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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Water Damage Blog Posts

Correcting Water Damage for Newburgh Homeowners

9/21/2022 (Permalink)

technician holding a moisture meter on a water damaged wall SERVPRO always uses advanced equipment and technology for water damage cleanup and restoration in Newburgh properties.

SERVPRO Offers Effective Water Cleanup 

Property water damage can be disruptive to the everyday lives of homeowners. These emergencies are inconvenient, but they can also be dangerous to occupants and destructive to structures or contents. While most homeowners have insurance to deal with unexpected emergencies, restoration services are responsible for returning their home to a preloss condition as efficiently as possible.

Reducing losses relating to water damage in your Newburgh home is essential to reducing stress, expense, and time scales. SERVPRO works with a restore-over-replace mentality that focuses on mitigating losses rather than wide-scale replacements. In a wet property, the most urgent task to complete is drying. The length of time a property is exposed to moisture is critical in the amount of damage caused. Part of this process is because of how materials in the building assembly respond to moisture. The other part is because the water itself begins to stagnate. The amount of materials in need of replacement is significantly influenced by the contamination levels of the water they are exposed to. For these reasons, reducing losses through mitigation and drying is a time-sensitive issue that should be enacted as soon as possible.

Professionally drying and restoring a residential property requires advanced drying equipment, experience, and expertise. A solid understanding of how indoor structures contain moisture and the science behind removing that moisture are essential components of a water damage restoration technician's skill set. When mold infests a property, it is usually because of a previous water intrusion that was not professionally restored. To prevent this from occurring at your home, our technicians use a range of measuring and monitoring equipment. These include intrusive and non-intrusive moisture meters, borescopes, and thermal hygrometers. The combination of this equipment allows our technicians to avoid missing potential problem areas such as cavity damage, vapor damage, and moisture migration. 

Work Process for Restoring Properties

  • Ensuring the safety of both technicians and occupants on-site and documenting the damages.
  • Mitigation of water damage through emergency drying systems or pumping of liquid out of the property.
  • Cleaning or repairing salvageable items and replacing non-salvageable ones.

Contamination can pose significant challenges to restoration. We measure contamination levels through a tiered system, with class one referring to clean water and class three being highly contaminated. Class one contamination is generally benign and requires little replacement of materials. Technicians can dry the property as well as most materials that were exposed to moisture. In these circumstances, light cleaning methods on carpets or walls can remove all signs of damage. Class three contamination is the highest grade and can involve liquid with biohazardous substances, which require technicians to utilize extensive personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hazmat suits. In class three damages, all porous materials that come into contact with the liquid must be removed and replaced. 

How Contamination Affects Restoration

  • If there are signs of significant contamination, you may need to be relocated during the restoration of your property.
  • Technicians can pack out salvageable belongings for safe storage during the restoration of your home. 
  • Often carpets, drywall, and textiles must be replaced to reduce the likelihood of cross-contamination. 

For emergencies at your property, contact SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County for water damage restoration at (845) 342-3333.

What Happens When a Pipe Bursts and Floods My Carpeted Hallway?

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Equipment SERVPRO Always Uses Advanced Equipment and Technology for Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration in Middletown Properties

The Water Removal Experts from SERVPRO Can Restore Your Home in Middletown.

A leaky pipe in the bathroom of your Middletown home might seem like a minor problem at first as you catch the drip in a bucket. Then one morning, you walk out of your bedroom and find your feet sinking into a very wet carpet. The pipe has burst in the night, and now water has soaked into the carpet. At this point, many residents in the Middletown area know to call SERVPRO.

What Can the Water Damage Experts from SERVPRO Do to Help?

Our team of trained specialists understands the cleanup and restoration process with water damage to carpeted areas in Middletown homes. There are several steps for this process which are listed below

  • Inspect and develop a plan
  • Water Removal using advanced equipment
  • Drying and Dehumidification
  • Monitoring the process throughout the service

How Do You Determine the Tools and the Protocol?

  • We utilize moisture meters, sensors, infrared camera imagery, and even boroscopes for peering into voids to determine the wet or damp areas and then develop an action plan. Some of the devices we use are:
  • Light Wands connected to portable wet vacs – Used for initial water removal
  • Deep Extraction Tools like Riding Rovers or weighted wands – Used to remove water that has soaked into the padding beneath the carpet
  • "Float" the carpet to dry without removing it from the room

What About Water That Has Soaked into the Walls and Baseboards?

 If the water has reached into the area behind the walls, then we can use the Structural Cavity Drying Equipment like injecti-dry systems utilizing positive or negative air pressure and heat. We can drill small holes to insert the tubes.

The water removal and damage experts at SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County are available 24/7. So, whenever you need an immediate response, call (845) 342-3333.

Newburgh Carpet Cleaning After Water Damage

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

cleaned and dried off-white carpet in living room When your Newburgh carpets are damaged due to water, don't worry SERVPRO has you covered.

SERVPRO Helps Newburgh Homeowners After Water Extraction

Anyone living in Newburgh who suffers a flood or leak knows how worrying it is when water enters a home. You might be asking yourself where to start with cleanup, or how much of your property can be saved.

Waterlogged carpets are one of the most unpleasant after-effects of water entering your home. Whether the rug is submerged in standing water, or soaked from a leaking appliance, you want to deal with it as soon as possible. SERVPRO is on hand to help Newburgh homeowners dry out their carpets after water extraction.

Why should I worry about my carpets after water extraction?

Carpets are generally quite expensive items, so naturally, you do not want to throw out your carpet unless you have to. Some homeowners think the best thing is to leave the carpet to dry naturally, but this is not a good idea. Leaving your wet floor coverings untreated can lead to several problems:

  • Stains can set into the fabric and become very hard to remove
  • Water damage can harm the structural integrity of the fabric and backing
  • Wet material is a breeding ground for mold which smells unpleasant 
  • Untreated wet patches can cause your home to smell damp and nasty
  • Moisture can seep through to the floorboards and warp them

However, do not despair – many carpets can be restored with the right cleaning method, and SERVPRO is here to offer advice and practical help.

How does SERVPRO know what the best cleaning method is?

We train our technicians to carry out a thorough assessment of your carpets and rugs to decide on the best cleaning method.

The first step is to determine the type of carpet fibers and the level of colorfastness. Our teams use a range of professional tests to assess the composition of your carpet. Knowing which materials are present is vital because the material type is key to deciding on the best cleaning method. We also look at the style of carpet, such as loop, plush cut, pile, shag, or Berber. Different fibers and piles have different levels of robustness. It is essential to keep this in mind to safeguard your carpet during the cleaning process. Finally, we test for colorfastness to reduce the risk of fading or bleeding during restoration.

Next, we look at the kind of soiling and the amount of dirt. This is important because oil-soluble dirt particles require different treatment than water-soluble ones, and a lightly soiled carpet will need less vigorous cleaning than a heavily soiled one.

Finally, we look at the pre-existing condition of the carpet. If the carpet already has marks, burn stains, footprints, fading, worn areas, or fraying, this can affect cleaning. Examining the existing condition lets us give you an honest assessment of the results you can expect after treatment.

We will also ask you some questions to determine how best to wash the carpet, and if you happen to have a copy of the manufacturer’s care instructions, we will look.

What cleaning methods are available?

SERVPRO teams have several cleaning methods to choose from. The three most common ones if a carpet is heavily soiled, such as following water extraction, are:

  • Deluxe precondition and rinse – this uses a method similar to hot water extraction to saturate the carpet with a cleaning solution and then carefully rinse it clean.
  • Rotary jet extraction is similar to precondition and rinse, except that a rotary extractor is used instead of a wand for more significant agitation of the fibers to dislodge more firmly embedded dirt.
  • Showcase – this is the most vigorous cleaning method, utilizing the rotary jet machine and a careful program of cleaning and rinsing to cleanse the most heavily soiled carpets.

