Why Is Water Damage Common After A Fire?

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Fire can cause massive damage, especially when the structure of the building is affected.  The flames will ruin furniture, walls, and belongings.  But what many people don’t realize is that that damage is only the first part.

When a fire breaks out in a Norwalk home or business, the first concern is the safety of people and animals inside.  Once that is covered, saving the structure and preventing spread is the next important action. That is where the efforts of firefighters come into play.  In order to stop the fire, they must use a massive amount of water.  It can often take over 2,000 gallons of water to put out a structure fire in a home or business.  This may go even higher when a commercial structure is affected on a large scale.

Using this much water will go a long way in saving the framework of the building, but the damage caused will need to be remediated along with the fire damage.  That is where SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport comes in.  We are well equipped to handle both categories of damage.

It is important to contact a damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any property damage. If you’re in need of restoration for water, fire, or mold damage, call on the premier restoration company in Fairfield County to help. SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had damage to their property.  If you have any type of damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Water Loss In A Senior Living Community

3/24/2022 (Permalink)

For the most part, senior living communities are drama free.  But that was not the case recently, when a sprinkler head burst at a facility due to a malfunction.  Water began to pour out of the sprinklers on the third floor and accumulate.  The pooling water, with nowhere to go, seeped down to the second floor, at which point building maintenance was alerted. The amount of water was too much for the on-site staff to handle so they called SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport to help with the issue.

We arrived quickly with the necessary tools and equipment to efficiently remediate the damage.  First, our technicians extracted as much water as possible from both the second and third floors.  Next, our team set a network of air movers and dehumidifiers to maximize airflow and drying potential.  A day or two later, once the moisture was back to satisfactory levels, we began to address any structural damage that had occurred, like affected wood and drywall, as well as flooring. 

It is important to contact a certified damage remediation professional as soon as you are aware of storm damage. SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport has over 30 years of experience working with people who need damage restoration at their home or business property.  If you have any type of property damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Wastewater Cleanup In Bridgeport

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

One of the most potentially harmful water damages is wastewater damage.  On top of the water causing damage, the harmful bacteria within the water can cause adverse health effects if you come into contact with it.  Often termed “Category 3” water, it can contain E. coli and other bad bacteria that you should avoid at all costs.

This is why it is important to call in the assistance of a professional water damage remediation company.  Both to combat the negative effects of water damage, and to do it in a safe way that eliminates the risk of contamination to you and your family or employees.  Our SERVPRO technicians are trained in proper remediation techniques, and are equipped with the best tools in the industry.  

It is important to contact a certified damage remediation professional as soon as you are aware of wastewater damage. SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport has over 30 years of experience working with people who need damage restoration at their home or business property.  If you have any type of property damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Why Fire Damage And Water Damage Go Hand-In-Hand

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

When you have a fire in your home or business, the first order of business is putting the fire out.  This will limit the extent of the fire damage, whether it be burnt structure material, smoke odors, or discoloration on the walls and ceiling.  

When the fire department is called, this is their job - to extinguish the fire.  And they will do that by any means possible.  Often, this means using hundreds of gallons of water to stop the flames.  Which is why when you suffer any significant fire damage, you will most likely have some water damage to go along with it.

SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport works with homeowners and business owners alike to navigate this situation; one where there are multiple types of property damage at the same time.  We understand the intricacies of remediating dual damages, and are well-versed in this process.

It is important to contact a certified damage remediation professional as soon as you are aware of damage. SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport has over 30 years of experience working with people who need damage restoration at their home or business property.  If you have any type of property damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Prevent Frozen Pipes In 2022

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Although Fairfield County hasn’t experienced extended periods of freezing weather yet this season, colder temperatures are sure to be right around the corner.  With colder temperatures comes the threat of frozen pipes, and in turn, water damage.  Water can cause costly damage that may be overwhelming to deal, especially during the holiday season and beyond.  Use these simple tips to save yourself the hassle.

Have Your Pipes Insulated - Talk to a plumber who may recommend that you insulate some or all of your water pipes to prevent them from freezing.

Control Your Thermostat - If the temperature in your home or office stays above a certain temperature, your pipes will be far less likely to freeze.

Keep A Drip Flowing - Frozen pipes occur when the water inside turns to ice, causing the pipe to expand.  If you keep your faucets and showers dripping, the water will flow, making it far less likely to freeze.

