality throughout the house. Three individuals who provided service were excellent workers, left each room in perfect condition and communicated with us the steps involved, and gave us reports on the work progress and what to expect from the results. Excellent service professionals. We highly recommend this company."

Tips for Filing an Insurance Claim for Water Damage

2/19/2017 (Permalink)

Having a water damage is never something expected. Coming home to a house filled with water can be a traumatic experience.

Every insurance policy is different. Therefore, what will be covered may only be determined by reading your policy or calling your insurance agent/insurance company to have them determine coverage. 

Knowledge is Power:

Be sure you know who your insurance company is and how to contact them. You may want to list the phone number for your insurance company on your refrigerator for easy access. You could also add your insurance company's 24 hour emergency contact number to your cell phone to have ready at all times. You never know when this information is going to be important. 

Stay Calm:

This experience can be upsetting. It's important to stay calm when you are talking to your insurance company so they can ask all the essential questions to set up your claim and get the ball rolling. 

Take Pictures:

Document the situation every step of the way to help your insurance company understand the full extent of the damage. Take pictures of every room that sustained damage, structural materials affected and personal items. These pictures will help your adjuster understand the full picture of what happened and what will be involved in restoring your house and the contents affected.

Ask Questions:

Resolving the water damage issue can be very confusing. Feel free to ask as many questions as you can think of to your insurance company so that you understand what will happen next every step of the way. It's important to know what your roles are and what your insurance company will be doing for you.

Use a company with IICRC Certified Technicians:

While there are many companies that may be willing to help you clean up from your water damage, it is important to utilize a company that has technicians who have been trained to properly perform mitigation. SERVPRO prides itself on the fact that our technicians are IICRC certified. Our technicians go through on-the-job training and complete IICRC training so that we can keep up with the latest techniques and technologies to dry your home out quickly to eliminate further damage. Education and training is very important to satisfying our customers. http://www.IICRC.org/education-certification/ 

Timing is important with water damage

2/17/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage, SERVPRO of Orange County can help.

Summer time in Orange County humidity and summer storms. When water stands and causes damage it can continue to cause damage and cost even more money to repair the secondary damage. So, the old adage is never truer than when dealing with a water-damaged home or business. Every minute matters, because every minute the property is wet could turn primary damage into secondary- or even permanent damage.  That's why emergency response matters.  

Secondary water damage occurs when the moisture from the primary event (flood, leak, etc.) begins to evaporate on its own into the air.  Over time the air will no longer be able to hold the moisture from the evaporation.  The moisture will have to go somewhere and a very basic principle behind psychometrics is that wet goes to dry.  The moisture may go into your drywall, cabinetry, sheetrock, hardwood floors, vinyl floors, etc.  Once the moisture is allowed to sit, mold can then begin to grow.  This is why emergency action is so incredibly important.

Storms, floods, burst pipes, and leaks simply don't abide by the 9-to-5 workday.  So why should your restoration provider?  SERVPRO of Orange County Professionals are on-call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with the state-of-the-art equipment and proven methods and training to get the job done right as quickly as possible.

If the unthinkable happens, call your local SERVPRO of Orange County Professionals at (845)342-3333 seven days a week 24/7 to help you avoid the cost and hassle of secondary damages.  We will help make it "Like it never even happened."

What the Puff?!

2/14/2017 (Permalink)

The soot from a puff back is sticky, greasy, and grimy!

As the weather changes from summer to fall, shorts turn into pants, lemonade turns to hot cocoa, and the cool hum of an AC turns to the warm surroundings of heat. However, your furnace has just sat dormant for the past 6 months and this duration of time and non-usage can result in a puff back. The term "Puff back" refers to the sudden discharge of soot into the dwelling area caused by a malfunction in the heating system. The soot from a puff back is a sticky, greasy, grimy mess like you have never seen and it can create the risk of severe health hazards in your home. All those minuscule, oil based particles that just shot out of your furnace are now embed in your curtains, carpets, and clothing while contaminating the air with known carcinogens. Running a vacuum over it will only grind the soot deeper and create stains that will never come out. Wiping the soot from walls and ceilings creates a place where paint will no longer stick. Unless the soot is quickly and professionally removed, it can cause corrosion of metals on doorknobs, faucets, and even electronic equipment throughout the home. Due to the fact that every inch of the home is affected, a puff back is an overwhelming job to clean properly and should not be performed as a DIY.

This is where the SERVPRO team can help! You can trust SERVPRO to clean EVERYTHING. We are your one stop shop for puff back and smoke damage cleanup in the Orange County area. If your home has been affected by a furnace puff back - call us at 845-342-3333  we can help you get your home and possessions back to preloss condition - Like it never even happened.^® 

Replace or Restore how can you save costs?

1/31/2017 (Permalink)

A Orange County property during the drying process.

Water is a vital part of life, when controlled properly it can be helpful and sustain us in our everyday lives. When out of control it can make our lives miserable, and can even do us harm.

If you have dealt with water damage before you know that water restoration services are not cheap. You also know how traumatic they can be, disrupting our lives and causing havoc in our home or business. However, if we look closely, the amount of money that you’ll be spending on water repair damage is significantly lower as compared to the cost of repairing structural damage and replacing personal belongings. Having SERVPRO of Orange County guide you through the trauma efficiently by restoration rather than replacement, can give you piece of mind and save costs.

When water enters our home, it can come with germs and bacteria, it can even promote fungal growth if given enough time and conditions. Oftentimes, mold spores inhabit our home long after the water has disappeared from view.  If you act quickly you can impact the amount of damage to your property and your personal belongings.

While there is no standard cost for water repair damage, the cost is based on several factors. This includes the type of water, the extent of damage and the size of the affected area.

Category 1 (Clean water): Water comes from a faucet, malfunctioning appliance connected to a water line or a supply pipe. This is the least expensive. However if left unmitigated fungal growth can occur in 48 -72 hours from the initial incident.  When fungal growth begins this can change the category and add to costs as procedures to protect workers are also increased.

Category 2 (Grey water): Grey water contains biological and chemical pollutants that can cause illness. Common sources are water that is discharged from washing machine, dishwasher or toilet.

Category 3 (Black water): This is the most detrimental of the group and is also the most expensive. Water contains harmful bacteria that may cause severe discomfort or sickness. Common sources are overflowing rivers and streams, sewage and standing water. Category two water that is left stagnant for more than 48 hours falls under this category.

Restoring your home after water damage could be a frustrating experience. Water or excess moisture could harm your home and its content. The faster you take action, the less damage you’ll have in your home. Here are some tips you can use until we get to your home: http://www.SERVPROOSU.com/water-damage-tips  

The Benefits of a Professional Carpet Cleaning

1/30/2017 (Permalink)

Carpet cleaning in process

A professional carpet cleaning can improve the appearance of your home or business, your health, and even extend the life of your carpet. Although a carpet cleaning machine may be cheaper, you miss out on a number of unique advantages that a carpet cleaning service can provide. Namely, with a professional carpet cleaning you will save time and ensure that your carpet is thorough and effectively cleaned.

Don’t Stress

One of the nicest bonuses of having a professional cleaner is that you won’t have to stress over moving furniture out of the room. Once the carpets are dry, your cleaner will move all the furniture back to where it belongs. You also won’t have to worry about removing stains, applying pre-treatment solutions, or carrying heavy cleaning equipment from room to room. Nope, with a professional cleaning service you save time on all of these things.