Depending on the situation, we might also use dry shampoo, carbonated foam shampoo, or spot cleaning. We train our technicians to choose the best cleaning method for the fiber type and level of soiling. The depth of the carpet’s pile, the material, and any pre-existing wear and tear can affect which cleaning method is the safest.

What happens after my carpet is cleaned?

Once your carpet is clean, our team moves on to the drying process. We use a combination of air movers, fans, and dehumidifiers to dry over, under, and around your carpets to ensure they are thoroughly dry, and there is no risk of mold growth.

We deodorize your home when we have finished, leaving it smelling fresh and "Like it never even happened."

If you are worried about your carpets after water extraction, SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County is here to help. Call us today at (845) 241-8707.

Is Your Home Prepared for that Other Kind of Water Damage? FLOODING

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

a flooded kitchen with furniture floating everywhere Don’t let flooding in your home prevent you from living in it. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 to assess and remediate the flood damage scenario in your home.

Extreme Water Level Preparation in Newburgh Needs to Include a Reliable Restoration Company

Flooding in Newburgh can happen when you least expect it, from advancing groundwater to a broken water main or ruptured pipe. Despite your best efforts, a rise in water levels in your home can pose a danger to you and your family. Once it is safe to re-enter your home, you should invite a professional cleanup crew to help you assess the damage. Expert advice can save you months of complications and delays in getting life back to normal.

For Newburgh residents, water damage cleanup is a job for our SERVPRO team. Our technical expertise reflects the efficiency with which we survey your home and prioritize cleanup activities. A deficient cleanup job can set the stage for more problems, so we do our best to avoid further complications.

What does a water cleanup company do?

At SERVPRO, we take a multi-pronged approach to the cleanup of your home. Besides removing badly damaged items such as upholstered sofas and carpets, we also inspect your structure. If water is soaking and weakening your drywall or is collecting behind your walls, our team can detect and remove it. Some of the equipment we employ for the extraction includes-

Let SERVPRO of North Orange County help you in your time of need. Call us at (845) 342-3333 and let us leave your Middletown or New Windsor home "Like it never even happened."

Handling Your Hidden Water Damage with Precision in Newburgh

1/28/2022 (Permalink)

a broken pipe that is leaking water When a burst pipe brings water into your home, team SERVPRO can help. Contact our certified technicians right away to tackle the water damage.

SERVPRO is There for Newburgh Homeowners for All Water Damage Calls

You may have experienced a minor water spill in your Newburgh home and just grabbed the mop and bucket to clean it up. If the water did not make its way to your baseboards or under carpeting, you might be in the clear. However, moisture migrates to dry spaces while following the path of least resistance. Any spills where water travels warrant a call to SERVPRO so that we can take the appropriate measures to keep secondary damage and black mold from developing. With our training and experience, we make water-related incidents in your home “Like it never even happened.”

What About Stains on the Ceiling?

In addition to burst pipes and flooding, we also receive calls for water damage in Newburgh that involve leak detection and signs of hidden moisture. SERVPRO’s IICRC-certified water restoration technicians (WRT) know how to spot potential issues where water or moisture seeped into your ceiling or drywall and left brown stains.

There may be several possible causes of water stains, including:

  • A leaking roof from storms – If you have faulty flashing, missing shingles, or other roof damage, it can cause leaking with each rainstorm.
  • Slow-leaking pipes – Water stains may develop as a tell-tale sign whenever plumbing leaks from an overhead bathroom. 
  • Attic or HVAC condensation – Homes with attics or properties with a possible HVAC issue may end up having signs of water damage. There could be a lack of ventilation or another issue that needs to get addressed before the damage worsens.

With our moisture detection tools and dehumidification equipment, our team gets to the heart of the problem in no time at all. We initiate controlled demolition to replace building materials to restore your property to pre-water damage condition for any areas showing signs of damage.

SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County are there no matter the type of water damage or restoration emergency you have. Call for 24-hour service at (845) 342-3333.

Which Water Removal Step Is Most Crucial in Middletown Homes?

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

removed carpet, dehus and airmovers working SERVPRO removes water, non-salvageable carpets and dries plywood subfloor in Middletown homes with LGR dehumidifiers and air movers

Professionals Like SERVPRO Take Comprehensive Water Removal Approaches

You probably know that addressing water intrusion in your Middletown property would take several processes. What may not be clear is what actions are essential and thus require faster completion or extra attention to ensure positive results.

All the steps taken during water removal at your Middletown home play a crucial role. What matters is whether they are done exhaustively, thus delivering the necessary outcome, which is why involving professionals like SERVPRO helps.

Exhaustive water removal takes:

  • A thorough extraction, especially from porous surfaces
  • Sufficient circulation of air over the wet areas
  • Balanced dehumidification and evaporation rates

The order in which the water removal processes are done matters in determining the efficiency. Finishing extraction processes before starting drying processes improves efficiency since extraction is 1200 times faster than evaporation. Our SERVPRO crews can maximize the amount of water removed through extraction by using equipment with superior vacuum lift or weighted extractors that squeeze materials first to support extraction efforts.

Correctly finishing the water removal process is essential since it prevents additional problems that might develop later, whether it is strong odors or microbial growth. Carefully planning and closely monitoring the drying process is essential. Our SERVPRO crew chiefs calculate the number of air movers and dehumidifiers necessary to complete drying within 72 hours, thus ensuring mold does not develop in the wet areas. We also keep monitoring the progress by taking readings with moisture meters.

Other simple steps such as correct equipment positioning also help. For instance, when using axial fans, our technicians position them at a 15°angle and 45° when using centrifugal fans, creating a vortex of circular airflow for sustained drying.

SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County manage water removal from any property professionally. Call us at (845) 342-3333. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Water Cleanup Issues that Affect Fabrics in Newburgh Homes Ruining the Outcome

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

two fabrics with water splotches Call the Pros from SERVPRO to rescue your fabrics and drapes from water damage at your lovely Newburgh home

SERVPRO Technicians Evaluate the Outcome of Cleaning Exercise and Find Solutions for Unexpected Problems

A water cleanup exercise may seem straightforward, especially if the water involved is not contaminated. Extracting pools of water, cleaning surfaces and contents before drying the entire property takes care of the problem. However, you might notice some unpleasant things once the process is over.

Trying different solutions that do not work can be one of the toughest challenges when fixing problems stemming from water cleanup in your Newburgh home. However, if a professional like SERVPRO handles the restoration for you, it is easier to deal with the issues since our experienced crews have probably encountered similar problems in the past.

Some of the confusing problems might include:

  • Colors bleeding from fabrics
  • Black marks on arms and back of upholstery items
  • Fabrics seeming dull after cleaning
  • Yellowing or streaking of fabrics

Fabrics usually bleed if they are non-colorfast or because of the cleaning procedures used. Our SERVPRO crews pretest upholstery, draperies, and carpets to establish the colorfast and non-colorfast ones. Such testing must address all fabrics and colors in an item for ultimate effectiveness. Another reason why fabrics might bleed is using extreme temperatures and water pressure during cleaning, so our technicians use moderate settings.

Dark spots appear because of marks made on filling materials by the item's manufacturer to indicate points for cutting padding. Wet cleaning the item causes the color from the marks to bleed through. If the item is not wet initially, our technicians prefer dry cleaning methods such as vacuuming or applying limited moisture to prevent spotting. Small spray bottles containing the correct detergent can produce the desired results.

