Kinds of Fire Damage Cleanup

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

Fire and its aftermath are never easy to deal with. After a fire, it is imperative to have a professional fire damage cleanup attend to your property at the soonest possible time to lessen the incurred damages. If your property is within Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort, make sure to contact us today!

Here are the three usual fire damage cleanup scenarios your fire damage restoration company will likely encounter:

Soot Removal

Soot is produced when the fuel source of fire is not completely consumed. It later ionizes and sticks to the surfaces including your HVAC system. If soot is not removed after a fire, it will be pumped back into circulation as soon as you turn on the system. To solve this problem even before it causes more inconvenience, hire an experienced fire damage cleanup company to help with solutions to soot.

2. Ozone Treatment For Stench

Textiles smelling like burned or smoked is to be expected in case of fire. These have to undergo oxidization so they can be deodorized. To do this, your fire damage company will utilize the ozone generator inside a tent to properly cleanse the textiles of stench. Remember to have your clothing and other fabrics deodorized before attempting to wash them so the stench does not set in the fabric.

3. Thermal Fogging For Stench

When a fire occurs, the structure of your home gets soaked with the stench of smoke. This is because the ports in the wallboards open and become filled with smoke. As the temperatures go down, the smoke becomes trapped within the boards. By thermal fogging, your chosen fire damage cleanup company reopens the pores to deodorize the stench.     

To properly deodorize and restore your damaged home, have a go-to company to call whenever these emergencies happen. This way, you can contact them faster to handle the fire damage. For your fire damage cleanup needs, contact SERVPRO today!

Things Storm Restoration Pros Look for During Inspection

6/20/2022 (Permalink)

Your home's ability to rebuild after being damaged by bad weather depends on how accurately the danger signs are detected.

Because undetected issues cannot be properly resolved, the structural integrity of your property will not be fully restored if one or two causes for concern are not found.

To find problems, SERVPRO storm damage restoration experts always look for the following:

1. Broken roof components: During a full external inspection, experts actively check for signs of wear such as loose shingles and damaged sheet metal parts.
2. Gutter fault: Experienced storm damage specialists fear clogged and loosened gutters and downspouts. Since gutter problems sooner or later cause water damage, they have the highest priority for inspection and repair.
3. Wet spots on the ceiling: If the roof is leaking, the easiest way to find out in fair weather is in the attic. Water intrusion must have left traces of its existence. Dark streaks on ceilings and walls, damp insulation, damp values, and mold growth indicate a leak.
4. Broken siding panels: Siding issues are always bad news, but a rift requires immediate attention. If left undetected and untested, they pave the way for water intrusion and are an open invitation to wildlife.
5. Chipped windows: Storm damage repair experts look for paint damage. This is one of the most common consequences of constant exposure to moisture. While this is just a cosmetic issue, it can quickly become structural if water gets into the subfloor during bad weather.

SERVPRO can perform a thorough assessment of your home after a storm to uncover any issues. To schedule your inspection, contact SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 580-1111.

Why SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort?

6/17/2022 (Permalink)

The cleanliness of your business is very important. It is imperative to hire the right cleaning company that suits each customer's specific needs. We pride ourselves on offering a very high level of service.

We also know that trust is paramount when using cleaners in your home or office, so all of our cleaners are strictly tested and verified. Why should you choose us over other cleaning companies?

Excellent Customer Service

We strive to provide a great customer experience from start to finish - from our helpful customer service representatives and prompt responses to our 24/7 availability, high-quality commercial cleaning services, and customer communication.

Reliable Staff

All of our cleaners are friendly, skilled, and thoroughly trained in hygiene, health, safety, security, etc. We invest heavily in our outstanding cleaning staff which is returned with loyalty, enthusiasm, and motivation to create excellent cleaning standards for you, your home, and your business.

Licensed, Bonded & Insured

Rest assured that your property is protected & safe because SERVPRO is fully licensed, bonded, and insured.

Safe Cleaning Equipment

One of the key things for many people is that the cleaning products they use do not cause problems for their families, pets, employees, or customers. For this reason, we only use the highest quality and most environmentally friendly cleaning products available in the market nowadays. This will ensure that your home or business is as clean as possible while remaining safe for everybody.

If you are looking for a trustworthy cleaning company in Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort, call us at (518) 580-1111. We look forward to serving you soon.

How to Protect Your Home from Water Damage?

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage, irrespective of the reasons, is highly uncertain and often requires expensive repairs. According to one study, about 99% of homes with a basement are damaged by water at some point. In addition, the water damage cost & disposal is $13 billion per year.

The best way to avoid water damage and expensive repair services is to protect yourself, your home, and your business by hiring Water damage restoration Services. 

Regularly inspect and maintain your plumbing system

Regular inspections will show signs of water damage early on. Check your building for signs of water leaks, such as damp areas or discoloration of walls, floors, and ceilings. Molds and mosses grow in wet areas. So, if you see mold growing on your property, chances are there is a water source nearby too. Check the piping systems leading to dishwashers, refrigerators, water heaters, washing machines, & other appliances for signs of leaks.

Keep your building's exterior in good shape by repairing and protecting it

Water damage can be caused by internal or external sources. After you've thoroughly inspected your plumbing system and everything is in good condition, inspect the areas in your home or building that can get water, such as windows, doors, gutters, and more. Remove any dirt that has accumulated in the gutters to ensure that rainwater can drain smoothly.

If water enters your home, we recommend contacting SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort to minimize damage. Water repair companies have professional tools and water extraction systems that can quickly remove water from your home or building and prevent the spread of damage.

Important Ways That A Commercial Cleaning Service Benefits All Business Owners

6/10/2022 (Permalink)

Are you committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment for your employees? Are you looking for ways to improve the efficiency and appearance of your company? If so, we'd like to offer some advice on how a commercial cleaning service can benefit your business.

• Creating a Safe Workplace: When your office space is dusty and dirty, you are more likely to encourage the spread of flu and other illnesses among your employees. Keeping the office clean avoids this. Healthy and happy employees are more productive and do a better job. So, taking care of their health contributes to the bottom line of the company. Cleaning company staff are trained in the most effective ways to clean offices, eliminating potential safety issues.
  
  
• Increase Your Productivity: A clean and tidy office actually contributes to profits. A messy office can lead to an unhealthy work environment. This will also affect productivity because employees will not be satisfied in a messy workplace.
  
  
• Give Your Business A Professional Image: A clean and tidy office and work environment also give your business a professional image. A negative first impression can cause you to lose customers and lose a lot of respect in the professional world. Make sure everyone who walks through your front door knows that you are a professional company from a clean atmosphere.

SERVPRO's cleaning staff is committed to providing quality and professional Commercial cleaning in Saratoga Springs. We also use environmentally friendly cleaning products and practices in all of our services. Whether you are looking for monthly or weekly office cleaning, we are here to get the job done with unmatched skill and professionalism. 

Fire Pit Safety Tips

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

Summer is truly here in New York and that can typically mean enjoying fire pits in the backyard. Many of us are looking forward to spending time gathering around them to enjoy time with family and friends. Before you start dreaming of movies on the lawn, moonlit nights, and s’mores, take a moment to check out some of these tips from Allstate to remember.

Backyard Fire Pit Safety Tips:

• Whether you prefer a built-in or portable fire pit, choose one that is not too large for the area. The pit should be a minimum of 10 feet away from any structures or combustible materials as well as away from trees, fences, sheds, power lines, and telephone wires.
• Make certain that the seating area is large enough and properly placed for comfort and ventilation.
• Check wind direction before lighting a fire.
• Don’t use flammable fluids (gasoline, lighter fluid, etc.) to light or relight fires.
• To start the fire, use a lighter to ignite crumpled pieces of paper covered with small sticks. Then, add larger sticks and a log or two to keep it burning. 
• Burn only dry material. Damp material will create excess smoke. 
• Don’t wear flammable clothing (like nylon) or any loose-fitting clothing.
• Never leave the fire unattended and keep pets and children far away from the fire as they will be attracted to it.
• Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose, or bucket of water nearby.
• As the fire dies down, use a shovel, and spread out the ashes to allow them to cool down. Then slowly pour water over those ashes and watch them closely to be sure that no burning embers remain or reignite. Put the cooled ashes in a specially designated ash storage metal can. 

How to Fix a Running Toilet

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

It’s a necessity in every residential and commercial building: the toilet.  Proper toilet and plumbing maintenance are essential for helping to protect your property from the risk of water damage, but all too often, people find that their toilet just won’t stop running!  Fortunately, a running toilet is often a simple fix, with one of these three most common causes:

1. A Broken or Dirty Flapper. The flapper is the rubber piece inside of the tank that stops the water from going down into the bowl.  This flapper is regulated by the flushing handle, attached to a chain.  If the flapper becomes damaged, warped, or soiled, the hole to the bowl will not seal properly, allowing the toilet to run continuously.  By turning off the water to the toilet, draining the tank, and inspecting the flapper, you can determine if cleaning or replacement will be necessary.
2. Improper Chain Length. The chain between the flushing handle and the flapper must be the proper length to allow the flapper to seal properly after flushing.  If the chain is too short, the flapper will not be able to settle into the proper position to seal the toilet tank from the bowl.  Checking the chain for any damages, and adjusting the length if needed, can help correct any running toilet issues.
3. Float Out of Position. This float regulates the water level within the toilet tank and is often accompanied by a fill level indication on the tank.  If the float is positioned too high, this will allow too much water into the tank, which will continually cause the toilet to run. 

Not only can fixing your running toilet help reduce the risk of a water damage, but it can also save quite a bit of money on you water bill.  If your toilet, or any other commercial or residential appliance, does happen to cause your home or business a water damage, know that SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort is equipped and prepared to help.  We have been serving the cleanup and restoration needs of Saratoga Springs for over 20 years, giving us the experience, training, and expertise to handle damages of all sizes.

SERVPRO Residential Services-Carpets/Upholstery/Walls

5/29/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort, we offer more than just commercial mitigations and storm cleanups.  SERVPRO offers a variety of residential services, to include ceiling, floor and wall cleanings.  This service extends to window and blind treatments as well. 

One area of cleaning many homeowners dread is the ceilings, walls, and floors. Because they make up the frame of each room inside your home, they get exposed to the common irritants of daily life such as pet dander, cigarette smoke, grease, dirt, and dust. Your HVAC system can distribute these common irritants throughout the house, so maintaining these surfaces should be a part of your regular home maintenance.

If you’re planning to paint, having your walls professionally cleaned beforehand will help prepare them so that the primer and paint will adhere properly. SERVPRO has the tools to do the labor-intensive job of cleaning your walls, floors, and ceilings. We use proprietary cleaning products and methods to get the job done right. Our goal is to leave your entire property clean and smelling fresh.

Window treatments such as blinds, curtains and sheers do more than give you privacy and filter out light. Over time, they can collect typical household odors, dust, allergens and pet hair. It’s recommended that they be cleaned about every two years to keep them fresh and looking their best. SERVPRO’s highly-trained professionals know how to inspect and test fabrics to determine which of their many cleaning methods is most appropriate. We excel in cleaning fine fabrics and intricate pieces. Unlike other drapery cleaning companies, SERVPRO has various cleaning methods and will work with you to determine the method that best meets your needs. We even offer an exclusive process of dry cleaning draperies right in your home, so you can hold on to your privacy while getting them cleaned.

For hardwood floors, SERVPRO has a variety of products that can clean your hardwood floors effectively and safely.  These products are specifically made for hardwood floors and will not damage the surface or penetrate the wood.  SERVPRO will move any freestanding furniture on these surfaces in order to clean.

How Can Trapped Water Get Removed from Hardwood Floors in Homes?

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

Clearing moisture from wood flooring is vital for restoring properties. 

Wood flooring and accents are particularly susceptible and sensitive to water absorption, making it vital to clean surface water concerns as soon as possible. From ceiling leaks to flooding, hardwood elements are at risk until extraction and drying begin for the property. Evaluating the presence of moisture and damp pockets against or already absorbed into these elements is an important aspect of pre-job scoping. 

The Sensitivity of Hardwood to Absorption

Water removal for homes, especially on hardwood surfaces and floors, should begin as soon as possible. A combination of extraction devices can help to eliminate pooling before excessive absorption. Cellulose in wood planks can aid in faster absorption rates, but drying these materials is still possible if the moisture has yet to chemically bond with the wood molecules. More than just hardwood flooring can be impacted by moisture damage, as well, including:

• Wood framing, including crawl space joists
• Shelves
• Vanities
• Furniture
• Cabinetry

Potential Obstacles in the Drying Process 

While the extraction process might involve a range of tools from wands and wet vacuums to truck-mount extractors, drying is typically grounded with the same base machines and devices. Air movers can help overcome obstacles like vapor barriers and cool air pockets forming above drying materials that hinder recovery speed. Moisture monitoring with surface meters tracks the pace of water removal from wood planks and materials to prevent over-drying and subsequent harm.

Protecting flooring and installed elements in the property begins with effective surface mitigation solutions to remove standing water. We have efficient options for pulling free water trapped in the material as well before irreparable harm occurs. Count on our SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort team for a fast response to help at (518) 580-1111.

Household Appliances that can Cause Water Damage

5/20/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage caused by heavy rain is one thing, but the damage caused by your household appliances is often preventable. To ensure that your appliances are in good working condition, SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort highly recommends you get all your appliances checked a minimum of once a year, as well as inspect the hoses and connections for your appliances.

The most common sources of flooding in your home include the following:

Washing Machines

If you find your washing machine leaking, don’t take it lightly. If you see leaks around the clamps in the water hose, stay alert because it’s a warning sign for future failures. We have experienced small pinhole leaks in a water supply line that have broken out into an all-out basement flood. It is recommended to inspect your water hoses twice a year and search for any cracking, leaking, or rusting on the washing machine. It is advised to replace hoses every five years, no matter how exceptional they look from the outside.

Refrigerators

Our SERVPRO crews have had to clean water damages caused by the water line that supplies an ice maker. When the water lines get damaged, they can leak or, worse yet, become completely unattached. For the defrosted drain, thaw the ice and then flush it with hot water. For improper sealing, examine the rubber seal that runs along with the door.

If you don’t take enough precautions, the ice maker can become a mess maker in no time. It is also advised to check the hose and water line to ensure they are adequately connected every time.

Dishwashers

This household appliance has a supply line, just like refrigerators and washing machines. If a dishwasher water supply line was to burst, you could guarantee that your kitchen would be filled with water after a wash and rinse cycle. We have seen a dishwasher back up some of our more severe water damages caused by dishwashers. Backup typically occurs when debris has clogged the drain, and the water has nowhere to go but inside your home. Never forget that a dishwasher is designed to work for only ten years. So, if your dishwasher is nearing this threshold, it may be time to consider replacing it.

Hot Water Heater

Conventional water heaters with storage tanks are prone to corrosion, age-related wear, and mineral buildup. This can lead to a tank burst or leakage, and then gallons of water could be flooding onto your floor. Therefore, it is recommended to inspect the water heater annually to minimize the chances of excessive water damage. It is advised to flush the tank every six months to remove the sediments. Be attentive and replace your water heater every ten years.

If your home falls victim to a water emergency, time is of the essence. Contact SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at 518-580-1111

Preventing Water Damage at Your Saratoga Springs Business

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

All buildings are different, but each is at risk for water damage. From a minor roof leak to violently destructive hurricanes, any unwanted water intrusion can significantly impact the value of a commercial property.

If your business experiences a water-related incident, you’ll need to act quickly to mitigate the damage. Small business insurance can also play a crucial role in lessening the financial impact. However, it’s best to prevent such occurrences from happening in the first place. Use these tips to protect your business from flooding and freezing damage.

Insulate exposed pipes

Exposed pipes during the winter are vulnerable to freezing. Plummeting temperatures can freeze water inside a poorly insulated pipe, causing the pipe to burst. A broken pipe can lead to costly flooding or even structural damage. Ensure the pipes are insulated. The more insulation you use, the better protected your lines will be.

Regular Inspections

Commercial buildings tend to have major external HVAC components, roofs decorated with an array of pipes and fans, and large utility rooms. The best way to keep the harsh weather outside is to hire a professional to conduct frequent and thorough inspections. Fallen leaves and other debris in gutters and downspouts can lead to water damage to the exterior and interior walls. Regularly inspect your business’s gutters, downspouts, and drainage system, and remove debris or buildup.

Locate your shut-off valve

If a pipe breaks, you’ll need to act quickly. That means you should know the location of the main shut-off valve for your building’s water supply. Shutting off the main valve will temporarily cut the water flow to the building, preventing flooding until you can fix the problem.

Seal cracks and gaps

Seal any cracks, holes, or other gaps in your building’s exterior and foundation to ensure that cold air doesn’t penetrate your structure, and warm air doesn’t escape. Caulk, weather stripping, and other sealants can be used to make your building more energy-efficient and reduce the risk of frozen pipes.

Plan B

Ideally, each commercial building should have options for temporary office space and plans to inform clients of transient changes in the case of severe water damage. Additionally, it’d never be a poor use of time to back up critical paperwork electronically.

Insurance

It’s essential to have adequate insurance in place if you experience water or freezing damage when it comes to small business insurance—the details of your coverage matter.

Ask your insurer to add a rider, or an endorsement, to your policy to extend coverage to hazards that are excluded from your policy to ensure your business is protected.

Rapid response to water damage events

Even the most carefully operated commercial building will likely experience a water damage event sometime in its lifetime. Building staff should have a well-practiced emergency response plan. The speed of response to a water damage event is the most vital key to quickly getting back to normal day-to-day operations.

Remember, SERVPRO of South Albany County is ready to assist you with water damage restoration and help you get back to normal. Our number one priority is getting your home or business back to preloss condition as quickly as possible. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 518-580-1111.

The Best Restoration Company for Storm Damage

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Without warning, nature can take a violent turn: floods, wildfires, tornadoes, hurricanes, blizzards. These can have a devastating effect on your home, turning your life upside-down.

At SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort, we know that our fast response time is key to minimizing the cost and time involved with storm damage restoration. Here is a water damage timeline detailing the damage water can do to a structure in a short period:

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp

Hours 1 - 24

• Drywall begins to swell and break down
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish
• Furniture begins to swell and crack
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain
• A musty odor appears

48 Hours to 1 Week

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp
• Metal begins to rust and corrode
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold
• Paint begins to blister
• Wood flooring swells and warps
• Severe biohazard contamination is possible

When a Storm Damages Your Home, We're One Call Away

Our SERVPRO team of Saratoga Springs is prepared for any storm damage emergency. Our highly trained restoration technicians are ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at 518-580-1111. We'll restore your storm damage and make it "Like it never even happened."