Restore Your Carpet’s Original Beauty

A professional carpet cleaner’s objective is to restore your carpet to its original quality. Not only will this leave your carpet with a fresh and clean look, but it’ll help extend the life your carpet. Furthermore, carpets are safe havens for mold and mildew. Often times mold will occur after someone attempts to clean their carpet themselves, and leaves it excessively wet. A professional carpet cleaner will make sure your carpets avoid becoming oversaturated with water.

Certified Equipment and Cleaning Solutions

With a professional carpet cleaner, you’ll get the promise of professional grade equipment operated by experienced cleaners. When it comes to removing tough stains, you’ll want to make sure you’re using the strongest machinery. Experienced carpet cleaners also have knowledge of different types of carpets and brands, so they can suggest the best methods and products for the job, rather than risking a rental or store-bought cleaning solution.

Professional Carpet Cleaning Services from SERVPRO

If you need professional carpet cleaning services then SERVPRO are the people to call SERVPRO of Orange County offers a range of cleaning services for jobs of any shape or size. We follow EPA codes and can help keep your air ducts clean and mold free in order to keep it a healthy and happy place to live. For more information on our services, call 845-342-3333 visit us online and follow us on Facebook.

Does Your Home Have a Fire Escape Plan?

1/30/2017 (Permalink)

Every household or commercial business should develop a plan in case of an emergency fire.

Planning a Fire Escape Basics

• There should be two ways to get out of every room, and all members of your household should be aware of them.
• Add escape ladders to areas or homes above the second floor, especially sleeping areas. Train household members in how to use them and store them near windows.
• Practice home fire drills periodically (at least twice a year) so that everyone knows how to do one in less than two minutes. The objective of a fire drill is to practice, not to frighten, so a planned drill can be just as effective.
• Teach younger family members the stop, drop, and roll method for dealing with clothes that have caught fire.
• Make special arrangements in your plan for infants or anyone with a disability. Assign someone to assist disabled family members in case of an emergency.
• Install smoke alarms inside and outside of every sleeping area of your home.
• Find an outside meeting place that’s a safe distance away from your home that everyone can reach after an escape. Make sure everyone is aware of its location.
• Always choose the safest escape route, meaning the one with least amount of smoke and heat. Practice getting low and traveling beneath smoke when you perform a fire drill.
• Close doors on the way out during a fire to slow it down and give you more time to safely escape. In situations where fire prevents you from leaving the home, you should practice “sealing yourself in for safety” as part of your fire escape plan. Put as many doors between you and the fire as possible, and cover air vents to prevent smoke from reaching you. Open windows at the top and bottom so fresh air can get in.
• Under no circumstances should you ever go back inside a burning building. Do not try to retrieve belongings. If someone is still inside, inform the fire department dispatcher when you call. Only a trained firefighter has the skills and equipment needed to perform a rescue.

Protect Your Home or Business

1/27/2017 (Permalink)

Cold weather can wreak havoc and cause costly damage to your home or business if you are not properly prepared.

To help prevent weather-related damages, consider taking the following precautions before winter weather hits.

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches.  Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building.  Clear out the gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall.  Leaves and other obstructions can lead to a damming effect, causing roof damage and interior water problems.
• Clean chimneys and exhaust systems to ensure they are free of debris.
• Test gas lines if they have been dormant to ensure they are in good working order with no leaks.
• Inspect your property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.    
• Protect pipes from freezing by allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. Make sure all exterior pipes are properly insulated.
• If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement of crawl space.  Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.       
• Make sure all exterior doors, garages, roll-ups, and windows have sufficient weather stripping.
• Ask your local SERVPRO of Orange County about completing an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for your business.  The ERP is a no cost assessment to your facility, and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster. Call us 27/7 at (845)342-3333.

The Different Types of Smoke

1/27/2017 (Permalink)

A fire loss can result in complex damages because of the unique behavior of smoke. A trained professional should survey the loss.

Your local SERVPRO of Orange County knows smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor.  Our knowledge of building systems helps us investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. 

Here are some facts you may not know about smoke:

Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.

Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.

The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

The Different Types of Smoke:

There are two different types of smoke- wet and dry.  As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire.  Before restoration begins, a SERVPRO of Orange County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. 

Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary.  Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke - Paper and Wood
Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises, therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue

Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Fuel Oil Soot – Furnace Puff Backs

While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO of Orange County can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.

Other Types – Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue

Special loss situations require special care.  SERVPRO of Orange County are trained to handle even the toughest losses.

Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

1/27/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response.

Restoring commercial properties presents unique challenges. Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

SERVPRO of Orange County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Call us anytime, 24/7 at (845)-342-3333.

After The Storm Is Over-Mold Remediation In Orange County, NY

1/27/2017 (Permalink)

Got Mold? SERVPRO of Orange County can help!

Information on Mold Remediation in Orange County

Mold growth can begin anywhere from 2-3 days after a storm causes water damage.  The mold is a harmful issue, and it can negatively affect your health, house, and the contents within your home.  As the length of exposure to storm water damage increases, the chance for air spores that spread mold also escalates. Mold remediation becomes more challenging as the signs of mold growth that include musty odors, and discolored surfaces, become more apparent.

Act Fast

Our highly trained mold removal technicians use the latest technology and tools to quickly address your mold problem in a manner that effectively removes mold colonies. Unlike DIY techniques, our SERVPRO professional service does not carry the risk of improperly removing mold, in this way, expediting a more rapid return to a healthy home environment.  We are also trained and licensed to handle lead, asbestos and other dangerous materials that may show up during the mold removal process.

We are available 24 per day. Before your appointment, be sure to:

• Inventory damaged and missing goods for your insurance claim.


• Throw away all sealed and unsealed food and beverage contacted by storm flood waters. 


• Open windows and doors.


• Refrain from using electrical devices until it is safe.


• Remove standing water when possible.


• Use dehumidifiers and fans to ventilate your home; SERVPRO can perform this task upon arrival.

Our mold remediation technician will also determine if any contents in your home are salvageable.  Porous items that are wet for over 48 hours and cannot be completely dried and cleaned must be disposed of.

This list includes carpet, carpet padding, ceiling tiles, clothing, drywall, floor tiles, insulation, leather goods, paper, upholstery, wallpaper and wood items.

When our mold remediation expert arrives, he will:

• Apply biocides.


• Decide whether or not you can stay in your house during the mold remediation process.


• Determine if additional ventilation and containment is needed.


• Look for mold in the HVAC system and biological hazards in the home.


• Test for any additional mold after the mold remediation process.


• Use quick structural drying techniques.

Here are some more helpful links on mold:

EPA Mold Guide

IICRC 5 Principles to Mold Remediation

Storm Damage Issues in Orange County, NY

1/27/2017 (Permalink)

Storms can damage your home as they pass through. Call SERVPRO today to remediate!

Although snow is only expected for two days over the next week, we all know that the forecast can change on a dime. With the threat of a new polar vortex coming our way, now is the time to consider what to do if your home suffers damage from the coming weather.

Storm damage to New York homes does not have to be a permanent problem. Roofs can be fixed or replaced, and outside walls can be repaired. SERVPRO has a full construction division, so we are one of the largest restoration companies in the State of New York when it comes to putting the interior & exterior of your home back together after the snowstorms have passed.

First, our response team will remove any standing water or puddles that are in your home. As a company with a nationwide network available, we can use the exact size pumps needed to get the job done.