Streaks and yellowing are very disappointing. Yellowing is mostly caused by BHT, a preservative used in plastics, acrylic polymer coatings, and adhesives. Streaks, on the other hand, can result from overwetting.

SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County manage all aspects of water cleanup, including controlling the finishing to make it "Like it never even happened." Call us at (845) 342-3333.

Using Moisture Meters to Find Hidden Water Within Walls

7/24/2021 (Permalink)

moisture meter SERVPRO uses the latest technology and equipment for every size water damage restoration service needed for your property.

SERVPRO's Moisture Sensors Assist with Water Damage Recovery in Newburgh

The source of in-home flooding can come from many places. The dishwasher may overflow, the ice machine hose can disconnect, and the water heater can spring a leak. Whenever there is any water intrusion in your home, you can count on SERVPRO to have the right tools for the job.

What Does a Moisture Sensor Do?

When we arrive at a home with water damage in Newburgh, the first thing we do is perform a scope. We use equipment that allows us to track moisture within a structure. One of the pieces of equipment we use is a moisture meter. A moisture meter:

  • Detects water in carpet and padding
  • Has sharp probes that penetrate through carpeting
  • Tracks water that has migrated to the subflooring
  • Blinks and beeps to let the tech know there is moisture present
  • It doesn't measure the amount of moisture
  • is used to detect water in items other than carpeting

Call in the Water Damage Remediation Pros

If your home has experienced a water intrusion, call in the team with the experience and equipment to get the job done. Our services include:

  • Water clean up
  • Ceiling repairs from water damage
  • Water removal services
  • Flood restoration
  • Basement flooding cleanup

SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County can meet all of your fire, water, and flood damage needs. Just give us a call at (845) 342-3333. We have emergency services for water damage around the clock. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What Happens When a Bathtub Overflows in a Middletown Home?

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

an overflowing bathtub Accidents happen rather quickly. Be prepared by calling SERVPRO for water removal and effective remediation services.

SERVPRO Provides Water Damage Mitigation When In-Home Flooding Occurs in Middletown

An overflowing bathtub can cause significant damage to your home. The water goes under the flooring, behind cabinets, and can migrate to lower levels if the bathroom is on a higher level. SERVPRO provides water damage remediation that can prevent further problems when contacted right away.

Professional Water Removal Services

Whether it is an overflowing bathtub, burst pipes, or ceiling leaks, you need to quickly get the situation under control. SERVPRO arrives ASAP and provides water damage mitigation in Middletown homes, hit with in-home flooding. Services we offer include:

  • Basement flooding cleanup
  • Water damage repairs
  • Ceiling repairs from water damages
  • Water cleanup
  • Emergency services for water damage

Water Damage Restoration You Can Trust

When we arrive, we use specialized equipment to trace the water’s migration path, ensuring all moisture gets located and removed. Often we can save flooring and carpeting if called in immediately. We use the correct ratio of dehumidifiers to air movers for optimum drying. We determine the correct drying times to avoid problems that can occur when certain materials are dried too fast.

Call in the Professional Water Restoration Team

When you need quality water damage mitigation, contact SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County. You can reach us at (845) 342-3333.

What Leads to Water Damage in Newburgh Homes?

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

a broken pipe that is leaking water Plumbing issues can cause water damage in your home. Contact our SERVPRO team for certified technicians and efficient water removal tools.

SERVPRO Can Help Identify Water Problems and Provide Water Cleanup in Newburgh

Knowing what causes water damage in your home can help prevent the problem from occurring. Moisture can seep under flooring and migrate to areas you cannot see until the damage is done.

Common Causes of Water Damage 

SERVPRO gets called in to provide water cleanup in Newburgh for many reasons. Some of the common situations that prompt those calls include:

  • Leaking Plumbing – Getting the pipes repaired is crucial if you want to stop the leaks. 
  • Plant Growth Close to the House – Overgrowth of shrubs and bushes too close to the building allows the root system to penetrate the foundation. 
  • Leaky Roof or Toilet – When this happens, water works its way down, damaging drywall. 

Professional Water Removal Services

SERVPRO can help with all of those scenarios. We typically arrive within an hour or two of your call, ready to find the source of your moisture problem and mitigate the damage. Services we offer include:

  • Water Damage Remediation
  • Basement Flooding Cleanup
  • Ceiling Repairs from Water Damage
  • Emergency Services for Water Damage

Taking care of water problems immediately is crucial to prevent lasting damage. Mold grows when there is a good moisture and food source too. For professional water cleanup, call SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County at (845) 342-3333 today.

Can Professional Services Deal with Contaminated Water Cleanup in Middletown?

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

2 SERVPRO techs donned in PPE Did you know that water loss events can contain contaminants? SERVPRO has the necessary protective equipment to safely dry your home.

SERVPRO is Licensed to Deal with Biohazardous Substances. We Can Help Middletown Residents Overcome Water Damage from Sewer Blockage Intrusion

Middletown is an officially incorporated city in the Hudson Valley, a district of New York metropolitan area. The city is part of Orange County, while it has significant surrounding natural beauty in the Shawangunk Mountains and the Wallkill River, which connects to the Hudson. As reported in the most recent census in 2010, 28,086 residents are occupying Middletown. However, these numbers are likely higher due to the year-on-year growth of the area. The modern economy surrounding Middletown includes large employers like Walmart, Mediacom Communications Corp, and Colleges. There is also a rural community in and around the city, with many independent dairy farms.

The early settlers to Middletown first arrived in the mid-eighteenth century. Middletown's name was recorded as early as 1744, and the name probably due to its geographical location between two larger townships. The construction of railroads was responsible for the most prolonged period of sustained growth in Middletown. The Erie railroad connected Middletown to New York, which, combining with the industrial revolution, grew the region as a prominent manufacturer. Furniture, shoes, and lawnmower blades were among the famous exports from Middletown during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

Middletown's modern-day downtown district has a strong reputation for its nightlife and restaurants, while shopping districts such as the "miracle mile" attract visitors from all over the state.

  • The Highland Lakes State Park encompasses 3,115 acres which are just north of Middletown. The locale is famous for its fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. As an undeveloped state park, the area is also an excellent spot for camping or going 'off-trail' on hikes. 
  • Built nearly 150 years ago in 1872, The First Congregational Church of Middletown remains one of the city's tallest structures. The congregation was initially established as far back as 1785 and is widely considered a foundational part of Middletown's existence.
  • Take in the history of Middletown with a visit to their local museum on East Avenue. The Middletown Historical Society is a local organization specializing in this part of the Hudson Valley's unique history and settlements.

SERVPRO Can Remove Contaminated Water Intrusion from your Middletown Home

The source of water intrusion is influential in deciding the extent of damage that a home suffers, and the equipment needed to restore it to a preloss condition. Water contamination could include raw sewage, microbial bacteria, or human pathogens from a toilet blockage. In some cases, animal carcasses or pesticides can make a home unsanitary or dangerous with floodwater intrusion following a storm. SERVPRO technicians are trained explicitly in biohazardous substance disposal and can return your home to a pre-incident condition.

  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) could include chemical-resistant goggles, gloves, and, in some situations, full bodysuits in extreme cases.
  • We can install decontamination chambers on-site to prevent biohazardous substances from spreading into unaffected areas. 
  • Disposing of biohazardous substances is governed by federal and local laws. SERVPRO can correctly dispose of these substances.

Return your home to a safe condition. Contact SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County for water cleanup at (845) 342-3333.

Why Does Mold Damage in Newburgh Seem Worse After Cleaning?

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO restoration equipment being used in water damaged room Water damage can cause mold issues. SERVPRO is always on call for water damage restoration and mold remediation.

