SERVPRO Mitigates and Dries Water Damaging Events to Commercial and Industrial Sites in the Greater Wayne Area. Call about Our ERP Plan!
By manipulating drying elements, we can find the blend of conditions that creates the most efficient drying and recovery for your business.
We provide fast and reliable responses to water losses in Wayne businesses like your cafe. It would help to designate the right professional restoration team to recover the loss quickly. Situations can develop, from a plumbing breach to an overflowing sink in the prep areas or bathrooms. With a 24/7 response to emergencies and pre-stocked trailers full of water restoration tools and equipment, our SERVPRO team can help.
There is a finite amount of time to address water damage in your Wayne cafe before the losses become so widespread and problematic that your doors have to close temporarily. Our objective with our fast response is to set up containment barriers to designate a specific drying zone to more directly manipulate elements of moisture removal and evaporation.
What Factors Are Involved in Efficient Drying Processes?
With the training that our water restoration technicians (WRT) and structural drying (ASD) professionals undergo through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), we have extensive knowledge of the theory of water drying. The science behind manipulating various factors to achieve a more efficient drying objective changes rapidly in every situation. This change means that the balance in this containment area of your business needs to get continually monitored for effectiveness. The three primary areas that affect the drying process are:
Humidity
Temperature
Air Flow
How Can SERVPRO Professionals Regulate Humidity?
Reducing the humidity in the cafe helps in more than just improving the pace of drying in the established zone. A lower moisture content level prevents the warping and distortion of furniture like stools, prevents bloating of fiberboard cabinetry or countertops, and reduces the likelihood of microbial threats. Regulating the moisture content in the drying zone established by our responding technicians involves using several sophisticated tools and equipment:
Desiccant Dehumidifiers
Low-Grain Refrigerant (LGR) Dehumidifiers
Evaporative Drying with Air Movers
Can Varying Temperatures Impact the Drying of Water Damage?
As you might suspect, higher temperatures can help to make evaporation more efficient in the drying areas. Since the point of containment is to allow you to continue functioning in a limited capacity while restoration gets underway, you cannot increase the comfortable operating temperatures of your cafe to suit this need. Instead, our technicians rely on portable electric heaters and other devices to manipulate the surface temperature of target materials and contents in the drying zone.
This drying and noise can happen after closing your doors for the day to limit stress on your patrons. At the same time, specific mitigation steps might be necessary, like extracting standing water to protect the structure and prevent further complications; much of the restoration work your cafe needs can happen after hours.
How Can We Manipulate Airflow to Dry the Café Faster?
Air movement is an essential mechanic for drying up saturated elements, reducing moisture content, and addressing other concerns that could result from water exposure in your business. Even with the efficiency and direct airflow that air movers can provide, they are often a louder addition to the restoration process. Much of the tools to promote drying from surfaces get used when we are not disturbing your customers or business. Some of the popular choices for effectively providing evaporation include:
Air Movers - High-velocity fans in our inventory can isolate specific damaged materials and hit them with a direct and consistent blast of heated air.
Positive Pressure Systems - By making small drill holes behind the baseboard in the damaged room, we can insert hoses to push dry air into structural cavities to prevent unnecessary tear-out.
Containment - Containment is one of the fundamental factors of this drying science, as a smaller work area can help target wet materials and contents more directly.
When Can I Get My Doors Back Open After a Loss?
While our technicians work hard to prevent your cafe's temporary closures, these situations are sometimes unavoidable when the migration of water losses has affected a substantial area. We can work quickly to extract, dry, and restore your business to limit the time that you remain closed to your customer base.
Unexpected water loss incidents can be a threatening presence to your business, but our SERVPRO of Wayne professionals can help. You can call us today at (973) 546-4977 to begin the restoration of the damage to your shop or to set up an Emergency READY Profile Plan (ERP) to be more prepared for disasters in the future.
What Can I Expect from Full-Service Fire Restoration in My Pompton Lakes Home?
After a Pompton Lakes fire, homeowners love to see our SERVPRO Green Fleet on the Scene for Cleanup and Restoration
Keeping Property Owners Informed Every Step of the Way Is Crucial to How SERVPRO Completes Fire Restoration in Pompton Lakes
The property damage from a household fire in Pompton Lakes needs professional attention even if the blaze was extinguished quickly, and the harm seems minimal to your eyes. Fire damage residues move throughout your home and cause long-lasting damage and persistent deterioration if not removed fast. Restoration tasks can involve many different skilled disciplines, requiring the workers to have specific training and appropriate gear and equipment. The broad outlines of what fire damage restoration specialists manage are outlined below.
Why Is There So Much Water and What Should Be Done with It?
Although you used a chemical extinguisher to bring the flames under control, when the firefighters arrived, vast quantities of water joined the foam. Fire damage restoration in Pompton Lakes necessarily starts with water and extinguisher chemical containment and removal. Until the wet floors and collected pools of water exit the scene, other fire restoration measures cannot commence. The primary reason to bump water damage to the top of the work agenda is safety. Excess water can create many risks, including the following, which must be contained for the good of all you and your family and our workers:
Slip, trip, and fall hazards, including charred debris impossible to see beneath contaminated waters
Electric shock or electrocution
Illness or injury from contaminated water
Structural weakness and imminent collapse from water trapped over ceilings and in other building cavities
Weakening of wood and metal framing and other structural supports such as subfloors, stairs, and door and window frames
Disruption of hazardous building materials previously contained, such as asbestos and lead (usually on painted surfaces)
Mold growth and damage
Can We Skip Drying to Clean Up the Smoke Residues?
The answer is negative because the damage unresolved moisture does is equal to fire damage, including the risk of mold growth if drying delays more than 24 to 48 hours. The SERVPRO team is creative, however, using the water damage phase, including drying time to evaluate soot residues and do preliminary testing to ensure the cleaning products and tools. Methodology removes tough soot coatings efficiently and safely. We can also use containment with 1.6 mil polyethylene and air scrubbers to create smaller drying sections of the house's wet areas as we remove solid particulates from the air. Our crew sizes are scalable, allowing the project manager to assign technicians with certifications in different disciplines to different phases, steps, and tasks of the overall project. Drying in water-damaged spaces happens while soot removal proceeds in rooms of the house affected by soot drift but not water and its harm.
How Is Soot Residue Removal, Unlike Typical House Cleaning?
The compounds created when building materials heat and burn can be incredibly toxic and corrosive to the surfaces affected. Smoke can linger airborne for hours to days, impairing the air quality while workers try to remove residues and begin to address persistent odors. Our crews frequently must don extensive personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators, masks, boots, gloves, suits, face shields, and more, to work safely in affected areas. Conventional cleaning products are inadequate to remove tightly adhered soot, particularly protein-based residues from kitchen fires. We review our IICRC strategies to match different types of soot and surfaces with cleaning products, tools, and methods. This ensures the cleaning is effective but does not damage the underlying surface.
What Is That Smell? How Are Odors Managed During Fire Damage Restoration?
One of the discouraging issues experienced as fire restoration draws to a close can be lingering odors from the smoke and soot. If deep cleaning and debris disposal do not eliminate all of the malodors, we have innovative equipment and protocols that can get rid of fire damage smells for good:
Thermal fogging -- heated deodorants disperse, recreating the fire conditions, pairing with odiferous particles to neutralize them.
Ozone machines -- oxidation eliminates odors while occupants and pets evacuate for a short time.
Hydroxyl generators -- created by UV light, hydroxyl radicals break down the molecular structure of odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Sealants prevent odors from being deeply absorbed into structural components from vaporizing.
Hire SERVPRO of Wayne with complete confidence for fire restoration. We are trained, experienced, and well-equipped, available today, tomorrow, and into the future for your concerns and questions at (973) 546-4977.
We aim to restore your property as quickly as possible, “Like it never even happened.”
What Makes Fire Restoration a Challenge?
Fire loss situations are a destructive presence in your home. Depending on several variables like the location of the fire and the kind of materials impacted by combustion, the needed restoration and recovery strategies must change.
What Factors Influence the Smoke Damage?
The type of smoke damage and various environmental factors can significantly change the needed fire restoration for Wayne homes. Some of the variables that can ultimately influence the ease and needed cleaning approaches for fire-damaged structural elements and contents include:
Temperature – While higher heat can produce thinner residual aftermath, these warmer temperatures during the blaze also open up pores in building materials more for more significant infiltration of smoke effects.
Obstructions – Physical obstructions and blockages in the house can slow the migration of smoke and soot damage. While a closed door will not stop smoke movement entirely, this obstruction can greatly slow turbulent air movement.
Environmental Factors – The conditions of the house itself are also factors in the needed restoration and cleaning. Impacted materials, humidity, and the home's layout all influence required repair.
Clearing Smoke Damage from Walls
When you determine the factors influencing the cleaning of the soot and smoke residues a fire can leave behind, it is time to start this recovery phase. We have several approaches that can often work together to achieve the complete restoration and salvaging of most building elements:
Cleaning the Surface – We choose several products to emulsify, dissolve, or trap soils.
Agitation and Mechanical Action – Mechanical actions like scrubbing can help activate the cleaning properties of chosen agents.
Tactics of Abrasive Cleaning – Abrasive cleaning involves putting media like dry ice or sodium bicarbonate under pressurized water or air to remove set-in soot stains.
Controlled Demolition – If surface cleaning or more abrasive methods are ineffective, the remaining choice is to remove damaged materials entirely.
You can count on our SERVPRO of Wayne team for fast and knowledgeable fire restoration. Give our FSRT-Certified technicians a call today at (973) 546-4977.
DIY Storm Water Damage in Wayne can Become a DIY--DON'T!
Stormwater damage can result lead to mold growth unless treated quickly. Call SERVPRO of Wayne to handle all of your water damage restoration needs.
Why Should Wayne Homeowners Outsource Storm Water Removal?
When storm damage happens to your home, fast water removal action saves your home and bank account from dealing with secondary issues that cost more money to resolve. A mistake many property owners have made is to assume because surfaces look dry, there is nothing more to do.
SERVPRO came to a homeowner's property with storm water removal needs in Wayne. The homeowner cleaned and dried what he assumed was all the floodwaters that entered his home; however, a foul odor remained. Situations like this are not unusual in self-cleanup from in-home floods.
Common indicators there are areas of moisture left behind that require addressing include:
Musty odors that continue to grow in prominence
Signs of mold growth
Warping or buckling hardwood flooring or sheetrock
Tiles coming loose (Delamination)
Our technicians use state-of-the-art moisture detection equipment to locate flood water anywhere it migrates in your home. Our technicians scope behind walls and under flooring to determine the water path. They also ensure we eliminate every bit of excess moisture through the removal of the baseboards or other structural components for maximum airflow.
Mold is a concern when there are high humidity conditions in a home. We use hygrometers to determine areas in the property where conditions are favorable for mold growth due to raised air moisture levels. Hygrometers enable us to set drying goals below a humidity level to inhibit mold growth. Once located, our drying equipment includes both air movers and commercial dehumidifiers that accomplish what consumer-sized fans cannot match.
Cases, where water has been allowed to stand for any length of time need odor control. Our technicians have access to numerous types of equipment to meet the property's needs. Light odor control methods may include time-release gel pellets or stout applications such as ultra-low-volume fogging for stubborn scents.
Storm water removal needs to happen as quickly as possible and have a thorough cleanup. SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 is available 24/7 to extract the water and leave your property "Like it never even happened."
The attic can be a common place to experience flood and water damage for area homes. Call SERVPRO for fast results.
Restoring Flood Damage in Attics Is Complex
The attic space is a necessary element of many homes for the structure's insulation, access to the roofing materials, and additional storage. When flooding impacts this housing area, it can quickly spread to the living space below without prompt and direct mitigative action. There are many causes of flood and water damage to the attic and roof of Wayne homes, including:
Fallen trees
Wind damage
Driving rain
Ice damming
Hail damage
Temporary Repairs of Damaged Roofs
Scoping an attic space for flood damage to Wayne properties involves carefully evaluating the roof. SERVPRO professionals must assess every element of a roof's construction for weakening or compromise. Our contractors must install patches to stop water flow temporarily to focus efforts on drying and cleaning the attic.
Complications of Confined Space
One of the complications of cleaning up flood-damaged attic space is the confined space. Sometimes this storage area above your living space is little more than a few feet in height, making introducing many cleaning and drying systems a challenge. We rely on portable tools like wet vacuums and strategically placed air movers to help with confined areas.
Salvageable Materials in the Attic
It can be beneficial to save the high volume of insulation in the attic when possible. Not all insulation is possible to preserve, but many fiberglass types can be dried and reinstalled where it was pulled. Our professionals can use larger insulation vacuums to potentially save it.
The attic can be a common place to experience flood and water damage for area homes. To understand how these situations can quickly get out of control and spread to the living space below, contact our SERVPRO of Wayne team immediately to help. We have effective mitigation and emergency services starting as soon as you call (973) 546-4977.
How Dishwashers in Wayne Cause Water Damage and How to Prevent It
SERVPRO will have you back to your daily routine in Wayne in no time from water damage!
Don't Let Your Home Appliances in Your Wayne Residents Stop You
2019 has been an atypical year for us so far. While most of our typical water damage problems involve leaks, pipe bursts, and floods that get out of hand, we have so far helped three local homeowners dealing with water damage from their dishwashers. While kitchen appliances can, like any object connected to a water line, spring leaks and possibly cause much larger spills, it is unusual to see the same problem happen multiple times. Here's a brief overview of what water damage from your dishwasher might mean and how you can prevent it in the future.
How Dishwashers Cause Damage
The severity of the water damage to your Wayne home depends on how the appliance malfunctioned. A tiny leak can cause substantial damage to your cabinets and floors over significant periods. You should be able to apply on-the-spot repairs with the help of a commercially available sealant product designed to resist and contain water.
Sometimes, however, much more substantial problems can arise with these appliances. Should a water line rupture or sustain an enormous crack, it might start to flood the area. These are the situations where most people call for a professional damage mitigation company like SERVPRO. Quickly drying up water prevents costly long-term water damage problems and keeps repair costs low. However, we also get called in when long-term leaks cause issues such as oxidation and mold growth that require an expert touch to resolve.
Preventing Future Problems
As we mentioned before, commercially available sealant products can help patch up many appliance-related issues without needing to call professionals. However, these are temporary fixes rather than long-term solutions. As your appliances age, they may malfunction and cause substantial home damage increases substantially. Any time you conduct maintenance or renovations on the appliance or anything surrounding it, you should check its water lines and connectors to look for signs of damage or leaks. Most models support aftermarket upgrades and replacements for these parts, allowing you to get more years of service out of your belongings without risking additional home damage.
When problems grow, and the situation seems overwhelming, SERVPRO of Wayne can help control the situation and set up restorative processes to reverse the damage in your home. Call us 24/7 at (973) 546-4977.
We Get You Back In Business After A Water Damage Disaster In West Milford
We have the state of the art equipment ready 24/7 to restore any damage big or small to your property.
Shave Time Off Water Removal at Your West Milford Salon
Water losses at your hair salon and spa in West Milford are disruptive to your stylists, estheticians, and, most importantly, your clients. With so many water sources, from shampooing bowls, manicure and pedicure bowls, soaking basins, sinks for cleaning and disinfecting, restrooms, and washers/dryers for those fluffy towels, it is surprising that water crises do not happen daily. If a plumbing break, an appliance malfunction, or a significant spill occurs, get professional water extraction help.
Overnight, your salon’s freshwater supply line burst, and at opening time, everyone was ankle-deep. To avoid canceling a whole day of appointments, request water removal from West Milford’s disaster recovery experts.
Our crew arrives with a fully-stocked service vehicle, ready with pumps and truck-mounted extractors. If your electricity is disconnected temporarily for safety, no delay in delivering our help is necessary. SERVPRO brings power generation options on every service call. Upon arrival, we make sure your primary water connection is shut off and consult with you about arranging repairs to the pipe through your landlord or if you own the building.
We then quickly assess the scenario and develop a plan. If any water damage on the premises is more profound than two inches, we start a gas-powered submersible pump in that area. We skim the surface with wanded extractors to pick up the remainder of the visible water.
Because most of your space is tiled, we hope little water migration occurred. SERVPRO does not depend on wishes, however, so we use a thermal imaging camera to seek any hidden water. We measure moisture levels in any porous structural components like baseboards to be confident when we begin drying procedures; we neither under nor overdry.
After we are sure all liquid water is gone, air movers and dehumidifiers complete the moisture reduction to normal levels. Throughout this phase, we monitor ambient and structural moisture levels periodically. If you called SERVPRO immediately, chances are excellent styling and pampering are back on the menu fast.
SERVPRO of Wayne is ready 24 hours a day to help mitigate and remediate water emergencies for our neighboring businesses. Call (973) 546-4977 anytime to schedule an assessment and project implementation.
We Have The Experience And Expertise Necessary To Restore Your Wayne Home After A Fire
A puff-back occurs when a furnace misfires and pushes smoke throughout the house. Our technicians are trained to detail clean your home.
How Does Soot Affect Your Wayne Home?
For as typical as the presence of soot might be after a Wayne housefire, there is still a great deal that homeowners do not know about this substance and how it can affect their properties. The better informed you can become about this threat, the more likely you will appreciate the training and industry-leading equipment available to our professionals. We know the risks of soot exposure and want our potential customers to understand it.
We know that our SERVPRO team might not always be the choice that residents make to overcome fire damage in Wayne homes. However, we still want to help people get their homes and businesses back to their original condition regardless. Part of what our team does with any recovery effort is to help educate our clients about the work happening and why specific steps are necessary to return your house to a pre-damaged state.
Soot might appear as a black residue on surfaces throughout your home. You should presumably be able to wipe clean with soap and water, but this is seldom the case. There are multiple fire damages that this residue can allow, and the first of these occurs when uninformed residents attempt to clean the substance using conventional approaches. Smearing and staining are typical of inadequate cleaning practices.
Because soot particulates are light and powdery in many cases, they can spread to surfaces like ceilings and attach themselves throughout the ducts of an HVAC system traveling from one affected room to another. Soot particles can often be difficult to see circulating in your home.
Our SERVPRO professionals also aim to educate our customers and neighbors on the acidity of soot residue. For surfaces that could become coated with the soot susceptible to these damaging conditions, like the metal of ductwork, pipes, and other metal materials throughout your house, corrosion can be a costly secondary effect of soot exposure.
No matter if you choose our qualified and trained SERVPRO of Wayne professionals or not, we are here to help you overcome fire effects however you need us. We have years of experience that works to restore properties or provide an expert-level second opinion. Give us a call anytime at (973) 546-4977.
Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Wayne (973) 546-4977 to help with fire restoration to your property.
SERVPRO Laundry Room Fire Cleanup Services
Kitchens are not the only area of a Wayne property vulnerable to fire. Ignition can happen anywhere and anytime, even in a home's laundry room. Electrical failures–one of the most likely causes of laundry room fires–can be exacerbated by the presence of dust, prolonged use of extension cables, and malfunctioning dryer parts.
SERVPRO fire restoration specialists return Wayne properties to a pre-fire condition 24 hours a day, even during holidays and weekends. Emergency responsiveness is necessary to preserve as much as possible after a home fire.
Restoring Fire Damaged Laundry Room with SERVPRO Tools and Techniques
SERVPRO fire cleanup strategies may include:
Drying any residual water damage from fire suppression with extractors, air movers, and dehumidifiers
Removing light soot from appliances and structural surfaces with dry cleaning sponges and EPA-registered detergents
Preserving clothing and other salvageable fibers with the help of compressed air, odor counteractants, and thermal fogging.
Demolishing unsalvageable flooring, baseboards, and damaged drywall to implement structural repairs
Using heavy-duty solutions and abrasion cleaning on charring and hard-to-remove soils where appropriate
Tile flooring is often salvageable after a fire, but grout may require repairs if not sealed thoroughly. Technicians can also establish negative air pressure with HEPA-filter air scrubbers to trap soot in contained areas. These particles are collected with commercial-grade vacuums that feature HEPA filters, which can catch particles as minute as 0.3 microns.
Ductwork also requires cleaning in many cases after a fire. Flex ducts used for dryer ventilation or HVAC typically need replacement. In contrast, duct board and sheet metal are more likely to be restorable with the help of ultra-low volume foggers, agitation tools, and OSHA-approved antimicrobials.
Property owners are encouraged to contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 for restoration that looks and feels "Like it never even happened."
Help! Why Does the Mold Keep Coming Back in My Bathroom?
Mold colonies are not always visible. Do you know how to locate hidden mold in you home? SERVPRO does!
SERVPRO Techs Can Tell You That the Mold Problem in Your West Milford Home Will Not Go Away On Its Own and Needs Remediation
Over-the-counter cleaners can give you the illusion of getting rid of visible mold colonies by bleaching the growths. This action gets rid of the unsightly visual appearance of the infestation. Still, it does nothing to stop the problem from returning, spreading, and causing damage to the home. Bringing in a professional remediation company that can address both the existing mold issue and determine the cause and repairs that need to occur is vital to halt the progression.
How is Professional Mold Remediation Different from DIY Methods?
When SERVPRO technicians handle mold remediation in West Milford properties, they bring various equipment to locate moisture behind walls, ceilings, and floors. The use of professional drying equipment eliminates the sustainable environment for the colonies. Other actions the techs take during the mitigation to protect the rest of the home include:
Containment
Identifying the source of the problem
Abatement of dried colonies
Common reasons for mold growth in a home usually stem from conditions causing elevated and constant humidity and temperatures over 70 degrees Fahrenheit. One of the most prevalent situations is a slow leak from a pipe or a structural issue allowing water from the outside to invade the home.
Poor ventilation in the attic is another prime location for mold growth. It is good to inspect your attic once a month and look for signs of water entering from outside, and if exhaust fans port moisture through the attic, make sure they are working correctly, so the moist air is leaving the space.
SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 is available 24/7 for mold remediation in local properties. The techs have the training and equipment to stop the spread and remove the conditions supporting the mold infestation.
Call SERVPRO of Wayne to mitigate your water damage issues at home.
Permanent Losses Can Occur as the Result of Untreated Water Damage. Contact SERVPRO to Mitigate Structural and Contents Loss at Your Wayne Property
Water loss occurs when home appliances malfunction, plumbing fails, or external forces like heavy rainfall lead to large quantities of moisture intruding into the home. Wayne residents may find the quickest solution to potential problems is to use professional restoration technicians. Drying and cleaning a property efficiently can reduce odor, microbial growth, and structural damage. Frequently, contents are restorable and decrease the need for you to source expensive replacements.
When Should I Seek Professional Help for Water Losses?
Once the amount of water damage in your Wayne property goes beyond a reasonable cleaning scope, it is time to bring in professional assistance. Unlike other kinds of property damages, water can get significantly worse in a short period. The timeframe for water losses is particularly sensitive because moisture can interact with and harm structure or contents. It can be overwhelming facing large-scale water loss. SERVPRO technicians are here to put a sound and efficient strategy in place for restoring your property from start to finish.
What Preparation Should I Do Before Restoring Water Damage?
- Set up a clear staging area were for tools and equipment. This staging area helps to make the workload more manageable and prevents you from cross-contaminating other rooms by traveling to and fro for equipment.
- Put in place safety protocols in the house, which is especially vital in loss sites dealing with contamination.
- Create solid engineering controls to avoid spreading water throughout the home. These controls may include establishing de-contamination areas or sealing affected areas of the home. Other engineering controls may consist of foot traffic avoidance in the affected area to prevent contamination from spreading on footwear or clothes
How Do I Stop Water Losses?
The most effective measure of preventing water loss is to extract it from your home as quickly as possible. Extracting water can become complicated if debris, specks of dust, or silts contaminate contents and structure. If large amounts of water are outside the home, for example, in groundwater flooding, then they're a risk of structural collapse from hydrostatic pressure. SERVPRO can control structural harm by pumping out two feet of water with regular cooling-off periods and inspections to ensure there is no loosening of mortar or jointing. We may need to sanitize water before pumping it out of the home to avoid contaminating waste waterways.
What Do I Need to do to Prevent Secondary Water Damage?
Controlling humidity is an essential aspect of any water restoration because it prevents the buildup of microbial bacteria, viruses, and fungi. But high humidity levels can also lead to water migration into unaffected areas of your home. One way to manage humidity is to use negative air pressure. Negative air pressure can be applied with the use of Air Filtration Devices (AFDs) with exhaust ducting set-up through a nearby window or doorway. In most situations, humidity control should be in use once it is safe to bring equipment into the affected area.
What Building Materials get Harmed by Contaminated Water Losses?
- Flooring. Hardwood flooring can frequently be restorable, although carpets, which quickly absorb contamination and water exposure, should be detached and removed from the affected area along with the carpet pads.
- Trim at the bottom of walls like baseboard as well as door and windows can become contaminated quickly but is relatively inexpensive to replace.
- Ceilings and walls may need to be removed after exposure to contamination levels category two and above. Removal can be complicated, requiring razor knives, drywall saws, rotary saws, or Kett saws
- Your heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems may become compromised in category two and three water emergencies. In these situations, it is necessary to dissembled for affected components to be containable or removable.
What Can I Salvage From a Water Emergency?
Most valuable contents are salvageable, provided water exposure is limited, and a cleaning or drying procedure is underway. SERVPRO technicians can use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) fitted vacuums to remove dry dust or debris from items. Once vacuuming is complete, we may also apply chemical agents to return your items to their pre-damaged condition. We can control the spread of micro-organisms by using disinfectants or appropriate biocides on materials. To avoid causing further harm, our technicians always pre-test chemical cleaning agents on contents to ensure that they do not respond negatively to the cleaning method.
Controlling water losses relies on timely intervention as well as expertise and equipment. To prevent water damage from becoming permanent, contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 today.
We Are The Fire Damage Restoration Team You Can Trust In Wayne
We are here for you 24/7 to offer our experience, expertise and equipment so you can get back to normal living in your home after a fire.
Professional Odor Control for Fire Damage in your Wayne Property
Using a professional restorer is valuable to homeowners because of their ability to neutralize odors rather than just masking them with household air fresheners. Minor property fires can still cause extensive odor issues. This problem is due to smoke traveling beyond the containment area, entering ventilation systems, and depositing residues throughout the home. We train our technicians to trace smoke from the source and apply advanced odor control techniques to restore your home.
Odor control services are essential for homeowners that have fire damage in Wayne. Even a tiny property fire can be a traumatic event, and the smells left behind are an unpleasant reminder. SERVPRO technicians understand how smoke migrates through a property which allows us to find and remediate the source. By tackling the problem at the source, we can be confident that odors do not return once the service is complete.
As a general rule of thumb, odor mitigation is most effective when the deodorant is dispersed in a similar way to the odor. For fires, the distribution of odors comes from two sources. The first is through smoke, which can travel on air currents leaving smelly deposits wherever it comes into contact with surfaces. The second is by soots dropping down and being absorbed by fabrics, an issue that can be exacerbated by moisture used in firefighting efforts.
Furnishings and fabrics can often be expensive to replace. SERVPRO uses solvent-based deodorants that can be sprayed onto surfaces. These are more powerful air fresheners that cover the smell until the odor particles have dispersed enough to be no longer noticeable. We can combine this method with cleaning to ensure no soot and soiling is removed from surfaces.
Once smoke enters a ventilation shaft, cavity or crawlspace, it can quickly spread around the home. These are difficult issues to remediate since areas like this are hard to reach. SERVPRO can mobilize thermal foggers. These turn solvents into vapor which is then distributed throughout the home. The solvents we use in thermal foggers are chemical pairing agents. They bond with odor particles neutralizing them or causing them to sink to the floor where they can be cleaned away after fire damage.
Get rid of stubborn odors after property damage; contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977.
The first step to resolving fire damage is calling your local trained professionals at SERVPRO of Wayne.
Immediate Emergency Services Can Keep Wayne Offices Open During Fire Restoration
Emergency services play a significant role in restoring and recovering fire-damaged commercial properties. Our professionals respond fast with mitigative strategies to help when it matters most.
Barriers and Staging Area
The first step of fire restoration in Wayne offices to prevent the closure of the building is to establish a work zone. Erecting physical barriers around the damaged portions of your property prevents the spread of fire loss effects and stops cross-contamination. Similarly, a staging area also reduces cross-contamination by making needed tools accessible nearby.
Content Relocation and Management
It is also essential to find a suitable solution to protect the contents and essential documents of the office building from harm. It can be much easier to resume partial production and operation of your business when much of its furniture, electronics, and needed records have been preserved and protected by our responding technicians. We even have off-site solutions for content protection and restoration, including:
Cleaning
Deodorization
Drying
Safe Storage
Water Removal
While property owners are grateful for the extinguishing methods of first responders, the water damage left behind after the fire is quelled can often be as damaging as the fire itself. We must work quickly to extract standing water and pull out moisture from porous materials like glue-down carpeting and drywall.
Fire Debris Removal
Another possible method of preventing the closure of your business during fire restoration is a swift removal of fire debris from the grounds. This is one of the most problematic and threatening conditions for employees and customers, as debris often features carcinogenic particles that can be agitated and circulate in the environment. We must work fast to discard these solids safely.
With the right response by experienced professionals, it can be feasible to keep your doors open during the fire restoration phases to come. While every situation is different, our professionals work with property owners to help restore the structure as quickly as possible. You can trust our SERVPRO of Wayne team and call us today at (973) 546-4977.
Learn How to Deal with Water Damage Remediation in West Milford
Water damage in your basement can go unnoticed. Don't let the mess accumulate. Contact SERVPRO today for remediation assistance.
The Risk of Microbial Growth during Water Cleanup in West Milford Homes
A clean water spill in your property may seem like a relatively benign issue. However, large quantities of water that contact structure or contents can become contaminated rapidly. Microbes and microbial growth are present in all types of water. The longer water is present in the property, the greater the likelihood of the water itself becoming contaminated. In terms of your home and contents, more contamination results in the increasingly expensive replacement of materials. Contacting an experienced restoration handler can help control microbial growth, thereby limiting losses.
Timeframes are crucial for water cleanup duties in West Milford and the surrounding area. Microbes- including bacteria, fungi, and viruses- multiply in a typical home environment. Conditions for the growth of microbes are a food source, ideal temperatures, and moisture. Food sources are abundant in a home environment, including woods, insulation, dirt, and paper. With moisture from leaky plumbing or insecure roofing, a clean water emergency can quickly deteriorate into a grey or black water emergency.
Microbial issues get worse as time passes. The first duty for a SERVPRO water damage restoration technician (WRT) is to remove excess moisture through evaporation. We achieve this using extraction equipment for efficiency. Tenement buildings that have restricted access can be restored using portable extraction units. A larger surface area may benefit from more powerful truck-mounted extractors. Once excess moisture is vacuumed or pumped out, the remaining task for SERVPRO is to remove moisture using rapid air movers.
Rapid air movers establish air circulation at a surface level while heating elements to raise the surface temperatures and further encourage evaporation. A side-effect of this process is increasing humidity levels, leading to ideal conditions for microbial growth. A SERVPRO restorer can control relative humidity using dehumidification to combat this side-effect. Reducing relative humidity to below 60% can control microbial growth and prevent secondary damages, including mold infestations.
Properties with water issues are also at risk of bacteria, fungi, and virus growth. Contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 for professional restoration.
Let’s End the Flood Damage Effects Once and For All in Your West Milford Residence
SERVPRO offers board-up and roof tarping as part of our storm damage restoration services.
Tree Damage That Leads to Flooding in Your West Milford House
High force winds are a common element of the severe weather systems passing through the West Milford area. While these winds alone can be directly damaging to properties through removing shingles and siding, leaving homes exposed to flood effects. Winds can also uproot trees which can cause substantial structural damage. With limbs or entire trees that can gash openings in the side of a home or penetrate through the roof, flooding becomes a certainty if torrential rainfall is already happening.
It can be challenging to avoid flood damage in West Milford once a tree has penetrated the exterior of your home and provided a pathway for water to reach the inside of your property. Our SERVPRO professionals have a fast response to flooding emergencies, arriving with the full measure of our extraction and drying equipment to effectively mitigate the situation for our customers.
Among the first things that our team must address upon arrival are the tree and the direct damage it has caused. We have general contractors on the team who can remove this tree from the house, wherever it broke the exterior. We can then provide temporary construction solutions like board-ups and tarping to allow mitigation to start as soon as possible. The faster the extraction and drying process begins, the more protected your home is from these spreading effects like saturation.
Once our SERVPRO professionals have managed the damages inside your property, we can provide a complete reconstruction to the outside compromised structure. With this comprehensive approach to restoration encompassing both the water damage effects and the structural vulnerabilities, we can save our customers time and money on the recovery solutions their home requires.
Flooding can happen from multiple sources, and tree damages can provide a direct path for this water to penetrate your home. No matter when disaster strikes, you can count on our SERVPRO of Wayne flood restoration specialists to make it “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today at (973) 546-4977.
Professional Office Flood Damage Restoration in Wayne
Commercial water damage includes not only the cost of repairs, but also the potential for lost income and employees out of work for some time.
SERVPRO Helps Commercial Properties in Wayne with Flood Damage
Any company confronted with flooding brings stress and chaos, especially if it means closing down your Wayne office due to damage. Not only will you have to think of the cost of repairs, but you also have the potential for lost income and employees out of work for some time. This is why it is better to act fast and enlist the help of skilled water restoration technicians (WRT) at SERVPRO to restore your offices to full operation.
Once you call us for help with commercial flood damage in Wayne, we will mobilize our Green Fleet as soon as possible. The quicker we can get there to begin mitigation, the better chance we have of limiting your downtime and costs. In the meantime, the following measures will help you to ensure everything goes smoothly:
Safety First – In any water emergency, especially flooding, electrical wires, outlets, and devices pose a threat. If possible, shut down power to the area where the flooding is or the entire building. Always remain alert to your surroundings and never use appliances while standing on a damp surface.
Shut Off the Water Supply – If the flooding is internal from a pipe, turn off the water as soon as possible.
Salvage Whatever Possible, Within Reason – After the water gets turned off and the building seems secure, you can attempt salvaging anything not damaged yet. However, it is often better to let professionals navigate your building so that you are not tracking moisture or contaminants into unaffected areas of your office space.
Skilled restoration technicians should always handle stormwater removal or burst pipes. SERVPRO knows how to get in, assess the damage, begin water removal services and facilitate drying. We work to restore versus replace whenever possible, but the goal is always to make sure your office is “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Wayne is available 24/7 when you require emergency flood damage assistance. Contact us by dialing (973) 546-4977 or requesting help online!
How Can Homeowners Perform Water Damage Repair in Pompton Lakes?
SERVPRO water damage restoration specialists have the training and experience for every size disaster. We are ready 24/7 365 days a year.
They Can Hire SERVPRO to Handle Water Damage in Pompton Lakes
Water damage resulting from seeping water is progressive and may permanently damage valuable items. This is especially true if emergency response fails to arrive within the first 48 hours. If your home has water damage, you can trust SERVPRO to start the water mitigation process quickly.
Our team is available 24/7 to handle water damage in affected Pompton Lakes homes. Our staff is well-trained to restore homes to their former state. SERVPRO’s water damage repair process includes:
Water damage assessment
Water extraction
Cleaning and restoration of contents
Structural drying
Structural restoration
Water Damage Inspection
Our SERVPRO water damage restoration technicians can assess the affected areas to determine if it is possible to decontaminate and restore affected structures and contents or if we should remove and replace them. The decision to replace or repair depends on a material’s porosity, pretest results, and the nature of contamination.
Water Extraction
We often use portable extractors to remove water from floors in water-damaged homes. It is possible to take portable extractors into different areas of a building, including restricted areas. They have three main components: a vacuum system, a pump, and a heater.
Cleaning and Restoration of Contents
Water can ruin some essential belongings. We can salvage many of your belongings with our content cleaning technology, restoring them to as close a new as possible.
Structural Drying
Our SERVPRO technicians place air movers to deliver fast airflow to damp surfaces. To dry a home effectively, air movers and dehumidifiers must work together. The air that flows from air movers reflects off surfaces and walls, increasing evaporation and circulating air. As moisture evaporates from the building into the air, dehumidifiers remove it from the air. They offer a continual source of dry air to enhance the restoration process.
Structural Restoration
At this stage, our crew handles any necessary final repairs to the home to restore it to its original condition.
SERVPRO of Wayne offers efficient water restoration services. Call us any time at (973) 546-4977. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.
How to Perform Commercial Fire Damage Restoration in West Milford?
No matter the amount of fire damage in your restaurant kitchen, SERVPRO commercial damage restoration techs have you covered from start to finish.
Hire SERVPRO to Perform Commercial Fire Damage Repair in West Milford
Fires in commercial establishments usually happen because of human error like misuse of equipment, arson, unmaintained electrical systems, and improperly maintained appliances like furnaces, water heaters, and boilers. When a fire affects a business like a restaurant, it can be overwhelming to deal with the aftermath. The damage can increase even after putting out the fire because of toxic chemicals, water damage, and corrosion from soot.
External factors like vandalism can threaten additional loss when not managed promptly. To prevent expensive repairs, call SERVPRO to perform commercial fire damage restoration in your West Milford restaurant. The steps we can take to restore your restaurant to its preloss state include:
Evaluating fire and smoke damage
Recovering and restoring damaged contents
Stabilizing the property
Removing odors
Evaluating the Damage
Our SERVPRO fire and smoke damage restoration technicians (FSRT) can assess the damage and create a customized restoration plan specific to your needs.
Recovering and Restoring Damaged Contents
This involves identifying all the salvageable and unsalvageable contents. We sort and clean the salvageable contents and dispose of the unsalvageable ones.
Stabilizing the Property
Our SERVPRO team can establish security measures like boarding up openings and performing water mitigation. We can remove the water used to fight the fire using portable extractors.
Removing Odors
Fire odors can spread widely even with HVAC system shut down and automatic fire doors. We can use dry-ice blasters to eliminate soot and smoke residues and char from building surfaces. This equipment blasts microparticles or carbon dioxide pellets at supersonic speeds using compressed air. The particles or pellets then sublimate on impact, lifting contaminants off the surface.
Our SERVPRO technicians can also use a Vaportek unit to remove odors. A Vaportek system is a compound of natural oils sealed into a membrane. The ingredients of the compound volatilize into the air passing through the membrane. Air currents distribute the Vaportek molecules, which react with the odor molecules and neutralize them upon contact.
SERVPRO of Wayne can provide you with high-quality commercial fire damage repair services. Call us any time at (973) 546-4977.
Water damage restoration services by SERVPRO are top-notch. We use the latest equipment and technology for every disaster.
SERVPRO Offers Proper Water Removal Services in Wayne Residences
Recovering from water damage can be an arduous and lengthy experience for any homeowner. However, working with experienced water restoration professionals simplifies the recovery process. SERVPRO can help you fix the damage and get your residence to its former condition quickly and effectively.
Our team can use diagnostic tools to assess the damage and use advanced equipment to perform water removal in your Wayne home. Our specialists are trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). If there are hidden leaks, our restorers can find their source. Our water remediation process includes:
Assessing water damage.
Locating and repairing the source of the leak.
Water extraction.
Drying affected building materials and possessions.
Our SERVPRO team has diagnostic tools that help us locate moisture on various surfaces. For instance, we can use moisture sensors to detect moisture in carpeting and padding. Moisture sensors have sharp probes that penetrate through carpets and pads to determine if water has migrated into the subfloor underneath. When moisture is present, the sensor offers a visual signal through a blinking light and an audible beeps signal.
To remove water from flooring, we can use different extraction tools like light wands, deep extraction tools, extraction units, and submersible pumps. Our SERVPRO team considers the depth of water to be extracted, the distance within a structure, and power availability to determine whether to use extraction units or pumps.
When restoring a home, we also create a drying goal. This is the condition we want to bring in the affected areas of a structure. We monitor the drying process to determine if we are attaining it. The drying goal indicates the conditions that materials and contents should display after restoring them to their preloss dryness. Our drying goal includes:
Moisture readings for dry, unaffected structures and contents
Readings in points for non-wood materials.
Readings in percentage for wood materials.
SERVPRO uses air moving and dehumidifying equipment to dry affected structures and contents effectively.
SERVPRO of Wayne can help you to remove water and dry your home. Call us at (973) 546-4977. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.
How Do I Get this Water Leak in My Kitchen Cleaned Up?
SERVPRO teams protect kitchen appliances in Wayne during a water damage mitigation service
Many Wayne Homeowners Rely on SERVPRO for Water Extraction and Restoration
It's Who We Are
Most homeowners in Wayne are not forced to move out of their homes following a water leak. Our timely and effective service can mitigate water damage.
What to Do with This Water Leak
Water leaks in a kitchen area are common. These water drips leading to spillage do happen. However, if you do not deal with them in a timely fashion, there could be trouble. Mold and mildew often accumulate in areas that are damp. To ensure that the water leak in your Wayne kitchen does not cause this kind of damage, you can call SERVPRO.
What Kind of Tools Do We Use?
There are many devices that we use to remove the pooling water. The following is a comprehensive list:
Portable extractors: We use these to get rid of the pools. These are smaller tools that are in line with minor messes.
Drying mats: These increase suction, especially on hardwood floor planks, joints, and supporting floor joists.
Extraction wands: Extraction wands have strong suction power.
Truck-mounted pumps: We employ these to get out larger patches of water. Sometimes you need to really get out a sizable amount of water.
Dehumidifiers: These are used after the clean-up to prevent water from pooling again.
Can Your SERVPRO Team Minimize the Damage to Your Contents?
We strive to clean up and restore, not replace, building elements, fixtures, and personal belongings whenever possible. We understand that water damage can take a toll on your well-being, and we do our best to work quickly to make you feel “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Wayne can respond rapidly to any size of a disaster. We will help you minimize any damage to your possessions. We can help 24/7 when you call (973) 546-4977.
SERVPRO Administers Safe and Thoughtful Fire and Smoke Restoration at West Milford Commercial Properties
Our SERVPRO team entertains the students in West Milford even as we mitigate the fire and smoke damage at their preschool
Commercial Fire Damage Puts Private West Milford Preschools in Crisis
A fire that happens in one of the offices at your West Milford preschool is much different than one occurring in the kitchen. Hopefully, a fire that starts in the kitchen from food cooking never gets doused with water as a paper-based fire can. Spraying water on cooking or electrical fires can aggravate the problem instead of solving it.
Different types of fire in your West Milford facility require different types of commercial fire damage mitigation and cleanup. Both types need us to secure the area before we begin, including electrical and other safety issues that require stabilizing.
If water was used in either type of fire, we need to extract that moisture before we can begin cleaning and restoring. Without it, damp conditions would continue behind newly installed materials and within enclosed spaces, eventually leading to destructive and expensive problems in the future.
Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration and Cleanup
We want to make everything “Like it never even happened” for you. Also, fire, if children see it or experience an evacuation, can become fearful of returning. We can make it so no traces of the fire, including odors, exist to bring forth bad memories in your students.
The educational materials you used to teach your student body, as well as mats for nap time, activities, and other facets of the typical day at your preschool, can get ruined during a fire. Whenever we come across things that cannot get wet without becoming water-damaged, we list these on an inventory sheet to make it possible for you or your staff to replace them with equivalent items quickly.
Things that we can get clean for you and restore them to pre-damaged condition through different techniques can help get your preschool open again soon. Objects made of durable plastic-like toys can get stripped of soot in an ultrasonic water bath. Walls and doors need special treatments with dry sponges, as well as ceilings and trim.
The areas near the corners between walls and ceilings can experience an electrical charge build-up, continually attracting soot particles. We use special cleaners that stop this from happening, so walls stay clean. Our air scrubbers and our Odor Control Technician (OCT) fogging agents also help stop this from happening.
Carpeting also needs odor control, but we do this through efficient carpet cleaning. Not only do we clean the soot that fell onto the floor and permeated the carpet, but it also removes the odor and replaces it with much nicer smells that young children often find enjoyable. If allergies are a concern, we ask that you discuss this with our staff. They are highly skilled in using alternative, unscented products, as well.
SERVPRO of Wayne helps all kinds of businesses near Pompton Lakes, Ringwood, and Haledon recover swiftly from disasters like fire damage. If you need a flexible and highly qualified mitigation and restoration team, call us 24/7 at (973) 546-4977. We are here every day of the year.
Who Can Help if I Suffer Water Damage from Frozen Pipes in Wayne?
Protect your plumbing from frozen pipes in Wayne! SERVPRO says to follow the suggestions and reduce the chance of water damage
SERVPRO Is Available for Water Damage Repairs in Wayne During the Winter Months
During the winter in New Jersey, the temperature may drop well below freezing. Cold temperatures can create risks for your home, such as freezing pipes. During the winter months, the average low temperature in Wayne sits between 20- and 29-degrees Fahrenheit. However, in 2019, the temperature dropped to -1 degrees, which could happen again this winter.
Frozen pipes and ice damming in Wayne can both cause water to leak into your home. If pipes freeze and break, your house could get flooded. If an ice dam forms, moisture can leak from your ceiling to your floors.
Luckily, our SERVPRO technicians can provide fast 24/7 service when a disaster strikes. Our highly trained team can utilize the industry's most advanced technology to aid you in the following ways:
Emergency Services after a Water Leak
Water Extraction Procedures
Bathroom Mold Inspections
Attic Mold Inspections
Water Damage Repairs.
Fixing Leaking Roofs from Storms
However, sometimes the best way to prevent extensive damage is to put some effort into prevention. According to the Building Research Council at the University of Illinois, any time the temperature drops down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, your pipes are at risk of freezing. If water supply lines run close to your garage, it is wise to shut the doors and heat the area with a space heater. You can also open your kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors during cold nights to keep the plumbing warm.
If you know you will be out of town when it gets cold; you can leave your faucets running a little bit so that the water stays moving. It is also wise to set your thermostat at 55 degrees Fahrenheit at a minimum to prevent freezing. Even while in town, it is prudent to keep your thermostat set at the same temperature during the day and night.
If you notice a water leak during a cold night, call SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977.
SERVPRO Safely Mitigates Wayne Property Flooding Incidents
Rest assured SERVPRO of Wayne will restore your property and get you back on track after storm damage.
Removing Flood Damage from a Wayne Bathroom
In black water damage situations, like ground floods, homeowners in Wayne can expect to pay an average of $7 per square foot for cleanup services alone. Many porous materials require replacement after exposure due to the risks posed by chemicals, bacteria, and sewage carried in by floodwaters. This estimated cost does not even factor in the expenses needed to replace furniture, drywall, flooring, and electrical components.
If your Wayne home needs flood damage mitigation that can save you time, money, and stress, SERVPRO is ready to send a crew to your residence to get started right away. This team not only offers disaster cleanup but can also remediate mold and repair structures so that your home is restored as thoroughly as possible after a disaster. SERVPRO also uses specialized inventory systems to keep track of your belongings and can disinfect them off-site to minimize property losses while bolstering your insurance claim with comprehensive documentation.
Electricity Safety After Bathroom Flooding
If standing water in your bathroom has made contact with outlets, electrical devices, or power cords, stay away from the bathroom.
If you need to access the breakers, never do so if they are in a room filled with standing water. Call your utility company for assistance with shutting off the power.
Electrical appliances and tools should be at least ten feet away from wet surfaces to minimize electrical shock risks.
Have a licensed professional service wet electronics before trying to operate them. Do not attempt to turn on or use waterlogged devices yourself.
SERVPRO Sanitizes Your Bathroom
SERVPRO technicians can safely remove solid debris and waste, spray down surfaces with EPA-registered antimicrobials, and eliminate discoloration and microbial growth from tile grout with specialized cleaners. Technicians can use flood cuts approximately 12 inches above saturated drywall for wall cavity drying, insulation removal, and eventual replacement during structural restoration.
SERVPRO of Wayne restores homes with cleanup service that is Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call (973) 546-4977 to have an emergency response team at your home within hours of your initial contact.
Why We Are The Best Choice In Wayne After A Water Damage
No matter the extent of water damage, SERVPRO of Wayne is here to handle business.
Maintaining High Safety Standards during the Restoration of Water Damage Incidents in Wayne
Water incidents present different safety challenges to house occupants, including children and pets. Sometimes the circumstances can be aggravated by the procedures followed during restoration. SERVPRO makes safe restoration of water-damaged properties a priority.
Safety of the Worksite
Wide-ranging actions are necessary to keep a worksite safe during the restoration of water damage incidents in Wayne. Our SERVPRO technicians start by planning the worksite, ensuring equipment and cleaning products are readily accessible but not exposed to children and pets. We achieve this by having a designated staging area, which can be a utility room, bathroom, or laundry room where possible. We take time to identify possible hazards such as slippery floors or cables and hoses, which can trip people as they move around the worksite.
Equipment safety
Water damage restoration requires the use of different equipment and cleaning products. Some may be used once, while others are used repeatedly. Proper planning helps guarantee safety for everyone that enters the worksite during the restoration. Our SERVPRO technicians take steps such as checking for nicks or cuts in power cords before plugging in electric equipment. We also ensure proper grounding by using GFCI, Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters. We follow best practices when performing all tasks, including the simple ones. For instance, we avoid actions such as pulling on the cords to unplug equipment, which is not just dangerous but can also cause damage to the power outlets in your home.
Product safety
When restoring water damage, the products used for cleaning or other procedures can be harmful to people or cause additional damage to the contents in the affected areas if mishandled. Our SERVPRO technicians follow product label instructions strictly when determining the amount to use, pH levels, dwell time, and ventilation requirements where necessary. When cleaning fabrics, we always pre-test a product before applying it over a massive area.
Secondary damages or injury to people can aggravate the damage after a water spill. Call SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 to help. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.
Why Wayne Property Owners Count on SERVPRO for Effective Fire Damage Assistance
Call SERVPRO of Wayne for any of your fire-damaged needs. We are prepared to assist.
When Fire Damage Strikes Your Wayne Home, You Need Prompt Mitigation and Restoration with SERVPRO!
There are few emergencies as devastating as a fire in your Wayne home. Even a tiny blaze due to a faulty bathroom fan or a candle in the living room can turn into something significant. The longer that any soot and smoke residue is left to set, the more corrosive and damaging it can be. If your HVAC system is operating, you also have to worry about foul odors meandering into unaffected areas of your home. SERVPRO is there to ensure your house gets a professional cleaning and safe, effective restoration whenever fire strikes. We make everything “Like it never even happened.”
Smoke Odor Removal
Why do many homeowners count on SERVPRO for smoke and fire damage in Wayne? Handling stubborn odors is something that our Odor Control Technicians (OCT) do best. The soot attaches to surfaces throughout the home, leading to lingering smells. Our team will use one or more of the techniques listed to handle the issue:
Peroxide Action Cleaning – Great for use on delicate surfaces
Abrasive Cleaning – Includes options like wire brushing, scraping, and soda blasting
Dry Cleaning – Often done with cloths or sponges for non-greasy residue
HVAC Cleaning – This step is imperative to keep particles from spreading throughout the ductwork
Deodorization – We use ozone materials, HEPA filtration air scrubbers, and thermal foggers to pull up odorous particles
In any fire damage situation, SERVPRO also takes control of the restoration with the help of controlled demolition measures, as needed. To ensure your interior gets back to normal, we replace any unsalvageable materials like drywall, baseboards, ceiling tiles, carpeting, and fixtures.
Why call SERVPRO of Wayne when you have fire damage? Because We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster! Call (973) 546-4977 for 24/7 emergency response.
Why Gas-Powered Pumps Are Effective in Flooded West-Milford Basements
Storm and flood damage is no DIY project. SERVPRO IICRC techs have the experience and knowledge for every size disaster.
Pumping Out Floodwater is Critical to Protecting a West Milford Home From More Significant Damage.
The immensity of natural flood damage can overwhelm a home or business, leaving it to professionals like ours to make it "Like it never even happened." We start this through emergency services that occur before our water removal services, such as:
Board-up
Tarping
Content relocation
Structural assessment
Controlled demolition
How Does a Trash Pump Work?
Many homeowners know that our equipment works to overcome flood damage in West Milford homes but might not know what makes certain choices more favorable than others. Our gas-powered trash pumps are designed to operate at a lower pressure threshold to move a larger volume of water through centrifugal force. Higher volumes of discharge mean shorter mitigation times.
Managing Solids in Standing Floodwater
Because of the low-pressure production of trash pumps, they are designed to contend with debris and solids still in the water after a flood. Larger intakes and discharge lines manage these scenarios quickly. Matter pulled into the pump can be siphoned through an impeller to make it more manageable as it moves towards being discharged.
Portable Power Without Electricity
Yet another advantage of choosing trash pumps to help manage flooding in areas like the basement is that these units do not need electricity. Running on gas and diesel, our powerful trash pumps are ideal when power might not be available. Widespread flooding in the neighborhood can cripple utilities like the electric, so we have several alternatives to keep effective drying and flood recovery going.
Flooding might not be avoidable for some homes, but there are ways that skilled and experienced professionals can quickly manage the damage they cause. Our SERVPRO of Wayne team is ready and able to help with efficient extraction and drying equipment anytime. Give us a call today at (973) 546-4977.
What Materials Are Quickly Ruined by Mold Damage in Wayne Homes?
Mold remediation for your home is a job for SERVPRO. We will be on-site within 4 hours of the initial call. For fast and immediate service call now.
An Understanding of Microbial Threats Can Amplify The Urgency of Professional Remediation For Wayne Properties.
When conditions exist for mold growth, many of your building elements and contents can be at risk as potential hosts. Our experienced team can work quickly to protect these items from harm. Understanding where mold is likely can help show where professional remediation might be needed, however. Here are some environmental indicators mold might be present:
Moisture
Warmth
Poor Ventilation
Low Airflow
The Damage to Gypsum Board
While drywall is fairly sturdy as a wall surface, once it becomes wet or needs mold remediation in a Wayne home, this material can be compromised. Because of the high porosity rating of sheetrock, the spread of mold through this organic material backing is difficult to slow and stop. In most cases, the affected drywall will need to be removed and ultimately replaced to remediate mold damage.
Microbial Damage to Carpeted Floors
Carpets are another highly porous material that is highly susceptible to spreading mold damage and hosting colonies. Mildew can also be a problem for this thin layer of flooring, especially if moisture becomes trapped between layers of the surface carpet and between this level and the padding/subflooring beneath it. If delamination or deterioration begins, it might be needed to pull the carpet.
Exposed Wood Elements and Framing
Cabinets, vanities, shelves, and even wood framing or oversized exposed beams in high vault ceilings common in modern construction are subject to supporting mold colonies under the right conditions. While the damage can be substantial, sanding and media blasting can often remove the complete organism from this host and prevent the need for tear-out.
Understanding the relationship between mold and its possible hosts can show where reaching out to our SERVPRO of Wayne team can help. We are ready to mobilize 24/7 at (973) 546-4977.
Drying Roof Joists and Attic Framing After Flooding in Wayne Homes
SERVPRO techs use the latest technology and equipment for every storm and flood damage restoration project.
Flooding in The Attic of Your Wayne Home Can Leave Organic Materials Exposed to Water Damage.
Storm damage can be a consistent threat to the area, making the fast response of professional restoration technicians vital to protecting the property and its contents. Strong winds and torrential rains can cripple a building's envelope, namely its roof protection to areas like the attic and subsequent floors below. Water penetration into this confined space can affect the house in many ways, making the removal of moisture critical.
Board Up and Tarping Services
To overcome potential flood damage in Wayne homes, we must first prevent further damage by implementing board-up and tarping services. Covering openings and roof vulnerabilities prevents further water penetration and allows drying efforts to be more efficient and effective.
Evaluating the Moisture Damage
To determine which drying tools we will need to overcome moisture damage to joists and roof underlayment, we must utilize moisture detection equipment in our inventory. When coupled with advanced features of our exclusive SERVPRO DryBook software, we can track moisture damage and the later efficiency of chosen drying tools. Some of the monitoring equipment includes:
While many drying tools and products are in our leading inventory, several drying scenarios rely on air movers, dehumidifiers, drying mats, and positive pressure systems to impact materials like porous woods. We use trailered generators to run power hubs like spider boxes into the workspace to utilize multiple air movers and dehumidifiers simultaneously.
However, we can overcome water and moisture damage after floodwater penetration to the attic; we are ready to help. Our SERVPRO of Wayne team is prepared 24/7 with efficient mitigation and drying solutions when you call (973) 546-4977.
Steps for Restoring Wood After Fire Damage in Your Wayne Home
SERVPRO is an EPA-registered company. We have the manpower and equipment for any fire-damaged restoration service needed.
Treating Wood Floors and Affected Items After a Fire In Your Wayne Home
A fire in your Wayne home can ruin many different items and building materials. Soot can destroy wooden things and floors. Cleaning up soot damage on wooden structures and contents can be challenging. Since wood is a naturally porous material, smoke and smells can permeate the surface.
To restore wood, you may need to use aggressive cleaning and deodorization methods. Consulting with SERVPRO restoration technicians to deal with the fire damage in your Wayne residence is therefore essential. We can control the results by pretesting the affected area, using the right cleaning agents, and using the correct dilution rates of cleaning solutions. Our technicians use professional cleaning products and strategies to provide our customers with the best chance of restoring the affected surfaces completely.
Our professional restorers are usually tasked with restoring two types of wood. To remove soot, each kind of wood requires specific procedures and products.
Finished Wood
This is wood that is covered in varnish or a sealer. Most kinds of wood furniture like dressers, desks, railings, and tables, among others, are finished wood pieces. To clean up soot on these kinds of surfaces, we can gently work a cleaning agent into the grain of the wood, where it suspends the soils allowing for easy removal.
Unfinished Wood
This kind of wood does not have a sealer or varnish, and it can easily sustain damage from smoke smells and staining from soot. Generally, unfinished wood includes structural timber and the inner parts of cabinets and drawers. Unfinished wood is also susceptible to water stains. Therefore, our restorers are careful to prevent such stains during the cleaning and restoration process.
If the fire has ruined your wood flooring, our technicians can try to remove the smoke residues without damaging the floor’s finish. To remove light to moderate residues, we can damp mop the floors using a neutral pH cleaner.
In many cases, it is necessary to seal the surface of the wood, whether it is unfinished or finished, to lock away the odors that remain after using other deodorization methods. We can use sealants to achieve this. Our SERVPRO team applies sealants to the affected surface to encapsulate the remaining odor residues. We offer exceptional workmanship and have all the tools, equipment, and materials that ensure a seamless and smooth restoration.
Where a fire has ruined furniture and other wooden contents or structures in your home, you can trust SERVPRO of Wayne to bring things back to normal. Call us any time at (973) 546-4977 for fire restoration services in West Milford, Pompton Lakes, and Ringwood.
Why is Professional Restoration Necessary for Water Damage in Wayne?
Water damage restoration services by SERVPRO are second to none. Call now for fast and immediate service.
Addressing Long Term Issues During Water Removal From Your Wayne Home
When a water damage event occurs in your Wayne home, the most pressing issue is how to remove it and resume routine life. However, it is essential to think about the long-term implications such an incident might have and thus take steps that prevent future problems. Calling a professional like SERVPRO to handle the removal helps address current and future problems.
Saving Vulnerable Items
The critical process during water removal exercises in Wayne is the extraction of standing water from floors and drying any wet materials. However, the water spill can damage some vulnerable items within the house; and priority should go towards saving such items before starting extraction and drying procedures.
Some of the steps our SERVPRO technicians take to save vulnerable items include:
Removing fabric materials to prevent staining
Limiting exposure of electronics to water
Stopping damage to books or other documents
After saving items likely to be damaged immediately by exposure to high levels of moisture, we can perform extraction procedures. The use of pumps and extractors helps expedite the process.