Next, we will use specialized vacuums and extractors to draw out the water from your carpets and floors. Technicians will then use heaters that are designed to touch and dry carpets without scorching the fibers or discoloring them. If the carpets have been under water for too long, the pads underneath may need to be removed and replaced.

As the carpets are dried out, commercial heaters and dehumidifiers will be used to dry out floors and walls. Besides the need to prevent wood floors from warping, returning your home to a normal level of moisture also helps to prevent the growth of mold.

If the water removed from your home has a large amount of dirt or other soil in it, you will need us to clean and sanitize the carpets and floors as well. We have a large inventory of cleaners and sanitization agents to accomplish this. If the water has been standing for too long, we may also need to apply deodorizing cleaners to furniture and walls to remove lingering odors.

Dealing with the aftermath of a severe storm is never simple. At this time of year, it can be a disaster. SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties is here to help you restore your home to its original state and hopefully get you back in the holiday spirit. Call us today at (845)-342-3333 to get started.

The Various Scenarios of Mold Remediation

1/27/2017 (Permalink)

Got Mold? Call SERVPRO of Orange County!

Protecting your home from the ravages of mold can be a daunting task if you don't know what to look for or don't know you have it. However, it's a process that every homeowner should consider in order to protect the structural integrity of their home as well as the health and wellness of their family.

The Four W's of Mold...

The process of determining if you have mold, and if so, what type begins with 5 questions that cover a number of considerations. It's a given that mold only grows in damp conditions. As a result, you must ask yourself if you or a neighbor has a water leak? Mold only takes a few days to form in moist situations. Even if you don't have a leak, your neighbor's leak could become a true bone of contention for you if you live in an apartment or duplex.

What Where and When...

Obviously, if you can visibly see mold you know you have a problem that needs resolving. Determining what type of mold you have becomes the obvious next step. Additionally, if you have water that pools against the exterior of your house when it rains, the moisture will affect not only exterior walls but the interior walls as well. It's just a question of "when."

Other Indicators...

In addition to visibly seeing mold, a musty moldy smell is a good indication that your dwelling has a mold issue. If the atmosphere in your home is humid, and your windows sweat revealing condensation, these are conditions that are ripe for developing a problem with mold if you don't already have one. Flair ups with allergies and illness in your pets are also strong indicators of a mold problem. Mold is a serious issue that can impact not only the infrastructure of your house but the health of your family members. Even if you plan on moving it's a good idea to have your new home tested for the presence of mold as a safety measure.

Having your home tested for mold is a good investment to protect the health and the integrity of both your family and your homes structure. After all, an ounce of prevention is always worth a ton of cure.

Flood Damage Restoration

8/15/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties will wash away all of your worries!

Flood Damage Restoration in Sullivan County

Flood damage in Sullivan County is often unexpected but always has the potential to inflict severe damage to residential properties. Particularly vulnerable are homes located at the bottom of a hill or valley, which will receive incoming water from their uphill counterparts. However, even homes on high ground may be susceptible to unpredictable flash flooding, and should always be prepared for the damages that may result from even a small flood.

Soaked and Ruined Flooring

Perhaps the most common casualty in a home is its flooring.Floods will typically cover the entire first and lower floors of a building, soaking in between cracks and holes and causing large and obtrusive damage. In many cases, full replacement of the flooring in each room is necessary, as grout, paste, and all manner of other adherents are dissolved or washed away by water. Additionally, floodwater can contain staining materials and mud, which can visually ruin a floor.

Destroyed Electronics and Electrical Hazards

Depending on the intensity of the floods, floor-based electronics such as speakers, lighting fixtures or even some televisions may be destroyed by floodwaters. These can, however, be exceedingly dangerous as they may have open circuits leading into the water. If the floodwaters are high enough, they may pour directly into an outlet. Electrocution is a major hazard, so be extremely cautious if you enter a home while water is still there.

Mold and Fungus Growth

Mold and fungi like dark, damp places to grow. During a flood, the conditions are perfect for their growth. Call SERVPRO immediately so we can identify and clean up the mold, as it may cause adverse health effects.

Your Finances

If you don't have flood coverage, you may end up being forced to pay out-of-pocket for any damages. Regular homeowners' insurance doesn't typically cover flooding, and a separate policy may be necessary. If you don't have flood insurance, be sure to consult with your insurance provider.

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties is a well-respected local business specializing in many different kinds of restoration services.. We can help to repair and restore flood damage of all kinds, and will help you to get through the process. Call us anytime at (845) 342-3333 for a consultation or advice.

Does Your Home Have A Mold Problem?

8/15/2016 (Permalink)

There are thousands of types of mold!

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

·         Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.

·         Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.

·         Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.

·         Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.

·         Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.

·         Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties  can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment to have your mold problem seem “Like it never even happened.”

Six Classes of Fire Damage

8/15/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties is known for their professionalism, expertise and timely responses to all fire damage needs.

The Six Classes of Fire Damage: Your Quick Reference Guide

Although no one wants to experience a fire in their office or home, you never know when this unwanted disaster could transpire. Whether the disaster transpires because of a brush fire or bad electrical wiring, your property could suffer a wide range of adverse, inconveniencing outcomes. There are six classes of South Ulster County fire damage  that your property can be subjected to. Learn more about these classes by reviewing the quick reference guide that appears below:

Six Classes of Fire Damage

1. Class A

This type of fire damage results from combustible items in your household such as rubber, plastics, paper, and wood.

2. Class B

Class B damages pertain to damage that results from liquids. It can also include solid items that became liquefied. Examples include paints, waxes, petrol, and gasoline. This class of South Ulster County fire damage does not include deterioration resulting from cooking liquids such as corn oil.

3. Class C

This type of fire damage results from flammable gasses. Some flammable gasses include hydrogen, methane, acetylene, and propane.

4. Class D

This kind of fire damage in South Ulster County results from combustible metals. Some of them include magnesium, potassium, and titanium. This class is not common given that metals typically direct heat away from the fire.

5. Class E

Class E is a fire damage category that includes electrical equipment while also incorporating the materials from categories A and B. In addition to generating distinct types of damage, this class of fire damage makes it much more challenging to fight the fire.

6. Class F

Class F fire damage results from unsaturated cooking materials such as fats and oils.

Finding The Right Fire Damage Restoration Company

Irrespective of the category of fire damage that surfaces on your property, it is important for you to attain high-quality restoration services as soon as possible. To ensure that you attain the cutting edge, customized fire damage restoration services that you need and deserve, make sure the company you select possesses all of the following attributes:

• A good Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating

• IICRC-certified technicians

• Excellent customer service

• Good online reviews

When you find that your company has been impacted by fire damage, don't wait. Instead, accelerate and optimize the recovery process by obtaining the best restoration services on the block. As a company with more than 30 years of industry experience, the professionals of SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties have built a strong reputation for consistently offering clients the excellent, expedient fire damage restoration services they deserve.

Six Signs Water Damage Is Ruining Your Foundation

8/15/2016 (Permalink)

You can trust SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties with all of your water damage needs.

Water Damage in Ellenville Can Be Restored by SERVPRO

Ellenville water damage may be fairly simple to spot, especially if you are a hands-on homeowner, who fixes and repairs things as they crop up. The problem is that water damage to foundations is not an easy water damaging problem to identify.

