SERVPRO professionals work hard to minimize the disruption property damage causes your life, home, and business

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has the right training, equipment, and experience to assess your situation and develop a plan of action to restore your property completely.

What to Expect during your New York City SERVPRO Professional Water Damage Restoration Service

Even small leaks can spell trouble for your home or business causing extensive damage if water removal services are not contacted quickly. A leaky skylight, clogged drainpipe, or tub overflow can soak your floors, walls, and cabinets. Our technicians have experience in water removal and cleanup for homes and businesses across Manhattan they can quickly get to work to make you feel “Like it never even happened.” We can locate the source of the damage and use advanced technology to map the extent of damages. Our crews will reverse your water damage and flooding, first by pumping water from your home with the assistance of wet vacs and pumps. Dehumidifiers and air movers can then be deployed to suck excess moisture from your kitchen cabinets, bathroom flooring, or basement ceiling.

Calling SERVPRO professionals to assist you with the cleanup efforts is also vital. We have competent technicians who can help you get back to your home within a short time. We are available around the clock for emergency calls. Whether working with your insurance company or directly with you, our Water Damage Restoration Technicians (WRTs) can assess the destruction to your property, offer an estimate, and handle the restoration process. We can provide your insurance company with images, videos, measurements, and other pertinent information using insurance-industry approved and preferred methods for resolving claims easily.

Call SERVPRO For Comprehensive Water Removal!

Often during water restoration, many recovery operations need to happen simultaneously, some of our crew will work on water extraction and controlled demolition, while others will inventory and pack up items to move to another location to help prevent further property damage from exposure to contaminated water or excess moisture. Moisture and mold particles can penetrate deep inside building materials, furniture, and other porous items. HEPA filters help our industrial strength air scrubbers and dehumidifiers purify the air and neutralize odors and contaminants. Our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan location is fortunate to offer restoration and rebuilding services following a property disaster from all types of water or mold property concerns. Using our highly qualified construction team will help keep your recovery process moving steady and hassle free, often it can also minimize costs and completion time.

EQUIPMENT IS KEY TO WATER RESTORATION:

Isolate Water Damaged Areas

Depending on the severity of your water or flood damage, our SERVPRO professionals may start with containment to help restrict secondary damages such as excessive humidity and mold from contaminating the air throughout your house and keep the damage contained at the source of the water or flood loss areas.

Water Extraction and Removal Equipment

Extractors are at the center of the water removal services. These machines are used to remove water from carpet, upholstery, and floors following a flood damage incidence. Our crews use either truck mounted or portable extractors depending on the extent and severity of water damage. 

Dehumidification Equipment

Excessive humidity from water damage in your home can have devastating consequences leaving significant structural damage, mold growth and other latent concerns. Dehumidifiers extract water vapor from the air and lower the relative humidity and speed up the evaporation process for faster drying. These machines draw in the moist air and replace it with warmer and drier air.

Air Moving Equipment

Used to accelerate air flow and evaporation of moisture from materials for restorative drying. An air mover—at its core—is a fan. But what separates it from your traditional fan is that it’s high velocity, it’s versatile, and it has precision. This degree of functionality allows us to work quickly and more efficiently as opposed to a generic fan. As the air flows across the surface of moisture, it speeds up the process from which it evaporates and enters the air. It also pushes the newly created water vapor away from the area so more water molecules can dissipate into the air. We then remove the moisture from the air by running a dehumidifier.

Fast Response to Water Removal Minimizes Damages

Our crews are available 24/7 to aid our local Manhattan community with both commercial and residential water damage emergencies. A fast response and action to a water damage situation can significantly reduce the overall damage to your home or business. SERVPRO can deploy submersible pumps, water extractors, air movers, and dehumidifiers. The capacities of these units are tailored to your situation. Our objective is to return your home to its original condition as quickly as possible.

Emergency flood cleanup and mitigation – SERVPRO addresses water damage with professional help

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Many New York City properties are near rivers and other water sources that are prone to flooding resulting in common damage. Similarly, to flood damage from ground water and other category 3 losses, ocean water can cause severe property water damage and can create unique restoration concerns and complications for local home and business owners.

Different types of contaminated water pose different risks, but the longer the water stays in a home, the more severe the property damage it will cause and the greater the threat to your health. Also called black water, Category 3 water is water from sewage backups and overflowing rivers that contains various hazardous contaminants, sewage, and/or toxic debris. According to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IIRC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), all water originating from seawater, ground or surface water, rising rivers and streams, and wind-driven rain from hurricanes and tropical storms is considered Category 3.

Some of our property Restoration services include:
    •    Water Removal and Extraction: This important and often first step in the process involves us removing and extracting standing water from all areas of your property. Our SERVPRO technicians utilize industrial grade equipment to move large volumes quickly and efficiently to minimize long term hazards and damage.
    •    Property Drying: After the bulk of the water is removed hazardous levels of moisture can still exist fibrous structural and aesthetic components in your home or business building. We utilize specialized equipment to pull moisture from the air to create an environment suitable for drying of these important pieces and may also attempt to speed the drying process with heat.
    •    Cleanup and Debris Removal: After water and moisture have been removed and dried it’s important to conduct thorough cleaning of the affected area to prevent future health hazards. Flooding from rivers and sewers can pose exceptional risks to health and welfare due to the silt and bacteria they carry. Our team will remove damaged items that are beyond repair.

Calling SERVPRO after you experience flood or water damage from coastal flooding, severe thunderstorms, or basement flooding, can be the difference from a quick cleanup and mitigation or costly restoration, construction, and mold remediation services.

Spring is the season for volatile weather, SERVPRO is prepared to help with effective property restoration

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Spring is notorious for producing a broad range of extreme weather, including major snowstorms, severe thunderstorms, flooding, big temperature changes and high winds. Temperatures can swing back and forth between balmy and frigid. Sunny days may be followed by a week of stormy weather. That temperature contrast fuels a strong jet stream, and in turn, highly variable weather conditions.

Spring is the time of year when many things change—including the weather. Spring storms can be unpredictable, we can't stop spring showers, but our Manhattan property restoration team is ready to provide cleanup and repairs to your home or business should it suffer from Spring thunderstorms, severe winds, flooding or other property damage disasters. There are a variety of potential property damages that you may experience. These include:

• Roof or structural damage to your walls from a fallen tree or high winds
• Broken windows from hailstorms or objects thrown by heavy wind
• Lightning strikes, which could lead to a fire
• Water damage caused by loose or damaged shingles, clogged gutters, or leaking roofs
• Flooding in your basement or home
• Animal infestations caused by critters looking for shelter during the storm

Our professionals first assess the severity of the situation and determine the full extent of the storm, flooding, or additional water damage. Restoring your home or business quickly, takes specialized equipment and highly skilled IICRC professionals. Our team closely inspects the flooded or other water damaged areas; measuring the moisture content, humidity, and temperature to assess the full extent of the damage. It is important to note that storm property damage emergencies are rarely mild enough to not require some form of intervention and work by our experienced technicians.

Some conditions that could encourage a prompt call to our SERVPRO team are:

Standing Water – Pooling water in a damaged area can be destructive to many of the materials. Wood and sheetrock exposed to standing water can quickly absorb this water and allow for a much more rapid deterioration of the construction element.

Migrating Water – You might not always know how widespread water loss effects can be, but if water has moved beyond the surface of materials, you need the sophisticated tools of our team to identify moisture pockets and dampness beyond what the eye can see.

Hidden Damages – In the same way that water can migrate throughout your apartment, damages can exist and persist out of sight without discovery tools and positive pressure drying systems getting used.

When water damage occurs in your home or business, knowing what to do will save precious time and ultimately minimize losses to your property and building contents. Strom damage can result in many serious problems, such as rotted sheetrock and weakened support beams, so it needs to be dealt with quickly and efficiently – before water damage compromises the structural integrity of the building and causes mold issues. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professionals have extensive experience repairing and restoring catastrophic water damage to countless locals in our New York City community. Our technicians understand that unattended water damage continues to cause harm to your property over time. Making it necessary to make quick, informed decisions, to perform quality restoration services today, that save you from further damaging problems, tomorrow.

Manhattan Flood Removal and Basement Water Damage Property Restoration

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

Manhattan ground-level areas and basements are prone to flooding and water damage concerns, their location at the lowest level of a building and usually underground makes them a target – water always runs from high to low ground. Whether the excess water comes from a burst pipe, backed-up sewer line, failed sump pump, malfunctioning water-using appliance, or heavy rainfall, basement water damage is common and causes plenty of concerns to an unfortunate property owner. The first 48 hours are considered the most important time to react, as it is crucial to preventing further damage, in addition to contributing to structural and foundation problems, basement water damage can destroy your personal belongings and interior finishes and it also has the power to create the perfect environment for toxic mold growth.

Dry everything out as quickly as possible.

When a finished/unfinished basement experiences significant water damage, timing is everything. The sooner you begin the disaster recovery process, the more likely you will be able to restore the condition of your possessions and minimize building materials from becoming destroyed. A professional restoration company can help expedite this process. 

Actions that can minimize water damage to your basement:

1. Extraction: The first step toward restoring your building to its pre-flood condition is removing the standing water from the affected area. Our teams use wet vacuums and pumps to move large quantities of water to a specific location. Starting the process with this kind of removal is more efficient, and it allows us to get more liquid out of your carpets and the cushioning below.
2. Evaporation: Next, we will set up high-velocity airflow equipment to evaporate any remaining moisture. Units designed for structural drying are more energy-efficient and move a larger volume of air in less time.
3. Dehumidification: As water evaporates from furniture, carpet and building materials, that vapor turns into humidity. Left in the air, water vapor seeps back into absorbent furniture, clothing, and other materials. Water damage dehumidifiers remove moisture, which protects your property from future damage and prevents mold growth.
4. Temperature control: Cool air hinders the evaporation process. Warm air — 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit — is ideal for completely drying your building’s structure. A thorough drying process is essential for preventing mold growth and other complications that come from residual moisture.

At SERVPRO of Central Manhattan, we take pride in our ability to erase the damage done by water, including damages caused by hidden problems. After 48 hours of exposure to water, there is a risk of mold growth in wet materials. Our Manhattan SERVPRO team of technicians puts years of training, experience, and specialized equipment to work for you, ensuring the removal of all remaining moisture and a fast, effective drying process that you can count on. Our restoration specialists utilize infrared technology and thermal imagery to assess the full extent of the damage that your property has suffered. The technology can show our technicians areas where water might still exist based on a temperature difference. This process can ensure that the damage has not reached other areas of the building and confirm the completion of the restoration process.

Solving the mystery of hidden water damage lurking in your home or business

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage is among the most common causes of property damage claims. The possible causes of water damage lurking in your home can originate from many different sources, with varying intensities, danger levels, and reach of damage. Even a well-maintained property can have unexpected water damage including, a leaky dishwasher or sink, broken pipe(s), an overflowing washing machine, an old leaky roof, flood or storm damage and foundation cracks. If you see signs that water damage is lurking in your home, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan always here to help!

Our crews use many tools and techniques to successfully locate and address high humidity and other hidden water damage concerns across New York City. Calling SERVPRO professionals can help investigate the source behind high humidity or hidden water damage concerns and inspect for any sign of visible mold or other secondary property damages.

SERVPRO USES SPECIAL DETECTION EQUIPMENT TO FIND HIDDEN WATER DAMAGE

• Moisture Sensors - Are used to detect moisture in carpets and carpet paddling.
• Moisture Meters - Are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate moisture readings that enable our SERVPRO Technician to monitor the drying process.
• Thermo-hygrometers - Measure both temperature and relative humidity. Capturing these two readings, our SERVPRO Technician using a psychrometric chart can calculate specific humidity, dew point and vapor pressure.
• Infrared Cameras - Can identify the location and extent of moisture in walls very effectively.

Is Hidden Moisture Causing High Humidity Concerns for Your Local Home or Business

Hidden moisture or water leaks are dangerous because they can cause serious issues like structural damage and mold growth before they are discovered. Excess water and moisture is absorbed in wood, drywall, insulation, and furniture and can lead to warping, stains, bubbling, and structural deterioration. If you notice signs of these common concerns affecting your property our team has decades of experience with solutions that can help.

Water spots under sink cabinets

If you see water under the bathroom or kitchen sink it’s a warning sign that you have water damage and potential mold growth around the sink area. If the leak is bad enough, it could cause additional damage to the building structure, including the floor and walls, even if there’s no water present, water spots clearly indicate that pipes under the sink have a slow leak.

Ceiling and wall stains

Ceiling and wall stains are obvious signs of a roof, appliance, or plumbing leak, water saturates insulation and drywall, it can also lead to major water damage, that can compromise the structural integrity of the property. Check your roof for damage, broken tiles, or pooling, also investigate appliances such as the washing machine, dishwasher, and toilets for leaky spigots that could be dripping water and causing damage.

Mold growth

Mold needs water to grow, so it’s common to find mold in consistently damp locations—and finding mold is never a good thing, since it means your air quality is suffering.

Squishy kitchen/bathroom tiles

Water damage is not always visible. In fact, it’s more common for damage to occur behind the floor, ceiling, and walls where you can’t see it. Since the bathroom is the most humid room in your home, it’s a common place for water damage and mold growth.

Standing water

Many things can cause water to pool in unlikely places, including a broken pipe or flooding. If you find standing water, it’s important to seek water damage remediation as quickly as possible. Ignoring the problem could lead to greater damage to your home’s structural integrity and air quality.

When you are dealing with water damage, call in the experts to help! SERVPRO of Central Manhattan can respond immediately and use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. We closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly.

High-Quality Commercial Property cleanup helps minimize business interruption and gets you back to business quickly

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Our commitment to quality property restoration and recovery after a commercial property disaster caused by fire, flood, water, and mold makes selecting our Manhattan SERVPRO property restoration experts the right choice. Getting your New York City business open and operational quickly after a property disaster is our highest priority. We rely on decades of hands-on experience and proven cleanup and restoration results to helping local business owners dealing with property damage in communities near you; cleanup, repair and restore their commercial property.

Big or small, the negative effects commercial property damage can have on your local New Jersey business are multi-faceted from loss of revenue, inventory, customers and/or employees to irreversible structural and financial damages. After a property disaster strikes, calling a local trusted property restoration company near you is the most effective way to recover. Here at SERVPRO our IICRC certified technicians start working to repair and restore your commercial property right away. SERVPRO is here to help local Central Manhattan communities with fast and effective property disaster restoration and cleanup services, we provide a full-range of disaster commercial restoration services including: emergency response, water damage repair, water removal, flood restoration, fire damage restoration, soot and smoke damage services, storm damage repairs, wind damage restoration, industrial dehumidification, structural cleaning and decontamination, mold remediation, environmental services such as hazardous waste removal, lead removal and asbestos removal, duct cleaning services, vital document and paper recovery, machinery and equipment restoration, semiconductor services, reconstruction, consulting and more. Restoring your commercial property is our business, and we are always prepared to get local businesses back up and running, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO is here to help with restoration services for secondary property damages

Are you concerned with other restoration service providers; do you think you still have property damage concerns? Was your office flooded during a rainstorm, or your restaurant suffered a grease fire, maybe your commercial property had a sewage backup? Whatever the extent of damage, SERVPRO is a leading provider of property damage cleanup, restoration, and repair services for Manhattan and around the country. If you are unhappy with your previous property cleanup, or you have signs of secondary damages, give our staff a call, our local staff can answer your questions or setup an inspection to address your concerns. Thousands of business owners rely on our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan franchise every year for a range of services and trust us to handle their property with care. Individuals, corporate clients, and major insurance companies alike deal with us for our speed, reliability, and effectiveness in mitigating property damage and lowering overall claims and recovery costs. Calling our local SERVPRO team gives you the confidence of a disaster specialist who is trained and equipped to handle your “once in a lifetime disaster” with our experience and professionalism.

New York City and its surrounding areas are crammed with commercial properties, ranging from busy hospitals, libraries, local shopping centers, community facilities and small businesses, our crews have successfully completed cleanup and restoration services for families and business owners near you. Central Manhattan has many great places to eat, after a popular restaurant/bar experienced a kitchen fire, our fire and smoke restoration technicians were called in to cleanup and restore the damages quickly. Our restoration specialists worked cohesively to mitigate the water and fire damages and restore the kitchen and dining areas for customers and employees as soon as possible. Manhattan has full of commercial buildings, when a local apartment complex had an extensive water damage event that destroyed several units our emergency restoration crews were able to get tenants back in their homes quickly and efficiently. The multiple certifications in specialties like Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) and Applied Structural Drying (ASD) held by our team allows us to move from task to task without delay. The full-service approach is why SERVPRO delivers on our promise for fast and professionally cleanup and restoration. After a local warehouse experienced ongoing high-humidity, mold became a major problem for the facility, affecting structural components and inventory. Our SERVPRO mold remediation specialists fixed the issue, providing microbial remediation, water damage mitigation and investigation, applied structural drying, commercial cleaning, and deodorizing services to get the job done right.

Why SERVPRO Disaster Restoration Professionals are the right choice

SERVPRO is trusted leader in the restoration industry providing advanced technology and training to a nationwide team of skilled technicians and project managers. Our crews have vast experience and knowledge offering a wide variety of restoration services to recover your commercial property with minimized cost and business interruption.

• Our crews will assess the full damage of your property taking necessary steps to save as much of your inventory, appliances and equipment, furnishings, and inventory as possible.
• They will do a complete inventory of all items removed from your property taking photos and documentation and return all salvageable items back to your business following the restoration process.
• Our technicians work quickly and carefully to get your business up and running as soon as possible. Our project managers and staff will follow-up to make sure you are satisfied or address any other concerns.
• Our construction managers can seamlessly begin putting back together any structural, interior, and exterior damages sustained during the initial disaster or because of proper restoration and cleanup. Our staff can work with your insurance and answer any concerns you may have about the process.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is the right choice for commercial property damage restoration throughout the New York City area, we have decades of hands-on cleanup, restoration and repair experience and our dedication to helping local businesses disrupted by disasters is second to none. We have worked hard over the years building a reliable team of IICRC certified technicians and an arsenal of high-tech commercial grade equipment ready to assist with water, fire, mold, or storm disaster restoration services. Wherever you need restoration specialists, our SERVPRO crews are here to help!

Our SERVPRO team has the knowledge and experience to reverse unique commercial Manhattan property damages

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Property Disasters require a unique cleanup, restoration, and repair services, SERVPRO takes pride in delivering exceptional recovery solutions. 

Our restoration specialists worked cohesively to mitigate the water and fire damages and restore the kitchen and dining areas for customers and employees as soon as possible. The multiple certifications in specialties like Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) and Applied Structural Drying (ASD) held by our crew members allows us to move from task to task without delay. 

With nearly 30 years of disaster restoration experience and a background in facility management, David Kluger has mentored and assembled a SERVPRO team of exemplary professionals capable of handling any size property disaster; no matter how complex the problem, they have a complete solution for cleanup, restoration, and repairs. Over his lengthy career, many owners and managers have expressed remorse about not being better prepared to manage and execute a plan for during an emergency and the recovery after a property disaster. According to the latest industry research, as many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster. Of the businesses that survive, most of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind.

Whether you manage retail, office, multi-family or industrial properties, every property manager should consider a well thought out emergency plan to be an essential part of their property management duties. In an ideal world you will, of course, never have to use it. However, should you ever find yourself in an emergency, knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize the extent of damage can affect your business. 

A sound emergency management strategy saves time and money.

After years of experience in the restoration business, we strongly recommend including these critical points when developing your property management emergency procedures.

1. Be Ready to Respond
2. Maintain All Safety Systems
3. Keep Staff Informed and Involved
4. Have a Trusted Recovery Partner like SERVPRO of Central Manhattan

Commercial buildings and businesses are a staple of Manhattan and a driving force to the city economy, during these unprecedented times it’s important to keep your doors open whenever possible. That’s why our local SERVPRO restoration professionals are available 24/7 to provide property damage cleanup and mitigation to minimize your damages, save you money and reduce downtime. A solid emergency plan needs to address the aftermath of a property disaster. SERVPRO is a leader in the disaster restoration industry, and we are always here to help. SERVPRO helps cleanup, restore and repair local commercial properties and small businesses after fire, water, or mold property damage mishaps. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. 

Professional Disaster Restoration for commercial facilities during any size property damage event

• Our crews will assess the full damage of your property taking necessary steps to save as much of your inventory, appliances, equipment, furnishings, and inventory as possible.
• They will do a complete inventory of all items removed from your property taking photos and documentation and return all salvageable items back to your business following the restoration process.
• Our technicians work quickly and carefully to get your business up and running as soon as possible. Our project managers and staff will follow-up to make sure you are satisfied or address any other concerns.
• Our construction managers can seamlessly begin putting back together any structural, interior, and exterior damages sustained during the initial disaster or as a result of the restoration and cleanup efforts. Our staff can work with your insurance and answer any concerns you may have about the process.

The full-service approach is why SERVPRO of Central Manhattan delivers on our promise for fast and professional cleanup and restoration. SERVPRO offers Emergency Restoration Services in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your unique commercial property damage disaster needs. Our staff and restoration managers understand that a rapid response is critical to your recovery, our team will provide comprehensive cleanup, mitigation, restoration and rebuild options following a property fire disaster. SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the restoration industry providing advanced technology and training to a nationwide team of skilled technicians and project managers. Our crews have vast experience and knowledge offering a wide variety of restoration services to recover your commercial property with minimized cost and business interruption.

Our SERVPRO construction team can help repair and restore these common property damage areas

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

Our construction team can help restore and rebuild your Manhattan home or business to a safe and welcoming place, after any disaster.

Putting your Manhattan property back together after a disaster can be challenging, our construction team takes pride in helping restore and repair residential or commercial property after a fire, water, or mold disaster! Restoring your New York City residential or commercial property, “Like it never even happened,” is important to us, making improvements after a disaster is common. Our professionals are skilled at working with home and business owners to help navigate a rebuild or remodel, our team is here to help from disaster restoration to the final walk through after reconstruction.

5 COMMON PROPERTY DAMAGE AREAS

• Bathrooms suffer common water damage mainly because they are exposed to several water and plumbing sources including sinks and bathtubs/showers in a localized area.
• Kitchens can suffer damage from both water and fire hazards and can see major damage to floors, appliances, cabinets, and counter tops.
• Basements are prone to water and mold damage from poor drainage and ventilation, both finished and unfinished basements can see major damage from storm and environmental leakage and flooding.
• Exterior Elements such as a roof, doors, windows, and siding are all common locations to see property damage from weather, water, fire and mold. Whether damage is small or extensive, taking care of these problems immediately can minimize continued damage to your home.
• Floors commonly suffer water damage and can significantly affect your home’s overall safety and structure, leading to costly repairs.

These common areas are ideal places to look for upgrades or remodel options when your property suffers from storm, water, fire, or mold damage. The SERVPRO of Central Manhattan construction team can help you reimagine your space and restore and rebuild your Manhattan property to a comfortable, safe, and welcoming home or business, again. 

• Open-Concept Living: Consider knocking down a wall, creating distinct groupings for the space, and make sure to leave plenty of negative space to help separate the areas and provide space for walking around and entertaining.
• Upgrading Windows, Lighting and Fixtures: Adding a new window, skylight or new light fixtures can brighten up your space and create more flow for enhanced natural light.
• Aesthetics: Color can unify and update a dated space, research color trends, and find a style that fits your property. Adding wall art, throw pillows, and other accessories can make the space more welcoming.
• Upgrading your kitchen or bathroom: Updated cabinets, replacing a tub or shower, and new fixtures will make a huge difference, also updating your flooring, backsplash or adding an island for additional counter space are a few options.

Our team at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is here to help, we are trusted leaders in the restoration industry, we have the expertise and manpower to address the damage and make repairs. We take pride in every detail of restoring your local Manhattan area property and getting your life back to normal as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO provides quick and effective storm damage property restoration services for every season

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO’s Quick and Effective Storm Property Restoration Services during every season for Manhattan properties

Whatever the season, SERVPRO has property damage restoration solutions to any damages caused by seasonal weather and storms. Winter’s ice and snow plumbing bursts or Spring’s flood and roof leaks, our experienced and highly trained restoration team is here to help resolve your property disaster damages. Seasonal weather can bring some considerable hazards and potential damage to your local Manhattan home or business, including severe storms that bring coastal flooding, torrential rains, strong winds and lightning. Other elements that can cause property damage during the winter and fall are foundational cracks and burst winter pipes. Your home or business could face any number of potential seasonal property damage events, including water damage, flood damage, mold damage, fire damage, sewage backup damage, or an appliance or plumbing water leak.

Storm and Coastal Flooding Damage Risks

Flooding presents a serious risk to your commercial or residential property. Northeast thunderstorms and hurricanes can bring a ton of moisture and tidal surges causing above average amounts of water to affect the local and surrounding areas. According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory, floods kill more people every year than lightning, hurricanes and tornadoes combined.

When it comes to your home or business flooding can lead to dangerous contamination and structural damage including damage to the drywall, contents, and support structure. After only 24 hours your property is in jeopardy of additional damages including mold growth and other harmful bacteria. Proper cleanup and restoration services from a professional team is vital to avoiding even further damage.

Common Secondary Damages associated with delaying Water Damage Mitigation

Building Damage: Severe storms can bring flood risks to most New York City properties causing significant water damage to building materials, contents, foundations, and basements. Our immediate hazardous water removal services are essential to avoid additional costly damages. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan technicians can provide temporary structural support, tarp, and board up services to help stabilize and secure your property following storm damage.

Mold Contamination: following flood or water damage to your home or business, mold has the potential to start growing right away within 24 hours. It’s important to get the moisture cleaned up and properly dried to prevent additional damages. SERVPRO technicians are trained and experienced to handle the mold remediation process and avoid the spread of mold colonies throughout your property.

Spreading Moisture: Our rapid drying techniques reduce the risk of continued moisture exposure, preventing further water damage to your home or business. Our technicians monitor the spread of moisture to nearby areas and can address any hidden water damage early helping avoid additional costly secondary damage.

OUR NEW YORK CITY STORM & WATER DAMAGE RESTORATION SERVICES INCLUDE

• Roof & Structure Tarps and Board Up Services
• Category 1, 2 and 3 Water Extraction & Cleanup
• Drying of Damaged Areas including walls, carpets, and furniture
• Cleaning and Restoration of Affected Possessions
• Remediating Mold and Mildew
• Reconstruction and Repairs

SAFETY TIPS BEFORE A STORM ARRIVES:

Stock up: Gather and check your disaster supplies and replace or restock as needed. The American Red Cross suggests you pick up at least three days' worth of water and non-perishable food, a flashlight, and extra batteries for it, at least seven days’ worth of prescription medication, a cell phone with a charger, and that you have extra cash and spare clothes at the ready. Have an emergency kit with these items you probably already have in your home: flashlight(s), battery powered weather radio, extra batteries to fit each electronic (including cell phone), non-perishable foods (canned goods and dry foods), lots of bottled water, can opener, first aid kit (with a disinfectant), fire extinguisher, blankets, extra clothes, sturdy shoes or boots, clock or watch, whistle to signal for help, important personal items (eyeglasses, prescriptions, etc.), and paper documents such as birth certificates, social security cards, and other significant legal papers.

Stay Indoors: Stay inside and away from windows, skylights, and glass doors. Find a safe area in the interior or your property on the lower level or basement. If flooding threatens your home, turn off the electricity at the main breaker. If your property loses power, turn off major appliances such as the AC unit and water heater to reduce damage.

Property Concerns: Inspect your roof and foundation for damage and make necessary repairs. Exterior doors should have 3 hinges and a deadbolt lock that is an inch-long minimum. Cut dead or weak limbs before a storm hits. Remove any limbs hanging over your home that could cause substantial damage if they fall. Likewise, take the time to have trees that could fall on the home removed. Clean rain gutters ensure runoff has a place to go; water that pools and gathers can cause damage especially if a downpour is ongoing.

Our SERVPRO team has been helping our local communities for nearly 30 years, we are prepared with expert training and quality equipment to mitigate and restore your commercial or residential property. Our technicians are available 24-7 with our Emergency Service Team to help cleanup and repair your property damage from water, sewage, smoke, or fire. Our priority is providing quick and effective service and solutions to restore your property and belongings, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO provides start to finish professional property disaster cleanup, restoration, rebuild and post-construction cleaning services to Manhattan

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will guide you step-by-step through the cleanup, restoration and reconstruction process and make your experience fast and effective.

When your Manhattan home or commercial building faces damages from a property disaster, working with a full-service disaster restoration and cleanup company can give you the advantage you need to save money and time during the property recovery process. Our SERVPRO location offers a unique opportunity to work with a local trusted restoration and recovery team, that includes IICRC certified property damage technicians and licensed contractors with disaster restoration rebuilding experience. Giving you a complete property disaster restoration and rebuild option for cleanup and repairs. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professional restoration and construction managers and crews work together to give your water damage, fire damage or mold remediation project a seamless time saving and often cost-effective transition, making your property truly, “Like it never even happened.”

Property Repair and Reconstruction Services

Once the emergency mitigation services have been performed, our Restoration Project Manager will coordinate with our construction team, your insurance company and adjuster to plan the next steps. Our full-service disaster restoration services provide all the necessary steps in the cleanup, mitigation, restoration and rebuild process from start to finish. Our crews and managers work closely with you and your insurance provider to restore your property to preloss condition. Our mission is to leave you with the home and/or business you recognized before any damages occurred, as well as minimize any stress or strain associated with handling a restoration and construction project on your own. We have rebuilt and reconstructed countless walls, floors, kitchens, bathrooms, structures and more.  While some floods and fires are small and require minor remediation techniques, others are large and require complete reconstruction of walls, support beams, floors and sub-floors. Our experience goes beyond removal of wet, damaged and/or mold saturated carpet, rugs, and drywall.  Not only can we remove such items, we can also replace them.  We provide all necessary reconstruction services and work seamlessly with highly vetted vendors for plumbing, roofing and electrical.

As construction begins a SERVPRO Construction Project Manager will work closely with you and your insurance adjuster to guarantee the highest level of satisfaction and most time-efficient execution of any and all construction requirements and needs. Our goal is to restore and repair your home or business back to its original condition, but also allow for any changes or upgrades to the property at your request (these upgrades may NOT be covered by insurance). This will afford you the opportunity to make any alterations to your property during the reconstruction phase. This will save you time and money on any of those home or business improvements you may have been planning but putting off!  

Our construction professionals can make suggestions to match replacement materials with your current home decor, our managers can assist with upgrading or renovating parts of your home for a completely new look. We work closely with local licensing agencies to guarantee that your home reconstruction project and any upgrades are compliant with local and state regulations. Our goal is to finish your restoration and reconstruction project promptly, efficiently and professionally so that you are satisfied and can return to your routine and property as soon as possible.

Types of Construction Services available by SERVPRO of Central Manhattan

From simple repairs and remodeling, to total reconstruction or improvement projects, our construction and remediation crews have the resources and knowledge to offer these services:
    •    Site Containment / Temporary Shoring
    •    Selective Demolition
    •    Full-Scale Carpentry
    •    Complete Exterior Reconstruction
    •    Interior Build-Out and Finishes
    •    Complex Installation and Interior Finishes
    •    Historic Reconstruction and Restoration

Still have questions about Restorations and Repairs?

Let us answer your questions about ANY of our property disaster recovery phases, our professionally trained SERVPRO staff is available 24-hours a day to provide answers to your concerns, or setup an inspection to get your property back on the road to restoration and recovery. Give us a call!

Why Choosing a Professional Disaster Restoration Company, like SERVPRO is Important?

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Our expert team has the experience, certifications, and equipment to complete any size restoration and repair project quickly and affordably.

Contacting SERVPRO Restoration Professionals near you is important to avoid costly secondary damages, and trust that your commercial or residential property will be restored quickly and correctly.

When a property disaster strikes your Manhattan home or business it can be difficult to know what the next step is… there are so many options for what you “should” do next. It makes sense to call local New York City restoration professionals, our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan staff has the experience, training, and equipment to handle your cleanup, repairs and restoration needs from start to finish.  Our crews and managers have been helping local home and business owners with property damage emergency services for nearly 30 years. Our staff is well trained in dealing with the aftermath of both commercial and residential property damages following fire and smoke damage, flood and water damage, sewage and biohazard cleanup and mold remediation. Working with trusted SERVPRO restoration professionals following a fire, water, flood, sewage or mold property damage event will give you peace of mind, and a friendly, highly qualified restoration specialist by your side.

Emergency Response Property Disaster Restoration Services

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is committed to making the cleanup, restoration and rebuild process for our customers organized, efficient and successful, after a frustrating and confusing property disaster event. Whether your home or building sustained damages from a storm, flood, fire, or water disaster, you’ll have trusted and compassionate professionals by your side. We will work with you to survey the extent of the property damage, develop a plan for cleanup, restoration, and reconstruction.

Disaster restoration and repair for your commercial or residential property is best left to professionals. Our SERVPRO professionals are skills with the complexities of removing water and the water extraction, drying, dehumidifying, disinfecting and removal equipment required to complete the job properly. Our expert team has the experience, certifications, and equipment to complete any size restoration and repair project quickly, correctly, and affordably.

Big and Small Steps you can take now to prepare for a property disaster

Preparing in advance to handle a Manhattan property disaster can seem a little ominous, but after helping countless local home and business owners during property damage recoveries in our community we know it can make a huge difference during and following a property emergency. Here are some key steps to take in advance that can be important to the recovery process and the overall restoration of your property.

