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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Blog Posts

Fire Sprinkler Water Damage

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

If your commercial property suffers significant water damage your locally owned and operated SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint has around the clock emergency help. Water damage occurring on your commercial property can be caused by, a flood from a storm, a burst/ leaky pipe, or even a broken sewage system- regardless of how we can fix it.

As an owner, or property manager of a commercial building it is extremely important to hire a professional water damage remediation service to assist in taking care of the loss and preventing future damage that can occur if the loss is not treated in a timely and correct manner. SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint has a crew of certified and accredited professionals who are ready to assist you in a timely and professional manner.

Recent Cleanup Story- 

Recently, SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint was able to help a local hotel, when the sprinkler system was activated on the 7th floor of the building, leading to water damage. Our crew responded to their call immediately. We began to assess the extent of the damage and returned in the days following to continue the scope of the work.

Our SERVPRO crew arrived on sight and began the extraction and cleaning of the affected areas. First, we removed the damaged area- from under the beds and submitted them for appraisal. Base-molding was removed from the water soaked drywall in the affected rooms and corridors. Access holes were then drilled to begin the proper drying process. The 6th Floor carpet was removed and the sub floor (concrete) was treated with antimicrobial. The antimicrobial was utilized to destroy or suppress bacteria, viruses, and fungi that the water damage caused. Our crew also had to remove the 6th floor carpet. We cut 1x1 access holes in the ceiling corridor to allow air flow in the ceiling cavity. For proper drying, we let the equipment run for 3 days.

Our crew cleaned and deodorized both the 6th and 7th floor. We used dehumidifiers, air movers and scrubbers to properly clean and remove the water. Our SERVPRO crew was able to take care of the water damage in an appropriate and professional way while also being mindful of the occupants in the hotel.

Water removal services from our professionally trained team can lessen stress and restore your commercial property to its preloss state faster than the competitors. Our services are available for you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year because disasters don't wait to happen. Call us at (917) 809-6562

Why Trust SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint?

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

When you have an emergency, SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint is available any time of the day to respond to all jobs, large or small. When you are dealing with something like flooding, or fire damage, immediate action is crucial.

We understand that when you call us, you may be confused, stressed, and not sure what to do next.  Let the experts at SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint help and guide you through the next steps. We have the necessary disaster cleanup training and experience to help you through this tough time. 

What to Expect-

These questions below are what to expect from us, and will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When the flooding or water damage occurred
  • What caused the water damage (if known)
  • Whether the source of water has been addressed. For example, if your sump pump failed, we'll need to know if the plumber has been out to fix the pump.
  • Whether electricity is available on-site
  • We will find a time to come to your home or business, either for immediate response or to inspect and provide an estimate

About SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint 

At SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint we specialize in cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property disasters such as, a fire, smoke, or water damage. Our team is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at our corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, you can rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge and experience to restore your property to its preloss condition. We understand that sudden water damage to your home or business is unplanned, unexpected, and inconvenient. Whether you have a sewage backup, burst pipe or valve, or a fire in the kitchen -- you want the problem addressed and resolved. Call on SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint and let us help you with your emergency. 

Some Fire Safety Tips to Protect Your Home

4/10/2022 (Permalink)

A fire in your Brooklyn home can get out of control quickly and result in damage you don't want to experience. It only takes an estimated five minutes for a home to become engulfed in flames. Fires spread extremely fast, with a major fire able to develop within just 30 seconds. In order to prevent fires from starting, please take some time to review the following information to keep you and your family out of harm's way!

Test Your Smoke Alarms Monthly-

A working smoke alarm can be the difference between life and death in the case of a fire. At SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint we recommend you install a dual-sensor smoke alarm: these contain sensors that pick up on both ionization and photoelectric smoke. Test your batteries monthly and replace batteries annually. Depending on your manufacturer, you can expect to change your smoke alarm once every 8-10 years.

Stay in the Kitchen If You Are Cooking-

If you are actively using heat to cook in the kitchen, be sure to supervise at all times. If you have to leave at any point, be sure to turn off the stove. Cooking is the leading cause of house fires in America and can be easily prevented through diligence. 

Replaces Bad Wires-

Any appliances that have worn or damaged cords should be replaced ASAP. Wires that are frayed can cause fires, especially if close to rugs or furniture that can spread the fire further.

Move Flammable Items From Heat Sources-

When cooking, be sure to keep flammables (such as alcohol or hand sanitizer) far away from the heat source.

Supervise Children Around Heat or Fire-

Never leave a child unsupervised near a stove or candles! Not even for a short period of time should children be left unattended with a source of fire.

SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint is There 

Most house or apartment fires are easily avoidable. With some foresight, you may never have to know the damage that can accompany a fire in the home. However, here at SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint we are here to help if you require help for fire restoration. Just give us a call at (917) 809-6562 and we will make it look "Like it never even happened."

Post Construction Cleanup Made Easy

3/31/2022 (Permalink)

Cleanup Post Construction Cleanup

Choosing the Best in The Industry

When the floors are put down and the drywall is up, it is almost time to move in, but it's also time to remove the debris and dirt in order to lay down fresh carpet, paint and decorate the final product. SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint professionals can provide the debris removal services to prepare the construction for its final installations and details. Structural integrity, safety, and deadlines are all part of the construction day to day. When your construction is done, we can finish up the rest. Don’t settle for anything but the best service possible, choose SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint to get the job done right. 

Service You Can Trust

SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint can help you meet your deadlines by providing thorough post-construction services in an efficient manner. Whether you had water damage along the way or just want to ensure the dust is properly cleaned up, call us to learn about our services.

Our services include:

  • Wet and dry surface cleanup
  • HEPA vacuuming 
  • Fast Track Drying
  • Window Cleaning
  • Debris Removal
  • Emergency Response Restoration and Clean Up Services
  • Dehumidification and Drying
  • Ceiling, walls and fixture cleaning
  • Deodorization and Sanitation 
  • Final Detailed Cleaning

24/7 Water Damage Assistance

3/31/2022 (Permalink)

24 Hour Emergency Service

Being available 24/7 means we don't stick to the "regular" business hours. Why? Because emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours! SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint provides emergency water restoration services every day of the year, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night. 

Why the Need for Speed?

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is essential to preventing more serious damage. Below is a basic timeline of what happens when water strikes:

Within Minutes:

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

Hours 1 - 24:

  • Drywall, heavy with the water it absorbed, begins to swell and break down
  • Metal surfaces begin to tarnish
  • Furniture begins to swell and crack
  • Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain
  • A musty odor appears

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

Over 1 Week:

  • Restoration time and cost increase dramatically
  • Replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive and costly
  • Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants

Call Up SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint to solve your water damage as soon as possible... Don't forget we can save you lots of time and money the sooner you call!

Fire damage in your Brooklyn Home

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Extensive Fire Damage? We've Got you!

