Recent Water Damage Posts

ater Remediation: Protecting Your South Bronx Home from the Aftermath of Water Damage

9/1/2023 (Permalink)

Unfocused close up image of a white round sink pictured from the right side overflowing with the tape running. Shut ff the water source if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.

Introduction

Water damage is a homeowner's worst nightmare. Whether it's caused by a burst pipe, a severe storm, or a malfunctioning appliance, the consequences can be devastating. When water damage strikes your South Bronx home, you need a trusted partner to help you get back on your feet. That's where SERVPRO of South Bronx comes in. In this blog post, we'll explore the essential steps in water remediation and how our team can help you restore your home to its pre-damage condition.

Understanding Water Damage

Before diving into water remediation, it's crucial to understand the various ways water damage can affect your home. Water damage can be categorized into three main types:

  1. Category 1 Water Damage: This type of damage is caused by clean water sources, such as burst pipes, overflowing sinks, or rainwater. While the water itself may be clean, it can quickly become contaminated if left untreated.

  2. Category 3 Water Damage: Gray water contains contaminants that may not be harmful initially but can become dangerous if left untreated. This includes water from washing machines, dishwashers, or sump pumps.

  3. Category 3: Black water is the most hazardous type of water damage. It often contains sewage, chemicals, and other harmful substances. This type of damage typically results from flooding or sewage backups.

The Water Remediation Process

Water damage remediation is a complex and multi-step process. Here's an overview of the essential steps we take at SERVPRO of South Bronx to restore your home:

  1. Emergency Contact: When you discover water damage, the first step is to contact our team immediately. We offer 24/7 emergency response to ensure a swift and effective response.

  2. Inspection and Assessment: Our experts will assess the extent of the damage and identify the water source. This step is crucial for creating a customized remediation plan.

  3. Water Removal: We use powerful pumps and vacuums to remove standing water from your home quickly. The faster we remove the water, the less damage it can cause.

  4. Drying and Dehumidification: After water removal, we focus on drying the affected areas to prevent mold growth and further damage. Industrial-strength dehumidifiers and air movers are used for this purpose.

  5. Cleaning and Sanitizing: We clean and sanitize all affected surfaces, including walls, floors, and belongings. This step helps eliminate contaminants and odors.

  6. Restoration: The final step involves restoring your home to its pre-damage condition. This may include minor repairs or major reconstruction, depending on the severity of the damage.

Why Choose SERVPRO of South Bronx?

When it comes to water remediation in the South Bronx, you need a trusted and experienced team on your side. Here are some reasons why you should choose SERVPRO of South Bronx:

  1. Expertise: Our technicians are highly trained and certified in water damage restoration.

  2. Advanced Equipment: We use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure the most efficient and effective remediation process.

  3. Local Knowledge: We understand the unique challenges of water damage in the South Bronx and tailor our approach accordingly.

  4. Insurance Assistance: We work with your insurance company to streamline the claims process and reduce your stress.

Conclusion

Water damage is a formidable adversary, but with SERVPRO of South Bronx by your side, you can regain control of your home and your life. Our comprehensive water remediation process ensures that your home is restored to its pre-damage condition as quickly and efficiently as possible. If you ever find yourself facing water damage in the South Bronx, don't hesitate to contact us for immediate assistance. Your home's restoration is our top priority.

SERVPRO of South Bronx Water Services

9/9/2022 (Permalink)

"Image of a wet hand dripping water over a small model home with a black background" A storm, flood, or plumbing problem can leave your home with extensive water damage.

It depends on the season the problem your property could have, so we want you to stay alert and have this in your mind:

There are some common problem areas to inspect for potential damage during spring, including your roof and gutter system, foundation and yard, plumbing system, and your property's exterior. From the top-down, these areas could get worse from the elements that winter can bring; here are some signs of wear to look out for:

  • Roof and Gutter System Damage
  • Window, Door, and Exterior Damage
  • Foundation and Other Drainage Problems
  • Plumbing Damage

Also, when winter begins, we know that storms create great chaos when they get to our homes; To ensure your space is well and in order, here are some tips for inspecting for damage; these will save you money in the long term prevent unnecessary property damage. 

Our local disaster restoration services include:

  • Inspection and Assessment of any damaged areas
  • Water Removal
  • Drying and Dehumidification
  • Cleaning and Repairs
  • Restoration and reconstruction, as necessary

If your home or commercial business deals with one of these issues, contact us! 

SERVPRO of South Bronx Water Services

9/9/2022 (Permalink)

"Image of a wet hand dripping water over a small model home with a black background" A storm, flood, or plumbing problem can leave your home with extensive water damage.

It depends on the season the problem your property could have, so we want you to stay alert and have this in your mind:

There are some common problem areas to inspect for potential damage during spring, including your roof and gutter system, foundation and yard, plumbing system, and your property's exterior. From the top-down, these areas could get worse from the elements that winter can bring; here are some signs of wear to look out for:

  • Roof and Gutter System Damage
  • Window, Door, and Exterior Damage
  • Foundation and Other Drainage Problems
  • Plumbing Damage

Also, when winter begins, we know that storms create great chaos when they get to our homes; To ensure your space is well and in order, here are some tips for inspecting for damage; these will save you money in the long term prevent unnecessary property damage. 

Our local disaster restoration services include:

  • Inspection and Assessment of any damaged areas
  • Water Removal
  • Drying and Dehumidification
  • Cleaning and Repairs
  • Restoration and reconstruction, as necessary

If your home or commercial business deals with one of these issues, contact us! 

SERVPRO of South Bronx 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

"a half inch of standing water in a modern living room with book shelves and a fire place" The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration

SERVPRO of South Bronx 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

SERVPRO of South Bronx is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today - (347) 590-9902

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Valley Stream has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.




What to Expect

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

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)?

About SERVPRO of South Bronx 

SERVPRO of South Bronx 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.

How to Tell If Water Damage Is New or Old?

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

An close up image of water on vinyl floor with a blurred couch in the background. Keep an eye out for mold, as it can take several days to appear after water damage

Water Damage Signs Can Indicate Age of Damage

When surveying water damage in your home or business, it may be difficult to determine how old the damage is. Often, new homeowners, those moving into an apartment, property owners in between tenants, or even those simply doing some redecorating come across water damage that gives them pause. The question becomes, is it superficial damage that requires minimal cleanup? Damage that has already been tackled at the source and is no longer a threat? Or something deeper that requires the assistance of a professional cleanup and restoration company like SERVPRO®? Considering the time-sensitive nature of finding water damage, it is important you gather as much information as possible before you take the next steps. If you have found what you believe is water damage, the following tips can help you determine if the water damage is new or old: ?

  • If you can safely reach the area, try touching the water damage. You can determine a lot using this method; if the water’s still wet, and the surrounding walls and ceiling are firm, the water damage is new. However, if what you touch is squishy, as well as the surrounding walls, it is likely the water damage is old
  • Take into consideration the history of the home or business. Try to recall when any past damage occurred, if any, as well as their severity. Additionally, be aware of your location; consider how many storms the property normally experiences, and what the severe weather is like in your region. Ultimately, be aware of the layout and potential “hot spots” for water damage, as this factors into determining whether what you have discovered is new or old water damage
  • Look for decay in and around the area of damage, as that may indicate the damage has been there for an extended period
  • Keep an eye out for mold, as it can take several days to appear after water damage
  • Look for rings in the affected walls or surfaces. Just as the number of rings indicates a tree’s age, rings around water damage can help you determine whether the damage is new or old. A dark spot with no rings around it tends to mean the damage is new. However, if you see numerous rings of different shades, that can mean the area has gone back and forth between being soaked and dried and old
  • Lastly, examine the affected materials in general. Thicker paint and/or tiles can trap water, leading to leaks. Something as small as a minor water blotch can indicate there is water that’s been building up behind the materials for a long time, but of course, more obvious signs, like ceiling bubbles from water, can point to increasing damage as well

If you’re not sure it’s water damage, to begin with, please visit: What Are The Signs of Water Damage In Walls? Keep in mind, that just because water damage is old (or may appear old) doesn’t mean you should wait. If left unattended, water damage can get worse over time; how quickly that happens varies, depending on how much water is present, in what areas, and the age of the home or business. Make sure you know whatever is remaining is superficial by either getting an inspection or confirming with your property owner.

