Water Damage Remediation Services in Denville

8/14/2024 (Permalink)

Rely on SERVPRO of North Morris County to mitigate water damage in your home "Like it never even happened."

Residential and Commercial Properties Restoration for Denville Area by SERVPRO®

In Denville, NJ, water damage can strike unexpectedly from a burst pipe or an unforeseen appliance malfunction. In these moments, turning to a trusted restoration company is crucial to preserving the integrity of your home or business and its contents. SERVPRO is a reliable partner in these situations and is renowned for its rapid and effective response.

While not every water damage incident in Denville is disastrous, minor issues can escalate quickly without professional intervention. Therefore, it is advisable to call in experienced and reliable restoration experts to help remove the mold in your bathroom or handle the water mishap in your kitchen.

At SERVPRO, we have a team of IICRC-certified technicians prepared to assess any damage promptly and develop a comprehensive restoration plan to return your property to its original state as soon as possible.

Effective water removal should adhere to safety protocols. Our SERVPRO specialists ensure this by:

• Evacuating every occupant where necessary.
• Using appropriate PPE, such as HEPA-approved/recommended vapor filters, full-body suits, nitrile gloves, and waterproof boots.
• Establishing appropriate engineering controls to prevent contaminants like debris and mold contamination from spreading.

SERVPRO technicians use industry-grade state-of-the-art equipment to locate, capture, remove, and dispose of residues. We are trained to appropriately operate and position air movers, dehumidifiers, dryers, and vacuum machines for the best results.

Our aim at SERVPRO is to leave your properties great, if not better than they were before, and make the disaster look "like it never even happened." We address every situation, concentrating on those worrying you the most. Once done, our team members do a walk-through and have the customer sign a Certificate of Satisfaction.

SERVPRO of North Morris County is Faster to any size disaster™. Contact us at (973) 983-5657 for reliable water damage restoration services in Denville.

Effective Water Damage Restoration Services in Denville

10/9/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has IICRC-certified water damage restoration technicians--WRT--to mitigate the damage to your Denville home. "Like it never even happened."

Use IICRC-Certified Techs for Water Damage Restoration

When water damage affects your home, it is critical to take swift and prompt action to prevent continuing damage and restore your property to its preloss condition. It is advisable to contact professional service providers who understand the situation's urgency and treat every water damage incident with the utmost care and expertise.

Every water removal process in Denville begins with an inspection. At SERVPRO®, we have a team of IICRC-certified technicians who, upon receiving your call, carefully assess the extent of the water disaster to your property and its contents. We inspect affected areas using advanced moisture meters and state-of-the-art equipment to determine the level of water penetration in your property for extraction.

After thorough water extraction, our technicians focus on treatment and restoration. We know that unsanitary water may lead to the breeding and growth of disease-causing microbes that pose health effects. That's why SERVPRO must ensure the safety of every occupant.

Our team uses specialized ISO-certified antimicrobial and deodorizing products to treat all the affected contents or components in your property, including carpets, floors, ceilings, and even furniture. We also identify any signs of molds, bad seams, and odor for comprehensive cleaning and restoration.

Effective drying is essential to water damage management as it also helps prevent further damage. We determine and place dehumidifiers strategically to move dry air into affected areas for faster drying. However, since the extent of water damage varies and some might be irreversible, our experts are well-trained to give the correct assessment and recommend the right replacements.

We understand the urgency of your situation and the need to safeguard your property from further damage. After successfully restoring your Denville property, SERVPRO specialists ensure a smooth transition. We safely remove debris and store all our tools and supplies, leaving your property clutter-free and ready for occupation.

SERVPRO of North Morris County is committed to responding fast and helping restore your home after a fire, water, mold, or storm damage. Call us at (201) 733-2043 to learn more about our restoration services.

Water Damage Repair in Denville Is Efficient With SERVPRO’s Help

5/25/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of North Morris County at (973) 983-5657 for assistance from a professional remediation company.

What to Expect from Water Damage Repair in Denville

It is essential to call a restoration firm quickly after a leak. Professionals can dry water relatively fast, about 24 to 48 hours after the incident. It can take many days to dry a home with severe damage. 

SERVPRO® can perform water damage repair in your Denville residence correctly the first time. Poor cleanup after a water disaster can cause issues like mold growth and contamination concerns. Ceilings, walls, and floors can deteriorate because of water damage. Our team can perform water damage restoration by taking these steps: 

• Conducting an inspection
• Extracting standing water
• Drying and dehumidifying affected areas
• Cleaning and sanitizing all surfaces
• Repairing and reconstructing damaged materials 

Conducting An Inspection

Our SERVPRO technicians can conduct a water damage assessment to identify the water source and water damage class. By identifying the water damage, we can determine the drying and dehumidification required. 

Extracting Standing Water 

Our SERVPRO team can remove stagnant water through extraction. We can use a squeegee wand to extract water from hard surface flooring and a carpet wand to extract water from carpets. Our team can also use infrared cameras or moisture meters to uncover hidden pockets of saturation underneath floorboards or behind walls. 

Drying And Dehumidifying Affected Areas

We can use equipment like air movers and dehumidifiers to dry affected areas. 

Cleaning And Sanitizing All Surfaces

Microbes can grow in water that has pooled for several hours. Our SERVPRO technicians can eliminate microbes by using antimicrobial products. We can also use equipment like air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums during sanitization. HEPA vacuums are specialized vacuum cleaners that can capture large amounts of tiny particles from surfaces and keep them contained for later disposal. 

Repairing and Reconstructing Damaged Materials 

It may be necessary to remove unsalvageable parts like medium to low-density trim boards, carpet padding, and ruined drywall. Our team has expertise in reconstruction and can return your home to preloss condition.

When you have water damage, you can count on SERVPRO of North Morris County to repair it efficiently. Contact us at any time at (973) 983-5657.

The Effectiveness of Water Damage Extraction for Denville Homes

3/22/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO mitigates water damage to Denville homes with fast extraction using advanced equipment.

SERVPRO Water Cleanup Specialists Use Powerful Extraction Tools for Denville Homes

Whether it occurs in Denville or elsewhere, residential water damage can happen anywhere, at any time. Homeowners can take steps to reduce or even prevent damage before it occurs. Still, they may not have access to the tools necessary to eliminate it when it does happen.

When Denville water damage incidents occur, SERVPRO professionals are ready to respond with 24-hour remediation services. These thoroughly-trained techs can use commercial-grade tools to eliminate residues, stains, and odors that stem from excess moisture.