The Difference Between Water Mitigation and Damage Restoration

5/8/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration and water mitigation are two vital processes that should be carried out as soon as possible. However, many people do not understand the difference between the two services. Most people would say water mitigation and water damage restorations are the same. This, however, is not always the case.

Water damage restoration refers to the process of restoring an area to preloss conditions or, even better, after being damaged by floods, hurricanes, storms, sewage, or leakages. Water damage can negatively destroy your property from floors to ceilings and anything in between. That is why you need professional help from Water Damage to prevent further damages to your property.

On the other hand, water mitigation refers to any service that reduces or prevents additional damages caused by flooding or leaking pipes. This could be installing tarps over a damaged roof during heavy storms or mitigating moisture inside walls after washing machine overflows.

Why You Need Professionals

The following are five vital reasons to work with a professional for all your water damage and restoration services:

1. It is Cost-Effective

Water damage will ensure that all the damages are addressed effectively and promptly, minimizing any extra cost to you.

2. You Will Receive a Timely Response

We understand the urgency of these situations and will do everything possible to mitigate the damages as quickly as possible.

3. We Have Professional Equipment and Expertise

Water must be removed as quickly as possible to prevent any further damage. We have the necessary equipment and workforce to handle even the most massive water removal jobs.

4. We Are Water Damage Restoration Experts

Once the water has been removed, we will start our restoration services such as drying, dehumidifying, and odor removal. We also provide mold testing to ensure your property is safe for you and your family.

5. We Are Skilled with Water Damage Repair

Water can cause a lot of damage to any property. If you have had flooding or backed up drains, water damage SERVPRO will help you repair these damages.

Water Damage

We offer a wide range of water mitigation and damage restoration services for both personal and commercial:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Solving Commercial Services Water Damage Issues
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Storm Damage Restoration

SERVPRO is full-service water mitigation and damage restoration company. We have the experience and expertise necessary to handle even the most giant water removal jobs. Call us today for more information on how we can help with all your water damage needs. (518) 580-1111

One Cleanup and Restoration Team Is Best for Full Fire Damage Recovery

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

When your property is affected by fire and soot, it's crucial that recovery and restoration work begin immediately to lessen the fire damage. Within a short period of time, the acidic qualities of soot and the penetrating qualities of smoke can leave permanent scarring. An experienced fire mitigation team quickly and thoroughly puts a stop to damage and completes the recovery process to get your company back into business.

Long-Term Fire Damage Begins With Initial Cleanup

One of the best reasons to work with fire cleanup and reconstruction experts for your full recovery is that lasting results begin as soon as the fire department leaves. The smoke and soot particles left in the air penetrate quickly into surfaces. Water from the fire department hoses is rapidly absorbed into carpeting, fabrics, wood, and structural elements. Technicians working toward full recovery perform many actions during their first trips to your property:

• Board up the building to prevent secondary damage and to improve security.
• Assess structural damage and stabilize the property as necessary.
• Determine what can be saved, cleaned, refurbished, and restored.
• Document damages for the insurance adjuster.
• Provide an estimate of the project, the costs, and the time frame.
• Discard unsalvageable items and store other belongings.

These initial steps provide an environment where the rest of the recovery process can be undertaken safely and efficiently.

Specialized Equipment Removes Smoke Damage

The main goal of the fire damage cleanup and recovery team is restoring your property and getting you back to work. Specialized scrubbers are used to eliminate smoke odors and soot stains. These tools are used on exterior and interior surfaces, including walls, ceilings, windows, patios, and sidewalks. Inside your building, cleansers and sanitizers are used to treat the same surfaces, as well as floors, the basement, and furnishings. Professional equipment, including ozone machines, are used to neutralize lingering particles and odors.

Water Damage Is Addressed Through Ventilation and Powerful Cleansers

Of course, there's a significant risk of water damage, so professionals must also get to work removing water from the building. This involves shutting off electricity, testing the integrity of structural elements, and monitoring levels of humidity. With high-powered fans and dehumidifiers, technicians dry the building and remove floating contaminants.

Progress Moves Forward Without Delays

When multiple recovery companies are hired to aid in the recovery of your property, there's a risk that mold growth will go unnoticed. Mold prevention begins with the tarping and boarding step, right after the fire department has left. This step continues as water-logged furnishings are removed from the building and as ventilation throughout the property is increased. During water extraction, further steps are taken to neutralize and remove any remaining mold particles.

A Speedy Recovery Matters

Recovering from fire damage doesn't have to take a long time. When you choose one experienced restoration team, each step is completed smoothly and without unnecessary delays. Each point of the process moves forward seamlessly. When a speedy recovery is essential to your company, contact a cleanup and restoration crew to see you through from beginning to end.

What Makes Professional Cleaning for Saratoga Springs Offices Necessary?

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

Many SERVPRO services exceed the capabilities of janitorial services for your Saratoga building.

Your office building has a steady flow of client and employee traffic all day long, making it critical to always keep your best aesthetic foot forward. After a disaster or as deep and thorough cleaning services are needed, our SERVPRO team is Here to Help.

Graffiti and Vandalism Removal

Commercial cleaning for Saratoga businesses points to many services experienced SERVPRO professionals can provide. The exterior of the property is always susceptible to the unpredictability of vandals, and that is why we have powerful solvents and cleaners for brick and siding to make your property like new.

Deep-Cleaning Carpets

Glue-down and low pile carpeting are staples of busy office buildings. While the design allows for more efficient cleaning and surface vacuuming, deeper cleaning solutions are still beneficial at times. Stains, deep-seated soils, and dinginess can all become telling signs of a pressing need for deluxe conditioning and hot water extraction carpet cleaning.

Duct and HVAC Cleaning

Another advantage of choosing SERVPRO for commercial office cleaning is our experience and training with complex services like HVAC cleaning. Specialists on our team follow strict guidelines established by the National Air Duct Cleaning Association (NADCA) for thorough and timely removal of:

• Dust
• Dirt
• Mold
• Allergens

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

In recent years, offices and commercial properties all began to see how inadequate surface cleaning practices had become in their respective facilities. Our SERVPRO team boasts experience and industrial-grade disinfectants, surface cleaners, and fogging solutions to remove possible pathogenic threats in high-traffic areas.

Commercial cleaning encompasses many possible needs that your business might have. Caring for facilities like office buildings means having several unique strategies to target these specific situations. We have industry-leading equipment and cleaning products to keep your business looking its best. Give our SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort team a call today at (518) 580-1111.

Saratoga Residents May Wonder if Mold Removal is Possible

4/16/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort for mold remediation today!

SERVPRO is Best for Mold Remediation Services in Saratoga– Call Us First!

Should you suspect mold anywhere within your building, commercial or residential, you need to ensure it gets cleaned safely and efficiently. One of the many reasons why so many Saratoga residents can trust SERVPRO for this task is our proven processes and attention to detail. With our mold cleanup processes and skilled technicians, we can get the job done right the first time.

Our mold remediation process in Saratoga Springs is second-to-none. Mold spores are everywhere, and careful cleaning is critical to keep them from spreading. Why SERVPRO for handling black mold? Because we use a multi-faceted process to pinpoint affected areas of your home or business to halt mold in its tracks.

• As soon as you contact SERVPRO, we will mobilize our IICRC-certified technicians.
• We get to your property to inspect the area, identifying all spaces where mold could be hiding.
• The team investigates the source of moisture to identify it and stop it.
• Our remediation process involves using moisture meters and thermal cameras to ensure no mold colonies get left behind.
• Mold testing may also be performed by specialists to determine the type of mold present in your space.

Once mold cleanup nears the end, our remediation process turns to handle replacing all materials impacted by mold damage. Any of your personal belongings deemed salvageable get moved off-site using our pack-out services for cleaning or repair before getting returned. We use EPA-registered antimicrobials and disinfectants for all surfaces to get thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and deodorized.

Again, to answer the question of why SERVPRO for mold issues? Because we know that having a plan of action makes a world of difference for minimizing health effects and damage to your property! Call us first for trusted methods and proven results.

You can reach SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort by calling (518) 580-1111 or requesting help online. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, so call us first for your mold remediation needs.

Repairing Water Damage in Gansevoort Homes After Leak

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

Dishwasher Leaks can Destroy the Surrounding Structure in Gansevoort Homes, Requiring Water Damage Repairs  

Appliances make your life easier, and the dishwasher is a way to save water and valuable time on hand-washing dishes. However, when these appliances malfunction or break in the kitchen, the result can be a substantial volume of water that must be resolved.

How Likely is a Leak from Your Dishwasher?

Dishwasher damage and the subsequent needs for water damage repair in Gansevoort homes are more common than many property owners might believe. While it is customary for brand new dishwashers to leak slightly from the door as the seal around the door better seats from a couple of uses, aging appliances could deal with much costlier and destructive hose breaks, seal failures, and gasket issues.

Controlled Demolition and Preparing for Repair

• Flooring – While water-resistant floors are often installed in the kitchen area, vulnerabilities allow moisture to penetrate the subfloor and joists for substantial damage if not quickly cleaned.

• Cabinets – Cabinets, especially those made from particleboard and lesser woods, can be quickly overwhelmed by water damage and require units to be removed and replaced.

• Drywall – Damp drywall must be cut out and removed to create a stable surface for replacement.

• Plumbing – It is vital to determine where the leak is coming from and fix this situation as soon as possible. This might mean removing certain plumbing fixtures to replace them with suitable pipes, connections, or gaskets.

Reconstructing the Damaged Structure

A general contractor license makes it possible to complete the repairs and reconstruction needed after a leaking dishwasher affects nearby flooring, cabinets, and wall systems. Our experienced professionals can help through the controlled demolition phase and rapidly replace affected materials to make the kitchen look “Like it never even happened.”

With the fast response of our experienced SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort team, we can mitigate loss and prevent the unnecessary tear-out and reconstruction of many kitchen building materials after appliance damages. Give us a call today at (518) 580-1111.

Fire Restoration and Cleanup in Saratoga

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Fire Restoration, Cleanup, and Repairs in Saratoga

Even a small fire in your Saratoga home can cause extensive damage. The fire causes damage. Water and chemicals are used to quell the blaze that also causes damage. In addition, smoke residues and odors may extend throughout the entire home or commercial building. Many clients assume everything must be replaced!

SERVPRO provides fire restoration services to our clients in Saratoga Springs and the surrounding areas. Our team is available to respond 24/7. We believe a great deal of secondary damage can be mitigated if our team members begin the cleanup as soon as the fire department leaves the site. Removal of fire-damaged materials reduces the odor. Fast removal of water and chemicals minimizes the opportunity for porous materials to absorb moisture, swell and become permanently damaged.

One of our team managers assesses the situation and identifies those items that can be cleaned and restored vs. those that must be removed and replaced. Our emphasis is on removing the soot, and cleaning. Our smoke residue experts review the following characteristics to help in deciding what can be cleaned and restored vs. replaced:

• Locate the residues relative to the location of the fire.
• Determine the type of residues – oily, light, fluffy, etc.
• Surface type – porous and non-porous, fabrics, etc.
• Cleaning process – We use different cleaning processes based on residue, surface, and concentration. These processes include:

• Temperature application
• Agitation
• Chemical action
• Dwell time

We use all of these different cleaning approaches in many fire situations. We base the decision on the type of fire, the material burned, the distribution of smoke residues and odors to the rest of the dwelling. Let the experts at SERVPRO restore your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort and nearby areas for assistance with fire restoration. We can help 24/7. Call (518) 580-1111.

What Makes Professional Cleaning for Saratoga Offices Necessary?

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Many SERVPRO services exceed the capabilities of janitorial services for your Saratoga building.

Your office building has a steady flow of client and employee traffic all day long, making it critical to always keep your best aesthetic foot forward. After a disaster or as deep and thorough cleaning services are needed, our SERVPRO team is Here to Help.

Graffiti and Vandalism Removal

Commercial cleaning for Saratoga businesses points to many services experienced SERVPRO professionals can provide. The exterior of the property is always susceptible to the unpredictability of vandals, and that is why we have powerful solvents and cleaners for brick and siding to make your property like new.

Deep-Cleaning Carpets

Glue-down and low pile carpeting are staples of busy office buildings. While the design allows for more efficient cleaning and surface vacuuming, deeper cleaning solutions are still beneficial at times. Stains, deep-seated soils, and dinginess can all become telling signs of a pressing need for deluxe conditioning and hot water extraction carpet cleaning.

Duct and HVAC Cleaning

Another advantage of choosing SERVPRO for commercial office cleaning is our experience and training with complex services like HVAC cleaning. Specialists on our team follow strict guidelines established by the National Air Duct Cleaning Association (NADCA) for thorough and timely removal of:

• Dust
• Dirt
• Mold
• Allergens

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

In recent years, offices and commercial properties all began to see how inadequate surface cleaning practices had become in their respective facilities. Our SERVPRO team boasts experience and industrial-grade disinfectants, surface cleaners, and fogging solutions to remove possible pathogenic threats in high-traffic areas.

Commercial cleaning encompasses many possible needs that your business might have. Caring for facilities like office buildings means having several unique strategies to target these specific situations. We have industry-leading equipment and cleaning products to keep your business looking its best. Give our SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort team a call today at (518) 580-1111.

Remodeling Project Reveals Mold Damage in Saratoga Springs

3/31/2022 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO to Rid Your Home of Mold Even During Renovations

Discovering mold during the demolition phase of a remodeling plan brings progress to a halt. Consult with the mold remediation experts at SERVPRO to manage the mold damage so new construction can proceed.  

You finally take on a remodel of your master bathroom. The work crew pulls up the previous laminate owners installed and stops progress because of mold damage in your Saratoga home. It appears a seeping leak at the seal of the toilet saturated the subflooring, feeding a colony of mold. We encounter this situation often and have a team of certified mold remediation specialists available to help get you and the remodeling contractor past this problem. 

Mold is an opportunistic organism. All it needs is a little water to activate and a surface coated with bits of organic material to eat and grow. Oxygen is necessary, but light is not. Finding it under the flooring in a damp environment is familiar to SERVPRO, and our remediators are experts in following the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) protocol for abatement. 

Mold Inspections, Remediations, and Removal

First, the SERVPRO technicians contain the infestation. Since you live and sleep within feet of the affected area, we barricade the bathroom, at a minimum, and consider using a negative pressure machine vented to the outside to prevent particles of mold from drifting into your bedroom or other areas of the house while we work. Next, we remove the mold and any structure it infiltrated. Pressed wood subflooring compromises easily when mold feeds on it, so expect sections to be removed and bagged for proper disposal. 

The next step involves using professionally matched antimicrobial products to sanitize the areas before we arrange new subflooring and reseating or replacing the leaky toilet. Eliminating the leak is the key to successful mold damage remediation. Finally, an air scrubber runs for a designated period to clear all remnants of the mold colony before the barriers come down. The remodelers resume where they left off. 

SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort comes to the rescue when mold damage threatens the completion of a remodeling project. Call us at (518) 580-1111 for expert handling of unexpected microbial growth. 

Why do Saratoga Homeowners Trust SERVPRO for Fire Damage Restoration?

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

Hiring SERVPRO for Fire Damage Restoration Can Save Saratoga Residents Time and Money

Cleaning and restoration after fire damage is a complex task that requires expertise and professional tools. SERVPRO uses various cleaning techniques during fire damage restoration of your Saratoga home, depending on the type of surface involved. The goal is to restore the structure to a preloss condition as quickly as possible. 

Before the fire damage restoration of your Saratoga home can begin, the SERVPRO techs categorize the affected materials into the following categories-

• Washable: These materials can be wet cleaned, and the application of a water-based cleaning product does not damage them.
• Non-washable: These are materials that can't be wet cleaned. The application of a water-based cleaning agent might cause damage to such materials. 

How do SERVPRO Techs Use Soda Blasting During House Fire Cleanup in Saratoga?

Soda blasting is an abrasion cleaning technique that SERVPRO techs sometimes use to remove soot and smoke particles from your fire-damaged home in Saratoga. The method involves propelling baking soda crystals (Sodium bicarbonate) against a fire-damaged surface with the help of equipment called a soda blaster. As the crystals impact the surface, they shatter, dislodging the smoke and soot particles in the process. 

Soda blasting is a safe process that does not involve harsh cleaning agents and chemicals that might cause damage to the surfaces. It is a quick process that is highly effective in cleaning smoke and soot residues from various surfaces, including metal, concrete, and wood. 

Another potential advantage of soda blasting is that the soda blast media (sodium bicarbonate) used during the process can also absorb odor-causing particles and help in the deodorization process.

Call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 580-1111. We are available round-the-clock to help you with any size disaster.

Can Fire Damage Affect a Saratoga Home’s HVAC?

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Fire Remediation Includes Duct Cleaning, Repair, and Restoration in Saratoga

After a home structure fire, Saratoga residents may be more focused on the immediately visible damages to walls, floors, and contents than on their ventilation systems. However, smoke residues travel through vents and settle inside ducts, where they can spread malodors and affect indoor air quality. This issue is compounded by fire suppression with water, which can eventually create conditions for mold growth and turn soot acidic, which can corrode metals.

SERVPRO fire damage technicians in Saratoga are equipped to mitigate smoke residues and soil moisture from fire suppression. Remediation services are performed to return the property to a clean, pre-fire condition and include necessary structural repairs.

How Smoke and Soot Damage Impact Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality

Even small-scale home fires can leave smoke residues and other burnt particles in ventilation systems. These contaminants can affect ventilation in the following ways:

• Smoke particles stick to ductwork, which can accumulate dust and other contaminants that impact air quality and odors
• Soot odors and particles can get recirculated throughout the home, spreading odors and residues. This accumulation can also damage air ducts and impact their ability to circulate air effectively
• Soot also collects in air filters and clogs them up quickly, which impacts HVAC performance
• If water extinguished the fire, this moisture could make soot acidic. This acid can corrode metals or etch into ceramics and glass and can also impact indoor air quality

HVAC is especially likely to need thorough cleaning if it was operating when the fire happened. The return air vents, in particular, are likely to have the most contamination. Even passive air movement after a fire can help spread soot and smoke odors throughout the property. In cases of more severe contamination, portions of the ductwork may require sealing during cleanup.

SERVPRO’s Ductwork Cleaning Process Post-Fire Damage

Fire restoration techs at SERVPRO can inspect and clean HVAC systems. Duct cleaning is not typically necessary with lighter damages. In moderate to heavy fire damage situations, ventilation is also often affected. This step is essential to prevent smoke and soot from recirculating in a restored property after completing other cleanup tasks.