Remember, it's important to act quickly, even if you’re not sure you’re dealing with water damage. Here are different ways water damage can get worse:

  • Water damage can spread the longer it sits unattended. Even an initially small bit of damage can grow worse and larger, becoming much more severe. Even if you don’t notice it at first, pipes can leak, causing severe destruction in a matter of days; what can become especially dangerous is when the water damage is hidden behind a wall or other obstruction
  • Flooding can occur, especially from aging appliances like washing machines and dishwashers

  • Foundations or electrical wiring can become compromised

Call SERVPRO if you want an inspection of your property. Our average detailed inspection process begins with an initial damage assessment, where our technicians will survey the scope of damage to determine the best course of action, as well as note any safety concerns or hazards that may be present, like asbestos or lead. At this time, it’s important the source of water is stopped as soon as possible if it hasn’t already. Once the water has been stopped, we’ll check for contamination, classifying the water into one of three categories. The category level indicates the degree of contamination. It’s important we make this determination, as the category affects the restoration process, and ensure we complete the cleanup to industry standards and specifications. Finally, we’ll move and block furniture, to help prevent rust or furniture stains on the carpet.

Remember, hidden water damage can be costly, so getting it fixed as soon as possible is of utmost importance. Whatever your case may be, SERVPRO can help. With over 2,000 franchises across the United States and Canada, we are uniquely positioned to provide individualized, local attention, with the support and resources of a national brand. Whether you have suffered from minor damage or something large, we understand water damage is a time-sensitive issue; SERVPRO is committed to helping you fix it. Call today, and we’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

Water Removal and Extraction

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

"grey pipe elbow with water leaking out of it" When your business has a water damage situation, you need immediate help to restore your facility while minimizing downtime.

The water extraction step removes the majority of the water from your home or property. By performing a thorough water extraction, SERVPRO® reduces the drying time and helps to prevent mold and secondary water damage. We use powerful pumps and truck-mounted vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from your property.

Move-Out / Pack-Out

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO can conduct an organized, efficient move-out to protect your belongings from further damage.

  • Move-Out Service

Emergency Water Removal

Highly trained technicians will begin the water removal process almost immediately. Depending on the amount of water, they may use powerful submersible pumps in addition to industrial strength, wet/dry vacuums. This step helps to reduce drying time and helps to prevent mold and secondary water damage.

  • Remove Excess Water
  • Use Submersible Pumps and Industrial Wet/Dry Vacuums

Inspect the Carpet Pad and Carpet

SERVPRO inspects the carpet and pad and determine if it should be removed to protect the subfloor.

  • Inspect Carpet Pad and Remove If Needed
  • Inspect Carpet and Remove If Needed

Water Removal Equipment

  • Moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation.
  • Infrared cameras may be used to find “hidden” water behind walls and ceilings.
  • Submersible and gas-powered pumps are used for continuous pumping of high-level water.
  • Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.

The Business Partner You Need | SERVPRO® of South Bronx

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

"a workspace and cubicle showing signs of water damage"   SERVPRO of South Bronx are your local commercial restoration experts. Contact us today should you experience any damage.

Business owners have many luxuries, but more than that they have a lot of responsibility to ensure that their businesses stays afloat. We know that it takes all hands on deck to keep a business afloat, so if a disruption of any kind happens, it can be devastating. 

But with SERVPRO of South Bronx right here in your backyard, you can count on us to be your partner. We can carry the burden of so many different business needs both before and after disaster strikes.

Large loss recovery. There are three top causes of financial loss for businesses here in the United States—fire, storms and flooding. Each of these disasters or accidents is likely to cause a large amount of damage, and if action isn’t immediately taken, it can become even more destructive. That’s why SERVPRO is here and ready to serve you 24 hours a day to help minimize any downtime that is needed.

Emergency Ready Plan. The best thing businesses can do is to start planning before a disaster ever occurs. Being prepared beforehand can help you reduce downtime and save you money in the long run. We will help you create the perfect emergency plan for your business, so that if disaster strikes you know what to do. From creating an emergency chain of command to setting up alternative work sites, we will have you ready and prepared.

Cleaning of All Kinds. At SERVPRO, we can help with all types of special cleaning needs like trauma site cleanup and biohazard removal. We will also take care of the general cleaning needs you have, like carpet cleaning or upholstery restoration. Regardless of your situation, we can clean it all. 

Restoration Services. Whether you had a run-in with a leaky appliance or a fire in the kitchen microwave, these things will require restoration services as well as cleanup! Because SERVPRO is your neighbor, you can trust that we will be “faster to any size disaster” and help you get your business back in working order.

Industry Specialization. No matter what type of business you are running, we can help. We have spent years learning the ins and outs of each type of industry so that we can react to your specific needs. And because we understand how important your business is, we will try to do the restoration work in an enclosed area, so that you can continue with business as usual.

Whatever your recovery need may be, and whatever your commercial property may require, trust SERVPRO to get the job done. Contact us today to get started on an Emergency Ready Plan or find out how we can serve your business.

Have You Been Impacted by Water Damage? | SERVPRO® of South Bronx

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

“a house floating in a large body of water" When water damage strikes, make the call to SERVPRO of South Bronx for A-to-Z cleanup and restoration.

Did you know that 14,000 Americans every day experience some sort of water damage incident? If you are one of them and are needing cleanup and recovery, you can trust SERVPRO.

When you reach out to our team, we will see you through the process of water damage cleanup. Here is what to expect from our highly trained team:

Emergency Contact. When you contact us, our team will ask you some questions that will help us in understanding the situation. Once we are able to assess your specific emergency, we can arrange a time for you and your local SERVPRO team to meet, review the damage and design a plan for your restoration. This will happen as soon as possible, because taking action very quickly is essential.

Water Damage Inspection and Assessment. The SERVPRO team will arrive quickly to the scene and will help you stop the source of the water damage, if this is still necessary. Evaluation of the damage by walking through the space is next. They will note any hazards and then determine what is able to be restored and what needs to be replaced.

Removing Damaged Material. Any items that need to be replaced will be removed as soon as possible so that the items that are deemed repairable can dry.

Cleaning, Sanitizing and Deodorizing. One of the hallmarks of water damage is the creation of mold, mildew and unpleasant odors. We will quickly get to the task of cleaning up using industry-leading equipment and techniques to restore any damaged belongings.

Drying. Even when the majority of the water is gone, there could still be water that eludes the eye, which will be removed by our powerful pumps and cutting-edge equipment. We will help return moisture levels to normal so that we can prevent the spread of mold.

Monitoring. Until your home is done with the drying process, your SERVPRO team will be in contact with you daily to make sure that everything is going as it should. We will make adjustments to equipment as needed and will monitor the situation to ensure that your space is coming along effectively.

Repairs and Construction. When the drying is done, any reconstruction or repairs that need to be made will be handled by our team. We can manage everything from minor resurfacing to large-scale rebuilds. By being this one-stop solution for mitigation, drying and reconstruction, this will keep your costs down.

If water damage impacts your property, call SERVPRO for complete cleanup and restoration. We’ll make sure your property is back to normal and “Like it never even happened.”

Noticing Water Leaks? Check Out These Common Culprits | SERVPRO® of South Bronx

9/6/2021 (Permalink)

a leak in ceiling creating water lines running down an interior wall A water leak can turn into a big problem. Contact the SERVPRO of South Bronx team if you are dealing with any water damage.

Do you see damp spots on the ceiling? Is there a dried water stain down the wall? A puddle of water under the kitchen sink? No one likes to deal with these situations.

Unfortunately, we seldom get notice of an impending water disaster. Water takes the path of least resistance, and that can lead to water being in places it shouldn’t be.