It is important to contact a water damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any water damage. SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had water damage to their property.  If you have any type of water damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Frozen Pipe Season Is Commencing

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

Fairfield County is starting to get colder.  As we cling to the warmer weather, property owners have to keep in mind the potential water damage that can result from freezing temperatures.

Water can exist in three states (liquid, solid, and gas).  The water in our pipes is obviously in the liquid form, but can freeze to the solid form when temperatures fall below a certain temperature.  This change in temperature can affect the contraction and expansion of both the water and the pipe itself.  When the pipe changes too much, it has the potential to burst.  If this happens, water will inevitably pour from wherever the pipe is into all levels of the structure below. 

The faster that remediation begins, the less the damage will be.  As time passes, mold will begin to develop, which also needs to be removed.

It is important to contact a water damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any water damage. SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had water damage to their property.  If you have any type of water damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

How To Choose The Right Water Damage Remediation Company

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

When you experience water damage in your home or business, you want the problem solved.  And solved quickly.  

But where do you turn?

Who do you call? 

How do you know who is good, and who just isn’t?

You need to make sure that the company that you call has three things - experience, knowledge, and care.  This will ensure that the job is done right, and with your best interest in mind.

Experience

SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport has over 35 years of experience remediating water damage in Fairfield County homes.  Our project management team brings decades of background in all types of water remediation, regardless of origin.  Our technicians also have years of experience with hands-on remediation in various conditions.

Knowledge

SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport has accumulated knowledge over decades of working in the remediation industry.  Additionally, we regularly attend continuing education classes and seminars.  This ensures that we are on the cutting edge of new techniques and technologies in our industry.  In turn, we bring that expertise to you and your property.

Care

SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport truly has your best interest at heart. We are residents of Fairfield County just like you, and have suffered these types of water damages in our own homes.  We understand the financial and emotional stress that this can put on you, and we bring that empathy to every job that we do.  We work with your insurance company to minimize the financial impact that you incur as well.

It is important to contact a water damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any water damage. SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had water damage to their property.  If you have any type of water damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Seasonal Water Damage

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

Now that the winter months are coming to an end, many people who spend the cold months down south are returning to Fairfield County.  Some homeowners may be confronted with an unpleasant surprise upon entering their home. If your home has not been checked on for months, you may have suffered water damage from a pipe freezing while you were away.  It is relatively common for this to happen, especially if proper precautions were not taken prior to leaving for an extended period of time.  

The problem may present itself in the basement, under sinks, or wherever water pipes are located.  If you see discolored walls or ceilings, it may be a sign of damage that occurred and has since dried. While this can be overwhelming and distressing, SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport is here to help. We specialize in remediating water damage of any size in residential settings. We can make the restoration process run smoothly, to make your life as easy as possible.   

Rest assured that whatever damage you have suffered, we are more than capable of restoring your property.  We have the skilled technicians and specialized equipment needed for your damage remediation needs.  That’s why SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport should be your first call. Contact us at 203.324.1642 for assistance.

Melting Snow Can Cause Water Damage In Monroe

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

Due to the warm temperatures we are currently experiencing in Fairfield County, the snow we had is now melting, or has just finished melting.  This can cause water damage if your home or business is not adequately protected.  Any amount of water can cause damage, but when water is left, secondary damage can result.  This is especially true with melting snow as it is not as evident as something like flooding when it occurs.

If you have had water damage in the past, you may be at increased for secondary damage like mold, structural issues, and odors.  Make sure to check any area that has had water damage, to ensure that melting snow has not caused additional damage in the same spot.

Time is of the essence when you have any amount of water damage.  When left, secondary damage can result.  Depend on SERVPRO to get it done the right way.  If you have any water damage issues at your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport today.  We can be reached for immediate assistance at 203.324.1642.

What If Water Gets Under Your Carpet?

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

When you suffer water damage at your home or business, it can be a very overwhelming experience.  Everything from ceilings, walls, and floors can become soaked.  One area that can cause extra concern is carpeted rooms.  These areas often represent higher value floor coverings, and you want them salvaged when possible.

That’s where SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport come in. Whether you have wall-to-wall carpeting, or expensive area rugs, we have solutions for both situations.

Wall-To-Wall Carpeting

When your carpeted rooms become saturated, we can get under the carpet with our powerful air movers.  We place our fans at the perimeter of the room, and under the corners of the carpeting. This allows air movement and drying to occur across the entirety of the room.  It also ensures that the subfloor will be dried along with carpeting. Our skilled technicians will cut the carpet at the edge of the room, so that it can be reattached after drying is completed.  If any discoloration has occurred as a result of the water damage, we can clean the carpet onsite as well.