HVAC inspection includes the examination of such parts as:

• Filters 
• The cooling coil
• Mixing boxes
• Dampers
• Turning vanes

The materials the ducts are made of also matters. Flex duct, for example, is typically more cost-effective to replace than repair due to the number of pleats in the material that can entrap soot. Sheet metal and duct board, meanwhile, are often salvageable. If there is insulation around the vents, this may also necessitate removal as it can carry odors. Its efficacy also diminishes after fire exposure.

SERVPRO professionals can clean vent registers and intakes, and reusable filters. HEPA-filter vacuums remove loose soot and debris from vents. Techs can wash duct surfaces with an EPA-registered detergent solution for more in-depth cleaning. HVAC cleanup includes the restoration of soot-covered mechanical components where needed.

After cleaning, technicians place cheesecloth over ventilation outlets before fogging the ducts. An ultra-low volume (ULV) fogger can deploy duct sealers and deodorizers with the help of the plenum and central blower. After deodorizing, technicians run the central blower until the interior is dry before replacing vent covers and deploying odor counteractant beads to decrease malodors further.

When homeowners need service that makes a disaster seem “Like it never even happened,” they can call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 580-1111.

Don’t Be Sorry, Be Proactive about Preventative Business Measures

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

A pipe break can lead to water damage which ultimately leads to filing a business claim. The claim process can be extensive and can cause an interruption in the business for days or possibly weeks. Taking small steps now, however, can reduce the risk of having to file any water-related claim.

Steps to Avoid a Pipe Break

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Insulating any pipes that are exposed to frigid temperatures can reduce the risk of burst pipes. The insulation will prevent the buildup of ice inside the pipe; therefore, reducing the risk of increased pressure.

2. Maintain a Consistent Temperature

Allowing a building to go below 55°F consistently dramatically increases the risks of frozen pipes and pipe breaks as well as filing a business claim and should be avoided if possible.

3. Keep Drainage Areas Clear

Preventing minor flooding can be as easy as keeping drainage areas clear. This can be done by inspecting drains, downspouts, and gutters frequently to ensure that there are no blockages that would encourage backflow.

4. Remove Excess Snow

Another way of preventing minor flooding and even possible roof damage is to remove any excess snow. Snow not only increases the load on your roof but during the thaw it is possible that the melting snow will seep into minor imperfections and weaken the structure of the roof.

5. Fix Leaks and Cracks

It may also be a good idea to regularly walk the perimeter of your building, checking the foundation in the exterior for any cracks or leaks. Any minor imperfections can usually be corrected with exterior sealants; however, significant cracks may require the use of a restoration company.

6. Protect Valuable Items

While performing any of these preventative steps can reduce the risk of water damage, it may still be wise to protect any valuable items by keeping them above ground level and even in waterproof bins.

While a business claim is not necessarily a bad thing, it can take time to process, and that is valuable time that your business cannot afford to lose, which is why it’s better to be proactive rather than sorry.

Business Interruption: Minimizing Flood Loss and Delays

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

The last thing any business wants after experiencing flooding or any disaster is extensive business interruption. Business interruption accounts for any losses incurred as a company attempts to recover from the loss.

Important Tips to minimize Flood Loss and Delays

After a flood, a business might need to shut down all operations or move essential operations off-site. The closure and move might cost the company revenue. Business interruption insurance can help mitigate any financial losses, but coverage depends on the policy.

The goal to a quick recovery is to hire a restoration service in Saratoga Springs, NY, especially a company with familiarity in water loss. These services can help in a few key areas, including:

• Loss mitigation
• Disaster Cleanup
• Property restoration

Flooding and Business Interruption

Many businesses, especially aging operations, can experience a broken pipe, leading to a flood. Depending on the hours of operation, a break can go unnoticed for several hours or several days, resulting in a significant accumulation of water.

The longer water is left to stand, the greater the opportunity for compounding problems. For instance, a flood can lead to mold development in as few as 48 hours.

Companies should have guards, cameras, or notification systems in place to reduce the risk of extensive flooding or unmonitored periods. However, beyond preventative measures, companies should also have a qualified mitigation service on standby for remediation and recovery.

Mitigation and Recovery

Extensive or large water damage is costly, and it is time-consuming to clean and repair. The standard restoration service has a three-pronged approach to the recovery process: mitigate, clean, and restore.

Mitigation involves stopping the flow of water and limiting or restricting the damage. It can include shutting off and repairing pipes or supply valves or using tarps and buckets to trap and catch water.

Cleaning is aimed at removing excess water and disinfecting the facility. Most restoration services will use various tools, including:

• Shop vacuums
• Fans
• Blowers
• Dehumidifiers

Finally, the service will focus on restoration, which means restoring the facility to pre-disaster conditions. As a business owner, you likely care about the timeline to recovery and restoration, but that will depend on the specific cause of your business's disaster.

Qualified Restoration Services

The key to working with a restoration professional is to only work with those who are qualified. A company should have a license and insurance. You should verify this information with the certifying bodies, ensuring you are working with a real and proven professional.

One credential to look for in any restoration service is the IICRC. Any company bearing those initials has proven its understanding of fundamental disaster response requirements. Insurance is also essential for any restoration service. Suppose the company working on your site does not have adequate or proper insurance. In that case, your business is potentially on the hook for any damages or injuries that occur on your property.

While no business owner wants to experience flooding, it can happen. The best any owner can do is limit their exposure and business interruption through planning and making necessary connections and arrangements with qualified restoration services. It is vital that you do not waste time after a flood. The sooner your property is restored, the sooner you can get back to business.

The 4 Steps of the Roof Damage Cleanup Process

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

Many people think of flooding as something that happens at the base of a building. Floodwaters rise and break over barriers to flood the basement and bottom floors. Another common flooding problem associated with storms, however, is a roof leak. If the roof of your commercial building in Saratoga Springs, NY, gets damaged, rain can seep in and cause further problems. Here are the steps to resolve those problems.

Steps To Cleaning Roof Damage.

1. Drying Area

The first thing that has to happen when missing shingles cause water damage in your attic or top floor is for all the excess water to be removed. Water remediation professionals use industrial pumps to remove standing water. They may increase airflow in the affected area to dry surfaces. Making sure the area is dried quickly can help prevent secondary damage such as mold growth.

2. Removing Damage

If the roof leak is significant, there may be a lot of damage not just to the roof but also to the layers of the building directly underneath it. Waterlogged walls or ceilings are no longer structurally sound. Materials have to be torn out if they cannot be salvaged. 

3. Disinfecting Surfaces

Because flood water is contaminated, everything it touches must be sanitized. Professional strength cleaners are used to remove bacteria and other harmful substances. Afterward, the surfaces can be tested to ensure that they are clean.

4. Rebuilding Roof

After the cleaning is finished, the technicians repair the damaged roof. They make sure the base is strong and well-sealed against further leaks. Then they replace the shingles that are broken or missing. If any interior parts need to be rebuilt, they can do that as well.

A roof leak doesn’t always show signs of significant damage at first, so it’s important not to forget the roof in your inspection after a flood. You can avoid further problems by addressing any roof issues in a timely manner.

Sewage Has Backed up Into My Bathtub! Now What?

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

No one expects a sewer backup, much less to encounter raw sewage backing up into their Saratoga Springs, NY, bathtub. Unfortunately, it is a possibility that some homeowners must face at some point. It's essential to get the problem solved as soon as possible to avoid the various hazards resulting from sewage going where it shouldn't.

7 Steps for Dealing With a Bathtub Backup

The key to appropriately dealing with a sewage backup is to clean the area thoroughly while preventing cross-contamination into unaffected areas. There are several basic steps for accomplishing these goals safely.

1. Keep Everyone Out of the Affected Area

First, it's critical to keep everyone not working in the affected area out until it's safe, especially children and pets. Raw sewage needs to be handled with care to not spread the bacteria even more than it has already dispersed.

2. Turn Off the Electricity

If there is a chance that the standing water has come into contact with electrical outlets or plugged-in electronics, shutting off the electricity before entering the area is vital. An electric current could be traveling through the water, so if you can safely reach the breaker box, turn off the electricity to the affected area or the whole house.

3. Protect Yourself With Personal Protective Equipment

When dealing with raw sewage, anyone working in the area needs to protect themselves as much as possible. Sewage carries germs, bacteria and diseases that can be hazardous if people encounter them unprotected. Therefore, you must put on PPE before entering the affected area. Then, you must remove the PPE every time you exit the area to prevent cross-contamination to other parts of your home.

Depending on the severity of the sewer backup, you may choose to wear only a few PPE items such as protective glasses, a respirator and latex gloves. You could also wear hair coverings, coveralls and shoe coverings for more protection.

4. Extract All Water

Removing the standing water could be relatively quick and straightforward if you have a wet/dry vacuum; it can also remove small debris. If not, a mop and towels may have to suffice. Hiring water damage restoration specialists is typically the best solution because these workers have the expertise and industrial-grade equipment to ensure a quality, thorough job.

5. Dispose of Unsalvageable Materials

Anything porous item that has soaked up the water probably will be unsalvageable, as you may not be able to clean and dry it thoroughly. You must throw out these materials, which could include things like wood flooring, carpet, wooden furniture, wooden cabinets and drywall.

6. Clean and Sanitize Everything That Remains

Cleaning and sanitizing the entire affected area and its contents is one of the most critical parts of the job after sewage flooding. You can purchase products in stores or simply make a bleach/water solution. Everything must be wiped down with this mixture.

7. Dry Everything Completely

To avoid more water damage and mold growth, you will need to quickly and completely dry all that remains. You can turn on the ventilation fan in the bathroom, open windows and doors, and run dehumidifiers, heaters and fans.

It's always beneficial to be proactive when it comes to home issues. If you discover a sewer backup, remember to perform these basic steps to mitigate the damage.

Clothes Dryer Safety Tips to Prevent Fires

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Keep Your Home Safe From a Dryer Fire

Clothes dryers are involved in thousands of house fires each year, and the highest number of these occurs in fall and winter. The majority of these fires start because the dryer is not cleaned and maintained properly. Luckily, there are some simple tips available to help keep your home safe from a dryer fire.

1. Installation

Using the correct electrical outlet and plug to hook up your dryer is essential. To ensure that installation is completed properly and safely, consider calling a professional to connect your dryer. Like all electrical appliances, dryers come with warnings and instructions from the manufacturers, and you should read over these carefully.

2. Cleaning

The lint trap should be cleaned between all loads of laundry. The back of the dryer should also be cleared, as lint can build up in this area. Every few months, the vent pipe or exhaust should be emptied using a plumber’s snake in order to avoid a lint fire.

3. Proper Use

Using your dryer properly can also protect your home from a dryer fire. Avoid overloading your dryer with too much clothing at once. Do not dry items with rubber, foam, or plastic, such as bathroom mats with rubber backing. Never place clothing with oil, gas, alcohol, or any other flammable chemical in your dryer. Always turn the dryer off before going to bed or leaving your residence.

4. Maintenance

Routinely inspect equipment parts, such as the venting system, to ensure that there is no damage or build-up of lint. Keep the area around the dryer clean and free of anything flammable. Check outside venting for blockages, such as birds' nests. Unplug or disconnect the dryer if you will be away for an extended period.

A dryer or lint fire is almost completely preventable, but homeowners must take proper precautions. If your residence has been damaged in a dryer fire, don’t hesitate to reach out to a fire restoration service today.

Cleanup Procedures To Use After a Water Heater Fails

2/24/2022 (Permalink)

A leaking water heater in Saratoga Springs, NY, is not an uncommon problem in a home. Unfortunately, when a failed water heater causes damage, it can sometimes do so without any warning. This can result in you having to deal with excess water and a major cleanup process. You should know what causes a broken water heater and how to get the issue cleaned up promptly.

Knowing Why a Water Heater Fails

Whether you have a leaking water heater or one that broke completely, you probably want to know why it happened because this makes it easier to take preventative measures once you have a new one installed. Reasons for failure can include any of the following:

• Neglect and lack of maintenance
• Sediment buildup
• Internal rust
• High water pressure
• Improper sizing
  
  

Learning About the Cleanup Process

Hot water burns, a higher risk of a fire starting, mold growth, electrocution and water damage are all concerns when a water heater fails. Because of this, it is often critical to approach the cleanup process properly and safely. Start by turning off all of the utilities in the affected area, including the electricity and gas.

The next step is pumping out any excess water. Once it is gone, place fans and a dehumidifier in the space to finish drying it out and reducing any moisture in the air. Use soap and water to clean all areas that were touched by the water, and then go back over what you clean with a sanitizing solution. At this point, you can determine which belongings cannot be saved and how much restoration is needed to get your space back to its original state.

Mold can start to grow in 24 hours in some instances. Once mold is present, the cleanup process becomes considerably more lengthy and complicated, so you should clean up the water from a broken or leaking water heater as soon as you notice the problem.

How to Get Ready for a Potential Flood

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

It's difficult, if not impossible, to anticipate a disaster. Still, there are things you can do to combat emergencies at home. You can also minimize the likelihood of incidents such as flooding from occurring. With a few simple steps, you can spare yourself a lot of grief and heartache. A professional flood cleanup company can help you restore your home, but you would like to avoid going through such an ordeal in the first place.

Take a Look at the Plumbing

While some flood damage happens from natural causes such as massive storms or broken sewer lines, other problems start from plumbing issues. A leaky pipe, for example, can go undetected for months or even years, leaving widespread damage in your home. To guard against a flood, do the following:

• Inspect all the pipes in your home and check for cracks or other problems.
• Repair any damage to the plumbing system immediately.
• Have a professional inspect the main water line of your home.
  
  

Sure up the Drainage
Storm damage can take a heavy toll on your house, especially if rainwater has nowhere to go. Your rain gutters and downspouts should divert water away from the house. However, if there is dirt, leaves, or other debris clogging them up, the water could collect under your roof shingles or pool up near the foundation. It won't take long for the water to seep into your house. Check out these areas and make the necessary repairs right away.

Update the Appliances
You probably rely on your home appliances every day. Items such as dishwashers, refrigerators, washers, and water heaters offer convenience and ease of living. They are also big culprits of flooding at home. If it has been a while since you did some maintenance on these appliances, now is the right time to do an update. This could prevent leaking or bursting, which would send gallons upon gallons of water onto your floors. 

Flooding is nothing to take lightly. You could be at risk of losing your entire home if you are prepared. These tips can help you keep your house safe.

Preventing Winter Storm Damage-Frozen Pipes

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

Winter is here in Saratoga and SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort wants you to be prepared for bitter cold days/nights and winter storm weather. Two most common winter storm catastrophes are frozen pipes and collapsed roofs. Here are some easy tips/tricks to prevent these unwanted repair or restoration costs:

Preventing Frozen Pipes:

1. Let your water faucets drip during really low temperatures. This helps reduce the pressure between the faucet and the ice that builds resulting in less of a chance for the pipe to burst from the increased pressure.

2. Keep your thermostat at 65 degrees Fahrenheit during freezing temperatures. 

3. Wrap any exposed pipes with insulation, towels with duct tape around it or electrical tape to keep them from freezing. 

4. Be sure to shut off the water supply to any sprinkler or irrigation system prior to seasons with freezing temperatures. Make sure to have the pipes blown out to be sure any water left behind is gone.

Preventing a Collapsed Roof: 

1. Check the integrity of your roof before snow season or a snow storm hits. If there are any loose shingles, holes or any other flaws to your roof be sure to fix or replace them to prevent further damage. When any of this goes unresolved the chance for leaks, water damage and even a collapsed roof increases significantly.

2. Be sure to have snow removed from your roof after any significant snow storm as well as periodically between smaller snow storms as the snow can continue to build over time resulting in a collapsed roof. 

If disaster does strike and you need assistance with any restoration services SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort is here to help. Call us 24/7, 365 days/year at (518)580-1111

Preventing Storm Damage to Your Home- Wind and Rain

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

You may not be able to prevent heavy rain and/or wind from hitting your area but you can prevent or at least limit the damage to your home or business. Here are a few easy tips to get you started:

1. Check your sump pump before each heavy rain season. Make sure it is in good working order. You may want the extra security and have a back up pump just incase. 

2. Ensure your gutters are clear and that your downspouts flow away from your home or business. Water that builds up, unable to drain properly can back up and cause flooding, water damage, mold and an abundance of other damage to a home resulting in extra repair costs.

3. Check roof shingles and siding periodically. When there are strong winds it only needs a small opening underneath a shingle or piece of siding to enlarge the opening and potentially cause severe damage to your roof or siding. This also gives rain a chance to get in that could cause flooding,  water damage and mold.

4. Make sure any fencing around the home has strong footing to prevent strong winds from pulling it out and blowing it into your home causing damage to windows, siding or roof. Just as important is ensuring all outside furniture and lawn accessories are put away before storms to prevent them from blowing into your home also causing extra repair costs.

Electric Heater Safety-Preventing a Fire

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

It is that time of year again when we pull out our space/electric heaters for added warmth. It's important to be cautious when using these devices though, so as to not start a fire in your home or business. We want you to be happy and safe this winter so here are a few simple safety tips while using an electric heater:

1. Only plug these heaters directly into a wall outlet. Do NOT use: extension cords, surge protectors, plug timers or G.F.C.I outlets.

2. Keep the heater on the floor, preferably not a rugged floor. Putting it on any furniture, table or other fixture increases the risk of it falling over or overheating possibly causing a fire.

3. Make sure the heater is always 3 feet away from any flammable object. This includes furniture, papers, curtains, pillows/bedding and even paint that is potentially flammable.

4. Though this happens way too often; Do NOT leave your heater on when no one is home. Consider this especially if you have pets that could possibly knock the heater over causing it to catch fire while you are out.

My Saratoga House Smells Like Smoke, What Can I Do?

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort Can Help You Remove the Smell of Fire Damage!

One of the worst feelings a Saratoga homeowner can face is the aftermath of fire damage. You may feel hopeless and like you have lost so much, but never give up. There is help nearby, and the damage may not be as bad as it seems.

Imagine a scenario where, after extensive fire damage restoration, your Saratoga home finally looks like it did before everything happened. However, what can you do if it still smells like smoke, even weeks later? Sometimes restorations are not as thorough as they should be but don't worry. We're here for you at SERVPRO.

Why Does My House Still Smell Like Fire?

The malodor of burning plastics, wood, and other materials can linger in the air for weeks after a fire, and it could happen because:

• The malodor was not dealt with on a particle level, using advanced equipment
• Putrid smells linger behind on the walls, and sealant paint is needed
• Bits of greasy soot may have been missed, trapping the odor

Here at SERVPRO, we're committed to removing all the signs of fire damage that we can. It is always our goal to leave your home feeling like it did before the fire happened. Our Institution of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration-certified technicians can identify problem areas and use advanced equipment to remediate the damage.

