When you find water in your basement, CALL SERVPRO East End and Hamptons

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

One of biggest catastrophes for any homeowner is finding water in the basement.  In most cases, the only way to deal with such a situation is to bring in professionals like us. Water, contaminated or not, has the potential to cause catastrophic damage to your home. Contaminated water cerates an even bogger, more costly problem.  If the situation is not resolved properly, it can quickly get out of hand. 

Many factors can contribute to having water in your basement.  The room may sit under the water table, which will slowly push water into the home. A disaster like a flood can quickly fill the room with liquid, as well as a burst pipe among other mishaps from malfunctioning plumbing. No matter what causes the water to build up in the home, it will take a certified team like SERVPRO of the East End to remove it and restore the basement effectively.

Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 for all of your fire, mold, storm and water damage needs. 

Save Money with SERVPRO of the East End and Hamptons

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

It's True! Restoration through mitigation is less expensive than replacing! 

The SERVPRO System saves homeowners money by Restoring rather than Replacing:

• Emergency Mitigation Services help minimize additional property damages. 
• The professionals at SERVPRO of the East End and Hamptons only use state-of-the-art equipment to determine hidden water.
• Restoration versus replacement of contents saves precious assets and money.
• By using advanced drying techniques, SERVPRO of the East End and Hamptons professionals monitor and ensure your property is dried properly. 

At SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons, we know how important your property and its contents are to you. We know how hard you've worked to maintain your home. By getting to you faster, having certified professionals in charge, along with using the proper equipment, we are able to save and restore your property, furnishings, AND your peace of mind!

You can trust SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons for any and all of your restoration needs. Call us directly at 631-653-9595 with any questions or inquiries regarding your specific restoration needs.

Preparing Your Business for Emergencies

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

There are numerous responsibilities that should be looked after when observing your business, however one of the most essential responsibilities to consider is emergency preparedness.

While having a plan for a disaster certainly can't prevent one, it could nevertheless provide your business an advantage when it comes to protecting it and can help your employees recognize an emergency scenario when it is taking place.

Create a Plan

There are several emergencies your company should have to have a plan setup for, including:

• A Fire
• Severe storms
• Floods from heavy rain and storm surge
• Floods from plumbing catastrophes
• Power outages
• Equipment failures

No matter if the catastrophe is a malfunction at your business or an Act of God, if you have a plan prepared, you can minimize losses.

If a catastrophe should occur and your business property is damaged, know that SERVPRO of The East End is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

When Storms or Flooding hits Southampton, SERVPRO of the East End and Hamptons will be ready!

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of the East End and Hamptons specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained use specialized equipment to restore your Southampton property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operate out of Southampton, 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.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Southampton, NY, 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 States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 631-653-9595

Restoring Your Southampton Business After Major Storms

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

Flood damage from heavy rain events in Southampton Town are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

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.

About SERVPRO of the East End

SERVPRO of East End 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.

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service for Center Moriches Residents

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of the East End and Hamptons provides Center Moriches residents with water damage restoration services.

SERVPRO of the East End and Hamptons is available 24 hours a day for water damage restoration emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (631) 653-9595

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of the East End and Hamptons has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of the East End and Hamptons

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

Smoke and Soot Cleanup | Suffolk County, NY

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• 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.

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, SERVPRO of the East End and Hamptons 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. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (631) 653-9595

Expert Smoke and Soot Cleanup Services in the Hamptons

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot can penetrate the smallest crevices and its odors can permeate your home causing irreversible damage to your home, so it's important to hire professional fire damage restoration contractors. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Important Smoke and soot damage facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas including upper levels of the structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes and travels from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the entire restoration process.

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, SERVPRO of the East End and Hamptons 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. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (631) 653-9595

That 4 letter word...MOLD!

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

The following are a few of the most common misconceptions about mold:

1) Mold is safe to clean myself

No matter what type of mold you think you have, it is always important to take precautionary measures. Because mold releases spores, the cleaning process can increase the amount of spores in the air exponentially. It is best to hire professionals, like SERVPRO of The East End. We are licensed and trained in mold removal and remediation.

2) This mold isn’t black mold, so it isn’t harmful

The color of mold does not always indicate its toxicity. Mold can colonize in various colors such as brown, green, white and yellow as well as black. Any significant colony of mold can create increased levels of spores present in the air. 

3) I’ve cleaned with bleach, so the problem is fixed

Watered down bleach solution is not an effective solution. The use of professional cleaning solutions and professional cleaning methods used by SERVPRO of The East End will ensure the best results.

Let SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons do the hard work for you.

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons is available 24/7 for all of your emergency needs!

Let SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons do the hard work for you.

Do you have a commercial property in need of fire/smoke, water or mold cleanup and restoration? SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons can be of assistance in any of these areas and a lot more too! We know that time lost is money lost in the business world. Give us a call for more details on the services we offer and let us guide you through the cleanup and restoration process step by step. We can work directly with your insurance company in most cases. We are available 365 days a year, 24 hours a day for all of your emergency needs. Let us do the hard work for you. We are always here to help! 

When fire strikes, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons!

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

When fire strikes, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons!

When something drastic happens in our homes or businesses, such as a fire, we aren’t always thinking of the next steps involved to repairing the damage done. This is when SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons is often called in. We make sure that the fire remediation process is executed as efficiently as possible and that the property is brought back to its original state. 

When fire strikes, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons to restore your property and make fire damage "Like it never even happened." Our team of IICRC trained and certified professionals are available 24/7, 365 days a year. We are always just a phone call away 631-653-9595. Call us today for a no cost assessment! 

Mold and The Spring Season

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Mold and the Spring Season

The Spring season is upon us and with the season's warmer weather we often open up our windows and take on the task of spring cleaning. One step people might not think of is to check for excess moisture that could lead to mold growth and to also take steps to prevent mold from becoming a problem. Remember, the key to mold control is moisture control. 

Mold can grow on any surface where excessive moisture and oxygen are present. If mold remains undiscovered or unaddressed, the damage can become extensive and very costly. It can also negatively impact the indoor air quality of your home or office. 

If you suspect that you have a mold issue in your home or office, SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons is here to help! We are only a phone call away, 631-653-9595. 

Let's do a Lunch and Learn!

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Let's do a Lunch and Learn!

Would you like to schedule an in person or Zoom lunch and learn for your office? What is a lunch and learn you ask?

• A brief 10-20 minute presentation with topic of your choice (Fire, Water or Mold)
• A quick question and answer session
• A casual FREE lunch for your office staff

That's it! We can't think of a better way to give you up to date information so that you can better assist your clients with their fire, water or mold concerns. And, you get to enjoy a free lunch provided by SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons. Please contact our office to schedule today, 631-653-9595. Ask to speak to Ashley!

When Spring arrives, will your home and office be dry?

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

When Spring arrives, will your home and office be dry?

Now that winter weather is passing, it is the best time to inspect your home or office building for weather related damage. Snow and ice buildup, heavy rains and strong winds can all cause problems with your property. Roofs, gutters and landscapes are exterior elements that should be checked to guard against water damage. Remember to look in attics, basements or crawl spaces for visible signs of water intrusion. Make sure outside vents are clear of any obstruction to ensure proper air flow. 

If you find a problem and need help, don't hesitate to give us a call. SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and we will answer your call ready to help! So, what are you waiting for? Call us now, 631-653-9595. 

Are you ready? Does your office have a flood disaster plan?

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Are you ready? Does your office have a flood disaster plan?

It is estimated that up to 50 percent of businesses that close due to a disaster, such as a major flood, never reopen! Of the businesses that do survive, the majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Are you ready for whatever happens?

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water damage or a major flood. The best time to plan is well before an event occurs. 

SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons can develop an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) for your business. This can serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information or can be a supplement to an existing program that you have. By working with SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons to create your personalized ERP, you're taking proactive measures and establishing a relationship with us. 

Call us today to schedule a no cost assessment of your facility, 631-653-9595.

We are on call 24/7 for all of your emergency needs!

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

24/7 Emergency Storm Response

We are on call 24/7 for all of your emergency storm needs! When storm damage strikes, a fast response is critical. Day or night, SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons residents and business owners can expect an immediate response from us.  

SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons is here to help remove the water and clean up the storm damage as well as monitor the drying process. This confirms that your property has been dried properly. We are regularly called to residences and businesses across the East End of Long Island to clean-up the damage from storms. We’ve seen it all and we've cleaned it all! We will work with you and your insurance company to make sure everyone understands the process every step of the way.

Initial Steps to Take After a Water Damage

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

Initial Steps to Take After a Water Damage

The initial steps to take after a water damage occurs are contacting your insurance company and your plumber for repair. Next, call the experts at SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons, who are available 24/7 for your emergency needs! We will need to determine the type of water that has affected your home so we can start the cleanup and restoration process accordingly. Following a water damage, all affected materials and content will need to be removed or properly dried and disinfected. 

The types/categories of water that are involved will be determined by some of the following:

• Is it water from rain, condensation, leaky pipes, etc.?

• Is it water from dishwashers, washing machines, toilets, etc.?

• Is it water from sewage or serious flooding from nearby rivers, etc.? - This water can cause serious health problems.      

SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons is here to help!

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons is here to help!

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. 

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning!

If your home or business needs cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons - 631-653-9595

Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons goal is returning areas and items to preloss condition, doing all we can to make it "Like it never even happened." We are dedicated to restoring both the property and the lives of our customers!

Like it was never dirty, like it never overflowed, like it never caught fire, like it never spilled, like it never smoldered - whatever the case, with SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."

We provide 24-Hour Emergency Service

We know that you need us, you need us fast! The sooner we arrive, the better the chance we can reduce damage to your home or business. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. When you need us, we will be there! Call us today to schedule an assessment -  631-653-9595

How does a puff back occur?

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

How Does a Puff Back Occur?

A puff back happens when an oil burner doesn't immediately ignite and oil fumes are allowed to build up before ignition. This results in an explosion similar to what happens when a car backfires.  It may also occur from a buildup of debris, causing an explosion when the furnace turns on.  In either case, the explosion forces soot and debris through the furnace or the boiler's exhaust system and into your home or business.  The problem is worse with forced hot air systems as the heating ducts spread black soot into every corner of your home, with the same efficiency that they spread heat throughout your property.

Fact #1: Most puff back cleanups are covered by insurance. The professionals at SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons can walk you through the claim process step by step and make it "Like it never even happened.” In fact, our customers often tell us that their properties look and smell cleaner than it ever did before!

During a puff back event, oil based soot typically covers all areas of the property including drapes, bedding, furniture, clothing, cabinetry, ceilings, walls and floors, all of which is extremely difficult to remove. In most instances, you will know that you’ve had a puff back! But there may be times when it is harder to detect because the soot coverage can range from a light dusting to a concentrated dark appearance especially on flat surfaces like counter tops. While you may be tempted to clean the affected area yourself, we don’t recommend you do that as the "dust" will likely re-appear hours afterwards. There may or may be a strong odor in the affected rooms.  Don’t be fooled that the dust is only where you see it. It travels everywhere that the air does—into every nook and cranny. Sometimes you will find what you think are black “spider webs” in the corners of a room. These marks are actually a collection of the sticky soot. At SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons, we have the appropriate equipment, knowledge, experience and training to properly get the job done.

Fact # 2: The cost to repair a furnace will NOT likely be covered by insurance. 

Puff backs create an unhealthy environment for everyone and you should not touch or breathe the soot or particles that are floating through the air and landing on the surfaces of your property. 

Fact #3: Most oil companies can inspect and service the boiler at your property, which greatly reduces the chances of a puff back. However, there is no guarantee against such an occurrence.

Things you should NOT do after a puff back:

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Things you should NOT do after a puff back:

1. Don't attempt to wash any walls, wallpaper or painted surfaces. Don't shampoo your carpet or upholstery.
2. Don’t use standard cleaning products that may cause further damage and may not get rid of the oil residue, toxins and odors.
3. Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water.
4. Don't turn on ceiling fans or increase air circulation as this will only spread the soot around.
5. Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor. 

If you have experienced a puff back in your home or business, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons to restore your property. Our team of IICRC trained and certified professionals are available 24/7 365 days a week. We will treat your property, family and employees with the utmost respect and consideration, and work quickly and efficiently to minimize damage and cost. We work directly with insurance companies in most cases. 

Call SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons at 631-653-9595 for you puff back needs!

Why is SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons the best choice for your commercial cleanup & restoration needs?

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

Why is SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons the best choice for your commercial cleanup & restoration needs?

1. We’re Available Day and Night

You may know that we are “faster to any disaster,” but you are probably not aware that our round-the-clock service is able to make that happen. We know that business owners have many things to do after a disaster. That’s why when you call our ²⁴⁄₇ emergency line, we are ready to respond.

2. We’re Well-Staffed

We take the hiring and training of our technicians very seriously so that we can provide the best service to business owners. We train our technicians according to the IICRC standards to ensure they are fully up-to-date and current within their field. Additionally, we provide access to virtual learning seminars and offer employee certification programs to give incentive for continued education within the restoration field.

3. We Care About Our Equipment

When we purchase equipment, we make sure to follow the guidelines set by the IICRC in order to ensure we are competitive and up to date. By choosing the best tools in the industry, we can ensure that every task—from removing toxic air particles to removing moisture from a flooded room—is done efficiently and effectively.

If you’re in need of commercial cleanup and restoration, do not hesitate to call the trained experts at SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons. We are here to help 24/7. Call us today- 631-653-9595.

Have you recently experienced water damage from a storm or flood?

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

Have you recently experienced water damage from a storm or flood?

On the East End of Long Island it doesn’t take much for our homes or businesses to experience water damage. Whether its from a seasonal storm, coastal flooding, or high tides and strong winds, it happens quickly. It can lead to damage that may not be apparent at first glance. While we might think that we can save money from cleaning it up ourselves, that choice often leads to more expensive repairs down the line.

Here’s why you need to call the professionals at SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons after a storm or flood water damage: 

Prompt Service and Professional Team

When dealing with a flooded home or business, timing is everything. Your main concern should be to avoid secondary water damage. This is why you need to bring in a professional restoration company. We will begin water cleanup and drying services within a quick and efficient time span. Our team has extensive experience, training and certifications in water damage cleanup and restoration. 

Mildew and Mold Growth Prevention

Flood water and secondary water damage can provide a good breeding ground for mold and mildew. Our team will properly extract the water and develop a professional drying plan to avoid the growth of fungi and other microorganisms. 

Have you recently experienced water damage from a storm or flood? Call SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons at 631-653-9595 for more information.

The American Red Cross offers the following flood safety tips:

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

The American Red Cross offers the following flood safety tips:

According to the American Red Cross (ARC), floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster. 

• Stay away from floodwaters. If you come across a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet. 
• If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
• Keep children out of flood water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.
• Keep your pets safety in mind and keep them out of flood water too. 

SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons is in the business of restoration.

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons is in the business of restoration.

When it comes to any work in a commercial setting, getting it done promptly and efficiently is essential.  In mitigating commercial water damage, we also try to save or "restore" the property's contents: furniture, desks, computers etc.  SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons is in the business of restoration. It is usually more cost effective to save something than to replace it.  If an item can be saved or restored to like-new status, it is worth the time to do so.  This is important to our customers and also to the insurance companies that we work with.

Our highly trained and IICRC certified technicians are amazing at what they do...restoration! We take extra precautions and care while we work to get your business restored and back to preloss condition as quickly as possible.

Do you need our services? Call us with your questions and concerns, 631-653-9595.

The word "mold" can be scary for a homeowner.

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

The word "mold" can be scary for a homeowner.

Not only can it cause damage to your home, it  can also be a potential health hazard to you and your family. Here are three warning signs that you shouldn't ignore: 

1) Water spots

Any wet spot in your home can be a potential sign of mold growth. This may include water spots on your ceilings or walls, or on floors in your basement or crawlspace. If you find evidence of water spots, you need to find the source of moisture and have it taken care of immediately. 

2) Discoloration

If you find a spot on a wall or floor that's discolored, it is a potential sign of mold. Discoloration that is green or black is a definite warning sign of mold growth. However, any discoloration can mean growth is present, even if it isn't of the tell-tale colors.

3) Bad smell

If you have mold growth in your home, it may cause a bad smell. Depending on the type and how much of it you have, it could be a very faint smell or it could be completely overwhelming. It can smell musty or earthy, or produce a more pungent odor. Any bad smell needs to be investigated and addressed.

Mold is not something to be ignored. If you experience any of the warning signs above, call the experts here at SERVPRO of The East End. Our trained and certified team is here to help. We have state of the art equipment and techniques to carry out mold remediation tasks of any size to keep your home safe and clean.

Summer storm damage and flooding.

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

Summer storm damage and flooding

Summer storms can cause flooding and wind damage. Roofs in particular, often suffer from wind damage. This can lead to water leaking through the roof to the interior of the home or business. These leaks are often difficult to detect until a great deal of damage has already been done. Storm and wind damage can also loosen flashing, which can cause leakage and water damage. Repairing your roof and flashing quickly and properly may help to prevent long term interior damage. 

Heavy summer rains can also cause flooding. Flood pump failures contribute to basement flooding and contaminated ground water in some locations as well. Flooding may also disrupt municipal water systems. Experts will need to assess ground water and evaluate the condition of pipes following flood damage.

SERVPRO of The East End is here to help with your storm damage cleanup and restoration needs! If you have questions or need additional information give us a call, 631-653-9595. 

We love helping our local small businesses!

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

We love helping our local small businesses!

While there are many cleanup and restoration companies available to assist you after a fire, water or mold damage, none are as qualified or as invested in your business as SERVPRO of The East End. Our staff strives for more than providing excellent customer service. We live and work in the same community, we may know each other on a personal level, our children may go to the same schools, support the same local sports teams and beyond. 
 
Calling SERVPRO of The East End is like calling your neighbor for help. Our staff assesses the situation by asking a series of questions to determine the proper amount of equipment and personnel necessary for the job. Next, we set an appointment that fits your schedule to have our technicians assess the cleanup methods needed. With a plan in place, the repairs to your business will begin. We pride ourselves in building a solid, lasting relationship with our customers. 
 
SERVPRO of The East End will deliver the service your business deserves, 631-653-9595.

You can rely on the fire damage cleanup and restoration services of SERVPRO of The East End.

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

You can rely on the fire damage cleanup and restoration services of SERVPRO of The East End. 

If you do experience a fire, you can rely on the fire damage cleanup and restoration services of SERVPRO of The East End. We have restored many fire-damaged homes. You can also rely on us for smoke damage cleanup and odor removal. We are available 24/7 for all of your emergency fire cleanup and restoration needs.

Below are some of the ways you can help prevent a fire in your home:

•    Use smoke alarms throughout your home and test them regularly

•    Talk with your kids about the dangers of playing with matches, fire, lighters, and flammable liquids

•    Don’t leave the kitchen when you’re cooking (most home fires start on the kitchen stove)

•    Know and post your local fire department’s emergency phone number

•    Keep your garage and basement clear of trash, newspapers, and other combustibles

•    Make sure flammable liquids are stored in appropriate containers in a well-ventilated area

•    Don’t use extension cords with heaters or air conditioners

•    Use caution with alternative heating sources like kerosene, wood, or pellet stoves

Using local services is useful in any size water damage.

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) The safety of our team comes first!

Using local services is useful in any size water damage.

SERVPRO of The East End has the resources to handle large scale cleanup and restoration as well as minor issues involving water damage. Requirements to remove water damage vary depending on the size and scale of the job at hand.

SERVPRO of The East End technicians are IICRC certified and trained to remove moisture from your home in the most efficient way possible. We provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to our team allowing them to enter a flooded property safely, even where contaminated materials like raw sewage may be present. A cleanup process and drying procedure is then established. We can work directly with your insurance company in most cases and will keep you informed every step of the way.

SERVPRO of The East End is available 24/7 for your emergency water damage needs! Give us a call for more information, (631) 653-9595.

Fire & Smoke Restoration

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End is always a phone call away for your fire and smoke damage cleanup needs. 631-653-9595

Fire & Smoke Restoration

Knowing what to do after a fire or smoke damage is stressful, but that’s where we come in. Once you contact us, our team will spring into action. Every fire damage event is different, and while our highly trained team can come up with a unique solution that is tailored to your needs, the general process remains the same.

Here are the steps that are included in our process:

1. Emergency contact. When you make your initial contact with us, you will be asked a series of questions regarding the fire damage. This helps us make sure our team is dispatched with the appropriate equipment and resources.

2. Inspection and fire damage assessment. Once on the scene, the team will inspect and test adjoining rooms of the property to determine the extent of damage caused by fire, smoke and soot. This helps us determine the right plan of action moving forward.

3. Immediate board-up and roof-tarp service. There’s a pretty good possibility your window, walls and roofs will be compromised by fire damage, so we will make sure that your property is secure and protected from further damage by boarding up missing windows and walls and placing a tarp on damaged roofs.

4. Water removal and drying (if water damage is present). Fires also generally bring water damage. We begin the removal process, getting all wet items out of the structure right away. We bring in dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and finish up the drying process.

5. Removal of smoke and soot from all surfaces. Through the use of specialized equipment and techniques, we are able to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls and other surfaces.

6. Cleaning and sanitizing. We will clean restorable items and structures when it is possible. Not only will they be cleaned, but we engage the use of industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment to help remove odors.

7. Restoration. The final step in getting your property back to pre-fire condition is restoration. This can include minor repairs like replacing drywall, painting and installing new carpet, as well as possible major repairs like reconstruction of damaged areas.

The team of highly trained experts at SERVPRO of The East End is available for emergency cleanup and restoration services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 631-653-9595

Water damage can come from many different sources.

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage

Water damage may be slow and minor such as water spots, that may eventually worsen, or it may be instantaneous and catastrophic such as flash flooding. However it occurs, water damage is a major contributor to property loss.

Causes

Water damage can come from many different sources such as: a broken dishwasher hose, a washing machine overflow, a leaky dishwasher, broken, frozen or leaking pipes, flood waters, or overflowing bathtubs and clogged toilets.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 13.7% of all water used in the home today can be attributed to plumbing leaks. On the average that is approximately 10,000 gallons of water per year wasted by leaks for each US home. A tiny, 1/8-inch crack in a pipe can release up to 250 gallons of water a day.

Experts suggest that homeowners inspect and replace worn pipe fittings and hose connections (to all household appliances that use water) at least once a year. 

Have you experienced a water damage? Do you need cleanup and restoration services? SERVPRO of The East End is here to help, 631-653-9595. 

5 easy tips to help prepare you in case of a water damage.

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

5 easy tips to help prepare you in case of a water damage:

1. Check your insurance coverage. Most renter’s or homeowners insurance policies do not cover flooding, or even a sewer backup. Find out what coverage you do have.
2. Keep a record of all of your belongings. Take photos and keep copies of receipts and other documents for more valuable items. Keep a copy of these records online, in a waterproof safe or at another location. If you do experience water damage, it can be easy to forget about certain belongings.
3. Take precautions to limit the risk of water damage on your property by frequently checking pipes for leaks or weakness. Pay attention to any indicators that there might be water damage. These can be the sounds of dripping water in the walls, dark spots on the ceiling, or a significant change in your water bill.
4. Set your home or business up so that it is at less risk of damage from heavy rains or flooding by ensuring that your roof is sound. Make sure there are no cracks in the foundation. Check that the landscaping around your property is sloped to direct water away from your foundation, rather than toward it.
5. Find a professional, like SERVPRO of The East End, that you can trust and have their contact information handy. 

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

There are different types of water that cause damage.

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

There are different types of water that cause damage to your home or business.

SERVPRO of The East End approaches and handles each water damage accordingly.

Regardless of the type of water that has caused the damage, there is always going to be a process of cleanup and restoration that we follow. We must first remove all of the moisture and damp items so that mold will not begin to grow.

Clean Water

Much like its name, water that is free of contaminants is considered “clean” and not the type to pose an immediate threat to your health. Examples of clean water types would be water from: broken water lines, appliances, toilet tanks etc.