• Know the hazards that are present in your area.
• Review your insurance policies and confirm you have adequate cover against each type of disaster you are vulnerable to. Also check your sum insured to avoid being underinsured.
• Take a household inventory and store copies in a safe location or online. Cataloging your belongings with a home inventory might sound tedious, but how easy would it be for you to recall all the contents of your home if you lost everything? Taking a home inventory can help you determine if you have enough insurance and can save you time and headaches when filing a claim following a disaster
• Prepare a disaster plan. Your plan should start with having somewhere safe to go. Think of someone who could house you and your family and talk to them about what might happen in the event of a disaster. Then talk to everyone who lives in your home about what to do if there’s an emergency and you are unable to return
• Have an evacuation plan. In some cases when you need to evacuate, there may not be a lot of time. Plan how to evacuate your home quickly and make sure everyone knows the evacuation plan. Make sure everyone has a list of emergency contact numbers they can phone
• Make sure to regularly check safety devices in your home, such as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers

An initial inspection is critical for SERVPRO professionals to effectively resolve unique water damage concerns in each property disaster restoration

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage is one of the most common and most serious emergencies your property can ever experience. Whether you’re facing a storm, flood, weakened roof, HVAC leak, busted pipes, overflowing appliances or sewage backup, a water problem is distressing and threatening to your property’s safety and value. Finding the cause of water damage and addressing the issue is half the battle, the other half is mitigating the damages. The extent of water damage can be misleading when looking at the outside surface but often water seeps into the deeper materials of your home. Due to the unique nature of water, the damage cost can range from high to low. Here’s a look into factors that will affect the price of water damage mitigation.

What to Expect During Property Restoration Services

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

Emergency Contact: After a property disaster or emergency at your Manhattan home or business, your call to us will connect you to one of our trained SERVPRO restoration professionals to take some basic information to provide to our project managers and technicians.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name, address and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?

Inspection and Damage Assessment including Estimate: One of our trained professionals will come and assess your property damage. What type of water loss was it? How much of the property is affected? These answers are critical to addressing the unique solution for your restoration needs.

These key factors can determine the amount of mitigation, restoration and rebuild needed to recover your property following a disaster:

• The type of water affecting the property. Clean water from a burst plumbing pipe poses less risk than “black water” from the sewer or debris-laden floodwaters. The type of water that has damaged your property makes a big difference in what it will take to appropriately treat the damage.
   
• The types of materials involved. Porous materials will swell, warp, and disintegrate when it’s wet. The makeup of damaged structures and property strongly affect the approach and costs for cleanup and restoration.
   
• How deeply the structure is affected. In the example above, the stone tile of a floor may not be damaged, but water may still have damaged the subfloor. Water can cause many “hidden” losses, and a professional will carefully identify and evaluate the potential for deeper, unseen damages.
   
• How long the property has been wet. Mitigation efforts are most effective when they happen immediately after the damage happens. If a property has been standing in water for a long time or wasn’t appropriately treated when the water was removed, the damage may have worsened significantly. The growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria also becomes an increasingly major concern the longer a property stays wet.

Property Emergencies happen every day and acting fast after property damage could mean the difference between restoring your home quickly to preloss condition or needing extensive and expensive reconstruction. Our SERVPRO team never stops being READY to handle your fire, water or mold property disaster, we have the best staff, with the best resources standing ready to answer your call quickly and restore your home or business, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO is here to help avoid disruption to your catering schedule with effective property damage restoration services for Manhattan restaurants

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Each Manhattan property loss situation requires unique steps to ensure the safety of your patrons, employees and the workers performing repairs.

Our SERVPRO team works quickly after a fire, smoke, biohazard or water disaster, helping avoid business interruption to your restaurant or other commercial facility during the holidays. Our goal is to keep you operational so you can keep your holiday event schedule moving smoothly.

Running a New York City restaurant or other commercial property is a challenge time is of the essence when a disaster strikes your restaurant or other commercial property. Business interruption affects not only your relationships with customers but also impacts the lives of your employees and can lead to a significant loss of profit. Our technicians make your property restoration process from smoke, fire and water damage as simple as possible, from performing an initial inspection and assessment of existing damages to finalizing all repairs and performing a final walk through. 

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan’s fire and water damage restoration process begins with locating and the source of the problem, working with our team will connect you with a network of resources to handle your worst property problems. Each Manhattan property loss situation requires unique steps to ensure the safety of your patrons, employees and the workers performing repairs. If any hazards exist that affect the operations of your company, we notify you immediately. To properly remove standing water and other moisture that exists on your property, we use quality water extraction equipment such as; wet-dry vacuums, hand-held and truck mounted extractors, or submersible pumps, depending on the amount of water that exists and the size of the affected area. 

Even a localized kitchen fire can quickly spread to cabinetry and counters, requiring the need for both cleanup and even possibly demolition and reconstruction. Still, one of the most significant threats to a customer experience is the odor wafting through the dining area from a recent kitchen blaze. Our teams work tirelessly to clean, deodorize, and repair every damaged item found in your Manhattan neighborhood property. Our experience gives us a unique perspective when it comes to cleaning delicate cooking utensils or high-dollar appliances. Removing odors relies on having access to the right equipment and the training to understand how smoke travels. The first step is finding the sources of odor that can reside in air ducts, porous materials or floor spaces. SERVPRO uses industrial grade foggers to deodorize a property, thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing these areas ensures odors are removed. Getting your banquet room or holiday party space ready for the next set of patrons. SERVPRO is here to help keep your commercial property celebrating, “The most wonderful time of the year!”

Our Commercial Fire and Water Damage Restoration Process

Fire and water damage can leave your restaurant or commercial property unsafe for potential customers. Our experienced SERVPRO of Central Manhattan restoration specialists are trained to clean and restore your property with as little disruption as possible.

Step1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Fire & Water Damage Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

Step 6: Cleaning and Repair

Step 7: Restoration & Rebuild

Fire or water damage to your Manhattan business is frustrating and needs to be dealt with by trained professionals to ensure further damage does not continue to impact your commercial property down the road. We understand the level of importance that surrounds maintaining a safe, healthy environment in your Manhattan restaurant. When you need access to top quality Manhattan property restoration SERVPRO of Central Manhattan’s team of qualified professionals are ready to provide you with the expert cleanup and repair services you deserve, with a company that puts every effort into making damages at your property disappear, “Like it never even happened.” 

Here to help local businesses with property damage cleanup and recovery following a disaster

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Our property restoration experts are here to help your business recover after a disaster with unique solutions, rewinding your property damage, “Like it never even happened.”  

Small businesses are a staple of our local economy, during these unprecedented times it’s important to keep your doors open whenever possible. That’s why our local SERVPRO restoration professionals are available 24/7 to provide property damage cleanup and mitigation to minimize your damages, save you money and reduce downtime.

SERVPRO helps cleanup, restore and repair local Suffolk commercial properties and small businesses after fire, water, or mold property damage mishaps.

Fast Action is a critical component to the recovery of your property following any kind of damage. Our SERVPRO professionals know how important time management and efficient procedures are to mitigate your damages quickly and minimize the disruption to your daily operations. Our teams are certified in effective procedures specific to the disaster property damage restoration field including; Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) and Applied Structural Drying (ASD) making them well prepared to provide cleanup and restoration services in your area. When disaster strikes a municipal building, it can have a devastating impact on the local community, the public often rely on these facilities for daily needs. Our managers and crews take special care to get these facilities running again quickly while balancing the demand for safety and health concerns. Every precaution is made to ensure the safety of the staff and patrons, while providing quick and effective cleanup and repair services. Our crew can set up containment or providing a pack-out to speed up the recovery process and contain the damage to only a small area. Our SERVPRO professionals will customize a plan and estimate for a successful property restoration and get you started with the solutions and services needed to fix your commercial property, so your facility can continue servicing our local community as soon as possible.

Water Damage

There can be many reasons for your Manhattan commercial water damage, it brings the same inconvenience to your daily operations. The type and category of water damage affecting your property does have a significant impact on the types of restoration services needed; including proper procedures, costs and length of services required. The key to avoiding additional damages and preserving as much of your structure and possessions as possible is quick and effective mitigation. Waiting to start mitigation and remediation efforts exposes structural components inside your facility to increasingly more severe damage.

Fire Damage

Whatever the cause of your commercial fire, it can leave widespread destruction way beyond the original flames. Fast action is necessary to avoid the spread of damage that smoke and soot can bring. Restoring your New York City restaurant or retail property following a destructive fire requires a variety of restoration techniques, your facility might suffer from water damage and extensive HVAC contamination from migrating smoke and soot exposure. Making an immediate call to our IICRC certified fire cleanup and restoration crew will start the inspection and pre-testing process, looking for the exact scope of property damages and your facility’s specific path to recovery. Fires can leave various types of obvious soot and charring and less visible smoke deposits, and residues that penetrate beyond the surface quickly causing corrosion and permanent damage, our crews work quickly to contain and identify the damaged areas and take steps to reverse the signs of damage.

Construction and Capital Improvements

Our SERVPRO franchise is a great choice to recover your full property because we have a team of restoration specialists that work alongside our in-house commercial contractors to strategically navigate the mitigation and reconstruction of your property to minimize costs and disruption. During your property recovery you can make critical decisions to invest in the growth and future of your property with our experienced team.

SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan?

Another unique advantage to using our local SERVPRO franchise is our ability to prepare for disasters, we can help your business develop a unique SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan and Profile (ERP). It is an important step you can take in collaboration with our team to minimize the impact of property damage and get you back to business faster. An experienced member of our staff will visit your site, perform a walk-through evaluation of your commercial property’s strengths and weaknesses. Once familiar with your layout and operations, we provide a personalized plan of action, and recommendations that could help mitigate severe damage to your building’s structure, equipment, and contents if a disaster happens. It can also give our SERVPRO staff an advantage in mitigating and restoring your property quickly and efficiently, providing us with critical details necessary to respond to your commercial property disaster.

SERVPRO is here to help minimize seasonal allergens with professional cleaning services

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

As spring allergy season approaches, our professional cleaning services including air duct cleaning, can reduce allergens in your property.

Benefits of Air Duct & HVAC Cleaning
Like furnaces and air conditioners, air ducts require proper cleaning and maintenance to perform at their best. Keeping ducts free of dust and debris can also help reduce your energy bill and improve air quality in your home/business. More frequent duct cleaning is recommended if you have indoor pets or are sensitive to indoor air quality issues. You should also have your ducts cleaned if you have recently renovated your home or business, as this will increase the amount of dust in your forced air system. It’s also recommended to have your HVAC system and air ducts cleaned and services following a property damage event.

Having your ducts cleaned can save you money in the long run, and create a better environment for your family, friends, employees, and your customers. Restore energy efficiency over time and reduce the possibility of microbial growth with ventilation cleaning services from SERVPRO of Central Manhattan.

Contaminants That Are Distributed Through Your Ducts

When considering a duct cleaning service, it is important to realize that your HVAC system is responsible for air circulation in your home. Some of the things that can cause irritation are:

• Pollen – Pollen is the number one cause of airborne allergies, and your air duct system distributes it throughout your home if left uncleaned. Pollen is brought into your home on your clothes or through open doors and windows. Any pollen that makes it through your vent filters will simply be re-distributed by your HVAC, causing major problems for allergy sufferers.
• Dust Mites– Keeping your home dust-free is impossible if your HVAC is constantly spewing dust that has built up in your ducts. Dust mites are one of the most impactful irritants for allergy sufferers.
• Mold and Mildew– If moisture happens to enter your duct system, it can lead to mold and mildew development. If your ducts are moldy, it can spread spores throughout your property.
• Pet Dander– While we all love our pets, we don’t love the dander that spreads from their skin. Cleaning the dust with a duct cleaning service will help to prevent the redistribution of these contaminants by your HVAC.

DIY CLEANING TIPS to Help You Control Indoor Allergens and Improve Indoor Air Quality
The best way to improve your air quality is to get rid of the sources of allergens and irritants from your home or business. Take measures to avoid and reduce your contact with allergens. Also increase the flow of outdoor air into your home and reduce humidity as much as possible.

When you have environmental allergies, it can be hard to bring yourself to open a window, much less stir up dust, dirt, debris, or pollen while cleaning your home or business.

Here are cleaning tips you may want to add to your regular routine to reduce indoor allergens

• Reducing dust-collecting clutter
• Regularly vacuuming carpeted floors with a double-bag or HEPA filter vacuum
• Dusting blinds and window treatments bi-weekly
• Regularly washing blankets and throw rugs
• Washing all bed linens in hot water every week
• Keeping counters and other hard surfaces clean and dry
• Getting all water damage restored quickly

However, duct cleaning is not always necessary. Our technicians will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your commercial or residential HVAC system.

Visual clues, like signs of mold and excessive dust around the air vents, can point to a need for cleaning. Otherwise, these additional concerns can indicate that your property could benefit from a professional cleaning.

• Has your property had a routine cleaning in the last 6-10 years, or sooner if you suffer from allergies or own pets.
• Is your property collecting dust even after you have done a regular cleaning?
• Do you notice allergy symptoms or asthma flareups when you turn on your heating/cooling system?

If indoor allergens are causing your seasonal allergies to flare up, a professional duct cleaning can remove irritants and improve overall air quality. A professional cleaning has many benefits to your property including reducing humidity and odors, our professionals are trained technicians, with state-of-the-art equipment and unique knowledge and experience. They will pay careful attention to the details that matter most when cleaning and restoring your property to a healthy work or living environment.

An initial inspection is critical for SERVPRO professionals to effectively resolve unique water damage concerns in each property disaster restoration

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage is one of the most common and most serious emergencies your property can ever experience. Whether you’re facing a storm, flood, weakened roof, HVAC leak, busted pipes, overflowing appliances or sewage backup, a water problem is distressing and threatening to your property’s safety and value. Finding the cause of water damage and addressing the issue is half the battle, the other half is mitigating the damages. The extent of water damage can be misleading when looking at the outside surface but often water seeps into the deeper materials of your home. Due to the unique nature of water, the damage cost can range from high to low.  Here’s a look into factors that will affect the price of water damage mitigation.

What you can expect during SERVPRO Property Restoration Services

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

Emergency Contact: After a property disaster or emergency at your Manhattan home or business, your call to us will connect you to one of our trained SERVPRO restoration professionals to take some basic information to provide to our project managers and technicians.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name, address, and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?

Inspection and Damage Assessment including Estimate: One of our trained professionals will come and assess your property damage. What type of water loss was it? How much of the property is affected? These answers are critical to addressing the unique solution for your restoration needs.

These key factors can determine the amount of mitigation, restoration and rebuild needed to recover your property following a disaster:

• The type of water affecting the property. Clean water from a burst plumbing pipe poses less risk than “black water” from the sewer or debris-laden floodwaters. The type of water that has damaged your property makes a big difference in what it will take to appropriately treat the damage.
   
• The types of materials involved. Porous materials will swell, warp, and disintegrate when it’s wet. The makeup of damaged structures and property strongly affect the approach and costs for cleanup and restoration.
   
• How deeply the structure is affected. In the example above, the stone tile of a floor may not be damaged, but water may still have damaged the subfloor. Water can cause many “hidden” losses, and a professional will carefully identify and evaluate the potential for deeper, unseen damages.
   
• How long the property has been wet. Mitigation efforts are most effective when they happen immediately after the damage happens. If a property has been standing in water for a long time or wasn’t appropriately treated when the water was removed, the damage may have worsened significantly. The growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria also becomes an increasingly major concern the longer a property stays wet.

Property Emergencies happen every day and acting fast after property damage could mean the difference between restoring your home quickly to pre loss condition or needing extensive and expensive reconstruction. Our SERVPRO team never stops being READY to handle your New York City fire, water or mold property disaster, we have the best staff, with the best resources standing ready to answer your call quickly and restore your home or business, “Like it never even happened.”

Emergency Water Removal – Assessing your damage and quick action

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the property disaster recovery and restoration business. Our on-call 24/7 emergency response teams are highly trained and experienced with all types of property disaster losses including fire, smoke, water, sewage, flood, and storm damage. Our restoration professionals near you have 30 years of experience providing high-quality commercial and residential property disaster restoration and reconstruction services to local Manhattan communities every day.

Emergency Response Property Disaster Restoration Services
SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is committed to making the cleanup, restoration and rebuild process for our customers organized, efficient and successful, after a frustrating and confusing property disaster event. Whether your home or building sustained damages from a storm, flood, fire, or water disaster, you’ll have trusted and compassionate professionals by your side. We will work with you to survey the extent of the property damage, develop a plan for cleanup, restoration, and reconstruction.

Disaster restoration and repairs for your Manhattan commercial or residential property is best left to professionals. Our SERVPRO professionals are skilled with the complexities of removing water and the water extraction, drying, dehumidifying, disinfecting and removal equipment required to complete the job properly. Our expert team has the experience, certifications, and equipment to complete any size restoration and repair project quickly, correctly, and affordably.

Some of our property Restoration services include:

Water Removal and Extraction: This important and often first step in the process involves us removing and extracting standing water from all areas of your property. Our SERVPRO technicians utilize industrial grade equipment to move large volumes quickly and efficiently to minimize long term hazards and damage

Property Drying: After the bulk of the water is removed, hazardous levels of moisture can still exist in fibrous structural and aesthetic components in your home or business building. We utilize specialized equipment to pull moisture from the air to create an environment suitable for drying of these important pieces and may also attempt to speed the drying process with heat.

Cleanup: After water and moisture have been removed and dried it’s important to conduct thorough cleaning of the affected area to prevent future health hazards. Flooding from rivers and sewers can pose exceptional risks to health and welfare due to the silt and bacteria they carry. Our team will remove damaged items that are beyond repair.

Odor and Mold remediation: SERVPRO’s full-spectrum restoration capabilities have many benefits when it comes to secondary damages after water intrusion. We often use air scrubbers that create negative air pressure to force contaminants through HEPA filters before exhausting to the outdoors. Air quality is improved, including the clearing of any fumes from cleaners or solvents used to neutralize contaminated water or mold damages.

Our team provides professional and prompt emergency restoration services for all local New York City commercial businesses and homeowners. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan’s building services gives our location a unique opportunity to streamline the entire property restoration and recovery process, while mitigating challenges and providing quick and seamless professional service from start to finish.

SERVPRO works quickly to restore your home or business after fire damage

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage is multi-faceted and to recover as much of your property as possible contact professionals right away.

It is important to contact trained property damage restoration technicians from SERVPRO to minimize damages and restore your property faster

Manhattan fire damage needs professionals

The Damage Caused by a Property Fire 

When you experience a property fire, big or small it’s best to contact a fire damage restoration company in your area to mitigate the damage and put you on a quick road to recovery. To repair the property entirely after experiencing a damaging fire, you will need to seek the help of a professional team like SERVPRO. Fire damage is multi-faceted and to recover as much of your property as possible contacting professionals right away with experience, equipment and training will help avoid additional repairs and costs. Our Manhattan technicians know what steps to take to assess your property and possessions, they can look for hidden damages and quickly start to mitigate concerns to avoid further damage from smoke and soot, documenting damages and removing items for restoration. 

Many factors contribute to the increased risk of fire during winter months

Keeping warm in the winter months can be challenging, homeowners often use secondary heating sources to supplement furnaces and radiators to help keep warm. Fireplaces, wood burning stoves, space heaters, or electric blankets can produce comfortable heat for smaller, more targeted areas of your home at a fraction of the cost of turning up the thermostat for the entire home. These heat sources also pose their own unique risks, and it's important to take safety precautions when using them. Typically, electrical fires are at their peak during the winter months, staying inside using additional lighting, heating and other electrical equipment causes increased strain on your electrical system, that can sometimes result in a fire. 

Common Sources of Electrical Fires

• Faulty outlets and appliances: worn or frayed cords can be enough to spark a fire and have it spread to flammable surfaces in your home like carpets, drapes, and rugs. Avoid running electrical cords under rugs to minimize wear and tear that can contribute to fire risks. Do not remove the grounding prong from a cord for use in a two-prong outlet.

• Light fixture failures: Always check the maximum recommended wattage on your lights and avoid using bulbs that go over that limit. Placing flammable materials like paper or cloth over a lampshade can also start a fire.

• Extension cords:Extension cords are meant to be a temporary measure for appliance usage. If you are using an extension cord because you do not have the type of outlet you need for your appliance, talk to your local electrician about installing new outlets that are compatible.

Property owners and residents can minimize electrical fire risk with a variety of safety measures, including the following:

• Avoid overloading outlets or power strips and the use of extension cables as a long-term power source.
• Have your wiring inspected to ensure that it is up to code per the standards set by the National Electrical Code (NEC). A licensed electrician can mitigate potential faults such as rusty contacts in an outlet. A professional can also advise you on inspection intervals.
• Use protective measures like surge protectors, ground-fault circuit interrupters, and arc-fault circuit interrupters.

Fire Prevention Tips for Common Causes of Home Fire Damage

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Large or small fires can bring significant smoke and soot damage throughout your home. We can provide property damage restoration service near you.

What to expect from our SERVPRO professional fire damage restoration process in Manhattan

Every year, there are between 350,000 and 400,000 home fires in the U.S. (according to the National Fire Protection Association). Any building is at risk of catching fire for a variety of reasons, knowing the most common reasons for residential fire damage can be important to fire prevention. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has been providing property disaster cleanup and restoration service to fire damage victims for nearly 30 years, our IICRC certified fire damage restoration specialists arrive ready to rescue and recover your home and property following a fire, “Like it never even happened.”

Our SERVPRO location responded quickly to this home fire, in the West Village. Our restoration specialists contained the damaged areas to stop the spread of hazardous soot, smoke, and toxins. SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the restoration industry; our team is ready to respond to your emergency fire property damage, quickly and effectively with unparalleled training and equipment. Giving you peace of mind that your property is being cleaned and restored by caring and competent restoration professionals.

Often during a fire restoration, many recovery operations need to happen simultaneously, some of our crew will work on water extraction and demolition, while others will inventory and pack up items to move to another location to help prevent further property damage from exposure to contaminated areas. Smoke and soot particles are small and can get deep inside building materials, furniture, and other porous items. HEPA filters help our industrial strength air scrubbers and vacuums capture soot, purify the air, and neutralize odors. Our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan location is fortunate to offer restoration and rebuilding services following a property disaster from fire, water, or mold. Using our highly qualified construction team will help keep your recovery process moving steady and hassle free, often it can also minimize costs and completion time.

FIRST STEPS TO FIRE RESTORATION:

Isolate Fire Damaged Areas

SERVPRO professionals will start with containment to help restrict odors and debris from contaminating the air throughout the house and keep the damage contained at the source of the fire and affected areas of the home.

Water Damage Remediation

Fire suppression and rescue uses a lot of water and it can be just as destructive to structural components and contents as the fire. Our SERVPRO professionals will take the steps needed to minimize the damage by prioritizing water extraction.

Pack-Out for Contents

Fire damage mitigation and restoration is more effective when furnishings and personal possessions are relocated to avoid continued exposure to contaminated air and debris. Our contents claim inventory service creates a digital listing of the affected property, very helpful when corresponding with your insurance company. Specialized contents technicians evaluate the pack-out items’ conditions and recommend and implement efficient strategies to clean, dry, deodorize, and disinfect them.

Customized Soot Removal

Smoke and soot damages are especially invasive attacking every space of your residential property, including areas far from the actual fire. The residue from the fire travels with the air coating surfaces SERVPRO will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Quick action is crucial to minimize damages; soot must be removed before it begins etching, distorting, discoloring, and disintegrating wood, carpeting, fabric, drywall, plastic, metal, and glass.

Common causes of residential fire property damage disasters:

Cooking: Most house fires are caused by cooking-related incidents, specifically, a person leaving a hot oven or stove unattended.

Prevention tips: Always keep an eye on cooking equipment while it’s in use. Use a timer to remind you cooking is in progress. Make sure to remove flammable objects and materials around cooking areas and surfaces.

Heating: Portable and stationary space heaters accounted for 32% of these fires, but most resulted from the homeowner’s failure to clean heating equipment or chimneys. 

Prevention tips: Have heating equipment cleaned and inspected every year to ensure it’s working properly. When using space heaters, situate them away from combustible objects such as clothing, furniture and bedding and turn them off when you leave home.

Electrical systems: Lighting sources are responsible for most electrical fires. Fires started through electrical systems represent more than $1 billion in property losses each year. 

Prevention tips: Use qualified electricians to handle your electrical projects, many fires are the result of improper installation by homeowners. When using electrical appliances, replace frayed or damaged cords, refrain from overloading outlets with plugs and use bulbs of the proper wattage for lamps.

Candles: Candles are responsible for 5 percent of home fire deaths, and on average, 35 home fires caused by candles are reported each day in the United States. 

Prevention tips: Don’t leave burning candles unattended and put them out before going to bed.

Fires cause massive amounts of damage to a residential property; the flames, soot and smoke can destroy structural materials, interior and exterior items, and personal processions. The aftermath of a fire can bring a massive amount of water damage, toxic chemicals, harmful soot pollution and unhealthy smoke levels. First responders often extinguish the flames quickly, but soot and smoke move even more rapidly, spreading damage throughout the entire property. Even a minor fire can bring significant smoke and soot damage throughout your home. We can provide property damage restoration service near you, SERVPRO is here to help with highly trained IICRC certified fire damage restoration experts and advanced technology and equipment to restore your home and possessions and provide knowledge and experience when you need it most.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan responds quickly to your fire damage emergency with skilled technicians to your home, our team’s primary goal is to mitigate additional damages with preventative procedures and neutralize and recover sustained damages using expert skill, experience, and equipment.

SERVPRO provides complete cleanup, restoration and rebuild services after fire damage to your Manhattan property

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Our IICRC certified professionals are prepared 24/7 to restore your home after a fire. SERVPRO is always here to help!

Consult SERVPRO to develop a complete plan to rebuild and restore your home after a property fire. 

Whether it is a small fire in the kitchen or something more significant, most homeowners and families can feel overwhelmed. Some disasters that affect your Manhattan home offer little hope of a fast restoration and recovery. Instead, large fire situations can pose a great risk to homeowners and the occupants of the household until substantial work occurs to the property to return it to a safe and secure preloss condition. Calling our local SERVPRO team puts you in contact with our highly trained and experienced staff to answer your questions about the fire disaster restoration and recovery process… should your family move out until repairs are made, how can the odor from the smoke ever be removed?  When a fire causes widespread structural damage and other secondary concerns throughout the property. You need a team with the experience and the skill sets to restore and rebuild all the damage to your house, not only a portion of it. Our team has lots of experience with fire damage situations and can provide suggestions and helpful information regarding what to do in these situations. Most importantly, we will develop a complete restoration plan in conjunction with your insurance provider that will cleanup, restore and rebuild your home and property “Like it never even happened.” We respond quickly and our emergency teams are available every day, 24 hours a day.

Planning your property cleanup and recovery from fire damages

Fire leaves different kinds of soot on surfaces depending on what burned in your residential or commercial property. Even a small blaze produces acidic smoke and soot that needs to be cleaned up. During your initial fire damage inspection, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Depending on how much smoke damage there is, there are various methods we can use to clean up the surrounding walls and ceiling.

Every property disaster is unique, our experts will assess your specific situation, the amount of damage, and if there are any safety concerns for you, your family, and our team members. Before professionals can get the fire restoration process started, our team will determine the extent of damage by using some of the following methods:

• Testing for soot or smoke damage
• Documenting the destruction
• Determining which assets are salvageable

Each type of soot gets a different cleaning method. Our technicians check out all damage and match the best cleaning method to soiling. Once damage does happen, our technicians are fully trained and certified under the guidelines of The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to restore your home to its original state. Local teams learn the latest procedures to clean carpets, furniture, and surfaces of soot and to remove the smoke odor that can linger for weeks in an untreated home. One fire site can need a variety of cleaning methods, our fire disaster restoration professionals can handle it all.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Specialists use commercial grade vacuums to remove soot and other residue. Our blowers and exhaust fans can be adapted to work from a large family room to a small laundry closet. We use a wide variety of cleaning products specialized for every surface in a home from marble countertop cleaners to soaps and dry sponges that gently remove soot and not the paint underneath. We can use HEPA grade filtration systems, air scrubbers, and ozone machines to help improve the Indoor Air Quality.

Our SERVPRO manager and crew chief will formulate a plan based on the amount of damage to your property from your fire disaster to restore your home to its original condition. Our team will explain the plan, the timeline, and the overall cost. Once a plan is in place, homeowners can focus on their personal recovery and trust our experts in fire damage recovery to work on their behalf to expedite the phases of the mitigation, restoration, and rebuilding process. Our SERVPRO rapid response team offers real-time mitigation solutions designed to protect the contents and the structure of your home as much as possible, sometimes areas of your home are too badly damaged to restore. We use controlled demolition techniques on the fire-damaged structural elements of the property to remove only what cannot be saved. When this happens, our licensed contracting division can help provide comprehensive support to our customers from the initial inspection through entire reconstructions of leveled properties. Along with our mitigation and restoration tactics, our licensed contractors work to efficiently replace the removed materials to minimize our impact on your life in this traumatic time to get you back into your home quickly.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan offers comprehensive reconstruction services for both residential and commercial properties

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

When you experience fire or smoke damage to your local Manhattan home or business you might not be sure what steps to take next. Once the fire department has left and you have called SERVPRO of Central Manhattan, wait for the professionals to arrive, our fire damage remediation specialists will guide you through the fire damage restoration process.

1. Initial Inspection- One of our trained managers will come inspect your property for damages and see how intensely the fire/smoke affected your home and determine with you and/or your adjuster what steps need to be taken next.
2. Structure/Content Clean- Depending on what has been determined in step one, SERVPRO will start the process of cleaning and restoring your home and/or contents, including cleaning walls and ceilings, personal belongings, ducts, etc.

Phases of a complete SERVPRO fire damage property restoration & rebuild

Assessment: After a disaster occurs, calling in experienced disaster restoration professional to mitigate damages and give advice on your next steps is key to a successful recovery.

Cleanup: After a disaster occurs, licensed technicians focus on restoring your residence to a clean and safe condition.

Restoration: This process can include installing new tile, cleaning your HVAC system, repainting walls, and repairing nearby carpet that may have been affected by the fire.

Rebuilding: If the structural damage in your home from the fire requires more work to restore, SERVPRO contractors can repair subflooring, install new wall joists, hang the drywall and much, much more.

Residential or Commercial Fires often causes significant structural damage and often require repairing and rebuilding your property. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan offers comprehensive reconstruction services for both residential and commercial properties our professionals are uniquely qualified and prepared to meet your reconstruction needs. Our construction team works quickly and effectively, working with you to survey the extent of the damage, develop a plan for reconstruction, and assess whether your property is safe to occupy. Our Manhattan SERVPRO crews are ready to undertake reconstruction projects of any size, structural repairs and rebuilding may only involve a portion of your property, or in some cases a complete rebuild may be necessary.

Contact us today if your property has been damaged and needs repairs or reconstruction services.

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

Our team is available 24/7 to offer our comprehensive solutions including emergency mitigation, restoration, and reconstruction for customers affected by fires. You can depend on our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan IICRC-certified technicians to arrive quickly to protect your property as much as possible. 

Central Manhattan Commercial Building Fire Damage Cleanup and Repair Service

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can provide services to prevent further damage, help determine which items can be restored and rebuild your property completely.

Fire damage can have a devastating effect on local businesses SERVPRO is here to help, providing emergency and rebuild services to local New York City property owners and managers.

Fires cause massive amounts of damage; destroying structural materials and business items, also bringing massive amounts of water damage, toxic chemicals, harmful soot pollution and unhealthy smoke levels. First Responders often extinguish the flames quickly, but soot and smoke move even more rapidly. The moment authorities permit you to reenter your dwelling the clock starts on a successful restoration. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan understands the need for speed and assigns skilled technicians to your job within hours of your first call.

COMMON TYPES OF COMMERCIAL FIRE DAMAGE

    •    Burnt Structure; framing, roofing, doors, drywall, flooring and cabinets
    •    Office Property and Equipment; furniture, supplies and appliances
    •    Soot and Smoke Damage; HVAC unit, surfaces, air quality
    •    Odor; smoke and toxic chemicals from damaged structure and contents
    •    Water Damage; results of fire suppression system and local Fire Department efforts
    •    Mold Damage; water damage left untreated can quickly cause mold growth

Smoke and soot damage are especially invasive attacking every space of your commercial property, including areas far from the actual fire. The residue from the fire travels with the air coating surfaces. This debris must be removed before it begins etching, distorting, discoloring, and disintegrating wood, carpeting, fabric, drywall, plastic, metal, and glass.

CONSIDER CLEANUP REQUIREMENTS: SERVPRO of Central Manhattan can provide services to prevent further damage, help determine which items can or cannot be refurbished and which structural elements do and do not need to be repaired or replaced.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is here to help repair commercial fire disasters

    1.    Secure your business site including board up and tarping services
    2.    Protect areas unaffected by the fire with barriers and storage if necessary
    3.    Assess the affected areas for a full scope of damages
    4.    Take a detailed inventory of damaged property and materials
    5.    Detect, neutralize, and remove harmful gases and toxic materials
    6.    Determine the best cleaning, repair and restoration solutions for your property
    7.    Restore, replace and repair building materials with our skilled building/restoration teams

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies. Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, motel, or office building, our crew will assess the damage in each room and plan proper procedures, using dry or wet cleaning strategies matched to the character of the residue found and the materials affected. Systematically SERVPRO progresses through your business room by room to assure all harm is reversed and the corrosive soot and smoke permanently eliminated.

We answer the phone ready to help with your property damage

As a leader in property damage restoration and repair services, we have helped countless families and businesses through very unpredictable and devastating residential and commercial property losses. We understand you may not know what to do in a disaster situation; SERVPRO of Central Manhattan can help by responding faster with professionals who can help you through the restoration process.

SERVPRO offers a Custom “EMERGENCY READY PROFILE” Preparation Service; one of our professionals will come to your commercial property and assess your proper emergency service solution should you have a disaster in the future. The preparation process is quick and easy and makes the aftermath of a disaster simple, because all the details are assessable to our staff and technicians should you need us.

Fall brings changing leaves, Halloween, and property damage prevention with seasonal maintenance tips

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

This fall, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is the right choice for all your property damage restoration concerns throughout New York City.

Decorating your Manhattan home for fall is fun, but have you prepared your property for seasonal damages? 

Fall is the ideal season to check for inexpensive maintenance issues, such as areas that need caulking, changing filters,  or fixing leaks, to prevent future damage. Regular inspections and a little preventative maintenance, can help keep your property protected from seasonal elements like rain, snow and cold weather. 

Ground clearing and minor fixes are a staple of any fall property maintenance routine; raking leaves, weatherproofing doors and windows, carving pumpkins, and preparing your property for storms and trick-or-treaters.

Keep the chill outside

Check around the windows and doors for any gaps in the insulation or caulking, your property can lose a lot of warmth in the winter months if not properly sealed. At entry ways have a non-skid mat or rug to protect floors and prevent falls. Inspect your roof and siding for gaps or damage from storms, make any necessary repairs.