What Can SERVPRO Do That The Previous Company Didn't?

Our technicians have access to advanced equipment that can help reduce and remove lingering odors. We can:

• Use hydroxyl generators to eliminate volatile organic compounds from the air
• Use thermal foggers to trap scent-causing particles and neutralize them
• Set up air scrubbers with HEPA filters to filter the malodor out of the particles in the air and trap them
• Use sealant paints

Here at SERVPRO, we want to help you make your home feel like it did before the fire.

If your home still smells like fire damage even weeks later, give us a call today! Dial (518) 580-1111 to speak with a representative of SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort. We're ready to help.

How Does Water Damage Restoration by Gansevoort Professionals Compare to Handling by Janitorial Staff?

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

Professionalism and Preparation by SERVPRO Help Improve the Outcome of Water Damage Repair

Whenever burst pipes or leaking roofs from storms release water into unwanted areas of your Concord business premises, you must find a way to restore normalcy first. It is easy to dismiss the exercise as something your regular janitorial staff can handle easily. However, professional restorers might offer some extra benefits.

The differences noted when water damage restoration of Gansevoort properties is handled by professionals arise for various reasons, including the level of preparation, technical skills, and attitude of the work crews. Unlike your staff, who may view water removal and drying of materials as an additional burden on top of their regular work, professional restorers are prepared to get the situation under control quickly and hand over the property to you. SERVPRO provides highly trained and IICRC certified Water Restoration Technicians to ensure such a quick turnaround. 

Speedy results are also realized because of better preparation before the job starts:

• Estimating the number and type of restoration equipment needed
• Better evaluation of the loss situation
• Identification and addressing of any safety issues 

Water damage may require a wide array of equipment, including extractors such as dry/wet vacuums, cleaning equipment such as rotating brushes, and drying equipment. If structural materials deteriorate extensively from moisture exposure, controlled demolition may be required, necessitating the use of cutting saws, drills, pry bars, and rubber hammers, among others. The need for specialized tools your cleaning staff might not have means the task is likely to be more inconvenient. 

Finally, water damage remediation may not be as clear-cut as you expect. SERVPRO professionals are ready to guide, educate and offer any information that a property owner might need to resolve immediate or long-term issues.

SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort handles water damage conveniently for business owners ensuring minimal disruptions. Call us at (518) 580-1111. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How Can Flood Damage in My Ceiling Get Dried?

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

When Roof Leaks Allow Flood Water to Flow Through Your Saratoga Home, Our Sophisticated Tools and Technologies Can Help to Dry Out This Damage. 

Severe weather is nothing new to Saratoga homes and businesses. Knowing what to do in the event of a flood can help you to minimize the time that you wait for help to arrive. The sooner that you can get technicians involved, the less costly and widespread that these damages effects become. 

The presence of flood damage in Saratoga homes is enough of a challenge without dealing with the structural concerns that come with it. Roof damage from heavy snow or fierce winds can present vulnerabilities for runoff to move directly into your home. The result of this penetration sends flood water throughout your property, beginning in the attic and moving through the floor system to the lower levels of your home where the living spaces exist. Identifying potential flood damage is among the first steps to restoring the house to its original condition.

How Do I Know Flood Damage Exists? 

A visual inspection of the property can be a reliable source of information in determining whether flood damage exists. Knowing what to look for and where to find it can hasten Your securing of qualified restoration professionals like our team. Flood damage does not resolve itself, so it is pressing to address these concerns as soon as possible. If you are unsure if flooding exists in your home, our professionals can help with a thorough inspection and evaluation of the property after a storm passes. You can also begin looking for telling signs such as:

• Damp Spots
• Dripping
• Sagging Materials
• Structural Collapse

What Emergency Services Are Necessary? 

With a team of in-house contractors working alongside our restoration professionals on the roster, we can offer a more comprehensive approach to flood recovery. Meeting the individual needs of the property as a whole with a singular presence saves you money and time. Our complete roster also allows us to provide emergency services that come before job scoping and mitigation. These steps are among the most crucial to preventing worsening flood damage, including both water penetration and the deterioration of the property. Some of these emergency services include:

• Roof Tarping
• Board Up
• Extraction

What is a Controlled Demolition? 

One of the mitigation and emergency services approaches provided by our residential contractors is controlled demolition. This demolition is one of the practices designed to make restoration more efficient and simplify the re-installation of removed materials. We have experienced professionals actively working to identify the potential structural problems in the property as soon as we arrive. Finding compromises in specific construction materials allows our professionals to remove these portions of drywall, ceiling materials, and flooring as quickly as possible.

With roof damages that can allow flooding in the attic, controlled demolition means removing saturated and compromised supports, joists, underlayment, and plywood. The removal of these damaged elements prevents further wicking of moisture and allows for emergency services like roof tarping to occur more easily. Controlled demolition within the house also has multiple benefits, including:

• Prevents Migration
• Removes Damaged Materials
• Provides Access to Damp Areas

How Do Ceiling Systems Get Dry? 

The migration of water through the unfinished floor of your attic is a fast process. Several of the materials in the ceiling system of the level below should slow the pace of water movement, however. With a short window to identify a developing problem, you can prevent more widespread damage effects by addressing these concerns as soon as possible. Controlled demolition starts this process, so we can remove sagging materials and other structural threats and expose the cavity to tools and machines that can dry it out.

We have centrifugal air movers and desiccant dehumidifiers that work together to evaporate water and remove the moisture in the environment. When drywall and ceiling tile does not require removal, we might also consider the positive pressure systems to evaporate trapped water in materials like insulation and structural framework.

Knowing what to do when floodwater penetrates your roof can be a challenge without the experience and cutting-edge equipment of our SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort team. No matter how we can help, from temporary construction solutions and extraction through the final touches on successful restoration, give us a call anytime at (518) 580-1111.

A Burst Pipe Led To Water Damage In My Saratoga Living Room – Is Everything Lost?

1/22/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage Mitigation is One of SERVPRO’s Specialties – We Can Work with You to Establish What Can Be Restored

Things like burst pipes are common reasons for water intrusion in Saratoga homes. Gallons of water can stream into your home in a short time. If your living room was impacted, it could mean water-damaged furniture, carpets, and bookcases.

My Carpet is New – Can It Be Saved?

Water from pipes is typically clean water, which means your carpet has a good chance of restoration. Water extraction in your home is going to be the initial priority. Three methods work well in restoring carpets to preloss conditions. These include:

• Deluxe precondition and rinse works well on moderate to heavily soiled carpets. Our technicians use a cleaning product that is applied to the rug and remains on it for 10 – 15 minutes. An extraction wand can then be used along with a rinsing solution or water.
• Rotary jet extraction does much of the same as the Deluxe method, but an RX-20 device is used. This is a rotary jet device that agitates the carpet while compressing the fibers to extract water.
• The Showcase method is an excellent choice in carpet cleaning as the rug gets cleaned twice. The technicians use a special cleaner and rinsing agent to improve the PH levels making the item easier to clean.

Furniture & Drapes

If you caught the plumbing problem in time, the furniture might not have suffered much damage. Our water damage restoration experts are often able to mitigate any water damage that affects upholstered furniture, wood furniture, and drapes. They can dry the content and carpet using powerful air movers and dehumidifiers.

There is no reason your living room content should be lost. Our crews understand how crucial immediate water extraction is to restore your home quickly. Contact SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort at (518) 580-1111 for service that is, Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Choose To Use Professional Mold Damage Remediation Services For Your Saratoga Area Home

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO for Clean-Up of Mold Problems

You find a small patch of mold in a corner above your shower stall; thinking that it is something else entirely, you take an everyday household cleaning solution to it and scrub the problem away. With this contact, you may have contaminated yourself, the cleaning materials you used and could have helped spread mold to other areas of your home.

Most mold damage you find on your Saratoga area property appears minimal until you get to the root of the problem, locate the source, and get a good look at the entire space. Small patches on your walls mean that a more substantial problem can exist somewhere else. Places containing hidden moisture like the interior of your walls, around pipes, in the subfloor, or ceiling can contain problems that you are not aware of yet.

Remember, mold exists everywhere. It is an existing natural life-form within our eco-system that assists with recycling materials back into our environment. We do not want to get rid of it entirely, even if we could. It is a professional mold remediation specialist's job to limit the exposure you find in your home, not to eradicate fungi completely, since it is not possible. SERVPRO can help you with that mold remediation.

Consider all locations where mold can exist, including cracks, crevices, crawlspaces, attic space, basements, walls, ceiling, flooring, and more. If you do not have the equipment necessary to protect yourself and prevent spreading the contamination to other rooms of your home, you should seek professional help. Give the expertly trained IICRC certified technicians from SERVPRO an opportunity to perform the services you deserve.

Equipment used for Mold Damage Remediation

The air moving equipment, HEPA filtered vacuums, attachments, extraction equipment, and experience that SERVPRO offers are well worth the cost. We can help limit any damages you experience and return things to normal in a quick, efficient manner that causes little to no disruption of your everyday routine.  "Like it never even happened."

Enjoy peace of mind knowing that our applied microbial remediation technicians have done everything necessary to keep you and your family safe. 

Contact SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort for additional information or begin with an initial inspection today. We are here to help 24/7, 365. Never hesitate to call. (518) 580-1111

Our Team Is Available 24/7 In Saratoga To Handle Water Removal

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

Avoiding Problems That Can Occur After Water Removal in Saratoga Homes

Did you know the national average for water damage in homes shows that a water loss event is likely to occur at least once every eleven years? Commonly seen sources are from plumbing problems, appliance malfunctions, or structural issues such as hydrostatic pressure causing water in the basement.

Many issues can occur post-water removal in Saratoga homes, and SERVPRO technicians monitor the moisture levels in the room and look for signs of mold growth to halt infestations before they start. Inadequate drying has the potential to result in foul odors and weakening of building materials.

Why SERVPRO?

Each technician undergoes rigorous training in the restoration sciences, including hands-on situational experiences, so they learn the best practices for handling different types of loss. As advances happen in the restoration industry, the technicians engage in ongoing education to stay on top of the latest developments in both equipment and methods.

Water Removal Methods

When technicians extract water from a home, they have different equipment depending on the type of surfaces they are working on. Squeegees work great on tile and wood floors, while rovers and weighted extractor wands perform well for pushing the maximum amount of water out of carpet and padding.

Avoid Mold During Water Cleanup

It does not take much for mold spores to germinate, and SERVPRO technicians work proactively to inhibit any type of mold growth during and after water loss mitigation through the use of antimicrobial cleaning agents as well as sealants to avoid infestations.

Avoid Musty Water Odors

The lingering reminder of the water damage in the home may point to moisture remaining. To avoid this happening, SERVPRO technicians use different kinds of moisture detection equipment (depending on the surface they are scoping) to confirm after drying, there is no residual moisture present. After drying, the surface wipe-down with their cleaning agents such as SERVPRO's own Orange cleaner leaves nothing but a fresh scent while it kills odor-causing bacteria.

SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort at (518) 580-1111 has the training and equipment for fast, efficient water removal. The emergency response team is available 24/7 to make the loss in your home "Like it never even happened."

Does Your Saratoga Home Smell a Little...Funky? We Can Help With That!

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning takes experience 

At SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort, we're experts in odor removal and deodorization! Odors can come from a number of sources, inside and outside. At SERVPRO, we're trained to handle any! 

Lets talk about some of the different kinds of odors we can tackle (or help you tackle) here at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort!

Pet odors 

Pet odors are most often caused by waste and sometimes their glands will produce more oil during allergy season. Sometimes pet odors are something you just can't seem to get rid of the DIY route. If that's the case, give us a call, we'll make sure your home is smelling fresh! (We love animals too...so that's a bonus for us.)

Kitchen smells

Your fridge, dishwasher, or garbage disposal can all be sources of that funky smell. When it comes to these 3, it's quite easy to DIY it/ Clean your garbage disposal blades, clean up any spills in the fridge ASAP, and wipe down the inside of your dishwasher once a week! 

Food and debris can be hosts for mold, and your dishwasher holds in moisture, promoting mold and mildew growth. 

Smoke 

When you think of smoke damage you probably think of smoke after a fire, right? Cigarette smoke also causes damage to your home, whether you notice it or not! Smoke, no matter the source, can get ingrained into your clothes, carpets, and walls! Yes.... the walls!! 

Sewage 

If you smell something putrid coming from your bathroom, it's in your best interest to call a plumber before it can get worse. Smells like this can be caused by a clogged pipe or broken sewer pipe. You don't want to deal with a full on sewage loss...that's quite the stinky mess...nevertheless, at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort, we can take care of getting rid of that smell and cleaning up the mess if needed! 

Musty

A musty smell could be a sign of mold or mildew. 

If any odors are too much for you to handle or control on your own, give us a call at (518) 580-1111. We'll make it "Like it never even happened."

Document Drying for Commercial Business

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

After a commercial disaster in Gansevoort, NY, a  commercial business could lose important documents and photos. You're in luck, at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort, we offer document drying services for your important files! 

So, what's the document drying process?

• Inventory

When we get to your commercial property, we will take inventory of all items, including the important documents that need drying. 

• Drying

The documents will be freeze-dried (in short terms) and vacuum-sealed to achieve sublimation.

• Decontamination

The documents will go through a process called Gamma Irradiation. Meaning: the documents (or other items) will be decontaminated using gamma rays. The gamma rays break down any molecules that are causing contamination. Especially in a category 3 situation (aka sewage), the documents (and other items) need to be decontaminated. 

• Cleaning

Depending on the level of soil, we will take the proper steps to wipe, dust, remove soot or other contaminants from your belongings. 

• Deodorizing

Documents that have been in a fire or water damage situation will have some sort of odor, one that you won't want to smell. All your important documents will be deodorized before heading back to you!

Preventing Water Damage Outside Your Home

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

Here are 3 simple tips and tricks to ensure less water damage outside your home.

• Inspect your roof and chimney.

The roof is the most important part of your house. It is important to check out your roof to make sure you don’t have any damaged, loose, or missing shingles or tiles. Another component on the roof is the chimney. The chimney receives more damage than the roof because it stands taller. Making sure your chimney has no cracks or broken masonry work will help prevent possible leakage.

• Maintain trees and vegetation.

Having a beautiful lawn with bushes and trees is lovely, but keep in mind that plants and trees can cause damage to your house if not maintained. Make sure to minimize vegetation near utility pipes and make sure roots don’t damage your pipes and water line.

• Clean gutters and downspouts.

Gutters will help collect all the water from your roof. Over time, your gutters will fill up with leaves, seeds, and other debris causing a blockage. It is important to clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure the water can flow easily.

Top 3 causes of Electrical Fires

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

When living in Saratoga Springs, NY, we want you to make sure you know what electrical fires are and the top causes for them, so you can protect your home in the future.

Cords and Electrical circuit overloads

The most common one is cords and electrical circuit overloads. It is common to have many cord strips around the house and most of those cord strips have all 5-6 outlets with a cord plugged into them. This is why it is important to make the effort to never overload your outlets.

Light fixture

Another cause is lighting fixtures, both caused by the light bulb or by items near the light fixture. One thing that causes light bulb fires is when you install the wrong light bulb or watt size. The other cause is when putting materials such as fabrics or cloth near a lamp causing overheating.

Space heaters

As we roll into winter, many people have a space heater they use in their Saratoga home. Be conscious of where you place your space heater and watch its surroundings, also make sure the cord isn't plugged into a cord strip as well.

4 Ways to Prevent Bathroom Mold

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

Keep Mold Out Of Your Home

Bathroom mildew and mold are issues that almost every single homeowner has to deal with at some point. Luckily, these problems are also extremely easy to resolve and prevent, as long as you handle the situation correctly. Here are four of the best ways to keep mold out of your Gansevoort, NY, home's bathroom.

1. Perform Regular Mold Inspections.
How can you know whether you have a mold problem if you don't look for it? Performing regular home inspections can help you catch mold issues while they're still small and easy to fix. Doing so can also help prevent you from randomly stumbling upon a massive mold problem later on down the road.

2. Ventilate Your Bathroom While You Shower.
Long, hot showers might be relaxing, but they also create a perfect environment for bathroom mildew. Properly ventilating your bathroom while you shower can help prevent condensation from building up and causing a humidity problem. You can do this by either cracking a window or door open, or activating your bathroom ventilation system during your shower.

3. Keep Your Shampoo Bottles on a Separate Rack.
Storing your shampoo and conditioner in the shower might be convenient, but moisture can become trapped underneath the bottles, resulting in hidden mold growth. Keeping your shampoo and body wash bottles on a separate bathroom rack, outside the shower, allows the area to dry out more thoroughly.

4. Hang Your Bathmat Up to Dry.
Placing a bathmat on the floor outside your shower is a great way to prevent puddles from forming on your bathroom floor. However, you need to make sure that you also remember to hang your bathmat up to dry after you use it. Otherwise, the moisture that the rug collects just sits on the bathroom floor. Ultimately, it's as if you never had a bathmat to begin with.

Mold growth might be a common bathroom occurrence, but that doesn't mean you can't take the proper steps to help prevent the issue. As always, make sure to contact mold remediation experts if you do discover bathroom mildew growing in your home.

Smart Ways to Prepare for a Flood

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

It's difficult, if not impossible, to anticipate a disaster. Still, there are things you can do to combat emergencies at home. You can also minimize the likelihood of incidents such as flooding from occurring. With a few simple steps, you can spare yourself a lot of grief and heartache. A professional flood cleanup company can help you restore your home, but you would like to avoid going through such an ordeal in the first place.

Take a Look at the Plumbing

While some flood damage happens from natural causes such as massive storms or broken sewer lines, other problems start from plumbing issues. A leaky pipe, for example, can go undetected for months or even years, leaving widespread damage in your home. To guard against a flood, do the following:

• Inspect all the pipes in your home and check for cracks or other problems.
• Repair any damage to the plumbing system immediately.
• Have a professional inspect the main water line of your home.
  
  

Sure up the Drainage
Storm damage can take a heavy toll on your house, especially if rainwater has nowhere to go. Your rain gutters and downspouts should divert water away from the house. However, if there is dirt, leaves, or other debris clogging them up, the water could collect under your roof shingles or pool up near the foundation. It won't take long for the water to seep into your house. Check out these areas and make the necessary repairs right away.