Area Rugs

Area rugs are not cheap, so we do our best to save them when possible.  When we arrive on scene, our skilled technicians determine the best plan of action. If the rug can be dried in your home or business, we will place fans under the carpet so both sides are equally dried.  If the carpet is heavily damaged and needs more serious cleaning, we can bring it back to our facility.  There, it can be dried and cleaned in a thorough manner.

SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport is here to help with any water damage that you may have at your home or business.  We pride ourselves on around-the-clock service and quick on-scene response time.  Give us a call at 203.324.1642 to learn more or get assistance.

How Can You Limit Potential Flood Damage?

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

Prior to serious water-related weather events, you should find a way to restrict potential flood damage. From small steps to larger actions, there are many things you can do to limit the extent of destruction, should you suffer water damage in your home or business. Consider doing any number of the following to insulate yourself from the worst-case scenario: 

Stopping your utilities prior to leaving your home - If you leave your home for an extended period of time, you can shut these off. 

Protecting your house from the ground up - Adding water-proofing to your foundation can limit the amount of water that comes in/

Checking your roof for leaks and weak spots - Prior to the winter, inspect the roof to make sure that water is not getting in.

Cleaning out your gutters - After the fall season, leaves and other deposits can block the flow of water, which can run back toward your house.

These measures allow your home to have the best chance against water events, especially those on a smaller scale.  Major storm and water events are a different story, and are much harder to guard against.  If your home or business suffers from any size water damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport.  We have the expert knowledge and specialized tools to help you get back on your feet.

Act Fast To Save Your Hardwood Floors

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Many houses in Fairfield County have hardwood flooring in some portion of their homes. If water damage occurs, the flooring will almost always be affected. If water is removed quickly, and it does not have the chance to soak the wood or subfloor, the flooring can be saved. If this happens to you, immediately shut off the water source to stem the flow. Additionally, you can mop up as much water as possible before SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport arrives.

The narrow spaces between the floorboards is where most of the potential damage can occur. This is where a majority of the water will be absorbed in the event of water leakage. When the floor absorbs the water, the boards will expand.  This can cause individual boards to crack, or the entirety of the floor can become misshapen. We avoid these issues by removing water before these effects can occur, provided we are alerted to the damage in a timely manner.

The next step is to extract any remaining moisture from the flooring using a drying system.  This consists of mats that are secured to the floor and connected to a suction system that pulls the water out prior to long-term damage occurring.  We also employ the use of industrial strength fans and dehumidifiers.

Your Dishwasher Just Flooded The Kitchen. What Do You Do?

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport Immediately!

There are a number of ways that your home could suffer water damage.  A dishwasher that leaks or malfunctions is one of the worst, due to the sheer amount of water that has the potential of coming out.  While the dishwasher is running, 6 gallons of water are used.  That can end up on your kitchen floor, causing a plethora of water-related damages.  Many homeowners will dry the whole floor with a towel or mop, and believe that the job is done.  Drying up the visible water is only the first step in a successful water damage remediation.  There are more actions that need to be taken to protect you and your home.  You need professional help for that.

We are here to help!

Water takes the path of least resistance. If the dishwasher leaks and spills out onto the floor, the water will spread. If it reaches the walls or a door, it can soak into the drywall and wooden frame.  Once these become wet, mold can begin to grow.  Hiring professionals like the ones at SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport can help minimize these issues.  Our technicians are expertly trained and have access to advanced equipment that allows them to do the job as efficiently as possible. Once on scene, they assess the damage, and get right to work to make sure that you and your home are taken care of.

We know how devastating water damage can be.  That’s why we use the latest methods and advanced tools to get the job done right the first time.

Why You Should Call SERVPRO for Sewage Cleanup

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

Be sure you call SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport for all residential or commercial sewage backups.

DIY Sewage Cleanup Is Not A Good Idea

In the digital age, you can find anything you're looking for online. A quick search will yield hundreds of websites that show how to clean sewage and dirty water from your building.  Every article has the same info and the same few steps. It consists of putting on gloves, removing the solid waste, using bleach on the area, and letting it dry out. You may be tempted to go this route, to save both time and money.  But if you try this, it could lead to you spending more time and money down the road if you don't call a professional company in.  