Nevertheless, the key to minimizing the extent of the damage is always to spot it quickly and address it as soon as possible. How are you supposed to achieve this if you don’t know that there is water damage in the first place? This guide, provided by SERVPRO, to some of the most common symptoms of water damage within foundations will help you spot any problem areas.

Symptom One: Water Below Ground

If you are routinely dealing with standing water in the basement, you are probably getting a little stressed out. As a consolation, however, it does mean that you can be reasonably sure of a foundation problem. Standing water only accumulates and sits in a basement if drainage systems are not functioning properly.

Symptom Two: Overly Damp Soil

If you speculate that there could be an issue with moisture, take a look at the soil around the foundations of the property. If it is unusually wet (even after days without rain), there is a good chance that groundwater is seeping into the foundation.

Symptom Three: Water in the Crawlspace

Standing water or condensation and moisture building up within a crawlspace is a pretty good sign that something is wrong with the foundation, circulation of air, lack of adequate insulation, or burst pipe. If it is too damp in this area, the quality of the air in your house can decline, and it may give off a musty odor.

Symptom Four: Sagging and Bowing Floors

A lot of homeowners walk up and down uneven floors for years before they spot a problem. You can test the level of your own with nothing more than a small rubber ball. Unless you know of a reason the foundation is or could be unlevel and not caused by water damage, imbalances should be checked out immediately. They can indicate soil erosion due to water.

Symptom Five: Slimy Patches Outside

When the water from rains and storms is draining away from the property in a secure and efficient manner, it never spends enough time close to the building to have a lasting impact. On the other hand, if groundwater is pooling, you may be able to spot slimy and moldy patches on the outer walls of your home.

Symptom Six: Mal-functioning Doorframes or windows

This might sound like a surprising sign, but if your doorframes used to open and close correctly, but have recently started to stick, the problem could be moisture related. It may be a sign that the doorframes have begun to warp, from excessive water absorption.

Call SERVPRO of Idaho Falls for any unwanted water damaging situations that may occur on your property. We are experts in water removal, cleanup, and water damage restoration. We will recondition your home "Like it never even happened."

We’re Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists

As leaders in the water damage industry, SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties has advanced expertise and training, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We proudly serve the communities of Ellenville, Monticello, Wurtsboro and more.. Call us 24/7 for help at (845) 342-3333.

The Fire Is Put Out...Now What?

8/11/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties will make the damage to your house seem “Like it never even happened.”

You’ve called 911 and the firefighters have come put out the fire in your home.  While the immediate danger has passed, the fire will continue to damage the home if professionals are not called in.  

Ash and smoke, if left unhindered, will cause extensive corrosion, etching and discoloration, not to mention lingering powerful odors.  

According to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, just minutes after a fire, soot residue settles onto the property.  Discoloration of porous materials is permanent but other surfaces can be cleaned to remove the damage.  If not treated quickly, acidic soot begins staining other surfaces.  

Within hours all surfaces begin to suffer from fire and smoke damage.  Wooden furniture may require refinishing, metal begins to rust, pit and corrode and painted walls begin to yellow.  In addition, some clothing can be permanently stained and your flooring could end up requiring you to refinish or replace it.  

If left untreated, within weeks the restoration process will take longer and cost you more.  The prolonged soot exposure can ruin some of your belongings and is also not good for you and your family’s health.

If a professional isn’t hired to clean smoke and fire damage, the costs for restoration will skyrocket after a few weeks. Smoke and soot removal is not a job you should do by yourself.

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan and S.Ulster Counties is here to help you with all of your fire damage needs.  Our trained professionals are available 24/7 and have the cleaning and restoration experience to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.  

For more information on our fire restoration services, click here or call us at 845-342-3333

South Ulster County Businesses - Protect Yourself From A Fire

8/8/2016 (Permalink)

Do not let your business go up in flames!

The owner of a commercial business has many things to keep track of.  From the amount of profit the business is drawing in, keeping track of the competition and struggling to stay on top, it is easy for owners to forget about something as important as fire safety.  

According to the National Fire Protection Agency, in 2014 alone there were 1,298,000 fires reported in the United States.  These fires caused 3,275 civilian deaths, 15,775 civilian injuries and $11.6 billion in property damage.  

It is imperative that business owners and employees in a commercial business understand the most common causes for commercial fires so they can avoid them.  According to safety.blr.com there are 8 common causes of workplace fires and how you can avoid them.    

1. Heating equipment

Heating equipment can easily cause commercial fires if they are improperly installed, operated or not maintained correctly.  Make sure to keep any materials or building components away from the minimum clearance distances on all sides and above.  Do not use any temporary heating units like portable heaters in public buildings and never store combustible materials in furnace rooms.    

2. Electrical

Misused, overloaded, damaged or improperly maintained electrical equipment are a common cause of a workplace fire.  Do not leave any cords coiled up when plugged in and only use extension cords for temporary power for equipment in use at the moment.  Use multiple outlet strips for computer equipment, not for appliances of other electric equipment.  Avoid overloading circuits.  

3. Cooking equipment

Make sure all of the cooking equipment in your breakroom never go unwatched when they are being used.  Ensure any room with cooking materials is equipped with a smoke detector.  In addition, be sure to follow cooking instructions for anything that is made in the microwave.  

4. Mechanical friction

Keep mechanical bearings properly lubricated and aligned. Keep conveyors and mobile equipment cleaned and free of accumulations of combustible materials. Any improperly maintained or cleaned mechanical equipment can lead to a fire.   

5. Housekeeping

Not only can poor housekeeping conditions cause a fire, it can also make it that much easier for an existing fire to spread.  Avoid excessive storage of boxes and other combustible material.  In order to ensure your employees can get out in case of a fire or other emergency, make sure stored material never blocks exits, walkways, electrical panels or emergency equipment.     

6. Proximity hazards

Nearby fuel tanks or dumpsters could cause a fire hazard.  Avoid putting them extremely close to your building.  In addition, keep landscaping neat to avoid excess grass, weeds or brush near your business.

7. Smoking

Consider banning smoking from your facility.  Poor setup of smoking areas and people who are careless with their cigarette butts can put everyone at risk for a fire.  

8. Special Hazards

Keep track of any special hazards your business might have.  Examples of this would be any cutting/welding and other hot work that could produce flames, flammable liquid, storage and handling, chemicals, hay or leaves.

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties is Here For All Your Commercial Needs

With over 30 years of experience, SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties is the business to trust with your commercial fire, water, storm damages and more.  Our  trained professionals are available 24/7 with all of your commercial business restoration needs.  Call us at (845) 342-3333 to find out more information.  

The Differences in Water Damages

8/4/2016 (Permalink)

Do not let your worries overflow, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties!

According to the Water Damage Defense website, approximately 14,000 people in the United States experience a water damage emergency at work or at home each day.  That is enough people to fill two-thirds of Madison Square Garden!  However, not all water damages are the same.

Each water damage in a house or business falls into one of three categories, according to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. (IICRC)    Category 1 is clean water, Category 2 is gray water and Category 3 is black water.  Each require different techniques to remove.  Keep in mind each category may not be permanent.  For example, clean water can spill out of a pipe and turn into grey or black standing water.  

Category 1 water damage is liquid from a clean or sanitary source, such as faucets, toilet tanks, water fountains, etc.  

