Restoring Safety: Biohazard Cleanup by SERVPRO®

6/24/2024 (Permalink)

When faced with biohazard water damage, such as sewage backups or contaminated floodwaters, their expertise becomes invaluable in ensuring thorough cleanup and mitigation.

The Challenge of Biohazard Water Damage

Biohazard water damage poses unique challenges due to the potential health risks associated with contaminated water. Whether caused by sewage backups, flooding, or other sources, such incidents require immediate attention and specialized knowledge.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

**Expertise and Experience:**
SERVPRO brings decades of experience in biohazard cleanup to every job. Our technicians are trained in handling hazardous materials and equipped with state-of-the-art tools and techniques to safely and effectively restore properties.

**Safety First Approach:**
The team understands the critical importance of safety when dealing with biohazardous materials. We adhere to industry standards and protocols to minimize risks to both occupants and their environment throughout the cleanup process.

**Comprehensive Services:**
From initial assessment to final restoration, SERVPRO offers comprehensive services tailored to each situation. This includes thorough water extraction, disinfection, deodorization, and structural drying to prevent mold and further damage.

**24/7 Availability:**
Disasters don’t keep office hours, and neither do we. Our rapid response team is available 24/7 to respond swiftly to emergencies, minimizing downtime and preventing secondary damage.

For more information on our services or to request assistance, call us at (203) 743-5362. Remember, in times of crisis, choosing the right restoration partner can make all the difference.

Turning the Tide: SERVPRO's Comprehensive Water Damage Restoration Services

6/17/2024 (Permalink)

Imagine coming home to discover your house transformed into a watery disaster zone, courtesy of a burst pipe.

It's a scenario that strikes fear into the hearts of homeowners everywhere. However, amidst the chaos and despair, there exists a beacon of hope: SERVPRO®, the trusted name in water damage restoration.

The Calamity: A Burst Pipe

The sudden rupture of a water pipe can turn a peaceful home into a scene of chaos within minutes. Whether due to aging infrastructure, extreme temperatures, or an unforeseen accident, a burst pipe unleashes gallons of water into places where it doesn't belong. From soaking carpets and furniture to seeping into walls and ceilings, the damage can be swift and extensive.

Initial Response: Navigating the Crisis

In such moments of crisis, quick action is crucial. The first steps involve shutting off the water supply to prevent further flooding and ensuring the safety of all occupants. Once these immediate concerns are addressed, the focus shifts to damage assessment and mitigation. Here's where SERVPRO steps in.

SERVPRO: The Restoration Experts

SERVPRO is not just a cleanup crew; we are a lifeline in times of water damage emergencies. With their expertise and experience, Our team swiftly assess the extent of the damage. Our thorough inspection identifies areas affected by water intrusion, even those not immediately visible to the untrained eye.

The Restoration Process

Once the assessment is complete, our team formulates a comprehensive restoration plan tailored to each unique situation. This plan typically includes:

Water Extraction: Using powerful pumps and vacuums, SERVPRO extracts standing water from affected areas, minimizing further damage and mold growth.

Drying and Dehumidification: Industrial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers are deployed to remove moisture from floors, walls, and air spaces. This step is crucial in preventing secondary damage and mold formation.

Cleaning and Sanitizing: Salvageable belongings and structures are meticulously cleaned and sanitized to mitigate the effects of water damage and restore them to preloss conditions.

Restoration: Finally, our skilled technicians undertake repairs and reconstruction as necessary. This may involve replacing drywall, repairing structural damage, or restoring damaged surfaces like carpets and hardwood floors.

Beyond Restoration: Restoring Peace of Mind

While SERVPRO's primary mission is physical restoration, our impact goes beyond repairing walls and floors. We restore peace of mind to homeowners by handling the complexities of insurance claims and providing clear communication throughout the process. Our dedication to customer satisfaction ensures that homeowners can focus on rebuilding their lives with minimal disruption.

Restoring Hope: How SERVPRO's Fire Damage Restoration Services Renew Homes and Lives

5/20/2024 (Permalink)

In the aftermath of a fire, the devastation can feel insurmountable. Beyond the physical damage lies an emotional toll that can be overwhelming. However, amidst the chaos, there is hope. At SERVPRO®, we specialize in restoring not just buildings, but also lives, through our comprehensive fire damage restoration services. In this blog post, we'll explore how SERVPRO's expertise, dedication, and compassion help homeowners navigate the challenging journey of fire damage recovery.

The aftermath of a fire is a chaotic scene of destruction. Beyond the obvious structural damage, there's smoke residue, water damage from firefighting efforts, and the loss of personal belongings. It's a situation that can leave homeowners feeling lost and unsure of where to turn next. That's where SERVPRO steps in.

Assessment and Planning: The first step in our fire damage restoration process is a thorough assessment of the extent of the damage. Our team of experts meticulously inspects the property, identifying areas that require immediate attention and creating a customized restoration plan. We understand that every fire damage situation is unique, so we tailor our approach to meet the specific needs of each homeowner.

Smoke and Soot Removal: Smoke and soot residues can penetrate deep into building materials, leaving behind foul odors and unsightly stains. Our advanced techniques and equipment allow us to effectively remove smoke and soot particles from surfaces, ensuring a thorough cleanup. Whether it's scrubbing walls, cleaning upholstery, or deodorizing fabrics, SERVPRO leaves no trace of smoke damage behind.

Water Damage Mitigation: In many fire damage scenarios, water damage is also a significant concern due to the water used to extinguish the flames. SERVPRO's team is equipped to handle water extraction, drying, and dehumidification to prevent further damage and mold growth. Our goal is to restore the property to its pre-fire condition as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Structural Repairs and Reconstruction: Once the immediate threats have been addressed, we turn our attention to structural repairs and reconstruction. From repairing damaged walls and roofs to replacing flooring and cabinetry, SERVPRO's skilled technicians work tirelessly to rebuild what was lost. We understand the importance of restoring not just the physical structure, but also the sense of security and comfort that comes with it.

Support and Compassion: Throughout the fire damage restoration process, SERVPRO is more than just a restoration company – we're a support system for homeowners in their time of need. Our team approaches every project with empathy and compassion, understanding the emotional toll that a fire can take. We're here to guide homeowners through every step of the recovery process, offering reassurance and assistance along the way.

At SERVPRO, we believe that no fire damage is beyond repair. With our expertise, dedication, and compassion, we help homeowners navigate the challenging journey of fire damage recovery, restoring not just buildings, but also hope and peace of mind. If you've experienced a fire, don't despair – let SERVPRO be your partner in rebuilding and renewal.

Clearing the Air: SERVPRO®'s Expert Mold Remediation Services

5/20/2024 (Permalink)

Mold – it's a homeowner's worst nightmare. From its unsightly appearance to its potential health hazards, mold can wreak havoc on properties and peace of mind. But fear not, because SERVPRO® is here to tackle mold head-on with our expert mold remediation services. In this blog post, we'll delve into how SERVPRO's comprehensive approach to mold remediation restores homes and brings peace of mind to homeowners.

Assessment and Containment:
The first step in SERVPRO's mold remediation process is a thorough assessment of the affected area. Our trained technicians use advanced techniques and equipment to identify mold growth, determine the extent of the contamination, and develop a customized remediation plan. We then implement containment measures to prevent the spread of mold spores to unaffected areas, ensuring a targeted and effective remediation process.

Safe and Effective Removal:
With containment measures in place, SERVPRO gets to work on safely removing mold from the affected area. Our technicians utilize specialized equipment and techniques to remove mold colonies and spores from surfaces and the air. Whether it's scrubbing, sanding, or HEPA vacuuming, we leave no stone unturned in our quest to eradicate mold and restore indoor air quality.

Thorough Cleaning and Sanitization:
Once the mold has been removed, SERVPRO focuses on cleaning and sanitizing the affected area to prevent future mold growth. We use antimicrobial treatments to inhibit the growth of mold and mildew, ensuring a clean and healthy environment for homeowners and their families.

Restoration and Prevention:
Finally, SERVPRO focuses on restoring the affected area to its pre-mold condition. From repairing damaged materials to improving ventilation and moisture control, we take proactive measures to prevent future mold problems. Our goal is not just to remediate mold, but also to provide long-lasting solutions that give homeowners peace of mind.

Support and Reassurance:
Throughout the mold remediation process, SERVPRO provides more than just technical expertise – we offer support and reassurance to homeowners facing mold problems. We understand the stress and uncertainty that come with mold issues, and we're here to guide homeowners through every step of the remediation journey.

When it comes to mold remediation, SERVPRO is the name homeowners can trust. With our comprehensive approach, advanced techniques, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, we tackle mold problems head-on and restore homes to their former glory. If you're facing mold issues, don't hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO for prompt and professional assistance. Together, we'll clear the air and restore peace of mind to your home.

What do Mold Remediation Companies Do?

8/28/2023 (Permalink)

If you’ve discovered mold growing in your home, you know that the first step that you should take is to contact a mold remediation company and have an inspection of your property.

You may call a number of companies to your home (we hope we are one of them!) to give you their professional opinion of your situation. When choosing a mold remediation company, there are several key factors that we recommend you consider.

Whoever you choose to work in your home should be able to explain the remediation process to you in layman’s terms.

We know that we have been educated in mold and it’s removal from homes but do not expect that our customers have been! Mold remediation does require training and equipment but the process can be explained easily to our customers. If a company uses only technical terms and the process seems overly complicated, take them off your list! 

Look for signs that your mold remediation specialist uses safety precautions.

Proper safety gear should be worn when dealing with mold. Are their technicians using personal safety equipment such as high quality, high filtration face mask and gloves? If they aren't safe about their own health, you shouldn't trust that they will be about yours!

Ask your prospective mold remediation company the following questions:

Will your chosen company use containment materials to seal off the work area so that mold spores do not become dispersed throughout the home? 

What kind of equipment does the company use? Mold professionals use HEPA air scrubbers and vacuums, commercial-strength dehumidifiers and proprietary cleaners. 

Will the company be using an air scrubbers and an air exchange through ventilation to remove the airborne mold spores after the mold is physically removed?

Will moldy porous building materials such as drywall, insulation and baseboards  be removed and discarded? These materials are relatively inexpensive to replace and difficult to impossible to restore to their previous uncontaminated condition.

What antimicrobial chemicals will be used to clean any remaining mold and mold stains after the demolition has been completed? 

Will the area be treated with a sealer or encapsulant to make the treated areas more resistant to water damage and mold?

How much experience and training does the company have in mold remediation and are they certified by the IICRC? A company that has been in the business for at least 10 years will be prepared for any situation and will know how to best handle your job.

Does the company have experience and training cleaning HVAC ductwork in structures that have had a mold infestation?

SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County will answer yes to all of these questions.

We are the areas number one mold remediation company for a reason. If you have mold in your home, give us a call for a straightforward discussion about how we can help! 

Basement flooded? We can help!

8/23/2023 (Permalink)

Quick action is the key to limiting damage if you have flooding. Here are some actions that can prevent mold from growing in your Bethel home. 

1. Protect your belongings – remove light furniture and upholstered items as well as other items that are susceptible (cardboard boxes, carpets and other porous items) from the affected area. 
2. Remove as much water as possible using a wet/dry vacuum. 
3. Use fans to circulate the air and speed up the drying process. A good rule of thumb is to run the fans for an additional week after the area appears dry. 
4. A dehumidifier can be used as well to remove excess moisture and dry out the room. 

Water damage can easily be hidden underneath rugs or carpet, so be sure to give your home a thorough inspection if you suspect water damage. Although carpets can be steam cleaned, they are tough to treat and padding typically cannot be saved. 

If you do have wall to wall carpeting in your basement that has gotten wet from flood water, give SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County a call at (203) 743-5362. We are an IICRC trained mold and water mitigation company and have the tools and expertise to treat your Brookfield home for damage.

Smoke and Soot Cleaning After the Fire

8/23/2023 (Permalink)

Some of the toughest jobs we respond to are house fires. It can be devastating, both physically and emotionally, for the family who has experienced such a loss. Not only is there damage from the fire itself, the smoke and soot can render many possessions unsalvageable. On top of that, water damage from fire fighting efforts adds another layer of damage. Our team knows how important it is to save whatever we can of your belongings.  We have technicians trained and experienced in the art of content cleaning, which can take different forms depending on the item. 

Dry-Cleaning: In order to remove smoke and soot from porous items such as clothing, furniture and drapery, we use the dry cleaning method. The soot has to be removed from the textiles before they are washed with water. 

Ultrasonic: Non-porous items can go through a more vigorous cleaning than materials that soak up water. The ultrasonic treatment incorporates ultrasound and a cleaning solvent to rid your belongings of soot.

High-Pressure Water: In some circumstances, such as for larger items, our technicians opt to use  high-pressure water treatment on non-porous household items. 

Odor Removal: Smoke isn't the only thing that can cling to your possessions. The smell can linger after all visible signs of fire damage has disappeared. Our team may use thermal fogging or ozone treatments to make your home smelling good again. 

With decades in the business, our team has helped hundreds of families back into their homes after house fires. If you are faced with such a loss, please know that we are available to help.

After the Fire: Board Ups and Pack Outs

8/14/2023 (Permalink)

When your business or home has had a fire, the restoration process involves more than the structural restoration of your home. In addition to cleaning the smoke from the air in your home and the soot off of the surfaces, SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County offers the following services:

Board-ups In many cases in which there has been a fire, it is necessary to secure the openings of your home, such as the windows, doors and the roof. The SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County team uses sturdy, durable materials designed to protect homes from both the outside elements such as rain and snow as well as intrusion by outsiders. This is often one of the first actions we will take when we arrive at the job - even if it’s in the middle of the night.

Move-Outs After a fire, it may be necessary to move some or all of your personal belongings and furniture out of your home. This may be to protect your contents, to make the restoration and rebuild of your home easier and also in order to clean your things off site. Our franchise offers a pack out service and also has a dedicated storage facility in which we can store your items. Items such as carpeting, electronics, artwork and furniture might be restored off site by our technicians.

Inventory When your home or business has experienced a fire, it is important to take an inventory of the contents inside prior to anything being discarded or packed up. At SERVPRO, we use a system called the Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), which allows us to generate comprehensive room-by-room inventories. As we go through the items , we will categorize the contents as salvageable, non-salvageable and questionable. This allows for easier contents settlement with your insurance company. Home fires are devastating.

Even if the structural damage is minimal, the process of cleaning the smoke out of the air and your belongings can be extensive. SERVPRO Of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County is here to help you step by step through the process.

Building Relationships: Commercial Property Water Damage

9/21/2022 (Permalink)

The relationship with a restoration company for commercial property owners is an important one.

When water damage strikes a business, it’s vital for the owner to have a restoration company that they know is locally owned, reliable and trustworthy come mitigate the damage. Whether you manage an apartment complex or own a local store, you need a quick and professional clean up so that your business is minimally impacted.

You never know when water damage will occur. Yes, flooding after a storm or during the spring snow melt is common source of water damage however you would be surprised at some other causes of water damage in Connecticut businesses.

Malfunctioning sprinkler systems.

We frequently receive calls from owners of commercial properties- from warehouses to nursing homes- in which the sprinkler system has gone off and flooded the building. This can be caused by a faulty sensor, broken thermal element or sprinkler head and allow thousands of gallons of water to flood the structure and cause substantial damage.

Damaged appliances and equipment.

In particular, restaurants, hotels  and catering facilities are susceptible to water damage due to a broken appliance however this can pertain to any commercial property that has appliance. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency.

Backed up sewer lines.

This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, the potential dangers of the contaminated, or "black", water. Black water can have negative health consequences to residents and employees as well as and damage the structure and contents of your building. 

Broken pipes.

Whether it’s a simple crack from the aging process or a frozen pipe that freezes, commercial properties are just as at risk of widespread damage from a broken pipe as residential properties are.

If you own a commercial property in Litchfield County and have water damage, call us as soon as possible at (203) 743-5362 for immediate service.

It's all in the Timing

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

We realize that, at times, we may sound like a broken record.   

“Call us immediately” 

“Act quickly” 

“Do not delay” 

We admit that we stress this point repeatedly however, because it is so important, we probably won’t stop talking about it. Why is getting help as quickly as possible such a consequential factor when you have a flood? In this blog post, we provide you with a water damage timeline to help you see how quickly a small flood can turn into a major problem.  

Water Damage Timeline 

In the First Hour:

• Water will quickly move throughout the dwelling, saturating everything in it's path.
• Stains or finishes that are on furniture that gets wet will be released. This can cause staining to the carpeting and flooring of your home. Additionally, any furniture that is moisture sensitive, such as antiques or unfinished materials, will be affected.
• In particular, paper goods are vulnerable in the first hour. Due to their porosity, it doesn't take long for water to render books and documents unsalvageable.
• Artwork that is hanging on your walls can be permanently damaged when water drips down the walls in that first hour. 

The First 24 Hours:

• Drywall, which is found on the walls and ceilings of most Connecticut homes, gets saturated and begins to disintegrate. Many people discover their water leak only after the ceiling is already on the floor. That's how quickly this can happen. 
• You will notice a musty smell and normal household odors grow stronger. 
• Any uncoated metal surfaces, which are vulnerable to moisture in the air, will begin to tarnish.
• Your furniture may begin to show signs of damage. In particular, laminated furniture and flooring will begin to swell and crack due to the moisture. 
• Free-floating laminated flooring may also begin to pop out of place due to swelling.

48 Hours to 1 Week: 

• The 'clean water' situation will have been upgraded to a 'gray water' intrusion.
• You will notice an earthy smell in the home, which is caused by standing water as well as building materials and contents that have begun to decay.
• Because of the high moisture levels, fungi, mold and mildew will begin to grow at this time, especially on porous materials such as sheetrock and carpeting. 
• Wood building materials begin to show signs of damage as they swell, warp and split. You will notice this on window frames, wall moldings, the interior doors in your home and even studs and joists at this time. 
• Rust and corrosion will begin to occur on metal items. 
• Electronics in the home will begin to malfunction. 
• Wood flooring and furniture begin to swell from the saturation. 
• The Indoor Air Quality in the structure is compromised and health hazards can become an issue. Occupants of the home who are at risk due to health issues may begin to experience negative health effects.

More Than 1 Week: 

• A 'black water' situation is most likely the case at this time due to the growth of bacteria and other harmful contaminates in the home. 
• Mold spores will spread quickly and begin to break down natural materials, wallpaper, wood paneling, and other building materials
• The structural safety of the home is in question as wood building materials are compromised.
• The air quality in the home can pose a danger to all inhabitants.
• The costs associated with your insurance claim exponentially rises.  The demolition and replacement of, rather than the restoration of, damaged materials becomes necessary. 
• Our water damage restoration crews will be required to wear personal protection equipment in order to work in your home. 

If you have a water leak in your home, give us a call as soon as it is discovered to minimize the damage to your home.