Time And Money

If you clean up the mess on your own, it may appear that the issue is taken care of.  You can't see or smell anything, so you are satisfied. But the water component of the sewage may have actually soaked into your walls and flooring.  Over time, this can cause warping, discoloration, and foul odors to develop. If this happens, you will need to spend more time and money to fix the problem the right way.

Not to mention the high risk to your personal health if you are dealing with raw sewage.  Coming into contact with the contaminated matter will expose you to harmful bacteria. When it dries, the same harmful particles will become airborne, which can cause health issues.

If you have a sewage leak or backup, call SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport immediately.  We will respond quickly to extract the hazardous water and solids, as well as make sure that no harmful material remains afterwards.

Sewage Backup Hazards In Bridgeport

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

When your sewer system backs up, it is one of the most unpleasant situations that any homeowner can encounter. It not just ruins your day, it can present severe dangers, and property harm.  To navigate the issue correctly, you will need professional help. Read the tips below to learn how to be safe before that help gets there.

Disease

The most hazardous piece of a sewer backup, which is regularly ignored, is the perils it has on your own wellbeing. The sewer water is loaded with microscopic organisms that can cause infections and other negative health issues. Coming into personal contact with the sewer water needs to be avoided at all costs.

Structural Destruction

The second problem that needs to be addressed with sewage is the dampness remaining from the water, causing auxiliary harm after remediation. On the off chance that the walls and floors of the building are not dried appropriately, or actually replaced, mold growth and foul odors can occur.

Fire Risk

Often overlooked is the potential fire risk that a sewer backup presents.  If the water level rises to the height of any outlets, plugs, extension cords, or gas-burning equipment, do not attempt to touch or move anything and get out of the building as soon as possible. If the level is rising and still below any electrical equipment or outlets, turn off the power as soon as possible. 

If you have sewage back up in your Bridgeport home or business, call SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport.  We will safely and expertly remediate the damage to avoid all the immediate and secondary issues.

What To Do If Your Washing Machine Causes Water Damage

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can be caused by many things, but a leading reason comes from washing machines.  This is often caused by cracked, blocked, or otherwise compromised drainage hoses. Hoses wear out much faster than the machines that they are attached to, so even newer washers can cause this type of water damage.

If your washing machine causes water damage, locate the water shutoff associated with the machine.  This will at least prevent further water from flowing out. Once the water has stopped, call SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport for assistance.  We have the skilled technicians and specialized equipment to properly remediate the damage.  

A professional remediation company like SERVPRO can locate and extract water that is unreachable for most homeowners.  Additionally, we will take the necessary steps to ensure that secondary damage will not occur in the future. This includes mold growth, odor, and the breakdown of surrounding walls.  

To prevent this kind of damage occurring in your home, inspect your hose now for cracks, wear, and to make sure it is still secured properly.  Additionally, replace your hose every few years. Because water can freeze in the drainage hose, check during especially cold weather as well.

Sump Pump Tips

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

We’ve had an unseasonably mild winter so far. As a result, many of the precipitation that has occurred has been rain, as opposed to snow. This increases the risk for excess water that has the potential to cause water damage.  Basement flooding can be extremely costly, both from a financial standpoint, as well as sentimentally, as stored items may be damaged.

The first step to avoid this type of water damage is to make sure that you have a sump pump, and that it is is good working order. One step that you can take is to connect your sump pump to generator backup.  This ensures that if you lose power due to weather, the pump will continue to combat water that comes into your home.

Another step that can be taken is to inquire if you are able to add sump pump failure coverage to your homeowner insurance policy.  This type of coverage can protect you in the event that your sump pump fails, or cannot keep up with the rate of water accumulation.

If you have a water damage due to sump pump failure, call SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport.  We offer 24/7 service, and our team of trained professionals can be on scene quickly.

Commercial Document Drying

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

When we respond to a water damage, we’re known as the best in the business for drying out homes and businesses alike.  Most times, this entails the floor, walls, and ceiling.  But when the situation calls for, there are many additional services that SERVPRO of Stamford can offer.

One of these services is document drying.  When we work with places like hospitals, laws offices, accountants, or anyone that has a large number of paper files, we are usually able to salvage some or all of the clients records.  Other items that we work with include books, photographs, x-rays, and blueprints.

This are some waterlogged documents that became wet when a pipe burst in the ceiling of a commercial property.  We were able to salvage most of the affected documents, much to the client’s satisfaction.

Do You Need A Sump Pump?