How Water Damage Extraction Works

Water damage extraction is one of the cornerstones of successful home restoration and serves a multitude of purposes, such as:

• Removing standing water from a property
• Greatly accelerating structural drying, which would take hundreds of times longer without extraction
• Sanitizing with hot water and EPA-registered antimicrobials to lessen the presence of contaminants
• Minimizing potential damage to subfloors, wall studs, ceiling joists, or home foundations

Extraction begins with removing standing water and debris. Wet/dry vacuums, mops, and sump pumps, among other tools, can be used for this purpose. However, many disasters may not necessitate this degree of moisture removal. Portable or truck-mounted extractors are then deployed to remediate excess water. Both extractors feature three systems: a vacuum component, a pump, and a heating system. For most surfaces, only a vacuum is necessary. The other two components are primarily used on carpeting and upholstery. 

DIY extraction is possible to some degree. That said, homeowners may not have access to tools like commercial-grade hot water extractors to make the job faster, easier, and safer. SERVPRO IICRC-certified technicians perform several rounds of extraction to remove as much excess water as possible before deploying drying equipment. 

Water Remediation, the SERVPRO Way

SERVPRO water cleanup can act 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, 

including holidays and weekends, to minimize homeowners’ repair and replacement necessities. The process entails the following:

• Inspecting water damage with sensors, meters, and imaging tools that determine surface-level humidity and moisture content beneath surfaces. These devices can be calibrated for specific surfaces with the relative humidity and moisture levels of dry surfaces in the home in mind
• Extracting excess moisture with a combination of extractors, vacuums, pumps, and manual cleaning to partially sanitize and prepare the space for drying
• Remediating potential microbial growth and odor-causing bacteria from the property with OSHA-approved biocide solutions, including a plethora of proprietary SERVPRO solutions designed to target moisture-related contaminants
• Drying remaining moisture to a pre-disaster condition with air movement and dehumidification equipment. Air movers are positioned between 50 and 300 square feet apart, depending on the extent of the damage. Some incidents may only require one air mover and dehumidifier to restore affected materials. The direction and volume of airflow help funnel humid air toward the dehumidifier, which isolates moisture by collecting condensation and releasing warm, dry air
• Odor control measures like scented granules and fogging deodorizers may be dispensed to address varying degrees of moisture-related odors

Restoration technicians can also perform structural repairs when necessary and rebuilding services, like drywall installation and wall painting, that restore an affected property as completely as possible after mitigation.

SERVPRO of North Morris County can prove that We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster for property owners who call (973) 983-5657.

When Your Denville Home has Leaks, Call for Water Damage Repair

12/25/2022 (Permalink)

When a water pipe break or other issue causes a water damage situation in your home, it’s time to bring in the professionals. We are standing by 24/7.

Scalable & Efficient Water Damage Repair Services

SERVPRO’s crews have extensive experience in water damage repair and can restore your home quickly. Your Denville residence contains many different water lines. While these all are under the same pressure, larger pipes can release significantly more if a break ever happens.

Other water sources run through your home’s kitchen and bathroom walls in Denville, and water damage repair can always fix any problems caused by leaks. Smaller water lines can still release much-unwanted water into your living space. You might find these supplying water to your fridge’s ice maker. A loose connection between a feed line and your washing machine can also release more water than you might realize.

Any amount of water can cause materials within your home to deteriorate. Some residential components that can sustain water damage are:

• Flooring materials,
• Baseboards and moldings, and
• Electrical systems.

Your home’s floors are often the place most affected by excess moisture. Because water conforms to everything, it can travel several yards away from the origination point. We use moisture detection devices to learn precisely where to direct our attention. With water leaks, we can clean and dry carpeting and treat padding, so replacing these investments becomes unnecessary. Wood flooring requires strict drying protocols, so over-drying never occurs.

Corners often have baseboards or other moldings where the floors meet the wall. These can swell and curve when exposed to moisture. Paint can also peel and flake. Getting these dried out slowly protects them from splitting. We can repaint, if needed, to preserve their look and reinstall them once they are completely dry and free of moisture.

The metals inherent in any electrical system can develop deposits from minerals in the water and regular corrosion and rust. Water can also conduct electricity, making the risk of getting shocked or a fire breaking out much greater than normal.

SERVPRO of North Morris County understands these and other issues. Call us at (973) 983-5657 for water damage repair needs. We’ll make it all “Like it never even happened.”

Conducting Water Damage Repair in Rockaway

8/13/2022 (Permalink)

Don’t let your home be a victim of water damage, SERVPRO of North Morris County is only a call away.

SERVPRO Aids with Rockaway Water Restorations

Everyone has most likely been in a situation where their toilet has plugged up and won't flush at some point in their life. In many of these scenarios, the issue can be easily fixed by using a plunger and pulling up the debris that is restricting water flow. In other cases, the water can back up where it flows out of your toilet. Or, if your sewage line is blocked further down the line, water could come up and out another drain such as your bath or shower. 

Whenever our SERVPRO technicians work on water damage repair in Rockaway, the first thing we do is find out where the moisture entered your home. Once we locate the source, we then determine if the source is clean water or if there is a chance of contamination. If water came from a source like your kitchen sink faucet, it would be clean water and classified as category one damage. If the moisture leaked from your washing machine's drain, it could contain contaminants, and we treat it as a category two scenario. But, if your toilet or sewage line backs up, the likelihood of contamination is high, and the project gets labeled as category three. 

When dealing with sewage or black water, we take extra precautions to protect our crew, like ensuring they get equipped with the proper personal protection equipment (PPE). We can also take measures to ensure the contamination doesn't spread, like building containment chambers and using air scrubbers. 

Actions we can take as a part of the restoration process:

• Water Extraction Services
• Decontamination of Contents and Building Materials
• Sewage Cleanup
• Black Mold Inspections

Any time sewage water backs up and contacts any of your contents or building materials, call SERVPRO of North Morris County at (973) 983-5657.

Types of Water Damage Repair for Denville Homes

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

Whether it’s a broken pipe or another type of water damage, SERVPRO is here to help. Contact us 24/7 for professional remediation services.

SERVPRO Does Water Damage Repair from the Start

With the destructive capacity of water emergencies like burst pipes or flooding, many situations require repairs and reconstruction. Understanding how our experienced professionals can help achieve these restoration goals is important in the decision to trust SERVPRO with post-disaster recovery.