Knowing how water can enter your home and ensuring those systems that are designed to keep water out are working as planned is an important way of limiting your risk. Here are a few of the most common origins of home water damage to keep your eyes on:

Faucet connection and washers. Most faucets use rubber gaskets to seal the water into the faucet. Over time, these degrade and wear out. Pressure from the supply line can then cause a leak.

Refrigerator drain pan. The evaporator coil usually handles the water generated from the defrost cycle, but whatever it doesn’t handle falls into the drain pan. Most of the time, it will evaporate naturally. If not working properly, water can accumulate and overflow the drip pan.

Foundation cracks. Cracks in the foundation of your house are easy places for water to infiltrate. If this occurs, contact a professional foundation repair expert to evaluate the problem and offer solutions.

Vent boots. Vent boots can degrade and cause small leaks. Over time, these leaks can create major damage in the roof system and the surrounding framing. These issues should be identified and repaired quickly.

Defective septic tank. There are any number of reasons for an improperly draining septic tank. The most obvious reason is that solids have built up in the system and clogged the outflow opening into the drain field.

Moisture in the crawlspace. Excessive moisture in the crawlspace can lead to rot, mold and structural damage if not addressed quickly. This moist environment is always a breeding ground for termites and other pests.

It’s important to keep up with the systems that keep water and moisture out of your home. If you can observe the warning signs in advance and make repairs, you may avoid a major repair.

If a water leak erupts into a big problem at home, you’ve got the best team in the business on your side. Contact SERVPRO today so we can get started.

SERVPRO Of South Bronx 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage to your home! We are available 24/7. Call us today for your emergency services!

SERVPRO of South Bronx is available 24 hours for all water damage emergencies. It is important to take immediate actions when water damage accrues. Any delays can greatly increase the condition of the water damage.

Our services are 24 hours and we are ready to help you!

Call Us Today: (347)-590-9902

We recognize that water damage can cause a devastating setback to families or businesses and at SERVPRO we do whatever it takes to give back that sense of security. Recognizing the trauma and emotional disruption that most people suffer from a flood or even minor water damage, you can rely on us to restore your property to look "Like it never even happened." Our professionals identify the full extent of moisture damage, both obvious and unseen. We specialize in helping home and business owners overcome their feeling of helplessness by explaining the process in a way that they can understand what is happening, what to expect, and what they can do.

An SERVPRO representative will ask several questions about your water damage emergency to determine what equipment and resources to bring, along with how many trained SERVPRO Professionals you may need.

Several questions that will be asked by a SERVPRO Representative:

  • Name and contact information
  • Insurance information (if applicable)
  • Complete 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)?

About SERVPRO of South Bronx

SERVPRO of South Bronx specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after water damage. We offer a comprehensive water removal service, including carpet cleaning and restoration as well as mold and mildew removal. Our SERVPRO staff are highly trained in property damage restoration and have the proper knowledge to restore your property.

How to Spot Water Damage in Your Basement | SERVPRO® of South Bronx

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

a grey basement showing signs of water damage SERVPRO of South Bronx is a full restoration company. Our team of experts are on call and ready to help you determine the best course of action.

A basement can be a great resource for any homeowner fortunate enough to have one. It can provide everything from extra storage space to extra living space, and it can be a safe space to shelter in storm situations, especially if the home doesn’t have an underground shelter.

However, because of the fact that basements are by their nature partially or mostly underground, homes are prone to water leakage from moist surrounding soil over time.

While this is not a certainty, if your home has a basement, you’re going to want to educate yourself about how water can come in and what kind of damage it can do. Let’s examine some of the indicators of water damage in your basement—and remember, we have technicians on standby ready to assist you should you realize there’s a problem.

How to Identify Basement Water Damage

Unpleasant, musky odors. Even if water leaking into your underground basement is clean when it comes in, over time and after evaporation and temperature changes, it becomes toxic and begins to give off the pungent odor many people associate with basements. There’s a common misconception that all basements smell this way, but this really should not be the case. The smell arises when mold and mildew are present in the environment, and while they may go unnoticed by your eyes at first, your nose will let you know something’s going on.

Flaking paint on masonry or walls. Thinking they’re heading off the basement water problem forever, homeowners will sometimes apply a waterproof paint to the walls or cinder blocks of a basement. Unfortunately, this paint will only mask the problem temporarily and then give way to a more serious issue as time goes on. Water will eventually be too much for the paint to handle, and the walls will show the wear and tear via bubbling and cracking.

Foundational cracks. Homes shift slightly over time, but cracks in the foundation are problematic in that they indicate the presence of a dangerous situation caused by an untreated water leak. Cracks may show up first in the floor, the ceiling or in your walls and are often a sign that there is water putting pressure on your home’s structure. Hairline cracks are no cause for alarm, but if they grow or lengthen, you should take steps immediately to repair them.

If you notice any of these signs in your basement, let us take a look. Our expert water restoration technicians can help you determine what is causing these issues and how to treat it properly. Contact us today to learn more.

What to Expect When a Thunderstorm Strikes | SERVPRO of South Bronx

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Storm Lighting Rain Storm

We don’t know about you, but we’re pretty delighted to be welcoming warmer weather! After months of sometimes-bitter cold and frozen precipitation, warm days and sunshine are a refreshing change of pace.

But while those brighter days feel amazing—and are a reminder that summer days (and outdoor time) are straight ahead—they also bring with them an increased risk of thunderstorms.

We don’t usually think of thunderstorms as being particularly dangerous, but that’s precisely why they can be dangerous. Since storms are common, we often let down our guard, which can leave us unprepared for the dangers.

What is a thunderstorm exactly? It’s exactly what it sounds like! A thunderstorm is a storm that contains thunder. And that also means it contains lightning, since thunder and lightning are always paired together, even if you can’t see the lightning.

Many of these storms are mild, but thunderstorms can also be upgraded to severe status in certain conditions. This occurs when winds reach over 58 miles per hour and hail is an inch or larger in diameter.

The Damages Thunderstorm Can Cause

Damage and injury from lightning strikes. Fun fact: The thunder you hear during thunderstorms is actually caused by lightning. That lightning can also be pretty dangerous. More than 300 injuries annually are reported due to lightning strikes, and strikes can also cause property damage.

Property damage due to hail. You probably know that hail is not always a part of thunderstorms. But it is fairly common. Hail forms in the cold parts of thunderstorm clouds, essentially forming dangerous ice pellets that can cause injury or destruction. These pellets can vary in size, and when they’re large, they can damage cars and homes, along with people or pets who are unable to seek cover in time.

Harm from flash flooding. While driving in flash flood conditions isn’t a danger for many of us who use public transit, it’s still something to be aware of. Flash flooding is often a result of overwhelmed drainage systems, meaning it can impact nearly any area and come about suddenly. Once water piles up, even as little as an inch can make it difficult to walk and dangerous to drive.

Thunderstorms are dangerous and can cause significant damage to homes or commercial spaces. If you have damage due to a thunderstorm, you can count on us to help. Contact us 247 for more information about our storm restoration practices.

Common Plumbing Failures You Should Know About

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

Pipe leak Pipe leaking in Bathroom

SERVPRO of South Bronx has been helping homeowners and business owners repair water damages caused by plumbing failures. We have seen all kinds of water damage, and we have the professional training, experience, and equipment to restore the emergencies you may encounter. While there are many reasons pipes burst or fail, here are some top culprits:

  1. Freezing
  2. Tree root encroachment
  3. Corrosion
  4. Soil Shifting
  5. High water pressure
  6. Clogs

Some of these examples may be prevented through maintenance of your pipes.  Water pipes, if not properly maintained and insulated, can cause a costly repair later and, in some cases, even destroy or cause extensive damage to your home or business. Smaller water leaks can, over time, damage your home as well as attract mold growth.

In the event you do sustain damage from a failed plumbing system, SERVPRO of South Bronx is here to help 24/7/365.  Give us a call at 347-590-9902 or email us at office@SERVPROsouthbronx.com for a no-cost assessment of your water damage situation.