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

Some areas require homeowners to install sump pumps by law. If you’re not legally required to install a sump pump and if your basement is consistently warm and dry, you probably don’t need a sump pump. But if your basement occasionally floods or even if your basement feels damp, you may have a potential flooding risk.

You can check the moisture in your basement by taping a 2-foot-square piece of plastic on your basement floor away from heat and sunlight, and after a day or two, check the underside of the plastic. If there’s moisture on the underside of the plastic, groundwater is making its way into your basement, and you’ll want to look into installing a sump pump.

Preventing water damage is a whole lot easier than dealing with insurance, let alone losing time, energy, and money repairing the resulting damage. Find a professional who can install a sump pump in your basement and who can maintain the pump once installed. Then, you can rest easy knowing your sump pump will prevent uninsurable water damage.

If your Trumbull home or business suffers water damage as a result of not having a sump pump, or your sump pump malfunctioning, call SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe & Northern Bridgeport.

Dirt From Water Damage

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

If you have a water damage, sometimes it is not as easy as removing the water and drying everything out.  This low-income housing complex had a burst pipe on their second floor.  The water leaked down to the first floor, and carried with it a whole lot of dirt and debris.  The photo demonstrates just how much dirt the water stream actually brought with it. Our crew removed the water, dried everything out, and then washed the floors so that the customer was happy.  If you have water damage, please do not hesitate to call us.

SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe and Northern Bridgeport provides 24-hour emergency service and is 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.

Huge Water Extraction

1/31/2019 (Permalink)

This person called us with over a foot of water in their large finished basement.  We were on scene within minutes with our large water pump to extract the water.  Usually, we only need one hose to pull all the water out of any given structure.  There was so much water here that we had to use two hoses. Luis can be seen here making sure the water is flowing out properly to minimize the amount of time it took to remove all the water.  If you have water in your home or business from a storm, please call us.

SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe and Northern Bridgeport provides 24-hour emergency service and is 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.

Acting Quickly May Save Your Belongings

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

When a basement floods, everything that is sitting on the floor gets wet.  Some things may be okay, but most of your belongings will become damaged, the extent of which only gets worse the longer they stay submerged.  Many times, if the water is pumped out and extracted quickly, some items can be saved, at least to some extent.  We specialize in large-scale water extraction, and can pump thousands of gallons of water in a timely manner.  This is a photo of a recent homeowner’s basement who called us.  With our equipment, we got the water out, and began the drying process.

SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe and Northern Bridgeport provides 24-hour emergency service and is 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.

Small Pipe, Big Problems

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

It is astonishing just how much damage a little water can do. Take a look at the damage in this bedroom. The entire ceiling had to be removed and some of the walls were affected as well. You can see the size of the pipe that caused the damage.  If a pipe this size can produce that much water, imagine if the pipe had been one of the larger ones in the home.

We had to remove the ceiling and portions of the wall to begin the drying process.  Once that is done, we can bring in our fans and dehumidifiers.

SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe and Northern Bridgeport provides 24-hour emergency service and is 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.

Water Damage Response Time

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

When a water issue strikes your home or business, response time is the most important factor when containing the damage.  SERVPRO of Trumbull Monroe Northern Bridgeport is extremely fast, but steps that you can take on your own before our professionals arrive can make a huge difference.

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.

SERVPRO of Trumbull Monroe Northern Bridgeport provides 24-hour emergency service and is 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.

Flood At A Car Dealership

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

Last month, the combination of a burst pipe and excess rainwater caused a local car dealership to flood. 

SERVPRO of Trumbull Monroe Northern Bridgeport was called in to remediate the damage.  What was unique about this instance is that the water affected both carpeted and laminate flooring.  This presented a challenge because we needed to use multiple types of drying and dehumidifying tactics to successfully fix the issue.  We also had to do the job while not disturbing or damaging the automobile inventory.

As you can see in the photo, we were able to completely dry out the affected area.  The carpet in the office areas were left dry and odor free.

SERVPRO of Trumbull Monroe Northern Bridgeport provides 24-hour emergency service and is 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.

What is Ice Damming?

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

An ice dam is an ice build-up on the eaves of sloped roofs of heated buildings that results from melting snow under a snow pack reaching the eave and freezing there. Freezing at the eave impedes the drainage of meltwater, which adds to the ice dam and causes backup of the meltwater in a manner, which may cause water leakage into the roof and consequent damage to the building and its contents if the water leaks through the roof.