Update the Appliances
You probably rely on your home appliances every day. Items such as dishwashers, refrigerators, washers, and water heaters offer convenience and ease of living. They are also big culprits of flooding at home. If it has been a while since you did some maintenance on these appliances, now is the right time to do an update. This could prevent leaking or bursting, which would send gallons upon gallons of water onto your floors. 

Flooding is nothing to take lightly. You could be at risk of losing your entire home if you are not prepared. These tips can help you keep your house safe.

4 Lesser-Known Ways to Prepare Your Business for a Fire

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

4 Lesser-Known Ways to Prepare Your Business for a Fire

The possibility that your Gansevoort, NY, business building will experience a fire is likely a rare subject of your thoughts. However, the potential for a business fire to create disaster makes it essential to prioritize. While you may know the essential preventative measures, not all are widely acknowledged. So, here are four lesser-known ways to prepare your business for a fire.

1. Check the Lighting
If you should undergo a business fire, the first priority will be to exit the building. Unfortunately, this will be difficult if you can't find an exit. This is why lighting is so important. Make sure that employees will be able to clearly see where each escape route is. These are some areas to focus on:

• Hallways
• Doors
• Signage
  
  

If possible, try to acquire emergency lighting that won't be affected by power outages.

2. Teach Fire Extinguisher Usage
While most every business trains its employees in how to exit a building, fire extinguishers may be neglected. However, the ability to put a fire out is an essential skill during such a disaster. Hold training sessions for this purpose, particularly for those that express a lack of knowledge in the subject.

3. Lower Storage
When storing items, be sure that everything is at least 24 inches away from the ceiling. In one respect, this fire preparation stops the damage from spreading too far. In another, it helps firemen use water in buildings that don't have sprinklers.

4. Inspect Extension Cords
It can be tempting to leave extension cords perpetually plugged in, especially if you work in an office setting. However, this can be a hazard and cause fire damage. Try to implement a policy of unplugging the cords after use.

No business owner wants to experience a fire, but you may find yourself faced with one. If this occurs, you'll want to know that you are fully prepared for a business fire. Just be sure to take immediate action and contact fire restoration experts afterward.

5 Steps of the Mold Mitigation Process

12/21/2021 (Permalink)

Mold Mitigation Process

It is not uncommon for a home that has sustained water damage to also develop black mold. If you discover mold in your home in Saratoga Springs, NY, you will likely need the services of mold remediation experts. These certified technicians take care of your mold problem and get your home back to normal, and they use the following five steps to do so.

1. Protection

Before they begin the mold cleanup process, technicians don protective gear to cover their eyes, nose, mouth and skin. This keeps the increased number of spores in the air out of their airways and sensitive membranes.

2. Containment

To take control of the black mold problem, the specialists must make sure it doesn't contaminate other areas of the house. They restrict air flow from the damaged section and seal it off with thick plastic sheets.

3. Demolition

If mold has attacked a wall or other porous surface, the area will have to be replaced, but first, it must be torn out. Clearing out the parts that have mold damage is essential to fixing the problem.

4. Sanitation

The remaining structures must be sanitized before it's safe for family member and pets to reenter the home. Technicians may use anti-microbial chemicals to neutralize any germs that are present. They may also use gamma irradiation to sanitize documents or books.

5. Dehydration

This term is bad news when applied to a person, but when applied to a house, particularly one that has prior mold issues, it can be a godsend. A dry environment is less likely to be hospitable to mold.

A black mold problem in your home is best handled by certified professionals who specialize in mold remediation. That's why you should call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort if you have a mold problem. We have the knowledge and the tools to work through the steps of the process efficiently. We can quickly assess the situation, answer any questions you have and decrease the chances of mold growth returning. Call us at (518) 580-1111!

What Can Cause a Basement To Flood?

12/18/2021 (Permalink)

A flooded basement in Saratoga Springs, NY.

Causes of Flooding In Your Basement

If you are a homeowner in Saratoga Springs, NY, you may wonder what might cause a basement flood in your house. Understanding the various possible sources can help you to be better prepared for any future floods or related damage that could occur. Here are three potential causes of flooding in your basement.

1. Poor Drainage System

A drainage system that has been set up improperly can lead to a flooded basement, especially if the downspouts are not properly located with regards to your basement. These drains should empty in the direction of your backyard or a street, rather than toward yours or a neighbor’s basement.

2. Gutters That Are Blocked

Blocked gutter systems are another common source of basement flood issues. If there seem to be water issues resulting from a clogged manifold that connects your home to the sewer system, it is time to call the authorities. The massive water leaks that can result from such blockages can have disastrous effects.

3. Unfortunate Construction Errors

Sometimes, a home simply was not constructed with sound, logical building principles in mind. If your house was built on a sloped property, you may be more likely to have ongoing issues that can lead to water damage. While there is little you can do to change your situation, keep in mind that most slopes level out over time.

It can be easy to lose hope when it seems that the elements and your investment are out to get you. However, all hope is not lost when a basement flood is imminent or has already occurred. You can work to improve your drainage system, the local authorities can help with gutter system issues and any poorly planned housing locations often settle themselves, as mentioned above. If all else fails and your home becomes flooded, SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort can help you get your investment and your belongings back to the best state possible.

5 Ways To Eliminate Smoke Odor

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Ozone machines can remove smoke odor quickly.

Smoke Cleaning Methods

Smoke odors are persistent. Methods such as air filtration, ventilation, or wiping residue off of surfaces are not likely to be sufficient. Particles of smoke drift into air ducts, nooks and crannies, and porous materials such as carpeting, drapery, and furniture. The only way to completely eliminate smoke odor is to permanently neutralize the presence of these particles. Here are five smoke cleaning methods suitable for smoke damage restoration.

1. Ozone Machines

Ozone machines release molecules that follow the same path as smoke particles and oxidize these sources of odor. This method is popular because it works quickly, but all occupants, pets, and plants must be temporarily evacuated.

2. Hydroxyl Generators

Hydroxyl generators destroy smoke particles with radicals generated by ultraviolet light. This method does not require evacuation, but may take anywhere from three to five times as long as an ozone machine.

3. HVAC Air Scrubbers

These scrubbers connect to the central air system to circulate air and filter out smoke particles. As these systems do not neutralize odor molecules, a faint smoke odor may linger. Some odor mitigation professionals may combine an air scrubber with another smoke cleaning method.

4. Thermal Foggers

Thermal foggers fill a home with fog for approximately 30 minutes before the residence is ventilated and allowed to dry. This highly effective odor elimination method also calls for evacuation and workers must wear respirators.

5. Vapor Modification

Vapor modification neutralizes odors by dispersing an aromatic compound in a mineral oil base with the assistance of a blower or fan. There is no need to evacuate during this treatment.

Out of these five methods, only two – ozone machines and thermal foggers – require evacuation. The other three methods can be pursued while you remain at home. A smoke cleaning service can work with you to determine which treatment options are right for a residence in Saratoga Springs, NY.

Fire Restoration for Your Saratoga Springs Home

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Get Professional Fire Damage Cleanup in Saratoga Springs for Items that Require Special Care

House fires are destructive and can start because of faulty electrical wiring or equipment. Even after extinguishing a fire, damage to your property and possessions continues. It is therefore, critical to prevent further destruction by calling professionals who have expertise in dealing with smoke, soot, and odor.

You can call SERVPRO to assist you in cleaning up your fire damaged residence. We can assess the destruction that the flames, smoke, soot, or water has caused. Once we determine the amount of damage, we can come up with an estimate for cleaning up and restoring your house. A fire can ruin your home in many ways, including the following:

· Smoke may discolor the walls in a few minutes.

· Finishes on kitchen appliances may discolor within a few hours.

· Smoke can tarnish metal or cause etching in the glass after a short time.

· Smoke and ash can continue causing corrosion to materials the flames did not ruin.

Our technicians can remove smoke, soot, ash, and other residues that could have built up on different surfaces before they spread. We can also use deodorization products to remove unpleasant odors from curtains, carpets, and upholstered furniture. During the cleanup process, some items such as clothes, toys, jewelry, and food require special care. We use special cleaning procedures when cleaning such things.

Most clothes are made of artificial fibers and therefore smoke odor molecules, and smoke particles can bond with fabrics if you do not clean them quickly. To organize garment restoration, we recommend that you make three groups of clothes, namely:

· The clothes you need immediately

· The clothes you need at a later date

· Seasonal clothes

We inventory clothes before removing them from the fire damaged worksite. We take multiple steps to clean and deodorize clothing items, including removing them from metal hangers to prevent oxidization, eliminating loose, dry residues from fabrics, and spraying the garments with solvent-based odor counteracts.

When restoring toys, we do our best to ensure that we return them to a condition that is safe for children to play with them. We clean and sanitize toys, and if we have any doubts about their safety, we dispose of them.

The flames and heat of a fire can ruin foods, making them unsafe to consume. Our technicians dispose of food items that heat damage or smoke particles have ruined. We also evaluate canned foods to determine if they were too close to smoke and heat. We recommend disposing of food items that have discolored or scorched labels after you have inventoried them. Our SERVPRO technicians can also help you file your insurance claim using our contents claim inventory service (CCIS). The process involves identifying the salvageable and unsalvageable items and showing their value for easier settlements.

If you need fire damage cleanup services for items requiring special care, call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort at (518) 580-1111. We are dedicated to professionalism and can meet your needs in Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort, and neighboring areas. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Do you Have Water in your Saratoga Springs Attic?

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring and Repairing Flood Damage in Your Saratoga Attic 

Severe weather systems that can sometimes affect Saratoga Springs, offer strong winds capable of hurdling debris and tearing off roofing materials. Once vulnerabilities exist in the exterior defense of your house, it is a direct path for water and elemental exposures to occur that can allow situations like flooding. For the attic of your home, this water damage can spread quickly to the point of getting out of control, and this problem can continue to worsen without the appropriate intervention. 

Among the first steps that must get taken when flood damage is occurring in your attic from a compromised roof is to get competent and qualified contractors on the scene quickly for temporary solutions. Our SERVPRO rapid response team features licensed contractors that can offer emergency board up and tarping services to correct vulnerabilities in your home’s construction to allow mitigation work to get started. 

Once our professionals have arrived at your flood-damaged address, we must get to work quickly on extracting water from the attic space unless this damage has already spread to the floor beneath this area of the property. The SERVPRO team can utilize moisture detection equipment and thermal imagery to locate moisture between floors of your home and into spaces of the attic that are challenging to access. 

Because mitigation work needs to wrap up as quickly as possible, our team works to ensure that we arrive within hours of a call to get this critical extraction and drying efforts started. Once we have managed these effects inside of the house, our licensed contractors on the team can begin their efforts of rebuilding and restoring the damaged roof that allowed the flooding. 

We offer every customer a comprehensive approach to recovery when flooding has occurred, and our qualified and experienced SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort team is available 24/7 to help. You can count on our technicians to make all of the effects of flood damage “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call anytime you need us at (518) 580-1111.

How to Prevent Fires in Your Gansevoort Home

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

In the United States, it is reported that a home fire is put on record every 24 seconds according to the NFPA.

Smoke alarms are a great tool for house fire prevention, but they are not the only way to lessen your risk.

The Numbers Behind House Fires

In the United States, it is reported that a home fire is put on record every 24 seconds according to the NFPA. That works out to nearly 8,600 house fires a day.

Though the vast majority of house fires are cooking-related, malfunctioning appliances, frayed wiring or cords, and carelessness with open flames are also often to blame. Because fires spread rapidly and can quickly consume an entire home, it is essential to be vigilant in prevention for the safety of your household.

House Fire Prevention Tips

Being proactive is the best defense against house fires. By keeping these fire prevention tips in mind, you can minimize your risk and keep your family and home safer:

Maintain smoke detectors. Maintain your smoke detectors by testing them once a month and replacing them every 10 years.

Clean the dryer. After each load of laundry is dried, make a point to clear the  lint from the tray. Lint build up can become a fire hazard when the dryer is warming up.

Keep an eye on open flames. Fires can start and spread faster than you think, which is why it is never wise to leave the room when there is an open flame. Whether it is a candle, cooking flame or fireplace, always keep an eye on them.

Maintain electrical cords. Cords and electrical wires should be checked often for frayed spots and immediately replaced if they are present. Never run electrical cords under rugs or behind furniture, as they can produce heat and catch fire.

Read product labels. Chemicals in household products can be highly flammable, and so can products that come in aerosol cans. Keep these away from sunlight or heat sources.

If your home has suffered damage from a house fire, give us a call. We are certified in fire and soot remediation, and here to help ²⁴⁄₇.

SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort 518-580-1111

How to Handle Moldy Paintings and Artwork

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

Paintings are a staple of home decoration. When mold strikes your home, your paintings may become infested and risk mold damage if left alone. With proper mold cleaning, these cherished assets can be protected and treated.

Why Does Mold Loves Paintings?

Artwork is an ideal location for mold. It is often porous and is comprised of one the materials mold desires as a food source:

• Paper
• Wood
• Fiber textures like canvas
• Vinyl

If you have artwork susceptible to mold, it should be relocated away from water. This means it should be kept away from pipes, bathrooms, kitchens and sinks. If your home is too small or the painting is unable to be relocated, it should be inspected regularly for mold damage to treat the problem early.

Removing Mold Off Paintings

Great precaution is necessary with artwork and mold cleaning. The type of paint used should be evaluated initially. For example, oil paintings are durable but can be damaged by chemicals. Acrylic paintings can be damaged by moisture. Watercolors are extremely delicate and very sensitive to water.

As a typical mold remediation, surfaces like a frame, once removed, can be rubbed with a heavily diluted bleach solution and left to dry.

Light applications of a rubbing alcohol and water mixture can remove most mold from the actual artwork without the dangers of chemical cleaning agents like bleach. You should test this solution on a small location of the painting beforehand for potential damage to the artwork.

Experts Stand a Better Chance

As a warning, every painting is different and should be evaluated by a professional if you do not want to risk unnecessary damage. The expertise of a mold damage cleanup service in Saratoga Springs, NY, can be consulted for the best chance of painting preservation and recovery.

Treatment of the painting doesn’t have to be as expensive as a nice painting itself. Even if the painting isn’t expensive, it could be sentimental. Mold cleaning is capable of saving the painting regardless of why you keep it.

Sorting Through Fire Damage in a Saratoga Home is Overwhelming

12/4/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO’s Fire Restoration Team Serves Saratoga Springs Area Homeowners

Keeping your home in Saratoga in good shape requires vigilance and fixing problems before they escalate. It is even more important when fire damage is involved, as the soot and debris left behind can cause bigger issues if left unattended. When an emergency requires a professional team that understands the impact of fire damage, making the call as quickly as possible is essential.

The call to make in Saratoga Springs for fire damage restoration is to our SERVPRO offices. Available around the clock, we dispatch our staff as soon as possible and begin an assessment of fire damage, along with plans for fire and smoke damage restoration. From the get-go, we coordinate with relevant parties to protect the safety of all involved and avoid cross-contamination throughout the home.

Our SERVPRO clients often worry about replacing furniture, carpets, and personal items at a sizable cost. Our staff helps guide you through the process and focuses on mitigating your loss. Even though some things may be a total loss, we may be able to restore others by applying the latest techniques available to the fire damage restoration industry.  

Homeowners frequently toss items because they smell smoke. Before taking that step, let our staff use deodorizing tools such as-

• Air scrubbers
• Ozone generators
• Charcoal-activated HEPA filters

Along with traditional odor counteractant pellets and deodorizing solutions, the above help neutralize and eliminate the stench left behind by the flames.

SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort is just a phone call away. Reach us at (518) 580-1111 and let our staff work diligently to leave your home “Like it never even happened.”

Storms Can Cause Surprising Amounts of Flood Damage to Homes in Saratoga – Call SERVPRO for Help

11/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Flood Damage Cleanup, Repair and Restoration in Saratoga

When storms bring water into your home in Saratoga, causing damage to your floors and walls, it can seem very overwhelming. The floor is wet, and the water is seeping into the walls and wicking up the drywall. Items sitting on the floor are soaked in water. In addition, if the water is from a backed-up storm sewer or sewage line or floodwaters that washed into the house, it may be contaminated with dangerous viruses, bacteria, biological material, and chemicals.

SERVPRO provides cleanup services for flood damage to homes and businesses in Saratoga. Our team responds in less than four hours from your call. We treat sewage and floodwaters as highly infectious waste materials. We take all of the appropriate precautions for the protection of your family and our employees. The steps required include:

• Wearing personal protective equipment while cleaning and removing waste material
• Set up containment areas to protect the remainder of the building and remove the waste material
• We apply EPA registered disinfectant material to all waste material and all surfaces as they are cleaned
• We dispose of all trash following industry-approved guidelines.

SERVPRO may need to complete control demolition of contaminated flooring materials, make flood cuts in the walls to expose damaged and contaminated drywall, insulation, and vapor barriers. After all of the contaminated material is removed, everything is disinfected and cleaned. We use air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the space damaged by floodwaters. Our building services team can also assist with repairs and restoration of your home after a flood.

Call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort for flood damage cleanup in Saratoga and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (518) 580-1111.

How Do You Spot a Need for Mold Removal in Gansevoort Homes?

11/23/2021 (Permalink)

If mold is left unchecked, it can spread very quickly. Contact our IICRC certified mold damage remediation team for an assessment today.

Our SERVPRO Mold Specialists Can Help with a Thorough Mold Inspection in Gansevoort.  

Mold organisms can develop and begin spreading through an affected area of a residence within 48 hours of moisture exposure. Our experienced team of professionals can help you to identify potential mold growth and microbial threats when signs might not be deliberate and apparent. We have moisture detection tools to find damp pockets that can often facilitate mold colonies.

When is Mold Damage Remediation Needed for Gansevoort Homes? 

Because mold removal for Gansevoort homes can be a complicated procedure when different levels of damage exist, we rely on the mold inspection results to determine where to begin and which areas are the priority for responding remediators. Our mold specialists can work to remove active colonies using multiple strategies and techniques, including:

• Abrasive surface cleaning
• Antimicrobial cleaning products
• Dry ice blasting
• Sanding
• Controlled demolition

As challenging as mold growth can be in a home, our experienced SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort team can help to overcome its effects. Give us a call anytime at (518) 580-1111.

The Importance of Water Categories in Restoration

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Not all water damage is created the same. An overflowing sink is not the same as having a sewage leak! The cost can significantly vary depending on the category of water damage your home or commercial property has sustained.

If your home or business has recently suffered water damage or a water-related disaster, identifying the categories of water loss enables SERVPRO's restoration professionals to formulate a plan of action based on your home's specific needs.

Three Water Categories

Category 1 Water
Category 1 is from a source of water that does not pose a substantial threat to humans and classified as "clean water." This  includes broken water-supply lines, tub or sink overflows, or appliance malfunctions that involve water supply lines.

