Don’t neglect a property water damage occurrence, it can lead to excessive structural damage and microbial growth

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help local New Jersy communities with ALL TYPES of water damages, our team responds quickly with emergency response cleanup and mitigation to minimize secondary damages to your property, including structural damages and mold growth. Neglecting to properly cleanup and remediate a water damage can lead to even greater property damage concerns. Often, when cleaning up a water damage issue or flood, mopping up a puddle or fixing a clogged sink can seem like the end to your trouble, but there can be hidden damage. During warm spring and summer months keeping an ideal relative humidity can be difficult, especially if your property is hiding a moisture source. If you are having trouble with high humidity in your residence or commercial building “hidden moisture” could be a cause. Our crews are trained and experienced in looking for unseen water damage concerns, using advanced technology our team can locate hidden moisture and other property damage you may have missed.

Our SERVPRO of Old Bridge/Cranbury crews use many tools and techniques to locate and address high humidity and other hidden water damage concerns successfully and thoroughly. Calling a local SERVPRO restoration professional can help investigate the source behind high humidity or hidden water damage concerns and inspect for any sign of visible mold or other secondary property damages.

SERVPRO USES SPECIAL DETECTION EQUIPMENT TO FIND HIDDEN WATER DAMAGE

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

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

Hidden moisture or water leaks are dangerous because they can cause serious issues like structural damage and mold growth before they are discovered. Excess water and moisture get absorbed in wood, drywall, insulation, and furniture and can lead to warping, stains, bubbling, and structural deterioration.

One possible concern with hidden moisture problems or sustained water damage is an increase in the overall humidity of your property. The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity between 30 and 60 percent. You may be able to detect high humidity by simply paying attention to potential problem areas in your home, damp basements, high traffic areas, bathrooms, laundry rooms and kitchens with high humidity activities and poor circulation. Telltale signs of excessive humidity include condensation on windows, pipes, and walls. Over time hidden moisture can contribute to high indoor humidity levels and during ideal conditions can cause mold growth and other property concerns to emerge. The possible causes of water damage lurking in your home can originate from many different sources, with varying intensities, contamination levels, and scope of damage. Some of our largest property restoration projects start as small water leaks that cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time.

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

Signs of mold in your New Jersey home are unpleasant odor, health effects or visual signs of mold growth.

Ask About SERVPRO’s Visible Mold Inspection

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

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

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

Emergency Water Removal – Assessing your damage and quick action

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

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

Emergency Response Property Disaster Restoration Services

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

Some of our property Restoration services include:

• Water Removal and Extraction: This important and often first step in the process involves us removing and extracting standing water from all areas of your property. Our SERVPRO technicians utilize industrial grade equipment to move large volumes quickly and efficiently to minimize long term hazards and damage
• Property Drying: After the bulk of the water is removed, hazardous levels of moisture can still exist in fibrous structural and aesthetic components in your home or business building. We utilize specialized equipment to pull moisture from the air to create an environment suitable for drying of these important pieces and may also attempt to speed the drying process with heat.
• Cleanup: After water and moisture have been removed and dried it’s important to conduct thorough cleaning of the affected area to prevent future health hazards. Flooding from rivers and sewers can pose exceptional risks to health and welfare due to the silt and bacteria they carry. Our team will remove damaged items that are beyond repair
• Odor and Microbial Mitigation: SERVPRO’s full-spectrum restoration capabilities have many benefits when it comes to flooding, biohazard, and other water damage restoration. We often use air scrubbers that create negative air pressure to force contaminants through HEPA filters before exhausting to the outdoors. Air quality is improved, including the clearing of any odors or microbes.

Our team provides professional and prompt emergency restoration services for all local New Jersey commercial businesses and homeowners 24-hours a day 7 days a week.

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

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Old Bridge/Cranbury professionals specialize in the cleanup and restoration of New Jersey residential or commercial property after a seasonal water property damage emergency. Spring rain or Winter temperatures can be incredibly damaging to your home or business, as frozen water, torrential rain, wind, coastal flooding and ice can all lead to significant property damage disasters. A flood can result in gallons of water spilling over your floors, leaking or pouring through ceilings and walls, and ruining furniture and other valuable possessions.

Fast Response to Water Removal Minimizes Damages

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

If the water level is over two inches, each team of WRTs starts removal with a commercial grade, submersible pump. All water we remove goes directly in a drain, and not across the backyard to cause a problem for neighbors or the residents one street over. If possible, technicians direct it into sewer access if one is available. For water levels under two inches, SERVPRO WRTs utilize extraction wands and other, smaller devices. Each one has three components, but technicians start by using only the pump option to remove water from the floors. Once they begin drawing water out of carpets, upholstery, and other items, they use the other two, a heater and vacuum to carefully draw water out of carpets and from between floorboards.

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

Our SERVPRO of Old Bridge/Cranbury’s staff is highly trained and experienced in the cleanup and restoration of your water property damage from Northeastern weather and temperatures. Our team can respond quickly and help you assess your damage and find a restoration solution that you can trust.

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

We have the knowledge, experience and proper equipment to locate any hidden moisture lurking out of sight and clean up water damage of any size and get it done right the first time. Moisture sensors, which are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls. We have moisture meters that we use to test the actual moisture content of materials. The meters allow our technicians to accurately monitor the drying process. Our team also has equipment on hand to measure temperature and relative humidity, which ensures techs can calculate and create an environment that is most conducive for drying.

Cold temperatures are making an impact on many New Jersey property owners, SERVPRO has property damage mitigation and restoration services to help

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

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

Severe winter weather property damage including pipe bursts and frozen water leaks: a winter water damage emergency

Frigid winter temperatures are common here in the Northeast, over the next several weeks Middlesex County and the surrounding areas will likely have variable freezing temperatures. Frozen water damage events and pipe breaks are one of the most common causes of property damage in our area. These lower temperatures cause a new set of seasonal property disasters including frozen pipes, ice dams and other frozen water damage concerns that can cost property owners thousands. Every winter our SERVPRO of Old Bridge/Cranbury disaster property restoration professionals help countless home and business owners in Middlesex County, with the restoration, mitigation, cleaning and repair of their residential and commercial property following a frozen water property disaster.

A Professional Inspection can determine the many factors that specify the exact process for your property damage recovery: level of water, type of contamination, and amount of exposure all play a vital role in the balance between restore and replace.

Our SERVPRO staff is highly trained and experienced in the cleanup and restoration of your frozen water property damage from frigid Northeast temperatures. Our team can respond quickly and help you assess your damage and find a restoration solution that you can trust.

WINTER WATER PROPERTY DAMAGE

• ICE DAMS
  Ice dams occur after a snowfall and several days of freezing temperatures, common weather conditions in the Northeast during winter. Warm air inside your home leaks into the attic and warms the underside of the roof causing snow and ice to melt. The melted water refreezes on the cold overhang and can form icicles and an ice dam on the roof and gutters. This process can cause damage to the roof which can cause water to leak into the home causing water damage to the ceiling, walls, insulation, and other areas.
  
  
• LEAKING BASEMENTS AND FOUNDATIONS
  Basement and ground floor apartment flooding are a common occurrence for many homeowners throughout New Jersey, the impact of heavy snow, ice and rain can overflow sewer drains and pavement often leading to water leaks, flooding, and other types of lower lever water damage. Ground level flooding can lead to significant structural damage, destroy furnishings and other belongings, and commonly lead to elevated mold and humidity issues.
  
  
• FROZEN WATER PIPES
  When Northeast temperatures drop to at or below freezing, the water flowing in your plumbing has the potential to freeze. Water expands when it freezes, the expansion of the frozen water can cause a rupture, causing catastrophic flood damage. It’s important to note that the break often occurs between the frozen point and the faucet, as the ice blocks the pipe and the water pressure increases leading to stress on the pipe. Pipes that run through the exterior walls are particularly at risk, but those that run through low- or uninsulated attics and crawl spaces can also freeze.

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

HELP PREVENT WINTER WEATHER & FREEZING WATER ISSUES WITH THESE TIPS

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

New Jersey weather can be unpredictable even when winter temperatures aren’t extremely cold; property water damages happen to home and business owners often. When water begins spilling across the floor or filling the basement, it is usually from a failed water heater shut-off valve or a split line on a washing machine. Many factors contribute to the length and cost of your property damage cleanup and restoration project, including the amount and type of water involved, length of time before service and the total area impacted. Our qualified and experienced staff can help answer your disaster restoration questions and provide a step-by-step plan for a full recovery of your flooded commercial or residential property.

New Jersey flood water removal and Middlesex County basement property damage restoration service

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

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

When a finished/unfinished basement experiences significant water damage, timing is everything. Water damage is a serious threat to your property. Quick action from certified professionals can avoid additional secondary damages such as structural damage and mold concerns. Water damage mitigation is a specialized field that utilizes special protective measures, advanced- training, testing and equipment to minimize the effects of water intrusion and protect your property from further damage. Left untreated water damage can continue to compromise the integrity and health of your property. 

Dry everything out as quickly as possible.

The sooner you begin the disaster recovery process, the more likely you will be able to restore the condition of your possessions and minimize building materials from becoming destroyed. A professional restoration company can help expedite this process. 

Actions Restoration Professionals take to mitigate and minimize water damage to your basement:

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

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

Flood Prevention Tips for Common Causes of New Jersey Property Water Damage

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

What you can expect from our SERVPRO Water Damage Restoration Professionals in Middlesex County

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

Calling SERVPRO Provides Fast Comprehensive Water Removal

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

Common causes of home or business water damage and what you can do now:

Plumbing Problems: freezing pipes is a common problem that can lead to water damage. But it is not just a burst pipe that can create a leak in your plumbing. Pipes can corrode or connections to fixtures can become worn, causing major plumbing problems and water leaks.

Prevention tips: When it comes to avoiding costly damage from plumbing problems keeping your pipes warm and avoiding clogs are the best things you can do. Even small leaks can cause plenty of harm to your home or business, any unexplained changes in your water bill can also be a sign you could have a hidden water damage problem.

Appliance Malfunctions: Supply hoses, water heaters and drainage systems are notorious for springing leaks. In a matter of minutes, hundreds of gallons of water can flood your home or commercial property if any of these connections or holding tanks becomes corroded or damaged.

Prevention tips: Check and maintain your appliances and hoses regularly, looking for leaks or signs of wear. Damaged hoses are among the most frequent causes of water loss for homeowners. Replace yours regularly to avoid a big mess and expensive property damage.

Basement Flooding: Keeping water out of your basement requires effective waterproofing and excess water removal systems in place. If your waterproofing is insufficient, or your sump pump fails, your basement can become flooded.

Prevention tips: When water doesn’t properly drain it can cause water to backup or seep into your foundation and basement. Keep your gutters and downspouts working properly, extend them at least 10 ft. to divert water away from your foundation, drain subsurface water with a sump pump – run it every few months and perform annual maintenance.

Roof Damage: A leaking roof can quickly cause extensive water damage in your home, dripping down through the ceilings and walls of your structure.

Prevention tips: Doing regular inspections for roof damage is a great way to avoid the costly after effects that storms, and weathering can bring. Looking for missing shingles or ponding that could lead to water intrusion. Any place where there are openings or joints in your roof, there’s the potential for leaks down the line.

Many of these common water damage issues can be prevented by keeping up with property maintenance. However, not all water infiltration can be stopped. When a pipe bursts or a storm creates a hole in your roof, you not only need to worry about fixing the leak problem, you need SERVPRO’s expert water removal and restoration service to protect your home or business. At SERVPRO of Old Bridge/Cranbury we take pride in our ability to erase the damage done by water, including damages caused by hidden problems. After 48 hours of exposure to water, there is a risk of mold growth in wet materials. Our New Jersey team of technicians put years of training, experience, and specialized equipment to work for you, ensuring the removal of all remaining moisture and a fast, effective drying process that you can count on. Our restoration specialists utilize infrared technology and thermal imagery to assess the full extent of the damage that your property has suffered. Using advanced technology can show our technicians areas where water might still exist based on a temperature difference. This process can ensure that the damage has not reached other areas of the building and confirm the completion of the restoration process.

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

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO For Comprehensive Water Property Damage Repairs in Middlesex County!

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

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

EQUIPMENT IS KEY TO WATER RESTORATION:

Isolate Water Damaged Areas

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

Water Extraction and Removal Equipment

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

Dehumidification Equipment

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

Air Moving Equipment

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

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

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

2/21/2021 (Permalink)

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

SERVPRO is here to help local Middlesex County communities with ALL TYPES of water damages, our team responds quickly with emergency response cleanup and mitigation to minimize secondary damages to your property, including structural damages and mold growth. Neglecting to properly cleanup and remediate water damage can lead to even greater property damage concerns. Often, when cleaning up a water damage issue or flood, mopping up a puddle or fixing a clogged sink can seem like the end to your trouble, but there can be hidden damage. During warm spring and summer months keeping an ideal relative humidity can be difficult, especially if your property is hiding a moisture source. If you are having trouble with high humidity in your New Jersey residence or commercial building “hidden moisture” could be a cause. Our crews are trained and experienced in looking for unseen water damage concerns, using advanced technology our team can locate hidden moisture and other property damage you may have missed.

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

SERVPRO USES SPECIAL DETECTION EQUIPMENT TO FIND HIDDEN WATER DAMAGE

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

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

Hidden moisture or water leaks are dangerous because they can cause serious issues like structural damage and mold growth before they are discovered. Excess water and moisture get absorbed in wood, drywall, insulation, and furniture and can lead to warping, stains, bubbling, and structural deterioration.

One possible concern with hidden moisture problems or sustained water damage is an increase in the overall humidity of your property. The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity between 30 and 60 percent. You may be able to detect high humidity by simply paying attention to potential problem areas in your home, damp basements, high traffic areas, bathrooms, laundry rooms and kitchens with high humidity activities and poor circulation. Telltale signs of excessive humidity include condensation on windows, pipes, and walls. Over time hidden moisture can contribute to high indoor humidity levels and during ideal conditions can cause mold growth and other property concerns to emerge. The possible causes of water damage lurking in your home can originate from many different sources, with varying intensities, contamination levels, and scope of damage. Some of our largest property restoration projects start as small water leaks that cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time.

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

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

A Plumbing Failure Can Leave Your Commercial Property in Urgent Need of Hazardous Water and Sewage Removal & Cleanup

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Our New Jersey SERVPRO technicians can arrive quickly and are experienced in dealing with messy and hazardous water damage cleanup and restoration.

SERVPRO is here to help with ALL types of commercial property restoration services to keep your organization looking and running at its best. Sewage backups are a common and messy commercial property disaster, big or small “category 3” water damages are dangerous and should be repaired by TRAINED PROFESSIONALS ONLY. A sewage backup can occur for many reasons, but the most common is when a blockage prevents wastewater from flowing through the sewer line that connects your restroom to the municipal sewers or other type of septic system managing your waste removal. The obstruction will cause your sewer lines and drainpipes to fill up until it eventually overflows. Looking for a reliable commercial sewage removal company near you, can be challenging, however calling a local SERVPRO franchise, will get you the quick and effective cleanup and repair services you need. Water damage in your commercial property is an inconvenience, damages can spread quickly throughout your building, threatening not only the structural components of your school, store, restaurant, office building or warehouse but also potentially allowing secondary effects such as mold growth to occur. Our local New Jersey SERVPRO technicians can arrive quickly and are experienced in dealing with messy and hazardous “black water” situations and can effectively decontaminate, sanitize and deodorize the area. Our IICRC certified sewage and biohazard cleanup professionals are trained and equipped with all necessary resources needed to mitigate and protect your commercial property and contents from further harm.

What risks are associated with a commercial sewage backup?

Health Risks, Contamination, and Mold
Cosmetic & Structural Damage
Damages to Appliances, Inventory and other Contents

Depending on the category of water involved in the water intrusion, sewage backups can pose serious health risk and often contain bacterial and viral contaminants including; parasites, and mold. Hazardous sewage cleanup should be performed by highly trained, certified professional in order to ensure the safety of the affected area as well as the inhabitants of the property. Most porous items that meet raw sewage must be handled properly by certified professionals and disposed of safely.

SERVPRO PROFESSIONAL WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP CREWS ARE EXPERIENCED WITH MESSY PROPERTY DISASTERS

Category 3 water damage from a sewage backup can leave your commercial property messy, like other water damages they can cause serious cosmetic and structural damage to your home or business. Contents such as inventory, equipment, documents, furnishings can be ruined if saturated with contaminated water and losing vital hours of operation can have serious consequences to your short- and long-term profitability. Toilet overflows, sewage backups and other category 3 “black water” intrusions are more than nasty, smelly messes; these biohazard situations can bring with them harmful parasites, viruses, and bacteria that pose a significant health risk to occupants as well as moisture that can ultimately lead to mold growth.

When contacting a local professional sewage cleanup service is necessary our SERVPRO expert IICRC certified specialists will respond to your situation in the quickest, safest, and most appropriate manner possible. When it comes to biohazard cleanup, our team knows that there are multiple steps to ensure a building is properly restored after a sewage mess. After extracting the dirty water from your commercial property, our team will sanitize, deodorize and dry out the damaged areas. Our SERVPRO category 3 water damage, sewage and biohazard removal professionals are fully equipped with all the necessary tools to ensure an effective cleanup and restoration happens, including air filters, devices to detect moisture, vacuums, pumps, anti-microbial chemicals, and protective suits. Our team will isolate, clean and sanitize your commercial restroom and other damaged areas, neutralizing the odors and remove all contaminated materials to restore your office or facility to a safe and healthy condition, quickly and properly.

Our Restoration specialists follow proven steps to cleanup and repair sewage backups and other hazardous flood damage, including:

• Properly removing sewage water and solid waste;
• Removing contaminated contents; including carpet, flooring and other surfaces that have been exposed to potential contamination
• Cleaning and sanitizing the area;
• Using air movers and dehumidifiers to rapidly dry the area;
• Finally making any necessary repairs and restoration

The most important solution for your commercial sewage backup is a quick response, by calling our team immediately following a property disaster, our crews can start the mitigation process, our trucks are stocked with extraction and drying equipment to quickly reverse the signs of damage. That, combined with our experience in controlled demolition, can quickly protect your home from contamination and bacterial threats that can often exist after contaminated “black water” circumstances. We know business interruption for cleanup and restoration, can prove to be stressful and compromising. Our team takes all necessary steps to minimize downtime and avoid disruption during your recovery, we strive to restore rather than replace whenever possible, helping mitigate the damage quickly and save on recovery costs.

Sewage Backup, Plumbing Failure or Toilet Overflow? Call Us Today

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

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage is among the most common causes of property claims across the country, quick action is the key to minimizing overall damages.

Water damage is among the most common causes of property damage claims. One in every 50 insured homes will have a water-related property claim. The possible causes of water damage lurking in your home can originate from many different sources, with varying intensities, danger levels, and reach of damage. Even a well-maintained residence can have unexpected water damage including, a leaky dishwasher or sink, broken pipe(s), an overflowing washing machine, an old leaky roof, flood or storm damage and foundation cracks. If you see signs that water damage is lurking in your home, SERVPRO of Old Bridge/Cranbury is always here to help!

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

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

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

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

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

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

SERVPRO of Old Bridge / Cranbury went Back to School Early, Helping a New Jersey School with Restoration After Water Damage.

8/29/2018 (Permalink)

Contacting our SERVPRO of Old Bridge / Cranbury team following any New Jersey water damage, will save precious time and minimize losses to your proper

When flooding caused extensive water damage in a New Jersey school, SERVPRO of Old Bridge / Cranbury was there to help with restoration and reconstruction.

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

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

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

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

SERVPRO STEPS FOR A WATER DAMAGE EMERGENCY

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

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

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

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

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

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

SERVPRO of Old Bridge / Cranbury specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. When our disaster team arrives on the scene, they know how to handle it with expertise no matter the size or scope of the situation.