Ice dams are a common sight in the Northeast. We've handled several claims this past month stemming from ice damming. What we've found is the flatter the pitch of the roof, the easier it is for an ice dam to get a grip. Gutters at the eaves can also trap snow and ice. If snow and ice build up high enough in the gutter, it can provide a foundation for an ice dam.

Stay tuned for our next blog, where we’ll tell you how to prevent these dangerous ice dams.

Ice Dam Prevention

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

PREVENTING ICE DAMS

You can scrape snow from the roof whenever it falls, using a snow rake from below or a broom or plastic shovel from above. BE CAREFUL: The first method can bury you in snow, while the second can send you slipping off the roof. Hire someone who knows how to use a safety line.

You can replace your shingle roof with standing seam or other metal roof. Or you can replace the bottom three feet or so of your shingle roof with a wide metal drip edge. Whatever you do, install a water-repellent membrane under any new roofing.

NOTE: If your roof is not very steep, an ice dam can still form on metal roofing and drip edges.

DEALING WITH EXISTING ICE DAMS

1. Remove the ice dam by breaking it free in small chucks. Do NOT use an ax or other sharp tool! You’ll cut through the shingles. Instead, tap lightly with a blunt mallet. This is slow, dangerous work, so hire someone experienced at roofing. Even if you do it safely, the chunks of ice can take pieces of shingle with them.

2. Clear out gutters and downspouts. Again, this is ladder work and an easy way to damage either plastic or metal gutters and spouts.

3. Melt troughs through the ice dam with calcium chloride ice melter. Do NOT use rock salt! It will damage paint, metals, and plants beneath the eave and wherever the salty water drains.

A good trough-maker is a tube of cloth (a leg from an old pair of panty hose works well). Fill it with calcium chloride, tie off the top, and lay it vertically across the ice dam. It will slowly melt its way down through the dam, clearing a path for the underlying water to flow free.

WHAT DAMAGE DO ICE DAMS CAUSE?

When an ice dam gets big enough, melted water backs up behind it and seeps underneath the shingles. Eventually, it will drip into the insulation and down into the ceilings and exterior walls beneath the eave, ruining sheetrock and paint. If the ice dam breaks free, it can pull shingles and gutters off with it, and it will damage anything it falls on: shrubs, windowsills, cars, pets, and people. If the roof sheathing stays wet, it can form mildew and start to rot.

That's where we come into play. We can't prevent the ice damming from happening, but we can help you take care of the damages that it can cause. 

Frozen Pipe Water Damage In Trumbull Monroe Northern Bridgeport

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

Temperatures have fluctuated between cold and bone-chillingly cold.  When it gets very cold, homes and businesses are at higher risk of pipes freezing and ultimately bursting.

Here are a few tips to remember:

• Check around your home or business for areas where water supply lines are in unheated areas. Wrap exposed pipes with foam, insulated materials or pipe heating cables. Watch these locations on a daily basis when temperatures is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

• If you are going out of town, and you suspect that temperatures will drop, turn off the water to your home and open all the taps to drain the water system. Set your temperature no lower than 55° F.

• Unhook the water hoses from the exterior of the home and bring them inside, to maintain their life.

• Drip your faucets, to reduce the build-up of pressure in the pipes during an arctic blast weather advisory.

• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.

• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much costlier repair job if pipes freeze and burst

• Open cabinet doors when temperatures are below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The warm air can circulate around the pipes and prevent the water from freezing.

Popular Locations of Frozen Pipes:

• Outside wall

• Under a sink

• Unheated crawlspace or basement

• Outside water spigot

• Swimming pool supply lines

• Water sprinkler lines

• Attics

• Garages

Tips on Thawing Frozen Pipes:

• If a pipe bursts before it is thawed, immediately shut off the water at the water main to prevent further damage!

• Frozen but not ruptured? If you turn on the faucet and the water doesn’t come out or comes out in a trickle, your pipes are probably frozen. You need to act quickly to thaw the frozen pipe before it bursts.

• Identify the frozen water supply pipe.

• Open a faucet supplied by the frozen line, even if you have not found the frozen spot.

• To find the blockage, follow the pipe back from the faucet to where it runs through cold areas such as an exterior wall, unheated crawl space or in some cases an unheated basement if the pipe is near an outside wall.

• Often the frozen area of the pipe will be frosted or have ice on it. If the situation is getting critical the pipe may be slightly bulged or look slightly fissured.