Gray Water

In gray water, there were be a slight amount of contaminants, and water damage cleanup and restoration from this type of water becomes a bit more complicated. It may pose a health risk, due to the fact that it will contain chemical or biological contamination.

Gray water will likely be the type of water that comes from: dishwashers, aquariums, showers, etc. Gray water can turn into black water if not treated.

Black Water

Black water is a serious matter and the most hazardous of the three classifications because it is considered highly contaminated by harmful chemicals and biological matter. This type of water includes: floodwaters containing soil and all sewage waters.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End's defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety.

Let SERVPRO of The East End help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

How To Get Your Business Ready For Emergencies

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

There are various matters and tasks that must be taken care of while running a business, but one of the most important tasks to think about is emergency preparedness.

While having a plan in place is not insurance against having a disaster of some sort occur, it can still give your business a leg up where safety is concerned and at least ensure that your employees will know what to do if a disaster or emergency situation should occur.

Making a Plan

There are numerous emergencies your business should have a plan in place for, including:

• Fire
• Severe weather, including thunderstorms and winter storms
• Other natural hazards like floods, hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakes
• Human-caused hazards, including accidents or acts of violence
• Technology-related issues like power outages and equipment failure

Emergencies come in many shapes and forms, and it doesn’t matter if one is man-made or natural. Where there is no emergency plan for a business, you can be sure things will get chaotic quickly.

Where to Start

Consider which scenarios are most likely to occur and even those that you feel are a long shot but could still happen. After all, it’s better to be over-prepared for any worst-case scenario and not be caught off guard.

You will find plenty of online resources to help guide you through this process, including Ready.gov, the American Red Cross, FEMA and the CDC.

Be sure to review and practice the plan with your employees. Reviewing and rehearsing various scenarios can help ensure the process remains fresh in their minds and can help employees feel more empowered.

Disaster can strike when you least expect it, but by being prepared and having a plan in place, your business will be better suited to handle whatever Mother Nature has in store. If the worst should happen and your business is damaged, know that SERVPRO of The East End is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Tornado Watch or Warning?

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

What to Do if There Is a Tornado

Tornadoes can take you by surprise and wreak absolute havoc on the areas they touch down in. While meteorologists and weather services can provide some advanced warning to potential threats, tornadoes can still occur with little to no warning at all.

Have you thought about the difference between a tornado watch and a warning? A watch is issued when the conditions are favorable for tornadoes, while a warning is issued when a tornado has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar.

If there has been a tornado warning issued for your area, it is important that you take action immediately to find safe shelter, especially if you are in the path of the tornado.

Shelter Options Include:

• Underground options like a basement or storm shelter.
• The lowest part of your home, in an area that is away from outside walls, doors and windows. Interior closets and bathrooms can be ideal options.
• If you are outside, try to get to a sturdy building. Mobile homes and trailers are not a safe option.
• If on the road and no building access is available, do not get under an overpass or bridge. Instead, find a low, flat location and use your arms to protect your head and neck.

It would be good if you have flashlights, a battery-powered weather radio and extra batteries available and ready to use in your selected tornado shelter at home.

When driving, if you are caught out on the road during a tornado, NEVER try to outrun it. Also, when you are taking shelter in your home, you can provide additional cover by using furniture items like couch cushions, mattresses or blankets to help keep your head and neck covered.

If your home or business has been damaged by a tornado, know that SERVPRO of North Huntington is ready and waiting to jump into action and get cleanup and restoration of your property underway.

Smoke or Fire Damage?

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke or Fire Damage?

SERVPRO of The East End specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire or smoke damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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. 

We work with most major insurance companies and are committed to getting your home or business back up and running as quickly as possible. We will assist you every step of the way with your fire or smoke damage. We are here to help 24/7 and are just a phone call away! Call us with your questions and for more information.

Common Misconceptions About Mold

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

Mold is present everywhere both indoors and outdoors. Mold spores in the air can quickly latch on and begin to grow on any surface where there is moisture. Following are a few of the most common misconceptions about mold:

1) Mold is safe to clean myself

No matter what type of mold you think you have, it is always important to take precautionary measures. Because mold releases spores, the cleaning process can increase the amount of spores in the air exponentially. It is best to hire professionals, like SERVPRO of The East End. We are licensed and trained in mold removal and remediation.

2) This mold isn’t black mold, so it isn’t harmful

The color of mold does not always indicate its toxicity. Mold can colonize in various colors such as brown, green, white and yellow as well as black. Any significant colony of mold can create increased levels of spores present in the air. 

3) I’ve cleaned with bleach, so the problem is fixed

Watered down bleach solution is not an effective solution. The use of professional cleaning solutions and professional cleaning methods used by SERVPRO of The East End will ensure the best results.

Why SERVPRO of The East End?

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO of The East End?

When you contact SERVPRO of the East End (631-653-9595) for your residential and commercial cleanup and restoration needs, you can trust that you are calling a leader in the industry!

Communication

At SERVPRO of the East End we know that communication is key. When you experience a loss in your home or business, you have questions. Our experienced staff is available to answer your questions. We will keep you and your insurance company informed every step of the way. We work on an approval only basis.  This means that we will only do the work that you as the homeowner and/or your insurance company has approved.  We want to make sure this process is as smooth and painless as possible. 

Culture & Training

At SERVPRO of the East End we treat every home and business we enter as if it were our own. We make it our business to work as quickly and efficiently as possible. Training is the backbone of the SERVPRO brand and is the reason for our success. At SERVPRO of The East End, this is especially important to us. 

A Brand You Can Trust That's Available 24/7

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End is a trusted brand, available 24/7 for your emergency needs.

24-Hour Emergency Service

You need us fast! The sooner we arrive, the better the chance we can reduce damage and save you money. Our Team at SERVPRO of The East End is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. A trained, uniformed and well equipped technician will walk you through the job process and then work quickly to restore your property to preloss condition whenever possible.

We Have Been Helping Home & Business Owners since 1967

The SERVPRO brand has been helping home and business owners recover from water damages across the United States for over 50 years. We have earned the trust of the insurance industry by serving thousands of their policy holders and clients with respect and integrity. The more we restore, the less that needs to be replaced. This helps our clients save millions of dollars each year, which helps lower your insurance rates!

Water Leak or Damage In Your Office?

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End is here to make it "Like it never even happened."

There are hidden dangers that lie within your business's walls that you need to pay attention to. Leaking and blocked appliances may not seem like a major concern, but a little leak can cause a lot of damage to your business. Here are a couple of tips:

Mark Your Calendar

When you purchase appliances, make sure you write down the expiration dates and recommended replacement dates on their parts and hoses. 

Don't Put it Off

When you find the problem, fix the problem. Replace a leaky hose, or call a plumber to clear the blockage in your drains and sinks.

Call SERVPRO of The East End

If you find a water leak or water damage in your office, make sure you call the professionals at SERVPRO of The East End, 631-653-9595. We can work directly with your insurance company and we do our best to eliminate any down time for your business!

Storm Tips - Before And After A Storm

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Storm Tips - Before And After A Storm

Before:

• Lawn furniture, toys, tables, and chairs should all be brought inside or stored away. Secure or store your grill.
• Remove any solar-powered ground lights.
• Remove any window air conditioners from the windows.
• Close all of your windows and doors.

After:

• Electricity and water are a deadly combination. If you have to walk through water to turn off the circuit breaker, call your power company to shut off the power.
• If you are unsure of the best and safest way to shut off the power, call your local fire department.
• To mitigate any further damage to your valuables, raise any items up off of the floor and out of the water.

SERVPRO of The East End is here to help! Our IICRC trained and certified technicians have the training, experience, knowledge and equipment to make it "Like it never even happened." 

24/7 Emergency Storm Response

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End is here to help 24/7!

24/7 Emergency Storm Response

When storm damage strikes, a fast response is critical. Day or night, SERVPRO of The East End residents and business owners can expect immediate response from us. We are on call 24/7 for all of your emergency needs! 

SERVPRO of The East End is here to help remove the water and clean up the storm damage as well as monitor the drying process. This confirms that your property has been dried properly. We are regularly called to residences and businesses across the east end to clean-up the damage from storms. We’ve seen it all and we've cleaned it all! We will work with you and your insurance company to make sure everyone understands the process we’ve incorporated.

Water Damage Tips

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage Tips

Plumbing issues

Water damage is often caused by plumbing issues. It’s important to inspect the plumbing systems on your property at least once a year to ensure that there aren’t any problems with hoses or pipe joints. If your water bill is unusually high, that might be an indication of an undetected leak. 

Washing machine leaks

Unless you’re doing laundry, you probably don’t think twice about your washing machine. But if it breaks down, the results could be catastrophic. For example, if the supply hose is damaged or has a faulty connection to the wall or washing machine, more than 600 gallons of water could potentially spill out within an hour. Take care of your washing machine and your washing machine will take care of you.

Aging water heaters

Water heaters have a shelf life. You can wait until your water heater starts leaking to replace it. But if you’re being proactive about avoiding water damage, you should replace it every 10 years. A tank-less water heater can last for as many as 20 years.

Inclement weather

If your property isn’t weatherproof, a bad snowstorm or rainstorm could damage your roof, walls and ceiling. Make sure your property is ready for inclement weather by ensuring that your rain gutters and downspouts are clean. Inspect roofs annually. 

SERVPRO of The East End

For as many precautions as property owners can take to prevent water damage, they still occur. SERVPRO of The East End is here to help!

We are Cleaning Experts

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End is always here to help!

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need!

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of The East End, 631-653-9595

What Is The IICRC?

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

What Is The IICRC?

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must:

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals. The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. 

Restoration fields change rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace. Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated.

Trusted and Professional Network

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End is available 24/7. We are always here to help!

Trusted and Professional Network

With a trusted and professional network of over 1,700 franchises, SERVPRO has responded to property damage emergencies ranging from multi-million dollar disasters such as the Pentagon, to those suffered by individual businesses and homeowners. Providing coverage nationally and in Canada, SERVPRO has established trusted relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients nationwide.

Entrepreneur Magazine ranked SERVPRO as the #1 Franchisor in the restoration industry every year from 2004 through 2007. In fact,  SERVPRO was ranked #25 among all franchise companies of any type in 2007.

In April 2005, SERVPRO moved to a new 140,000 square foot facility in Gallatin, TN. The state-of the-art building houses a training facility and National Call Center.

SERVPRO of The East End is proud to carry out the mission, traditions, training and work ethic of the SERVPRO brand on the East End of Long Island. When you call SERVPRO of The East End, you can be assured of the quality service, standards, traditions and expertise the SERVPRO brand is known for. 

Fire Safety Tips

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

1. Get Rid of Fire Hazards

Every electronic item producing heat should be kept at least three feet away from anything flammable.  Space heaters and electric blankets should be turned off when not in use.

2. NO Smoking in Bed & Extinguish Candles

Smoking in bed is dangerous because of the possibility of hot ashes igniting flammable bedding.  It is also important to make sure all candles are extinguished when unattended.

3. Make Sure Your Children Are Informed

Talk to your children about the importance of not playing with fire. You can take an additional precautionary step by keeping all matches and lighters stored high and out of reach or locked up in a place that your children cannot access.

4. Check Your Smoke Alarms

Be sure you have working smoke detectors on every floor of your home and inside and outside of every sleeping area.  Check these monthly to ensure the batteries are working. Replace smoke detectors every 10 years.

5. Make a Plan

Discuss your outside meeting spot with your family and devise an escape plan.  This escape plan should be practiced at least twice a year.

Need help with a fire damage or puff back you couldn't prevent? Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595. We are always here to help!

What You Need To Know About Smoke Alarms

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can get outside quickly.

• A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement. Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound.
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
• It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds they all sound.
• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
• A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
• People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
• Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan.

Children and smoke alarms

NFPA* is aware of research indicating that sleeping children don't always awake when a smoke alarm activates. While this research is worrisome, we shouldn't allow them to obscure the fact that smoke alarms are highly effective at reducing fire deaths and injuries.

NFPA reaffirms the value of the smoke alarms already available to protect people from home fire deaths and voice its concern about the number of U.S. households without these early warning devices. While 96% of American homes have at least one smoke alarm, no smoke alarms were present or none operated in two out of five (41%) of the reported home fires between 2003-2006. Almost two-thirds of home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

NFPA emphasizes the need to continue planning and practicing home fire escape plans and to make sure everyone in a home can be awakened by the sound of the smoke alarm. NFPA suggests practicing the escape plan during which the smoke alarm is activated so all family members know its sound.

Every home fire escape plan is different, and every family should know who will - and who won't - awaken at the sound of the smoke alarm.

If someone doesn't wake up when the alarm sounds during a drill, the family should design an escape plan that assigns a grown-up who is easily awakened by the alarm to wake the sleepers, perhaps by yelling "FIRE," pounding on the wall or door, or blowing a whistle.

Plan your escape

Your ability to get out of your house during a fire depends on advance warning from smoke alarms and advance planning.

• Get everyone in your household together and make a home escape plan. Walk through your home and look for two ways out of every room.
• Make sure escape routes are clear of debris and doors and windows open easily. Windows with security bars or grills should have an emergency release device.
• Plan an outside meeting place where everyone will meet once they have escaped. A good meeting place is something permanent, like a tree, light pole, or mailbox a safe distance in front of the home.
• If there are infants, older adults, family members with mobility limitations or children who do not wake to the sound of the smoke alarm, make sure that someone is assigned to assist them in the event of an emergency.
• If the smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside. Respond quickly – get up and go, remember to know two ways out of every room, get yourself outside quickly, and go to your outside meeting place with your family.

If you have any questions or need help following damage to your property from a fire, storm or flood, call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595. We are here 24/7 to help with your emergency calls, and happy to answer any questions you may have. 

*Information provided in this blog is from the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association). For more information on NFPA, visit: https://www.nfpa.org/ 

SERVPRO of The East End is Here For Your Fire Restoration Needs

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

When the firefighters leave, it may seem like the danger has passed and your home is safe from further destruction, but without restoration professionals to help clean the smoke damage, your building may never return to normal.

While the principles behind fire restoration are fairly simple, it requires a lot of experience and manpower to safely and adequately perform, and thus, this means that it shouldn’t be attempted by a homeowner on his or her own.  Our IICRC trained and certified professionals at SERVPRO of The East End should be called on-site immediately.  We will clean smoke damage and restore items affected by a fire. But we must be brought to the site as soon as possible to prevent any further damage that ongoing issues with ash residue may cause. 

The only way to properly clean smoke and fire damage is to be extremely thorough. Ash residue is easily disturbed and can easily spread through the building (and everything in the building), causing nearly everything to require restoration. Our specialists at SERVPRO of The East End can identify what can and cannot be salvaged, and will safely remove any built-up ash residue that is coating surfaces. Over time, ash builds up in layers, and may eventually form into a lacquer-like consistency. Once this is done, our restorers will locate the source of the odor, and treat it with specialized detergents that are formulated for neutralizing this kind of odor. Once materials are treated, they may be sealed off to prevent any further odor from permeating the air in the future.

For more information on the services that SERVPRO of The East End provides regarding water and fire damage cleanup for your commercial or residential property, visit our website at www.SERVPROeastend.com or call us today at 631-653-9595.

Four Causes of Commercial Water Damage  

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

When business owners think water damage, they usually picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down their businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of flood waters that stems from extreme weather events.

 
However, many business owners forget that storms and severe weather events aren't the only causes of floods and water damage.

Here are four other typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings.
 
1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems
Older buildings often have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment
This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency.
 
3. Broken pipes and plumbing
Just as in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails, water damage could be the result. 
 
4. Backed up sewer lines
Another major cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise is a backed up sewer line. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, the potential danger of contaminated Black Water can cause serious health effects to your employees, and ruin products and office furnishings. 
 
If your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of The East End will have your building cleaned up and sanitized quickly and efficiently ‘Like it never even happened’. For answers to your questions, 24/7 emergency service by experienced IICRC trained and certified technicians, call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595.

Important Facts About Smoke Alarms

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

A working smoke alarm should be an important part of every home fire escape plan.

Smoke Alarms are a key factor in a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms will give you early warning so can move quickly outside to safety. 

Following are a few Safety Tips to consider when installing and maintaining Smoke Alarms: 

1. Install smoke alarms in every bedroom. They should also be outside of each sleeping area and on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement. 

2. Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.

3. It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound. 

4. Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working. 

5. Current alarms on the market employ different types of technology including multi-sensing, which could include smoke and carbon monoxide combined. 

6. Today's smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms. 

7. A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet from the stove. 

8. People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers. 

9. Replace all smoke alarms when the are 10 years old. 

A FEW IMPORTANT FACTS

1. A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. 

2. Smoke alarms should be installed inside every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level. Smoke alarms should be connected so when one sounds, they all sound. Most homes do not have this level of protection. 

3. Roughly 3 out of 5 fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. 

*information provided by the National Fire Protection Association, nfpa.org. 

SERVPRO of The East End Helps you to Weather Every Storm

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End responds quickly and effectively to mitigate any storm damage you may experience, each and every time. 

When heavy rains and high winds hit hard, property destruction and loss can be devastating to home and business owners. Structural damage on exterior of your property is often followed by interior devastation from water and winds. Storm damage is rarely isolated to just a few buildings in an area adding the challenge of finding a restoration company that can respond swiftly to your needs in an already anxiety provoking situation. SERVPRO of The East End has been equipped and ready to serve the East End of Long Island in all of their Emergency Fire, Water and Storm Damage needs for over 50 years. We deliver the help you need quickly and efficiently even when a local disaster is widespread, and we are also serving your neighbors.
 
Storm damage on The East End of Long Island can be overwhelming, but your fears will dissipate when our team of professionals responds to your water, wind and flooding repair and restoration needs. Your particular situation is of paramount importance to us, and you will not have to worry that your job will take a back seat even as so many others in your area are also struggling to recover from the same issues you face. Choosing our company puts in motion a vast support system, and our local ownership means you will receive a personalized approach to your particular situation. Our motto is to make clean-up your property and make it look “Like it never even happened.” Our track record and reputation speak for itself. 
 
Placing your trust in SERVPRO of The East End for your storm damage needs will reap you benefits that less qualified companies simply cannot deliver. We use state of the art equipment to clean, repair and restore your property. In the process, we also restore your and your family’s own peace of mind. Our technicians are IICRC trained and certified to restore your property back to the comfortable and comforting refuge you deserve. We will also work closely with your insurance company, ensuring that the work we do is approved and compensated according to the terms of your policy. Our high standards and relentless drive to do the job on time while meeting local specifications means you and your family will quickly return to the quiet enjoyment of your house and neighborhood. We are not satisfied until you are happily back in your immaculately restored home. 
 
Once you are sure that your family is safe after a major storm, your first call should be to SERVPRO of The East End. Call us at 631-653-9595 to begin the road to recovery by scheduling an inspection of the damage done with our storm damage experts.

Storm Preparation for Businesses on The East End

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

As East Coast business owners watch what effects Hurricane Dorian may have on the entire East Coast from Florida up through Massachusetts, we can only do what we are able to in order to prepare for the worst, and hope for the best. Storms of any size can wreak havoc on any property. You may not be able to avoid a flooded property, but there are measures you can take to reduce the overall impact of its damage. When storms are approaching, here are some actions to take.

1. Keep Valuables on Upper Floors

Flooding is most likely to impact the basement, garage and lower floors of your property. Therefore, it is prudent to keep irreplaceable items on an upper level. In the event your property only occupies one floor, try to keep important belongings on counter tops or on high shelves.

2. Back Up Data

While there are benefits to holding onto physical copies of documents, papers cannot be salvaged when exposed to flood water. With numerous types of software and scanning devices available, it is easier than ever to backup documents on an computer. Do this as soon as you have access to a good system. 

3. Locate Weak Points

If you live in an area where buildings are prone to flood damage, you want to ensure your business is always up to par. Have a professional come out once in a while to inspect your building’s roof, basement and gutters so that any points of damage can be addressed before the storm hits.

4. Check Your Insurance Policy

Check your insurance policy to make sure you are covered for flood insurance. Ask your insurance company about other ways you may be able to insure yourself in the event of damage. 

5. Develop a Business Continuity Plan

A component of any business plan should include continuity measures for how the business will carry on even if the physical establishment needs to close for a while. Perhaps employees can work from home until the building is safe to inhabit again. If you own a retail store, you may need to focus on online sales while the physical storefront is being repaired.

Whether you own a dry cleaner, real estate business or law practice, you need to prepare your building for impending water damage.

Take note of any professional company near you that can aid you if flood water enters your building. Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 should you have any other questions about your specific property. 

Tips on What to Do Following a Fire Damage

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

Following these tips on What to Do and What Not to Do after you've experienced a Fire Damage on your property will save you time and money while you wait for SERVPRO of The East End to arrive. PREPARE, don’t panic! We got you!

Fire & Smoke Damage

WHAT TO DO:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from scattering and becoming embedded in your upholstery and carpet. Keep hands clean. Soot on hands may further transport and soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.

• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.

• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor

• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances. Follow that step by applying a light coating of lubricant to further protect these surfaces.

• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures

• Change HVAC filter, and leave system off until a trained professional can check the system

• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

WHAT NOT TO DO:

• Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without contacting SERVPRO of The East End.
• Do not attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of The East End.
• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service which SERVPRO of The East End can provide you with.
• Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may have been contaminated).
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Do not send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor. SERVPRO of The East End can assist you in cleaning any clothing, draperies, rugs, carpet or upholstery that may have been affected.

If you have any questions about fire and smoke damage, please do not hesitate to call us at 631-653-9595. SERVPRO of The East End has over 50 years of experience cleaning and restoring residential and commercial properties. We are happy to answer any of your questions. As well, we can assess and mitigate the damages your property has suffered from any fire, water or mold damage you may have had. We are on call 24/7 for all of your emergencies. Ready to make it 'Like it never even happened'.

Call SERVPRO of The East End today at (631) 653-9595.

Why You Need to Call A Water Damage Restoration Professional After A Flood

8/21/2019 (Permalink)

On the East End of Long Island it doesn’t take much for our homes or businesses to experience water damage from seasonal storms, coastal flooding, high tides and strong winds. It happens quickly, often and can have far reaching effects that may not always be apparent at first glance. While we might like to think we can save money from cleaning it up ourselves, that choice often leads to more expensive repairs down the line.

Here’s why you need to call in the professionals to clean up after your water damage: 

Prompt restoration services

When dealing with a flooded home or business, timing is everything. Your main concern should be to avoid secondary water damage. This is why you need to bring in a professional restoration company. We will conduct mitigation, water cleanup and drying services within a quick and efficient time span. This is because we have extensive experience, training and certification in water damage restoration. Our professionals will send multiple crew members to the site to get the work done in the shortest amount of time possible. We will also get to the root cause of the water in the home or business. If it is a supply line break or a pipe break, we will bring our plumbing partners in as well.

Mildew and Mold growth prevention

Flooded water and secondary water damage may provide a good breeding ground for mold and mildew. Flood damage mitigation professionals will conduct drying to avoid the growth of fungi and other harmful microorganisms. If mold is already present, we will use grade cleaner and disinfectants to eliminate the mold. This will prevent exposure to the mold and mold growth, which can affect your health.

Holistic help

A Water restoration company offers more than drying and water cleanup services. Our services are holistic and beneficial to the home or business owner. A flooded property comes with other issues that are subject to the flood damage. We also offer additional services such as deodorization, vent cleaning, sanitation, and content restoration. Our main objective is to restore your property to its previous condition prior to water in the home or water in the business damage. Very often, our customers have commented their property looks even better after our services than it did before. We do our best to make all of our customers happy each and every time.

Have you recently experienced water damage from a storm or flood? Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 for more information or to come assess the damage you may have on your property.

Local Disaster Cleanup Franchise Celebrates “Making History” at SERVPRO’s 50th Annual Convention

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Celebrates 50 years in Business!