Maintain the gutter and drain systems

Blocked gutters and drains can cause a problem for your property anytime of the year. Avoid issues due to ponding water, with a proper drainage system that slopes toward gutters, scuppers, and internal drains. Make sure to clean your gutters removing any leaves, twigs or other debris to make sure that water can move away from your roof and foundation unobstructed. When water accumulates due to inadequate sloping, little to no internal drainage, blocked gutters, downspouts, and scuppers, extreme ponding water can occur and cause severe damage to the building infrastructure along with roof leaks, insects, mold and fungus, compromising the safety of those inside and outside the building.

Replace Filters in HVAC and Furnace

Change your HVAC system filters and have your unit inspected for debris or mold. When filters are clogged and dirty, your systems have to work harder and are at risk for failure or major damage. Before you turn your furnace on for the winter, it’s a good idea to have your HVAC system and ductwork inspected.

Protect the plumbing

Pipes located in attics, crawl spaces, basements, and near outer walls can be susceptible to freezing in extreme temperatures, avoiding a costly pipe break or other water related disaster. Wrap exposed pipes in your attic, basement, or crawl spaces, with extra insulation around them to prevent them from freezing and causing damage. Don’t forget your water heater, add additional insulation if it’s located in an exposed or cold location.

Prepping the yard

Even with the cold weather conditions, your yard still needs to be maintained. Make sure tree and shrub branches are well away from the house and windows. Icy conditions can cause branches to break and damage your home. Autumn is the time for falling leaves, so make sure to clean out the gutters, to avoid possible ice dams and other costly water damage, and get them off the lawn, clean the flower beds and prepare them for next year with fertilizer.

It is an excellent time to plan ahead for Halloween visitors to your property this year.

HALLOWEEN PROPERTY SAFETY TIPS FOR TRICK-OR-TREATERS

• Ensure that your front yard, walkway and entry way are well-lit so that those unfamiliar with your home can safely navigate. If using a fog machine, be careful that the fog does not make it difficult to see tripping hazards.
  
  
• Look for any trip hazards on your property that you can fix or remove: electrical cords and hoses can be wrapped up or moved; holes in your yard are roped off or filled in; CAUTION TAPE IS A TIMELY ADDITION and helps to warn of any safety hazards that can't be fixed in time for Halloween.
  
  
• Use battery-powered votive candles or flashlights in your jack-o-lanterns, rather than real candles, to avoid a potential fire hazard.
  
  
• Make sure all railings, porches, and physical structures of your home are secure and in good condition before visitors access those areas.
  
  

This Halloween, may your treats be many and your tricks be few, our team hopes you have a safe and happy Halloween!

WHEN DISASTER STRIKES SERVPRO IS HERE TO HELP!

When planning and setting up your Halloween decorations, it is a good idea to consider any potential risks involved. Taking steps to prepare your property and to protect any visitors can help spare you from a truly frightening night. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is the right choice for all your property damage restoration concerns throughout New York City, we have decades of hands-on cleanup, restoration and repair experience and our dedication to helping local owners, renters and businesses disrupted by disasters is second to none. We have worked hard over the years building a reliable team of IICRC certified technicians and an arsenal of high-tech commercial grade equipment ready to assist with water, fire, mold, or storm disaster restoration services.

SERVPRO provides scalable cleaning and sanitizing services for Manhattan homes and businesses

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Our staff is capable of cleaning and sanitizing bathrooms, kitchens, and other common areas with effective discrete timely service.

SERVPRO professionals have specialized equipment and training to provide the highest level of commercial cleaning and sanitizing to maintain your commercial property.

While the pandemic continues to evolve, it’s as important as ever to take precautions with your commercial property to promote safety. Our team is available to provide commercial cleaning and bioremediation services a SERVPRO near you. As businesses continue to accelerate their cleaning and sanitizing procedures, it’s an excellent time to take advantage of the experience and tools our professionals can provide. When your commercial or residential property needs a deep cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing, calling SERVPRO of Central Manhattan to provide a fast and professional response is the only solution. Cleanliness is how to best be proactive, and we are here to help. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your school or university, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform daily.

Reminding People of Best Practices in Hygiene:

• Inform customers/visitors on how to protect themselves.
• Promote best practices with hygiene like handwashing.
• Cleaning & disinfecting regularly.
• Increasing airflow and ventilation.

When it comes to preventing the spread of this virus, it is up to us as a community to do the best we can to remain informed and act with thoughtful consideration. Our crews are up to the recent challenges impacting our community using specialized training and equipment, our cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning, and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for our cleanup process, and disposal of waste. Carpets and fabric and upholstery can be sanitized using our hospital-grade disinfectant.

Timely Response with Minimal Disruption 

Our crews can schedule work around your business hours to reduce the impact to your daily operations. Trust the SERVPRO team to be aware of and capable of meeting the sanitation standards required during this challenging atmosphere. We are trained in the appropriate use of EPA-registered disinfectants and committed to a close working relationship with your facility housekeeping staff. Our staff is capable of cleaning and sanitizing bathrooms, kitchens and other common areas with the discretion and effectiveness your commercial facility requires.

SERVPRO is here to help develop a professional disinfecting plan for your property to promote confidence in the safety of your local business.

SERVPRO technicians can answer all your fire, smoke and soot property damage cleanup and restoration questions for the Manhattan community

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO fire damage restoration starts with a Deep-Cleaning of all surfaces to remove soot and mitigate smoke damages fast.

SMOKE AND SOOT CONCERNS FOR YOUR PROPERTY

When office spaces and apartments are closely packed together, like inside Manhattan high-rise buildings, even a minor property fire can cause or contribute to significant smoke or soot damage to your Manhattan property’s interiors and exteriors, including your HVAC unit. Our SERVPRO restoration specialists know a lot about the secondary damages from soot and smoke that happen as the result of a blaze. Fire creates smoke and soot, and the tiny particles float in the air and will become trapped in drapes, carpets, and furniture, or collect on surfaces and inside your HVAC system. When these issues arise and you see soot residue or smell smoke odors, the solution is the same. Calling our Manhattan SERVPRO Fire Cleanup and Restoration Professionals will provide top quality services, experience, knowledge, and trust that our New York City property restoration crews will quickly restore your home or business, “Like it never even happened.”

Smoke and soot can permeate your walls, surfaces and air ducts leaving unseen odors throughout your property. Consulting a full-service cleanup, restoration and repair company is your top-priority to keeping restoration costs lower and salvaging as much of your property and possessions as possible. SERVPRO has a long history in the restoration industry, and we focus on salvaging and restoring your contents and structure whenever feasible. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan provides exceptional fire, smoke and soot damage restoration services and experience, balanced with efficiency and cost-effective techniques in response to your property damage disaster.

Want to know more about how SERVPRO can help with smoke odors and soot damage in your home following seasonal outdoor fire property damage?

SERVPRO has been providing disaster restoration services including, fire, smoke, flood and water damage for decades, our team knows that property damage happens even to the most cautious of property owners. A fast response is critical as fire residue can immediately damage structural components and contents, the contamination grows progressively worse and more expensive to remediate as time passes. SERVPRO is Faster to any size disaster, arriving at your home as soon as possible with a full complement of Fire & Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) and the products, tools, and equipment needed in our well-stocked service vehicles.

The training our crews complete from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) prepares them to use effective strategies that clean up the charring, soiling, and odors post-fire. SERVPRO’s professional fire restoration specialists and high-tech commercial equipment ensure quick and effective cleanup, removal and repairs of your property and contents following smoke, soot and ash surface buildup and damage before it continues to spread. SERVPRO uses industrial grade foggers to deodorize a property.

SERVPRO fire damage restoration starts with a Deep-Cleaning of all surfaces to remove soot and mitigate smoke damages fast.

• Clean the soot residue that builds up on surfaces before it continues to spread.
• Remove soot residue from at-risk items including brass, aluminum, chrome, marble, tile, fabrics, carpets, and upholstery.
• Deodorize carpets, curtains and clothing and other porous materials.
• Neutralize the odor to keep them from returning.

Deodorization is a multi-step process - our SERVPRO technicians use a variety of processes and equipment to reverse odor concerns caused by fire and smoke damages, including;

    •    EPA registered antimicrobials
    •    Thermal and ultra-low volume (ULV) foggers
    •    Odor counteracting beads
    •    Trays of scented granules placed near air intakes
    •    HEPA filter air scrubbers


Residential and commercial property can suffer fire and smoke damage in a multitude of ways, Manhattan property owners can rely on SERVPRO’s trusted and educated approach to fire restoration service to get the job done completely. Our technicians are IICRC certified and are trained to detect different types of smoke and teach them the most effective methods of restoration of each kind. Removing odors relies on having access to the right equipment and the training to understand how smoke travels. When you have lingering smoke or fire damage problems in your home or business give our professional SERVPRO restoration staff a call to find out what our services can do for your property.

Manhattan lower-level and basement flood damage cleanup and repairs

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

GROUND FLOOR AND BASEMENT FLOODING: A Basement is a wonderful asset to your home or business, it can provide additional storage or living space to a crowded property. Storm flooding and melting snow can cause water damage in your basement from faulty gutters, cracks in foundations and improper drainage. Water damage is one of the most common and worst side effects of water leakage or flooding in a basement. In addition to contributing to structural and foundation problems, basement water damage can destroy your personal belongings and interior decorative finishes and it also has the power to create the perfect environment for toxic mold growth.

Choosing a disaster restoration and recovery company after your Manhattan property suffers a property damage is an important step. Choosing an experienced and professionally trained and accountable team as your property restoration partner is the key to a successful outcome. We recommend you choose us because we deliver:

    •    Swift response times and round the clock availability – we are available 24 hours a day.
    •    Well-trained staff – we put all our technicians through rigorous training.
    •    Advanced technology – we use state of the art equipment to mitigate damages.

Our SERVPRO technicians are IICRC certified and have experience working with a variety of water damage situations both big and small. We have seen flooding and carpet issues, to broken or frozen pipe and plumbing issues, and basement and roof leaks. Our technicians understand that a property damage event can be traumatic and unexpected; they realize time and efficiency are important and they take every step possible to minimize the intrusion while executing the cleanup and restoration of your home or business.

Call Our 24 Hour Emergency SERVPRO Restoration Service

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan provides 24-hour Emergency Services to local communities suffering from fire, smoke, sewage and water damage and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. Our service pros respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
    •    24-Hour Emergency Service
    •    Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
    •    Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
    •    A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
    •    Locally Owned and Operated
    •    Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

When water damage occurs in your home or business, knowing what to do will save precious time and ultimately minimize losses to your property and building contents. SERVPRO professionals have extensive experience repairing and restoring catastrophic water damage. Our technicians understand that unattended water damage continues to cause harm to your property over time. Making it necessary to make quick, informed decisions, to perform quality restoration services today, that save you from further damaging problems, tomorrow.

Looking for relief from indoor allergies this spring, SERVPRO professional cleaning services can help

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Spring is a welcome reprieve from the long winter — that is, unless you suffer from spring allergies. Improve indoor air quality with SERVPRO of Central Manhattan Professional Services can reduce indoor allergens.

SERVPRO offers cleaning and maintenance services to benefit your Manhattan property:

• Creating a Clean & Healthy Living/Working Environment
• Reducing Allergens and Irritants to alleviate allergy symptoms?
• Removing Unpleasant Smells and Odors
• Improving Air Flow Efficiency??

You can't control the increase of allergens in the spring air, but you can improve the air quality in your commercial or residential property, bolstering your fight against allergy symptoms? HVAC units, air ducts, registers, upholstery, carpets and flooring can hold much more dust, dirt and pollen than you would think. Scheduling periodic professional cleaning and odor removal services with our SERVPRO cleaning crews during spring can reduce allergens in your home or business and assure healthy air quality throughout your property. SERVPRO professional cleaning services can help minimize indoor allergens and alleviate your seasonal allergy symptoms and improve the overall indoor air quality of your home or business.

Your local SERVPRO has service solutions that may help alleviate allergy symptoms by promoting healthy indoor air quality, our Manhattan residential and commercial property services include:
    •    Air Duct and Register Cleaning
    •    Intensive Carpet & Floor Cleaning
    •    Odor Removal & Refresh

Air Duct and Vent Cleaning
HVAC systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality and a leading cause in increased allergy symptoms. The air inside your Suffolk Long Island home/business is full of tiny particles like dust, pollen and debris. When your furnace or air conditioner draws air, it also pulls in airborne particles. Over time, these contaminants can build up inside the ducts, reducing airflow and re-circulating allergens throughout your living/working space. Keeping dust, pollen, pet dander, and other irritants out of the air you breathe involves more than changing the air filter, proper HVAC unit and air duct maintenance is essential to reducing allergens inside your commercial or residential property and improve air quality. Our trained professionals at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan use commercial-grade, duct-cleaning equipment, brushes, and air whips, that remove dust and debris trapped inside your duct system and leave your property with optimal indoor air quality.

Intensive Upholstery, Carpet and Floor Cleaning
Scheduling a deep cleaning every 12-18 months by an IICRC trained SERVPRO professional will renew the look of your upholstery, carpet and flooring by removing the deepest dirt and debris. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan utilizes the best technology and highest-quality equipment that effectively removes dust, pollen and other allergens to keep your home or business allergen free and your carpets and flooring looking like new. Our professional cleaning will address moderate and heavy soil conditions in your carpets, dirt builds up in layers, and when a carpet looks dirty you are only seeing the dirt at the tips of the fibers. More dirt is hiding below the surface down near the base of the pile, causing damage to the carpet.

Odor Removal
Rely on SERVPRO technicians to have the expertise to effectively deodorize your home/business. Take advantage of our residential and commercial cleaning services to remove unwanted odors. Our Manhattan SERVPRO crews have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. Our experienced technicians have access to specialized odor removal products and equipment capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize odors and help restore your home or business to a safe, healthy, and fresh environment.

SERVPRO Provides Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration Services to Manhattan

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Spring storms vary in degree of severity and duration and can last for a couple of hours or for several days. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan wants residents to know that when the storm hits and causes property damage, our crews are always here to help. We use advanced inspection and extraction equipment and practices to find and remove water in a quick and efficient manner. Our technicians will monitor and document the drying process from start to finish ensuring your experience with us goes seamlessly. When the unexpected happens to you, we have experience, expertise, and training to restore your home or business quickly and properly.

Inspecting your property for seasonal damage can help avoid additional damage and mounting repair costs

Springtime is here and it’s time to open the windows and get outdoors - use the sunshine and warmer weather to inspect for seasonal property damage. Winter can be hard on your property with frigid temperatures and snow and ice. The effects of winter are especially evident to the exterior of our homes and buildings, it’s important to get any damage repaired quickly, before Spring has the chance to storm. 

Clean and Inspect the Exterior and Landscaping

While sprucing your yard, take the time to clear out overgrown bushes, dead plants, watering cans, garden tools and other items cluttering your landscape. Messy outdoor spaces and exterior structural systems like your roof and gutters can often lead to property damage, including slow water leaks or poor ventilation, cleaning up your surroundings will prevent accidents and increase the safety and security of your property.

• Examine the roof
  Winter storms can take a toll on your roof, so be sure to inspect it thoroughly once spring rolls around. Look for things like missing, buckled, or otherwise damaged shingles, roof damage can lead to water and mold damage. Call a licensed and insured roofing expert to perform repairs, if you experience water intrusion or see visible signs of mold give SERVPRO a call for help.
  
  
• Check and clean gutters and downspout
  Gutters and downspouts divert rainwater away from your roof and foundation, which is especially important when seasonal showers begin. Make sure all gutters are secure and unimpeded by debris. If your gutters seem damaged from the winter weather, make sure to replace them quickly.
  
  
• Exterior walls
  A thorough inspection of the exterior walls will help to identify trouble spots. Paint is your house’s first defense, it works as an added layer of protection from the elements, helping to keep your home safe from weather damage, and insects.
  
  
• Check foundation and walkways
  Fix and fill cracks in your foundation, porch and walkways
  Fluctuating temperatures and water can cause your foundation, porch or walkways to crack during the winter months. Reduce the opportunity for water damage by filling these cracks as soon as possible to prevent structural damage.
  
  
• Check outdoor faucets and plumbing
  Now that spring is here, you’ll want to get started on gardening. If you turned outdoor faucets off and winterized pool plumbing to prevent frozen pipes in the winter, open them back up and check that they are all working properly.
  
  
• Trim tree and shrub overgrowth
  Give the plants and trees on your property a once over, make sure to trim them, especially if there is a danger that they could fall on your home or car.

Emergency Response Property Disaster Restoration Services

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is committed to making the cleanup, restoration and rebuild process for our customers organized, efficient and successful, after a frustrating and confusing property disaster event. Whether your home or building sustained damages from a storm, flood, fire or water disaster, you’ll have trusted and compassionate professionals by your side. We will work with you to survey the extent of the property damage, develop a plan for cleanup, restoration and reconstruction. Disaster restoration and repair for your New York City commercial or residential property is best left to professionals. Our SERVPRO professionals are skilled with the complexities of removing water and the water extraction, drying, dehumidifying, disinfecting and removal equipment required to complete your home or commercial building cleanup and repair properly. Our expert team has the experience, certifications, and equipment to complete any size restoration and rebuild project quickly, correctly, and affordably.

SERVPRO’s professional restoration service advantages during unique property damage disasters

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Your best defense against long lasting commercial fire, smoke and water property damage is a quick and rigorous response by our trained technicians. Each SERVPRO team member has been thoroughly trained in fire restoration, water restoration, carpet & upholstery cleaning, and mold mitigation before stepping foot onto your home or business. Our restoration technicians utilize state-of-the-art equipment and technology to restore and repair your entire structure and belongings as efficiently as possible.

Time is critical and SERVPRO Tools and Training Accelerate the Restoration Process.

Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-accredited technicians at SERVPRO are not only trained to adhere to restoration industry guidelines. They also receive extensive training and education in using both sophisticated technologies and tried-and-true techniques for home disaster mitigation. These tools include the following:

• Sophisticated moisture measurement technologies, such as calibrated sensors and meters, and thermal imaging, help establish structural drying goals and determine water damage locations behind walls, above ceilings, and under floors.
• Industrial-grade air movement equipment, including centrifugal air movers and ventilation box fans
• OSHA approved cleaning solutions that aid in the remediation of microbes and unpleasant odors from water damage.
• Odor control modalities that address a variety of sources, including pet odors, water damage, and mold.
• Moisture extraction tools, like extraction wands and truck-mounted units, make the structural drying process hundreds of times more efficient.

Property Emergencies happen everyday, and acting fast after property damage could mean the difference between restoring your home quickly to preloss condition or needing extensive and expensive reconstruction. Our SERVPRO team never stops being READY to handle your fire, water or mold property disaster, we have the best staff, with the best resources standing ready to answer your call quickly and restore your home or business, “Like it never even happened.”

The benefits of planning ahead to mitigate property damage when a disaster strikes

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

With nearly 30 years of disaster restoration experience and a background in facility management, David Kluger has mentored and assembled a SERVPRO team of exemplary professionals capable of handling any size property disaster; no matter how complex the problem, they have a complete solution for cleanup, restoration, and repairs. Over his lengthy career, many owners and managers have expressed remorse about not being better prepared to manage and execute a plan for during an emergency and the recovery after a property disaster. According to the latest industry research, as many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster. Of the businesses that survive, most of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind.

Whether you manage retail, office, multi-family or industrial properties, every property manager should consider a well thought out emergency plan to be an essential part of their property management duties. In an ideal world you will, of course, never have to use it. However, should you ever find yourself in an emergency, knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize the extent of damage can affect your business. 

Commercial buildings and businesses are a staple of Manhattan and a driving force to the city economy, during these unprecedented times it’s important to keep your doors open whenever possible. That’s why our local SERVPRO restoration professionals are available 24/7 to provide property damage cleanup and mitigation to minimize your damages, save you money and reduce downtime.

A sound emergency management strategy saves time and money.

After years of experience in the restoration business, we strongly recommend including these critical points when developing your property management emergency procedures.

1. Be Ready to Respond
2. Maintain All Safety Systems
3. Keep Staff Informed and Involved
4. Have a Trusted Recovery Partner

A solid emergency plan needs to address the aftermath of a property disaster. SERVPRO is a leader in the disaster restoration industry, and we are always here to help. SERVPRO helps cleanup, restore and repair local commercial properties and small businesses after fire, water or mold property damage mishaps. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. 

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage

Partnering with SERVPRO provides full-service recovery, available 24/7. Our Disaster Restoration Specialists can collaborate with your team to develop an action plan to minimize commercial property damages and get your business open faster. 

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the proper contacts for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

Our SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile, combines our knowledge and experience dealing with disaster restoration and the valuable details your team can contribute about your facility.

Coastal weather and seawater flood damage restoration - contaminated water requires professional disaster recovery services

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

Ready to Respond with Disaster Flood and Storm Property Damage Restoration Services to Manhattan Neighborhoods everyday

One of the first things to do when faced with water damage is determine what kind of contamination you’re dealing with. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), agricultural pollution, oil pollution, sewage and wastewater, radioactive substances, harmful chemicals, and various other materials can contaminate water. It can sometimes be difficult to determine the type and extent of water damage affecting your home or business. That's why it's best to call a local property disaster restoration company like SERVPRO of Central Manhattan to fill in the blanks. Our Professional staff will come and inspect your damage and customize a disaster restoration plan for your specific needs, including; extraction, cleanup, mitigation, and restoration solutions to get your property damage reversed as quickly and effectively as possible.

Three types of water damage – our SERVPRO restoration professionals can decide what to do next

Category 1: Clean water originates from a sanitary source such as a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean and poses no substantial risk from dermal, ingestion, or inhalation exposure. However, it may not always remain clean after it meets other surfaces or materials.

Category 2: Gray water is used to classify slightly contaminated water and has the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if contacted or consumed by humans. It may contain potentially unsafe levels of microorganisms or nutrients for microorganisms, as well as other organic or inorganic matter (chemical or biological).

Category 3: Black water is highly contaminated and filled with pathogenic, toxigenic or other harmful agents. Such water sources may carry silt, organic matter, pesticides, heavy metals, regulated materials, or toxic organic substances. Sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster typically causes black water; trained professionals should always handle black water.

Different types of contaminated water pose different risks, but the longer the water stays in a home, the more severe the property damage it will cause and the greater the threat to your health. Also called black water, Category 3 water is water from sewage backups and overflowing rivers that contains various hazardous contaminants, sewage, and/or toxic debris. According to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IIRC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), all water originating from seawater, ground or surface water, rising rivers and streams, and wind-driven rain from hurricanes and tropical storms is considered Category 3.

When Spring and Summer storms are coming to New York City it’s important to be prepared, our SERVPRO teams are ready and always prepared to handle any size property disaster. Calling SERVPRO after you experience flood or water damage from coastal flooding, severe thunderstorms or basement flooding, can be the difference from a quick cleanup and mitigation or costly restoration, construction and mold remediation services.

SERVPRO provides complete cleanup, restoration and rebuild services after fire damage to your property

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

When you experience fire or smoke damage to your local Manhattan home or business you might not be sure what steps to take next. Once the fire department has left and you have called SERVPRO of Central Manhattan, wait for the professionals to arrive, our fire damage remediation specialists will guide you through the fire damage restoration process.

1. Initial Inspection- One of our trained managers will come inspect your property for damages and see how intensely the fire/smoke affected your home and determine with you and/or your adjuster what steps need to be taken next.
   
2. Structure/Content Clean- Depending on what has been determined in step one, SERVPRO will start the process of cleaning and restoring your home and/or contents, including cleaning walls and ceilings, personal belongings, ducts, etc.

Restoration & Reconstruction

Residential or Commercial Fires often causes significant structural damage and often require repairing and rebuilding your property. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan offers comprehensive reconstruction services for both residential and commercial properties our professionals are uniquely qualified and prepared to meet your reconstruction needs. Our construction team works quickly and effectively, working with you to survey the extent of the damage, develop a plan for reconstruction, and assess whether your property is safe to occupy. Our Manhattan SERVPRO crews are ready to undertake reconstruction projects of any size, structural repairs and rebuilding may only involve a portion of your property, or in some cases a complete rebuild may be necessary.

Contact us today if your property has been damaged and is in need of repairs or reconstruction services.

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

We're Here To Help You

If you do experience a fire, professional fire restoration services like SERVPRO can handle the entire fire cleanup process—from assessing the smoke and fire damage to rebuilding your home—"Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO IS ALWAYS HERE TO HELP WITH MOLD PROPERTY DAMAGE REMEDIATION

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Controlling moisture is the key to controlling mold. Generally, this is done in one of two ways. First, effectively dry and fix any leaks, spills, or other unintended instances of moisture. Second, utilize proper ventilation and air circulation in known moisture-prone areas. Being proactive in preventing costly damage or mold growth is the best way to feel confident that your home can handle the freezing elements and winter storms.

• Keep indoor humidity below 45%: According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the best way to control indoor mold growth is to carefully monitor and maintain your home's moisture level. If the humidity in your home rises, look for the sources of added moisture and address the problem as soon as possible. Place a dehumidifier in these rooms to lower the moisture level until a permanent solution is found.
• Increase Air Circulation: Ceiling fans, bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans, and attic fans are ideal for improving air circulation in many of the troublesome areas for added humidity, warmth and condensation; bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans can really help to remove moisture and promote air exchange while cooking and showering. It’s equally important to vent the attic space to prevent moisture and mold accumulation, and if you keep your dryer in the basement make sure it is properly vented to avoid moisture and mold concerns. On nice days when the air temperature isn’t too cold, consider opening a window or two for ventilation and fresh air exchange.
• Reduce Condensation Upgrade Your Windows and Insulation: Many homes and businesses don’t have proper insulation inside exterior walls or between the attic and living space, condensation can form on the inside of a cold, poorly insulated walls and windows, when in contact with warm, moist indoor air, creating an optimal area for mold growth. Insulating your plumbing can reduce sweat and keep them sage from water damage during the cold.
• Check for Potential Leaks and Repairs: Winter mold grows rapidly when there are leaks or water damage from winter weather disasters, such as burst plumbing pipes, or roof leaks following a freezing event. Water damage can be very dangerous to commercial or residential property, it can lead to the development of mold after as little as 24 hours and cause serious health effects and compromise the structural integrity of drywall, ceilings, floors, carpeting and other contents. The best way to minimize damage from a water emergency is to contact SERVPRO we have teams of professionals ready to restore and repair your home or business quickly and effectively.

SERVPRO IS ALWAYS HERE TO HELP WITH MOLD PROPERTY DAMAGE REMEDIATION

Mold can be a major problem for residential and commercial property owners, using the prevention tips outlined above can help keep your property mold-free. If you do discover mold in your home or business, the best thing to do is call our professional mold remediation team at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan.

SERVPRO professional air duct cleaning service offers surprising benefits to your Manhattan commercial property

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

Business owners and managers are busy, countless daily tasks and emergency situations make paying attention to routine maintenance difficult at times. Turning your attention annually to your commercial HVAC system and air duct system including performing scheduled inspections, maintenance and cleaning services is crucial to keeping your operations running efficiently.

There are many benefits to having our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan commercial cleaning professionals perform an air duct, vent and register cleaning at your New York City facility.

Commercial Air Duct Cleaning Benefits:

• Reduce energy costs for your business
• Reduce the potential for mold growth
• Improve indoor air quality
• Increase air circulation and flow
• Increase your commercial system performance
• Extend HVAC equipment life

Whether your focus is eliminating contaminants, dust, debris, and other harmful pollutants to improve your buildings indoor air quality, or you want to extend the life and efficiency of your HVAC and air duct system; SERVPRO professional commercial HVAC/air duct cleaning services could benefit your business. According to the US Department of Energy, 25 to 40 percent of the energy used for heating or cooling is wasted due to air pollutants and other dirt and debris clogging up residential/commercial air ducts.

Things that decrease air flow in your commercial air duct system:

• Obstructed condenser unit
• Blocked vents and registers
• Clogged filters
• Blocked or leaky ducts

Our SERVPRO technicians have advanced training to help resolve potential air flow concerns and accurately clean and remove the buildup of dust/debris, contaminants, mold spores, and particulates circulating throughout your commercial air duct system. Our crews use a variety of specialized equipment to overcome years of buildup and pollutants within your air duct system, including high-powered HEPA vacuums, negative air machines and whisking brushes to help remove debris and mold spores from internal surfaces. Our goal is to provide a thorough commercial air duct cleaning and remove built-up sediment and pollutants from your system, improving efficiency and indoor air quality.

Why is Cleaning Your Commercial Air Ducts Important?

The air ducts in your Manhattan commercial building serve an important function, bringing heating and cooling throughout your facility as well as circulating the air through a filter, which cleans out some of the dust particles before reaching the rooms in which air is breathed by you and your employees.

Air Duct Cleaning Improves the Quality of Indoor Air

By routinely having your air ducts cleaned you can significantly decrease the number of airborne molecules in your office, all while avoiding weighty fees for other air purifying solutions. Air ducts, like everything else in our office, collect dirt and debris. While filters may catch a lot of streaming debris, there is still a considerable amount of dust that settles within the ducts.

Air Duct Cleaning Conserves Energy

Air duct cleaning provides a beginning in optimizing your duct function, a properly and thoroughly cleaned HVAC system, can reduce the costs associated with running your HVAC system and increase the useful life of your air conditioner and furnace. Performing routine commercial air duct cleanings removes obstructions and improves airflow, helping your systems to work better, faster, and more efficiently, all while using less energy!

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan specializes in cleaning local commercial and industrial air ducts; contact our staff to schedule an inspection and estimate for your commercial cleaning solution. Our crews have experience, training and advanced equipment to restore your HVAC system to optimal performance. Our SERVPRO commercial cleaning specialists are familiar with all types of commercial and industrial HVAC/air duct systems, give us a call so we can get to work, and you can start experiencing the benefits a commercial air duct cleaning service can bring to your business!

SERVPRO provides scalable disinfection services for Manhattan commercial properties and businesses

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

The CDC encourages regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces, it is an excellent time to schedule a commercial cleaning and disinfection service.

Show staff and customers you chose the highest level of clean with SERVPRO pathogen disinfecting services. SERVPRO is providing comprehensive and flexible disinfecting solutions to promote confidence in local businesses and commercial facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our new Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program is a flexible routine viral pathogen disinfecting service, designed just for commercial property needs during this national COVID-19 crisis. Our professional disinfecting and deep-cleaning services is at it’s core about a commitment to a clean and disinfected space for the health and hygiene of your staff and customers. Our SERVPRO cleanup and restoration specialists are ready to help with your COVID-19 action plan with professional commercial disinfecting services for a variety of concerns, including flexible routine disinfecting, a tailored emergency response for potential infections and our legacy services in all types of property disasters.

SERVPRO is a trusted source and leader in property damage cleanup and restoration during a disaster. Our expert training and experience with pathogen and biohazard cleanup and disinfecting gives our team an advantage during this new crisis our nation is facing. The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned initiative offers confidence to your staff and patrons that you have chosen a “higher level” of clean. SERVPRO is ready to partner with your business to provide the support needed to fight back against COVID-19 together.

SERVPRO professionals have specialized equipment and training to provide the highest level of commercial cleaning and sanitizing to maintain your commercial facility.

As businesses accelerate their cleaning and sanitizing procedures, it’s an excellent time to take advantage of the commercial cleaning and bioremediation services a SERVPRO near you can provide. When your commercial or residential property needs a deep cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing, calling SERVPRO of Central Manhattan to provide a fast and professional response is the only solution. The CDC encourages regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, tables at a minimum.

Our crews are up to the recent challenges impacting our community using specialized training and equipment, our cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for our cleanup process, and disposal of waste. Carpets and fabric and upholstery can be sanitized using our hospital-grade disinfectant.

Timely Response with Minimal Disruption

The demand for disinfecting services continues to increase, as our areas infection rates climb, SERVPRO is here to help your establishment focus on the health and safety of people first. Our professional cleaning team is in a unique position to provide the highest level of clean and confidence with advanced training and superior technology together with established protocols developed by a team of experts.

Our crews can schedule work around your business hours to reduce the impact to your daily operations. Trust the SERVPRO team to be aware of and capable of meeting the sanitation standards required during this challenging atmosphere. We are trained in the appropriate use of EPA-registered disinfectants and committed to a close working relationship with your facility housekeeping staff. Our staff is capable of cleaning and sanitizing bathrooms, kitchens and other common areas with the discretion and effectiveness your commercial facility requires.

SERVPRO provides start to finish professional property disaster cleanup, restoration, rebuild and post-construction cleaning services to Manhattan

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan’s team of qualified professionals who are ready to provide you with the expert restoration services you deserve

SERVPRO PROFESSIONALS WORK HARD TO RECOVER YOUR WHOLE MANHATTAN PROPERTY DURING ANY DISASTER

When your Manhattan home or commercial building faces damages from a property disaster, working with a full-service disaster restoration and cleanup company can give you the advantage you need to save money and time during the property recovery process. Our SERVPRO location offers a unique opportunity to work with a local trusted restoration and recovery team, that includes IICRC certified property damage technicians and licensed contractors with disaster restoration rebuilding experience. Giving you a complete property disaster restoration and rebuild option for cleanup and repairs. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professional restoration and construction managers and crews work together to give your water damage, fire damage or mold remediation project a seamless time-saving and often cost effective transition, making your property truly, “Like it never even happened.”

Emergency Service And Support

Protective & Temporary Emergency Repairs are actions taken before, during and after a specific event to protect the health and safety of your building and it’s occupants preventing additional damage to your home or business. Property disasters including property damage from storms, fire, flood and water can leave your New York City property unsafe for family and friends, contacting a one-stop shop for all disaster restoration services is an important step to property recovery and a faster return to normal. Our experienced SERVPRO restoration specialists are trained to clean and restore your property with as little disruption as possible. Fire or water damage to your property is frustrating and needs to be dealt with by trained professionals to ensure further damage does not continue to impact your commercial property down the road. We understand the level of importance that surrounds maintaining a safe, healthy environment in your business or home. 

SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the property disaster recovery and restoration business, our on-call 24/7 emergency response teams are highly-trained and experienced with all types of property disasters losses including fire, smoke, water, sewage, flood and storm damage. Our restoration professionals near you have 30 years of experience providing high-quality commercial and residential property disaster restoration and reconstruction services to local Manhattan communities every day.

Our Superior Disaster Property Damage Restoration Process

Step1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Fire & Water Damage Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

Step 6: Cleaning and Repair

Step 7: Restoration & Rebuild

You need access to SERVPRO of Central Manhattan’s team of qualified professionals who are ready to provide you with the expert restoration services you deserve, a company that puts every effort into making damages on your property disappear, “Like it never even happened.”

Looking for property restoration services after a snow storm, SERVPRO crews are here to help

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Our team can respond quickly and help you assess your damage and find a restoration solution that you can trust.

Providing Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration Services to local Manhattan residents and businesses with one call 24-hours, every day. 

2021 is giving us a winter to remember this year, with freezing temperatures and blizzard-like snowstorms we have not seen in a few years. While we all dig out making snow piles and maybe a few snowmen. Our crews are out and about helping residents with unexpected winter property damages caused by some of the most common concerns for property owners including burst pipes, flooding, roof and other exterior leaks. While snow may come and go from year to year, one thing you can count on is our professional restoration services across Manhattan. 

SERVPRO STORM & WATER MITIGATION SERVICES INCLUDE

• Roof tarping and Board Up Services
• Category 1, 2 and 3 Water Extraction & Cleanup
• Drying of affected areas, including walls, carpets and furniture
• Cleaning and Restoration of affected possessions
• Remediating mold and mildew
• Reconstruction and Repairs

 Our SERVPRO team can’t stop the storm, but we are here to help you recover from property damage afterwards. Winter storms vary in degree of severity and duration and can last for a couple of hours or for several days. They can bring dangerously low temperatures and can cause damage to your home or business. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan wants New York City residents to know that when the storm hits and causes property damage, our crews are always here to help. We use advanced inspection and extraction equipment and practices to find and remove water in a quick and efficient manner. Our technicians will monitor and document the drying process from start to finish ensuring your experience with us goes seamlessly. When the unexpected happens to you, we have experience, expertise, and training to restore your home or business quickly and properly.

COMMON CONCERNS FOR WINTER WATER/FREEZING PROPERTY DAMAGE

About one in 50 insured homes has a property damage claim caused by water damage or freezing each year, according to the Insurance Information Institute. It is five times more likely your home will be damaged by water than you'll have a claim for theft, and water damage is seven times more prevalent than fire.

ICE DAMS

Ice dams occur after a snowfall and several days of freezing temperatures, common weather conditions in the Northeast during winter. Warm air inside your property leaks into the attic and warms the underside of the roof causing snow and ice to melt. The melted water refreezes on the cold overhang and can form icicles and an ice dam on the roof and gutters. This process can cause damage to the roof and exterior that can cause water to leak inside causing water damage to the ceiling, walls, insulation, and other areas.

LEAKING BASEMENTS AND FOUNDATIONS

Wet basements and ground floor apartments are a common occurrence for many property owners in Manhattan, the impact of heavy snow, ice and rain on saturated street and sidewalks often leads to water leaks, flooding and other types of basement and foundation water damage. Repeated wetness can often lead to significant structural damage, destroy furnishings and other belongings, added moisture and flooding can also lead to elevated humidity and mold issues.

FROZEN WATER PIPES

When Northeast temperatures drop to at or below freezing, the water flowing in your plumbing has the potential to freeze. Water expands when it freezes, the expansion of the frozen water can cause a rupture, causing catastrophic flood damage. It’s important to note that the break often occurs between the frozen point and the faucet, as the ice blocks the pipe, and the water pressure increases leading to stress on the pipe. Pipes that run through the exterior walls are particularly at risk, but those that run through uninsulated attics and crawl spaces can also freeze.

Although, these frozen water damage situations are very common, sometimes the damage could have largely been prevented by taking a few preventative steps ahead of time. These are a few tips you can take to try and avoid turning the coming frigid days and nights into inconvenient and expensive property disasters.

HELP PREVENT FROZEN WATER ISSUES IN YOUR HOME

• Exposed pipes are the most susceptible to freezing, so insulate pipes in your home's crawl spaces and attic.
• Seal air leaks in your attic, basement, and exterior walls, look for air leaks around electrical wiring, vents, and pipes, and use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out.
• To avoid ice dams, add roof and soffit vents to regulate the air temperature close to the underside of the roof.
• Sump pumps and sub-floor drainage systems are typically used to avoid the continued damage associated with basements and other foundation issues.

Manhattan weather can be unpredictable even when winter temperatures aren’t extremely cold; property water damages happen to home and business owners often. Often when our crews answer calls for water spilling over the floors or filling basements, it is usually from a failed water heater shut-off valve or a split line on a washing machine. Many factors contribute to the length and cost of your property damage cleanup and restoration project, including the amount and type of water involved, length of time before service and the total area impacted. Our qualified and experienced staff can help answer your disaster restoration questions and provide a step-by-step plan for a full recovery of your flooded commercial or residential property. Our crews explain the process of water extraction, drying and restoration. Our Manhattan SERVPRO team has a unique rebuild option with our dedicated construction crew, to seamlessly move from restoration to reconstruction, helping you recover more quickly. Our specialized equipment and highly trained staff have the scope of services to handle your property restoration needs from start to finish. We understand you may not have all the answers, calling our team connects you to professionals that can provide the answers to your restoration concerns and tailor a solution to repair your home or business, “Like it never even happened.”

Neglecting a property water damage occurrence can lead to excessive structural damage and microbial growth

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

Don't wait too long to choose a professional cleanup and recovery service following property damage, it can be a costly and hazardous mistake.

SERVPRO is here to help local Manhattan neighborhoods with ALL TYPES of water damages, our team responds quickly with emergency response cleanup and mitigation to minimize secondary damages to your property, including structural damages and mold growth. Neglecting to properly cleanup and remediate a water damage can lead to even greater property damage concerns. Often, when cleaning up a water damage issue or flood, mopping up a puddle or fixing a clogged sink can seem like the end to your trouble, but there can be hidden damage. Water damage can saturate and destroy your home/business and its contents but also threaten it with secondary damages such as mold damage.

Key mishaps that can occur from neglecting a water damage or postponing the cleanup.

Hidden Moisture - Water is practically invisible, and its effects are devastating even in small amounts. Water penetrates most materials quickly and can seep deep down into fibers that hold onto moisture at the deepest levels. This means there could easily be water hiding underneath floors or walls, even if they feel dry.

Inefficient Cleanup – A professional restoration company can accurately assess the damage and create the most efficient mitigation plan to recovery your property. After water damage has occurred, using the proper methods to clean and disinfect every area of your home is crucial. Since water damage can come from a variety of sources, the corresponding clean-up procedures and safety protocols that should be used will vary in intensity.

The key to avoiding secondary damages is simple: moisture control, proper disinfecting, and enough airflow. If you suspect your home is suffering from excessive high humidity or microbial growth, get in touch with our SERVPRO staff right away. Our Mold Remediation team can inspect your property for mold and water damage, locate the source of concern and plan a mold removal and remediation process to get your home healthy and safe, “Like it never even happened.”

Ask About SERVPRO’s Visible Mold Inspection

Signs of mold in your Manhattan property are unpleasant odor, health effects or visual signs of mold growth.

Our certified specialist will begin a mold inspection with a few questions for the property owner or manager, to give insight into previous leaks or flood damage and other valuable information to help during the process. They will thoroughly inspect the property looking for signs of damage and in places prone for mold growth. Moisture meters and cameras may be necessary to locate problems in areas that are hidden or less accessible.

If our SERVPRO technicians do discover mold during the inspection and mitigation process, they will evaluate the mold growth and contain any damage to the smallest area possible. They will then physically remove the mold and thoroughly dry any contaminated areas to ensure that the mold does not return. Finally, the technicians will follow established procedures to return the property to a pre loss condition. To inhibit the return of mold, SERVPRO uses antifungal and antibacterial cleaners to clean both your home structure and possessions affected by mold. During the remediation process, we can utilize HEPA filtration systems with negative air chambers to stop the spread of spores and contain the mold. Our technicians always attempt to restore rather than have you replace building materials and possessions affected by mold.

When your Manhattan home or business experiences a water disaster issue, or you suspect that high humidity maybe a problem, call our trusted local SERVPRO of Central Manhattan property restoration service specialists. Our sophisticated tools can make it easy to determine the presence of hidden moisture and dampness in your local New York City property, waiting too long to choose a professional cleanup and recovery service can be a costly and hazardous mistake. Our SERVPRO specialists closely monitor and document all our cleanup, mitigation and remediation steps and make sure your moisture problem is taken care of correctly.

SERVPRO offers professional fire, smoke and soot cleanup and restoration assistance for Manhattan property damage disasters.

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

The more time that passes after the fire event and before restoration services begin gives soot the opportunity to spread and cause additional damage.

After your Manhattan commercial property suffers from a fire, water or other disaster, contacting our local Manhattan SERVPRO Property Restoration Professionals is an important step to avoid costly secondary damages. Our SERVPRO team has over 30 years of experience helping local Manhattan communities during property disasters, trust that your commercial property will be restored quickly and correctly by IICRC licensed professionals and advanced equipment.

Getting your local commercial property operational quickly following a property disaster is the SERVPRO way. Our local New York City restoration professionals rely on decades of hands-on property restoration experience and proven results to help local Manhattan business owners and managers dealing with fire, smoke and soot damage cleanup, repair and restore their commercial property quickly. Our commitment to quick and effective property restoration and recovery after a property disaster makes selecting SERVPRO of Central Manhattan restoration experts the right choice.

SERVPRO commercial property restoration services include special help to minimize damages including:

Eliminating Fire Damage Residue
Our SERVPRO technicians will assess and pre-test many damages areas and property to decide the precise type of clean and fire damage remediation services needed for your commercial disaster. Our crews use various wet and dry methods to clean different materials most effectively. We can also use specialized cleaning methods such as soda blasting which offers deodorization qualities and helps restore charred surfaces without causing further damages.

Remove Smoke Odors
Odor control after a fire is a crucial part of the restoration process, odor-causing particles are microscopic SERVPRO has advanced equipment to eliminate the microscopic odor-causing particles and reverse your commercial property damage concerns.

Guarding Against Mold
Water is a big help when putting out fires, however it can have a lasting negative impact on the structural elements and contents of your building. Our SERVPRO IICRC certified water or mold remediation specialists work to extract the remaining water quickly and can take proactive actions against mold growth if necessary.

Big or small, fire, smoke and soot damage to your Manhattan commercial property will have a multi-faceted impact on your business. The effects of a property disaster can range from loss of revenue, inventory, customers and/or employees to irreversible structural and financial damages. After a property disaster strikes, we recommend calling an expert in property restoration. Here at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan we can get to work fixing your commercial fire property damage immediately. Our SERVPRO team is here to help with fast and effective disaster restoration and cleanup services, we provide a full-range of disaster restoration services including: emergency response, water damage extraction and repair, water removal, flood restoration, fire damage restoration, soot and smoke damage services, storm damage repairs, wind damage restoration, industrial dehumidification, structural cleaning and decontamination, mold remediation, environmental services such as hazardous waste removal, lead removal and asbestos removal, duct cleaning services, vital document and paper recovery, machinery and equipment restoration, semiconductor services, reconstruction, consulting and more. Restoring your commercial property is our business, and we are always ready to help get local businesses back up and running, “Like it never even happened.”

Why Choosing a Professional Disaster Restoration Company, like SERVPRO is Important?

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan offers Emergency Restoration Services in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your unique Manhattan commercial property damage disaster needs. Our staff and restoration managers understand that a rapid response is critical to your recovery, our team will provide comprehensive cleanup, mitigation, restoration and rebuild options following a property fire disaster. SERVPRO is trusted leader in the restoration industry providing advanced technology and training to a nationwide team of skilled technicians and project managers. Our crews have vast experience and knowledge offering a wide variety of restoration services to recover your commercial property with minimized cost and business interruption.

• Our crews will assess the full damage of your property taking necessary steps to save as much of your inventory, appliances and equipment, furnishings and inventory as possible.
• They will do a complete inventory of all items removed from your property taking photos and documentation and return all salvageable items back to your business following the restoration process.
• Our technicians work quickly and carefully to get your business up and running as soon as possible. Our project managers and staff will follow-up to make sure you are satisfied or address any other concerns.
• Our construction managers can seamlessly begin putting back together any structural, interior and exterior damages sustained during the initial disaster or as a result of restoration and cleanup. Our staff can work with your insurance and answer any concerns you may have about the process.

Quick and Effective Spring and Summer Storm Home or Business Restoration Services

6/14/2020 (Permalink)

Many Manhattan buildings or businesses have experienced flooding and other property water damage from the severe weather in our area.

JUNE IS NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH:

Spring and summer bring some considerable hazards and potential damage to your local Manhattan property, including severe storms that bring coastal flooding, torrential rains, strong winds and lightning. Other elements that can cause property damage during the spring and summer are high-humidity or brush fire concerns. Your home or business could face any number of potential Spring and Summer property damage events, including mold damage, fire damage, sewage backup damage, or an appliance or plumbing water leak. When you find yourself in need of professional fire or water disaster restoration services or emergency flood cleanup and property repairs for your commercial or residential property, our SERVPRO restoration specialists are here to assist.

Spring and summer in NYC has a ton of exciting things to do, our area offers great beaches and parks to explore, and additionally there are great events and community functions happening throughout the seasons. It’s important to remember safety while enjoying all that spring and summer have to offer. June is National Safety Month – keeping your family, friends and employees safe during these months is important to us, as is taking steps to avoid property damage to your home or business. Follow us for great tips on how to protect your property and what to do in the aftermath of a property disaster. Our crews are available 24-hours a day, always here to help with property repairs and recovery services.

Many Manhattan buildings or businesses have experienced flooding and other property water damage from the severe weather in our area, do you need restoration and cleanup help?

OUR NYC STORM & WATER MITIGATION SERVICES INCLUDE

    •    Roof tarping and Board Up Services
    •    Category 1, 2 and 3 Water Extraction & Cleanup
    •    Drying of affected areas, including walls, carpets and furniture
    •    Cleaning and Restoration of affected possessions
    •    Remediating mold and mildew
    •    Reconstruction and Repairs

SAFETY TIPS BEFORE A STORM ARRIVES:

Stock up: Gather and check your disaster supplies and replace or restock as needed. The American Red Cross suggests you pick up at least three days' worth of water and non-perishable food, a flashlight and extra batteries for it, at least seven days’ worth of prescription medication, a cell phone with a charger, and that you have extra cash and spare clothes at the ready.

Have an emergency kit with these items you probably already have in your home: flashlight(s), battery powered weather radio, extra batteries to fit each electronic (including cell phone), non-perishable foods (canned goods and dry foods), lots of bottled water, can opener, first aid kit (with a disinfectant), fire extinguisher, blankets, extra clothes, sturdy shoes or boots, clock or watch, whistle to signal for help, important personal items (eyeglasses, prescriptions, etc.), and paper documents such as birth certificates, social security cards, and other significant legal papers.

Stay Indoors: Stay inside and away from windows, skylights and glass doors. Find a safe area in the interior or your property on the lower level or basement. If flooding threatens your home, turn off the electricity at the main breaker. If your property loses power, turn off major appliances such as the AC unit and water heater to reduce damage.

Property Concerns: Inspect your roof and foundation for damage and make necessary repairs. Exterior doors should have 3 hinges and a deadbolt lock that is an inch-long minimum. Cut dead or weak limbs before a storm hits. Remove any limbs hanging over your home that could cause substantial damage if they fall. Likewise, take the time to have trees that could fall on the home removed. Clean rain gutters ensure runoff has a place to go; water that pools and gathers can cause damage especially if a downpour is ongoing.

Our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan team has been helping our local communities for nearly 30 years, we are prepared with expert training and quality equipment to mitigate and restore your commercial or residential property. Our technicians are available 24-7 with our Emergency Service Team to help cleanup and repair your property damage from water, sewage, smoke or fire. Our priority is providing quick and effective service and solutions to restore your property and belongings, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO smoke odor removal and fire damage disaster restoration services

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

July is the peak month for outdoor fire mishaps and property damage concerns. It’s important to keep safety in mind!

Don’t let an smoke and soot from fire pits and BBQs ruin your property, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has some helpful tips for preventing fire property disasters.

It’s a great time to tryout some new grilling recipes and perfect your marshmallow roasting technique. Spending summer evenings outdoors cooking yummy things on the grill and relaxing with family and friends by the fire pit are wonderful ways to make great spring and summer memories. July is the peak month for outdoor fire mishaps and property damage concerns. It’s important to keep safety in mind when enjoying these fun but hazardous activities this summer, SERVPRO wants your summer to be remembered for fabulous food and outdoor entertaining, not the charred steaks and a burnt building.

Contact us today if your home has experienced smoke or soot damage from an outdoor fire mishap or an accidental fire disaster.

REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE FROM OUTDOOR GRILLS & FIRE PITS… NEVER LEAVE YOUR BURNING GRILL OR FIRE UNATTENDED!

Tips for Backyard Grill and Fire Pit Fire Safety

    •    Keep at least a safe 3-foot clearance around the entire grill or fire pit. Keep kids and pets clear of this area too!
    •    Move the grill away from the house and fence, and move it out from underneath any overhangs. Do not use the grill under trees or near shrubbery.
    •    Regularly clean out the grease traps on your grill to prevent grease fires.
    •    Never leave your grill unattended!
    •    If using charcoal, make sure the coals have cooled completely before disposing of them in a metal container.
    •    Keeping a fire extinguisher or a big box of baking soda in the vicinity is good idea in case a fire does breakout.
    •    Drag a hose over to where you’re burning. If you have a sprayer on your hose, turn the water on and keep it on until you’re through with your fire in case of an emergency.
    •    Never have a fire under trees or overhangs, near shrubbery, or close to the house.
    •    Keep flammable materials away from fires.
    •    Never have a fire on a windy day!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

SERVPRO is here to help get you back to business

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

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

Extensive training and specialized products set SERVPRO commercial disinfecting apart

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

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

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.
    •    Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.

    •    Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible.

    •    Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Central Manhattan today at  212-246-4148 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

Wet basement problems from flooding and storm damage need SERVPRO professional cleanup and repair specialists

4/24/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage is one of the most common and worst side effects of water leakage or flooding in a basement.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is prepared with highly trained professionals and top-notch equipment to be your number one resource during these times of distress. No property disaster is too large for us to handle, our professionals can find solutions to restore your property, “Like it never even happened.”

WET BASEMENTS: A Basement is a wonderful asset to your home or business, it can provide additional storage or living space to a crowded property. During winter months melting snow can cause water damage in your basement from faulty gutters, cracks in foundations and improper drainage. Water damage is one of the most common and worst side effects of water leakage or flooding in a basement. In addition to contributing to structural and foundation problems, basement water damage can destroy your personal belongings and interior decorative finishes and it also has the power to create the perfect environment for toxic mold growth.

Our SERVPRO technicians are IICRC certified and have experience working with a variety of water damage situations both big and small. We have seen flooding and carpet issues, to broken or frozen pipe and plumbing issues, and basement and roof leaks. Our technicians understand that a property damage event can be traumatic and unexpected; they realize time and efficiency are important and they take every step possible to minimize the intrusion while executing the cleanup and restoration of your home or business.

Need 24 Hour Emergency Property Disaster Restoration Cleanup and Mitigation Service call SERVPRO of Central Manhattan

SERVPRO provides 24-hour Emergency Services to local New York City communities for fire, smoke, sewage and water and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. Our service pros respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

SERVPRO professionals have extensive experience repairing and restoring catastrophic water damage

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

Our technicians understand that unattended water damage continues to cause harm to your property over time, so they work quickly to minimize losses.

Water damage to your property can happen anytime. It can come from both clean and contaminated sources, so knowing what to do will save precious time and ultimately minimize losses to your property and building contents.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professionals have extensive experience repairing and restoring catastrophic water damage to both commercial and residential properties. Our technicians understand that unattended water damage continues to cause harm to your property over time. It is necessary to make quick, informed decisions while performing quality restoration services as soon as possible, to save your property from even further damages. SERVPRO uses many tools and has vast experience in helping home and businesses owners manage water disasters and we are always prepared to provide emergency services when you need us.

How SERVPRO professionals mitigate and restore property water damage

Step 1 - Emergency Contact
When you call, our representative will guide you through several questions that will help the SERVPRO of Central Manhattan team respond to your water emergency more quickly and efficiently. This initial contact is an important part of a fast, effective restoration.

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment
They carefully inspect your property's water damage, determining the type of water damage and the areas affected. This is a crucial step to creating an effective plan of action that will result in a successful restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction
Typically, hundreds or thousands of gallons of water are removed using our powerful pumps and vacuums during the water removal process. The SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professionals start this process as soon as possible to minimize further damage and to help prevent mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification
After the bulk of the water has been removed, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan local technicians use specialized equipment to target the water that is harder to access. They use less intrusive, scientific drying methods to draw the remaining water and moisture from your property with air movers and dehumidifiers.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing
Water damage also affects your belongings, like furniture, clothing, and personal items. Our team of professionals can clean and restore items using a number of specialized cleaning techniques. They also sanitize with antimicrobial treatments and remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 6 - Restoration
The last step is restoring your home or business back to its pre-water damage condition. The restoration step can be relatively minor, such as replacing a few drywall panels, or could include major reconstruction, such as rebuilding entire rooms of a home or business. We are your complete restoration and repair solution.

At SERVPRO of Central Manhattan, we take pride in our ability to erase the damage done by water, including damages caused by hidden problems. After 48 hours of exposure to water, there is a risk of mold growth in wet materials. Our Manhattan SERVPRO team of technicians puts years of training, experience, and specialized equipment to work for you, ensuring the removal of all remaining moisture and a fast, effective drying process that you can count on. Our restoration specialists utilize infrared technology and thermal imagery to assess the full extent of the damage that your property has suffered. The technology can show our technicians areas where water might still exist based on a temperature difference. This process can ensure that the damage has not reached other areas of the building and confirm the completion of the restoration process.

SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster because we know what an impact quick action has during a property disaster recovery.

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

When changes in weather cause storm property damage our crews are always here to help, with fast and effective action to minimize damages.

A quick response and cleanup is key to a successful storm damage restoration.
When Spring brings rain and wind to local Manhattan communities causing fallen trees, damages to roofs and flooding to basements, our local SERVPRO team of property restoration specialists is ready to help. We have years of experience handling disaster cleanup and mitigation, we know how important it is to be prepared, our SERVPRO teams are ready and always prepared to handle any size property disaster. Contacting SERVPRO of Central Manhattan for immediate service after you experience a flood or water damage can be the difference between a quick cleanup and mitigation or more costly and intrusive restoration, construction and mold remediation services. Our Emergency Service Team technicians are available 24-7 with to help cleanup and repair your storm and flood property damage. Our priority is providing quick and effective service and solutions to restore your property and belongings, “Like it never even happened.”
It’s critical to take quick action and call our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan team to begin taking steps to stop the damage from becoming an even bigger disaster. Our professionals first assess the severity of the situation and determine the full extent of the storm, flooding or additional water damage. Restoring your home or business quickly, takes specialized equipment and highly skilled IICRC professionals. Our team closely inspects the damaged areas; measuring the moisture content, humidity and temperature to assess the full extent of the damage. They provide a step-by-step solution to restore and repair your property and contents to help minimize additional damages.
OUR LONG ISLAND STORM & WATER MITIGATION SERVICES INCLUDE
    •    Water Extraction
    •    Drying of affected areas, including walls, carpets and furniture
    •    Cleaning and Restoration of affected possessions
    •    Remediating mold and mildew
    •    Reconstruction and Repairs

Our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan Storm Team has the experience and resources to handle your storm property damage quickly and professionally. We know what comes next after the storm and we are prepared 24-7 with Emergency help when you need us! Call our cleanup, restoration and repair teams today!

Helping Manhattan Fight a Pandemic with Proactive Cleaning

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO’s crews stand ready to provide advanced cleaning and disinfecting options for your commercial or residential property.

SERVPRO professionals have been helping local communities across the country flatten the curve performing residential and commercial deep cleaning and disinfecting services. In response to the coronavirus crisis, SERVPRO offers proactive and reactive cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection options for commercial and residential properties with the goal of minimizing the transmission of emergent viral pathogens, including the coronavirus.

We’re Here for You in a Time of Crisis

As a corporation, SERVPRO is in a unique position to perform these essential services at a time of urgent need. In just about any disaster situation, the team at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is prepared to offer—the expertise, training, equipment and personnel to quickly clean up and restore your home or business.

About the Coronavirus and Covid-19

The coronavirus is believed to spread primarily through personal contact, between people who are within about six feet of one another, through airborne respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It may also be possible to catch the virus by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes.

“Social distancing” has become the new watchword and the key to slowing the pandemic. In this rapidly changing situation, Americans are experiencing unprecedented canceling of events and widespread closings of schools, restaurants and workplaces. Along with avoiding large crowds and keeping a six-foot distance from others, the most common advice from experts is to wash hands frequently and avoid touching faces.

Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) website for the latest and most accurate information on the coronavirus and Covid-19. Because this outbreak is unfolding rapidly and unpredictably, we at SERVPRO encourage you to check back with the CDC frequently for updates.

The Importance of Proactive Cleaning

According to the CDC, “Cleaning of visibly dirty surfaces followed by disinfection is a best practice measure for prevention of COVID-19 and other viral respiratory illnesses in households and community settings.”

Today, when the need is most urgent, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is prepared—right now—to clean, sanitize and disinfect your home or business to eradicate traces of coronavirus or other pathogens.

Whether you have no indication of existing contamination, or you are aware that your structure may have been contaminated with coronavirus, SERVPRO’s crews stand ready to provide increased assurance that you, your family, your customers and your employees will not be exposed to coronavirus within your building.

Many types of businesses can benefit from SERVPRO’s proactive cleaning, which targets the coronavirus and other pathogens:

• Restaurants and bars
• Retail stores
• Offices, especially medical offices
• Schools
• Nursing homes, senior centers and rehabilitation facilities
• Gyms
• Hotels, B&Bs and other hospitality sites
• Libraries
• Theaters and entertainment venues
• Apartment buildings
• Factories and warehouses

Please be aware, however, that while SERVPRO’s cleaning process can remove existing viral pathogens, including the coronavirus, structures we clean proactively will not be protected from future coronavirus contamination if an infected person subsequently enters the building.

SERVPRO provides scalable cleaning and sanitizing services for local Manhattan buildings and offices

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help with local commercial cleaning and sanitizing services.

SERVPRO professionals have specialized equipment and training to provide the highest level of commercial cleaning and sanitizing to maintain your commercial facility.
As businesses accelerate their cleaning and sanitizing procedures, it’s an excellent time to take advantage of the commercial cleaning and bioremediation services a SERVPRO near you can provide. When your commercial or residential property needs a deep cleaning, disinfecting and sanitizing, calling SERVPRO of Central Manhattan to provide a fast and professional response is the only solution. The CDC encourages regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, tables at a minimum.
Our crews are up to the recent challenges impacting Manhattan communities using specialized training and equipment, our cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for our cleanup process, and disposal of waste. Carpets and fabric and upholstery can be sanitized using our hospital-grade disinfectant.
Timely Response with Minimal Disruption
Our crews can schedule work around your business hours to reduce the impact to your daily operations. Trust the SERVPRO team to be aware of and capable of meeting the sanitation standards required during this challenging atmosphere. We are trained in the appropriate use of EPA-registered disinfectants and committed to a close working relationship with your facility housekeeping staff. Our staff is capable of cleaning and sanitizing bathrooms, kitchens and other common areas with the discretion and effectiveness your commercial facility requires.

SERVPRO Professional Commercial Air Duct Cleaning Service offers surprising benefits to your Manhattan Business

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO commercial cleaning specialists are familiar with all types of commercial and industrial HVAC/air duct systems.

Business owners and managers are busy, countless daily tasks and emergency situations make paying attention to routine maintenance difficult at times. Turning your attention annually to your commercial HVAC system and air duct system including performing scheduled inspections, maintenance and cleaning services is crucial to keeping your operations running efficiently.

There are many benefits to having our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan commercial cleaning professionals perform an air duct, vent and register cleaning at your New York City commercial building.

Commercial Air Duct Cleaning Benefits:

• Reduce energy costs for your business
• Reduce the potential for mold growth
• Improve indoor air quality
• Increase air circulation and flow
• Increase your commercial system performance
• Extend HVAC equipment life

Whether your focus is eliminating contaminants, dust, debris, and other harmful pollutants to improve your buildings indoor air quality, or you want to extend the life and efficiency of your HVAC and air duct system; SERVPRO professional commercial HVAC/air duct cleaning services could benefit your business. According to the US Department of Energy, 25 to 40 percent of the energy used for heating or cooling is wasted due to air pollutants and other dirt and debris clogging up residential/commercial air ducts.

Things that decrease air flow in your commercial air duct system:

• Obstructed condenser unit
• Blocked vents and registers
• Clogged filters
• Blocked or leaky ducts

Our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan technicians have advanced training to help resolve potential air flow concerns and accurately clean and remove the buildup of dust/debris, contaminants, mold spores, and particulates circulating throughout your commercial air duct system. Our crews use a variety of specialized equipment to overcome years of buildup and pollutants within your air duct system, including high-powered HEPA vacuums, negative air machines and whisking brushes to help remove debris and mold spores from internal surfaces. Our goal is to provide a thorough commercial air duct cleaning and remove built-up sediment and pollutants from your system, improving efficiency and indoor air quality.

Why is Cleaning Your Commercial Air Ducts Important?

The air ducts in your Manhattan commercial building serve an important function, bringing heating and cooling throughout your facility as well as circulating the air through a filter, which cleans out some of the dust particles before reaching the rooms in which air is breathed by you and your employees.

Air Duct Cleaning Improves the Quality of Indoor Air

By routinely having your air ducts cleaned you can significantly decrease the number of airborne molecules in your office, all while avoiding weighty fees for other air purifying solutions.  Air ducts, like everything else in our office, collect dirt and debris. While filters may catch a lot of streaming debris, there is still a considerable amount of dust that settles within the ducts.

Air Duct Cleaning Conserves Energy

Air duct cleaning provides a beginning in optimizing your duct function, a properly and thoroughly cleaned HVAC system, can reduce the costs associated with running your HVAC system and increase the useful life of your air conditioner and furnace. Performing routine commercial air duct cleanings removes obstructions and improves airflow, helping your systems to work better, faster, and more efficiently, all while using less energy!

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan specializes in cleaning local commercial and industrial air ducts; contact our staff to schedule an inspection and estimate for your commercial cleaning solution. Our crews have experience, training and advanced equipment to restore your HVAC system to optimal performance. Our SERVPRO commercial cleaning specialists are familiar with all types of commercial and industrial HVAC/air duct systems, give us a call so we can get to work, and you can start experiencing the benefits a commercial air duct cleaning service can bring to your business!

SERVPRO is your source for keeping your commercial property operating following property damage

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large-scale fire disaster, trust our SERVPRO restoration professionals.

SERVPRO is the answer to staying operational after a big or small water or fire disaster impacts your commercial property. SERVPRO restoration specialists have the experience, training and equipment to arrive faster to your commercial property disaster. Our full-service team is uniquely equipped to handle all phases of the cleanup, restoration and reconstruction saving your critical time during your recovery when your retail property needs it most. With over 30 years of experience helping local businesses our goal is to work with managers and owners to develop the right recovery plan to minimize cost, avoid business interruption and mitigate property damages.

What Retail Business Disaster Restoration Services Does SERVPRO Provide?

Our SERVPRO Restoration professionals can assist with:

• Board-up, Emergency Power and Building Stabilization
• Emergency Mitigation Services including Content Management
• Drying, Dehumidification and Water Extraction
• Electronics Restoration
• Fine Art, Data and Document Recovery
• Reconstruction Services
• Soot, Smoke and Odor Removal

SERVPRO Training and Tools Makes the Difference

The success of your property disaster recovery hinges on a quick and effective response, SERVPRO teams are prepared to assist during a property emergency with powerful and efficient tools and IICRC certified restoration specialists around-the-clock. Retail establishments can be dramatically impacted by natural or accidental disasters such as fire, flood, storms or even vandalism. The SERVPRO of Central Manhattan team has decades of experience and training to overcome the unique challenges that can come with commercial property disasters including keeping your business running while cleaning and restoration is being performed. Our IICRC certified restoration specialists work quickly and efficiently to minimize or eliminate downtime with fast mitigation, content management and professional containment services for a fast recovery.

SERVPRO Provides Emergency Mitigation and Restoration Services

• Mitigation efforts are meant to prevent further damage and loss from occurring due to the existing threat, thus increasing the overall amount of work that needs to be done during the restoration itself.
• Restoration is performed on items that could not be saved by mitigation efforts, and items that were damaged before the restoration company arrived. This step is often a longer process and may involve the complete replacement of floors, roofs, walls and other portions of your business that have been too damaged to save.
• Both are necessary in order to get your business back in order after a flood, fire or other disaster, and should be performed by a professional disaster restoration company.

SERVPRO is here to help keep your commercial property operating through the busiest shopping season

Commercial property damage events are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large-scale fire disaster, trust our restoration professionals to cleanup, repair and restore your business with minimal interruption to your customers and employees. Happy Holidays from SERVPRO of Central Manhattan.

SERVPRO offers professional fire, smoke and soot cleanup and restoration assistance for Manhattan property damage disasters.

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

The more time that passes after the fire event and before restoration services begin gives soot the opportunity to spread and cause additional damage.

After your Manhattan commercial property suffers from a fire, water or other disaster, contacting our local New York SERVPRO Property Restoration Professionals is an important step to avoid costly secondary damages. Our SERVPRO team has over 30 years of experience helping local Manhattan communities during property disasters, trust that your commercial property will be restored quickly and correctly by IICRC licensed professionals and advanced equipment.

Getting your local commercial property operational quickly following a property disaster is the SERVPRO way. Our local Manhattan restoration professionals rely on decades of hands-on property restoration experience and proven results to help local business owners and managers dealing with fire, smoke and soot damage cleanup, repair and restore their commercial property quickly. Our commitment to quick and effective property restoration and recovery after a property disaster makes selecting SERVPRO of Central Manhattan restoration experts the right choice.