Category 2 is water that is typically described as having a level of contaminates that may cause illness or discomfort if ingested.  Some examples of Category 2 water damage sources would include dishwasher or washing machine overflows, flush from sink drains and  toilet overflow with some urine but no feces.

The worst of all three categories is Category 3.  If ingested, water from Category 3 could cause severe illness of death.  It is grossly unsanitary and its sources include sewer backup, flooding from rivers, lakes or streams, toilet overflow with feces and stagnant water that has begun to support bacterial growth.  

In addition to categories of water damage, there are also classes of destruction that each water damage falls into.  The IICRC classifies each water damage into four classes.

Class 1 destruction is the easiest water damage to deal with and has a slow evaporation rate.  Only part of a room or area have been affected by a water damage in this class, there is little to no wet carpet and the moisture has only affected materials with a low permeance rate such as plywood or concrete.

Class 2 destruction has a fast evaporation rate and typically affects an entire room, carpeting or cushioning, the wetness has wicked up the walls at least 12 inches and there is moisture remaining in the structural materials.  

Class 3 has the fastest evaporation rate and the liquid source may have come overhead.  In this class, the ceiling, walls, insulation, carpets and sub-floors are all saturated.  

Speciality drying situations are classified under Class 4.  This means there has been enough liquid and time to saturate materials with very low permeance, such as hardwood, brick or stone.  

It is imperative that you do not try to handle a water damage on your own.  Someone with trained background is needed to distinguish the category of water damage and the class of destruction.

Need A Water Damage Expert?  

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties is here for all of your water damage needs.  Our technicians are IICRC certified and available for you 24/7.  To learn more about our water, fire and storm damage services and more, visit our website at www.SERVPROsullivanandsouthulstercounties.com or call us at (845) 342-3333.  

South Ulster County School Districts - How You Can Prevent Mold In Your School Buildings

8/1/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties gets an "A" for their mold remediation services!

It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s…..

Mold?

Although not visible to the naked eye, mold spores exist almost everywhere indoors and outdoors.  Spores float in the air, grow on the ground and can even be present on indoor surfaces.  All mold needs to grow is moisture, warmth, oxygen and organic matter for food.   

Microscopic amounts of mold generally aren’t harmful.  However, larger populations can potentially cause serious health problems in those with allergies or weakened immune systems.

With back to school season rapidly approaching, school administrators around Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties are preparing school buildings to be ready for the year.  Occasionally over the summer, mold can cause a potential problem.  

Below are three tips to prevent mold growth in your school district.   

Tip #1: Keep on the HVAC system.

Over the summer, some school administrators make the mistake of turning off HVAC systems in order to save money.  HVAC systems keep humidity in check and by turning them off you can potentially create the perfect environment for mold.  While it may cost more to keep the HVAC system running, it can ultimately save you money in the long run.  

Tip #2: Purchase a humidity sensor.

If keeping your HVAC system on in your school building is not an option, consider buying a humidity sensor.  Rather than running the HVAC system day and night, a humidity sensor can allow you to track the levels of humidity in the air and turn on the HVAC system when necessary. According to Sensors Online, a humidity sensor works by detecting changes that alter electrical currents or temperature in the air.

Tip #3: Keep a watchful eye on problem areas.

Remember, the perfect environment for mold is anywhere that has moisture.  Some problem areas might include storage areas, bathrooms or kitchens in a school.  The earlier you are aware of a mold problem, the less likely you are to suffer costly damages.  

Does Your School Have A Mold Problem?

The professionals here at SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan and S.Ulster Counties are trained to help you with all of your mold remediation needs.  In as little as 48 hours, a minor mold issue can quickly spread through a home or business. Once you contact us, we’re dedicated to starting the remediation process quickly. This fast response lessens the mold damage, limits additional damage, and reduces the remediation cost.  We are available 24/7 and can be reached at (845)-342-3333.  

Residents of Liberty - We Are Here For Your Mold Remediation Needs

7/28/2016 (Permalink)

Mold remediation is tricky - you should always call a trained professional rather than trying to fix the problem yourself.

Microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.  Because of this, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible.  Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is wrong.

So what is mold remediation compared to mold removal?

As stated previously, complete mold removal is impossible.  Mold remediation is the act of stopping the moisture source causing the mold to grow, containing the current colony growing and using antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and prevent new colonies from forming.  

A qualified restoration company understands the science behind mold and mold growth.  SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties professionals have the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home and business. Mold remediation focuses on getting mold levels back to normal, natural levels.

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same.  The following are SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties steps we take to make the mold damage seem “Like it never even happened.”

Step 1: Emergency Contact (845) 342-3333  

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us.  Our representative will ask a series of questions to help us determine the necessary equipment, resources and personnel.

Step 2: Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect your property for visible signs of mold.  We use various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources.  Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view.  

Step 3: Mold Containment

There are a various amount of techniques our professionals use to contain and prevent the spread of mold.  We may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the process.  All fans and heating and cooling systems will be turned off to prevent the spread of mold.

Step 4: Air Filtration

Our specialized filtration equipment allows our professionals to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air.  We utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.  

Step 5: Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears.  In order to remediate heavy mold growth, it may be necessary to remove and dispose of mold-infested porous materials.  Some examples of porous materials that might be infested are drywall and carpeting.   

Step 6: Cleaning Contents and Belongings

Items such as your furniture, decorative items, curtains, clothing and other restorable items affected by mold will be cleaned.  We’re trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment and we will have your belongings back to normal in no time.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting and installing no carpets.  Depending on the damage, however, restoration may require major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.  This step will get your home or business back to normal.

Is Mold Wreaking Havoc On Your Life?  

Our trained professionals here at SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties are here to help with all of your mold remediation needs 24/7.  We can help manage the insurance paperwork and process.  For more details, please call us at 845-342-3333 or visit us at www.SERVPROnorthorangecounty.com.

How To Prepare for the Summer Storms

7/21/2016 (Permalink)

Do not let a thunderstorm strike you unprepared!

Storms can happen in the blink of an eye with little to no warning.  If you do not take the time to prepare, the aftermath of the storm can be stressful and costly.  Taking the time to address key areas of your home can make a huge difference between staying high and dry or flooded with worry and damages.  

Your home is your most valuable asset so don’t get swept away with the summer thunderstorms this season.  Take steps now to prevent any rain showers from dampening your mood.

Start getting prepared by pretending there is a giant storm cloud hovering over your home right now and take action today.  The following steps below will help you.

1. Go out and purchase supplies you may need if you lose power or water supply for a long period of time.  Batteries, flashlights, bottled water, canned food, gas and backup generators are items you should have at all times in your house in case of emergency.  Consider buying board games or a deck of playing cards for something for you and your family to do to pass the time.

2. Make sure you have the proper insurance plan in place.  Check on your policy so you are familiar with what is and is not covered.  It is imperative you make sure everything is current.

3. Do what you can to secure your property.  Seal up any cracks or gaps around windows, doors and check your roof for any broken or loose shingles.  Just to be safe, you might consider installing items such as window shutters, garage door braces and roof clips to protect your home as well.  While these resources can be costly, they can ultimately save you money in the long run.

4. Take care of any trees surrounding your home.  Remove any dead branches and trim back any limbs that could become a danger to your house.  Overhanging limbs can scrape the roof, damage shingles or bust through windows.  All of this could lead to water damage in your home. Properly maintaining your landscape is easy and can do wonders at protecting against storm damage.  