Industry leader in cleanup and restoration services welcomes a record-breaking group of franchise owners and key staff at milestone event

Speonk, NY (Grassroots Newswire) July 16, 2019 - SERVPRO of The East End's owner, Rich Fevola, recently joined a record-breaking group of more than 2,500 franchise owners, key team members, and corporate representatives at the 50^th Annual SERVPRO^® Convention. The event, themed “Making History,” was held from June 24-28 at the Sacramento Convention Center in Sacramento, California, where the company was founded.

“Celebrating our 50^th anniversary milestone made the SERVPRO Annual Convention even more special this year,” said Fevola, owner of SERVPRO of The East End. “One of the most important benefits of attending this annual event is having the opportunity to network with and learn from other franchise owners and team members. That benefit was especially evident this year. SERVPRO’s long history as an industry leader has produced a network of experienced, seasoned professionals who have responded to emergencies across the spectrum. This knowledge base is invaluable both to our business and to the community we stand ready to serve when the unexpected happens.”

The company’s 50^th Annual Convention was a celebration of the company’s history and a showcase of small business best practices and cutting-edge restoration and remediation technology. The event featured a variety of workshops and group sessions ranging across 37 different topics. Franchisees and their key staff gained knowledge and hands-on experience to help them build and grow their businesses and strengthen ties with both residents and businesses in their local communities. Highlights of the convention included a keynote address by motivational speaker Jon Gordon and an awards ceremony recognizing the achievements of top-performing franchisees.

“SERVPRO has come a long way since Ted and Doris Isaacson started the company as a painting business in Sacramento in 1967,” said Rick Isaacson, chief executive officer of SERVPRO. “In 1969, they used their cleanup and restoration background to take their new company in a different direction and never looked back. SERVPRO’s professional services network now includes more than 1,700 individually owned and operated franchises across the U.S. and Canada. Our annual convention brings this diverse group of entrepreneurs together to learn from industry experts and each other about the latest innovations in disaster cleanup, restoration, and remediation services. We are proud of each of these dedicated professionals and the world-class service they provide to their customers and their communities.”

For more information about SERVPRO of The East End, please call (631) 653-9595.

About SERVPRO^®

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

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How to Get Rid of Carpet Odor from Water Damage

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End will have your carpets smelling fresh as clean to remove those musty smells from water damage.

Whether your home is completely covered in wall-to-wall carpeting, or you have opted just to carpet specific rooms in your house such as the bedrooms or the playroom, keeping those carpets clean and odor-free can sometimes be a challenge. Especially if you’ve suffered any kind of water damage.

Even the slightest bit of water can transform your once pristine, odor-less carpet into a hotbed of musty smells reminiscent of a high school locker room.

Following are a few conditions that may cause odors along with some useful information on how to eliminate those odors.

It Doesn't Take a Flood to Cause Carpet Odor

If you have ever experienced water damage, you know how important it is to contact water damage remediation professionals like SERVPRO of The East End quickly! With our training, expertise and equipment, we can quickly remove the water and moisture from the air, as well as start drying any carpets and rugs that may have gotten soaked. After 24-48 hours, water damage may become worse as mold begins to grow and destroy the drywall, carpets, framing, furniture, clothes, and beyond. This kind of mold damage is the worst-case scenario and will usually result in the carpeting needing to be replaced. 

In scenarios where your carpeting has a musty odor, there may be a chance of getting rid of the smell and saving your carpets from further damage. Unlike the scene above where the carpeting is completely flooded and soaked, in most situations with carpet odor, there isn't any visible water damage. There isn't water dripping down a wall or a wet carpet or a drip from the ceiling pooling on your carpet. Sometimes the carpet odor may be caused by someone spilling a cup of water or moisture from the basement floor underneath the rug. Even forgetting to hang up your bath mat after taking a bath can lead to a musty carpet odor from the bath mat. 

Why Does My Carpet Smell?

If you're paying attention, you may have noticed a constant in each of the scenarios we've discussed above. The constant is water whether it's from a dripping towel, a spilled cup, or condensation dripping off a water pipe. If your carpets get wet and are not dried quickly, they may start to smell. Going back to the bathroom, think about a damp towel. If you throw the damp towel into a pile on the ground, it may become musty after a day or two. But if you hang it up to dry, it will usually be fine the next time you use it. 

The same goes for your carpet. If the water and moisture in the carpet are not able to evaporate quickly and dry out, then it may become musty and smelly. The musty smell from your carpet is a strong indicator that mold or mildew is growing within it. If it is not treated, it can lead to premature decay and deterioration of your carpet and sub floor.

How Do I Get Rid of the Odor and the Causes of It?

If you smell an odor coming from a carpet, you can take a few steps to get rid of the odor. The first step is to absorb any excess water with a cloth or paper towel. Then open the windows or doors around the carpet to get fresh air circulating. You can then take some baking soda and apply it to the smelly area. The baking soda absorbs odors and is usually harmless to carpets. Vacuum up the baking soda after letting it sit for a day. 

If the odor persists, you can try a mixture of water and vinegar to try to eliminate the odor. Start with a mixture of one part distilled white vinegar to two parts water. You don't need to saturate the smelly area; you simply need to spray a fine mist over it and let it dry. This technique also works for fabrics like sofas and drapes.

If the Odor Persists, Call the Professionals

Ultimately, the  most effective way to get rid of carpet odors from water and mold damage is to contact SERVPRO of The East End. We have the tools, the technicians and the equipment to extract the water, dehumidify the air, and remove the odors from your carpet, carpet pads, sub floors, drywall, and framing. If you've tried everything to get rid of the odors and they keep coming back or are getting worse, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End. We will not only get rid of the odor, but we will find and address the source so that it doesn't happen again. Give us a call for all of your water, mold, and fire damage restoration needs. 631-653-9595. SERVPRO of The East End will also provide a thorough seasonal cleaning of your carpets, upholstery and drapes prior to any damage being done.

Post-Construction Clean-up

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Sometimes the mess a construction or renovation job leaves is bigger than the job itself was. SERVPRO of The East End can take care of that mess!

Whether you are building a new commercial structure from the ground up, expanding on your existing property, or just taking on a long overdue renovation project, construction and renovation jobs can be lengthy, stressful and messy! What can be even more infuriating is that the mess these jobs leave are often bigger than the jobs themselves, further delaying the time required to get your business back up and running! That's where SERVPRO of The East End can come in! Post construction clean-up is just one of the many professional services we offer among our full line of specialized cleaning services. Our trained and certified technicians will bring the appropriate state-of-the art equipment and strategies to get the job done quickly, efficiently and "Like it never even happened."

Whether it's vacuuming, sweeping, deep cleaning, ordering, filling and removing dumpsters, or just a good wiping down, our team members will clean every inch of your newly finished project and make it shine for your opening day.  

As part of a national franchise system with over 1700 franchises throughout the United States and Canada, and over 50 years in the cleaning industry, SERVPRO of The East End knows how to deliver on our promise of outstanding results.  

For more information or to schedule your post-construction clean-up today, call 631-653-9595.

Hidden Damages From Severe Summer Storms

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

Homeowners and commercial property owners alike need to be vigilant with inspecting their property following a severe storm. There are hidden problems following such storms that may cause more damage if not located and addressed soon after the storm ends. 

Wind Damage Restoration
Severe summer storms that mark hurricane season often bring with them a severe amount of wind damage. Roofs in particular, often suffer a wide range of damages that may range from a missing roof to the individual asphalt tiles of the roof being torn away from their surface. This will often lead to water damage leaking through the roof to the home's interior. Because the leaks are coming from the roof, they are often difficult to detect until a great deal of damage has been done.

Wind damage may also loosen flashing, causing still more leakage weeks after a storm. Even a subtle roof leak can produce damp, moldy, toxic conditions inside the home. Obtaining quick roof repair may prevent long term interior damage. A restoration expert will assist clients in receiving comprehensive roof assessments and roof repair services when hurricane damage afflicts a property. Their expertise helps property owners address storm damage and roof damage quickly and effectively to produce the best possible results in preventing more damage than may be necessary.

Flooding and Recovery

Flood water frequently pose additional risks in coastal areas. Heavy rains can cause river flooding miles inland also. If the surrounding terrain cannot absorb ground water, runoff contributes to flood water. Even residents of mountainous areas sometimes sustain varying degrees of flood damage if frozen pipes rupture. Flood pump failures contribute to basement flooding and contaminated ground water in some locations as well.

Flooding may also disrupt municipal water systems. Experts need to assess ground water and evaluate the condition of pipes following flood damage. Hiring a storm restoration Company like SERVPRO of The East End may allow you to begin your cleanup process even before water restoration occurs. (Cleaning before water restoration often proves essential yet challenging). By relying upon a trained specialist, you'll usually obtain faster storm remediation. Our experts will suggest ways to help mitigate flood water damage in the future, for instance, by requesting backup flood pump installation.

For more information about storm remediation and clean-up, visit http://SERVPROeastend.com, or call us at 631-653-9595.

SERVPRO of The East End Mitigates Water Damage Quickly & Efficiently

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

Water spills can quickly escalate, causing severe harm to the contents and structure of your property. If that isn’t enough to scare you, microbial presence in water can create health concerns for people and pets in the home or lead to more extensive mold remediation requirements further down the line. Acting quickly in the wake of a burst pipe or attic leak is essential to containing potential damages. A professional service with highly trained technicians could help to mitigate losses and avoid expensive replacements.

Requirements to remove water damage can vary depending on the size and scale of the job at hand. However, using local services is useful in any size disaster because they reduce call-out times. SERVPRO of The East End has the resources to deal with larger scale restoration as well as minor issues involving water. Our technicians are IICRC certified and trained to act quickly to remove moisture from your home, mitigating against costly permanent harm to structure or contents.

Restorers working on a clean water emergency can enter your property, remove debris, possessions and conduct vital safety checks. These checks could include: alerting you to loose wiring, weakness in floors or ceiling as well as potential contamination hazards. SERVPRO of The East End provides personal protective equipment (PPE) to staff members allowing them to enter a flooded property safely, even where contaminated materials like raw sewage may be present.

A proper drying procedure needs establishing in the advent of a clean water emergency. If large amounts of water have migrated, we might set up smaller drying zones using physical barriers like plastic sheeting. These zones allow us to concentrate our drying efforts resulting in a smarter, more efficient service. Where large quantities of water are present throughout the home, SERVPRO of The East End mobilizes submersible gas powered pumps that transport water to nearby open sewer points. Once standing water levels drop below two inches, we can bring in water extraction units for targeted removal of residual moisture and pooling.

Our local service has access to national resources in the restoration of water-related property damages, contact SERVPRO of The East End at (631) 653-9595 for more information.

A Checklist for Preventing Home Fires

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

According to U.S. government statistics, more than 4,000 people die every year in fires and more than 25,000 are seriously injured. Most of these fatalities could be prevented. Here’s a checklist of some of the ways you can help prevent a fire in your home and make your home safer:

•    Talk with your kids about the dangers of playing with matches, fire, lighters, and flammable liquids
•    Don’t leave the kitchen when you’re cooking (most home fires start on the kitchen stove)
•    Know and post your local fire department’s emergency phone number
•    Keep gasoline, kerosene, paint thinners, and other flammable liquids in appropriate containers and away from other flammable materials
•    Keep your garage and basement clear of trash, newspapers, and other combustibles
•    Don’t use flammable liquids like gasoline, kerosene, or benzene indoors
•    Make sure flammable liquids are stored in appropriate containers in a well-ventilated area
•    Safely discard cloths or paper towels used with flammable liquids, preferably outdoors in metal containers
•    Avoid plugging several appliances into one electrical outlet unless you use a UL-approved outlet with circuit breakers
•    Don’t use extension cords with heaters or air conditioners
•    Use smoke alarms throughout your home and test them regularly
•    Use caution with alternative heating sources like kerosene, wood, or pellet stoves
•    Use only the type of fuel that’s meant for these heating sources, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions  

If you must smoke, do so safely:
•    Never smoke in bed
•    Don’t leave the room with a cigarette burning in an ashtray 
•    Keep matches, cigarette lighters, and grill lighters in a locked cabinet
•    Never smoke when you’re drowsy, medicated, or reclining 
•    Make sure smokers have deep, sturdy ashtrays, and make sure cigarette and cigar butts are cold before you put them in the trash

If you do experience a fire, you can rely on the fire damage repair and restoration services of SERVPRO of The East End. We have restored many fire-damaged homes and businesses. You can also rely on us for smoke damage cleanup and odor removal. Our technicians are IICRC trained and certified and we have state-of-the-art equipment to get the job done "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of The East End is available 24/7 for all of your emergency restoration needs. 631-653-9595.

The Do's & Don'ts Behind Pest Control

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

How can you safely solve your pest problems? The key is to be willing to ask questions. Learning about the pests you have and the options available to control specific pests is the first step.

Learn more about the steps you can take to safely control pests:

• Try pest prevention first
• Do safely and correctly use pesticides
• Do dispose of leftover pesticides and pesticide containers properly
• Don't use outdoor chemicals indoors
• Don't assume that twice as much is better
• Don't transfer pesticides to other containers

Try pest prevention first.

• Remove sources of food, water and shelter.
• Store food in sealed plastic or glass containers. Garbage containing food scraps should be placed in tightly covered trash cans. Remove garbage regularly from your home.
• Fix leaky plumbing and don't let water accumulate anywhere in the home. Don't let water collect in trays under your house plants or refrigerator. Don't leave pet food and water out overnight.
• Clutter provides places for pests to breed and hide and makes it hard to get rid of them. Get rid of things like stacks of newspapers, magazines, or cardboard.
• Close off places where pests can enter and hide. For example, caulk cracks and crevices around cabinets or baseboards. Use steel wool to fill spaces around pipes. Cover any holes with wire mesh.
• Learn about the pests you have and your options to control them.
• Check for pests in packages or boxes before carrying them into your home.

Do safely and correctly use pesticides.

• Keep pets and children away from areas where pesticides have been applied.
• After preventive steps have been taken, you can use baits as a first line of chemical defense against insects or rodents.
• These are often effective and can be used with low risk of exposure to the pesticide, as long as they are kept out of the reach of children and pets.
• Other relatively low-risk pesticides are available for some pests. Consult your local cooperative extension service office for recommendations suitable for your area.
• Pesticides not contained in baits or traps should generally only be applied to targeted locations, not sprayed over the whole room.
• Use fogging devices only when absolutely necessary.
• Always read and follow the pesticide label's instructions and safety warnings.
• Use ready-to-use products (i.e., no mixing needed) whenever possible.
• If you hire any outside persons to help control pests, ask them to find and correct the source of the problem before applying pesticides.
• For example, you might have to repair a leaky toilet to remove a water source.
• Ask them to use baits and crack and crevice treatments when feasible.
• Only apply chemicals approved for use in homes.
• The label will list where the chemical may be used.
• Write down the name and EPA registration number of any chemical used by someone you hire. You will need this information if you decide to look up more information on the pesticide.
• The pest control operator should be able to provide information about the chemical, such as the material safety data sheet.

Do dispose of leftover pesticides and pesticide containers properly.

• Read the label to find out how to dispose of the pesticide and the container.
• Many communities have household hazardous waste collections that will accept unwanted pesticides. Call your waste disposal authority for information about your community.

Don't use outdoor chemicals indoors.

• Many chemicals intended for use outdoors are dangerous to use indoors because they will remain toxic longer inside than they would outdoors.

Don't assume that twice as much is better.

• Always read and follow label directions.
• Using too much of a pesticide can endanger your family's health.

Don't transfer pesticides to other containers.

• Store pesticides in their original containers.
• Only mix as much as you are going to use at one time if the pesticide must be mixed with water.
• Don't use empty pesticide containers to store anything else.
• Children and others have been poisoned by accidentally consuming pesticides stored in food or beverage containers. 
• No matter how well you wash the container, it could still contain remnants of the pesticide and could harm someone.

Call SERVPRO of The East End for Cleanup and Restoration

Once you have exterminated, you will want to call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 to effectively remediate and restore your property. We will even replace any insulation that has been infested. Because of the potential health risks, many home owner’s insurance policies may pay for cleanup and restoration. Check your policy provisions with your insurance agent.

Cleaning up after a pest infestation is not as easy as it seems. The decontamination of a home or business due to infestation can be dangerous.

Specialized experience and training is important when choosing a qualified cleanup company to resolve these problems. Protect the safety and health of your family, friends, customers, and business by having hazardous materials properly removed by the professionals at SERVPRO of The East End.

If you have any questions about pest cleanup on The East End of Long Island, call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595.

Source: https://www.epa.gov/safepestcontrol/dos-and-donts-pest-control  

Five More Major Reasons Your Ducts Should be Cleaned

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

Air Ducts may attract debris and toxins from home renovations, unwanted animals and pets, all of which should be removed with regular cleanings.

In addition to the usual reasons for having your air ducts cleaned on a regular basis, following are five more reasons you would want to schedule this service:

• Renovation:If your home has been remodeled – especially if a remodel included asbestos abatement, lead paint removal, or significant dust – your ductwork should be cleaned following the remodel. Ducts should be sealed off during home renovations. If they haven’t been sealed, dangerous dust and debris will quickly become lodged inside the ductwork.

• Animals: If there is clear evidence of animal infestation or nesting in your ducts or HVAC system, have the animals removed then clean the ductwork and HVAC unit.
• Mold: If there is visible mold growth inside your ductwork, the mold should be mitigated and followed by a thorough cleaning of the ductwork and HVAC system.
• Contaminants: If noticeable debris, pet hair, odors, or other contaminants are being released into the room through the ducts after the registers have been cleaned and vacuumed; then the ducts may need to be cleaned.
• Illness: If someone in your family is suffering from an unexplained allergy-related illness, and you’ve taken every other possible step to decontaminate your home, you may want to consider having your ducts cleaned to see if the HVAC system was the culprit.

 At SERVPRO of The East End, we have been cleaning air ducts for residential and commercial properties for over 40 years. Our team of professionals are IICRC trained and certified and we have state-of-the-art machinery to get the job done quickly and efficiently so you can get back to the business of your life. it is just one of many services we provide to keep you and your family safe. 

Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 with any questions or to schedule an appointment. We look forward to working with you!

Five Signs Your Air Ducts Need Cleaning

4/3/2019 (Permalink)

What's Living In Your Air Ducts?

Keeping All of Your Ducts in a Row.

Do you notice little wisps of dust puffing out from an air duct every time you turn on your home's heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system? Can you see dust and pet hair trapped in the vent? Is there a layer of dust coating the grill on the return air registers? Any one of these signs may be indications that the duct work in your home or business is due for a cleaning.

Dust regularly collects inside your HVAC system on air duct surfaces, vents, motors, and coils. Flakes of dead skin, hair, and pet dander catch onto the dust, creating a build-up, and before long this process causes a dense, mat-like environment where bacteria, mold, dust mites, allergens and other toxins flourish. Air filters remove most of these from the air stream, but not all parts of the HVAC system. That's why it's important to periodically check the condition of your air ducts to see if they could use duct cleaning services

The Top 5 Indicators That You Have Dirty Ducts

1. Open one of your vent covers and look inside. Check to see if it contains any dirt, debris, or matted dust.

2. Examine the return air registers for dust buildup, particularly if you see thick, fuzzy coatings of dust. 

3. Pull out the air filter. If the air filter is clogged with dust, the air flow is being choked off. This allows more dust to settle and build up in the return ductwork.

4. Open the furnace compartment. Examine the blower fan and motor for signs of dust as well as the furnace controls. The more dust you see, the bigger the problem you have.

5. Look at the air conditioning coil. (You may need to remove a panel.) If the coil is dusty or has dust clinging to the housing walls, this is an indication that the air filter hasn't been working properly.

Any of these red flags show that your HVAC system and ductwork is being adversely affected by too much dust and dirt.

Top 5 Dirty Consequences

So what’s the trouble with a little dirt, you might ask? There are a number of problems resulting from dirty ducts, ranging from increased energy costs to health problems:

1. Dirt and dust restrict your HVAC system's heating and cooling. In winter, dirt-clogged heat exchangers cannot warm the air as efficiently. In summer, dirt-clogged condensing coils are unable to cool the air as well. These both increase the HVAC systems run time, requiring it to use more fuel and energy to heat and cool your property.

2. Dirt and dust restrict air flow. Let's say your system is doing a fine job of heating and cooling the air. If the blower fan or motor can't turn because of dirt, or the air filter is clogged with dust, then the system can't effectively circulate that warmed or cooled air throughout your property. It's going to run longer and use more energy.

3. The longer your HVAC system operates, the more wear and tear it undergoes. Long run times can shorten the overall lifetime of HVAC systems, from AC compressors to hydro pumps, burners, and motor bearings. You will wear out your home's HVAC system sooner.

4. Besides dirt, dust contains dead skin, pet dander, microorganisms from cat litter (toxoplasmosis), and other particles including: pollen, mold spores, fungi, and even rodent feces. Left to contaminate your HVAC system, it may become a breeding ground for bacteria, mites, and other pests. This greatly affects the quality of the air you are breathing, and ultimately affects your health.

5. Dirt and dust spread quicker in a home with dirty ducts. No matter how diligent you may dust and clean your home, fine particulate contaminates, including dangerous allergens, quickly flow from one room to the next covering tables, smart phones, and children's toys.

Top 5 Benefits of Air Duct Cleaning

SERVPRO of The East End recommends having your ducts cleaned every 3 to 5 years to prevent maintenance and health problems before they start. Doing so will save money on your heating and cooling bills. Additional benefits include:

1. Better and reliable over-all performance from your HVAC system

2. Fewer repairs from wear and tear and longer HVAC system life

3. More energy efficiency, reducing your energy bills

4. Lower likelihood of respiratory and allergy problems.

5. Less dust makes it easier to clean and maintain your home's living space

We do not recommend you tackle this job yourself. This is not a do-it-yourself project you will be able to do with an inexpensive machine from your local hardware store. To get the job done right, you need to hire a professional Company that does this on a regular basis.

At SERVPRO of The East End, we have been cleaning air ducts for residential and commercial properties for over 40 years. Our team of professionals are IICRC trained and certified and we have all of the latest state-of-the-art machinery to get the job done quickly and efficiently so you can get back to the business of your life.

Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 with any questions or to schedule an appointment. We look forward to working with you!

Spring Ahead to Prevent Mold

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

As the last of the winter storms finally melt on the East End of Long Island, property owners everywhere are dealing with more leaks, pipes breaking, flooded basements and related problems in their homes and businesses. If water is left to sit for too long, mold can develop. Fortunately, with a few precautionary steps, you can prevent the spread of mold.

The following practical tips from SERVPRO of the East End will help you control moisture, properly ventilate your home or business, thoroughly clean, and ultimately, prevent mold from growing inside of your home or business. 

Reposition Your Downspouts

Make sure your downspouts are positioned away from your property. This will ensure the water drains away from the property preventing debris, soil, and stone buildup. Re-positioning downspouts will also help ensure the interior of your property remains nice and dry and, thereby, free of fungal growth. 

Use a Dehumidifier 

Many properties have a closed-loop ventilation system, which essentially recirculates the same air indoors. To purify the air and prevent indoor air contaminants from collecting, consider using a dehumidifier. Your basement, for example, is a great place to install a dehumidifier, because basements are generally damp. The dehumidifier will help keep the relative humidity between 30 and 50 percent hereby preventing black mold growth.

Check Your Attic 

Inspect your crawl space, your attic or any room you tend to overlook or think very little about. Because you do not spend a great deal of time in these rooms, you may neither consider nor suspect mold growth. The longer the mold grows, the greater the damage it can cause. Not only will the cost to remediate the problem increase, but your health may also worsen because of ongoing mold exposure. Thus, you want to detect mold in its earliest stages. Inspecting the rooms you do not usually use will help you to do just that. 