Secondary Damage: What Is That?

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Home affected by water damage. Home that suffered water damage. Drying with SERVPRO equipment to prevent any secondary damage. Call SERVPRO of South Bronx today!

Some water damage is evident.  This will be something like a burst pipe or dishwasher overflowing. Some water damage is more hidden.  This could be a slow leak that drips over time.

Whatever type of damage you have, it needs to be addressed quickly. Especially with warmer months around the corner, water damage has the potential to turn into mold damage very fast.  The warm and damp conditions are a perfect breeding ground for mold.  This is called secondary damage, as it is not the initial water damage, but is directly related to it.

This is why SERVPRO of South Bronx works to minimize these risks.  We remove the affected areas. We dry the affected areas thoroughly by monitoring if equipment is being used. When drying is done we spray antimicrobials to those same affected areas to ensure no mold can grow.  If we are called for mold, we can remediate that as well.

After water damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of South Bronx has the skilled technicians and specialized equipment needed for your commercial and/or residential damage remediation needs.  That is why we should be your first call. Contact us at 347-590-9902 for immediate assistance or email us at office@SERVPROsouthbronx.com

What Precautions Can You Take Against Flood Damage?

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

Man on phone sitting on couch submerged in water When dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. Contact SERVPRO of South Bronx for prompt & dependable service.

Because it’s a harsh truth that some form of flooding is involved in 90% of natural disasters, the chances of homeowners dealing with flooding at some point in their life is high.

Homeowners should always be aware of their risks concerning natural disaster-related floods, and know how to lessen their chances of water damage in the process.

Ways to Lessen Damages From a Flood

Learning a flood is imminent can be a frightening time. Though disaster-related flooding cannot be prevented, homeowners can take steps to limit the damage a flood may cause:

Know your risk. Use the FEMA Flood Map Tool or call the local branch of your emergency management office to better understand your risk and the precautions to take.

Anchor fuel and propane tanks. Propane tanks can become dislodged in the event of rushing waters, so anchoring them to the ground is advised.

Turn off electricity. Never take risks when electricity and water are concerned. If you think any part of your home might flood, cut the electricity to that area immediately.

Digitize valuables. Items considered irreplaceable, such as family memorabilia, tax records and household documents, should be digitized and the physical copies kept off-site or in a waterproof safe.

Protect appliances. In the case of a shallow flood, appliances such as washers and dryers can be elevated on bricks or stands to protect the internal workings from water damage.

Elevate hazardous materials. Dangerous chemicals are contained in many household liquids, which can leach into the water and create even more dangers. Elevate these products in order to keep the area safe.

In the event of a disaster, keeping your family out of harm’s way is your primary concern. Advanced precautions can go a long way in keeping your home safe, and will lessen your likelihood of obtaining severe damages.

If you’ve experienced flood damage or water damage from other causes, SERVPRO® of South Bronx is here to help. Our technicians are fully trained in water remediation, and our 247 Emergency Line means we’ll be there for you when you call.

Water in a NYC School Should be the Least of Your Worries

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damaged School Sewage water backup in NYC School. SERVPRO of South Bronx 347-590-9902

When the concern for COVID-19 is on the forefront and ever rising, proper water mitigation is of great priority as well. Bacteria grows in moist areas and a water loss is a perfect breeding ground for any and all types of bacteria, however, water restoration done by professionals who excel in that field will give you security as well as peace of mind.

A New York City School and/or Charter School was affected by a sewage water. The sewage line backed into the school via the toilet in the bathroom. SERVPRO of South Bronx quickly went to perform a scope of work and effectively executed the water mitigation assuring not only the school but all those who attended like students and teachers, that it was done right the first time.

Category 3 water loss includes water that is disgustingly contaminated. It is also known as black water. It can contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents. It can come from places like sewage which means everything that has gone down drains including toilets. 

To think that children can be exposed to any type of bacteria because mitigation work was not performed correctly is not something, we condone ever at SERVPRO of South Bronx. This school entrusted us to do the job effectively with professionalism and we provided just that. Anything less would be uncivilized and unorthodox.

Water mitigation and sanitizing is a process in which there is no room for error. If the affected areas are not correctly removed, disinfected, dried and restored then it can lead to complications and health hazards later such as mold. Mold not only can affect a structure of any property but can affect one's health as well.

Our industrial powered equipment such as our dehumidifiers and air movers ensure that the affected will be completely dry leaving no moisture or damp areas. We continuously monitoring daily with moisture readings until the area is dry. We then begin the process of restoring area to leave it brand new. Call the experts at SERVPRO of South Bronx at 347-590-9902 and get it done right the first time! you can alos contact us via our email office@SERVPROsouthbronx.com.

Which Restoration Procedures Can Help Save My Items After Water Damage?

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

Water splash A water intrusion can quickly cause damage in your home. Call SERVPRO today to avoid additional water loss of your property.

SERVPRO Offers a Wide Range of Water Damage Restoration Services Helping Bronx Homeowners Save Valuables Affected by Water Intrusion Incidents

Salvaging more items after a water intrusion incident in your property can help minimize the costs of recovery. Apart from minimizing costs, you can also save items that have sentimental value, such as family heirlooms. Saving contents after exposure to water is a challenging process, but SERVPRO avails various resources to Bronx residents to help ease some of the difficulties.

What Items are water spills likely to affect most?

When making plans for water damage restoration in your Bronx property, you need a strategy to ensure your restoration efforts yield the best outcome. Identifying which contents are likely to sustain severe damage due to direct or secondary water exposure is one crucial aspect of such a strategy. Typically, water damage is most severe on: 

  • Items made from permeable materials
  • Items that have electronic circuits
  • Metal items
  • Items made of hygroscopic materials

Among your valuables, fabric items, upholstery, and wooden furniture, which readily absorb water due to their higher permeability, also sustain a wide range of damages including:

  • Breakdown of chemical bonds leading to loss of structural integrity 
  • Decomposition or mold infestation
  • Physical changes such as warping or shrinking
  • Staining due to soiling or deterioration of dyes

Should I worry about non-porous valuables?

Although items made from non-porous materials do not absorb water, exposure can ruin them in other ways. Metal items rust when exposed to water or high humidity levels. Sometimes, the damage can develop internally, while everything seems okay, outwards. For instance, when electronic items are exposed to high levels of humidity, internal components can rust - by the time you notice, the damage is too widespread to save the item.  

What level of damage can restoration procedures reverse?

One advantage of involving a professional team like SERVPRO is access to a broader array of restoration resources, including highly trained technicians and sophisticated equipment that simplify some challenging tasks. Even with the availability of such resources, reversing extensive damages is not always possible. In other cases, it is better to spare the effort altogether. Before embarking on restoration, our technicians consider several factors to ensure we deliver a desirable outcome:

  • Cost of restoration compared to replacing the item
  • Level of damage
  • Age of the items
  • Sentimental value of the items

What does a typical restoration involve?

Since the damage results from exposure to water, moisture removal is one of the typical restoration processes. Depending on the item, the procedure can vary. For fabrics such as carpets or upholstery, extraction is necessary to remove the absorbed water. After removing all liquid water, other processes, such as evaporation, and dehumidification can help remove the remaining moisture. Our SERVPRO technicians move the items to a dry room then set up air movers to increase airflow around them.

For items made of semi-porous materials such as wood, extraction is not necessary since they do not hold liquid water. However, elaborate drying procedures are essential to release the moisture they hold. When removing surface water from furniture, it is better to pat-dry them rather than wiping to avoid ruining finishes or leaving marks. Wood requires slow drying to remove absorbed water, without causing other problems such as cracking. Our technicians place the items in a dry yet shaded place, which can be one of the rooms in your house to permit stable drying. We can run some air movers and monitor wetness levels constantly to ensure even drying.

Apart from individual items, water also affects fixtures such as hardwood floors and cabinets. If left unaddressed, they can continue to deteriorate, necessitating a costly replacement process. Drying assemblies presents many challenges, especially since they cannot be moved like individual items. Our crews rely on their advanced training to overcome drying challenges. For instance, we create drying chambers over hardwood floors by setting up plastic sheets over the floor for better control of air movements and humidity levels, thus allowing stable drying.

Can I save heavily soiled items?

Soiling is easy to resolve through cleaning if it does not involve contamination or stains. The good news is that a clean water spill is not likely to involve contamination. However, stains can develop on carpets, upholstery, and other fabrics. Our SERVPRO technicians take steps to establish whether the stains fall under these categories:

  • Protein soils
  • Color-adding or discoloring soils
  • Water-soluble or oil-soluble soils
  • Insoluble soils

Depending on the results, we can use a wide variety of cleaning products or procedures to reverse the damage. For protein soils, we use enzyme products to break them down, making it possible to remove the stain. We can also use stain-absorbing powder, natural fabric brighteners, and peroxide bleach solution to deal with other forms of stains. 

Assistance from professional water restoration technicians can help you save more items after water loss incidents. Call SERVPRO of South Bronx at (347) 590-9902 to help. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How Hard Can It Be to Remove Excess Water in My Bronx Brownstone?

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

water damaged home Big or small, SERVPRO of South Bronx is here to help you with whatever water cleanup you require.

Trained Water Cleanup Professionals from SERVPRO Ensure your Bronx Brownstone is Dried Faster

When it comes to a significant spill or leak in your Bronx home, you may be tempted to try to tackle the cleanup on your own to save a bit of money. However, the problem lies with hidden moisture that migrates to dry spaces and remains unseen by the naked eye. Instead of letting mildew or mold growth set in, you can enlist the help of IICRC-certified technicians from SERVPRO to get the job done faster. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, and we make sure that your interior is free from microbial dangers and secondary damage from hidden moisture.

What Does SERVPRO Doe for Water Removal Services?

Once called, we deploy a crew to arrive at your property within four hours or less to get started on your water cleanup in the Bronx. We assess the interior of your brownstone to gather a detailed picture of all damage. This allows us to put together a plan for restoring your interior after extraction wraps up. We are here for:

    •    Availability on your schedule. Our skilled technicians operate offering emergency services 24/7 so that we can be there whenever you need us.
    •    Highly-trained water restoration technicians (WRT) through the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC). We are there to make your interior “Like it never even happened.” so that you can get back to your routine as usual.
    •    Our Green Fleet comes fully equipped with all of the latest equipment and technology for prompt water removal to stop moisture migration.

Why Can’t I Just Use My Own Cleaning Tools?

Even if you have a wet/dry vacuum, it is never a match for the industrial-strength equipment that SERVPRO brings to each job. Professional water cleanup involves more than removing any visible fluids in your home. We address all small cavities where water migrates and then employ the use of moisture sensor equipment, leaving no stone unturned. Just a sampling of the equipment we have at our disposal includes:

    •    Submersible pumps and truck-mount extractors that help us remove copious of waters in a short period.
    •    Light wands for pulling up excess moisture from your carpets as well as the carpet padding beneath.
    •    Disinfectants and anti-microbial agents that inhibit bacterial growth known for creating foul odors as well as potentially hazardous mildew and mold.

When Will You Know if All the Moisture is Gone?

Our crew is specially trained to follow water migration paths, but we also use a selection of tools that allow us to find other areas where moisture might be lurking. Some of the moisture detection tools that we have available include:

    •    Penetrating and non-penetrating moisture meters that reveal the moisture content left in various materials.
    •    Moisture sensor technology that determines moisture levels left in porous or soft materials such as upholstered furniture and carpeting.
    •    Thermo-hygrometers that measure the relative humidity levels and temperatures in the air.
    •    Inspection cameras and borescopes allow us to get wall cavity readings without removing the materials altogether.

DIY Methods Won’t Work for Water Cleanup?

In the case of a small spill, do-it-yourself measures may be enough. However, you never want to leave it to chance that any moisture gets left behind. For example, water can seep through cracks in tile flooring that may cause them to lift. With carpets, any lingering moisture can cause damage to the subflooring and bring about harmful microbial growth. These and other reasons are why it is better to call for skilled technicians with the experience and technology for the job.

Can You Salvage Saturated Personal Belongings?

We work to salvage whatever possible depending on the level of saturation and the nature of the materials. For furnishings with padding or cushions, SERVPRO technicians may tent the area and use industrial fans to get the air circulating to facilitate drying. We also have brushing techniques often used on the upholstery to restore the fabric pile while getting rid of any topical soiling. If necessary, other belongings in your home may be packed up and brought to another location for proper cleaning and disinfecting.

We Also Address Moisture That May Be Embedded

We assess each water cleanup job case by case, where some call for a controlled demolition to eradicate embedded moisture. This might include the removal of baseboards and flooring to address moisture in the floor joists or subflooring. Should water have wicked up into your drywall, we perform flood cuts just above the water line to facilitate drying. Everything is then replaced and restore to pre-water loss condition.

Big or small, SERVPRO of South Bronx is here to help you with whatever water cleanup you require. To have a crew deployed to your location 24/7, you can reach us by calling (347) 590-9902.

Plumbing Burst Cleanup in Bronx House

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

Plumbing/Pipes We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Plumbing Mishaps Can Wreak Havoc In Your Bronx Home, SERVPRO Can Help

With many of the homes in the Bronx built in the 1910s and 1920s still standing in neighborhoods, these pieces of history can become great single-family houses for the right buyer. Insulation is often a concern in these structures, however. Inadequate insulation of areas like plumbing can lead to pipe bursts during the cold snaps common to the winter months.  

Once a pipe bursts, the ensuing water damage in Bronx residences can be a considerable challenge for a homeowner to clean up and restore on their own. Because networking of this plumbing gets installed in the structural cavities between the first and second floor, a breach in your pipe at this point could spread quickly throughout the floor below, and damage sub flooring and carpeting of upstairs rooms. Our SERVPRO professionals can help in many ways when burst pipes occur, from our fast restoration and mitigation response to our in-house team of licensed residential contractors for repairs and reconstruction.

With aging materials like ceiling tile and thin wallboard, a heavier flow of water against these materials can quickly oversaturate them and cause collapses or structural failures. The emergency services that our SERVPRO team offers include controlled demolition to access the damage to your plumbing and repair burst pipes and utilize evaporative drying techniques on joists and supports that can stay installed.

Collapsed ceiling systems require discarding debris and clearing residues and dirt from surfaces and flooring. Often after a water loss drying has completed, our technicians must continue restoration in the form of carpet cleaning and wood flooring recovery. With potent cleaners and cutting-edge equipment, we can make even the most substantial water loss incidents in your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Your multi-level family home might have substantial history, but be mindful of when its construction indicates a lack of proper insulation or plumbing maintenance. Give our SERVPRO of South Bronx team a call to help whenever disasters strike. We can arrive quickly and have the tools and the technicians to recover the damage as soon as possible. You can reach us 24/7 at (347) 590-9902.

Learn more about The Bronx.

Water Cleanup in a Bronx Kitchen Brings Mold Surprise

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

"Mold" Don't let mold take over your kitchen, Call the experts at SERVPRO today.

Your Bronx Kitchen Is The Last Place You Want To See Mold

Mold is not always a by-product of water damage, but frequently it is found in high moisture conditions. One of the rooms in the home most likely to have water loss is the kitchen. Due to the supply lines, and appliances that use water, such as the ice maker in a fridge or a dishwasher, the potential for water loss events remains.

Working on water cleanup in a Bronx kitchen from a supply line break under the kitchen sink, SERVPRO techs saw evidence of long-term leakage before the break and inspected further for a mold infestation.

Prepping for Cleanup and Mold Remediation

When techs determine that the presence of mold colonies may be present, they put up containment during mitigation to ensure cross-contamination does not occur from airborne mold spores. Covering doorways and vents inhibits the potential of this happening. With their mold remediation certification #01295, SERVPRO techs know the warning signs of mold and how to mitigate it safely.