Category 2 Water
Known as "grey water," the water classified as category 2 contains a significant degree of chemical, biological, or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when consumed or exposed to.  This type carries microorganisms and nutrients of microorganisms from sources such as toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures, seepage due to hydrostatic failure, and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines.

Category 3 Water
Category 3 is known as "black water" and is grossly unsanitary from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water, or standing water. Any "grey water" that's not promptly removed from the structure and or remained stagnant may be re-classified as Category 3 Water. This black water contains unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria, and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness, and can t affect the indoor environment.

Contact SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort for a Water Damage Assessment

The longer water damage sits unresolved, the worse the damage will be. Getting professional help immediately after a water disaster can reduce the cost of water clean-up and drying. The experts at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort are available 24/7 and will respond quickly to any restoration emergency. Call our office at (518) 580-1111.

The Essential Tools of Professional Smoke Cleaning

11/13/2021 (Permalink)

The Essential Tools of Professional Smoke Cleaning

If your home in Saratoga Springs, requires smoke cleaning, it is critical that the job is performed professionally. The smells of smoke are notoriously difficult to remove. They bind with fabrics and other materials and can persist for months. A company that takes shortcuts might use techniques that only mask the odors; inevitably, the unpleasant smoke odor will return, often in as little as a few days. True experts in deodorization use the best practices established by the cleaning and restoration industry. Technicians have specialized training that helps them identify and eliminate offensive smells in your home.

Specialized Equipment for Smoke Cleaning
In addition to effective and safe cleaning agents, a smoke remediation company has access to some powerful tools. The following state-of-the-art devices for combating odors are often used after a fire or in other cases of smoke saturation:

• Air filtration devices
• Ozone machines
• Thermal foggers

An odor control technician understands the science behind persistent smells and can therefore utilize the most effective techniques and equipment. The right actions can remove smoke damage and odors without a trace. An upholstery and fabric cleaning technician specialize in removing smells from carpeting, curtains, furniture and clothing.

A Proven Process for Fire Restoration
After a fire, it is important to act quickly to minimize damage and expenses to your home. A professional team such as SERVPRO will arrive Faster to Any Size Disaster. Workers will begin an inspection and damage assessment and then move on to the most pressing issues. If needed, they will engage in water removal and drying, and then proceed with the removal of soot and smoke from all surfaces. This will be followed by cleaning and repair and then the restoration of damaged areas. Smoke cleaning is a vital step to getting your home back in good condition again. When done correctly, the smoke smells will not return.

Mold in a Nutshell

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

If you have mold in your home, call SERVPRO today!

You’ve probably seen it, and you probably know that it’s not something you want on your food, on your walls or on your floors. We’re talking about mold, and it’s not something you want to deal with in your home. There are several forms of mold and a number of ways it can infiltrate your home or place of business. It’s important to understand what it is, how it develops and what you can do to effectively handle mold cleanup.

A Fungus

Interestingly, mold comes about from tiny spores from the air. These spores will float about and can land just about anywhere in your home. Ordinarily, mold will grow where there is a moisture problem, such as damp basements, showers or refrigerators.

Mildew

You’re no doubt familiar with mildew, as you’ve probably run into this issue in your bathroom. It has the appearance of small black spots and usually shows up on shower tile or shower doors. If you ignore mildew, it will continue to build up, creating an unattractive appearance. Fortunately, it’s easy to get rid of this issue:

• Grab a cleaning brush with strong bristles
• Get a commercial-grade bathroom cleaner and apply to the affected area
• Scrub firmly until the mold comes off

Black Mold

In a list of all the types of mold you may see in your home, this is the type you want least. This form of mold can be problematic, so you should never touch it or even go close to it. If you find this in your home, call a specialist immediately.

Once you understand what mold is and how it can find its way into your home, you’ll have a much easier time getting rid of it. Black mold, especially, is a major concern that you should leave in the hands of a competent professional.

5 Steps of the Mold Mitigation Process

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Mold Mitigation Process

It is not uncommon for a home that has sustained water damage to also develop black mold. If you discover mold in your home in Saratoga Springs, you will likely need the services of mold remediation experts. These certified technicians take care of your mold problem and get your home back to normal, and they use the following five steps to do so.

1. Protection

Before they begin the mold cleanup process, technicians don protective gear to cover their eyes, nose, mouth and skin. This keeps the increased number of spores in the air out of their airways and sensitive membranes.

2. Containment

To take control of the black mold problem, the specialists must make sure it doesn't contaminate other areas of the house. They restrict air flow from the damaged section and seal it off with thick plastic sheets.

3. Demolition

If mold has attacked a wall or other porous surface, the area will have to be replaced, but first, it must be torn out. Clearing out the parts that have mold damage is essential to fixing the problem.

4. Sanitation

The remaining structures must be sanitized before it's safe for family member and pets to reenter the home. Technicians may use anti-microbial chemicals to neutralize any germs that are present. They may also use gamma irradiation to sanitize documents or books.

5. Dehydration

This term is bad news when applied to a person, but when applied to a house, particularly one that has prior mold issues, it can be a godsend. A dry environment is less likely to be hospitable to mold.

A black mold problem in your home is best handled by certified professionals who specialize in mold remediation. They have the knowledge and the tools to work through the steps of the process efficiently. They can quickly assess the situation, answer any questions you have and decrease the chances of mold growth returning.

7 Essential Elements of an Emergency Action Plan

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

A fire drill can help with evacuation preparation.

What To Include In Your Emergency Action Plan

You never know when a disaster, such as a fire, storm, flood or gas leak, could affect your commercial property and everyone in it. Your business in Saratoga Springs, needs an emergency action plan that you practice beforehand. It may seem odd to have a fire drill in the middle of the day, but if a problem occurs, you will be glad you took the time to do so. Your plan should include the following elements.

1. Clearly Mapped Routes

A map of your planned route to safety should be posted in various places throughout the building. You need at least one map for evacuating the building in case of a fire and one map for getting to a safe area in the building in case of a storm.

2. Evacuation Procedures

Everyone in the building should know how an emergency is announced and what to do when that happens. A fire drill can help teach the proper evacuation procedure to employees.

3. Reporting Plan

You need to decide how you are going to report a problem to the proper authorities. Pull stations and panic buttons may be installed to assist with timely reporting.

4. Designated Tasks for Personnel

Each task that must be accomplished needs to have a specific person assigned to it ahead of time. Don't wait until you are in the moment to decide who needs to shut down operations.

5. Clear Chain of Command

No matter how many people you have performing different tasks, someone needs to be in charge. Decide on a chain of command ahead of time.

6. Current Contact List of Building Occupants

Whether you leave the building or retreat to a safe spot within it, you will need a way to confirm that everyone who should be there arrives safely. Keep an up-to-date contact list in your emergency kit.

7. Data Backup

Any emergency has the potential to destroy important documents. While some may be able to be recovered by restoration professionals, it's important to have a backup in case they are ruined.

A fire drill can help with evacuation preparation. Having a clear plan can save lives

Water Mitigation: What Is It?

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water mitigation refers to taking steps to lessen the impact of water damage or flooding in your home.

When you experience flooding or water damage in your home, you may come across the term "water mitigation" when it comes to restoring your home to preloss conditions. But what is water mitigation and what does it entail? Is it the same as water restoration? Here, we will review just what water mitigation is and the process that it entails.

Water Mitigation Definition

Mitigation refers to the process of making something less severe, dangerous, painful, harsh, or damaging. 

Thus, water mitigation refers to taking steps to lessen the impact of water damage or flooding in your home. The goal during mitigation is to prevent further damage, so that more of your property can be salvaged or be unaffected.

Mitigation does not refer to restoring your property to pre-damage conditions - that would be classified as water damage restoration services. But, mitigation and restoration do work hand-in-hand, with mitigation first and restoration following.

Water Mitigation Services

The water damage mitigation process is not one size fits all, as every water damage event is unique. But, the process does have a framework that is adjusted based on your damages:

1. Determining The Cause & Type of Water Damage
2. Water Cleanup
3. Cleaning & Disinfecting
4. Drying & Dehumidification

1.  Cause & Type of Water Damage

Before a water damage company like SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort can perform any emergency services, they must know the cause and category of your water damage. This is so they can make sure to create the proper mitigation plan for your property. The cause of water damage will determine if any repairs are needed before cleanup can begin. The category of water damage will guide how to clean up and what materials can be saved rather than thrown away.

Then, the type or category of water damage would be identified to guide your cleanup. In the case of sewage, it would be considered Category 3: Black Water, which is extremely hazardous when you come into contact with it without the proper protective equipment. The presence of black water changes how the company can remove it, clean up, sanitize, and determine what materials can be salvaged.

2.  Water Cleanup

The next step in the water mitigation process is water removal. In an emergency flooding situation, extracting water as soon as possible will help reduce damages to walls, floors, and ceilings. Rapid water cleanup also helps prevent water from migrating to other areas of the home and causing further damages. The goal of water cleanup is to lessen the impact of flood damage as much as possible.

3.  Cleaning & Disinfecting

During water mitigation, cleaning and disinfecting refers to a wide range of processes. This can include cleaning salvageable contents, cleaning and disinfecting affected areas, and taking steps to prevent mold growth. The scope of this step depends on the cause and category of water damage in your home.

For example, a sewage pipe break would require much more cleaning and disinfection than a water heater leak. The sewage pipe is Category 3 water, while the water heater would be Category 1: Clean Water and not require intense cleaning & disinfection.

4.  Drying & Dehumidification

The last step in water mitigation is completing the drying process. Drying wet, but salvageable materials helps make the restoration process much less costly and severe. Mitigation companies will use commercial grade air movers, dehumidifiers, and drying mats to help cut down on restoration costs in your home. Depending on the extent of your flooding or water damage, some materials may still have to be thrown away, but an experienced water mitigation company will be able to save as much as possible.

What Comes After Water Mitigation?

Clearly, your home will not be brought back to normal conditions after the water mitigation process. After mitigation, water damage restoration is needed to repair and restore your home. 

Water damage restoration companies do the following:

• Replace damaged walls or flooring
• Perform mold remediation as needed
• Conduct moisture testing to ensure all issues are addressed
• Replace any materials that were temporarily taken away, such as wall trims or carpeting

While water mitigation and restoration are separate processes, they can and should be performed by one water damage company. 

This will help ensure that your home is restored in a seamless process. If you find a company that only provides mitigation services, consider searching for one that provides restoration and mold remediation services as well. This will just help ensure that your property is brought back to pre-damage conditions as soon as possible.

What Happens When Your Apartment Building Floods?

9/29/2021 (Permalink)

A water loss in an apartment building can quickly become a literal disaster.

When the fire sprinkler system accidentally goes off or a water heater malfunctions on the 8th floor of an apartment building, the water damage can be extensive and overwhelming. A water loss in an apartment building can quickly become a literal disaster. Here, we will review what to expect if there is flooding in your apartment building. 

What To Expect When Your Apartment Building Floods

1.  Water Damaged Ceilings

When you live in or manage a multi-level building and there is flooding on one of the upper floors, you can expect widespread ceiling water damage. Water will have nowhere to go but down, seeping through carpet, hardwood, penetrating subfloors, and making its way to the apartments below. 

2.  Water Damage to Floors 

Expect to need to replace or dry wet carpets or pull up hardwood floors.

3.  Electrical Issues 

Flood water may have entered your apartment through light fixtures or even poured out of electrical sockets. In cases of major flooding, your apartment building may even have to turn off the power for a certain amount of time until it has been deemed safe to turn it back on. 

4.  Possible Mold Growth 

Flooding in an apartment building is widespread and it can be a while before the moisture on every level is addressed. Mold may begin to grow in as little as 48 hours after water damage, so you should keep an eye out. 

5.  Loud Equipment 

Your apartment management company will likely call their preferred water damage restoration company to handle the cleanup and repairs. This will include stationing commercial grade fans and dehumidifiers throughout the building and even in your apartment. The equipment is usually left for 3-5 days, depending on the extent of damages. 

6.  Demolition 

Since water will freely flow between the floors of the apartment building, the water damage restoration process will surely include opening up ceilings, pulling up carpets, removing trim and moldings, or even removing portions of wet walls. While it may be overwhelming in the moment, these steps will ensure your building is dried out after water damage and will help prevent a widespread mold problem down the line. 

7.  A Flooded Basement 

If your apartment building has a shared basement with laundry or storage - you may not be able to access it for a certain amount of time. When floods happen in apartment buildings, the water will usually collect in the basement. Do not enter it until it has been cleaned up and deemed safe to enter. 

8.  Possible Need to File an Insurance Claim 

The apartment’s management company’s insurance will likely foot the bill for any structural damages and drying out the building, but if any of your personal belongings or contents are affected by flooding, it won’t be covered by their claim. In these cases, you will have to file your own claim with your renters or condo insurance.

Apartment Building Flooded? Call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort For 24/7 Service - 518-508-1111

Help! My Neighbor’s Tree Fell On My House

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

Need Help With Fallen Tree Damage & Cleanup? Call SERVPRO - (518) 508-1111

It’s unfortunate enough when a tree in your yard falls on your house - but when your neighbor’s tree falls on your house, the situation is a lot more complicated. Who is responsible for the damages? Who files an insurance claim? Who pays for tree removal? Here, we will clarify who is responsible when a neighbor’s tree falls on your house. 

Who’s Responsible For A Fallen Tree?

Scenario 1: Your neighbor's tree falls on your house

Whenever a tree falls on a home - it doesn’t matter where it came from to determine who is responsible for filing an insurance claim or covering for the damages. The only thing that does matter is whose house it landed on and why. So, that means if a tree in your neighbor’s yard falls on your home during a bad storm - you’re responsible for filing an insurance claim. The neighbor’s insurance policy will not cover it. 

Scenario 2: A tree from your property falls on your neighbor's house

In this case, your neighbor would be responsible for filing a claim and cleaning up any debris or damages on their property from your tree. In these cases you can feel ‘lucky’ that you didn’t have to file a claim and that no damage was done to your house. 

Scenario 3: Your tree falls on your home

This may not be as confusing as the other scenarios, but it is worth mentioning that you will be responsible for filing an insurance claim and taking care of any damages. 

Scenario 4: A neighbor's tree damages your house, but you think it was because it was old, damaged, or weak.

Since fallen trees are only covered due to “named perils” such as high winds, lightning strikes, vandalism, or a car crashing into the tree - insurance does not want to cover the damage for a tree that falls due to negligence or lack of preventative maintenance. If your neighbor has a tree in their yard that you think may fall on your home, approach them, point out the issue, and document it. This way, if the dying or weak tree falls on your home, you can argue to your insurance company that you took steps to prevent it and that it should be covered. 

Common Questions:

What if the fallen tree doesn't damage my home?

According to Allstate, if a tree falls on your house and causes no damages, insurance will not cover the cost of removing the tree. In these cases, it may not have been worth it to file a claim anyways, depending on your deductible and the size of the tree. 

What does tree removal usually cost without insurance?

The cost of tree removal is between an average of $500-$1,200, making it less than many homeowner's deductibles. Cost usually depends on the size of the tree and the location of where it fell.

What is the average cost of insurance claims from fallen trees?

According to Consumer Reports, the average amount paid by insurance companies for fallen tree claims was $4,110, and was only 7 percent of all settled claims.

What if a neighbor's tree just falls in my yard, and not on my house?

As mentioned earlier, when a tree falls and causes no damages it will not be covered by your insurance policy. You will be responsible for all debris cleanup and removal yourself.

Need Help With Fallen Tree Damage & Cleanup? Call SERVPRO - (518) 508-1111

Fire Preparedness

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

You hope to never experience a fire in your Saratoga Springs, NY, workplace, but the knowledge and preparation can give you peace of mind.

You probably remember being in school and going through periodic drills to get ready for the possibility of a fire. The information and practice are valuable. As a business leader, holding fire drills is a good idea. You hope to never experience a fire in your Saratoga Springs, NY, workplace, but the knowledge and preparation can give you peace of mind.

Map Out The Building

Regardless of the size of your office, you and everyone at work need to be aware of the layout and design. Study the map and determine the most effective and the safest exit routes from every floor and from every portion of the facility during an emergency.

Assign Roles

A fire drill should definitely not be a free-for-all where everyone rushes out of the building without order. There are critical responsibilities that people should play in this scenario. These include the following:

1. Team lead or floor warden, who is responsible for making sure everyone gets out safely
2. Communication specialist, who can teach employees about the drill steps and what to do in an emergency
3. Design specialist, who can come up with the physical or digital representation of the escape route and meeting place.

Talk About It

Before having a drill, it is essential that all employees in the organization understand what will take place and what they will do once it begins. In groups meetings or in a company gathering, discuss the critical components of your drill, including where to meet and the importance of leaving promptly but calmly.

Practice

Have a drill at least once a year. This will benefit newer employees and refresh the memories of more seasoned workers. Afterward, discuss with the group what went well and what improvements are necessary.

Practice makes perfect, but even after doing all of these things, a fire can still happen. If it does, call the experts at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 508-1111.  We will make it, "Like it never even happened."

Identifying The Source Of Water Damage Requires Professionals

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

It can be frustrating how far water can travel from where the actual leak has occurred. Unless the leak is discovered from an appliance or an entryway (window, door) it can be very difficult to trace the water damage back to the source. Even more so, when water damage occurs in multiple-units, like condominiums, townhomes or apartment buildings, finding the source can be almost impossible to the untrained eye. That is why you need the help of a certified professional to find the source of the water damage and to determine the best restoration solution.

When dealing with water damage in multi-unit housing every apartment is typically plumbed separately, yet shares walls, ceilings, and floors with other living spaces. Responding only to the complaint of one tenant may very well leave a ticking time bomb that will eventually spread throughout the building.

Professionals Know How To Follow The Migration Of Water

Water is often characterized as moving along the path of least resistance. Unfortunately, this does not always hold true as a number of other factors weigh in. For example, if water runs along the outside of a pipe, think condensation on a cold water supply pipe parallel to the floor in a warm, damp basement, some water will drip in a line along the expanse of the pipe to the floor. Instead of just one wet spot below the pipe, there will be many damp areas, tracing on the floor over the length of the pipe. If, on the other hand, the cold pipe is perpendicular to the floor, the condensation will tend to run down that pipe, depositing in a circle around the bottom. Other examples can result in even more varied answers. 