Repair All Leaks 

If the wintry weather has damaged your property's foundation or roofing, leaving cracks of any size, water could easily enter (and weaken) the structure. When you have moisture, the right temperature, and a food source (think drywall), mold can grow within 24 to 48 hours.  Act fast and fix leaking pipes, deteriorating window sills and frames, and even a cracked chimney or foundation. Don't let these small repairs wait, or you will likely have bigger problems ahead. Inspect areas of your property where there's more plumbing and thereby more potential for leaks: in the basement and underneath the bathroom and kitchen sinks. Unfortunately, you can't always see a leaking pipe. In many cases, it's either behind a wall or underneath a floorboard. But, you might see water damage on a floorboard, ceiling tile or wall resulting from it. For assurance and peace of mind, consider calling SERVPRO of the The East End for a professional assessment. 

Frequently Clean

Spring is the perfect time to clean your carpets, drapery, upholstery, furniture, kitchen, bathroom tiles and grout; and all of the dark, damp corners of your property. Cleaning each of these will help you keep tabs on problem areas. You are more likely to locate water damage and prevent mold if you are cleaning on a regular basis.

Always control moisture, keep sufficient airflow and clean your property often. If you see signs of mold following your spring cleaning, call SERVPRO of the The East End to professionally clean, dry and disinfect the area. Mold in your home or business from winter conditions is an unfortunate situation, but SERVPRO of the East End will be happy to professionally mitigate any damage and make it look and feel "Like it never even happened." 

Why SERVPRO? Following are a few answers to that Question

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO?

Following are just a few of the answers to that Question:

Culture

At SERVPRO of the East End we treat every home and business we enter as if it were our own. One of our goals is to treat everyone and everything as you would if it was our own family going through this loss. From a small stain on your carpet to three feet of raw sewage in a basement, we will treat your loss, your property and your family with the respect, compassion, consideration and professionalism you deserve. We know how difficult and unsettling a water damage, mold infestation, fire or pest infestation can be. We make it our business to mitigate as quickly, efficiently and painlessly as possible.

Communication

At SERVPRO of the East End we know that communication is key. When you experience a loss in your home or business, you have questions. We make it our business to have our experienced staff available to answer your questions.

We will keep you and your insurance company informed every step of the way.  We work on an approval only basis.  This means that we will only do the work that you as the homeowner and/or your insurance company has approved.  We want to make sure this process is as smooth and painless as possible. 

Dry First

At SERVPRO of The East End we believe in Applied Structural Drying. In simple terms, we do not want to come into your house and just start tearing things apart. We have invested a lot of time and assets into equipment, training, and tools that allow us to dry the structure with minimal disruption.  If there is a way to extract and mitigate the damage without tearing out floors and/or walls, we have the equipment and knowledge to do it.  By doing this, we minimize the disruption to your life and keep the overall cost of the loss down.

Highly Trained Specialists

Since first opening the doors in 1967, training has been the backbone of the SERVPRO brand and the reason for our success nationwide.  At SERVPRO of The East End, this is especially important to us.  We are an IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified firm. The IICRC is a certification and Standards Developing Organization (SDO) non-profit organization that sets the standards for the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries. It is what most insurance companies base their standards on.  At SERVPRO of The East End, we make sure our employees meet those standards and our own.

When you call SERVPRO of the East End (631-653-9595) for your residential and commercial cleaning and restoration needs, you can trust that you are calling a leader in the industry.

SERVPRO Saves You Money!

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals use the latest equipment in detecting hidden moisture infiltrating your home.

FACT: Restoration through mitigation is less expensive than replacing! 

The SERVPRO System saves money by Restoring rather than Replacing:

• Emergency Mitigation Services help minimize additional property damages. 
• SERVPRO of the East End professionals use specialized test equipment to determine hidden water.
• Restoration versus replacement of contents saves heirlooms and money.
• By using advanced drying techniques, SERVPRO professionals monitor and ensure your property is dried properly. 

At SERVPRO of The East End, we know how important your property and their contents are to you. We know how hard you've worked to achieve the lifestyle you have. By getting to you faster, having trained professionals taking charge, along with the right equipment, we are able to save and restore your property and furnishings, along with your peace of mind. That saves you time and money in the cost of replacing anything that may have been damaged. 

You can trust SERVPRO of The East End for any and all of your restoration needs. Call us directly at 631-653-9595 with any questions or inquiries regarding your specific concerns. 

SERVPRO is a Brand You Can Trust

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End is proud to be part of the SERVPRO brand, upholding the traditions, practices & procedures that are trusted for over 50 years

Serving America Since 1967

SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals have been helping home and business owners recover from water damages across the United States for over 50 years. 

Over 1,700 Franchises Nationwide

More locations means faster response. A SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will usually be on-site within four hours to help protect the structure, business and personal property.

SERVPRO® National Call Center 

The SERVPRO® National Call Center served over 500 insurance and property management companies and their clients nationwide in the last yar alone.We have earned the trust of the insurance industry by serving thousands of their policy holders and clients with respect and integrity. The more we restore, the less that needs to be replaced. This helps our clients save millions of dollars each year, which helps lower your insurance rates!

24-Hour Emergency Service

In our business, you need us fast! The sooner we arrive, the better the chance we can reduce damage and save money. Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Trained, Uniformed Franchise Professionals

A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will walk you through the job process and then work quickly to restore your property to preloss condition whenever possible.

References

From large commercial environments to small residential losses, SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals understand your loss is the job that matters most! We are happy to provide references so you can feel confident that SERVPRO® is the best system to service your needs.

The SERVPRO Difference

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Difference is evident in the quality of our people, experience, training and equipment.

The SERVPRO Difference is evident in the SERPVPRO People, Training and Equipment to make it "Like it never even happened." 

The People

With over 10,000 quality teammates nationwide, SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help you get your property and your life back.

The Experience

SERVPRO® is a Franchise System with over 40 years of leadership in fire and water cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, commercial property managers and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon.

The Training

Franchise Professionals undergo extensive water restoration training and certification. SERVPRO Industries, Inc. is an IICRC-approved school to help ensure our training meets and exceeds accepted industry standards.

The Equipment

With over 5,000,000 square feet of building space, housing over 140,000 pieces of cleaning and restoration equipment, SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals have the resources to help you take back control of your life.

Knowing Where Your Water Shut Off Valve Is Can Prevent Damage

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

Photo by Michael Pereckas

Knowing how and where to shut off your home's water supply is as important as knowing how and where to turn-off or reset an electric breaker or replace a fuse.

Every home is required to have a main water shut-off valve installed during its initial construction.  For most emergencies, shutting-off the proper inside valve is a crucial first step to preventing more damage.

Basements:

The shut-off valve is typically located near the front foundation wall.  The main water supply may come through the concrete floor or through the wall.  The valve is typically within 3-5 feet of where the main water supply enters.  In some cases, the main water supply may enter in a different area, like a laundry room, or up through the floor, near the water heater or furnace.

Crawl Space and Basement

The shut-off valve may be where the water enters the basement or in some older homes, the shut-off may be inside the crawl space.  If the latter is true, you may want to consider a secondary valve located in the basement.

Crawl Space with No Basement

The shut-off valve will typically be located near the water heater or under the kitchen sink, but anywhere is possible.  As with a situation where there are a crawlspace and a basement, the valve may be inside a crawlspace; in which case, you may want to consider a secondary valve located up in the living space (near the water heater or under a sink).

Slab-On-Grade Construction

The shut-off valve will typically be located near the water heater or under the kitchen sink, but, again, it could be anywhere. It is important you know exactly where it is so you can be quick to turning it off in an emergency. Once you know where it is, you may want to tag it. Let your family members know where it is, and how to properly shut it off during a water emergency.

A Few Tips for Preventing Mold

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

Mold is a common problem for property owners on the East End of Long Island, where our coastal communities are exposed to a great deal of moisture in the air providing the ideal environment for mold to proliferate. Mold can be colored green, purple, white or orange. While mold plays an important role in the outdoor environment, breaking down dead plants, mold is an unwelcome and unhealthy entity in our homes and businesses. 

Showers, bathrooms and kitchens are a common location for mold to grow, but it is possible for mold to grow anywhere on your property. Mold may come inside a property from an outside growth through inadequately sealed windows or doors. Mold spores cannot be entirely eliminated, but they will not grow if the environment is dry and well ventilated. Mold growth may be prevented by ensuring a quick and thorough cleanup if and where a water damage occurs. Using air conditioners during humid seasons and exhaust fans in kitchens may also help to prevent mold from growing.

Other areas to monitor moisture in order to prevent mold growth include: exterior walls and surfaces in need of insulation where condensation can build, air conditioner drip pans, check for leaks around refrigerator, ensure crawl spaces are well ventilated, and check for leaks around a tub.

These are a few simple tips for making sure mold is not growing in your home or business. If you do discover mold on your property, call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595. We have been in the business of cleaning and restoring residential and commercial properties on The East End of Long Island for over 40 years. Our IICRC trained and certified technicians have the experience, knowledge and state-of-the art equipment to make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO is IICRC Certified

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End is an IICRC Certified Firm

What is IICRC?

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must:

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of The East End

SERVPRO of The East End specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained and certified in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm.

We believe in continuous training: 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.

Certifications

• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician

When choosing a business to do your cleanup and restoration, you want to choose an IICRC Certified Company.

At SERVPRO of The East End, we have been in the business of cleaning and restoring residential and commercial businesses for over 40 years. Why would you even consider trusting anyone else with your greatest investment?

Call us at 631-653-9595. 

SERVPRO has a History of Trust & Professionalism

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Headquarters (& state-of-the-art equipment) Then (top) & Now (bottom). The brand is a national leader of restoration services since 1967.

“To develop a team of quality people who focus on excellent service, fairness and mutual respect.” - SERVPRO® Mission Statement

SERVPRO has been a national leader of fire, water, mold and other specialty cleanup and restoration services since it was founded in 1967. With a professional network of over 1,700 franchises, our brand has responded to property damage emergencies ranging from multi-million dollar disasters such as the Pentagon, to those suffered by individual businesses and homeowners. Providing coverage nationally and in Canada, SERVPRO® has established trusted relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients nationwide.

Following tremendous growth in the late 1990’s, Entrepreneur Magazine ranked SERVPRO® as the #1 Franchisor in the restoration industry every year from 2004 through 2007. In fact, SERVPRO® was ranked #25 among all franchise companies of any type in 2007.

In April 2005, SERVPRO® moved to a new 140,000 square foot facility in Gallatin, TN. The state-of the-art building houses a newly designed training facility and National Call Center.

SERVPRO of The East End is proud to carry out the mission, traditions, training and work ethic of the SERVPRO brand on the East End of Long Island. When you call SERVPRO of The East End, you can be assured of the quality service, standards, traditions and expertise the SERVPRO Brand is known for. 

Keep Your Commercial Appliances in Top Shape

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

Keep your commercial appliances in top shape to prevent from costly water damage to your business!

Flood damage, burst pipes, and storms, Oh My! It feels like, between all the crazy weather we have had in the past year, we have enough to worry about when it comes to potential water damages affecting our businesses. However, there are hidden dangers that lie within your business's walls that you need to pay attention to. Leaking and blocked appliances may not seem like a najor concern, but it doesn’t take a lot of time for a little leak to cause a boat load of damage to your business. Take the time to pay attention and keep your appliances up to date, and you will not only save a lot of money, but may also ensure you keep your business doors open and operating, saving income. Here are a few ways you can make sure you're making your appliances a priority.

Mark Your Calendar

When you purchase new appliances, make sure you write down the expiration dates and recommended replacement dates on their parts and hoses. You have enough to remember throughout your busy days. This ensures you write it down and forget about it, until the time comes that you need to remember!

Make a Date Every Friday Afternoon

Carve 30 minutes out of every Friday afternoon to walk around and check that all of your appliances are hooked up to a water source. Check for blockages, check the hoses, and check for any leaks, so that you are sure you are not leaving them unattended for a whole weekend. Even a tiny leak over a two-day span can create a large amount of damage. And it could also be the cause for you to have close your business for a few days. Keeping up with your appliances will help keep your weekend as stress-free as possible.

Don't Put it Off

When you find the problem, fix the problem. Replace a leaky hose, or call a plumber to clear the blockage in your drains and sinks before it is too late. Finding and fixing an issue early on will save you a lot of trouble, time, and money, so don't put it off!

If you do find do yourself with a water damage, make sure you call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595, to help clean up and restore your property to “Like it never even happened." We are ‘Faster to any size disaster’ to mitigate the problem and prevent your business from losing any business in the process.

Keeping your Home Safe from Fire

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

House fires are sudden and unexpected. Studies show that you may only have two minutes to leave a home fire and escape to safety, which doesn't seem like much time.  However, Following these tips from the American Red Cross will not only help you prevent house fires, but they will also help you prepare for one and make sure your family is safe if ever one does occur.

1. Get Rid of Fire Hazards

Identifying and taking the necessary precautions to ensure that you do not have fire hazards in your home is important.  This means every electronic items producing heat should be kept at least three feet away from anything flammable.  Space heaters and electric blankets should be turned off when not in use.

2. Avoid Smoking in Bed

Smoking in bed is dangerous because of the possibility of hot ashes igniting flammable bedding.  It is also important to make sure all candles are extinguished when unattended.

3. Make Sure Your Children Are Informed

Talk to your children about the importance of not playing with fire. You can take an additional precautionary step by keeping all matches and lighters stored high and out of reach or locked up in a place that your children cannot access.

4. Check Your Smoke Alarms

Be sure you have working smoke detectors on every floor of your home and inside and outside of every sleeping area.  Check these monthly to ensure the batteries are working. Replace smoke detectors every 10 years.

5. Make a Plan

Discuss your outside meeting spot with your family and devise an escape plan.  This escape plan should be practiced at least twice a year, and you should make sure that every member of your family is able to escape in less than two minutes.

Have additional questions? Or need help with a fire damage or puff back you couldn't prevent? Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595. We are on call 24/7/365 to respond "Faster to any size disaster". Our professional team of IICRC trained and certified technicians have the experience, knowledge and state-of-the-art equipment to make it and make it "Like it never even happened." 

Water Damage in Your Attic

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

The attic is much like a basement in that it is an area of a house that may largely be ignored for extended periods of time. Stains, mold and wet or swollen installation are signs of a leak in the attic. If your roof has cracked, curled, or is missing shingles, damaged flashing and/or signs of wind/rain damage, it may be vulnerable to leaks, which could result in water damage. Weather in colder climates may also cause ice dams to develop on the roof, which can then leak into the attic when snow and ice melt. To try and prevent water damage coming in through your attic, pay attention to possible problem areas, including around roof vents and chimneys, the flashing (where the roof connects with the walls) and the valleys (where two roof planes connect).

If you ever do detect water damage in your attic, call SERVPRO of The East End to dry the clean and the area thereby preventing secondary water damage like mold. We can be reached at 631-653-9595 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Important Facts About Mold

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

Understanding a few basic facts about mold can help you identify, assess and remedy a mold problem in your own home.

What are molds?

Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. No one knows how many species of fungi exist but estimates range from tens of thousands to perhaps three hundred thousand or more. Molds grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores. Mold spores can survive harsh environmental conditions, such as dry conditions, that do not support normal mold growth.

Common indoor molds?

• Cladosporium
• Penicillium
• Alternaria
• Aspergillus

How do molds affect people?

Some people are sensitive to molds. For these people, exposure to molds can lead to symptoms such as stuffy nose, wheezing, and red or itchy eyes, or skin. Some people, such as those with allergies to molds or with asthma, may have more intense reactions. Severe reactions may occur among workers exposed to large amounts of molds in occupational settings, such as farmers working around moldy hay. Severe reactions may include fever and shortness of breath.

People with a weakened immune system, such as people receiving treatment for cancer, people who have had an organ or stem cell transplant, and people taking medicines that suppress the immune system, are more likely to get mold infections.

Exposure to mold or dampness may also lead to development of asthma in some individuals. Interventions that improve housing conditions can reduce morbidity from asthma and respiratory allergies.

Where are molds found?

Molds are found in virtually every environment and can be detected, both indoors and outdoors, year round. Mold growth is encouraged by warm and humid conditions. Outdoors they can be found in shady, damp areas or places where leaves or other vegetation is decomposing. Indoors they can be found where humidity levels are high, such as basements or showers.

How can people decrease mold exposure?

Sensitive individuals should avoid areas that are likely to have mold, such as compost piles, cut grass, and wooded areas. Inside homes, mold growth can be slowed by controlling humidity levels and ventilating showers and cooking areas. If there is mold growth in your home, you should clean up the mold and fix the water problem. Mold growth can be removed from hard surfaces with commercial products, soap and water, or a bleach solution of no more than 1 cup of household laundry bleach in 1 gallon of water. Follow the manufacturers’ instructions for use (see product label).

Other Recommendations include:

• Keep humidity levels as low as you can—no higher than 50%–all day long. An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help you keep the level low. Bear in mind that humidity levels change over the course of a day with changes in the moisture in the air and the air temperature, so you will need to check the humidity levels more than once a day.
• Use an air conditioner or a dehumidifier during humid months.
• Be sure the home has adequate ventilation, including exhaust fans.
• Add mold inhibitors to paints before application.
• Clean bathrooms with mold killing products.
• Do not carpet bathrooms and basements.
• Remove or replace previously soaked carpets and upholstery.

About SERVPRO of The East End

If you do see, smell or detect mold, call SERPVPRO of The East End. We have been in the business of cleaning and restoring residential and commercial properties for over 40 years. Our team of IICRC trained and certified staff knows how to effectively deal with mold infestations and we have been doing that on The East End for over 40 years. We also have the state of the art equipment and techniques to carry out remediation tasks of any size to keep your home safe and clean. We are on call 24/7 365 days a year to be “Faster to any size disaster” making it "Like it never even happened." Give us a call at 631-653-9595 to discuss your cleaning and restoration issues.

*information from https://www.cdc.gov (Center For Disease Control and Prevention)

What to Do Before & After a Storm

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

Before the Storm Arrives:

• Look around. Lawn furniture, toys, tables, and chairs should all be brought inside or stored away. Secure or store your grill.
• Remove any solar-powered ground lights. Ground lights that are hard-wired may be left in the ground.
• Wrap burlap around ornamental trees and fragile bushes. You may also stake and string trees and bushes.
• Remove any window air conditioners from the windows.
• Close all of your windows and doors.

After the Storm:

• Electricity and water are a deadly combination. If you have to walk through water to turn off the circuit breaker, consider calling your power company to shut off the power.
• If you are unsure of the best and safest way to shut off the power, call your local fire department.
• To mitigate any further damage to your valuables, raise any items up off of the floor and out of the water.

Need help cleaning and restoring your property back. Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595. We have been in the business of cleaning and restoring residential and commercial properties on the East End of Long Island for over 40 years. Our IICRC trained and certified technicians have the training, experience, knowledge and equipment to make it "Like it never even happened." 

The Top 5 Reasons for Water Damage

2/6/2019 (Permalink)

By regularly taking a few precautions, you may be able to prevent costly water damages.

Discovering that your property is destroyed by a leak or a flood can be devastating, and repairing water-damaged walls and floors is often very expensive. Water damage and frozen pipes are the third most common reason for property owners to file insurance claims, with damages averaging at approximately $8,000.00 per claim.

The good news is that most water damages can be prevented. By looking out for plumbing problems, leaks and other issues you may be able to prevent water from destroying your property.

Plumbing issues

Water damage is often caused by plumbing issues. That’s why it’s important to inspect the plumbing systems on your property at least once a year to ensure that there aren’t any problems with hoses or pipe joints. You should also keep in mind that plumbing pipes have a long lifespan. Brass pipes can last for as many as 70 years while copper pipes can last for more than 50 years. The average lifespan for galvanized steel pipes is often between 20 and 50 years.

Drain pipes are usually made of either cast iron (which can last for as many as 100 years) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Properly maintained PVC pipes can last indefinitely. Check your home inspection report or consult a licensed plumber to learn about the lifespan of the plumbing pipes in your home.

If your water bill is unusually high, that might be an indication of an undetected leak. Purchasing a water leak sensor that sends alerts to your phone is one way to safeguard your property. You should also check around your toilets, tubs, showers and sinks for any soft spots or moisture. Keep an eye out for loose tiles as well. If you have a dishwasher or a refrigerator with a water line, look for warped or discolored floorboards.

Washing machine leaks

Unless you’re doing laundry, you probably don’t think twice about your washing machine. But if it breaks down, the results could be catastrophic. For example, if the supply hose is damaged or has a faulty connection to the wall or washing machine, more than 600 gallons of water could potentially spill out within an hour. That could lead to significant water damage, especially if your washing machine is located on the second floor of your home.

To prevent water damage, you should replace your washing machine supply hose at least once every five years. Also, resist the temptation to overload your washing machine. Bu constantly overloading your washing machine, you could loosen gaskets and valves or cause cracks. Take care of your washing machine and your washing machine will take care of you.

Bursting water pipes

During severely cold winters, pipes can freeze and burst. This is more likely to happen if you have certain types of pipes, such as swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines and pipes with minimal insulation that run against exterior walls.

If temperatures often freeze in your area, as they do in ours, be sure to protect your pipes. Insulate both hot and cold water pipes using heat tape or pipe sleeves available in your home improvement store. If you have water supply lines in your garage, keep the garage door closed as often as possible. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate. If you plan to spend some time away from your property, leave the heat on and set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees. You can’t control the weather, but you can do your best to prepare for it.

Aging water heaters

Water heaters have a shelf life. You can wait until your water heater starts leaking to replace it. But if you’re being proactive about avoiding water damage, you should replace it every 10 years. A tankless water heater can last for as many as 20 years.

You can find out how old your water heater is by looking up the serial number on the manufacturer’s sticker near the top of the water heater. Make sure to regularly inspect your water heater to check for signs of moisture build-up, mold or corrosion. If your water isn’t as hot as it used to be or there’s rust coming from your faucets, it’s time to call a plumber or water heater specialist.

Inclement weather

Snow may look beautiful. But if your property isn’t weatherproof, a bad snowstorm could damage your roof, walls and ceiling. Make sure your property is ready for inclement weather by ensuring that your rain gutters and downspouts are clean. You should also check doors and windows to ensure that your caulking hasn’t cracked.

If it snows where you live, be wary about the formation of ice dams on your roof. This happens when the heat inside your home causes water to melt in the middle of your roof. The water then refreezes near the edges, forming a dam that prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. The water that backs up can leak into your property and damage ceilings, walls and other areas of your home. To prevent ice dams from forming, insulate your attic to keep heat from rising and reaching the roof.

Inspect roofs annually. Professional roof contractors look for exterior and interior warning signs that your roof’s condition may lead to water damage, including cracked or missing shingles and areas where water is prone to pool. An inspection may cost several hundred dollars, but can save you thousands in damages, as well as providing peace of mind which no one can put a dollar amount on.

SERVPRO of The East End

For as many precautions as property owners can take to prevent water damage, water damages still occur. At SERVPRO of The East End, we have been in the business of mitigating water damage, fire damage, mold issues and more for over 40 years. Our IICRC trained and certified team are available 24/7 to be 'Faster to any size disaster' and we will make it "Like it never even happened." Give us a call at 631-653-9595 to discuss your cleaning and restoration issues at any time you need our help.

Freezing Temperatures May Result in Frozen Pipes

1/25/2019 (Permalink)

Freezing temps on cold winter days often lead to frozen pipes, which may lead to serious damage if not properly taken care of in a timely manner.

Frozen pipes cause a lot of damage during the coldest months of the year. Knowing how to prevent them is your best defense.

With the first cold fronts blasting our shores this month, we are now thrust into frozen pipe season on the East End of Long Island. 

Frozen pipes are frightening. If you have ever experienced a burst pipe due to frozen water, you know just how scary it can be. If you haven't, you will want to do everything you can to prevent them. Following the steps outlined below will help prevent pipes from freezing. In the event that you do have a pipe burst, we recommend you call someone immediately. Don't try to fix this yourself! If you don’t bring in a professional immediately, you will begin to see mold growth in as little as two days time, thereby creating an even larger issue.

What causes pipes to freeze?