Controlled Demolition as a Part of Restoration

Once the techs found evidence of mold growth on the sheetrock and within the wall cavity behind the sink, the cabinets needed removal to address the mold. As the cabinets themselves had no damage, they required only cleaning with antimicrobial cleaners. 

Drying Phase 

When the techs use their drying equipment, it takes care of two issues. Mold cannot exist in humidity levels below 50%, and it rids the interior wall cavity of elevated moisture levels. Once dry, the techs wipe down surfaces with antimicrobial cleaning agents and sealant to inhibit any return of the mold before repairs occur.

Repairs After Water Removal 

When mold invades sheetrock, it requires removal and disposal. When it is time for reconstruction, with their general contractor license #2077660-DCA, the techs can put up new sheetrock and reinstall the cabinets after mitigation efforts complete, returning the kitchen to its preloss condition and ready for the residents to prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

SERVPRO of South Bronx at (347) 590-9902 is ready to assist local homeowners with water cleanup jobs of any scale. With their advanced equipment and techniques, they make the water loss, "Like it never even happened."

Learn more about the Bronx.

We Have The Best Drying Practices In The Bronx After A Water Loss

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

An armorer drying the hardwoods in this home after a water loss The air mover in this home dried out the area and saved the subfloor from demolition and removal. We are available 24/7 to prevent further damage.

Essential Equipment for Water Cleanup in the Bronx

The quantity of water flowing and hiding in recesses of your home in the Bronx after a pipe breaks or an appliance malfunctions can be substantial. If the water loss occurs while you are at work or away for a weekend, the quantity that needs removal can be thousands of gallons. Professional water damage technicians use a range of detection, extraction, and drying equipment, continually monitoring to remove water and return moisture levels to preloss levels.

Emergency Water Removal Equipment

As the crew chief completes the comprehensive assessment, our crew starts water cleanup in your Bronx triplex. To achieve efficient extraction and avoid encountering electrical hazards when the water is deeper than two inches, we use gas-powered submersible pumps, sending the water directly to a treated sewer line. Truck-mounted extractors also bypass the need for residential electricity, using onboard generators to remove substantial amounts of water with powerful suction, the fluids moved into and stored in tanks for lawful disposal if contamination is a concern.

Detection and Moisture Measurement Equipment

To plan for adequate water cleanup, designated crew members complete use water detectors to define the perimeters of the water incursion. SERVPRO’s goal is to return structural components to their normal moisture levels, so we go beyond detection to metering, using specialized tools to sample. These moisture meters provide data for both the water-soaked structure and comparison readings for similar materials in unaffected areas of our home.

Fine-Tuned and Speciality Extraction Equipment

Once SERVPRO management determines the affected space can safely reconnect power, our technicians might change to portable extractors. The benefits of these units include the ability to move further into your home, including reaching confined areas where water seeped behind building materials into cavities and recesses. If trapped water damage is impossible to reach even with a portable extractor, controlled demolition techniques that drill or cut through building materials permit access for systems that use negative air pressure (suction) directed through attachable mats and hoses to pull out the water.

Drying Goals and Equipment

Using the data obtained from moisture meters and detectors, SERVPRO sets drying goals for the affected areas. We set up perimeters of air movers and heaters to accelerate the evaporation of water from the soaked materials. Water vapor capture by refrigerant or desiccant dehumidifiers then proceeds. Continuous monitoring ensures we are making progress needed to complete water cleanup, “Like it never even happened.”

The operation of appropriately matched equipment accomplishes water cleanup rapidly after a plumbing or appliance emergency. SERVPRO of South Bronx delivers expert assessment, planning, and implementation of needed services as soon as practicable after you call (347) 590-9902.

See more about Bronx.

SERVPRO Deals in Science for Strategic Drying of Water Damaged Units in the Bronx

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

Yankee Stadium Sign inside the Building Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, Almost as Famous a Building as the SERVPRO of South Bronx HQ!

Evaluating a Bronx Apartment for the Best Drying Practices

Water loss incidents present a specific timeline that Bronx homeowners and property owners must adhere to if they intend to preserve installed exposed materials. With how quickly water losses can spread throughout an apartment, for example, the severity of the loss can change the drying equipment needed to recover the items from the damage. Our SERVPRO professionals must employ drying sciences to determine the best approach.

Many factors can cause drying to occur at a much slower rate than it should, which can result in worsening water damage for Bronx apartments. Psychrometry, or the study of air properties, can help to identify some key figures that can dictate the potential success of specific drying strategies for apartments. With units sharing walls, the threat of structural moisture can become an effect that migrates to neighboring residences and can become a widespread concern for the entire floor of a building, or damage to a verticle tower with water seepage.
 
High humidity is one of the factors that play a role in the slowing of material drying. Low humidity, as you might expect, can enhance drying times. It is the job of our SERVPRO technicians on-site to identify the best containment procedures to regulate relative humidity (RH) levels within an affected area of the residence. Damaged portions of an apartment dry more efficiently and thoroughly when the tools get used in already lower-humidity conditions.
 
Temperature is another condition that can have an effect on the drying process within a damaged area of a local apartment. Within the drying zone established with the containment barriers installed, our technicians must establish a consistent temperature without running the risk of enhancing secondary effects like mold and microbial growth.
 
Our professionals get trained to establish a moisture baseline and to manipulate conditions in the drying zone to favor ideal conditions to remove moisture and saturation. An efficient process can save our customers time and money on recovery efforts.
 
No matter when disasters strike that can leave New Yorkers dealing with water loss in their apartment, you can count on our team to help. We have the right training to create the ideal conditions for rapid drying. Give our SERVPRO of South Bronx team a call today at (347) 590-9902.

Our Water Damage Technicians Will Save Your Bronx Home

8/13/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of South Bronx at (347) 590-9902 for 24/7 service.

Hidden Water Leak Buckles Your Bronx Hardwood Floors

Older homes often shift and settle over time. The floors are not flat, and doorways are no longer square. Sloping floors are a natural occurrence in many homes more than 30 or 40 years old. When a water pipe begins to leak, the water always flows to the lowest point before pooling and causing damage. This situation occurred for one client living in his sixty-year-old home. The owner recently completed minor renovations and added a dishwasher. Unfortunately, one of the connections was leaking, and water ran under the cupboards into another room, causing the floors to buckle.

The owner was distraught when he called SERVPRO about the water damage in their Bronx home. There was a concern about the flooring under the cupboards as well as the kitchen dining area. The floor was beginning to buckle from the high moisture levels. Our technicians advised the couple to turn off the water supply to the kitchen area immediately and to mop up as much water as possible. Also, turning the air conditioning on can help to lower the overall humidity in the home.

The basement area of the home is unfinished. Our technicians were able to gain access to the cavity under the cupboards were the dishwasher is located. Our Techs also located the exact source of the leak and were able to make arrangements for repairs. Once SERVPRO opened the cavity, water poured out, which, we caught with a bucket. Next, we opened the area further and were able to extract even more water without damaging the floor above or the cupboards.

The water had traveled through a false ceiling in the basement into the kitchen dining area. Our technicians opened this area as well and extracted the remaining water. Blowing air through this area with high-speed fans, using dehumidifiers and running the air conditioning reduced the humidity in the home sufficiently. The boards that had begun to buckle gradually returned to their original size without showing any further damage. The homeowner was pleased that this situation was brought under control, and the leak caused very little damage.

Call SERVPRO of South Bronx at (347) 590-9902 for 24/7 service. We serve Hunts Point, Locust Point, Mott Haven, and surrounding areas. We deal with unique situations professionally. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

For more about The Bronx click here.

Call Us Immediately After A Water Damage Incident Occurs In Your Bronx Home

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of South Bronx at (347) 590-9902 for any type of cleanup and restoration needed, and We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Speedy Water Removal Limits Loss At Home In The Bronx

When there's water damage in a home, you should always have the cleanup done quickly and professionally. If water migrates into areas of the property that do not receive proper remediation, the result can be mold, foul odors or structural weakening.

SERVPRO handled water removal from an overflowed bathtub of a Bronx resident. The homeowner ran a bath and lost track of time talking to a friend on the phone. Once she remembered, water had already pooled in the bathroom and hallway.

The homeowner used towels to dry as much water as she could but realized quickly this water cleanup job was bigger than some towels, and a mop could accomplish. Worse still, she noticed the wet carpeting outside the bathroom doorway and contacted our emergency response team.

Our technicians immediate scoped the room with our moisture detection equipment to trace the path of water migration. We found elevated moisture levels behind the baseboards, under the vanity and the carpeting in the doorway leading to the hallway showed signs of saturation.

The quick action from the homeowner prevented the bathwater from reaching the floor joists or subflooring as we found no indications of raised moisture levels. Our technicians removed the baseboards from both the wall and under the vanity, revealing a hollow area where water collected. We extracted the water using our portable pumps and to push out the maximum amount of moisture from the carpet and padding; we deployed our stand-on Rover unit that uses the weight of the technician to pull deeply seated areas of moisture.

Our SERVPRO technicians use the science behind air movers that forces embedded water vapor to rise to the surface when exposed to high-velocity air movement. As this happens, our dehumidifiers capture it and port it away. As this cycle continues, progressively drier air blows on the water damaged areas increasing drying speed. The bathroom and hallway carpeting dried completely and after we cleaned and disinfected the water loss areas, leaving the bathroom ready for use again.

The faster water removal happens, the more you can save from water loss. Contact SERVPRO of South Bronx at (347) 590-9902 for any type of cleanup and restoration needed, and We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Click here for more about the Bronx.

Call the Experts When Water Damages Your Bronx Business

6/7/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will keep that water over the bridge.

Don’t let water stop your work day, let SERVPRO help today.

Water is an incredibly destructive force, and if not contained in your Bronx offices, production areas, and retail space, severe consequences follow. Water loss can result from many events -- slow leaks in aging plumbing and radiators, overflows and spills, appliance malfunction, and extreme weather, to name a few. The harm is progressive, and water migrates on sometimes hidden pathways to other areas far from the source. Secondary damage such as mold growth is probable if the loss is unattended for more than 24 to 48 hours.

A fast and professional response is needed when your Bronx business suffers water damage. Even if you have a reliable cleaning service in-house or on contract, their skills and tools rarely are enough to mitigate and remediate water damage thoroughly. A cornerstone of our company’s mission is efficient and effective water loss restoration. Our team of Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)--trained technicians is ready to assist you within hours of your first call.

SERVPRO has specialized equipment that takes seemingly ruined business space from chaos to “Like it never even happened” condition rapidly. Our service vehicles are stocked with water removal and applied structural drying tools on every call. After our experienced crew chief assesses your property’s situation, our crew members are ready to begin the project without additional delay. Standing water of more than two inches in depth exits via pumps, and truck-mounted extractors vacuum up as much of the remainder as possible.

Carpeting and hardwood floors make a statement for your business, and SERVPRO uses industry best practices to restore both to function and appearance. Weighted wand extractors and negative pressure floor mat systems pull moisture out of several layers, and our technicians know how to accomplish this without harming the materials restored.

SERVPRO employees are experts at Applied Structural Drying (ASD), positioning air movers and heaters strategically to encourage water absorbed into porous building materials to vaporize. Once airborne, dehumidifiers capture the moisture using evaporative or desiccant technology for permanent removal from your business space. Throughout the project, our technicians measure and monitor moisture levels to ensure no pocket of water remain.

SERVPRO of South Bronx awaits your call for any of your water damage remediation needs. Contact us at (347) 590-9902 to arrange for professional water loss assessment and resolution.

If you would like to know more about the river alliance in the Bronx click here

Don’t Let A Water Heater Malfunction Cause Water Damage To Your Bronx Home

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

Water heaters are a critical component to comfortable living, but can also be a catalyst of substantial water loss incidents for your property.

Water Heater Malfunction In Your Bronx Home Can Cause Damages

Water heaters are a vital component to comfortable living in every home throughout the Bronx. With the role that they play in setting specific water temperatures, damage to this unit could be devastating to your house in multiple ways. With many of these appliances capable of housing forty to sixty gallons of water at any given time, a breach in the tank can flood the immediate area of your property and require immediate, focused attention to resolve.

Ultimately there are many ways that this larger loss incident must get handled, and effective mitigation efforts must start with water removal in your Bronx home. Our SERVPRO professionals have state-of-the-art extraction tools and equipment capable of removing standing water at a rate of up to 300 psi. Understanding how your water heater can break and continue to cause problems for your home is also an important selling point for your need for professionally trained restoration specialists.

These appliances are water fed, often with an independent supply hose and a discharge line that connects directly into the plumbing network for the entire property. Age, degradation, and damage to the unit can all lead to leaks that can drain the tank. Even with preventative valves and flow stoppage, you can still lose the entirety of the stored volume before the situation levels off, and flow ceases.

When there is no immediate shutoff with a check valve, the water flow can continue until the homeowner or our SERVPRO rapid response team manually stops it. This situation can become even more threatening to construction materials, contents, and structural elements exposed. We can work quickly to remove standing and spreading water from your house and begin vital drying efforts with air movers and desiccant dehumidifiers.

Water heaters are a critical component to comfortable, modern living but can also be a catalyst of substantial water loss incidents for your property. Our SERVPRO of South Bronx professionals can help with fast extraction solutions to make this damage “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today at (347) 590-9902.

Click here for more about Bronx.

SERVPRO Provides Bronx Property Owners with Premier Water Loss Restoration Services

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides The Bronx with Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration--and FAST!

Comprehensive Remediation of Water Damage for Residents of the Bronx

The presence of large amounts of water in your property can cause significant damages over time. In many cases, mold issues can be the result of a water spill several weeks before that has not been remediated correctly. Our technicians hold qualifications from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) that allows us to provide a holistic approach that can help prevent further issues occurring after a water spill.

There are many options to choose from when looking at repair services for water damage in the Bronx. However, not all of these services are capable of both restoring your property and taking the vital steps to control microbial growth during the service. SERVPRO can send a water damage restoration technician (WRT) to your property within four hours of notification of loss to conduct an expert assessment and remediation service.

One common issue after a water spill is staining to upholsteries and fabrics. Although drying the affected area is essential, the removal of stains is more likely while items are still wet. SERVPRO provides our technicians with a full range of chemical cleaning agents including light sanitizers, anti-microbial sprays, and stain removers to give your possessions the best chance of being restored rather than replaced.

Once the clear and apparent signs of staining are dealt with, SERVPRO can remediate the affected area using proper drying techniques. Proper drying involves measuring, and controlling, humidity levels using thermal hygrometers. Equally, we can deploy a range of detection equipment to assess where water has migrated to from the source of the damage. Damp spots in wall cavities, for example, can result in the rapid proliferation of mold colonies and must be dried quickly by establishing an airflow inside the cavity.

In modern water restoration, controlling microbial growth is an essential part of the service. We do this primarily by ensuring the affected area is properly dried. However, as an added layer of protection, we can apply anti-microbial treatments and biocides to carpets, paintwork, and surfaces to ensure we limit bacterial growth both during and after service. We have members of our crew certified as applied microbial remediation technicians (AMRT.)

Getting your home back to preloss conditions, so you feel "Like it never even happened," involves preventing secondary damages occurring further down the line, contact SERVPRO of South Bronx at (347) 589-8165 for a comprehensive solution.

Come and visit our renowned Bronx Zoo--start by clicking here.

How to Spot Water Damage | SERVPRO of South Bronx

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

As water damage can sometimes be subtle, on occasion it is necessary to look for the signs and symptoms. The sooner you catch water damage, the more of your property can be saved and the less it will cost you – so be vigilant and ever on the look-out for these signs:

Water Drips and Puddles

- This is an obvious sign that you have water in your property. If you notice puddles building up on your property, then this can be a clear indication of a leak or of seeping/lack of ventilation.