SERVPRO commercial property restoration services include special help to minimize damages including:

Eliminating Fire Damage Residue
Our SERVPRO technicians will assess and pre-test many damages areas and property to decide the precise type of clean and fire damage remediation services needed for your commercial disaster. Our crews use various wet and dry methods to clean different materials most effectively. We can also use specialized cleaning methods such as soda blasting which offers deodorization qualities and helps restore charred surfaces without causing further damages.

Remove Smoke Odors
Odor control after a fire is a crucial part of the restoration process, odor-causing particles are microscopic SERVPRO has advanced equipment to eliminate the microscopic odor-causing particles and reverse your commercial property damage concerns.

Guarding Against Mold
Water is a big help when putting out fires, however it can have a lasting negative impact on the structural elements and contents of your building. Our SERVPRO IICRC certified water or mold remediation specialists work to extract the remaining water quickly and can take proactive actions against mold growth if necessary.

Big or small, fire, smoke and soot damage to your New York City commercial property will have a multi-faceted impact on your business. The effects of a property disaster can range from loss of revenue, inventory, customers and/or employees to irreversible structural and financial damages. After a property disaster strikes, we recommend calling an expert in property restoration. Here at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan we can get to work fixing your commercial fire property damage immediately. Our SERVPRO team is here to help with fast and effective disaster restoration and cleanup services, we provide a full-range of disaster restoration services including: emergency response, water damage extraction and repair, water removal, flood restoration, fire damage restoration, soot and smoke damage services, storm damage repairs, wind damage restoration, industrial dehumidification, structural cleaning and decontamination, mold remediation, environmental services such as hazardous waste removal, lead removal and asbestos removal, duct cleaning services, vital document and paper recovery, machinery and equipment restoration, semiconductor services, reconstruction, consulting and more. Restoring your commercial property is our business, and we are always ready to help get local businesses back up and running, “Like it never even happened.”

Why Choosing a Professional Disaster Restoration Company, like SERVPRO is Important?

SERVPRO offers Manhattan Emergency Restoration Services in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your unique commercial property damage disaster needs. Our staff and restoration managers understand that a rapid response is critical to your recovery, our team will provide comprehensive cleanup, mitigation, restoration and rebuild options following a property fire disaster. SERVPRO is trusted leader in the restoration industry providing advanced technology and training to a nationwide team of skilled technicians and project managers. Our crews have vast experience and knowledge offering a wide variety of restoration services to recover your commercial property with minimized cost and business interruption.

• Our crews will assess the full damage of your property taking necessary steps to save as much of your inventory, appliances and equipment, furnishings and inventory as possible.
• They will do a complete inventory of all items removed from your property taking photos and documentation and return all salvageable items back to your business following the restoration process.
• Our technicians work quickly and carefully to get your business up and running as soon as possible. Our project managers and staff will follow-up to make sure you are satisfied or address any other concerns.
• Our construction managers can seamlessly begin putting back together any structural, interior and exterior damages sustained during the initial disaster or as a result of restoration and cleanup. Our staff can work with your insurance and answer any concerns you may have about the process.

Mold Is A Growing Issue for Manhattan Home and Business Owners During Winter and Spring

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

If you do discover mold in your Manhattan home or business, the best thing to do is call our professional mold remediation team.

Mold needs moisture, warmth and food to grow, so why is it becoming such a problem for property owners during cold winters? Proper insulation is important to save on energy costs and keep you warm and cozy during winter temperatures, but without proper airflow and ventilation you could be creating a WINTER MOLD DISASTER.
Proper air circulation is crucial to avoid water and mold damage to your Manhattan residential or commercial property, especially during winter. Airflow and ventilation regulate temperature, remove impurities, prevent mold and create a more healthy and safe breathing environment.
SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has your home and business mold disaster answers; our team can protect your property from additional water and mold damage. We offer remediation services throughout New York City including Central Manhattan. Our professionals are certified in mold remediation and removal; we are a trusted leader in the mold remediation industry and have been helping local home and business owners in this community for nearly 30 years. Our technicians are near you, and available to help access your property damage and provide quick and efficient mold remediation and removal services with highly qualified technicians and state-of-the-art tools and equipment. You can trust SERVPRO to work hard to restore your property, “Like it never even happened.”
While mold is generally thought to thrive during the warmer months, mold growth in the winter is now becoming a more common problem for home and business owners. Mold needs moisture, warmth and food to grow, during winter turning up the heat in your well-insulated and tightly sealed home or business may feel like the best way to shield yourself from the cold, but without proper ventilation that warm moist air can’t escape, especially in high-humidity areas such as the bathroom, kitchen, basement or attic it forms condensation on your windows, walls and other areas of your property that can cause water damage and mold.
Trouble Spots for Mold and Moisture
Most Manhattan homes and businesses have numerous trouble spots for mold and moisture, in residential properties the places that get most easily affected by mold are bathrooms, kitchens, basements, attics, garages, and laundry rooms. In commercial or municipal buildings; bathrooms and kitchens, cafeterias, gyms with showering or pool areas, HVAC systems, and any area that has high moisture content will be an ideal breeding ground for mold.
Several factors lead to increased concerns about mold during the winter months.
    •    For one thing, moisture conditions indoors can lead to the growth of mold and mildew; certain areas of the home may experience intensified levels of humidity because of a lack of ventilation.
    •    Bathrooms and kitchens are particularly susceptible to this problem; the accumulation of steam from showers, washing dishes and cooking in the kitchen all add moisture mixing with heated air.
    •    Moisture that travels through the air from your basement, bathrooms, or kitchen may condense when it meets a cold wall. Because of cold weather, windows aren't usually open, and condensation collects on indoor surfaces such as cold walls or windows and their frames, often creating ideal conditions for mold growth.
    •    Less than optimal insulation, mold can also grow during the winter on the inside walls, especially on the surfaces closest to the outside of your home or business.

SERVPRO IS ALWAYS HERE TO HELP WITH MOLD PROPERTY DAMAGE
Mold can be a major problem for residential and commercial property owners, using the prevention tips outlined above can help keep your property mold-free. If you do discover mold in your home or business, the best thing to do is call our professional mold remediation team at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan.
We use various containment procedures to prevent mold spore from spreading and we have specialized filtration equipment that allows our professionals to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. The proper mold remediation solution for your home or business depends on the amount of mold growth and types of surfaces on which the fungus appears. Our mold remediation team at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has the tools and equipment to inspect and assess the damage and determine the best methods to contain and remove the mold, clean and restore your contents and property and, help identify the cause of the water or moisture problem so that it doesn’t cause additional damage in the future.

The SERVPRO Advantage: Knowledge and Advanced Technology

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides a quick, effective and complete restoration plan for the full cleanup, repair and rebuild of your property following any disaster.

How the SERVPRO Advantage makes a difference in your Manhattan property damage cleanup and restoration

Property Emergencies happen every day, acting fast after your Manhattan property damage from fire, smoke or water could mean the difference between restoring your home quickly to preloss condition or needing extensive and expensive reconstruction. We put the best people, in the best locations, and give them the best resources to give your property the BEST results.

The Brand You Know and Trust

You can recognize and trust the SERVPRO name... as a leader and innovator in the restoration industry, our team and equipment stand out above the rest.

Serving America Since 1967

Since 1967, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have been assisting client's fire and water damage cleanup and restoration needs across the United States, locally owned and operated, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has been helping New York City residents and business owners with property losses in this community for nearly 30 years, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is an extremely important component to the service advantage that the SERVPRO near you can provide.

OUR Experience - Following a fire and smoke or water property damage to your home or business a courteous SERVPRO professional will lead the way. Our skilled technicians perform an inspection; checking for hazards and making a detailed list of professional services that can help restore your Manhattan home and contents. After explaining everything in detail, our technicians get to work restoring your home. You’ll see the SERVPRO advantage with a team on site, each performing different tasks designed to reach a specific goal. At the end of our restoration process, our technicians make sure you are satisfied with the work we have done, we have corrected any existing problems and remove our supplies and equipment making sure we have achieved the desired goal of restoring your home or business.

OUR Training - SERVPRO’s team of highly trained employees never stop preparing. Each team member has been thoroughly trained for fire restoration, water restoration, carpet & upholstery cleaning, and mold mitigation before stepping foot inside your home or business. Our skilled SERVPRO technicians have ongoing training extending far beyond their initial IICRC training, with continued education programs and e-learning seminars and courses our technicians cultivate skills to make them more efficient with mitigation, remediation and ALL other advanced restoration techniques. We pride ourselves on providing industry-leading equipment and training to our teams to make your property damage cleanup and restoration process quick and effective.

OUR Equipment - Our teams use high-quality products and advanced technology equipment to provide you with the most effective cleanup and restoration results. SERVPRO equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the amount of damage sustained to your property and possessions following a fire, smoke or water loss. Our state-of-the-art equipment including, portable water extraction units, air scrubbers, high powered air movers, industrial-strength dehumidification equipment, and thermal imaging cameras all have crucial roles in the mitigation, cleanup and restoration process. Our technicians are specially trained to use these tools and equipment to diagnose what areas of your property sustained damage and give them a distinct advantage to determine the most effective and efficient way to cleanup and restore your property damage.

Are you looking for a reliable restoration company, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan can quickly and effectively reverse your property’s fire, smoke, water or mold damage, and restore your home or business, “Like it never even happened.” Give SERVPRO of Central Manhattan a call we can promptly send one of our professionals to access your Manhattan Neighborhood damage and get started on your repairs.

How to protect your property from water damage during winter

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

Our qualified and experienced staff can help answer your disaster restoration questions and provide a step-by-step plan for a full recovery.

COMMON CAUSES OF WINTER WATER PROPERTY DAMAGE

ICE DAMS
Ice dams occur after a snowfall and several days of freezing temperatures, common weather conditions in the Northeast during winter. Warm air inside your property leaks into the attic and warms the underside of the roof causing snow and ice to melt. The melted water refreezes on the cold overhang and can form icicles and an ice dam on the roof and gutters. This process can cause damage to the roof and exterior that can cause water to leak inside causing water damage to the ceiling, walls, insulation and other areas.

LEAKING BASEMENTS AND FOUNDATIONS
Wet basements and ground floor apartments are a common occurrence for many property owners in Manhattan, the impact of heavy snow, ice and rain on saturated street and sidewalks often leads to water leaks, flooding and other types of basement and foundation water damage. Repeated wetness can often lead to significant structural damage, destroy furnishings and other belongings, added moisture and flooding can also lead to elevated humidity and mold issues.

FROZEN WATER PIPES
When Northeast temperatures drop to at or below freezing, the water flowing in your plumbing has the potential to freeze. Water expands when it freezes, the expansion of the frozen water can cause a rupture, causing catastrophic flood damage. It’s important to note that the break often occurs between the frozen point and the faucet, as the ice blocks the pipe and the water pressure increases leading to stress on the pipe. Pipes that run through the exterior walls are particularly at risk, but those that run through un-insulated attics and crawlspaces can also freeze.

Although, these frozen water damage situations are very common, often the damage could have been avoided by taking a few preventative steps ahead of time. These are a few tips you can take to try and avoid turning the coming frigid days and nights into inconvenient and expensive property disasters.

HELP PREVENT WINTER WEATHER & FREEZING WATER ISSUES WITH THESE TIPS

• Exposed pipes are the most susceptible to freezing, so insulate pipes in your home's crawl spaces and attic.
• Heat tape or thermostatically controlled heat cables can be used to wrap pipes, and prevent ice dams.
• Seal air leaks in your attic, basement and exterior walls, look for air leaks around electrical wiring, vents, and pipes, and use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out.
• To avoid ice dam concerns, add roof and soffit vents to regulate the air temperature close to the underside of the roof.
• Sump pumps and sub-floor drainage systems are typically used to avoid the continued damage associated with basements and other foundation issues.
• A trickle of hot and cold water might be all it takes to keep your pipes from freezing.
• Let warm water drip overnight, from a faucet on an outside wall.
• Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to pipes under sinks and plumbing near exterior walls.

Manhattan weather can be unpredictable even when winter temperatures aren’t extremely cold; property water damages happen to home and business owners often. Often when our crews answer calls for water spilling over the floors or filling basements, it is usually from a failed water heater shut-off valve or a split line on a washing machine. Many factors contribute to the length and cost of your property damage cleanup and restoration project, including the amount and type of water involved, length of time before service and the total area impacted. Our qualified and experienced staff can help answer your disaster restoration questions and provide a step-by-step plan for a full recovery of your flooded commercial or residential property. Our crews explain the process of water extraction, drying and restoration. Our Manhattan SERVPRO team has a unique rebuild option with our dedicated construction crew, to seamlessly move from restoration to reconstruction, helping you recover more quickly. Our specialized equipment and highly trained staff have the scope of services to handle your property restoration needs from start to finish. We understand you may not have all the answers, calling our team connects you to professionals that can provide the answers to your restoration concerns and tailor a solution to repair your home or business, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO professionals will cleanup and restore your Manhattan property after any size water damage.

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

Our experienced Manhattan team has been providing property damage support to all local Manhattan neighborhoods for almost 30 years.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professionals specialize in the cleanup, restoration and repairs of all types of residential or commercial property after a winter water property damage emergency. Our experienced Manhattan team has been providing property damage support to all local Manhattan neighborhoods for almost 30 years.

Winter weather and freezing temperatures can be incredibly damaging to your residence or business, frozen water, snow and ice can all lead to significant Manhattan property damage disasters. On average each year a quarter of a million homeowners will experience the destructive power of frozen water problems including, frozen pipe bursts, ice dams and other leaking water damage occurrences. A frozen pipe alone can result in gallons of water spilling over your floors, leaking or pouring through ceilings and walls, and ruining furniture and other valuable possessions.

Fast Response to Water Removal Minimizes Damages

Our crews are available 24/7 to aid our local Manhattan community with both commercial and residential water damage emergencies. A fast response and action to a water damage situation can significantly reduce the overall damage to your home or business. SERVPRO can deploy submersible pumps, water extractors, air movers, and dehumidifiers. The capacities of these units are tailored to your situation. Our objective is to return your home to its original condition as quickly as possible.

Water extraction is the heart of most water restoration projects, and depending on the severity of your issue, can get accomplished in several ways. For smaller volumes needing removal, a combination of portable pumps and wet-vacs get used to pull the water from the floors. For larger projects, especially those that stand to risk the structural integrity of your home considerably, our SERVPRO technicians might opt to use a pump truck.

If the water level is above two inches, each team of WRTs starts removal with a commercial grade, submersible pump. For water levels under two inches, SERVPRO WRTs utilize extraction wands and other, smaller devices. Each one has three components, but technicians start by using only the pump option to remove water from the floors. Once they begin drawing water out of carpets, upholstery, and other items, they use the other two, a heater and vacuum to carefully draw water out of carpets and from between floorboards.

HOW SERVPRO CAN HELP RESTORE YOUR FLOOD AND WATER DAMAGE FOLLOWING A PIPE BURST

When winter temperatures drop below freezing, the water flowing freely in pipes throughout your home or business have the potential to freeze. When your pipes burst from freezing water, getting the water out fast is our highest priority. Our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan comes ready with all the necessary equipment to get it done quickly because we want to prevent it from causing further damage to your property. We have years of experience in dealing with Manhattan residential and commercial water damage, and we know what it takes to restore your New York City property, "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO provides emergency response service and effective remediation for furnace puff backs in Manhattan

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO restoration professionals have extensive training and experience to clean and remediate the damages your property is facing.

The cold temperatures have officially come, furnaces across the Northeast are getting turned on for the first time as the colder weather descends. When an oil or gas furnace is operating properly, there is little to no soot generated as the fuel is burned to create the heat you need to warm your home or business. Unfortunately, it only takes one leaky or clogged burner to create a dangerous situation leading to an explosion known as a puff back. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has helped countless residential and commercial owner’s cleanup, remediate and restore smoke and soot property damage caused from an oil or gas furnace puffback or fireplace puffback.

A residential or commercial furnace malfunction causes a puffback, when an oil or gas burner backfires, sending black, sticky soot and debris through the furnace or boiler's exhaust system, and throughout your home or business you’ve experienced a puff back. There are two types of puff backs, one type happens all at once, like a balloon popping, emitting soot, smoke and debris throughout your property. A puff back can also happen more gradually, as if someone was holding the end of a balloon and letting the air seep out slowly. If you have a forced air system, the problem can worsen as your heating ducts can spread the soot into every corner of your home, with the same efficiency that they spread heat. Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent a puffback, annual inspection and maintenance of your oil burner or furnace can greatly reduce your risk.

Once a Puff back occurs soot spreads throughout your home, covering your furniture, drapery, wall, ceilings, and other property and possessions. The soot coverage may range from a light dusting to a more concentrated ash. Soot is black and sticky and brings some major cleaning and deodorizing challenges and concerns. Though, it may look like a DIY project, it’s best left to professionals to handle soot removal and cleaning because it has the potential to spread easily and become an even bigger concern. Soot is not only extremely messy and pungent, it may contain be carcinogenic, and needs to be cleaning and deodorized properly to avoid secondary damages to your property and your family.

Manhattan chooses SERVPRO for professional disaster restoration services after a furnace puffback

Our restoration process begins with a thorough inspection of your Manhattan property, assessing the damage and determining which equipment and services are necessary. Our Emergency response crews are available right away to begin the most effective techniques for cleaning and restoring your property and possessions, including soot, smoke and stain removal, odor removal and deodorizing, our restoration professionals are here to help with all the recovery solutions you need to restore your property just like before.

SERVPRO SMOKE, SOOT & ODOR REMOVAL & CLEANING SERVICES

• Immediate placement of HEPA air scrubbers and hydroxyls to begin soot and odor mitigation
• Contact insurance carrier/adjuster to give them the size and scope of the project
• Clean the ash and soot residue that builds up on surfaces, including walls, cabinets and furniture
• Coordinate the cleaning of soft goods, such as clothing, bedding, draperies, furniture, etc.

Quick action is necessary to minimize property damages after a fire or furnace puff back, smoke and soot are easily absorbed by many materials within your property and can have a lasting effect. Smoke and soot can be absorbed by almost all your possessions including, furniture and building materials, especially porous materials and surfaces. Soot’s chemical composition is a major challenge for post puff back recovery, secondary damages can start to occur immediately. Puff back cleanup experts will assist you during your puff back event, providing you services and solutions every step of the cleanup and restoration process. Puff back cleaning services can include; odor removal from your structure and contents, structural soot cleanup and smoke damage cleanup, pack-out and claim assistance, contents cleanup and smoke damage mitigation.

After your apartment or office building suffers a puff back, the spread of soot can cause wide-spread damages throughout your home and can feel especially overwhelming and discouraging. SERVPRO restoration professionals have extensive training and experience to clean and remediate the damages your property is facing.

If your home or business experiences a puffback, you should:

• Notify your insurance agent immediately
• Throw away all exposed food
• Call a repairman to fix the malfunctioning oil furnace
• Call SERVPRO to begin cleaning and deodorizing all affected areas immediately

Our team will perform a complete smoke and soot damage cleanup, loss documentation, oil smoke odor removal, property recovery and disposal of non-recoverable items, and a tailored solution to return your building and contents to preloss condition and reverse the signs of your oil burner property damage event. Calling SERVPRO of Central Manhattan after a home or business puffback provides an advanced cleanup and restoration solution complete with advanced equipment, expert knowledge and experience that you can trust to restore your home and possessions, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO has Professional Restoration Services for All Types of Flood Damage in Manhattan Homes and Businesses

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

It’s critical to take fast action to contact a local SERVPRO professional in your area, following a flood or storm water intrusion.

Many Manhattan properties are near the ocean and other natural seawater sources, saltwater flooding and the resulting damage can be a common occurrence. Similarly, to flood damage from ground water and other category 3 losses, ocean water can cause severe property water damage and can create unique restoration concerns and complications for local home and business owners.

Continual increases in storm intensity and tidal flooding is making flood and storm water damage a regular concern for many Manhattan neighborhoods. Flooding can have a devastating impact on your coastal building or residence, it can be difficult to predict the full extent of water and storm related damages. Additionally, saltwater can be extremely dangerous and destructive to building materials and has added safety concerns for cleanup and restoration providers. Extracting the water is just the first step that SERVPRO professionals take to thoroughly dry and restore water and storm damaged areas inside and outside of your property. Floodwater is dangerous, it’s advised to contact a reliable property damage restoration company such as SERVPRO that specializes in natural disaster and flood cleanup and remediation.

It can be difficult for the average property owner or management team to determine if the contaminated areas and contents of your property have been properly remediated, to avoid continued damage from salt corrosion and mold growth. Our restoration technicians are IICRC trained and certified with countless hours of experience responding to local coastal property damage cleanups and repairs. Starting the restoration process begins with a visit from a highly-trained staff member to assess the full extent of your flooding or water damage intrusion and present a comprehensive plan for a complete property damage restoration and construction solution. While assessing your property damage our managers will help determine what parts of your loss our team can clean, sanitize and restore. Unfortunately, some items are unsafe for restoration and some controlled demolition and replacement maybe necessary. Our restoration teams work closely with our construction crews and management to provide a seamless transition from destruction to reconstruction. Throughout the process our philosophy is to restore over replacing materials and contents whenever possible, helping to lower overall cost and time needed for property disaster recovery.

Coastal Properties experience a much higher risk for property damage from salt-water, sand and other beach and waterfront related concerns.

COASTAL WEATHER AND SEAWATER CORROSION

Access to beautiful beaches and oceanfront views can be one of the many advantages to living, working or owning coastal property on Manhattan. However, considering how the environment, and surrounding landscape, could adversely affect your commercial or residential property could quickly turn your dream property into a potential nightmare. Waterfront properties are more exposed to driving rain and winds off the ocean during an intense storm, battering your properties exterior and creating a need for frequent maintenance. Damage caused by debris and salt is unavoidable, blowing winds and salty sea air are likely to cause some cosmetic and structural damage including; rusting metalwork, chipping and scratching to exterior surfaces, and possible damage to mechanical elements such as window latches. Manhattan is no stranger to bad weather including hurricane force winds, storm and tidal surges, high waves and rising water levels can mean more coastal flooding leading to an increased risk for both indoor and outdoor storm, flood and water property damage.

Why Salt Water Flooding Does More Damage

Salt Breaks Down Building Materials

Similarly, to all other types of water intrusion and flood damage, salt water flooding can quickly penetrate a variety of building materials causing significant damage to structural components and property contents. Unlike some other water sources, salt water is more dangerous and causes more severe property damage because it is highly corrosive. The combination of water and higher levels of salt can weaken or even dissolve many types of building materials; including concrete, wood, plaster and drywall. Delignification is when saltwater penetrates wood forming fuzzy salt crystals on the surface and slowly pulls out lignin causing damage to the wood on a cellular level. If a structure is repeatedly exposed to saltwater flooding or proper decontamination (using fresh water to neutralize the excess salt) doesn’t occur, the longer the salt-water remains in contact with affected materials, this process will continue to weaken the internal structure developing serious structural problems that could lead to collapse.

Salt Water Damage Can Quickly Lead to Mold

Like any flood damage, if the moisture is not properly mitigated it can lead to mold growth in under 24 hours. Did you know salt-water accelerates the development of mold following a flood disaster? Mold needs moisture to grow, but flooding can penetrate hidden corners of a structure that can be very hard to dry. SERVPRO professionals use advanced technology including moisture detection equipment and thermal imaging cameras to help identify hidden moisture concerns during the structural drying and disinfecting process. Air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers are strategically positioned to speed up the drying process. Transferring moisture out of damaged materials into the air, to be captured through evaporation and absorption and removed permanently. EPA-registered disinfectants applied throughout the affected areas reduce the potential for fungal growth and kill lingering bacteria or viruses.

SERVPRO Responds to Flood or Storm Water Property Damage Immediately

It’s critical to take fast action to contact a local SERVPRO professional in your area, following a flood or storm water intrusion. Be assured that our managers and crews take every necessary step to mitigate your water damage from becoming an even bigger disaster. Seawater can cause significantly more damage due to the additional salt content involved. Our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan team will start the flood and water damage recovery process with an inspection. Our Water Damage Restoration Technicians (WRTs) are trained to classify what kind of water they will be working with on the job site and adjust their methods accordingly. While extracting water is part of every water damage job, saltwater intrusion my also require additional steps to neutralize the salt reaction from further damaging building materials and surfaces.

OUR STORM & FLOOD WATER MITIGATION SERVICES INCLUDE

Restoring your home or business quickly after a storm damage or salt-water contaminated water loss, takes specialized equipment and highly skilled IICRC certified professionals

• Temporary Shoring, board-up and roof tarping
• Water Extraction
• Neutralizing of affected areas, including sanitizing and controlled demolition
• Drying of affected areas, including walls, carpets and furniture
• Cleaning and Restoring of affected possessions
• Remediating mold and mildew
• Reconstruction and Repairs

Is Seawater from Storm Flooding Contaminated?

Yes!  The water from oceans, lakes, rivers or streams is considered Category 3 Water.

Category 3 Water: is known as "black water" and is grossly unsanitary. This water contains unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness. This category includes water sources from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water or standing water.

Ready to Respond with Disaster Flood and Storm Property Damage Restoration Services to Manhattan Neighborhoods everyday

Salt-water property damage from flooding or storms is a major concern for many property owners and managers on the East Coast and throughout the Northeast throughout the year. Whether your property experiences an above average tidal flood, a storm surge, ground water flooding or foundation seepage after a severe storm. Our SERVPRO staff is available to help with your property restoration concerns. When SERVPRO’s signature green service vehicles show up they are stocked with a full array of advanced water damage restoration equipment and IICRC certified technicians who can respond quickly to your concerns and get you started on the road to restoration and recovery, “Like it never even happened.”

Mold Remediation Services with SERVPRO specialists for ALL Manhattan Commercial Properties

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has mold remediation specialists that can assess and address the mold concerns in your commercial building, facility or warehouse.

Mold colonization in Manhattan commercial facilities and warehouses can quickly get out of control without the appropriate intervention, SERVPRO is here to help with mold remediation solutions for all types of Manhattan commercial facilities.

Flood and water damage most often have far reaching consequences on your New York City commercial property, leaving the need for many different types of property damage restoration services including water removal, demolition, deodorization and decontamination, drying and dehumidifying and rebuilding. Whether your property just weathered a season of heavy rain, experienced a common appliance malfunction or plumbing leak, commercial water damage cleanup and restoration can be complicated. It most often requires a detailed set of steps to make sure the water is properly extracted, cleaned up, dried and mitigated, when these steps aren’t taken, and moisture continues to plaque your business you could end up with a mold infestation and the need for professional mold remediation. Any commercial property can quickly become infested with mold if a source of water is present, the key to preventing excessive mold growth is to control moisture. Given ideal circumstances mold can grow quickly and spread throughout a commercial facility in as little as 24-48 hours. That’s why it’s important to act quickly, when your commercial property experiences a water damage or shows any sign of hidden water or visible mold within your commercial facility. SERVPRO is a leading provider of mold remediation services across the country and in Manhattan, our mold certified technicians can assess the mold damage to your commercial warehouse or commercial real estate building and advise owners and managers of the proper steps to remediate and restore your facility, “Like it never even happened.”

How Mold Damages Your Commercial Building or Warehouse?

Mold is a microscopic, airborne fungus that exists all around us, it occurs naturally and usually reproduces by releasing spores into the environment. In nature, mold plays an important role in the decomposition of organic material. Mold requires both organic material and a consistent source of moisture to grow. When excessive moisture accumulates indoors, many materials in homes and business contain the organic materials conducive to mold growth including: drywall, wood, paneling, ceiling tiles, carpeting, insulation, paper, cardboard, fabric, upholstery and even paint will all encourage mold growth under the right circumstances. If there is a consistent water source, mold will continue to colonize and break down organic material into a dusty, dirt-like material. Leaving mold damage unattended to for an extended period can cause unnecessary damage to your home and possible health effects to the occupants. It’s never too early nor too late to address Manhattan commercial property mold damage.

When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. It is impossible to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture indoors.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends these tips to prevent commercial property mold damage

Ensure all leaky plumbing is fixed; Correct all noticed wet spots;

Completely eliminate condensation through insulating or increasing air circulation;

• Reduce the moisture level in the air and add ventilation to reduce humidity;
• Maintain indoor humidity level below 60% with a goal of 30-50%;
• Conduct routine building and HVAC inspections;
• Provide proper drainage and sloping to eliminate wet foundations.

Mold Remediation can help

Mold remediation is the process of finding, containing, and removing mold and damaged materials from an affected area and the air around it. It’s crucial to contain the damaged areas, because spores are microscopic and can easily spread to other areas through the air or by attaching themselves to clothes or objects throughout the remediation process. SERVPRO mold removal specialists are specially trained using techniques to contain the damaged areas and mitigate the spread of mold, using air pressure and physical barriers to seal off the infected area, including ductwork during the remediation process.

Moldy items such as furniture, carpeting and inventory are cleaned if the infestation is minor or removed if it’s extensive. In this commercial warehouse our mold remediation team setup on-site clean rooms to more efficiently remediate damaged materials and contents. During the remediation process racks and inventory are carefully hand cleaned with antimicrobial agents and disinfectant, every precaution is taken to avoid cross contamination. Mold can be very illusive and can grow behind walls, inside books or files and countless other hidden areas. Our SERVPRO professionals have advanced equipment and top tier training to remediate mold and leave any commercial property damage back to a healthy, safe and operation work environment.

Commercial Mold Remediation

The Environmental Protection Agency has a guide for Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings on their website.

Stopping the Spread of Mold During the Remediation Process

SERVPRO mold remediation specialists are train to use the highest restoration industry standards, mastering Applied Microbial Remediation through IICRC courses. We employ the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed protocols to contain and remove active mold colonies. Our crews also use EPA registered antimicrobial products to treat surfaces after removal to inhibit additional growth. During remediation, we protect our employees and your occupants from the hazards of mold remediation by creating zones where we remove and bag the mold and contaminated debris. Physical barriers provide one kind of protection, and we also install HEPA filtered exhaust ductwork and use negative air pressure to prevent airborne mold and residues from infiltrating unaffected areas of the building.

Containment of the Affected Area

When setting up containment of the work area, the first step is to install a HEPA Filtered Negative Air machine. This is a fan which pulls air from the affected area and exhausts the contaminated air outside of the structure via flexible tubing or ducting. Doing this will begin to draw the airborne mold spores away from the airspace, eventually creating a negative pressure environment.

The second step is to install physical barriers in the work area, creating zones. This is most typically done with the use of heavy plastic. The main goal when creating this physical barrier is to completely isolate the work area from any adjacent, non-affected areas.

If you discover mold or are experiencing a musty odor in your commercial building or warehouse, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan to help. Our highly-trained IICRC certified Manhattan mold remediation team is here to help and assess your commercial mold cleanup and mitigation needs. Our priority is to keep you informed of your specific remediation solution and get your commercial property’s mold damage concerns under control. Our teams will cleanup, remove damaged materials and remediate your commercial mold problem with the care for your tenants, employees and property.

SOURCE: https://www.epa.gov

Looking for relief from indoor allergies this spring, SERVPRO professional cleaning services can help.

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO cleaning crews can reduce allergens in your home or business and assure healthy air quality throughout your property.

Spring is a welcome reprieve from the long winter — that is, unless you suffer from spring allergies. Improve indoor air quality with SERVPRO of Central Manhattan Professional Services to reduce indoor allergens.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan offers cleaning and maintenance services to benefit your Manhattan neighborhood home or business:

• Creating a Clean & Healthy Living/Working Environment
• Reducing Allergens and Irritants to alleviate allergy symptoms
• Removing Unpleasant Smells and Odors
• Improving Air Flow Efficiency

You can't control the increase of allergens in the spring air, but you can improve the air quality in your Manhattan commercial or residential property, bolstering your fight against allergy symptoms? HVAC units, air ducts, registers, upholstery, carpets and flooring can hold much more dust, dirt and pollen than you would think. Scheduling periodic professional cleaning and odor removal services with our SERVPRO cleaning crews during spring can reduce allergens in your home or business and assure healthy air quality throughout your property. SERVPRO professional cleaning services can help minimize indoor allergens and alleviate your seasonal allergy symptoms and improve the overall indoor air quality of your home or business.

Your local SERVPRO offer solutions that may help alleviate allergy symptoms by promoting healthy indoor air quality, our Manhattan services include:

• HVAC unit Cleaning
• Air Duct and Register Cleaning
• Intensive Carpet & Floor Cleaning
• Odor Removal

HVAC Unit Cleaning, Air Duct and Vent Cleaning

HVAC systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality and a leading cause in increased allergy symptoms. The air inside your Manhattan home/business is full of tiny particles like dust, pollen and debris. When your furnace or air conditioner draws air, it also pulls in airborne particles. Over time, these contaminants can build up inside the ducts, reducing airflow and re-circulating allergens throughout your living/working space. Keeping dust, pollen, pet dander, and other irritants out of the air you breathe involves more than changing the air filter, proper HVAC unit and air duct maintenance is essential to reducing allergens inside your commercial or residential property and improve air quality. Our trained professionals at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan use commercial-grade, duct-cleaning equipment, brushes, and air whips, that remove dust and debris trapped inside your duct system and leave your property with optimal indoor air quality.

Intensive Upholstery, Carpet and Floor Cleaning

Scheduling a deep cleaning every 12-18 months by an IICRC trained SERVPRO professional will renew the look of your upholstery, carpet and flooring by removing the deepest dirt and debris. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan utilizes the best technology and highest-quality equipment that effectively removes dust, pollen and other allergens to keep your home or business allergen free and your carpets and flooring looking like new. Our professional cleaning will address moderate and heavy soil conditions in your carpets, dirt builds up in layers, and when a carpet looks dirty you are only seeing the dirt at the tips of the fibers. More dirt is hiding below the surface down near the base of the pile, causing damage to the carpet.

Odor Removal

Rely on SERVPRO technicians to have the expertise to effectively deodorize your home/business. Take advantage of SERVPRO’s residential and commercial cleaning services to remove unwanted odors. Our Central Manhattan crews have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. Our experienced technicians have access to specialized odor removal products and equipment capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize odors and help restore your home or business to a safe, healthy and fresh environment.