Easing The Stress Of Fire Damage

When you have experienced something as devastating as a fire, you may be worried about what will happen next. This generally involves an extensive cleanup and restoration that can bring your home back to its original state. With the methods we use, removal of smoke odors is something we excel with at SERVPRO. Every step breaks down residue, and we also have measures that help locate any areas where odorous particles may be hiding.

  • Pack-out services for cleaning contents off-site can help prevent smoke odor transferring into your home's unaffected areas.
  • We carefully clean all soot-covered surfaces, leaving no area without proper treatment. 
  • Technicians have access to a range of EPA-approved antimicrobials and cleaning agents to facilitate cleanup efficiently.
  • We can use thermal fogging machinery for pungent odors to recreate the situation that brought on the odor penetration.
  • We also seal off areas to keep odors from popping up, including walls and the ductwork for your HVAC system.

Contact Us ASAP-

After the flames get extinguished, you must wait for approval from first responders on the scene to enter safely. Once you contact SERVPRO to clean up your fire damage in Brooklyn, our team arrives, and the crew chief begins the assessment. During the initial inspection and walkthrough, we note the damage to formulate the correct plan of action that utilizes the best equipment and restoration techniques for the job. We must work to restore and salvage whatever possible to save your cherished belongings while also saving you time and money.

Basement Water Damage in Brooklyn

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

basement water Water In The Basement

Water Damage Made Easy

Your basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including: 

  • A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
  • Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
  • Storm sewer backup
  • Sanitary sewer backup
  • Foundation drainage failure
  • Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure

Regardless of how or when it happened we will be there for you and your family to clean it up and get your life back to normal again. No one wants to be limited in their own home, don't deal with the hassle of a cleanup yourself- give us a call and we will be right there to help. These homeowners gave us a call in the middle of the night and we arrived immediately to begin the extraction and drying process. Being accessible at all hours allows us to prevent damage that would occur while it sat, not only does this save you money it saves you a lot of time by preventing bigger issues

We are a company you can trust to be there when you need us most, don’t settle for anything but the best and give SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint a call. 

Why SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint for Your Pack-out

3/20/2022 (Permalink)

packout A Packout In Progress

Why Choose Us?

During restoration work, a pack-out refers to the moving of contents out of a damaged structure to access work areas and perform restoration work in our facilities. This is something we specialize in doing to ease the burden of something like a fire, water damage, or other disaster that occurs in your home. Whether you need a room moved out or the entire house, this is something that we can take care of for you! For the stuff that cannot be moved during the restoration process, we will properly protect them and make sure they stay safe. SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint is there for our community to make sure we recover from disaster quickly. 

What We Do For You-

If you are in need of our services after a disaster in your home we will be there for you 24/7 and ready to create a plan of action to get you back to normal. Along with packing out your belongings we restore what you may consider destroyed. We work with our special techniques and equipment to bring what we can to its preloss conditions. Below are some of the things we can do for you:

  • Wet Cleaning- Removes heavy and moderate residue
  • Spray and Wipe- light cleaning that does not saturate 
  • Abrasive Cleaning- deep cleaning involving abrasive agitation
  • Immersion Cleaning- Fully submerged in cleaning products
  • Foam Cleaning- used to safely clean upholstery 
  • Dry Cleaning- cleans light residue before other methods of leaning

Give us a call at 917-809-6562 to get your packout and restoration on the road!

Tis' the Season for Fires- Be Safe!

12/24/2021 (Permalink)

Play it safe this Christmas season

It was found that between 2015 and 2019, United States fire departments responded to an average 160 home fires that started from Christmas trees per year. And from that these fires caused an average of two deaths, 12 injuries and $10 million in direct property damage annually. You definitely do not want to add to those numbers this year. At SERVPRO we do fire cleanups and restorations frequently, seeing the toll it can have is the reason we want to share some advice to stay safe this winter.

Here are some tips we have below:

  • Get a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. 
  • Cut 2" from the base of the trunk before placing it down. 
  • Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators or lights. 
  • Add water to the tree stand daily so it does not dry out. 
  • Use lights that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Don't use anything that gets warm.
  • Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
  • Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to sleep.

Why SERVPRO for Your Disaster Restoration

11/13/2021 (Permalink)

Why Choose SERVPRO For Your Disaster Restoration?

When disaster strikes your commercial property you need people to trust- whether it is a storm, a fire, flood or something else we know it can create a big pause in business for you, your employees, and your clientele. We have a team of disaster recovery specialists that know how to respond at our strategically placed franchises any time or day of the week. With over 1900 franchises there is no shortage of trained team members to respond to your disaster, always with the proper equipment needed, at any of our SERVPRO locations. Besides performing the best work around, we know how to deal with the insurance claims and navigate all the paperwork so you don't have to. We make the entire process start to finish as easy as possible for you, we know the impact a disaster can have on your mental health and daily life. We will make sure to take the stress off your shoulders and we have a process that promises the fastest possible results with the best possible outcome.

Preventing Electrical Fires

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

A house fire is an experience no one wants to be a part of, we definitely don’t want you to be! Electrical fires are a very common source of home fires around the US, they happen for various reasons and below are some tips to keep yourself safe.

Tips

  • Unplug heat generating electronics that are not in use
    • Hair dryers, curling irons, toaster ovens, etc
  • Make sure your homes electrical system is up to date
    • Modern electrical systems are much safer then old style ones that create heat
  • Do not tamper with electrical plugs
    • The third prong needs to be there to prevent electrical surges
  • Only use extension cords for short periods of time
  • Always follow instructions regarding appliances
    • Warnings about a product could prevent a fire
  • Be aware
    • Check for signs of heat by light switches, burning smells, sparks, etc
  • Do not overburden an outlet
    • Keep the amount of appliances/devices plugged into a minimum
  • Throw away faulty electronics do not keep using them

If you notice signs of a fire don’t hesitate to call 911, time is always of the essence. 

Mold Remediation Done Right

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Remediation

Mold remediation is a specialty of ours, and we are the ones to trust when it comes to cleaning up. We understand the difference between removal and remediation, knowing that it is impossible to remove mold…. something that exists in the air indoors and outdoors naturally. We target the problem areas like water damaged areas of your property and perform our multi step process detailed below. This does not just include removing the mold but treating it and the items present in the affected area. We make sure the problem does not come back-

Our Process

  • You contact us and we give you a point of contact
  • We send a project manager to inspect assess the damage
  • We contain the area infested with mold
  • We place air filtration down
  • We remove mold infested materials and mold from the surface
  • We treat the area and the contents in the area
  • Finally the restoration process can begin

How to Prepare for Winter Storms

11/7/2021 (Permalink)

Winter is almost here!

Many of the jobs we arrive at are preventable disasters, stuff that could have been stopped before winter came along. Your home becomes very vulnerable during the winter with the cold temperatures, icy rain, and snowfall. We have a few recommendations to share with you below, hopefully they can prevent any unnecessary damages. 

What to do?