We take pride in providing our employees with the best tools, equipment, and vehicles to effectively and efficiently get the problem solved with minimal stress and impact on our customers. We know it is never anticipated when a water emergency occurs, but when you call in our SERVPRO of Old Bridge / Cranbury team, you can count on us to get things refreshed and restored, "Like it never even happened."

If you need help to cleanup, restore and repair your property after a water damage event, give us a call (732) 257-3739 we are always here to help!

Common Signs that Water Damage is Lurking in Your Home.

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Old Bridge/Cranbury will closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly.

Water damage is among the most common causes of property damage claims. One in every 50 insured homes will have a water-related property claim. The possible causes of water damage lurking in your home can originate from many different sources, with varying intensities, danger levels, and reach of damage. Even a well-maintained residence can have unexpected water damage including, a leaky dishwasher or sink, broken pipe(s), an overflowing washing machine, an old leaky roof, flood or storm damage and foundation cracks. If you see signs that water damage is lurking in your home, SERVPRO of Old Bridge/Cranbury always here to help!

Water spots under sink cabinets

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

Ceiling and wall stains

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

Mold growth

Mold needs water to grow, so it’s common to find mold in consistently damp locations—and finding mold is never a good thing, since it means your air quality is suffering. In fact, sensitive individuals may experience unpleasant symptoms such as aggravated allergy symptoms, cold-like issues, and more.

Squishy kitchen/bathroom tiles

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

Standing water

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

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

Contact us for 24-7 emergency service in your home. SERVPRO of Old Bridge/Cranbury Always here to help!

What To Do If Your Pipes Burst

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

Freezing temperatures are not only a pain for getting around in the winter, but can also damage your home. Plunging temps put your pipes at risk of freezing. Burst pipes cause problematic water damage require remediation, not to mention the risk for mold as well. As water freezes it expands putting pressure on metal and other pipes. The continuous expanding and contracting eventually weakens the integrity of your pipes turning them into ticking time bombs. Expanding water can cause pipes to break leaving you with a big, wet, cold mess.

The continual freezing and expansion that causes water pressure to increase downstream, between the ice blockage and the closed faucet at the end. It’s this increase in water pressure that leads to pipe failure and usually the pipe will burst where little or no ice has formed.

Pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines, and water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets. Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation are also subject to freezing.

Keep the water running at a trickle to keep water from settling? Open cabinets and draw heat to pipes against exterior walls and places like your basement.

If you should find yourself faced with a pipe break situation, contact your insurance company then call us. We have 24 hour emergency services available and will do our very best to bring your home back to its preloss condition as soon as possible.

Call SERVPRO of Old Bridge/ Cranbury at (732) 253-4914

What To Do After a Flood

6/8/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage needs to be dealt with immediately.

Floods happen so quickly that many are caught unprepared; and while floods often can’t be prevented, what you do after a flood can save you thousands of dollars on flood remediation and water damage repair costs.  Here are some tips to take after you notice flood damage.

1. Stay Safe

Floodwaters can be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals; so do not go into the water without protection, even if it is clear. If there is possibility of downed or live wires don’t risk it, wait for a professional. If it is safe to go into the water wear waders: hip or waist-high waterproof boots. In addition, wear rubber gloves to remove water- damaged possessions, and to avoid contaminants. Hiring a professional to do flood cleanup is the best way to ensure your safety and the safety of your possessions. Any food that came into contact with the floodwaters should be thrown away. Boil all of your water until authorities declare the water supply is safe.

2. Take Pictures

Before you remove any water or make any repairs, fully document the damage to send to your insurance company by taking photos or video. If you start removing water or making repairs before you photograph the damage, you run the risk of decreasing the extent of your coverage.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

After you have ensured your family is safe, the first person you should contact is your insurance agent. If the floods have affected an entire region note that your agent might be dealing with their own flooding emergency and may not be available. If that is the case, contact your insurance company’s headquarters because they should be able to direct you to the right information.

Let your insurance company know the extent of the damages to your home, and any repairs you intend to do immediately. Be sure to follow the insurance company’s direction about whether or not to wait for an adjuster to inspect the property before you make repairs. Document the damage and conversations at every stage of the process.

4. Call SERVPRO of Old Bridge/Cranbury

Our expert flood damage remediation specialists can help you recover from water damage. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete.

Call SERVPRO of Old Bridge/ Cranbury at (732) 253-4914

Water Damage & Flooding

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

If you experience water damage in your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Old Bridge Cranbury

The rainy season is upon us in Old Bridge Cranbury. Excessive rainfall means the potential for leaky roofs, flooded basements and other types of water damage. These situations are some of the most costly that a homeowner or business owner can face. Water can quickly lead to mold growth, damage furniture and drywall, and compromise the very structure of a house or building.

Common causes of water damage include corroded or damaged pipes, blocked gutters, and leaks from roofs or windows.

To prepare for flooding, elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home or building. Install check-valves to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains. And know how to locate and safely shut off all utilities.

There are also several measures you can take to help prevent water damage. Inspect sinks, showers, toilets, gutters and downspouts to ensure there are no blockages. Have a sump pump installed in the basement of your home or business. Seal basement walls and floors with waterproofing compounds.

If certain areas consistently have standing water or if there are a few spots in your basement where water regularly collects, there might be a problem with the pitch or angle of the grounds outside. If the ground is pitched toward your house or building, water will run back toward it, causing leaks or flooding. So make sure the ground pitch is angled away from your home or facility.

Water and flood damage restoration is not a do-it-yourself project. It is a lengthy and potentially dangerous process that should be tackled only by experienced professionals, like the experts at SERVPRO of Old Bridge Cranbury. If you have an issue, call SERVPRO of Old Bridge Cranbury right away. While you wait for our restoration team to arrive, take the following steps:

1. Turn off all power
2. Move important possessions and documents to safety
3. Raise all furniture or remove it entirely
4. Let in fresh air if weather permits
5. If safely doing so is possible, use buckets to remove water, and clean out the internal and outside water drainage of your home or building

Once they arrive, the SERVPRO of Old Bridge Cranbury team will begin the repair and restoration process:

Assessment

Our technicians determine f the water is from a clean source or an unsanitary place like a sewerage system. SERVPRO of Old Bridge Cranbury locates and measures the damage, from subfloors to inside the wall cavities and elsewhere.

Water removal

We use powerful vacuums capable of removing thousands of gallons every hour.

Drying

Our licensed restoration professionals have the knowledge and heavy-duty
equipment to start the air movement necessary to dry out your home or facility. They will also inspect the affected areas for mold.

Without prompt action, water damage is virtually guaranteed to spread and become permanent. The longer you wait, the greater the chance of mold growth and unrecoverable property. So if you live in Old Bridge Cranbury and have a water issue, call SERVPRO of Old Bridge Cranbury immediately. Our professionals have the expertise to reverse and prevent the devastating effects of flooding and water damage.

When a pipe bursts in your home.

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

A burst pipe can cause serious water damage.

2018 has brought us mostly subfreezing temperatures. When it gets this cold outside homes are at risk of burst pipes and all of the headaches and water damage they bring. Water pipes burst when the water inside them freezes and expands causing an increase in pressure inside the pipe. When the pressure gets too high for the pipe to contain it bursts causing damage to your home.

A burst pipe can happen almost anywhere, but usually occurs with pipes that are close to the exterior of your home. The most critical aspect of dealing with a burst pipe is turning off the water supply and stopping the flow of water. Water in a crawlspace or basement is usually well contained and can be easily dried out. However, when a pipe bursts in the main part of your home, such as a toilet feed or an under-sink supply line, it can create a much bigger mess depending upon how much water has inundated the house.

As with any water damage, time is of the essence as mold can start to develop in as little as 24 hours after flooding occurs. The more time that passes without treatment the more likely those materials will continue to deteriorate and may not be salvageable. This is doubly true in homes with carpeting.

When a pipe in your home bursts—affecting multiple rooms—travels from an upper level to a lower level of the home, or has been left unnoticed for more than 8 hours, professional water mitigation and specialized drying equipment is essential for preventing long-term damage. If you see that water has seeped into the subflooring or the drywall the safest step would be to contact a professional water damage remediation company like SERVPRO of Old Bridge/Cranbury  to help remove or restore items that would otherwise be destroyed by mold.