Mitigative Repairs

Water damage repairs for Denville homes often begin as soon as our SERVPRO restorers first arrive. Multiple types of corrective measures can protect the property and prevent worse damage. Some of the common mitigative repairs for households include:

• Controlled Demolition - This recovery phase involves removing compromised portions of building materials per water exposure and the element's physical condition. Controlled demolition can also provide access to damaged areas of the property, such as structural cavities. 
• Board Up Services - Post-water damage conditions can have exterior wall systems and structural elements compromised and vulnerable. Board-up services stop intruding water and protect the property from greater possible damages. 
• Plumbing Repairs - leaks and burst pipes are not uncommon, but the main water service to a household cannot remain unrepaired. Early action gets taken to restore this utility. 

Flood Cutting

Another avenue of water damage repairs is creating and ultimately replacing flood cuts. This is a less-invasive method of accessing wet structural cavities without substantial demolition.

Reconstruction and Build Back

As full-service contractors, we waste no time after the restoration completes to begin reinstalling missing building materials. Seamlessly transitioning to build-back services saves customers time and money over pursuing and vetting a secondary contractor. SERVPRO is here to help. 

Even with the hundreds of different ways water damage could impact a home or business, damage repairs are often necessary. Many look to the experience and prompt response of our SERVPRO of North Morris County to get this process started beginning as soon as we arrive. Call us today at (973) 983-5657.

Water Damage Restoration in Rockaway Homes- Where to Start

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

Let your local SERVPRO of North Morris County professionals resolve your water damage problems.

SERVPRO Offers Rockaway Homeowners Rapid Water 

Repairs Preventing Secondary Issues

Water damage necessitates repair, whether it affects the floors, ceilings, or walls. Time is of the essence as moisture could further affect your Rockaway home's belongings, fixtures, and fittings. In some situations, the damage can be too extensive for you to manage; thus, getting help from a restoration service is paramount to ensure the process is done correctly.

Before embarking on water damage restoration in a Rockaway home, SERVPRO documents all of the damage first. This helps with any insurance claims you make. We create two different estimates, one for structure and another for contents due to insurance coverage as required by most companies. Our production manager scopes and estimates the cost involved with cleaning and restoration. We provide packing materials upon request for some of the most important items you wish to take out.

Effects of Water Damage

• Musty odors
• Unsightly stains
• Microbial growth

High levels of moisture cause musty odors and hideous stains, but it could most likely also lead to microbial growth. If mold starts to grow and is left unaddressed, it could cause structural damage that can be costly to fix.

Drying Wet Materials and Managing Humidity

After fixing what is causing the leak and assessing the situation, our crew focuses on removing water from your home. With commercial-grade vacuums and pumps, we remove excess water from floors, furniture, and carpets, then use a mop to absorb any moisture in hard-to-reach areas. After all standing water is removed, we tend to damp belongings. We set air movers and dehumidifiers to help dry damp areas of your home. Our crew helps determine salvageable and discard anything that is no longer safe to use. When dealing with content, it is important to sort them out before taking action.

The Best Criteria Are to Group Them Into:

• Salvageable items
• Unsalvageable items
• Questionable items

SERVPRO of North Morris County evaluates properties to determine the best water damage restoration approach. Call us at (973) 983-5657. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Can Heavy Rainfall in Denville Require Professional Water Removal?

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO teams are ready to assist with storm flood damage remediation 24/7, just call us at (973) 983-5657.

SERVPRO Water Removal Experts in Denville Can Help Restore and Protect your Home Against Heavy Rainfall

Persistent rainfall over several weeks can result in the flooding of your crawlspace. The crawlspace is a recess that exists underneath the first-floor and subfloor of your home. Sometimes crawlspaces are used to run electrical wiring through into the house, while most properties have little to zero protection between the crawlspace cavity and upper insulation of the subfloor. When water intrudes into a subfloor space, it can stay there for several weeks due to a lack of air circulation, sunlight, and further rainfall. We recommend that you reach out to a professional for immediate assistance with:

• Crawlspace water removal
• Subfloor flooding
• Water mitigation

Performing standing water removal from your Denville crawlspace is a relatively quick task usually undertaken immediately upon arriving onsite. SERVPRO technicians can help protect your home from future crawlspace flooding by installing a crawlspace sump pump, a dehumidifier, and sealing the area with a twelve-millimeter crawl guard. Encapsulating a crawlspace protects the area from exterior openings while also preventing humidity, or vapor damage, from affecting the subfloor above. Our technicians can create a controlled and isolated environment atmospherically by successfully sealing the crawlspace. A controlled environment not only prevents future flooding but can also ensure that less damage occurs should equipment become overloaded or malfunction in the future.

• Installing a crawl guard in your home alongside a dehumidifier can reduce heating bills by up to 18% over a year.
• Sump pumps are designed to transport rainwater, and plumbing breaks out and away from the property during periods of heavy rainfall.
• Crawlspace liners can further reduce humidity or vapor damages to subfloor insulation in your home. As an added benefit, it may improve the indoor air quality of the living space.

For a comprehensive solution to crawlspace flooding, contact SERVPRO of North Morris County for water removal at (973) 983-5657.

Can SERVPRO Assist Rockway Homeowners with Water Extraction from their Properties?

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

Excess water in your home can quickly cause damage to your property. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for effective water removal and remediation services.

SERVPRO techs use industry-leading technology for water extraction from Rockaway homes

Water accumulated on your property can compromise the integrity of various structural materials, including wood, metal, and concrete. It is crucial to get professionals like SERVPRO involved right away for water extraction from your Rockaway property before the matter gets out of hand. 

SERVPRO techs use several pieces of equipment during water extraction from your Rockaway property, depending on the amount and condition of water to be removed. Small portable extractors can handle relatively small amounts of water resulting from burst pipes or ceiling leaks. To remove large quantities of water, for instance, after flooding or sewage cleanup, SERVPRO techs use large, truck-mounted units.  

What are self-priming trash pumps used during SERVPRO’s water removal service in Rockaway?

Self-priming trash pumps are high-power pumps that can remove solids and other debris along with water from your Rockaway property. The trash pumps are classified into the following types depending on the size of solids they can handle:

• Semi-trash
• Trash
• Full trash
• Slurry

The semi-trash, trash, and full trash pumps can pass progressively larger solids, while the slurry pumps are specifically designed to carry fluid laden with sand or mud.  

Why do SERVPRO techs don’t use trash pumps in flooded basements? 

Trash pumps are most applicable when the water needs to be transported horizontally, and only a little lift is required. Hence, these pumps are ideal for removing water from single-story structures.

Techs use high-pressure pumps that offer a high lift to remove water from basements and other underground structures. 

If you need assistance with water restoration in your home, call SERVPRO of North Morris County at (973) 983-5657.