  • Have your HVAC system checked
    • Make sure you will have hot and clean air blowing through your home
  • Caulk and seal your exterior areas that have begun to wear
    • Water and cold can cause cracking and rot you don’t want to deal with
  • Inspect your drainage system
    • Make sure the melted snow has somewhere to go
  • Clean gutters
    • Like your drainage, the snow needs somewhere to melt 
  • Shut down outdoor water 
    • These can cause serious issues once temperatures reach freezing
  • Check your trees
    • Make sure no dead trees will be falling once the snow and winter storms come
  • Prepare your equipment for the snow
    • Whether is is a snow blow or just a snow shovel, make sure it works before winter comes
  • Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
    • With heat running and possible fires burning indoors you must ensure your family's safety 

Preventing Fires In Your Brooklyn Apartment

11/7/2021 (Permalink)

Fire-

Fires are frightening for everyone, but living in an apartment the fear is greater and the risks are more present. Living in close proximity to others it is impossible to control what they are doing, but there are several steps you can take to ensure you are more prepared. 

How to prevent a fire-

Test fire alarms and change fire alarm batteries frequently- press the test button on your fire alarms monthly to ensure they are working properly. If you cannot replace them yourself contact your landlord or super as soon as possible.

Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen- most fires begin in the kitchen, make sure to keep an up to date fire extinguisher rated for grease and kitchen fires. 

Blow out candles- never leave a lit candle unattended, always blow them out before leaving even for a few minutes. 

Keep everything clean- make sure you avoid clutter in the way of exits as well as near any heat sources as this can feed a potential fire.

Do not overload outlets- make sure you do not have too many things plugged into your outlets. Electrical fires can happen while you are not home and cause serious fires.

Make an escape plan- make an escape plan for you and anyone else living in your apartment, plan ahead to get you and your family out. 

Stay aware- finally, if you smell smoke coming from another unit call your landlord or super immediately, and if necessary dial 911

Large Scale Cleanup- No Problem!

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

There is no job too big or too small for SERVPRO to complete. We have a network of teams across all areas of the US with access to them and additional supplies for large scale projects. We are the leading company in cleanup and restoration for a reason, with over 1,900 franchises and over 50 years of experience. There is a reason people choose us to clean up their disasters, we know what we are doing and have the means to do so. We cleanup anything from water damage, fire damage, storm damage, and more. 

At SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint we are there for your large scale cleanups and the small ones. Trust our experience to make your disaster seem “Like it never even happened.”

Cleaning Your Gutters

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Why do you need to clean your gutters?

It is starting to get cold which means freezing temperatures are just around the corner and ready to cause damage. Fall has left behind lots of leaves and branches in your gutters that need to go, these obstructions can become a big issue if they clog the drainage and let water sit. Ice and snow can build up and cause the gutters to sag, create ice dams, cause health effects, and even flooding in your home. 

Your gutters can tear away from your home from the weight built up from these debris and in the worst case make them fall completely off. The ice dams that can build up are not only dangerous to people possibly standing under, but destroy your roof and cause moisture to leak in and create mold. All of this can simply be prevented by keeping your gutters cleaned out for the winter season, make sure you don’t wait, being proactive can save you a lot of money in the long run. 

Sprinkler Disaster

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

Sometimes fire sprinkler systems go off when you least expect, they can be hit and opened up during construction or accidentally triggered in the kitchen. Most commonly though we deal with damage from them being accidentally triggered during construction or renovations in a building and the amount of water they release is substantial. 

How to Prepare

We recommend having inspections done regularly as well as servicing your fire sprinkler units regularly to prevent any accidental discharging of the unit. When you plan on having work done inside make sure to have the units temporarily shut off. Make sure whoever is working on your property is prepared for an event like this with something like a sprinkler plug to temporarily stop the flow. 

What to do After

Water damage from a fire sprinkler system can cause thousands of dollars in damage and requires immediate attention. The longer the water sits the more damage is done to the foundation and any items in the area. Call SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint to ensure a job well completed to the highest level of satisfaction. We are prepared to extract the water and continue the drying process until all the water is gone. Once this is complete we will begin the restoration process and have the damage looking “Like it never even happened.”

Bathroom Flood

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding in the bathroom is a common occurrence in homes, and something you should be prepared to take care of. Bathrooms have multiple sources of water such as the tube, sink, and toilet. All of these can create a serious amount of water that can cause damage and a serious hassle. Below are some steps you can take in the event of a bathroom water damage-

What to do?

  • Shut the water off at the source
    • This will stop more water from coming and prevent further flooding
  • Shut off the electricity 
    • Do not touch the water if is anywhere near electrical outlets or sources of power
  • Soak up whatever water you can if it is not from a clogged toilet
    • Put wet towels into the bath/shower 
  • Remove items from the bathroom that have or have not been affected 
  • Call the professionals at SERVPRO
    • If it is from a clogged toilet this is considered a hazard and requires professional attention immediately 

Post Construction-Now What?

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

Hiring a post construction cleanup crew is not something most people think of when their home is almost finished, but it really should be. Once construction is complete you do not want to be breathing in and tracking around the dust present all throughout from sawdust, silica, and drywall. All of this material is hiding in light fixtures, baseboards, cabinets, and more. While your construction crew may remove the majority of the mess, the stuff you are not seeing is what can cause problems later on. 

Call SERVPRO and let us come in to do a cleaning beyond what you are used to. We will get rid of all of the dust and left behind materials from the construction to another level. This consists of using HEPA vacuums to remove surface dust, air scrubbers to remove any particles floating that are dislodged during cleaning, and more state of the art equipment and tested techniques. We come prepared with a well trained team and necessary supplies to get your new construction project to its final condition. 

The Fastest to The Disaster

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

Speedy Response Time

Since we are a locally owned and operated franchise, we respond quicker and ensure our trucks are packed full with the right resources, an extremely important aspect to a quick response. Our speedy response lessens the damage and helps prevent further damage which in turn reduces the cleanup and restoration cost overall. This also means you can resume your normal life sooner and without this problem in your way. 

The Tools Needed to Handle Storm Damage

Our own warehouse is equipped with state of the art equipment and our thoroughly tested cleaning products we use. We can even access equipment and resources from a network of over 1,650 Franchises across the United States. In the event of a big disaster, our elite Disaster Recovery Teams are strategically located throughout the United States and on standby. During countless natural disasters SERVPRO has proven their loyalty to the communities they serve and the effectiveness of our work. 

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (917)-809-6562

SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint specializes in storm damage cleanup and restoration for homes and businesses no matter the size. Our team is professionally trained and equipped with specialized equipment to restore your home to the original condition making it seem "Like it never even happened."

Keeping Your Pets Safe During A Storm

10/10/2021 (Permalink)

dogs Our Marketing Coordinators dogs

The Storm is Here, Now What?

When a thunderstorm or hurricane is arrives, it is necessary to have precautions ready. Your pets are your family, and we understand the importance they hold. One thing you must do is prepare for a storm, while it may seem overwhelming to think about a disaster, it will make everything run smoother if it does happen to occur. We have created some steps to protect your furry family members from harm.

They biggest thing to do is keeping your pets inside as much as possible. This is the most surefire way to guarantee that they will not bolt off when thunder rumbles and lightning begins to flash. On top of keeping them inside you not only need to have supplies for yourself, you must have supplies for your pets.