5. Secure patio furniture and pick up any items such as sporting equipment or lawn items and store them properly.  

Got Swept Away With The Storm?

Storms are at times unpredictable and despite precautionary measures, damage can be at times unavoidable.  If you find your house damaged from a storm, you can relax knowing SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties has your back.  Our trained professionals are available 24/7.   To contact us or learn more about our services, please call 845-342-3333 or go to www.SERVPROsullivanandsouthulstercounties.com.      

First Time Hurricane hits Orange County in 2011

7/14/2016 (Permalink)

In 2011, Hurricane Irene was the first large hurricane to hit the east coast that caused serious damage to Orange County, NY. The morning after the storm, Sunday morning, SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties received over 400 calls within 5 hours. SERVPRO was prepared before the hurricane came through by calling other SERVPROs in the area so they were prepared to come and help. Once calls started coming through, SERVPROs from Ohio, Rhode Island and Syracuse came in to help our SERVPRO get to customers in our area who needed help.

SERVPRO was non-stop for 12 weeks, without any days off. Working almost around the clock to get to people’s homes and businesses and help them in their time of need. Being a part of a franchise system is vital to preparing for hurricanes or other major storm events. You are able to all work together and help out even more people in the area. SERVPRO is available 24/7 365 days a year for any size disaster in a home or business. 

Auto Body Shop Fire

7/14/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties was called into a fire loss at an Auto Body Shop. The fire was caused by a lift mechanics burning up. Multiple cars were burnt and many other mechanics were severely damaged. SERVPRO was able to get a crew of 20 people there for a short period of time to get everything cleaned up at the Auto Body Shop. Also, SERVPRO was able to call in an Electronics Restoration Company to check all the machines to see if they are restorable. Restoring is inexpensive compared to replacing. SERVPRO focuses on restoring as much as possible to keep costs down and minimize replacement. Even though the Auto Body Shop was closed for a longer period of time, they were happy with SERVPROs services and glad they got there quickly to clean and restore a great amount of their machinery and equipment. 

Sprinklers Emptying Completely in a Strip Mall

7/14/2016 (Permalink)

Sprinklers emptying completely can cause devastating damage to your business.

Sometimes a normal day working at a retail store could go terribly wrong. The weekend before Christmas, a Dollar Store had this nightmare. In the back of the store a customer decided to start lighting cards on fire. This caused the sprinklers to go off. This sprinkler system emptied out completely flooding the dollar store, bridal store, office supply store and a large back corridor where shipments are received. There was over 100,000 square feet affected with anywhere from 1 inch to 3 inches of standing water left in the area. After the fire department cleared, this was when SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties were called in.

SERVPRO arrived quickly onsite to start scoping out the damages and what needed to be done first. The main priority was getting the water out of the areas and start drying as quickly as possible. SERVPRO called in all crews, a total of 15 people to work that Saturday. After 14 hours the first day, SERVPRO finally got all the water out of the areas ready to start the drying process. Demolition and disposal of some contents were completed both Saturday and Sunday of that weekend. Drying occurred throughout the week. SERVPRO not only set up equipment to get the stores open quickly on Sunday but continued to come back to the stores to setup equipment at night and return early in the morning to move equipment so the stores could stay open.

SERVPRO was there to help the commercial strip mall get back up and running as quickly as possible. We are truly ready for any size disaster. Call us 24/7 at 845-342-3333.

Fireworks Safety Tips

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

In order to really enjoy fireworks, you have to be safe.

According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, on average, 230 people will go to the emergency per day in the month around the July 4th holiday.  The body parts among the most frequently injured are hands and fingers, the eyes, head, face and ears.  More than 50% of firework injuries were burns.

In order to ensure that your family has a safe summer filled with firework fun, SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties is here to provide you with some firework safety tips from the National Council of Firework Safety:

• Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
• Make sure you are familiar with the fireworks you are using.
• Never give fireworks to children.
• Do not drink while handling or watching fireworks.
• Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
• Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
• Use fireworks OUTDOORS in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
• Never relight a “dud” firework.  Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
• Never carry fireworks in your POCKET or shoot them into METAL or GLASS containers.
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
• FAA regulations PROHIBIT the possession and transportation of fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage.
• Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.

To read more about firework safety, visit the National Council on Firework Safety’s Website at www.fireworksafety.org.  To find out specific information regarding fireworks in New York State click here.

Was your home damaged due  to a fireworks mishap?

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties is available 24/7 for all of your fire damage needs.  Just give us a call at 845-342-3333 and we will make it “Like it never even happened.”    

Residents of Monticello - Rely on SERVPRO for Removal of Tough Tobacco Odor

6/30/2016 (Permalink)

Count on SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties for removal of tobacco odor in your home.

One of the most offensive odors to people looking for a new home is cigarette smoke.  Most buyers will not even continue to look at or consider buying a home where the stench of cigarette smoke permeates throughout.  This odor has the potential to penetrate most materials in a home; such as carpets, furniture, window treatments, clothing, drywall, cabinets and doors.  

Because cigarette smoke is a gluey substance, it is difficult and time consuming to remove.  In order to completely eliminate the cigarette smoke odor, you must thoroughly clean the tobacco smoke residue from every surface and every nook and cranny in the home.

To start, allow fresh air to enter your home and then start systematically cleaning everything in the home.  

Try using baking soda to absorb smells from the carpets and upholstery and place bowls of white vinegar, coffee or activated charcoal around the house.  Keep in mind this is a temporary solution.  

Below are some tips on how to completely clean your home to get rid of the unpleasant tobacco odor:

• Keep fresh air flowing through your house as often as possible by opening all windows and doors.

• Clean or replace air, furnace and air conditioning filters.

• Use ammonia and glycol products to clean walls and ceilings.  Both of these ingredients will neutralize the tobacco order.  After applying, let the walls dry and check if the odor persists.  

• If you can still sense cigarette odor after cleaning, use a sealant designed to lock in odors and repaint the walls and ceilings.  Make sure you use latex paint.

• Try cleaning everything in the home: floors, windows, carpets, furniture, upholstery, draperies, blinds and other household surfaces, fixtures and items.  If the smoke is too difficult to remove, call SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties to help you remove the odor.

If you do not have the time to dedicate to removing the tobacco odor currently, below are some shorter term, inexpensive solutions:

• Use an air purifier.

• To absorb bad smells, sprinkle baking soda on the carpets, leave it overnight and vacuum it up the next day.

• Place saucers of white vinegar around the home and leave them overnight to neutralize the smell.

• Get indoor plants.  Indoor plants can absorb up to 87% of indoor pollutants such as tobacco smoke.

• Place small bowls of coffee or orange peels throughout the house.

• Use scented or unscented candles.

• Place pineapple slices around the room with all doors and windows closed for 24 hours.

• Place bowls of activated charcoal around the home.

Removing cigarette smoke odor from a home can be extremely time consuming and difficult.  If the situation is severe, call SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan and South Ulster counties to remove the odor.  You can visit us at http://www.SERVPROsullivanandsouthulstercounties or call us at 845-342-3333

Solving Mold Mysteries: Fact and Fiction

6/23/2016 (Permalink)

When mold begins to spread in your property you may have tons of questions.  How did it get there? Will it affect my health?  How should I go about removing it?

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan and South Ulster Counties is here to share some facts and fiction about mold.

Fiction: There are only a few types of mold.

Fact:  There are more than 100,000 types and species in mold in total.  Common types of home and office mold species are Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus and Alternaria.