CLEANING TIPS to Help You Control Indoor Allergens and Improve Indoor Air Quality

The best way to improve your air quality is to get rid of the sources of allergens and irritants from your home or business. Take measures to avoid and reduce your contact with allergens. Also increase the flow of outdoor air into your home and reduce humidity as much as possible.

When you have environmental allergies, it can be hard to bring yourself to open a window, much less stir up dust, dander, pollen or mold while cleaning your home or business.

Here are cleaning tips you may want to add to your regular routine to reduce indoor allergens

• Reducing dust-collecting clutter
• Regularly vacuuming carpeted floors with a double-bag or HEPA filter vacuum
• Dusting blinds and window treatments bi-weekly
• Regularly washing blankets and throw rugs
• Washing all bed linens in hot water every week
• Keeping counters and other hard surfaces clean and dry
• Getting all water damage restored quickly

Benefits of Air Duct & HVAC Cleaning

Like furnaces and air conditioners, air ducts require proper cleaning and maintenance to perform at their best. Keeping ducts free of dust and debris can also help reduce your energy bill and improve air quality in your home/business. More frequent duct cleaning is recommended if you have indoor pets or are sensitive to indoor air quality issues for example you suffer from asthma. You should also have your ducts cleaned if you have recently renovated your home or business, as this will increase the amount of dust in your forced air system. It’s also recommended to have your HVAC system and air ducts cleaned and services following a property damage event.

Having your ducts cleaned can save you money in the long run, and create a better environment for your family, friends, employees and your customers. Restore energy efficiency over time and reduce the possibility of microbial growth with ventilation cleaning services from SERVPRO of Central Manhattan.

The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:

• Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
• May help to eliminate offensive odors.
• Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

However, duct cleaning is not always necessary. Our technicians will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your commercial or residential HVAC system.

If indoor allergens are causing your seasonal allergies to flare up, reach for the phone. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professionals are trained technicians, with state-of-the-art equipment and unique knowledge and experience to pay careful attention to the details that matter most when cleaning and restoring your property to a healthy work or living environment.

Basement Water Damage Cleanup, Mitigation and Disaster Restoration Services Manhattan, New York

4/23/2019 (Permalink)

Restoring your Manhattan property basement flood or property water damage quickly, takes specialized equipment and IICRC certified professionals.

The 3 types of water damage affecting your Manhattan Neighborhood home or business

There are numerous reasons why Manhattan basements can suffer from flood and water damage– heavy rains, foundation seepage, sewage backup, high tides, storm flooding and when time is of the essence, you need cleanup and repairs from the trusted SERVPRO of Central Manhattan Disaster Restoration specialists. Rely on our Manhattan crews and Emergency services to quickly cleanup and remove the water and other fire, mold and water related damage to your property. SERVPRO professionals are available to help with your home or business restoration needs around the clock, 24 hours a day 7 days a week, to restore your New York City property, “Like it never even happened.”

Water damage is one of the most common problems that commercial and residential property owners experience. Manhattan basement flooding and water damage is especially common because it is the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There is always a risk of basement water damage and flooding due to substantial rain and defective plumbing, additional common causes for water damage to your local Manhattan basement or foundation include: 

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

When considering a solution to your Manhattan commercial or residential property water damage, our SERVPRO technicians will access what type of water caused the damage. This assessment will help our crew make the most effective plan for cleaning and removing the water, drying and mitigating the damage and repairing and restoring your property and contents correctly. When your Manhattan home or business suffers a water damage there are 3 types of water that could have caused your property damage, including clean, grey and black water, understanding what type of water is affecting your property is critical to ensuring proper cleanup. Water carries hidden dangers that may not be immediately evident when you first see the damage. That’s why it’s recommended that you always choose a professional restoration service provider like SERVPRO of Central Manhattan to assess and repair any water damage affecting your property. We offer 24-hour Emergency Property Restoration Services to your Manhattan neighborhood, excellent customer care and expedient remediation work that will return your home or commercial property to a safe, healthy and sanitary condition.

Three types of water damage – our SERVPRO restoration professionals can decide what to do next

Category 1:

Clean water originates from a sanitary source such as a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean and poses no substantial risk from dermal, ingestion, or inhalation exposure. However, it may not always remain clean after it meets other surfaces or materials.

Category 2:

Gray water is used to classify slightly contaminated water and has the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if contacted or consumed by humans. It may contain potentially unsafe levels of microorganisms or nutrients for microorganisms, as well as other organic or inorganic matter (chemical or biological).

Category 3:

Black water is highly contaminated and filled with pathogenic, toxigenic or other harmful agents. Such water sources may carry silt, organic matter, pesticides, heavy metals, regulated materials, or toxic organic substances. Black water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster; black water should always be handled by trained professionals.


RECOGNIZED AND TRUSTED WATER DAMAGE EXPERTS

Restoring your NYC home or business quickly, takes specialized equipment and highly skilled IICRC professionals. Our team closely inspects the damaged areas; measuring the moisture content, humidity and temperature to assess the full extent of the damage. They provide a step-by-step solution to restore and repair your Manhattan property and contents to help minimize additional damages and get you back to normal quickly and efficiently. If your home or commercial property in Central Manhattan has experienced water or sewage damage from any number of causes, we are prepared 24-7 with Emergency help when you need us! Let our SERVPRO disaster restoration team determine the most effective methods and services to begin the cleanup, repair, and restoration process and get your property water damage corrected.

SERVPRO is Here to Help local Manhattan Neighborhood Businesses and Property Owners with High-Quality Spring Commercial Cleaning Services

4/19/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can provide a healthy work environment for your employees and customers, we strive to keep your building looking its best.

In addition to our reputation as a trusted leader in the property disaster restoration industry, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan offers Commercial Cleaning Services to keep your business looking its best.

Spring is a great time to spruce up your Manhattan property's appearance, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan provides commercial cleaning services to keep your Manhattan organization looking its best and mitigate future property damage.

1. Scalable Cleaning Services: The Seasons can bring dirt and debris into your commercial property. An intensive deep cleaning of your small business or corporate offices will benefit morale and productivity, with a clean and healthy environment.
2. Deep Clean the Flooring: The Seasons can cause extreme wear and tear and a dulling on commercial flooring. A deep cleaning will revitalize tile and carpeting, prolonging life-span and avoiding expensive replacement costs.
3. Power Wash: Seasonal weather can be tough on your building’s exterior, concrete and pavement, make sure all roof and exterior walls, pathways, patios and parking lots are clean and in good repair. Replace, repair and power wash all hardscaping to keep it aesthetically pleasing and prolong its life-span.
4. Get Your Commercial HVAC System cleaned and inspected for the Spring and Summer: A well-maintained Commercial HVAC will run at peak performance and can prolong the lifespan of the system.

Our trusted and highly-trained IICRC certified disaster restoration crews use the latest technologies and techniques in commercial cleaning to provide a healthy work environment for your Manhattan employees and customers. We keep your building looking its best, offering a wide range of janitorial services including ongoing maintenance, specialty and seasonal, project-based and annual cleaning services that are scalable to meet your changing needs. Regardless of the size of your commercial property or the scope of services needed, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan offers detailed and comprehensive commercial cleaning services to fit your needs, carpet and floor cleaning, window and pressure washing, air duct and HVAC cleaning we can create a custom commercial cleaning solution based on your priorities, facility, and budget.

Spring is here, now is the best time to check for water and mold property damage caused by Winter storms and temperatures.

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

Winter weather can be hard on your residential or commercial property. Perform a Spring Property Inspection for water or mold damage.

Here are some tips for where to inspect your home or business for potential winter property damage disasters.

Even after a very milder winter, it is critical to assess your property’s exterior to make sure the cold weather hasn’t left you with property damage. It’s also important to react quickly and take the necessary steps to prevent property damage from compounding, spring showers are on the horizon.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan responded to a local NYC property that suffered a water damage disaster indoors due to winter weather and water intrusion. A roof leak went undetected for some time, causing significant water intrusion and secondary damages from the top down. Our professional SERVPRO service technicians were onsite quickly to treat the water and mold damage to the roof, walls and floors. The drying process was started by placing large commercial drying equipment in the area. Once the area is dry, the restoration and rebuilding process could begin.

Winter weather can be hard on your Manhattan residential or commercial property be sure to look for problems that frigid temperatures, snow and ice may have caused.

Winter weather can cause upwards of three and a half billion dollars of property damage in the U.S.

Winter storms are accompanied by lots of moisture – snow, freezing rain, ice, hail and wind – come together to create common issues like ice dams, frozen pipes and frost heave that may cause damage to your home or business. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is always ready to respond to your property damage restoration needs quickly, and we can begin the restoration process immediately. Our local disaster restoration services include an inspection and assessment of the damaged areas, water removal/water extraction, drying and dehumidification, cleaning and repairs, restoration and building as necessary. There are several common problem areas to inspect during spring for potential damage, including your roof and gutter system, foundation and yard, plumbing system and your property’s exterior. From the top down these areas could see potential damage from the worst that the winter elements can bring. 

A TOP DOWN APPROACH TO SEASONAL MANHATTAN SPRING PROPERTY DAMAGE INSPECTION AREAS:

• Roof and Gutter System Damage:
  The function of your roof and gutter system is to remove excess water from your property to prevent damage. High winds, hail and winter storms can tear off or destroy shingles and ice can obstruct the flow of water in gutters and downspouts, allowing water to breach the structure. Winter forces can cause obvious holes in your roof from wind or branches, but additionally less noticeable damage from hail or other debris can cause indentations and divots that overtime can lead to ice and moisture damage. Heavy buildup of ice on your roof can cause your gutters and downspouts to separate from your roofline, disrupting the flow of water and cause water intrusion and damage to the inside of your home or business. It’s a good idea each spring to inspect your roof, gutters and downspouts for visible damage, debris and that they are functioning properly.
  
  
• Window, Door and Exterior Damage:
  Cold temperatures, snow and hail can take a toll on the structure of your property including the windows, doors and exterior of your home or business. Without proper repair, peeling paint, cracks in sealant and other damage could lead to moisture infiltration and a water damage disaster. After winter passes, damaged paint should be removed, primed, sealed and repainted. Cracks and air leaks should be sealed and repaired to prevent more devastating damage later, and missing siding should be replaced before springtime showers arrive to prevent additional water and structural damages.
  
  
• Foundation and Other Drainage Problems:
  Another potential casualty of winter weather is your foundation and yard. Hairline cracks in the concrete of a foundation that develop naturally over time can expand, causing major structural damage over time if not properly taken care of quickly. Water can find its way into cracks, freeze and make them larger during the frigid cold months of winter. Getting your foundation repaired in the spring can help prevent more problems from developing as time goes by. The best way to avoid foundation damage is to keep moisture moving away from your foundation. Each spring check your gutters and downspouts for debris or clogs, make sure they are functioning properly, and that they drain at least 10 feet away from your home. Make sure the ground around your home is graded away from your foundation and consider adding a rain garden to your property to combat a bigger problem.
  
  
• Plumbing Damage:
  Another vulnerable system in your home or business that could be damaged from cold winter temperatures is your plumbing. To adequately deliver water to and from your sinks, boiler, and spickets your plumbing system keeps the water forever flowing. However, during cold winter days and nights cracks and stresses can occur and eventually lead to leaks and pipe breaks that can have a damaging effect on your local commercial or residential property. Remember to survey your pipes regularly for cracks and leaks, paying closest attention to the pipes that are closest to the elements or in poorly insulated areas such as the basement or crawlspace, or outside walls and attics. Take this opportunity to add some additional insulation as a precautionary measure for the future winter weather to come.

Take a Proactive Approach:

Taking a proactive approach to property damage starts with making these inspections during your springtime routine. First and Secondary water damage is multi-faceted and can affect almost every area of your home or business which had water or flood intrusion. If you see any signs of suspected water damage or other types of property damage including mold, smoke, biohazard. Your best course of action is to contact your local Brooklyn Disaster Restoration Professionals our SERVPRO crews are trained and certified to handle your water restoration, mold remediation, and other cleanup and property restoration needs. We can arrive quickly perform an inspection, and get you started on the road to recovery and restoration, “Like it never even happened.”

Mold is a GROWING ISSUE for many Manhattan home and business owners/renters DURING WINTER.

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

Mold needs moisture, warmth and food to grow, so why is it becoming such a problem for property owners during cold winters.

Mold needs moisture, warmth and food to grow, so why is it becoming such a problem for property owners during cold winters. Proper insulation is important to save on energy costs and keep you warm and cozy during winter temperatures, but without proper airflow and ventilation you could be creating a WINTER MOLD DISASTER.

Proper air circulation is crucial to avoid water and mold damage to your Manhattan residential or commercial property, especially during winter. Airflow and ventilation regulate temperature, removes impurities, prevents mold and creates a more healthy and safe breathing environment.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has your home and business mold disaster answers; our team can protect your property from additional water and mold damage we offer services throughout New York City. Our professionals are certified in mold remediation and removal, we are a trusted leader in the mold remediation industry and have been helping local home and business owners in this community for nearly 30 years. Our technicians are near you, and available to help access your property damage and provide quick and efficient mold remediation and removal services with highly qualified technicians and state-of-the-art tools and equipment. You can trust SERVPRO to work hard to restore your property, “Like it never even happened.”

While mold is generally thought to thrive during the warmer months, mold growth in the winter is now becoming a more common problem for home and business owners. Mold needs moisture, warmth and food to grow, during winter turning up the heat in your well-insulated and tightly sealed home or business may feel like the best way to shield yourself from the cold, but without proper ventilation that warm moist air can’t escape, especially in high-humidity areas such as the bathroom, kitchen, basement or attic it forms condensation on your windows, walls and other areas of your property that can cause water damage and mold.

Most Manhattan homes and businesses have numerous trouble spots for mold and moisture, in residential properties the places that get most easily affected by mold are bathrooms, kitchens, basements, attics, garages, and laundry rooms. In commercial or municipal buildings; bathrooms and kitchens, cafeterias, gyms with showering or pool areas, HVAC systems, and any area that has high moisture content will be an ideal breeding ground for mold.

Several factors lead to increased concerns about mold during the winter months.

For one thing, moisture conditions indoors can lead to the growth of mold and mildew; certain areas of the home may experience intensified levels of humidity because of a lack of ventilation. Bathrooms and kitchens are particularly susceptible to this problem; the accumulation of steam from showers, washing dishes and cooking in the kitchen all add moisture mixing with heated air. Moisture that travels through the air from your basement, bathrooms, or kitchen may condense when it meets a cold wall. Because of cold weather, windows aren't usually open, and condensation collects on indoor surfaces such as cold walls or windows and their frames, often creating ideal conditions for mold growth. With less than optimal insulation, mold can also growing during the winter on the inside walls, especially on the surfaces closest to the outside of your home or business.

Mold Prevention Tips: During Winter

Controlling moisture is the key to controlling mold. Generally, this is done in one of two ways. First, effectively dry and fix any leaks, spills, or other unintended instances of moisture. Second, utilize proper ventilation and air circulation in known moisture-prone areas. Being proactive in preventing costly damage or mold growth is the best way to feel confident that your home can handle the freezing elements and winter storms.

• Keep indoor humidity below 45%: According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the best way to control indoor mold growth is to carefully monitor and maintain your home's moisture level. If the humidity in your home rises, look for the sources of added moisture and address the problem as soon as possible. Place a dehumidifier in these rooms to lower the moisture level until a permanent solution is found.
• Increase Air Circulation: Ceiling fans, bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans, and attic fans are ideal for improving air circulation in many of the troublesome areas for added humidity, warmth and condensation; bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans can really help to remove moisture and promote air exchange while cooking and showering. It’s equally important to vent the attic space to prevent moisture and mold accumulation, and if you keep your dryer in the basement make sure it is properly vented to avoid moisture and mold concerns. On nice days when the air temperature isn’t too cold, consider opening a window or two for ventilation and fresh air exchange.
• Reduce Condensation Upgrade Your Windows and Insulation: Many homes and businesses don’t have proper insulation inside exterior walls or between the attic and living space, condensation can form on the inside of a cold, poorly insulated walls and windows, when in contact with warm, moist indoor air, creating an optimal area for mold growth. Insulating your plumbing can reduce sweat and keep them sage from water damage during the cold.
• Check for Potential Leaks and Repairs: Winter mold grows rapidly when there are leaks or water damage from winter weather disasters, such as burst plumbing pipes, or roof leaks following a freezing event. Water damage can be very dangerous to commercial or residential property, it can lead to the development of mold after as little as 24 hours and cause serious health effects and compromise the structural integrity of drywall, ceilings, floors, carpeting and other contents. The best way to minimize damage from a water emergency is to contact SERVPRO we have teams of professionals ready to restore and repair your home or business quickly and effectively.

More information about moisture control from energy.gov

SERVPRO IS ALWAYS HERE TO HELP WITH MOLD PROPERTY DAMAGE

Mold can be a major problem for residential and commercial property owners, using the prevention tips outlined above can help keep your property mold-free. If you do discover mold in your home or business, the best thing to do is call our professional mold remediation team at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan.

We use various containment procedures to prevent mold spore from spreading and we have specialized filtration equipment that allows our professionals to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. The proper mold remediation solution for your home or business depends on the amount of mold growth and types of surfaces on which the fungus appears.

Our mold remediation team at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has the tools and equipment to inspect and assess the damage and determine the best methods to contain and remove the mold, clean and restore your possessions and property additionally we can help identify the cause of the water or moisture problem so that it doesn’t cause additional damage in the future.

Effective Winter Storm Restoration: Our SERVPRO team has the answers to your property damage repair concerns.

2/25/2019 (Permalink)

Frigid winter weather and Blizzard conditions can cause BIG problems for Manhattan home and business owners.

Frigid winter weather and Blizzard conditions can cause BIG problems for Manhattan home, apartment and business owners; restore your property damage with our SERVPRO cleanup and restoration team.

As we settle in for what may or may not be an arctic cold and blizzard filled winter, it makes sense to review some basic steps to help shield your Manhattan home and family or your business and employees from the worst that Northeast Winters can offer. Cold temperatures, snow, ice, blizzard conditions with high winds and dangerous wind chills all contribute to the possible threat of a  Manhattan residential or commercial property disaster. Whether it’s a burst plumbing pipe or your water heater, an electrical fire or your furnace or fireplace has a puff back, winter poses a serious threat to your home or business from a fire, smoke, water or sewage property damage event.

Did your Manhattan home or business experience a pipe break over the last several weeks during the arctic blast that hit the Northeast?

Our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan team has been helping our local communities for nearly 30 years, we are prepared with expert training and quality equipment to mitigate and restore your commercial or residential property. Our technicians are available 24-7 with our Emergency Service Team to help cleanup and repair your property damage from water, sewage, smoke or fire. Our priority is providing quick and effective service and solutions to restore your property and belongings, “Like it never even happened.”

When Manhattan winter storms are coming it’s important to be prepared, our SERVPRO teams are ready and always prepared to handle any size property disaster. Calling SERVPRO of Central Manhattan after you experience water damage from ice dams or basement flooding from ice buildup or excessive snow melt, can be the difference from a quick cleanup and mitigation or costly restoration, construction and mold remediation services.

UNDERSTAND WINTER WEATHER TERMINOLOGY

• Winter Weather Outlook: Meteorologists issue this typically 3-5 days prior to a winter storm when they believe wintery conditions are possible.
• Winter Weather Advisory: Issued typically 2-3 days prior to a possible hazardous winter weather storm that could cause “significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, could lead to life-threatening situations.”
• Winter Weather Watch: Watches are typically issued 12-48 hours before a winter storm is set to hit. This is to advise the public of the possibility of a winter storm, blizzard, or other hazardous wintery conditions such as freezing rain.
• Winter Weather Warning: Warnings alert the public 2-24 hours before a winter storm occurs. Issued for hazardous winter weather that can cause “significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, could lead to life-threatening situations.”

………………………………………………………………………………….

Blizzard Warning: Sustained wind or frequent gusts greater than or equal to 35 miles per hour accompanied by falling and/or blowing snow, frequently visibilities less than 1/4 of a mile for at least 3 hours.

Winter Storm Warning: Heavy Snow (snow accumulation of 6 inches or more in 12 hours or 8 inches or more in 24 hours), Sleet (accumulation of ice pellets 1/2 of an inch and greater), Ice (accumulation of 1/4 of an inch or more) and/or heavy Snow and Blowing Snow (wind is below blizzard criteria).

SERVPRO CAN HELP WITH WATER PROPERTY EMERGENCIES FOLLOWING STORM FLOODING OR FREEZING WINTER WEATHER

Northeast Winter Storms can bring any number of potential hazards to your Manhattan commercial or residential property, including fallen tree limbs, hail, blizzard winds and heavy rain and snow. Your home or business is at risk from a collapsed roof, or frozen pipe burst, once a significant amount of water from flooding or moisture affects your home or business, problems from water damage can start to occur.

It’s critical to take quick action and call our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan team to begin taking steps to stop the damage from becoming an even bigger disaster. Our professionals first assess the severity of the situation and determine the full extent of the storm, flooding or additional water damage. Restoring your home or business quickly, takes specialized equipment and highly skilled IICRC professionals. Our team closely inspects the damaged areas; measuring the moisture content, humidity and temperature to assess the full extent of the damage. They provide a step-by-step solution to restore and repair your property and contents to help minimize additional damages.

OUR MANHATTAN STORM & WATER MITIGATION SERVICES INCLUDE

• Water Extraction
• Drying of affected areas, including walls, carpets and furniture
• Cleaning and Restoration of affected possessions
• Remediating mold and mildew
• Reconstruction and Repairs 

Our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan Storm Team has the experience and resources to handle your winter weather property damage quickly and professionally. We know what comes next after the storm and we are prepared 24-7 with Emergency help when you need us! Call our Cleanup, Restoration and Repair teams @(212) 246-4148.

Types of Water Damages and How SERVPRO Restoration Professionals Can Help

2/21/2019 (Permalink)

OUR SERVPRO teams have advanced training and expertise and a tremendous amount of hands-on experience with water damage cleanup and restoration.

Types of Water Damages and How SERVPRO Restoration Professionals Can Help

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has helped countless local Manhattan business owners with emergency commercial water removal services following invasive, problematic water damage issues that have threatened to halt normal business operations. SERVPRO is a trusted leader in emergency property restoration and cleanup situations of any type or magnitude. Our water mitigation and restoration professionals care about your employees' health and business operations, they work efficiently and quickly to restore your property, “Like it never even happened.” We know how important your time is, our goal is to help you stay open, operational, and in business.

RECOGNIZED AND TRUSTED WATER DAMAGE EXPERTS

If you find that your office, warehouse, restaurant or other commercial property in Manhattan has experienced water or sewage damage, from broken plumbing, flooding, roof leaks or other types of water damage the most effective solution is to hire a restoration company like SERVPRO to begin the cleanup, repair, and restoration process. When your Manhattan home or business suffers a water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensuring proper cleanup. We offer 24-hour services, excellent customer service, and expedient remediation work that return your home to a safe, sanitary condition.

THERE ARE 3 BASIC CATEGORIES OF WATER

Category 1:
Clean water originates from a sanitary source such as a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean and poses no substantial risk from dermal, ingestion, or inhalation exposure. However, it may not always remain clean after it meets other surfaces or materials.

Category 2:
Gray water is used to classify slightly contaminated water and has the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if contacted or consumed by humans. It may contain potentially unsafe levels of microorganisms or nutrients for microorganisms, as well as other organic or inorganic matter (chemical or biological).

Category 3:
Black water is highly contaminated and filled with pathogenic, toxigenic or other harmful agents. Such water sources may carry silt, organic matter, pesticides, heavy metals, regulated materials, or toxic organic substances. Black water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster; Black water should always be handled by trained professionals.

THE 4 PRIMARY CLASSIFICATIONS OF WATER DAMAGE

• Class 1 is the least amount of water, absorption and evaporation. It affects only part of a room or area, or larger areas containing materials that have absorbed minimal moisture. Little or no wet carpet and/or cushion is present.
• Class 2 involves a large amount of water, absorption and evaporation. It affects at least an entire room of carpet and cushion (pad). Water has wicked up walls less than 24 inches. There is moisture remaining in structural materials and substructure soil.
• Class 3 involves the greatest amount of water, absorption and evaporation. Water may have come from overhead.  Ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet, cushions and subfloor in virtually all the entire area is saturated.
• Class 4 relates to specialty drying situations. Wet materials with very low permeance/porosity (eg. hardwood, plaster, brick, concrete, light-weight concrete and stone). Typically, there are deep pockets of saturation, which require very low specific humidity. These types of losses may require longer drying times and special methods.

We have the knowledge, experience and proper equipment to locate any hidden moisture lurking out of sight and clean up water damage of any size and get it done right the first time.

Moisture sensors, which are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls. We have moisture meters that we use to test the actual moisture content of materials. The meters allow our technicians to accurately monitor the drying process. Our team also has thermohygrometers on hand to measure temperature and relative humidity, which ensures techs can calculate and create an environment that is most conducive to drying.

Locally Owned and Operated
When you have a commercial or residential water damage, don’t leave your property to chance.

Call SERVPRO of Central Manhattan (212) 246-4148

As a locally owned and operated business, Our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan teams are close by and ready to respond to your water and flood damage emergency. As leaders in the water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience.

Getting your commercial property back in order doesn’t have to be a total loss. If you are experiencing a flooded commercial property in the Manhattan area, make sure to consult a local SERVPRO professional clean-up and restoration crew as soon as possible to help ensure proper and thorough cleanup.

WHEN WINTER STORMS ATTACK YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS OUR MANHATTAN SERVPRO TEAM CAN HELP

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

Our team takes every step possible to minimize the intrusion while working on the cleanup and restoration of your winter storm property damage.

Winter weather can cause damage from top to bottom in your Manhattan home or business. Our weather patterns have become increasingly unpredictable, resulting in heavy snow and freezing temperatures one day and warmer temperatures and rain the next. Ice, freezing rain, wind and snow all play a role in New York City winter property damage losses.

The good news SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is always here to help, our specialized equipment and highly trained professional staff has the scope of services to handle your Manhattan property restoration needs from start to finish. We understand you may not have all the answers, this maybe the first traumatic experience with your residential or commercial property, calling our team connects you to a professional staff that can provide the answers to your restoration concerns and tailor a solution to restore your home or business, “Like it never even happened.”

The winter season creates the most common and costly claims for NYC home and business owners, and winter-related claims are on the rise, likely due to the severity of storms and increase in the number of people with insurance protection. Over 50% of ALL homeowner claims come from wintery wind, hail, and weather-related water damage.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is prepared with highly trained professionals and top-notch equipment to be your number one resource during these times of distress. No property disaster is too large for us to handle, our professionals can find solutions to restore your property, “Like it never even happened.”

ROOF DAMAGE: We often take for granted the work our roofs do for us during tough Manhattan winters, they keep us safe, dry and warm from the worst winter snow and ice storms. They bear the brunt of the elements, over time the cycle of snow and ice accumulation can have devastating effects and cause major damage to roofing materials and weaken the structural components. Excessive snow loads and weakened roofing materials from ice dams, pooling or leakage are all possible problems that can cause water to infiltrate your home or business and cause water damage.

PIPE BURSTS: We also take for granted the plumbing system in our home or business we just know the water is running or in the case of a pipe freeze (not running). During the winter it gets cold and your pipes feel that too, if your pipes get too cold, the water inside will freeze. The ice can expand causing tiny stresses and breaks or a burst, when the ice melts water begins to leak and causes water property damage to your Manhattan home or business. Freezing pipes are a major concern, and a priority for our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan team; learn more about how we can help. Freezing pipes account for 18% of all water damage claims, damage from pipe bursts can include flooding, ceiling collapse, floor and wall damage, contents and electronic damage and mold.

WET BASEMENTS: A Basement is a wonderful asset to your home or business, it can provide additional storage or living space to a crowded property. During winter months melting snow can cause water damage in your basement from faulty gutters, cracks in foundations and improper drainage. Water damage is one of the most common and worst side effects of water leakage or flooding in a basement. In addition to contributing to structural and foundation problems, basement water damage can destroy your personal belongings and interior decorative finishes and it also has the power to create the perfect environment for toxic mold growth.

Our SERVPRO technicians are IICRC certified and have experience working with a variety of water damage situations both big and small. We have seen flooding and carpet issues, to broken or frozen pipe and plumbing issues, and basement and roof leaks. Our technicians understand that a property damage event can be traumatic and unexpected; they realize time and efficiency are important and they take every step possible to minimize the intrusion while executing the cleanup and restoration of your home or business.

24 Hour Emergency Service Call SERVPRO of Central Manhattan

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan provides 24-hour Emergency Services to Manhattan residents and business owners for fire, smoke, sewage and water and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. Our service pros respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

What you should expect while contacting one of our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professionals

DO YOU NEED HELP WITH WINTER STORM DAMAGE? Call Us 24/7 – (212) 246-4148

Fire damage restoration and repair solutions for your Manhattan home

1/24/2019 (Permalink)

If you have experienced fire or smoke damage in your residence it is important to contact SERVPRO for quick and effective mitigation and restoration.

FIRE DAMAGE RESTORATION SOLUTIONS AND HOME FIRE PREVENTION TIPS

Artic temperatures across the Northeast have Manhattan homeowners getting warm and cozy by their fireplaces and wood-burning stoves. It is important to remember proper maintenance and fire safety actions when starting that fire this season, for the first time and each time after. Fireplaces and wood-burning stoves pose a considerable fire threat to your home and family, a fire can result in the loss of personal items, property and even life. Taking proper precautions when using your fireplace or wood-burning stove can help you avoid a property fire disaster negatively impacting your life this winter.

Chimney fires and puffbacks can cause major destruction to your home and possessions; smoke and soot can continue to cause damage long after the flames have gone out.

If you have experienced fire or smoke damage in your home it is important to contact the SERVPRO team for quick and effective mitigation and restoration, depending on the surface material and the duration and time elapsed, damage from soot and smoke maybe completely reversible. Smoke and soot cleanup is expensive and time-consuming, our SERVPRO professionals take careful steps to minimize further damage from soot staining, mold and mildew, rust and corrosion and improve the air quality in your home following a fire emergency. Our trained professionals have the knowledge, skills and equipment to restore your property quickly and efficiently saving you valuable time and money.

STEPS FOR PROPER FIRE PROPERTY RESTORATION:

STEP 1: THE INSPECTION

The first step in the fire mitigation process is determining the cause of the fire, as well as the extent of the smoke damage, and then documenting it through photos to provide to the homeowner’s insurance company. How the fire was started and what materials were damaged gives insight to our professionals on how best to cleanup and restore the loss areas. SERVPRO professionals will explain the cleaning process, go over what you can expect from the demolition and repair/rebuild phases, explain the types of equipment used during the process and begin to decide what items are salvageable after a thorough inventory has been completed.

STEP 2: PREVENT FURTHER DAMAGE WITH CLEANUP & INTERVENTION

SERVPRO cleanup teams will remove any contents from your home as quickly as possible to minimize further damage, our technicians will focus on improving air quality and removing soot and debris to avoid continued damage to your home and contents. HERE TO HELP TIP: If you can turn off your homes HVAC system until a professional arrives for the inspection to avoid spreading contamination to unaffected areas. Our restoration professionals may recommend having vents, ducts and furnaces cleaned/serviced to prevent soot from circulating throughout the home.

STEP 3: REMOVAL OF ITEMS DAMAGED BY FIRE AND SMOKE

SERVPRO professionals know how important your Manhattan home and possessions are, we take extra care in removing items, and involve homeowners during the inventory process. Make sure to notify our SERVPRO technicians of important/sentimental items, or things your family may need returned to them quickly. Contents are photographed, inventoried and packaged, and then taken offsite to our cleaning facility where they’re stored during the repairs. Since the fire cleanup process can vary, it’s common for fire- or smoke-damaged items to be inventoried and later determined as salvageable or non-salvageable.

STEP 4: CONTAINMENT, MITIGATION, REPAIRS AND RESTORATION

SERVPRO professionals will start with containment to help restrict odors and debris from contaminating the air throughout the house and keep the damage contained at the source of the fire and affected areas of the home.

Mitigation – water restoration equipment including air movers and dehumidifiers will remove moisture from walls, flooring and subflooring. Our SERVPRO team will give advice when deciding what items and materials to clean and restored, or what should be replaced. Carpets, fabrics and other porous materials usually need special attention because they are easily ruined. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan’s licensed construction team is an asset to our organization, with them our professionals can provide an additional estimate to continue your complete home restoration solutions with scheduling your repairs and reconstruction phase getting homeowners back into their property as quickly as possible.

WHILE YOU COZY UP TO YOUR FIREPLACE or WOOD-BURNING STOVE PRACTICE THESE FIRE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS:

Before making a fire in the fireplace, open the damper and crack open a window, keep the screen closed to encourage airflow up into the chimney. Light a match, blow it out and watch the smoke to see if it is properly going up the chimney. To increase the draft in your chimney, burn your fires hot and for short periods of time instead of all day. Improper airflow can cause smoke and soot damage to your home’s contents. Poor airflow can result from excessive creosote deposits, closed or plugged dampers, malfunctioning flues, and chimney blockages or a dirty cap, always remember never leave a fire unattended.

Avoid using wood from recently cut trees, they contain high levels of moisture which contributes to additional smoke and deposits inside your chimney. Seasoned and dry wood appears dark, has cracks on the end and will sound hollow when hitting another piece of wood. Look for signs of creosote and soot buildup, creosote is a dark substance that accumulates if wood isn’t burning completely, it’s a major factor in chimney fires and a good reason to have an annual inspection to avoid costly fire property damage and repairs.

SERVPRO professionals have all the tools, equipment, and experience necessary to manage your entire property restoration from beginning to end. Our team work tirelessly to produce quality results from quick and effective mitigation, to putting the finishing touches on any repairs and reconstruction needed to complete the job.  

Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician
Odor Control Technician
Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
Water Damage Restoration Technician

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan services NYC providing full-service solutions for all your fire, smoke, sewage and water emergency situations 24/7, 365, day or night. Call us today for access to fully IICRC certified cleaning and restoration professionals you can trust. (212) 246-4148

Prevent a frozen water damage event in your home or business this winter.

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Freezing temperatures can be incredibly dangerous to your home or business, frozen water, snow and ice can cause significant property damage.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professionals specialize in the cleanup and restoration of your Manhattan residential or commercial property after a frozen water property damage emergency. 

Our specialized equipment and highly trained staff has the scope of services to handle your property restoration needs from start to finish. We understand you may not have all the answers, calling our team connects you to professionals that can provide the answers to your restoration concerns and tailor a solution to repair your home or business, “Like it never even happened.”


These are a few tips you can take to try and avoid turning the coming frigid days and nights into inconvenient and expensive property disasters.

HELP PREVENT FROZEN WATER ISSUES IN YOUR HOME

• Exposed pipes are the most susceptible to freezing, insulate pipes in your home's crawl spaces and attic.
• Heat tape or thermostatically controlled heat cables can be used to wrap pipes and prevent ice dams.
• Seal air leaks in your attic, basement and exterior walls, look for air leaks around electrical wiring, vents, and pipes, and use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out.
• To avoid ice dams, add roof and soffit vents to regulate the air temperature close to the underside of the roof.
• Sump pumps and sub-floor drainage systems are typically used to avoid the continued damage associated with basements and other foundation issues.
• A trickle of hot and cold water might be all it takes to keep your pipes from freezing.
• Let warm water drip overnight, from a faucet on an outside wall.
• Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to un-insulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.

For more HELP WITH YOUR RESTORATION AFTER A FROZEN WATER PROPERTY DAMAGE... Connect with us on Facebook!

SERVPRO Is Always Open for Your Property Emergency

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team never stops being READY to handle your fire, water or mold property disaster.

Property Disasters don’t have regular hours and neither does our dedicated team of technicians and project managers.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan provides emergency cleaning and restoration services to Manhattan, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.
 
When property damage from fire, smoke, water strike, time is of the essence. Contacting a Disaster Restoration company within the first 24 hours after the initial damage can better prevent permanent destruction and reduce repair costs to homeowners. That’s why, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan provides 24-HOUR Emergency Support EVERYDAY! We always have a trained Disaster restoration professional here to help you with your fire or water property damage, call us (212) 246-4148.
 
We answer the phone ready to help with your property damage

As a leader in property damage restoration and repair services, we have helped countless families and businesses through very unpredictable and devastating residential and commercial property losses. We understand you may not know what to do in a disaster situation, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan can help by responding faster with professionals who can help you through the restoration process.

What to Expect

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

Emergency Contact: After you have a property disaster or emergency, your call will connect you to one of our trained professionals to take some basic information to provide to our project managers and technicians. 

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

Inspection and Damage Assessment including Estimate: One of our trained professionals will come and assess your property damage. What type of fire is it? What type of water loss was it? These answers are critical to addressing the unique solution for your restoration needs.

Restoration, Cleanup and Repair: With your approval, our team of skilled technicians starts working on your restoration and cleanup. We can provide board-up, packing and itemizing your property, water, smoke or soot removal, drying and dehumidification, cleanup and repair services depending on your specific situation and restoration needs.

Your best defense against long lasting commercial fire, smoke and water property damage is a quick and rigorous response by our trained technicians. Each SERVPRO of Central Manhattan team member has been thoroughly trained in fire restoration, water restoration, carpet & upholstery cleaning, and mold mitigation before stepping foot onto your home or business. Our restoration technicians utilize state-of-the-art equipment and technology to restore and repair your entire structure and belongings as efficiently as possible.

Property Emergencies happen every day and acting fast after property damage could mean the difference between restoring your home quickly to preloss condition or needing extensive and expensive reconstruction. Our SERVPRO team never stops being READY to handle your fire, water or mold property disaster, we have the best staff, with the best resources standing ready to answer your call quickly and restore your home or business, “Like it never even happened.”

Frozen Pipes: A Winter Water Damage Emergency

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Low temperatures cause seasonal property damage including frozen pipes and ice dams, taking key steps with SERVPRO can help avoid a major restoration.

We can’t control the weather frigid winter temperatures are here in the Northeast, the lower temperatures cause a new set of seasonal Manhattan property disasters including frozen pipes, ice dams and other frozen water damage concerns.

Every winter our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professionals help countless home and business owners in Manhattan with property damage restoration, cleanup and repair of their property following a frozen water property disaster.

Why is a Frozen Pipe a Concern?

• When water begins to freeze, it expands. This can cause both plastic and metal pipes to burst, possibly leading to significant water damage to your home or business.
• Since water expands when it freezes, it puts unwanted pressure on pipes.
• As water freezes, the force exerted from the expansion can cause a pipe to burst, regardless of the strength of the material.
• You may not know you have a burst pipe as the water has turned to ice. Once the temperature starts to warm and thawing begins, leaking and flooding can occur.

TYPES OF WATER DAMAGE FROM A FROZEN PIPE OR OTHER FROZEN WATER DAMAGE

Manhattan residentials and commercial plumbing pipes are typically protected in insulated spaces reducing the risk of freezing, however pipes that run through exterior walls or those that run through uninsulated or under-insulated spaces can freeze. A frozen water property damage event including a frozen pipe burst is especially likely during days and weeks of extended subfreezing weather, or when pipes are in high risk locations for example in cold areas caused by poor insulation, cracks in the walls or foundation, or around entry points commonly found in basements and crawlspaces. Frozen water pipes and the damage they can cause are a reality for thousands of Manhattan home and business owners each year. 

Frozen pipes can often lead to water damage from leaking water or flooding. Water damage can be very intrusive it can cause obvious surface damage but can easily penetrate all the porous materials in your home or business and additionally cause structural damage and mold growth. When moisture meets your property the initial water damage to your home or business and the contents are considered primary issues, with prompt mitigation and repairs by our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan teams, almost all primary issues from water and flood damage can be reversed, avoiding the need for additional costly restoration. However, any continued damage due to rising humidity and prolonged exposure to water or water-soaked materials is considered secondary damage. Water damage that sits for just 24 hours will begin to carry a higher risk of permanently damaging your property, flood and other water damage that goes untreated for longer will almost always result in serious and lasting damage.

FROZEN PIPE WATER DAMAGE TREATMENT AND RESTORATION

The key to avoiding costly secondary damage is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property with proper mitigation. Our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan teams have the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. We begin removing the standing water from your property with extraction methods, and rapidly dry your structure and contents with dehumidifiers that lower the indoor humidity levels, so your building dries out quickly. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professionals will answer your call with rapid action and a full arsenal of drying equipment.

FROZEN PIPE PREVENTION

Short- and Long-term solutions for low temperature plumbing problems include:

• Locate and seal cracks and openings in the walls, attic, basement or crawlspace.
• Weather strip and caulk around crawlspace doors and basement windows.
• Make sure your home is properly insulated. Pay special attention to areas where pipes are located.
• Insulate unprotected pipes and don't leave gaps. Pipe sleeves simplify the process. Keep the pieces tight against each other and seal the slits and joints with duct tape.
• Install storm windows over basement windows or replace the old windows with energy-efficient alternatives.
• Find your main water shutoff so you can turn off the water quickly if needed. Locations vary — look in the crawlspace or basement where the water supply enters the house, inside a water meter box directly outside the house or near the water heater.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air flow around the supply lines. Move any cleaners or other chemicals out of the reach of children.
• Keep your thermostat at the daytime setting during the night. If you'll be away for several days during subfreezing weather, keep it set above 55° F.

What Do You Do if You Have a Frozen Pipe?

• If you have a leak or flood, turn the water off immediately to prevent further water damage and call a licensed plumber to make repairs. 

HOW SERVPRO CAN HELP RESTORE YOUR FLOOD AND WATER DAMAGE FOLLOWING A PIPE BURST

When winter temperatures drop below freezing, the water flowing freely in pipes throughout your home or business have the potential to freeze. When your pipes burst from freezing water, getting the water out fast is our highest priority. Our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan team comes ready with all the necessary equipment to get it done quickly because we want to prevent it from causing further damage to your property. We have years of experience in dealing with Manhattan residential or commercial water damage, and we know what it takes to restore your New York City property, "Like it never even happened."

If you have water damage to your Manhattan home or business give us a call, we are always here to help!

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has some helpful tips to keep your Manhattan kitchen safe from fire damage.

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

Cooking fires are the most common cause of home fires, follow these tips to help prevent potential cooking hazards in your home this holiday season.

Don’t let a cooking fire ruin your holiday season, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has some helpful tips for preventing fire property disasters.

While most of us are thankful for spending time with loved ones and eating too much delicious food on Thanksgiving. There are more potential hazards in your Manhattan kitchen than over stuffing your turkey or yourself.

Year after year cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and fire injuries. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking accounts for about 47% of home fires and 45% of the fire-related injuries reported across the country each year. The NFPA says Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day and then Christmas Eve. Make sure you keep yourself and your family safe this year with these safety tips.

REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE IN THE KITCHEN

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) says 6 out of 7 cooking fires occurred while the cook was out of the kitchen, and 2/3rds of these fires happened in the first 15 minutes of cooking. The BEST WAY you can do to keep you and your family and property safe this year, ALWAYS watch what you’re cooking. If you’re using the stovetop, stay in the kitchen and watch closely. Also, experts recommend setting a timer periodically to remind you to check the oven.

OTHER FIRE PREVENTION TIPS INCLUDE

• Roll up sleeves and don’t wear loose fitting clothing that could catch and open flame or heating element
• Ban children and pets from a 3-foot “safe zone” around the stove
• Keep the stove and oven clean, turn pot handles in to avoid spills and cleanup any messes when appropriate
• Keep potholders, dishtowels, oven mitts, food packaging and other clutter off and away from the stove.
• Clean cooking equipment thoroughly because built-up grease can catch fire.
• Don’t over heat your oils, and wait for grease to cool before disposing, tossing hot grease in a trashcan could turn into a disaster

Smoke detectors are your first line for defense against a fire disaster situation so make sure you have one installed in or near the kitchen and make sure it’s working properly.

IF A FIRE DOES HAPPEN, CONSIDER THESE SAFETY TIPS

• Just get out, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
  Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.

People often try to put out cooking fires themselves with a fire extinguisher or even water. NEVER use water on any grease fire. Store fire safety equipment in a cabinet or under the sink – It’s important to have a fire extinguisher close by as well as a box of baking soda or salt for grease fires. The first step you can take is turning the stove off and having a lid handy to put over the pan you can also smother the fire with baking soda or salt. If the fire is in your oven just close the door and turn off the heat. Done improperly your Manhattan cooking fire can spread to other parts of the kitchen, any time you are unsure of how to combat a fire your best option is to leave and call your local fire department.

CREATE AND PRACTICE A FIRE ESCAPE PLAN

In the event of a fire, remember that every second counts, so you and your family must always be prepared. Escape plans help you get out of your home quickly.

Practice your home fire escape plan at least twice a year, more often if you have small children.

Some tips to consider when preparing this plan include:

• Find two ways out. Visit each room of your house and find two ways out, including windows and doors. Make sure all escape routes open easily so you can get outside, install emergency release devices on any security bars on doors or windows. Practice feeling your war out in the dark and with your eyes closed.
• Involve children in planning. Consider having your children help create a fire evacuation plan. Draw a map of the home and have children mark two exit routes and the locations of smoke detectors. Make sure your children know NOT to hide from firefighters or other first responders.
• Choose a meeting spot. Decide on a meeting place outside, such as a neighbor’s house, mailbox or stop sign. It should be in the front of the house so emergency responders can see you when they arrive. Agree not to go back into the house after you leave.
• Have a backup plan. If the planned exit routes are blocked and it’s not possible to leave the house, close all doors between you and the fire. Place a towel under the door and go to an exterior-facing window. Call the fire department to report your location.

Whether you’re trying a new cooking technique or cooking your signature dish the way you have countless times before; practicing these important holiday safety tips can help you to avoid major mishaps that could lead to smoke or fire damage.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan wishes you a safe and happy holiday season. If your home does experience fire or smoke damage, give us call at (212) 246-4148. We can restore your home “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan works quickly after a fire or water disaster, helping avoid interruption to your restaurant or commercial property.

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

Business interruption affects many parts of a business and can lead to a significant loss of profit, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan can help!

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan works quickly and efficiently to restore your fire and water damage, with little to no interruption to your New York City restaurant or other commercial property.

Running a restaurant or other commercial property is a challenge, time is of the essence when a disaster strikes your Manhattan restaurant or other commercial property. Business interruption affects not only your relationships with customers but also impacts the lives of your employees and can lead to a significant loss of profit. Our technicians make your recovery process from smoke, fire and water damage as simple as possible, from performing an initial inspection and assessment of existing damages to finalizing all repairs and performing a final walk through.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan’s fire and water damage restoration process begins with locating and repairing the source, making sure that it is no longer a problem. Each New York City property loss situation requires unique steps to ensure the safety of your patrons, employees and the workers performing repairs. If any hazards exist that affect the operations of your company, we notify you immediately. To properly remove standing water and other moisture that exists on your Manhattan property, we use quality water extraction equipment such as; wet-dry vacuums, hand-held and truck mounted extractors, or submersible pumps, depending on the amount of water that exists and the size of the affected area.

Even a localized kitchen fire can quickly spread to cabinetry and counters, requiring the need for both cleanup and even possibly demolition and reconstruction of your Manhattan restaurant or commercial property. Still, one of the most significant threats to a customer experience is the odor wafting through the dining area from a recent kitchen blaze. Our teams work tirelessly to clean, deodorize, and repair every damaged item found in your Manhattan commercial property. Our experience gives us a unique perspective when it comes to cleaning delicate cooking utensils or high-dollar appliances. We also use an appropriate antimicrobial, antibacterial, or disinfectant to treat potential health risks, repairing your Manhattan property to a safe and healthy condition.  

Our Commercial Fire and Water Damage Restoration Process

Fire and water damage can leave your New York City restaurant or commercial property unsafe for potential customers. Our experienced SERVPRO of Central Manhattan restoration specialists are trained to clean and restore your property with as little disruption as possible.

Step1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Fire & Water Damage Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

Step 6: Cleaning and Repair

Step 7: Restoration & Rebuild

Fire or water damage to your Manhattan business is frustrating and needs to be dealt with by trained professionals to ensure further damage does not continue to impact your commercial property down the road. We understand the level of importance that surrounds maintaining a safe, healthy environment in your Manhattan restaurant. 

You need access to SERVPRO of Central Manhattan’s team of qualified professionals who are ready to provide you with the expert restoration services you deserve, a company that puts every effort into making damages on your New York City property disappear, “Like it never even happened.”

Have our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professionals perform HEALTH AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY Services with our HVAC & AIR DUCT CLEANING Team.

10/29/2018 (Permalink)

HVAC and Air Duct System will start to slowly collect dirt and debris, the cumulative effect of this over time can lead to considerable energy loss.

Health and energy efficiency is a major concern for many Manhattan property owners and managers. It is becoming increasingly important to clean and maintain your HVAC and Air Duct systems to avoid any negative impact it could have on the health and efficiency of your New York City property and occupants.
 
As much as half of the energy used in your home or business goes to heating and cooling. Making smart decisions about your heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can have a big effect on your utility bills — and your comfort.

BENEFITS OF OUR HEALTH & ENERGY EFFICIENCY SERVICES

• Restore peak energy efficiency & lower energy costs
• Eliminate allergens and odors
• Reduce the potential for mold growth

Through normal HVAC use dirt and debris will start to slowly collect on the surfaces of your HVAC components, these contaminants if not properly maintained can cause a degradation of the efficiency of the entire system. The cumulative effect of this over time can lead to considerable energy loss and can be a contributor to higher energy bills for your Manhattan home or business. In addition, allergy and asthma sufferers, young children, and other occupants with breathing difficulties are more susceptible to poor indoor air quality.

COMMON PROBLEM AREAS

These are common problem areas that contribute to restricted airflow, increased energy consumption and reduced equipment longevity:

• Duct and System Leakage
• Closed, Clogged or Stuck Dampers
• Filtration Issues
• Excess or Damaged Ductwork
• Failed Duct Liner
• Clogged/Nonfunctioning Exhaust Systems

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professionals can perform an inspection to access your system and determine the depth of your problem and if your system could benefit from our cleaning and maintenance services. If moisture is present, the potential for mold growth is increased, sending spores into your Manhattan working or living spaces, creating a much larger problem. 
 

HVAC AND AIR DUCT CLEANING

Generally, refers to the cleaning of various heating and cooling system components of forced air systems, including the supply and return air ducts and registers, grilles and diffusers, heat exchangers, heating and cooling coils, condensate drain pains, fan motor and fan housing, and the air handling unit housing.
 
PARTS OF AN HVAC UNIT THAT CAN BENEFIT FROM ROUTINE MAINTENANCE:

• EVAPORATOR COIL: particle buildup can have an insulating effect on the surface of the coil, leading to longer cooling times and greater energy consumption.
• HEATING COIL: dust and dirt will accumulate and clog air passages this restricts air flow and the furnace must run longer to reach desired temperatures. If a coil is severely impacted by debris, it can cause the unit to malfunction.
• DAMPERS AND TURNING VANES: these elements ensure proper air flow throughout your system, particles or larger debris like insulation can obstruct or diminish airflow, leading to an overall degradation of the entire system.
• AIR REGISTERS: dust and debris can accumulate on the blades and seriously reduce air flow, negatively impacting overall energy performance and comfort levels in the space.
• FRESH AIR INTAKE SCREEN: these openings are integral to the quality of air inside your building, they quickly become clogged from environmental debris and buildup inhibits proper fresh air from entering the system.
• FAN AND BLOWERS: particle buildup can reduce the capacity of the blades to move adequate air causing the blower motor to run longer while pushing less air per rotation. 

When HVAC systems are cleaned of dirt and debris, it doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain the desired temperatures, air can flow more freely. As a result, less energy is used, leading to improved cost-effectiveness, longer operating life, as well as health benefits and energy savings.

Our team of professionals can inspect your Manhattan HVAC or air duct system and access your specific situation and work with you to provide a solution to keep your business air quality healthy and energy efficient. The exact solution for your New York City property will depend on a few factors, including the size of your overall duct and vent system, how accessible your HVAC system is to our technicians, and the level of maintenance required.

Give SERVPRO of Central Manhattan a call for a Free Assessment, we are Always Here to Help! SERVPRO of Central Manhattan (212) 246-4148.

Here to Help Tips: Because it’s important to us that you are prepared in case of an Emergency.

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

Emergencies happen everyday; we have supported countless home and business owners and managers with water, fire and storm property damage.

September was National Preparedness Month; it helps remind everyone that taking little steps to get prepared now, can make a big difference when an Emergency happens.

We here at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan know that Emergencies happen everyday; we have supported countless home and business owners, renters and managers with water, fire and storm property damage. We understand that your lives are busy, it can be overwhelming to add being prepared in case of an Emergency to your list, and getting started maybe the hardest part. We also know that being prepared can make a huge difference when faced with a disaster and can get your life back to normal more quickly afterwards. Doing just a few things each month can have a big impact if the worst happens to you or your community.

This Month’s Here to Help Tips, start with getting informed and communicating with your family, household and community about potential risks and what your plan will be in an emergency situation.

Step 1: Make a Plan

Start making an emergency plan with your family, friends and household by discussing the types of disasters that could strike and what to do at different times of the day. Discuss how to prepare and respond to emergencies that are most likely to happen where you live, learn, work, and play. Keep your emergency plan as simple as possible and use places that are very familiar and hard to forget. Identify responsibilities for each member of your household and plan to work together as a team.

Fill out a Family Emergency Plan and make sure each member has a copy on them at all times.

FEMA.gov has a printable resource to get you started.

Key Points for building your Emergency Plan this Month:

1. Choose at least two pre-planned places for your family to meet in case of an emergency. One should be right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, such as a fire. The other should be outside of your neighborhood in case you cannot return home or are asked to evacuate.

2. Hold evacuation drills at home, practice getting out of the house quickly and drive your planned evacuation route. The more you practice, the more confident you will be if you really need to evacuate.

3. Communication is a key component to your safety; make sure you have an out-of-town contact that will help your household reconnect after an emergency. Store an “In Case of Emergency” contact in your phone, have regular conversations about whom to text or call if you need help and where to go during and after an emergency.

4. Create a personalized plan and supply kit for your specific daily needs and responsibilities, taking into consideration any additional friends or family that may be included in your emergency plan, such as elderly neighbors or grandparents. Some key factors to consider when creating a supply list are:

• Different ages within your household
• Medical and Dietary needs including medications
• Children

Step 2: Start a Disaster Supply Kit

While your family's Emergency preparedness supply kit and other essentials will be unique to you, there are a few basics that will help to prepare you for success, and get you started on the right track. Your kit should be organized and easily accessible, make sure your kit is easy to carry and contains these basics: water, medical supplies, medications, non-perishable foods, a battery- or hand-powered radio, a manual can opener, a flashlight, batteries, spare clothing items including socks, blankets, cash, tools including a wrench and pliers, local maps and your emergency plan, contact information, important personal and financial information, and a first-aid kit.

It’s also recommended that you have backpack kits for each individual and secondary kits in cars, school lockers and work locations in case you are separated during an emergency situation.

The point about Emergency Preparation is that you never know when or where a disaster could happen. It’s important to take steps now to help make sure you and your family will be prepared with needed supplies and essentials if a disaster strikes later. It’s our goal at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan to be here to help you restore your property after a disaster, but we also want to try and help you be prepared to face a disaster and to take steps to try and avoid one.

If you have experienced a property disaster in the Manhattan area and require some restoration help, give SERVPRO of Central Manhattan a call we are experienced in getting your property restored, “Like it never even happened.”

Visit us again for more information about our Here to Help Tips, and for even more tips this month visit our Facebook page by clicking here.

Moisture & Mold Solutions for Your Manhattan Home or Office

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

If your NYC property mold damage is larger than 10 sq. ft, you should contact a mold remediation service like SERVPRO of Central Manhattan

Indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% are ideal.

Moisture problems in your Manhattan home or business have a variety of causes and can lead to major property damage and encourage harmful mold and mildew growth.

Common causes of Moisture and Mold in your home can be:

• Water from a leaking water pipe, toilet, shower or bathtub, also weather related flooding in your home. Depending on the severity, conditions can lead to rot, structural damage, premature paint failure, and a variety of health effects.
• Excessive moisture from condensation and high humidity can have negative effects on your property and may indicate poor ventilation or that repairs are needed.
• Water can seep into your house from the outside through a leak in your roof, foundation, or small gaps around windows or doors.
  
  
• Normal activities such as cooking, bathing, clothes drying and dish washing also add moisture to the air.

All of these common problems contribute to overall high indoor humidity levels leading to mold and mildew growth. Mold can grow quickly and spread fast if moisture is left untreated, under ideal conditions (optimal temperature and level of humidity) it takes 24-48 hours for mold growth to occur. Typically you will start to see visible mold in 12-20 days, the more time passes the greater chance for mold to develop and spread through your property.

When you find mold damage in your Manhattan home or business it is essential to call for remediation services as quickly as possible, as mold can cause adverse health effects. Additionally, mold also leaves behind a musty smell and has the power to rot organic materials. For health and safety reasons, when you find mold, you should contact SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professionals and have them remediate it for you.

When SERVPRO of Central Manhattan arrives at your New York City home or office, we can swiftly inspect the mold damage and then identify a remediation strategy. The first step to containing the problem is to set up plastic sheeting, block vents and doorways, so the spores cannot spread while the colony is being removed.

Certified professionals have the training and experience to:

• Identify moisture sources
• Evaluate mold growth (visible or suspected)
• Contain damage to the smallest area possible
• Physically remove contamination
• Dry materials to ensure that mold will not return
• Perform or recommend procedures for returning property to a preloss condition

It is a good idea to inspect your Manhattan home or business regularly for any damage caused by moisture, if you notice any problems, take immediate action to fix them before they cause further damage or balloon into larger, more complicated issues. Here are some way you can reduce moisture and prevent damage in your home from water and mold.

Install vent fans in kitchens and bathrooms.

• Run a dehumidifier.
• Cover dirt floors in crawl spaces with a plastic vapor barrier.
• Seal air and duct leaks.
• Houseplants can absorb moisture from the air
• Never let wet clothing or other fabrics lie around
• Avoid activities that add moisture to the air on humid days, such as taking hot showers and boiling water on the stove.

Indoor plants that help absorb moisture:

These are perfect plants to have in your home or business to help decrease moisture in the air, with the added bonus of purifying your air of certain contaminants at the same time.

Reed Palms, English Ivy, and Boston Ferns

These plants will reduce humidity levels by absorbing moisture from the air through their leaves.

Some moisture problems in your Manhattan property may require more complex solutions, and sources of moisture may be hidden.

Consult SERVPRO of Central Manhattan for a complete inspection if you have serious water damage or mold problems due to humidity, condensation or a water leak or flood. Luckily, our team at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is highly qualified and trained in water and mold remediation and restoration services.

We are here for you in these very stressful times, our team is Always Here to Help! Contact SERVPRO of Central Manhattan @ 718-375-2388!

Our experts will come in and assess your Manhattan water or mold problem, take the proper steps to limit additional damage. Our teams works quickly to eliminate the water, prepare the area for our advanced drying techniques, inspect for additional damage or mold and work with you to restore your property back to a stable, safe and healthy condition.

Big Concerns: Hurricane Season 2018 Preparing for Intense Storms

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

Knowing the category of a hurricane can help you understand how threatening it may be. It is never too early to start preparing for an emergency.

The 2017 Atlantic hurricane season produced 17 named storms, 10 hurricanes and six major hurricanes, including three Category 4 hurricanes that made landfall in the United States: Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. It was the most active season since 1936. 

When it comes to hurricanes, most of the overwhelming damage, is from the "very few strongest storms," Mann said. "What matters is how many Category 3, 4, and 5 storms we get, and we're likely to see more of those storms, and more damage… as a result." —Penn State climate scientist Michael Mann

Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over warm ocean waters and move toward land. Potential threats from hurricanes include powerful winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents, tornadoes, and landslides. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, Although, they are most common to New York City areas during September and early October.

Southern New England is subject to all three hurricane threats:

• Coastal flooding due to the storm surge.
• Widespread wind damage.
• Widespread inland small stream and river flooding due to heavy rains.

Typhoons and hurricanes are both tropical cyclones with winds of at least 74 miles per hour. The only difference is where they are located. Typhoons form in the northwestern Pacific Ocean, while hurricanes occur in the Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, central and northeast Pacific.

Knowing the category of a hurricane can help you understand how threatening it may be.

Category 1: Winds range from 74 to 95 mph and can be expected to produce some minor damage to property. Injuries to people and animals are generally isolated and limited to flying or falling debris. During a Category 1 storm, protected glass windows generally remain intact. Some roof damage to frame homes, apartments, and shopping centers can also occur, as well as short-term power outages due to snapped power lines and downed trees.

Category 2: Winds range from 96 to 110 mph and can be expected to produce extensive property damage. Greater wind velocities mean that debris poses a greater threat to humans and animals, while the roofing, siding, and glass windows (protected and unprotected) of frame homes are more vulnerable to damage. In a Category 2 storm, significant structural damage to apartment buildings, mobile homes, and shopping centers is also expected, as well as flooding in low-lying areas. Extensive power outages ranging from a few days to a few weeks are common, and residents are encouraged to stock up on potable water as filtration systems also fail during this time.

Category 3: Winds ranging from 111 to 130 mph cause significant damage to property, humans, and animals. Mobile and poorly constructed frame homes are often destroyed, and even well-built frame homes commonly sustain major damage. Significant damage to apartments and shopping centers (even those made of wood or steel) can be expected. Category 3 storms can also cause extensive inland flooding. Electricity and water are commonly unavailable for several days to several weeks after the storm, therefore it’s important for residents to have their own stores of canned food and water.

Category 4: Winds range from 131 to 155 mph and can cause catastrophic damage to property, humans, and animals. Severe structural damage to frame homes, apartments, and shopping centers should be expected. Category 4 hurricanes often include long-term power outages and water shortages lasting from a few weeks to a few months, so again, it’s important for any remaining residents to have a significant nonperishable food and water supply at hand.

Category 5: Winds at or greater than 155 mph cause catastrophic damage to property, humans, and animals (read: you should be nowhere near this storm!). Complete or almost-complete destruction of mobile homes, frame homes, apartments, and shopping centers should be expected, and nearly all trees in the area will be snapped or uprooted. Power outages can last for weeks and possibly months. Long-term water shortages should be expected as well, and most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.

The strongest hurricanes, have brought severe water and storm damage to coastal locations, including Manhattan and other New York City areas, while totally disrupting utility power for days across the interior from downed trees and high winds. Both the stronger hurricanes and many of the weaker tropical storms have caused inland river flooding in parts of the New England. History shows that everyone living in southern New England must take tropical storms and hurricanes seriously. Whether you live along the coast, by a river or stream, or far inland, a tropical storm or hurricane striking Southern New England will affect our local area, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is ready to help you repair your home/business water damage.

The Difference Between a Hurricane Watch and a Hurricane Warning

The difference is 12 HOURS. A watch is issued when a hurricane or tropical storm is possible within 36 hours. A warning is issued when those same conditions are expected within 24 hours.

It’s important to take steps while you have time before a storm arrives to protect the well-being of your family/employees and home/business.

Step 1: Have an Emergency Communication and Evacuation Plan; have a predetermined location both on your property, like the large tree in the front yard, or the family station wagon; and in your local town to meet incase an emergency causes your family to separate. It’s also a good idea to discuss a relative out of town that will be a check-in since it could be difficult to reach others in the same emergency area.

Step 2: Supplies; you should have enough supplies in your home for 72 hours for each member of your family, this includes having specialty items for babies and children or the elderly. You should also have an emergency and first aid kit for your home, your car and each person should have a personal kit for themselves. Another good thing to think about is flashlights, batteries and multiple copies of area maps.

Step 3: Insurance Coverage; consider your coverage for flooding, it’s important to have contact information incase of an emergency and make sure you know what to do if a storm causes damage to your property. If flooding is predicted try and move your vehicles to a safer location. Taking a home inventory can be as simple as snapping cell phone photos of the contents in each of your home’s rooms, and recording the item number or serial number of more important items.

Step 4: Important Documents; you should keep copies of important documents including; proof of ownership for homes, cars and other property. Make sure to keep copies of you and your family’s personal identification and banking information. It’s also a good idea to have some cash available, after a storm getting to an ATM or bank maybe difficult depending on the severity of the damage.

Step 5: Secure Your Property; Experts recommend piling up sandbags at least 2 feet high as an effective barricade against floodwaters. Unplug unused household electronics and appliances, if you are evacuating consider shutting off electricity. Think about trimming trees to reduce any falling limbs and cleaning up things around your home and yard like potted plants, lawn furniture and children’s toys.

Step 6: Electronic Concerns; Aside from keeping extra batteries and chargers around during a hurricane, people are also encouraged to backup any electronic devices. It’s a good idea to store your data at an off-site location.

Call in the Professionals

The effects of a storm to a homeowner can oftentimes be devastating, sustained winds and flooding can damage your home and belongings. When storm and water damage gets serious in Manhattan and New York City, there is really only one team to call—SERVPRO of Central Manhattan! Our team is highly qualified and trained in water restoration, our experts will come in, assess your damage, take the proper remediation steps to limit damage. We work hand in hand with your insurance company to restore your home to what it was before. Like it never even happened!

• We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster
• We provide 24-Hour Emergency Service
• We are a Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
• We are Locally Owned and Operated

Every Manhattan and New York City area water restoration situation is unique and our team will treat them that way. We are here in your Manhattan neighborhoods to help during your water or storm property damage, in these very stressful times and we are Always Here to Help!

When You Need Help, Call Us SERVPRO of Central Manhattan at (212) 246-4148

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan went Back to School Early, Helping a New York City School with Restoration After Water Damage.

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

Contacting our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan team following any water damage, will save precious time and minimize losses to your property.

When flooding caused extensive water damage in a Manhattan school, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan was there to help with restoration and reconstruction. 

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan was there to help, our certified professionals knew that water damage recovery starts with damage assessment, temporary protection, supervised implementation of emergency plans and ongoing monitoring. Our team completed the water extraction and dehumidification processes, thoroughly treated the affected surfaces to inhibit bacteria, mold and mildew growth, and began any necessary reconstruction of the school facility in record time, assuring that classes could resume as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan’s goal is to protect not only your belongings but also your health. We provide 24-hour emergency services that are essential to stabilizing and protecting your health and property from further damage. 

When water damage occurs in a school or other commercial building, knowing what to do will save precious time and ultimately minimize losses to your property and building contents. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professionals have extensive experience repairing and restoring catastrophic water damage. Our technicians understand that unattended water damage continues to cause harm to your commercial property over time. Making it necessary to make quick, informed decisions, performing quality restoration services today, that save you from further damaging problems, tomorrow. 

At SERVPRO of Central Manhattan we take pride in our ability to erase the damage done by water, including damages caused by hidden problems. After 48 hours of exposure to water, there is a risk of mold growth in wet materials. Our Manhattan water damage repair team of technicians put years of training, experience, and specialized equipment to work for you, ensuring the removal of all remaining moisture and a fast, effective drying process that you can count on. Our restoration specialists utilize infrared technology and thermal imagery to assess the full extent of the damage that your property has suffered. The technology can show our technicians areas where water might still exist based on a temperature difference. This process can ensure that the damage has not reached other areas of the building and confirm the completion of the restoration process.

SERVPRO STEPS FOR A WATER DAMAGE EMERGENCY

Step 1 - Emergency Contact
When you call, our representative will guide you through several questions that will help the SERVPRO of Central Manhattan team respond to your water emergency more quickly and efficiently. This initial contact is an important part of a fast, effective restoration.

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment
They carefully inspect your properties water damage, determining the type of water damage and the areas affected. This is a crucial step to creating an effective plan of action that will result in a successful restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction
Typically, hundreds or thousands of gallons of water are removed using our powerful pumps and vacuums during the water removal process. The SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professionals start this process as soon as possible to minimize further damage and to help prevent mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification
After the bulk of the water has been removed, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan local technicians use specialized equipment to target the water that is harder to access. They use less intrusive, scientific drying methods to draw the remaining water and moisture from your property with air movers and dehumidifiers.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing
Water damage also affects your belongings, like furniture, clothing, and personal items. Our team of professionals can clean and restore items using a number of specialized cleaning techniques. They also sanitize with antimicrobial treatments and remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 6 - Restoration
The last step is restoring your home or business back to its pre-water damage condition. The restoration step can be relatively minor, such as replacing a few drywall panels, or could include major reconstruction, such as rebuilding entire rooms of a home or business.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. When our disaster team arrives on the scene, they know how to handle it with expertise no matter the size or scope of the situation.