Mold Growth Needs Moisture, SERVPRO Knows how to Keep Things Dry

Newburgh homeowners proud of beautiful, well-maintained homes feel dismayed when mold growth persistently reemerges. Many believe mold means poor housekeeping. Surprisingly, grabbing a bottle of diluted bleach solution to eliminate mold colonies can feed rather than defeat the fungi.

How Do Mold Outbreaks Start in Newburgh homes?

No closely held secret describes the way Newburgh mold damage occurs. It is a simple equation:

  • Mold spores everywhere in your home
  • Plus a moisture source
  • Plus 24 to 48 hours 
  • Equals proliferation of mold colonies

Where Is the Growth-Accelerating Water Found?

SERVPRO mold remediation crews watch for signs of moisture during mold damage evaluation. Spaces like bathrooms and kitchens are humid enough to start mold growth, especially without exhaust fans' consistent use. Repeated application of water-based mold inhibiting solutions can also backfire, leaving porous materials like drywall and unsealed grout damp. 

  • Bleach does not penetrate deeply enough to kill the mold's hyphae (roots)
  • High water content then reactivates the mold or new spores. 

Reach out to SERVPRO of North Orange County for moisture control tips and mold remediation services. Call (845) 342-3333 to schedule an assessment.

Enjoy Orange County Fair's Holiday Light Spectacular in Middletown

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

a decorated gingerbread house SERVPRO is looking forward to seeing everyone at the Orange County Fairgrounds for the holiday festivities!

Middletown Homeowners Find Things to Do during the Holiday Season

From now until January 3rd, the Orange County Fairgrounds will host a socially distanced, drive-through holiday event where families can view beautiful holiday lights and enjoy festive treats. The Holiday drive through includes larger-than-life light displays to enjoy from your vehicle. Additionally, there is a multimedia projection show and smaller lighted displays. In the spirit of the holidays, families can grab gingerbread take-home kits. Keep warm with hot chocolate, funnel cakes, and other sweet treats, all while enjoying the spectacular lights.

Here is what you need to know for the event:

  • The event goes from 4:30 pm until 10:00 pm.
  • Tickets are $30 at the door for a car pass and $25 online in advance. 
  • Car passes are for vehicles holding up to eight people; if your vehicle holds more than eight passengers, contact us directly for pricing. 

If you need prompt and efficient water cleanup in Middletown or surrounding communities, contact SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County anytime 24/7 at (845) 342-3333.

How Long Does Water Removal take?

9/20/2020 (Permalink)

The side of a SERVPRO vehicle. When you endure a water loss to your Middletown property call SERVPRO.

SERVPRO Utilizes Industrial-Grade Water Removal Tools to Restore Your Middletown Interior in a Timely Manner

Handling water damage on your own may not be in your wheelhouse, nor is this something you have time for. As a homeowner, you must know that you can get prompt water removal so that secondary damage does not have time to set in. When you need a professional team of restoration technicians on the job, SERVPRO is available to ensure your Middletown property gets prompt attention. The faster we get in to help extract water, the easier it is to eliminate excess moisture and the onset of potential microbial dangers.

What Are Professional Water Cleanup Services?

When you call us for water removal in Middletown, SERVPRO’s Green Fleet arrives within a few hours of your call. Our courteous crew is always ready to get to work, starting with an initial full assessment of the water incident. The detailed planning process helps us design a plan based on your needs to restore your interior to the preloss condition. Just a few of the things you can count on our crew to provide includes:

  • Convenience – SERVPRO is available 24/7 for emergency service, meaning that we are ready to work when you need us. This is water removal on your schedule so that you can lessen the loss and get back to your routine quicker. We are Faster to Any Size Disaster!
  • Certification – We have skilled water restoration technicians (WRT) at work, all of which have been trained following the strict standards set forth by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC). Our extensive water damage expertise helps us to ensure no moisture gets left behind. 
  • Equipment – Our trucks are filled with the latest equipment and technology to assist with our water removal and restoration efforts. We carefully select the best tools for the job to finish your project within a decent time frame to limit the amount of disruption your family encounters.

What Makes Your Water Removal Equipment Different from What I Own?

While you may have a mop, bucket, or a wet-dry vacuum, it often takes a lot more than removing visible fluids. The small cracks, crevices, and cavities throughout your home become prime locations for water migration. When this happens, it is vital to use moisture sensor equipment to find and eliminate these moisture pockets. Along with our moisture location technology, we also bring along equipment like:

  • Submersible pumps and truck-mount extractors can remove hundreds to thousands of gallons of standing water from your home.
  • Light-wand extractors help us pull up any water or residual moisture left within your carpets and the padding below.
  • EPA-registered antimicrobial disinfectants and cleaning agents help inhibit bacterial and microorganism growth that may bring about foul odors and mildew growth.

How Will You Know All Moisture is Gone?

As mentioned, we have a broad range of moisture detection tools that help us find any hidden pockets left behind. Some of the restoration equipment that we use for the location of moisture includes:

  • Penetrating and non-penetrating moisture meters help us measure moisture content that various materials still contain.
  • Moisture sensors allow us to determine levels left in porous materials like upholstery, carpeting, carpet padding, and more.
  • Inspection cameras and borescopes will enable us to gather readings within wall cavities to avoid full removal potential. 
  • Thermo-hygrometers measure both the relative humidity and temperature levels in the air, which helps us to determine areas that still require further drying.

What Happens if Moisture Gets Left Behind with DIY Methods?

The chances are high that DIY methods will leave moisture pockets throughout your interior. Tile floors may have had water seep between cracks where it gets under the tiles and causes lifting. Whenever moisture lingers in carpets and the padding below, it can cause significant damage to your subfloor. Hidden moist areas such as this also create potentially harmful microbial growth and the onset of fast-growing mildew and mold. 

What About Embedded Moisture?

Our skilled technicians are trained to look for hidden moisture and follow it up with controlled demolition as needed. In some instances, we can remove the baseboards and damaged flooring so that we can dry under the subfloor and around the floor joists. Should water made its way up into your drywall, we can perform what is known as flood cuts with our controlled demolition efforts. Flood cuts are made several inches above the waterline, which allows us to dry behind the wall and then replace it with all new materials to make it “Like it never even happened.”

We Also Work to Dry Your Contents

SERVPRO works with the promise to restore rather than replace, so we take the time to dry out your furnishings and belongings. With saturated cushions and pillows, our crew may use tenting with industrial fans so that air can circulate around them to facilitate drying. We also use soft-bristle brushes to restore fabric piles on your upholstery while addressing any topical soiling or mold spores.

Call SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County at (845) 342-3333 when you need prompt, reliable water removal!

How Can I Fully Dry my Wall to Wall Carpeting?

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Carpet being cleaned We know the steps to get your Newburgh home back from water damage.

The Best Way to Save Your Carpets After Water Damage is to Call a Professional Water Restoration Service

Most of our homes will have a water leak at some point in time. A water heater may break, or the kitchen sink may spring a leak. Regardless of its source, water seeping into your carpet and walls is of concern. The longer that water rests on your belongings, the larger its impact is. Calling a professional service to remove the excess humidity is key to mitigating your loss.

Residents in Newburgh needing water cleanup services can call SERVPRO for help. We are part of your community and understand the importance of keeping a safe environment for you and your loved ones. Our goal is to arrive at your home as soon as possible and get to work. Prompt attention to your emergency is why we operate around the clock to serve you.

How can I dry carpets and rugs?

At SERVPRO, we know that not all surfaces are equal. In rugs and carpets, we take into account the weave, color, finish, installation technique, and many other factors that may influence the water extraction process. If we also need to clean them, we test cleaning products in an inconspicuous spot before making a widespread application. Some of the equipment and techniques below can aid in salvaging your carpet.