Extremely cold temperatures create an increased risk for frozen or burst pipes. As the temperatures drop, the water in your pipes start turning to ice. The problem doesn't occur while the pipes are frozen. The problems occur when the temperatures start rising. The ice melts and water starts to flows out of the cracks in the pipes.

Ice causes pressure and blockage. Over time, the pressure may cause a pipe to burst. This ends the water flow to fixtures, causes leaks and may end in damage to the pipe as well as to your home or office. It does not matter what the pipe is made out of. The increased pressure occurs in all pipes, including plastic, copper and steel.

Even a tiny crack in your plumbing line can release more than 250 gallons of water in a single day. That much water gushing out of your plumbing system can cause significant damage and repair costs. Any delay in remedying the situation can result in more costly damages.

How can I prevent frozen pipes?

• Open the cabinet doors under your sinks and in storage areas to allow heat from the room to circulate around pipes that are not insulated.
• Allow a trickle of water to drip overnight; however, be careful not to run the water into a drain line that is exposed to the extreme cold because that line may freeze.
• Insulate pipes in unheated areas or against walls that are not insulated, in garages or crawl spaces.
• Apply heat tape or thermostat-controlled heat cables around pipes that are exposed and prone to freezing.
• If you are going on vacation, it is important that you make sure your heat is turned on and is set no lower than 55 degrees.

What should I do if I have frozen pipes?  

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, things happen. If you know or suspect you have a problem with frozen pipes, here are some immediate steps to take:

• Shut off the water main to reduce pressure on frozen pipes and minimize flooding if the pipes burst.
• If you don’t know where your water main is or have the tools to shut off the main, now would be a good time to get prepared.
• Do not use an open flame to thaw your pipes. If your pipe is exposed, you can try a hair dryer.
• If you suspect frozen pipes, contact your plumbing experts right away.
• If you notice slower water flow that may mean your pipes are starting to freeze, call a plumber immediately. Typically, issues like this can be resolved before any damage occurs.

ABOUT SERVPRO of The East End

At SERVPRO of The East End, our team of IICRC  trained and professionals have the knowledge, equipment and experience to restore your property and your peace of mind to "Like it never even happened." We are available 24/7 365 days a week to be 'Faster to any size disaster'. Call us at 631-653-9595 to answer your questions or help you through whatever emergency situation you may be having to deal with.

Safety Tips for New Year's Eve

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Happy New Year from all of us at SERVPRO of The East End! Stay safe & enjoy the celebration by taking a few precautions.

New Year's Eve is traditionally a festive time to bid the current year adieu, and ring in the New Year. But for all that there is to enjoy about celebrating the New Year, we also need to take precautions that the celebration remains a celebration and doesn’t end in unexpected tragedy.

By following the tips we’ve gathered here, you will be better prepared to keep your celebration safe.

• If you are planning to celebrate with fireworks, store them in a metal box, read the instructions, never go back to a lit firework and keep a bucket of water nearby
• Never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings. Don't leave them burning unattended.
• Decorations burn easily - Don't attach them to lights or heaters.
• Be sure that holiday cards, wrapping paper & party hats are far away from any from a working fireplace, candles and lights. 
• Turn off electrical appliances when not in use, unless they're designed to stay on. Take special care with fairy lights and outdoor lights. Always turn them off and unplug lights before you go to bed.
• See that your lights conform to the British Standard. Always use an RCD on outdoor electrical equipment (this is a safety device that saves lives by instantly turning the power off).
• Never leave cooking unattended.
• Check the batteries in your smoke & fire alarms every week and use the New Year as a reminder to clean it out and remove dust.

SERVPRO of The East End understands that New Year's celebrations are a time to have fun with family and friends!  

From all of us at SERVPRO of The East End - We wish you and your families a Happy, Healthy, Safe and Festive New Year! 

Tips to Get Your Business Organized for the New Year!

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

Does your East End Office need some decluttering? Here are some tips to help get you started!

As 2018 comes to a close, it's a good time of the year to take a good look around at your work space and take stock of what you need to do before welcoming the New Year.                               

1. Discard what you don't need. We tend to think everything is important and needs to be saved. Go through all of your stuff and ask yourself: Does this item have unnecessary multiples? Does it have a purpose? Is it outdated? Did you even remember you had it before you started your cleaning? Do you really need it? 
2. Add more storage. Whether it's a shelving system or a filing cabinet, adding more storage to your office will give everything a place to go. Don't go overboard or else you might end up with even more clutter!
3. Make sure everything has a place. If things don't have a place to go, they will likely end up cluttering up your desk. 
4. Address your problem areas. Everyone has that drawer full of random stuff that has no where to go. Organize it by putting things in a more permanent home and adding some drawer dividers.
5. Hide your cables. Cables are often a huge source of office clutter. Get rid of the problem by adding a cable box, zip tie your cords together, hide them with cord concealers and hide them behind a desk or other furniture when you can.
6. File paperwork daily. How many times have you walked in to an office and to see stacks of paperwork all over? It looks horrible and makes it hard to find anything. Be sure to file paperwork every day to avoid this dilemma.
7. Sort your desktop icons. Digital clutter can be just as bad as real life clutter. Put all the extra documents and pictures on your desktop into a folder. Put everything you don't need anymore into the "trash".
8. Disinfect and clean. With all the stuff we have to get done in a day, it's easy to forget about something like disinfecting your office.  Do it yourself or hire a professional to get rid of those lingering germs!

Whether its giving tips on how to declutter or providing 24/7 emergency services, SERVPRO of The East End is here to help! By decluttering your office, you free your space up for more clarity, new projects and prosperity to enter your life, and what better time to do that than as we enter a New Year? 

Need help decluttering? Disinfecting? Cleaning your space? Perhaps a carpet or upholstery cleaning? Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 for more information on the wide range of commercial and residential services. We have been helping businesses like your own on the East End of Long Island with all of your commercial and residential cleaning and restoration needs for over 40 years. "Like it never even happened."

New Year's Resolutions for your Business

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

As a business owner, planning ahead for the New Year is critical to maintaining current goals and setting new objectives. We may often look at New Year’s resolutions as personal goals like losing weight, spending less money, or giving back to the community. While these resolutions are important, we often fail to look at New Year’s resolutions as it relates to our own business. From treating our employees well to creating a solid company culture, being introspective at this time of year should extend beyond our personal goals and move into our business world. The most savvy business owners take time each year around the holidays to reflect on their successes, analyze failures, and set new goals for the year to come.

December is often a busy time of the year for businesses of all kinds. Consequently, it is imperative to be diligent in your efforts to shift your focus to the year ahead. We suggest spending time with your employees in order to get their feedback. By doing so, you may have a better idea as to where to start your business resolutions. Consider the following as you write your company’s New Year’s resolutions:

1. What is the industry as a whole doing differently than your company? Where do you see the major trends going?
2. How is your competition identifying opportunities in the marketplace? What can you learn from your competitors? 
3. Who is an outstanding employee? How can you give them more responsibility moving forward?
4. What are the overhead costs in your organization? Is there any way to cut those costs? 
5. Does your office have a happy, positive mindset? Company culture is critical to productivity. Is yours a constructive one?

The answers to these questions can provide the foundation for your company to prosper. Start by writing down your goals and then creating specific targeted lists as to how your business will achieve them. 

On behalf of SERVPRO of The East End, we wish you a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2019 and beyond! We continue to be here for all of your commercial cleaning and restoration needs. For over 40 years our goal has been to make it "Like it never even happened." Call us at 631-653-9595 with any questions you may have. 

Tips for Safe Travels This Holiday Season

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

According to the AAA, Christmas week, December 19^th through 25^th – is, by far, the busiest travel week of the year in the United States. Year-end Holiday Travel has increased by more than 25% since 2005. A record number of nearly 108 million Americans are set to travel during the holiday travel period between December 23, 2018 and January 1, 2019. USA Today says Christmas is one of the ‘Top 10 Worst Travel Days’ of the year. Other days on those list include: the day before Thanksgiving, Fridays during the summer, July 4^th, Memorial Day, Spring Break, New Year’s Eve, Labor Day, Easter and Mardi Gras. Additionally, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, more than 90% of Americans travel by car to their holiday destination. Thus, it is important to know the appropriate time to head out on your Holiday journey. The 4 worst days for automobile travel at Christmas-time are predicted to be:

• Thursday, December 20^th
• Friday, December 21^st
• Sunday, December 23^rd
• Wednesday, December 26^th

Generally speaking, two days before Christmas, and the day after Christmas are the two worst travel days of the year and should be avoided, if possible. Breaking it down further, you can expect traffic to be the worst during the late afternoon and early evening on Thursday and Friday before Christmas in major metropolitan areas, as many holiday travelers want to get a jumpstart on their weekend. Because Christmas falls on a Tuesday this year, other drivers will hit the road on Sunday, and head back home on Wednesday. Thus, the best times to leave are usually early morning (before 7am) or after the morning commute (between 9-11am) regardless of which day you plan on leaving. Consider alternative routes to avoid traveling through major city traffic during peak travel times. If your schedule allows, you might even consider leaving on Christmas Even or Christmas day when there are fewer cars on the road. Traffic is reportedly lower on Christmas Day than on the day before and the day after the holiday.

How to Prepare for Holiday Travel

Once you’ve determined the best day to embark on your Christmas vacation, make sure that your vehicle is ready for the journey. Follow these helpful tips so you and your family won’t get stranded on the road, with little or no help in sight

Make sure your vehicle is in proper working order by getting an oil change and having the battery, fluid levels, lights, windshield wipers, brakes, tires, belts and hoses all checked out thoroughly by a certified mechanic.

• Load up the car the night before you leave on your vacation and be sure to pack plenty of snacks and drinks for the trip (don’t forget to pack a spare cellphone charger as well!).
• Pack a roadside emergency kit with jumper cables and check to make sure that your spare tire and jack are in good working order.
• Sign up for AAA or other roadside assistance policy so you won’t get stranded on the highway with no one to call for help.
• Keep track of changing weather conditions, along with any potential delays and possible road closures due to snowstorms.

If you follow these rules, you'll be ahead of the game when it comes to your vehicle, ensuring a safe, happy holiday for you, your family and your vehicle.

With all good wishes for a Happy Safe, Holiday and safe travels to and from all of your Holiday Celebrations. From all of your friends at SERVPRO of The East End.

Common Misconceptions About Mold

12/17/2018 (Permalink)

Learn the facts you need to know about mold before attempting to clean it up yourself.

Mold is present everywhere. Mold and mildew are very common indoors and out, and spores in the air can quickly latch on and begin to grow on any surface where there is moisture. Most people hold many misconceptions about mold and the best tactics on how to keep their home healthy and clean and free from mold.  Following are a few of the most common misconceptions about mold:

1) Mold is safe to clean myself

No matter what type of mold you think you have, it is always important to take precautionary measures in order to prevent exposure. Because mold releases spores, the cleaning process can increase the amount of spores in the air exponentially. It is best to hire restoration professionals that are trained in mold removal and damage repair. SERVPRO of The East End has helped clients with  water damage restoration and mold remediation, ensuring that all of the hazardous materials are properly disposed of.

2) Black mold is “toxic” mold

Technically, no mold is “toxic.” Some molds are toxigenic, which means that they can create toxins, but the mold itself is not poisonous. Many molds  and any large colony of mold can produce enough spores to create unhealthy conditions, especially for asthma and allergy sufferers. Stachybotrys is the black strain of mold that is most commonly associated with adverse reactions.

3) This mold isn’t black mold, so it isn’t harmful

The color of mold does not always indicate its toxicity. Mold can colonize in various colors such as brown, green, white and yellow as well as black. Any significant colony of mold can create increased levels of spores present in the air. Stachybotrys mold can be hazardous, but there are also other species of mold such as Alternaria, Aspergillus, Fusarium and Penicillium, that can be unhealthy as well if the colonization is extensive.

4) I’ve cleaned with bleach, so the problem is fixed

If the mold has begun to colonize in a porous material such as paper, drywall or wood, then surface cleaning with a watered down bleach solution is not always an effective solution. SERVPRO of The East End professionals will take the steps to address more extensive mold problems as they have done on the East End of Long Island for over 40 years. 

Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 for all of your cleaning, restoration and remediation needs. We are 'Faster to any size disaster' to make it "Like it never even happened."

Tips to Prevent Mold

12/14/2018 (Permalink)

Taking a few precautionary tips will ensure that mold is not growing and spreading in your home,

Here on the East End of Long Island, where we are surrounded by water and frequently affected by coastal storms, water damage and the mold that follows, is a common problem. Mold develops in warm, damp environments. It can come in many colors, including: green, purple, white and orange. And while mold plays an important role outside in the environment by breaking down dead plants, it is largely an unwelcome, toxic problem in the properties we live and work in. 

Showers, bathrooms and basements are the most common places for mold to grow, but it is very possible for mold to grow anywhere there is dampness in a home. Mold can come inside from an outside growth through inadequately sealed windows or doors. Mold spores cannot be eliminated entirely, but they will not grow if the environment is dry and well ventilated. Mold growth may be prevented by ensuring that if water damage occurs, clean up occurs quickly. Using air conditioners during humid seasons and exhaust fans in kitchen can help prevent mold from growing. 

Other areas to monitor moisture to prevent mold growth: exterior walls and surfaces in need of insulation where condensation can build, air conditioner drip pans, check for leaks around refrigerator, ensure crawl spaces are well ventilated, and check for leaks around a tub.

These are a few simple tips for making sure mold is not growing in your home. If you do discover mold, call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-6565 to provide the mold remediation services you need to make it "Like it never even happened." ensuring that your property and family are safe from any further harm. 

What does HEPA Stand For?

12/13/2018 (Permalink)

Toxic allergens build up over time in the air ducts of your commercial property.

HEPA stands for high-efficiency particulate air. A HEPA filter works by filtering air and trapping dangerous particles. The small mesh design of the equipment helps trap smoke, pollen, dander and other fine toxic particles that traditional filters miss. The HEPA filter was designed in similar fashion to operate the same way a water filtration system works, but for air filtration.

At SERVPRO of The East End, we use only the highest quality HEPA filter machines in order to fully eradicate mold and other toxic particles from the air. It is a vital component to purifying the toxins that pollute the air we are breathing everyday. SERVPRO of The East End uses equipment with a HEPA filter for any number of jobs including: sewage and similar category 2 and 3 losses; mold mitigation jobs to remove mold spores; as well as contamination of previously uncontaminated areas of a building; and biohazard cleanup jobs where a room or structure is contaminated. 

By removing toxic particles in your environment, you are insuring the air you and your employees breathe is cleaner, healthier and safer, thereby reducing the likelihood of any work related illness and allergies in your environment. 

At SERVPRO of The East End, our team of IICRC trained and certified technicians will be 'Faster to any disaster' to make it 'Like it never even happened'. Call us at 631-653-9595 to insure the highest quality service and care for your commercial and residential properties.  

What To Do After a Water Damage

12/7/2018 (Permalink)

A little knowledge can go a long way in preventing serious water damage. Learn the precautions you should take to avoid major damage.

No one wants to come home to a flooded basement or to wake up to the sound of a broken pipe spraying water on valuable furniture and household possessions. However, the possibility of water damages occurring in your home or business is very real. Whether it is pipe damage or a weather-related issue that is the cause, it is important to arm yourself with basic knowledge in order to best deal with this type of emergency before it happens. Here are a few tips to help in the event of water damage in your home:

• First, determine whether it safe to stay in the house
• Make sure there are no active electrical devices or outlets immersed in or near the water
• Note that wet floors are slippery and “slip and fall” hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns
• Keep in mind that wet materials can be VERY heavy
• Have a plumber’s phone number ready and available
• Contact SERVPRO of The East End (631-653-9595) for complete restoration

While waiting for SERVPRO of The East End to arrive, here is what you CAN do:

• Shut off the water
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in the summer
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting
• Remove art objects and other prized possessions to a safe, dry place
• Gather loose items from floors

What NOT to do After Flooding:

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water
• Don't use television or other household appliances
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Never try to fix a broken pipe by using tape or plumbing putty. Broken pipes are a serious problem, which should be handled by a professional. SERVPRO of The East End is on call 24/7 to help home and business owners with complete cleanup. Our goal is to help you regain control and repair any damage, “Like it never even happened”. Call us at 631-653-9595.

Holiday Fire Safety Tips 2018

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

Follow certain precautions this Holiday season to keep your family and home safe.

The Holiday Season is one of the most dangerous times of the year for household fires. Please take note of the following tips to reduce your own risk. 

Residential fires during the holiday season are more frequent, more costly, and more deadly than at any other time of the year. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) reports more than double the number of open-flame fires on Christmas Day than on an average day, and about twice as many on New Year’s Day. And when these fires occur, they do more damage: Property loss during a holiday fire is 34% greater than in an average fire, and the number of fatalities per thousand fires is nearly 70% higher. When the source of the fire is a highly flammable Christmas tree, the toll in property and lives is even greater.

To keep your household from becoming a holiday fire statistic, here are some safety tips to follow.

Cooking

According to the USFA, cooking is the leading cause of holiday fires. The most common culprit is food that is left unattended. It’s easy to get distracted; take a pot holder with you when you leave the kitchen as a reminder that you have something on the stove. Be sure to keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen that’s rated for all types of fires, and check to see that smoke detectors are working. 

If you’re planning to deep-fry your holiday turkey, do it outside, on a flat, level surface at least 10 feet from the house.

Candles

Candle fires occur at a rate that is four times higher during December than during any other month of the year. According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), four of the five most dangerous days of the year for residential candle fires are Christmas/Christmas Eve and New Year’s/New Year’s Eve, with the fifth being Halloween. 

To reduce this danger, maintain at least a foot of space between the candle and anything that can burn. Set candles on sturdy bases or cover with hurricane globes. Never leave flames unattended. Before bed, walk through each room to make sure candles are blown out. For atmosphere without worry, consider flame-less LED candles.

Christmas Trees

It takes less than 30 seconds for a dry tree to engulf a room in flames, according to the Building and Fire Research Laboratory of the National Institute for Standards and Technology. “They make turpentine out of pine trees,” says Tom Olshanski, spokesman for the USFA. “A Christmas tree is almost explosive when it goes.” 

To minimize risk, buy a fresh tree with intact needles, get a fresh cut on the trunk, and water it every day. A well-watered tree is almost impossible to ignite. Keep the tree away from heat sources, such as a fireplace or radiator, and out of traffic patterns. If you’re using live garlands and other greenery, keep them at least three feet away from heat sources.

No matter how well the tree is watered, it will start to dry out after about four weeks, Olshanski says, so take it down after the holidays. Artificial trees don’t pose much of a fire hazard; just make sure yours is flame-retardant.

Decorative Lights

Inspect light strings and throw out any with frayed or cracked wires and broken sockets. When decorating, don’t run more than three strings of lights end to end. “Stacking the plugs is much safer when you’re using a large quantity of lights,” explains Brian L. Vogt, director of education for holiday lighting firm Christmas Décor. Extension cords should be in good condition and UL-rated for indoor or outdoor use. Check outdoor receptacles to make sure the ground fault interrupters don’t trip. If they trip repeatedly, Vogt says, that’s a sign that they need to be replaced. 

When hanging lights outside, avoid using nails or staples, which can damage the wiring and increase the risk of a fire. Instead, use UL-rated clips or hangers. Take lights down within 90 days, says John Drengenberg, director of consumer safety for Underwriters Laboratories.  “If you leave them up year round, squirrels chew on them and they get damaged by weather.”

Kids Playing with Matches

The number of blazes — and, tragically, the number of deaths — caused by children playing with fire goes up significantly during the holidays. From January through March, 13% of fire deaths are the result of children playing with fire, the USFA reports; in December, that percentage doubles. So keep matches and lighters out of kids’ reach. “We tend to underestimate the power of these tools,” says Meri-K Appy, president of the nonprofit Home Safety Council. “A match or lighter could be more deadly than a loaded gun in the hands of a small child.”

Fireplaces

Soot can harden on chimney walls as flammable creosote, so before the fireplace season begins, have your chimney inspected to see if it needs cleaning. Screen the fireplace to prevent embers from popping out onto the floor or carpet, and never use flammable liquids to start a fire in the fireplace. Only burn seasoned wood — no wrapping paper.

When cleaning out the fireplace, put embers in a metal container and set them outside to cool for 24 hours before disposal. 

By following these tips, you reduce your risk of turning a celebratory time of year into tragedy.

Should you have any questions, or experience fire, water, storm or mold damage during the Holidays or beyond, call SERVPRO of The East End 24/7 and we will make it 'Like it never even happened. Our team of professionals has been serving the East End of Long Island for over 40 years. We can be reached at 631-653-9595. 

Heavy Rain Storms Often Result in Flooded Basements

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

Severe rain storms often lead to flooded basements

With all the rain storms we have recently been experiencing on the east end of Long Island, sump pumps are being overworked and overwhelmed. Some pumps may work properly and still allow water to back up in your basement or crawlspace.

If you have standing water flooding your basement, disconnect the main electrical switch or call your local fire department to do it for you! If you are concerned about the electrical safety of your basement, it's best to stay out of it and call the professionals in to help.

At SERVPRO of The East End, our IICRC certified technicians are ‘Faster to any size disaster’ and make it "Like it never even happened."

We remove the water and clean up the damage as well as monitoring the drying process. This confirms that your property has been dried properly and thoroughly.

We're regularly called to residences and businesses across the east end to clean-up the damage from recurring storms. With over 40 years of experience through every kind of coastal storm our area has experienced, we’ve seen it all! As well as cleaning it all up! Our clients know they can trust us to utilize our expertise, equipment and trained technicians to return your property to its’ preloss condition. And we will work with you and your insurance company to make sure everyone understands the process we’ve incorporated.

When water damage strikes, a fast response is critical. Day or night, East End residents and business owners can expect immediate response from us to your emergency. We are on call 24/7 for all of your emergency needs! Call us at 631-653-6565.

Holiday Cooking is a Leading Cause of Home Fires

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

Holiday Cooking is the leading cause of Home Fires

Cooking related incidents, especially around the Holidays, are the leading cause of home fires, and in most cases, they are fully preventable. Cooking fires cause more injuries than any other kind of fire. Injuries usually consist of burns or smoke inhalation.

November and December are the two months of the year when most cooking fires occur largely because of the holiday season.

Following are some safety tips you should take into account as we approach this Holiday Season:

Cooking fires are usually caused by one of the following reasons:

1 Grease or food that catch fire.

2. Faulty cooking equipment.

3. Combustible items placed too closely to a stove. 

Most of these incidents involve grease. When grease catches fires, it burns hot and fast. If it is not brought under control quickly, it spreads and causes extensive damage.

The easiest way to put out a cooking fire is to shut off the burner and place a pan lid over the pot to cut off the oxygen supply. Keep it covered until the pan cools. Taking the lid off too quickly may cause the fire to reignite. Throwing materials onto the pan such as salt, sugar, flour, baking soda or wet towels is too risky. This may spread the fire, which can lead to injury.

NEVER throw water on a grease fire.

The water will fall to the bottom of the pan, quickly convert to steam and push all the flaming liquid into the air, spreading the fire. This may also lead to serious burns on the person throwing the water on the fire.

If a fire extinguisher is available and the cook knows how to use it, they should attempt to put the fire out. Be sure to turn off the burner to remove the heat source before using the fire extinguisher.

Burning pans should never be moved.

It is tempting to pick up a pan on fire and place it in the sink or take it outside. This is not advisable as the pan is usually too hot to lift so when you grab it, you may drop it and cause the burning liquid to spread the fire.

Never leave food cooking on a stove unattended. 

Food left cooking unattended on a stove is the leading cause of cooking fires. This is not the time to read emails, take a shower, check the mailbox or visit your neighbors. The results can be fatal. When food is cooking, even at a slow simmer, it may be easy to forget how long the food has been cooking, or that you even started cooking to begin with. This may lead to the food burning, causing smoke, which then leads to smoke inhalation and fire. 

Maintain Cooking Equipment.