Smell

- Sometimes you will be able to smell moisture or even mold in the air. This is again a sign that you may have a leak or a puddle. The amount of moisture in the air does vary, of course, depending on your location and your property. If you suspect you simply live in a very humid area, then you may choose to use a dehumidifier to address the problem without needing restoration services.

Discoloration

- Water can cause paint to fade and can also drain the dye out of carpets and furniture. You may even notice water marks on your walls or windows where water has been running down the surface. This is particularly common where you have issues with eaves troughs overflowing or leaking – which commonly lead to other problems such as damage to the foundations or leaking basements.

Soft Patches and Peeling

- If moisture has gotten into your walls or flooring, then it can gradually break down the fibers that hold it together. If you notice a dip around your toilet for instance, then you might have a leak. Similarly, if tiles are coming off of your wall, or the wall is soft and crumbling in certain patches, this can similarly indicate a moisture problem.

What To Do In The Event of A Water Emergency | SERVPRO of South Bronx

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage can have long-lasting, expensive effects when not treated properly. When a pipe bursts, a plumbing problem causes a leak or backup, or when flooding from a storm threatens your home, it’s essential to act quickly to reduce the amount of damage and keep costs down. Follow these steps if you have a water emergency in your home.

AFTER YOU FIND WATER IN YOUR HOME:

  • Turn off the water supply in your home if the source is from a leak
  • During a flood, turn off electricity to your home if you can safely reach the fuse box; otherwise, wait until a professional can do so for you. Do not enter a flooded basement if the electricity is still on!
  • If possible, ventilate the area by opening windows and turning on fans.
  • Vacate the property if needed.

CALL SERVPRO of South Bronx 347-590-9902

When you call SERVPRO of South Bronx one of our specialists will arrive at your property in 2hrs or less to assess the damages. We are ready to assist with water emergencies 24/7, so don’t delay! Even small amounts of water can cause expensive damages if left untreated.

Water Restoration | SERVPRO of South Bronx

9/27/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage is a problem that most property owners and businesses dread. This can be caused from busted pipes, heavy rains, flood waters and catastrophic events. The damage from these events can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage by damaging wood furniture, upholstery, electronics, household appliances, production equipment as well as finished inventory product. Water damage in not attended to quickly and properly can also increases the risk of mold growth, which is a very expensive problem to remediate. Hiring a water damage restoration company can make the cleanup process easier to handle. At SERVPRO of South Bronx we employ experienced workers trained regarding the best means and measures to mitigate, repair or replace damaged items and help with water damage cleanup. 
Perhaps the biggest nightmare any homeowner can experience is a flood, be it the result of natural disaster or plumbing failure. If you have been the unfortunate victim of flood damage, there are a number of procedures and processes you should follow on your way to undertaking flood damage repair. Heavy rains can wreak havoc on homes or offices. While we do what we can to prevent properties from experiencing flood damage, the reality is that too much water around a property usually leads to the inevitable: water damage. For Flood damage restoration or whatever the case, we can assist you by providing complete emergency flood cleanup services.
CALL US NOW 347-590-9902

Common Cause of Water Damage | SERVPRO of South Bronx

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

Plumbing issue from a leak or a broken pipe are the most common cause of water damage. In some areas flooding is always a concern. SERVPRO of South Bronx offers professional water mitigation services, which will reduce the harm caused by a water related incident in your home or business. SERVPRO of South Bronx can dry and restore your home or business to its previous condition.

As time goes on, damage from a flood gets worse. Your property can become permanently damaged if an emergency response is delayed past the first 48 hours after a water damage.

In the event of a flood, do the following:

First, Be Calm! Call SERVPRO of South Bronx at 347-590-9902.

  • To stop further areas and items from water damage, make sure the water source is turned off.
  • Be sure to turn off circuit breaker in the affected area before you unplug or remove any electrical devices located on the wet carpet.
  • You should place aluminum foil under the legs of any furniture which is on the wet carpet if you can’t move it to a dry area.. This will help prevent furniture stains on your carpet. It will also keep the furniture from absorbing water which will prevent damage.
  • Tie or lift drapes up away from any wet carpet.
  • Remove all items that are in contact with the wet carpet, like books, shoes, paper goods, plants, and other items which could stain the wet carpet.

Do not attempt the following:

  • Do not use your home vacuum, since you may get an electrical shock, and you may damage the equipment itself.
  • Don’t place newspaper in traffic areas to walk on. Newspaper ink may stain the wet carpet.
  • Don’t walk on carpet any more than you have to. This will keep the damage from spreading to dry areas.

Anything that is not dried properly and quickly can become a source for mold to grow, which could require professional mold removal.

Our Flood Damage Restoration Technicians are trained on all of the latest techniques, using state-of-the-art equipment and machinery. Moisture meters are used to locate moisture that may not be visible or may be hidden behind walls or cabinets, so that our Water Damage Restoration Service Technicians can be certain that everything is dry. Because we understand how important it is to react quickly in the unfortunate event of water, smoke or fire damage, you can rely on SERVPRO of South Bronx. We’re there when you need us!

For emergency service call us at 347-590-9902

The Levels of Pollution Found in Water Damage | SERVPRO of South Bronx

7/12/2018 (Permalink)

“Black water” and “clear water” are likely terms that you’re familiar with if you’ve ever been around discussion of water damage. Though black water is certainly the most dangerous, there are actually three categories of pollution types that can all cause their own damages.

We want you to be prepared if water damage comes your way, so we’ve compiled the three types of water damage pollution in one convenient guide.

Water Damage Pollution Levels

Category 1: To fall into the first classification, “clear water” must have originated from a clean source. Uncontaminated water is often sourced from a broken pipe or supply line, a leaking faucet, or rainwater that’s come from vertical rainfall. Category 1 water is not harmful if consumed, though we wouldn’t recommend it.

Category 2: Grey water, the next level, is a bit more serious. This is wastewater generated from household appliances and water pipes, such as appliance drainage failure or a “flush” from sink and shower drains. Category 2 will likely cause illness if consumed due to the contamination it contains.

Category 3: The third category, commonly referred to as black water, is the most dangerous. This water is sourced from rising floodwaters, stagnant water that has begun to breed bacteria or the sewage overflows. Black water can cause illness or death if consumed and should be regarded with caution.

Categories Do Change

One thing to keep in mind is that water starting out as a category one can evolve into a category three easily. Soil, dirty surfaces or anything else the water comes into contact with will factor into the pollution levels, and water left stagnant will breed harmful bacteria.

Because of this, it’s advised to hire a professional for water damage cleanup so you can have peace of mind to know that your home or business is properly restored.

If you have water damage of any category, SERVPRO®’s team of water damage professionals can help!

SERVPRO Of South Bronx 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Bronx is available 24 hours for all water damage emergencies. It is important to take immediate actions when water damage accrues. Any delays can greatly increase the condition of the water damage.

Our services are 24 hours and we are ready to help you!

Call Today – (347)-590-9903

We recognize that water damage can cause a devastating setback to families or businesses and at SERVPRO we do whatever it takes to give back that sense of security. Recognizing the trauma and emotional disruption that most people suffer from a flood or even minor water damage, you can rely on us to restore your property to look "Like it never even happened." Our professionals identify the full extent of moisture damage, both obvious and unseen. We specialize in helping home and business owners overcome their feeling of helplessness by explaining the process in a way that they can understand what is happening, what to expect, and what they can do.

An SERVPRO representative will ask several questions about your water damage emergency to determine what equipment and resources to bring, along with how many trained SERVPRO Professionals you may need.

Several questions that will be asked by a SERVPRO Representative:

  • Name and contact information
  • Insurance information (if applicable)
  • Complete 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)?

About SERVPRO of South Bronx

SERVPRO of South Bronx specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after water damage. We offer a comprehensive water removal service, including carpet cleaning and restoration as well as mold and mildew removal. Our SERVPRO staff are highly trained in property damage restoration and have the proper knowledge to restore your property.