We take pride in providing our employees with the best tools, equipment, and vehicles to effectively and efficiently get the problem solved with minimal stress and impact on our customers. We know it is never anticipated when a water emergency occurs, but when you call in our SERVPRO of Central Manhattan team, you can count on us to get things refreshed and restored, like it never even happened!

If you need help to cleanup, restore and repair your property after a water damage event, give us a call (212) 246-4148 we are always here to help!

Fire and Water Damage in your Laundry Room can cause serious damage to your home.

8/7/2018 (Permalink)

FACT: The typical life expectancy of a washing machine is 10-11 years, during that time it can wash up to 5,000 loads.

When someone mentions they have a laundry emergency, most people’s first thought would be a red wine or grass stain, but here at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan a laundry emergency is a much BIGGER deal! What you aren’t thinking about is without proper inspection and maintenance those appliances you rely on can really lead to a serious disaster in your home.

Washing Machines typically run a few times per week in most homes, and the typical life expectancy of a washing machine is 10-11 years, during that time it can wash up to 5,000 loads. Washers come with 3 hoses filled with water: hot water, cold water and a drain, that gives that appliance 3 opportunities to suddenly leave you with a laundry room flood, or worse widespread water damage.

To complete a full cycle of laundry you have to put those wet clothes somewhere, and it is convent that the clothes dryer is located right next to the washing machine, right? No one forgets to throw in the laundry detergent when doing a load, but forgetting to dispose of your dryer lint, well that can cause BIG problems. Dryer lint is very combustible, the accumulation of lint in your dryer and vent can reduce airflow, causing your dryer to overheat. An improperly vented dryer can have dangerous consequences and is a leading cause of fire damage in homes.

Steps to prevent a laundry emergency in your home:

1. Inspect the hoses on your washing machine regularly, remember to check for leaks thoroughly but be sure not to disconnect them. The best way to check is to start a small load on a short cycle and make sure you don’t see any water, with each cycle. Better yet replace rubber hoses with a stainless-steel option, they have a longer life span.

2. Give your washer some room, keeping it 6” away from the wall can help prevent the hoses from kinking. Also, make sure you don’t see a lot of movement, an imbalanced washer can move around enough to loosen or cause added stress on your hose connections.

3. If you seem to have continued problems with your washer install a flood stopper. It’s placed on the floor near your washing machine and when it detects water it can shut off the water supply.

4. It is recommended to have your dryer exhaust system cleaned at least twice a year. Make sure you remove lint from your filter and underneath it every time you start a new load. Don’t use dryer sheets and fabric softener and remove the back of the dryer regularly to remove trapped lint.

5. Check that your dryer vent outside is lifting/venting properly. When installing the duct line keep it as short as possible to accumulate less debris. Keep the area around your dryer free of dust and other debris.

Accidents sometimes happen even after taking proper precautions and performing routine maintenance in your home. We here at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan have responded to dozens of calls for water or fire property damage caused by laundry emergencies. We specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after fire, smoke or water damage. Our professional staff has the equipment, expertise, and experience to respond faster to any size disaster.

If you have a laundry emergency caused by Fire/Water Damage! SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is always here to help!

Providing 24 Hour Emergency service, 7 Days a week, (212) 246-4148 we are just a phone call away!

Protect Your Business with SERVPRO of Central Manhattan

7/29/2018 (Permalink)

Be prepared for anything with SERVPRO's Emergency READY Profile

It might shock you to learn that, according to industry research as much as 50% of all businesses may never recover following a disaster. Almost half might seem intimidating as it may lead to believe the future of your company could down to a coinflip. Luckily, it isn’t that simple. Research suggests that preparedness is on of the most important factors when determining their likelihood of survival.  SERVPRO of Central Manhattan wants to help ensure that you and your business are prepared for the worst; and with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile at your disposal, we know you will be.

SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile is a new approach to preparation that will provide us with the critical information needed to begin damage mitigation and the recovery of your business. It was designed to serve as a quick reference of the important information you and SERVPRO of Central Manhattan. Utilizing SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile means you will receive the benefit of over 40 years’ experience in reducing and restoring damage.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage:

• A cost-free assessment of your facility
• A concise Profile Document that contains the critical information needed in a emergency
• A guide to help get you back into your building following a disaster
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work
• Provides facility details such as priority areas and shut-off valves
• Establishes SERVPRO of Central Manhattan as your disaster mitigation and restoration provide

How to get a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile:

• Visit SERVPRO.com/ready and register for an account using an email address as your username
• Choose SERVPRO of Central Manhattan as your preferred franchise representative
• Begin creating ERPs for all your businesses
• Download the SERVPRO Ready Plan app on to your smartphone or tablet
• Launch the Ready app and sign in using the information provided earlier

After all these steps have been completed we hope you can rest a little easier knowing that with a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile and SERVPRO of Central Manhattan by your side your business will be back in action in no time. We want to make sure we get you back to 100% in no time, “like it never even happened.” Call us at (212) 246-4148

Don't Let Damage To Your Commercial Property Damage Your Bottom Line!

7/17/2018 (Permalink)

Regardless of the size of your commercial property SERVPRO of Central Manhattan can help restore your business!

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan knows that your business can be greatly affected by damage done to your commercial property. Intense storms, blizzards, and floods can shut down your property and cost you money. If you are victimized by a disaster or suspect mold may be present in your commercial property, we recommend calling the experts here at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan as quickly as possible so we can get your property back in running condition. Every hour of work lost is an hour of lost revenue; that is why we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If your commercial property has been made inhabitable by fire damage, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan knows exactly what to do! Fire and smoke restoration experts will start by removing all damage done to your commercial property. Our technicians will also be able to remove all signs of the fire and smoke by careful removing the odor that lingers. Your fabrics and upholstery will also be repaired—like it never even happened!

Water damage from a sprinkler system, flood, or tropical storm can cause a lot of problems that will negatively affect your business. If you feel like you are above your head and drowning in a sea of woe, don’t worry because we will be your life preserver. After the structural drying is completed and the odor removed, our experts will remove any trace of significant water damage by cleaning any fabric or upholstery within the commercial property.

Mold can be difficult to detect, but the experts here at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan will be able to test for mold. If you have recently found a leak or you have been flooded there is a good chance mold will be present. We will start by using applied microbial remediation to remove any particles in the air, dry any affected area, remove the musty odor associated with mold, and as always clean your fabrics and upholstery.

Small offices, large retail warehouses, apartment buildings, or high-rise buildings—we can do it all!

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan specializes in cleaning and restoring your commercial and residential property. Our staff is thoroughly versed in damage restoration. We are constantly training our staff on the newest and most efficient ways to remove mold. We are IICRC-certified and great at what we do. Give us a call at (347) 690-7449 so we can get to work fixing your business!

FIRES HAPPEN! Once the fire is out, the recovery process begins. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is here to help!

6/29/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has been successfully helping Central Manhattan, NY homeowners with fire damage for over 27 years.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan’s local professionals have been successfully helping Central Manhattan, NY homeowners with fire damage for over 27 years. We provide 24-hour emergency service and are dedicated to responding FASTER to any size disaster. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

24-Hour Emergency Fire Restoration Service

Call SERVPRO of Central Manhattan, New York at (212) 246-4148 we’re ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help with all your damage remediation needs. 

First Steps After a Fire:

• Safety: Ask the firefighters or proper authorities on the scene if it is safe to go inside.
• Call your Insurance provider: Let them know what happened so they can start a claim and initiate the paperwork for you.
• Contact loved ones: Call to let everyone know you’re okay or let people who weren’t home know what happened.
• Secure the residence/business: Prevent theft by locking the doors and covering windows or holes. If, you need help contact SERVPRO of Central Manhattan, we are here to help!
• Obtain a copy of the fire report: The report specifies all the necessary information about the fire including the time, casualties, date and the extent of fire damage.
• Your current location: Notify friends, family, employers, schools, utilities & services of your temporary location. If you need somewhere to stay you can also contact the American Red Cross for assistance.

CONSIDER CLEANUP REQUIREMENTS: SERVPRO of Central Manhattan, NY can provide services to prevent further damage, help determine which items can or cannot be refurbished and which structural items do and do not need to be repaired or replaced. We can help you with providing estimates to insurance companies for the cost of damages and will help walk you through the process of thoroughly deodorizing, cleaning and repairing your home.

SERVPRO Steps for a Fire Damage Emergency:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call the SERVPRO of Central Manhattan, New York, which is staffed 24 hours a day. Our representative will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us dispatch the nearest SERVPRO of Central Manhattan Professional with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Our Professionals will carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, the SERVPRO of Central Manhattan Professional can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. They will then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

The SERVPRO of Central Manhattan Professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

They will clean all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. They’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call Us Today

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan, New York at (212) 246-4148

Your First Steps After a Disaster

6/8/2018 (Permalink)

You might feel overwhelmed after a disaster, but we are here to help rebuild your home!

It can be difficult to find your bearings after a disaster. We know there are a lot of questions running through your mind after disaster strikes; we’ve found the first question is usually: “What now?”

The most important step before continuing is to ensure your house is safe for reentry. Fire, water, and mold damage can all make your house inhabitable in the short-term. Contaminants in the air or structural damage can cause serious health risks if not addressed immediately.

If the house is safe to reenter you might think the next step is to begin cleaning. We recommend documenting—using a camera or cell phone—the damage done to your home first. Photographic evidence of the damage done to your home and possessions will help when filing your insurance claims.

If your house is unsafe to enter or you lost your camera in the disaster, the next step is to call a professional at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan. Our staff will be able to help document the damage if you are unable and give you an honest assessment of the damage done to your home.

After the assessment, the serviceperson at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan will be able to advise you of the next step. Depending on the cost of repairs, possible increases in deductibles, raises in monthly premiums, or threats of cancellation, it could mean it would actually be more beneficial to not go through your insurer. If you are going through an insurer it is important to note that insurance companies often have agreements in place with companies they call “preferred vendors”. They might try to lean you towards one of their preferred partners, but you should know that you always have the right to go with a company you already know and trust!

It can always be difficult to return to normality after a disaster; we hope you find comfort in knowing that SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is here to help make it easier. Turn a bad situation into a positive one by improving your home during the rebuilding process. We can help you add that extra bathroom you’ve always needed, or that laundry room you’ve always craved. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is ready to help you turn your house into a dream home and repair it like it never happened!

Get Your Ducts in a Row

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

Removing a vent cover will give you a glance inside your duct system.

Duct cleaning is a rather large undertaking that should be best done by service professional. On the bright side, it isn’t too much work to see if they need a cleaning. Removing the vent covers can give you a glimpse into the duct system, allowing you to see if they are free of debris. Air filters will also need to be check for contaminants. These two steps will provide you some insight into the cleanliness of your system. If either of these checks reveals dirt or debris, we advise you call a professional to efficiently clean your system. You can also check your heater; if the heat exchanger surface is unclean then your system is not working at peak performance.

As summer approaches (quickly), now would be a great time to look inside your air conditioner. AC coils should be free of dust or debris. If you shine a light onto coils and are unable to see the light projected on the other side, then you will need our help. The coil fins must be spaced evenly and damage free. If any of these pieces are sullied your AC will be less efficient. Don’t sweat it though, give us a call and we can get your AC running efficiently in no time.

Here is a guide to the work that will do into cleaning your ducts, and making sure everything is running smoothly:

First, we check the AC filters. If the filters are dirty then the air you are breathing is contaminated! Cleaning, or if needed replacing, your filters will ensure the air you breathe is clean and the air flow is unrestricted.

After dealing with the filter, we turn to the condenser coils. Clean condenser coils will keep your unit running at peak efficiency; saving you money every month on your electrical bill.  A SERVPRO of Central Manhattan professional will ensure you are getting the coolest air possible by cleaning the coolant lines.

Finally, to make sure everything is running perfectly, your service person will check the unit while it is powered up. With the power on, we can make one last check for any problems. Needless to say, if there are any additional problems we are ready to fix them!

What Causes Mold Inside The Home?

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has a team of trained mold removal specialists.

Mold needs dampness, water, or mugginess to prosper. Mold spores will start developing when they reach a wet surface. Some basic spots mold can be hiding include:

• Showers, baths, sinks, and toilets are common spots for mold. These places tend to be clammy and, without legitimate ventilation, provide the perfect home for mold.
• Air conditioning and warming vents.
• Fireplace and stack. When not being utilized chimneys and smokestacks are cool, clammy, and murky—fertile ground for mold spores.
• In the attic. In the event that your rooftop has a leak mold can develop and spread through the ventilation space in the upper room. It will likewise flourish in ventilation or soffit vents.
• In the cellar. That recognizable basement smell is proof of dampness and—more than likely—mold. Frequently, mold will be found surrounding pipes, close to the foundation, sump pump, windows, or vents.

Indoor mold development must be halted by drying the dank conditions inside. In the event that there is mold development in your house it is important to stop it quickly and eliminate the source of the issue. In the correct circumstances mold growth will become rapid, in as meager as 24-48 hours.

If you believe your home has mold it’s important that you call an expert as soon as possible. They will begin by examining and testing the zone. The Mold Remediation Specialists at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan are experienced and certified in water and mold removal. They’re specialists in mold restoration and know how to efficiently deal with mold, utilizing the best available hardware.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan’s specialists will evaluate the damage and, if required by law, receive a protocol for a Certified Mold Assessor in order to devise a strategy. They will then focus on the compromised area, utilizing barriers and negative air pressure chambers, containing the mold so they can get to work cleaning and restoring your home.

The specialists at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan are thoroughly trained in remediation, guaranteeing that the rebuilding of your home or business is completed swiftly and efficiently.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan offers an immediate response every minute of every day, or you can call to plan an extensive exam of your home or business.

Is Black Mold Really Dangerous?

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Central Manhattan for all of your mold removal & remediation needs.

We’ve all been there. You go into your basement or your bathroom and there, on the wall, you see it: black mold. You panic, because you’ve heard horror stories for years about the dangers of black mold, but is there really any truth to the hype?

In truth, the term “toxic black mold” is a misnomer with no scientific validation at all. In fact, the term “toxic mold” is also inaccurate. According to the CDC, “the term ‘toxic mold’ is not accurate. While some molds can produce toxins, specifically mycotoxins, the molds themselves are not toxic or poisonous”.

So what kinds of mycotoxins can black mold produce? The trichothecene types below are found in toxic black mold:

• Cyclosporin
• Roridin E
• Satratoxin F, G and H (the most abundant type of trichothecene)
• Sporidesmin G
• Stachybotryolactone
• Trichoverrol
• Trichoverrin
• Verrucarin J

Molds come in a rainbow of colors but it is the black mold species Stachybotrys chartarum that has been falsely dubbed “toxic black mold”. In reality, mold is everywhere in our environment, it’s the dosage that makes the poison.

There is no argument that excessive exposure to almost any type of mold can cause adverse health effects, no matter what the color.

In addition, mold growth can also damage buildings—weakening structure and causing unpleasant odors, as well as causing ugly staining. Cleaning mold is often exactly what causes it to spread; the process dislodges mold spores and allows them to travel into new areas of the environment.

To avoid this it’s best to call a professional when you suspect you have a mold issue in your home or business. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has years of experience in mold removal and remediation and can ensure that any damage caused by mold is repaired properly, and completely. With SERVPRO of Central Manhattan it’ll be "Like it never even happened."

The Real Truth About Mold Removal And Mold Remediation

3/23/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can be very dangerous to your health. Contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan immediately if you find mold.

Many contractors and even mold removal companies will try to confuse you as to the difference between mold removal and mold remediation. Some will try to tell you that for a small mold issue, you can get mold removal, but for a larger more dangerous issue, you’ll need a more complicated, and expensive, mold remediation. Out of fear, many will choose to go with remediation and spend the extra money. That makes sense, mold can be extremely dangerous, causing severe illness and other problems, but the fact is that mold removal and mold remediation are interchangeable terms that mean the same thing!

Mold is endemic in our environment, meaning you can find it almost everywhere that water and oxygen are present. While some mold, such as the mildew in your shower (when in small quantities,) are considered “cosmetic mold” and can be simply sprayed with bleach, other types of mold (and even mildew when it spreads,) can become dangerous and toxic.

Certified Mold Specialists

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan has certified mold remediation technicians that can not only help to identify and properly remove the mold in your home, but they will also locate the source, and eradicate the cause of your mold issues.

When you find mold in your home, make sure that your mold professional can explain the mold remediation process in simple terms. Many small mold issues should not be expensive to handle. Moldy drywall is one example. If the affected area is small, it should not be a tremendously expensive fix. The most important issue with small drywall fixes happens once the damaged section is removed. It is imperative to ensure that spores are not spread further, so great care must be taken with the disposal of affected areas. If the technicians you hire use extremely technical terms to frighten you into tremendously expensive treatment options, be wary.

When you call SERVPRO of Central Manhattan, we will carefully inspect your property to ensure that not only are all mold issues are addressed, but also that we locate the source of the issue, and eradicate it. If we do find an issue that needs to be addressed, we will use specialized filtration equipment to capture microscopic mold spores that may be in the air and to prevent them from spreading during removal.

In addition to mold removal, we also specialize in cleaning your belongings and ensuring that they are sanitized and safe to use. Should major restoration need to be done, we can also handle reconstruction and finishing to ensure that you are back to normal as quickly, and cleanly, as possible.

Mold doesn’t have to be scary, so don’t let an unqualified contractor or “specialist” make it into a nightmare.

Water Damage & Flooding

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

If you experience water damage or flooding, contact SERVPRO of Central Manhattan immediately

The rainy season is upon us in Central Manhattan. Excessive rainfall means the potential for leaky roofs, flooded basements and other types of water damage. These situations are some of the most costly that a homeowner or business owner can face. Water can quickly lead to mold growth, damage furniture and drywall, and compromise the very structure of a house or building.

Common causes of water damage include corroded or damaged pipes, blocked gutters, and leaks from roofs or windows.

To prepare for flooding, elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home or building. Install check-valves to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains. And know how to locate and safely shut off all utilities.

There are also several measures you can take to help prevent water damage. Inspect sinks, showers, toilets, gutters and downspouts to ensure there are no blockages. Have a sump pump installed in the basement of your home or business. Seal basement walls and floors with waterproofing compounds.

If certain areas consistently have standing water or if there are a few spots in your basement where water regularly collects, there might be a problem with the pitch or angle of the grounds outside. If the ground is pitched toward your house or building, water will run back toward it, causing leaks or flooding. So make sure the ground pitch is angled away from your home or facility.

Water and flood damage restoration is not a do-it-yourself project. It is a lengthy and potentially dangerous process that should be tackled only by experienced professionals, like the experts at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan. If you have an issue, call SERVPRO of Central Manhattan right away. While you wait for our restoration team to arrive, take the following steps:

1. Turn off all power
2. Move important possessions and documents to safety
3. Raise all furniture or remove it entirely
4. Let in fresh air if weather permits
5. If safely doing so is possible, use buckets to remove water, and clean out the internal and outside water drainage of your home or building

Once they arrive, the SERVPRO of Central Manhattan team will begin the repair and restoration process:

Assessment

Our technicians determine f the water is from a clean source or an unsanitary place like a sewerage system. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan locates and measures the damage, from subfloors to inside the wall cavities and elsewhere.

Water removal

We use powerful vacuums capable of removing thousands of gallons every hour.

Drying

Our licensed restoration professionals have the knowledge and heavy-duty
equipment to start the air movement necessary to dry out your home or facility. They will also inspect the affected areas for mold.

Without prompt action, water damage is virtually guaranteed to spread and become permanent. The longer you wait, the greater the chance of mold growth and unrecoverable property. So if you live in Central Manhattan and have a water issue, call SERVPRO of Central Manhattan immediately. Our professionals have the expertise to reverse and prevent the devastating effects of flooding and water damage.

When a pipe bursts in your home.

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

A burst pipe can cause serious water damage.

2018 has brought us mostly subfreezing temperatures. When it gets this cold outside homes are at risk of burst pipes and all of the headaches and water damage they bring. Water pipes burst when the water inside them freezes and expands causing an increase in pressure inside the pipe. When the pressure gets too high for the pipe to contain it bursts causing damage to your home.

A burst pipe can happen almost anywhere, but usually occurs with pipes that are close to the exterior of your home. The most critical aspect of dealing with a burst pipe is turning off the water supply and stopping the flow of water. Water in a crawlspace or basement is usually well contained and can be easily dried out. However, when a pipe bursts in the main part of your home, such as a toilet feed or an under-sink supply line, it can create a much bigger mess depending upon how much water has inundated the house.

As with any water damage, time is of the essence as mold can start to develop in as little as 24 hours after flooding occurs. The more time that passes without treatment the more likely those materials will continue to deteriorate and may not be salvageable. This is doubly true in homes with carpeting.

When a pipe in your home bursts—affecting multiple rooms—travels from an upper level to a lower level of the home, or has been left unnoticed for more than 8 hours, professional water mitigation and specialized drying equipment is essential for preventing long-term damage. If you see that water has seeped into the subflooring or the drywall the safest step would be to contact a professional water damage remediation company like SERVPRO of Central Manhattan  to help remove or restore items that would otherwise be destroyed by mold.

Prevent Smoke Damage From Your Fireplace

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

Prevent Smoke Damage From Your Fireplace

The weather outside is frightful and there is nothing better than curling up on a cold night to the warm glow of a fireplace. Unfortunately, fireplaces can also pose a smoke and fire hazard to your home. There is, however, nothing particularly soothing about unwanted fireplace smoke puffs that spill into the home while the fire is burning. Fires can also start when hot embers from the fire catch on residue from unclean chimneys.

If you are someone who likes to use their fireplace during the winter here are a few tips to prevent smoke or fire damage to your home.

Nobody likes a drafty house, but a house that is relatively airtight may not be able to supply enough outside air to the fire, resulting in a negative pressure in the home. Well-insulated homes can benefit from an outside air supply vent installed in the fireplace to satisfy the fire's needs.

Exhaust fans—like in kitchens or in forced air heating systems—can cause negative pressure, which will drag the smoke from your fireplace into your home. Turn off exhaust fans before settling down by the fire.

Only use your fireplace when it is cold out. The difference between the indoor and outdoor air helps the smoke draft properly. If it is too warm the smoke will have nowhere to go.

Make sure that the damper is open all the way. Sometimes there is a rain cap or even another damper on top of the chimney, which may be obstructed and needs attention. This can also be a fire hazard, so be careful.

Wet firewood can create heavy smoke. Make sure you only use seasoned firewood that is dry in your fireplace.

If you experience smoke or fire damage from your fireplace this winter contact the experts at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan. Their smoke damage experts can clean your furniture, curtains, walls, and floors to get rid of not only the black soot, but the foul odor it leaves behind.

Responding to Hurricane Harvey

11/22/2017 (Permalink)

Hurricane Harvey Blasts Texas

SERVPRO is known to respond faster to any disaster; after the devastation of Hurricane Harvey hit Texas, we lived up to that claim. Hurricane Harvey was a Category 4 storm that hit Texas on August 25, 2017. It caused $180 billion in damage. That’s more than any other natural disaster in U.S history, except the largest estimates of Hurricane Katrina damage.

At its peak on September 1, 2017, one-third of Houston was underwater. Two feet of rain fell in the first 24 hours. The storm claimed the lives of 82 people and damaged 203,000 homes, of which 12,700 were destroyed.

Harvey was just winding down when our team landed in San Antonio, TX, after that it was a harrowing journey navigating across flooded river crossings and damaged bridges to get to Houston. Within the first three days we surveyed thirty properties for water and storm damage and started getting them on the path to recovery.

We were able to coordinate efforts mobilizing the resources we needed to help dry out and rebuild these properties, shipping in tractor-trailers full of equipment, our crew of one hundred ready to work.

Fire Remediation

10/20/2017 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration.

On average U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 358,300 home structure fires per year. Fires usually strike without warning and even relatively small fires can be devastating. The main thing to remember when faced with a house fire is to get everyone safely out of the house. Items can be replaced, family cannot.

Once you and your family are safe, contact your insurance company IMMEDIATELY after the fire is out. They can provide advice on how to handle the aftermath of your fire and possibly be able to recommend a professional fire restorer, like SERVPRO of Central Manhattan.

The fire restoration experts at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan can not only rebuild your fire damaged home, but they can also help determine which items can or cannot be refurbished and which structural items do and do not need to be repaired or replaced. They can also help with water damage caused by fire fighters’ hoses, as well as clean soot and the smoke smell from areas of your home not damaged by the flames themselves.

Here are some additional tips to follow after the event of a fire.

Safety Tips During Restoration

• Do not use electrical appliances that have been near a fire.
• Do not use ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet.
• Do not touch anything during your first inspection to prevent transferring soot from item to item.
• Do not wash drapes or other materials that may require dry cleaning.
• Do not hesitate to seek professional help in a restoration effort.

Hiring a professional to do the clean up after a fire is always recommended, if you experienced a house fire and need help with fire restoration call SERVPRO of Central Manhattan

Construction Services

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

Rebuilding after a disaster.

After a disaster—whether it be a fire, water, or storm—damages your home you will need to rebuild and restore. For decades SERVPRO has been known for their ability to respond to a disaster and fix your home to “make it like it never happened”.

The first thing you must do after a disaster is take temporary protective measures such as placing roof tarps to prevent additional damage, and boarding up to secure the building and remove water and debris. Mold, smoke, fire, and water damage all have their own protocol for restoration and our experts know how to tackle each problem.

Once your home or building is secured and the hazards are removed you can start the rebuilding process; from the structure itself to preserving and restoring the treasured items inside your home—including heirlooms, art, and family photos. The professionals at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keeps costs low.

SERVPRO of Central Manhattan can provide this continuity by supervising a full range of restoration services that will bring a building back to full functionality.

• Board Up
• Carpet Repair and Installation
• Document Drying
• Dry Cleaning
• Drywall Installation
• Drywall Removal
• Electrical
• Electronics Restoration
• Fine Art Restoration
• Furniture Restoration
• General Contracting
• Hardwood Floor Repair
• HVAC Services
• Move Out
• Painting
• Plumbing
• Roofing Services
• Tree Removal
• And more!

If you are in need of construction services contact SERVPRO of Central Manhattan at (212) 246-4148.

Document Restoration

8/21/2017 (Permalink)

Document restoration at SERVPRO of Central Manhattan

Aside from people, some of the hardest things to replace after a natural disaster are documents. After a flood or fire photographs and books could be lost forever. As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Central Manhattan knows that timely mitigation is the key to recovering damaged possessions. Our experience and state-of-the-art technology can help save your important documents from the trash.

We employ the latest technology available, utilizing the same freeze-drying methods used by the Library of Congress to dry valuable historic documents and books; this method can clean and dry your documents without sacrificing their integrity or damaging them. As powerful as our document restoration technology is, it is delicate enough to handle old and fragile documents, books, and papers. With water damage like sewage or floodwater, documents will be exposed to bacteria, viruses, pesticides, or other harmful chemicals. Our team uses a gamma irradiation process to safely and effectively sterilize your documents.

Our facility is managed by HIPPA Master-certified technicians, under 24/7 surveillance so you know that your personal information is kept secure and confidential.

To prevent your documents from becoming damaged again, we also offer digitalization for your documents and photos. We use a computerized inventory system for digitizing your documents. In the digital age converting your paper files and photos to digital formats can have an invaluable impact on your business or home. You can have access to your records while saving space.

Types of Documents We Restore/Preserve

• paper documents
• books and magazines
• manuscripts and files
• photographs, films, negatives, and microfiche
• x-rays
• blueprints and maps
• parchment

If you are in need of document restoration services contact SERVPRO of Central Manhattan at (212) 246-4148.

Water Damage: A Timeline 

7/20/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Central Manhattan provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Central Manhattan arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

             Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

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

Hours 1 - 24

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

48 Hours to 1 Week

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

More Than 1 Week:

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

About SERVPRO of Central Manhattan

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

What to Do After a Fire

6/1/2017 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be devastating.

There is nothing quite as devastating as a house fire. Once the smoke clears, and the fire trucks drive away, the real work begins: rebuilding. It may be a daunting task, especially when there is such a mess left behind, but it is possible to rebuild.

The first thing you should do after a fire is contact your insurance company within the first 24 hours. Your insurance company will advise you on how to handle the aftermath of your fire, and possibly be able to recommend a professional fire restoration company—such as SERVPRO of Medford. A fire restoration company provides services to prevent further damage, help determine which items can or cannot be refurbished, and which structural items do and do not need to be repaired or replaced. They provide estimates to insurance companies for the cost of damages, and will help walk you through the process of thoroughly deodorizing, cleaning, and repairing your home.

Things to remember after a fire:

• Don’t use any electrical appliance that was in or around the fire.
• If the ceiling or floor above is wet, do not use any ceiling lights or fans.
• Don’t touch anything to prevent soot from getting everywhere.
• Don’t wash drapes or other materials that may require dry cleaning.

Hiring a professional like SERVPRO of Central Manhattan right after a fire can save you time and money.

Call SERVPRO of Central Manhattan at (212) 246-4148

Puff Back

2/8/2017 (Permalink)

Puff Back happens when your ignition fails to light properly, and oil fumes accumulate in the chamber of your furnace. When the pilot light ignites again it causes a small explosion shooting the dust and soot in your ducts or baseboard all over the room. The resulting soot gets into everything including Drapes, blinds, furniture, bedding, clothing, floors, carpets, dishes, appliances, you name it, causing major headaches for homeowners.

Soot is very difficult to clean. It can’t be wiped off with a regular sponge, towel, paper towel, etc. in fact that just makes the problem worse! The cleaning of soot requires special sponges and cleaning products that are used by professionals. Almost worse than the mess is the smell that seems to permeate into everything. This odor is difficult to remove and requires the services of a professional to remove as well. A professional certified home restoration company such as SERVPRO of Central Manhattan is experienced with handling puff back situations. A puff back can occur in large proportion such as the situation just mentioned or in small proportion, over a period of time. If you notice black soot accumulating on carpet around heating vents or baseboard, or on surfaces inside your home, chances are you are experiencing a small scale puff back.

Hiring a professional like SERVPRO of Central Manhattan right after a puff back can save you time and money.

      Call SERVPRO of of Central Manhattan at (347) 690-7449

What To Do After a Flood

2/8/2017 (Permalink)

It is hard to be prepared for a flood because so often they come on so quickly. While floods rarely can be prevented, what you do after a flood can save you thousands of dollars on flood remediation and water damage repair costs.  Here are some tips to take after you notice flood damage.

1. Tread Carefully

Do not go into the water without protection even if it is clear. Flood waters can be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals. If there is possibility of downed or live wires don’t risk it, wait for a professional. If it is safe to go into the water wear waders, hip- or waist-high waterproof boots. In addition, wear rubber gloves to remove water- damaged possessions and to avoid contaminants. Hiring a professional to do flood clean-up is the best way to ensure your safety and the safety of your possessions. Any food that came into contact with the flood waters should be thrown away. Boil all of your water until authorities declare the water supply is safe.

2. Get Pictures

Before you remove any water or make any repairs, fully document the damage to send to your insurance company by taking photos or video. If you start removing water or making repairs before you photograph the damage, you run the risk of decreasing the extent of your coverage.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company

After you have ensured your family is safe, the first person you contact should be your insurance agent. If the floods have affected an entire region note that your agent might be dealing with their own flooding emergency and may not be available. If that is the case, contact your insurance company’s headquarters they should be able to direct you to the right information.

Let your insurance company know the extent of the damages to your home and any repairs you intend to do immediately. Be sure to follow the insurance company’s direction about whether or not to wait for an adjuster to inspect the property before making repairs. Document the damage and conversations at every stage of the process.

4. Call SERVPRO of Central Manhattan

Our expert flood damage remediation specialists can help you recover from water damage. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete.

If you have flood or water damage in your home, call SERVPRO of Central Manhattan at (347) 690-7449

Burst Pipes

1/20/2017 (Permalink)

When old man winter starts doing his worst, it wreaks havoc on your home. Plunging temps put your pipes at risk of freezing. Burst pipes cause problematic water damage require remediation, not to mention the risk for mold as well. As water freezes it expands putting pressure on metal and other pipes. The continuous expanding and contracting eventually weakens the integrity of your pipes turning them into ticking time bombs. Expanding water can cause pipes to break leaving you with a big, wet, cold mess.

So How Do you Prevent Burst Pipes?

Ice alone forming in a pipe is not what causes it to break. It’s the continual freezing and expansion that causes water pressure to increase downstream, between the ice blockage and the closed faucet at the end. It’s this increase in water pressure that leads to pipe failure and usually the pipe will burst where little or no ice has formed.

Pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines, and water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets. Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation are also subject to freezing.

Keep the water running at a trickle to keep water from settling? Open cabinets and draw heat to pipes against exterior walls and places like your basement.

If you should find yourself faced with a pipe break situation, contact your insurance company then call us. We have 24 hour emergency services available and will do our very best to bring your home back to its pre-loss condition as soon as possible.

Call SERVPRO of Central Manhattan at (212) 246-4148

Mold Remediation

11/30/2016 (Permalink)

If you have mold problems call SERVPRO of Central Manhattan

Mold likes to develop in damp, dark areas of your home. Unfortunately with mold damage, by the time you notice it, the problem is usually much worse behind the walls, under the floors or in other sneaky hiding places. Black mold is insidious and loves to grow behind walls, in crawlspaces and under floorboards anywhere that is damp, dark and humid. By the time you see signs of it, the problem is usually much bigger.

Black mold tends to have a strong, musty smell, and of course it displays a trademark black color. If you believe you have black mold growth in an area of your home after these initial inspections, you should contact a professional mold remediation company like SERVPRO of Central Manhattan

Black mold can cause health problems and decrease the value of your home. It is imperative that you contact a mold remediation specialist at the first sign of a mold problem.

Call SERVPRO of Central Manhattan at (212) 246-4148