Can Homeowners Perform Water Damage Repair in Rockaway Caused by Leaking Appliances?

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has advanced water extraction equipment to mitigate damage in Rockaway homes. Not this!

Water Damage Repair in Your Rockaway Home Necessitates the Services of a Reputable Restoration Firm Like SERVPRO

A water leak in the kitchen from a faulty dishwasher can quickly cause extensive water damage. Mold development can also occur, and it can lead to health effects. Getting in touch with a reputable restoration company like SERVPRO within 24 hours might help prevent additional damage.

It is important to remember that delaying water damage repair in your Rockaway property for more than 48 hours might result in irreversible and costly damage. By accelerating up the drying process, we can reduce the secondary effects of water damage. SERVPRO has cutting-edge equipment and tools to reduce moisture levels, even in hard-to-reach places.

Water extraction is a vital step in eradicating moisture from a building. The more water we remove, the less time we spend evaporating and dehumidifying the remaining moisture using drying equipment. We can use various extraction tools to remove water from floors, including:

• Light wands
• Extraction units
• Submersible pumps
• Deep extraction tools

To dry your property, our restorers might employ centrifugal air movers and desiccant dehumidifiers. These dehumidifiers produce the driest air, meaning that they produce air that has the lowest vapor pressure. When the temperature in the affected area is below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, they are the only dehumidifiers that can eliminate the moisture.

We can also remediate any existing contamination. Our SERVPRO team can use quaternary compounds to treat affected regions effectively. The product is an effective broad-spectrum disinfectant that eliminates a broad range of bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

Primary and secondary water damage can occur across a large area and in a short period, and if not addressed promptly, it may compromise the structural integrity of your home. Our SERVPRO restorers are quick to respond and take action to safeguard you from incurring costly damage.

Water damage repair is a difficult task that necessitates specialized knowledge. Contact SERVPRO of North Morris County for comprehensive water damage repair at (973) 983-5657. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What Water Damage Repair Work Might I Need If My Denville Home Is Impacted?

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO uses only EPA-registered biocides for all water damage restoration jobs. Our goal is to have your home back to preloss conidition.

Your Denville Home Could Need Anything from Deodorizing to Partial Reconstruction.

Water damage, from any of several causes, is a common occurrence in Denville. Its impact on your home can range from relatively minor up to catastrophic. Fortunately, regardless of how it occurs, rest assured that local services like SERVPRO have the experience and means to remediate it effectively. 

The experienced professionals at SERVPRO have decades of experience handling water damage repair in Denville. Our technicians have routinely performed emergency water damage services like water cleanup, basement flooding resolution, and water damage remediation. Over time, they have encountered all types of water-related issues. With that said, water leak-impacted homes remediated by SERVPRO have generally required one or more of the following services:

• Repair of burst pipes, ceiling leaks, or corroded or otherwise damaged water containers
• Removal of various amounts of standing water from all around the home, using powerful wet vacs or cutting edge water extractors
• Drying of interior air, structural elements, and contents with state-of-the-art air movers, dehumidifiers, and Injectidry systems
• Treatment of impacted areas and materials with commercial-grade antimicrobials, innovative injection devices, and advanced foggers
• Full deodorization of the interiors and contents of your residence with strong, EPA-approved deodorants
• Repair of water-damaged floors, walls, ceilings, and contents, as well as full reconstruction of destroyed parts of your home 

Once we have completed whatever cleanup and restoration efforts a residence needs, it is often difficult even to notice that a damaging water-related event ever occurred.

Considering all this, it is easy to see why many of our neighbors call SERVPRO of North Morris County when they need water damage repair work completed. So, if you ever need help recovering from a water-related issue, don’t hesitate to call us at (973) 983-5657.

Rockaway Residents Deserve Safe, Effective Water Damage Restoration

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

Moisture in your home is a task for SERVPRO. Our technicians will be onsite within 4 hours of the initial call.

SERVPRO Handles Water Damage with Proven Restoration Methods for Rockaway Locals

Excess moisture lurking in your Rockaway home can quickly turn into costly water damage repairs. If left to sit for too long, this moisture then turns into a mold and mildew problem. Beyond that, you also run the risk of stagnation and structural weakening. The best thing to do is call a skilled water restoration team to handle the problem right away before it turns into something more severe. Calling SERVPRO ensures you have a team at your door within hours, armed with experience, industrial-grade equipment, and proven processes for emergency services water damage remediation.

Calling SERVPRO for water damage restoration in Rockaway provides you with a 24-hour emergency response. We arrange dispatch of our Green Fleet to your door within hours to start the assessment and inspection. You can bet that we work as fast as possible to protect your interior from:

• Structural damage
• Water stagnation
• Microbial growth
• Mold development
• Onset of foul odors

We must establish efficient air circulation during water removal services so that we can keep relative humidity low. Proper circulation and strategic placement of equipment also help facilitate drying. In some instances, we may drill small holes that allow water to escape areas behind walls. Our technicians can pump warmed air into the cavities in events such as these to ensure drying both inside and out.

Water issues can be challenging to navigate as a DIY project. Whether you have ceiling leaks or a faulty appliance, you can trust our team to adjust our methods accordingly to help reach our goals. When materials are unsalvageable, we may perform controlled demolition to replace them with all-new materials. 

Call (973) 983-5657 to speak with a team member at SERVPRO of North Morris County. We are available for emergency response for all water damage restoration projects.

Tracking Drying Progress of Water Restoration in Denville Homes

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO works to thoroughly dry out your home after a water incident. Call us after water strikes in your home.

Software like SERVPRO DryBook Keeps the Team Organized When Restoring Damaged Denville Properties. 

Drying and water removal are vital efforts in restoring water-damaged homes. Because there are multiple variables in the efficient drying of a property, careful evaluation of the progress can help.

How Does Documenting Drying Progress Help? 

When water cleanup in Denville homes must begin, drying is a considerable element of this phase. We have many tools like air movers and dehumidifiers to help in this process, but monitoring their progress and if these production values plateau ensures the most efficient solutions. Our proprietary software SERVPRO DryBook offers a range of helpful tools for the restorer and a forum to document the condition of materials and contents, and updates on the drying progress.

What Drying Changes Can Be Made? 

Based on the data collected through the software and the inspection from competent professionals like the production manager, changes can be made to bolster the efficiency and efficacy of drying practices. The evaluation of the progress identifies the suspected output and work production of each placed drying unit, allowing us to determine when specific actions are necessary, such as:

• Movement of active drying tools
• The decision to add more drying units
• The decision to add larger drying units

Our SERVPRO of North Morris County team has effective tools and strategies to complete this task, including our proprietary documentation software SERVPRO DryBook. Give us a call today at (973) 983-5657.

Rockaway Water Damage Repair May Involve Insulation

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can go any and everywhere. Let SERVPRO of North Morris County help you through all obstacles.

The sooner you contact us for water damage repair in Rockaway, the more you save

The longer water damage lingers in your home, the more costly it becomes. One example of this effect is how insulating materials interact with moisture after ceiling leaks and other events. Wet insulation loses its ability to contain warmth, allowing expensive home heating to flow right out.

Our water damage repair projects in Rockaway do not always require attention towards the home’s insulation. SERVPRO inspectors and technicians assess the possibility of insulation damage through the use of moisture meters – devices that can tell whether or not the insulation has absorbed moisture without removing any wall materials. The SERVPRO inspector may suspect damage to insulation after:

• Burst pipes
• Leaking Roof from Storms
• Ceiling Repairs from Water Damages
• Flood damages
• Mold infestation

The type of insulation used in your home may influence our restoration techniques. For example, rockwool insulation often must be replaced since it contains metal that can oxidize when exposed to water, it can rust.. On the other hand, fiberglass can usually be dried out, professionally cleaned, and reinstalled back in the wall. Cellulose insulation may become vulnerable to mold and fire damage after being exposed to water, so the decision to restore or replace it may rest with your insurance adjuster. The cost versus replacement is a key factor in the determination of wet attic insulation following a water damaging event.

SERVPRO of North Morris County maintains 24/7 readiness to respond to water damage situations in the local area. Call us at (973) 983-5657.

What Is a Good Water Removal Service in Rockaway?

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

Malfunctioning appliances and leaking pipes can cause a lot of water damage. SERVPRO is equipped to restore your water damage needs.

SERVPRO is one of the Best Rockaway Water Removal Companies

Catastrophic water issues could impact your home at any time, without warning. They might result from any number of problems, ranging from leaks to appliance malfunctions. Regardless of what causes your water-related nightmares, you need help from trained remediators.

Whenever you need emergency water removal in Rockaway, SERVPRO is an excellent option. Not only do we use the most advanced water cleanup equipment available, but also our techs are among the most highly trained and accredited experts in the water damage remediation industry. Some of the specific certifications our professionals have are:

• Applied structural drying
• Water damage remediation
• Applied microbial remediation
• Carpet cleaning
• Upholstery and fabric cleaning
• Odor control

As you can see, SERVPRO is more than capable of successfully performing most water removal services and water damage repairs. More than that, we can often complete them more effectively and in less time than other local firms.

So, whenever you need water removal services, contact your neighbors at SERVPRO of North Morris County at (973) 983-5657 for help.

How Can SERVPRO Remove Water from Carpets in Denville Homes?

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO mitigates water damage to Denville carpeting with fast extraction using advanced equipment like this Rover

Trapped moisture can be problematic for Denville properties, but our extraction methods can help.

When water becomes trapped in high porosity materials like carpeting and drywall, the saturation can lead to deterioration and degradation to the point of needing controlled demolition. While we have a general contractor license to remove damaged materials and reconstruct these areas, SERVPRO works to avoid this if possible.

What Tools Work Best for Removing Water from Carpets in Denville?

Preventing water from reaching the padding and subflooring requires several immediate water damage restoration tactics in Denville homes. Specialty extractors force moisture to the surface through vacuuming and pressing padding and the carpet fibers against the stable underlayment of wood or concrete subflooring. Some of the tools used include:

• Carpet wands
• Weighted extractors
• Truck-mounted extractors
• Wet vacuums
• Rover riding water extraction units

Water damage restoration involves multiple steps and stages ranging from extraction to drying. Our SERVPRO of North Morris County team can help to prevent unnecessary tear-out with our fast response. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. Give us a call 24/7 at (973) 983-5657.

Avoiding Frozen Pipes

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

Some may find this a pretty sight: icicles forming in the cold weather. Icicles forming on outdoor faucets can cause costly damage inside your home.

Avoiding Frozen Pipes

The next week or so in North Morris County look to be the coldest of the winter season. The temperatures are expected to bottom out in the single digits.  When we start to see these sub-freezing temperatures, we need to take action.  If the water dripping from your roof becomes an icicle, what do you think the water in your exposed pipes is doing?

A few thoughts which could save homeowners a lot of money this winter:

1. WRAP THOSE PIPES - If you have exposed pipes, perhaps running through your garage or crawl space and you have not already done so, wrap them now with insulation to keep them as warm as possible. This may prevent frozen pipes as the temperature drops.
2. DRIP THE FAUCET – Do you have pipes adjacent to an outside wall? They may freeze leaving you with nothing coming out of the faucet. When you know it's going to be a sub-freezing night, open the faucet just enough to let the water drip. As long as the water is moving, your pipes should not freeze.
3. EMPTY THE PIPELINE - The closer the pipe to an outside faucet, the more likely it will freeze. Turn the water off leading to those outside faucets then open the faucet and let the water drain out.

Doing these few things may save you a lot of aggravation and expense down the line.  If you should experience frozen or burst pipes, turn the water off at the source and call SERVPRO® of North Morris County.  We have the experience and the certified team to handle water or any type of disaster.

The Science of Drying

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying? Having the knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water-damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of North Morris County is trained in the science of drying and follows strict industry approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages.

If your home or business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO of North Morris County will:

1. Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
2. Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
3. Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment. What exactly does it mean to help “speed up Mother Nature”? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material–but only if the air is, indeed, drier. The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out.

SERVPRO of North Morris County has the tools and equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. We use state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.  We are certified by the IICRC!

The bottom line? SERVPRO of North Morris County has the training and equipment to help make water damage “Like it never even happened.”

Heavy Rainfall and Flash Floods

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Northwestern New Jersey, including Morris County, are currently under a Flood Watch due to heavy rain expected to drop 1.5 to 3 inches of precipitation that may cause flooding. With so many rivers, lakes and streams in our area that have a tendency to flood, it is important to take heed of these warnings.   Do you know the difference between a Flood Watch and a Flood Warning?  Educate yourself on the facts and be prepared!

According to the National Weather Service:

Flash Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.

Flood Watch: Be Prepared: A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Flood Advisory: Be Aware: A Flood Advisory is issued when a specific weather event that is forecast to occur may become a nuisance. A Flood Advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.

For additional information, visit the National Weather Service here:  https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood-watch-warning

As always, if your property is damaged by a flood, call SERVPRO of North Morris County.  We are ready to help!

Is Your Property Flood Safe?

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Perhaps you think you have heard it all before.  Flood warning, flood watch, flood insurance, blah, blah, blah.  I don’t live near the ocean, a river or stream and my property is on high ground so I don’t have to worry!  Is this really true?  I thought so as well, until I moved into a house that is mid-way down a hill.  My house has no sump pump, the water table is not high here, and there is no evidence of past water intrusion.  So, we’re good, right?

Wrong!

Along comes a damaging, heavy rain.  All of the drain water from properties above mine comes racing down the hill.  The municipal drain at the top of driveway gets quickly blocked with leaves, sticks and other debris that came down with the raging torrent.  I hear what sounds like rushing water in my lower level.  Little did I know that the water that could not empty down the drain has flowed down my driveway and breached the garage.  As I open the inside door leading to the garage from the house to discover the source of the noise, there is resistance.  I push harder.  Big Mistake!!  Once the door has opened just slightly, the force of the water opens it the rest of the way and that water is now entering my house and flooding down the stairs.  I quickly get help to get that door closed, but not before a lot of water has soaked floors, carpets and a few inches of sheetrock in the hallway. 

I grab boots, a rain slicker and a shovel and head to the top of the driveway to clear out the drain.  I am able to clear enough of it with help from a neighbor so that the water is no longer flooding down my driveway, but is now going through proper channels into the drain pipes.  I head back into the house to assess the damage.

At least I was home and able to stop the water with minimum damage done.  But there was damage done.  I don’t have flood insurance, and the water came in from an outside source.  My homeowner’s policy did not cover it. 

Make no mistake.  Ground water is not “clean water” by any stretch of the imagination  It has traveled over yards treated with chemicals for weed and pest control, yards polluted by animal waste and garbage left on the roadside by careless passersby, not to mention possibly sewage.  This was now what sat in my lower level.  I had to make plans to have the damage remediated.  I wish I had known about SERVPRO back then! I wish my insurance company had recommended them!

After having the house dried out and repaired, I also had to make a plan to prevent this from ever happening again.  Long term solutions included getting the town involved to install proper drainage on the street and under the street.  However, since these drains can still fail due to leaves and branches and even basketballs getting lodged in the openings, I also installed a back-up drain at the bottom of the driveway and a small drain in the middle of the garage floor.    I have not had a water instrusion since, and am holding out hope that with due vigilance, it won’t. 

To that end, when I become aware of heavy rain in the forecast, I don’t fail to prepare my property. 

You can too by following the advice of FEMA:

Clear drains, gutters, and downspouts

Relocate furniture, appliances, and rugs to higher areas in the home where flood water is less likely to reach.

Inspect your sump pump and be sure it is in working order

If you live in a flood-prone area, consider the following:

Install an interior or exterior backflow valve to prevent sewage back up.

Redirect flood water away from your home by changing the grade of your yard.

Install typical basement units, such as furnaces and water heaters, on elevated platforms.

Obtain flood insurance if possible. Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create password-protected digital copies. 

If you experience property loss or damage due to a flood, or for any other reason, call the professional team at SERVPRO of North Morris County.  We are ready to help you get your home back “Like it never even happened.”

Water Emergency in the Office

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

We’ve all been there.  Upon entering the restroom at the office, or our favorite department store or restaurant, or any other place frequented by the public, we notice dripping , stuffed and sometimes overflowing toilets, and faucets that have been left running:  a perfect set-up for the disaster scenario your employers have always warned you about.  Each one of these scenes can lead to hazardous, contaminated water damage.  As business owners or managers, we know that water intrusion can add up quickly not only in terms of damage to our property and contents,  but also in terms of revenue lost if we must close our doors while the remediation work takes place.

At SERVPRO of North Morris County, we have IICRC Certified technicians who are trained and experienced in state-of-the-art responses to any type of water damage, whether it be sewage, drainage, or storm.  Our team has responded to water emergencies from simple accidents such as an employee leaving a coffee mug covering the drain, filling with hot water in the break room over the weekend causing the entire office and the one below it to flood; to major disasters such as Hurricane Sandy and its effects in our own area on homeowners and businesses.

A Few Simple Tips

Add these to your protocol for a manager or employee each evening at closing:

Check Breakroom faucets, refrigerators and water coolers for any signs of water leaks. Be sure all faucets are in the off position.

Check Bathroom faucets and toilets to be sure they are not running water. If you hear water running, there must be an explanation for it.

Know where your shut-off valves are (for both sinks and toilets). A quick-acting manager or employee can minimize damage by cutting it off at the source.

Water damage can happen anywhere at any time.  For an in-depth consultation and Emergency Ready Profile® (ERP) analysis for your business, please call us! SERVPRO of North Morris County is available 24/7 365 days a year.  Give us a call at 973-983-5657.  We are Here to Help!!

Water Emergency?

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Morris County 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 property damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 973-983-5657

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 North Morris County 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.  We are also experienced in assisting you with your insurance claim.

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 Team Member 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 North Morris County

SERVPRO of North Morris County 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.

The Process

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

The Water Damage Restoration Process

When your home or commercial property has water damage from flooding or leaks, we have the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property. Our experience and scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup enable us to properly dry and restore your property.

Water or Flood Damage?
Call Today – (973) 983-5657

Every water damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. You can click on any of the steps below to learn more about that process.

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand the equipment and resources.

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

We determine the scope of your water damage at this stage. We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

We use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. We are adept at cleaning contents using a number of techniques. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.

Step 6 - Restoration

Restoration is the process of restoring your home or business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Water Damage - What NOT To Do

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

Sometimes in a situation, it is just as important to know what NOT to do as it is what you should do.

For example, in a water damage situation You should not enter a room with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist. If there are electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment exposed to water, this is an area to avoid.

You should not leave books, newspapers or magazines on wet carpets or floors since they could cause staining. The same could be said for oriental or other colored area rugs on wall-to-wall carpeting.

Do not use televisions or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially wet concrete floors.

Do not turn on ceiling fans if the ceiling is wet or sagging from retained water.

It is important to know what to do in these situations, but just as important what NOT to do

Contaminated Water - The Do's & Don'ts

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to "contaminated" water, such as sewage, there are things you should do and things you should not. It is important to remember the high bacteria level could cause a health image.

The number one thing to remember is you want to avoid direct contact with the water.  This and any contents affected by the water.

If you do make contact with contamination, make sure you wash your hands immediately.

Things you should avoid in this scenario include walking through and spreading the contaminated water by tracking into unaffected places.

Also, turn off the HVAC system if possible if there is the possibility of spreading the germs. Do not use household fans to dry the affected area.

SERVPRO of North Morris County wants you to stay as safe as possible until help arrives

Understanding Water Types

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

When your home or business suffers a water damage,
understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensuring proper cleanup.

There are three types of water. Clean water is water from a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater
is also considered clean. The term gray water is used to classify slightly contaminated water. Clean water
becomes gray water when it is left untreated allowing bacteria and other contaminants to begin growing, making the water hazardous. Black water is
highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals and more. Black water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural
disaster. Black water should always be handled by trained professionals.

Consider taking the following precautions to help minimize damage or prevent further damage while waiting for help to arrive:

Damage from Clean Water

-Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.

-Turn of circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is same from potential electrical shock. Do not enter rooms with standing water, as electrical shock hazards may exist.

-Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.

-Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions to allow more even drying.

-Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture to a safe place.

-Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining. 

-Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water as there is potential for electrical shock or causing damage to the vacuum cleaner.

-Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet; do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

Damage from Contaminated Water

-Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated items.

-Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.

-Do not turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.

-Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminants. 

-Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated aras.

When you have a water damage, don't leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO of North Morris County.

FASTER TO ANY DISASTER

8/11/2018 (Permalink)

There’s no such thing as a small disaster—especially when a small leak now could blossom into a big claim later. Unseen water can soak through walls, seep through carpet and pool on sub floors, causing major problems over time. You need help—fast.

No matter what time of day or night, contact SERVPRO of North Morris County to begin emergency mitigation.

Emergency mitigation means under normal circumstances, we can be on-site within four hours to begin drying your building and restoring contents. The faster the water is removed, the less chance of serious damage to your facility.

We trained and understand how to manage the drying process. By utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and the latest technology, your structure will be quickly and thoroughly dried, which helps prevent secondary water damages.

We will remove moisture and any contaminants by disinfecting and deodorizing to safely clean and dry your building and contents. Help ensure the value of your property by calling SERVPRO of North Morris County.

Call the Cleanup Team That is Faster to Any Disaster

3/10/2018 (Permalink)

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether your home or business is near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river, or even in the desert—there is always potential for flood damage. Fema.gov reports in the last 5 years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. Just because you haven’t experienced a flood in the past does not mean you won’t in the future. In fact, nearly 20% of all flood insurance claims come from moderate-to-low risk areas, and even just one inch of flood damage in an average home can cost you up to $27,000.

According to the American Red Cross, floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster. The American Red Cross offers the following flood safety tips:

-Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around, and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.

-Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around, and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.

- Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water

If a flood does strike your home or business, contact SERVPRO of North Morris County. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task. The SERVPRO® System is prepared to handle any sized disaster. When fire and water take control of your life, we will help you take it back

WHEN WATER DAMAGE STRIKES

3/10/2018 (Permalink)

The first 24 hours following a water loss are the most important in preventing secondary or permanent damage. Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO of North Morris County will be on-site to help ensure a water damage is handled by completing the following steps.

INSPECTION: we will inspect affected areas to determine the extent of water damage and will review the inspection with you to answer any questions before beginning any work.

EMERGENCY SERVICES: we will take steps to help protect your home or business, as well as personal belongings and other contents, from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing the area for drying. They will explain the needed emergency services to you step-by-step.

MONITORING: To help ensure your home or business and belongings are dried to appropriate industry standards, we will monitor the drying process. The updates will be consistently communicated to you.

RESTORATION SERVICES: we will repair structural materials, reinstall carpets, and clean affected areas of your property and belongings. A final walkthrough of the jobsite will be conducted with you to help ensure the property was returned to preloss condition.

EMERGENCY WATER DAMAGE TIPS

3/10/2018 (Permalink)

In case of an emergency water damage, there are a few things you should remember:

-Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.

-Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.

-Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.

-Place aluminium foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

-Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other sensitive valuables to a dry place.

-Don’t enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.

-Don’t use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water; this could cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.

-Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

For more information on recovering from water damage, contact your SERVPRO of North Morris County today. 

Worries of WINTER WEATHER

1/11/2018 (Permalink)

Winter weather can bring about more issues than just slippery roads and a sidewalk to shovel. If you live where temperatures sink below freezing level, you are also at risk for frozen pipes and ice dams, which can create a major disaster at your home or property.

Frozen pipes are often those exposed to the cold weather, such as those outside your house, or in cold areas such as basements, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets. A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly. To prevent pipes from freezing, here are a few steps you can take, according to The American Red Cross:

- Be sure to completely drain water from swimming pool and sprinkler lines, as well as outside hoses.

-Open kitchen cabinets to let warm air near the plumbing. 

- When the weather is extremely cold, let water drip from faucets that may come from exposed pipes. 

- Keep your heat set to the same temperature both day and night.

Ice dams can be a little-known, but major problem during the snowy season. They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still-frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof ’s shingles and into the structure’s interior areas, as well as causing gutters and shingles to move or fall. Icicles can be an initial sign of an ice dam, according to Travelers.com. To spot ice dams inside, “check for water stains or moisture in your attic or along the ceiling of exterior walls of your house. Water stains or moisture may be an indication that an ice dam has formed and water has penetrated the roof membrane.” Removing an ice dam as soon as it is found is vital to helping prevent damage to your property and can be done using heated cables, a roof shovel, or calcium chloride ice melter. If winter weather causes water damage to you or your insured’s property, SERVPRO of North Morris County is only a call away, 24/7, ready to restore to preloss condition. 

Are You Winter Weather Ready?

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

Are you prepared for the coming cold weather? Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not ready for it. From heavy rain and freezing temperatures to damaging winds, sleet, or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage. While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather.

To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the followingsix precautions to protect your property before colder weather hits:

1.Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.

2.Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.

3.Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.

4.Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.

5.Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.

6.Ask SERVPRO of North Morris County about completing an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for your business. The ERP is a no-cost assessment to your facility and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster.

The Science of Drying

9/11/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying? Having the knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water-damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of North Morris County is trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages.

If your home or business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO of North Morris County will:

1. Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
2. Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
3. Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment. What exactly does it mean to help “speed up Mother Nature”? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material–but only if the air is, indeed, drier. The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out.

SERVPRO of North Morris County has the tools and equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. We use state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.

The bottom line? SERVPRO of North Morris County has the training and equipment to help make water damage “Like it never even happened.”

Ice Dam Prevention Tips

2/16/2017 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of North Morris County for more information at: 973-983-5657

Icicles can signal the formation of ice dams on your roof, which can lead to water damage and even mold growth within your home. Use these tips to prevent them.