  • Water for each pet
  • Non-perishable pet food
  • Pet medications
    • make sure to get these before 
  • Leashes and ID Tags
    • keep ID tags up to date
  • Dog Bed, Toys, and Treats
  • First Aid Kit
  • Vaccinations are up to Date

Somehow Your Pet Does Escape- Now What?

Stay Calm: While this is not an easy task when your furry friend goes missing, some pets get nervous due to hearing their owner yell, making them think they are in trouble.

Microchip your pets: If your pet does escape from your backyard, an animal shelter or vet can reach you and verify that you are the owner of your pet with a microchip.

Take Pictures of your Pets: Who doesn't love taking pictures of their pet? This can make it easier to locate your pet on social media or local flyers.

Pet ID: Keep your pets tags up to date, including a phone number and your name.

Prepare for any Injuries: Is it serious or something you can take care of yourself? Call a vet, they may be able to help you over the phone. 

Our pets can be our best friends, and keeping them safe is always a top priority. It is crucial to be sure you are prepared to care for those who need you to stay safe everyday.

How We Can Restore Your Furniture After The Storm

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

The chances of restoring your furniture after a flood depend on how fast you act, the level of flooding that occurred, and the quality and materials of the furniture affected. Less porous and more solid wood furniture has a much better chance of being salvaged than stuff like particle board or upholstered furniture from big box stores. Even though restoring water damaged furniture seems like an easy task, it is better to leave it to professionals like SERVPRO. If you follow some of the tips listed below we will be able to help much more than if you do not. 

Immediately after a flood, consider performing the following tasks so we can better assist on arrival :

  • Act fast, damages on your valuables will be worsened if allowed more time to pass after the initial content with water. 
    • Take them away from the area and call SERVPRO immediately 
  • Move furniture to drier areas to start the drying process and get excess moisture out of the equation
  • Make sure you take photos of the damaged items for insurance. These photos can help you when filing a claim to them
  • Decide on the furniture to restore and what is not worth trying to save
    • You must consider: the damage severity, the sentimental value, actual value and the total cost of restoration to get the item back to new.
  • Separate upholstery fabrics and the other colored items from each other to prevent bleeding of colors. Never air dry it as this may lead to mildew or mold growth from the soaked cushions and external conditions. 

While we always recommend protecting your home from flooding before it happens, the unexpected happens quickly. If disaster strikes unexpectedly, our technicians are always on standby and prepared to assist you with your restoration. Contact us at any time, any day, if you are looking for the best restoration service around.

SERVPRO For COVID-19 Cleaning

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

cleaning Employee disinfecting an office

Why SERVPRO for your COVID-19 Cleaning?

COVID-19 has made everyone rethink how clean their offices are, and the things they touch every day. At SERVPRO we are dedicated to keeping your employees as well as clients entering your work space safe. This is something we have made possible through our Certified SERVPRO Cleaned program, a level of clean beyond what any normal janitorial service is able to complete. 

The Certified SERVPRO Cleaned program uses a combinations of our knowledge over 50 plus years in cleaning biohazards we understand regulations and safety precautions necessary. Using this knowledge we are able to deep clean and disinfect all porous and non-porous surfaces to the highest standard. This involves the use of tested and proven products and techniques we use in the industry, all coupled with our trained employees.

SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint is only a call away to get your place of business completely cleaned- making everyone safer!

Tropical Storm Henri Inbound

8/21/2021 (Permalink)

Tropical storm Henri is evolving into a hurricane that will slam the Northeast, high speed winds, flooding, and heavy rain are expected. It is important you and your family stay safe and prepared, below are some tips on how to do so:

How to Prepare for Tropical Storm Henri-

  • Be informed- make sure you are receiving alerts, warnings, and public safety information before, during, and after emergencies. 
  • Learn if you live in a hurricane evacuation zone- if you do, make a plan to evacuate
  • Learn whether your property is in a flood-prone or high-risk area via the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) flood maps.
  • Create and commit to memory your family emergency plan and discuss it with them.
  • Assemble an emergency kit with what you will need such as food, water, medication, and communication.
  • Prepare for possible power outages and blocked streets.
  • Take photos or videos of your personal property and store these records in a safe place.
  • Prepare your home with temporary plywood covers to protect windows and sliding doors if possible.

Create a Plan-

  • Pick more than one safe place in your home where you can go if there is an emergency.
  • Pick two ways to get out in case you have to leave, and keep these exits clear.
  • Pick a place for your family to meet in case you are separated -- one in and one outside your neighborhood.
  • Pick a place where you can stay in case you must evacuate your home.
  • Make a plan to keep your pets safe if there is an emergency.
  • Know how to turn off the electricity, gas and water in your home.
  • Take photos of possessions inside and outside your home in case you need them for insurance purposes.

Once it's over?

Once a hurricane is underway, the experts urge people to avoid driving and stay indoors. Flooding and damaging winds can make traveling extremely dangerous. Nearly 90% of all hurricane-related deaths involve water, according to the National Weather Service.

If you must travel, experts warn not to walk or drive through flowing water. Six inches of swiftly moving water can knock you off of your feet and cars can be swept away in just two feet of moving water. Stay safe and stay informed, SERVPRO will be there for you after the storm. 

Why You Need To Clean Your Carpets In Your Building

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

The pandemic has forced business owners to re-evaluate almost every aspect of business. From how they run their day to day life in the office, to how they interact with their clients. Companies of all sizes have been driven to make changes never seen before, internally and externally, to stay afloat during this time of crisis. While some of the changes are strategic, others may be more practical. We have seen that keeping the workplace clean is one of the biggest shifts in businesses across the world. While everyone has always strived to keep a clean workplace, the standards of cleanliness have changed dramatically. Commercial carpet cleaning is one of the features of keeping an office clean that has gotten more attention recently, and definitely for good reason.

So why should you?

Failing to regularly get your carpets cleaned in a commercial building can negatively impact your company in a number of ways. people will look poorly upon dirty carpets, giving off a bad first impression. But most importantly, dirty carpets hold a wide range of bacteria that can make the workplace unsafe for your employees and clients. Not just during COVID, but it is important to always maintain a clean and healthy working environment to keep staff safe and wanting to work to the best of their ability. Things like dust, dirt, and even dead skin flakes will quickly accumulate on a carpet that has numerous different people on it everyday, making the appearance suffer as well as creating an unclean working environment. Carpets are by and far the most common type of flooring found in commercial spaces across the country, making maintenance and care critical. Additionally, regular commercial carpet cleaning will extend the life of the carpet and thus save the owner money in the long run.

Why choose us?

At SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint , we are specialists in commercial carpet cleaning. With many years of experience and training, our commercial carpet cleaners are experts in their field and ready to complete a premium job. Contact us today, we are available  24/7 and glad to tell you more!

Maintaining a Clean Office Environment

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

A clean office reflects on you-

Business owners know how overwhelming running an office can be 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; at SERVPRO we understand. When it is your responsibility to oversee the day-to-day operations within a company, keeping it clean is understandably the last thing on your mind. Dusty cabinets or stained carpet floors with everything in between makes keeping your workspace clean and neat a constant challenge. But during the midst of a spread of COVID-19, keeping a workspace tidy is more important than many business owners imagine. Studies have shown that work productivity and employee morale is much higher when an office space is kept well-ordered and organized. Don’t waste your preciso time trying to do it yourself, hiring commercial cleaning services like SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint to regularly visit your office and clean as well as disinfect, is a bottom line in today's day and age. 

In addition to helping motivate your employees, a clean office is also crucial for clients and guests who visit. How can a potential client trust that your company will provide great services if your office is a mess? Spend some time today walking around your office and give yourself a score against this clean workspace checklist:

  • Clean floors: check for carpet stains and dirt on hard floors
  • Trash cans: empty your trash cans each night and wash as needed
  • Dusting: spot check all surfaces and furniture for unwanted dust
  • Fingerprints: remove any marks from glass doors, windows, surfaces, and walls as well as any door frames and light switches
  • Disinfect: make sure all floors are mopped and door handles are cleaned
  • Cabinets: spot clean and polish all office furniture to remove any unwanted stains
  • Break Room: keep kitchen and fridge/freezer clean and tidy, throw away expired or old food/beverages
  • Vents: vacuum vents once a month
  • Organize: make sure all files, folders, and papers are neatly stored
  • Restrooms: refill soap dispenser, disinfect surfaces, clean toilets, and make sure that all bathroom appliances are operating correctly

It does not matter what type of office you run, cleanliness is essential to the well-being of your business, its clients and most importantly its employees. Be sure to keep this checklist in mind when you consider hiring SERVPRO to clean your office for you, it is no easy task especially to do correctly. 

Professional Cleaning For All

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

The economic effects of COVID-19 have struck everyone around the world. With a freeze on activity, businesses have been forced to limit services and reduce their workforce to a bare minimum. In New York especially, a city that thrives on interaction, residents have gone without work due to business closings. An exorbitant amount of requests for unemployment relief have been filed causing a backup in the government’s ability to process claims in a timely manner. In turn, creating a loss of income and debt accumulation not only for residents but for homeowners alike. Everyone has taken a hit and wants to get back on their feet again to make life “normal” again. 

These are hard times, and here at SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint we understand the toll it has taken. Disinfecting our homes, businesses, schools and medical facilities is of the utmost importance in a pandemic like this one, many may not have the financial means to support the cost of these services to keep them safe in a time of need. 

We at SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint work with our clients to ensure we are able to provide them with the service they need at a cost they can afford. For details, feel free to contact us any time, we’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in our communities.

Buckled Floor? Don’t wait!

7/31/2021 (Permalink)

What does it mean?

Floor buckling is the most extreme reaction that can occur due to moisture in a hardwood floor. The buckling occurs when the wood flooring pulls up from the subfloor due to moisture being embedded underneath causing it to lift several inches in one or more places. Fortunately, this is not a common occurrence in most buildings, but it is definitely a possibility and something to keep an eye out for.

If the damage is noticed and treated early, spot repair and replacement may be possible to prevent a much larger restoration project. Once the standing water causing the issue is removed, several boards can be taken up from the floor so that forced air can circulate across and below the floor drying it up to an acceptable condition. We will test and confirm the area is dry before completing our restoration. When the floor is fully dried to a stable moisture level, the needed repairs can usually be made or at least made ready for the new floor if necessary. 

What do we do?

At SERVPRO of Williamsburg and Greenpoint we are professional in the industry, on arrival we will begin to set up floor protection, drying mats and drying equipment. We will then clean all affected areas to rid them of moisture and possible mold. And as the floors are drying we will discuss a restoration plan with you to get new floors in and prevent any further water from introducing itself to your home/business. 

Don’t Wait!

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Disaster can strike businesses and homes alike in Brooklyn. Whatever the time or the season, there are always factors that can increase the probability that damage can occur to your property. How the response is handled makes all the difference and this greatly depends on who, and how quickly they respond to what has happened. This is crucial to limiting the amount of damage ultimately occurs, and how long it will take to get back to its original condition or better. 

SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton prides itself on our response time, and we ensure that in two ways. 

Initial Contact

SERVPRO has phone lines open 24/7 ready to spring into action and assist. Whether you have basement flooding at 12am or a kitchen fire at 12pm, you will speak to us when you call and we will be prepared to help. 

Location

Wherever you have damage, our technicians and specialized equipment is never too far away. When necessary, we can be on scene quickly to begin the remediation process and  get your life back to normal. Free of our crew and your disaster. 

We have over many years of experience remediating all types of damage in an efficient manner.  Our skilled technicians utilize both the most effective techniques in the industry and specialized equipment to make sure that you are taken care of properly and damage will not be recurring. We will act fast to get your business back up and running as soon as possible or your home back to magnificent living conditions. 

Kitchen Fires

7/16/2021 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires can be very unpredictable; they can be a small mishap or a huge disaster in a matter of seconds. It is important to keep fire extinguishers nearby and have a plan in place. Never leave food unattended while cooking and always make sure appliances are off once you've finished using them. 

The Oven is a hotspot for disasters, oven fires can start when the baking is well overdone, or when a flammable material drips down to the heating element. Oven fires also happen when an oven becomes dirty from food particles building up. 

When this occurs your first reflex may be to open the oven door, but do not open the door! Instead, put out the oven fire by allowing it to suffocate. Leaving the door closed, you’ll turn off the oven to oven to stop the cooking (unplug when possible). Eventually, the flames will consume all of the oxygen, and oxygen is what the fire needs to sustain itself, killing the flames inside. When the flames eventually snuff out, clean up and open a window if possible, but if they persist, call the fire department immediately.

The stove is another likely place to cause fires, mainly with grease. Here are some good tips to deal with a grease fire on your stove-

  • Don’t use water to put out grease fires. Water won’t put out the fire, it will just divert the grease and thus spread the fire. 
  • For a small fire, use the big lid trick as mentioned earlier. Turn off the burner and cover the burning pan or the burner itself with the lid tightly so it’s deprived of oxygen.
  • Pour baking soda or salt on the flames until it’s snuffed out (again, do not use flour).
  • Use a water-soaked towel to smother the flames. This is different from pouring water on the flame.
  • Use a fire extinguisher, pointing it at the base of the flames.

You've Got Mold…

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

How Does Mold Form?
Mold is present all around, indoors and out floating in the air through AC, heatings, on your clothes or even your dog. Mold thrives in moist environments and can grow in as little as 48 hours. Mold spores can affect people with compromised immune systems and those with allergies. Wet areas of your home are very prone to mold and can be causing you issues you may have never realized. With all of the rain we have experienced recently, it is important to inspect your home for signs of mold or any water leaks. Some common places to check for mold include: under your sink, behind your toilet, behind your fridge/freezer, basement, and around windows

What to do?

While it is possible to clean up mold yourself, we recommend giving a professional a call. Depending on the severity and type of mold you could put yourself at risk cleaning it up and make the problem more severe. Oftentimes people attempt to clean these issues up themselves only to result in more growth over time as the root issue is not taken care of. At SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint we are trained in mold remediation and will stop the current spread, as well as any future spreading of mold spores in your home or business. Mold cleanup requires special chemicals and equipment to be done correctly, and at SERVPRO we have tested our products with great results for years. 

Pro tip: The smell of mold is the biggest sign you should have your home/business checked out. The musty/earthy smell under your kitchen sink could be causing you and your family health effects you never realized. 

What to Do After An Apartment Fire in Your Brooklyn Apartment

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

fire bonfire outside night Call our office if you're dealing with an apartment fire in your Brooklyn home!

Damaging fires, unfortunately, happen every 24 seconds in the United States, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Apartments are no exception to this reality. In fact, an average of 382,397 fires that occur annually in the United States happen within residential properties, with many injuries as well.

Dealing with an emergency like this is extremely stressful and often unplanned for. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint is equipped to handle the aftermath of incidents like this in any size residential space, including apartments.

What do I do if there’s a fire in my apartment?

It's important to act immediately, but stay calm. You need to alert everyone in the apartment and make sure to leave the property immediately.

Use your pre-planned escape route if you have one, and consider developing one now if you don’t. 

When everyone is evacuating the building, make sure everyone stays low and crawls since smoke rises.

Safety Tips: Do's and Don'ts

  • DON'T stop to retrieve any valuables or collectibles. 
  • DO close the door to the room the fire started in and close doors as you continue to exit the building, if you can do so safely.
  • DO check handles/door knobs for heat before grasping. For example, touch it with the back of your hand. If the door is warm, then there is likely fire behind it and you must find an alternative route to exit the building. 
  • DON'T attempt to extinguish a fire unless you are trained to do so. 
  • DON'T go back into the building. 
  • DO call the fire department as soon as you safely have the opportunity to do so. If there is anyone remaining in the building, make sure to inform them of this. 

What should I do after the fire department leaves?

Once the fire is extinguished and the dust settles, call a restoration company immediately to address the damage. Only those who are equipped to handle the water, smoke and fire damage your apartment has suffered should be entering the building and handling the situation. You will also want to get in touch with your insurance company. Did you know? SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint works with all insurance companies.

Why should I choose SERVPRO for my Fire Restoration Needs?

  • We offer a wide-variety of services: Content Cleaning, Technology Restoration, Document Restoration, Dry-Cleaning, Upholstery Cleaning, Smoke/Soot Removal, Move-In/Out, and other services to help with getting your space back to normal after a fire.

What's more? We work closely with your family and the various adjusters to make sure that the job is done right.  We understand that your apartment needs to be cared for and respected during this difficult time. We pride ourselves on limiting our interruption into your lives. When possible, we will work around your schedule so that the day-to-day routine of your family is not disrupted further. 

What steps do we take to handle fire damage restoration? 

SERVPRO provides Structural Cleaning and Content Cleaning for Williamsburg and Greenpoint homes that have been affected by Smoke or Fire Damage.

How Does Water Damage Lead to Mold Growth?

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage in the Brooklyn Can Lead to Mold

There is no place in the world like New York City. If you're lucky enough to live in Brooklyn, you have access to an unparalleled view of the Manhattan skyline from Williamsburg or Greenpoint. While we enjoy a variety of culture, fine dining, exciting activities city living is not without its challenges.

The age of both our own and neighboring properties can make our homes susceptible to accidents. Older residential buildings have the normal wear-and-tear on their facilities, including pipes. When a pipe breaks, water can leak all over your house, leaving you in immediate need of reputable restoration service like SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint.

In Northern Brooklyn, Water Damage is the specialty of our team here at SERVPRO. Navigating the streets, regulations, and needs of New York is not for outsiders. Our team is part of the Brooklyn community, and we know how valuable your space and time are, so we strive to mitigate your losses as we diligently return your home to mint condition. Just call our 24/7 hotline and let us do the heavy lifting to protect your home.

How can I avoid mold?
Whenever a water incident occurs, acting swiftly is the most critical step. It takes less than three days for mold to begin multiplying in your home if the water is left standing. When you call our SERVPRO crew, we assess the extent of the damage and jump into action as soon as it is safe.

With our industry-grade tools, we can determine where water is hiding beneath your cupboards, inside wall cavities, and under flooring. We can also decide which pieces of furniture, if any, need a deep cleaning and which we need to remove from your home. So, what do we use to measure humidity in your home?

    •    Thermal imaging can show us water behind walls and under cabinets.
    •    Moisture sensors can report relative humidity in furniture and fixtures.
    •    Borescopes let us reach hard-to-access corners to verify moisture within them.

With a complete suite of equipment informing us of our progress, we can work to eliminate excess humidity in your home. By acting swiftly, you will significantly reduce the risk of mold growing in your home. SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint is your ally in an emergency. Call us at 917.809.6562 and let us leave your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Got Frozen Pipes and Ice Dams? Check For Mold Damage

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

frozen pipes drip faucet Check your frozen pipes and ice dams for signs of water damage. Early detection is critical to minimize expenses and save you time.

With Spring Showers in Brooklyn can come mold infestations from stagnant water and improper drainage. Temperature extremes during the colder months can cause many different water-intrusion problems in the your New York home.

Mold issues can surprise residents as most water appears frozen solid at this time of the year. Neglecting the possibility of water leakage during the winter can lead to mold growth in some spaces in a home. Professional mold remediation is the answer for the damage.
 
Mold damage occurs when moisture activates the mold spores that are consistently present in the air or on surfaces. During the chillier times of the year, certain forces conspire to provide the perfect environment for fungal growth. A highly-qualified mold remediation company understands the dynamics that change exterior below-freezing temperatures and frozen precipitation into the liquid water feeding a burgeoning mold colony.
 
SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint technicians responding to mold growth in an attic or top floor frequently find evidence of ice dams. Gutters and eaves are vulnerable to ice dams and the seepage and leaking into home interiors that follows. If drain spouts clog with leaves, sticks, and other debris, water catches in gutters and freezes. Most gutters are adjacent to the eaves and soffits edging a roof. As the frozen water expands, it pushes under loose flashings and shingles. Warm air rising along poorly or uninsulated walls and framing melts the ice causing it to soak building materials. Mold has then both now, water and an organic surface upon which to flourish.
 
Water supply and drain pipes on or near exterior walls, in foundations, or crawl spaces sometimes freeze, resulting in cracks or breaks in plumbing, sending moisture to saturate structural components and personal belongings. SERVPRO mold remediation crews make the connection when called to abate microbial growth and damage in these areas.
 
Mold remediation requires adherence to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) protocols. Trained SERVPRO technicians contain the mold using physical barriers and often negative pressure air scrubbers to prevent the spread of the microbes. They remove and bag the moldy materials, disposing of the collected substances. HEPA filtered vacuums and antimicrobial treatment remove any debris and inhibit future mold damage.
 
For the abatement efforts of the SERVPRO team to work long term, the conditions causing water to leak inside a home during the winter must also be eliminated. Gutters and drains need repair and insulation, and interior ceilings need evaluation. Frozen plumbing requires replacement, and outdoor faucets should be winterized each autumn.
 
SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint is here for any Mold Remediation issue you may come across this Spring. Call (917) 809-6562 for immediate assistance.

Why Trust SERVPRO for Your Disaster Recovery Needs

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

technician using equipment wood floors Trust our trained technicians and our decades of experience when you consider what restoration and cleanup specialist to keep on file for emergencies!

No one plans for an emergency, but when disaster strikes, it’s good to know who you should call. Our team is here to help with disaster recovery as quickly as possible. Learn why you should choose SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint for all your disaster remediation needs.

When disaster strikes, be prepared

At different times in life, we may find ourselves in emergency situations that call for quick reactions. In cases where a home or business structure in Brooklyn is compromised by unhealthy and/or unsafe conditions, SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint is the fast response you need to get relief.

Tumultuous situations should be handled by professionals with the right tools to do the job efficiently. When you are choosing your clean-up and restoration specialist company, you may be considering a few important factors such as:

  • Convenient location
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Professionalism
  • Efficiency
  • Honesty
  • Experience
  • Latest equipment

Why our team is the answer for disaster response

In event of an unexpected disaster such as flooding, fire, or strong storm damage situations, remember, we’re here to help.  We want to make the clean-up process as easy as possible for you and reduce the amount of stress you may be feeling. SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint has trained professionals who are quick to respond and apply the latest equipment and techniques to make your disaster look “Like it never even happened.”

What can SERVPRO assist with?

Our brand has been serving the country since 1967. Our Williamsburg based team has the experience and broad inventory of recovery equipment to handle disasters of all sizes and types. We have many qualified technicians on our team and collectively have all IICRC-certifications in restoration, remediation, abatement, reconstruction, and disaster recovery. Our experienced professionals work to provide fast and effective service for all commercial and residential properties throughout Williamsburg and Greenpoint, Brooklyn.

Our services include the following:

  • Fire damage remediation
  • Storm damage remediation
  • Water damage remediation
  • Mold damage remediation
  • Professional Cleanup + Disinfection
  • Building repairs
  • Biohazard cleanup
  • Commercial cleaning

If you experience a disaster of any kind, whether you’re a homeowner or a commercial property owner, contact SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint at (917) 809-6562

Fire Safety Tips

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

house fire flames tree Do you have a Fire Safety Plan? Protect your Brooklyn home by making a plan to protect your loved ones.

It’s no secret how devastating a house fire can be, so it only makes sense to do everything possible to keep your home safe and know what to do if you do encounter a blaze. Here are a few key fire safety tips to keep in mind.

Frequently inspect your home’s smoke detectors.

Smoke detectors are extremely important to fire safety and should be installed in every bedroom and on every floor of your home. While many suggest annually changing the batteries in detectors, homeowners should also do a routine monthly check to ensure they are operational, and replace them every 10 years or as directed by the manufacturer. Regardless of whether they’re battery-operated or hard-wired, these more frequent checkups can help keep your home safe.

Have a family fire escape plan. 

Understandably, people can become overwhelmed when a home fire breaks out. Creating an evacuation plan for the event of a house fire starting is a great way to ensure everyone in your household will know exactly what to do and can act efficiently if a fire starts. Plan out exit routes, meeting places and any special provisions your family members may need. Assign one person specific tasks such as gathering pets or contacting family members not in the home to ensure everyone is protected and communication stays consistent.

Know how to operate a fire extinguisher. 

Did you know there are actually several kinds of fire extinguishers available? Because of that, important to get the type you think will be most suited to your needs. Make sure you fully understand how to use it and share the information with your family members, as well. Here’s a summary of the different types of extinguishers. To correctly use a fire extinguister, remember the word PASS:

  • Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
  • Aim low; pointing the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
  • Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
  • Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Never leave flames unattended. 

Because open flames are so common in the household, many people forget the extreme dangers they can pose. Whether it is from a cooktop or candle, a flame can spread to other surfaces in an instant, which is why it is vital to never leave one unattended for any length of time. Pets and children can easily cause a fire if left unattended. Always extinguish all flames when you’re not in the room.

Have a plan should a fire break out

Do you have a fire safety plan for your home in Brooklyn? Whether you own your Williamsburg home or rent an apartment, it's important to consider a fire escape plan.

We understand that no one wants to consider the unthinkable, but you need to have a plan on what to do if a fire breaks out. In addition to the fire escape plan mentioned above, consider what next steps are needed after the fire is extinguished.

It’s important to contact a fire remediation company like SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint to assist with the damage left behind from smoke and flames. SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint has a staff of trained professionals to assist you in this time of need. We’re available 24/7 to help you recover from a house fire. Call us if you experience a fire or any other type of disaster at (917) 809-6562. We’re here to help!

Types of Water Damage & How to Prevent Damage

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

TYPES OF WATER DAMAGE AND HOW TO PREVENT THEM

Water damage is a problem that most property owners fear. With the accumulation of rain and snow, the risk of damage increases. Water can cause thousands of money worth of damage by damaging wood furniture, upholstery, electronics, household appliances, and equipment. Water damage also increases the risk of mold growth, which is a very expensive problem to restore.

Assessing the type of damage is important to determine what is needed to start water damage repair and water removal. There are several different types of water damage and how to prevent them.

  1. Clean Water

This is water does not threat to human’s health if exposed or consumed by them. Overflowing sink or tub, or a broken incoming water line would be examples of clean water. This is the easiest type of water damage to handle, since there will not be too many microbes living in the water. If the damage is not properly cleaned, this will result to mold and fungus growth. If the damage is more than 24 hours, it is best to contact professional service restoration.

  1. Gray Water

Water is slightly contaminated because of the source. Clean water can be gray if left untreated. This type of water contains microorganisms. Broken toilets, broken sump pumps, and seepage may cause gray water. This may cause sickness if ingested. If you want to begin the cleaning and drying process before the restoration service arrives, you should wear gloves in order to prevent your skin from touching the water so you do not spread any microbes.

  1. Black water

Is the most hazardous type of water damage. It is usually a result of natural disasters or sewage damage. Black water can include toxic materials such as bacterial diseases, chemicals, pesticides, and microbes. If your home is suffered from this type, it is best to contact a professional to do the disinfecting. Better to be safe than sorry in the end.

Experiencing a water damage disaster is enough stress on its own. Always seek for professional advice for water damage. If you experience these kinds of emergencies, call SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint at (917) 809-6562.

Common Winter Hazards for Businesses

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

snowflake night cold Take note of these common winter hazards so you can better protect your Brooklyn home!