Air movers and dehumidifiers encourage the drying of the carpet pad.

Wand extractors can meticulously help extraction in edges and corners.

A wet-dry vacuum can soak up the bulk of the water volume.

In this process, some exclusions are significant to note. If your carpeting is wet for more than 72 hours, we may recommend removing it. Extended exposure becomes a breeding environment for mold and bacteria, which could translate into significant issues later on. You can trust in us as we guide you through the cleanup process.

SERVPRO of North Orange County is your ally in times of emergency. Call us at (845) 342-3333 whenever you need us and let us leave your home, "Like it never even happened." 

See more about Newburgh.

Removing Water after Prolonged Damage in Newburgh Homes

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

A room with wood subflooring, with SERVPRO equipment on the floor. Your Newburgh water damage can put you through many obstacles, let us help.

Some of the damages that could occur if you prolong your Newburgh water damage.

Returning to your Newburgh home after a week away on vacation can be refreshing unless you happen to return to water loss damages that have persisted unnoticed for days on end. Situations like a water heater rupturing could expose your flooring and walls to standing water, and the longer the problem goes unchallenged, the farther this water can migrate from the initial damage point and the more structural damage that can result.

Our SERVPRO professionals have several strategies to begin water removal in Newburgh homes, despite the weakened structural elements. With a broad inventory of recovery tools and equipment, we can choose the best machine for the circumstances to remove standing water from wherever it exists. After several days, water removal techniques must go beyond addressing surface water and removing moisture from installed materials as well.

Surface Water Extraction 

One of the first obstacles for our responding technicians is removing the standing water on the surface of materials like the flooring. While it is likely absorption has already begun, our SERVPRO team cannot get accurate readings on moisture content without removing excess water first. We can utilize multiple tools for this undertaking, but it is often most efficiently accomplished with a combination of electric submersible pumps and wet vacuums.

Drying Mats 

Focused drying efforts for materials like concrete and hardwood flooring involve a controlled draw of trapped moisture. Over-drying or removing water too quickly can damage the material when it can get preserved, so we continually monitor the moisture removal process to ensure it does not exceed the established moisture goal baseline.

Controlled Demolition 

After a water loss incident goes unnoticed for several days, structural elements can become too weak to protect and preserve. Mold growth could also exist. Our in-house contractors can remove damaged portions of flooring and wall systems too damaged to leave installed.

There are many effective strategies to address saturated materials in your home after prolonged exposure to standing water. Give our SERVPRO of North Orange County team a call anytime we can help at (845) 342-3333.

To find out more about Newburgh, click here.

Floor Rot in Monticello, NY

10/5/2019 (Permalink)

sub floor with multi colors and rot This home in Monticello had a toilet leak and was not detected for an extended period. This is what the flooring looked like underneath the toilet.

Water damage can be happening in your home or office for periods of time without you noticing. This could cause a significant amount of secondary damage that you cannot see. 

Unfortunately, the weeks can go by without the damage creeping out where you can actually see it. Once it does is when you should call SERVPRO immediately. At this point is when we can decide how far the damage goes and what the next steps are. 

The secondary damage could include mold or rot. Both scenarios are not ideal, but SERVPRO is always here to help. If there is mold, we can take the necessary steps per the New York State Law. If there is rot, we will take the actions to mitigate it back to preloss condition. 

If you or a family member feels like there is an issue, please call us. We are here to help!

Making the right choice for Water Mitigation

10/5/2019 (Permalink)

interior of home with half the sheetrock ceiling out and wall out This home had a significant water issue, and as you can see, the line on the ceiling was cut evenly and is ready for an easy rebuild.

We agree water damage is not a great time in many of our customers' lives. At the moment you walk into your home and see water damage, you have many thoughts going through your head. 

  • Who is going to clean this up? 
  • How am I going to pay for this?
  • Why is this happening to me? 
  • How did this happen? 
  • Where is the water coming from? 

At this point, all of those questions need answers. We want to be that company that is top of mind to help you through the entire scenario. We can be that one person who can help answer all the questions above. 

You are also worried about the work being done correctly. SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties has highly trained staff to ensure each step of the process is done by the book. Each piece of equipment is placed where it needs to be so that the materials in your home dry properly. Each material that needs to come out is cut precisely or taken out with care. We come into your home and treat it like we are the guests there. We make sure contents are out of the area and ensure that no contents are damaged during the process. 

Sewer Backup in Middletown, NY

9/6/2019 (Permalink)

bathroom with sewer water and debris This is the bathroom where the sewer city line clogged and backed up into the bathroom.

Sewer Backups - We can help!

When people think water damage, they automatically think about flooding but there are several other types of damages that can occur. One of the worst types of water damages are sewer backups. You will see in the picture actual sewer that shows that it no only came up through the toilet but also the shower. This type of sewer backup was caused by a clog in the main city line. Unfortunately these homeowners were not aware this is something that could have happened in their home. 

This homeowner called SERVPRO after seeing the commercials on TV hoping we could help. We were able to go to the home, start the cleanup, help with the odor and give the homeowners their bathroom back. 

If it is clean water or sewer water, SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S. Ulster Counties can help you with any type of water damage. 

Surge Event

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

This photo shows one of the many pipe breaks in the home under the stairs as you can see the ceiling has already started to fall.

Every year there is a surge event. This event is very similar to a hurricane event. Surge means a high influx of calls over our standard daily phone calls with losses. During these events, we do our very best to get to everyone as quickly as possible but not hurting our excellent service. Customers turn very frustrated quickly because they do not know when someone is coming to help and they are amid a disaster in their home or office. 

Surge events can last as long as three months and as little as two weeks. Most of the time they start occurring during the winter months when there is a deep drop in temperature for a few days (below 32 degrees) then jump to temps over 40 degrees for a few days. These changes in temperature, in turn, turns into several pipe break losses for our office. Being in the northeast, most people are aware that this is an issue that may come up in their home or place of business. There are instances that people have never had a pipe break in their house or several pipe breaks in their home. This frustration that these losses have on people are exponential but we are here to help. 

As these days continue to get warmer now that we are officially in spring, we are back to regular hours and officially out of the surge event. 

We want to thank all of our customers who were grateful and understanding through these last few months! 

Safety Precautions Following Residential Water Loss

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Orange County!

When disaster strikes in your home, it is essential to be safe when dealing with damaged items in your household. 

The effects of water damage in a residential home can both be controlled OR worsened depending on the actions taken. Here are a few tips on how to safely control the situation before help arrives:

DO

  • Remove any undamaged items away from the contaminated area
  • Prop up any upholstery items to avoid further damage
  • Place aluminum foil or blocks of wood under wood furniture to prevent damage to personal items
  • Stay out of rooms that have sagging and wet walls

DON'T

  • Attempt to remove water using personal vacuum or hepa-vac
  • Leave any paper items on wet surfaces such as books or magazines
  • use any electrical outlets or appliances In the affected water area
  • Leave standing water alone for an extended period of time as it could cause mold to grow

Water Damage is NOT a DIY Job

8/17/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & So. Ulster Counties 24/7 365 days a year.

Despite the magazines, television shows, and Internet articles that may have you thinking otherwise, water damage restoration is a job that should only be performed by certified professionals. SERVPRO  technicians not only have the know-how to get the job done right, but they also have the specialized tools needed to thoroughly dry your home, preventing further damage and even mold.