ICE DAM PREVENTION TIPS

1. Add insulation in your attic - measure width and length of space to be insulated. Lay down boards or plywood sheeting to help you be able to walk safely in the attic space. Do not cover soffit vents with insulation. Work around recessed lighting.

2. Remove attic heat sources - you don;t want to have a potential fire hazard

3. Insulate attic access doors - prevents drafts and assists with heating efficiency

4. Check the exhausts - proper ventilation also prevents mold

5. Check flashing around the chimney

SERVPRO of North Morris County

Is Your Property WINTER READY?

12/7/2016 (Permalink)

Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not properly prepared. Whether it is heavy rain, freezing temperatures, damaging winds, sleet or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage. While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather.

To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the FOLLOWING PRECAUTIONS to protect your property before colder weather hits.

1. CHECK YOUR PROPERTY for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
2. ROOFS, WATER PIPES & GUTTERS should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can lead to a damming effect, that can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.
3. Inspect property, especially WALKWAYS & DRIVEWAYS, for PROPER DRAINAGE to alleviate flood hazard potential.
4. INSPECT ALL handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
5. PROTECT WATER PIPES FROM FREEZING by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has  outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains,   preventing any remaining water from    freezing in the pipe.

When winter weather strikes, call your SERVPRO of North Morris County to strike back.

The Water Damage Restoration Process

11/14/2016 (Permalink)

The Water Damage Restoration Process

When your home or commercial property has water damage from flooding or leaks, we have the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property. Our experience and scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup enable us to properly dry and restore your property.

Water or Flood Damage?
Call Today – (973) 983-5657

Every water damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. You can click on any of the steps below to learn more about that process.

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand the equipment and resources.

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

We determine the scope of your water damage at this stage. We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

We use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. We are adept at cleaning contents using a number of techniques. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.

Step 6 - Restoration

Restoration is the process of restoring your home or business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Water Damage - The DO's & DON'Ts

5/19/2016 (Permalink)

1. DO

   1.    Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a

   qualified party to stop the water source.

   2.    Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building,

   when access to the power distribution panel is safe

   from electrical shock.

   3.    Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping

   and blotting.

   4.    Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing

   lamps and tabletop items.

   5.    Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for

   even drying.

   6.    Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture

   legs and wet carpeting.

   7.    Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects,

   computers, documents and other materials that are

   valuable or sensitive to moisture.

   8.    Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off

   damp floors.

   9.    Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact

   with wet carpeting or floors.

   10.Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at

   room temperature.

   DON’T

   1.    Enter rooms with standing water where electrical

   shock hazards may exist.

   2.    Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches,

   circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed

   to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.

   3.    Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored

   items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining.

   4.    Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet

   wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.

   5.    Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water,

   possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the

   vacuum cleaner.

   6.    Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet

   carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.

   7.    Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms

   where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

   8.    Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated

   by sewage.

   9.    Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with

   contaminated items.

   10.Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily

   on damaged or wet areas.

   11.Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of

   spreading contaminated air.

   12.Use household fans to dry the structure and

   spread contaminants

That Dam Ice

1/21/2016 (Permalink)

Typical Ice Dam

As the next winter storm bares down on the northeast, the chances of several inches (or feet) of snow piling up on your roof are pretty good. What you don't want is that snow closest to your gutter creating a waterfall on the INSIDE of your house.

It is not unusual for the snow, especially when your gutter runs along an overhang, to melt and re-freeze into ice, and then burrow its way underneath the shingles. This is your classic case of ice damming and if you don't do something to prevent it, you could end up with water streaming down your interior drywall and possibly within the wall cavity itself. Worse yet, if you do not react quickly enough, your hard wood floors could be ruined as well.

The solution? Be proactive. 

First - Purchase a "roof rake". For a $50 or $60 investment at your local hardware store, you could save thousands of dollars in water damage. Once the snow has stopped falling, use the roof rake to pull as much snow off the roof as possible. It is advisable to reach at least 5 or 6 feet from the gutter.

Second - Use the edge of rake to "skim" along the inside of the gutter to clear out as much snow as possible.

Third - Utilize "gutter heaters". Obviously, this step is best done in the spring, summer or fall. Typically, a heavy duty wire is attached in a zig-zag pattern along the edge of the roof reaching about 3-4 feet from the gutter. The same wire runs inside the gutter. When it is plugged in, after you have cleared as much snow as you can, the gutter heater will melt the residual snow and prevent ice (and an ice dam) from forming.

Although nothing is fail safe, these three steps will give you a much better chance and you can hopefully avoid dealing with that ice dam.

Good luck!

A Note To Do-It-Yourselfers

12/10/2015 (Permalink)

So your second floor bathroom tub overflows and the water goes from the bathroom to the hallway and, as an added bonus seeps into the unfinished basement below. You quickly mop up what you can and break out a few fans. You think to yourself, "that should take care of it". A day later, you feel the floor with your hand and turn off the fans. Everything is dry... Or is it?

Did you kow that "dry" wood has 10% moisture content or less? Did you know your hand has a moisture content well above 10%. Truth is, without the proper equipment, you cannot really tell when wood or drywall has actually dried completely. Not only that, but that clean bathroom water has picked up contaminants as it passed through the flooring and through the ceiling below in that unfinished basement.

The proper approach includes moisture measurements, the application of an antimicrobial and the type of drying equipment that can sufficiently dry out structural materials. 

To avoid possible complications down the road, your best bet is to hire a professional like SERVPRO of North Morris County.

Keep The Water Moving

12/7/2015 (Permalink)

It's getting to be that time of year. The temperatures begin to plummet and the winds begin to pick up. When we start to see those sub freezing temperatures, that is when you start to see those icicles forming. If the water dripping from your roof becomes an icicle, what do you think the water in your exposed pipes is doing?

A few thoughts which could save homeowners a lot of money this winter:

1. WRAP THOSE PIPES - If you have exposed pipes, say, in your garage, wrap them now with insulation to keep them as warm as possible. This may prevent frozen pipes as the temperature drops.

2. DRIP THE FAUCET - Many times the exposed pipes closest to indoor bathroom faucets will freeze leaving you with nothing coming out of the faucet. When you know it's going to be a sub-freezing night, open the faucet just enough to let the water drip. As long as the water is moving, your pipes should not freeze.

3. EMPTY THE PIPELINE - The closer the pipe to an outside faucet, the more likely it will freeze. Turn the water off leading to those faucets then turn them on and let them drain out.

SERVPRO of North Morris County believes that doing these few things may save you a ton of aggravation and expense down the line.