If a stove is having problems, it should be repaired as soon as the problem starts. Regular maintenance on the stove is a must. Keep combustible items away from the stove, and never on a stove, even when the stove is off.

Remove all pans from the stove and place in the sink, after cooking. 

Never leave dirty pans on the stove. If someone accidentally brushes up against a knob and turns on the stove or forgets to shut off the burner, there is nothing to catch fire. Pets are also known to jump on stoves and lick pans when no one is around and in the process they may also turn on a burner.

If food catches fire in the oven, the oven should be shut off and the door kept closed. If you open the oven door, you introduce more oxygen and the fire spreads. If a fire extinguisher is available, try using it after shutting off the oven and closing the door until the fire is completely exterminated. 

Children should never be near the stove when food is cooking. Create a three-foot “kid-free zone” around the stove. Place tape on the floor so children know the area to stay behind while food is cooking.

In the event of a cooking fire that cannot be controlled, leave the home and go to a safe meeting place outside and then call 9-1-1. Never attempt to go back inside the home once you have left.

Be sure to install, maintain and regularly check fire and smoke alarms. This way, if a fire occurs, you have adequate warning and know when to safely escape. 

We hope these tips help you have a safe and Happy Holiday Season. Should you have any questions, need assistance, or encounter an emergency, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595. We are here to help 24/7 with any and all of your emergency restoration and cleaning needs.

At SERVPRO of The East End, we have been proudly serving our community for over 40 years and will continue to do so. Our trained IICRC technicians have the knowledge, training and expertise as well as state-of-the-art equipment to make it 'Like it never even happened'. 

SERVPRO is a proud Sponsor of the First Responder Bowl

10/29/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO proudly honors First Responders as a Sponsor of the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl at Cotton Bowl Stadium, Dallas, Texas on December 26th 2018.

In a collaborative effort to honor the service and sacrifice of America’s First Responders, the annual college football game played at Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, Texas has been renamed the SERVPRO® First Responder Bowl! Kickoff for the newly christened SERVPRO® First Responder Bowl is scheduled for December 26, 2018 at 12:30 p.m. CST (1:30 p.m. EST) and will be televised by ESPN.

The 2018 SERVPRO® First Responder Bowl is the ninth edition of the bowl game, formerly known as the Heart of Dallas Bowl, and part of the 89-year history of games being played at Cotton Bowl Stadium.

First responders to be honored include: police officers, firefighters, EMS workers, correctional officers, search and rescue, dispatchers, security guards, federal agents, border patrol agents and military personnel who have specialized training and are the first to arrive and provide assistance at the scene of an emergency.

This bowl game opportunity has evolved from the shift in SERVPRO’s strategic charitable alignment which happened last year during Hurricane Harvey. For the past several years, the SERVPRO® Brand has been aligned with the American Red Cross (ARC) in which collectively, we have contributed over $1.5 million. Our efforts helped the ARC support disaster victims in a variety of ways. During Hurricane Harvey, there was a natural tendency to want to get more involved in helping others beyond what our services provide and beyond just donating dollars. Out of this, an idea was born in the form of a campaign designed around helping First Responders who stand ready to help at any cost providing a safe society for us all. This developed into an opportunity to give back to those who protect us on a daily basis, and more specifically, to honor their hard work and dedication.

Our original efforts around supporting First Responders came in the form of tents at PGA TOUR tournaments where SERVPRO® and other national Brands provided free admission and a day of relaxation in a hospitality tent for any First Responder who wanted to attend. Last May, ESPN contacted us with an opportunity to be the title sponsor of the First Responder Bowl. This is an awesome platform for SERVPRO® to align with this group and support a great cause that is close to our hearts. 

Tickets to the SERVPRO® First Responder Bowl are on sale now. For more information, visit the website: https://www.firstresponderbowl.com/  

Humidity Causes Water Damage in Trailers

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

Condensation buildups in trailers may cause serious water damage, if not addressed at an early stage.

If things are getting steamy in your RV, you would be wise to find a solution, sooner than later. 

Whether you’re camping out in the summer or winter, travelling, or if you live in your trailer year round, humidity inside your trailer can cause serious problems that lead to structural damage and health issues.

Humidity rises when the temperature changes and when you’re cooking, showering, or washing. Even your breathing at night can raise humidity levels in small enclosed spaces. In each of these cases, water vapor is released into the air. When vapor cools, condensation forms. The condensation clings to windows, settles on walls, and may even seep between joints.

If you don’t have a way to reduce the humidity; mold and mildew will form and metal structures can corrode — posing serious health risks for you and your family and reducing the life of your vehicle. Mold and mildew create a nasty smell and ruin upholstery. If the issue continues, you could end up with a termite infestation or other pests.

As an RV owner, it’s essential that you stay on top of the moisture issue.

How to Control RV Humidity Problems

In the summer, you can easily control moisture in your motor home by using an air conditioner or by increasing ventilation from opening windows. But in cooler months that’s usually not the best  solution for staying warm and comfortable.

For most recreational vehicles, the best solution is a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers circulate air and pull out water, without changing the air temperature. Water is extracted and collected, and dry air is returned. Dehumidifiers work quickly, too — you’ll notice a difference in humidity within a few minutes.

What’s the Best Dehumidifier for an RV?

Don’t use the same dehumidifier for your trailer as you would for your house. The best dehumidifiers for recreational vehicles are small enough for your limited space and won’t be so noisy that you can’t sleep at night.

You have several types of dehumidifiers to choose for your motor home:

• Non-electric — silent operation, lower capacity for pulling moisture
• Electric with compressor — high capacity, some noise
• Electric with Peltier thermal technology — high capacity, lower power consumption, quieter than compressors

Be sure to do your research and read reviews to determine what option will fit your needs best.

Beating Humidity in Storage

Mold and mildew can also grow in your recreational vehicle while it’s in storage. Covering your RV in tarps and plastic is a good preventive measure, but it also traps moisture inside. Over the course of the winter, water vapor buildup can cause mold, and you’ll have a nasty surprise waiting for you come spring.

Ventilation is the best way to prevent moisture problems when your RV is in storage. Air vent covers allow you to keep the vents open on your motor home while protecting it from foul weather. Water vapor can escape and your RV’s interior stays dry.

You should also consider using an RV cover that is specifically made for trailers. The fabric of an RV cover is waterproof and breathable to ensure water vapor doesn’t build up.

Whether you’re camping, storing your recreational vehicle, or living in it year round, protecting it against excessive humidity will help guarantee many years of worry-free adventure and memories you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

And if you do require help in remediating water or storm damage, mold or pest infestations, call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 to mitigate the problem and make it ‘Like it never even happened.’

SERVPRO of The East End for All of Your Commercial Cleaning & Restoration Needs:

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End offers businesses of every size and kind the wide range of high quality cleaning & restoration services.

Serving our local community when disaster strikes is very important to us. So is maintaining the cleanliness of your property and restoring it when unforeseen issues occur. Our services are as valuable to our commercial customers as they are to our residential customers. In fact, many of our residential customers call on us to help them with their businesses.

Following are some of the Commercial services we provide for businesses large and small:

Commercial Cleaning:

Business and property owners regularly call us to provide routinely scheduled cleanings on their properties. This helps you to maintain your high standards and satisfy your clients and guests while taking the pressure off and allowing you and your staff time to focus on other aspects of your business. Restaurants often reach out to us due to the strict standards required by the board of health. When grease builds up, or the walk-in has too much food accumulating beneath the floor grates, they call SERVPRO of The East End for a once over.

A once over is a team of people that cleans every nook and cranny, wiping it all down. It may mean trash removal, disinfecting, duct cleaning, brick cleaning, power washing and/or air quality checks. The list is extensive as we customize every detail of our service to meet the specific requirements for the job and business at hand. We insure every detail is covered to complete the job as quickly and efficiently as possible, making it ‘Like it never even happened!’

Emergency Services:

When you have an emergency, it is important that your business gets back to normal as quickly as possible with as little interruption to the business as possible. There are many reasons a business interruption may occur. But, the most common disruptions occur because of cooking or smoking accidents, electrical and heating malfunctions, arson and combustible materials. While you may not think that any of these apply to your business, cooking accidents, fires, faulty machinery, wiring and accidents of all sizes, shapes and categories may occur at any time for any reason, anywhere.

And while some of these accidents may be more inclined to happen than others, they are the top reasons for damage. We are able to help with each and every one you may experience, as well as many others that come up. Think your building is too large or small for our services? Think again as we have access to a full arsenal of resources to scale up or down based on the needs for each job.

Emergency Ready Plans:

What would you do in an emergency? Who would you call? How much thought have you given to this? And what if you are not there in an emergency? Would your staff know what to do?

We have a solution for that as well. Our ERP (Emergency Ready Plan) puts vital information at your fingertips when need it most. The ERP outlines where key shut off valves are within your building. This knowledge allows you and your staff to act fast and prevent further damage in minutes when every second counts. It also supplies everyone with immediate points of contact for starting the process of cleaning up sooner rather than later so that damage and business loss are considerably reduced than by not having a plan in place. We offer ERP’s at no cost to you! Yet, having one in place can save you thousands. Why wouldn’t you call us to schedule an ERP for your business?

Water and Fire Damage Cleanup:

While this sounds straightforward enough, there are rules that come with the proper cleaning up of water and fire damage. Rule number one with water damage: just because you cannot see it does not mean it is not there. Without the proper equipment, training and knowledge and experience, most people will not be able to tell if the area is dry or not, and to what extent that damage may be.

What about Fire Damage? Puff backs? The black soot you see on the walls? Most people don’t know to leave it alone! Here again, if you don’t have the knowledge, equipment, experience and training to know better, chances are you will clean it wrong, making the damage worse by spreading the soot or pushing it deeper into the fibers it is on. This makes it that much more difficult to safely extract. And like water damage and mold damage, there are different types of smoke damage: Wet smoke, dry smoke and protein fire residue. Each type requires different treatments and some are invisible to the eye. Because each damage is different, they each have different chemical reactions that cause the residue to react differently. It is important to understand and analyze the situation and select the right solution to remediate the damage. This will ensure that your problem is solved correctly the first time, preventing further damage, cost and time from trying to resolve the problem yourself.

Mold & Air Quality:

Water damage that is left too long causes mold. Air ducts in your home and your business need regular cleanings. Interior spaces, equipment, commercial kitchens, laundry rooms and certain types of businesses require more maintenance than others, and often require more advanced equipment and a professional team of trained and certified technicians beyond most maid services. That’s where SERVPRO of The East End comes in.

ABOUT SERVPRO of The East End

If you have experienced any kind of damage in your home or business, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End to restore your property to be ‘Faster to any size disaster’ and make it 'Like it never even happened.' Our team of IICRC trained and certified professionals are available 24/7 365 days a week. We will treat your property, family and employees with the utmost of compassion, respect and consideration, and work quickly and efficiently to minimize damage and cost. We work with insurance companies and are regularly recommended by other local businesses. We have been proudly serving our community in mitigating fire, mold, storm and water damage on the East End of Long Island for over 40 years.

Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 for all of your commercial and residential cleaning and restoration needs.

A Primer on Puff Backs

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End is available 24/7/365 to make it 'Like it never even happened'. Call us for all of your Cleaning & Restoration needs.

As the crisp days of autumn herald in the longer, frostier days and nights of another Northeastern Winter, many of us shift from retiring the air conditioners to turning up the thermostats on our heating units. For some, turning the heat on for the first time in the season calls attention to problems with the furnace and we may end up experiencing a “puff back.”

How Does a Puff Back Occur?

A puff back happens when an oil burner doesn't immediately ignite and oil fumes are allowed to build up before ignition. This results in an explosion similar to what happens when a car backfires.  It may also occur from a buildup of debris, causing an explosion when the furnace turns on.  In either case, the explosion forces soot and debris through the furnace or the boiler's exhaust system and into your home or business.  The problem is worse with forced hot air systems as the heating ducts spread black soot into every corner of your home, with the same efficiency that they spread heat throughout your property.

Fact #1: Most puff back cleanups are covered by insurance. And the professionals at SERVPRO of The East End can clean it all up "Like it never even happened.” Our customers often tell us that their properties look and smell cleaner than it ever did before!

During a puff back event, oil based soot typically covers all areas of the property including drapes, bedding, furniture, clothing, cabinetry, ceilings, walls and floors, all of which is extremely difficult to remove. In most instances, you will know that you’ve had a puff back! But there may be times when it is harder to detect because the soot coverage can range from a light dusting to a concentrated dark appearance especially on flat surfaces like counter tops. While you may be tempted to clean the affected area yourself, we don’t recommend you do that as the "dust" will likely re-appear hours afterwards. There may or may be a strong odor in the affected rooms.  Don’t be fooled that the dust is only where you see it. It travels everywhere that the air does—into every nook and cranny. Sometimes you will find what you think are black “spider webs” in the corners of a room. These marks are actually a collection of the sticky soot. At SERVPRO of The East End, we have the appropriate equipment, knowledge, experience and training to make it ‘Like it never even happened”.

There are many reasons puff backs happen. These vary from the age of the burner, to maintenance and/or malfunction issues.

Fact # 2: The cost to repair a furnace will NOT likely be covered by insurance. 

Puff backs create an unhealthy environment for everyone and you should not touch or breathe the soot or particles that are floating through the air and landing on the surfaces of your property. Like the exhaust from a car – these particles can be a carcinogenic for us and our loved ones to be breathing in.  It's especially unhealthy for young children the elderly and pets.

Fact #3: Most oil companies can also inspect and service the boiler at your property, which greatly reduces the chances of a puff back. However, there is no guarantee against such an occurrence.

10 things you should do after a puff back:

1. Limit movement in the home or business to prevent soot particles from becoming embedded in the upholstery and carpets.
2. Keep hands clean so you do not spread the damage further.
3. Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
4. Once the electricity is off, empty your refrigerator and freezer and prop the doors open.
5. Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
6. Wash your houseplants on both sides of the leaves.
7. Tape double layers of cheesecloth over your air duct registers.
8. Throw away all exposed food.
9. Call a repairman to fix the malfunctioning furnace
10. Call SERVPRO of The East End to clean up the soot and chemicals.

5 things you should NOT do after a puff back:

1. Don't attempt to wash any walls, wallpaper or painted surfaces. Don't shampoo your carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
2. Don’t use standard cleaning products that may cause further damage and may not get rid of the oil residue, toxins and odors.
3. Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
4. Don't turn on ceiling fans or increase air circulation as this will only spread the soot around.
5. Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor. 

ABOUT SERVPRO of The East End

If you have experienced a puff back or fire damage in your home or business, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End to restore your property to be ‘Faster to any size disaster’ and make it 'Like it never even happened.' Our team of IICRC trained and certified professionals are available 24/7 365 days a week. We will treat your property, family and employees with the utmost of compassion, respect and consideration, and work quickly and efficiently to minimize damage and cost. We work with insurance companies and are regularly recommended by local HVAC Companies. We have been proudly serving our community in mitigating fire, mold, storm and water damage on the East End of Long Island for over 40 years. 

Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 for all of your fire, mold, storm and water damage needs.

National Fire Prevention Week October 7-13th 2018. Look. Listen. Learn.

10/4/2018 (Permalink)

The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) has announced that the theme for this year’s Fire Prevention Week is "Look. Listen. Learn. Be Aware - Fire Can Happen Anywhere.”

The campaign identifies three basic and essential steps we can take to reduce the likelihood of having a fire–and how to be prepared in the event there is one.

“LOOK” for places fire could start. Take a good look around your home and business. Identify potential fire hazards and see what you can do to reduce or eliminate them. 

“LISTEN” for the sound of the smoke alarm. You may only have minutes to safely escape once a smoke alarm sounds. 

“LEARN” two ways out of every room. Make sure all the doors and windows leading outside open easily and are free of clutter providing quick and easy access to get out. 

Other Suggestions Include:

Home Fire Escape Plan

Home fire escape planning and drills are an essential part of fire safety. A home fire escape plan needs to be developed and practiced before a fire strikes. This plan should include:

• Two exits from every room in the house – usually a door and a window
• Properly installed and functioning smoke alarms
• A meeting place outside, in front of the home, where everyone will meet after they exit
• A call to 9-1-1 or the local emergency number from a cell phone or a neighbor’s phone

Smoke Alarms

• Smoke alarms detect and alert people to a fire in the early stages. Smoke alarms can mean the difference between life and death in a fire.
• Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half
• Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month, using the test button.
• Make sure everyone in the home understands the sound of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond.

Cooking

• Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries. The leading cause of kitchen fires is unattended cooking.
• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, boiling, grilling or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly and stay in the home.
• Keep anything that can catch fire away from your stove top.

Heating

• Heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fires during the winter months.
• Space heaters are the type of equipment most often involved in home heating equipment fires.
• All heaters need space. Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet (1 meter) away from heating equipment.
• Have a 3-foot (1-meter) ‘Kid-free zone’ around open fires and space heaters.
• Purchase and use only portable space heaters listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
• Have a qualified professional install heating equipment.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional.

For more information about Fire Prevention Week, fun activities educating kids, events and videos, visit the National Fire Protection Association website: http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week-2.

ABOUT SERVPRO of The East End

When fire strikes, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End to restore your property to 'Like it never even happened.' Our team of IICRC trained and certified professionals are available 24/7 365 days a week to be 'Faster to any size disaster'. We will treat your property, family and employees with the utmost of compassion, respect and consideration, and work quickly and efficiently to minimize damage and cost. We have been proudly serving our community in mitigating fire, mold, storm and water damage on the East End of Long Island for over 40 years. 

Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 for all of your fire, mold, storm and water damage needs.

The Difference Between Mold & Mildew

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

Mold and mildew are both types of fungi that thrive indoors and should be professionally removed.

Mold and mildew are fungus brothers, but they do have a few differences. Following are some of those differences.

Like two siblings who have similar features, mold and mildew have a few similar characteristics: Both thrive in moist, warm areas where they can grow. Both grow on a multitude of surfaces, from food and clothing to your bath and shower. And they are both fungi that no property owner wants to see on their property.

But mold and mildew also have some differences when it comes to size, color and texture.

Mildew is a surface fungi that can be easily identified as a patch of gray or white fungus lying on the surface of a moist area. Mildew is easily treated with a store bought cleaner and a scrub brush.

Mold, on the other hand, can be black or green and is often the result of a much larger and deeper infestation. This type of fungus may appear "fuzzy" especially when it is found on food. It may also feel slimy in nature.

The key to treating mold and mildew is to remove it from your property. Treating it accordingly will safeguard your property damage. It is widely recommended that you hire professionals to mitigate the problem for you. Trying to do-it-yourself can often result in further damage, without fully mitigating the problem. 

At SERVPRO of The East End, our team of IICRC trained and certified professionals know how to effectively deal with mold infestations and we have been doing that on The East End of Long Island for over 40 years. We have state of the art equipment and techniques to carry out remediation tasks of any size and through any season. If you see or sense signs of mold on your property, call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595. We are 'Faster to any size disaster' and complete each job 'Like it never even happened'. 

3 Important Reasons Why You Need an ERP for your Business

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of The East End create an Emergency Ready Profile for your Business so that you are ready for any disaster.

An ERP (Emergency Ready Profile) will insure you are ready to respond so your business can reopen as soon as possible following a disaster. 

According to FEMA, an estimated 40 - 60% of small businesses never reopen their doors after facing a disaster. Even knowing that, most businesses have not yet put the time in to create an emergency response plan so that they can minimize the impact of a disaster. SERVPRO of The East End will create a free Emergency Ready Profile for any business that wants one.

Here are 3 reasons why you need one:

1. With an ERP you will know exactly where to find the utility shutoffs in the moment you need to do so. Depending on the size and nature of a disaster, it may be imperative that somebody immediately shuts off the gas, water, and/or electricity. Even if you know where the shutoffs are located, if you aren’t around at the time of a disaster, that role would fall on someone else. SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Profile marks all of the shutoff locations (and shows pictures), so your team can quickly do what’s needed, preventing any further damage.

1. With an ERP, you will have an immediate plan of action. The longer your business is inactive, the less likely you will recover. With our Emergency Ready Profile, you will not only have a guide for you and your employees, but you’ll also have access to our professional team at SERVPRO of The East End. The faster we are there to clean up the damage in a facility we are already familiar with, the quicker we are able to do our job for you to reopen your doors. 

1. With an ERP, you will have an incredible asset at no cost. In most cases, you would have to dedicate precious time and resources to create a quality emergency readiness plan, which is often the main reason most businesses never bother. But SERVPRO of The East End has the experience, tools and skills to assemble an Emergency Ready Profile in a short time frame. All we need from you is a few minutes of your time to provide some basic information to get us started. There is no cost to you for this service. The benefits for your business and your own peace of mind will far outweigh the time you take with us to do this! 

If you’ve never thought about creating an emergency plan for your business, we hope this post will alert you to some of the reasons why you must do this! Disasters Don't Plan Ahead, but You Can! And SERVPRO of The East End is here tot help you do just that! 

For more information, or to set up an appointment to create an Emergency Ready Profile for your business, call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595, or email: lisa@SERVPROeastend.com. 

5 Easy Tips to Prepare for Water Damage

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage Season is upon us and can cause serious property damage through any number of sources if we are not prepared.

Water damage can happen in many different ways, and through many different sources. The better prepared you are, the less damage you will experience. 

Water damage in your home or in your place of business does not need to be a traumatic experience.

Consider these 5 easy tips to better prepare.

1. Check your insurance coverage. Most renter’s or homeowners insurance policies do not cover flooding, or even a sewer backup. Find out what coverage you do have.
2. Keep a record of all of your belongings. Take photos and keep copies of receipts and other documents for more valuable items. Keep a copy of these records online, in a waterproof safe or at another location. If you do experience water damage, it can be easy to forget about certain belongings.
3. Take precautions to limit the risk of water damage on your property by frequently checking pipes for leaks or weakness. Pay attention to any indicators that there might be water damage. These can be the sounds of dripping water in the walls, dark spots on the ceiling, or a significant change in your water bill.
4. Set your home or business up so that it is at less risk of damage from heavy rains or flooding by ensuring that your roof is sound. Make sure there are no cracks in the foundation. Check that the landscaping around your property is sloped to direct water away from your foundation, rather than toward it.
5. Find a professional you can trust. Water damage can be overwhelming, and you don’t want to be desperately searching for a water restoration expert at 3 AM when the pipes break.

About SERVPRO of The East End

SERVPRO of The East End specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is IICRC trained and certified in property damage restoration. From the initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, our staff is equipped with the knowledge, experience, equipment and expertise to restore your property to 'Like it never even happened'. And we are on call 24/7 for all of your emergency needs.

For more information call us at 631-653-9595. Like us on social media, or visit our website: SERVPROeastend.com. 

September is National Preparedness Month. Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How.

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month. Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How.

September is National Preparedness Month! This annual event, sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), provides families and businesses with the information and resources you need to plan for, react to, survive, and recover from an emergency, before the emergency happens.

For National Preparedness Month 2018, themed “Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How." FEMA has prepared a week-by-week calendar of recommended actions property owners can take to be ready if disaster strikes:

Week 1. Create an emergency plan that includes signing up for emergency alerts and making contingency plans for shelter, evacuation, and family communication.

Week 2. Learn life-saving skills. CPR is a good place to start, but you also want to be sure you know how to turn off the utilities in your home and business, and insure your smoke and CO detectors are properly installed and working.

Week 3. Check your insurance coverage. Once the emergency is over, appropriate and sufficient insurance will be key to getting your life back to normal, or at least on track.

Week 4. Plan financially for the possibility of a disaster. This goes beyond having a “rainy day fund” for immediate needs. Gather and organize important home, business, insurance, financial, and personal documents and keep them up-to-date and stored in a secure, water-and-fire proof location. 

“There’s a difference between surviving a disaster and recovering from a disaster,” says Sue Steen, SERVPRO Industries, Inc., chief executive officer. “Families and businesses who take the time to create both a short- and long-term plan to deal with the unexpected are better able to respond quickly if the unexpected happens, which can improve their chances of survival. Having key information at their fingertips in the aftermath of the emergency can set them on the path to recovery more quickly and with less stress.” 