Extreme cold, snow, ice and freezing rain can all have serious consequences for your employees, your property and your business operations. Water accumulated from melting ice and snow, has the chances of slips and falls for employees and visitors. Staying aware of these risks throughout the season and understanding how to avoid them will help keep your property and employees safe, and keep your business running without interruption. To reduce the chance of accidents, injuries and property damage, here are the most common hazards colder weather brings for businesses, along with the ways to prevent them.

  1. Power Outages

Most cold-season power failures happen when winter storms bring freezing rain, sleet, and high winds, damaging power lines and equipment. Without a backup power source, not only are you impacted, but your business can suffer from dampness, damaging walls, floors and plumbing.

Generators are a key component of business continuity for companies of all sizes. They not only keep business up and running during power outages, but also keep key building systems running so your business doesn’t deal with water damage.

  1. Frozen Pipes

Cold temperatures can cause water pipes to freeze. Freezing in a pipe creates a lot of pressure inside the pipe and can cause the pipe to burst and likely lead to serious flooding, which can cause a lot of damage to a business in very little time.

The best prevention against frozen pipes is to keep them warm enough to stay above the freezing point.

  • Seal openings & insulate pipes
  • Maintain temperature & power in the building
  • Monitor facility systems & detect problems early
  1. Roof Damage & Collapse

Heavy snow can pose a serious risk to roofs and cause some to collapse, creating dangerous conditions. Once the accumulated snow and ice load reaches the “danger zone,” it runs the risk of compromising the roof’s structural integrity, potentially leading to collapse.

When snow buildup occurs, use a roof rake with an extended handle to pull snow of the roof from the safety of the ground. Removing roof snow can also prevent ice dams. Roof snow removal can be dangerous it would be better if you hire a professional snow removal service.

If a winter does leave a mark on your business, we recommend you take action immediately. Call us SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint, small or big, we are here to assist you.

Benefits of Choosing SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

warehouse truck servpro name Choose SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint for quality service in your time of need

Natural disasters can damage your home. It can lead a lot of stress. Hiring a home restoration service can handle problems. There are so many different types of natural disasters that affect this area and you need to hire for a restoration service.

  1. FASTER WATER EXTRACTION

Professional Restoration Service Company extracts water fast because they handle professional equipment. With small team of water restoration experts, the water will be removed from your home on the same day. You won’t need a lot of time, effort and manpower.

  1. REMOVING HEALTH CONCERNS

A Restoration Service Company will not just repairing the damage to your house. Service restoration expert will take care of preventing mold and moisture that compromise your health. Hiring a professional company is going to be your best bet when dealing with mold. This is because they have the tools and knowledge to handle this problem. They are licensed to use chemical products which will extract the existing mold and moisture from your walls and floors.

  1. DRYING TIME CUT IN HALF

A major issue with water damage removal is a drying time. You might take several days or even weeks to properly dry your house if you choose to remove the water by yourself. A professional restoration service company will do this in a much less time because they have equipment and heaters that access even to the areas which cannot be easily reached.

  1. LOW TOTAL COST

Hiring a professional service company will lower total damage costs because their teams are highly responsive to emergency calls. They will be able to come even before a major damage occurs. They will react fast and solve the damage from spreading around your house.

  1. REDUCED RESTORATION COST

Aside from physical damage, water and fire can cause additional damage. If you do not have insurance, you will have to pay for the new furniture and structural repairing by yourself. Restoration services encompass removal, repair, restoration and remediation of damage; you won’t have to hire several different companies to repair the damage.

  1. SAVING TIME

A professional restoration service company should be highly responsive to calls; in order to prevent the further damage, they will act instantly. This won’t just save you time, but it will minimize the potential damage and reduce costs.

If you are searching for a professional service company that is reliable you can trust and can guarantee you highest quality work, contact SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint, a trusted leader in restoration industry, it provides services to ensure that your home is fully restored. Trusting SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint to do the job is having your family safe at home again.

Here at SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint we are proud to serve. When serious disaster hits, we stand ready to mobilize our team to help out during any kind of crisis.

Water Extraction Explained

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

water vacuum green carpet Learn about our water extraction process that occurs during the water restoration process.

WHAT IS WATER EXTRACTION?

If your house has water and you can’t figure out where it is coming from. Water extraction is a must have process to prevent secondary and extensive damage. Water damage is never fun, especially since it requires resources and efforts to go through without losing your mind and restoring your home back to its original state.

After water damage, your home needs a complete restoration process and should be done professionally and efficiently. Water extraction should be done quickly to remove all water that entered your home and prevent more problems including mold growth, additional damage to materials and spreading more damage to more areas.

What is water extraction?

Water extraction is a process recommended to remove excess water form flooring and grounds of the house or property. This job should be carried out by experts like SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint because they have the expertise, the necessary tools and water extraction equipment and most efficient methods for water damage extraction.

What is the purpose of water extraction?

The purpose of water extraction is to reduce the risk of damages to property to prevent mold growth and restore your home or property to its original state.

What are the methods used for water extraction?

  • Vacuums – such as wet dry vacuums used to eliminate water form areas
  • Pumps – such as sump pumps can help remove water from a building.

If you have any questions about water damage, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint at (917) 809-6562

Why Hire A Professional For Fire Damage Cleanup

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

fire night background servpro logo Call SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint for Professional Fire Damage Cleanup.

A fire can strike many time, consequences can be devastating and deadly. After the fire, people will first want to clean up their home. Before you decide to clean up the property, it’s a good idea to reach out to a fire damage cleanup company like SERVPRO.

Here are our top reasons for hiring a professional for Fire Damage Cleanup.

  1. Fire Damage Cleanup Can Be Dangerous

The reason why you should hire a professional for fire damage cleanup is that the process can be very dangerous to clean up after a fire. The area that is damaged could also have broken glass, sharp objects, and a variety of hazards. These hazards can be hard to identify. When you choose to work with a professional, they will be able to use the tools necessary to safely clear the area of all debris.

When you call a team of professional fire restoration experts, no stone will go unturned. Industry experts understand how damaging smoke and soot can be, and they know exactly which tools and services to offer in order to eliminate it. A professional fire restoration company knows what to look for and how to eliminate the risks.

  1. Follow Regulations

One reason why you should hire a professional for fire damage cleanup is that they will be able to follow regulations. After fire damage your local community may have specific ways of how the cleanup needs to be handled. This will prevent you from using trash and dumpster service. A fire damage cleanup company will be able to follow the proper steps to ensure your home is in compliance with any laws.

  1. Restoring Your Items

Another advantage for hiring a professional for fire damage cleanup is that they can restore many items that you thought can be destroyed. They will be able to carefully review all of your personal belongings that were damaged. An item that appears to be completely damaged could actually be full restored. This can include flooring, furniture, appliances, and many other items that could be expensive to replace.

When you discover that your property is subjected to the destruction and deterioration that fires generate, it’s time to take action. The best thing to do is to call the professionals. Our team has extensive experience in the fire damage cleanup.

Here at SERVPRO of Williamsburg, Greenpoint we are proud to serve. When serious disaster hits, we stand ready to mobilize our team to help out during any kind of crisis. Call us at (917) 809-6562

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