Finding Hidden Water Damage
After dealing with surface water, there is a need to determine whether there is an intrusion in hidden sections of the property. For example, water intrusion below tiles or into wall cavities can lead to severe damages, if not addressed before drying it. The damage caused by persistent wetness in the hidden areas may lead to costly repairs later on. Regular drying cannot remove such hidden moisture pockets. Our SERVPRO technicians first identify the wet areas using advanced equipment such as borescopes and thermal cameras. We then use specialized drying equipment such as drying mats or other cavity-drying equipment to remove the moisture. We can then proceed with regular drying procedures once the hidden moisture is gone.
The way we conduct a water removal exercise determines whether the incident has long-term effects.
Call SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 to help mitigate current and future problems from an incident, making it, "Like it never even happened."
Debris and Fire Damage Restoration in Wayne – Call SERVPRO
Fire and soot removal is not a DIY project. SERVPRO fire damage restoration technicians have the technology and experience for any size disaster.
Removing Debris and Smoke Residues After a Fire in Wayne – Call SERVPRO
After the fire is extinguished at your home in Wayne, there often is extensive debris, water damage, and smoke residues throughout the premises. While the debris may be contained to the immediate location of the fire, water used to quell the fire has spread to other rooms nearby and below. Smoke particles carried by the home's heating and cooling system and hot air currents caused by the fire may distribute smoke odors to every room.
SERVPRO provides fire damage restoration in Wayne and surrounding areas. We remove debris from the fire, ash, and smoke residues from floors and building materials as well as from your contents. Many hard surface materials, including contents, can be washed, cleaned, and dried. Your cleaned contents are stored in a staging area until the entire home is ready for occupancy.
Many soft surface materials, including fabrics, can also be cleaned; however, we will review our recommendations for cleaning vs. replacing with you and your insurance company to ensure the best solution for your fire damage situation. We attempt to clean everything when possible to remove the odors and soot left over after a fire.
We arrive at your home in less than four hours from your call, assess the damage, confirm that it is safe to enter the house, determine the equipment and resources needed to begin restoring your home after a fire. We also provide emergency board-up and tarpaulin coverage to prevent further damage to the house if required.
SERVPRO provides the following services to our clients:
Fire damage restoration
Water damage restoration
Smoke residue remediation and restoration
Debris removal and house fire clean up
Call SERVPRO of Wayne for fire damage restoration services in Wayne and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (973) 546-4977.
The Effects of Commercial Water Damage to Wayne Offices
Water can damage everything in offices, from electronics and documents to structural items.
Specialized Approaches Help Save More Items after Water Damage in Your Wayne Office
A broken pipe in your Wayne office can release several gallons of water if not caught in time. Incidents that happen at night are usually the worst. As the water spreads indiscriminately, it affects different items, which can lead to widespread damages. A speedy response is the best way to save more items, but when that is not possible, other approaches can help.
A wooden floor can be ruined irreparably in a case of commercial water damage in your Wayne office if the standing water pools for long. Absorption of significant amounts of water pushes moisture content beyond the average 10% leading to swelling of the floorboards. Buckling or other forms of permanent damage can occur, necessitating the replacement of the entire floor. Our SERVPRO technicians can take steps to help save your floor. After extracting any standing water, we can tape a plastic sheet over the surface and then use air movers to vent air into the chamber for faster, uniform drying.
Sitting Water Can Lead to Mold
In case the floor of your office is carpeted, water can still cause irreparable damages. Prolonged exposure to water causes separation of the backing. Mold can also form beneath the carpet if not dried properly. Our SERVPRO technicians use water extractors to remove most of the water from the carpet. We can then utilize a specialized procedure such as floating the carpet to improve drying. The process involves placing an air mover under the carpet then running it at moderate speed, improving drying.
With several documents, ranging from files to books, in an office, the likelihood of damage from the spill is high. While it is hard to restore documents already ruined by water, it might not be feasible to throw them away. Our SERVPRO technicians can use specialized methods to stop further deterioration of crucial documents. Immediately after arriving at the site, we take wet documents and store them in a freezer facility. We then use different advanced techniques to dry them, including:
Vacuum Thermal Drying
Freezer Drying
Vacuum Freeze Drying
Air Drying
Dehumidification
Water damage incidents can be frustrating, but with help from a professional team, they are easier to handle. Call SERVPRO of Wayne to help. You can reach us any time at (973) 546-4977. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.
Fire Damage in Wayne? SERVPRO Can Lead you Through the Restoration Process
Even small fires deposit smoke and soot throughout the home. SERVPRO is always on call for complete fire damage restoration.
Assessing Fire Damage in Wayne to Determine the Next Steps
The structure of your Wayne home can take on significant damage during a fire. All your personal belongings and cherished heirlooms can also suffer from the heat of the flames and smoke penetration. A SERVPRO crew can come in to address your needs for remediation as well as all of the restoration costs involved to get your interior back to normal.
We have a variety of methods that can be used to clean any soiled household items when soot and fire damage in Wayne occurs. Once you call us, we can send a team out to sort through your belongings, placing them into groups. Our team categorizes according to the damage sustained as well as the type of material.
Assessing Fire Damage
Our technicians separate Items that need wiping down or simple cleaning into one group. These are usually items that may require cleaning with a dry sponge or a gentle cleaning followed by a rinse. Such methods work best on dishes, fine china, and other non-porous materials. Lightly vacuuming cleans items like books, and rugs and carpeting require adequate restoration using soot-battling agents.
For the electronic equipment in your home, our building department can work to identify fire damage caused by soot deposits, heat, smoke, and water from the firefighting process. SERVPRO recommends turning on none of your electronics until they are thoroughly examined to help eliminate the chance of a short that can lead to permanent damage.
We can treat some possessions in your home at our facility, which we put into boxes to help protect from breaking during transport and storage. A sheet with detailed inventory for each box is used to ensure all of your items get returned to you after fire damage remediation. This CCIS Contents Claim Inventory Service catalogs non-salvageable items and helps for pack-outs for content cleaning off-site at our facility.
You can count on our trained professionals at SERVPRO of Wayne whenever you need help after suffering a fire loss. Contact us anytime at (973) 546-4977 for all of your fire and water cleanup and restoration needs.
How Can Storm Damage Water Get Removed from Wayne Attics?
Did you know SERVPRO provides emergency roof tarping? We board up and tarp to prevent further water penetration.
Removing Standing Water and Trapped Moisture Involves Several Tools Used in Wayne Homes
There is an urgency to removing stormwater and water from attic spaces. No matter the source of the harm, from intruding water after roof damage to a burst pipe or a ceiling leak, it is essential for our team to work on water removal services as fast as possible.
Repairing the Roof Damage
Before water removal for Wayne attic spaces can begin, various structural concerns must get overcome. With a general contractor license, we can immediately provide board-up and tarping to prevent further water penetration. Once water is removed and dried from the structure, we can provide full reconstruction and build-back for the damaged attic.
Removing Standing Water from Floors
Eliminating surface water is a significant undertaking for responding to SERVPRO professionals and often requires several extraction units. Deep water after concerns like burst pipes often requires submersible pumps and trash pumps. However, more minor removal needs can get met by using wet vacuums and various attachments for carpets, hard flooring, and less accessible areas.
Clearing Moisture and Damp Pockets
Water removal might often mean eliminating pooling liquid in the property, but we have measures to locate and remove hidden water caches in wall and ceiling systems. Absorption and vapor pressures can cause moisture to penetrate and overwhelm dry materials. Drying tools and strategies can be placed strategically based on data collected by moisture detection devices such as:
Moisture meters
Hygrometers
Thermal imagery
With how destructive that standing water can be, mitigation solutions beginning with water removal can be critical. Our SERVPRO of Wayne team has multiple extraction devices and tools in our recovery inventory that vary based on conditions in the house. Our professionals are available 24/7 at (973) 546-4977.
Why Containing Flood Damage is an Important Step in Restoring West Milford Homes
SERVPRO of Wayne knows the lengths to take for your water damage after a storm.
Containing Flood Effects Before They Destroy West Milford Homes
No matter what conditions have allowed flooding within your West Milford residence, the situation can quickly get out of control without the appropriate mitigation tactics and containment strategies. While homeowners often consider cleanup and recovery to be projects they can manage independently, flood effects can become too widespread and detrimental to your property to overcome without specialized equipment, training, and qualified personnel.
With fast response to all flood damage situations, your West Milford home is in good hands with our SERVPRO professionals. We have considerable experience in disaster relief scenarios. Combined with our extensive training from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), we are knowledgeable leaders in the industry, helping customers recover quickly after even significant flood damage incidents within their homes.
Containment During Flood Damage Restoration
Containment is a vital component to recovery and fast restoration of your property after widespread flood effects. As water damage can continue to move throughout the house, saturating construction materials, contents, and structural elements, we must employ tactics to slow the spread of these effects throughout the residence. In many cases, spreading moisture can get addressed quickly with the calculated placement of drying tools like our air movers and dehumidifiers. These machines can steadily draw moisture out of affected materials and surfaces, preventing them from allowing water damage to spread further.
This aspect of recovery and restoration also helps to prevent the spread and the facilitation of mold. Spores and contaminants that can arrive with the floodwater can also spread throughout your home without the appropriate preventative measures. Using our SERVPRO air scrubbers, hydroxyl generators, and ozone machines, we can begin filtering out these contaminants and other threats to improve indoor air quality after flooding.
Overcoming flood damage in your home begins with an effective mitigation and containment initiative performed by our qualified and highly experienced technicians. You can count on our SERVPRO of Wayne water restoration technicians to make these loss effects “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call anytime at (973) 546-4977.
Fast Extraction Is Required After A Flood In Your Wayne Home
Storm damage in your Wayne home can be exhausting. Let SERVPRO save the day.
Flood Damage In Wayne Needs Fast Extraction
The faster cleanup from flood damage begins, the more we save homes and contents from damage. This action is significant when dealing with flood water as it carries a rating of category three or black water - the most contaminated type of water intrusion in a property.
Heavy storms in Wayne were the cause of flash floods in the area, and a homeowner soon found himself with nearly half an inch of water in his kitchen and hallway. He contacted our local SERVPRO, and our technician advised the homeowners to stay away from the water loss area in the home due to unsanitary conditions and the potential for slip and fall accidents.
On arrival, we split into separate teams. While one crew of technicians extracted water from the kitchen and hallway floor, another set of our techs used probes and thermal imaging to scope the areas in the room where the water migrated.
Detection Tools for Water Damage
We detected no excess moisture in the subfloor in the kitchen; the carpet and padding in the hallway contained flood water, and we removed both. We found elevated moisture levels behind the baseboards in both areas and removed them to let air flow into the wall cavity during drying.
Air movers are crucial to properly drying a room. The high velocity blowing over wet surfaces causes even deeply migrated water to rise. At that point, our dehumidifiers capture and port the water vapor away from the area. This cycle continues, and the air movers blow progressively drier air, and this lowers the humidity in the rooms, leading to complete drying.
Both mold and odors are a concern after water damage. SERVPRO uses EPA-registered cleaners, and we wipe down all surfaces compromised by floodwater to ensure the home is left sanitary and inhibit the potential for mold growth.
Contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 when you need fast help with flood damage. We handle all types of flood damage and can restore your property to make it “Like it never even happened.”
What Emergency Services Begin Fire Restoration in Wayne Homes?
SERVPRO of Wayne knows what fire damage can do long term. Let us come in and help.
Our fast response ensures that we can begin fire mitigation in Wayne houses immediately.
Mitigation is the process most critical to restoring your home after a fire. Several actions fit in this heading and require the full experience and education of our SERVPRO team.
Controlled Demolition – After structure fires, some degree of demolition and reconstruction is necessary. Removing hazards from the property through controlled demolition also provides a stable foundation for reconstruction.
Debris Removal – Eliminating loose debris, charred material remnants, and ash from the property reduce the severity of effects like smoke odors or soot concentrations.
Air Quality Improvement – Soot and smoke solids circulate in the environment after partial combustion. We utilize HEPA 500 Air Scrubbers and other filtration equipment to trap particles and prevent health hazards from persisting.
Content Relocation – Removing affected items in your home can be a method of keeping your belongings safe from further damage. Setting up a safe space for these items until restoration completes can be a cost-efficient solution.
Water Removal – Water damage is a common damaging situation after fire extinguishment. The water used in putting out a fire can collect on flooring and in structural cavities. Fire mitigation requires efficient extraction of this standing water.
For fire restoration you can trust, give our SERVPRO of Wayne team a call today at (973) 546-4977.
We Get You Back to Business In Wayne After Water Damage
SERVPRO swiftly provides flood cuts and water damage cleanup for Wayne area convenience stores and beauty salons.
Water Damage That Threatens Your Wayne Convenience Store
The convenience store that you run in Wayne might not be the only one on your side of town, and even more importantly, it might not even be the only one on the block. You try to diversify what products and food your store can offer those before they set off on daily commutes, or to help them to choose easy solutions for lunches and dinners so that you can compete with the other options customers have to choose.
With much of the floor space of your building used as a sales area, water damage in your Wayne convenience store or beauty salon is even more problematic when happening in the tight quarters where fresh food gets prepped and prepared. Even without a substantial water damage incident, the signs of excessive moisture and dampness must get addressed quickly to prevent the spoiling of shelved ingredients and products used to continue to prepare the food items expected by loyal patrons.
Our SERVPRO professionals understand how important it is to manage a space you must continue to use for your business to stay operational. In situations where drying is the most critical step in recovery, small yet powerful tools like the low-profile air movers can force heated air throughout a smaller workspace to evaporate moisture and dampness, even what has been absorbed into nearby materials and surfaces. We work with the aim of zero disruptions to employees and patrons.
Water Clean Up Equipment
Provided that the power has not become severed to a property, items stored in coolers and refrigerators can remain stocked there, understanding that these appliances are not the source of the water damage affecting the convenience store. This permits employees to have access to food items that must get prepared and ready for customers continually. Several well-placed dehumidifiers can capture the circulating water vapor and reduce the chances of absorption into products on the display shelves.
With the strategic placement of the air movers in this kitchen area, employees can work around the recovery efforts when necessary. By approaching a situation quickly, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster, and extracting pooling water and drying out damage directly with the use of advanced equipment, our SERVPRO team can swiftly restore water damage. "Like it never even happened."
We strive to provide businesses in the area with an experienced response, tailoring the equipment and practices used to the situation and damage present in your store. When a job becomes too much to handle, let our SERVPRO of Wayne professionals help. Contact us anytime at (973) 546-4977. Our business is to keep you in business.
Our Certified Professionals Are Ready to Handle Your Fire Damage Restoration Needs in Wayne
Structural fire damage in Wayne properties calls for the professionalism of SERVPRO cleanup and restoration
What to Expect from Professional Fire Damage Restoration Technicians
A fire in your Wayne residence leaves contaminated water, soot-soiled surfaces, charring, and odors. Airborne and surface-coating residues of even a minor fire immediately begin discoloring and damaging building materials and possessions. More significant blazes can damage the structural integrity of your house and create substantial barriers to returning to your comfortable life. Our compassionate and skilled team of fire remediation specialists can make this chaotic situation “Like it never even happened.”
Managing fire damage restoration in Wayne requires a committed and highly-trained professional team and state-of-the-art products and equipment. Since both the structure and the contents of your home suffer damage, partnering with a company that can accomplish a pack-out of portable articles is critical. We use a Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) protocol to ensure a complete inventory and tracking of contents packed out. Once the affected areas in your home clear, we can more easily perform necessary remediation tasks.
House Fire Clean Up
SERVPRO’s experienced production and crew managers and leads assess the damage, plan the remediation, and oversee the various stages of the project. Our service vehicles arrive stocked with water and fire remediation equipment, avoiding delays. Safety always comes first, so we secure the building, tarping and boarding up if necessary. Removing water damage from the firefighting efforts and drying proceeds next.
Evaluation of the type of soot and matching appropriate products and tools guides our crew during clean-up. Light, ashy debris vacuum or dry sponge away. Thick, sticky soot from slow smoldering fires needs cleaning with wetting agents, surfactants, and agitation. Protein-based soot might require solvents and abrasives.
Charred areas might restore if the burned areas are shallow, but we constantly assess for strength to ensure your home retains its structural integrity. If necessary, we remove and replace materials, relying on the skills of our rebuilding crew. SERVPRO deodorization experts walk through a multi-step protocol to eliminate rather than cover up odors. Professional grade thermal foggers, ozone machines, and hydroxyl generators are available for challenging odor issues.
While our crews remediate and restore your home, our production facility technicians use specialized strategies to clean and restore your packed-out furnishings and other contents. We facilitate their return to your home at the appropriate time. SERVPRO works closely with your insurance throughout, limiting your out-of-pocket expense for both structural and content restoration.
SERVPRO of Wayne stands ready to restore your home and its contents after fire damage. Call us 24/7 at (973) 546-4977 to set up an assessment.
Why SERVPRO is the Best Option for Water Damage Remediation in Wayne
There are many benefits to having professionals remediate your space after a water intrusion. Call SERVPRO to discuss.
Experienced Techs Save You Money on Water Damage Recovery in Wayne
When it comes to restoration, many Wayne homeowners often choose to recover and repair things on their own rather than seek the experience and efficient output of professional technicians like ours. Often this decision is based on a need or wants to save money over the perceived higher costs of restoring your home professionally after a situation like a water damage incident. There are many ways in which choosing the experience and knowledge of restoration professionals can save you money on restoring your property after a disaster.
With water damage incidents that occur in your Wayne home, water can often continually flow out from the source, spreading farther throughout the property as time presses on. While there are often clear signs of the damage of these water incidents, many homeowners lack the equipment and experience to identify the presence of moisture and dampness in areas of their property that they cannot see. This undiagnosed moisture can facilitate mold growth and other threats, leading to hazardous conditions and costlier remediation for your property.
The SERVPRO professionals that we dispatch to your home have the continued training to provide the most efficient and effective approach to extraction, drying, and other mitigation approaches that your home needs in this critical early stage of recovery. Without these techniques and advanced equipment, your home could experience further degradation from the saturation of construction materials and structural elements.
Without properly drying or addressing concerns like our SERVPRO professionals can when they enter your water-damaged home, you can allow structural failures or decomposition to continue. When you battle these effects later, they often result in the need to remove the damaged materials and reconstruction, which is far costlier than the initial restoration.
There are many reasons why seeking the experience and advanced equipment that our SERVPRO of Wayne professionals have can benefit your home after water damage. If you want to make these effects “Like it never even happened,” and save yourself some money at the same time, give us a call today at (973) 546-4977.
When There Is An Appliance Mishap In Your West Milford Home Call Our Experts
Appliance malfunctions can send a large amount of water to your floors. Contact SERVPRO for a quick response and effective water removal services.
Water Cleanup After An Appliance Mishap In West Milford
Water damage in West Milford often traces to an appliance or some of its parts breaking down. Whether a ruptured water heater sends 50 or more gallons of water pouring through your utility room or a dishwasher pump breaks and spews soapy suds across the kitchen floor, you need help to mitigate further damage. SERVPRO's technicians will devise a professional plan to collect, contain, and dispose of the water. We are ready to partner with you.
It is critical to determine if moisture migrated away from the damage site when performing water cleanup in Milford. Even after the visible water evacuates, a substantial amount of moisture might seep through cracks and joints in flooring, causing progressive damage to structural components and exposing your home to a heightened risk of mold growth.
When we arrive, the first step is assessing the extent of the damage, including employing thermal scanning devices to locate any pockets of water that percolated below the floor or into cavities between walls. SERVPRO technicians study the science of moisture metering during their Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training. We use devices to measure the moisture content of structural materials both as a means to map out the dimensions of the water damage and to provide accurate data for a drying plan following the cleanup.
Water deeper than two inches pumps out efficiently. SERVPRO technicians then move to wanded extractors to suction up the residual water on the surface. Specialized equipment like floor mats attached to a negative air pressure system removes water from the subfloor and the crevices between the flooring materials.
We evaluate the water's level of contaminants to determine its category for disposal purposes. Sediments and soaps mixed into supply water usually downgrade it to Category 2 or gray water. The materials contaminating the water are not excessively hazardous, but the organic materials create a possibility of accelerated microbial growth if not disposed into the sanitary system quickly. SERVPRO wants to avoid creating long-term complications, so we work hard to get it right the first time.
Rely on SERVPRO of Wayne to meet your water cleanup needs when appliances wear out or break due to needed repairs and maintenance. Call us at (973) 546-4977 for a team of experts to make it "Like it never even happened."
What Fire Restoration Services are Available in Wayne?
Fire clean up needs to be done quickly and effectively. Contact our certified SERVPRO technicians to remediate the fire damage in your home.
In Wayne, Companies Like SERVPRO Offer a Broad Array of Fire Restoration Services
Fire-related incidents are relatively common in Wayne, so it is a good idea to prepare for potential house fires. Fortunately, when disaster strikes, local services like SERVPRO are always ready to restore fire damaged homes.
SERVPRO technicians routinely perform fire restoration work in Wayne. While doing their work, our highly-trained experts employ all the latest and most advanced equipment. This is partly why our company has successfully handled a wide range of jobs from the least to the most severe.
A few of the valuable services we offer are:
House fire clean up that professionally clears away fire-related debris from your home and properly disposes of it
Fire and smoke damage remediation using state-of-the-art air scrubbers, ozone machines, wet, dry, abrasive, and innovative smoke residue cleaning methods, and advanced foggers with EPA-approved deodorants
Fire damage restoration that skillfully seeks to save salvageable materials and rebuilds whatever has been irreparably damaged
So, as you can see, whatever fire-related issues you may have suffered, our skilled professionals are likely able to deal with. We can help you throughout the entire fire recovery process, from the initial clean-up through the restoration or reconstruction phase.
With all this in mind, if your home ever experiences a fire, remember that there is help nearby. Call SERVPRO of Wayne anytime at (973) 546-4977 for fast assistance.
Does Commercial Flood Damage on a Slab Concrete Floor Need Professional Cleanup in a Wayne Business?
SERVPRO offers minimal demolition with flood cuts for Wayne area businesses and warehouses
SERVPRO Techs Can Perform the Flood Restoration Actions Needed for Wayne Commercial Properties
Many businesses utilize Wayne warehouse spaces as the choice for a location. The slab floors are usually easy to clean, take paint well for a more finished look, and be disinfected when needed, such as a sewage backup or floodwater with contaminants.
Professional Flood Restoration Avoids Potential Issues
The water is likely to have contaminants if it is groundwater inside the facility and needs handling as a biohazard
Water migrates and can wick into walls
Elevated humidity levels may affect stock stored in cardboard
SERVPRO technicians have the equipment and experience to test the water and determine any locally present bacterium or pathogenic elements requiring treatment from biocides or antimicrobial solutions. Also, if the water wicked into sheetrock or wood on the walls, it can get found, dried, and disinfected. SERVPRO technicians perform interior air humidity readings to ascertain if items within the warehouse need to be covered during the mitigation process or moved to a safe, secure area to ensure no damage occurs. Most of all, the team at SERVPRO works to get the warehouse reopened quickly and working as normal.
SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 handles big and small commercial flood damage cleanup and restoration in Wayne properties. The technicians are available 24/7 and arrive quickly when needed.
Water Damage Remediation Is Essential to Save Homes in Wayne
Water damage restoration for your home should be handled by a professional outfit. SERVPRO has you covered from top to bottom.
SERVPRO Offers Unsurpassed Water Damage Restoration Services
When water leaks occur in your Wayne home, it is important to remove the water and moisture as soon as possible. There may be permanent damage if not addressed immediately to porous materials such as particleboard, delamination of carpets, and swelling of hardwood floors. Mold can also begin growing in less than 48 hours, potentially leading to health effects.
SERVPRO provides water removal services to homeowners in Wayne and surrounding regions. SERVPRO responds in less than 4 hours from your call and can begin water removal and drying before significant secondary damage occurs. We offer the following services:
Water Removal Services
Water Clean Up
Water Damage Repairs
Our service also includes drying the area impacted by the water leak to avoid the potential for mold growth. We investigate the nooks and crannies to find and remove all moisture. Our team uses moisture meters to detect water and high moisture areas without causing more damage. We can drill holes into drywall to reach the moisture and remove it while minimizing further damage to your home.
Call SERVPRO of Wayne for water removal services in Wayne and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (973) 546-4977
Can SERVPRO Help with Emergency Services Water Damage in West Milford?
Storm damage restoration by SERVPRO is top-notch. We are here 24/7 365 days a year.
Does SERVPRO Provide Flood Water Clean-Up in West Milford?
Floodwaters cause extensive damage to West Milford homes every year. The water is contaminated, soaks everything it comes in contact with, and can cause ongoing damage if it is not removed. Also, the high moisture levels cause even dry materials not touched by the floodwaters to absorb moisture and disintegrate or swell.
SERVPRO provides storm damage mitigation services in West Milford. After a flood, there is lots of work to do, especially if you are trying to protect your home and belongings. SERVPRO has a team of experts ready to respond in less than four hours. We assess the situation and get to work, bringing in the resources and equipment needed to do the job and provide:
Water Clean Up
Water Removal Services
Water Damage Repairs
Water Damage Restoration
Many clients do not consider secondary damage to contents and structure that was not touched by the floodwaters. Moisture moves from wet to dry, and that’s why we remove undamaged contents to a dry safe space to prevent further contamination and damage.
Call SERVPRO of Wayne for flood damage mitigation services in Wayne and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (973) 546-4977
How Quickly Can SERVPRO Respond to Storm Damage in Wayne?
SERVPRO will have your company up and running A.S.A.P. Water damage restoration is our specialty.
SERVPRO offers Emergency Service Storm Damage Cleanup in Wayne
The township of Wayne is located in Passaic County, NJ, and has an approximate population of 54,000 people. Wayne is less than 20 miles from Midtown Manhattan, New York. The land was purchased from the Lenape Native Americans in 1695. Many historical events have occurred in the area.
One such event centers around the naming of the Preakness Stakes. In 1868, a gentleman named Milton H Sanford purchased a racehorse for $4000, a tremendous amount of money at the time. He called the horse Preakness. This horse went on to win its first race at the new Pimlico Race Course in Maryland. Future races were named after the first horse to win a race at its track. It is now known as the Preakness Stakes, and the Preakness is the 2nd race in the Triple Crown of racing for thoroughbreds.
There are many activities to consider being so close to New York and the historical events in the area. We have assembled a few that many residents enjoy:
Dey Mansion Washington’s Headquarters
Laurelwood Arboretum
Willowbrook Mall
Van Riper House Museum
Terhune Memorial Park
Schuyler Colfax-House
Mead-Van Duyne Historic House Museum
Tintle Park
Shea Center for the Performing Arts
Dey Mansion Washington’s Headquarters
The Dey Mansion was built in 1770 by Theunis Dey. General George Washington used the homes as his headquarters during Oct-November 1780.
Both Dey and Washington had much in common. They were the same age, large landowners, agriculturalists, and both believed in serving their respective counties and states in a government capacity.
In present times, you can visit the mansion, now museum, and experience the life of the wealthy back in General Washington’s time. There are guided mansion tours, exhibits, and collections to view. The museum is normally open from Wed to Sun from 9 am to 5 pm. However, visitors should plan their trip and confirm the availability of tours and access to the museum in advance during current health issues.
Van Riper House Museum -Terhune Memorial Park
Albert Payson Terhune was an American Journalist, dog breeder, and author. He became well known for his novels he wrote about his collies and his breeding of collies at Sunnybank kennels. He passed away in Feb 1942, leaving his estate, Sunnybank in Wayne, NJ, where many of his beloved dogs are buried. Visitors can view the graves of many of the dogs mentioned in his literary works, the museum, his books, and dog awards at the Van Riper-Hopper Historic House Museum.
Does SERVPRO Offer Storm Removal and Drying Services to Commercial Properties in Wayne?
There is a lot of urgencies to return to normal operations after a storm. Your business needs power restored, commercial buildings must be repaired, and the debris, water, and moisture must be removed to avoid further damage to undamaged finished and unfinished goods.
That’s why SERVPRO responds 24/7 within 4 hours to storm damage removal and drying requests from our commercial clients. We can also bring resources and equipment from other local franchises to assist in the cleanup. Call SERVPRO for:
Water damage in your home is no easy task. SERVPRO has the manpower and experience for any size disaster.
SERVPRO is a full-service water damage remediation company that can meet all your restoration needs in West Milford
Water extraction and remediation are different from restoration. Although, they are all part of the overall process that involves water removal services. Many residents ask what restoration is precisely. SERVPRO has the answer.
Water Damage Restoration
Water restoration to West Milford homes has many aspects. It is more than just cleaning up excess water, although that is included in the process. It is things such as:
Relaying the carpet and repairing the subfloors
Resetting the contents
Restoring items to a preloss condition whenever possible
Putting your home back together when everything is finished
The restoration process begins when the structure and contents are dry. Restoration consists of all the things that need to get done to return your home to its normal condition. During restoration:
All repairs to contents and structure are finished
Final cleaning and inspections get done
Equipment gets removed from the job site
Your things are returned to where they previously were
At SERVPRO, we care about your home and everything in it. The job is not finished until you are completely satisfied. Let SERVPRO of Wayne handle all your water damage restoration needs. Give us a call at (973) 546-4977.
Who Can Provide Fire Damage Restoration to Wayne Diners?
A fire in your commercial kitchen will put a halt on business. Call SERVPRO and let their technicians get there within a couple of hours.
SERVPRO provides Wayne businesses with professional fire and smoke damage restoration and cleanup
Kitchen fires are always a risk in any restaurant. Thankfully, in most commercial situations, they are contained quickly. However, that does not stop smoke and soot from spreading throughout the building.
Fire & Smoke Damage
If your Wayne diner needs fire damage restoration, SERVPRO has the necessary equipment, experience, and expertise to get the job done. One of the main elements of many diners is their retro booths. There are different components to the booths, including:
Specialize wet chemicals for cleaning the vinyl surface
Dry cleaners for wiping down Formica tabletops
Wet cleaning for metal fixtures
We test for the type of smoke residue present and put together a plan of action that meets the needs of the situation. Smoke remediation involves using various deodorization methods and tools designed to not only remove smoke residue but neutralize the foul odors as well.
For fire and smoke damage services you can trust, contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 today.
Professional Water Damage Remediation to Wayne Homes
SERVPRO is a GIANT in the water damage restoration business. We are IICRC certified for any size disaster.
Wayne residents trust SERVPRO to provide water damage restoration when there is a problem.
Wayne, NJ, is a town steeped in history. It got its start in 1694 and played an essential role in the War for Independence. At that time, the area was part of Saddle River Township. The Dey Mansion was used as George Washington’s headquarters in the summer of 1780 and then again later in the year. The Marquis de Lafayette made his headquarters at the Van Saun House close by. The township is named after “Mad” Anthony Wayne, a Revolutionary War hero.
Wayne Public Library
Even with restrictions in place, there is still a lot happening at the Wayne Public Library. There are always virtual events going on, such as The Leonieke Jazz Trio. You can even join in a book club discussion via Zoom. They also offer online tutoring, homework help, and kid’s activities.
Famous People
Wayne is home to many well-known personalities, including:
• Dan Ackroyd - actor
• Cecille B. Demille – producer, film director
• Ryan Neill – football player
• Jessielyn Palumbo – Miss New Jersey
• Queen Latifah – singer, actress
• Louise Currie Wilmot – Navy Rear Admiral
Double Ai
If you enjoy Asian food, this is an excellent restaurant. Their fried rice is fantastic. They serve delicious meals that go beyond what you would typically expect from a Chinese restaurant. You might want to give their filet mignon and shrimp with mixed vegetables a try. It melts in your mouth! The prices are reasonable, and the staff is very friendly. When weather permits, they have outdoor dining on the patio, which is very nice.
Dey Mansion
Once known as the Bloomsburg Manor, this Georgian-style home sits on 377 acres in Preakness Valley Park. The home, which originally sat on 600 acres, was built by Colonel Theunis Dey sometime in the 1770s. It is now a museum and living history site and can be visited year-round. Theunis was a colonel in the militia during the Revolutionary War and had met Washington previously. This led him to offer his home to Washington for his headquarters in 1780. The mansion played a unique role in the war. Peak events included:
• 4 rooms were used as military war rooms by Alexander Hamilton, Tench Tilghman, James McHenry, and Robert H. Harrison.
• Visitors during that time include the Marquis de Lafayette, Major General Lord Stirling, General Anthony Wayne, and Benedict Arnold.
• While there, in July of 1780, Washington wrote over 946 pieces of correspondence and commissioned Arnold to West Point.
When you tour the mansion today, you can see the main building, a spring house, plantation house, and forge.
SERVPRO Provides Water Mitigation to Wayne Residences
Something as simple as burst pipes can lead to significant flooding and the need for water damage clean-up. A water intrusion like this requires immediate attention to prevent secondary damage from occurring. SERVPRO provides water removal services that use:
• Water extraction tools such as submersible pumps and truck-mounted pumps
• Moisture meters and probes to determine hidden moisture and moisture levels
• Controlled demolition if necessary, to enhance the drying of structural elements
SERVPRO of Wayne is your water damage remediation expert. For help with any type of in-home flooding, contact us at (973) 546-4977. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.
Mold remediation is no DIY project. SERVPRO technicians are IICRC certified for any size mold remediation service needed for your property.
SERVPRO can provide quality water damage restoration services in West Milford
If a pipe inside your home breaks, the moisture can quickly soak into your walls, subfloors and increase your indoor humidity levels. Drying out your structural components can require a mixture of air movers and dehumidifiers to aid with evaporation and drying out your building materials and contents.
When our SERVPRO crew provides water damage restoration in West Milford, we must first figure out how many dehumidifiers it takes to remove moisture from the air within your affected space. The amount of dehumidifiers we use depends on the following:
Physical Aspects of the Room: One major factor that can change the number of dehumidifiers used is how many porous materials such as carpets, upholstered furniture, clothing, paper products, and unfinished wood exist. A more considerable amount of items that can easily absorb moisture can require more dehumidification.
The Capacity of the Dehumidifiers: Manufacturers measure a dehumidifier's ability in the following two ways:
The machines get measured by how many square feet they can condition per minute.
The unit's makers also test how many water gallons the dehumidifier can remove within 24 hours at 80 degrees Fahrenheit and 60% relative humidity.
If you ever notice wet building materials after a pipe breaks, call SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977.
Mold Remediation Should Be Handled By a Professional Team in Wayne
Mold remediation is no DIY project. SERVPRO techs are trained and experience with any size job.
SERVPRO can always assist you with mold remediation and cleanup in Wayne
If a fungus ever develops anywhere inside your home, it can cause foul odors and possibly some adverse health effects and make the items' surface look contaminated. Depending on where the contamination has grown, it can be relatively easy or challenging to remove.
Whenever our SERVPRO technicians work on mold remediation cleanup in Wayne, we primarily focus on removing the contamination present on the surface of your contents and building materials. One way to remove fungal formations on the surfaces of items inside your house is to implement dry ice blasting. This method has the following benefits:
Remediates Mold Quicker: Dry ice blasting can be a much faster way to remove surface contamination.
It's a Less Abrasive Method: These devices can remove formations without harming delicate surfaces.
Does Not Add Moisture: This method is considered a dry way to remove fungi because it does not make the affected materials wet.
Decontamination and Deodorization Capabilities: Dry ice blasting can eliminate spores and neutralize malodor particles.
Ability to Access Hard to Reach Areas: This blasting technique gives restorers the ability to remove contamination in tight corners and around wiring and plumbing fixtures.
If you ever need fungal formations removed from your home, call SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977.
Water Damage Done to Your Commercial Property in Wayne
Water damage restoration done to your commercial property should be handled by the pros at SERVPRO. They are ready 24/7 365 days a year.
SERVPRO can provide commercial water removal in Wayne
Wayne, New Jersey, is a small township located on the southeast corner of New York State at the Hudson River's mouth. The town is about 28 miles from New York City, and it is about 23 square miles in size. The most recent census reports that the small city has about 54,000 people.
Home to several historical sites
The town is primarily known for being the location of several historic sites. The township's parks and recreation department operates three places available to the public to tour by appointment. The Wayne Township Historical commission provides the upkeep and produces historical writings for the Van Riper-Hopper house, the Van Duyne house, and the Schuyler-Colfax house.
The Schuyler-Colfax site was built initially by Arent Schuyler in about 1700, and it was one of the first colonial homes built on the east coast. Eight generations of the family lived there, including governmental, military, medical, and legal representatives. The House was then sold to the township and opened up as a historic site for visitors in 1993.
Another famous town location is the Dey property, owned and operated by the Passaic County Parks and Recreation Department. The gorgeous home was started by Dirk Dey in 1740 and then finished by his son Theunis Dey. In 1780, the estate was famous for serving as Former President George Washington's headquarters during the Revolutionary War.
The city contains several parks and recreation facilities.
Another aspect that attracts people to Wayne Township is that the small city has several public parks. The parks and recreation facilities in the town include:
Alps Road Park: This property has three soccer fields, two lacrosse fields, and amenities for field hockey and softball.
Boulevard Park: This facility houses a playground, softball field, and a basketball court.
Captain Kilroy Park: The public venue is home to Tom's Lake, which provides a swimming area with a beach. It also features a softball field, a basketball, and a volleyball court.
Dave Waks Memorial Park: The property was formerly known as Barbour Pond, and it now features several synthetic turfs and natural grass fields used for multiple sports. It also has a playground, water fountains, a model airplane flying area, and a paved walking/flying path.
Friends and Family Park: This facility contains water fountains, a playground, and a dog park for large and small dogs.
SERVPRO can help your business with water restoration services.
If a pipe breaks inside your office overnight, the floors inside it can become saturated quickly. After all of the liquid gets removed through extraction, our SERVPRO technicians can remove the rest of the moisture through the applied structural drying (ASD) process. During the ASD procedures, one air mover gets set up in every affected room, and we add one air mover for the following situations:
We can add air mover for every 50 to 70 square feet of flooring we find got wet.
We could add another air mover if 100 to 150 square feet of ceiling or walls above two feet got affected by moisture.
Our technicians can add another air mover to a room if it contains an inset or offset over 18 inches.
Don't let flood water take over your West Milford home, Call our certified storm damage technicians for assistance.
Without Professional Restoration, Floodwater Can Destroy West Milford Neighborhoods
Area storms can drop thousands of gallons of water onto local neighborhoods. It takes only a fraction of that to damage homes since floodwater also contains contaminants it picked up before entering them.
To reduce the effects in West Milford, quick flood removal is needed. With contaminants present, SERVPRO specialists spray affected areas with an anti-bacterial to reduce the health risk. Next, they do appropriate PPE and then bring in pumps to remove all standing water. As the level goes down, specialists switch to other, smaller water extractors to draw contaminated water out of floors and carpets.
Since we cannot guarantee the safety of flooded carpets, specialists remove them for disposal. Their next step is to insert hoses under floors and behind walls to remove trapped floodwater. All water is pumped directly into a nearby sewer drain or held in a tank for later disposal at a water treatment plant. Their final step is to spray all surfaces with another anti-bacterial agent and allow them to dry.
Contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 for swift flood water removal from your home.
Homeowners deal with many inconveniences, including water damage. Our skilled technicians are just a phone call away.
Wayne Residents Need SERVPRO’s Professional Home Restoration
Water damage does not require hundreds of gallons to ruin homes. An appliance failure or a leak is discovered behind a bathtub can be just as destructive with each problem resulting in damage to floors, walls, and other parts of each home.
In Wayne neighborhoods, water mitigation efforts can eliminate or, at least, limit the damage. The key to how our technicians do this is by removing visible water and then drawing out moisture trapped inside or behind floors and walls. They start with using extraction devices to pull water off and out of surfaces. These devices are adjustable for both power and temperature which allows them to preserve everything from expensive wood flooring to wall-to-wall carpeting.
With the floors safe to walk on again, technicians use other devices to remove moisture. They set up fans to circulate and draw the damp air outside. Next, they install air movers to force moisture in drywall and other property out where it is captured by dehumidifiers for removal.
To preserve your home after a water intrusion, call SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 today.
Are Storm Floods More Damaging Than Water Intrusions?
After your property suffers flood damage, you need a team of professionals to assist you with cleanup. Call SERVPRO right away!
For Thorough Flood Damage Restoration, Call SERVPRO
One of the more interesting places to visit in Wayne is the William Paterson University of New Jersey. The Paterson City Normal School, founded in 1855, it is the second-oldest of New Jersey’s nine state colleges and one of the most respected public universities for educating teachers.
A Century of Training Teachers and Growth
Established in Paterson to meet the growing need for educators, one of its original structures was the home of John McCullough, a Scottish immigrant who made a fortune in the wool industry. Today, it is known as Hobart Manor and was designated a state and national landmark in 1976.
The School quickly grew in size and reputation. When it moved to its current campus in Wayne in 1951, it renamed itself the Paterson State Teachers College. The school grounds were purchased by the State of New Jersey in 1948 and were originally owned by the family of Garret Hobart, our nation’s twenty-fourth vice president.
Expanding to Meet the Needs of our State and the Nation
In 1966, the College expanded its curriculum to include degrees in careers other than teaching. The now five academic colleges are organized in these areas:
The College of the Arts and Communication grants Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Master of Arts, Master of Fine Arts,Bachelor of Music, and Master of Music degrees.
The Cotsakos College of Business is named for alumni Dr. Christos Cotsakos (’73). A former chairman of the board and CEO for E*TRADE. The College grants Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Master of Business Administration degrees.
The College of Education grants Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Science, Master of Arts in Teaching, and Master of Education degrees. Students may also pursue teaching certificates.
The College of Humanities and Social Sciences grants Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts, and Doctor of Psychology degrees.
The College of Science and Health grants Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees,Master of Science in Nursing. It also offers several pre-professional programs.
In 1971, the college was renamed William Paterson College of New Jersey to honor Justice William Paterson, who was our state's first senator, its second governor, and nominated to the U.S. Supreme Court by President George Washington, In June 1997, University status was awarded to William Patterson by the Commission on Higher Education.
Hurricane Forces Need an Equal Response
When a severe storm strikes the area, SERVPRO technicians move in quickly to determine what needs to be done immediately. In most cases this involves:
Securing the structure
Removing floodwater and debris
Demolishing property not restorable
Cleaning and repairing restorable property
Technicians cover roof and wall damage with tarps or plywood to reduce the risk of further damage from weather and animal intrusions. As they do this, other team members bring in pumps and other extractors to remove standing water and moisture trapped under floors and behind walls.
If flooring or wall panels are too water-damaged, team members remove them for disposal. Once completed, they clean surfaces with an antibacterial agent and repair where possible.
Call SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 to restore your residence when flood damage strikes. We are here for you.
Wayne Home Restoration Provided by a Locally Owned and Operated Business
You do not need a college education to know that SERVPRO is the premiere water damage restoration company in the Wayne area
SERVPRO Promptly Attends to Water Removal in Historic Homes to Assist Wayne Property Owners
Wayne, New Jersey is only 20 miles from Manhattan, yet maintains a suburban feel in the heart of Passaic County. Wayne is close enough to the city to commute easily and far enough away to enjoy a quieter environment. Once lush farmland, Wayne Township offers diverse attractions to both visitors and residents of the community. There are lakeside residential communities, various parks, recreational facilities, and historical-site museums throughout Wayne Township and Passaic County.
Wayne Township came into being on April 12, 1847, by the New Jersey Legislature. Wayne Township was first established from portions of Manchester Township. Wayne became a smaller city in the late 19th century after the citizens held their first township organization meeting where they voted to split from Manchester, naming the new area Wayne Township.
Although Wayne officially came into existence in the 1840s, this area of New Jersey was settled by Europeans dating back to 1694. The surveyor Arent Schuyler found a fertile river valley in 1694 and settled in the area. The Lenape people lived in this area and grew fruitful crops, making it desirable to European settlers.
Historically Significant William Paterson University of New Jersey, Housed in Wayne
William Paterson University is part of New Jersey's public higher education dating back to 1855 when it was initially named the Paterson City Normal School. For over a hundred years, the school exclusively trained New Jersey public school teachers before expanding to other fields of study. In 1948 the university moved to a larger building now known as Hobart Manor. Eventually, in 1951, the university changed its name to Paterson State Teachers College when it expanded to a larger campus.
Critical Dates for the Progression of the University
1855: Founded as Paterson City Normal School
1948: The State of New Jersey purchased Hobart Manor from the Hobart Family, including the 370-acre property
1951: Moved to present campus and renamed to Paterson State Teachers College
1966: The curriculum expanded to include degrees in other fields besides education.
1970: Steven Lamprou graduated summa cum laude
1971: Renamed William Paterson College of New Jersey.
The university was named after William Paterson, New Jersey's first senator, second governor, and Supreme Court Justice. Paterson also helped write the Constitution. He served in his last office as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1793 until his death on September 9, 1806. Paterson was nominated by George Washington for the Supreme Court and interpreted the American Constitution. During his time as a Supreme Court Justice, one of the prominent events and cases was the Whiskey Rebellion in 1794, when Pennsylvania farmers responded with rebellion to an unwanted tax, leading to military intervention.
Historical Significance of Hobart Manor
Hobart Manor of William Paterson University remains the university president's office and became a national and state landmark in 1976. Although Hobart Manor continues to host students, faculty, and staff, it has been historically preserved to look similar to when it was originally built in 1877. Several portraits of the Hobart family grace the walls of the building and other pieces of artwork. Due to constant use, there is a Hobart Manor revitalization committee that continually searches for fixtures, furniture, and other materials that maintain the Manor's historical integrity. Each year, the committee holds a Sunday Tea at the Manor to raise funds toward its continued revitalization.
Other Historically Significant Properties in Wayne Township
Van Riper-Hopper House: Built in 1786 as a Dutch homestead is the Wayne Historical Commission's headquarters. This house became a museum in 1964.
Mead-Van Duyne House Museum: Constructed in 1740, it was purchased in 1974 by the Wayne Township.
Schuyler-Colfax House Museum: This is Wayne's oldest home, built in 1696. In October 1966, the Schuyler-Colfax house was named a historical site by the State of New Jersey but wasn't sold as a landmark until 1994. It was a private residence for the eighth generation of the original family and was never sold from the home's original owner. It remains one of the only colonial homesteads built before 1700 on the East Coast of the United States.
Dey Mansion: Raised in 1740, was General George Washington's headquarters for the Continental Army in 1780.
The four homes described above are currently all museums. However, there are numerous homes in the area that date back to the mid-1700s. Most of these homes currently serve as private residences. Amongst the currently-in-use buildings of historical significance includes the Old Preakness School. This was a single-story building from 1866, presently in use as a business but owned by Wayne Township.
How Does SERVPRO Assist in Water Removal Services for my Historic Wayne Home?
If you find yourself needing water removal after a mishap in your home, using a professional service such as SERVPRO can mean the difference in obtaining full restoration or only getting partial job completion. Although every restoration project requires timely attention, your colonial-era home requires specialized materials and techniques needing even faster consideration.
SERVPRO Uses a multi-tiered approach to water removal, including the following steps:
Our emergency response team, available 24/7, acts quickly to dispatch technicians to your home.
Technicians assess the damage and develop a plan for repairs and restoration.
Our team works to extract as much water as possible, as quickly as possible to mitigate secondary damage such as mold growth or warping of floors and walls.
Technicians use industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifying equipment to dry the impacted area within your home adequately.
After the area is dry, technicians begin completing any required repairs.
SERVPRO understands the value of preserving the historical significance of your home throughout the restoration process. Our technicians use water detection devices and monitor humidity to ensure excess moisture and humidity does not remain within the home.
For assistance in water removal for your Wayne home, contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977. We make it, "Like it never even happened."
Cultivate Inner Peace in West Milford through Artistic Creation
If your photos are fire damaged in your West Milford home, call SERVPRO for help
Participate in Self-Discovery and Intuitive Art at the West Milford Township Library
On Wednesday, January 20, 2021, Join SoulCollage with Pat Decker, Board-Certified Art Therapist, for a virtual class for an evening of self-discovery through art. During the class, participants make personal decks of collaged cards. Because there is an eight-person limit to the workshop, you need to register to join. After confirming your registration, expect an email to let you know that your art-supply packet for the SoulCollage card deck is ready for pick up at the library.
Here are more details about the SoulCollage Inner Compass Workshop:
The day before the workshop, an email goes out to participants with the class link.
The workshop is from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm.
The workshop is meant for adults only.
The workshop and materials are free of charge for registered individuals.
For expedient fire damage restoration in West Milford and surrounding areas, contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977.
Worried about storm damaged photos and important documents? SERVPRO can help our Wayne neighbors
Learn How to Preserve Family Documents Virtually in Wayne Appropriately following a Flood
You may not think about the importance of preserving essential family documents and memorabilia until you need something and can no longer find it or discover it damaged. Having well-cared for documents may help you with required logistical paperwork in the future and also with preserving your family history. Join the Wayne Public Library on Thursday, January 21, 2021, at 1:00 PM for an hour-long question and answer session about properly keeping paper-based items. Learn what materials and techniques to use and what to avoid. To email the point of contact, Janette, for the Zoom link and more details, check the library's calendar of events. This class is designed for adults wishing to learn and ask questions about family documentation preservation.
Types of Documents to Preserve:
Certificates: marriage, birth, death
Diplomas and other educational awards
Letters
Photographs: loose, in albums, or framed
Memorabilia: flyers, pamphlets, and newspaper clippings
Estate and Insurance Documents
For 24/7 assistance with flood damage in Passaic County, contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977.
SERVPRO of Wayne agrees it is good to take some time for self-care.
Virtual Wellness Workshops Encourage Health and Relaxation for Pompton Lakes Residents
Pompton Lakes homeowners are cordially invited to join a specialized health expert once a month for a Talbott Recovery virtual event focused on improving individuals’ well-being through education. Each month, wellness experts and professionals in the field take an hour to talk to audiences about the various aspects of health and wellness.
Topics covered during these monthly lectures include:
Spirituality
Social and physical health
Emotional well-being
Talbott’s November virtual workshop was presented by Jana Burbato, who is a Certified Holistic Health Practitioner, Certified Pilates Reformer Instructor, and Certified Yoga Instructor. Burbato is also currently the Director of Talbott Recovery Campus’s Business Development department, and has over a decade of healthcare industry experience.
The upcoming December 16 Wellness Wednesday takes place from noon to 1:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
SERVPRO of Wayne renders fire damage restoration services for Pompton Lakes homes within hours of your initial contact. Call (973) 546-4977 to begin the cleanup process.
Accompany West Milford Loved Ones to a Memory Cafe
What a wonderful way to keep our loved ones active, but safe.
Healthcare Providers Make Health and Wellness Fun for West Milford Residents with Alzheimer’s and Other Conditions
Socialization, music, and fun are only a Zoom call away at the West Palm Memory Cafe hosted by Arden Courts of West Palm. These calls are free, and anyone interested can join. Whether you or a loved one have been diagnosed with dementia or other conditions, Arden Courts of West Palm is proud to provide a safe and fun way to befriend new people and share new experiences from the comfort of your West Milford home.
In the current public health climate, activities like travel, sports, and going to live events are not always feasible. Several virtual and in-home activities to try for memory enhancement and recreation include:
Arts and crafts
In-home yoga and other low-impact workouts
Music and dance
Watching movies and plays
Arden Courts of West Palm aims to engage seniors with social events and improve memory and overall health.
SERVPRO of Wayne offers rapid-response stormwater removal for West Milford properties when owners call (973) 546-4977.
Make Happy and Lasting Holiday Memories this Christmas at Willowbrook in Wayne
Wayne Families Count on Photos with Santa and Willowbrook Mall Ensures You Can Continue a Treasured Tradition
Sleigh Bells ring in the Bloomingdale Exhibit Court at Willowbrook this holiday season. Santa is ready for his close up with kids of all ages from the Wayne area. This season reservations are a must, allowing you and your family to plan your professional photoshoot without the worry or bother of waiting in long lines. Please choose a time to meet with Santa that works best for you and your family, and schedule it through Willowbrook’s website.
Dates and Times:
Now through December 23
Mondays -- Saturdays 11 am -- 7 pm
Sundays -- 12 pm -- 6 pm
December 24 -- 9 am to 5 pm
If your home needs fire or smoke restoration during the busy holidays, you can feel confident when you schedule an assessment with SERVPRO of Wayne. One call to (973) 546-4977 is all it takes to make it “Like it never even happened,” before welcoming family and friends.
SERVPRO of Wayne is ready for your fire damage emergency call.
SERVPRO of Wayne is a Phone Call Away from Rapid Disaster Cleanup at (973) 546-4977
Wayne, New Jersey’s history begins in 1694 with the land surveying and speculation of Arent Schuyler. Schuyler was tasked by the British with investigating rumors of French-led rebellion among the local Lenape tribespeople. However, the Lenape proved to be a peaceful agrarian tribe in a fertile river valley.
In 1695, Schuyler and many others, including Samuel Bayard and Anthony Brockholst, decided to invest in the land and eventually purchase it as British territory. At the end of the year, the first township settled on the newly purchased 5000 acres of land was dubbed New Barbadoes Township. The area would not be incorporated as Wayne until April 1847. The historic Schuyler-Colfax House on what is now Hamburg Turnpike still stands today as a museum and a testament to centuries of Wayne area history.
Notable people from Wayne include:
Retired United States Army North commanding general Major General Guy C. Swan III
Members of the band Dramarama, including founding member and bassist Chris Carter, singer John Easdale, keyboardist Theodore Ellenis, guitarist Mark Englert, and drummers Ronny Machuga and Jesse Farbman
A-list actress and “Queen of Jazz-Rap” Dana Owens, also known as Queen Latifah
New York Jets tight end Chris Pantale
Real Housewives of New Jersey stars Kathy Wakile and Danielle Staub
Paterson State alumnus Steve Lamprou
Wayne’s Revolutionary History
New Barbadoes Township, which was part of Saddle River Township by the 18th century, was nearing a century in age by the American Revolution. The Wayne area played a key role for prominent figures in the American Colonial Army, including:
George Washington, who formed his headquarters at Dey Mansion in the summer and autumn of 1780 and resided there with Alexander Hamilton
Anthony Wayne, the town’s namesake and the fifth Senior Officer of the United States Army, whose military tactics earned him the nickname “Mad Anthony”
Gilbert du Motier, the Marquis de Lafayette, a French nobleman and officer who aided American forces during such instrumental battles as Yorktown and Gloucester
Today, the Dey Mansion is a museum dedicated to preserving a unique and crucial moment in the American Revolution’s history. While it usually hosts a bevy of programs year-round, it is currently closed in response to public health concerns.
Marquis de Lafayette’s residence, the Van Saun House, is currently a private residence but is a well-preserved display of Colonial architecture. It was posted for sale as recently as January 2019 and was sold by March of 2020.
Other Revolutionary War sites for American history buffs to visit include the Wayne Public Library’s Boulder Monument, the Colfax Family’s burial plot, and the site markers for two encampments along Two Bridges Road near the Passaic River.
The Wayne Fire Department
Dealing with fires in any community is an unforeseen challenge that has a wide-reaching impact. In Wayne, fire suppression is carried out by five volunteer companies: Community Fire Company Number 1, Property Owner League Fire Company Number 2, Pompton Falls Fire Company Number 3, Preakness Fire Company Number 4, and Packanack Lake Fire Company Number 5. Each company operates independently, but the department is headed by a Fire Commissioner appointed by the mayor and elected by the firefighters.
The fire department structure is comprised of volunteer service members, with those among the most skilled belonging to the Special Emergency Response Team (SERT). SERT members take care of the most daunting tasks in a fire situation, including rescues in close quarters and other high-risk scenarios.
Both the fire department and First Aid Squad are open to new volunteers. Besides saving the community in taxes and protecting the community, active volunteer emergency service staff receive the following benefits:
Passaic County educational facility tuition reimbursement for volunteers and their families
Annual clothing allowance
Access to LOSAP, an annual $1350 annual deposit in a tax-deferred income account for employees who meet the necessary point requirements
Free access to local swimming facilities
Training for fighting is done in-house after new members have passed firefighter I and II courses at the Passaic County Fire Academy. Applicants for the department must be between ages 18 and 45, pass a background check and a physical, and live in Wayne for at least six months.
What Factors Does SERVPRO Consider When Planning Wayne Fire Damage Cleanup?
SERVPRO performs fire damage cleanup and restoration for Wayne properties that conform to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification’s (IICRC) guidelines. Restoration industry standards require mitigation teams to carefully plan their cleanup to minimize property loss and increase restoration potential.
When planning the best course of action for a fire damage situation, SERVPRO teams consider the following:
Is there water damage from fire suppression? If so, this needs to be mitigated first. Not only can moisture allow mold and microbes to increase, but it can also make soot corrosive
What residues are present? Burnt soils can have different characteristics that can add additional challenges to cleaning. Proteins in meat require different cleanup methods from burnt electrical appliances or charred dining chairs
Are damaged items repairable, or is replacement necessary? While repair is a feasible option for many materials in the home, some materials, such as drywall or laminate flooring, would be safer and more cost-effective to replace than repair. SERVPRO professionals coordinate with homeowners and insurance adjusters to determine the most suitable options to return homes to a preloss state
SERVPRO also performs building and repair services for fire-damaged homes, including HVAC system cleanup, hardwood flooring repairs, roof repairs, and painting.
SERVPRO of Wayne provides restoration services that make homes look and feel, “Like it never even happened.” Property owners can call the team at (973) 546-4977 at any time of the day or night for their mitigation needs.
Get Out of the House for a Black Friday Pop Up Event in Wayne
If you are up for it, go and support your local businesses at the pop up event and get yourself some treats.
Shop Local with Various Vendors in Wayne
You may be leery of large Black Friday crowds in 2020, so naturally, this small pop up event is a great alternative. You can shop safely with vendors on Saturday, November 28th hosted by Pop Up Next Door & NF8 Media. In addition to shopping, there will be entertainment and food options to make it a fun event for all. Admission is free for the whole family. It begins at 2 pm and goes on until 6 pm. The event is inside, so masks are mandatory. Come out for this great Black Friday event for a unique shopping and entertainment experience!
What Does the Event Offer?
Live entertainment including music
Henna tattoos
Food and drink
Shopping with various vendors
If you need mold removal in your Passaic County business, contact SERVPRO of Wayne anytime, 24/7 at (973) 546-4977. We are available to assist with disasters, large and small.
What Kind of Repairs are Necessary After Water Damages in West Milford?
Excess water can enter your home in many ways. Contact Team SERVPRO for water removal services.
By getting repairs started in West Milford homes quickly after disasters, we can lessen losses for customers.
A fast and reliable response is what West Milford homes have come to expect after water disasters threaten their properties. Considering how quickly saturation and water penetration can threaten structural cavities and porous materials, our mitigation solutions must encompass a combination of efforts from our certified technicians and building trade professionals. After water damages, various materials can become affected, which consequently requires different construction niches to resolve. Depending on what areas of the house are damaged by the disaster, we can offer contractors experienced in masonry, carpentry, flooring, drywall finishing, and plumbing.
There are multiple phases of water mitigation for West Milford homes. The more of these actions that we can implement early on, the less overall loss that property owners experience. Because we can reach most homes within hours of the first notice of loss (FNOL), we can begin many of the vital recovery actions at this time. Apart from repairs and reconstruction necessary, mitigation typically begins with several approaches such as:
Extraction – We have dozens of machines and devices that can remove standing water from the property. Gravity often encourages water to pool along the floors of damaged areas, leading to overexposure to porous and sensitive materials like wood flooring, drywall, and carpeting. Removing surface water can ultimately reduce saturation.
Content Cleaning – After evaluating damages present in the house, our project manager can identify compromised contents. Cleaning up these items on-site is the ideal approach. We have solvents, detergents, and cleaning equipment to help in this effort.
Pack Out – There are instances where on-site cleaning is not feasible or possible, even if these personal belongings are believed to be salvageable. The pack-out process moves these items to our nearby SERVPRO facility for intricate cleaning practices, deodorization, and safe storage.
What is Controlled Demolition?