At SERVPRO of The East End, we are 'Faster to Any Size Disaster' to make it 'Like it Never Even Happened'. Should you wish to learn more about how you can prepare your family, home and/or business for a disaster, please call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595.

The Importance of Proper Pest Remediation

5/11/2018 (Permalink)

Pests can enter your home or office from any number of entry points or openings in a structure, causing unforeseen problems & transmitting disease.

As many East End property owners know, a pest infestation is beyond problematic. In addition to causing health hazards, pests adversely affect the structural integrity of your residential or commercial property.  Our team of certified IICRC professionals at SERVPRO of The East End is trained to safely remove biohazards and properly dispose of them in accordance with OSHA and health regulations. Equipped with the recommended safety apparatus and specialized cleaning products, we turn these unhealthy environments back into clean, safe homes and offices, ‘Like it never even happened!’

Rodents Can Invade Your East End Home or Business
Pests can cause serious damage to your property and your health! Property owners are often surprised to find rats, squirrels, raccoons, bats, birds, mice and other pests invading their property in search of warmth, water, and food, especially after they may have left their seasonal homes for an extended period. These creatures contract and transmit numerous diseases and introduce parasites that carry disease into your home. Rats and other invaders breed rapidly and are capable of squeezing through spaces that appear much smaller than their bodies. 

Prevention Tips
There are numerous prevention tips you can implement to decrease your property’s susceptibility to an infestation. One effective strategy is to keep food sources away from open areas. Garbage and crumbs can become food for rodents, as can dry goods like cereals and grains. Make sure that these items are kept sealed away in glass containers to decrease the likelihood of contamination. Also make sure that you properly store vegetables and fruits. This means that you should never leave waste on your counters and sinks. Did you know that cardboard can be attractive to rats and other pests because they chew them up and use the material to make nests. So, be sure that you're not leaving cardboard material out in the open. 

Call SERVPRO of The East End for Cleanup and Restoration
It is not surprising that many property owners seek quick solutions that may help eliminate unwanted creatures. Often, property owners attempt to limit or eliminate the presence of rodents with repellents like mothballs or essential oils. But these homemade treatments are not effective in combating a rodent infestation, or eliminating the health hazards they carry. Rather than attempting to complete a do-it-yourself remedy, we strongly recommend that you call a high quality pest control company to exterminate. Following extermination, call SERVPRO of The East End to effectively remediate and restore the property. We even replace any insulation that has been infested. Because of the potential health risks, many homeowners insurance policies may pay for cleanup and restoration. Check your policy provisions with your insurance agent.

Cleaning up after an infestation of rodents is not as easy as it seems. The decontamination of a home or business due to infestation can be dangerous. Specialized experience and training is important when choosing a qualified cleanup company to resolve these problems. Protect the safety and health of your family, friends, customers, and business by having hazardous materials properly removed by the professionals at SERVPRO of The East End.

If you have any questions about pest cleanup on The East End of Long Island, call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595.

The Importance of Clean Air Ducts

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

The Anatomy of a residential HVAC system.

In addition to normal accumulations of dust and dirt found in all homes with air ducts, there are several other factors that can increase the need for regular HVAC system cleaning:

• pets
• occupants with allergies or asthma
• cigarette or cigar smoke
• water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system
• home renovation or remodeling projects

Some occupants are more sensitive to these contaminants than others. Allergy and asthma sufferers, as well as young children and the elderly tend to be more susceptible to the types of poor indoor air quality that air duct cleaning can help address.

Top Benefits of HVAC Cleaning

NADCA’s rule of thumb for consumers is that “if your air ducts look dirty, they probably are,” and that dirty HVAC systems should be inspected by a reputable, certified HVAC professional. Below are some other reasons homeowners choose to have their air ducts cleaned.

Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality is one concern that homeowners have when they decide to investigate air duct cleaning. Your heating and cooling system is the lungs of your home. The system takes air in and breathes air out.

Through normal occupation in a home, we generate a great deal of contaminants and air pollutants, such as dander, dust, and chemicals. These contaminants are pulled into the HVAC system and re-circulated 5 to 7 times per day, on average. Over time, this re-circulation causes a build-up of contaminants in the duct work.

While dirty ducts don’t necessarily mean unhealthy air in your home, school or workplace, they may be contributing to larger health issues or harboring contaminants that could cause serious problems for people with respiratory health conditions, autoimmune disorders or some environmental allergies.

Energy Savings

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25 to 40 percent of the energy used for heating or cooling a home is wasted. Contaminants in the heating and cooling system cause it to work harder and shorten the life of your system. Although filters are used, the heating and cooling system still gets dirty through normal use.

When an HVAC system is clean, it doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain the temperature you desire. As a result, less energy is used, leading to improved cost-effectiveness. A clean HVAC system is a healthier, safer and more cost efficient system.

For an estimate on the cost of cleaning the air ducts in your home or business, call SERVPRO of The East End at 631.653.9595.

*reprinted from an article by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association

Fires Don't Have to Burn

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

Fires in the home or workplace may occur from something as simple as an overloaded socket.

Fires can happen anywhere at anytime in the workplace or the home. Home fires are most commonly caused from cooking, candles, careless smoking, space heaters or dirty chimneys. Fires may also erupt from an overloaded outlet or extension cord. 

When it comes to fires in the workplace, the issue, as in the home, is often general negligence. Negligence often refers to leaving food in the microwave too long, leaving hot drinks where they may be spilled on electrical wires, and as in the home, overloading sockets or extension cords.

Most of these fires can be avoided by keeping a vigilant eye on things and regularly checking and maintaining appliances, extension cords and sockets, as well as keeping both home and work environments clean and free of clutter. As well, it helps to prepare for potential fires by keeping fire extinguishers, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms in high risk areas throughout the house and workplace. Where appropriate, especially in the work environment, think about having fire sprinkler systems installed. As well, make sure family, friends and employees are aware of safety precautions involved to prevent potential fires. 

If your home or business does suffer a fire damage, puff back, water damage, mold damage or bio-hazard event, SERVPRO of The East End is ready 24/7 to be 'Faster to any size disaster' Our team is IICRC trained and certified to make it 'Like it never even happened'. And we will treat your property, family and employees with the utmost of compassion, respect and consideration.

Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595. 

Keep your Home and Business Safe from Storm Damage

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

Take whatever precautions you are able to protect yourself and your property from damage before the storm sets in.

Storms often happen without warning and may often cause more damage than anticipated. Even after watching the news and hearing the weather reports, bad weather can be unpredictable. So, it is advisable to take precautionary steps to keep our homes and offices safe from storm damage. 

It's a good idea to inspect your premises before a storm hits. A leaky roof or window may look unsuspecting, but can cause big problems during extreme conditions such as a snow storm or heavy rain.

Some questions you may want to ask yourself as you inspect your home or business: 

• Do all your exterior doors and windows fit correctly?
• Is your weather stripping in good condition?
•  When was the last time you took a look at your roof to see how things are looking up there? 

These are all important questions to ask yourself.

Loose shutters and rain gutters can also present a problem in high winds, as can unstable large trees. It might be a good idea to trim back trees and bushes with heavy branches in questionable condition, so that windows and vehicles are not in danger of storm damage in windy conditions.

Many homes have drainage ditches at the front of the property. Take time to inspect this area and remove debris or dirt that might obstruct the flow of water from a heavy rain. A clogged drainage ditch can cause a lot of damage by flooding your property during, or even after, a storm.

Your family is very precious to you. In the event of a storm, do you have a system in place that will help you to get information to everyone in case of a weather emergency? Most of us use our cell phones to communicate these days, but in the case of a bad storm, your cell phone service could be at risk. You might consider installing a good old-fashioned landline, just in case. If you or a family member gets stuck at work or out doing errands, families will worry, so it’s vital that lines of communication stay open.

SERVPRO team of The East End has your back in the event of storm or water damage, fire damage and mold issues. Give us a call  at 631-653-9595 to discuss your issues at any time you need our help. Our IICRC trained and certified team are available 24/7 to be 'Faster to any size disaster' and will make it 'Like it never even happened'. 

Freshen Your Business Up For Spring

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End offers a wide range of Cleaning Services to get your business ready for the coming seasons. Call us at 631-653-9595 to discuss

Spring is just around the corner on The East End of Long Island, and with that our area comes alive. Now is the time to think about Spring Cleaning your business to make it ready for our busiest seasons ahead.

SERVPRO of The East End offers a number of services to help you achieve these goals.

Besides being known for our professional restoration services, we offer the following services as well:  

Clean Your Air Ducts and HVAC

Your air ducts and HVAC units work hard throughout the winter to keep your customers and employees warm. The ventilation system should be property cleaned and deodorized to make sure the air quality in your business is not poor. If it has not been serviced for some time, your air could be circulating dust, pollen, odors and dirt and debris. Our IICRC trained and certified technicians and equipment will clean out your system and make sure everyone breathes easier in the coming seasons.

Kitchen Cleaning

Checking the hoods in the kitchen of a restaurant or hotel is recommended twice a year, so this becomes a good time of the year to start. 

Cleaning the pilot lights on a gas stove is also being proactive to avoid future problems. Be sure to follow manufacturer’s instructions. Empty and sanitize the ice machine, and wipe down walls, ceilings and dry storage areas. 

Rugs and Carpets

If your restaurant or hotel has carpeting and rugs, now is a great time to clean them as well. SERVPRO of The East End will deep clean your carpeting and rugs removing the abundance of dust, debris and food particles that may have been lingering there for months. A proper cleaning will rid your carpets of unhealthy particles and odors you don't want to carry into the new season. 

Upholstery, Drapes and Blinds

We recommend a thorough cleaning of your upholstery and window treatments before the Spring Season begins. 

There is nothing like the sweet smell of walking into a freshly cleaned business establishment as a new season approaches. For employees and customers alike a freshly cleaned business guarantees a fresh start to successful season. 

Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 for all of your Spring Cleaning needs. Your customers and employees will thank-you with great reviews, recommendations and repeat business throughout the coming seasons and beyond.

Three Warning Signs of Mold

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

Nothing scares a homeowner more than mentioning the word "mold." Not only can it cause damage to your home and make it difficult to sell, it also can be a health hazard to you and your family.

Here are three warning signs of this insidious fungus that you don't want to ignore:

1) Water spots

Any wet spot in your East End home can be a potential sign of fungus growth. This may include water spots on your ceilings or walls, or on floors in your basement or crawlspace. If you find evidence of water spots, you need to find the potential source of moisture and have it taken care of immediately. 

2) Discoloration

If you find a spot on a wall or floor that's discolored, it is a potential sign of mold. Discoloration that is green or black is a definite warning sign of fungus growth. However, any discoloration can mean growth is present, even if it isn't of the tell-tale colors.

3) Bad smell

If you have fungus growth in your home, it may cause a bad smell. Depending on the type of growth and how much of it you have, it could be a very faint smell, or it could be overwhelming. It can smell musty or earthy, or it may produce a more pungent odor. Any bad smell needs to be investigated and addressed.

Mold can be harmful and is not something to be ignored. If you experience any of these warning signs, call SERVPRO of The East End to remediate. Our trained and certified IICRC staff knows how to effectively deal with mold infestations and we have been doing that on The East End for over 40 years. We also have the state of the art equipment and techniques to carry out remediation tasks of any size to keep your home safe and clean.

Common Laundry Mistakes That May Cause Water Damage

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

Overloading the drum of your clothes washer could lead to water damage

Having a clothes washer in your East End home is usually a given. However there is a downside to having a washing machine in your house – like any machine, they can break down, and if they break down, there is a risk of leaks. Leaks in your home means water damage which can often lead to mold. You want to avoid leaks, if possible. Here are some common laundry mistakes that harm your machine and increase the chance of a breakdown.

Metal items are a leading cause of washer breakdown – and that means more risk of water damage in your home. The three most common culprits are:

• Coins – always check the pockets of every item for coins before starting your washer.
• Zippers – you cannot remove zippers from your clothes, but you can zip them all the way up to the top, so they do not flap around as much.
• Brassieres – underwire and clasps on lingerie might cause damage. You can protect your washer by placing underthings in a mesh laundry bag.

Another thing that causes washer damage is over-filling the drum. It is tempting when you have several loads of laundry to stuff as much in as you can. Unfortunately, putting too many clothes in the machine puts extra stress on the workings. SERVPRO of The East End recommends checking out the manufacturer’s guidelines about weight.

Power surges present another potentially dangerous situation. A sudden spike of electricity can harm your washer, including melting its plastic components. Protect your machine by using a surge protector, and by unplugging when not in use.

No matter how careful you are, it doesn't always prevent leaks. In the event of water damage, SERVPRO of The East End is here to extract water, dry out carpets, baseboards, and floors and restore your laundry room and any other affected areas of your home as soon as possible. Our IICRC trained and certified technicians have the expertise, knowledge, equipment and drive to restore your damage to "Like it never even happened."

For help with water damage in your East End home, call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595. 

Commercial Water Damage

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End is available 24/7 to mitigate the Water Damage to your Business

When it comes to any mitigation work in a commercial setting, getting it done quickly and efficiently is essential.  In mitigating commercial water damage quickly and efficiently, we also try to save the property contents of the business like furniture, desks, inventory and computers.  SERVPRO of The East End is in the business of restoration....It is usually more cost effective to save something than to replace it.  If an item can be saved or restored to like-new status, it is worth the time to do so.  This is especially important to our customers and also to the insurance companies we work with.

We take extra special care to protect your business assets from damage while we do the work. Whether that means shifting the contents from one room to another or covering items at the loss or boxing them up to clean back at our shop, we take special care with your work.  Our IICRC trained and certified technicians do amazing clean-up on a wide variety of materials and types of damage.

At SERVPRO of The East End, we are proud of keeping the "restore" in restoration!

What Happens When Water Damage Is Left Untreated?

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

Left untreated for any length of time, water damage will continue to create a multitude of damages

What Happens When Water Damage is Left Untreated? Following is a timeline detailing why you don't wan't to hesitate to make that call: 

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and costs increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of The East End

SERVPRO of The East End specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is IICRC trained and certified in property damage restoration. From the initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge, experience, equipment and expertise to restore your property to 'Like it never even happened'. 

Fire & Smoke Damage

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

To prevent or remediate fire damage in your home or business, Call SERVPRO of The East End

Fire and Smoke damage can be especially devastating to your home or business. Every hour spent restoring your business back to pre-fire condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If your business experiences a fire loss, call the fire and water damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of The East End, and we'll respond immediately to get you back to business.

According to the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning & Restoration Certification), the real damage sets in and costs are just beginning to mount after the fire trucks leave. That's when our work begins at SERVPRO of The East End. Getting to work as quickly and efficiently as possible, we work hard to returning your home or business to preloss condition. You don't want to trust your greatest investment to anyone else. 

At SERVPRO of The East End, our trained and certified IICRC technicians are 'Faster to any size disaster'to take control and get your business or home back up and running 'Like it never even happened'. We have been proudly serving our community in mitigating fire, mold, storm and water damage on the East End of Long Island for over 40 years. 

Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 for all of your fire, mold, storm and water damage needs. 

Have Storm Damage?

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

For 24/7 Emergency Response, call SERVPRO of The East End

SERVPRO of The East End specializes in storm, water, mold and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are IICRC trained and certified and we use top-of-the-line, state of the art equipment uniquely specialized to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond 'Faster to any size disaster' with all of the right resources. This is extremely imperative, as a fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the cost of the restoration.  Our teams are trained, qualified and ready 24/7 365 days a week to assist you with any disaster.

Are you experiencing Storm or Flood Damage and feeling overwhelmed? Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595. 

Facts About Flooding

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Floods cause more damage in the US than any other weather-related disaster, and may happen at any time.. SERVPRO of The East End is here to help.

Floods rank as one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether you live near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or lake, or even in the desert, there is a potential for suffering flood damage. 

Just because you haven't experienced a flood in the past, it doesn't mean you won't experience flood damage in the future. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On the average, floods cost $3 billion in annual losses in the United States. Commercial flood claims average more than $75,000. 

According to the American Red Cross (ARC), floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster. The ARC offers the following flood safety tips. 

• Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet. 
• If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
• Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water. Keep your pets out of the water too.

If a flood strikes your home or business, contact SERVPRO of The East End. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task. SERVPRO of The East End is prepared to handle any sized disaster. The sooner work begins; the sooner order can be restored. 

When fire and water take control of your life and your home or business, SERVPRO of The East End will help you take it back. 

Small Businesses Look to SERVPRO of The East End for Restoration

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

When coastal storms cause damage to your business, SERVPRO of The East End is ready to remediate the damage your business has suffered.

Small businesses in our area often take a beating from coastal winter and rain storms. But, while storm damage can be overwhelming at first, it does not need to be overly time-consuming. You just need to know who to call.
 
And while there are many quality services available to assist you with restoration, few are as qualified, trained or invested in your business as SERVPRO of The East End. Our staff takes our relationships with customers beyond providing excellent services. We live and work in the same community; we may know each other on a personal level, our children may go to the same schools, support the same local sports teams and beyond. 
 
Calling SERVPRO of The East End is like calling your neighbor for help. Our staff assesses the situation by asking a series of questions to determine the proper amount of equipment and personnel necessary for the job. Next, we set an appointment that fits your schedule to have our technicians begin your restoration. 
 
Once SERVPRO of The East End arrives, an onsite manager will walk you through an initial inspection, discuss the options that are available to restore your business and give you an approximate time frame for completion. They will also answer any questions that pop up throughout the restoration process and address any concerns you may have. 
 
With a plan in place, the repairs on your business begin by extracting any standing water and eliminating moisture hidden in hard to reach areas. SERVPRO of The East End technicians receive are trained and certified by IICRC in effective drying techniques, cleaning and deodorization methods, as well as the quality performance of quick, efficient repairs to return your business property to a quality pre-flood damage condition. 
 
We look forward to building a solid, stable history with our clients that keeps them coming back to us, should they ever need future repairs to get their businesses back on track after a natural disaster, fire, mold, or vandalism incident strikes. You can count on us to perform the services you need and get things back to normal 'Faster than any other size disaster'. 
 
Contact SERVPRO of The East End to receive the quality services your business deserves. 631-653-9595.

The Importance of Keeping Your Chimney Clean

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Keeping your chimney clean may prevent fire damage from your home.

At SERVPRO of The East End, we know about the lovely warm glow a fireplace may add to the ambiance of any home. Relaxing in front of a crackling fireplace in your East End home on a cold winter day is a wonderful way to wind down with loved ones on a weekend. 

There is nothing more important than keeping your family safe. To help keep those home fires burning safely, it's important to make sure your chimney is cleaned periodically. Chimney cleaning can help a fireplace stay in good shape and it will reduce the risk of a fire breaking out in your home. Additionally, the chimney allows smoke, fumes and dangerous toxins to escape your home through its ventilation system. Read on for some helpful tips on this subject.

Inspect the Brick

All chimneys should be completely cleaned at least once a year. Cleaning is important to make sure your chimney is in good working order. A homeowner should also perform an inspection on their own. This can help identify potential problems that must be addressed as soon as possible.

It's a good idea to bring a flashlight and have a good look at the floor of the fireplace. All the ashes in the chimney accumulate here. The flooring needs to be kept in good shape to make sure the fire can be turned on. Note any problems with the brick surrounding it. The bricks used in a fireplace are more heat tolerant than ordinary bricks. They need to be maintained to prevent a fire in the fireplace from spreading to other areas of the home. If a single brick is out of place, this can make the rest of the chimney far less functional.

Have a Look Up

After having a good look at the area surrounding the fireplace, it's a good idea to have a look at the rest of the chimney. Put on some old clothes and get in the area surrounding the fireplace. Have a look at the chimney area. You should see if there's any obstruction or any other issues. Small birds and rodents often find themselves stuck or you could have a thick layer of creosote and soot sticking to the flue and masonry inside the chimney. When this gets too thick, all it takes is a spark and you have a chimney fire on your hands.

According to the National Fire Prevention Association, 30 percent of home fires are caused by chimney fires. Be sure your home is not one of them. Have your chimney cleaned regularly. If you are having problems with smoke damage in your home, call SERVPRO of The East End At SERVPRO of The East End to make it 'Like it never even happened.'

About Commercial Water Damage

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage can occur at any time affecting the structure, contents and daily operations of a business.

Water damages can occur at any time in commercial buildings affecting the structure, content and daily operations of a business at any time. Commercial buildings vary from a free standing individual business, a one-story strip center, to a multi-level building that contains many suites and many different businesses.

There are many different components in a commercial building that can contribute to a water damage.  A few of these are:

• Plumbing
• Heating, Air Conditioning & Ventilation Systems (Usually Rooftop)
• Ice Makers
• Roof
• Windows

If you are in a multi-level building your business could experience a water damage from water that originates from a unit on another floor, on the same floor, on the roof, or in other areas of the building.

It is important to understand the terms of your lease agreement and to know what you are responsible for repairing if your business were to experience a water damage. Review your insurance policy with your agent, making sure you understand the terms and conditions of your policy, as well as knowing your deductible. Keep your insurance company contact information readily available outside of your business just in case your building has a damage that does not allow you to re-enter the building.

If you do experience Commercial water damage in your business, call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 to quickly remediate the damage to 'Like it never even happened'. 

Space Heaters Need Their Space

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Use safety precautions when using portable space heaters

During the cold winter months, many of us have the mind set that keeping our home or office temperature lower while adding space heaters will save money. Whether that makes sense depends on several variables. One thing that does not vary though, is that space heaters, when not used properly, can be dangerous.

Space heaters should be kept at a minimum distance of three feet away, but are often used near beds or under desks and are altogether too close to fabrics, papers or other flammable materials. Not considering this hazard can lead to unexpected fires that spread quickly. 

Keeping the following safety measures in mind can avoid potential tragedies:

Safety First

No matter what type or brand of space heater you opt to use, following these safety tips from the NFPA will reduce the chances of fire and injury:

• Keep anything that can burn, including bedding, furniture, and curtains at least 3 feet away from a space heater.
• Have a three-foot "kid-free zone" around space heaters and never use a space heater in a child's bedroom.
• Run power cords on top of carpet and step over them to avoid abrading the cord. Do not use extension cords.
• Turn off space heaters when going to bed or leaving a room.
• Don't use a space heater in a damp or wet area unless it's specifically made for that purpose.
• Turn space heaters off before leaving the room or going to bed.
• Never put a space heater on a countertop unless it's specifically designed for it.
• Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and test monthly.
• Only purchase "UL Listed" heaters which display the UL mark on their label. This is an independent organization which tests for safety.
• Don't use gas- or oil-burning space heaters indoors, only outdoors or in spaces open to the outdoors like tents or porches.
• Read and follow all manufacturer's directions for your space heater.

We are always here to help. In the event you do need fire damage restoration, we are there 'Faster to any size disaster' to make it 'Like it never even happened.'

Different Causes of Water Damage in Commercial Business

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

When business owners think in terms of potential water damage, they often picture a major storm wiping out power lines, flooding their offices, and shutting down their businesses for days at a time. Commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water stemming from major weather events and storms. 
 
However, many entrepreneurs and business space renters forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings. 
 
1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems 
Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment 
This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency. 
 
3. Broken pipes and plumbing 
Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails, water damage may be the result. 
 
4. Backed up sewer lines 
This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings. 
 
If your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of The East End will get you back up and running again. Call us anytime 24/7 at 631-653-9595 for fast help.

What is An Ice Dam?

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

Anatomy of an Ice Dam

An ice dam is an ice build-up on the eaves of the sloped roofs of heated buildings resulting from melting snow under a pack of snow reaching the eave and freezing. Freezing at the eave impedes the water from draining, which adds to the ice dam, causing backup of the melted water. This may result in water leaking into the roof, and subsequent damage to the building and its contents.