Frozen Pipe Behind a Wall:

• Leave the main water valve near your water meter open when thawing the pipe.

• If the frozen pipe is behind a wall or ceiling, you’ve got a challenge on your hands. You have three choices:

• Turn up the heat in the house and wait.

• Use an infrared lamp or lamps to heat the wall where you think the frozen area is located. Infrared lamps are better than regular heat lamps because the heat passes through the air without heating it, directing more energy to warming the wall and frozen pipe.

• Tear out part of the wall or ceiling to get at the frozen section of pipe. Then thaw the pipe as an exposed pipe.

If Your Pipes Burst…

• Turn off the water supply. Locate your water shut off valve and turn off the main water shut-off valve. You should find this in the basement or where the service pipe enters your home. Drain the system by turning on all your cold-water valves.

What You Can Do to Manage the Damage (until we get there):

• Water Buckets. If you notice the leak quickly you can catch dripping water in buckets.

• Make a hole in the ceiling to let water out.

• Turn off electronics/appliances

• Open Drawers, closets and cabinet doors to in enhance drying.

Water Damage Restoration in Trumbull Monroe Northern Bridgeport

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

This elementary school in Trumbull Monroe Northern Bridgeport, CT had a pipe burst on an upper floor.  Water poured onto the floor and eventually started to flow onto the floors below, causing multiple layers of water damage in the process.  SERVPRO of Trumbull Monroe Northern Bridgeport responded quickly and effectively.  As you can see in the photo, the floor was restored to its previous state, and school was resumed in a timely fashion.

There's never a convenient time for fire, water, or any other damage to strike your Stamford commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. 

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation

2-story water damage in Stamford

7/21/2017 (Permalink)

Bubbling paint from pooled water.

A pipe break caused this house to flood on he second floor. The water flowed down the walls into the first floor, damaging the walls and carpeted floor in the process.  This before picture shows the first floor ceiling with gallons of water bubbling the paint.

SERVPRO of Trumbull, Monroe and Northern Bridgeport was called in to clean up the aftermath. We pulled up the damaged carpet to reveal a gorgeous hardwood floor.  We cleaned the wood floor and delighted the homeowner.  The owner was thrilled-she said "This floor never looked this good in the 10 years I've owned this house".

Whether your Fairfield County home has emergency flood damage or you need your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  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

• Building/Reconstruction Services

Highly Trained Restoration Specialists

Our SERVPRO Professionals are highly trained in property restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, our Professionals are equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. The SERVPRO training program includes the follow:

• IICRC Training

• Employee Certification Training

• Initial Franchise Training

• e-Learnings

• Continuing Education Classes

Saving Personal Items from Water Damage

3/9/2017 (Permalink)

One of the most common topics after a client suffers water damage, is how and what they can save from water damage.  Unfortunately, there is no clear cut answer to this question. Every water damage is unique in some sense, so what can be saved is really on a case by case basis. However, here are some guidelines that you can use to make the best decision possible.

What Type of Water Damage

Determining whether the water that damaged your personal belongings is clean or contaminated will be a big factor in whether or not it can be salvaged. Obviously, if you are dealing with clean water, the chances of you being able to save some of your belongings is higher.  Even though it may be possible to restore something that is damaged by contaminated water, it is more than likely not worth the health risk that it may bring.

Porous vs Non Porous Materials

Porous materials such as fabrics, wood, and paper are very good at retaining water. This also means it increases the chance of other dangers like mold growth, and damage beyond repair. This is not always the case and if handled quickly and properly, many times these items can be saved as well. On the other hand, porous materials like marble, metal, and porcelain - among others - usually have no problem being restored. Since there is really nothing for bacteria and mold to root itself in, a simple cleaning is usually no problem.

The Amount of Time the Water Saturated

Another factor that will come into the equation of determining what can and cannot be saved is how long the materials have been wet for. The longer an item sits in water, the deeper it can penetrate. As you can imagine, this makes it increasingly more difficult to bring it back to its normal state. The perfect example of this is wooden furniture. It takes quite a bit of time for it to really absorb and become completely water logged. If you get personal belongings out of the standing water and begin the drying process right away, you have a good chance of being able to save them.

Factor in the Replacement Cost

Water damage restoration of personal belongings is no different than any other type of repair. You will always want to evaluate how much it is going to cost to repair something versus simply replacing it. Is the item you want to save really worth paying a professional to do work on it? Sometimes it is, sometimes it is not.

You should also take into account that paying for restoration does not guarantee your item will be returned to its original state. If that’s the case, you’ll have to replace the item anyways.

If you are unsure about whether or not one of your items could be salvaged, it is best that you get it analyzed by a professional. If you hire a water damage restoration company to handle a dry out of your property, they will be able to assist you in assessing damage to your personal belongings as well. To speak to a professional water restoration representative at SERVPRO, contact them today.  They are always there to help.

Do You Need Help With Water, Mold, or Fire Restoration? Call SERVPRO of Trumbull Monroe Northern Bridgeport today!

Water Cleanup Tricks

3/9/2017 (Permalink)

A broken pipe is by far one of the greatest nightmares homeowners face. Even just a small broken kitchen pipe can quickly cause a considerable quantity of damage to your home. It is for this reason that you need to take care of water damage immediately.

Dealing with water damage requires seeking the help of a trained professional water restoration expert, such as the experts of SERVPRO. Before they get there, there are a few things you can do to assist in keeping the damages to a minimum. Here are a few tips:

Turn Off the Water

You might be tempted to seek out the source of the leak as your first step. This can be problematic, however, depending on the type of leak or damage. If, for instance is simply an overflowed sink, then you would just turn off the sink. However, what if a pipe that you can’t see has burst?

It’s because of reasons like these that you need to turn off the water supply as soon as possible. It is also recommended that you temporarily turn off electrical power as well. The last thing you want is for the water to mix with electrical wires!

Accelerate the Drying Process

The next step entails doing everything in your power to get your home to dry. Start by opening windows and turning on fans. This will get air flowing through your home, which will help to start drying it and also reduce the buildup of disgusting odors.

If you have a dehumidifier, turn it on immediately. It will extract moisture from the air, thus helping accelerate the drying process. Run it for as long as possible. If you stop early, it could lead to the growing of mold and mildew.

If you don’t have a dehumidifier, then don’t worry, because the water restoration experts will bring one with them. As we said earlier, however, just make sure you contact them right away. They need to get to your home as soon as possible!

Make sure you also remove rugs and other portable carpeting and place them outside to dry. Try to wipe down furniture and personal items (books, chairs, toys) as much as possible. 

Pull Out a Wet/Dry Vacuum

Another step that we recommend taking is pulling out a wet/dry vacuum cleaner. We understand that you might not have one. If you do, use it to remove as much water as possible from carpets, upholstered furniture and/or tile and wood floors.

This process can take quite a while, but it’s important to remove as much water as possible. Also, make sure you focus more on wood surfaces than carpeted areas. Due to wood’s porous nature, it’s apt to soak up all the water, which in turn will cause it to become warped and delaminated.

Again, if you don’t have a wet/dry vacuum, don’t worry. The restoration professionals will take care of this for you. Just make sure you contact them immediately!

Things Not To Do

There are some things you should definitely NOT do after your home suffers from water damage:

Never leave web fabrics and clothing items in place. Try to hang them.

Also avoid leaving books, magazines and other such items on wet floors.

Please refrain from trying to use a regular vacuum cleaner to clean up water.

Avoid using electrical equipment and appliances a like television.

Stay out of rooms that have a wet ceiling.

These might seem obvious, but it’s good to know. Be especially careful with wet ceilings. They could be much weaker than you think, and the last thing we want is for a roof to collapse on you!

Final Steps

The real work won’t start until the restoration company gets there. Professionals, such as SERVPRO, possess the equipment needed to do real water extraction and repair. Part of this process will involve installing certain equipment, be it professional-grade dehumidifiers and whatnot.

When this occurs, make sure you follow the directions given to you. Usually, the professionals will ask you to keep their equipment running for a while. Make sure you stick to their schedule and do not arbitrarily turn off their equipment. This could negatively affect the drying process and make things worse.

The last thing the professionals will do is give you preventative maintenance tips. It is recommended that you follow through on these steps to insure that your home and belongings return to their former state. It can make the difference between whether or not your home ever suffers unneeded water damage again!

For all of your water, fire and mold restoration needs, give the professionals at SERVPRO a call today!

Happy Customer

3/9/2017 (Permalink)

A water main break caused this basement in Bridgeport to flood. This before picture shows the mess left behind after all water had receded.

SERVPRO of Trumbull Monroe Northern Bridgeport was called in to clean up the aftermath! The owner was thrilled she said "This basement never looked this good in the 24 years I've owned this property".