Contractors on our roster complete multiple tasks beginning as soon as our team first arrives at damaged residences. Because of how quickly water damages in West Milford can spread throughout a house, it is common for some degree of controlled demolition to restore and recover the affected property. While there are varying reasons for this emergency service, it often falls into one of three categories, including:
Access – Because repairs are often necessary to fixtures and portions of pipe, controlled demolition might be needed to access this system's points that require replacement. Using thermal imagery and other moisture detection equipment, we can identify where these damages exist to limit the amount of drywall that must get cut out and discarded.
Safety – Sagging materials can become a substantial threat to occupants and technicians working in homes and businesses. Unmanaged sagging ceiling drywall and insulation can collapse and injure those in the immediate areas.
Preventative – Sometimes, the actions taken by our contractors to remove portions of exposed materials like drywall and hardwood flooring are meant to prevent circumstances like moisture-wicking.
What Repairs Can SERVPRO Perform?
Emergency services are part of the initial actions that professionals on our team take to protect the property after a water damage incident. Many different approaches fit this description. While our technicians often must address pressing concerns like extraction and debris removal to prevent the spread and severity of water damages, our contractors must identify structural threats and work to repair and recover these areas. Some of the initial actions that our building trade professionals can address include:
Plumbing Repairs/Replacement
Board Up
Tarping
Controlled Demolition
Can SERVPRO Perform Complete Build Back?
Because we have a dedicated division for construction and repair, our general contractors represent nearly every building trade niche. While this can translate into the repairs and controlled demolition, it also becomes a seamless phase to follow mitigation. Our general contractors can take the remaining reconstruction and build back the property as needed to replace discarded structural elements in this phase. The experience of these professionals can also allow you to reimagine space where considerable repair is necessary. Remodeling is more cost-efficient when demolition is already required to repair property after a water loss.
Our general contractors can perform many potentially practical steps and actions to help your property recover from water damage scenarios. With many potential causes of water disasters that can simultaneously threaten your entire property, the experience and training of our SERVPRO of Wayne team can positively impact what restoration is possible for your property. Give our rapid response team a call 24/7 at (973) 546-4977.
Who Repairs Residential Properties after Flooding in Pompton Lakes?
If your property becomes flooded, the application of material science can help to recover losses.
SERVPRO is a Qualified Flood Damage Restoration Service Operating in the Pompton Area.
How do floodwaters spread through a home? The initial impact of water intrusion can cause structural harm to your Pompton Lakes home. However, the immediate aftermath is where much of the permanent damages are caused. Moisture that comes in with floodwaters can permeate a structure, quickly absorbing the materials it comes into direct contact with and increasing the relative humidity in the affected area. Understanding how moisture moves through a structure is essential to identifying where losses are and performing mitigation against those losses. SERVPRO technicians hold qualifications from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certifications (IICRC) and have experience working with residential flood losses in the area.
How does moisture spread through the home? • Liquid flows which may come from rainfall or through flooding • Air movement that can carry moisture into, or throughout, a structure • Capillary suction which allows water to permeate porous materials • Vapor diffusion is when evaporated moisture moves as a gas through the home.
How does moisture affect materials in the home? When dealing with flood damage in your Pompton Lakes home, it is vital to remember that moisture affects different materials in different ways. The two main damage-causing factors when water moves through a home is the permeance of the materials it contacts and the length of exposure. Typically, longer-term exposures mean our technicians may need to demo certain items. Longer-term exposure can also lead to secondary damages like mold growth. We act quickly in flood situations to reduce the exposure-time of moisture on materials and, by doing so, reduce the amount of damage in the home.
What are the types of material that become damaged by water exposure? • Porous materials like carpet or gypsum board absorb moisture quickly, and some types can sustain microbial growth. • Semi-porous material has slow absorption rates like unfinished woods. • Non-porous materials like glass do not absorb moisture or water damage.
If your property becomes flooded, the application of material science can help to recover losses. Contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977.
Storms can bring floodwater and storm damage. The professionals at SERVPRO are always on call to handle your water damage restoration needs.
SERVPRO Can Remove the Flood Damage From West Milford Homes.
Watching your West Milford home suffer flood damage is an awful experience to go through. No one wants to see their possessions, valuables, and their home itself become jeopardized. However, excess water does not always mean you have to go through a lengthy remediation process. Not all floods equal a gutted interior.
When it comes to flood damage in your West Milford home, promptly getting help is the best thing you can do. Water damages of any kind are time-sensitive. The longer your home is exposed to excess moisture, the more problems it can conjure for you.
A Storm Flooded My Home! What Can SERVPRO Do to Help Me Right Away?
Storms come hand in hand with intense wind, rushing rain, and falling debris. A seemingly harmless tree can fall and put a hole in your home, allowing water to rush inside. If this happened to your home, we could:
Quickly assemble and travel in a pre-loaded van of advanced water restoration equipment
Use a GPS to navigate the fastest route to your home
Come equipped with advanced technology and highly trained technicians
While it may not seem like much, having expert technicians is critical. Ours are certified by the Institution of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).
What Can SERVPRO Do to Restore My Home?:
Our technicians are trained to use several devices designed to remove flood water as soon as possible. Once at your home, we can:
Use plastic sheeting and tarps to cover the hole in your home caused by the tree
Inspect the flood water to ensure it is not blackwater, which is unsafe for human contact
Remove the excess moisture with devices such as wet/dry vacuums, portable pumps, and extractors
Our goal is to get the water out of your home ASAP, to help reduce the chances of mold growth. To help ensure it, we can also use antifungal disinfectant on suspect areas. At SERVPRO, we aim to be thorough and leave you with peace of mind.
If your home requires flood damage remediation, get help today! Get in touch with SERVPRO of Wayne by calling (973) 546-4977. No matter the time, we can help!
What Are Some Useful Things to Know When Planning Fire Restoration?
Fire damage restoration is expensive. SERVPRO knows how to restore your home cost efficiently.
From the Vast Experiences Handling Fire Damage Restoration Exercises in Wayne, SERVPRO Can Guide Homeowners on What to Do
Restoring a fire-damaged property takes several processes to deal with damaged materials, soiled areas, and other problems. Although each situation may have unique requirements, loss incidents also share common characteristics. Knowing specific things can help deliver better results. When SERVPRO technicians inspect Wayne properties after fire incidents, we can help point out crucial things that the owners need to know.
What information does SERVPRO reveal about fire damage restoration to Wayne homeowners?
Cleaning contents and structural items may differ even when involving similar materials
Restorative processes should exhaust mild methods before trying harsh ones
Restoration must address the interior and exterior house sections, as well as assemblies
Materials can determine the usefulness of restorative procedures
A significant percentage of the restoration processes done after fire damage in Wayne involves cleanup of affected contents and building materials. Generally, cleaning methods depend on the type of soil and the type of material involved. However, whether you are dealing with a material that is part of the structure or contents can influence the decisions you make. For instance, if an item in your content inventory proves challenging to clean, you can move it to offsite storage until it is convenient to do the cleanup. However, issues with structural items must be addressed holistically.
It is possible to use several cleaning approaches to accomplish the same goal. For instance, removing smoke residues from surfaces can be achieved through vacuuming, wet wiping, pressure washing, or using abrasive techniques such as sanding. However, starting with mild methods presents many advantages, including faster completion of the task and lower cost. Our SERVPRO technicians opt for approaches such as vacuuming the soiled surface and wiping with chemical sponges instead of pressure washing, which can over-wet the materials leading to other complications. We only use the advanced cleaning methods where we determine the soiling is too severe. We explore cleaning before opting for different approaches such as resurfacing or teardown of materials.
What are some of the advanced cleaning methods commonly used during fire restoration?
Peroxide active cleaning
Soda blasting
Abrading surfaces with steel wool pads
Wet cleaning with alkaline or acid solutions
With the sophisticated systems, it is possible to care for the specific type of soiling or unique materials that need extra care during restoration. For instance, soda blasting can remove massive soot deposits from unfinished wood surfaces such as trusses. Peroxide active cleaning, on the other hand, is excellent for restoring acoustic tiles.
Should all sections of a house receive the same level of attention?
When a fire damages your Wayne house, you are likely to worry about the damage to interior surfaces such as walls and ceilings. You will also probably notice damage to the eaves and exterior walls and thus think of ways to address it. However, the process is not complete. Even hidden areas such as wall cavities and assemblies such as cabinets need attention. Smoke tends to collect in such places since hot smoke and other gases filter inside to replace the colder air trapped there. Therefore, even when there are no physical damage signs, there is a need to open the cavities for cleaning.
Our SERVPRO technicians are better suited for the cleaning tasks involving assemblies and structural cavities. Apart from having the sophisticated cleaning equipment, we also bring the small tools that help simplify the process of opening up hidden areas at the loss site:
Pry bars
Rubber hammers
Molding lifters
Flashlights
Do confusing situations arise during the restoration of fire damage?
You might think that once you identify the areas affected by the fire, it is easy to decide whether to perform restoration or to remove the affected materials for disposal. However, in practice, you might find yourself stuck, not because there are no solutions, but because you cannot make a decision. The damage to some contents in the house can complicate decision making if it is not bad enough to warrant immediate disposal. At the same time, it might seem too extensive to guarantee a positive outcome from the restoration. Our SERVPRO technicians help classify such items as questionable, which allows them to be set aside until there is an opportunity to examine them thoroughly and decide the best course of action.
Various unexpected issues might crop up during the restoration of your fire-damaged property. SERVPRO of Wayne sends experienced technicians to West Milford, Pompton Lakes, or Ringwood properties to help manage unexpected issues. Call us at (973) 546-4977. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.
What is the Quickest Way of Getting Water Out of Commercial Premises?
SERVPRO knows how quickly water damage can take over your Wayne business. Call us today, let us keep you up and moving.
Commercial Water Removal Requires Significant Resources and Equipment. SERVPRO Offers Wayne Businesses Professional Removal and Drying of Water Issues.
How long should I expect water removal to take?
We recognize that for Wayne, businesses expect a time-efficient restoration of their premises. Water leaks can lead to losses of revenue, especially for those leasing property for others to use. SERVPRO offers a commercial service that allows property managers to communicate directly with our crew chiefs throughout the service. We can provide you with informed information regarding the length of time we expect a water restoration to take. Equally, our technicians can work around the needs of your business. A space with an isolated area of water damage can allow you to keep your business running while working on the affected area. We can position warning signs and barriers to inform members of the staff of the situation.
What water removal services are available for commercial businesses?
- Arriving on-site within four hours of notification of loss
- Institute of inspection, cleaning, restoration and certifications (IICRC) qualified technicians
- Twenty-four-hour emergency call line
Is drying the structure important after water removal?
Wayne's commercial water removal service typically covers both the pumping out of the liquid and the drying procedure. Residual moisture can be very harmful to a structure, leading to mold growth, odor, or discoloration. SERVPRO technicians monitor a damaged area repeatedly to ensure that our methods are efficient and achieving the expected outcomes. It is not uncommon for crew chiefs to return every twelve to twenty-four hours to assess our drying procedure's effectiveness. We can also put in place more aggressive drying equipment if necessary, after job monitoring.
What equipment is used in water removal?
- Water pumps to remove standing water
- Truck-mounted or portable extractors for residual moisture
- Dehumidifiers and air-movers for the drying process
Professional and efficient drying time is essential for your business. Contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977.
Who Do I Call after a Fire in My Home Left a Mess Behind?
This is not a DIY fire damaged kitchen in Pompton Lakes! Call SERVPRO for professional cleanup and restoration.
Your Pompton Lakes Home may be Full of Water, Soot and Debris, but SERVPRO Can Help You Restore It
When a fire occurs in your Pompton Lakes home, you may think that getting rid of soot is your biggest problem. However, the firefighters' efforts also leave a residue behind in the form of water and extinguishing solutions, as well as general disarray of the affected areas. Furthermore, your ventilation system seems to spew a foul odor in every room, even those far from where the fire ignites.
In Pompton Lakes, fire restoration is our specialty at SERVPRO, and you can call us as soon as it is safe for us to enter your home to enlist our help. Our knowledgeable fire restoration technicians hold certifications by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), a credential achieved only by the best in the industry. When you are at a loss of where to start sorting through the damage in your home, our expert team can guide your efforts. Call our 24/7 hotline and get the ball rolling to mitigate your loss of time and money.
What are the leading fire restoration steps?
The restoration of your home is quite intuitive. We need to remove any standing water, clean individual surfaces where soot has settled, and follow up with a disinfecting and deodorizing process. However, the devil is in the details. When you invite our SERVPRO crew into your home, you can be sure that we use the correct equipment to achieve each goal efficiently. Knowing the theory behind home fires helps us determine which cleaners to use, what size pumps to resort to, and which items to discard. Every single step we take is deliberate, and we base it on industry best practices. Some techniques you may see us apply in your home include-
Wand extraction to remove water from tucked-away corners of your home
Fogging with disinfecting agents
Treatment of salvageable porous materials and textiles
When fire strikes, you don't need to know each step towards restoration. Instead, you can call SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 and place your trust in our expertise. Together, we can work hard until your home looks, "Like it never even happened."
Is It Realistic to Hope My Business Center Can Continue Operations During Flood Damage Restoration in West Milford?
Rely on SERVPRO of Wayne to help plan for a successful recovery for your business from storm-related flood damage.
Straight Talk About Expectations Guides Both You and SERVPRO to Choose Recommended Interventions in the Aftermath of Flood Damage in West Milford
There is no shame when one business reaches out to another for help if your West Milford office building suffers from flooding during severe seasonal storms. Savvy business owners take a long view and leverage the experience and knowledge base of a reputable flood and storm damage recovery company long before extreme weather strikes. The key is to find a company that can deliver both pre-planning to minimize the effects of inevitable storm flooding and a rapid response in the aftermath of relentless wind and torrential rain.
Is It a Good Idea to Select a Flood Damage Restoration Partner Before a Water Loss Occurs?
The urgency you feel to run your business well might not include planning for the potential of emergency flood damage striking your West Milford commercial building. We suggest that you should. Every summer and fall, our region can find itself in the path of hurricanes or tropical storms, coming up the Atlantic coast or overland. It is likely that you might face a flooding disaster at some point, so determining which company to call in advance of the crisis is a wise business decision. You can take the opportunity to discuss how you might remain open, at least in a limited capacity during any potential flood damage recovery project.
If Many Residences and Businesses Are Flooded, Is It Better to Hire a Local Company or Go with the First Available Estimator?
When a wide swath of properties is several feet underwater in the community, do not be surprised to find itinerant flood damage companies knocking at your door. Resist the temptation to accept the promises of the first salesperson eager to provide you with an estimate. The SERVPRO team offers all the advantages of a local disaster restoration company to you, your employees, and your customers:
• A physical presence, with fully stocked service vehicles ready to roll • Local licensure and certification that can be verified • The ability for you to seek references you can trust from friends, family members, business associates, and community organizations and chances to view completed work • The opportunity to contact in person, by phone, or electronic means the management or owners if you have concerns or inquiries • The assurance that you can connect with us 24/7 today and into the future, and expect and receive a prompt response
Can a Local Company Manage My Specific Business Needs When So Many Ask for Flood Damage Assistance?
Although we are proud to be a member of our community, we maintain close ties with a national network of affiliated restoration companies that can help scale up our response when the need is great. We have access to additional crews trained as ours in the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards, and a vast inventory of flood damage response equipment. If you want to streamline further our response to your business’s flood damage woes, consider a proactive approach -- work with us to develop an Emergency READY Profile and Plan (ERP).
Can Creating an ERP Help Me Continue to Operate a Portion of My Business During Flood Damage Cleanup?
Flood damage interventions can be disruptive to the day to day operations of your business center. Taking the opportunity to have our management learn about your physical plant and method of doing business allows us to customize a flood damage restoration plan in collaboration with you and perhaps your trusted employees. The process is straightforward:
• Call us to set up an appointment for a no-obligation assessment of your physical property • Allow our experienced project manager to tour your business center • Share all pertinent information with our manager, including any insights on how any previous flooding incidents affected your space • Discuss how you imagine you could maintain a presence for your customers during flood damage restoration -- and listen to and implement our suggestions on how you could achieve that goal • Use our mobile app to add details including an agreement to use us as your restoration company to the emerging ERP • Meet with our manager to learn the specifics of how we anticipate responding to a flooding or other disaster and share that information with your staff
Once the ERP is in a concise, digital form, you or your designees can alert us by phone or mobile device 24 hours a day, seven days a week, that you require assistance with storm-related flood damage. Our crews can hit the ground running when responding to your job, aided by our proactive partnership.
Rely on SERVPRO of Wayne to help plan for a successful recovery for your business from storm-related flood damage. Join together with our expert team before, during, and after the storm by calling us 24/7 at (973) 546-4977.
A Leaking leaky Water Heater Has Caused Water Damage in My Wayne House. What Should I Do?
Call Water Damage Restoration Experts in Wayne to Handle the Water Damage.
When water seeps into your Wayne property, it can cause significant damage to your valuable contents and the structure of your home. It can promote electrical hazards and lead to mold growth if not handled on time. Therefore, it is essential to call professional restorers immediately you notice the leak, to prevent further damage.
What should I do before the professionals arrive?
SERVPRO technicians can respond fast to handle the water damage in your Wayne property. However, before the restorers get to your property, you can address the primary concerns. When water seeps into items of value, we advise property owners to:
• Remain calm to maintain clear thinking. • Identify the source of the leak. • Turn off the main water supply. • Switch off the electricity if water has pooled in the house. • Place aluminum foil under the feet of furniture that is in contact with water to prevent staining.
How do you inspect for water damage?
When we get to your property, our team inspects the affected area thoroughly to determine the extent of the damage. We can use penetrating moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, or moisture sensors to check the moisture levels. The moisture intensity readings help us make informed decisions on which technique and equipment to use during the water removal and drying process.
How do you dry a water-damaged property?
Inadequate drying can lead to an unhealthy environment and expensive repairs. After removing the water, SERVPRO technicians use advanced equipment to dry the affected areas fast and effectively. We can use axial air movers, which move enormous volumes of air from outside into the affected area. The fresh and dry air increases the rate of evaporation, leading to faster drying of affected surfaces, including the hard to reach areas. Our restorers use dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air. We pay particular attention to the condition of plaster, wood, and wall finishes as well as other elements of a building that water has affected to ensure thorough drying.
After a water intrusion incident in your property, contact technicians from SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 for effective restoration services. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.
A Burst Pipe Has Left Me Dealing With Water Damage in My Wayne Home. Where Do I Get Help?
You can count on SERVPRO of Wayne for effective water cleanup services.
Hire SERVPRO Technicians in Wayne for Water Cleanup Services.
Water can cause extensive damage to your property’s structure, furniture, and upholstery. Restoring your Wayne property all by yourself without proper tools and equipment can cause more damage. Therefore, it is essential to hire licensed, skilled, and experienced restorers.
How far can water travel?
Water can seep into ceilings, drywall, floors, and furniture, among other valuable structures and contents. Contacting professional restorers to perform water cleanup in your Wayne property quickly is critical. If you ignore a water loss incident for some time, the degree of damage can rise exponentially. When we get to a home, we concentrate on saving as many materials and items as possible and preventing further damage.
Why should I involve professionals?
At SERVPRO, we have a licensed team of experts who have undergone thorough training in: • Assessing affected property • Determining salvageable and unsalvageable items • Cleaning up the affected area • Drying the affected materials • Removing contaminants from your home
Apart from that, it is risky to get into an area affected by water damage since there might be uninsulated electrical wiring that is exposed to water. It may cause electrocution or fire. Our team has handled many different cases of water damage during the years we have been in business. Therefore, your property’s condition cannot intimidate us.
What damage can mold cause in a property?
After water damage, it takes less than 48 hours for mold to rear its ugly head. Poor moisture extraction can cause the mold to multiply quickly. As the mold grows, it releases small spores into the air that one can quickly inhale without noticing. Mold can cause health issues to the people who live in your home. Our technicians can dry and sanitize every inch of the flooded area properly to prevent mold growth.
How do you remove water and moisture?
At SERVPRO, we utilize cutting edge techniques and advanced equipment and products during the water cleanup process. After assessing the damage, our team can determine the best and most efficient method to dry your home. Depending on the water levels, we can use a portable electric submersible pump to extract the water.
Our team also takes measures to increase air circulation to expedite the drying process. We can achieve this by using venting box fans. The equipment increases air circulation, increasing the rate of evaporation. Our technicians also position dehumidifiers strategically in a water-damaged house to allow the humid, and moist air within the house to be moved to the units and the dry war air discharged from the units to be circulated back to the ruined areas.
Do not reschedule your plans due to water damage. Count on SERVPRO of Wayne for effective water cleanup services. Talk to us today at (973) 546-4977. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.
How Do I Clean Up My Pompton Lakes Home Following a Flood?
Flood damage can quickly damage your home. You may need to get professionals involved to clean up the damage. Call SERVPRO right away.
When a Flood Inundated Your Pompton Lakes Home, You Need the Assistance of Trained Flood Water Removal Specialists to Clean It Up
Pompton Lakes offers the perfect balance of suburban and rural living. It is in a picturesque part of northwestern New Jersey, surrounded by lakes, parks, and state forests. The area’s many lakes offer residents of the township numerous recreational opportunities in the warmer months, but also increase local risks of storm-related flooding. This threat is only magnified by the fact that, annually, the region suffers the effects of numerous powerful storms and has extended rainy periods. Devastating hurricanes routinely rampage up the East Coast in the summer and fall, rapidly dropping inches of rain on the township. The winter and spring months are no better, though, because nor’easters often bring with them torrential downpours that are just as bad.
What Can Be Done to Avoid Flood-Related Losses?
Although it may seem impossible to avoid or overcome flood damage, there are ways of doing it. SERVPRO, a local Pompton Lakes flood water removal service, recommends taking the following measures to limit your risks of flood-related problems:
Before leaving your home as a storm approaches, prevent potential explosions and electrocutions by turning off your gas and electric utilities
Inspect your roof for damage and have any that you find repaired to prevent roof leaks
Make sure your gutters are clean so that they do not trap water that can seep into walls and cause damage
Cover windows and openings with plywood to protect against storm-blown projectiles and prevent water from entering your home
Repair and seal any foundation damage, so that floodwaters cannot flow into your home through cracks
Cut tree branches that could harm your house during a storm
Strategically sandbag the perimeter of your property to keep flood waters out
Many times, if you take these actions before the arrival of a major flooding event, you can prevent a considerable amount of damage. However, sometimes it is impossible to prevent flood damage, and that is when you need professional assistance. Rest assured, though, that floodwater removal services like SERVPRO can help you overcome the disastrous effects of flooding.
How Does SERVPRO Remove Floodwaters from Homes?
Often, within a few hours of calling SERVPRO, our specialists arrive on-site to begin removing floodwaters from your home. Using their advanced training and specialized gear, they:
Remove standing waters with submersible pumps and commercial-strength extractors
Determine a drying goal and establish a plan of action to achieve it
Dry the general interiors of your house with high-velocity fans, air movers, and dehumidifiers
Use injectidry systems, connected to air mover-dehumidifier networks, to eliminate moisture behind walls and ceilings
Determine when the drying goal has been reached by periodically measuring interior moisture levels with moisture meters and thermohygrometers
These measures generally remove all excess moisture from your home, returning it to its original dry state. However, there are other steps we take to combat the microbial threats present in floodwaters.
What Does SERVPRO Do to Eliminate Harmful Microbes?
Floodwaters, classified as “black water,” are usually contaminated with various harmful waste products like human and livestock feces, dead animal remains, and hazardous medical refuse. As a result, these waters carry various harmful microorganisms that can cause negative health effects and further harm your house. This is why it is necessary to have a properly credentialed and experienced service remediate this issue for you. In order to neutralize microbial threats, SERVPRO technicians:
Expertly remove and dispose of hazardous waste and impacted items
Professionally clean and disinfect affected surfaces with EPA-approved disinfectants
Pressure wash and treat impacted structural elements with antifungals to prevent future dry rot
Further disinfect and deodorize your home with state-of-the-art thermal and ultra-low volume (ULV) foggers
Usually, these efforts make your home safe to live in again and help prevent long-term flood-related damage.
Living in northwestern New Jersey gives you access to a diverse array of activities. While you are not so far from the city, you still have access to the recreational opportunities afforded by your proximity to so many parklands and lakes. Of course, life here is not all sunshine and rainless rainbows, as the area can be quite stormy and prone to flooding. With this in mind, remember to always keep up on your home maintenance and to take preventative measures whenever powerful storms approach. Also, it is advisable to research what local flood water removal and remediation services are available prior to severe weather. This way, you should be better prepared if you are ever impacted by flooding.
With all that said, know that if flooding does one day impact your residence, local help is available. Call SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 for assistance.
Click here for more information about Pompton Lakes.
What Can Water Damage Experts do for My Soggy House in Wayne?
Let SERVPRO show and explain to you how we can help your Wayne water damage.
Instead of relying on your own sight when dealing with a spill, hiring a team of experienced water damage mitigation specialists in Wayne can be the deciding factor in your home’s favor. Water rapidly spreads into areas you cannot see, and as it does, it carries anything it passes. Different substances require different responses, as well, as do the different materials used to build your residence.
What Makes a SERVPRO Technician More Qualified than a Homeowner?
Our technicians, especially our Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) and Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD) help property owners through initial mitigation, cleanup, and restoration of water damage in your Wayne home. Water causes harm to materials at different rates, even after it has evaporated into the air. Removing the water from the interior components of a residence, and drying everything, including the air, helps prevent damage from continuing.
Extensive training prepares SERVPRO technicians in the proper use of industry-grade equipment, letting us finish the work required rapidly. Many of these items are not available, nor cost-effective, for most homeowners. On a typical water damage-related job, we use:
Air movers,
Desiccant machines,
Application spray equipment,
Water detection devices,
Extraction machines of various types, and
Equipment pieces designed to produce heat, air, or a combination.
Why is My Fan not Good Enough to Deal with a Washer Leak or a Clogged Sink?
Drying out the surface and exposed areas can leave you with a sense of false security. While it might seem proactive, enclosed areas (under stairs and cabinets) won’t dry out fast enough to keep mold from starting to grow. Also, materials sandwiched in between the floor and the ceiling of any downstairs areas need more than drying of the exterior surfaces. Our equipment can find hidden water. Then we can remove it, making air drying more efficient (faster completion of the job means less expense, less damage, and less inconvenience).
Dial (973) 546-4977 to reach qualified water damage technicians at SERVPRO of Wayne for such emergencies. We also assist property owners between North Haledon, NJ, Wayne, NJ, and West Milford, NJ with emergencies affecting their house or other building.
How Do I Get the Smoke Odor Out of My Pompton Lakes Restaurant?
Restaurant fires can shudder your business. SERVPRO is equipped to restore your restaurant. Call us today!
SERVPRO Uses Proper Technique and Products to Remove Odors
The biggest issue following most fires in Pompton Lakes is that of odor. Often, even if firefighters or workers quickly put out the fire, a smell can remain indefinitely until adequately addressed. It is essential to understand what causes the malodor and how to remove it.
It Was Only a Kitchen Fire, Why Does it Smell So Bad?
Protein Fires Create Pungent Odors
When dealing with fire restoration in your Pompton Lakes restaurant, it is crucial to understand that there are different types of residues. Unfortunately, protein fires caused by burning fish or meat, cause a practically invisible residue but a strong odor. Even if the fire only occurred in the kitchen, your entire restaurant may smell after a protein fire.
What Are Some Other Factors that May Contribute to the Smell and Amount of Residue?
Air pressure: Hot air from the fire expands, allowing the smoke to reach every nook and restaurant's cranny.
Impingement: Hot air can move at a higher velocity, causing turbulence that splatters on surfaces like walls, making residues more challenging to remove.
Amount of Moisture: If the sprinkler system activated or there was moisture in the air, condensation may set the residues into kitchen surfaces, making them harder to remove.
How Do Technicians Tackle the Odor?
Surfaces throughout the restaurant must be thoroughly cleaned with grease-removing solvent to remove the odor-causing residue.
Technicians may employ air purification equipment such as an oxidizer to clean the air.
Technicians often use fogging equipment to recreate a smoke-like substance that attacks smoke molecules and either neutralizes or absorbs them for cleaning purposes.
For assistance after a fire, contact SERVPRO of Wayne anytime, day or night, at (973) 546-4977. We make it "Like it never even happened."
Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.
Let us help you get back to business
As our communities re-open in Wayne, 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.
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.
Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation
We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.
Call SERVPRO of Wayne today at (973) 546-4977 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.
* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience. Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.
What Tools Remove Water from a Wayne Grocery Store Stock Area?
Let SERVPRO help your Wayne grocery store when you have water damage.
Our SERVPRO Professionals Understand How Finite the Timeline is When Your Supplies Are at Risk of Water Damage, and We Can Help with Premier Extractor Tools and Drying Equipment.
With thousands of customers entering the doors of your grocery store each week, keeping your facility in top form becomes an increasingly harder and harder thing to do. When pipes burst or fire suppression systems become damaged, water damage effects can quickly spread through the immediate stock area of your store.
How Do I Remove Standing Water Immediately?
Standing water removal for your Wayne store involves multiple tools in our SERVPRO arsenal, as each of these situations can vary regarding severity, location, and affected contents or materials. Removing pooling water in the stock area is a vital effort that must begin immediately to help protect your investments. This effort begins with:
Submersible Pumps – These are a staple of extraction work when the surface water to get removed is deeper than two inches. These pumps get entirely submerged in the water and can continually remove liquid until it gets to a more manageable depth.
Wet Vacuums – Wet vacuums are the extractor of choice for lesser standing water concerns. Even an inch or two of standing water can still destroy your stock and supplies without immediate action, so the deployment of wet vacuums is essential.
Squeegee Wands – Your stock area has concrete floors, with much of the non-perishable foods sitting up on moveable skids to make later restocking of goods faster. Squeegee wands help to remove any lingering surface water and limit slips and fall hazards.
Is It Possible to Protect the Stock Before Water Damage Occurs?
If caught early enough, our technicians and your staff can work to relocate potentially damaged goods to a safer area in the building. In some situations, this relocation can be all these items need to stay safe during restoration.
Our SERVPRO of Wayne team can help your store recover from unexpected water losses. Give us a call at (973) 546-4977.
When flooding overtakes your living space, it is time to contact team SERVPRO. We will successfully mitigate the situation and are available 24/7.
My Home Has Fallen Victim to Flash Flooding, What Should I Do Next?
Flash flooding can be among the most stressful forms of a Wayne home emergency. It can be hard to prioritize what to do in the immediate aftermath of a flood. SERVPRO is equipped to answer all the tough questions on flood-emergencies and is available in the local area.
How can I tell if water intrusion is bio-hazardous or harmful to health?
Floodwaters in Wayne are considered a black water emergency. Unlike clean water emergencies, black water may contain numerous human pathogens, as well as animal carcasses, herbicides, or raw sewage. Ask yourself the question of where the floodwaters have come from. Clean water comes from clean water supply pipes in the home as well as rainfall. If it is not from either of these sources, then you should consider it a grey or black water emergency. You should avoid contact with potentially harmful water emergencies and immediately seek out professional assistance.
How can you stop further damage from occurring in my home after a flash flood?
Stopping further harm coming to the home is part of our Wayne emergency mitigation procedure. Restorers perform a crucial role in flood recovery by entering and scoping your property. During this inspection, we test floors and ceilings for structural damage or waterlogging as well as potential hazards like an electrical malfunction. But we can also perform essential mitigation to prevent further harm from coming to your property. These may include reducing standing water levels, tarping or sealing the building from further water intrusion, and boarding up a damaged structure to prevent unlawful trespass.
What are the differences between black water and other water emergencies?
Blackwater needs to be treated with caution. Our technicians are equipped to deal with and dispose of potentially biohazardous substances. Some items may need disposal at a designated waste facility to abide by state and federal law. We also need to provide and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when entering the property or working on the site. Creating decontamination rooms may also be an essential part of the restoration procedure.
What personal protective equipment (PPE) do I need to deal with floodwaters?
Steel capped footwear for use onsite
Hard hats for protection from potential ceiling collapse or falling hazards
Respiration equipment to avoid noxious sewer gases, bacteria and viruses
Thick heavy-duty gloves as well as plastic disposable gloves and aprons
Polyethylene sheeting to avoid cross-contamination when moving between areas of the site.
In some situations, full hazmat suits may be necessary
What property repairs do you need to restore a flood-damaged home?
High volume water intrusion can damage the structure of your home as well as the contents. Among the casualties, you may require tile repairs, painting, electrical repair as well as general construction duties. SERVPRO can provide these services for you during restoration. With contamination in water intrusion, we also need to demolish exposed drywall, clean and secure the cavity before performing a new drywall installation. Depending on the severity of damage to your property, you may need extensive reconstruction, which we can provide with an in-house team of general contractors.
What special repair services SERVPRO provide to flooded residences?
Fine art restoration
Marble Floor Repair
Roofing services
Document drying
Linoleum and Hardwood floor repair
Tree removal
For residents of Wayne who have a long history of natural disasters, we provide a comprehensive restoration service. By using in-house repair staff, we can help the community overcome any size disaster without having to deal with unknown factors such as third-parties.
How long does it take to return a flooded property to preloss condition?
Time can be an essential factor for homeowners, especially those that are temporarily displaced from their homes. Flood loss recovery can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of structural damage that the property sustains. In some cases, residents can return to the property after emergency mitigation is complete. However, specialist repair of some regions of the home may require a temporary closure. We endeavor to provide you with a working property as quickly as possible during the restoration.
Flood recovery can be a stressful and challenging time. Our restorers offer round the clock support for homeowners that have fallen victim to flash-flooding and other natural disasters. Our local workforce has access to national resources and is provided with the latest in restoration technology. In an emergency, contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977.
How Can I Eliminate Moisture in My Wayne Home After Flood Damage?
SERVPRO Leaves Your Flood Damaged Home in Wayne Only When It Is Dry and Ready for a Build Back.
Our Team at SERVPRO Combats the Effects of Flooding with Timely Restoration Efforts
Any flood event can leave your household in disarray. To get your home cleaned and back to normal, you need to go beyond the notion of DIY to make sure that no moisture or bacteria gets left behind.
Hiring the professionals for flood damage in Wayne with the right equipment and cleaning agents ensures your interior is safe for your family and pets once again. We arrive with all of the right tools and specialized cleaning agents to get the job done.
What does SERVPRO do to address the flood damage in my home?
- We start by scoping out the job site to prioritize issues to address. A plan of action is then put into place to address debris cleanup, water removal, and repair of structural damage.
- SERVPRO expedites restoration of your loss, using controlled demolition with flood cuts to open up wall cavities to enhance drying times.
- Our skilled technicians also eliminate contaminants like chemicals, biohazards, and fuel oil by using EPA-registered disinfectants to clean your interior thoroughly.
If you need assistance with flood damage in your home, count on our team at SERVPRO of Wayne to get the job done. With a phone call to us at (973) 546-4977, we can send out a team as soon as possible.
SERVPRO Provides Vehicles and Even Software to Help Mitigate Water Damage in Wayne
Water Damage Wayne – Choosing a Water Restoration Company
Clients dealing with water damage situations do not have much time to research whom to call for help. Water is all over the floor. The client is worried about damage to their Wayne home or commercial space and the contents. Consumers may lose time at work, and business owners may need to close.
This is why SERVPRO should be your first choice for water damage recovery in Wayne and the surrounding areas. We respond in less than 4 hours from your initial call and are available on a 24 hour / 7 day a week basis. We have fully equipped trucks available to be dispatched to your home or business. We train our team members in water damage restoration, microbial remediation as well as additional courses for many other emergencies, including fire and smoke damage.
We work with your insurance company adjuster to help manage the insurance claim process and the paperwork. We discuss each step with you and your insurance company. If needed, we set up staging areas to store your content.
We equip SERVPRO trucks with the latest water removal extractors, moisture and humidity sensors, and drying equipment to ensure there is no moisture remaining. We avoid mold infestations by thoroughly drying your home and its contents.
Response time is critical. A fast response can limit the amount of damage and enable your home or business to be returned to you quickly. SERVPRO is committed to minimizing the response time to your location. We are also committed to helping our clients prepare for water damage. That's why we offer our free Emergency READY Profile Program (ERP.) When you create a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile, the information in this profile can be used by both team members and clients to respond quickly.
There are tips for the homeowner as well as employees on what to do to minimize the damage. There is information about where shutoff valves are located. Are there keys needed for access? Our profile includes Insurance company information. SERVPRO offers superior response times and service to our customers.
Call SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve Pompton Lakes, North Haledon, and surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.
Restoration Experts Talk About Drying Water Damaged Wooden Frames in Wayne Properties
After a major water loss event, we made flood cuts to expose and dry the structure of this home.
Applied Structural Drying of Water Damage for Wooden Frames in Wayne Residential Properties
Construction engineers build most residential properties onto a wooden frame. These make up the composite structure of interior walls as well as staircases floors and ceilings. Crawlspaces allow underfloor access to these frames, but they exist throughout the structure of your home. In some water restoration projects, these essential structural elements can absorb moisture. Typically, these situations occur in severe water emergencies or when water saturates a property for several weeks before the homeowner realizes.
The impact of water damage in Wayne to the frame of your home can be hard felt. When water absorbs moisture, it expands, which can result in warping. These effects can threaten the structural integrity of your home and may become noticeable in the form of cracking plasterboard or ceilings. In extreme cases, SERVPRO technicians may need to remove drywall as well as insulation to assess the extent of damage to wood framing using a moisture meter.
The natural moisture content of the woods is around 12 percent. Above 16%, there is a possibility of mold growth, whereas long-term exposure to moisture above 20% can result in dry rot. Being able to access and dry a framework in the home can be an essential part of mitigating water losses. Fortunately, most woods reach a final saturation point where the wood can no longer absorb any moisture; however, failure to dry out the frame can cause significant harm to the structural integrity of your property.
It is not likely that the framework inside your home reaches a point of buckling beyond repair. Wooden frames that absorb large amounts of water do need professional restoration to return to a suitable dry level. SERVPRO can achieve this by increasing the temperature in the material using air-movers with heating elements as well as lowering the vapor pressure above the surface of the wood. At SERVPRO, we can mobilize qualified applied structural drying (ASD) technicians to ensure that the infrastructure of your home remains free from warping, dry rot, and mold growth.
Severe water emergencies can cause structural damage. Contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 for applied structural drying services.
Our team of experts will restore your home to its original state. Call SERVPRO anytime at (973) 546-4977. We are always available.
We Understand How Serious Fire Damage Is When It Comes To Your West Milford Home
One common way for a house fire to occur is by leaving a stove unattended. Cooking fires make up nearly 50% of all house fires in the US. Often the fire itself is quickly contained. However, hot smoke can billow out from the source of fire and leave behind unpleasant residues on upper walls, oven hoods, inside drawers, as well as on materials in the kitchen. Depending on the pressure in the fire, these residues may be challenging to remove by yourself, with many homeowners relying on professional restoration to get the job done.
The types of fire damage restoration you need for your West Milford home can be dependent on the type of fire that occurs. In our considerable experience, no two house fires are the same, which makes the restoration process more complicated. There's several things you need to be aware of when conducting smoke damage restoration. Using a one-size-fits-all approach can lead to further damage by spreading smoke around or inadvertently bonding it to surfaces.
Homeowners should be wary of using wet cleaning products on smoke residues as a first resource. The release of carbon in the form of smoke can lead to a dry residue on surfaces as well as walls and ceilings. The dry ash may not be physically bonded to the surface. However, by applying moisture directly onto dry ash, you may cause bonding on a molecular level. This bonding can make fire restoration tricky to manage. At SERVPRO, we recommend performing light vacuuming of all surfaces before introducing water. Vacuuming can remove dry soot from the surface, making the restoration more efficient.
Removal of dry soot with vacuuming is an effective, efficient first-step toward restoring your home to a preloss condition. However, it is likely that staining, as well as odor, remains behind after vacuuming. The type of smoke that kitchen fire releases can often be greasy from animal proteins. These areas require more technical knowledge to restore effectively. Often, spraying on oil-based solvents to the affected area using truck-mounted wands can help to dissolve greasy wet-smokes. SERVPRO recommends making use of soaking time to ensure that soils are correctly bonded to solvents before rinsing the affected walls.
Conducting fire restoration yourself can be tricky, and you risk causing further damage. Homeowners can contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 for a managed restoration.
Flooding can quickly cause a mold infestation in your university setting. Contact SERVPRO to assess the situation and remediate the damage.
Steps for Managing Commercial Flood Damage in a Wayne University
When flooding happens in a university, taking the right actions when addressing the damage is vital for fast recovery. When the appropriate maintenance personnel and management learn about the incident, they should contact flood restoration experts.
The direct repercussion of commercial flood damage in a Wayne university is the destruction of the structures and the contents of affected buildings. As a result, the university must spend money on repairing or replacing ruined building materials and items. Apart from financial costs, affected buildings can be unsafe. Therefore, it may be necessary to suspend some classes or school functions.
Secondary destruction, like mold growth, may cause health effects to students and the faculty. Floodwaters may bring different debris into the institution of higher learning, including silt, mud, and sewage that not only look unsightly but could also cause unpleasant smells. The water and debris can also create trip, slip, and fall hazards in the institution.
The destruction of both paper and electronic records is another consequence of floodwater intrusion in a university. It can affect vital documents like academic transcripts and admission records. Our SERVPRO team can respond to the flood damage in your university promptly to prevent secondary destruction.
We can assess the facility to determine and address other risks resulting from the flooding incident like electrical hazards, injury risks from falling tiles, ceilings, or other objects, and dangers from ruined materials containing asbestos. Our crew can also determine the extent of the flood damage by inspecting the affected buildings thoroughly. Proper inspection is essential in cleanup and repair work because it helps restorers to trace ruined items and maintain appropriate records of the same.
Our technicians can begin the cleanup process quickly. To make the affected floors more accessible, we can move furniture and equipment to dry areas. We can place plastic sheets under the moved items to protect unaffected areas.
If there is sewage damage, we can perform immediate sewage removal. This is a delicate process because of the harmful microbes that could be present in it. Our team can clean affected hard and non-porous surfaces like walls and floors and then apply disinfectants to the surfaces to destroy bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Our SERVPRO crew can also use drying equipment like air movers and low grain refrigerants to eliminate moisture from affected surfaces. We maintain a balanced drying system, which involves ensuring that the amount of moisture evaporating into the air does not exceed the amount of moisture that is being dehumidified from the air.
When flooding occurs in your learning institution, call SERVPRO of Wayne for efficient flood cleanup. Our emergency helpline is (973) 546-4977. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.
Call SERVPRO so we can quickly help to prevent additional destruction to your West Milford home after fire damage.
Let SERVPRO come in and take over your West Milford fire damage.
One of the worst losses homeowners can experience is losing their home and belongings to a fire. Fire and smoke can damage your possessions and jeopardize the structural integrity of your property. Since fire losses can be severe, it is advisable to start the remediation process quickly to prevent additional destruction to your home.
It is challenging to deal with fire damage in your West Milford residence because you might be distraught and unsure of where to begin. Trying to do the cleanup on your own can be overwhelming. You can hire a professional restoration company like SERVPRO to help you in completing the cleanup tasks. Our Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technicians (FSRTs) can help you to restore your home to its usual condition.
As you wait for our crew to arrive, you can do a few things, such as gathering items you may need to use in the coming week like clothes, school books, and toys, among others. Some of the things you should avoid doing include:
Touching items with bare hands.
Cleaning walls, carpets, and upholstery because this can cause more damage.
Using electrical appliances before an electrician has examined them.
At SERVPRO, we understand how stressful it can be to deal with a fire loss incident. Therefore, we can work with you and your insurance firm to restore your home quickly. Apart from fixing the ruined property, we also seek to restore comfort and safety for our clients. Some steps we can take to restore your property include:
Understanding the type of fire
It is vital to understand the kind of fire that occurred to choose the right restoration strategy. We can consider if you are dealing with a kitchen, electrical or smoking-related fire, and the materials that burned. The materials which burned affect the aerosols and smoke particles a fire produces. Natural materials like paper, dry wood, natural fibers, and cork usually produce small, powdery, dry, non-smeary residues or dry smoke. Artificial materials like foam rubber, plastics, and similar polymers often produce large, wet, and easily smeared particles of residue or wet smoke.
Removing ruined items
We can remove things that present a safety hazard, such as burned furniture and charred building materials.
Deep cleaning
Our technicians can deep clean the salvageable materials to eliminate the smoke residues. We can also clean the walls, ceilings, and floors to remove stains.
Deodorizing your home
The smoke odors present in the affected areas may make it necessary to deodorize them so that your residence can be more habitable. Our crew can use odor counteracting beads, air scrubbers, or thermal foggers to eliminate the odors.
After a fire loss, SERVPRO of Wayne can help. We have the expertise required to deal with fire damage of any magnitude. Call us 24/7 at (973) 546-4977 for fast restoration of your Wayne, Pompton Lakes, or Ringwood home.
Water will take over your Pompton Lake home, moisture will take over. Let SERVPRO help you.
SERVPRO will always be first in line to assist your Pompton lake home water damage.
Identifying water damage in your Pompton Lakes home might not always be as easy as it seems. While there are many circumstances where dampness and even standing water are in central areas of the house, this does little to indicate the severity of the damage that you cannot see. Because our SERVPRO team devotes our qualified professionals to exceeding the expectations of our customers, we must begin by fully understanding the problems that our professionals face when we first arrive.
Water damage in Pompton Lakes home is not always readily accessible and easily seen. To determine the saturation of porous construction materials, the presence of water in moisture cavities, and the general spread of water loss effects, our team can utilize several tools. Not every moisture detection device is ideal for each situation, and in many pre-job scoping ventures, our project manager uses more than one of these tools.
Moisture Sensors
These devices can detect moisture and dampness in carpeting and the subflooring/padding. With probes that can pierce into both carpet and padding, these needles can identify the presence of moisture in these areas. The result is a pass/fail test; it does not indicate the severity of dampness.
Infrared Imagery (Thermography)
Imaging cameras that use infrared can help to show temperature differences that can indicate the presence of moisture. While it is possible to get false positives using this technology, colder areas can often mean moisture pockets that our SERVPRO technicians must focus on drying.
Moisture Meters
Unlike the other devices listed, these tools have gotten designed to identify how saturated specific materials are. These tools can get used as surface detectors or with an attached probe. Penetration can get controlled down to the very tip of the probe, allowing our technicians to gauge dampness through individual layers of the affected material.
These are a few of the cutting-edge detection devices that our SERVPRO of Wayne team uses when we must identify the scope of the water loss work to get done. However we can help, give us a call at (973) 546-4977.
With Advanced Equipment and "Know-How," SERVPRO Provides Cutting Edge Storm Damage Restoration for our Pompton Lakes Customers
Flood Damage Restoration in Pompton Lakes Homes Necessitates the Use of Advanced Technology
The way land is used nowadays has left the landscape less able to accommodate torrential downpour, which increases the risk of flooding and intensifies its impact. Some of these land-use practices include the destruction of natural areas and the increased amounts of asphalt and other impermeable surfaces. Some solutions that local, state and federal governments are implementing to reduce flooding include funding efforts to communicate and map flood risks, funding research and monitoring of flooding and precipitation as well as reducing carbon emissions to limit global warming.
If there is flood damage in your Pompton Lakes home, you may face problems like mold growth, ruined items, and structural damage. Floodwater could contain industrial or agricultural chemicals, or hazardous agents present at hazardous waste sites. Therefore, you need to protect yourself after floodwaters have entered your home. You should assume that any water in flooded areas is unsafe unless the local authorities declare it to be safe. If there is no safe water supply for washing, use water that has been boiled for ten or more minutes, chemically disinfected water, or bottled water. Before entering a flooded area, wear protective clothing to avoid contact with the floodwater.
It is also essential to hire flood restoration experts from SERVPRO to ensure that all the right steps are taken to restore your home to its preloss state, if possible. Our crew can take the following steps to handle the flood damage to make it seem “Like it never even happened.”
Proper inspection
Inspecting a property allows restorers to identify ruined structures and contents and avoid unnecessary rework. We can use pre-defined protocols that facilitate the inspection process and enhance workflow. We can also capture images and videos of the affected areas to document the damage for insurance claims filing procedures.
Proper detection of moisture
Our crew can use moisture detection devices like moisture meters to judge the severity of the damage. We can use the right moisture meter depending on the surfaces we are testing. For example, if we are inspecting for moisture in hardwood flooring, we can use non-penetrating moisture meters to avoid damaging the surface.
Efficient water and moisture removal
Our SERVPRO crew can use modern equipment to remove floodwater and silt from different areas of your home. Good ventilation assists in the drying process. Our Applied Structural Drying Technicians (ASDs) can set up air moving equipment in your property to speed up evaporation and minimize drying time. We can also place dehumidifiers strategically to allow the damp, humid air in the affected areas to be circulated to the equipment and the dry, warm air the units discharge to circulate back into the affected areas. Dehumidifiers provide a continuous source of dry air that enhances the drying process.
Flood damage restoration is a complicated task that involves various procedures to restore normalcy in a home. SERVPRO of Wayne has access to state of the art equipment and the necessary experience to restore your property. Contact us today at (973) 546-4977.
Flood Damage in Pompton Lakes Needs Professional Help from SERVPRO
Pompton Lakes Flood-Damaged Basement? Easy, call SERVPRO--"Like it never even happened."
Not All Storm-Related Events Require Professional Help--But, in Pompton Lakes--Count on SERVPRO
Did you know statistically, structures in this area of New Jersey have a one-in-three chance of experience flood damage throughout a standard 30-year mortgage?
There are proactive measures Pompton Lakes homeowners can take to avoid flood damage, such as directing water away from the property during heavy rains through landscaping and the installation of drainage to handle heavy rains. However, flash floods have the potential to enter homes and cause loss, even with precautionary measures.
Why SERVPRO?
Groundwater should always undergo professional removal due to the potential for contaminants or sewage. Also, once the interior flooring has exposure to water, the subflooring and sheetrock may require both controlled demolition and drying. The technicians have extensive training to assist homeowners in lessening loss and getting the most favorable outcome after this type of water damage.
Flood Loss Gets Uglier Before it Gets Better
The use of controlled demolition is a standard part of the restoration process. Once water enters the home, it can delaminate floorcoverings, which then require removal. Carpet also does not fare well against groundwater and requires disposal if saturated.
Once water wicks into sheetrock, the timer is on before it requires removal as once buckled or warped, it has zero restoration potential through drying. SERVPRO technicians measure above the water line and cleanly cut it away. This action (flood cutting) opens up the wall and flooring if necessary for complete drying.
Monitored Water Extraction and Drying The technicians have a diverse selection of moisture detection equipment for various surfaces to assist them in finding all areas of water migration as well as monitoring the drying process and ensure the affected areas attain pre-set drying goals.
Make Ready for Rebuilding When the technicians complete the drying and disinfection of the property, it is ready for any needed repairs and reconstruction so life can get back to normal.
SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 is ready to help local homeowners with flood damage. They have a vast array of equipment to remove the water and the restoration training to make the loss to the home, "Like it never even happened."
Our industry certified technicians are standing by with trucks already loaded with water damage restoration equipment to restore your business.
Two Ways We Speed Up the Process of Commercial Water Removal in a Drenched Wayne Office Suite
An office suite in Wayne often becomes like a second home for many of those working there – familiar, safe, and comfortable. Keeping your employees satisfied and productive requires that you maintain the environment. Unexpected emergencies can thwart this and ruin all your efforts. After the drinking fountain's feed line wiggles loose or the reservoir for the sprinkler system leaks, you want to assure your staff that you have the situation under control.
We serve businesses in and around Wayne with commercial water removal services and other restorative methods. We know the most effective methods to mitigate the effects of water intrusions, fire, storm activity, and microbial infestations. We want businesses in our area to succeed, and significantly reducing the amount of time need to recover after a disaster helps them when things might seem their worst.
There are two types of machines we use that help us extract residual moisture left after we use our pumps. These help get a structure completely dry so that the risk of additional damage decreases to normal expectations. Dehumidifiers and desiccant machines work to dry out the air by pulling water vapor out of it as the air passes through each machine.
SERVPRO's technicians want to get damp air to these machines before they can do their job. Our air movers and air blowers push air across surfaces to gradually pull moisture into the air. As they do this, moisture migrates through wet materials. Water damage moves from wet to dry, and also seeks equilibrium within the area. These same machines that we use to remove water from the interiors of damp walls, floors, and ceilings also guide the now-damp air into the nearest desiccant or dehumidifier.
Our air movers have different settings that range from a more gentle and slower speeds under 1000 cubic feet per minute (CFM), and some closer to the 3000 CFM range. These machines are so versatile, the specialists at SERVPRO use them to dry out the interiors of walls, underneath cabinets, and the thicknesses that make up your carpeted flooring. In many situations, these require venting or other measures to allow for saturated air to escape the area where we are working.
Venting can also help the moisture escape directly out of your home, bypassing any desiccant machines or air movers. Doing this requires that we build an enclosure just large enough to surround the materials we intend to dry. Drying chambers like this have other uses, as well, including protecting office furniture and expensive machines. When we perform water removal tasks, some of these include pulling out damaged items, and this can produce dust. Drying chambers can help keep dust away from sensitive equipment.
SERVPRO of Wayne's technicians use various machines and techniques to make water removal happen as fast as possible. We want to help you get your business and its environment normal again, “Like it never even happened.” Call (973) 546-4977 for experts near West Milford, Pompton Lakes, and Ringwood.
Give our technicians a call today at (973) 546-4977.
Environmentally Conscience Cleaning in West Milford Homes
One of the areas that set our brand apart from our competition is our fixation on the creation of powerful cleaning, disinfection, and deodorization products used in West Milford and around the rest of the country. Our growing inventory of these impressive products has been instrumental in protecting damaged homes and getting homeowners back into their properties after even widespread water loss conditions displaced the family.
Water cleanup in West Milford involves multiple approaches, including removing residues, clearing out debris, and cleaning the house with the best possible agents for the situation. Protecting the environment has been a focus of the past many years, and it has led to the creation of powerful cleaning agents and industrial-grade solvents that get constructed through a botanical foundation. Products like our Benefect cleansers can help with the cleaning of water-damaged homes in several ways.
Powerful Cleaning Many believe that with a new formulation of disinfectants, antibacterial, and cleaners, the quality of the product suffers as a result. Though admittedly not as directly effective as some of our quaternary compounds, chlorine-based products, or the phenolics, it does not have the same undesirable effects as these options, either. Botanicals are a powerful option that can still get the job done.
Softer Scents One of the undesirable effects of other types of cleaning products our SERVPRO team has in its inventory is the strong and sometimes hazardous odors they have. With poor ventilation, products like chlorine can be very damaging to restorers and homeowners, making the use of botanicals a wise and more pleasant option instead.
Environmentally Friendly As you might expect, the harsher the chemical footprint of a cleaning product, the worse it becomes for the environment. One of the advantages of using botanical products is the composition of thymol or citric acid, both of which can degrade naturally.
We choose the products that best suit the situation and the people involved and work to restore your home quickly after water loss incidents. You can count on the continued development of new cleaning products and agents, and the fast response of our SERVPRO of Wayne team when it matters most. Give our technicians a call today at (973) 546-4977.
We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, and you can reach us 24/7 for help.
We Feature Fast-Dry Equipment For Pompton Lakes Water Cleanup
New Jersey homes are susceptible to potential water damage, whether from excessive rains or an appliance or piping emergency. Once a home suffers water damage, the potential for mold growth becomes a real concern that warrants prompt attention.
The team at SERVPRO is available to handle water cleanup in Pompton Lakes from dishwasher leaks to damaged piping underneath a bathroom sink. The key is shutting off the water supply to the area of the home where the water leak is present and calling the professionals to tackle the cleanup before the damage multiplies.
SERVPRO technicians arrive at your property to begin the assessment process so that water extraction may commence. We utilize thermal imaging technology to detect high moisture levels in the walls to pinpoint any areas that may remain undetectable to the naked eye. Further inspection of the baseboards and drywall allows us to implement a plan to allow the air to flow naturally into the wall cavity to shorten the drying time.
When it comes to water cleanup and getting ahead of the damage, SERVPRO technicians spend the time necessary to locate all water leaks to implement extraction processes. Cleanup is done before the drying phase so that our dehumidification and drying equipment effectively reduce the moisture levels to achieve drying goals.
We use drying equipment, known as air movers, that we place throughout the space strategically to achieve optimum airflow. Our air movers put out high-velocity airstreams that we angle carefully over surfaces within the home. This technique prompts water vapors that embedded within the walls to rise so that the dehumidification technology can capture it and remove it. Once the moisture removal process is complete, SERVPRO technicians work to clean all surfaces as a measure to inhibit the growth of mold.
Contact our team at SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 when you need water cleanup on your property. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, and you can reach us 24/7 for help.
Count on SERVPRO for "Floating" a Carpet in Your Wayne Home. We Are a Premier Restoration Company!
Why SERVPRO of Wayne Is a Leading Home Restoration Service Provider for the Community
Running a successful restoration service involves cultivating a roster of service technicians with a broad collective knowledge for fire, water, mold, and storm-related loss incidents. Our owner, John E. Blehl has a career background as a loss adjuster which gives him inside knowledge of how property restoration works and what type of losses are most likely to be sustained in any particular category. Despite that, no two-loss recovery scenarios are the same, so SERVPRO technicians need to be able to use their training on the job and tailor their approach to the unique architecture or incidents in your home. It is our consistent commitment to staying ahead of the curve that has seen us gain a reputation in Wayne as a leading home restoration service.
Mold Microbial growth fungi come in many shapes and sizes. Some molds can pose health risks, others may be unpleasant to smell or look at, but one consistent factor is that these microbes spread quickly without professional remediation. One of the more common types of mold damage found in Wayne properties is Alternaria. Alternaria thrives in areas where dampness naturally occurs. Its outward appearance is textured with green or brown hairs. You may find it in your bathtub, shower or beneath a leaking sink but it can also multiply in properties with water damage.
SERVPRO operates assessment and remediation services for your property that not only clear away evidence of mold growth but also addresses the underlying cause. Since molds spread fast, using professional restorations services in Wayne can give you peace of mind that the issue is not going to cause permanent damages to furnishings, walls or other areas of your home in Wayne. SERVPRO can fix the source of mold, prevent spreading, and clean the affected area to a pre-incident condition.
Removing mold from surfaces requires scrubbing as well as disinfectant cleaning agents. In completing the restoration service thoroughly, you may find discoloration to the surrounding paintwork or interior walls of fittings and finishes. SERVPRO technicians not only clear away soiling but can return to the property to repaint affected areas using anti-microbial paints that discourage mold growth and reduce the likelihood of repeat callouts.
Fire and Smoke Damage It is common for homeowners with fire damage in their Wayne property to notice odors long after the initial damage is restored. We find that these situations are especially common when a minor fire restoration service is carried out by the homeowner themselves without professional assistance. Smoke odor particles are exceptionally stubborn and stick to walls, ventilation shafts, or reside inside furnishings, slow-releasing over time. Household air fresheners or scented candles can mask an odor but require constant replacement to maintain a clean smell.
SERVPRO include comprehensive odor control as part of our fire restoration service here in Wayne. The primary method of getting rid of a malodor is to remove the particles from home altogether. Our production trailers are stocked with portable air filtration devices for the sole reason of getting smoke odors out of your Wayne home. Air filtration, rather than the masking odor, has the added bonus of removing carcinogens like monoxide from the affected area.
Air filtration devices are also referred to as air scrubbers because they capture unwanted particles and circulate clean air in an indoor space, similar to an air conditioning unit. They consist of a pre-filter, to remove large particles, a carbon filter for gas and a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to clear microscopic particles. These filtration units are effective against airborne particles only, which is why SERVPRO restoration services incorporate spray-on deodorizers as well as pellets to tackle odors that reside inside furnishings or fabrics.