Fiction: Mold will grow on surfaces directly affected

by water.

Fact:  Mold spores often occur with the HVAC systems of buildings and homes.  Molds have an ideal environment: moisture and humidity. When you see mold you have to stop the source of the water that is causing the moist and humid environment the mold is growing on.  Common moisture briefs include plumbing leaks, water loss and flooding into crawlspaces and basements.   

Fiction: Black mold is considered extremely

dangerous compared to other molds.

Fact: Black mold is not considered any more dangerous than any other molds.  In fact, black mold is often not even black at all.  Typically molds classified as black mold are dark green.

Fiction:  Exposure to mold can cause skin rashes.

Fact:  The CDC reported that exposure to molds do not contribute to rashes.

Fiction: Cleaning mold off the surface is enough.

Fact:  Mold can become latent and reactive at any given point.  Tiny mold spores typically replicate every 24 hours, thus often growing back.  For porous materials such as ceilings, tiles, carpeting, wood, paper and drywall, surface cleaning is often not enough.  

Fiction: Mold is always visible.

Fact: Mold can hide beneath surfaces.  The best way to detect mold is to rely on smell.  A musty odor indicates mold is present.

The best fact of them all is that SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan and South Ulster counties is available 24/7 for all of your mold remediation needs.  From locating the source of the moisture leak, to cleaning above and below the surface, SERVPRO will make it “Like it never even happened.”  Visit us at www.SERVPROsullivanandsouthulster.com or call 845-342-3333.

Residents of Sullivan County - Protect Your Basement From Flooding

6/20/2016 (Permalink)

Do not feel "flooded" with worry - call SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan and S.Ulster Counties!

According to the National Flood Insurance Program, floods are the number one natural disaster in the United States.  In 2014 alone, the NFIP paid more than $345 million in flood insurance claims to policyholders.

One of the most common places for your home to be flooded is the basement.  Even if you do not live on a floodplain or anywhere near a body of water, basement flooding can still be a possibility.  The water can come from numerous places such as:

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe

• Heavy rain which can cause surface water to pool around your home

• Storm sewage backup

• Foundation drainage failure

• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure

Fortunately, basement floods are 100 percent preventable.  Below are some steps that you can take to ensure that your basement will not flood.

Clean your gutters and downspouts.  

It is important that you clean your gutter a couple of times a year in the fall and the spring.  Keeping gutters free of debris and positioning downspouts away from the foundation can keep stormwater from collapsing your gutter. The goal is to drain storm water at least three feet away. If necessary, consider running extensions or troughs.

Inspect your house’s foundation.

Simply inspecting the exterior foundation and your basement’s walls and floors can save you money.  For simple foundation cracks or small warning signs, use epoxy to fill the cracks or apply masonry sealer indoors.  If your home has already been damaged by water, call SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan and South Ulster counties and we will be here to help.

Check your sump pump.

If you have a below-grade sump pump, check to make sure it is free of debris.  If you have a portable pump, position it in the lowest part of the basement and make sure it is connected to a power source.

Inspect your sewage and septic system.

If you have not had your sewer inspected or your septic tank cleaned, spring is a good time to address these concerns.  During periods of heavy rainfall, clogged sewers and over-taxed septics are a disaster waiting to happen.  Septic pump-outs for residential use are recommended at least once every three years.

Cover your windows.

If you have below-grade basement windows, install window well covers that will fasten securely to the home’s foundation. In addition to preventing floods, clear acrylic covers allow light to enter and eep leaves and pests out.

Consider buying a generator.

The summer is filled with thunderstorms that sometimes have the power to knock out electricity.  Remember, a sump pump only works if you have power.  If you live in an area that experiences strong storms, consider buying a generator.  

Did these tips find you too late? If your home has suffered water damage - call SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan and South Ulster Counties.  We can make it like it never even happened.  We are available 24/7.  You can visit us at our website http://www.SERVPROsullivanandsouthulstercounties.com/?gclid=CKCBxJ34rM0CFdU7gQodkd8Ccw or call us at 845-791-7647

Be SERVPRO Ready Before You Go on Vacation

6/16/2016 (Permalink)

You can relax on vacation knowing SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan and S.Ulster counties has you covered.

Picture this: You are lounging on a wooden beach chair with sunglasses, staring at the beautiful ocean on your vacation.  This is the first time in months you have felt relaxed.  Suddenly, your cell phone rings.  On the phone is your neighbor who called to let you know there was a small kitchen fire in your home.    

Going on vacation should be relaxing and worry-free.  It is important to make sure your house is secure before you leave for your trip.  Be SERVPRO ready so you do not have to come back to damages in your home.  

Below are some tips for preparing your home provided by SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan and South Ulster Counties.  

Make Arrangements with an Emergency Contact and Prevent Burglaries

• Choose a close friend or a neighbor you trust as your emergency contact and provide them with all of your travel and hotel information in case they need to contact you.

• A timer on lights will give the impression someone is in the house.

• Leave written directions for alarm codes, doors or other information needed to properly care for your home.

• Burglars often look for homes with mailboxes overflowing, make sure your mail is collected.

• The Post Office can suspend your mail and start delivering again the day you get back.

Prevent Water, Fire or Electrical Damage

• Shut off gas and water at the meter, supply tank or appliances.

• Turn off the water valves to washing machines, sinks and the dishwater.

• Do not forget to unplug electronics to cut down on any possible shortages which could potentially cause a fire.  According to Reader’s Digest, electrical equipment is the fourth common cause of house fires.

• Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working properly.

• Adjust your thermostat for the season.  In the winter, it should be between 55-60 degrees and in the summer between 75-80 degrees.

A Few Last Things Before You Leave….

• If you use a security system, notify your security system that you are leaving town.  In addition, tell the neighbors you trust to keep an eye out on the house for anything suspicious.

• Take out all of your trash to prevent your house from getting too smelly.

• The day you leave, go on one last walk through your home to secure windows, blinds, fences, doors and plugs. In case of emergency, this will make it easier for safety personnel to navigate through your home.  

If your neighbor calls while you are on vacation or you come back and encounter damages in your home, you can rest assured SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan, and South Ulster Counties will make it like it never even happened.  We provide 24-hour emergency service and are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster.  If you have any questions you can visit us at www.SERVPROosu.com or call us at 845-791-7647.  Our trained professionals are standing by.

Residents of Orange County – Do Not Get Swept Away with the Storm This Hurricane Season!

6/13/2016 (Permalink)

Do not let the storm get the best of you - call SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan and S.Ulster Counties with all of your storm damage needs.

The 2016 Atlantic Hurricane season officially began on June 1st and will run until the end of November.  According to the Weather Company, an IBM business, the 2016 hurricane season is expected to be the most active since 2012.  Fourteen named storms have already been forecasted by weather professionals.

SERVPRO of North Orange County wants to make sure you and your family are safe and prepared in the event of a hurricane.