Additional benefits of hiring a professional water damage restoration company:

  1. Health Hazards: Depending on the source of the water damage, safety can become a concern. There are three varying degrees of water damage, ranging from clean water to black water, each more hazardous than the next. Black water, the most dangerous of the three, is water that has come into contact with fecal matter, a haven for harmful bacteria and disease-causing pathogens.
  2. Hidden Damage: Water damage is not always obvious. Sometimes it is found inside walls and under flooring. If you attempt a DIY restoration and fail to diagnose hidden damage, the resulting issues could be extreme…and expensive.
  3. Peace of Mind: Hiring a professional restoration company gives you the peace of mind knowing you have done everything in your power to rectify the situation.

Safety Precautions Following Residential Water Loss

8/17/2018 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Orange County!

When disaster strikes in your home, it is essential to be safe when dealing with damaged items in your household. 

The effects of water damage in a residential home can both be controlled OR worsened depending on the actions taken. Here are a few tips on how to safely control the situation before help arrives:

DO

  • Remove any undamaged items away from the contaminated area
  • Prop up any upholstery items to avoid further damage
  • Place aluminum foil or blocks of wood under wood furniture to prevent damage to personal items
  • Stay out of rooms that have sagging and wet walls

DON'T

  • Attempt to remove water using personal vacuum or hepa-vac
  • Leave any paper items on wet surfaces such as books or magazines
  • use any electrical outlets or appliances In the affected water area
  • Leave standing water alone for an extended period of time as it could cause mold to grow

Water Damage Restoration in Orange County

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

What Is Under The Carpet?

It is critical to deal with water damage as soon as it occurs, to prevent long-term issues. Waiting to deal with water damage could mean that the damage is irreversible. When objects become waterlogged and are left to sit, they can develop foul smells, and even become infested with mold. Working with our professional team, residents and business owners will be assured that your property is cleaned and restored quickly.

Types of Water Damage SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & So. Ulster Counties Treats

There are several types of watering and water damage that we can remove and restore; these include:

  • Water damage from storms or weather
  • Water damage from water pipes bursting
  • Sewer line backup and water getting into homes or commercial properties
  • Appliance leaks and malfunctions
  • Water damage from firefighting efforts
  • Toilet leaks, bathtubs, and more.

We specialize in cleaning up homes and commercial spaces that have experienced water damage. Regardless of the kind of water damage your home or business space has undergone, contact SERVPRO to discuss how we can help you restore your property quickly and safely.

Our Clean-up Process

Call our water damage and restoration team today, and we’ll send a highly trained restoration technician to your home or commercial property to assess the damage and provide a plan for the clean up and restoration. Our technicians and professional team will:

  • Remove the water from the property or damaged areas of your property.
  • Begin the drying and dehumidification process. We use state-of-the-art industrial drying machines that enable us to quickly and easily clear your home or office of unwanted and potentially dangerous water.
  • Work to save as much of the original materials and surfaces as possible. Sometimes, though, it is essential to remove severely damaged surfaces, such as drywall, and flooring to reduce the risk of mold and odor developing.
  • Clean and sanitize your property and begin restoring your home or office space so that you can't even tell there was water.

Our Water Damage Restoration Technicians are Highly Trained

We are the best water damage and restoration experts in the Orange County area. We'll send a highly skilled and professional trained water damage restoration expert to your home or commercial property within hours of your call. Upon inspection and assessment, our experts will be able to provide you with real solutions to restore your property to its pre-flood state. We know dealing with water damage can be difficult, and our technicians will make the process easier and get you back to functioning order as soon as possible.

Contact Us Today

If you have experienced flooding or water damage in your home or commercial property in Orange County, contact us immediately to begin the cleaning and restoration process.  Leaving water to sit for even a short period can increase the risk of bacteria, mold, and other contaminants developing

Five things you need to know about water damage

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

Secondary home where the homeowners did not know a pipe broke upstairs causing more pipes to break throughout the home.

You've seen the signs - a soft spot in the wall here, a strange splotch of color there. Signs of water damage can pop up at any time in your home and they're not something you want to ignore. Water damage can lead to foundation damage and subsidence, but can also pose a health concern to the people in your home, too. This type of damage can be serious business, oftentimes. With that in mind, let's take a look at five things you need to know when dealing with water damage in your house.

You're not always going to see it - You've made it through the worst of it and several inches of water have drained out of your home. After a few days of airing and drying out, you feel as if your house is almost back to normal. Chances are, however, it's not. Signs of such damage are not always apparent- mold, rot, decay, and structural damage can be happening below the surface, without you even being aware of it. Even visual signs of mold may not be present.

It's not just about property damage - To put it plainly, water damage can be a health risk. Once mold is airborne it can damage the respiratory system of anyone in a house, but especially children and the elderly. Taking care of damage from water in your home is not just about keeping up your property- it's about preserving the health of your family and loved ones, too.

You want to catch it early - Water damage spreads, and what was once a small spot of damage can quickly escalate into a much larger issue. If you suspect that there has been damage from water to your home, even on a small scale, it might be best to get a damage survey done by a professional who can quickly assess your problem and take steps to reverse damage as early in its progress as possible.

The source won't always be obvious - Short of having an all-out flood in your home, there are still several "smaller" events that can cause water damage to your home, including faulty pipes, cracks in the foundation, and even the lightest rain.

It takes professionals to fix it - Fixing water damage in your home is not a DIY project. Due to some of the severe after-effects of water damage, including health risks, it's always best to have the professionals take on your water damage repair. A restoration expert can survey the damage and give you an estimate of the work and cost you're looking at, allowing you to get a thorough picture of what you need to do to get your home safe and sound once again.

Pipe Burst? How to avoid it

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

Multiple pipe bursts in a home that was not found for over a week.

You’ve just parked your car in sub-freezing temperatures and you can’t wait to warm up. You get home and get ready to hop into a warm shower. You turn the knob, and nothing comes out. Your pipes are frozen. When you have problems with your pipes, it can be heart stopping. Your mind will immediately turn towards the potential bills, possible flooding, and the amount of time repairs will take. Burst pipes are one of the most common causes of water damage and you should know how to protect your home.

Protect your pipes from the cold

When temperatures fall below freezing, your pipes could be in trouble. Water expands as it freezes, and your pipes contract when they get cold. This combination of events can be detrimental to your home. Once your pipes burst, all you can do is deal with the damage. The only way to mitigate the effects is to take preventative action. Check out these tips!

  1. In extreme temperatures, keep at least one of your faucets on. You definitely don’t need to turn it on full force, but a nice steady drip will keep water flowing through your pipes and prevent freezing.

  2. Pipes located along outside walls and windows are at a much greater risk of freezing. Make sure that you direct heat to these areas when possible. Open your basement door and any closets that might house pipes so that heat can reach them. Open the cabinets in your kitchen to allow warm air to reach these important pipes.

  3. Seal any leaks that allow cold air to seep into your home. Use weather stripping or plastic on windows and doors to add insulation.

  4. You may need to raise the temperature in your home. Turn your ceiling fans on reverse to help push warm air back down to the coldest parts of your house.

  5. Consider purchasing heat tape from your local home improvement store. You can place it on your pipes without professional help and it will aid you in preventing cracks in your pipes.

  6. Before winter weather sets in, make a habit of disconnecting all outdoor hoses. This will allow pipes to completely drain so that there isn’t excess water hanging around when freezing temperatures hit.

  7. Don’t let your heat drop below 55 degrees. If you’re going out of town, make sure you plan ahead so you don’t return to a flooded basement.

High Humidity?

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

Water droplets on the attic door in the ceiling after a hot water pipe burst.

In this area in New York there are several secondary homes that may not being checked up on or watched while the owners are at their primary home. This is dangerous to leave your home not monitored for long periods of time. 

If a pipe breaks, especially a hot water pipe, it will cause a very high level of humidity in a home. This will cause condensation to develop on many surfaces in the home. Condensation is defined as water that collects as droplets on a cold surface when humid air is in contact with it. As you can see in the photo, there was a very high level of humidity in the home causing the water droplets to form on the attic door in the ceiling. This probably formed within a very short period of time. The house was not found like this for over a week. 

Be prepared, if you are planning on leaving your home for an extended period of time, have someone check on your home. It will avoid serious damages like this that may not be covered by insurance. 

SERVPRO is always here to help!

The carpet looks dry - we do not need you

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

This business owner thought the water did not make it to this office.

There are times that you may not need our services if it is a small amount of water damage. SERVPRO will never charge a home owner or business owner for a service that we do not believe they need. 

On the flip side, a lot of times a homeowner or business owner may not realize how much they really need SERVPRO's services. 

A lot of times before walking on a carpet or touching a wall - it may look dry. In a lot of situations this is not the case. SERVPRO's normal drying time with our commercial size drying equipment is 3 to 5 days. Unfortunately a small fan or dehumidifier may not be enough. 

As you can see in the photo there was quite a bit of water trapped in the bad underneath this carpet. The business owner thought the water did not reach this room. 

If you ever have a situation that you are not sure if you need us, we always are just a call away. We can walk you through it or come and provide you a free estimate. We are always here to help!

Water Damage in Medical Facility

8/15/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orange County arrived promptly the night of the water damage to ensure this medical facility could re-open the next day.

Commercial buildings require a special attention to detail when it comes to water damage.  Many things must be taken into consideration when making a plan for remediation and restoration.  In a recent scenario, SERVPRO of Orange County was called in to address a water damage that was discovered after-hours in a mid-sized medical facility.  Construction in an adjacent unit caused a water supply line to break, causing water to flood into exam rooms, waiting rooms, offices and hallways.  Over a dozen rooms were affected in total.


SERVPRO of Orange County's water damage restoration team coordinated a plan with the facilities team and the medical staff beginning with the immediate extraction of all standing water.  Drying equipment was set up in each room to mitigate further damage that may have been caused by rising humidity levels.

We were able to prioritize essential rooms to make sure patients could still be seen for treatment the very next day.  Throughout the restoration process we kept clear communications with the medical team and coordinated their schedule with our restoration efforts so that they could continue to operate according to schedule.

Notice the careful removal of drywall shown in this photo.  Many medical facilities utilize a special kind of flooring that curves as it meets the wall.  Our technicians were able to detect moisture was being held inside the walls by wet insulation.  In order to dry the walls properly we had to remove a section of the sheetrock and cut out any wet insulation.  To do so, we cut one foot above where the flooring meets the wall so that the new sheetrock could be put in place without having to cause unnecessary damage to the flooring.

Tips for Filing an Insurance Claim for Water Damage

2/19/2017 (Permalink)

Having a water damage is never something expected. Coming home to a house filled with water can be a traumatic experience.

Something to Know:

Every insurance policy is different. Therefore, what will be covered may only be determined by reading your policy or calling your insurance agent/insurance company to have them determine coverage. 

Knowledge is Power:

Be sure you know who your insurance company is and how to contact them. You may want to list the phone number for your insurance company on your refrigerator for easy access. You could also add your insurance company's 24 hour emergency contact number to your cell phone to have ready at all times. You never know when this information is going to be important. 

Stay Calm:

This experience can be upsetting. It's important to stay calm when you are talking to your insurance company so they can ask all the essential questions to set up your claim and get the ball rolling. 

Take Pictures:

Document the situation every step of the way to help your insurance company understand the full extent of the damage. Take pictures of every room that sustained damage, structural materials affected and personal items. These pictures will help your adjuster understand the full picture of what happened and what will be involved in restoring your house and the contents affected.

Ask Questions:

Resolving the water damage issue can be very confusing. Feel free to ask as many questions as you can think of to your insurance company so that you understand what will happen next every step of the way. It's important to know what your roles are and what your insurance company will be doing for you.

Use a company with IICRC Certified Technicians:

While there are many companies that may be willing to help you clean up from your water damage, it is important to utilize a company that has technicians who have been trained to properly perform mitigation. SERVPRO prides itself on the fact that our technicians are IICRC certified. Our technicians go through on-the-job training and complete IICRC training so that we can keep up with the latest techniques and technologies to dry your home out quickly to eliminate further damage. Education and training is very important to satisfying our customers. http://www.IICRC.org/education-certification/ 

Timing is important with water damage

2/17/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage, SERVPRO of Orange County can help.

Summer time in Orange County humidity and summer storms. When water stands and causes damage it can continue to cause damage and cost even more money to repair the secondary damage. So, the old adage is never truer than when dealing with a water-damaged home or business. Every minute matters, because every minute the property is wet could turn primary damage into secondary- or even permanent damage.  That's why emergency response matters.  

Secondary water damage occurs when the moisture from the primary event (flood, leak, etc.) begins to evaporate on its own into the air.  Over time the air will no longer be able to hold the moisture from the evaporation.  The moisture will have to go somewhere and a very basic principle behind psychometrics is that wet goes to dry.  The moisture may go into your drywall, cabinetry, sheetrock, hardwood floors, vinyl floors, etc.  Once the moisture is allowed to sit, mold can then begin to grow.  This is why emergency action is so incredibly important.

Storms, floods, burst pipes, and leaks simply don't abide by the 9-to-5 workday.  So why should your restoration provider?  SERVPRO of Orange County Professionals are on-call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with the state-of-the-art equipment and proven methods and training to get the job done right as quickly as possible.



If the unthinkable happens, call your local SERVPRO of Orange County Professionals at (845)342-3333 seven days a week 24/7 to help you avoid the cost and hassle of secondary damages.  We will help make it "Like it never even happened."

Timing is important with water damage

2/17/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage, SERVPRO of Orange County can help.

Summer time in Orange County humidity and summer storms. When water stands and causes damage it can continue to cause damage and cost even more money to repair the secondary damage. So, the old adage is never truer than when dealing with a water-damaged home or business. Every minute matters, because every minute the property is wet could turn primary damage into secondary- or even permanent damage.  That's why emergency response matters.  

Secondary water damage occurs when the moisture from the primary event (flood, leak, etc.) begins to evaporate on its own into the air.  Over time the air will no longer be able to hold the moisture from the evaporation.  The moisture will have to go somewhere and a very basic principle behind psychometrics is that wet goes to dry.  The moisture may go into your drywall, cabinetry, sheetrock, hardwood floors, vinyl floors, etc.  Once the moisture is allowed to sit, mold can then begin to grow.  This is why emergency action is so incredibly important.

Storms, floods, burst pipes, and leaks simply don't abide by the 9-to-5 workday.  So why should your restoration provider?  SERVPRO of Orange County Professionals are on-call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with the state-of-the-art equipment and proven methods and training to get the job done right as quickly as possible.


If the unthinkable happens, call your local SERVPRO of Orange County Professionals at (845)342-3333 seven days a week 24/7 to help you avoid the cost and hassle of secondary damages.  We will help make it "Like it never even happened."

 

 

Replace or Restore how can you save costs?

1/31/2017 (Permalink)

A Orange County property during the drying process.

Water is a vital part of life, when controlled properly it can be helpful and sustain us in our everyday lives. When out of control it can make our lives miserable, and can even do us harm.

If you have dealt with water damage before you know that water restoration services are not cheap. You also know how traumatic they can be, disrupting our lives and causing havoc in our home or business. However, if we look closely, the amount of money that you’ll be spending on water repair damage is significantly lower as compared to the cost of repairing structural damage and replacing personal belongings. Having SERVPRO of Orange County guide you through the trauma efficiently by restoration rather than replacement, can give you piece of mind and save costs.

When water enters our home, it can come with germs and bacteria, it can even promote fungal growth if given enough time and conditions. Oftentimes, mold spores inhabit our home long after the water has disappeared from view.  If you act quickly you can impact the amount of damage to your property and your personal belongings.

While there is no standard cost for water repair damage, the cost is based on several factors. This includes the type of water, the extent of damage and the size of the affected area.

Category 1 (Clean water): Water comes from a faucet, malfunctioning appliance connected to a water line or a supply pipe. This is the least expensive. However if left unmitigated fungal growth can occur in 48 -72 hours from the initial incident.  When fungal growth begins this can change the category and add to costs as procedures to protect workers are also increased.

Category 2 (Grey water): Grey water contains biological and chemical pollutants that can cause illness. Common sources are water that is discharged from washing machine, dishwasher or toilet.

Category 3 (Black water): This is the most detrimental of the group and is also the most expensive. Water contains harmful bacteria that may cause severe discomfort or sickness. Common sources are overflowing rivers and streams, sewage and standing water. Category two water that is left stagnant for more than 48 hours falls under this category.

Restoring your home after water damage could be a frustrating experience. Water or excess moisture could harm your home and its content. The faster you take action, the less damage you’ll have in your home. Here are some tips you can use until we get to your home: http://www.SERVPROOSU.com/water-damage-tips  

 

 

Protect Your Home or Business

1/27/2017 (Permalink)

Cold weather can wreak havoc and cause costly damage to your home or business if you are not properly prepared.

To help prevent weather-related damages, consider taking the following precautions before winter weather hits.

  • Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches.  Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
  • Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building.  Clear out the gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall.  Leaves and other obstructions can lead to a damming effect, causing roof damage and interior water problems.
  • Clean chimneys and exhaust systems to ensure they are free of debris.
  • Test gas lines if they have been dormant to ensure they are in good working order with no leaks.
  • Inspect your property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.    
  • Protect pipes from freezing by allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. Make sure all exterior pipes are properly insulated.
  • If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement of crawl space.  Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.       
  • Make sure all exterior doors, garages, roll-ups, and windows have sufficient weather stripping.
  • Ask your local SERVPRO of Orange County about completing an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for your business.  The ERP is a no cost assessment to your facility, and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster. Call us 27/7 at (845)342-3333.

Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

1/27/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response.

Restoring commercial properties presents unique challenges. Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

SERVPRO of Orange County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Call us anytime, 24/7 at (845)-342-3333.

Six Signs Water Damage Is Ruining Your Foundation

8/15/2016 (Permalink)

You can trust SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties with all of your water damage needs.

Water Damage in Pine Bush Can Be Restored by SERVPRO

Pine Bush water damage may be fairly simple to spot, especially if you are a hands-on homeowner, who fixes and repairs things as they crop up. The problem is that water damage to foundations is not an easy water damaging problem to identify.

Nevertheless, the key to minimizing the extent of the damage is always to spot it quickly and address it as soon as possible. How are you supposed to achieve this if you don’t know that there is water damage in the first place? This guide, provided by SERVPRO, to some of the most common symptoms of water damage within foundations will help you spot any problem areas.

 

Symptom One: Water Below Ground

If you are routinely dealing with standing water in the basement, you are probably getting a little stressed out. As a consolation, however, it does mean that you can be reasonably sure of a foundation problem. Standing water only accumulates and sits in a basement if drainage systems are not functioning properly.

Symptom Two: Overly Damp Soil

If you speculate that there could be an issue with moisture, take a look at the soil around the foundations of the property. If it is unusually wet (even after days without rain), there is a good chance that groundwater is seeping into the foundation.

Symptom Three: Water in the Crawlspace

Standing water or condensation and moisture building up within a crawlspace is a pretty good sign that something is wrong with the foundation, circulation of air, lack of adequate insulation, or burst pipe. If it is too damp in this area, the quality of the air in your house can decline, and it may give off a musty odor.

Symptom Four: Sagging and Bowing Floors

A lot of homeowners walk up and down uneven floors for years before they spot a problem. You can test the level of your own with nothing more than a small rubber ball. Unless you know of a reason the foundation is or could be unlevel and not caused by water damage, imbalances should be checked out immediately. They can indicate soil erosion due to water.

Symptom Five: Slimy Patches Outside

When the water from rains and storms is draining away from the property in a secure and efficient manner, it never spends enough time close to the building to have a lasting impact. On the other hand, if groundwater is pooling, you may be able to spot slimy and moldy patches on the outer walls of your home.

Symptom Six: Mal-functioning Doorframes or windows

This might sound like a surprising sign, but if your doorframes used to open and close correctly, but have recently started to stick, the problem could be moisture related. It may be a sign that the doorframes have begun to warp, from excessive water absorption.

Call SERVPRO of Idaho Falls for any unwanted water damaging situations that may occur on your property. We are experts in water removal, cleanup, and water damage restoration. We will recondition your home "Like it never even happened."

We’re Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists

As leaders in the water damage industry, SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties has advanced expertise and training, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We proudly serve the communities of Pine Bush, Newburgh, Port Jervis and more.. Call us 24/7 for help at (845) 342-3333.

The Differences in Water Damages

8/4/2016 (Permalink)

Do not let your worries overflow, call the professionals of SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties!

According to the Water Damage Defense website, approximately 14,000 people in the United States experience a water damage emergency at work or at home each day.  That is enough people to fill two-thirds of Madison Square Garden!  However, not all water damages are the same.

 

Each water damage in a house or business falls into one of three categories, according to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. (IICRC)    Category 1 is clean water, Category 2 is gray water and Category 3 is black water.  Each require different techniques to remove.  Keep in mind each category may not be permanent.  For example, clean water can spill out of a pipe and turn into grey or black standing water.  

Category 1 water damage is liquid from a clean or sanitary source, such as faucets, toilet tanks, water fountains, etc.  

Category 2 is water that is typically described as having a level of contaminates that may cause illness or discomfort if ingested.  Some examples of Category 2 water damage sources would include dishwasher or washing machine overflows, flush from sink drains and  toilet overflow with some urine but no feces.

The worst of all three categories is Category 3.  If ingested, water from Category 3 could cause severe illness of death.  It is grossly unsanitary and its sources include sewer backup, flooding from rivers, lakes or streams, toilet overflow with feces and stagnant water that has begun to support bacterial growth.  

In addition to categories of water damage, there are also classes of destruction that each water damage falls into.  The IICRC classifies each water damage into four classes.

Class 1 destruction is the easiest water damage to deal with and has a slow evaporation rate.  Only part of a room or area have been affected by a water damage in this class, there is little to no wet carpet and the moisture has only affected materials with a low permeance rate such as plywood or concrete.

Class 2 destruction has a fast evaporation rate and typically affects an entire room, carpeting or cushioning, the wetness has wicked up the walls at least 12 inches and there is moisture remaining in the structural materials.  

Class 3 has the fastest evaporation rate and the liquid source may have come overhead.  In this class, the ceiling, walls, insulation, carpets and sub-floors are all saturated.  

Speciality drying situations are classified under Class 4.  This means there has been enough liquid and time to saturate materials with very low permeance, such as hardwood, brick or stone.  

It is imperative that you do not try to handle a water damage on your own.  Someone with trained background is needed to distinguish the category of water damage and the class of destruction.

Need A Water Damage Expert?  


SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties is here for all of your water damage needs.  Our technicians are IICRC certified and available for you 24/7.  To learn more about our water, fire and storm damage services and more, visit our website at www.SERVPROnorthorangecounty.com or call us at (845) 342-3333.  

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