Storm and Flooding In Wayne, Large Loss recovery units operated by SERVPRO are usually reserved for violent weather events. These loss scenarios can result in a significant expense for homeowners with costs ranging from $500 up to $10,000 depending on the coverage area. One of the reasons storm damage to your Wayne home is so costly is flooding. Heavy rainfall, broken dams, or road overflow are just a few of the ways that large amounts of water can come rushing into your home. In these situations, the first twenty-four hours are crucial in preventing mold, rotting, and structural losses.
We do not recommend homeowner attempting to restore flooded properties themselves because there is a high risk of personal injury in entering. Weakened structure, contaminated waters, or electrical hazards are all possible in a flood situation. Contact your flood insurance provider immediately and, if you are confident that entering the property is low-risk begin to remove garbage or other debris that might cause further contamination. SERVPRO arrive promptly because we use local technicians who can carry out necessary mitigation procedure in the first twenty-four hours.
The first step for a SERVPRO restorer is to take furnishings or porous materials, including floor coverings, out of the affected area as quickly as possible. Standing water can be pumped out, and extractors brought in to combat the waterlogging issue. Our restoration services can clean and dry appliances to mitigate further loss, but a specialist repair service needs to be brought in to complete restoration of electrical goods. During service, we inventory, photograph, and report items in the home that are damage which can then be passed onto your insurance provider for a stress-free claims process.
Water Damaging Events A clean water emergency can have a significant impact on the integrity of walls as well as support structures in your home. Standing water exerts significant pressure on the infrastructure of your home. As much as sixty pounds of pressure is exerted per square foot of water. That amount of pressure can harm floors, walls, and structure. Our restoration services take into account potential structural water damage to your Wayne property, and we can dispatch applied structural drying technicians (ASDT) to assess and repair losses. Many of our technicians are IICRC certified as WRT water damage restoration technicians. The Institute for Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification is the industry leader for best practices.
SERVPRO restoration services are dedicated to bringing your home in Wayne back to its preloss condition using our equipment, training and restoration acumen. Removing large quantities of water can be done efficiently with gas-powered pumps and water extraction units, which removes the sustained pressure on the structure of your Wayne home. Porous materials that come into contact with moisture act like a sponge absorbing moisture and expanding; in wooden floors, this can cause cupping, warping, or buckling.
We address high moisture content levels in materials by using desiccant dehumidifiers in combination with moisture meters for monitoring. This equipment allows SERVPRO technicians to reduce the humidity to below 40 grains per pint and draw moisture from porous materials. Regular measurements ensure structural components do not dry out completely and become permanently damaged. Once your home is adequately dry, we can begin the process of sanding out warped or cupped materials and refinishing them to a preloss condition.
SERVPRO of Wayne has a proven track record in performing the correct restoration services after fire, water, mold and storm damages. Contact us at (973) 546-4977 today for that "Like it never even happened," feeling.
Our equipment drying the sub floor in this home and framing following a water damage disaster.
Get Appropriate Water Cleanup for Your West Milford Residence to Prevent Additional Damage
Water intrusion incidents are common and potentially destructive. The most common causes of water damage in West Milford homes are burst pipes, leaking faucets and malfunctioning appliances like dishwashers, water heaters, or washing machines. If you do not remove the excess water quickly, it may promote electrical hazards or lead to mold infestation.
When the worst happens, and you need water cleanup services in West Milford, you can trust the experts at SERVPRO. With one call, we can arrive at your home and provide specialist guidance on what you need to do. We have the experience and equipment to deal with the problem quickly. With our rapid response, we can help you restore your floors, personal possessions, and walls. We can arrive at your residence with confidence and knowledge backed by decades of field experience. Our water remediation techniques focus on removing moisture and promoting effective drying. You can expect the following when you use our water removal services:
Free estimates
Our experienced technicians can assess the water damage and provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate on how to restore your home to its preloss state.
Professional water extraction equipment
Our restorers use advanced techniques and professional-grade equipment to restore homes. We have portable extractors that remove water effectively. When extracting water from hard surfaces, our technicians use a squeegee attachment. When removing water damage from glue-down carpets, we use light wands or carpet wands. Light wands are also useful for extracting residue water on the surface of carpeting after we have used a stationary tool.
Advanced drying and moisture detection equipment
We use air moving equipment to improve evaporation at the surface level and minimize drying time. Our technicians can use axial air movers to dry your home. These devices move large volumes of air and can, therefore, cover large areas of affected materials. We also place dehumidifiers in a home to remove water vapor from the air. When drying a home, it is challenging to find all sources of moisture, especially in difficult to access areas. Our SERVPRO crew can use penetrating moisture meters to test for moisture beneath wood flooring and inside walls.
We work with your insurer
It is difficult to determine what your home insurance policy covers. We can work with your insurance firm to get much of the water loss covered and ensure a straightforward claims filing process.
When you need water cleanup services in Wayne, Pompton Lakes, or Ringwood, contact SERVPRO of Wayne at (973) 546-4977 for assistance. We can make the destruction seem “Like it never even happened.”
Our SERVPRO team is ready to help clean up any water mishaps that have taken over your home.
SERVPRO is Your Best Bet When It Comes to Residential Water Damage
If you and your West Milford home just broke a long dry spell you might be frustrated and confused. Water finds its way where it is not wanted far too often. Negligent teens shower without securing the door or curtain, a dishwasher goes rogue, spraying down the entire kitchen, a pipe bursts after an unknown slow leak, giving you a flooded floor plus mold already growing between the walls. When a water loss occurs for any reason you need a professional, the reason why we stand ready to help.
Water removal in West Milford is a task we manage regularly and thoroughly. Our team has the highly-qualified technicians and the leading-edge equipment, including pumps and wanded extractors, to exit the unwanted water fast. We also have tools to ensure that not a drop of moisture remains from the water loss. Infrared scanning locates larger pockets of hidden water. Sensitive moisture probes measure the water content of structural components, and our technicians record those readings as a baseline for any structural drying we need to complete during your water removal project.
We often find a cache of water behind a wall, under a floor, or in another building cavity. These challenges are why SERVPRO has several water eliminating strategies among which to choose. Investigating whether there is a way to get at the water from the top or the back is an option, and if there is an opening we can use an extension on one of our wand extractors to suction the water out.
Small holes drilled in a wall can release standing water, but if there is a large quantity hiding a more extreme yet effective option is to make flood cuts. This controlled demolition allows the water to be extracted and permits better airflow during the structural drying phase. Situational flexibility is why SERVPRO also uses specialized drying equipment like the Injectidry system that seals mats on floors or employs hoses inserted into walls to suction moisture using negative air pressure.
Every water removal scenario is unique, supporting why SERVPRO of Wayne is committed to creating the appropriate plan for your water emergency. Call (973) 546-4977 at your earliest convenience for a consultation.
Water damage inside your home from a washer malfunction can cause chaos. Contact SERVPRO today for all your remediation needs.
Why SERVPRO of Wayne is Perfect for Remediating the Water Damage in Your Home
Water damage can create a slippery slope of related problems inside of your home. Mold damage and rot can both form from water damage that has been left for too long. Whenever you find storm, fire, mold, or water-based damages inside of your home, it is wise to call for professional help immediately.
Your leaking washer caused water damage inside of your Wayne residence, impacting the laminate flooring and the base of the walls inside of your laundry room. Additionally, it went unnoticed for a whole day. While it is true that leaving water damage unchecked, for more than seventy-two hours, can open the doorway for microbial growth, it is never too late to call for professional help. No matter how advanced the damage is. It is never wise to allow the problem to grow worse while hesitating.
Here at SERVPRO, we pride ourselves on our quick response times. No matter the time or the day of the week, we're always ready to send a team to your home as swiftly as possible. Furthermore, our technicians have the highest IICRC, Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, certification and are expertly trained to remediate water damage. At SERVPRO, we even have equipment that can help prevent the formation of microbial growth from the excess moisture, such as antifungal agents and sprays.
Once we get into your home, we can head straight for your laundry room. We can remove any significant obstacles that are blocking us from accessing the water damage, such as the washer and dryer, as well as any cabinetry. If removed and wet, the cabinetry can be set up alongside dehumidifiers and air movers to dry them as SERVPRO sees to the laminate flooring and walls.
SERVPRO can make flood cuts to the walls, if it is necessary, so the contaminated drywall is removed. New drywall can be installed, and then the surface can be repainted, so it looks as if the wall is still in its preloss condition. To address the floor, SERVPRO can use drying mats to pull the water directly out of the surface. Once finished, to ensure there are no problems with mold, our techs can use the antifungal spray and then reinstall the cabinetry. It is always our goal to return your home to you "Like it never even happened."
When you are in desperate need of water remediation services, never linger. Immediately get in touch with SERVPRO of Wayne by phoning (973) 546-4977. No matter when you call, we can always be ready to help you.
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As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO® knows timely mitigation is the key to reducing severity and recovering damaged items. Water– or smoke–damaged paper can rapidly deteriorate. Without proper handling, valuable files and irreplaceable documents could be lost forever. Let SERVPRO’s Document Restoration Team help you recover your damaged paper goods before it is too late.
SERVPRO’s technicians are trained to use the most advanced technology available for document recovery and drying; in fact, the Document Restoration Team uses the same technique the Library of Congress uses to dry water-damaged books.
Vacuum Freeze Drying?
Vacuum freeze drying is the most efficient and effective way to salvage water-damaged documents. The Document Restoration Team uses sublimation—turning a solid directly into a vapor, skipping the liquid stage to avoid causing more damage to the documents. This process can recover even the most delicate items—from documents to photographs and x-rays, to entire business archives.
All employees of the Document Restoration Team are HIPAA Master certified and once your items arrive at the SERVPRO® facility, 24/7 video surveillance is guaranteed.
Digitizing
With the new age of technology, digitizing records and documents has become a standard practice in most industries. This eliminates the need to have massive file storage rooms and allows us to access records at the click of a button. If your file room was damaged by water or smoke and needs to be cleaned, dried or decontaminated, digitizing might be a good choice to eliminate the need to have hundreds or even thousands of documents and records in storage.
Gamma Irradiation
Gamma irradiation is a process used for cleaning/disinfecting and decontaminating documents or other consumer goods.
In a CAT 3 situation (sewage or flood water), documents are not only deteriorating but are also infected with all types of bacteria. In most storm situations, you are dealing with CAT 3 water; therefore, most of the affected documents you encounter will be contaminated.
If this is the case, decontamination is always a must. In living cells, these disruptions result in damage to the DNA and other cellular structures. These photon induced changes at the molecular level cause the death of the organism or render the organism incapable of reproduction. The gamma process does not create residuals or impart radioactivity in processed products.
Certified Destruction
Unfortunately, many businesses and government agencies have to dispose of counterfeit, faulty, expired or contaminated materials. All entities need to be certified that their products and materials are destroyed. The guarantee of certified destruction is to protect one’s liabilities, brand image or proprietary information. We guarantee certified destruction to give you peace of mind that your documents are disposed of properly.
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During a fire, innumerable toxic chemicals, poisonous gases, heavy metals, and other toxins are generated by the materials, household products, and vegetation that burns. These contaminants fill the air, become part of the ash, and are extremely dangerous to your health if inhaled or come in contact with your skin. We often forget about the dangers involved in the various environments we enter, but safety should always be a top priority.
If you are entering an area affected by fire or smoke, consider the following safety tips:
Avoid breathing air contaminated by smoke odor and minimize your exposure to contaminated areas.
If you need to enter a smoke damaged structure, wear proper personal protective equipment, including a proper fitting respirator with a P-100 HEPA filter designed to filter vapor or gasses (not a dust mask).
Persons with heart or lung disease should consult their physician before using a mask during post-fire cleanup.
Avoid handling or coming in direct skin contact with items or materials affected by smoke, soot, or ash. If you need to retrieve items damaged by smoke, wear proper personal protection equipment, such as coveralls, eye protection, gloves, proper foot wear, hardhat, etc.
Avoid getting ash into the air as much as possible. Do not use leaf blowers or take other actions that will put ash into the air.
Avoid using shop vacuums and other common vacuum cleaners. These do not filter out small particles, but blow them out the exhaust into the air where they can be inhaled.
Do not allow children or pets to enter areas that have smoke odor, ash or soot. If children or pets get soot or ash on their skin or hair, wash immediately with mild soap and warm water.
If you anticipate that you will need to be inside a building or area affected by smoke, attempt to ventilate the area by opening windows or doors unless doing so will allow outdoor smoke odor or ash to get in. Minimize your exposure as much as possible.
Have an environmental testing laboratory test for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s) and particulates to determine what types and concentrations of toxins may be present.
When sorting through contents, don't take chances. People should not eat or drink anything that has signs of heat or smoke damage. When in doubt, throw it out!
If you experience any adverse health symptoms from exposure to smoke or soot, seek medical attention immediately.
If you need to be in an enclosed space that has smoke odor, such as an office, home, or building, try to set up air scrubbers with HEPA filters or other type of filter designed to remove ultra-fine particulate matter as quickly as possible. In addition, using a hydroxyl generator can help to break down odor causing molecules.
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Frozen water exerts thousands of pounds of pressure per square inch on a pipe and can burst it, causing flooding and major damage to your business. Extensive water damage can also occur as a result of frozen pipes in sprinkler systems during extended power outages in freezing weather.
Preventing Frozen Pipes
Guidance for reducing the risk of pipes freezing:
Provide a reliable back-up power source, such as a stand by generator, to ensure continuous power to the building.
Install a monitoring system with notifications if the building’s temperature dips below a pre-determined number.
Insulate recessed light fixtures in the ceiling to reduce heat entering the attic. Look for visible light inside the attic. If present, insulate or seal. If the space above a suspended ceiling is conditioned, there is no need for added insulation or sealing.
Insulate and properly seal attic penetrations such as partition walls, vents, plumbing stacks, electric and mechanical chases, and access doors, and all doors and windows.
Seal all wall cracks and penetrations including domestic and fire protection lines, electrical conduit and other utility service lines.
Sprinkler systems should be consistently monitored by a central station to provide early detection of a pipe failure.
Install insulation and/or heat trace tape connected to a reliable power source on parts of wet sprinkler system piping. This includes main lines coming up from underground passing through a wall as well as sprinkler branch lines.
UL-approved gas or electric unit heaters can be installed in unheated sprinkler control valve/fire pump rooms. If back up power is provided, the heaters should also be connected to this power source.
A monitored automatic excess flow switch can be placed on the main incoming domestic water line to provide early detection of a broken pipe or valve when the business is closed.
Peace of Mind
Although it seems as if our winters are longer and colder, the winter weather business protection tips described above can help give you piece of mind during the winter months. We believe that implementing these tips can greatly reduce a building’s potential structural loss and loss of business operations due to large snow falls, freezing temperatures and power outages during these times.
8 Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipe Damage for a Business
Seal Exterior: Seal all cracks, holes, windows, doors and other openings on exterior walls with caulk or insulation to prevent cold air from penetrating wall cavities.
Seal Interior: Insulate and seal attic penetrations such as partition walls, vents, plumbing stacks, and electrical and mechanical chases.
Relieve Pipe Pressure: Let all faucets drip during extreme cold weather to prevent freezing of the water inside the pipe, and if freezing does occur, to relieve pressure buildup in the pipes between the ice blockage and the faucet.
Keep the Building Warm: Install a monitoring system that provides notifications if the building's temperature dips below a pre-determined number.
Insulate Vulnerable Pipes: Insulate pipes most vulnerable to freezing by using pipe insulation.
Install Early Detection System: Install an automatic excess flow switch on the main incoming water line to monitor and provide early detection of a broken pipe or valve. Use wireless sensors near water sources.
Monitor Fire Protection Sprinkler Systems: Monitor sprinkler systems using a central station to provide early detection of a pipe failure and heat unheated sprinkler control rooms.
Install Backup Power: Provide a reliable backup power source to ensure heat to the building.
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Frozen pipes are one of the leading sources of property damage when the temperature drops. Don’t let damage from frozen pipes soak your home or business—prepare using the following guidance.
1. Seal Exterior
Seal all cracks, holes, windows, doors, and other openings on exterior walls with caulk or insulation to prevent cold air from penetrating wall cavity.
2. Seal Interior
Insulate and seal attic penetrations such as partition walls, vents, plumbing stacks, and electric and mechanical chases.
3. Relieve Pipe Pressure
Let all faucets drip during extreme cold weather to prevent freezing of the water inside the pipe, and if freezing does occur, to relieve pressure buildup in the pipes between the ice blockage and the faucet.
4. Keep the Building Warm
Install a monitoring system that provides notifications if the building’s temperature dips below a pre-determined number.
5. Insulate Vulnerable Pipes
Insulate pipes most vulnerable to freezing by using pipe insulation.
6. Install Early Detection System
Install an automatic excess flow switch on the main incoming domestic water line to monitor and provide early detection of a broken pipe or valve. Use wireless sensors near water sources.
7. Monitor Fire Protection Sprinkler Systems
Monitor sprinkler systems using a central station to provide early detection of a pipe failure and heat unheated sprinkler control rooms.
8. Install Backup Power
Provide a reliable backup power source to ensure heat to the building.
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When it comes to the weight of snow, the type of snow is as important as the depth of snow. Fresh “powder” type snow is typically lighter than wet packed snow. Ice is heavier than snow. During the winter months, a roof system can be exposed to all three combinations over a several month period.
General guidelines to help estimate the weight of snow:
Fresh snow: 10-12 inches of new snow is equal to one inch of water, or about 5 lbs per square foot of roof space.
Packed snow generally is heavier than new snow: 3-5 inches of old snow is equal to one inch of water, again about 5 lbs per square foot of roof space.
Ice is also heavier than snow. One inch equals about a foot of fresh snow.
The total amount of accumulated snow and ice is what matters in evaluating snow load risk. For example, the accumulated weight of two feet of old snow and two feet of new snow could be as high as 60 lbs per square foot of roof space, which may stress the limits of even the best designed roof.
If you are in the “danger zone” according to chart above or if the loads you estimate based on the thickness of the various types of snow and ice exceed 20-25 psf, you should consider having the snow removed from your roof.
Preventing Roof Collapse
Factors that could dictate how your particular facility will perform under the weight of ice and snow. These factors are listed below, which includes engineering considerations that could help you avoid roof collapses this winter.
Live and dead load design;
Age of the building and the roof;
Condition of the roof;
Elevation;
Maintenance during or after a major snow storm
Addressing Roof Strength
If it is determined that the roof system is not adequately designed to withstand the snow falls being encountered, a building owner should consider strengthening the roof as soon as possible or before the next winter. A structural engineer can determine the maximum loads your roof can withstand, as well as provide practical solutions to improve the strength of your roof.
Snow Removal
Safe snow removal may reduce some of the snow load on your roof. Consider contracting with a professional for snow removal. If your workers will be removing snow keep the guidelines below in mind. To avoid roof collapse, snow removal should begin prior to reaching the snow load limit of the roof.
Always follow Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) Regulations and Standards, particularly fall protections for roof work. Avoid using shovels or snow blowers. Instead, use a heavy duty push broom with stiff bristles or roof rake to brush off the snow down the slope of the roof. For most single-story buildings with steep sloped roofs, a roof rake may be used for while remaining on the ground to pull snow down the roof slope. Do not pull snow back against the slope or sideways since the snow may get underneath the cover and can break shingles.
Ice Dam Risks
Ice dams are ridges of ice that form at the edge of a roof and prevent melting snow (water) from draining off your roof. The water that backs up behind this “dam” can leak into your business and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation, and other areas. Additionally, when the roof doesn’t drain properly, snow, ice, and water remains trapped on the roof, adding loads that put your roof at greater risk.
Preventing Ice Dams
IBHS offers the following guidance to help prevent damage from ice dams:
Increase insulation above ceilings.
Create a roof preventative maintenance, including periodic roof drainage inspections.
Install self-regulating heating cables on gutters, downspouts, and around roof drains.
Keep all drains, scuppers, gutters, and downspouts free of debris and vegetation.
Prune trees that may hang over the roof to prevent an accumulation of tree leaves and branches that may clog or slow roof drainage.
Improve ventilation. Consider installing electric power vents with thermostats.
Removing Ice Dams
We do not recommend chipping or breaking ice dams because this can damage the roof. The following guidance is for the most common types of commercial roof systems.
Steep Sloped Roof Systems:
If the building has a history of ice dams, remove the snow to reduce the risk.
If the building is too tall to reach with a roof rake from the ground, hire a roofing professional. For more information, please see Selecting a Roofing Professional.
Remove or relocate heat sources that are installed in open areas directly under the roof.
Increase ventilation in attic spaces:
New gable roofs: Soffit/ridge vents provide good ventilation.
Gable end vents: place an electric fan over vents to increase the flow of air.
Hip roofs: Box or static vents are practical improvements.
Insulate recessed light fixtures in the ceiling to reduce heat entering the attic. Look for visible light inside the attic. If present, insulate or seal.
Insulate or seal all attic penetrations: partition walls, vents, plumbing stacks, electric and mechanical chases and access doors.
New roof installation: Seal the roof deck using at least two layers of underlayment cemented together or a self-adhering polymer modified bitumen sheet. Extend the moisture barrier at least 24 inches from the edge of the eaves to beyond the inside of the exterior wall.
Flat, Monoslope and Low Sloped Roof Systems:
Flat roofs are particularly vulnerable to water leaks if ice dams keep water from flowing into roof drains. Removing the snow will remove the source of a potential ice dam.
Drains:
If ice dams form around drains, place heating cables on the roof and connect the cables to the drains to create a path for the melting ice to follow.
Consider installing heating cables in a zigzag manner inside gutters.
If there is extensive ice build-up around the drains, consult a roofing professional.
When the roof is dry, inspect the roof cover. Look for mold, mildew and vegetation, all of which are signs of a problem with the slope of the roof cover system and drainage. A roofing professional can advise you about re-pitching the roof cover.
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Among the biggest weather events of the winter are the recurring monster snowstorms that wallop the Northeast and wreak havoc on travel throughout the U.S. during a 6-week period from late January to early March. Frequent snowfalls are accompanied by persistent cold temperatures that prevent melting. When it is all done businesses throughout the region experience roof collapses, frozen pipes, and the logistical challenge of getting employees to work when neither roads nor transit systems can keep pace with the snow.
While these “snowpocalypse” storms receive the most attention, winter cold and storms pound many parts of the U.S. during the past year; the lessons learned from these heavy storms can help businesses elsewhere prepare for and respond to snow, ice, and freezing temperatures in 2018 and beyond. With this goal in mind, following is guidance on severe winter weather and business protection.
Use Social Media to Communicate Before, During, and After a Major Storm
Winter storms launch a “blizzard” of social media, as people across the Northeast post photos, videos, and personal anecdotes about the snow. While many of these posts help inject humor into a difficult and sometimes dangerous weather event, they also helped strangers isolated by the storm come together and commiserate. At least as important, social media serves as a way for emergency management officials to warn residents about approaching weather conditions (including how to prepare and what to do during and after a storm), and some businesses use it to stay connected with employees, customers and business partners. This allows them to communicate quickly, widely and accurately—providing such information as the opening status of the business, whether employees need to report to work, any delays in the provision of goods and services, and when updated operational information would be available. Importantly, while these same social media tools that employees use in their personal lives can be applied to post-disaster business communications at little or no cost, planning ahead is essential to finding the specific social media platforms that will work best.
Telecommuting Should Be Part of Every Winter Weather Business Continuity Plan
Due to the rapid and heavy snow accumulation last winter in the Northeast, a number of states and localities issued widespread travel bans. Even after the bans were lifted, many roads remained impassable, and Boston’s public transit system was incapable of transporting its usual 1.2 million daily riders. For many employers, telecommuting became a vital option that allowed them to avoid a shutdown while keeping employees off of clogged or dangerous roads and stalled mass transit systems. However, for telework to be successful, employers need to plan ahead by identifying telecommuting strategies, documenting a telecommuting policy, putting in place an I/T structure to support the program, and testing the system prior to a blizzard or other emergency.
Keep the Power On and the Business Running with Generators
Snow and ice have the potential to weigh down tree limbs and pull down power lines, causing widespread and long-lasting power outages. Although power outages associated with winter storms are not as severe as anticipated (due to the powdery light snow that falls in most areas), that is not always the case. In fact, one of the worst storms in this regard was the unprecedented 2011 Halloween nor’easter which hit when many trees were still in leaf, resulting in tree and branch collapses that caused an estimated 3.2 million commercial and residential power outages, some lasting long after the snow had been removed or melted. A commercial generator can help businesses minimize disruption when faced with such a situation, but only if one is purchased, installed, and maintained prior to the time of need. It is also critical to have effective generator safety practices in place to minimize risks to people and property, including fire, damage to electrical equipment, and, most tragically, carbon monoxide poisoning. It is also important to have contracts in place with reliable vendors to ensure delivery of generator fuel and other critical supplies.
Snow Removal is Essential to Keep a Clear Path to Your Business
After snowfall, it is important to clear parking lots, driveways and sidewalks to provide safe access for employees, customers and suppliers. In some jurisdictions, there are legal requirements for snow removal; but even if that is not the case, promptly removing snow and minimizing icy surfaces is important for reducing the likelihood of slips and falls, and shows customers you are open for business. Smaller snow amounts can be handled by maintenance staff (assuming the right snow removal equipment is on hand), but large accumulations generally require professional snow removal contractors. These crews are in heavy demand after a storm, so it is critical to have outside service contracts in place prior to the first snowfall of the season. When selecting a contractor, it is important to make sure the people who remove your snow/ice will show up as anticipated, do a thorough job, and work within previously negotiated price guidelines.
Make sure the contract covers all of your needs (e.g., parking lots, driveways, walkways, roofs).
Look for an established, licensed and bonded professional.
Check references.
Ask to see the contractor’s certificates of insurance. Make sure coverage for liability and workers’ compensation insurance is current.
Beyond the big headline blizzards, severe winter weather can occur in many parts of the U.S. from late fall until early spring. By the time these storms are broadcast by local forecasters, it may be too late to put in place the measures needed to remove heavy snow and ice, protect roof systems and water pipes, and keep employees and operations productive. With advance planning, businesses can minimize “snowpocalypse” disruption as they wait for warmer weather to arrive.
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5 Ways to Winterize and Holiday-Proof Your Commercial Property
For many small businesses, the holiday/ winter weather season is when they will earn a significant part of their revenue for the entire year. For others, it is a time when they will close for a short break or long winter hiatus. Regardless of your business model, preparing for the holidays and winter season can help prevent problems caused by indoor hazards or winter weather.
1. DECORATE SAFELY
Choose decorations wisely. Some may be combustible and should be kept away from any heat or ignition sources.
Use battery-operated candles in place of traditional ones.
Never hang decorations from fire sprinklers or block them—this can prevent sprinklers from operating properly.
Do not cover emergency exit signs, fire extinguishers or fire alarms with decorations; also avoid overcrowding aisles or cluttering any place that would make it difficult to exit in an emergency.
Do not place extension cords in high-traffic areas of your workplace, or under rugs, carpets or furniture.
Promote safe ladder use. This can help protect both employees and customers.
Turn off all indoor and outdoor electrical decorations before leaving the building.
2. PREPARE FOR CLOSING
Inform customers in advance if you’ll be closing for the holidays or a longer seasonal break.
Update your company website to reflect closing details. Shut down any unnecessary office equipment.
Secure your building and set alarms. Advise your security company that you will be vacating the property. Verify/update emergency contact information they have on file.
Consider hiring a patrol service to conduct recorded rounds while inspecting the premises at different times of day and night to reduce the threat of vandalism and theft.
3. PROTECT AGAINST FREEZING
Thermostats should be maintained at a minimum of 55°F when the building is unoccupied.
For early detection of a broken pipe or valve, consider installing a monitored electric leak detection system for the main domestic water line. Monitored electronic sensors can also be installed near water sources for early leak detection.
Run a small trickle of water to keep pipes from freezing.
Open cabinet and utility room doors to expose pipes to warmer room temperatures to help keep them from freezing.
Ensure all pipes located in vulnerable areas, such as crawlspaces, exterior walls, attics and unheated basements, are insulated with sleeves or wrapping. The more insulation you have, the better. Hardware and big box stores usually carry foam or fiberglass insulation.
UL-approved gas or electric unit heaters can be installed in unheated sprinkler control valve/fire pump rooms.
Indoor and outdoor fire protection sprinkler systems should be monitored by a constantly attended central station to provide early detection of a sprinkler pipe rupture due to freezing. At minimum, if your business is not located close to where you live or are spending the winter, have someone check the property to ensure the heat is working and the pipes have not frozen.
4. READY THE ROOF
If the building will be unoccupied for a prolonged period, safely clear the roof of all debris, dirt and leaves, which can block gutters and downspouts. Debris buildup can prevent snow melt from properly draining away from the building and can cause ice dams and heavy snow buildup on your roof.
Inspect gutters/downspouts for securement. Heavy snow/ ice can cause gutters to weaken and sag, leading them to break away from the building and allow for water intrusion.
If a winter storm occurs during a holiday or seasonal break, arrange for snow removal for employee access and plan to have a professional remove any excess snow from the roof. This will prevent excessive loads on the roof which could cause structural failure.
CONCLUSION
The winter holidays should be a time for businesses to reflect on past challenges and accomplishments, and make plans to prosper in the New Year. But at the same time, it is important to take steps to prevent injury or damage that can be caused by risks that are unique to this season. Doing so now can provide a head start on New Year’s resolutions to strengthen your business in 2019.
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Reduce Damage to Homes from Alternative Heating Sources
Consumers often turn to alternative heating systems like wood pellet stoves (a.k.a. wood burning stove or wood pellet furnace) during the winter to heat their homes. If you’re considering switching to a wood pellet stove, space heater, or fireplace this winter, consider the following safety information.
Use Caution
Before using any heating device, install carbon monoxide detectors in several parts of the house.
Except where specifically recommended by the manufacturer, only the fuel (e.g., pellets, corn, log wood, coal or gas) for which a stove is designed should be used.
Never use a kerosene heater indoors.
Stove Placement
Alternate heating stoves can vary in construction regarding self-contained insulation and thermal protection. A single layer iron-walled stove, for example, can generate enormous heat several feet in all directions. On the other hand, more sophisticated multiple walled insulated forced-air stoves can remain safe to the touch when in use.
Placement of the stove must take into consideration adequate space for installation, maintenance and replacement, flue or vent pipe routing, and most importantly, safe location relative to combustible materials. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recognizes appropriate American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards and testing of the reduction of heat with distance from the unit as well as non-combustible shielding (defined in codes). Properly tested and rated stoves will have an attached safety label and an installation manual, which will detail the manufacturer’s recommended minimum separations. Some general guidelines are provided for different types of stoves in the following sections for cases when labels are missing.
In most cases, protection of the floor or combustible surface under a stove is required and specified including shielding beneath and extending on all sides in accordance with the code and label requirements. This includes adequate protection in front of the fire box and where ash removal is required.
Standards also exist for locating and routing flue and vent pipes in order to provide separation from combustibles adjacent to and through walls and to existing chimneys.
Pellet Stoves
These modern devices operate through an automated fuel-delivery process. In some designs, a fan delivers air to the fire and blows exhaust by-products out of a vent pipe that is smaller and typically less expensive than a chimney. Often, a separate fan blows air through heat exchangers in the stove and out into the home.
Always hire an installer who is licensed and certified.
Stove placement must allow for access to proper venting and electrical sources and must meet minimum required clearances. Certified installers operate according to these guidelines.
Outlets must be checked for proper voltage, grounding and polarity.
According to model building codes, multiple walled insulated forced-air stoves within compartments or alcoves should have a minimum of 3 inches of working space clearance along the sides, back and top with a total width of the enclosing space being at least 12 inches wider than the stove.
Stoves having a firebox open to the atmosphere should have at least a 6-inch working space along the front combustion chamber side.
Keep the stove clear of all combustible materials.
Use PL vent pipes tested to UL 641.
The following materials should never be used to vent pellet appliances:
Dryer vent
Gas appliance Type B vent
PVC pipe
Single-wall stove pipe, unless approved by local codes and the installation manual.
Inspect chimney before installation. Relining may be required.
Altitudes higher than 2,500 feet may require special venting options.
An outside air source may be required for houses with tight construction or strong kitchen, bath or other exhaust fans.
Manufacturer’s instructions must be closely followed regarding sealing joints and seams, particularly of pressurized mechanical exhaust vents.
Regular maintenance is critical to ensure safe operation.
Frequency of cleaning will depend on the fuel type, grade and content.
Components should be inspected daily.
Professional cleaning is recommended for vent systems before each seasonal use.
Wood Stoves
These traditional heat sources remain popular, but have been linked to an increase in house and chimney fires.
Choose a stove that has been tested by UL.
Second-hand stoves should be free of broken parts or cracks.
Maintain at least a 36-inch clearance between the stove and combustible materials or use fire-resistant materials to protect woodwork and other areas. Follow manufacturer’s guidelines.
Keep the stove clear of combustible materials.
Noncombustible floor covering should be used under and around the stove. The material should extend 18 inches on all sides.
Prior to using the stove, place a layer of sand or firebrick in the bottom of the firebox.
Vent pipes or chimneys must be inspected prior to use.
If a stove pipe is used:
Use 22- or 24-gauge metal with a total length of less than 10 feet.
Maintain at least 18 inches between the top of the stove pipe and the ceiling or other combustible material.
Ensure that the stove pipe enters the chimney at a spot higher than the outlet of the stove firebox and that it does not extend into the chimney flue lining.
The inside thimble diameter should be the same size as the stove pipe for a proper seal.
The stove pipe should not pass through a floor, closet or concealed space, or enter the chimney in the attic.
If a metal chimney is used, make sure it is UL-approved.
Whether masonry or metal, the chimney should extend:
At least 3 feet above the highest point where it passes through the roof, and
At least 2 feet above any portion of the building within 10 horizontal feet of the chimney.
The chimney flue lining should not be blocked.
Keep the chimney flue and stove pipe clean and free of obstructions.
Space Heaters
These appliances can be an affordable option for heating a small space, but they also are the leading source of house fires during winter months.
Look for products that have been tested by UL.
Buy a model with an automatic shut-off feature and heat element guards.
Maintain a 36-inch clearance between the heater and combustible materials, such as bedding, furniture, wall coverings or other flammable items.
Do not leave a heater unattended.
Electric heaters should be inspected prior to use.
Check the cord for fraying and cracking, and look for broken wires or signs of overheating in the device itself.
Use only heavy-duty extension cords marked with a No. 14-gauge or larger wire.
If the heater’s plug has a grounding prong, use only a grounding (three-wire) extension cord.
Never run the heater’s cord (or any cord) under rugs or carpeting.
Liquid-fueled heaters must be operated using only the fuel recommended by the manufacturer.
This popular heat source is found in homes throughout the United States, but requires proper maintenance and caution to ensure safe operation.
Annual inspections are required by a professional chimney sweep.
Regular cleaning will keep the fireplace free of obstructions and creosote.
Have a removable cap installed at the top of the chimney to keep out debris and animals.
Install a spark arrestor that has 1/4-inch mesh.
Maintain proper clearance around the fireplace and keep it clear of combustible materials such as books, newspapers and furniture.
Always close the screen when in use.
Keep glass doors open during the fire.
Use a fireplace grate.
Approved fireplace tools are recommended.
Never burn garbage, rolled newspapers, charcoal or plastic in the fireplace.
Avoid using gasoline or any liquid accelerant.
Clean out ashes from previous fires and store them in a noncombustible container with a tight-fitting lid. Keep the container outside and away from the house.
Never leave a fire unattended.
Make sure the fire is completely out before closing the damper.
Gas fireplaces require specific maintenance:
Adjust the milli-volt output.
Keep the glowing embers and logs clean.
Inspect and clean the air circulation passages and fan.
Clean the glass as needed.
Avoid obstructing the vents.
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Heating, holiday decorations, winter storms and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during the winter months. NFPA and the U.S. Fire Administration are teaming up to help reduce your risk to winter fires and other hazards, including carbon monoxide and electrical fires.
Heating
Heating is the second leading cause of U.S. home fires, deaths and injuries. December, January and February are the peak months for heating fires. Space heaters are the type of equipment most often involved in home heating equipment fires, figuring in two of every five fires (40%). More statistics on heating fires.
Carbon Monoxide
Often called the invisible killer, carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, propane, etc. do not burn completely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of CO. Carbon monoxide incidents are more common during the winter months, and in residential properties. More statistics on carbon monoxide incidents.
Winter storms
Most of the U.S. is at risk for winter storms, which can cause dangerous and sometimes life-threatening conditions. Blinding wind-driven snow, extreme cold, icy road conditions, downed trees and power lines can all wreak havoc on our daily schedules. Home fires occur more in the winter than in any other season, and heating equipment is involved in one of every six reported home fires, and one in every five home fire deaths.
Generators
Portable generators are useful during power outages, however, many homeowners are unaware that the improper use of portable generators can be risky. The most common dangers associated with portable generators are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, electrical shock or electrocution, and fire hazards. According to a 2013 Consumer Product Safety Commission report, half of the generator-related deaths happened in the four coldest months of the year, November through February, and portable generators were involved in the majority of carbon monoxide deaths involving engine-driven tools.
Candles
December is the peak time of year for home candle fires; the top four days for home candle fires are New Year’s Day, Christmas, New Year’s Eve and Christmas Eve. Each year between 2009 and 2013, an average of 25 home candle fires were reported each day. More statistics on candle fires.
Electrical
Electrical home fires are a leading cause of home fires in the U.S. Roughly half of all home electrical fires involved electrical distribution or lighting equipment, while nearly another half involved other known types of equipment like washer or dryer fans, and portable or stationary space heaters. More statistics on electrical fires.
Christmas tree disposal
Christmas trees are combustible items that become increasing flammable as they continue to dry out in your home. Nearly 40 percent of home fires that begin with Christmas trees occur in January. Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur they’re much more likely to be serious. More statistics on Christmas tree fires.
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Have an Emergency Preparedness Kit with three days of food, water, prescription medications and other supplies ready (ready.gov/build-a-kit).
Consider obtaining a NOAA Weather Radio to stay abreast of current weather conditions.
Prevent Roof Collapse
If heavy snow begins to accumulate on your roof, remove the snow with a snow rake and a long extension arm that will allow you to remove the snow while standing safely on the ground. Find additional guidance at disastersafety.org/freezing_weather/prevent-roof-collapse.
Stay Safe and Warm
Inspect your source of heat for any damage which can cause a fire and result in costly property damage. Also, remove combustible items placed near a heat source. For more information, check IBHS’ guide on alternative heating at disastersafety.org/wp-content/uploads/alternative-heating.pdf.
Prevent Frozen Pipes
Prevent costly water damage caused by frozen pipes by:
providing a reliable back-up power source to ensure continuous power to the building;
insulating all attic penetrations;
ensuring proper seals on all doors and windows; and
sealing all cracks and openings in exterior walls.
When there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a “typical” mold removal process.
Call the Team in Green
The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO®. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.
Inspection and Damage Assessment
Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view.
Mold Containment
Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.
Air Filtration
Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO® technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.
Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.
Cleaning Contents and Belongings
SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. They are also trained to remove odors and deodorize using fogging equipment.
Restoration
Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
TAKE PRECAUTIONS
SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, be alert for:
The presence of visible mold.
Strong musty odors, which may indicate mold is present.
Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
Excessive humidity. These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems.
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Your plan for disaster preparedness should include flood information and outline how to prepare for floods. Read on for information about floods and flood safety tips, and how to make them part of your emergency preparedness plan as you prepare for a flood.
Types Of Flooding
Topography and weather conditions play a prominent role in the impact different types of flooding have on specific locales. The following are some examples of specific types of flooding.
Rising water may be the greatest risk to inland areas away from a river bed after a heavy snow pack begins to melt or after heavy rainfall.
Moving water is a serious risk in areas near rivers or in coastal storm surge areas because it creates significantly larger lateral forces on a building.
Overtopping, breaching or opening of dams, levees, and other flood control mechanisms, which are designed to divert the flow of water to provide protection, can lead to flood damage that may be more significant than if the levees were never installed. The Mississippi and Missouri River floods of 2011 included breaches of levees, as well as controlled flooding by the opening of various flood gates on levees. The result was thousands of acres of farmland, crops, livestock and fish farms being destroyed to protect urban areas.
Flash flooding can occur in every region as a result of slow-moving thunderstorms or excessive rainfall from any storm system.
Large, slow-moving tropical storms can dump excessive amounts of rain on coastal locations and then move inland to continue the devastation, resulting in widespread flood damage.
Floods can occur anywhere, often with little or no warning, and with devastating consequences. Protecting the bottom line in order to remain open, or to re-open quickly after a flood disaster, requires taking steps now to prevent or reduce flood damage should your business be in the path of rising water. Below is a brief overview of issues that small businesses must address to reduce the likelihood of flood damage and to prepare financially and operationally should a flood occur. Many of the topics covered here involve complex issues that are best addressed by hydrological, engineering, regulatory or insurance experts; the goal here is simply to outline the basics in order to help business owners understand why they need to mitigate against flood risk and some of the challenges they may face.
Tropical Storm Allison (2001): A Case Study in Flooding
Often, businesses and homeowners let down their guard when a tropical weather system does not result in hurricane-force winds. Tropical Storm Allison is a good example of how rains associated with a tropical system can be equally devastating. The storm dumped approximately 32 trillion gallons of rain (enough to meet U.S. water needs for an entire year), according to the Tropical Storm Allison Recovery Project. This included 28 inches of rainfall during a 12-hour period just northeast of downtown Houston, and rainfall amounts ranging from 10, 20 and 30 inches in locations throughout the Southeast—earning Allison the infamous distinction as the costliest tropical storm in U.S. history.
Understanding Your Flood Hazard
There are several flood principles that should be considered to determine your facility’s exposure to flood waters and the type of protection to be deployed:
Duration: It is important to know if flood waters are expected to recede quickly or may be trapped due to the slope of the land. The longer a facility is exposed to flood waters, the greater potential for flood-proofing failures due to a breach in the protection.
Depth: Flood waters greater than 3 feet create hydrostatic pressure on walls that can cause cracks in masonry and greatly increase the potential of collapse to unreinforced masonry. When estimating the potential depth of flood waters, it is always best to include a safety factor to account for inaccuracies in the estimate.
Velocity: As flood water velocity increases, so does the pressure exerted on flood protection. River flooding can be very fast moving water at first and then may settle down. Coastal locations may be exposed to wave action from storm surge.
Water Condition: Many times flood waters are dirty, brackish or contaminated with biological and chemical materials including waste water, sewage, pesticides, industrial waste, toxic and non-toxic chemicals, or oils. Debris that is churning in the water can impact buildings and flood protection systems, create breaches in the protection and cause extensive damage.
Location, Location, Location
Proximity to water is the number 1 risk factor for flooding, but property owners should not assume being out of the floodplain will help you entirely avoid the possibility of flooding. It is always a best practice to locate your property as far away from bodies of water as possible. Flood maps available from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) identify 100-year and 500-year flood zones throughout the United States. The flood zones also delineate participation in the NFIP, as well as permitting and other requirements that communities adopt in order to meet NFIP standards and qualify their citizens for lower flood insurance rates. By definition, the 100-year and 500-year flood zones mean there is a 1 (.20) percent chance of flooding annually in an area based on topography and historical data; it does not mean that flooding will occur only once in a century (or 500 years). There also are other important points to consider.
Floods can and very often do occur outside the 100-year flood zone. In fact, approximately 25 percent of all flood damages occur in relatively low risk zones commonly described as being “outside the mapped flood zone.”
Specific boundaries on some flood maps may be arbitrary or include inaccuracies. For example, a property lying just outside the 100-year flood zone is almost equally likely to be flooded as one just within.
Obstructions or landfill can change the topography, storm-water drainage patterns, and flow of water over natural floodplains. Although permits are required for flood zone fill (and must be based on engineering assessments demonstrating “no impact”), it is possible that non-permitted work has occurred near your property.
Floods show no respect for the estimated probabilities. As Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Director Craig Fugate observed following a spate of natural disasters, “It just seemed like it was back-to-back and it came in waves. The term ‘100-year event’ really lost its meaning this year.”
The Importance of Elevation
When it comes to flooding, there really is no better solution than adequate elevation, aside from choosing a location well outside of a 500-year flood plain. If such a location is not possible, the best way to increase the safety margin against flood damage is to raise the elevation of your building above the 500-year flood elevation. Flood-proofing your building is another option to reduce damage. Through the NFIP, there is extensive regulation of floodplain development at the community level.
Permits are needed for a wide range of activities including construction of new buildings, additions to existing buildings, and substantial improvement to the interior of existing buildings that are within the most hazardous flood zones. Part of the permitting process involves whether your building site is higher than the base flood elevation (BFE), which is the elevation at which your property has a 1 percent chance of flooding annually, as indicated on the NFIP flood maps. Major storms and flash floods can cause waters to rise higher than the BFE—therefore, it is always a good investment to build in a safety factor several feet above the BFE. This safety zone is called “freeboarding.”
For example, IBHS’s FORTIFIED for Safer Business™ Standards, a package of enhanced voluntary construction standards that greatly increase a new light commercial building’s durability and resilience to natural hazards, requires FORTIFIED buildings to be at least 3 feet above the BFE or above the 500-year flood elevation. There are also ways to retrofit your existing building so that it meets or exceeds BFEs. While only a structural engineer/design professional can determine what is right for your property, the options include raising foundation onto pilings or columns or adding landfill, as long as “no impact” floodplain requirements are met.
When elevating a building so that the walking surface of the lowest floor is at the minimum elevation, areas under the BFE can be used only for parking and limited storage—under-floor bathrooms, utilities, and ductwork are not allowed.
Equipment, utility connections and all interior utility systems including ductwork must be elevated above the BFE. In addition, fuel and propane tanks must be properly anchored, since they can become buoyant even in shallow water.
What is “Dry Flood-Proofing”?
Sealing a building so that water will not enter is called “dry flood-proofing” or “flood-proofing.” Flood-proofing protects your building by coating the exterior with a membrane to prevent flood waters from entering. NFIP regulations allow flood-proofing as an alternative to elevation above the BFE for newly constructed or substantially improved non-residential structures only—new and improved homes must be elevated above the BFE to meet NFIP requirements. It is important to determine whether dry flood-proofing will provide the protections your property needs before choosing this option. This also applies if your business is located outside the 100-year flood zone, but you want to invest in additional flood protection. Dry flood-proofing is a complex procedure that should be done by professional experts. If done incorrectly, it may not protect your property and can lead to decay, mold, or termite damage:
As a general matter, dry flood-proofing is best suited to areas with clay soils where floods are short in duration and less than 3 feet deep.
Buildings in poor structural condition should not be dry flood-proofed, as the exterior walls will be under extreme pressure during a flood.
There are a variety of dry flood-proofing measures; a professional can help to determine whether any of them are right for your situation:
Applying a waterproof coating or membrane to exterior walls
Sealing all wall penetrations including where utilities enter the building
Installing waterproof shields over all openings, including windows and doors
Anchoring the building to resist flotation
Strengthening walls to withstand flood water pressures and flood debris
The Vulnerable Basement
Even above the BFE or outside the floodplain, basements are prone to floods because water may flow down into them. They also may have an increased hydrostatic pressure exerted upon them when the surrounding ground is saturated. Recognizing that elevation is the best form of mitigation, there are a number of additional measures business owners can take to reduce the likelihood and scope of basement flood damage.
Thoroughly inspect your basement and the surrounding property for evidence of water entry and sources of water flow and leakage.
Correct potential problems—for example, extend and redirect downspouts, re-grade sloping landscape, and caulk any interior wall cracks.
Basement walls should be designed to resist hydrostatic pressure.
Use flood-resistant materials where possible, including floor coverings, wall coverings, and wall insulation. Most flood-resistant materials can withstand direct contact with water for at least 72 hours without being significantly damaged.
Do not store valuable equipment, documents, or inventory in any crawlspace or basement where flooding is possible.
The “Green” Factor
In addition, there are steps you can take now to reduce health and environmental damage should a flood occur.
Anchor fuel and propane tanks to prevent them from being swept away. When they break away, the contents may leak, creating fire, explosion and pollution risks that can adversely affect health and the environment.
Install sewer backflow valves to block drain pipes from sewage back-up, which can occur if there is flooding in your area.
If you are supplied by well water, protect your well from contamination. A licensed well drilling contractor can inspect your well and suggest improvements.
Financial and Operational Protections
The NFIP makes flood insurance available to commercial owners and renters. As is the case with residential property, costs vary depending on how much insurance is purchased, what it covers, and the property’s flood risk. NFIP coverage limits are up to $500,000 for a commercial building, and up to $500,000 to protect its contents. Insurance coverage also may be available from private insurance companies, depending on your business’s location, building and business characteristics, and property value.
The best way to learn more about flood insurance benefits, costs, and options is to contact your insurance agent. Finally, take steps now so you can quickly resume operations should a flood or other hazard damage your property. Although flood insurance may cover losses to your structure and contents, many businesses that are severely damaged never fully recover financially due to the loss of management focus, employees, and market share. IBHS’ Open for Business® planning tool helps small- and mid-sized businesses resume their critical business operations and work processes and deliver the goods and services expected by customers or clients–consider it a vital part of your flood preparation planning and practice.
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When local and state resources are overwhelmed by a severe disaster, your state’s governor will request that the president issue a Major Disaster Declaration. This is the only declaration that can activate a range of federal assistance programs for individuals and families. Assistance may include temporary housing, low-interest loans and grants, counseling for post-disaster trauma and other services.
FEMA - Individuals & Households Program National Processing Service Center P.O. Box 10055 Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055
Or send fax to: (800) 827-8112 Attention: FEMA -- Individuals & Households Program
The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, doesn’t activate all of its assistance programs in every natural disaster. It largely depends on the nature of damages reported by your state.
To qualify for federal disaster assistance, your losses must have occurred in an area covered by a Major Disaster Declaration. If you have online access, you can quickly determine this at FEMA’s Federal Disaster Declarations Web page.
A number of criteria are used in the determination of a major disaster area, including the amount and type of damage, the imminent threats to public health and safety, and level of insurance coverage in place for homeowners and public facilities, according to fema.gov.
Make an insurance claim
After determining whether you are in a major disaster area, you should file an insurance claim with your home and/or auto insurance company for any damages incurred. Failure to file an insurance claim may affect your eligibility for federal assistance, because by law, FEMA cannot provide money for losses that are covered by insurance.
Once you file your claim, FEMA may be able to provide some assistance in the following circumstances.
Delayed insurance settlement: If your settlement is delayed longer than 30 days, FEMA may loan you some money. It will expect you to repay the loan when your settlement arrives. How to file: Write FEMA with a full explanation and insurance claim number, the date of the claim and documentation.
Your insurance settlement falls short: If the maximum payment from your settlement doesn’t cover your disaster-related needs, FEMA may help make up the difference. How to file: Write FEMA with a full explanation and complete insurance documentation.
Additional Living Expenses exhausted: If you’ve exhausted your insurance company’s maximum loss-of-use settlement, FEMA may be able to help with your disaster-related temporary housing needs. Write them with explanation and documentation.
Types of federal disaster assistance: housing and nonhousing
There are two types of direct federal disaster assistance available: housing needs and nonhousing needs:
Housing assistance. This includes temporary housing and money to help repair or replace your primary residence. To qualify for housing needs assistance, you or someone living with you must be a U.S. citizen, noncitizen national or qualified alien; your home must be your permanent residence; and you must have been living in the home when the disaster hit but not currently able to due to damage from the disaster.
Nonhousing needs. These include medical, dental and funeral costs; clothing and household items; tools; home fuel; disaster-related moving and storage; and replacement of a disaster-damaged vehicle. In order to qualify for these, you or someone living with you must be a U.S. citizen, noncitizen national or qualified alien; you must have serious disaster-related needs and expenses; and you must have accepted all assistance for which you are eligible from insurance proceeds and Small Business Administration, or SBA, disaster loans.
The SBA provides federally subsidized disaster loans to repair or replace homes or personal property of qualified homeowners and businesses. SBA loans comprise the lion’s share of federal disaster assistance.
Additional forms of direct federal assistance include crisis counseling; disaster unemployment assistance; legal services, including assistance with insurance claims; and special tax consideration that enables you to deduct a casualty loss that exceeds 10 percent of your adjusted gross income on your federal tax return for the current or previous tax year.
What’s next
Once you’ve applied for federal disaster assistance, you can check the status of your application within 24 hours via the same method you applied. FEMA will also mail you a copy of your application along with a detailed guide that walks you through the assistance process.
An inspector working with FEMA will contact you 10 to 14 days after your application to schedule a time to visit your home and inspect the disaster-related damage. There is no charge for this inspection, but you must be present during the inspection and prepared to offer the inspector proof of ownership and occupancy.
Proof of ownership includes any of the following: deed, tax records, mortgage payment book or a homeowners insurance policy showing you as the owner. Lacking these, the inspector may be able to obtain proof from a county property tax website.
Proof of occupancy includes any of the following: driver’s license with address, a recent utility bill in your name or any first-class government mail sent to you at your address during the past three months.
Do you qualify?
Inspectors submit their report to FEMA but play no role in determining your eligibility for assistance.
It will take FEMA about 10 days to review your inspection. If you qualify for a grant, FEMA will send you a check by mail with a letter explaining how you are to use the money (you’ll receive this via direct deposit if you supplied your bank routing number on your application).
The grant is tax-free and does not require repayment. However, you cannot give it to someone else and you must use it as specified by FEMA. If you don’t, you won’t be granted any additional assistance and you may be asked to pay it back.
If you do not qualify for a grant, you’ll receive a letter explaining why. You have the right to appeal. Appeals must be written and mailed within 60 days of receiving FEMA’s decision.
In a third scenario, FEMA may send you an application to apply for a loan through the Small Business Administration. You must complete and submit the SBA loan application to be considered for a loan as well as certain types of grant assistance. If the SBA then determines that you do not qualify for a loan, it will automatically refer you back to FEMA for grant assistance.
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Is your workplace prepared in the event of a fire?
What would you say is the biggest cause of workplace fires? It's not equipment failure. It's not electrical faults. It's not storms or natural disasters. It's people and carelessness.
Every year, in more than 70,000 workplace fires across North America, an average 200 people die, thousands are injured and many firms are either put out of business or severely disrupted.
October is Fire Protection Week in the US and Canada, so now is a good time to review and remind employees of safety rules. A few simple steps will help identify and reduce risks. Things like:
Assessing your buildings for risks -- I'd make that a visual inspection tour
Reducing clutter and keeping escape routes clear
Storing flammable chemicals under lock and key
Locating heat-producing equipment, even coffee-makers, away from flammable material
Checking building security to prevent possible arson fires
Enforcing no-smoking or designated area rules
Checking fire extinguisher service and replacement dates
Ensuring employees know how to operate extinguishers
Enforcing rules for the use of spark - and fire-producing equipment
Conducting permitted, controlled burning/fires a safe distance from buildings
Checking operation of fire and smoke alarms
It's even more important that employees know what to do if fire does break out. Even if it's not mandatory, you should have a written emergency action plan that includes details of evacuation routes, location of assembly points, procedures for raising the alarm and, if appropriate, a written list of individuals and their responsibilities.
As much as everyone loathes them, evacuations should be practiced at least once a year. It's a good idea to alert employees of an intention to have a practice drill but not to tell them exactly when it will happen.
And if you'd like to know more about Fire Safety Week or get other information about fire safety, visit the National Fire Protection Association, a US-based global organization, at www.nfpa.org
Finally, please make sure you have adequate insurance in place, not just against property damage and liability arising from fires but also coverage to protect you against income losses arising from business disruption.
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Flood Cleanup: Avoiding Indoor Air Quality Problems
During a flood cleanup, the indoor air quality in your home or office may appear to be the least of your problems. However, failure to remove contaminated materials and to reduce moisture and humidity can present serious long term health risks. Standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria, and mold. They can cause disease, trigger allergic reactions, and continue to damage materials long after the flood.
This fact sheet discusses problems caused by microbial growth, as well as other potential effects of flooding, on long-term indoor air quality and the steps you can take to lessen these effects. Although the information contained here emphasizes residential flood cleanup, it is also applicable to other types of buildings.
Prepare for Cleanup
Read Repairing Your Flooded Home prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the American Red Cross. The booklet discusses flood safety issues and can save your life. The booklet also contains detailed information on proper methods for cleaning up your home. You should also consult the wealth of information on the FEMA, CDC, and The American Lung Association sites on the subject, which are listed below:
This fact sheet provides additional information not covered in the original FEMA/American Red Cross booklet on indoor air quality concerns related to flooding (however, because this fact sheet was prepared in 1993, it is more than likely that FEMA and the Red Cross and the American Lung Association do have more up-to-date information and resources available which you should consult). Many of the methods used for general cleanup, as detailed in the booklet, are the same as those used to avoid problems with indoor air quality. For brevity, we have not provided detail on the general methods used for cleanup here. This fact sheet is intended to be used in conjunction with the FEMA/American Red Cross booklet and resources. Children are different from adults. They may be more vulnerable to chemicals and organisms they are exposed to in the environment.
Avoid Problems from Microbial Growth
Remove Standing Water
Standing water is a breeding ground for microorganisms, which can become airborne and be inhaled. Where floodwater contains sewage or decaying animal carcasses, infectious disease is of concern. Even when flooding is due to rainwater, the growth of microorganisms can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. For these health reasons, and to lessen structural damage, all standing water should be removed as quickly as possible.
Dry Out Your Home
Excess moisture in the home is an indoor air quality concern for three reasons:
Microorganisms brought into the home during flooding may present a health hazard. These organisms can penetrate deep into soaked, porous materials and later be released into air or water. Coming in contact with air or water that contains these organisms can make you sick.
High humidity and moist materials provide ideal environments for the excessive growth of microorganisms that are always present in the home. This may result in additional health concerns such as allergic reactions.
Long-term increases in humidity in the home can also foster the growth of dust mites. Dust mites are a major cause of allergic reactions and asthma.
See Step 4, Dry Out Your Home, of the American Red Cross/FEMA booklet, Repairing Your Flooded Home, on steps that should be taken to open up and dry out ceilings, walls, and floors in the home. Be patient. The drying out process could take several weeks, and growth of microorganisms will continue as long as humidity is high. If the house is not dried out properly, a musty odor, signifying growth of microorganisms can remain long after the flood.
Remove Wet Materials
It can be difficult to throw away items in a home, particularly those with sentimental value. However, keeping certain items that were soaked by water may be unhealthy. Some materials tend to absorb and keep water more than others. In general, materials that are wet and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried within 24-48 hours should be discarded, as they can remain a source of microbial growth.
Information on the types of water-damaged materials that should be discarded are provided in Step 4, Dry Out Your Home, of the American Red Cross/FEMA booklet, Repairing Your Flooded Home
The booklet suggests that you may be able to dry out and save certain building materials (for example, wallboard, fiberglass insulation, and wall-to-wall carpeting that were soaked only with clean rainwater). You may, however, want to consider removing and replacing them to avoid indoor air quality problems. Because they take a long time to dry, they may be a source of microbial growth. For information on mold prevention and cleanup, visit www.epa.gov/mold.
In addition, fiberboard, fibrous insulation, and disposable filters should be replaced, if they are present in your heating and air conditioning system and have contacted water. (If a filter was designed to be cleaned with water and was in contact with clean rainwater only, ensure that it is thoroughly cleaned before reinstalling.)
Avoid Problems from the Use of Cleaners and Disinfectants
The cleanup process involves thorough washing and disinfecting of the walls, floors, closets, shelves, and contents of the house. In most cases, common household cleaning products and disinfectants are used for this task. FEMA also suggests the use of disinfectants and sanitizers on the ductwork for the heating and air conditioning system, if it has been flooded.