Below are several steps you should take to ensure you will be ready in the event of a storm:

• Prepare an emergency supply kit

• Stock up on batteries and water

• Check to make sure your flashlights are all working

• Ensure your generator is in good working order  

• Clean out gutters and trims trees and shrubs

• Inspect your roof, siding, foundation and basement to identify areas that need to be repaired or replaced

• Check that your sump pump is working

You happen to hear on the television that a hurricane is supposed to be hitting North Orange County this weekend.  A few days prior to the storm you should:

• Bring lawn furniture, trash cans and toys inside

• Cover windows with 5/8 inch plywood that’s cut to fit and ready to install

• Fill your gas tank

• Park car in a garage or next to a building to protect from wind and debris

• Charge your cell phone and other important electronics

During the storm it is important that you:

• Listen to the radio or television for information

• Avoid using the phone except for in emergencies

• Stay inside unless you are told to evacuate

• Stay away from windows and external doors

• Keep your emergency kit with you

• If water starts to come in your home, lift any clothes or valuable items to a higher place

Remember, fixing water damage in your home is not a DIY project.  Due to some of the severe after-effects of water damage, including health risks, it’s always best to have the professionals take on your water damage repair.

If your home suffered from storm damage, contact SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties to take advantage of our water damage restoration services.  For more information on SERVPRO os Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties Services, call 845-342-3333 or visit www.SERVPROosu.com

Remodeling in Orange County, NY

5/10/2016 (Permalink)

Remodeling can be family fun or not so much. Call us with any questions! 845-342-3333

5 Home Remodeling Don'ts

Whether you do the work yourself or you let a qualified professional from SERVPRO do your home remodel, you should heed these warnings:

1. Don’t procrastinate making decisions. Try to think about all the details before hand and make up your mind early.

2. Don't flip flop.  Changing your mind too much will make your budget grow and grow.

3. Don't buy your own supplies. Contractors will mark up prices of course but they still get better deals to start with.

4. Don't overdo it. Make sure you are not doing crazy interior remodels like top shelf counters and floors when your frames are rotting away.

5. Don't start without a backup fund. Things are going to pop up along the way and those things will cost money. 

We are here to help with your remodeling needs. Call 845-342-3333

Rely on SERVPRO for Any of Your Biohazard Removal and Cleaning Needs

4/6/2016 (Permalink)

Biohazard zones are not something you want to mess with. Call in the cleanup team to help 845-342-3333

Blood, bodily fluids, and other biohazards can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them. Even trace amounts so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye can pose serious health risks. When a site in your home or business has been contaminated, how do you make it safe again? Rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties for top-notch biohazard cleanup and restoration services.

Avoiding Health Risks
Is it necessary to seek professional assistance in cleaning up a location impacted by crime, trauma or death? With the risks posed by blood-borne pathogens and dangerous communicable diseases, cleaning a scene contaminated with biohazards like blood is a perilous undertaking for anyone who lacks the proper training and equipment. It is unpleasant to think about, but blood and bodily fluids are prone to splattering so that minute amounts can affect a wide area. The air at these scenes can be hazardous since small particles can become airborne if dried material is disturbed. Anything removed from the scene must also be disposed of properly to avoid spreading the contamination. Besides, you cannot assume the area is safe again just because the visible traces have been removed. If a space contaminated with blood or other biohazards is not appropriately cleaned, sanitized and restored, these unseen hazards can linger, posing a threat to anyone who enters it. Ultimately, the best way to make sure that a place is once again safe is to use a professional organization like SERVPRO that is experienced in biohazard restoration.

Preventing Legal Repercussions
As if the health risks created by biohazards are not dire enough, failure to have a contaminated space properly cleaned can also have serious legal consequences. The responsibility for cleaning up after a crime, trauma or death falls on the property owner, and there are regulations and laws regarding how biohazards are handled that must be followed. These rules are designed to safeguard everyone, and ignorance is not considered an acceptable excuse for disregarding them. Individuals and businesses that do not follow these rules may find themselves facing hefty fines. They might even be held liable if someone else is injured by their actions. Using a professional team that understands what is required to comply with the various rules and regulations governing biohazards in your area can shield you from both health risks and legal issues.

Focusing on Your Safety
At SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties, we are committed to the well-being of our customers. Offering emergency services 24 hours a day, we will rapidly respond whenever you request our assistance. Our technicians follow the protocols established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), so you can be confident that they have the expertise and training to remove all biohazards and dispose of them properly. We use specialized equipment that allows us to detect the presence of even a minute trace of a biohazard, and we do not stop until your scene is thoroughly sanitized. As biohazard restoration professionals, we can often salvage items that others might have to discard, and we ensure that any material that does need to be removed from your location is disposed of appropriately.

Dealing with a crime, trauma or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. Safety-minded, we are ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind. If a traumatic event has occurred on your property and you require assistance with the cleanup, contact us now to discover more about our Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster Biohazards services and secure our help. (845) 342-3333

24 Hour Emergency Service

We are available 24 hours a day—our highly trained technicians are standing by. We will always treat your property in Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances. We are here. (845) 342-3333

Are Your Ducts in Order?

2/2/2016 (Permalink)

We are here to help when you need your ducts cleaned!

Your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality.

Inspecting the ductwork in your facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC system and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

In some circumstances, such as after fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, your SERVPRO Professional can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

If you have a fuel burning furnace, stove or fireplace, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends they be inspected for proper functioning, and be serviced before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.

The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning System is proven and cost efficient. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, your SERVPRO Professional uses a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.

For more information or to schedule a duct cleaning appointment, contact SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties at 845-342-3333

Why you should hire a professional Mold Remediation Company?

12/18/2015 (Permalink)

Mold occurred after multiple pipe breaks in the home.

These days, many homeowners want to ensure that their property is kept in optimal condition. If this is the case for you, it’s important to know that attaining professional mold remediation services is an effective way to realize the objective. When mold damage begins to spread on your property, you can experience a broad range of negative consequences that adversely impact your home and health. Learn more about mold and why obtaining expert remediation services is a must by reviewing the brief overview found below:

Mold Basics
Mold is a fungus that grows freely in natural environments. The spores are tiny, being no more than four microns in size. Mold can come in a vast range of colors, including black, white, orange, and green. Mold can be caused by several factors, some of which include:

• Leaking pipes

• Excessive humidity

• Roof leakages

• Damp basements

• Wet carpets

• Flooding

• Delaminating materials such as rotting wood

• Inadequate ventilation

If you experience mold and do not address the issue quickly and correctly, you could make yourself and your loved ones susceptible to unwanted health complications.

Mold is a fungus that grows freely in natural environments.

Why You Should Avoid DIY Remediation Projects
In many cases, individuals who find themselves dealing with unwanted mold seek to remove the fungus on their own. This is never a prudent course of action. In fact, you could expose yourself to a plethora of health hazards by attempting to complete this work on your own. Professional remediation experts have the skills and equipment necessary to complete the mold cleanup process with skill and speed. This is why you should always leave the remediation process to trained, certified specialists.

Benefits of Professional Mold Remediation Services
There is an extensive range of benefits that result from attaining professional mold remediation services. Some of them include:

• A thorough assessment of existing mold and the dangers it poses

• Location of the mold growth source

• Suggestions and advice regarding how to prevent mold problems in the future

• Sealing off the areas impacted by mold to prevent its spread

• Complete elimination of all mold

• Disinfection of all affected areas

Call A Professional Mold Remediation Services
Mold growth on your residential or commercial property is no laughing matter. In fact, the fungus can have an adverse effect on your health and the structural integrity of your home or office. The professionals are here to help. IICRC-certified technicians have extensive experience in the mold remediation sector and offer each client specific services that make the fungus problem a thing of the past.

After the new laws were put in place in New York State, we are now NYS certified Mold Remediation Contractors and Technicians.