Since water follows pathways that are not as straightforward as expected, the Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort master basic moisture detection strategies during the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training. They use detectors with and without prongs to locate the presence of moisture, helping us trace the outline of a water incursion. For added data, we also employ moisture meters to determine levels of water absorbed by permeable materials. The moisture levels become baselines for our Applied Structural Drying (ASD) technicians when we move on to determining drying goals after we remove all standing water.

When water damage strikes your commercial property it is critical to not only clean the mess, but also, fix the root cause. The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort are here to help. Contact our water remediation experts at (518) 508-1111!  We have the resources to make it, "Like it never even happened."

What Causes Paint Bubbles on a Wall or Ceiling?

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

The appearance of one or more paint bubbles can point to a potential water damage issue.

SERVPRO techs can use their advanced equipment to locate and restore your home from the damage done by hidden leaks.

A hidden leak making itself known is a situation no property owner wants to get presented with. However, the appearance of one or more paint bubbles can point to a plumbing issue in particular if the bubble continues to grow in size or other bubbles appear in the vicinity. Moisture is collecting within the paint and causing it to lose adherence to the surface. Before opening the wall or ceiling, SERVPRO techs use their detection equipment to "see" behind the sheetrock and look for other signs of water damage such as:

• Musty odors
• Visible mold growth on walls
• Staining
• Peeling wallpaper
• Deteriorated sheetrock

Should Homeowners Pop a Paint Bubble or Bring in Professional Water Restoration?

When the signs of a leak appear on the walls or ceiling of your home, water restoration is the best course of action. There can be many issues behind a paint bubble, and popping it is not advised. Until SERVPRO techs scope the area and see how widespread the moisture is within the wall cavity, there is no way of knowing if the paint bubble is the worst of the issue or if a more extensive problem lurks behind the scene. In some cases, removing the paint bubble and allowing it to drain, followed up by diagnosing the reason for the water collection and suggestions for repairs and prevention in the future, are standard procedures. 

When a leak remains undetected for a time, it creates an excellent opportunity for mold growth. If evidence of an infestation gets found, the techs need to remove the damaged sheetrock and insulation to open up the wall cavity for complete drying. Afterward, cleaning with antimicrobial cleaning agents and sealants as needed ensures no return of the mold to the treated areas.

SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 508-1111 handles water restoration for local properties. The techs arrive quickly and make the damage, "Like it never even happened."

My Saratoga Business Has Mold – Who Do I Call?

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort for commercial mold removal!

SERVPRO provides mold remediation and mold removal to keep businesses open

Finding mold in a business is never a good thing. Mold spores travel through the air and are carried around on everything from clothes to the wind. They are everywhere, and you cannot get rid of them. Mold can develop anywhere there is moisture and a food source. 

How Does Containment Work with Black Mold Damage Repairs?

Mold is made up of tube-like filaments known as hyphae. As the colony grows, the mold spreads. This allows for the development of more mold spores, which then look for moisture and food. If you see mold, it is time for mold removal. One of the tools we used when dealing with mold removal is containment. Containment makes it difficult for mold spores to get away from the impacted area. Containment helps with other things involving mold removal and the impacted material such as:

• Silica dust
• Particles left from soda blasting
• Dust from mold removal techniques
• Easier cleanup
• Preventing further damage
• Safer mold remediation

SERVPRO uses various containment methods such as polyethylene sheeting, tape for sealing, decontamination areas if needed, and HEPA filters in our vacuums and air scrubbers.

Contact SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 508-1111 for commercial mold removal. We are mold specialists who understand just what your business needs.

After the Storm: Board Ups, Water Damage Restoration and Repairs

9/4/2021 (Permalink)

If your home has been impacted by storm damage, SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort will respond quickly to assist in any repairs.

If you have been hit hard by mother nature, call our office at (518) 508-1111 for immediate service.

If your property has been damaged by severe weather such as a high winds, heavy rain or flooding, it can be devastating to your family or business. To get the complex storm damage repair completed quickly and safely, you need a restoration service company that specializes in bringing your home back to its preloss condition. 

SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort provides specialized emergency cleanup and restoration services to bring your property back to normal with minimal interruption. We can handle any damage due to severe weather, including:

• Thunderstorms
• Flooding
• Lightning strikes
• Hurricanes
• Tornadoes and high winds
• Hail and ice storms
• Freezing weather and ice dams

SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort is available 24/7 to restore your home or business.

Whatever wind or water damage you have experienced, we are fully equipped to help. Contact us for:

• Water, wind and storm damage repair
• Emergency tarping and board up
• Emergency heat and generators during restoration
• Reconstruction services
• Insurance claim assistance

If your property has experienced damage from a storm, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort!

Fire Alarms

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

Your property should be outfitted with multiple alarms so that you are made immediately aware if there is a fire.

When a fire starts in your commercial or residential property time is not on your side. You only have so much time to leave the premises and call for help. Every second counts. If you encounter a fire, you will be thankful to have a fire alarm that gives you a head start. Your property should be outfitted with multiple alarms so that you are made immediately aware of the situation, no matter where the fire begins.

How Many Alarms Do You Need

There is no exact number of alarms to have on hand, as everything depends on the size and layout of your property. In general, it is recommended that you have at least one alarm on each floor. You are also advised to place alarms inside or nearby the following rooms:

Residential

1. Bedrooms
2. Basements
3. Garages
4. Attics

Commercial

1. Inside office rooms
2. In hallways
3. On every floor

It is not possible to have too many alarms, and it is far better to ensure that your property is highly protected in order to avoid the devastating effects of fire. The sooner you know about a fire, the more quickly you can get assistance and avoid severe fire damage. 

What Should I Do After a Fire

Though alarms are an important source of protection, they cannot always keep your property free of fire or smoke damage. If your commercial or residential property is severely damaged after a fire, then a professional fire restoration team can make repairs and even remove smoke smells from your carpet. 

Having smoke and fire alarms is necessary, but the reality is, even after doing all of these things, a fire can still happen. If it does, call the experts at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 508-1111.  We will make it, "Like it never even happened." 

Dishwasher Failure

8/27/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to your dishwasher leaking, you need to take immediate action to prevent the spread of water damage in your home.

Dishwashers are essential to most residential homeowners these days. Most homeowners use them without giving a second thought to the possibility of the appliance leaking and causing water damage to their kitchen floor.

Unfortunately, if your dishwasher leaks it can quickly cause water to pool on your kitchen floor, leak into the subfloor, damage your cabinetry and more. When it comes to this appliance leaking, you need to take immediate action to prevent the spread of water damage in your home. 

When dishwashers flood your kitchen or cause water damage to the floor underneath it, there are certain steps you should take to stop the spread of flooding in your home and to properly clean up.

Be Aware Of Potential Safety Hazards

Whenever there's water you should make sure to check for any electrical hazards. The safest choice is to disconnect the power to your kitchen while cleaning up and call a licensed electrician.

Remove Standing Water

The average dishwasher uses about 6 gallons of water per wash. While this amount of water may not seem like a lot, it can cause serious damage to your home. You want to clean up puddles of water as soon as possible to prevent them from seeping under the kitchen flooring, into the subfloor, or even into the room below.

While cleaning, pull out your dishwasher if possible. You don’t want to overlook water damage underneath the dishwasher or the walls and cabinets around it, as this can worsen over time.

Look For Signs 

Once you’ve removed the water the job is not done. Depending on how long your dishwasher leaked, there may be water damage to the floor underneath the dishwasher, the wall behind it, the surrounding cabinets, and even the ceiling below your kitchen. 

You should inspect your kitchen cabinetry, flooring, walls, and room below for the following signs of water damage: 

• Bubbling or peeling paint
• Soft or squishy walls
• Bending or buckling flooring
• Drooping ceiling
• Water stains
• Mold growth
• Musty odors

If you find any of the above issues, you must take steps to have the additional areas of damage to be addressed. 

Following these steps will help to minimize the damage to your home and may be all that is necessary to clean up the mess. However, if you uncover additional areas of water damage or if you are simply not sure if the drying process is complete call the water remediation experts at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort. We will make it, "Like it never even happened."

You Can Depend on the Clean Team: Faster to Any Size Disaster

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, you can depend on SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort.

There is no disaster that hits home quite like a disaster to your property, home, or business. When you have suffered a fire, water, or mold damage, you don’t have time to waste searching for a company to fix your property. When disaster strikes, you can depend on SERVPRO and their network of over 1,800 franchises in North America and Canada.

Whether the job is big or small, the professionals of SERVPRO will be there to help make it “Like it never even happened,” so you can get back to your home or business and on with your life.

We are the leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after ravaging effects of water and fire disasters. So, whether you're responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000?be ready for the worst, with the very best. Your trusted, local SERVPRO franchise.

If you’re in need of cleanup and restoration services, call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 508-1111.

Keeping your business fresh!

8/21/2021 (Permalink)

When not cleaned, ducts can become contaminated with dust, dirt, and pollen, which can result in mold growth.

What Is Duct Cleaning?

This process refers to the cleaning of various system components of your heating and cooling system. The components that should be regularly cleaned include grilles, supply and return air ducts, heat exchangers, coils, and unit housing.

When not cleaned, these components can become contaminated with dust, dirt, and pollen. In addition, moisture can even result in mold growth, which often has health effects. A thorough cleaning, however, can prevent such contamination and keep your indoor air at a high quality. 

How Can It Help Remove Foul Odors?

When the ducts are thoroughly cleaned with proper equipment, professionals can remove dander, mold, dust, and other contaminants in your air vents. These particles are generally the cause of foul odors. For example, mold often causes a musty smell, while pet fur and dander trapped in the ducts may cause other odors. To truly remove these smells, the process sanitizes and deodorizes all areas that are affected.

Looking to Freshen up? Call the pros at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 508-1111!

Drying Out After The Storm

8/17/2021 (Permalink)

Storms, heavy rains and winds can cause significant damage to your commercial or residential property. It is essential to completely get rid of the standing water residual moisture to prevent any long-lasting and/or secondary damage.

The drying of your Saratoga Springs, NY commercial or residential property after water damage strikes depends on several factors. The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort are trained and certified to make sure they can deliver rapid and efficient drying results. Here are the most critical factors affecting the rate of drying that you should know.

Temperature

The temperature of the air governs the rate of drying. Contents dry at a much faster rate if the temperature of the area to be dried is high as hotter air can carry more moisture. The ideal temperature for the fastest drying is between 70 and 80 degrees. That said, if the temperature of the room is above 85 degrees, the air can become saturated with too much moisture and can create secondary problems.

Volume Of Water

The volume of water dictates the time required for drying. SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort technicians can use extractors to eliminate the standing water and dehumidifiers and air movers to pluck out the airborne residual moisture. Their purpose is to prevent moisture from causing secondary water damage.

Relative Humidity

The relative humidity of the affected area also controls the rate of drying. Higher RH can slow down the drying process significantly. Dehumidifiers are used to extract excess moisture from the air and keep the RH low, speeding up the drying process.

Air movement

Air movement, or lack thereof, can have either a positive or negative impact on the drying process. The air in a water damaged area is usually damp which slows the rate of evaporation. Replacing this damp air with fresh and dry air can speed up the drying process.

Trained Team

Not only are we water remediation experts but we are also a licensed General Contractor. This means that after we finish removing all damage we can put everything back together, truly making it, "Like it never even happened."

When storm damage strikes your commercial or residential property call the experts at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 508-1111!

How To Safely Put Out A Grease Fire

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

A grease fire is one of the most concerning types of fires you could encounter at home.

While it's true that a fire can start anywhere in your home, the kitchen is one of the most common places. There are a lot of hazards in this room, so you need to be cautious when you're cooking on the stove or using the oven. A grease fire is one of the most concerning types of fires you could encounter at home. Extinguishing these fires is not the same as most kinds.

What Causes Grease Fires?

If you're like most people, you probably use your fair share of cooking oil on the stove. Whether it's frying up bacon or sausage for breakfast or grilling up something else delicious on the stove or griddle, you may frequently contend with grease. The common reasons a grease fire may start include:

• Putting too much oil in the pan
• Leaving the room while something is frying or grilling on the stove
• Leaving panhandles away from the stove where other people can bump into them
  
  

Smother It Quickly

If a grease fire starts in the kitchen, don't panic. Your first job is to smother the flames and remove the fire's oxygen source. You can do this by grabbing a metal lid and covering the pan or burner.

Remove The Heat

You need to next kill the heat source. Turn off the stove or unplug the electric griddle.

Try Some Baking Soda

If the fire is still going, dump a liberal amount of baking soda on the flames. This should do enough to smother the flames and control the fire. It may require some fire cleanup, but you can control the damage.

What NOT To Do

Your first reaction to putting out a fire may be to dump water on the source. With grease, this won't work; it will only spread the flames. Never put water on these types of fires.

By following these pointers, you can stay away from these disasters. 

We Are Here For You

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort have specialized training and experience in fire restoration services. Call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 580-1111 if fire damage strikes your property. We will make it "Like it never even happened."

What is Water Intrusion

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

If water starts leaking into your home it can cause a lot of damage in a short period of time!

Water Intrusion

Have you ever had water leak into your home through your roof? If so, you understand the ways a roof leak can cause damage in your home. If you haven’t experienced a roof leak- you’re lucky!

It is important to understand the condition of your roof. Knowing that roof maintenance will be needed and what types of maintenance will be required can be helpful! Roof repairs and replacements can be very costly, it helps to know in advance so that you can prepare.

If water starts leaking into your home it can cause a lot of damage in a short period of time.

Damaged shingles is one of the most common sources of roof leaks. If you have damaged or missing shingles, it is important to replace them as soon as possible. Missing or damaged shingles will allow a lower layer of the roof to be exposed to nature’s elements and can allow water to seep through the uncovered spaces.

Nails that have backed out due to extreme weather should be hammered back in securely. When the nails are raised or fall out, it allows water to seep in.

Flashing that is improperly installed or has been damaged allows water to enter through gaps. Have them inspected to ensure they are properly installed and are well maintained.

Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and overflow onto your roof. This would cause water to possibly intrude into your home through the underside of the roof. If you notice water stains around the perimeters of your home, water may be backing up into your home from your gutters. Also, gutters that are not pitched properly don’t allow the water to flow the correct direction to the downspouts causing the same damage as a clogged gutter.

Skylights often have leaks if they are not installed properly or have seals that are worn and cracked. Water can seep into the home from the skylight causing damage.

Sometimes water damage from a roof leak goes undiscovered for a long time because of the insulation in the attic or crawl space. It takes a lot of water to seep into the home, soaking the insulation before it reaches the ceiling and walls. In some cases, mold forms before water intrusion from the roof is noticed.

If you think your roof needs attention, call a roofer to have them inspect your roof. They can tell you what kind of shape your roof is in, inform you of any repairs that are necessary and give you a quote for the repairs.

Fire & Water Emergencies Don’t Work 9-5. That’s Why We Offer 24/7 Emergency Services.

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

Fire & water emergencies don’t follow a schedule. They can happen any time- day or night. This is why SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. We are dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

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

Here to Help® 24/7 Residential Services

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services

If you have a cleanup and restoration emergency, call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort (518) 508-1111.

5 Ways to Avert a Fire Disaster

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Five Ways To Avert a Major Disaster

Business and commercial property owners can take fire preparation measures to reduce the likelihood of a total loss at a building in Saratoga Springs. Here are five ways in which it may be possible to avert a major disaster.

1. Have a Plan In Place

Planning ahead for what to do in the event of a fire is the most essential disaster preparation measure. A complete fire plan might include protocols for contacting emergency help, performing critical functions, attempting suppression, safe evacuation, and burn first aid.

2. Train Employees or Occupants 

Employees or occupants cannot be expected to execute an emergency plan without previous fire preparation. Business and building owners should schedule training sessions that cover fire safety practices such as proper handling and storage of combustible or flammable materials during daily operations and what to do if a fire breaks out.

3. Regularly Practice Evacuation

Fire drills can help the occupants of a structure know the best routes to take in the event of a fire. It can also be helpful to post maps throughout a structure that indicates the fastest ways out of a building.

4. Maintain Fire Suppression Equipment 

Fire extinguishers and sprinkler systems may limit the extent of fire damage. While sprinklers may cause some water damage, only the sprinklers that detect dangerously elevated temperatures should activate.

5. Back-Up Records Off-Site 

A fire can cause a significant amount of damage without reaching the level of a total disaster. Recovery may be easier if essential records are digitized and stored remotely or paper records are archived in another location.

These fire preparation measures may reduce risks and the severity of a blaze at a commercial building in Saratoga Springs, NY. Planning, training, and proper equipment go a long way toward limiting damage. It is also important to meet fire code requirements and equip a structure with suppression equipment.

When Storm Damage Interrupts Your Life

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage to your Saratoga Springs, NY residential or commercial property can force you to hit the pause button. An intense storm can bring water, wind, and even debris to your front door. Winds in excess of fifty miles an hour can  blow signs, tree branches, and fencing into your property. A mighty gust of wind could throw open doors and allow storm damage inside. Storm damage like this could enable:

• Contaminated water to rush into your property
• Flooring to become damaged or waterlogged
• Mud and debris  
• Risk of mold and structural damage

Class 3 water is a serious issue and should not be ignored. It can contain biohazards, petroleum, gas, and other harsh chemicals. Should it impact the rugs in your home, they cannot be remediated as there is no way to ensure safety. Our team understands the health risks of contaminated groundwater and removes any residual amount as we begin the cleanup and restoration.

Why SERVPRO

Our technicians are specially trained and IICRC-certified. They have access to a fleet of vehicles and a warehouse full of state-of-the-art, professional grade equipment to clean up any size disaster. It is always our goal to make you feel "Like it never even happened."

To clean up and remove storm damage, our technicians can:

• Use wet/dry vacuums to remove excess puddles of water
• Set up flood drying mats to draw moisture from hardwood floors
• Clean your property with industrial-grade disinfectants and detergents

If your commercial or residential property has been struck by storm damage, get professional grade help. Call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort  at  (518) 508-1111. We will make it, "Like it never even happened."

After A Fire Fix Your Roof First

7/25/2021 (Permalink)

Calling a fire damage and restoration expert that is Faster to Any Size Disaster is the first step in ensuring speedy and professional repairs!

The aftermath of even a small or partial-loss fire at your residential or commercial property can have lingering effects. While the first concern may be the fire cleanup, the potential for further issues to occur should also be a top priority if the roof was damaged. As you wait for the roof repair to take place, leaving it exposed means opening the building up to potential problems.