Ice dams are common to our area, especially during the aftermath of winter storms. The flatter the pitch of the roof, the easier it is for an ice dam to form. Gutters at the eaves may also trap snow and ice. If snow and ice build high enough up in the gutter, it can provide a foundation for an ice dam. 

What Kind of Damage Do Ice Dams Cause? 

When an ice dam gets large enough, melted water backs up behind it and seeps underneath the shingles. Eventually, it drips into the insulation and down in through the ceilings and exterior walls beneath the eave, destroying sheet rock, walls and paint. If the ice dam breaks free, it can pull shingles and gutters off with it, and it will damage anything it falls on: shrubs, windowsills, cars, pets, and people. If the roof sheathing stays wet, it can form mildew and start to rot, causing a multitude of other health related problems for home owners and business owners. 

At SERVPRO of The East End, we can't prevent ice dams from happening. But we can help you remediate the damage they cause, preventing other problems from arising. The sooner you call us to get the job done, the quicker we can begin work to fix it "Like it never even happened." Don't hesitate to call our team of professionals at 631-653-9595. We are available 24/7 365 days a week to be 'Faster to any size disaster'. 

Why Clean Air Ducts?

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

The Difference between Dirty & Clean Air Ducts is Often the Difference Between an Unhealthy & a Healthy Environment.

Because they get dirty!

In addition to normal accumulations of dust and dirt found in all homes and businesses with air ducts, there are several other factors that can increase the need for regular HVAC system cleaning:

-pets
-occupants with allergies or asthma
-cigarette or cigar smoke
-water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system
-home renovation or remodeling projects

Some occupants are more sensitive to these contaminants than others. Allergy and asthma sufferers, as well as young children and the elderly tend to be more susceptible to the types of poor indoor air quality that air duct cleaning can help address.

Indoor air quality is a concern that homeowners have when they investigate air duct cleaning. Your heating and cooling systems are the lungs of your home and business. These systems take air in and breathe the air out.

Through normal occupation of a home or business, we generate a great deal of contaminants and air pollutants, such as dander, dust, and chemicals. These contaminants are pulled into the HVAC system and re-circulated 5 to 7 times per day, on average. Over time, this re-circulation causes a build-up of contaminants in all of the duct work. 

While dirty ducts don’t necessarily mean unhealthy air in your home, school or workplace, they often contribute to larger health issues or harboring contaminants that could cause serious problems for people with respiratory health conditions, autoimmune disorders or some environmental allergies. Such contaminants may also lead to mold damage. 

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25 to 40 percent of the energy used for heating or cooling a home or business is wasted. Contaminants in the heating and cooling system cause it to work harder and shorten the life of your system, which may ultimately increase your operating costs. Although filters are used, the heating and cooling systems still get dirty through normal use.

When an HVAC system is clean, it doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain the temperature you desire. As a result, less energy is used, leading to improved cost-effectiveness. As well, cleaner systems lead to healthier air intake for all of a property's inhabitants. 

Four Ways To Remediate Your Property After Fire Damage

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

Fire may cause more damage than meets the eye.

When something drastic happens in our homes or businesses, such as a fire, we aren’t always thinking of the next steps involved to repairing the damage done. This is when SERVPRO of The East End is often called in to make sure that the fire remediation process is executed as efficiently as possible and the property is brought back to its original state. 

Fire remediation is the process of cleaning up the debris and damage caused after a fire occurs. According to enlightenme.com, there are four main steps that a restoration company can take to remediate the fire damage on your property.

1.     Drying the home

Water damage is one of the biggest concerns following a fire. As the water sits, it collects bacteria, contaminants and becomes the perfect place for mold to grow. SERVPRO of The East End has the proper equipment to dry out the area. We have dehumidifiers, large fans and other machines that quickly circulate the air, filter it out and thoroughly clean your home or business. 

2.     Cleaning the HVAC system

If an HVAC system is present on your property, it is a strong possibility that the filters or coils in the equipment will get clogged from the soot and debris caused by the fire damage. Depending on the severity of the damage, we may have to replace the filters or perform extensive repairs.

3.     Rebuilding the damaged structure           

The structure of a property is very important to keeping your family and employees safe. If the structure is damaged, it may need to be rebuilt, restored or replaced. We can assist in the steps involved to making sure your property's structure is safely restored or rebuilt.

4.     Removing the last of the debris

Any contents that are unable to be salvaged will need to be removed to make sure that they don’t contaminate the rest of the home or workplace. Some contents may be difficult to restore back to their original state, but this is also something that SERVPRO of The East End is able to assist with. We make sure that everything is cleaned properly before putting it back into the home or workplace to ensure that there is not debris contaminating other belongings on the property. 

When fire strikes, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End to restore your property to 'Like it never even happened.' Our team of IICRC trained and certified professionals are available 24/7 365 days a week to be 'Faster to any size disaster'. We can be reached by calling 631-653-9595.

Source - http://enlightenme.com/fire-damage-remediation/ 

Top Causes for Water Damage

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

Water damages may occur through any number of hidden sources in the home.

Water damage describes a large number of possible losses caused by water intruding where it will enable attack of a material or system by destructive processes such as rotting wood, growth, rusting metal, de-laminating of materials such as plywood, among others.

The damage may be imperceptibly slow and minor such as water spots, that may eventually mar a surface, or it may be instantaneous and catastrophic such as flooding. However fast it occurs, water damage is a major contributor to property loss.

Causes

Water damage can originate through different sources such as a broken dishwasher hose, a washing machine overflow, a leaky dishwasher, broken, frozen or leaking pipes, flood waters, overflowing bathtubs and clogged toilets.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 13.7% of all water used in the home today can be attributed to plumbing leaks.On the average that is approximately 10,000 gallons of water per year wasted by leaks for each US home. A tiny, 1/8-inch crack in a pipe can release up to 250 gallons of water a day.

According to Claims Magazine (August 2000), broken water pipes ranked second to hurricanes in terms of both the number of homes damaged and the amount of claims filed. Experts suggest that homeowners inspect and replace worn pipe fittings and hose connections (to all household appliances that use water) at least once a year. This includes washing machines, dishwashers, kitchen sinks and bathroom lavatories, refrigerator ice makers, water softeners and humidifiers. 

In the event that you do suffer from water damages, SERVPRO of The East End can be there 'Faster to any size disaster' to remediate the damage to 'Like it never even happened'. Contact us at 631-653-9595 to discuss your needs. 

source: wikipedia

What You Need To Know About Mold

2/8/2018 (Permalink)

Mold poses a serious health threat to anyone living with it. For proper mold remediation, call SERVPRO of The East End.

Water damage in your home or office? You could be at risk for mold growth. This subject is actually more complex and serious than you may think. So let us break it down for you.

In 2015, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a NYS Senate Bill S3667D-2013 which added Article 32 to the Labor Law. This article established the licensing of mold inspection, assessment, and remediation specialists and minimum work standards. 

Now that this law is in effect, mold remediation specialists are required to have more certification than they have ever needed before. For homeowners and business owners, what this means is that any contractor you hire to perform mold remediation and abatement services must be certified. 

When should you hire a mold remediation company?

• New York State has set fourth a guideline that whenever 10 sq ft or more of mold is found you should consult a mold remediation specialist.

Need more tips?

• Request proof of pollution insurance
• Request proof of workers compensation and liability insurance
• Request employee and company certification.
• Obtain a written contract for all work to be done and costs to be incurred.

Or you could just call SERVPRO of The East End. All of our employees are IICRC certified mold remediators and we stary current on all certifications and requirements set forth by New York State . Our team continues to advance in mold remediation techniques as the industry advances each year. 

Mold is a serious threat to home and office owners, so having professionals who know how to handle the job correctly is crucial to the health and well being of your family and employees. We have been living and working in the community we serve for over 40 years. We care about the welfare of our neighbors and friends, as well as the businesses we patronize. Call us at 631-653-9595 to learn more. 

Does Your East End Property Have a Mold Problem?

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Mold can spread through a home or business in as little as 48 hours.

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 or business 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, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 631-653-9595

Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of The East End for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of The East End specializes in mold cleanup and restoration. In fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 631-653-9595

Conditions on The East End of Long Island Might Be Right For Mold

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End knows what to do if mold grows in your home or business.

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home or business, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of The East End to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at 631-653-9595

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of The East End for mold remediation services.

We are an IICRC Certified Firm

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End is an IICRC Certified Firm

SERVPRO of The East End is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must:

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of The East End

SERVPRO of The East End specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm.

We believe in continuous training: 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.

Certifications

• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician

SERVPRO of The East End is Faster to Your East End Water Damage Event

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service on the East End of Long Island, New York.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of The East End provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including All Holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home or business and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of The East End arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – at 631-653-9595

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of The East End:

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

Certifications

• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation

We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

This Amagansett basement flood was the result of a broken pipe. The water stood approximately two and a half feet when we arrived.

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level.

There are a number of reasons why basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call SERVPRO of The East End today at 631-653-9595

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of The East End and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week/365 day a year
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help SERVPRO of The East End - 631-653-9595

SERVPRO of The East End for Smoke and Soot Cleanup

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage training and expertise allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• 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.

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, SERVPRO of The East End 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. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – 631-653-9595

Restoring your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events on East End commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

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.

About SERVPRO of The East End

SERVPRO of The East End specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water or fire 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, our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Certifications

• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation

What To Do When You Find Mold And Mildew

12/8/2016 (Permalink)

Both mold and mildew can signal that there are serious problems in the home regarding excess moisture, and if they aren’t eliminated right away, the contamination may spread. Fungal contamination is a common problem in humid areas, but it can emerge in any building where there are moisture infiltration issues or plumbing concerns. If the problem is caught very early, it may be possible to remove the contamination before it spreads, but in most cases, a home or business owner will need to bring in professionals to properly deal with the contamination.

What should a home or business owner do when they spot mold and mildew?

Professionals should always be contacted if the mold or mildew contamination covers at least 10 square feet of material. At this point, it is usually impossible to contain the fungi without professional intervention. However, even if the contamination only covers a small area, it is still wise to contact a professional if it’s a difficult to reach area, if the fungi has been introduced by plumbing or moisture infiltration problems, or if the home or business owner isn’t confident in dealing with the problem. The longer it takes to remove the contamination, the further it will spread and the more expensive the problem will become.

There are, though, some things that a homeowner can do to minimize the damage the contamination causes. Here are a few ways to mitigate the threat of mold and mildew:

• Consider removing any porous materials that have been contaminated or are near the contaminated area. Porous materials accelerate the spread of fungi and they may not be salvageable once affected. By removing them, a homeowner can slow the progression of the fungi and protect more of the home. It’s important, though, to wear safety gear when doing this and to do it slowly, as agitating the fungi can cause it to disperse in the air.
• Keep the contaminated area as dry as possible, and if there is a significant plumbing leak, consider  cutting off water flow into the home. Moisture causes fungi growth to explode, so drying everything out can help isolate the contamination.
• Do not paint over the contaminated material. It may be tempting to paint or apply finish to the affected area, but this is only a temporary fix, and not an effective one at that. The fungi will prevent the paint or finish from properly adhering, and professionals will need to remove it to properly deal with contamination anyway.

Professionals address fungal contamination by discovering the root cause of the problem, addressing it if possible, and  treating the affected area using commercial grade products and processes. Certified firms know how to seal off the area from the rest of the building to ensure the contamination does not spread. They will also salvage as much as possible, and safely dispose of anything that cannot be restored. This is the kind of comprehensive approach that will protect the home and family from further harm

Article written by: IICRC

Deciding Whether or Not To Have Your Air Ducts Cleaned

12/8/2016 (Permalink)

Knowledge about the potential benefits and possible problems of air duct cleaning is limited. Since conditions in every home are different, it is impossible to generalize about whether or not air duct cleaning in your home would be beneficial.

If no one in your household suffers from allergies or unexplained symptoms or illnesses and if, after a visual inspection of the inside of the ducts, you see no indication that your air ducts are contaminated with large deposits of dust or mold (no musty odor or visible mold growth), having your air ducts cleaned is probably unnecessary. It is normal for the return registers to get dusty as dust-laden air is pulled through the grate. This does not indicate that your air ducts are contaminated with heavy deposits of dust or debris; the registers can be easily vacuumed or removed and cleaned.

On the other hand, if family members are experiencing unusual or unexplained symptoms or illnesses that you think might be related to your home environment, you should discuss the situation with your doctor. EPA has published the following publications for guidance on identifying possible indoor air quality problems and ways to prevent or fix them.

• Indoor Air Quality: An Introduction for Health Professionals
• The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality

You may consider having your air ducts cleaned simply because it seems logical that air ducts will get dirty over time and should occasionally be cleaned. While the debate about the value of periodic duct cleaning continues, no evidence suggests that such cleaning would be detrimental, provided that it is done properly.

On the other hand, if a service provider fails to follow proper duct cleaning procedures, duct cleaning can cause indoor air problems. For example, an inadequate vacuum collection system can release more dust, dirt and other contaminants than if you had left the ducts alone. A careless or inadequately trained service provider can damage your ducts or heating and cooling system, possibly increasing your heating and air conditioning costs or forcing you to undertake difficult and costly repairs or replacements.

You should consider having the air ducts in your home cleaned if:

• There is substantial visible mold growth inside hard surface (e.g., sheet metal) ducts or on other components of your heating and cooling system.
• Ducts are infested with vermin, e.g. (rodents or insects)
• Ducts are clogged with excessive amounts of dust and debris and/or particles are actually released into the home from your supply registers.

 Article written by: EPA.Gov

When Is A Water Restoration Technician Needed?

12/8/2016 (Permalink)

When Is A Water Restoration Technician Needed? 

By the time a homeowner needs to bring in a water damage restoration technician, they are likely facing an emergency. When excess moisture infiltrates a building, it doesn’t take long before it starts doing real damage. Just how much damage depends on the amount of water present, and where it is coming from. Contaminated fluid, for instance, is a major hazard and warrants an immediate response from a certified professional. And if moisture has begun pooling in areas, this will also require a professional’s expertise. But no matter what kind of emergency a homeowner is looking at, they should only consider a professional that has been certified through a reputable organization, like the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, or IICRC.

What kind of disasters can a water damage restoration technician help with?

In short, any instance where fluid has entered the home is something a certified professional can assist with, but in general, these professionals are called in when severe moisture damage is imminent. This includes disasters like floods, sewage backflows and burst plumbing. All are capable of inundating the home with hundreds of gallons of water in a matter of minutes, and by the time a homeowner can react, there may be several inches of water standing in the basement or lower floor.

This is when a water damage restoration technician can prove to be a valuable ally, as floods and sewage backflows produce extremely hazardous conditions in the building. Untrained people should never handle contaminated fluid, as it can contain a spectrum of pathogens, chemicals and toxins. Chemicals such as fertilizers, oil and pesticides are often found in floods, and both floods and sewage backflows can sweep in runoff and fungal colonies. Wildlife like snakes, spiders and venomous insects may huddle around piles of trash or furniture after being displaced in the home, and, finally, electrical and fire hazards are a real concern following a flood as well.

Even when uncontaminated fluid is present, such as from a busted plumbing valve, it only takes a day or two before it may become biologically hazardous as well.

What can a water damage restoration technician do once called in?

A certified crew has the technology and methods needed to quickly halt the damage and save any materials that can be salvaged. First, the crew will move through the building to recuse anything that can be saved, and pump out any standing fluid. The home is dried out over the next several days, using a combination of air movers and dehumidifiers, along with  air injectors for tough to reach areas like under floors. If contaminated fluid was present, the crew will clean out the home using special  processes that eliminate all pathogens.

Once a water damage restoration technician has completed their work in the home, it will be safe for the family to return and put their lives back together.

 Article written by: IICRC

What Is A Carpet Extractor & How Is It Used By Professionals?

12/8/2016 (Permalink)

One of the most popular pieces of equipment in restoration is the deep cleaning, versatile carpet extractor. This piece of equipment comes in a variety of designs, but the basic design involves a combination of heat, pressure, suction, and a cleaning solution. Attacking stains, odors from mold and mildew or pets, and soil is a tricky task. Vacuums, even the highest quality designs, can only lift dirt from the surface of the fibers. Whereas carpet extractors can remove the dirt or stain from the deepest areas of the carpeting, making them a vital tool.  

Both professionals and homeowners can use this equipment, although it is important to know the proper procedure and to use the correct equipment. The different product designs range from portable to truck-mounted and include:

• Canister cleaners – these are simple to use and avoid lengthy setup times. This product is usually heavy duty and includes a large tank which means more time cleaning and less time refilling.
• Interim cleaners – these are for small and hard to reach areas. These cleaners are smaller than canisters, which means more time will be spent refilling the tank. However, the tanks are typically small enough to refill under a sink faucet.
• Portable cleaners – these machines are useful for spot cleaning. They can be great for using on small jobs and can be used on rugs, upholstery, and in cars.
• Dual cleaners – these are one of the larger cleaners available, but they often get the job done in one pass. This product uses technology such as dual rotating rollers to clean more deeply into the fibers. The size is effective for covering large areas quickly
• Rapid drying carpet extractors – these machines do just what they say. They provide a thorough cleaning while avoiding saturation, so the carpeting will need less time to dry.  

There are more designs on the market that can be used to fit almost any need. Professionals can achieve the most effective results because in conjunction with a powerful carpet extractor, they also have access to the most powerful detergents. Unfortunately, some of the chemicals required for tough stains and odors are not available for homeowners to use. Professionals also use truck-mounted machines to provide the most effective cleaning service. They provide a deeper clean without the time-consuming task of refilling the tank. They also provide superior suction, and the water can be heated to the perfect temperature for the best results. Professional grade equipment can also mean less drying time, enabling home or business owners to get back to their routine as quickly as possible.  

While some choose to tackle this task on their own, home or business owners considering having their carpet cleaned should hire a certified professional for the best results.

Article written by: IICRC

What Is The Restoration Process For Fire Damage?

12/8/2016 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be extremely devastating to a home or business. Emergency responders will be quick to act in order to put out the fire, but possibly leaving behind significant water damage. The initial destruction that is done only becomes magnified by lingering smoke and soot. The traumatic experience can leave business owners and families desperate for help. Certified restoration professionals can help restore a house or office building back to its original condition.

An assessment of the fire damage should be conducted as soon as possible. The process of restoration is very involved and requires time and diligence. The assessment will determine what type of harm occurred and how to proceed with the restoration process. In the procedure of extinguishing the fire, emergency responders will use either water or dry chemicals, which compound the initial destruction caused by the fire. The lingering soot and smoke needs to be attended to because both can cause quick deterioration and corrosion of the building. Additionally, smoke also leaves behind a pervasive odor that is noxious and can be dangerous to breathe in. Removal of smoke odor is a multiphase process that begins during the initial clean up. It is imperative to begin the restoration process within the first few hours to stabilize and preserve as much as possible. The following steps should be conducted by an experienced professional who has knowledge about fire damage.

Step 1. The initial clean up should occur as soon as possible. The harm caused by soot and water can lead to more severe problems down the road. It is important that these issues are addressed immediately. Professionals can assist home and business owners with inventory services. Everything affected that can be restored should be removed and thoroughly cleaned.

Step 2.  Any walls, roofs, or windows that were affected will need to be boarded up and tarped off. This is to prevent further damage and ensure a measure of security is in place.
 
Step 3. Water must be removed as soon as possible to avoid additional issues, including mold growth. Professionals will have high-quality water vacuums, dehumidifiers and air movers that can remove almost all of the water and speed up the drying process. The dehumidifiers help prevent floors and walls from warping.

Step 4. Cleaning and sanitizing all restorable items to prevent staining. Certified technicians have access to professional grade restoration products that prevent soot from staining various items.

One of the most difficult aspects about fire damage is the lingering effect of smoke odor. This type of odor is difficult to remove because it can affect every aspect of a building, including wood frames and HVAC systems. One of the techniques that is used by professionals to remove the odor is called thermal fogging. Thermal fogging is highly effective because it mimics the size of smoke particles. The particles produced by thermal fogging attach themselves onto the smoke particles. By doing so, the smoke particles are no longer recognized as an odorous element. Thermal fogging is a popular technique because it many times completely eliminates the problem. Professionals will use thermal fogging in conjunction with other equipment and processes to ensure that the odors are eliminated.

The final step in the restoration process is replacing and repairing anything that couldn’t be cleaned or restored to its previous condition. Drywall, paint, and carpets may have to be installed if the fire damage was severe. By understanding the restoration process following a fire, home and business owners can easily see the need for hiring certified professionals to handle the task effectively and expediently.

How a Water Restoration Technician Assists After Disaster

11/21/2016 (Permalink)

A water restoration technician has an extremely important job when a home is affected by excess moisture or fluid. Certified professionals in the industry can quickly reverse the extensive damage that a flood or sewage backflow can cause, and save as many items as possible in the process. And when dealing with contaminated fluids, especially when it has pooled in the home, only certified professionals should be allowed to manage the cleanup. Attempting to perform cleanup efforts without expert assistance can lead to injury or illness, both of which can be severe.

A certified water restoration technician will usually be on call around the clock, except for those times when an entire community has been affected by a major disaster. As soon as a professional is on site, they will assess the situation and determine what items need immediate rescuing. If fluid has pooled in areas around the home, then pumps will be used to remove it.

The home will be dried using a configuration of heavy duty air movers and dehumidifiers, and while it dries, the firm will move through the building and look for any evidence of mold or pathogen contamination. If pathogens or mold are present, they will be eliminated using special  procedures. This will ensure the home is safe to return to, and with concerted drying efforts, the building will as good as new once professionals have completed their work.

6 Steps To Follow After A Fire Damage

11/21/2016 (Permalink)

Safety is a primary concern when dealing with fire damage. Returning to normal may seem impossible, but thankfully it isn’t. After calling the fire department, home and business owners should be aware that the building may be dangerous. Entering the building should be avoided since the environment could be toxic. No one should enter the house or office until the emergency responders approve that it is safe. Roofs and floors could be unsafe and could possibly cave in without notice. Smoke, soot and water are problems that need to be dealt with as soon as possible. Home and business owners should take the following steps following a fire:

• Contact local disaster relief. In some cases, relatives will open their home for their families or friends in an emergency. If that is not an option, local services can help families find shelter, food and medication
• Contact the insurance company. The insurance company can help home and business owners understand what they must do in order to file a claim and receive compensation.
• Utilities should not be turned on if the emergency responders have shut them off.  They could be extremely hazardous and should only be used if a professional says it is safe.
• Call the landlord or mortgage company and inform them about the situation
• Call the police and inform them that the office or home will be vacant until the building is restored.
• Receipts should be saved to provide information to the insurance company and to claim losses on income tax forms.

Fire damage can be severe, but restoration is possible. It is important to proceed with caution to prevent any further damage. With experienced restoration professionals and some time, a house or office can often be restored to its original condition.

Article written by: IICRC

What To Do If You Find Water In The Basement

11/21/2016 (Permalink)

This flooded basement was caused to do a pipe that had burst while the home owners were at work.

One of the worst nightmares for any homeowner is finding water in the basement, and in most cases, the only way to deal with such a situation is to bring in a professional. Excess water, especially when it is contaminated, has the potential to cause a great deal of damage, and if the problem is not dealt with properly, the situation can quickly get out of hand. This is especially true when water is pooling in the home and coming in contact with organic materials like drywall or fabric.

Water in the basement can be caused by a lot of factors. The room may sit under the water table, which will slowly push water into the home. A disaster like a flood can quickly fill the room with fluid, as well as a burst pipe or other plumbing mishap. No matter what causes the water to build up in the home, it will take a certified team to remove it and restore the basement effectively.

There are a couple steps, though, that a homeowner can take to minimize damage and make the home safe to navigate through. If a pipe burst or is leaking, then cutting off the supply line into the home can halt the problem. Also, switching off the home’s power may be necessary, as an electrical discharge can make walking through water exceedingly dangerous and cause a fire.

Safety is the primary concern when contending with excess moisture, and a certified crew will be able to get the home restored in while avoiding any dangerous situations.

Article written by: IICRC