Disinfectants and sanitizers contain toxic substances. The ability of chemicals in other household products used for cleaning to cause health effects varies greatly, from those with no known health effect to those that are highly toxic. Read and follow label instructions carefully, and provide fresh air by opening windows and doors. If it is safe for you to use electricity and the home is dry, use fans both during and after the use of disinfecting, cleaning, and sanitizing products.
Be careful about mixing household cleaners and disinfectants together. Check labels for cautions on this. Mixing certain types of products can produce toxic fumes and result in injury and even death.
Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be lethal at high levels. Carbon monoxide levels can build up rapidly if certain types of combustion devices (for example, gasoline-powered generators, camp stoves and lanterns, or charcoal-burning devices) are used indoors. Do not use combustion devices designed for outdoor use indoors.
Avoid Problems from Airborne Asbestos and Lead Dust
Elevated concentrations of airborne asbestos can occur if asbestos-containing materials present in the home are disturbed. Airborne asbestos can cause lung cancer and mesothelioma, a cancer of the chest and abdominal linings. If you know or suspect that your home contains asbestos, contact the EPA TSCA Assistance Information Service at (202) 554-1404 for information on steps you should take to avoid exposure.
Lead is a highly toxic metal which produces a range of adverse health effects, particularly in young children. Disturbance or removal of materials containing lead-based paint may result in elevated concentration of lead dust in the air. If you know or suspect that your home contains lead-based paint, contact the National Lead Information Center to receive a general information packet, to order other documents, or for detailed information or questions. Call and speak with a specialist Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm eastern time (except Federal holidays) at 1 (800) 424-LEAD [5323].
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The tremendous power of a hurricane can turn a home inside out and leave it in ruins. But you can minimize the potential for damage, cut the cost of your home insurance now and save on repairs later with the help of many readily available home improvement products.
And you want to get to work before it’s too late.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, is predicting eight to 13 named storms during the 2014 Atlantic hurricane season. Three to six of those storms could become hurricanes, including one or two major hurricanes with winds in excess of 110 mph.
Bracing your home for what the season might bring doesn’t have to be expensive.
“Homeowners may get discounts for things such as hurricane shutters, various types of roof coverings and the way the roof is attached to the structure,” says Claire Wilkinson, a blogger for the trade group the Insurance Information Institute.
Top products for storm protection
Plywood.
Fabric panels.
Hurricane straps.
Flood barriers.
Storm panels.
Roll-down hurricane shutters.
Colonial shutters.
Accordion shutters.
Bahama shutters.
Garage door braces.
Hurricane glass.
“There are a lot of things you can do (to your home) that are meaningful, affordable and make a difference,” adds Leslie Chapman-Henderson, president and CEO of the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes, or FLASH.
Here are several ways to avoid costly hurricane damage.
Plywood
A sheet of plywood and a handful of nails have stood out as one of the most popular ways to prepare for a storm. Homeowners typically “board up” a day or two before and attach 5/8-inch or 1/2-inch plywood to the windows of their homes.
Cost: Material costs vary by location and season, but a 4-by-8-foot sheet of 5/8-inch plywood typically runs $20 to $30. Depending on home size and number of windows, total material costs could run $275 to $750.
Effect on insurance: None.
Pros: Plywood is very effective for protecting from flying debris, and it’s easy for “do-it-yourselfers.” You can find the materials at any home improvement store. Plywood is relatively inexpensive and, if stored properly, can be used from season to season.
Cons: Working with plywood can be time-consuming and may require a helping hand for those with two-story homes. Installation may involve drilling holes in siding and bricks. Once windows are boarded, the home becomes very dark.
Fabric panels
Polymer-based, hurricane-strength fabric panels add trampoline-like cushion to windows and doors and repel flying debris without sacrificing visibility in a storm. Panels are anchored to the edges of windows and doorways with grommets and wing nuts or clips and pins, making them easy to install.
Cost: Approximately $5 to $15 per square foot.
Effect on insurance: None.
Pros: The panels can easily be installed and removed, then rolled up and stored in a compact space. Most are translucent and allow for visibility through windows.
Cons: Professional installation is normally required.
Hurricane straps
Most homes are built to hold the roof up, not down. To correct for the upward and lateral lifting forces of hurricane winds, builders install hurricane straps, clips and anchor belts, which can help keep a home’s roof intact. In a correct setup, galvanized straps securely attached to the walls and foundation keep the roof tied into the entire house.
Cost: Inexpensive hurricane straps sell for as little as 50 cents apiece, usually by the box or in coils. A typical home could require hundreds of straps.
Effect on insurance: Can be significant depending on state and carrier.
Pros: When installed properly on a new home, hurricane straps drastically reduce the threat of roof failure in high winds. They are easy to install on new homes.
Cons: Retrofitting straps on an existing home can be difficult, time-consuming and expensive.
Flood barriers
While there is little a homeowner can do to prepare for a hurricane’s 20-foot storm surge on the coast, there are several products that can help protect inland residents from minor flooding. Sandbags remain the least expensive option (many counties give them away for free), but they are heavy and it takes hundreds of bags and lots of help to make a solid barrier around a home. Other types of flood barriers include powder-filled absorbent door dams, water-filled tubes, expanding bags and portable walls that can be quickly deployed in the event of a flood.
Cost: The price varies from a couple hundred dollars up to tens of thousands of dollars to completely surround a home, depending on product and protection level.
Effect on insurance: None.
Pros: Barriers are effective in preventing minor floodwaters from entering the home. Some products are easy to install and can be deployed just before a storm.
Cons: The products can be expensive and time-consuming to deploy, and they’re ineffective if floodwaters rise above the height of the barrier.
Storm panels
Corrugated steel or aluminum shutters bolted over your windows and doors are one of the best ways to protect a home from flying debris. Storm panels vary in thickness and attach to window exteriors with a system of tracks and bolts. When tracks are installed permanently around the house, the shutters can be attached quickly and easily when a storm is approaching.
Cost: Prices for steel or aluminum storm panels run from $7 to $15 per foot of coverage.
Effect on insurance: Can be significant depending on state and carrier.
Pros: One of the most inexpensive permanent shutter systems, the panels are strong and can protect from almost any flying debris. Can be deployed quickly before a storm and removed quickly afterward.
Cons: Panels require a large space for storage. They can be difficult to install, depending on the size of windows and number of stories on your home, and you may need extra help. Some shutters have sharp edges.
Roll-down hurricane shutters
With the push of a button or the crank of a handle, roll-down hurricane shutters are the easiest home protectors to deploy before a storm. The shutters are typically made of double-walled aluminum slats that interlock, and they roll up into a narrow box that sits above the window or doorway. Available in all sizes and colors, they are usually custom-fitted to your home.
Cost: While they are the easiest and most convenient way to protect your home, roll-down shutters also are the most expensive window defense option, averaging $20 to $35 per square foot of window, according to the NOAA.
Effect on insurance: Can be significant depending on state and carrier.
Pros: The shutters are easily raised and lowered. They also can be used to temporarily darken a ro.
Cons: They’re prohibitively expensive for most homeowners and usually require professional installation. Push-button systems need a battery backup or manual override for use during a power outage.
Garage door braces
Your garage door is one of the parts of your home most vulnerable to high wind. Failure of a garage door can allow the full force of a hurricane to threaten the roof or walls. While some newer garage doors are rated for winds of up to 150 mph, many older ones should be braced. Vertical bracing systems are typically made of aluminum and are anchored above the garage door and to the floor to provide a backbone of extra support.
Cost: The price varies by manufacturer, approximately $150 to $175 per garage door brace.
Effect on insurance: Possible discount depending on state and carrier.
Pros: Braces are effective and relatively inexpensive.
Cons: They may require special tools such as a rotor hammer and masonry bit to drill into concrete floor. Garage door cannot be opened without removing the brace.
Hurricane glass
Want to skip the hassle and closed-in feeling of shutters altogether? Consider installing hurricane-impact windows. The glass is usually 3/8-inch thick and features a film coating similar to the safety glass used in vehicle windshields. If the windows crack or are smashed, the glass will stay embedded in the frame.
Cost: Hurricane glass windows are not cheap, costing up to $50 per square foot.
Effect on insurance: Possible discount depending on state and carrier.
Pros: With hurricane glass, there is nothing to install or remove when a hurricane comes; it’s always in place and is completely transparent. No shutters are needed. Hurricane windows also help block outside noise, protect against break-ins and filter out harmful UV rays.
Cons: The windows must be installed by a contractor, and the labor costs can be steep.
Accordion shutters
Housed on the sides of doors or windows when not in use, these retractable aluminum shutters unfold like an accordion to protect your home’s openings during a storm. The shutters can provide protection against not only wind but also forced entry. They are usually available in a variety of colors.
Cost: $15 to $25 per square foot.
Effect on insurance: Possible discount depending on state and carrier.
Pros: Accordion shutters are easily and quickly deployed in the event of a storm. They are permanently fixed to the house and do not require storage.
Cons: They may appear unattractive on some houses. The mechanisms that open and close the shutters may be weaker or break more often than with other products.
Bahama shutters
Bahama shutters are hinged at the top of the window and angle outward from the wall with the help of telescoping arms. The support arms typically are adjustable from 60- to 90-degree angles. The shutters protect against wind while providing light, ventilation and privacy control in everyday use. They often are used in sunny and coastal environments and can give a home a distinct, tropical appearance.
Cost: $15 to $20 per square foot.
Effect on insurance: Possible discount depending on state and carrier.
Pros: Bahama shutters permanently attach to the home and can be quickly deployed. Made of aluminum, vinyl or wood, they can easily be painted to complement or match the home.
Cons: Almost permanently block full vision from windows and can make a home much darker. The amount of hurricane protection they offer can vary by style and manufacturer.
Colonial shutters
As a traditional style of window protection, colonial shutters attach to the window’s side walls and fold inward to close. Permanently fixed to the window frame and held open by a clip system, they can quickly and easily be closed and secured with a brace bar when a storm approaches.
Cost: Moderately priced when compared with other window protection products, colonial shutters run roughly $18 to $30 per square foot.
Effect on insurance: Possible discount depending on state and carrier.
Pros: The shutters can easily be closed by one person. They can add decorative curb appeal to a home.
Cons: They must be permanently installed on the house, a process that can be expensive and time-consuming. Professional installation may be required.
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Fires in dormitories are more common during the evening hours, between 5–11 pm, and on weekends.
Roughly six out of seven fires in dormitories are started by cooking.
College students living away from home should take a few minutes to make sure they are living in a fire-safe environment. Educating students on what they can do to stay safe during the school year is important and often overlooked. College students living away from home should take a few minutes to make sure they are living in a fire-safe environment. Educating students on what they can do to stay safe during the school year is important and often overlooked.
SAFETY TIPS
Look for fully sprinklered housing when choosing a dorm or off-campus housing.
Make sure you can hear the building alarm system when you are in your dorm room.
If you live in a dormitory, make sure your sleeping room has a smoke alarm, or your dormitory suite has a smoke alarm in each living area as well as the sleeping room. For the best protection, all smoke alarms in the dormitory suite should be interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound.
If you live in an apartment or house, make sure smoke alarms are installed in each sleeping room, outside every sleeping area, and on each level of the apartment unit or house. For the best protection, all smoke alarms in the apartment unit or house should be interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound.
Test all smoke alarms at least monthly.
Never remove batteries or disable the alarm.
Learn your building’s evacuation plan and practice all drills as if they were the real thing.
If you live off campus, have a fire escape plan with two ways out of every room.
When the smoke alarm or fire alarm sounds, get out of the building quickly and stay out.
Stay in the kitchen when cooking.
Cook only when you are alert, not sleepy or drowsy from medicine or alcohol.
Check with your local fire department for any restrictions before using a barbeque grill, fire pit, or chimenea.
Check your school’s rules before using electrical appliances in your room.
Smoking Sense
If you smoke, smoke outside and only where it is permitted, Use sturdy, deep, nontip ashtrays. Don’t smoke in bed or when you’ve been drinking or are drowsy.
Candle Care
Burn candles only if the school permits their use. A candle is an open flame and should be placed away from anything that can burn. Never leave a candle unattended. Blow it out when you leave the room or go to sleep.
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After people endure a disaster, taxes are probably the last thing on their minds. But tax laws do offer some help for loss victims. And victims of a presidentially declared disaster could use their tax filing to obtain much-needed cash.
Taxpayers who itemize are allowed by the IRS to deduct casualty losses — “the damage, destruction or loss of property from an identifiable event that is sudden, unexpected or unusual.” Usually, this means waiting to claim the loss on your next income tax filing.
However, when a house, car or business is damaged or destroyed by an event deemed a major disaster by the president, the wait for tax refund money attributable to disaster losses is cut dramatically. In these extreme cases, taxpayers can deduct their losses in the tax year before the event happened by filing an amended return.
When the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, announces that the president declares major disasters in certain areas, usually in the wake of a major storm, the way is cleared for special federal help, including tax options.
Major disaster tax options
Disaster-related tax relief generally includes extended filing deadlines and easing of related penalties for individuals and businesses located in the designated disaster areas. The relief also usually applies to those whose tax records are located in the damaged regions — at an accountant’s office, for example — and workers from any location who are there providing help to victims.
In addition, taxpayers in federal disaster areas have the option of choosing which tax year to claim the disaster losses. Depending on when the catastrophe occurred, filers can amend a previous year’s tax return and claim the catastrophic losses they suffered on the old return. In many instances, amended filing will make the individual eligible for an immediate tax refund — money that could be used to live on or begin repairs.
This often is the case for filers who didn’t itemize deductions the previous year; if the total of the casualty losses and any other itemized deductions will amount to more than the standard deduction they originally took, refiling is generally to their advantage.
Even taxpayers who did itemize might find an amended return worthwhile if the disaster damage produces more than originally deducted.
Not the best move for everyone
While the option to time-shift federal disaster casualty losses to the previous year is a great advantage for some, it’s not the best move for all taxpayers.
Some storm victims might find that while their losses are substantial, they aren’t sufficient to meet two tax-law limits on casualty claims. First, you must reduce the amount you can claim by $100. Then, you have to reduce the total of all your casualty losses by 10 percent of your adjusted gross income. You also have to subtract any insurance money you got for the loss.
Tax experts also note that people who had very high taxable income the year in which they could claim the losses and expect very low income the year of the disaster might be able to deduct more of their losses by waiting until they file their return the following year.
The deadline for choosing this option usually is the due date of a filer’s current year return.
So evaluate your individual circumstances — tax, damage and financial recovery needs — carefully. And be sure that the calamity is a certified federal disaster to get the immediate relief.
Paperwork you’ll have to file
If you meet the loss limits, the process to claim them is the same regardless of which tax year you choose to file the claim.
The first step is gathering the proper forms. To claim disaster losses, you must file the long Form 1040 individual tax return plus Form 4684 to figure and report your casualty loss and Schedule A to itemize your loss deduction. If you need to file an amended return to claim losses, use Form 1040X instead.
Then determine how the damage has hurt your property’s fair market value. This is a two-part valuation: what your property was worth immediately before the catastrophe and what it’s worth after.
The pre-disaster value is your “adjusted basis.” For homes, this usually is the cost of the property plus certain adjustments such as improvements that add to the structure’s value; for vehicles or other personal property, it may be depreciation that reduces its value. Get an appraisal for the post-disaster value of the property and compare it with your adjusted basis. The difference between the two amounts is your loss from the casualty.
Once the loss is determined, use Form 4684 to figure the deductible amount of your casualty loss. You must reduce the initial loss claim amount by any insurance or other reimbursement you have received. If you have insurance on your property, you must submit a claim to use the damage to it as a casualty loss. In other words, you can’t decide you don’t want to pay the deductible your insurance would require and then use the total, unreimbursed loss amount as your casualty claim. And all insurance payments must be used to repair or replace your property, or any excess not used for these purposes could be a taxable gain to you.
Then this is where the $100 mentioned earlier comes into play. You further reduce your loss by that amount before finally reducing the total yet again by 10 percent of your adjusted gross income to get to your final casualty loss deduction.
Figuring the tax costs of damages
The following work sheet shows the computations that a hypothetical Tom Taxpayer, who suffered through a federally declared flood disaster, had to make. The water substantially damaged Tom’s home, the property inside and his car. Insurance covered only a part of the losses.
Tom’s adjusted gross income is $60,000, and that’s what he uses to figure his casualty deduction. Tom was off work — and without pay — for the week that his employer was closed during a flood in May 2014. Unfortunately, Tom can’t claim the lost income. The IRS provides no deduction for missed wages, even in the event of federal disasters.
Cleanup and repair costs
Tom was able to get such a good tax result from his difficult situation because he kept track of what he spent to clean up and repair his property, the main concerns after a disaster strikes.
Keep in mind, however, that the tax laws won’t allow you to specifically get back that $5,000 you paid to have the carpets cleaned after the flood. There is no place on Form 4684 for you to enter this expense and have it directly count as part of your casualty loss deduction.
But because your flooring was damaged by the floods, you can use what you spent to repair it as a measure of how much your home’s property value was reduced by the storm. This in turn will give you a more accurate assessment of your property’s damage and the tax deduction value of the loss suffered.
In Tom’s case above, the $75,000 post-disaster value of his home takes the floor damage into account. If the carpets didn’t need the professional cleaning, then his home might be worth $80,000. This would mean that the amount he could claim as a casualty loss would be only $22,900, and his tax relief would be less.
The IRS notes that expenses for repairs should take care of the damage only. You can’t have the repair crew improve on the original state of your property.
Record-keeping requirements
And even though the IRS allows disaster victims some tax leeway, the agency still demands that casualty losses, like every deduction, be substantiated and supported.
The IRS does not require you to keep your records in a particular way, only that you keep them in a manner that allows you and the IRS to determine your correct tax. While you don’t have to submit your documentation with your return, you should keep your records handy and be able to show the following if asked.
You should be able to document:
The type of casualty and when it occurred.
That the loss amount claimed was a direct result of the casualty.
That you were the owner of the property or, if you leased it, that you were contractually liable to the owner for the damage.
The simplest way to track loss substantiation is in your checkbook. There you can enter income and loan or insurance reimbursement deposits along with all checks written for expenses accrued in connection with your disaster loss. Be specific: Note amounts, sources of deposits and types of expenses.
Holding on to other documents, such as receipts and sales slips, also can help prove a deduction. Keep your records in an orderly fashion, such as placing documents related to a particular event in a designated envelope, and, where applicable, store them by year and type of income or expense.
And don’t forget your camera. Photographs showing the original condition of the property and ones taken after the disaster struck can be helpful in establishing the condition and value of your property.
Other filing rules
When you do send in your amended return, explain that the refiling was due to casualty losses incurred in a federal disaster and attach Form 4684 to show how you figured your loss. Be sure to specify the date or dates of the disaster and the city, county and state where the damaged or destroyed property was located when the disaster occurred.
And what if you thought you escaped, only to find out that the disaster was just a bit slow in arriving? This might be the case if you live in a federal disaster area and state or local officials decide that your home, even though it suffered only minor damage, must be moved or torn down for public safety reasons, such as ensuing mudslides.
You still can take advantage of the casualty loss deduction as long as the government-ordered demolition or relocation of a home is issued within 120 days after the original federal disaster declaration. It might be government contractors doing the damage this time, but your resulting loss is treated just as if it were damaged in the natural calamity.
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Hurricane insurance deductibles can make your policy stingier when a big storm hits
Homeowners going through their first hurricane can be shocked by the unharnessed power of Mother Nature. Unfortunately, once the storm passes, they’re often stunned a second time by a special — and costly — hurricane insurance deductible they didn’t know was buried in their home insurance policy.
Hurricane deductibles were a result of Hurricane Andrew, which slammed into South Florida in 1992 and left insurers holding the bag for $15.5 billion in losses. At the time, it was the costliest hurricane in U.S. history, although Hurricane Katrina now tops that list, according to the New York-based trade group Insurance Information Institute.
In Andrew’s aftermath, insurers in coastal areas along the Atlantic seaboard and Gulf of Mexico now issue home insurance policies with a separate, percentage-based deductible for hurricane-related damage, in addition to the standard homeowners deductible. Hurricane deductibles are applied in 19 states and the District of Columbia, the institute says.
How hurricane deductibles work
When your policy has a hurricane deductible and one of those big storms hits, you typically will be on the hook for 2%-5% of your home’s insured value before your coverage for the damage kicks in. The out-of-pocket cost can be much higher than what you’d face with the dollar-amount deductibles commonly used for fire damage and theft.
If the home you insured for $300,000 has a 5% hurricane deductible, you would be responsible for the first $15,000 in hurricane damage as defined by the policy. With a standard, non-hurricane deductible, you might pay just the first $500 of a home insurance claim out of your own pocket.
In some states, homeowners may be able to get a dollar-amount hurricane deductible by agreeing to pay a higher premium, though in high-risk shore areas the percentage deductibles may be unavoidable.
Hurricane deductible ‘triggers’
A hurricane insurance deductible won’t apply unless a certain threshold of storminess has been crossed.
The “trigger” can vary depending on the state and the insurance company, but it might be activated when the National Weather Service issues a hurricane watch or warning or declares that a hurricane has reached a particular level of intensity, the Insurance Information Institute says.
That might mean, for example, that you won’t have to worry about your policy’s hurricane deductible unless the weather service has determined that a Category 1 hurricane has made landfall. You should ask your insurance agent about the trigger for your deductible, says Jeanne Salvatore, an institute spokeswoman.
“Everyone, no matter where they live, should make sure they understand what is and is not covered under their home insurance policy, as well as how their deductibles work,” she says.
It’s got to be a hurricane
One important catch with a policy’s hurricane deductible clause is that the property damage must involve a named hurricane. As Superstorm Sandy demonstrated in 2012, millions of dollars can hang in the balance if a storm is not given official hurricane status prior to landfall.
The National Weather Service determined that Sandy lacked the sustained winds of 75 mph necessary to qualify as a hurricane when it hit the East Coast.
Even when a hurricane deductible does not apply, homeowners can still find themselves on the hook for hefty out-of-pocket costs. David Bresnahan, client manager for The Horton Group, an Illinois-based insurance brokerage, says some homeowners hit by Sandy were surprised to find themselves subject to a similar percentage-based “windstorm deductible,” which applies regardless of any hurricane declaration.
“At the end of the day, the carriers are going to make a decision that might be based on underwriting standards, and it might be based on the public relations impact,” he says.
An underappreciated upside
Amy Bach, executive director of United Policyholders, a San Francisco-based insurance consumer group, says insurers faced with Sandy-style line calls would be wise to waive their hurricane insurance deductibles, as most did following the superstorm.
That’s a small price to pay, Bach says, in a storm where many of the claims may be excluded from homeowners policies anyway, either because they involve flooding, for which flood insurance is needed, or because they arose from a combination of insured and uninsured perils.
Lynne McChristian, Florida representative for the Insurance Information Institute, says despite the potential hit to policyholders’ pockets, hurricane deductibles can benefit homeowners.
“There is an advantage to a hurricane deductible that people overlook when the storm’s not there, and that is, it gives you less-costly insurance today,” she says. “It’s something that saves people money when the wind doesn’t blow.”
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Whether it was at school, or at work in an office building, we have all been through fire drills numerous times during our lifetimes. But let me ask you this. Have you ever had a fire drill at your home?
I bet if I put this poll out there to the public, the “NO” answer would win by a staggering majority. And at this point, I admit that I would be in the majority with my answer. But after reading up on this subject, that will change in the not so distant future.
The first few steps of the plan involves preparation.
Make sure that you have smoke alarms in the right areas of your home and that testing them to make sure they are functional. The old adage of having one alarm on each floor does not apply anymore. You should have one alarm in each bedroom, one outside of each bedroom, and at least one on the other floors in the home. And it is best to have interconnected alarms throughout the home, so when one alarm is triggered, all of the alarms sound at once.
Make sure your house number is CLEARLY visible from the road. You do not want to delay the fire department from getting to your home.
Make sure everyone knows the emergency numbers to call, even small children.
Then you need to pull your household members together and make a plan. Start by walking through the home and locating ALL possible escape routes. IF you have younger children, you may want to consider drawing up a floor map with the exits clearly mapped (we have all seen these types of maps in hotels before).
Make sure each room above ground level has an escape ladder and that everyone is trained and knows how to use the ladders. During a fire, a window might just be the only way out, and you do not want to learn on the fly during a fire.
Designate an outside meeting place for to gather after evacuating the house. And make sure you mark the meeting place on your escape plan. This is the best way to account for all household members during the hectic emergency event.
If there are infants, small children, or adults with mobility problems, make sure the plan designate who is responsible for getting them to safety, with backups designated. The last thing you want to happen is to assume someone else is getting them and then get outside to realize that no one did.
Go over your plan on a regular basis to make sure everyone understands their responsibilities and know the best way out should a fire occur.
Putting your Plan to the test:
Practice your plan at least twice per year. And make the drill as realistic as possible, including having a drill in the middle of the night occasionally. This is important so you can see if there are household members who will not be awakened by the smoke alarms. This needs to be noted so responsibility can be assigned to get them up and out should there be a fire in the middle of the night.
In a fire, you will not always be able to just walk out of the front or back doors. So practice exiting the house from the windows. And if you have more than on floor, practice using the escape ladders from the second floor windows.
Fires happen and the can be devastating, so having a plan and knowing what to do beforehand and make a difference between making it out safely and not making it out. Sadly, no plan can ever guarantee that you will make it out safely, but having plan and practicing the plan, will increase your odds of doing so.
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Many people don’t think about disaster preparedness. Are you ready for the worst?
An active Atlantic hurricane season serves as an urgent reminder that every U.S. household needs a home inventory, an emergency preparedness kit and an evacuation plan.
If your family’s disaster planning falls short, you’d better get busy. A calamity won’t wait for you to get ready.
Do you have an emergency kit? Many don’t
According to a recent U.S. Census Bureau American Housing Survey, just 51.5% of U.S. households have prepared an emergency kit. Participation was highest at 70% in hurricane-prone Miami and Tampa, Florida, while Austin, Texas Chicago, Minneapolis and Boston have low rates of kit-equipped homes.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, recommends that households have enough water and nonperishable food to last at least 3 days, plus other supplies, such as first aid and a flashlight with extra batteries. But FEMA’s own surveys indicate that the percentage of Americans with disaster kits has gone down since peaking at 57% in 2009.
In a 2014 FEMA survey, about a quarter of respondents said preparing for emergencies is too expensive, and about a quarter said they didn’t know how to get ready.
Room for improvement in readiness
There’s good news and bad in our current record on emergency preparedness, according to Himanshu Grover, co-director of the Institute for Hazards Mitigation Research and Planning at the University of Washington.
“A 50% average is actually good because if you look at where these people are who are planning, they are usually in areas that are historically already at risk,” he says. “But at the same time, it’s also disturbing because it means that the areas that have not seen disasters but may be at risk are likely to face more losses than we would anticipate.”
While disaster preparedness varies by region, all homeowners should review their insurance coverage annually, says Lynne McChristian, the Florida representative for the Insurance Information Institute trade association.
“Knowing that your home insurance renews every year should serve as a reminder to look at your policy every year,” she advises.
Think flood insurance, special deductibles
While standard home insurance policies provide coverage for hurricanes, wind, theft, fire, lightning and other mayhem, they also typically exclude damage from floods and earthquakes.
McChristian says just because your home mortgage company may not require you to carry flood insurance doesn’t mean you don’t need it.
“That’s the biggest mistake — people don’t get flood insurance unless someone makes them get it,” she says. “What they’re overlooking is that about 20% of all National Flood Insurance Program claims are submitted by homeowners who live in low- to moderate-risk zones. That’s a high percentage.”
Homeowners in 19 states and the District of Columbia also should take an annual glance at their home insurance hurricane deductibles.
After Hurricane Andrew in 1992, home insurers introduced a separate hurricane deductible in order to keep home premiums in check. But unlike the set dollar amount of your home deductible, hurricane deductibles — and similar windstorm deductibles — are based on a portion of your home’s assessed value, usually between 1%-5%.
Take advantage of available resources
McChristian urges restraint when it comes to choosing your hurricane/wind deductible.
“My rule is, never take a deductible that is higher than what you can afford,” she says. “If you do and you get hit by a storm, you may not have that money set aside to repair your home.”
She urges homeowners to download and complete the Insurance Information Institute’s free home inventory app at KnowYourStuff.org.
“It costs you nothing but a little time and helps tremendously after a natural disaster,” she notes.
Unfortunately, all of the emergency checklists and home preparedness videos on the Internet will do little good if homeowners ignore them.
That’s where the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes, or FLASH, comes in. Led by president and CEO Leslie Chapman-Henderson, this Tallahassee, Florida-based nonprofit operates as a public awareness firm, of sorts, to make disaster preparedness a normal part of our everyday lives.
Emphasis on resilience
“We are trying to popularize the idea that you can survive, you can afford what’s necessary to survive and you can recover quickly,” she explains. “It’s not luck when you and your home survive; it’s because you did things purposefully ahead of time.”
The FLASH website features videos that break down preparedness projects by time commitment: one hour, one day or one weekend.
It’s all part of the evolution of home preparedness away from the negative, lawyerly sounding “storm mitigation” toward a more upbeat, holistic emphasis on “resilience.”
“The appeal of resilience is, we like the idea of being resourceful and able to overcome and bounce back. Everybody can find something to relate to in it,” says Grover, of the University of Washington. “The resilience of a community will return benefits in terms of sustainability and quality of life beyond just hazard mitigation. It’s not just a set of actions; it’s a forward-looking strategy for life.”
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Is your workplace prepared in the event of a fire?
What would you say is the biggest cause of workplace fires? It's not equipment failure. It's not electrical faults. It's not storms or natural disasters. It's people and carelessness.
Every year, in more than 70,000 workplace fires across North America, an average 200 people die, thousands are injured and many firms are either put out of business or severely disrupted.
Now is a good time to review and remind employees of safety rules. A few simple steps will help identify and reduce risks. Things like:
Assessing your buildings for risks -- I'd make that a visual inspection tour
Reducing clutter and keeping escape routes clear
Storing flammable chemicals under lock and key
Locating heat-producing equipment, even coffee-makers, away from flammable material
Checking building security to prevent possible arson fires
Enforcing no-smoking or designated area rules
Checking fire extinguisher service and replacement dates
Ensuring employees know how to operate extinguishers
Enforcing rules for the use of spark - and fire-producing equipment
Conducting permitted, controlled burning/fires a safe distance from buildings
Checking operation of fire and smoke alarms
It's even more important that employees know what to do if fire does break out. Even if it's not mandatory, you should have a written emergency action plan that includes details of evacuation routes, location of assembly points, procedures for raising the alarm and, if appropriate, a written list of individuals and their responsibilities.
As much as everyone loathes them, evacuations should be practiced at least once a year. It's a good idea to alert employees of an intention to have a practice drill but not to tell them exactly when it will happen.
And if you'd like to know more about Fire Safety Week or get other information about fire safety, visit the National Fire Protection Association, a US-based global organization, at www.nfpa.org
Finally, please make sure you have adequate insurance in place, not just against property damage and liability arising from fires but also coverage to protect you against income losses arising from business disruption.
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Flood water can and will find its way into furniture, flooring, walls, lighting, electronics, appliances and irreplaceable keepsakes and photos.
All it takes is just an inch of flood water throughout a 2,000-square-foot home, and you’ll be looking at almost $21,000 in damage, according to the National Flood Insurance Program.
When that destruction is multiplied across an entire community, it’s easy to see why floods are so devastating — and why flood insurance is so important.
Home insurance offers little help
Victims of Superstorm Sandy and other disasters of recent years learned too late that their homeowners or renters insurance policies offered no protection against flooding. That’s the most misunderstood aspect of flood coverage, says Loretta Worters, vice president of the Insurance Information Institute, an industry trade group.
The National Flood Insurance Program, or NFIP, is the primary source of flood insurance for homeowners and renters. The program is administered by FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The insurance is so vital, FEMA notes, because flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the U.S.
With flooding, unlike other natural hazards, the very first way to protect yourself is to buy insurance, says Leslie Chapman-Henderson, president and CEO of the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes, or FLASH.
The insurance is so affordable compared with the cost of flood damage that it makes no sense not to have it, she says.
The big questions
Here are answers to 4 key questions about flood insurance. For specifics about your community and home, talk to the agent who handles your homeowners or renters policy.
1. Is flood insurance required?
Unless you own your home free and clear of loans or live in an apartment or condo on an upstairs floor, expect that you’ll have to buy flood coverage.
Lenders will require it if you live in an area considered at high risk for flooding and your mortgage is federally backed, such as by the Federal Housing Administration, or FHA.
In fact, just expect any lender to want it, says Worters.
FEMA says flooding affects all states, and everyone is at risk because even very small streams and creeks can flood. Your insurance agent and lender will know whether your home is in a high-risk zone.
2. Where do you get it?
FEMA allows private insurers to write and administer policies for the National Flood Insurance Program. Your homeowners or renters insurance agent should be able to write flood coverage for you.
Coverage is available in about 20,000 participating communities. Discounts of up to 45% are available in communities where local officials enforce certain requirements that can reduce flood damage.
If your community doesn’t take part in the national program, you’ll likely be able to get flood insurance from private carriers, says Chris Hackett, senior director of personal lines policy at the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America.
3. How does flood insurance work?
Time lag: You can’t procrastinate because coverage isn’t effective until 30 days after a flood insurance policy is issued. So don’t wait until the storm warnings are posted.
Coverage limits: Flood coverage for your home itself is capped at $250,000, while the contents can be insured only up to $100,000. You may be able to get flood insurance beyond those limits through specialty carriers, says Worters. The building coverage and contents coverage are purchased separately; your lender may require a certain amount of coverage.
What you get: The policy pays either the value of your lost property or the cost of replacing it, up to the coverage limit.
Deductibles: The higher the deductible, the lower the premium — similar to home and car insurance. You’ll pick different deductibles for contents and building coverage. Your lender may require a certain deductible amount.
What’s covered: Flood policies insure against physical damage to your home or belongings directly caused by flooding. Sometimes, that’s not quite as straightforward as it sounds. For example, if a flood causes a sewer backup that causes damage, it would be covered. If something else causes the backup, it’s not covered.
What’s never covered: Flood insurance won’t reimburse you for: temporary living expenses while your home is being repaired; lost cash or stock certificates; a ruined car (which is a matter for your car insurance); damage from moisture or mold that you could have prevented; financial loss from business interruption; and anything on your property beyond the walls of your home — such as plants, decks and hot tubs.
4. How much will coverage cost?
Your flood policy premium will be determined by your home’s design, age, location, contents and the amount of coverage you decide to buy.
The average annual flood insurance premium cost about $700 in 2014, according to the most current data on the website of the National Flood Insurance Program.
However, reforms enacted by Congress in recent years allow for annual premium increases of up to 18%, to help pull the program out of a deep debt caused by payouts resulting from Sandy in 2012 and Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
Your agent will be able to give you an exact cost. For a general idea, you can plug your street address into the flood risk profile on the National Flood Insurance Program’s website.
So the site tells you, for example, that the average flood insurance premium for addresses in moderate- to low-risk areas in Florida is $372, while a high-risk property in Louisiana would cost $688 to insure.
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Adelaide says when floods swept through her neighborhood in the wee hours one morning, the first thing she thought of was to go and rouse an elderly neighbor. The last thing on her mind was the financial records she left back in her own house.
“I was thinking family and I was thinking friends and I was thinking safety,” Adelaide says.
Uprooted from their home for days, she and her husband needed a couple of months “before we got to a place where we were thinking about paperwork again,” she says.
By that point, they were late on their mortgage payment. The financial institution was unforgiving, and the couple’s credit score took a hit.
They went through money woes that are common when lives are abruptly turned upside down because of a disaster. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
Financial advisers say people who identify and prepare key documents long before calamity strikes can avoid unnecessary damage to their personal finances in the aftermath of a fire, flood, hurricane or other disaster.
Gather up these papers
All homeowners and renters should have a list of “must haves” and “like to haves” — items they will need, or want, after a disaster, says Mitchell Freedman, founder of MFAC Financial Advisors in Westlake Village, California, and an editor of “Disaster Recovery: A Guide to Financial Issues.”
Key documents to take with you include:
Mortgage documents or rental agreements.
Homeowners, renters and automobile insurance policies.
Financial statements and account numbers.
Copies of prescriptions for medications.
Tax records.
Freedman also suggests having a small stash of cash at hand. If the electricity is out, credit cards won’t work for purchases.
Donna Childs, a former insurance executive, was living within sight of the World Trade Center in New York when the twin towers collapsed in 2001. Hers was the only residential neighborhood evacuated, and she was kept out of her home for a couple of months.
Because of her business background, Childs already had all her personal and business documents scanned and stored online when she had to flee with just an overnight bag.
At a time like that, “you shouldn’t be thinking about documents, you should be thinking about safety,” says Childs, who later wrote the book “Prepare for the Worst, Plan for the Best: Disaster Preparedness and Recovery for Small Businesses.”
Neither Freedman nor Childs recommends using bank safety-deposit boxes to store key documents. They suggest that a bank could be destroyed or inaccessible after a disaster.
Instead, Freedman uses a portable hard drive with his computer so he can grab it and go.
“It’s one of the best insurance policies you’ll ever have,” he says.
Childs prefers using online cloud storage and sharing the password with a trusted family member or friend who can access the account in case of an emergency.
Some banks now offer virtual safe deposit boxes online, to protect documents, photos and videos.
Have proof of valuables, too
In addition to having access to key documents, it’s important to have proof of your valuables when filing insurance claims.
Michael McRaith, the former Illinois insurance director and now head of the Federal Insurance Office, says go room by room through your home, writing down the contents and making special note of things like antiques, jewelry and collectibles.
He recommends keeping one copy of the inventory at home and a second at another location, such as with a relative, at the office or in a safety-deposit box. The list should be updated periodically, with receipts kept for big-ticket items.
Having photographs or videos of your possessions is crucial, Freedman says. Without that evidence, “it’s difficult to know how many shirts you had, how many pair of pantyhose a woman had.”
If you need to file a claim after a disaster, the inventory, receipts, photos or videos can help verify the existence and value of your belongings, McRaith says.
If you have no home or renters insurance or are underinsured, you might claim your losses on your state and federal tax returns. Having documentation of your possessions helps provide necessary proof, Freedman says.
But the key is advance preparation. If you’ve made an inventory, “there’s lots of peace of mind,” Childs says. “That’s really priceless.”
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The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile has been adopted by many of our clients, and in some cases, has shortened the response time of our services, saving our clients downtime and secondary damage costs.
It's simple and easy to implement, securely placing critical business information in a cloud location available to our client and SERVPRO. Information that is available when access to your business is not.
When you consider you business continuity plan, consider implementing the SERVPRO ERP.
The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile
SERVPRO Industries continues to make improvements to its already successful Emergency READY Profile.
The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile is a startup approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business can receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.
The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage:
A no cost assessment of your facility. – This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. – It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. – This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
Establishes SERVPRO of Wayne as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. – You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by.
Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. – This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. – Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”
The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan For it NOW.
As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are “Ready for whatever happens” speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.
By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you help to minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do, who to call and what to expect in advance is helpful in receiving timely mitigation and can help minimize the effects water and fire damage can have on your business.
Are You Ready?
Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, are you ready for whatever happens?
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Government forecasters have predicted a busy Atlantic hurricane season in 2018. If you live on or near the East Coast, don’t put off making sure your home is ready. When a powerful storm is bearing down, it may be too late to protect your property.
Don’t let your guard down this hurricane season. Consider opening a home equity line of credit (HELOC)or taking out a personal loan to make improvements, because there’s much you can do now so you won’t get caught making last-minute — and probably inadequate — moves to strengthen your home’s defenses against hurricanes.
Start with shutters and your roof
“If you buy shutters or other coverings with product approvals and use licensed contractors who pull building permits, you’re on your way to protecting your home,” says engineer Jose Mitrani, associate professor emeritus in the school of construction at Florida International University in Miami.
“And be sure that inspections are done of the work,” says Mitrani, who served on building code task forces after Hurricane Andrew, a Category 5 storm that tore through South Florida in 1992.
Roof cover damage is the biggest reason for hurricane insurance claims that are not related to storm surges, says the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, or IBHS, in Tampa, Florida.
A cascade of trouble can happen when a roof is roughed up by a hurricane: Water gets in through gaps in the roof decking, which soaks the attic insulation, which collapses the ceiling, which damages your furniture and other belongings when wet wallboard and insulation fall on them.
And that’s if your roof mostly stays intact. If your roof lacks truss tie-downs known as hurricane straps or its gable ends are unbraced or improperly braced, you stand a greater chance of losing part of or the entire roof over your head.
That’s why the IBHS and the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes, or FLASH, suggest you take these roof precautions now before hurricane season revs up.
Nail or caulk loose roof tiles or shingles.
On a metal roof, check for rust and loose anchoring.
Install hurricane straps. (Consider hiring a licensed contractor to do this.)
Brace gable ends. (Ditto on hiring a professional.)
Install a backup water barrier under the roof cover if necessary.
The IBHS also suggests you check your attic’s ventilation. Loose eave and gable end vents, soffits and turbines all provide opportunities for water to enter your attic.
Window and door coverings
To a great extent, getting your home hurricane-ready means making sure it’s equipped with the right hurricane-resistant window and door coverings. They run a gamut that includes various types of shutters, panels, screens and sheeting, as well as impact-glass windows and doors.
Plywood is cheap but considered an emergency measure — and it’s little help unless you size and anchor it correctly.
Mitrani says even the smallest windows must be covered because in a major storm, smaller openings are actually subjected to higher wind pressures than larger areas such as the side of your house.
The average window area to be covered (including doors with windows) is about 15 percent of a home’s total square footage, according to the IBHS. A 2,000-square-foot home would need about 300 square feet of shutters. If your shutters cost $20 per square foot, you’ll spend $6,000.
The IBHS notes that some coverings can be installed only by professionals and cost up to $30 per square foot of opening. Do-it-yourself products cost about half as much.
Beware of contractors who try to sell DIY products, warns Leslie Chapman-Henderson, president and CEO of FLASH. “Those are products that are cheap and can’t get product approval,” she says.
Protecting doors and windows
Some coverings are permanent attachments to your home, such as accordion shutters and “clamshell” awnings. Accordion shutters rest folded and highly visible on both sides of your windows, while single-piece clamshell awnings fold down over your windows from above.
Removable hurricane panels sit in tracks at the top and bottom of window and door openings; only the tracks are permanently attached to the building.
If you live in a condo or a development with an active homeowners association, be aware that there may be rules about the type and color of storm shutters allowed. Check before outfitting your doors and windows.
Also, ask your local building department what’s required of coverings in your state or region. Mirtrani says building codes in Florida, for example, require that hurricane products be able to withstand certain levels of impact by wind-borne debris. That means those products have to undergo impact tests to earn approval.
Once your new coverings are installed, take them for a trial run, suggests Tim Reinhold, IBHS chief engineer and senior vice president of research.
“Make sure you have all the parts and everything is sized and fits properly,” he says.
Other property precautions
Before hurricanes start forming, do a spot-check from the attic down. FLASH recommends caulking holes in building exteriors and tightening or replacing loose and missing screws and brackets in windows and doors — including garage doors. Also, be sure to clean out the gutters.
A few final preparation tips:
Don’t tape windows. Placing those masking-tape X’s across your panes may feel comforting, but the National Hurricane Center says it’s a waste of valuable time and won’t keep your windows or glass doors from shattering.
Plan to evacuate a mobile home. Even if you have a newer manufactured home built to withstand higher wind speeds, Reinhold says there’s too great a chance of damage from flying debris from older neighboring homes to risk staying.
Prepare for high-rise pressure changes. If you live in a high-rise building, be aware that potentially damaging wind pressures increase with height.
Batten down the patio/yard. Don’t leave anything outside, including furniture, playthings and tools. Trim trees so branches won’t bang against the house, and do it early enough so the trimmings can be hauled off before a hurricane. Otherwise, they could become projectiles in a major storm.
Gas up before the storm. Fill up your vehicles and emergency power generator well ahead of time to avoid last-minute lines at the pump.
When fire or water damage strikes, you need professional help to get your property back to preloss condition. SERVPRO of Wayne provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial emergency.??
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When nature goes wild, it can be disastrous for your finances. According to the National Climatic Data Center, major weather disasters have caused more than $1.2 trillion worth of damage in the U.S. since 1980 — and that doesn’t include Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Maria or Nate.
If you’re hit with an emergency and need to find cash fast, tap into the emergency reserves in your savings account. Then look to these resources.
1. Family and friends
If you need to find cash fast, ask loved ones first, says Pamela Yellen, author of “Bank On Yourself: The Life-Changing Secret to Growing and Protecting Your Financial Future.”
“Never ever treat (a family loan) casually,” she says. “Put it in writing. Assign a fair interest rate to it. … Treat it like any other business relationship.”
While your family lender doesn’t have to charge the full market interest rate, they have to charge you something for the transaction to be considered a loan and not a gift that could have tax and estate planning implications.
If your loved ones aren’t in the black right now, peer-to-peer lending sites can connect you with wealthy strangers.
2. The feds
In gravely disastrous times, Uncle Sam might also help.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides disaster assistance for temporary housing, home repair, disaster-related medical and burial expenses, vehicle damage and cleanup costs, while the U.S. Small Business Administration offers federally subsidized loans for renters, private nonprofit organizations and home and business owners.
To qualify for either, borrowers must live in a federally declared disaster zone and file a claim with their insurance company first.
3. Your life insurance policy
Permanent life insurance policies are excellent emergency resources because they’re accessible, you can borrow against them without having to qualify for a loan, and you can pay a policy loan back on your own schedule.
“You can borrow up to about 90 percent of the cash value of the policy. There are no immediate income tax consequences unless the loan isn’t repaid,” says Roland Jones, a CFP professional with Moneta Group, a financial services firm in Clayton, Missouri.
Though rules vary among insurance providers, many require policyholders to own their policies for a few years before borrowing. You’ll also be charged interest for taking out a policy loan, which will be deducted from the death benefit until you pay the loan back.
Just don’t borrow too much. Should the loan and accumulated interest become greater than the surrender value of the policy, policyholders could find themselves having to pay significant premiums to keep the policy in force.
4. CDs, savings bonds and mutual funds
You can take your money out of a CD, but you’ll probably pay a penalty. It could be just a few months’ interest, but check with your bank first.
Sacrificing some CD earnings is a pittance compared to paying interest rates on a life insurance loan or cash advance.
Savings bonds are another quick cash resource, though you could pay a three-month interest penalty if a bond is redeemed too early, reports the U.S. Treasury. In both cases, you’ll pay income tax on any interest earned.
Of course, you can sell stocks (and realize a capital gain or loss accordingly) as well as mutual funds and annuities. If you take this route, consult a financial adviser about tax issues and penalties.
5. 529 college savings
If you have to borrow from your future to pay present obligations, so be it.
Those investing in plans that offer state tax incentives may have state tax consequences, too.
6. Retirement accounts
Roth IRA holders may withdraw their own contributions — not earnings — without tax or penalty.
Traditional IRA holders may start taking penalty-free distributions on their accounts if they begin taking regular distributions, but specific rules apply. You’ll pay income taxes and a 10 percent penalty on the taxable amount if you’re under age 59½.
Since taking early IRA distributions can severely disrupt your future retirement plans, “You wouldn’t do that unless it was the only option,” says Kirk Shamberger, a partner with CK Financial Resources in Colchester, Vermont.
7. A loan from your 401(k)
With 529 plans and IRAs, the problem is time. Regardless of whether you get around the tax and penalty rules, pulling funds early limits the compound interest you can potentially gain from them in the future.
The catch is that you have to stay with your current employer for the duration. If you lose your job, you’ll have 30 to 60 days to repay the loan or face penalties.
Before pulling funds from any long-term investment, read the fine print and consult your tax adviser.
When fire or water damage strikes, you need professional help to get your property back to preloss condition. SERVPRO of Wayne provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial emergency.??
Contact us at 973-546-4977 if you have a service need or click hereto visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Wayne's System Services.
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Peak Season for Hurricanes Starts in Mid-August in New Jersey
Though the national hurricane season normally runs from June 1 through November 30, the peak potential for hurricane and tropical storm activity in New Jersey runs from mid-August through the end of October.
The combination of warm ocean water, humid air, and consistent winds contribute to the formation of “tropical cyclones” – low-pressure systems of circulating winds, clouds and thunderstorms – over the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.
As they gain strength, these cyclones are classified as tropical depressions, tropical storms or hurricanes. The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale rates hurricane strengths, from Category 1 to Category 5. Most of these storms remain over the ocean without affecting the U.S. coastline. When they approach land, tropical storms and hurricanes can be extremely deadly and destructive – even as far north as New Jersey, and even when they do not make landfall here.
The key threats from an approaching tropical storm or hurricane are WIND, STORM SURGE, FLOODING, and the potential for TORNADOES.
Hurricane WINDS can reach 74-95 mph for a Category 1 storm, to above 155 mph for a Category 5 storm.
The STORM SURGE is a dome of ocean water the hurricane pushes ahead of itself. At its peak, a storm surge can be 25 feet high and 50-100 miles wide. The storm surge can devastate coastal communities as it sweeps ashore.
The thunderstorms and torrential rains that accompany a hurricane can create dangerous and deadly floods or flash floods.
Seventy percent of hurricanes making landfall spawn at least one tornado.
Preparing properly for a hurricane begins long before a storm ever hits.
If you are a citizen with special needs, call 2-1-1 or visit NJ Register Ready to provide information that will help emergency responders to better plan to serve you in times of emergency.
As with other types of emergencies, you should prepare yourself and your family by creating an Emergency Supply Kit and a Family Disaster Plan. Be sure to educate yourself about the emergencies that typically occur in your locale.
Before a Hurricane
The first line of defense against the effects of a disaster is personal preparedness. During an emergency, the government and other agencies may not be able to meet your needs. It is important for all citizens to make their own emergency plans and prepare for their own care and safety in an emergency.
Your Kit includes items that will help you stay self-sufficient for up to three days if needed such as, canned food, bottled water, first-aid kit, battery operated flashlight and radio, blanket, and manual can opener.
Your Plan includes evacuation plans, a place to reunite with loved ones, and an out-of-state contact person.
Store important documents and irreplaceable personal objects (such as photographs) where they won't get damaged. If major flooding is a possibility, consider putting them in a storage facility.
Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8” marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.
Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure. This will reduce roof damage.
Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed.
Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
Determine how and where to secure your boat if you own one.
Consider building a safe room
If a hurricane is likely in your area, you should:
Listen to the radio or TV for information.
Secure your home, close storm shutters, and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors.
Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.
Turn off propane tanks.· Avoid using the phone, except for serious emergencies.
Moor your boat if time permits.
Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.
You should evacuate under the following conditions:
If you are directed by local authorities to do so. Be sure to follow their instructions.
If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure—such shelters are particularly hazardous during hurricanes no matter how well fastened to the ground.
If you live in a high-rise building—hurricane winds are stronger at higher elevations.
If you live on the coast, on a floodplain, near a river, or on an inland waterway.
If you feel you are in danger.
During a Hurricane
If you are unable to evacuate, go to your wind-safe room. If you do not have one, follow these guidelines:
Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors.
Close all interior doors—secure and brace external doors.
Keep curtains and blinds closed. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; it could be the eye of the storm - winds will pick up again.
Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level.
Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object.
Plan for Pet Care If you are evacuated, you need to bring your pets with you but pets are typically not allowed to stay at a shelter. The NJ Department of Agriculture recommends that you ask a dependable friend or relative who lives some distance from the evacuation area if you and your pets can stay with them until the all clear is given. An alternative is to find a pet-friendly motel.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has done the same on a national level. Learn more.
Statewide Preparedness Efforts
Helpnjnow.org is a dynamic, interactive web-based resource providing education, direction, information and tools for people to help themselves and others in a disaster. When there is no active disaster in the state, the website provides information about how to prepare for future disasters, including how you can become certified disaster volunteer. When a disaster strikes, the site will offer guidance on where donations are needed (monetary and material), where people can volunteer and a link to NJ 2-1-1 so that you can find assistance for disaster-related needs.
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Can you easily tell the difference between mold vs rust? Many people look at a reddish colored stain and assume its rust, although that’s not always the case. Before you break out your heavy-duty cleaning solutions, it pays to understand what you’re up against: mold, rust, or even another stain.
What’s Normal for Your Home?
If you’re seeing new stains on walls, floors, or countertops, you’ll want to make sure they’re not the result of water infiltration or excess humidity in your home. Try to pinpoint a reason for the stain, based on what room it’s in and the common daily activity. Mold tends to be found in damp, humid areas, while rust forms when metallic surfaces start to corrode. Recognizing the differences between mold and rust helps you determine the best way to take care of an issue before it becomes more pervasive.
What’s that Stain? Mold vs Rust
Areas prone to dampness, such as bathrooms and basements, can easily foster the growth of mold or mildew. If you see a stain that looks like mold or rust in your shower, sink area, or basement, you’ll want to clean them as quickly as possible to avoid permanent damage. However, different cleaning solutions are used to treat different stains. Rust, hard water marks, grease, and mold may all look similar, but if you use the wrong cleaner, you may not be able to fully remove them.
Identifying Rust
Rust is the result of iron, or a metal alloy containing iron, such as steel, corroding. Rust is most often observed as a red, yellow or reddish-brown surface stain. Rust is caused by water or damp air touching the surface or a metal prone to rusting. Some common areas where rust is spotted in the home, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), include the following:
Water Pipes
Metal Roofs and Chimneys
Oil tanks for home with oil heat
Electrical Panel Boxes
Nails
Preventing Rust
Rust can be prevented by keeping metals out of damp and humid areas. Protective coatings, such as varnish may also be applied to surfaces prone to rusting. Ensuring that metal fixtures in your home are kept dry can also help to prevent rust. Wipe up spills immediately and check your basement after heavy storms to spot signs of flooding as soon as possible.
Removing Rust
Removing rust can be a tough job, but with the right cleaners, you should be successful. For lighter rust stains, some household products, such as baking soda or vinegar might work. Mild abrasives like steel wool pads may also remove surface rust, but they may also leave behind scratch marks. There are also many specialized rust removal products sold that you can try for smaller stains. According to Cleanipedia, one product you should never use on rust is bleach, which could react negatively with the rust and actually worsen it.
If you do attempt to clean rust, always follow the instructions on any commercial cleaning product. Be sure to don safety gear, including gloves, safety glasses and a face mask. Always work in a well-ventilated area. If you’re not comfortable with the task, find a handyman or painter that is.
Mold Stains
Mold can resemble other stains like rust or mildew in appearance, but there are actually over 300 types of mold. The colors of mold can range from black to brown, white or gray, or even pink, blue or green. Mold also presents in a range of textures from downy to fuzzy. Some mold is powdery and some has a more slimy texture.
Mold can grow as the result of a single event, such as a broken pipe or indoor water infiltration due to floods or leaks. It’s important to catch the signs of indoor mold growth as early as possible and have them taken care of before they lead to greater damage. Mold can also adversely affect the health of certain susceptible individuals, including those with a suppressed immune system or an allergy to mold. Mold sometimes can leave a stain, but that’s not always the case. A damp, musty odor can also be a sign of mold growth.
If you notice mold growth in damp areas of your home, you can clean affected surfaces with a specialized mold removal product. Common, everyday household cleaning solutions may not be effective against mold. Typically, mold cannot be totally eradicated from porous surfaces, like shower curtains, drywall or insulation; these items should be disposed of and replaced.
When cleaning mold, you should always wear protective gear, such as a face mask and ensure that you’re working in an adequately ventilated area. You can read more about the protective gear recommended for mold removal. If you suffer from mold allergies or asthma, it is not recommended that you try to clean the mold yourself. SERVPRO of Wayne can help you determine the best way to remove the mold. Once the mold is removed, it’s a good idea to have the area tested by a professional. If mold has continued to grow in your home, you may have a more pervasive problem that requires additional professional remediation from SERVPRO of Wayne.
Evaluating Mold Issues
Because so many of the stains we see around the house look similar, it may be difficult to determine what is causing the discoloration and damage. If you notice stains on your walls, countertops, or floors that look like mold or rust, contact SERVPRO of Wayne and request a free home inspection to help diagnose your problem.
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New Jersey Rules Regarding Mold in Rental Properties
Here's what New Jersey landlords (and tenants) need to know about mold and the law.
Every landlord should take mold seriously. A top environmental hazard, mold thrives in warm, damp places, and often grows quickly in basements, attics, and other parts of buildings with poor ventilation and humidity problems. Although mold is often associated with buildings in wet climates, no rental property is immune from a mold outbreak, as one can occur following an unattended spill, faulty plumbing, or even a misdirected lawn sprinkler.
Have you ever wondered what happens when a mold removal specialist gets called to a mold-damaged facility? The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) shares five steps a mold removal specialist takes when conducting mold remediation.
“Many people aren’t aware of the dangers, nor the difficulty level of removing mold from a facility,” said IICRC Chairman Tony Wheelwright. “Mold remediation is a potentially hazardous process that should only be undertaken by a certified professional.”
Five steps that each mold-removal specialist takes when conducting mold remediation includes:
1. Determine the degree of contamination. The first step for a mold remediation specialist may be to bring in an Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) to determine the extent of the mold damage and test for contamination within the facility. Because mold spores and other microscopic contaminants can travel easily throughout a building, the IEP/CIH may collect and analyze samples from affected as well as unaffected areas of the building. Once the IEP/CIH has finished the inspection they will develop a remediation plan for the mold removal specialist, such as SERVPRO of Wayne, with steps to return the home to its preloss condition (Condition 1). Learn more about our Mold Remediation process by visiting our website here.
2. Set up and verify containment. To make sure mold contamination does not spread to other areas of a facility, the SERVPRO will set up containment by creating isolation barriers. Once the barriers are set up, SERVPRO will need to verify the containment with a lower partial pressure differential (negative pressure) to ensure there is no air leakage between containment zones. Exit chambers would then be used to serve as a transition between the containment and the unaffected area of the building. Once the containment is verified and the correct amount of pressure is achieved, the removal process can begin.
3. Remove unsalvageable materials. Porous materials and items that cannot be restored or cleaned effectively must be carefully discarded. Unsalvageable items include but are not limited to drywall, insulation and other items with visible mold growth. It is important for the SERVPRO specialist to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment which may include a full face respirator equipped with a P100/OV cartridge, disposable coveralls and nitrite gloves.
4. Clean surfaces with a high-attention to detail.SERVPRO will likely begin the cleaning process by thoroughly vacuuming the contaminated areas using a HEPA vacuum with a high-efficiency filter to catch mold spores. We will then begin a detailed cleaning process involving mold removal tools such as a HEPA filtered sander, followed by the damp wiping of surfaces with an effective cleaning solution.
5. Verify remediation. Once cleaning is complete, the IEP/CIH will return to verify the remediation was successful. The area must be returned to the dry standard and should be visually dust free with no malodors. In addition an IEP/CIH may perform surface or air sampling as part of the verification that the area is back to normal fungal ecology (Condition 1).
“Mold remediation requires mold removal specialists to perform techniques that promote source removal rather than relying on chemicals, paints and coatings as a replacement,” said Rachel Adams, President of Indoor Environmental Management, Inc. “Understanding and managing air flow is also critical to the success of a mold remediation project. Working with qualified IEP can also help to reduce the liability for the technician as well as provide a final determination if the remediation was successful.”
For more information on mold remediation or the latest in mold remediation standards, visit the IICRC.
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You can expect mold and mildew outside your home because of the natural damp conditions of the outdoors. Mold and mildew inside the home is a different problem, because the inside of your home shouldn’t remain damp.
The presence of moisture is the biggest contributor to mold growth, and to fight the infestation you should conduct a room-by-room assessment of the house to identify problem areas. The moisture can come from condensation due to poor ventilation (attic), from a water leak (around bathrooms), or from outdoor intrusion (foundation walls).
Detection
Mold and mildew in a home is not always easy to detect if it exists within attics or is hidden within walls. If you suspect your indoor air quality is hindered by hidden mold, you can conduct your own DIY test to detect a problem.
The EHT staff recently conducted the Healthful Home 5-Minute Mold Test in a finished basement that had suffered some previous flooding problems. The air seemed fine in the room, but the old moisture issues suggested that if there were to be a mold problem in the house then it was likely to occur in this room.
The test is easy to accomplish. Simply use one of the cotton swabs included with the kit to sample surface dust in the room. Soak the swab tip in the “rinse buffer” liquid (included) and then drip five drops of the liquid onto the two test strips that come with the kit. One strip is labeled Asp/Pen (Aspergillus and/or Penicillium) and the other is labeled Stachybortrys.
Test results show in as little as 5 minutes, and much like a pregnancy test you’ll either see one line (negative results) or two lines (positive).
If the test is positive, however, it does not necessarily mean you have a serious problem but that you should consider consulting a professional indoor air quality inspector or contact SERVPRO of Wayne. You can also have an optional laboratory analysis of your test results conducted for an additional fee.
Click hereto go to our website and learn a bit more about Mold Remediation.
Fighting the Mold you Find
If you discover mold on the home’s interior, the first step in solving the problem is to eliminate the source of moisture—whatever that may be. Otherwise, any mold or mildew you clean is likely to return.
For minor problems you may be able to clean the surface of the materials with bleach or an antimicrobial cleaner. For major problems, remove materials that cannot be thoroughly cleaned of mold and mildew, like insulation, carpeting or drywall. Use your antimicrobial cleaner to clean the surrounding area as well as the places where you actually see mold and mildew, to make sure you remove all traces of the substances.
Finally, replace the removed building materials with new, mold-free materials.
Please follow these DOs and DON’Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration.
DO:
Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further 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, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
Wash both sides of leaves on house plants.
Change HVAC filter, but 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.
DON'T:
Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Wayne.
Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Wayne.
Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
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.
Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.
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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 Wayne 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.
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In order to be fully prepared, you should have all pertinent and proper information in a written plan for easy retrieval. Some key questions to consider when creating a personal emergency preparedness plan include:
Do you have an escape or evacuation route in place?
Do you have a designated meeting place in case of separation?
Does everyone have a list of contact information including family members out of state who can serve as a point of contact?
Do you have a disaster supply kit with necessary supplies?
Do you have a first aid kit that includes necessary prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines and basic medical supplies?
Do you have enough non-perishable food and bottled water?
Do you have access to important family documents, including insurance policies, bank, credit card and loan information and family records such as birth certificates and social security cards?
Do you have an inventory of valuable household goods?
A well-equipped disaster supply kit should include, but is not limited to, the following:
Water- a large enough supply to provide each person with 1 gallon daily for drinking and sanitation.
Food- enough to last 3-7 days. Food needs to be non-perishable or canned food. You will also want to include a non-electric can opener, paper plates and plastic utensils.
Bedding including sheets, blankets and pillows.
Clothing- remember it may be warm, however, you may be working and cleaning and may prefer pants or long sleeves to protect your skin. You will also need sturdy, closed-toe, non-slip shoes if available.
First aid kit including antiseptics or sanitizers and bandages, over-the-counter and prescription medications.
Extra flashlights and batteries. Oil lanterns also provide a good source of light, if available.
Toiletries including toilet paper and hygiene items. Hand sanitizers are also good to have on hand.
Battery-operated radio with extra batteries so you can listen to weather service announcements.
Cash- you will want some cash and small bills on hand as banks may not be open.
Emergency phone numbers and contact information including insurance agent and family contacts.
Tools, tarps, plastic sheets, trash bags, duct tape, etc. to help make minor repairs.
Important documents should be kept in a waterproof bag or plastic sealed container and should include insurance, medical and family records, birth certificates, social security cards, bank account information and a complete home inventory analysis.
Gas- fill your car’s tank ahead of time if time permits. You may also want to fill plastic gasoline-approved containers with gas to store.
Pet care items including food, leash and a carrier or cage.
Don’t wait until it is too late; prepare now to help protect your family in an emergency or disaster situation.
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Cold weather is upon us in the northeast. With that comes snow, ice and frozen temperatures which are all jeopardy's to your home or business.
It is essential that you are aware of the hazards and can prepare, prevent or act quickly on each situation.
FROZEN PIPES
A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.
ICE DAMS
Ice dams can be a major problem during the winter season. They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still-frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof ’s shingles and into the structure’s interior areas.
PREPARE YOUR HOME
If you own a home which is unoccupied during a cold period, ensure you have ample heating fuel and that the indoor thermostat, in all areas of the home, is minimally kept at 55 degrees and ensure that you have a trusted person check the home periodically during your absence.
Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it to “off .”
If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
PREPARE YOUR BUSINESS
Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
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Are you prepared for the coming cold weather? Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not ready for it. From heavy rain and freezing temperatures to damaging winds, sleet, or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage. While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather.
To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before colder weather hits.
Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.
Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.
Ask SERVPRO of Wayne about completing an Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) for your business. The ERP is a no-cost assessment to your facility and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster.
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Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve. The leading cause? Unattended cooking.
Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. It’s important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.
Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop.
Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
Keep anything that can catch fire—oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains—away from the stovetop.
If you have a cooking fire, consider the following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe.
Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
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Add ambience and save on heating costs by utilizing your fireplace this winter. Here's all you need to know about the proper technique and safety precautions.
During the colder months, nothing beats warming the house with a crackling fire. But while wood-burning fireplaces should give you long-lasting and evenly burning flames, one simple mistake can fill your living room with smoke—or even spark a dangerous house fire. Here’s the proper technique for how to use a fireplace, with safety precautions every homeowner should know.
STEP 1: Stay Safe Before bringing out the lighter, it’s vital to understand safety precautions for using a fireplace. First, always double-check that your fire extinguisher, smoke detector, and carbon monoxide detector are each in working order (check those batteries!). Remove anything flammable within three feet of the fireplace in case stray sparks escape the hearth, and use a fireplace screen as well. Make sure the flue isn’t blocked by obstructions like an animal’s nest, especially if this is your first time using the fireplace. If the system hasn’t been recently inspected, hire a chimney sweep certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America(CSIA) to do the job.
STEP 2: Gather the Kindling Gather kindling in a variety of sizes (small, medium, and large) for the proper fire-building technique that is outlined below. To emit less smoke and soot, make sure the wood is dry, well-seasoned, and split a minimum of six months ago. You can choose either hardwood or softwood for the fire; while hardwoods like oak or maple burn longer and create more sustained heat, softwoods like cedar or pine start fires easier because they ignite quickly. Whatever you don’t use can return to the firewood rack, best stored outdoors in an elevated and covered location.
Note: Never burn trash, plastic, painted materials, or anything with chemical treatment like scraps of pressure-treated wood—these materials can release harmful chemicals into your home.
STEP 3: Open the Damper The damper is a movable plate inside the flue. When opened, it allows the smoke and ash to travel safely up the chimney. If you start a fire with a closed damper, however, the smoke will have no escape route and circle back into the house.
Adjust the damper as needed with the handle located inside of the chimney. It will move either front to back, left to right, or in a clockwise or counterclockwise rotation. Check to make sure you opened it properly by sticking your head in the flue and looking upwards, using a flashlight if necessary. You should see up the flue without any obstructions if the damper is open; a closed damper will block your view entirely.
STEP 4: Prime the Flue Now, gauge the temperature. If you feel a rush of cold air (which usually occurs if the chimney is built on the outside of the house), then you need to prime the flue—in order words, you need to preheat it. Otherwise, the cold draft may cause smoke to blow into the room. Light a roll of newspaper and hold it against the open damper to send warm air into the flue. The draft should reverse after a few minutes, making your fireplace ready for action.
STEP 5: Build the Fire While there are multiple ways to build a fire, the CSIA recommends the top-down method, which produces less smoke and requires less tending. Start by donning thick fireplace gloves and grabbing a metal poker. Position large pieces of wood in the bottom of the fireplace in one row, perpendicular to the opening of the fireplace. Next, take mid-sized pieces of wood, and stack four or five rows on top of the base layer in alternating directions. Make sure the stack takes up no more than half the height of your fireplace. Now add your smallest pieces of wood, making sure these pieces are very dry. The tiniest bits (which can take the form of wood shavings or bunched-up newspapers) should be at the very top.
Light the top of the stack with a single match. The fire should travel down, igniting the pieces underneath without prompting. Let the fire burn for as long as you’d like. Don’t close the damper until the fire is completely out and all the embers have stopped burning.
STEP 6: Clean the Ashes The CSIA says you can leave a bed of ashes between one to two inches in the fireplace as an insulating layer, which helps the next fire to burn. But when you need to dispose of ashes, proceed with caution. Coals may take several hours or several days to completely cool, and ash could still be burning during that time. Using a metal shovel, scoop ashes into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Store the container outdoors away from the house, and not in garages or on decks.
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When a storm or disaster strikes, SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team® is poised and “Ready for whatever happens.” With a network of more than 1,700 Franchises, the SERVPRO® System strives to be faster to any size disaster.
Strategically located throughout the United States, SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team® is trained and equipped to handle the largest storms and highest flood waters. Providing experience, manpower, equipment, and other resources, the Disaster Recovery Team® assists local SERVPRO® Franchises. SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team® has responded to hundreds of disaster events. In the aftermath of a disaster, there is only one objective: to help you make it “Like it never even happened.”
2016 East Tennessee Wildfires: One of the largest in the history of Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains wildfires burned more than 17,000 acres and about 2,500 structures in November 2016. The 12 crews that were dispatched worked a total of 78 jobs, where they mitigated over $1 million in damages.
2016 Hurricane Matthew: Following the East Coast from Florida up to North Carolina, this hurricane caused major flooding, primarily as rivers rose in Eastern North Carolina. SERVPRO® had 169 crews dispatched. These crews took on more than 1,050 jobs and over $7.5 million in damages.
2016 Louisiana Flooding: Catastrophic flooding occurred in Southern Louisiana where rainfall measured 20 inches or more total, falling at a rate of more than 2-3 inches per hour in some places. This caused rivers and inland waterways to rise to record levels. The Disaster Recovery Team® responded to over 830 jobs with 185 crews.
2016 Houston, TX Flooding: In April, a nearly stationary mesoscale convective system developed over Houston, resulting in widespread rainfall rates of 2-4 inches per hour. This was a historic flooding event for Harris County, which saw a total of nearly 18 inches of accumulated rainfall. The Storm Team dispatched 81 crews to over 360 jobs, mitigating over $3 million in damages.
2015 Siberian Express: Record sub- zero temperatures caused major problems for a large portion of the country stretching from Florida to Maine. The Midwest also experienced record- breaking low temperatures, resulting in frozen pipes and ice dams causing major problems for residents. The Storm Team dispatched a total of 257 crews from 108 Franchises to assist local SERVPRO® Franchises completing nearly 2,000 jobs.
2014 Mid-Atlantic Flooding: Rainfall rates up to 2 inches per hour caused major flash flooding stretching from Northeast Ohio all the way to Portland, Maine. Eastern Michigan and Baltimore, Maryland, were also impacted, creating over 1,381 jobs for the Storm Team to produce. A total of 82 SERVPRO® Franchises and 173 crews mitigated over $4.3 million in damages while assisting the local Franchises.
2014 Polar Vortex: Record low temperatures caused by a break in the North Pole’s polar vortex resulted in an WHEN DISASTER STRIKES unprecedented freezing event, spanning from east of the Rocky Mountains to as far south as central Florida, affecting all or part of 39 states and 70% of the SERVPRO® Franchise System.
2013 Colorado Floods: Heavy rainfall, with amounts up to 17 inches in some areas, resulted in widespread flooding in Fort Collins, Boulder, and surrounding Colorado mountain communities. The Disaster Recovery Team® responded with 109 crews from 48 Franchises to assist the local SERVPRO® Franchises in the emergency response.
2012 Hurricane Sandy: Affecting more than 20 states, Sandy left widespread damage and flooding from Florida stretching the entire eastern seaboard to Maine. The Disaster Recovery Team® placed nearly 1,000 crews in affected areas, representing over 300 SERVPRO® Franchises from across the country. Teams traveled from as far as Arizona, California, Oregon, and Washington.
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Dealing with Mold and Humidity Threats in Vacation Residences
A closed-up vacation house can be a breeding ground for mold in the summer months. Moisture from a nearby lake or river, or the humidity in the air, can lead to that musty odor vacationers have come to expect upon arriving at their weekend getaway.
Mold is a particularly stealthy foe. It exists nearly everywhere in an inactive state, and all it needs to grow is a food source (drywall will do nicely), and a source of moisture, such as high humidity.
To get rid of the damp odor, most homeowners will turn on the air conditioner and maybe a dehumidifier and wait for the smell to go away. While much of the odor may dissipate in a few hours, the mold is still there. And, when they leave for a week, it’s back again when they return.
That smell is more than just unpleasant; it’s an indication that mold is actively growing, triggering allergies and affecting health. Left untreated, mold will continue to grow and spread and can damage walls, ceilings, carpeting, and more. Every time the house is closed up and the a/c is turned off, the moisture creeps back in and the mold begins growing again.
MOISTURE SOLUTIONS
What can HVAC contractors do to help? First, it’s important to stress to customers that the key to preventing mold is to eliminate moisture. The first step is to address any leaks in roofing, chimneys, and foundations. Perhaps you can recommend someone who can do a thorough check and perform the repairs necessary to stop the leaks. If mold remediation is necessary, your customer should get bids from several companies that specialize in this, as it can be costly.
Reducing humidity through air conditioning is a key to controlling mold, but, of course, leaving the a/c on all summer long will run up utility bills. Fresh outside air is also critical, but vacation homeowners won’t want to leave windows open while they’re not using the property.
Some relatively new offerings in air conditioning systems can help manage mold problems. One example is a small-duct, high-velocity air handler, which has a unique cooling coil that removes 30 percent more humidity from the air than a traditional system. Eliminating moisture is critical in avoiding mold growth, so this feature is particularly important.
Another helpful technology is a continuously operating outdoor inverter unit that works so efficiently that homeowners can leave it on while they’re away without breaking the bank. It runs on various speeds — typically a very low speed — always striving for the most efficient operation by making small, incremental changes to keep a constant temperature. In a traditional system, every time the system cycles on it must ramp up to full operating power, requiring a tremendous amount of energy. You won’t have this issue with the inverter unit.
When cooling a summer home, the inverter technology is a great way for customers to keep air conditioning going when they’re gone, but at a lower cost.
Another great option is a ventilation system operated by a programmable control board. Based on the size of the home, the control board calculates how much fresh outside air to bring in at all times, opening and closing dampers as needed to maintain a healthy level of fresh air. Look for options that meet ASHRAE 62.2 standards for IAQ.
These newer technologies can go a long way toward reducing energy consumption while letting fresh air in and keeping mold problems at bay. More savings and fewer molds mean a healthier and happier vacation for everyone.
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Q: Help! I woke after last night’s storm to find a discoloration on the kitchen ceiling and a puddle beneath. What do I do about this new leak?
A: There’s nothing quite like an indoor puddle to put a damper on your rise-and-shine routine, is there? The first thing to do is mitigate any moisture damage. That can get complicated, since a leaky roof doesn’t always appear as a puddle on the floor (or at least not immediately). Occasionally, the only sign of a leak is that subtle discolored patch on your ceiling or wall, caused from water pooling behind it. When you’re lucky enough to spot it early on, intervene as soon as possible following these steps.
Secure the scene. If water has only dripped onto the floor, consider yourself lucky and move a bucket to catch the falling droplets. (While you’re at it, save your sanity by propping up some scrap wood inside the container to mute the annoying drip-drip-drip sound.) Otherwise, move as much out of the water’s path and cover items that are too heavy to relocate with thick plastic sheeting.
Photo: istockphoto.com
Drain the water. Using a ladder or a sturdy chair, climb up and puncture the water-damaged patch with a screwdriver. Making a hole might sound counterintuitive, but skipping this step will allow more moisture to seep in. The weight of the water might even cause your ceiling to sag or collapse—one more thing to add to your list of necessary repairs. Ultimately, patching up a small, 1/2-inch drainage hole is a lot easier and cheaper than dealing with structural damage.
Start sleuthing. So where’s the source of that pesky leak? Water travels down trusses or flashing until it finds a weak spot, so the entry point into the house isn’t necessarily directly underneath the part of the roof you’ll have to fix. If you have attic access, head up there first during daylight hours. Turn off the lights and look up for any small opening that allows sunshine to stream through—an obvious source for your leaky roof.
Fight water with water. Can’t spot any signs of damage from the attic? Your next step is the water-test method, where someone stands outside on the roof and, using a lengthy hose, showers the roof until the drip returns—giving you a second chance to locate the source.
Phone a professional. Sometimes, finding what is in need of repair is not as easy as spotting a hole in your attic’s ceiling. From failing flashing to clogged gutters to crumbling shingles, the list of potential causes is very long. If you’ve conducted a thorough inspection and you’re still not certain what has led to your leaky roof, it’s time to call in a pro to both deduce the problem and recommend a fix. The actual repair will depend on many factors, including shingle type and pitch.
Meanwhile, lay out a tarp. When you’ve determined the source of the leak but can’t get a same-day repair, you’ll have to find temporary measures to protect your roof and home from snow, rain, and more water damage. If the roof is dry enough for you to carefully climb, try covering the affected area with heavy plastic sheeting or a tarp (at least 6 millimeters thick) and some 2×4s. Start at least 4 feet beneath the problem area and slowly roll the plastic over it, past the ridge of the roof, and 4 feet down the opposite side to cover your leaky roof completely. Place one 2×4 at the “top” of the tarp (the opposite side of roof) and one at the bottom to weight it down, folding the tarp back over each plank and fastening it to the wood with a staple gun. The bottom board should rest in an eave or flat area against the roof. Lay a third 2×4 on the top board (which is wrapped in plastic sheeting) and secure it to the wrapped board with nails to help anchor the covering. Use more 2×4s resting on the plastic’s perimeter if you’re worried about wind.
While you work outside, remember: Proceed carefully and—unless you want to compound the problem with a few more leaks—do not puncture your roof by nailing or screwing boards directly to it.
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10 Unexpected Places Where Mold Creeps Into Your Home
The Smith’s didn’t notice the mold and mildew smell in their home until they came home from vacation.
“What’s that smell?” John asked. “Mildew. Maybe mold. Maybe I left some clothes in the washer,” Kathy said.
After an hour-long search, the couple couldn’t find a leak. So they called John’s brother David — a plumber. He came right over.
“The number one rule for checking for mold and mildew?” David said, “If it uses water, chances are it’s going to leak.”
These are 10 places many homeowners overlook when checking for mold:
Dishwasher
Unless a dishwasher stops working or needs replacing or servicing, most of us don’t think about it as a potential source for mold. There are two connections under each dishwasher that have the potential for mold and mildew to get started–the water supply and the discharge connection. The water supply needs to be lubricated with the right sealant and properly tightened periodically. The discharge connection involves a rubber hose and clamp, and installing the hose before the dishwasher is installed ensures it is done properly. Hoses wear out over time. If you’re buying an older house, it doesn’t hurt to check the dishwasher connections — especially if there’s an odd smell when you open the door.
Icemaker Connections
Refrigerators often get moved, either for cleaning or other projects. This can weaken or break the water line connection to the ice maker, causing leaks behind the refrigerator.
“It seems like a simple job, so in the real world the plumbing contractor doesn’t install the water line, another contractor does,” Hoffman said. “The connection is a compression fitting and it must be installed properly to ensure there are no leaks.”
Washing Machine Connections
When installing a washing machine, always install a brand new washing machine hose, using the rubber washers the manufacturer recommends. Also, use Teflon tape and make sure to tighten the connection with vice grips so there are no drips or leaks. After all, it doesn’t take many drips to create an environment for mold.
Hot Water Heater
“Many states have laws regarding the installation of hot water heaters, and most of them involve overflow pans that are piped to drain outside the house. The pan must be tilted ¼ inch to ensure the water does drain. Newer heaters with quick connect connectors should be properly lubricated and tightened so the shut-off valve doesn’t leak,” Hoffman said.
Plastic P-Traps
Under every sink in your home is a “P-Trap,” almost always made of PVC pipe, which expands, and contracts. This process eventually loosens the connection and allows water to leak onto the base of the cabinet. If you look under sinks in every room you’ll easily spot the stains and discoloration commonly caused by leaking P-Traps. Use Teflon tape to seal every P-Trap and check them periodically, tightening them by hand to ensure their connections don’t loosen and leak. Over tightening PVC can cause it to crack, so be careful.
Toilet Connections
“I’m amazed at how many steps the DIY home improvement shows leave out when they explain about how to install a toilet,” Hoffman said. “The base of the toilet is where most mold grows. Toilets should be installed with a horned wax ring, and then the base of the toilet grouted in with tile grout,” he said. “The grout serves as a filler between the bowl and the floor to keep the bowl from rocking. Rocking bowls are the number one reason for the wax ring being compromised, which then allows mold to get a foothold.”
Shower Doors
Shower doors should probably be installed by plumbing contractors, Hoffman said. “They know how to keep them from leaking.” Mold growing at the base of the tub may be from leaking or improperly installed shower doors. Shower doors need caulking on all three rails — the two side rails as well as the bottom rail.
Tub
A properly caulked tub isn’t just nicer looking. It keeps water and moisture from dripping down under the tub and causing mold issues. Slab floors can create more problems — especially if installed by a DIY’er. The hole(s) in concrete slabs under tubs should be filled with a liquid tar, or expandable foam insulation to ensure moisture does not wick up from the ground through the slab.
Exterior Hose Bib
If you have a home, you have an exterior hose bib — a place where the water connection sticks out from the house. If you’ve used a hose, you know a poor connection or missing rubber washer, or loose hose can result in water spraying the house. This uncontrolled spray allows water to enter the space between the sidings, or into the wall, leading to mold growth. Make sure all holes, gaps and areas around every outdoor water connection are properly caulked and sealed.
Outdoor Water Sprinklers
Siding is engineered to shed rain falling down, not sprinklers shooting water up. Make sure your sprinklers are well away from the house when turned on. If you have children or teens that are watering the yard or garden, make sure they know not to spray the house with the hose. If power washing your home, hire a professional, or take care that water is not forced up under the siding as you wash.
As a homeowner, if you take the appropriate precautions and are vigilant about upkeep, you should be able to avoid mold, or catch it at it’s outset. While mold can be a huge problem in homes, even causing health issues, it is easily preventable.
When fire or water damage strikes, you need professional help to get your property back to preloss condition. SERVPRO of Wayne provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial emergency.??
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Air duct cleaning is a misnomer. In actuality, the entire HVAC system should be cleaned. Failure to clean all components of the system can result in recontamination of the entire system, thus minimizing the benefits of cleaning.
Just as you wouldn’t clean only half of your living room floor, you also would not want to clean only part of your HVAC system. NADCA recommends cleaning the entire HVAC system, including the following components:
air ducts
coils
drain pan
registers
grills
air plenum
blower motor and assembly
heat exchanger
air filter
air cleaner
There are two key components to HVAC cleaning: breaking contaminants loose, and collection of contaminants.
Breaking Contaminants Loose
Properly cleaning HVAC systems requires removing the sources of contamination. Source removal begins with the use of one or more agitation devices designed to loosen contaminants from the surfaces within the heating and air conditioning system. Examples of agitation devices include: brushes, air whips and compressed air nozzles or “skipper balls.” Agitation can also be achieved through hand-brushing or contact vacuuming.
Collection of Contaminants
During cleaning, the entire HVAC system is placed under continuous negative pressure (a vacuum) to prevent the spread of contaminants. Continuous negative pressure allows very fine particles to be removed from the system as they become airborne, ensuring that these particles are not released into the living space when the system is turned on after cleaning. This negative pressure also serves to extract the loosened contaminants, which are collected and removed from your home.
System Access
HVAC system cleaning is not a complex process, but each job is unique. Where possible, access to duct interiors should be made through existing openings such as supply diffusers, return grills, duct end caps and existing service openings. Cleaning technicians may need to cut access holes in the duct work in order to reach inside with various cleaning tools. Creation of these service openings, and their subsequent closure, requires craftsmanship and professional skills.
Equipment Requirements
There is a wide variety of equipment available to HVAC cleaning professionals. Both truck-mounted and portable vacuums can be used to stop the spread of contaminants and get the system cleaned to the NADCA Standard.
Antimicrobial Chemicals
Antimicrobial chemicals include sanitizers, disinfectants and deodorizers that can be applied to nonporous surfaces in HVAC systems to address microbial contamination and help control odors. Only chemicals registered with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can be used. These products should only be considered after mechanical surface cleaning has been performed and if the need for such treatment has been deemed necessary. Review the NADCA White Paper on Chemical Applications in HVAC Systems for more information.
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A fire can happen anywhere and anytime. Here are some tips on things we can do to help prevent a fire in the common workplace.
Accessibility Always ensure accessibility to electrical control panels. Material or equipment stored in front of the panels would hinder the shutdown of power in an emergency. Also, never block sprinklers, firefighting equipment or emergency exits and observe clearances when stacking materials.
Good Housekeeping Clutter not only provides fuel for fires, but also prevents access to exits and emergency equipment. Keep your workplace as clutter-free as possible.
Proper Waste Disposal Discard fire hazards like oily rags by placing them in a covered metal container and emptying it on a regular basis.
Maintenance Make sure the machines in your workplace are properly maintained to prevent overheating and friction sparks.
Report Electrical Hazards Unless you are qualified and authorized, you should never attempt electrical repairs. Faulty wiring and malfunctioning electrical equipment are key contributors to workplace fires.
Safe Chemical Use & Storage Always read the label and the Material Safety Data Sheet to assess flammability and other fire hazards of a substance. When using and storing chemical materials, always do so in an area with adequate ventilation.
Precautions In Explosive Atmospheres Follow all recommended and required precautions to prevent ignition in potentially explosive atmospheres, such as those containing flammable liquid vapors or fine particles. These precautions include non-sparking tools and proper static electricity control.
Maximum Building Security To help prevent arson fires, always lock up as instructed, report suspicious persons or behavior and never leave combustible garbage outside near your building..
Smoke Areas Always ensure that there is a smoke area available and that all workers who smoke on the job are using it. Proper extinguishing of smoking materials should always be enforced.
Fully Charged Fire Extinguishers Check fire extinguishers often by looking at the gauges and making sure they're fully charged and ready for use. If they're not fully charged or if the attached tag indicates that the last inspection occurred more than a month ago, call for maintenance. Also, encourage all workers to learn how to use a fire extinguisher.
Emergency Numbers Emergency phone numbers, as well as your company address, should be posted by the phone station for quick access.
11.5 OSHA Guidelines Adherence to OSHA's fire safety guidelines is crucial for fire prevention. Read through these regulations and make sure your workplace is in compliance.
Making sure your workers return home safely is our mission and passion. Take these 11.5 tips to your workplace and practice true fire safety, which begins before the fire even ignites.
When fire or water damage strikes, you need professional help to get your property back to preloss condition. SERVPRO of Wayne provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial emergency.??
Contact us at 973-546-4977 if you have a service need or click hereto visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Wayne's System Services.
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The fact is – any property can flood. Your home doesn’t have to be under five feet of water from hurricane flood surges to suffer flood damage. Normal amounts of rainwater can drain under your home, and flood your basement or the lowest floor level, causing flood damage. This kind of flooding can cause mold, increase the risk of termites and cause electrical problems.
More than 75% of homeowners devastated by flooding unfortunately discover they should have had flood insurance. The sad thing, experts say, is that flood insurance is not that expensive – typically $450 to $600 a year for the average home. When you weigh the cost of flood insurance against replacing your entire home $100,000 to $500,000, it only makes sense to buy it, whether you believe you’ll need it or not.
“People may say things like, ‘I live on a hill, I don’t need flood insurance’,” Diana Herrera, a FEMA flood insurance specialist said. “If I had a dollar for every time I’ve heard that, and those homes were flooded…”
Other common reasons people give for not buying flood insurance include:
“I’m not in a flood zone.”
“I’m not anywhere near water.”
“I’ll never need it, it’s money wasted.”
“My homeowner’s insurance will cover it.”
“It’s not available.”
“My realtor told me the property would never flood.”
Unfortunately, water tables may fill up. There may be a landslide or a dam miles away can burst or overflow due to rain. Drainage systems in your neighborhood may become blocked. Low spots in your yard, or a neighbor’s, can collect water rather than distribute it away from your home. Poor drainage is a number one reason for flooding for homes on a hill.
Your Insurance Agent’s Responsibility
By law, it’s your realtor’s responsibility to make sure you, the home buyer, are aware of any and all risks to the property you are buying – that includes telling you that you are, or are not in a flood zone, and if your property is in a high-risk area for earthquakes, tornadoes, landslides, hurricanes or other natural disasters. They’re not telling you that bad things will happen, but that they could. If your realtor doesn’t disclose this information, ask them. It is their responsibility to identify what risks you may be exposed to. If you choose not to purchase insurance after being informed of the risks, your realtor or insurance agent may ask you to sign a disclaimer to protect them and their agency in case you do suffer damages from a natural disaster.
Property Checklist
“When you’re buying a home, any home, anywhere, you should check certain basic things before buying,” Herrera said.
“Check first with your realtor,” she said. “States have disclosure laws. If the property has ever flooded for any reason, it must be disclosed.” This not only lets the homebuyer know flooding is possible, but that it has happened before. Check to see if the property is in a low, medium or high risk and what those terms mean.
Talk to your community’s floodplain manager. These officials are typically found in the zoning, planning, permitting or mapping offices of your city or county.
Talk to your insurance agent. They should know what is happening in your community regarding flood insurance. They should also be able to explain the National Flood Insurance Program, what the rules and requirements are, and what documents they need (elevation certificate, etc.) to write a flood insurance policy.
Whether you’re building a new home or buying one, get a copy of your site elevation plans.If your lowest floor is higher than the average requirement for flood insurance, you can save money on your insurance. For insurance rating purposes, a building’s flood proofed design elevation must be at least one foot above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) to receive full rating credit for the flood proofing. If the building is flood proofed only to the BFE, the flood insurance rates will be considerably higher. “For every foot higher your floor is above the BFE, you can save as much as 50% on your insurance premium,” Herrera said.
Get a flood proofing certificate. This certification is issued by a registered professional engineer, or architect. It certifies that “the construction of a structure is in accordance with accepted practices for meeting the flood proofing requirements in the community’s floodplain management ordinance.” This documentation is needed for both floodplain management requirements and insurance rating purposes.
Additional Resources
If you own or are buying a home, check out the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). NFIP is not just an insurance program. According to the NFIP, “the program is a comprehensive flood risk management program that maps floodplains, issues hazard mitigation grants, and helps community’s implement safe local floodplain ordinances. The NFIP communicates flood risk and promotes community practices to mitigate that flood risk. Strong awareness tools combined with smart and safe floodplain management practices can help guide communities towards less risky development, and result in floodplains that have more room for rivers to safely flood.”
When fire or water damage strikes, you need professional help to get your property back to preloss condition. SERVPRO of Wayne provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial emergency.??
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Now that the fire is out, there are a few things you need to know. Here is a check list to follow:
Step 1 - Securing the site
Protect the fire site from any further damage by weather, theft or vandalism. Do not leave the site unsecured.
If you are the owner it is your responsibility to see that openings are covered against rain and entry. Make sure outside doors to the property can be locked and secured. The Fire Department will help secure the premises until responsibility can be handed over to the tenant or insurance company.
If you are the tenant, contact your real estate agent or landlord and inform them of the fire. If you cannot contact them and you need professional assistance in boarding the premises, a general contractor for or fire damage restoration firm can help. Check your telephone directory.
If you plan to leave the site, try to remove any valuable remaining in the building.
Contact your own insurance agent to report the loss.
Step 2- Cautions
Household wiring which may have been water damaged should be checked by a licensed electrician before power is turned back on.
Check for structural damage caused by the fire. Roofs and floors may be weakened. The local Municipality's Building Inspector may be able to help.
Food, drink and medicines exposed to heat, smoke or soot may be discarded in the appropriate manner.
Refrigerators and freezers left unopened will hold their temperature for a short time. However do not attempt to refreeze thawed items.
The Fire Department will call for the services of the local gas, fuel and electricity suppliers to disconnect services before they leave the site.
If a utility (gas, electricity or water) is disconnected, it is your responsibility to have the services checked and reconnected by a licensed trade person. Do not attempt to reconnect the service yourself.
Start collecting receipts for any money you spend. These are important because you can use them to show the insurance company what money you have spent relating to your fire loss and also verifying losses claimed.
Step 3 - Insurance Claims
Make personal contact with the insurance claims manager.
Advise the claims manager of loss or damage and give him, or her, a forwarding address and telephone number if the circumstances have forced you to leave the damaged fire building.
The sooner the insurance company is alerted, the quicker the insurance claim can be processed, as the company has to alert the insurance adjuster to carry out the inspection.
Try to form an inventory, as soon as possible, of household items either inside or outside the buildings which have been damaged by fire. The inventory of damaged items will further speed the claim when the loss assessor makes contact. Do not throw away any damaged goods until after the inventory is made by the insurance adjuster.
Step 4 - Leaving your home
If you have to leave your home because the fire has left it unsafe, contact the local police. They may be able to keep an eye on the property in your absence.
Check with your insurance company to find out whether you are entitled to stay in hotel as part of a temporary housing clause in your policy, or how soon you might get an advance on your eventual insurance claim settlement.
Provided it is safe to do so, try to locate the following to take with you:
Identification
Vital medicines, such as blood pressure regulating drugs or insulin.
Eyeglasses, hearing aids, prosthetic devices or personal aids.
Valuables such as credit cards, check-books, insurance policies, savings account books, money and jewelry.
Notify these people of your new address
Your employer.
Family and friends.
Your children's schools.
Your Post Office. Have them either hold or forward your mail, depending on the length of time you expect to be relocated.
Delivery services like newspapers.
Telephone company and the suppliers of gas, electricity and water.
When fire or water damage strikes, you need professional help to get your property back to preloss condition. SERVPRO of Wayne provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial emergency.??
Contact us at 973-546-4977 if you have a service need or click here to visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Wayne's System Services.
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SERVPRO Recognizes National Preparedness Month with a Reminder to Home and Business Owners:
“Disasters Don’t Plan Ahead. You Can.”
Local disaster restoration specialist offers no-cost tools to help property owners prepare a comprehensive emergency readiness plan
September is National Preparedness Month (http://www.ready.gov/September), an annual event sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to raise awareness about the importance of preparing—in advance—for the unexpected. In support of this initiative, Jack Oliver, owner of SERVPRO® of Wayne, encourages property owners to take the following two steps now to protect their family, home, and business in the aftermath of a disaster.
Review and update your emergency preparedness plan, including business and life continuity plans. If you don’t yet have a plan, use the tools provided by FEMA to get started. (https://www.ready.gov/make-a-plan)
Collect and store time-critical information, like the location of shutoff valves, fire suppression system controls, and emergency contact numbers electronically, where it is immediately available to assist first responders.
“Evacuation plans and emergency supply kits help you survive a disaster, but a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan helps you recover from a disaster,” said Oliver. “The most effective response to any emergency is a fast response. That’s why having critical system and contact information at your fingertips is so important. A quick and effective response helps minimize repairs and downtime, helping both businesses and families get back on track in less time, with less stress.”
SERVPRO offers tools for both commercial and residential property owners to help them minimize damage and recover quickly from emergencies. The SERVPRO READY app stores essential contact and property information electronically where it can be accessed with a mobile device in seconds if disaster strikes. Both home and business owners can download the free app at https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp. Local business owners can take an additional preparedness step by designating SERVPRO of Wayne as their disaster mitigation and restoration provider. SERVPRO professionals will conduct a no-cost assessment of the facility and assist the owner in completing a comprehensive Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) and storing that profile in the READY app.
“Rapid response from a disaster cleanup and restoration specialist can help the property owner evaluate options, start the insurance process, and take the right steps from the beginning to bring their property back to normal,” said Oliver. “Even in the confusion and panic that often surround a disaster, a property owner or manager using the SERVPRO READY app can reach out for expert help right from the scene, using a cell phone.”
SERVPRO® of Wayne specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened,” for both commercial and residential customers. For more information on SERVPRO® of Northern Sussex County, please call (973) 546-4977. For more information on SERVPRO® and the SERVPRO® Emergency READY Program, please visit www.ready.SERVPRO.com.
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Our hearts go out to the hundreds of thousands of people affected by this catastrophic disaster in Texas. We know this is a challenging and emotional time, and the American Red Cross is working around the clock to get help to those who need it most.
Thousands of people have been forced to leave their flooded homes, losing everything they own – and the storm isn’t over yet. Significant flooding and tornadoes are still predicted. As much as 50 inches of rain is expected to fall before Harvey leaves the region, and parts of Texas comparable to the size of Lake Michigan remain underwater.
If a friend or loved one is in harm’s way, urge them to be safe and listen to the advice of emergency officials. People in life-threatening situations that need rescue should call 9-1-1 or the U.S. Coast Guard at 281-464-4851.
You can find shelters by calling 1-800-Red Cross (1-800-733-2767), visiting redcross.org or by downloading the free Red Cross Emergency App. The Emergency App is available in app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.
Stay tuned for more information on our response. I truly appreciate you and your support of the Red Cross.
Sincerely,
Harvey Johnson
Senior Vice President, Disaster Cycle Services American Red Cross
Carpet cleaning can be a bothersome chore. However, the reward of restoring the freshness and beauty back to our carpets is very often worth the efforts. Carpets without proper cleaning quickly lose its beauty in due time. The soiling of carpets can unfold rather fast, even with regularly vacuuming and spot cleaning. Let’s take a look at the main reasons why carpet cleaning is so important.
It prolongs the life span of the carpet.
Vacuuming does help but there are dirt and grime that sinks deep within the fibers. They become hard to clean. They even make the carpet look old and discolored. Regular carpet cleaning in intervals of 12 to 18 months sustains longer life span. It also maintains the beauty of the carpet as if it is only several months old since purchased.
It removes stains, restoring the carpet back an unblemished state.
Carpet stains often mar the look of a carpet and make our living space less pleasant-looking. Carpet stains appear all the time from the dirt carried inside from the soles of shoes, to spilt coffee, wine and other drinks, to pet accidents and more. Deep carpet cleaning can separate the dirt from the carpets, bringing it back to an unblemished and pleasant-looking state.
It lessens pollutants.
The carpet is an effective trap of various particles. Dirt, dust, pet dander, and insect allergens are regulars of home carpet. Regular carpet cleaning helps lessen or completely eliminate these pollutants. The use of special sanitizers like carpet shampoo kills the bacteria from these particles. Would you believe that the average home toilet seat is cleaner than the average home carpet?
It prevents insect infestation.
There are insects that are hard to notice when they are on the carpet’s surface. Sometimes, adaptive coloration makes cockroaches and mites to stay on it until they release eggs. They also leave body fragments like shed skin. With regular carpet cleaning, you do not clean the carpet alone but also kills insects and prevents possible infestation.
It eliminates bad odor.
The dust, insects, urine and various pollutants on the carpet emit foul odor. They also increase the chances that some organisms like bacteria and fungi will soon thrive on the carpet. The bad odor is itself a sign of an unhealthy environment. Regular carpet cleaning will not only eliminate bad odor. It will also hinder these harmful organisms from being carpet mainstays.
It contributes to overall home appeal.
A well-maintained and regularly cleaned carpet is a sign of a well-maintained home. It leaves an impression that the homeowner is careful and meticulous of how his house looks and appeals to his guests. More often than not, a clean home carpet reflects that other things and other parts within the house also shows equal cleanliness.
It protects your investment
Regular carpet cleaning treats your carpet as a great investment. It doesn’t matter how cheap or how expensive you’ve bought it. This is an effort that maintains beauty, color, and the pattern or designs of your carpet longer than you could imagine. It can even make your carpet a legacy passed to your children.
Summary & Next Steps
Regular home carpet cleaning should not be taken for granted. Summing up, the importance it brings comes down to adding beauty wherever that may be.
Manual (hand wash) carpet cleaning of homes can be a tedious, if not impossible process. Fortunately, there are many models of home carpet cleaning machines that allow the process to be much easier.
On top of your own carpet cleaning routines, you may also consider engaging qualified professional cleaning services for an expert review of your carpets. Here at SERVPRO of Wayne we have the most up to date equipment to do a job well done. You can always give us a call for professional advice on the matter at hand.
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Why Carpet Maintenance is Important in The Workplace
Maintenance Protects your Investment Flooring is a substantial investment —one you’ll want to protect for years to come. After all, the longer your flooring lasts, the less it costs. The initial cost for floor covering materials and installation does not fully encompass your total floor covering investment. The life cycle cost also factors in life expectancy of the carpet, costs for removal/disposal, lost revenues during renovations and maintenance costs over the life of the carpet.
Good maintenance helps protect your total flooring investment.
Maintenance Helps Carpet Last Longer and Cost Less Proactive, regularly scheduled maintenance removes soil before it can build up and damage carpet fibers. This can actually extend the life of the carpet, reducing the costs of restoration, replacement and disposal. Reactive maintenance cannot fully restore a carpet to a like-new appearance. This results in shorter carpet life and higher carpet life cycle costs.
Maintenance Is Good for the Environment
Our life cycle analysis of carpet shows that the overall environmental footprint of carpet is reduced by increasing the amount of time a carpet remains on the floor. A consistent, proactive maintenance program can significantly improve the appearance retention throughout the life of the carpet. Less carpet waste going to landfills is always good for the environment.
Creating a Carpet Maintenance Program
Once the importance of proper carpet maintenance is understood, we can create a comprehensive maintenance program for you.
Step 1: Make Preventive Maintenance a Priority Preventing soil from entering the environment is easier and less expensive than removing it from the carpet.
Here are five simple but important steps in a preventive maintenance program:
Keep Outside Areas Clean Outside maintenance helps minimize immediate sources of soil. The cleaner you keep sidewalks, parking lots, garages and other areas around the perimeter of your building, the less dirt that will be tracked inside.
Use Soil Barriers Walk-off mats, grates and removable elevator carpets help collect soil before it can be tracked throughout the building. Be sure soil barriers are large enough to allow for at least five steps across.
Vacuum daily, clean frequently and change often for best results. Protect Desk Areas Chair pads under desk chairs prevent casters from crushing carpet and grinding in soil. Specify eating, drinking and smoking areas By restricting these activities to limited areas, you can help confine certain difficult kinds of soil.
Maintain your HVAC System To remove many airborne particles before they are recirculated, regularly replace or clean filters on air-handling equipment. Airborne soil includes industrial wastes, auto emissions, tobacco smoke and pollen.
Step 2: Manage Soil with Regular Vacuuming Vacuuming is the most important dry soil management procedure. Effective vacuuming removes dry soil so that it cannot spread to other carpeted areas.
The level of effective vacuuming has two components: frequency and equipment type. Vacuuming Frequency
• Heavy- to moderate-traffic areas (entrances, elevator lobbies, reception areas, busy corridors, cafeterias, vending machine areas, employee lounges) should be vacuumed daily.
• Light-traffic areas (offices, conference rooms) should be vacuumed at least two to three times per week. Equipment Type
• Dual-motor vacuums are very effective machines for thoroughly cleaning heavy- to moderate traffic areas. This vacuum uses two motors to clean. One motor drives a beater-brush bar that knocks dirt loose, while the second motor provides suction that pulls dirt into the vacuum bag.
• Single-motor vacuums can be very effective machines depending upon their design. For the most part, they should only be used in light-traffic areas. They are generally less powerful than dual-motor vacuums, but easier to maneuver around furniture.
• Detail vacuums can be used to clean around the edges of a room or in confined areas around furniture.
• Carpet sweepers may be used to remove larger particle-sized surface dirt and small litter in high-visibility areas during the business day. However, they are not an effective cleaning method and should not take the place of thorough vacuuming.
The Carpet and Rug Institute has identified vacuum cleaners that meet industry criteria for removal efficacy, particulate emission and carpet damage.
Step 3: Promptly Remove Spills and Stains Although spills are inevitable, permanent stains do not have to be. Most stains can be avoided or removed by immediate, or at least same-day, treatment. It is good practice to have spot and stain removal products and equipment on hand for immediate use.
Correct identification of spots and stains is the first step in proper removal because some types of spills may require special cleaning solutions and techniques.
But for most spills, the basic removal procedure is the same:
1. Blot as much of the spill as you can with an absorbent towel. Always work toward the center of the spill. Do not rub! If the spill is solid or semisolid, gently scrape off what you can using a dull knife.
2. Apply a general-purpose carpet spotter to the spill. This is a detergent solution that is specially made for use on carpets. Never use other kinds of cleaning solutions, such as bleach. These may permanently damage the carpet.
3. Tamp or pat in the carpet spotter with a tamping brush.
4. Wait three minutes, then blot again.
5. Rinse with clean water, then blot as dry as possible. If the stain remains, repeat the entire process. If the stain persists after the second time, contact us here at SERVPRO of Wayne.
Step 4: Renew your Carpet with Proactive, Periodic Cleaning Even the most effective, consistent vacuuming may leave some soil behind.
Periodic cleaning improves the appearance and extends the life of carpet. Periodic cleaning also removes oily, sticky soil from the carpet that attracts and holds additional soil. Depending on soiling conditions and other factors, there are a number of available cleaning methods. Your choice of method should be based on what will be the most effective and compatible with your carpet and its traffic levels.
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This Old House host Kevin O'Connor and Jim Cantore of The Weather Channel discuss how to prepare for the next big storm
THIS OLD HOUSE HOST KEVIN O'CONNOR AND JIM CANTORE OF THE WEATHER CHANNELTHIS OLD HOUSE TELEVISION
Overview
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In this video, This Old House host Kevin O'Connor and Jim Cantore of The Weather Channel discuss how to prepare for the next big storm.
Steps: 1. Keep a water supply of one gallon per day per person for three days. 2. Have a three-day supply of canned goods, and don't forget to pack a can opener. 3. Pack several fresh batteries, flashlights, and lanterns. 4. Get a hand-crank flashlight that can also recharge cell phones. 5. Place important documents and phone numbers in a waterproof case. 6. Choose a meeting place in case family members get separated. 7. Portable gas-powered generators must be placed outdoors; never run one in an enclosed space. Be sure to have gasoline on hand. 8. Use a chain and padlock to secure the generator to a tree or other unmovable object.
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Repair leaks promptly - If you have a leaky faucet, toilet or pipe in your home, fix it immediately before it becomes a much bigger and more expensive problem. Even if it’s a slow leak, such as a dripping faucet, it can account for more than 10 percent of your water usage.
If you don’t know if you have a leak, your water meter readings can provide the clue. When water is not in use, check the meter twice in a two-hour time span. If the readings change, then there is a leak somewhere in your home.
If you can't determine the source of the leak but your meter readings indicate you definitely have one, call in a professional plumber. You may have a leaky pipe behind a wall, and if left alone, will cause extensive damage that ruins the drywall, deteriorates the framing over time and causes mold growth. A leaky pipe is also an early sign of a burst pipe, which will result in greater damage to your home.
Stop a running toilet - A running toilet can cost you hundreds of dollars and is a major contribution to a costly water bill. It is generally the result of broken internal parts. It could be that a simple repair on the valves is needed, or there could be a larger issue.
"Many people think that showering or doing laundry uses the most water, but actually, the toilet accounts for the largest use of water in a home. If you have a leaky or running toilet, your water bill can skyrocket," explained Tim Flynn, owner. "If you hear the toilet running or it flushes slowly or overflows often, get it checked out right away. Clogged drains waste water as well and can become a major problem."
Waiting for hot water - If you turn on the sink or shower and wait anywhere from 30 seconds to over a minute for the water to heat up, precious gallons of clean water go down the drain. You are paying for that water to get hot while it runs. Consider replacing your traditional storage water heater with a Tankless Water Heater or installing a Hot Water Recirculating System. Recirculation pumps will get the water to the faucet faster and keep it hot in the line longer. They usually cost approximately $1000, which can be recouped in about two and a half years. Either system will ensure immediate delivery of hot water when you need it and provide significant water savings.
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Window Air Conditioner Leaking Water Into House – What To Check – How To Fix
Window Air Conditioner Leaking Water Into House – What To Check – How To Fix
Question:I just turned my window AC unit ON today and it is leaking water inside my house. What could be the problem? I had it running for 3 weeks and all of a sudden it started leaking. There is a puddle of water on the window ledge on the inside of the house. Water is on the plastic vent where the cold air blows out. I believe that is where it is leaking but not sure. Can you tell me how to fix this? My carpet is soaking wet, I need this to stop leaking, please help!
Window AC Leaking Water Into House – How To Fix
ANSWER:You are going to check a few things to be sure the ac unit is installed properly and there is no water drainage block present – Unplug the window AC unit. – Clean up all the water on the AC unit, on the window ledge, and on the floor of your room. – Check and be sure the AC is tightly sealed in the window. – Do you feel warm air coming into the room around the AC unit? – If you feel warm air coming in you need to seal it correctly. – Seal in the window AC unit to prevent warm air from entering the room. – Check to see if the drain holes on the rear of the ac unit are blocked. – Clean the drain holes to allow water to drip out. – Make sure the filter is clean and not clogged with massive dirt or dust. – After cleaning up the water and having it turned off for 30 minutes or so, turn it back on and see if the water appears again. – If water appears and starts dripping into your room again, check to see if the AC unit is properly sealed in the window. – If the AC unit is not sealed correctly, the moisture in the air coming in from outside gets condensed by the cold air inside the unit and this extra moisture builds up in AC unit and then leaks. SO BE SURE IT IS SEALED IN THE WINDOW CORRECTLY.
Here are some other reasons water can drip from a window air conditioner unit:
AIR LEAK – AIR CONDITIONER NOT PROPERLY SEALED IN WINDOW: If your window air conditioner is not sealed correctly, the warmer air from outside gets inside the air conditioner. When this happens, the moisture that is in the warmer air will be condensed by the colder air inside the air conditioner. When there is excess moisture inside the AC, water will leak. So if this is happening to you, make sure you have a good seal around the window AC.
DRAIN IS BLOCKED – DIRT OR DUST HAS BLOCKED THE DRAIN HOLES: There are drain holes (drip pan) at the rear of window AC units. They can get blocked from dusty conditions or dirt in the air. When this type of blockage happens, the water that would normally drip out will be trapped and water will leak from the front of the AC unit and at both sides of the unit. Be sure to keep the drain holes clean and free of debris. Also clean the filters or replace them to prevent any type of blockage that may cause a water leak.
OUTSIDE TEMP IS LOWER – HEAVY MOISTURE IN OUTSIDE AIR: If it is raining or there is heavy moisture in the air outside, water evaporates much less than usual. This leads to excess water moisture in the air conditioner and this will cause water leaks. This is normal for most window AC units and using a drip pan can solve the issue if there is heavy moisture in the air outside.
CONDENSER PUMP NOT WORKING – BROKEN OR CLOGGED PUMP: If the condenser pump in the AC is faulty or clogged, it will cause water to leak. You can check the condenser/pump if you feel confident. Check for any blockage or loose wires. If the pump seems to be okay visually, you will need to test the pump with a meter to see if it is faulty. If so, you may be better off buying a new AC unit.
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Let’s face it: No one wants to have to go running for a drip bucket every time it rains. Not only is having to stay on top of the weather forecast annoying and impractical, but that one small drip symbolizes a larger roofing issue – and we all know that roofing issues mean an investment of time and money.
In an effort to save you that investment, we’ve compiled a list of The 10 Most Common Causes of Roof Leaks. We’ll tell you what they look like, why they happen, and how to fix them.
Whether your roof is two years old or twenty keep this list handy. You never know when it could mean the difference between doing a quick repair or a major remodel.
1. Your Flashing Has Cracked
What Does It Look Like: Flashing are thin pieces of metal that are installed under shingles and on the joints of your roof in order to create a water-resistant barrier, which can be concealed or exposed. If exposed, they will look like long runs of sheet metal and, if concealed, they will have a rubberized coating over top. Broken flashing will feature large cracks
Why It Happens: Roofers often use tar to seal the flashing together and that can corrode over time. In the event that your flashing is left exposed, elements like wind and rain could be the reason behind its crack.
How To Fix It: (Via The Family Handyman): Once you locate the source of the leak, pry up the nails used to secure the old flashing. Lift any shingles out of the way and remove the cracked segment. Gently put a new run of flashing in its place, fasten the new flashing in the same pattern as your old piece using roofing nails. Then, apply a coat of roofing sealant to the nail heads.
2. You Have Broken Shingles
What Does It Look Like: Look up! This one is easy to spot. Since shingles are the exterior layer of a roof, you should be able to identify missing shingles by seeing different-colored patches on your roof. Alternatively, you may find the shingles themselves littering your yard after a heavy storm.
Why It Happens: Again, weather. High winds and heavy rains.
How To Fix It: (Via This Old House): Slide a pry bar underneath the row of nails that connects the damage shingle to the one below it. Lift up until the nail pops and then press down on the shingle while you remove the nail. Repeat for the remaining nails. Pull out the damaged shingle, replace it with a new one, and secure it with four new nails.
3. Your Valleys Aren’t Properly Sealed
What Does It Look Like: An area where two planes of roof come together. Since, these areas of the roof are usually sloped, if the valleys are not sealed together properly, rainwater can get inside as it runs down the roof. You can detect a problem by searching for wet spots that run along the seams of your roof.
Why It Happens: A variety of reasons – the sealing may not have been done properly in the first place, it may have cracked when being stepped on, or an excess of rain and ice may have caused it to erode over time.
How To Fix It: This is one of those things that needs to be done by a professional because of its complexity and we do not recommend attempting it on your own. However, your roofer will likely fix the problem by laying a new leak barrier along the valley and shingling overtop.
4. Your Vent Booting Is Cracked
What Does It Look Like: Roof vents are those things that look like small pipes sticking out of the top of your roof. They’re used to expel excess moisture from the inside of the house. Leaks from this area will likely leave corresponding dark spots (and mustiness).
Why It Happens: Roof vents are often sealed by placing some flashing around the opening and slipping a tight, rubber boot over the area where the pipe peeks out of the roof. Over time, the flashing can break or the roof can decay.
How To Fix It:(Via: DIY Guy): Use a knife to remove the rubber around the vent. Use a pry bar to break the seal on any connecting shingles. Slide the new rubber boot under the shingles, over the vent, and bring it down onto the roof. Then, secure the new boot with roofing nails on either side and caulk under the shingles to seal them to the new flashing.
5. You Have Ice Dam Buildup
What Does It Look Like: An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow (water) from draining off. The combined weight of the ice itself can damage the roof, as well as the water just sitting on the roof’s surface.
Why It Happens: The heat from your attic (and the rest of your house) is above freezing, which causes some of the snowfall to melt, despite the cold temperatures outside. The water will then run between the roof’s surface and the snow and will refreeze into ice once it hit’s the roof’s exterior edge.
How To Fix It: Invest in a roof rake, which looks like a sideways shovel with a long handle, and use it too reach up onto the roof and remove at least the lower four feet of snow from the roof edge. If you see an ice dam forming, consider treating it with an ice melt product, according to manufacturer’s directions.
6. Your Skylights Were Improperly Installed
What Does It Look Like: Leaks from this kind of problem should be super easy to spot. If you find yourself noticing wet spots or consistently needing to place drip buckets around the sides of your skylights, you’ve found the cause. However, leaks and wet spots near the top of the skylight may be a flashing issue instead.
Why It Happens: There are two main causes for this type of leak. Improperly measuring and fitting the skylights upon installation or decayed insulation along the skylights edges.
How To Fix It: Clear any debris off of the skylight and check for cracks in the window itself. Seal any cracks with a layer of clear silicone along its length, if necessary. If that is not the cause, check the surrounding flashing and replace as needed.
7. Your Gutters Are Clogged
What Does It Look Like: You may be able to see the leaves sticking out of the gutter when you look up onto your roof. But, if not, you should notice the lack of water trickling out of a downspout during a rainstorm.
Why It Happens: Your gutters are meant to help water travel away from the roof. When a blockage forms and they get clogged, that travel stops. Rainwater will then pool in one area of the roof and have more of an opportunity to seep through cracks.
How To Fix It: Sorry, there’s no easy answer to this one. Get up on a ladder, and get in there with your hands. Many recommend placing a large tarp underneath the area where you are working. That way, you can drop any debris as you go and wrap it up for easy disposal later.
8. You Have A Cracked Chimney
What Does It Look Like: Most often, you can look for signs of wear and tear along the mud cap, or mortared area around the top of the chimney. You should also look for any holes in the mortared joints where the chimney connects with the roof. Also, be on the lookout for loose flashing and shingles in the surrounding area.
Why It Happens: Mortar is essentially just a thick mixture of water, sand, and cement. It erodes easily in harsh weather conditions.
How To Fix It: In some cases, all you need to do is find the source of the leak and replace the missing mortar. However, since the materials used for chimney repairs are different than those for standard roofing fixes, it is recommended that you hire a professional handle the repairs.
9. There’s Condensation In Your Attic
What Does It Look Like: A leak is most likely coming from your attic if the space shows signs of mold growth or mildew. A strong, musty odor emanating from the attic is also a key that water has gotten inside.
Why It Happens: As the uppermost part of your home, the attic is trapped between indoor and outdoor temperatures. When those clash – think hot summers and cold winters – condensation will form and moisture will follow.
How To Fix It: First, treat any mold growth. Then, take the time to isolate your attic to prevent large fluctuations in temperature. Make sure that all of the roof vents are clear from the interior end and install a large ventilation fan, if needed.
10. You’re Using It Too Much
What Does It Look Like: Unfortunately, there is no way to differentiate if this is the cause of the leak. However, all homeowners should be careful with how often they venture out on to their roofs.
Why It Happens: As you can see from the other causes in this post, a lot of roofing material is very fragile. You may accidentally step on a crucial element or crack an already precarious seal.
How To Fix It: Avoid walking on your roof whenever possible. Let that Frisbee go and buy a new one. Hire a professional roofer to do your fixes, since they are trained on how to avoid the most easily-damaged areas.
Whether you have an old roof, new roof, or even a fancy green rooftop, wear and tear is unavoidable. There will be rainstorms, long winters, and heavy winds. But, roof leaks? They are a different story. With the right care regimen, every roof should have the ability to keep your family warm and dry for decades. As you work on home maintenance, refer to this list of the 10 most common causes of roof leaks. You’ll be glad you did when catching a leak early saves you time and money.
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You don’t have to be a Game of Thrones fan to know that winters these days are wild. When colder months roll around, the only thing that’s certain is that the weather will be unpredictable. Whether it’s ice storms across the North East, or flash floods throughout the South West, being prepared is the best defense.
Check these nine home projects to weatherproof your place and make sure you have a cozy winter.
Get a winter-ready roof. A leaking roof makes for a messy, expensive, winter. Inside the house, dark ceiling stains or sagging spots mean a roof repair is in order. Outside, confirm shingles have no signs of splitting, disintegration, or looseness. If your roof is tricky to access—or you have tile shingles—hire a specialist to do the inspection. It’s not worth the broken bones or broken tiles!
Clean those gutters. You could break out the ladders and gloves, root around in old wet leaves… or do yourself a favor and hire someone who specializes in gutters to handle this arduous task for you. A professional will safely reach the roof, clear out the muck, and look for signs of wear and tear that might need repair.
Tuck up your trees. If winter storms are bad, unwieldy trees can do serious damage to homes, vehicles—even people. Call in a tree trimming service to give an assessment of your yard and tree safety. Southeastern cities such as Miami,Houston, and New Orleans benefit from trim trees during hurricane season as well.
Tune up your heat source – and save money on heating bills. Have a fireplace or heater? Get it ready for winter. Buildup in a fireplace is a serious fire hazard. Call in an expert to take care of black dust or residue. For heaters, call for a routine maintenance check before the freezing temps hit.
Winterize your windows and doors. Apply weather stripping around doors to seal in heat and keep out cold. Use caulk to seal windows in tight and keep out icy winds. Even cities with moderate winter climates like Los Angeles benefit from these quick fixes. Best of all, it’s a cheap energy saver!
Schedule your holiday lighting installation. Winter prep is not all chores! Decorating is a fabulous project to look forward to. Think big this year with a gorgeous light display that’ll have all the neighbors jealous. Give Chicago’s Magnificent Mile Lights Festival a run for their money.
Winterize the yard. Bring in small plants that can’t survive a freeze like the ones that strike Dallas each winter. For cities that deep freeze, like Chicago and Boston, turn off outdoor watering systems to avoid bursting pipes. Regardless of location, every yard benefits when you load up the truck—or hire someone to do the dirty work for you—and haul away dead bushes, old leaves, and yard waste. When rotting debris stays on the lawn all winter, expect brown spots and blight come spring.
Prep the pool. Love the summertime fun of playing in the pool? Make sure it gets the winterizing treatment before snows and freezing temperatures hit. Cities like Newark that enjoy both hot and cold temperatures can call in a pool specialist or winterize themselves to make sure the pool survives the winter.
Finish your to-do list. Getting winter ready is a great excuse to fix a leaky faucet, repair the creaking washing machine, and replace the springs on the garage door. Everything is more manageable when the weather is warmer. Either get out the toolbox or hire a handyperson—all you’ll have to worry about when the temperature drops is which movie to watch.
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Floods are the most common disaster for homes in the US. Whether a flood is from torrential rains, flash floods, rising rivers, or a leak inside the home, a flood can cause serious damage to your house. If the horrible images of Hurricane Sandy or Hurricane Katrina are still fresh in your mind, you know just how powerful a sudden surge of water can be. According to FloodSmart, every home is at risk of a flood, but regions are usually divided up by low, medium and high-risk areas. Unfortunately, even homes located in flood-prone areas don’t have flood insurance, making the cleanup and recovery efforts even more stressful for homeowners.
Create a home inventory that you can access during a flood
It’s a smart idea to have an inventory of your home and personal possessions. Insurance companies require thorough inventories in order to compensate a policyholder. So whether the loss of belongings is from break-ins, floods, fires or other disasters, it’s a good idea to keep an accurate record of what you own. Read this article to learn more about different ways to keep track of your inventory. During an actual flood, it’s a good idea to take photographs of your home (if it is safe to do so). This can also help during the documentation process. Keep a home inventory somewhere safe and accessible, like in cloud storage, and remember that when a flood occurs, you may need to evacuate your home.
Store important documents and information outside of your home
Some families like to keep important objects like passports, jewelry, cash or other paper goods in a fireproof safe. But when a flood occurs, these safes may not be accessible. It may be a good idea to keep certain belongings in a safe deposit box at your bank. Of course, if your region regularly floods, you’ll want to ensure that this outside facility is secure from flooding. Keep in mind that if a flood has occurred in your town, the bank may not be accessible for quite some time.
Advice for the basement or rooms below ground
If your live in an area that floods regularly, or if you are concerned about flooding, you’ll want to think carefully about which items you store in your basement. If your basement is where valuables are kept, elevate boxes off the ground and consider watertight enclosures. It’s easy to purchase rolling racks with adjustable shelves; these can be perfect for moving things around and keeping boxes up off wet surfaces. If your water heater, furnace, electrical panel or other important mechanical fixtures are located in the basement, consider having them elevated off the ground or moved (at least 12 inches above the expected flood line). Water can seriously damage these items and replacing them can be very expensive.
Install a sump pump
Sump pumps are ideal for homes that experience regular flooding, especially in the basement. It may not be able to handle a flash-flood situation, but can be perfect for smaller, seasonal floods. You’ll want to have your sump pump regularly inspected to ensure it functions properly. Many homeowners that install a sump pump also install a backup generator so that the pump continues to operate even when power is cut off to the home.
Food and water for 2-4 days
The American Red Cross suggests having at least a 3-day supply of food and water on hand for emergencies. Remember that if your area has experienced a flood, you may have difficulty getting to your local stores and pharmacies and even if you can reach them, supplies may be very limited. It is recommended to have at least 1 gallon of water per day per person during an emergency. Keep these supplies in an area of your home that would be accessible in the event of a flood.
Have an emergency bag packed
An emergency bag or box should be filled with first aid supplies, extra medicine (a 7-day supply), food and water, flashlight and batteries, toilet paper, a multipurpose tool, a blanket and any other supplies you may need to cope with a flood. You’ll also want your tools for communicating like a portable radio and a cell phone charger. Some people keep cash in their emergency kits; ATMs may not be functioning during a natural disaster and you may need cash for hotels or transportation. If your region has flood warnings or institutes a flood evacuation, you don’t have time to pack a bag. The idea of this emergency kit is that it should be already packed, easy to carry or transport (in case you need to evacuate) and should be able to tide you over until you reach a more stable area. There are many online sites that sell ready-to-go bags and emergency kits. Here is a link to the FEMA recommended list of emergency supplies.
Plan your evacuation with your family ahead of time
Your family should put together a plan of action in case of an emergency. This could include how everyone should get a hold of each other, meeting points, and evacuation routes. Many city websites have specific pages designed to help families understand their local natural disaster plans. It’s important to read through this information prior to a natural disaster, as your access to the internet may be immediately cut off. As we saw from past events like Hurricane Katrina, flooding can happen quickly and can create an overwhelming feeling of chaos. Some families designate an out-of-state person as the central point of contact during an emergency, as their lines of communication may still be functioning. Having a plan on hand is the best way to feel in control when disaster strikes, particularly if you and your family have to act quickly. Some neighborhood organizations create emergency plans for their specific area. If you have neighbors that live alone or may need extra help during an emergency, it’s a good idea to ask them if they’d like to be included in your family’s plan. Remember to have a plan for your pets as well.
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SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile Continues To Improve
SERVPRO Industries continues to make improvements to its already successful Emergency READY Profile.
The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile is a startup approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business can receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.
The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage:
A no cost assessment of your facility. – This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. – It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. – This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
Establishes SERVPRO of Wayne as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. – You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by.
Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. – This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. – Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”
The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan For it NOW.
As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are “Ready for whatever happens” speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.
By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you help to minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do, who to call and what to expect in advance is helpful in receiving timely mitigation and can help minimize the effects water and fire damage can have on your business.
Are You Ready?
Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, are you ready for whatever happens?
Call Today to Get Started!
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You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide, but at high levels, it can kill a person in minutes. Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide, or CO, is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas, created when fuels, like gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas and propane burn incompletely.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning. It is estimated another 20,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 4,000 are hospitalized due to CO poisoning. All people and animals are at risk for CO poisoning, with some groups— including unborn babies, infants, and people with chronic heart disease, anemia, or respiratory problems— being more susceptible to the effects of carbon monoxide.
An excess of CO, leading to CO poisoning, can result from faulty furnaces or other heating appliances, portable generators, water heaters, clothes dryers, or idling cars left running in garages.
Taking some basic, precautionary steps can help eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Protect yourself by reviewing the following tips, provided by the United States Fire Administration.
Have fuel-burning appliances, like oil and gas furnaces, gas or kerosene heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves inspected by a trained professional every year.
Open the damper for proper ventilation before using a fireplace. Never use your oven or stovetop to heat your home.
Make sure all fuel-burning vented equipment is vented to the outside to avoid CO poisoning. Keep the venting for exhaust clear and unblocked.
If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Never run a vehicle or other fueled engine or motor indoors, even if garage doors are open. Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not blocked with snow, ice, or other materials.
Make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow and other debris.
Only use barbecue grills outside, away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings. Some grills can produce CO gas. Never use grills inside the home or the garage, even if the doors are open.
Use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the home.
Symptoms of CO Poisoning
Dull headache
Weakness
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Shortness of breath
Confusion
Blurred vision
Loss of consciousness
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As summer approaches, it is time to consider safety precautions for extreme heat in the coming months. Heat affects all people, but especially the young, elderly, sick, and overweight. Urban area residents also have a greater chance of being affected than those who live in rural areas due to the heat island effect.
According to the EPA, “the sun can heat dry, exposed urban surfaces, such as roofs and pavement, to temperatures 50–90°F hotter than the air, while shaded or moist surfaces—often in more rural surroundings—remain close to air temperatures.” These surface heat islands are strongest during the day when the sun is shining, while the atmospheric heat islands are more likely after sunset “due to the slow release of heat from urban infrastructure.”
Whether you are in an urban or rural area, there are several things you can do to prepare for and prevent extreme heat from affecting you. If possible, stay indoors in air conditioning. Be sure to check on your pets who may be outdoors or bring them inside. Stay hydrated and limit alcohol and caffeine intake.
If you must go outside, wear loose-fitting, light colored clothing, and be sure to apply sunscreen often. Pay attention to signs of heat exhaustion, which are heavy sweating; weakness; cold, pale, and clammy skin; nausea or vomiting; and fainting, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which is life-threatening. Signs of heat stroke are a high body temperature (103°+), rapid and strong pulse, and possible unconsciousness.
If you think someone has heat stroke, call 911 immediately and move the person somewhere cool. Reduce body temperature with cool, wet cloths or a bath. Do not give a person with heat stroke fluids, and treat the situation as a serious medical emergency (CDC). If you live in a humid climate, be aware of the heat index. The heat index factors in the humidity, which can make the temperature feel 15° hotter.
Extreme heat is a serious danger. For more information on preparation and prevention, visit ready.gov or cdc.gov.
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Ok, so you think you may have a mold issue. You see mold growth, there’s a heavy musty smell, or you just have a hunch something is not right and decide to find out exactly what type of mold or indoor air quality problem exists, if any at all.
In order to determine what the problem is, you can reach out to a Certified Mold Remediation company, like SERVPRO of Wayne, and get a free professional opinion. We will inspect the areas of concern and offer opinion on cause, severity and next steps, which may ultimately involve the participation of a Certified Industrial Hygienist if the issue is serious or we can’t draw a satisfactory conclusion.
It is important to understand that a professional mold remediator is not necessarily someone who could, or even should, test for the presence of mold or develop a remediation project plan on their own as it could be deemed as a conflict of interest. A third party evaluation should always be considered, which is why the involvement of a Certified Industrial Hygienist may be a critical component in protecting your home, your budget and your health concerns with any mold issue.
Certified Industrial Hygienists (CIH) are scientists / engineers committed to protecting the health and safety of people in the workplace and the community. The CIH’s role, with respect to inspecting for mold and mold remediation, is:
The CIH will discuss the history of the environment with you to help determine root causes of any problem, from current or past water incursions or any other relevant environmental issue.
The CIH will visually inspect the areas of concern looking for water damage markers and the existence of visual mold growth.
They will make every effort to identify causes, if none are obvious to the homeowner, and provide corrective actions. They may inspect exterior drainage, roof conditions, plumbing, etc. to make this determination.
The CIH may or may not take samples in their determination of existing mold conditions. Sometimes conditions are obvious and testing becomes an unnecessary expense. When samples are taken, these samples will be sent to a third party lab for analysis to determine the severity of mold activity and the various species involved.
Once lab results are returned, the CIH will produce a protocol for mold remediation and repairs to prevent a recurrence of mold growth. This protocol becomes the defining project plan and is vital when you begin planning your project steps, project budget and begin the process of identifying contractors who may perform the work.
Finally, once any remediation work has been completed, the CIH will perform a Clearance inspection. At this time, he will visually inspect the work area(s) to ensure satisfactory work was completed. If he is satisfied with the visual examination, the CIH will take a final set of samples to ensure that the existence of mold, in the work area(s), is at satisfactory levels and the area(s) can be returned to the homeowner in a healthful condition.
There are several resources you can us to obtain a CIH.
They can be referred to you from a trusted source, like SERVPRO of Wayne,
Be sure to always check credentials and experience in your selection process.
In our next chapter we’ll discuss project planning and budgeting for your mold remediation project.
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You’ve selected your Certified Industrial Hygienist and he’s performed his initial inspection. If they have determined that there is a mold issue, their next step is to provide you with a written assessment and protocol, or mold remediation and corrective action work plan.
In this document, you should be provided:
the likely caused the mold growth,
current observations and conditions of the area(s) inspected,
sampling results (if samples were taken) describing the mold species identified and their impact,
a corrective action plan describing what repairs need to be made to prevent further damage,
a detailed remediation work plan which your mold remediation contractor will use is creating their proposal and work plan.
Your next step is to search for and invite remediation firms to bid on this project. There are many sources you can use to identify potential candidates, such as:
web searches
referrals from your CIH or others
the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (org) or other reputable certifying firm
When inviting remediation contractors to bid on your project, ensure they are qualified. Some of the questions or information you may request are:
Insurance coverage: candidates should have, and be happy to provide you with, the following insurance information. Each should have reasonable limits to address the size of your project:
General Liability
Pollution
Workers Comp
Certifications and Registrations
They should ideally be firm certified in Water and Mold Remediation by an organization such as the IICRC, IAQA or ACA
Registered with Consumer Affairs as a state Home Improvement Contractor
Prior experience or testimonials:
Ask for testimonials or references from recent clients
Beware of online reputations. Good or bad, they may only give you a very small sampling.
Each candidate you select should then be provided with a copy of the CIH protocol and permitted a time when they can inspect the areas in question. The CIH should be made available to each candidate in order to answer any questions they may have regarding the project and to verify their intended approach. The CIH should not instruct them on how to assemble their proposal, but should give them guidance as to what will be expected in order to pass clearance.
Since you provided each candidate with the protocol, there should be no confusion regarding scope of work. Each proposal should show a timeline to accomplish the work and provide ample details. If the candidate you felt most impressed with is higher, try to negotiate.
At this point you should have enough information to make your selection. Next we’ll present project time and budget planning.
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The key to preventing and stopping indoor mold growth is to control excessive moisture and condensation. Keeping susceptible areas in the home clean and dry is critical. In general, mold will not grow indoors without water, dampness or excessive moisture.
Three main factors contribute to condensation of water on building surfaces:
Relative Humidity: Condensation occurs when the air is saturated with water and it cannot hold any more moisture. For example, steam generated from bathroom showers or from cooking can fill up the air with moisture, which will then condense into drops of water on cooler surfaces, such as mirrors and windows. Where possible, localized sources of humidity, such as clothes dryers, should be directly vented to the outdoors. To lower indoor humidity during warm, humid weather, air conditioners and/or dehumidifiers should be used. In chronically damp areas such as basements or crawlspaces, it is often recommended that dehumidifiers be used to maintain humidity levels below 60 percent.
Temperature: Warm air holds more moisture than cold air. Condensation occurs when warm humid air comes into contact with a cold surface and the moisture condenses into water. This can often be seen on single-pane windows, where water condenses and then runs down, causing the wood frames and sills to rot and the wall under the windows to blister. Condensation can occur on exterior walls, particularly north-facing walls, if they are not properly insulated. Other chronically cold surfaces, such as cold water pipes, should be covered with insulation to help prevent condensation.
Poor Ventilation: Indoor humidity can build up if there is not enough ventilation and exchange of indoor and outdoor air. Where there is little or no air movement, such as behind dressers and cabinets, surfaces can remain cooler than surrounding areas, which can lead to increased condensation and mold growth. It is recommended that the area be ventilated and the occupants use exhaust fans (vented to the outdoors) to remove moisture from high-humidity areas, particularly in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry areas. Furniture should be moved slightly away from walls so that air can freely pass behind it. Air should be allowed to circulate between rooms and regularly ventilate to remove humid air. Fans should be used as needed.
Other things that can be done are to clean and repair gutters regularly, make sure the ground slopes down and away from the home’s foundation and keep air conditioner drip pans and drain lines clean. In addition, in air conditioned buildings in hot and humid climates, vinyl wall coverings on the interior sides of exterior walls should not be used, as these materials can trap moisture, resulting in mold growth underneath them.
In the case of floods or leaking pipes, any standing water should be promptly removed and water-damaged materials should either be dried out and cleaned, or removed and replaced. Porous materials that are wet for more than 48 hours are likely to produce mold growth and should be discarded. In instances where the water damage is extensive, it is recommended that professional help, such as a commercial restoration company, be consulted.
Should I test my home for mold on a routine basis?
Probably not. Looking for evidence of water damage and visible mold growth should be your first step. Testing for mold is expensive, and you should have a clear reason for doing so. In addition, there are no standards for “acceptable” levels of mold in the indoor environment. When air testing is done, it is usually to compare the levels and types of mold spores found inside the home with those found outdoors. If you know you have a mold problem, it is more important to spend time and resources solving the moisture problem and getting rid of the mold than to spend it on sampling.
What to do if you see or smell mold in your home
The most important step is to identify the source(s) of moisture, which result in mold growth, and make repairs to stop them. If you only clean up the mold and do not fix the moisture problem, most likely the mold growth will recur.
If the source of the moisture is related to a building failure or fault, such as a burst pipe or leaking roof, a professional contractor should be consulted. In instances where the moisture source does not appear to be related to leaks, floods, structural faults or rising damp, it is most likely due to condensation. If you do not see mold growth but smell a musty odor, mold may be growing underneath or behind water-damaged materials, such as walls, carpeting, or wallpaper.
Once the source of the moisture has been identified and fixed, you need to decide if removing the mold from the affected areas is something that can be done without professional assistance. If the mold growth was caused by sewage back-up or other contaminated water, potential pathogens may be present and the work should be performed by a professional contractor that has experience in cleaning buildings damaged by contaminated water.
If the mold growth is due to condensation or small-scale leak and is limited to a small area (fewer than ten square feet), you can probably do the work yourself following guidelines such as those that have been prepared by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and AIHA.
On hard surfaces, such as countertops and furniture, use detergent and water to wash mold off and then dry completely. The use of biocides or chemical disinfectants is not recommended as these may be hazardous to occupants.
Moldy porous or absorbent materials, such as ceiling tiles, wallboard and carpeting should be removed and replaced. People cleaning mold should wear rubber gloves, goggles and an approved respirator to protect against breathing airborne spores. An N95 respirator would be appropriate for most cleanup projects, provided that you are medically capable of wearing a respirator. If you have health concerns, you should consult your doctor before doing any mold cleanup.
Over the past decade or so, the industry has given rise to many individuals and companies who tout themselves as experts and certified in various aspects of mold investigation and remediation, but who may have little or no practical experience. If you choose to hire a consultants to help identify your problem, or a contractors to perform the cleanup in your home, make sure that they have specific work experience in dealing with and cleaning up mold, and check their references.
The subject of mold growth and remediation can be a complex issue which prompts many questions:
How did the growth happen?
Is my health in danger?
How do I get rid of it?
Will it happen again?
We'll issue a series of blogs to present the various points on mold growth and what you can do about it.
What is mold?
The term “mold” is a colloquial term for a group of filamentous fungi that are common on food or wet materials. This includes the green Penicillium species that produces penicillin, and fungi that spoil our bread, fruit, cheese and crops. Most of these are Ascomycetes (def: ascomycetes include most molds, mildews, and yeasts, the fungal component of most lichens, and a few large forms such as morels and truffles) that produce a lot of spores.
The majority of the molds that grow on damp building materials are found in the soil and are adapted to grow on a wide variety of materials. Outdoors, molds live in the soil, on plants, and on dead or decaying matter. There are thousands of species of mold and they can be any color. Different mold species are adapted to different moisture conditions ranging from very wet to just damp. Many times, mold can be detected by a musty odor. Live spores act like seeds, forming new mold growths (colonies) under the right conditions. All of us are exposed to a variety of fungal spores daily in the air we breathe, both outdoors and indoors.
How mold gets into a house or building
Mold and fungal spores occur naturally outdoors, where fungi are the earth’s most important recyclers. Indoors, mold needs moisture to grow; it becomes a problem only where there is water damage, elevated and prolonged humidity, or dampness. Common sources of excessive indoor moisture that can lead to mold problems include:
flooding from surface waters (i.e., overflowing rivers) or from severe storms;
roof leaks from damaged or missing roofing materials, ice dams or blocked gutters;
storm-driven rain through window frames, exterior walls or door assemblies;
leaking pipes, sewer back-ups or overflows;
damp basements or crawl spaces due to a high water table or poorly managed rainwater drainage; and
condensation on cold surfaces.
Should I be concerned about mold?
It all depends on how much mold there is. Small amounts of mold growth in workplaces or homes (such as mildew on a shower curtain) are not a major health concern. Large quantities of mold growth, however, are an important public health concern. In addition, mold can damage building materials, finishes, and furnishings and, in some cases, cause structural damage to wood.
How molds affect people
Most people have no reaction when exposed to molds. Allergic reactions, similar to pollen or animal allergies, and irritation are the most common health effects for individuals sensitive to molds. Flu-like symptoms and skin rash may occur. Exposure to molds may also aggravate asthma. In very rare cases, fungal infections from building-associated molds may occur in people with serious immune disease. Most symptoms are temporary and eliminated by correcting the mold problem.
?Who is affected by exposure to mold?
There is a wide variability in how people are affected by airborne mold spore exposure. Currently, there is no established airborne concentration that is known to adversely affect any individual’s health. People who may be affected more severely and quickly than others include:
Infants and children
Elderly people
Pregnant women
Individuals with respiratory conditions or allergies and asthma
Persons with weakened immune systems
Those with special health concerns should consult their doctor if they are concerned about mold exposure. Symptoms that may seem to occur from mold exposure may be due to other causes, such as bacterial or viral infections or other allergies.
Can mold spores contain toxins?
Yes. Some of these fungi produce toxic metabolites (mycotoxins), and almost all molds that grow in the built environment can produce triple helical glucan, both of which are toxic to lung cells. Many studies in appropriate laboratory animals have demonstrated that very low exposures of these compounds can result in inflammation. The health effects of breathing mycotoxins indoors are not well understood and they continue to be studied. This research is done to better understand why epidemiological studies consistently show increased asthma among occupants of damp buildings not associated with atopy.
Black Mold
The news media and some contractors often refer to “black mold” or “toxic black mold.” It is usually associated with Stachybotrys chartarum, a type of greenish-black mold commonly associated with heavy water damage. Not all molds that appear to be black are Stachybotrys. The known health effects from exposure to Stachybotrys are similar to those caused by other common molds, and ?again in high exposure situations, are known to be associated with severe health effects in some people. Such exposures seldom, if ever, occur in buildings except during remediation activities by people not taking appropriate precautions.
NATIONAL BUILDING SAFETY MONTH, board-up, fire damage, flooding
Building Safety Month—in its 37th year—is an initiative of the International Code Council (ICC) and their 57,000 members across the world, as well as their partners in building construction and design, and the safety community. Building Safety Month is an opportunity to educate insurance and commercial property professionals, as well as the general public, on “what it takes to create safe, resilient, affordable, and energy efficient homes and buildings,” according to the ICC website.
The theme for 2017 is Code Officials— Partners in Community Safety and Economic Growth and highlights managing disasters, specifically natural disasters, in week three of this year’s campaign.
Some of the topics and tips shared throughout the month include Disaster Safety and Mitigation, as well as Fire Safety and Awareness.
The general public may not be aware how codes and code officials “improve and protect the places where we live, learn, work, worship, and play,” and this month can certainly improve that awareness!
IMPORTANT TIPS FROM THE ICC
Disaster Safety & Mitigation
If you live in a high wind or hurricane prone area and do not have tested and code- approved shutters for protection from wind borne debris, consider temporarily protecting your doors and windows by mounting exterior grade, 7/16" minimum thickness plywood and fastening it into place. Visit www.flash.org for detailed instructions on how to use plywood for emergency board-up.
Consider building or retrofitting to create a tornado-safe room in your home. Follow ICC/NSSA 500 Standard for detailed construction information and to ensure you achieve the highest level of protection for your family.
In wildfire prone areas, remove fine (dead grass, leaves, etc.) and coarse fuels (dead twigs, branches, etc.) within 30 feet of a building to create a survivable space in case of wildfire. Be sure to remove dry leaf and pine litter from roofs, rain gutters, decks, and walkways. Follow ICC’s International Wildland-Urban Interface Code® for detailed requirements.
Flooded roads could have significant damage hidden by floodwaters. Never drive through floodwaters or on flooded roads. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream. It takes only six inches of fast flowing water to sweep you off your feet and two feet of water to move an SUV-sized vehicle.
There is an old adage: “It never rains on a golf course.” As the official cleanup and restoration company of the PGA TOUR, SERVPRO® knows this isn’t true, but rain or shine, fans follow their favorite players’ performance at PGA golf tournaments throughout the season. Recognizing the ever-growing popularity of the game, SERVPRO has expanded its relationship with the PGA TOUR by becoming the presenting sponsor of the PGA Fantasy Golf games, available at pgatour.com/fantasy.
“We know people don’t associate SERVPRO with the wide-open spaces and fair weather feeling of a golf course. After all, SERVPRO is the company you turn to when the unexpected, even the unthinkable, happens to your home or business,” says John Oliver, owner of SERVPRO® of Wayne. “But each SERVPRO business is also a local business, there to support the community in good times and bad. Teaming up with the PGA TOUR as the sponsor of their Fantasy Golf Suite helps us build connections within our local community. We want local home and business owners to know that we are there for them ready to respond at a moment’s notice if things go wrong.”
The new “One & Done” games were launched on January 3, 2017*, but the game structure allows players to join in on the fun at any point during the current season. Each week, game players select one player to earn points for them in that week’s tournament. The PGA Tour Fantasy game is based on accumulated FedEx Cup points and the PGA Tour Champions game is based on accumulated Charles Schwab Cup points. A player may select a given golfer for a tournament in each of the One & Done games only once in each season. Since some tournaments earn a pro golfer more points than others, game strategy is based on selecting the right golfers for the right tournaments.
“With the first major tournament of the season—The Masters—just around the corner, now is a great time to start your One & Done game for this year’s tour,” says Oliver. “If you ‘master’ the trick of choosing the right golfers in the right tournaments, you could jump to the top of your Fantasy league.” The top finisher in the PGA TOUR game will win a new set of golf clubs, while the top prize for the PGA TOUR Champions game is a trip for two to the Charles Schwab Cup Championship at Phoenix Country Club in Phoenix, Arizona, November 6-12.
SERVPRO of Wayne specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened,” for both commercial and residential customers. For more information on SERVPRO of Wayne, please contact us at (973) 546-4977 or office@SERVPROsussex.com.
Plan Ahead! If a fire breaks out in your home, you may have only a few minutes to get out safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Everyone needs to know what to do and where to go if there is a fire.
Facts
A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Install smoke alarms inside every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound.
According to an NFPA survey, only one of every three American households have actually developed and practiced a home fire escape plan.
While 71% of Americans have an escape plan in case of a fire, only 47% of those have practiced it.
One-third of American households who made an estimate thought they would have at least 6 minutes before a fire in their home would become life-threatening. The time available is often less. And only 8% said their first thought on hearing a smoke alarm would be to get out!
Safety Tips
MAKE a home escape plan. Draw a map of your home showing all doors and windows. Discuss the plan with everyone in your home.
KNOW at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows leading outside easily open.
HAVE an outside meeting place (like a tree, light pole or mailbox) a safe distance from the home where everyone should meet.
PRACTICE your home fire drill at night and during the day with everyone in your home, twice a year.
PRACTICE different ways out.
TEACH children how to escape on their own in case you can't help them.
CLOSE doors behind you as you leave.
IF THE ALARM SOUNDS....
If the smoke alarm sounds, GET OUT AND STAY OUT. Never go back inside for people or pets.
If you have to escape through smoke, GET LOW AND GO under the smoke to your way out.
CALL the fire department from outside your home.
Information provided by the National Fire Protection Association (nfpa.org).
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As the temperature drops outside, wood and pellet stoves may be fired up inside the home. What you may not realize is that heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fires during the winter months.
Did you know that heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths? With a few simple safety tips and precautions you can prevent most heating fires from happening.
Wood and Pellet Stove Safety
Have a QUALIFIED professional install stoves, chimney connectors, and chimneys.
Stoves should be listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
In wood stoves, burn only DRY, seasoned wood. In pellet stoves, burn only dry, seasoned wood pellets.
Have your chimney and stove INSPECTED and cleaned by a certified chimney sweep every fall just before heating season.
CLEAN the inside of your stove periodically using a wire brush.
Allow ashes to COOL before disposing of them. Place ashes in a covered metal container. Keep the container at least 10 feet away from the home and other buildings.
Keep a CLOSE EYE on children whenever a wood or pellet stove is being used. Remind them to stay at least 3 feet away from the stove.
Stoves need SPACE. Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from the stove.
INSTALL and maintain carbon monoxide alarms (CO) outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. For the best protection, interconnect the CO alarms. When one sounds, they all sound.
Other Heating System Safety Tips
Keep anything that can burn at least three-feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.
Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
Never use your oven to heat your home.
Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
Test smoke alarms at least once a month.
For more information on fire safety, visit the National Fire Protection Association's (nfpa.org) website.
Contact us at 973-546-4977 if you have a service need or click here to visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Wayne's System Services.
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fire safety, fire extinguisher, extinguishing a fire, fire
Portable fire extinguishers can be life and property saving tools when used correctly. In order to operate an extinguisher, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests remembering the word PASS:
Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.
Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with them before a fire breaks out.
Remember, extinguishers do have limitations. It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your facility.
To find more information on choosing the appropriate class of extinguisher, please visit the NFPA website at nfpa.org.
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36 people suffer injuries as a result of home fires every day.
$7 billion in property damage occurs each year.
Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
In homes, smoke alarms should be in every bedroom and on every level, including the basement. In office and commercial environments, check your state requirements or contact your local Fire Marshall to help ensure all codes are met.
Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years. Other alarms need batteries replaced every year, and the unit replaced every ten years. If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately. Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm. Almost half of fires where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries (NFPA).
In larger commercial facilities, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits such as not needing to be tested as often and activating throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).
If you need help installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.
Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills. For more information on Emergency Preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Northern Sussex County.
Contact us at 973-546-4977 if you have a service need or click here to visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Wayne's System Services.
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If you have ever filed an insurance claim, whether it be for your home, auto or health, you know it can be a very stressful process fraught with uncertainty and questions. Will I be covered? How much will I be covered for? How will it impact my premiums?
Because of this confusion and uncertainty, many turn towards a Public Adjuster to get them through their ordeal. But, before engaging a Public Adjuster, there are a few things you need to be aware of.
What happens first?
After you’ve taken care of your loved ones, you will need to get your home back in order. When you have a damaging event to your home, for which you wish to submit a claim, one of the first things you should do is to contact your agent or your insurance company directly.
Your insurance company will record your loss and issue you a claim number. They will also assign an internal or independent adjuster to review your claim. This adjuster works on behalf of the insurance company. This adjuster will schedule a visit to your home to inspect and assess the loss to determine coverage. This is a benefit to you as a policyholder and does not cost you anything.
Once coverage is determined, the insurance company’s adjuster will then discuss actions which need to be taken immediately, such as getting the home dried out or possibly boarded up if needed. They’ll then provide you with their assessed value of the loss.
So now comes the question of whether or not to use a Public Adjuster. Let’s go through this.
First, exactly what is a public adjuster?
A public adjuster is someone that you pay to help you with your insurance claim. They are an insurance claims specialist who interprets the homeowner's policy, assesses the damage and how much it will cost to repair, and negotiates with the insurance company on behalf of the homeowner until the claim is settled.
The Public Adjuster does not represent your insurance company nor is he/she assigned by your insurance company. Public Adjusters are sought and hired by you to be your representative and deal with your insurance company. For their services they will charge you a fee, typically a percentage of the total award amount that they negotiate with your insurance company.
Remember, a Public Adjuster can assist with the claims process, but cannot get you more money than you are entitled to under your insurance policy and will not be able to get your claim settled any faster. You are simply paying them for a service.
OK, so when should I use a Public Adjuster?
Many will hire a Public Adjuster simply because they don’t have the time to deal with the claim. Remember, though, you are paying a fee for this convenience.
Typically, the Public Adjuster will charge a fee of 10%-15% of the final claim awarded. This can be a sizable fee, so be sure before you sign any paperwork. It’s also important to know that this fee can be negotiated depending on the size of the loss.
If you chose to deal with the claim personally, there are steps you can take before bringing a Public Adjuster in. Your insurance company is a reputable business and they want you to continue to be a policyholder.
If you feel you can justify additional damages, speak with your insurance company’s assigned adjuster and present your case. If you are not getting anywhere, ask to speak with a more senior representative. You may find that these steps yield good results.
If you still feel that you need more representation, this is when you may consider working with a Public Adjuster. It’s really a judgment call as to whether or not you believe your loss, and the associated damages you claim, are fairly reflected in your insurance company’s assessment.
Before you proceed, do some simple math.
Let’s say you had a fire loss, for which your insurance company has assessed a $200,000 payment to cover the loss, but you feel you are entitled to $20,000 more and you have not been successful with your discussions with your adjuster. So, you hire a Public Adjuster with a fee of 10%. At the end of it, he argues and wins $10,000 more from your insurance company for a total payment of $210,000. The fee will be $21,000 to the Public Adjuster, netting you $189,000. You would have been better off accepting the initial payment offered by the insurance company.
How can I find a good Public Adjuster?
As with anything else, a Public Adjuster can be found by doing some internet searches. Another place to start would be going to the NAPIA website. They have a vetting process and require their members to be licensed and to have been in business for at least 2 years.
Some steps you should think about:
Always avoid any Public Adjuster who tries to pressure you into signing a contract. Remember this a business transaction.
Interview several.
Get reference lists and check with their prior clients.
Check their company websites.
You can also ask friends and colleagues who they might recommend.
Avoid single practitioners or small firms unless they demonstrate a good track record.
Before signing anything, make sure your rights are protected:
Determine how long you have to cancel any contract you sign. New Jersey protects consumers with a 72-hour cancellation provision under the Consumer Fraud Act.
Verify that the Public Adjuster will remove any lien once the contract is terminated.
Limit the contract to no more than six months.
Once you’ve identified your Public Adjuster, you will sign a contract between you and them, which obligates your relationship with them until the claim is settled. The Public Adjuster will likely place a lien on your insurance claim, naming them as additional payee on all payments from your insurance company.
What role with the Public Adjuster play in the process?
So now you’ve hired a Public Adjuster. Here’s what you can count on him doing and what you should not expect.
You will still be very involved in helping the Public Adjuster document the loss. He will need details of the event and information about content damage and their value.
A public adjuster will assess your losses and help you get every penny you deserve, but don't expect miracles. Understand the insurance company may not agree to everything you want just because you hired a public adjuster.
The Public Adjuster will be your representative and negotiate every aspect of the loss with your insurance company until a final agreement is made. Once the negotiations are completed, your Public Adjuster’s job is done. They do not perform or manage the restoration portion of this project.
The next and final step is to begin the restoration process by hiring the various contractors needed to perform the cleaning and repairing of your home. This could start during negotiations between your Public Adjuster and your insurance company, depending on the urgency and what may have been agreed to.
Remember, the Public Adjuster may provide you contractor referrals to do the work, however, you are under no obligation to use them, after all, this is your home and you have every right to decide who performs the work.
Always consider using SERVPRO of Wayne for your cleaning and restoration needs, regardless of any contractors your Public Adjuster may insist on using. SERVPRO of Wayne is a full service restoration company, providing everything from board-up and drying, to cleaning and rebuilding.
Summary
I hope this has helped you in understanding the role and costs surrounding using a Public Adjuster. There is always risk in any decision. Minimize your risk by doing your research first by working with your insurance company. It will be well worth it to go down this path first.
Always feel free to contact SERVPRO of Wayne at 973-546-4977 to discuss this before making your decision. We’re always glad to help.
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Proper regular care can add years of life to your carpet and help retain the original appearance. The most important thing you can do is vacuum thoroughly and frequently, particularly in high traffic areas.
Vacuuming helps remove dirt particles, which can damage the carpet and dull the appearance. Use a vacuum cleaner with beater bars and good suction for best results. Keep bags, filters and recovery tanks clean.
Professional Cleaning
Soiling is a buildup of soil particles and oily materials that cling to the carpet fibers and dull the beauty of the carpet. Time causes foot traffic to drive the soil particles deep into the carpet. When this condition cannot be corrected with vacuuming, it is time to have your carpet cleaned by SERVPRO® of Wayne.
How often you will need professional cleaning depends on soil buildup, traffic, type and color of carpeting. A good rule of thumb would be to professionally clean your carpet every twelve months.
Most professionals use hot water extraction cleaning (also known as steam cleaning). Hot water extraction cleaning is the method recommended by DuPont, Monsanto and Allied Fibers. Other common cleaning methods include absorbent pad or bonnet cleaning and rotary shampoo (often referred to as Showcase Cleaning).
A Word About Do-It-Yourself Cleaning
Professional cleaning is recommended for any carpet, especially stain-resistant carpet. However, if you decide to do it yourself, carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions and use the correct products for the job.
Common Carpet Characteristics
Pilling
After carpeting has been subjected to foot traffic, moving of furniture, vacuuming and other forms of mechanical agitation, fuzzing or the working out of loose fiber ends in the pile can be observed. When an entire fiber is removed, it is called shedding or fluffing. In some cases, only one end of the fiber is worked out; in others, it is tightly twisted or entangled in the tuft. When this situation occurs in local areas, the long fibers become entangled and form a pill.
Pilling is common and is not a problem when the pills break or are pulled out by the vacuum as they form. However, a strong elastic fiber such as nylon will resist this breaking. This results in small spider-like pills over the entire surface of the carpet, perhaps more concentrated in the areas of greatest traffic.
These pills can generally be removed by lifting the main ball portion with the thumb and forefinger, and using scissors to cut the fiber which holds the pill onto the carpet. Take care not to pull any excess fibers from the carpet which may damage the pile when cutting.
Ripples
Carpeting is made under tension. Tension is necessary so that the loom or machine will function properly, producing fabric uniform from one portion to the next. Carpeting differs from many textiles. The back of the carpet may be composed of several layers which are not generally pre-shrunk. When backing yarns absorb moisture, the fibers swell, resulting in the relaxation of the yarns previously held under tension. Moisture, which produces swelling, may result from humidity, spills or improper cleaning methods.
If two adjacent areas are not manufactured under the same identical tension, unevenness or rippling will develop. Rippling will also happen if the tension of the second back is not uniform with the primary rug backing.
Ripples can be caused by dragging heavy furniture across the carpeting or by the sliding and pulling of carpeting in traffic areas caused by walking. Each case is different. Ripples may extend across the entire width of the rug, from the edge to the middle, in the middle only, along the edges or in one small section. This situation can sometimes be corrected by wetting backing yarns and tacking the rug out in a stretched position. However, the ripples may reoccur when moisture is again present.
Shading
Shading is an apparent color difference between areas of the same carpet. This results from random differences in pile lay direction caused by normal wear.
Shading is a characteristic of all cut-pile carpet. Shading is not a manufacturing defect. The physical cause is the difference between cut end luster and side luster of fibers. The sides of fibers reflect more light and appear brighter and lighter in color than the ends which absorb more light and appear to be duller and darker in color.
Little can be done to prevent or correct shading. Shading is an inherent characteristic of certain types of carpet. Shading can be slowed down by vacuuming or brushing the pile in one direction during daily or weekly maintenance.
Static
Do you experience light shocks after walking across your carpet? This is static formed by the friction of your shoes against fibers in the carpet. Usually there is enough moisture or humidity in the air to carry off the static charge as it is formed, but when the weather turns dry and the humidity is low, watch out!
The tendency to generate a static charge at low humidity varies from carpet to carpet. Some of the new carpets have anti-static agents built into the fibers. Other carpets use very fine metal wires or even conductive latex within the carpet to carry off the static. Anti-static protection of this type usually lasts for the life of the carpet.
If your carpet has none of these innovations and acquires static in dry weather, it may still be possible to obtain some relief through increasing the humidity or by the use of an anti-static agent sprayed on the face of the carpet. Many home products of this type are available from your local store. These, however, are not permanent and generally become less effective after a period of time.
Sunlight Damage
Almost every carpet will lighten in color or fade over a period of time. The extent of damage depends on the location, exposure, color, intensity and type of dye and method of dyeing of the carpet.
A solution-dyed carpet (dyed during the synthetic fiber producing process) is least susceptible to sun fading. The pigments are added to the polymer before the fibers are formed, locking in the color. Most polypropylene (olefin), many acrylics and some polyester carpets are dyed by this method. Lighter shades will usually fade more quickly than darker shades because they contain less dye. Most dyes are composed of two or more colors. If one color is affected more than the other, the fading may appear as a color change rather than a lightening of the color. For example, a green carpet yarn is made from blue and yellow dyes. If the yellow dye is affected and the blue is not affected, the green carpet may seem to be turning bluer. In other cases, the colors may fade uniformly, appearing as a lighter shade of the original color. In severe cases, the color may be completely removed and can appear to be bleached white. The fiber itself can also deteriorate.
You may be able to prevent carpets from fading in sunny locations by keeping the windows covered by draperies or by treating the windows with a protective coating which filters the ultra-violet rays. If you live in an area where sunlight fading is a problem, shop carefully for your next carpet purchase.
The Forgotten Spill
Sometimes stains are hidden by soil and revealed after cleaning. These stains, which did not immediately cause discoloration, are usually from spilled liquids containing colorless sugar which remains on the fibers. After long exposure to the air, hidden stains change to insoluble brown stains, but are not noticed because of dirt covering them.
Other kinds of stains can be caused by water soaking through and absorbing sizing, browning or fugitive dyes from the backs of the material. Because the fibers act as wicks, moisture will rise to the surface and evaporate, and discoloration will be left. Carpet owners who try to remove stains by using the wrong cleaning compounds and procedures may make the stained areas more noticeable.
To lessen the possibility of stain damage, immediate action should be taken. Thoroughly absorb all moisture and, when possible, put a ½ inch thickness of clean, white absorbent material over the area, weighing it down. Then call SERVPRO® of Wayne to learn how to remove the spot safely before it becomes a permanent stain.
Animal Stains
Cats may be considered one of the cleanest animals and dogs may be man’s best friend, but neither is necessarily a carpet’s best friend. Neglected animal stains have always been a problem.
Two types of reaction can take place between the chemicals in the urine and those in the fiber dye. Some dyes change color as soon as urine comes in contact with them. Often original color can be restored by immediate addition of a weak solution of ammonia and white vinegar. Pick an inconspicuous area of the carpet and test small amounts of solution to determine its effect on the fiber and dye.
The other change develops slowly over a period of several months and results in permanent change of fiber dye. Along with the dye change, some fibers become weakened or destroyed. After cleaning, these areas are more obvious because the soil, which hid the true color, has been removed.
The next time you are confronted with an animal accident, immediately absorb as much liquid as possible and wash the area with a solution of one teaspoon of neutral detergent (which contains no bleach) to one cup of lukewarm water. Absorb into white tissues or toweling. Add a white vinegar solution (one part white vinegar to two parts water). Absorb as dry as possible. Place a ½ inch layer of white absorbent material over the area and weight down. Allow to dry for about six hours.
If immediate action is taken to remove the stain in this manner, no change in color should occur, and that forgotten accident will not become apparent after your carpet has been professionally cleaned.
The Right Stain Removal Techniques
Stains can make a carpet appear more soiled than it really is, so no carpet cleaning method is complete unless all removable stains have disappeared.
A basic knowledge of different stains and chemicals for spot cleaning and removal is vital, since improper or indiscriminate use of spotting chemicals can worsen a problem.
Helpful Tips on Spotting
Always blot or scrape up as much material as possible before it soaks into the carpet.
For blotting liquids, use white paper towels or tissues. You might use a cloth, but it is less desirable. If used too long, the matter soaked into the cloth will re-deposit into the fibers and spread the stain.
For scraping solid matter, use a table knife. Never use a sharp instrument.
Never use soap. This frequently leaves a sticky residue that causes rapid re-soiling.
Do not allow solvent-based products to penetrate to the backing. They might damage and soften the latex compound used to strengthen the carpet backing.
Stain-Resistant Carpeting
Since late 1986, the carpet industry has undergone a drastic change in carpet fibers. With the introduction of Stain- Resistant carpeting by DuPont, Allied Fibers and Monsanto, it is wise to take a different approach to cleaning and spot removal in order to maintain the carpet warranty. The first thing to consider is the help that each one of these companies can offer you.
Carpet companies all provide a "help" number with the warranty, and this should be consulted before you attempt to remove a spot. (This does not mean that you cannot remove material with a clean white towel and water. Sometimes this may be enough). If the method they recommend does not work, the carpet company can recommend a professional cleaner in your area, like SERVPRO® of Wayne.
Furniture Depressions
Furniture legs may cause depressions in your carpet if allowed to stay too long in one position. If furniture is moved, the carpet will spring up in time, but often can take weeks or even months. For immediate care, cover the furniture depression with a damp cloth, steam with a warm iron and then brush pile briskly with a coin or kitchen butter knife that is not sharp. Correct professional cleaning by SERVPRO® of Wayne will usually remove depressions.
SERVPRO® of Wayne employs only the highest quality standards and workmanship to prevent shrinkage, over-wetting, rapid re-soiling and many other problem areas that come with inexperience.
Contact us at 973-546-4977 if you have a service need or click here to visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO® of Wayne's carpet cleaning services.
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The winter season is here and with it comes shorter days and lower temperatures. No matter where you live, winter brings a change in the weather. In an effort to keep our homes and workplaces cozy, many people use alternative heat sources like fireplaces, portable space heaters, and wood burning stoves. Did you know, heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths? According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment fires cause an estimated $1 billion in direct property damage annually. Keep the following safety tips in mind to help reduce your risk of a heating-related fire.
Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or a portable space heater. Have a three foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
Test smoke alarms monthly.
If your property does suffer fire damage, contact SERVPRO® of Wayne to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
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Cold weather is upon us in the northeast. With that comes snow, ice and frozen temperatures which are all jeopardy's to your home or business.
It is essential that you are aware of the hazards and can prepare, prevent or act quickly on each situation.
FROZEN PIPES
A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.
ICE DAMS
Ice dams can be a major problem during the winter season. They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still-frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof ’s shingles and into the structure’s interior areas.
PREPARE YOUR HOME
If you own a home which is unoccupied during a cold period, ensure you have ample heating fuel and that the indoor thermostat, in all areas of the home, is minimally kept at 55 degrees and ensure that you have a trusted person check the home periodically during your absence.
Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it to “off .”
If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
PREPARE YOUR BUSINESS
Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
Contact us at 973-383-2024 if you have a service need or click here to visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Wayne's System Services.
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SERVPRO professionals cleaning a fire damage home.
A back-draft of emotions often sweeps over the homeowners after a fire ravages a home. Fear, uncertainty, stress and doubt about the future of the property can overwhelm the homeowner long after the flames have been extinguished and the smoke has cleared.
So after the first wave of heroes have rescued the property, let SERVPRO® of Wayne help you restore it. With the industry approved training to employ rapid response, the utmost professionalism, cutting-edge technology and open communication, we strive to restore not only the home, but the customer’s peace of mind, as well.
So, before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call the fire damage cleanup and restoration professionals.
What You Can Do Until Help Arrives
Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring.
Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery.
Coat chrome faucets, trim and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil.
Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery.
Do not clean any electrical equipment.
Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor.
SERVPRO® of Wayne provides the following restoration services:
Board-ups-In some cases it may be important to secure openings to your home or structure using sturdy, durable materials designed to protect it from both weather intrusion and intrusion by outsiders. SERVPRO® may perform the board-up themselves, or outside subcontractors may be utilized.
Move-Outs - If prolonged exposure to the loss event could cause additional damage to your contents, your contractor requests relocation of the contents, or the safety of your contents is a concern,a move-out may be recommended. In these situations, SERVPRO® is trained to properly inventory, move out and control the contents from the structure during the cleaning, restoration and deodorization process.
Electronics Cleaning - Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces when moisture is also present. If the residues are not removed, corrosion can eat away at the metal casing and can ultimately cause electronic failure in the device. SERVPRO® can clean the outside casing correctly, as well as refer your equipment to a qualified electronics vendor.
Artwork- Artwork ranges from inexpensive framed pictures to extremely valuable fine art. Restoration of valuable art requires the use of a trained art restorer (known as a conservator), while less expensive art may not warrant these costly specialized services. SERVPRO® will usually subcontract fine art restoration to a conservator. If desired, SERVPRO® may attempt to remove smoke residues and odors, after qualifying with the customer that such cleaning procedures may affect the visible appearance of the item.
Structural Cleaning - After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. SERVPRO® will pretest to determine the extent of damage, and then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your structure. Depending on the amount of soot, SERVPRO® may even be able to reduce the cost of recovery by cleaning lighter soot deposits found on some surfaces, eliminating the expense incurred with repainting or refinishing. In other cases, SERVPRO® will clean to “prepare for painting”. This process deodorizes and ensures the new paint will adhere properly to the surface.
Contents Cleaning–All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. SERVPRO® begins by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. SERVPRO® can provide wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to pre-loss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items,clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac and much more. Finally,SERVPRO® can provide an inventory list of all “to be claimed” items if requested.
Deodorization–SERVPRO® provides specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO® does not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out the sources of the odor and remove them.
Repair / Rebuild-In most cases, SERVPRO® can provide full scope repair and rebuild services, including structural repairs, painting and flooring.
So, before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call the fire damage cleanup and restoration professionals at 973-546-4977.
Contact us at 973-546-4977 if you have a service need or click here to visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Wayne's System Services.
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Winter weather has arrived. Make sure your property is ready for it.
Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not properly prepared. Whether it is heavy rain, freezing temperatures, damaging winds, sleet or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage. While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather.
To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before colder weather hits.
Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
Roofs, water pipes and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can lead to a damming effect, that can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.
Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.
Ask SERVPRO® of Wayne about completing an Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) for your business. The ERP is a no cost assessment to your facility, and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster.
Contact us at 973-546-4977 if you have a service need or click here to visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Wayne's System Services.
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Fire Safety - Celebrate Safely This Holiday Season
Take care when decorating your home during the holiday season.#firesafety
DID YOU KNOW? December is the peak time of year for home candle fires.
Pretty lights, candles and decorations are just a few of the items bringing charm and cheer to the holiday season—however, if they are not used carefully your holidays may go from festive to frightening.
The American Red Cross offers the following safety tips to help greatly reduce the fire risk in your home or business this holiday season.
Place Christmas trees, candles and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents and candles.
Make sure that light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed.
Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
Use only sturdy tree stands designed not to tip over. Keep curious pets and children away from Christmas trees.
Keep anything that can catch on fire—pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from your stove top.
Designate one person to walk around your property to ensure all candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished after guests leave.
Contact us at 973-546-4977 if you have a service need or click here to visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Wayne's System Services.
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Trust SERVPRO to provide the most efficient and cost effective carpet cleaning methods.
We Know Stains
SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals have been handling stains and soils of all types, from residential homes to commercial facilities. Using IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards for carpet care as a guide, SERVPRO® of Wayne guide you in the best decisions to care for your carpet.
A SERVPRO® of Wayne will take time to:
Explain to you what cleaning option would be best for your carpet’s level of soiling.
Give you an estimate of time and cost of the carpet cleaning.
Explain the benefits of soil protection.
Explain the advantages of a clean carpet for good indoor air quality.
Explain how you can help prolong your carpet’s appearance with frequent vacuuming.
SERVPRO® CARPET CARE OPTIONS
Soil Level: LIGHT
Cleaning Method: Bonnet Cleaning
Process
Carpet is lightly sprayed with cleaning solution.
A rotary extractor with a “bonnet”pad is used to pull dirt from the carpet.
Advantage: Least aggressive maintenance cleaning method especially for short piled carpets.
Benefit: Cleans carpet with quick drying time.
Soil Level: MODERATE
Cleaning Method: Hot Water Extraction
Process
Truck mount or portable extraction unit applies cleaning solution with hot water while vacuuming the carpet.
Advantage: Deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.
Benefit: Helps promote longer carpet life.
Soil Level: HEAVY
Cleaning Method: Showcase Premier Cleaning
Process
Two-step process:
Shampooing the carpet.
Rinse and extract entire carpet for deep cleaning.
Advantage: Most thorough cleaning method in the industry; cleans when other methods may not work.
Benefit: Restorative method -excellent for helping restore carpet after a fire damage.
Soil Protection - Keep It Clean Longer
Heavy traffic lanes, time, normal wear and cleaning can remove stain and soil protection from carpet. Help increase the life of your carpet, reduce the frequency of future cleanings and save money by treating your freshly cleaned carpet with a stain and soil protectant.
For answers about carpet cleaning and care, contact SERVPRO® of Wayne or at 973-546-4977, or visit our website.
Thanksgiving: CELEBRATE SAFELY WITH A RECIPE FOR SAFETY
Cooking fires are most common during the holiday season.
DID YOU KNOW?
Thanksgiving is the leading day for home cooking fires, with three times the average number.
Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. It’s important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.
Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop.
Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling or broiling food.
If you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
Keep anything that can catch fire—oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains—away from the stovetop.
If you have a cooking fire, consider the following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe.
Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
Five Dangers of Deep Frying a Turkey
Turkey fryers can easily tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.
An overfilled cooking pot will cause cooking oil to spill when the turkey is put in, and a partially frozen turkey will cause cooking oil to splatter when put in the pot.
Even a small amount of cooking oil spilling on a hot burner can cause a large fire.
Without thermostat controls, deep fryers can overheat oil to the point of starting a fire.
The sides of the cooking pot, lid and pot handles can get dangerously hot.
SERVPRO® of Wayne wishes you a safe and happy holiday season.
The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior 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. SERVPRO® of Wayne professionals are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals to focus on saving your precious items.
SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals know smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following are additional facts you may not know about smoke.
Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
Wet Smoke (Plastic and Rubber) - Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke (Paper and Wood) - Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue (Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire) - Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace Puff Backs) - While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.
Other Types (Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue) - Special loss situations require special care.
SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals are trained to handle even the toughest losses. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO® of Wayne at 973-546-4977 to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
For more information on Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration, visit our website.
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Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:
Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
If 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 of Wayne 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.
If you believe 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.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of Wayne specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. We are Firm Certified by the IICRC and 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 – 973-546-4977.
Visit our website for more information about mold.
Crisis Communications – Engaging Stakeholders During an Incident
Courtesy of The American Red Cross.
Trust is the foundation of relationships. When your organization faces an emergency, communications (or the lack thereof) to your employees, customers, and other stakeholders can support or erode that foundation. Protect your organization’s reputation and relationships by being prepared to communicate in a crisis.
In an event, you need to know who to communicate to and how and when to do so. This requires pre-planning. Make sure your emergency response plans have a communication component so you will know how to respond to each risk your organization faces. Essential components of a crisis communication plan include:
Stakeholders: Identify the individuals and public or private groups your organization interacts with. Internal stakeholders include employees, volunteers, members of the board of directors, etc. External stakeholders include customers, suppliers, service providers, vendors, public and regulatory authorities, and the media. Think about what information each group would need to know from you during a crisis and what you would need to know from them.
Spokesperson: Identify a single individual or small team that will handle dissemination and receipt of information from stakeholders.
Strategy: Transparency and timeliness of communications are critical during an incident. Plan in advance what and how you are going to communicate with internal and external stakeholders, including alternate ways of accessing and sharing information. General statements, also called holding statements, can be prepared in advance and are released to stakeholders during an incident before detailed facts come in. For example, an organization operating in an area affected by a hurricane would release: “Our thoughts are with those who are in harm’s way and those responding to the storm. We have implemented our crisis plan and will be supplying additional information as it becomes available.” Review and revise these statements on a regular basis to make sure they remain timely and appropriate.
In developing your communications strategy and holding statements, consider the unique environment your organization operates in. For example, is litigation a concern? If so, it is prudent to include your legal counsel.
Once you have your communications plan, make sure it is part of your emergency preparedness training. The spokesperson or communications team should practice drafting communications when plans are exercised.
When the unexpected does occur, craft a message that is honest, clear, and concise. Foremost, assess the situation and collect facts. Your communications to stakeholders should be fact focused and not prospective. Explain what went wrong, commit to addressing the situation.
Be empathetic in your communications by including expressions of concern for those involved in the incident, your stakeholders, and the community. Don’t be afraid to say ‘I don’t know’ but be willing to go find the answer where appropriate. Your concern and honesty will support the trusting relationship you want to preserve through the crisis.
Nearly 47,000 fires occur during the winter holidays claiming more than 500 lives, causing more than 2,200 injuries, and costing $554 million in property damage.**
On average, one of every 22 home fires started by Christmas trees result in death.***
Candle fires are four times as likely to occur during the winter holidays.**
During the winter holiday season, an average of 40 home fires per day are caused by children playing.**
The number of home fires the American Red Cross has responded to has risen 10% since 2000.*
Having a working smoke alarm reduces one’s chances of dying in a fire by nearly half.**
Preparedness Tips
Place Christmas trees, candles, and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents and candles.
Purchase flame retardant metallic or artificial trees. If you purchase a real tree, make sure that it has fresh, green needles that aren’t easily broken. Keep live trees as moist as possible by giving them plenty of water.
Make sure that light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving home or going to bed.
Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
Use only sturdy tree stands designed not to tip over. Keep curious pets and children away from Christmas trees.
Keep anything that can catch on fire—pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from your stove top.
Designate one person to walk around your home to make sure that all candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished after guests leave.
Smoke alarms save lives. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year.
Visit www.redcross.org/homefires for more information on how to keep your home fire safe during the holidays.
Sources: American Red Cross,* U.S. Fire Administration,** and the National Fire Protection Association.***
One quarter of home fire deaths are caused by fires that start in the bedroom. Another quarter result from fires in the living room, family room or den.
One-third of survey respondents who made an estimate thought they would have at least 6 minutes before a fire in their home would become life-threatening. The time available is often much less. Only 8 percent said their first thought on hearing a smoke alarm would be to get out.
CAN YOU DO IT IN UNDER 2 MINUTES?
Every second counts during a fire. Fire experts agree, people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late to get out.* In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared and have an escape plan in place. A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows only 26 percent of families have developed and practiced a home fire escape plan. Once a plan is developed, it is critical everyone in the home understands the plan; the best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year. Increase your chance of surviving a fire by ensuring you have working smoke detectors in place, building an escape plan, and then practicing the escape plan. The following are a few suggestions to help you develop an emergency escape plan.
Draw a map of each level of your home and show all doors and windows. Find two ways to get out of each room. Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily.
Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second and third floors. Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory. Store them near the window where they will be used.
Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they’ve escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting place on your escape plan.
Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them. Plan for everyone in your home with special considerations for elderly or disabled individuals.
Practice your fire escape plan during the day and at nighttime.
Escape Planning for Your Business
An emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses, however, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business during an emergency. OSHA suggests the following steps when developing such a plan.
Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan.
Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked and well lit, wide enough to accommodate the number of evacuating personnel, and unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.
Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Designate a safe spot outside of the facility where employees can regroup, recover and conduct a head count. Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.
Hooray! It’s American Red Cross Fire Prevention Month! For the whole month of October, we are going to help you celebrate by learning more on how to prevent and prepare for home fires with the American Red Cross. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergeies/fire.
Did you know that home fires are actually the majority of the disasters that occur? You can easily prevent a home fire if you know the right protocol. The American Red Cross has many great tips for you. Please visit www.redcross.org to learn more about preventing home fires and be prepared if one does occur.
Don’t let a home fire happen to you and your family. The American Red Cross can help you learn how tips on how to prevent a home fire at your household. Make sure your family can safely escape your home in less than 2 minutes. Test your smoke alarms. To learn more please visit www.redcross.org/homefires for home fire prevention information. Don’t let a home fire affect your family.
Everyone knows “Stop, drop and roll”. But does everyone know how to escape their house I n less than 2 minutes? To prevent a home fire in your house, please visit the American Red Cross at www.redcross.org/homefires for home fire prevention information. Don’t let a home fire affect your family.
On average, 36 people suffer injuries as a result of home fires every day. To help prevent an injury to you or your loved ones, visit the American Red Cross at www.redcross.org/homefires to learn more information. You can help home fire victims by donating to http://redcross.org/cm/SERVPROindustries-pub
When is the last time you checked your smoke alarm? Make sure you are checking monthly to keep you and your family safe. The American Red Cross will help you learn the other ways to prevent home fires at www.redcross.org/homefires.
Over $7 billion in property damage occurs every year due to home fires. Your help is needed in every form. If you can finally donate please visit, http://redcross.org/cm/SERVPROindustries-pub. If you can give your time or effort, please become an American Red Cross volunteer at www.redcross.org to help others recover from home fires.
Are you home fire safety savvy? Challenge friends, family members, and yourself by taking the quiz at www.redcross.org/homefires.
Teaming with the American Red Cross, we are striving to reduce deaths and injuries due to home fires by 25%. Help us help you. Make sure you know all the proper ways to prevent and prepare for home fires. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org/homefires.
Attention grown ups!! The Red Cross #MonsterGuard app is a great way to teach your kids how to prepare for emergencies. Role playing as monsters, kids learn about different hazards such as home fires, floods and hurricanes. Learn more at www.redcross.org/monsterguard.
You cannot predict when something tragic is going to strike. You can make sure you are prepared when it does. The American Red Cross has great ways to get prepared at www.redcross.org/prepare.
Do you know how often you are supposed to replace your smoke detectors in your house? The American Red Cross does, and to find out the answer, please visit www.redcross.org. It is very important to have updated smoke detectors for your family’s safety.
What is something you can do in less than 2 minutes? You can make a cup of coffee, floss your teeth, but most importantly, evacuate your house in the event of a home fire. For more information on the proper procedure, please visit the American Red Cross at www.redcross.org.
A home is more than a supportive structure. It shelters you, your family, and all of your treasured keepsakes. What if you had the power to prevent the loss of your home? Well, the American Red Cross can give you some of that power by learning proper home fire prevention and safety. For more, please visit www.redcross.org
You can help save lives by having a home fire escape plan. The American Red Cross can help you get your worksheet today by visiting www.redcross.org/escapeplan.
SERVPRO supports the American Red Cross by asking every household in America to join us in taking two simple steps that can save lives; checking or installing smoke alarms and practicing fire drills at home. www.redcross.org
According to the American Red Cross, 82% of family have not practiced fire drills at home. Don’t be a part of that statistic. Practice home fire drills to save your children’s lives. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org
Sweeping Away Years of Dust and Dirt - Helping Reduce Potential for Damage and Health Risks
Since the ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality, inspecting the ductwork should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold and irritating dust throughout your building or home.
A routine part of a SERVPRO® Franchise Professional’s service is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC system and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may save you money.
The SERVPRO® Proven Duct Cleaning System is Cost Efficient
Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional uses a Portable Ventilation & Air Duct Cleaning System to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.
The SERVPRO® Duct Cleaning Process
The process begins by using patented equipment including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.
Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.
Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the environment clean.
As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.
Duct Cleaning May Not Always Be Necessary
SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.
In some circumstances, such as after fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.
The SERVPRO® System is the Difference - We Can Help:
National Preparedness Month is the perfect opportunity to share the benefits of having a readiness plan in place with your customers, business and family.
The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) will help ensure you and your business are “Ready for whatever happens.”
In the event of an emergency, the SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile®, can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including: Emergency Contact Information, Shut-off Valve Locations and Priority Areas. The ERP is also accessible online using your computer or tablet; download SERVPRO’s free Ready Plan app to access this information at any time using your smartphone or tablet.
The ERP establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 45 years experience and a System more than 1,700 Franchises strong. Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is key to quick response and timely mitigation. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.
Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time to plan for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can plan for it.
The ERP is a no cost assessment, all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save a lot of time in the future.
Call SERVPRO® of Wayne at 973-546-4977 to establish your Emergency READY Profile®.
As a member of the Ready Campaign’s National Preparedness Coalition, SERVPRO® is proud to present the following information.
How quickly your company can get back to business after a tornado, fire, or flood often depends on the emergency planning done today. The regular occurrence of natural disasters demonstrates the importance of being prepared for any emergency. While each situation is unique, your organization can be better prepared if you plan carefully, put emergency procedures in place, and practice for all kinds of emergencies. The following are basic measures business owners and managers can take to begin preparing. A commitment to begin planning today will help support your employees, customers, the community, local economy, and even the country. It also protects your business investment and gives your company a better chance for survival.
Develop a Business Continuity Plan.
Your organization’s risk needs will vary depending on the specific industry, size, scope and location. Begin by reviewing your business process flow chart, if one exists, to identify operations critical to survival and recovery. Carefully assess your internal and external functions to determine which staff, materials, procedures and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep the business operating. You should also establish procedures for succession of management.
Review Insurance Coverage.
Inadequate insurance coverage can lead to major financial loss if your business is damaged, destroyed or simply interrupted for a period of time. Insurance policies vary; check with your agent or provider about things such as physical losses, flood coverage and business interruption. Understand what your policy does and does not cover.
Prepare your Emergency Plan.
Your employees and co-workers are your business’ most valuable asset. Communication is central before, during and after a disaster. Include emergency information in newsletters, on your company intranet, in periodic employee e-mails and/or other communication tools.
Practice the Emergency Plan.
Some disasters will require employees to leave the workplace quickly. The ability to evacuate workers, customers and visitors effectively can save lives. If your business operates out of more than one location, establish evacuation procedures for each individual building. If your company is in a high-rise building, an industrial park, or even a small strip mall, it is important to coordinate and practice with other tenants or businesses to avoid confusion and potential gridlock.
Secure Your Facility and Equipment.
Install fi re extinguishers, smoke alarms and detectors in appropriate places. Secure all entry and exit points and plan for mail safety. Plan what you will do if your building, plant or store is not usable. Secure valuable equipment.
Improve Cyber Security.
Protecting your data and information systems may require specialized expertise, but even the smallest business can be better prepared. Use anti-virus software and keep it up-to-date. Don’t open e-mails from unknown sources. Use hard-to-guess passwords. Protect your computer from intruders by using firewalls. Back up your computer data and download security protection updates known as patches regularly.
National Preparedness Month Focuses Home and Business Owners on Advance Planning for Disaster Recovery
SERVPRO of Wayne offers property owners no-cost tools for preparing a disaster readiness plan.
Each September, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) sponsors an awareness event—National Preparedness Month (http://www.ready.gov/September) —to encourage both home and business owners to review and update their emergency preparedness and business and life continuity plans. SERVPRO® of Wayne, encourages property owners to take advantage of the information available from FEMA, because advance planning is critical in dealing with and recovering from the unexpected.
Most home and business owners have taken basic precautions to protect life and property in the event of an emergency like flooding, fire, wind damage, or even malicious attacks. In many cases, building codes require clearly marked emergency exits, fire extinguishers, fire and flood drills, and similar preparations. But the missing link for many property owners is a comprehensive emergency plan that provides first responders with the information they need to deal with the emergency quickly and effectively, like the location of shut-off valves, fire suppression system controls, and emergency contact numbers.”
SERVPRO® of Wayne offers tools for both commercial and residential property owners to help address this problem. Business and home owners alike can download the free SERVPRO READY app, and store time-critical contact and property information electronically, in advance, where it can be accessed with a mobile device in seconds if disaster strikes. In addition, when a business designates SERVPRO® of Wayne as their disaster mitigation and restoration provider, SERVPRO professionals will conduct a no-cost assessment of the facility and assist the owner in completing a comprehensive Emergency READY Profile® (ERP). The ERP includes information about emergency contact numbers, priority and high/risk areas, shut-off valve locations and more that can then be stored in the READY app.
The most effective response to any emergency is a fast response and that means having critical information available and ready to access at a moment’s notice. FEMA statistics* show that as many as 40 percent of businesses never reopen after a major flood disaster. Minimizing downtime and repairs with a quick, effective response effort can help prevent this type of outcome for businesses and can also help families put their homes and lives back on track in less time and with less stress. Creating a READY profile in advance with SERVPRO’s no-cost tools is well worth the time.”
SERVPRO® of Wayne specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened,” for both commercial and residential customers.
For more information on SERVPRO® of Wayne, please contact our office at 973-546-4977 or office.SERVPROwayne@gmail.com. For more information on the SERVPRO® and the SERVPRO® Emergency READY Program, please visit www.ready.SERVPRO.com.
Office building lobby after post construction cleaning services.
Structural integrity, materials, labor, safety, customer satisfaction and deadlines - the list goes on and on when building a commercial facility. The bottom line, however, is you are responsible for getting the doors open on time. SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals can help you meet your deadlines by providing thorough post-construction services in a timely manner. These services include:
Post Construction Cleaning
Once the floors are down and the drywall is up, it’s time to remove the debris and dirt in order to lay carpet, paint and decorate. SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals can provide the debris removal services to prepare the building for interior design.
Dehumidification and Drying
During the construction phase, a building can trap moisture. Excessive moisture could result in mold growth. If you think one of your projects may have a moisture issue, rely on SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals to provide the help you need eliminating moisture and preventing the potential for mold growth.
Final Cleaning
You want the facility to look its best when the doors open. Your local SERVPRO® of Wayne Professional provides cleaning services to give the building that extra shine. Services include:
Carpet, resilient and non-resilient floor prep and finish
Ceiling, walls and fixture cleaning
Deodorization
Air Duct Cleaning
Debris Removal (if necessary)
Window Cleaning
To learn more about all of the SERVPRO® services, visit our website.
Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies nationwide, SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals offer fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners.
Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.
SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA and state and local health regulations. Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices. SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals can help with:
Bloodborne Pathogens
Methamphetamine Labs
Crime Scene Residues
Arson
Vandalism
Sewage Backups
Black Water Intrusions
Mold Mitigation and Remediation
Bloodborne Pathogens
SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Trained SERVPRO® of Wayne Technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.
Methamphetamine Labs
Many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.
Crime Scene Residues
From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals can clean and restore your property and contents.
Arson and Vandalism
SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. SERVPRO® of Wayne Professional also provides general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods and human or animal waste.
Sewage Backup
Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits – these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals remove the sewage, contaminants and moisture, disinfecting as they clean. SERVPRO® of WayneProfessionals help ensure the structure is properly cleaned, disinfected and deodorized.
Vandalism Damage Do’s and Don’ts
DO:
Hose or wash egg or other residue damage from building exterior as soon as possible.
Carefully vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery.
Save containers revealing the ingredients of products used in vandalism damage.
Record all damage and photograph when possible.
DON'T:
Attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains.
Operate damaged lamps or appliances.
Discard broken or damaged pieces from porcelain, furniture or other contents that may be used for repair.
To learn more about these SERVPRO® of Waynespecialty cleaning services, please visit SERVPRO Cleaning Services.
Water hidden under wet carpeting can eventually cause mold damage if not properly treated.
Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time.
The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals have the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO® of WayneProfessionals will answer your call with rapid action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. Here are a few of the tools used by your local SERVPRO® of WayneProfessionals.
Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls.
Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals to monitor the drying process.
Thermohygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals can calculate and create an environment most conducive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized.
Ultra Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas.
Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor causing particles.
The bottom line? SERVPRO® of WayneProfessionals have the training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
Summer is synonymous with barbecues, parades and fireworks displays; but along with all the festivities are plenty of visits to emergency rooms—especially during July.
Each year, around 230 people are injured badly enough to require medical treatment after fireworks-related incidents, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. In addition to causing injury, fireworks are also responsible for thousands of house fires each year with millions of dollars in property damage.
There is nothing like firing up the grill during the summer months! Did you know, July is the peak month for grill fires? A backyard barbecue can become dangerous quickly if proper safety precautions aren’t considered. SERVPRO® of Wayne wants you to have an enjoyable and safe summer. Consider the following tips to help ensure your summer celebrations are disaster-free!
Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
Keep children and pets away from grill area.
Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
Never leave your grill unattended.
When using a charcoal grill, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.
Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear.
Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire. Children should never pick up fireworks that may be left over as they may still be active.
The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted by trained professionals.
CELEBRATE SUMMER SAFELY
Firework Facts
Fireworks cause an average of almost 20,000 reported fires per year.
In 2013, sparklers caused 41% of fireworks injuries.
On Independence Day in a typical year, fireworks account for two out of five of all reported fires, more than any other cause of fire.
*Most recent statistics available—provided by the NFPA.
Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event
Flooding and water damage events at 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.
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 Wayne
SERVPRO of Wayne 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.
SERVPRO® Pledges Ongoing Support to the American Red Cross Disaster Responder Program
Red Cross recognizes SERVPRO for their contribution to disaster preparedness and recovery efforts
The American Red Cross recently recognized SERVPRO®, a cleanup and restoration company, for participation in its Disaster Responder Program1. As a Disaster Responder Program member, SERVPRO pledges a donation to the Red Cross in advance of disasters, allowing the organization to respond quickly and effectively to nearly 66,000 disasters annually, most of which are home fires. SERVPRO is entering their third year of partnership with the Red Cross; their donations to the organization to date exceed one million dollars.
According to statistics cited by the Red Cross, seven people die in a home fire each day in the U.S. Aiming to reduce deaths and injuries caused by home fires by 25 percent by the end of 2019, the Red Cross launched a Home Fire Campaign in October of 2014. The support of SERVPRO and other Disaster Responder Program members allows the Red Cross to pursue their home fire prevention goals while they continue to provide critical services to disaster victims.
“One of the reasons home fires account for the majority of the disasters the Red Cross responds to annually is that the risk for home fires exists all year long,” said John Oliver, owner of SERVPRO of Wayne. “Statistics compiled by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)2 show the majority of home fires are related to unattended cooking accidents – and cooking is something most people do every day.”
Although SERVPRO’s business is helping business and home owners recover from fire, flood and other disasters, the company and its franchisees actively support disaster preparedness education, including fire prevention efforts. When disaster does strike, their relationships with major insurance companies combined with industry-leading job-management technology help smooth the path to rebuilding and restoration for home and business owners affected by the unexpected.
“SERVPRO’s commitment to the Red Cross Disaster Responder Program means that, when disaster strikes, homeowners can count on the Red Cross to address their immediate needs and supply essential services,” said Oliver. “Once the immediate emergency is under control, homeowners can count on the expertise of restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Wayne to help them restore their property and move forward with their lives.”
For fire prevention tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit www.SERVPROwayne.com. For more information on SERVPRO® of Wayne, please contact John Oliver at (973) 546-4977 or office@SERVPROwayne.com.
When there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different, requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a “typical” mold removal process.
Call 973-546-4977 to reach SERVPRO® of Wayne. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.
Inspection and Damage Assessment
Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view.
Mold Containment
Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.
Air Filtration
Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO® technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.
Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.
Cleaning Contents and Belongings
SERVPRO® Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. They are also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.
Restoration
Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
Your local SERVPRO® of Wayne understands mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.
Want to stay up-to-date on tips and tricks on maintaining a healthy home or business? Join one or all of our social media communities:
Specialized water damage drying equipment drying a wall cavity resulting in minimal repairs costs.
DID YOU KNOW there is actually a science behind the process of drying? Having the knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO® of Wayne professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages. If your home or business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals will:
Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet, to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.
What exactly does it mean to help “speed up Mother Nature”? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material–but only if the air is, indeed, drier. Th e only problem is, nature takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out.
SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals have the tools and equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dryhardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls (pictured below), and much more. SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals also use state-of-the-art monitoring equipment, and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.
The bottom line? SERVPRO® of Wayne Professionals have the training and equipment to help make water damage “Like it never even happened.”
One of the best precautions you can take is to purchase a good quality weather radio. A weather radio is designed to alert you to potentially dangerous weather situations, like an approaching tornado. It allows you to be warned ahead of storms, providing you time to seek shelter.
A weather radio is the most reliable source for weather alerts. Weather radios have made many advancements over the years and are very aff ordable. Most basic weather radios average around $30 and can be programmed to only alert you for the weather alerts you choose.
When shopping for a weather radio, look for the following key features:
Reviewable alerts (you can scroll through alerts and turn off the siren for alerts you do not wish to hear).
Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) alert programming (alerts when specific counties are threatened, ensuring you only receive alerts for your county).
Ease of programming.
If you need help programming your weather radio, you can always contact your local National Weather Service Offi ce or for additional information, including county codes for your state, visit the NOAA Weather Radio website at www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr.
Understanding WEAs
Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are emergency messages sent by authorized government alerting authorities through your mobile carrier. Government partners include local and state public safety agencies, FEMA, the FCC, the Department of Homeland Security, and the National Weather Service. Alerts received at the right time can help keep you safe during an emergency. With WEA, alerts can be sent to your mobile device when you may be in harm’s way, without need to download an app or subscribe to a service. WEA may share:
Extreme weather warnings.
Local emergencies requiring evacuation or immediate action.
AMBER Alerts.
Presidential Alerts during a national emergency.
A WEA will look like a text message. The WEA message will typically show the type and time of the alert, any action you should take, and the agency issuing the alert. The message will be no more than 90 characters.
Visit www.ctia.org/wea to learn more about Wireless Emergency Alerts, including how to determine if your mobile device is WEA-capable.
Severe weather can happen any time, anywhere. Each year, Americans cope with an average of the following intense storms*:
10,000 severe thunderstorms
5,000 floods or flash floods
1,000 tornadoes
2 landfalling deadly hurricanes
Approximately 98 percent of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage. * Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.
Know Your Risk.
The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you, your business and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA Weather Radio, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts. Severe weather comes in many forms and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazards.
Take Action.
Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for your home and business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place.
Be an Example.
Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with co-workers and family and friends on Facebook or Twitter. Your preparedness story will inspire others to do the same.
Build An Emergency Supply Kit
Water (one gallon per person per day)
Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
Manual can opener
Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
Flashlight and extra batteries
First aid kit
Whistle to signal for help
Clothing
Dust masks or bandanas
Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Hygiene items
Important documents; copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
Cash
Fire extinguisher
Matches in a waterproof container
Contact SERVPRO® of Wayne for more readiness tips and tools, including SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile® (ERP). Having an ERP in place for your facility can help minimize business interruption in the event of a disaster.
Contact SERVPRO® to learn more and be “Ready for whatever happens!”
Did you know, your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality? Inspecting the ductwork in your facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your building or home.
A routine part of SERVPRO of Wayne's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.
In some circumstances, such as after fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, your SERVPRO® of Wayne Professional can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.
If you have a fuel burning furnace, stove or fi replace, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends they be inspected for proper functioning, and be serviced before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.
The SERVPRO® Duct Cleaning System is proven and cost efficient. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional uses a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.
The process begins by using patented equipment including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and fi lth before vacuuming begins.
Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.
Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.
As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.
For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 973-383-2024.
Birds are chirping and the temperatures have warmed up—spring is fi nally here! Spring cleaning is a tradition allowing us to freshen our environment and get a head start on the hectic seasons of spring and summer. While many people deep clean their homes, this is also a great time to clean and organize your business.
SERVPRO of Wayne can help get your facility in tip top shape. In addition to air duct and HVAC cleaning, SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals are trained to use state-of-the-art equipment to remove soils hiding deep within your carpet, as well as focused stain removal and stain resistance applications. Other services include: upholstery and drapery cleaning, hard fl oor cleaning and care, and odor deodorization.
A clean environment is a healthy environment! Improve your living and work spaces this spring. If you need a little help, don’t worry, SERVPRO of Wayne Professionals have the tools to make your home or business sparkle in no time!
Spring Cleaning Your Workspace
Divide Your Workspace Into Zones:
Determine how you want and need to use the space and set up zones for your daily functions. You may require a workspace for your computer, a library area for your research, a storage area for supplies and a filing area for your archives. This will provide a foundation for a more efficient use of space.
Keep Only What You Need At Arm’s Length:
Boxes of pens, stacks of papers and old coffee cups need to go. Rid your desk of visual clutter by paring down the items on top to the essentials only. Supplies, paperwork and personal items should be kept in the zones you’ve established for them.
Sort Your Catch-All Drawer:
Use drawer dividers to give everything a place, like compartments for paperclips and rubber bands. Go through the drawer every six weeks and clear out anything that is out of place or isn’t being used.
Eliminate Digital Clutter:
Digital clutter can be just as stressful as physical clutter. Organize digital files and your e-mail inbox just as you would paper fi les–with a system of logical and clearly labeled folders. Also, keep the icons on your desktop to a bare minimum, and trade in sticky notes on your monitor for calendar reminders.
Children in homes with high levels of mold show persistent, cold-like symptoms - 300% more than those in clean environments.
Every year about 40 pounds of dust is generated per 1,500 square feet in a home.
Roughly 80 percent of the particles you see floating in your home in a ray of sunshine are dead human skin.
Causes of Indoor Air Pollution
Asbestos building products when dislodged (no longer intact)
Biological contaminants such as mold, dustmites, viruses and pet dander
Carbon Monoxide
Formaldehyde found in pressure treated wood
Lead (pre-1978 house paint)
Nitrogen dioxide
Particulates found in dust, pollen, cleaning sprays and poorly ventilated areas
Tobacco smoke
Volatile organic compounds including household cleaning products, pesticides and aerosol propellants
Cleaner Air Means a Healthier Home
Dirty ducts can circulate odors and contaminants like mold and irritating dustthroughout the home. SERVPRO of Wayne uses a proven Portable Ventilation and Duct Cleaning System to examine ductwork and make a cleansweep, removing years of dust and grime.
Estimates made by the World Health Organization say that poor indoor air quality costs $60 billion in employee sick leave and lost production.
Part of your responsibility to the tenants, workers and students who work and play in your buildings includes proper maintenance and prompt response to any situation that could cause illness or health concerns.
Sick Building Syndrome
In the 1970s, sick building syndrome became apparent as groups of people displayed similar symptoms after having spent extended periods of time in buildings with poor air quality.
Good judgment and immediate attention can correct the situation and save you money in the event of litigation. People most at risk include:
Infants and children.
Pregnant women.
Elderly.
People with compromised respiratory systems or asthma/allergies.
People with weakened immune systems.
While molds are found naturally in the environment, an overabundance inside buildings is undesireable; some people can become ill. Experts disagree about the more controversial details of mold, but they all agree that if you have excessive mold, it needs to be removed.
Improve the Air Quality of Your Business
When addressing air quality, inspecting the ductwork is SERVPRO of Wayne's first order of business. Dirty ducts can work to circulate odors and contaminants like mold and irritating dust throughout the building.
SERVPRO of Wayne uses a proven Portable Ventilation & Air Duct Cleaning System to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep removing years of dust and grime.
“Cents” of Smell - Create an Impact
You only have one chance to make a first impression with your customers. Using safe and biodegradable products, SERVPRO of Wayne can create a clean, fresh and long lasting impression.
Ways to Impress Your Customers
Clean dirty and stained ceilings.
Scrub lobby, furniture and draperies.
Establish maintenance plans for furnishings, carpets and draperies.
A warning is issued when a hazardous weather or hydrologic event is occurring, imminent or likely. A warning means weather conditions pose a threat to life or property. People in the path of the storm need to take protective action.
Watch
A watch is used when the risk of a hazardous weather or hydrologic event has increased significantly, but its occurrence, location or timing is still uncertain. It is intended to provide enough lead time so those who need to set their plans in motion can do so. A watch means that hazardous weather is possible. People should have a plan of action in case a storm threatens and they should listen for later information and possible warnings especially when planning travel or outdoor activities.
Advisory
An advisory is issued when a hazardous weather or hydrologic event is occurring, imminent or likely. Advisories are for less serious conditions than warnings, that cause significant inconvenience and if caution is not exercised, could lead to situations that may threaten life or property.
WINTER WEATHER ALERTS:
Winter Weather Advisory
This product is issued by the National Weather Service when a low pressure system produces a combination of winter weather (snow, freezing rain, sleet, etc.) that present a hazard, but does not meet warning criteria.
Winter Storm Watch
This product is issued by the National Weather Service when there is a potential for heavy snow or significant ice accumulations, usually at least 24 to 36 hours in advance. The criteria for this watch can vary from place to place.
Winter Storm Warning
This product is issued by the National Weather Service when a winter storm is producing or is forecast to produce heavy snow or significant ice accumulations. The criteria for this warning can vary from place to place.
Blowing Snow Advisory
Issued when wind driven snow reduces surface visibility, possibly, hampering traveling. Blowing snow may be falling snow, or snow that has already accumulated but is picked up and blown by strong winds.
Blizzard Warning Sustained winds or frequent gusts to 35 miles per hour or greater and considerable amounts of falling or blowing snow (reducing visibility to less than a quarter mile) are expected to prevail for a period of three hours or longer.
Freezing Rain Advisory
Issued when freezing rain or freezing drizzle is forecast but a significant accumulation is not expected. However, even small amounts of freezing rain or freezing drizzle may cause significant travel problems.
WINTER WEATHER ALERTS:
Ice Storm Warning
This product is issued by the National Weather Service when freezing rain produces a significant and possibly damaging accumulation of ice. The criteria for this warning varies from state to state, but typically will be issued any time more than 1/4" of ice is expected to accumulate in an area.
Snow Advisory
This product is issued by the National Weather Service when a low pressure system produces snow that may cause significant inconveniences, but do not meet warning criteria and if caution is not exercised could lead to life threatening situations. The advisory criteria varies from area to area. If the forecaster feels that it is warranted, he or she can issue it for amounts less than the minimum criteria. For example, it may be issued for the first snow of the season or when snow has not fallen in long while.
Heavy Snow Warning
Issued by the National Weather Service when snowfall of 6 inches (15 cm) or more in 12 hours or 8 inches (20 cm) or more in 24 hours is imminent or occurring. These criteria are specific for the Midwest and may vary regionally.
Frost Advisory
Issued during the growing season when widespread frost formation is expected over an extensive area. Surface temperatures are usually in the mid 30s Fahrenheit.
Frost/Freeze Warning
Below freezing temperatures are expected.
HURRICANE/TROPICAL STORM EVENTS:
Tropical Depression
An organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 38 MPH (33 knots) or less. Sustained winds are defined as one-minute average wind measured at about 33 ft (10 meters) above the surface.
Tropical Storm
An organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39–73 MPH (34–63 knots).
Hurricane
An intense tropical weather system of strong thunderstorms with a well-defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 MPH (64 knots) or higher.
Storm Surge
A dome of water pushed onshore by hurricane and tropical storm winds. Storm surges can reach 25 feet high and be 50–1000 miles wide.
Storm Tide
A combination of storm surge and the normal tide (i.e., a 15-foot storm surge combined with a 2-foot normal high tide over the mean sea level created a 17-foot storm tide).
HURRICANE/TROPICAL STORM ALERTS:
Hurricane/Tropical Storm Watch
Hurricane/tropical storm conditions are possible in the specified area, usually within 36 hours. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.
Hurricane/Tropical Storm Warning
Hurricane/tropical storm conditions are expected in the specified area, usually within 24 hours.
HURRICANE/TROPICAL STORM ALERTS:
Short Term Watches and Warnings
These warnings provide detailed information about specific hurricane threats, such as flash floods and tornadoes.
Hurricane Force Wind Warning
A warning for sustained winds, or frequent gusts, of 64 knots (74 mph) or greater, either predicted or occurring, and not directly associated with a tropical cyclone.
Hurricane Force Wind Watch
A watch for an increased risk of a hurricane force wind event for sustained surface winds, or frequent gusts, of 34 knots 64 knots (74 mph) or greater, but its occurrence, location, and/or timing is still uncertain.
Hurricane Local Statement
A public release prepared by local National Weather Service offices in or near a threatened area giving specific details for its county/parish warning area on (1) weather conditions (2) evacuation decisions made by local officials (3) other precautions necessary to protect life and property.
Tropical Storm Warning
A warning for sustained surface winds, associated with a tropical cyclone, within the range of 34 to 63 knots (39 to 73 mph), expected in a specified coastal area within 24 hours.
Tropical Storm Watch
An announcement that a tropical storm poses or tropical storm conditions pose a threat to coastal areas generally within 36 hours. A tropical storm watch should normally not be issued if the system is forecast to attain hurricane strength.
FLOOD ALERTS:
Flash Floods
Flash Flood Statement
(FFS) In hydrologic terms, a statement by the NWS which provides follow-up information on flash flood watches and warnings.
Flash Flood Watch
Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground; listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.
Flash Flood Warning
A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately.
Widespread Flooding
Flood Watch
Flooding is possible. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.
Flood Warning
Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Flood Potential Outlook
(ESF on AFOS) (FPO for Acronym): In hydrologic terms, An NWS outlook that is issued to alert the public of potentially heavy rainfall that could send area rivers and streams into flood or aggravate an existing flood.
Flood Statement (FLS)
In hydrologic terms, a statement issued by the NWS to inform the public of flooding along major streams in which there is not a serious threat to life or property. It may also follow a flood warning to give later information.
Coastal Flooding
Coastal/Lakeshore Flood Warning
Flooding that will pose a serious threat to life and property is occurring, imminent or highly likely. Coastal/Lakeshore Flood Warnings are issued using the Coastal/Lakeshore Hazard Message (CFW) product.
Coastal/Lakeshore Flood Watch
Flooding with significant impact is possible. Coastal/Lakeshore Flood Watches are issued using the Coastal/Lakeshore Hazard Message (CFW) product.
River Flooding
River Flood Statement
This product is used by the local National Weather Service Forecast Office (NWFO) to update and expand the information in the River Flood Warning. This statement may be used in lieu of a warning if flooding is forecasted, imminent, or existing and it presents no threat to life or property. The statement will also be used to terminate a River Flood Warning.
River Flood Warning
Flooding is defined as the inundation of normally dry areas as a result of increased water levels in an established water course. The flood warning normally specifies crest information. It usually occurs 6 hours or later after the causative event and it is usually associated with widespread heavy rain and/or snow melt or ice jams.
Urban and Small Stream Flood Advisory
This advisory alerts the public to flooding which is generally only an inconvenience (not life-threatening) to those living in the affected area. Issued when heavy rain will cause flooding of streets and low-lying places in urban areas. Also used if small rural or urban streams are expected to reach or exceed bankfull. Some damage to homes or roads could occur.
HIGH WIND ALERTS:
Wind Advisory
Sustained winds 25 to 39 mph and/or gusts to 57 mph. Issuance is normally site specific.
Extreme Wind Warning
Extreme Wind Warning (EWW) informs the public of the need to take immediate shelter in an interior portion of a well-built structure due to the onset of extreme tropical cyclone winds. An EWW for extreme tropical cyclone winds should be issued when both of the following criteria are met:
1) Tropical cyclone is a category 3 or greater on the Saffir Simpson hurricane scale.
2) Sustained tropical cyclone surface winds of 100 knots (115 mph) or greater are occurring or are expected to occur within one hour.
Gale Watch
A watch for an increased risk of a gale force wind event for sustained surface winds, or frequent gusts, of 34 knots (39 mph) to 47 knots (54 mph), but its occurrence, location, and/or timing is still uncertain.
Gale Warning
A warning of sustained surface winds, or frequent gusts, in the range of 34 knots (39 mph) to 47 knots (54 mph) inclusive, either predicted or occurring, and not directly associated with a tropical cyclone.
FIRE ALERTS:
Red Flag
This is a fire weather program which highlights the onset of critical weather conditions conducive to extensive wildfire occurrences.
Red Flag Warning
A term used by fire-weather forecasters to call attention to limited weather conditions of particular importance that may result in extreme burning conditions. It is issued when it is an on-going event or the fire weather forecaster has a high degree of confidence that Red Flag criteria will occur within 24 hours of issuance. Red Flag criteria occurs whenever a geographical area has been in a dry spell for a week or two, or for a shorter period , if before spring green-up or after fall color, and the National Fire Danger Rating System (NFDRS) is high to extreme and the following forecast weather parameters are forecasted to be met:
1) a sustained wind average 15 mph or greater 2) relative humidity less than or equal to 25 percent and 3) a temperature of greater than 75 degrees F.
In some states, dry lightning and unstable air are criteria. A Fire Weather Watch may be issued prior to the Red Flag Warning.
SEVERE WEATHER ALERTS (Thunderstorms & Tornados):
What is a Severe Thunderstorm?
A thunderstorm that produces a tornado, winds of at least 58 mph (50 knots), and/or hail at least ¾" in diameter. Structural wind damage may imply the occurrence of a severe thunderstorm. A thunderstorm wind equal to or greater than 40 mph (35 knots) and/or hail of at least ½" is defined as approaching severe.
Severe Thunderstorm Watch
This is issued by the National Weather Service when conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. The size of the watch can vary depending on the weather situation. They are usually issued for a duration of 4 to 8 hours. They are normally issued well in advance of the actual occurrence of severe weather. During the watch, people should review safety rules and be prepared to move a place of safety if threatening weather approaches.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning
This is issued when either a severe thunderstorm is indicated by the WSR-88D radar or a spotter reports a thunderstorm producing hail 3/4 inch or larger in diameter and/or winds equal or exceed 58 miles an hour; therefore, people in the affected area should seek safe shelter immediately. Severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes with little or no advance warning. Lightning frequency is not a criteria for issuing a severe thunderstorm warning. They are usually issued for a duration of one hour. They can be issued without a Severe Thunderstorm Watch being already in effect.
Severe Weather Potential Statement
This statement is designed to alert the public and state/local agencies to the potential for severe weather up to 24 hours in advance. It is issued by the local National Weather Service office.
Severe Weather Statement
A National Weather Service product which provides follow up information on severe weather conditions (severe thunderstorm or tornadoes) which have occurred or are currently occurring.
Tornado Watch
This is issued by the National Weather Service when conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes in and close to the watch area. Their size can vary depending on the weather situation. They are usually issued for a duration of 4 to 8 hours. They normally are issued well in advance of the actual occurrence of severe weather. During the watch, people should review tornado safety rules and be prepared to move a place of safety if threatening weather approaches.
Tornado Warning
This is issued when a tornado is indicated by the WSR-88D radar or sighted by spotters; therefore, people in the affected area should seek safe shelter immediately. They can be issued without a Tornado Watch being already in effect. They are usually issued for a duration of around 30 minutes.
Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. Infact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified.
Fungi produce some veryuseful results. Yeast is atype of fungi used inpreparing breads, baked goods and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages. The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold. An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and life saving penicillin is a product of mold (Penicillin chrysogenum).
Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people.
To The Unhealthy
Intrusion of water into your home or place ofbusiness can result in mold growth. Water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control.
When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth. Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments. If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside abuilding, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat.
Health Concerns
Health concerns may arise when excessive mold grows indoors. Concerns are more likely to arise for “at risk” people, which might include immune suppressed or compromised individuals, young children and individuals with chronic inflammatory lung diseases such as asthma and severe allergies. However, anyone may experience health problems associated with exposure to mold in damp buildings.
Possible health effects include: runny nose, sneezing, coughing, aggravation of asthma, sore throat or inflammation of the sinuses.
People most at risk include:
Infants and children.
Pregnant women.
The elderly.
People with compromised respiratory systems or asthma and allergies.
People with weakened immune systems.
Take Precautions
SERVPRO® of Wayne handles water damages every day and knows prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for along period of time. If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly.
If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert for:
The presence of visible mold.
Strong musty odors which may indicate mold ispresent.
Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
Excessive humidity.
These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems.
Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professionals
Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professionals evaluate the quality of the air inside a structure.
Some specialize and are skilled in testing buildings for the presence of molds. Using various testing devices, these professionals collect air and surface samples to compare the indoor mold spore count to the outdoor environment. If you have concerns about mold, SERVPRO® of Wayne can assist you in locating a qualified Indoor AirQuality/Environmental Professional.
Help Is Here
If you think you might have a mold problem, call 973-546-4977. A SERVPRO® of Wayne Professional trained in mold remediation will examine the structure for any visible signs of mold.
In the event mold is found, you will be asked to approve and sign a work authorization form prior to any mold cleanup or related work being performed.
The technician may also recommend you leave the affected area while the mold cleanup and associated containment process is being safely completed.
If extensive mold growth is present, additional assistance may be required. Some situations require the addition of an Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional with the specialized equipment and services needed to assess and /or repair property. You may wish to consult your adjuster if needed.
SERVPRO®of Wayne cares about proper restoration of your structure. In most water damage situations excessive mold growth is not a problem and SERVPRO®of Wayne Professionals can safely restore your building to pre-loss condition. The need to address the presence of mold can only be determined by an on-site, indoor environmental inspection. Please keep in mind SERVPRO®of WayneProfessionals do not interpret insurance policies or coverage; you must consult your insurance company to determine the scope of policy coverage.
Please follow these DOs and DON’Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration.
CLEAN WATER DAMAGE
DO:
Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
DON'T
Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining.
Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
CONTAMINATED WATER DAMAGE
DO
Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.
DON'T
Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.
HARMFUL WASTE
DO
Stay out of affected areas.
Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening.
Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
DON'T
Attempt cleanup of any kind.
Touch or handle items that might be contaminated with bodily fluids.
The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile is a startup approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business can receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.
The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage:
A no cost assessment of your facility. – This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. – It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. – This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
Establishes SERVPRO of Wayne as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. – You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by.
Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. – This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. – Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”
The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan For it NOW.
As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are “Ready for whatever happens” speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.
By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you help to minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do, who to call and what to expect in advance is helpful in receiving timely mitigation and can help minimize the effects water and fire damage can have on your business.
Are You Ready?
Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, are you ready for whatever happens?
In order to be fully prepared, you should have all pertinent and proper information in a written plan for easy retrieval. Some key questions to consider when creating a personal emergency preparedness plan include:
Do you have an escape or evacuation route in place?
Do you have a designated meeting place in case of separation?
Does everyone have a list of contact information including family members out of state who can serve as a point of contact?
Do you have a disaster supply kit with necessary supplies?
Do you have a first aid kit that includes necessary prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines and basic medical supplies?
Do you have enough non-perishable food and bottled water?
Do you have access to important family documents, including insurance policies, bank, credit card and loan information and family records such as birth certificates and social security cards?
Do you have an inventory of valuable household goods?
A well-equipped disaster supply kit should include, but is not limited to, the following:
Water- a large enough supply to provide each person with 1 gallon daily for drinking and sanitation.
Food- enough to last 3-7 days. Food needs to be non-perishable or canned food. You will also want to include a non-electric can opener, paper plates and plastic utensils.
Bedding including sheets, blankets and pillows.
Clothing- remember it may be warm, however, you may be working and cleaning and may prefer pants or long sleeves to protect your skin. You will also need sturdy, closed-toe, non-slip shoes if available.
First aid kit including antiseptics or sanitizers and bandages, over-the-counter and prescription medications.
Extra flashlights and batteries. Oil lanterns also provide a good source of light, if available.
Toiletries including toilet paper and hygiene items. Hand sanitizers are also good to have on hand.
Battery-operated radio with extra batteries so you can listen to weather service announcements.
Cash- you will want some cash and small bills on hand as banks may not be open.
Emergency phone numbers and contact information including insurance agent and family contacts.
Tools, tarps, plastic sheets, trash bags, duct tape, etc. to help make minor repairs.
Important documents should be kept in a waterproof bag or plastic sealed container and should include insurance, medical and family records, birth certificates, social security cards, bank account information and a complete home inventory analysis.
Gas- fill your car’s tank ahead of time if time permits. You may also want to fill plastic gasoline-approved containers with gas to store.
Pet care items including food, leash and a carrier or cage.
Don’t wait until it is too late; prepare now to help protect your family in an emergency or disaster situation.
In order to be fully prepared, you should have all pertinent and proper information in a written plan for easy retrieval. Some key questions to consider when creating a personal emergency preparedness plan include:
Do you have an escape or evacuation route in place?
Do you have a designated meeting place in case of separation?
Does everyone have a list of contact information including family members out of state who can serve as a point of contact?
Do you have a disaster supply kit with necessary supplies?
Do you have a first aid kit that includes necessary prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines and basic medical supplies?
Do you have enough non-perishable food and bottled water?
Do you have access to important family documents, including insurance policies, bank, credit card and loan information and family records such as birth certificates and social security cards?
Do you have an inventory of valuable household goods?
A well-equipped disaster supply kit should include, but is not limited to, the following:
Water- a large enough supply to provide each person with 1 gallon daily for drinking and sanitation.
Food- enough to last 3-7 days. Food needs to be non-perishable or canned food. You will also want to include a non-electric can opener, paper plates and plastic utensils.
Bedding including sheets, blankets and pillows.
Clothing- remember it may be warm, however, you may be working and cleaning and may prefer pants or long sleeves to protect your skin. You will also need sturdy, closed-toe, non-slip shoes if available.
First aid kit including antiseptics or sanitizers and bandages, over-the-counter and prescription medications.
Extra flashlights and batteries. Oil lanterns also provide a good source of light, if available.
Toiletries including toilet paper and hygiene items. Hand sanitizers are also good to have on hand.
Battery-operated radio with extra batteries so you can listen to weather service announcements.
Cash- you will want some cash and small bills on hand as banks may not be open.
Emergency phone numbers and contact information including insurance agent and family contacts.
Tools, tarps, plastic sheets, trash bags, duct tape, etc. to help make minor repairs.
Important documents should be kept in a waterproof bag or plastic sealed container and should include insurance, medical and family records, birth certificates, social security cards, bank account information and a complete home inventory analysis.
Gas- fill your car’s tank ahead of time if time permits. You may also want to fill plastic gasoline-approved containers with gas to store.
Pet care items including food, leash and a carrier or cage.
Don’t wait until it is too late; prepare now to help protect your family in an emergency or disaster situation.
Lead-based paint was used in more than 38 million homes until it was banned for residential use in 1978.
Lead can affect children’s brains and developing nervous systems, causing reduced IQ, learning disabilities and behavioral problems.
Even children who seem healthy can have high levels of lead in their bodies.
Lead is also harmful to adults and the elderly.
Lead in dust is the most common way people are exposed to lead. People can also get lead in their bodies from lead in soil or paint chips. Lead dust is often invisible.
Projects that disturb lead-based paint can create dust and endanger you and your family.
In most cases, lead-based paint that is in good condition is not a hazard.
It's The Law!
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires firms performing renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes, child care facilities and schools be certified by the EPA. These firms also must use certified renovators who are trained by EPA-approved training providers to follow lead-safe work practices.
According to EPA requirements (40 CFR Part 745) contractors must use lead-safe work practices and follow these three simple procedures:
Contain the work area.
Minimize dust.
Clean up thoroughly.
SERVPRO's Compliance With Lead Paint Laws
SERVPRO of Northern Sussex County is are aware of the guidelines involving lead paint and will take the necessary precautions according to current laws. SERVPRO of Northern Sussex County professional have been trained and certified to follow lead-safe work practices while performing renovation and repair projects in your area.
Does Your Property Contain Lead?
Older homes, older child care facilities, schools and other buildings are more likely to contain lead-based paint. Homes may be private, government-assisted or public housing. Schools are preschools and kindergarten classrooms. They may be urban, suburban or rural.
Percentage of homes likely to contain lead:
Built between 1960-1978 = 24%
Built between 1940-1960 = 69%
Built before 1940 = 87%
What You Can Do To Protect Your Family From Lead in Pre-1978 Homes
If you rent, notify your landlord of peeling or chipping paint.
Clean up paint chips immediately.
Regularly clean floors, window sills, and other surfaces. Use a mop, sponge, or paper towel with warm water and a general all-purpose cleaner or a cleaner made specifically for lead.
Thoroughly rinse sponges and mop heads after cleaning dirty or dusty areas.
Wash children’s hands, bottles, pacifiers and toys often.
Keep children from chewing window sills or other painted surfaces.
Make sure children eat a healthy, nutritious diet consistent with the USDA’s dietary guidelines, which helps protect children from the effects of lead.
Clean or remove shoes before entering your home to avoid tracking in lead from soil.
Contact us at 973-383-2024 if you have a service need or click here to visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Northern Sussex County's System Services.
Dry ice blasting is a revolutionary blasting method that uses dry ice pellets (CO2 in solid form) as the blasting material. The process is very environmentally friendly and provides a fast and effective alternative to traditional methods of cleaning industrial production equipment.
Dry Ice Blasting Is A Three-Step Process
Kinetic: When dry ice pellets are accelerated in a jet of compressed air and strike a surface at the speed of sound, they crack and loosen the coating of the surface being treated.
Thermal: The low temperature of dry ice pellets (-79oC/-110oF) makes the coating brittle, cracks it and loosens it. This allows dry ice to permeate the coating.
Sublimation: Dry ice penetrates the coating and immediately sublimes (passes directly from solid to vapor state). This results in a 700-fold increase in volume, an explosive effect that lifts the coating off the surface.
The Benefits Of Dry Ice Blasting
A Dry Cleaning Process: Dry ice blasting is a completely dry process because dry ice pellets consist of CO2 and vaporize immediately on contact with the surface to be cleaned.
No Waste Disposal: The system produces no waste products. Only the coating that has been removed remains to be disposed of, and this can usually be swept or vacuumed from the floor.
Environmentally Friendly: Dry ice blasting is completely non-toxic and no hazardous chemicals are used. Costs connected with the disposal of blasting materials and solvents are saved.
No Abrasion: Dry ice blasting is non-abrasive and therefore surfaces are treated very gently. Wear and tear resulting from the use of steel brushes, scrapers and other blasting materials is avoided.
Improved Production Quality: Dry ice blasting often allows for your production equipment to be cleaned while in operation without a need for dismantling or costly downtime.
Dry ice blasting is a revolutionary blasting method that uses dry ice pellets (CO2 in solid form) as the blasting material. The process is very environmentally friendly and provides a fast and effective alternative to traditional methods of cleaning industrial production equipment.
Dry Ice Blasting Is A Three-Step Process
Kinetic: When dry ice pellets are accelerated in a jet of compressed air and strike a surface at the speed of sound, they crack and loosen the coating of the surface being treated.
Thermal: The low temperature of dry ice pellets (-79oC/-110oF) makes the coating brittle, cracks it and loosens it. This allows dry ice to permeate the coating.
Sublimation: Dry ice penetrates the coating and immediately sublimes (passes directly from solid to vapor state). This results in a 700-fold increase in volume, an explosive effect that lifts the coating off the surface.
The Benefits Of Dry Ice Blasting
A Dry Cleaning Process: Dry ice blasting is a completely dry process because dry ice pellets consist of CO2 and vaporize immediately on contact with the surface to be cleaned.
No Waste Disposal: The system produces no waste products. Only the coating that has been removed remains to be disposed of, and this can usually be swept or vacuumed from the floor.
Environmentally Friendly: Dry ice blasting is completely non-toxic and no hazardous chemicals are used. Costs connected with the disposal of blasting materials and solvents are saved.
No Abrasion: Dry ice blasting is non-abrasive and therefore surfaces are treated very gently. Wear and tear resulting from the use of steel brushes, scrapers and other blasting materials is avoided.
Improved Production Quality: Dry ice blasting often allows for your production equipment to be cleaned while in operation without a need for dismantling or costly downtime.
Tips for Preparing Your Home or Business for Winter Weather
PREPARE YOUR BUSINESS
Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
Ask SERVPRO of Wayne about starting a Disaster Recovery Plan for your business.
PREPARE YOUR HOME
Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it to “off.”
If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puff-backs.
FROZEN PIPES
A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly. SERVPRO of Wayne is faster to any size disaster, bringing the latest equipment and training to help make your water damage “Like it never even happened.”
ICE DAMS
Ice dams can be a major problem during the winter season. They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still-frozen ice.
When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof ’s shingles and into the structure’s interior areas. SERVPRO of Wayne can help mitigate water damage caused by ice dams and help you get your structure back to pre-loss condition.
PUFFBACKS
A puff back is a messy furnace malfunction that occurs when an oil burner backfires, sending soot throughout your home or business. It can happen all at once, covering an interior in grimy soot, or a puff back can leak soot particles more gradually. Equipped with the training, tools and experience to quickly and efficiently clean and restore your home or business, your SERVPRO of Wayne will help make your puff back “Like it never even happened.”
FLU SEASON
Help prevent the spread of flu germs. Homes and businesses can depend on their local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional to clean and sanitize building materials, surfaces and contents following restoration industry standards, using professional cleaning products and EPA-registered cleaners and disinfectants. SERVPRO of Wayne is also trained and equipped to clean your HVAC and duct systems to help provide better air quality and help reduce the risk of circulating harmful contaminants.
Unexpected emergencies like severe weather call for immediate action. SERVPRO of Wayne knows immediate reaction to the disaster is important to help you get your life back to normal.
Utilizing our 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines*, SERVPRO of Wayne strives to:
Contact you within 1 hour from notice of loss to arrange for service.
Be on-site to begin mitigation services within 4 hours of notification.
Provide verbal briefing of scope to you within 8 business hours of on-site arrival.
SERVPRO of Wayne can also perform pack-out services, which is removing salvageable personal property from the affected area for off-site cleaning and storage.
Here are some helpful definitions and tips to get you through severe weather:
Watch vs. Warning
A severe thunderstorm watch means that the potential exists for the development of thunderstorms, which may produce large hail or damaging winds. A watch is issued by the SPC (Storm Prediction Center).
A severe thunderstorm warning means that a severe thunderstorm is occurring or is imminent based on Doppler radar information or a reliable spotter report. A warning is issued by the local National Weather Service office.
Storm Basics
A thunderstorm is a rain shower during which you hear thunder. Since thunder comes from lightning, all thunderstorms have lightning.
A thunderstorm is classified as “severe” when it contains one or more of the following:
Hail (one inch or greater)
Winds in excess of 58 mph
Structural wind damage
Tornado
Tornado Facts
Tornadoes are arguably nature’s most violent storms. Generated from powerful thunderstorms, tornadoes generally appear as rotating, funnel-shaped clouds extending from the cloud base to the ground. With winds that can reach up to 300 miles per hour, tornadoes can cause massive destruction within seconds. Damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and fifty miles long.
The average tornado moves southwest to northeast, but tornadoes have been known to move in any direction.
The average forward speed of a tornado is 30 miles per hour, but may vary from stationary to 70 miles per hour.
Tornadoes can accompany tropical storms and hurricanes as they move onto land.
Tornadoes are most frequently reported east of the Rocky Mountains during spring and summer months.
Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Before The Storm
To begin preparing, you should build an emergency supply kit and make a family communication plan.
Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
Postpone outdoor activities.
Remember the 30/30 Lightning Safety Rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lightning, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.
Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.
Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.
During The Storm
Use your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.
Avoid contact with corded phones. Use a corded telephone only for emergencies. Cordless and cellular telephones are safe to use.
Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords. Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers and turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
Avoid contact with plumbing. Do not wash your hands, do not take a shower, do not wash dishes, and do not do laundry. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
Do not lie on concrete floors and do not lean against concrete walls.
Avoid natural lightning rods such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area.
Avoid hilltops, open fields, the beach or a boat on the water.
Take shelter in a sturdy building. Avoid isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.
Avoid contact with anything metal—tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs, and bicycles.
If you are driving, try to safely exit the roadway and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rain ends. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle.
After The Storm
Never drive through a flooded roadway.
Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk from the effects of severe thunderstorms.
Continue to listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or to local radio and television stations for updated information or instructions, as access to roads or some parts of the community may be blocked.
Help people who may require special assistance, such as infants, children and the elderly or those with access or functional needs.
Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.
Watch your animals closely. Keep them under your direct control.
Emergency Supply Kit
Recommended items to include in a basic emergency supply kit:
Water (one gallon per person per day)
Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
Manual can opener
Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries
Flashlight and extra batteries
First aid kit
Whistle to signal for help
Clothing
Dust masks or bandanas
Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Local maps
Hygiene items
Important documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
SERVPRO of Wayne cites statistics on escalated cooking and candle fire risk that can turn festivities into a fire drill
Franklin, NJ, November 11, 2015 -- As the holiday season approaches and families gear up for decorating their homes and hosting large gatherings of friends and family, Jack Oliver of SERVPRO of Wayne reminds homeowners to take note of some sobering statistics about home fire safety from the National Fire Prevention Association:
· Cooking equipment is the leading cause of home structure fires. The three peak days for home cooking fires are Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and Christmas Eve.1
· Candles fires peak in December. The top three days for candles fires are Christmas Day, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.2
“These statistics are a serious reminder of how the excitement of holiday entertaining can quickly turn into a life-altering fire or even a tragic injury or death,” says Oliver. “While glowing candles and elaborate meals set the stage for a great holiday get-together, homeowners need to exercise extra care in controlling the dangerous potential for fires.”
According to the NFPA3, unattended cooking is by far the leading cause of home cooking fires, with frying posing the greatest fire risk and electric ranges posing a higher risk than gas ranges. Range top cooking in general started the majority of home cooking fires and caused 86 percent of related civilian deaths for the reporting period.
While incidents of candle fires peaked in 2001 and have been falling since, candles are still one of the top 10 causes of U.S. home fires, according to the NFPA. As with cooking fires, unattended or abandoned candles account for a large portion of candle fires–almost 20 percent–but the most frequent cause of candle fires is placing the candle too close to something that can burn, like curtains, decorations or furniture.
“It’s easy to see why cooking and candle fires both peak during the holiday season,” says Oliver, “and it’s also easy to see why homeowners need to take extra care when decorating their homes or entertaining. A moment’s inattention at the stove or a guest repositioning a candle on a tabletop may be all it takes to turn the festivities into a fight to save property and lives. While our business is fire and water damage restoration and we stand ready to help at a moment’s notice if disaster does strike, our sincere hope is that our friends and neighbors will enjoy a fire-free and festive holiday season.”
For more fire prevention tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit www.SERVPROwayne.com. For more information on SERVPRO of Wayne, please contact Jack Oliver at 973-546-4977 or office.SERVPROwayne@gmail.com.
Below is a recent press release regarding our efficiency and proprietary technology:
Local disaster recovery specialist offers insight into the complexities of dealing with disaster.
When disaster strikes, property owners need to make a lot of decisions quickly and under pressure. Effective disaster remediation involves a lot of moving parts: remediation specialists, insurance companies, local codes, state codes, documentation and more—and all of this has to happen in an atmosphere charged with emotion and stress.
Cody Sullins of SERVPRO® of Christian, Todd, Logan & Simpson Counties says, “Efficiency is key when you are dealing with disaster remediation; it saves our customers money and it makes our work more effective. SERVPRO is an industry leader in work efficiency technology—continually innovating to help both our customers and our business control costs.”
SERVPRO’s proprietary DryBook™ tool is one example of the company’s focus on efficiency and cost control. Remediation projects must be managed to both industry and insurance company standards, and Sullins says tools like DryBook™ help SERVPRO Franchise technicians track and document progress on restoration, cleanup and repair services. “The DryBook™ tool helps us deliver on every detail of every water damage job, every time,” says Sullins.
To help avoid regulatory headaches and paperwork pitfalls, Sullins suggests property owners consider the following criteria when choosing a remediation company to deal with the aftermath of a disaster.
1. Industry standards: Does your remediation company deliver a product that meets the standards set by
• The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Cleaning (IICRC)?
• Most major insurance companies, including cycle times and deadline requirements?
2. Recordkeeping: Does your remediation company have a system in place to ensure accurate, complete and convenient benchmarking of each step of the remediation process, including
• Capturing and updating data, including job diary notes, electronically real-time on the jobsite, with simultaneous updates saved at the central office?
• Using e-signatures to help eliminate lost paperwork and the need to scan documents?
• Providing a complete record of the damage and remediation efforts in images, with descriptions, start-to-finish?
3. Equipment selection: Does your contractor have the ability, on-the-spot, to
• Identify the right equipment for the job, based on the damage description?
• Validate the use of each piece of equipment, automatically, as part of the remediation records?
SERVPRO® Celebrates 6th Consecutive Year on Entrepreneur's Top 10 Franchise List
Below is a recent press release regarding SERVPRO's ranking in Entreprenuer Magazine's Franchise 500 rankings:
Cleanup and restoration franchisor stands strong in the #7 position in the 2015 Franchise 500 rankings
SERVPRO®, a cleanup and restoration franchise company, maintains its hold on the No. 7 spot overall – out of a group of 927 franchises that qualified for inclusion in the list—in the recently announced 2015 Franchise 500 rankings* from Entrepreneur magazine. This recognition marks the sixth consecutive year Entrepreneur has included the company in its Top 10 list and the 12th consecutive year SERVPRO has earned the top spot on the magazine’s list in its own industry—Restoration Services.
Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 selection process** uses “objective, quantifiable measures of a franchise operation” to help would-be entrepreneurs identify franchise investment opportunities. Some of the most important factors considered by Entrepreneur in developing the list each year are “financial strength and stability, growth rate and size of the system.”
“It’s very satisfying to represent the ongoing brand leadership of SERVPRO® for disaster cleanup and restoration services in the Christian, Todd, Logan and Simpson Counties area,” said Cody Sullins, owner of “SERVPRO® of Christian, Todd, Logan and Simpson Counties. “As a SERVPRO franchisee, we have the tools and knowledge—and the responsibility—to provide the best possible service to every customer.”
According to Sullins, SERVPRO continues to innovate with systems, processes and training designed to deliver faster, more consistent results to their customers. In the past year, SERVPRO customers benefited from the introduction of the following advanced features:
The company’s DryBook™ proprietary software, which provides franchisees with tools to capture and track the steps of a restoration project according to industry best practices and standards.
The Here to Help® Connection, which provides homeowners with 24/7 access to real-time data, allowing them to track progress toward project completion.
The Drying Chamber, which uses vacuum freeze-drying technology to vaporize water in water-damaged documents—a technique recommended by the Library of Congress. The process can recover and restore even the most delicate items and preserve the integrity of a variety of media including irreplaceable files, medical files, books, x-rays, photographs and more.
Because chillers use five times the energy of cooling towers, they typically garner all of the attention when it comes to maintenance and cleaning. However, maintaining a clean cooling tower is equally important in terms of energy efficiency. Cooling towers can be used to remove heat from water as a condenser loop as well, not just for chillers.
Cooling Tower Cleaning and Maintenance
According to The United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Technical Manual,cooling tower cleaning and chlorination should be performed a minimum of twice a year. These towers require regular cleaning to remove dirt, pollen, dust, insects, and other debris that has built up over time. These contaminants not only affect energy efficiency, but can cause a wide array of additional problems, as well, including:
Microorganism Growth, which can cause under-deposit corrosion and premature basin failure.
Water Treatment Costscan begin to skyrocket.
Scale Depositsand algae can begin to grow inside the system, posing health risks to maintenance personnel.
As you can see, regular cooling tower cleaning is important for several reasons. But that reason you care most about, the reason affecting your bottom line, is energy efficiency. You see, as calcium deposits grow, they begin to restrict and/or divert water and air flow, affecting the natural evaporation and efficiency of the cooling tower.
Proper cooling tower cleaning protocol:
Chlorination
Clean hot decks spray nozzles and orifices
The Tower basin should be cleaned and disinfected
The fan housing should be carefully scrubbed and disinfected
All distribution pans should be opened and cleaned
Pressure wash tower surfaces and basin
Vacuum the tower sump
Properly dispose of debris
Unfortunately, cooling tower cleaning is often neglected or performed improperly. Cooling tower cleaning is a labor intensive process that requires expertise, training, and specialized equipment. Regular cooling tower cleaning and maintenance is an essential to improve energy efficiency, reduce energy costs, and prolong cooling tower life.
Please contact SERVPRO to have a qualified professional provide you with a free Cooling Tower Cleaning estimate.
24/7 Emergency Service
SERVPRO Mitigates and Dries Water Damaging Events to Commercial and Industrial Sites in the Greater Wayne Area. Call about Our ERP Plan!