Roof Damage Woes

Fire cleanup doesn’t happen overnight. Calling a fire damage and restoration expert that is Faster to Any Size Disaster is the first step in ensuring speedy and professional repairs. In the interim, whether the hole was caused by the fire, or firefighters had to create an opening for ventilation, it leaves the structure vulnerable to non-fire losses or worries:

1. Cost – The longer the roof is exposed, the higher the potential for further environmental damage that can quickly increase repair costs.
2. Vandalism – While it depends on the extent of the roof destruction, the gap could create an access point for vandals or thieves.
3. Pests – Animals and insects can easily find their way in through the smallest spaces.
4. Safety – If the damage isn’t severe, you may be able to continue operating out of the business structure, but that could mean a potential safety hazard for anyone in the building.

Temporary Covering

Although not a permanent fix, using a tarp is an ideal way to minimize secondary damage or other issues. An expert will properly affix boards and tarps to keep debris and precipitation from entering through the ruined areas. Regardless of the type of roof, they will have the know-how to securely seal off entry points and create an insulation barrier to help minimize costly repairs while determining whether the roof needs to be fixed or replaced.

We Are Here For You

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort have specialized training and experience in fire restoration services. Call us at (518) 508-1111 if fire damage strikes your property. We will make it "Like it never even happened."

What Type of Equipment Will Be Used During the Clean-up and Restoration Process?

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

The water damage to your home may look irreversible, but the job done by our machines and other equipment will surprise you!

Saratoga Springs Homeowners Benefit from the Use of State-of-the-Art Water Damage Restoration Equipment

So, your home has suffered the after-effects of water loss. You have heard that SERVPRO does a good job when it comes to reversing some of the damage that has been done to your home and actual possessions. How do they do it? Well, first, We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, but we also use proven techniques and some powerful equipment, which aids in getting you the best results possible.

The water damage to your home may look irreversible, but the job done by our machines and other equipment will surprise you. Here is a look at some of the items used by our techs to bring life back into your belongings. The equipment below is some that is typically used during the restoration process:

• Air Movers - Air movers speed up the evaporation process of surface water, which makes the actual drying process much faster

• Dehumidifiers - These are used to get the moisture from evaporation out of the air

• Extractors - These portable units are used for shampooing and rinsing, as well as water extraction; you will also see tanks and pumps and vacuum machines

• Ozone Generator - The ozone generator aids in eliminating odors from pets, smoke, and other offensive smells

• Rotary Floor Machines - These are used as buffer machines on a variety of hard floor surfaces, and they are used in the shampooing/carpet cleaning process

When paired with the powerful, safe chemicals our professionals use, you will discover an amazing reversal in damage accomplished by these machines.

The Goal is Restoration

Our professional technicians are trained well and, with the use of all their resources, will turn your water damage needs around, “Like it never even happened.” Call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort  at (518) 580-1111 for your cleanup and restoration needs. We will get you and your home back on track.

Trusted Water Remediation Experts

7/17/2021 (Permalink)

Whether from a flood, a storm, a broken appliance, burst pipe or expired utility, SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort process for water damage mitigation is unparalleled and will ensure your residential or commercial property is taken care of correctly. 

• Inspection: Our certified Disaster Remediation Technicians will inspect affected areas to determine the extent of water damage and will review their findings with the property manager.
• Emergency Services: We have teams on call 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including holidays. We will be onsite within hours of your call to us. 
• Profession Service: Our teams will take every necessary precaution to protect commercial property and its contents from further damage. 
• Monitoring: Our teams will monitor the drying process to ensure your commercial property and its contents are completely dried according to industry standards. They will provide regular updates and will be in consistent communications with you throughout the entire process.

When water damage strikes your residential or commercial property it is critical to not only clean the mess, but also, fix the root cause. The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort are here to help. Contact the water remediation experts of SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 508-1111!  We have the resources to make it, "Like it never even happened."

3 Things Business Owners Should Know After a Partial Loss From a Fire

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

If you have a fire in your commercial building, call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort today!

What To Expect After a Partial Fire Loss

A fire in your office or business can wreak havoc. Fire loss is often one of the first things business owners think about, and many people believe that a partial loss will mean a quick, inexpensive cleanup process. However, this may not be the case, and it can be helpful to know what to expect after a partial loss.

1. An Insurance Claim for Partial Loss Can Be Complex

Although you make an insurance claim after a partial loss, just as you would if fire and smoke damage had affected the entirety of your business, partial losses can make your claim more complex. It can take an extended period of time for an insurance adjuster to determine what items were damaged in the fire and what items weren't affected by the fire. Providing your adjuster with photographs and other forms of documentation of your business before the fire might help to expedite the process.

2. Unseen Damage Is Often Present

With a partial fire loss, people often think that a building has been minimally damaged. Unfortunately, there is often hidden damage associated with partial losses. During a fire, the air quality in a business is often affected by smoke and soot, and though your building's air ducts aren't visible, damage may be present. Additionally, both water and mold damage commonly occur after fires when sprinklers and fire hoses are used to extinguish the flames.

3. Restoration May Still Be Necessary

Though a partial loss from a fire means that some elements of your business are unaffected, restoration may be needed depending on what areas in your business were impacted. If structural elements of your building were damaged in a fire, restoration is often essential. Many business owners find it useful to employ fire restoration experts who can assist in cleanup and restoration.

When considering a fire loss, it's often wise to understand what a partial loss from a fire may involve. By understanding the complications that can come from a partial loss, such as difficulties with an insurance claim, unseen damage and the potential need for restoration, you can better plan for a fire and its effects.

Prioritize safety if severe storms are in the forecast

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

When severe storms are possible in the area, prioritizing your safety is the best thing you can possibly do to prepare.

When severe storms are possible in the area, prioritizing your safety is the best thing you can possibly do to prepare. In addition to receiving property damage, many people get injured or killed in storms every year—but by taking the proper precautions, you can significantly increase the likelihood that you will survive the storm unscathed.

Understanding the weather alert system, being prepared and well-stocked for emergencies at home and staying in touch with weather alerts are all measures you can take to increase your safety during a storm.

The Difference Between Watches and Warnings

When thunderstorms are a possibility, our area weather officials will release watches and warnings as it is appropriate to do so in order to keep the public informed. A severe weather watch is issued if the conditions point to a thunderstorm occurring—meaning one has not started yet, but there is a high possibility. For severe weather warnings, a thunderstorm has already moved into the area—meaning everyone should immediately seek shelter and listen for further information.

Household Emergency Preparedness

When a thunderstorm is possible, officials will generally alert people to stay in their homes and wait out the process, which means you should stock your house with everything you need. Not only should you have an emergency kit stocked with food, water and medical supplies, but you should also prepare for a power outage by having light sources and backup power sources stashed around the house. Additionally, have a plan for where to go in the home should things get serious—generally a hallway or bathtub is advised.

Have a Way to Tune Into Emergency Broadcasts

While many of us depend on our phones to receive updates online, this may not suffice when it comes to severe weather alerts. When batteries die or a storm upsets the cell reception network, it is important to have another way to receive these life-saving alerts, such as a NOAA Weather Radio that is powered without electricity just in case.

If your home has been impacted by storm damage, we are here for you. You can contact SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort 24/7 at (518) 580-1111 to get a quick response to your home’s damages.

The Behavior of Smoke

7/3/2021 (Permalink)

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior of smoke.

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior of smoke. There are two different types of smoke: wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire.

The professionals of SERVPRO® of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, the professionals of SERVPRO® of Worcester will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and its contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows your local SERVPRO® of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort professionals to focus on saving your precious items.

Our professionals know smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following points are additional facts you may not know about smoke.

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Types of Smoke

• Wet Smoke. (Plastic and Rubber) Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, and smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

• Dry Smoke. (Paper and Wood) Fast-burning, high temperatures; heat rises, therefore smoke rises.

• Protein Fire Residue. (Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire) Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

• Fuel Oil Soot. (Furnace puff backs) While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners,

• Other Types. (Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue) Special loss situations require special care.

The professionals of SERVPRO® of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort are trained to handle even the toughest of losses and can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact us to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why Do Basements Flood?

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

If you can figure out why your basement is flooding, you should be able to fix the core issue!

If your basement floods every single time there’s a rain storm in Saratoga Springs, you might ask yourself “Why me?” when you flip on the light and discover puddles of water downstairs.

You might also ask yourself “why do basements flood in the first place, and is there anything I can do to stop it?” We’re here to help you answer those questions as best we can.

First, blame gravity.

Let’s get the obvious out of the way. Basements are the base of your home or business, built at least partially into the ground. They’re at the bottom – of course gravity is going to pull water in their direction. Water has to flow somewhere, and it tends to flow to the lowest point it can find.

So that’s the simple answer: basements are lower than the ground, so if water is going to flow somewhere in your house, that’s where it’ll end up.

But why does your basement flood in particular? Why does this happen to you, and not your boss or your brother-in-law? Let’s examine some common causes of basement flooding.

Common Causes of Basement Flooding

Often, flooding occurs due to a lack of proper drainage. Say your home is not graded correctly, or that your gutters are clogged. Problems like these will cause water to pool and not drain away, eventually finding its way into your basement.

It’s easy enough to clean your gutters. But if there’s an issue with your foundation drainage system, you might be in trouble. If your foundation and basement do not have a proper system in place to move water away, then water is going to seek out any cracks it can possibly find in your basement walls and pool up in your basement.

Of course, drainage isn’t the only cause of basement flooding. Very often, serious floods are caused by the very systems designed to prevent the buildup of water. If your sump pump isn’t working correctly, for instance, or if it isn’t capable of keeping up with heavy rainfall, you’re likely to see flooding.

Backed up sewers can also be a huge problem. If sewers themselves are backed up or start to overflow, sewage can flow back towards your house and back up through a toilet or drain – not a fun cleanup.

Can the causes of basement flooding be fixed?

The good news is yes – if you can figure out why your basement is flooding, you should be able to fix the core issue. It just might not be easy.

If the issue is improper grading, for instance, a landscaper should be able to figure out how to fix it. If you’re more of a DIYer, and the issue isn’t enormous, you may be able to create a proper slope yourself with nothing more than a shovel, some soil and some elbow grease.

Clogged gutters are also easy enough to diagnose and clean. A good rule of thumb is to clean them out twice a year (once in the fall and once in the spring). Obviously, if you think they’re clogged, you may want to clean them out sooner than that.

Broken or underperforming sump pumps can also be replaced and repaired. If you think you have a sump pump issue, call a professional – they should be able to help you to figure things out. It’s also not a bad idea to install backup power for your sump pump so that it can continue to function even if you lose electricity in a storm.

As for sewage backups, all you can really do is install a one-way drain plug. While you can’t prevent local sewers from backing up, installing a plug should at least help to prevent a backup from entering your basement somewhat.

And if the issue is cracks in your foundation, you’ll very likely want to call in a pro, and fast. Cracks only get worse over time and can sometimes be difficult to locate. A professional should be able to help you to solve your problem for good.

So next time your basement floods, don’t ask yourself “Why me?” Ask yourself “What can I do to make sure this never happens again?” You’ll be glad that you did!

Faster To Any Size Disaster!

6/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort is here to help our community and will be by your side every step of the way after a crisis.

Disaster can strike your Saratoga Springs, NY commercial or residential property at any time. It certainly isn’t something that’s convenient or planned. Water, fire, storm, and mold can throw your home or place of business into turmoil, preventing you from getting the work that you need done, done. When it does, immediate action is necessary. 

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort are on call 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including holidays! When you call us you can expect a fast response and quick action. When disaster strikes an immediate response and action will;

1. Minimize the damage
2. Reduce cleaning and remediation costs
3. Reduce the remediation timeline

SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort is here to help our community and will be by your side every step of the way after a crisis damages your Saratoga Springs, NY commercial or residential property. Call (518) 508-1111 for help with any emergency and will make it, "Like it never even happened."

Summer Thunderstorm Preparedness

6/20/2021 (Permalink)

Summer is approaching fast here in Saratoga Springs and although summer brings nice weather, it also brings thunderstorms along with it. Here are some tips to be prepared for thunderstorms!

• Make sure you are aware of your local community’s warning system for severe thunderstorms.
• Pick a safe place for you and your family to meet in case of a severe thunderstorm
• Remove dead and damaged branches from trees and shrubs around your home to prevent them from breaking during a storm
• Postpone any outdoor activities if a thunderstorm is likely to occur
• If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be in danger of lightning. If thunder roars, go indoors!
• Avoid electrical equipment and telephones during the storm
• Be sure to shutter windows and close your doors securely, and stay away from windows!

If your home is damaged by stormy conditions, SERVPRO can help you repair the damage and clean your home!

9 Emergency Water Damage Tips

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

The first 24 hours after a water loss are the most critical for reducing and preventing damage!

As water damage mitigation and restoration professionals, we know firsthand that the first 24 hours after a water loss are the most critical for reducing and preventing damage. The steps you take immediately after a loss will determine whether the damage is minor or major, temporary or permanent.

That’s why, after you call us, we spring into action fast. We get to you ASAP to inspect the scene, provide emergency mitigation services, monitor drying and restore your home or business to preloss condition.

But what should you do when a water loss occurs? How can you spring into action to prevent permanent damage? Here are nine simple tips.

1. Do not enter the area if water is exposed to electricity.

Before you rush in and get to work, make sure it’s safe. If there’s a chance that the water might be exposed to a live wire or an electrical source, do not enter the room.

2. Do not enter the area if the ceiling is sagging, and do not turn on wet ceiling fixtures.

Similarly, don’t rush into the area if the ceiling is sagging – this might indicate more serious structural damage, and there’s no reason to put yourself in harm’s way. You should also avoid turning on any ceiling fixtures if the ceiling’s wet.

3. Shut off the water source, if possible.

If you can safely access the water source, shut it off to prevent further water from coming into your home or business. If you aren’t sure how to access the water source, or you aren’t sure if it’s safe, call a qualified professional for help.

4. If safe, turn off circuit breakers for wet areas.

If you’re able to get to them safely, you should also turn off the circuit breakers for the wet area to prevent the flow of electricity.

5. Mop or blot as much excess water as you can.

In a water loss, every little bit counts! Grab your mop and whatever towels you can find and try to remove as much water as you can until the professionals get there.

6. Place foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.

If possible, you can also remove the furniture from the room altogether.

7. Move art, electronics, documents and valuables to a dry place.

Moving contents to a dry place is the first step to restoring them to their original condition. Start with art, electronics, documents and anything else that’s both especially valuable and susceptible to serious damage.

8. Do not use a household vacuum to suck up water – this could shock or damage the device.

Some people try to use their vacuums as makeshift extractors. We don’t recommend it – you’re likely to damage your device irreversibly.

9. Call us, we’re here to help!

No matter how fast you spring into action, there’s a good chance that you’ll need professional help to truly mitigate and restore serious water damage. Give SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort a call at 518-580-1111 – we’re here to help!

5 Common Causes of Fires (and How to Prevent Them)

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

It's important to remember that fires are preventable so long as you know the risks!

Hundreds of thousands of fires each year destroy homes, cause harm and disrupt people's lives. Most of them are preventable.

Cooking Fires

Cooking is the number one cause of preventable home fires! You should not cook when you're tired, if it's the middle of the night, or if you just got home from a late night. If you do cook under any of these circumstances, you need to be extra careful.

You also should not cook while you're drinking, especially if you've been drinking more than one or two glasses of wine, because your full attention won’t be where it needs to be and can lead to something dangerous. 

Oftentimes in the event of a grease fire, the first instinct is going to be to get some water to put the fire out. Do not do this - this may cause the grease to splatter and can cause the fire to spread. Instead of that, cover the fire with a pan. Starved of oxygen, it will go out on its own. You can also use baking soda on some occasions.

However, if the fire becomes too much to handle or out of control and you start to get worried for your own safety, get out as quickly as possible and call 9-1-1! 

Heating Fires

Of course, in the winter, you need to keep your home warm, especially in Saratoga Springs. But heating elements like fireplaces or space heaters can be major causes of residential and commercial fires.

You should keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from that heating source. You should also turn the heater off when you're leaving the room or if you're going to sleep. While it’s always nice to go to bed toasty, it's not safe to do so!

Electrical Fires

Electrical fires are also all too common, but they can be avoided with a bit of common sense.

You should only plug in one heat-producing appliance at a time. For major appliances like refrigerators, plug those directly into outlets - don't use extension cords or power strips. Finally, use light bulbs with the right number of watts. Those watts are listed on the sticker on the side in most cases

Smoking Fires

Smoking is less common than it used to be, but it's still a major cause of preventable fires. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, over 17,000 home fires per year were caused by smoking.

Store cigarettes and lighters high up or in locked cabinets so children cannot access them.

Put out your cigarette in a deep sturdy ash tray when you're done. Make sure it's away from anything that could burn.

Candle Fires

Candles can be a major cause of home fires, causing over 7,000 fires per year, especially over the holidays. You should ensure that candles are at least one foot away from anything that could possibly burn. Finally, blow your candles out before you leave the room or go to bed. Everybody likes a bit of ambiance, but it's not safe.

It's important to remember that fires are preventable so long as you know the risks. Still, it's important to be prepared for the worst case scenario, so take a look at developing an emergency response plan. And remember if you do have a fire, call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at 518-580-1111.

Why Does Mold Keep Growing In the Same Spot?

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

If you have mold in your business, call the experts at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort!

Why Mold Tends To Return?

A building owner or manager may think a mold problem has been solved only to have new colonies form in the same place. Mold growth can only occur if moisture and nutrients remain present. Any traces of former colonies can also support regrowth. Learn more about why mold tends to return to the same locations.

Favorable Conditions

Mold thrives in locations with moisture, food and favorable conditions. A combination of the following factors can support growth:

• Moisture
• Nutrients
• High humidity
• Warm temperatures
• Little ventilation
• Undisturbed areas

It is not sufficient to eliminate any one of these factors, although a lack of moisture can limit the ability of mold to become established and multiply. A building owner or manager should also get rid of contaminated materials and lower temperatures. Once mold is no longer a problem, owners or managers can try increasing ventilation or treating the area with fungicides or preventative solutions.

Persistent Leaks

If a pipe or portion of a roof is prone to leak, mold growth will be more likely in the affected area. Rely on plumbers or roofers to fix the problem and cleanup and restoration professionals to limit primary and secondary damage due to water. If the problem recurs and conditions remain conducive, mold may resume growing in the same place.

Untreated Damage

Just as recurring water damage may cause mold to return to the same spot, untreated mold damage can also lay a foundation for future growth. When mold penetrates a porous surface, the hyphae may remain even if the surface appears clean. These filaments fulfill functions similar to roots and can support regrowth.

If conditions remain unchanged or damage is allowed to persist, mold growth will be likely to reoccur. A property owner or manager should rely on the expertise of water and mold damage specialists at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort.