Preparing Your Home for Severe Weather

11/26/2024 (Permalink)

Severe weather, such as thunderstorms, hurricanes, and blizzards, can strike anytime, often without much warning. While we can't control nature, we can take proactive steps to protect our homes and loved ones from the devastating effects of extreme weather. Proper preparation helps minimize damage and ensures your safety during a storm. We'll explore practical tips to help you prepare your home for severe weather. 

Create an Emergency Kit 

A well-stocked emergency kit is one of the first and most crucial steps in preparing for severe weather. Your kit should include: 

• Non-perishable food and water (at least 3-5 days' worth)
• First aid supplies (bandages, antiseptics, medications)
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Portable phone charger
• Weather radio to stay informed
• Essential documents (ID, insurance policies) in a waterproof bag
• Warm clothing, blankets, and towels
• Sanitation items (wet wipes, toilet paper, garbage bags)

Store your kit in an easily accessible place to quickly grab it in an emergency. 

Clean Your Yard and Trim Trees

Strong winds during severe weather can turn everyday yard debris into dangerous flying objects, posing a risk to your home and safety. Overgrown trees, particularly with dead branches, can become hazardous if not properly maintained. Regularly trim tree branches too close to your home and power lines to mitigate these risks. Additionally, take some time to clear your yard of loose objects, such as lawn furniture, gardening tools, and children's toys, which can quickly become airborne and cause damage to your home or neighboring properties. 

Install a Backup Power Source

Power outages are a consequence of severe weather, and they can last for extended periods, leaving you without lighting, heating, cooling, and refrigeration. Consider installing a backup generator to minimize the disruption caused by power loss. A generator will ensure you can maintain essential systems in your home, even when the power goes out. It's crucial to have the generator installed by a professional to ensure it's in good working order before a storm hits. Always follow safety protocols when using a generator, particularly when preventing carbon monoxide poisoning, which can occur if used in an enclosed space.  

Prepare Your Plumbing for Cold Temperatures

Winter storms can cause pipes to burst in areas prone to freezing temperatures. Prevent water damage by: 

• Insulating exposed pipes in attics, basements, and crawl spaces. 
• Draining outdoor houses and shutting off water to exterior faucets to prevent them from freezing. 
• Letting faucets drip during freezing weather to keep water flowing and prevent pipes from freezing. 

Review and practice this plan with everyone in your household so that everyone knows what to do when severe weather strikes. 

Stay Informed with Weather Alerts 

Lastly, staying informed about severe weather is the best way to be prepared. Sign up for weather alerts from local authorities or download apps that provide real-time information on weather conditions in your area. A weather radio is also essential, especially during power outages, as it can provide constant updates on weather conditions and emergency instructions. Pay attention to local advisories, including evacuation orders, shelter-in-place recommendations, and other alerts that may be issued. 

Choose SERVPRO of Parsippany/Montville for Storm Damage Restoration

Storm damage can still occur even if you implement all the above tips. SERVPRO Team Luzzi provides 24/7 emergency damage restoration for water, fire, and storm damage. Even if you do everything right, it can still happen. Call us today to get started and learn more about our damage restoration services. 

Top Tips for Recovering After a Storm | SERVPRO of Parsippany, Montville

7/27/2023 (Permalink)

Has hurricane season affected your home or business? Call SERVPRO of Parsippany, Montville to get you back to preloss condition.

The storm season is here to stay for a while in the Parsippany area, and we are certainly seeing our fair share of storms and rain at this point in the year. While some rain storms can be quiet and actually relaxing, other storms can arrive in a blaze of glory and cause significant damage to your home in a short amount of time. 

Recovering after a storm can be tricky depending on the extent of your damage. Follow our tips below to help you navigate this unknown safely and calmly. 

Steps After the Storm

Be cautious about venturing outside as soon as you start to hear the storm fade away. There might be another one on the horizon! 

Stay connected to local authorities and keep your weather radio handy so you are ready to jump back inside at a moment’s notice. Once you and your family have made it outside, connect with your loved ones to make sure everyone fared OK.

Check on your neighbors and help anyone in the area if their homes suffered significant damage. If your home was victim to a strong wind, tornado or flood, stay calm and walk carefully about your property. 

Loose boards, broken windows and exposed wiring can all be safety hazards right after a storm. Take photos of all the damage you see. This helps us create our recovery plan for you, but it also helps your insurance company file a more accurate claim. 

How We Fit In
The recovery process can seem overwhelming at times, which is why SERVPRO of Parsippany, Montville is "Here to Help." We are available 24/7 to respond to your call, and we will jump into action immediately following our first conversation. 

We are locally owned and operated, which means we are watching the same forecast and weathering the same storms you are. This allows us to truly be faster to your doorstep.

Our team will arrive and start securing your home with tarps and boards to protect the rest of your belongings from further damage. From there, we will start drying out your space and start on the reconstructions immediately. Storms can sometimes cause so much destruction that entire levels or sections of your home need to be rebuilt. We can handle that, too!

Whatever you need to help you overcome your storm damage, SERVPRO of Parsippany, Montville is here to help.

Less Tropical Storm Activity in July is Common, More Storms Could be on the Way

7/27/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's storm team is prepared for the next major storm event.

2022 has been one the hottest summers ever recorded, but there has not been any hurricane activity at the Atlantic Ocean. Although this hurricane season was predicted to be active by scientists, there has been very little activity in the Atlantic Ocean over the last few weeks. This is normal for July. However, it does not necessarily mean we are finished.

When a hurricane warning or tropical storm is in effect it is important to listen to the local meteorologist. SERVPRO is ready to assist you during and after major storms. In the northeast, we have been able to manage properties through every major storm that has hit our region over the last 20 years. As such, we provide window/glass door board up services, sandbag and flood preparation services as well as water removal and pumping-out services. We also offer drying services, demolition, cleanup, and construction. This means that we can provide all storm restoration services.

We are prepared for any major storm and will assist commercial and residential property owners should it occur.

We can help you if your commercial property is in flood-prone areas. We will assess your property before damage happens and prioritize response if flooding does occur.

Storm Mitigation and Damage Repair New Jersey

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Parsippany/Montville is available when your property is damaged by a storm, call us 24/7.

If your property is damaged by a storm you need to hire a company that has experience in restoring this type of damaged property and protecting it from further damage. Although it may seem obvious, hiring a professional to handle this type of work will help you avoid costly mistakes that can only worsen the problem.

Window Boarding up and Tarping Services

Owners may be able to plan ahead for storm arrivals by using weather forecasts. These situations are when we can provide services such as window boards up, sandbag placing and other protective services to help prevent further damage. To prevent further damage from the outside elements after a storm, we also offer services these services. This can reduce damage and the time taken to repair or restore a property damaged by a storm.

Once the property is secured, we will begin the restoration of the building. First, we will clean up all debris and dry the property as needed. We will also bring any equipment required, including generators, dehumidifiers, and other devices. To keep the project moving forward, we will provide labor as needed. In some cases, this may be in multiple shifts.

Storm Damage Repair You Can Count On 24/7

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Storm Response is Second to None. Call us when weather damages your property.

Weather forecasts that call for heavy rains and wind can cause flooding. We seek shelter to keep ourselves dry and safe. Shelters such as our homes, offices buildings, schools and retail locations, are designed to withstand weather conditions and keep the elements out of the property's interior. This is vital for several reasons. First, it provides immediate relief from the weather. We are generally safer indoors than we are outdoors. And, because indoor spaces are well-designed, we can enjoy them all year long with minimal upkeep. We must be prepared for repairs when our indoor spaces fail to provide the same level of safety that we are accustomed to.

Storm damage can cause significant damage to your commercial or residential property. SERVPRO can help in many cases reduce costs for both types of damage. Our team can provide both construction and restoration services. This will reduce the labor and material needed to complete the job. By doing this, you can save money and avoid wasting good materials.

We have seen it all, and can help. To speak with a project manager, call us today. We will explain all the available services and how we can assist you.

The Challenges of Flood Removal from Finished Montville Basements

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Basements easily flood. Should your basement incur storm and flood damage, call SERVPRO!

Montville Basement Flooding can be Difficult to Restore Without Immediate Action

Many homes in the area feature finished basements. Several of these properties have experienced flooding, which can often target this lower level of the house. There are specific challenges when contending with standing water and natural flooding in your living space. Our fast response can ensure that mitigation gets started as soon as possible.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Choosing our team to help with flood damage in Montville homes can ensure that we start emergency services when they can be the most helpful. We have pre-stocked trailers and production vehicles loaded with valuable tools and equipment to overcome flood damage as we find it in area homes. We arrive with:

• Water extraction tools
• Air filtration equipment
• Disinfection products
• Pack-out professionals

A Safe Space for Contents and Furniture

One of the priorities of our responding technicians is moving contents and furniture from this flood damaged finished basement to a safer space that is dry and climate controlled. While it is ideal to find a location on site for this storage, we also provide offsite cleaning and restoration services to store these belongings until restoration completes.

Professionals to Handle Repairs 

In addition to cleaning and recovery services after a flood, repairs are often necessary as well. With a general contractor license, we can supply a wealth of build-back services and repairs that your property might need after this disaster.

Flooding is among the most destructive disasters that your home can experience, and when this impacts living space like your finished basement, you need a team that can respond quickly. Our SERVPRO of East Central Morris County team is ready to help 24/7 at (973) 887-9100.

Homeowners Can Get Flood Damage Restoration Services in Morris Plains

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

It's challenging to get your property back to its original state on your own. Call the professionals at SERVPRO!

They Can Call SERVPRO to Provide Flood Damage Repair Services in Morris Plains

Storm flood damage is one of the things that can make you feel helpless. If a flood has affected your home, it is vital to take quick action to repair the affected structures and ensure your home is safe again. Floodwater is category three water and often contains many contaminants. Therefore, it is essential that a professional team such as SERVPRO handles the cleanup. 

When you call us to perform flood damage repair in your Morris Plains residence, we can act quickly to reduce the potentially lasting effects of the floodwater. Our flood restoration process involves removing the water, drying the property, decontaminating it, and making it safe for repairs. Some of the steps our SERVPRO technicians can take to restore your property fully include:

• Safely remove and dispose of any contents and furnishing ruined beyond repair.
• Clean and decontaminate your home to remove potential chemical, environmental and biological contaminants the floodwater has left.
• Check your home for structural destruction that can cause potential hazards.
• Dry and dehumidify the building to eliminate any residual water.

It can be challenging to get your property back to its original state, but with the assistance of our professional team, we can restore your property within a short time. We concentrate on fast drying of the structure and apply professional products to control microbial growth. Applying anti-microbial effects can help control microbes when used along with fast drying. They also make the job-site safer for our team to complete its work. We control microbes using EPA-registered broad-spectrum disinfectants. SERVPRO applies microbes to all contaminated surfaces and materials. The products are more effective when they come into contact with microbes. 

When restoring a home after flood damage, we also look out for potential long-term problems such as structural destruction. This kind of damage can undermine the structural integrity and foundations of a property. Our SERVPRO team has expertise in providing a full range of restoration services that can bring your home back to full functionality. 

When you need flood damage repair services, call SERVPRO of East Central Morris County at (973) 887-9100. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How Essential Is Boarding Up In Montville Properties After Flood Damage?

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding can quickly destroy the contents and structure of your home. Act fast and call SERVPRO to help with water removal and remediation services.

SERVPRO Provides Quality Board Ups to Minimize Water Damage Repairs from Secondary Issues

After your home floods during a storm, it may not be possible to clean it, rebuild damaged areas and restore contents within a day or two. Since secondary issues can crop up after the initial flood damage, you need to find ways to prevent that. 

Boarding up can help in many ways in the aftermath of flood damage in your Montville home. It helps close any openings like shattered windows or wall openings caused by the storm keeping out small animals, vandals and protecting the interior from weather elements. SERVPRO technicians ensure the board-up is done with sturdy materials, thus satisfying the intended purpose.

Securing the structure is as crucial as other restoration processes, including:

• Water damage repairs
• Sewage cleanup
• Water clean up

The board-up process takes various resources apart from the technical skills of placing plywood over the openings. The goal should be to create a sturdy cover without introducing additional damages to the structure.

A secure board up requires several materials and tools like:

• Exterior-grade plywood 
• Roll insulation
• Furring strips
• Assorted hand tools

Our SERVPRO technicians use diverse methods to attach the materials depending on the location or extent of the damage. The cover-over approach attaches plywood directly to surfaces surrounding the opening. The insert method places the plywood inside the opening. The final method known as bolt-with-tension secures the plywood with two-by-four wood planks allowing the plywood to overlap the exterior. In contrast, the planks overlap the interior with bolts passing through the opening to secure the installation. The insert and bolt-with-tension methods offer more security and are less likely to cause additional damages.

SERVPRO of East Central Morris County helps resolve all issues related to flood damage in properties. Call us at (973) 887-9100. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

The Right Extractor for Every Flood Damage Situation in Morris Plains

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will be onsite within 4 hours of the initial call. Storm damage restoration is a job for a professional outfit. Who can handle any size job.

We know what your flood-damaged Morris Plains home needs.

Did you know that there are more than 40 different varieties of hammers getting used throughout construction trades and various crafts in Morris Plains and beyond? Much like having the right hammer for the job, water restoration requires the same premise. Flooding often requires extraction efforts, and with multiple choices available to our team, we must choose the right tools to maximize efficiency and production.

While we may not have 40 or more extraction units in our inventory, our SERVPRO professionals must carefully choose among more than a dozen options for flood removal in Morris Plains homes. This decision is a culmination of several factors, and the right choice ensures that areas of affected homes can get protected from migrating flood damage. While there are multiple units that we can deploy, we have a few that see more action than the rest.

Portable 

Portable extractors are among the most versatile removal equipment available to our SERVPRO team. From the confined spaces of structural cavities to the open areas where standing water can quickly erode exposed materials like drywall, these units can help. Wet-vacs and sump pumps both run on electricity, meaning that they require a generator to run if the power to the property has gotten severed.

Stationary

Stationary units like trash pumps run on gasoline and provide a much higher volume of extraction for properties. The drawback to these units beyond the need to maneuver the machine into place is the need to prime suction manually. In challenging extraction areas, priming the lines multiple times can be a time-consuming and inefficient approach.

Shaft-Driven 

The most powerful extraction device used by our technicians is the truck-mounted pump in our Green Fleet. This impressive machine can pull outstanding water at 300 psi, making short work of even substantial standing water. Depending on the situation, this unit could be unnecessarily powerful.

Choosing a suitable extractor can make recovery tasks more efficient and productive. Our SERVPRO of East Central Morris County might have many units to choose from, but we have become experienced in knowing which machines can meet your home’s needs and save you time and money. Give us a call anytime at (973) 887-9100.

Groundwater Flooding Cleanup in Homes and Businesses in Montville

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

Ground water clean up should be left to the professionals. Call SERVPRO for their IICRC certified technicians to handle the job.

What are safe groundwater flooding cleanup processes in Montville?

Flooding during a storm can occur rapidly, often before residents can even leave their homes for safety. The water crashes through doors, flooding everything in its path, bringing debris and contaminants into the house.

SERVPRO has several tips to follow for Montville residents before groundwater cleanup begins and they attempt to rescue family heirlooms and personal items. There may be electrical hazards. Everything will be slippery and wet materials may be very heavy, which can cause back strain when lifted.

Make sure that it is safe to enter and after calling SERVPRO for assistance, consider the following tips if you must enter the home or business:

• Ensure that the electrical power is off and there are no fuel leaks
• Wear protective gear on your hands and feet to avoid coming in contact with contaminants
• Identify family heirlooms and necessary documents for removal
• Work closely with our SERVPRO team to assist in recording salvageable and unsalvageable items

We clean and sanitize wherever possible to reduce total cost and save your possessions.

Contact SERVPRO of The East Central Morris County for groundwater flooding cleanup services in Montville and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (973) 887-9100.

Flood Damage from Storms in Morris Plains

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Storms cause major damage with flooding. Call the pros at SERVPRO for the flood mitigation services for your home.

Fast Response to Flooding in Morris Plains Mitigates Damage 

Morris Plains is a borough within Morris County and next door to Morristown. Both communities are considered bedroom communities for residents traveling to New York City for work. Commuters can travel to New York Penn Station and Hoboken Terminal. Settlers came to the area in 1715, Morris County was created in 1739, Morristown was incorporated in 1865, and Morris Plains was incorporated as a borough in 1926.

Engaging things to Do in Morris Plains and the Surrounding Area

There are many attractions in the general area for locals and tourists to enjoy. Some of the more popular attractions include:

• The Frelinghuysen Arboretum
• Morristown National Historical Park
• Ford Mansion and Museum
• Jockey Hollow
• Morris Museum
• Loantaka Brook Reservation
• Fosterfields Living Historical Farm
• Wightman’s Farm
• Historic Speedwell
• Lewis Morris Park

The Frelinghuysen Arboretum

The Frelinghuysen Arboretum covers 127 acres and at the center is a colonial revival mansion. Visitors can download a walking tour guide to their smartphones to take them on a tour of the property and explain the various plants, flowers, shade trees, and gardens. There are nature trails with trees and shrubs labeled for your information.

Morristown National Historical Park

There are 27 miles of trails in the park for visitors to enjoy. Bicycles are prohibited due to the damage they cause to the paths. Trails include:

• Yellow trail – 2.25 miles
• White Trail / Grand Loop – 6.5 miles
• Blue trail – 3 miles (Provides a great view from the peak of Mt Kemble)

Fosterfields Living Historical Farm

The 213-acre farm takes you back to life in the late 1800s. Costumed docents complete farm chores using original methods and answer questions. They also provide information about raising animals, growing gardens, and performing repairs. Paul Revere’s grandson built the Willows, a Gothic revival style mansion. The mansion is open for tours and also on the first floor of the farmhouse. The farmhouse dates back to the 1918-1927 period. There is also a visitor’s center providing orientation information and guides for touring the property.

SERVPRO Provides Fast Response to Flood Damage Events

During a storm, rain can enter your home or business through broken windows and compromised roofs. Floodwaters can also surge suddenly, inundating a building in seconds. These waters carry a variety of microbes and contaminants that are chemical and biological in origin.

SERVPRO’s experience with flood damage to homes in Morris Plains confirms that a rapid response is always the best approach. Cleaning, sanitizing, decontamination, and drying, are at the top of our priority list to minimize the damage and avoid potential health issues to their clients.

Floodwaters from storms may carry:

• Chemicals
• Gasoline
• Diesel fuel
• Oil
• Fertilizers
• Lawn treatment products
• And more
• Biological Waste Material
• Human
• Animal
• Medical
• Microbes
• And more

Contact SERVPRO of East Central Morris County for flood damage services in Morris Plains and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (973) 887-9100.

Enjoy a Festive Season at Home with Virtual Performances at the Barn Theatre in Montville.

12/12/2020 (Permalink)

Our crew at SERVPRO can restore your property after storm damage occurs.

While Many Christmas Programs are Cancelled in Montville this Winter, The Barn Theatre on Skyline Drive is Hosting Virtual Performances. 

The restrictions and guidance from New Jersey on the corona virus has unfortunately led to the cancellation of many seasonal performances this Christmas. However, from December 12 to January 16, the Barn Theatre in Montville hosts a series of virtual performances for families. Tickets cost just $5 for the Holiday Countdown Surprise, a series of live performances written by Bridget Burke Weiss. The interactive puppet show is suitable for children ages 3 to 6 and tells the story of Buddy Bear & Mini Moose, who lead the countdown for Christmas and Hanukkah for their close friend Geraldine. 

• Book a spot on this festive theatre by going online to the Barn Theatre website, and bookings can be made through the box office at (973) 334-9320. 
• Virtual event video links are sent directly to your email.
• Young children can participate in the activities via video link.

Flooding can be devastating for families over the winter period. Contact SERVPRO of East Central Morris County at (973) 887-9100 for assistance from qualified restoration technicians.

Floodwaters Causing Damage to your Textiles and Upholstery?

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

Our storm damage technicians have the equipment and experience to restore your home and belongings to pre-damage condition.

SERVPRO Flood Damage Recovery Technicians Can Return your Morris Plains Contents to Pre-loss condition.

What are the sensitive fabrics?

Sensitive fabrics in your Morris Plains home can not only sustain damage from water intrusions but also through common practice cleaning methods. A sensitive fabric may be one that could shrink or dry with the introduction of wet-cleaning methods. These fabrics may also have unique weaves, fibers, or material construction that requires special cleaning methods. At SERVPRO, we understand that sensitive fabrics are often the most cherished in the home and know how to restore your contents to a good condition after flooding. Cleaning sensitive materials can take time, but is often more cost-efficient than getting a replacement, especially for textiles that hold specific sentimental value.

What techniques are used to clean sensitive fabrics?

Using multiple non-aggressive cleaning methods repeatedly rather than opting for an aggressive measure that could harm the fabric.

Thoroughly pre-testing fabrics such as tapestries or brocades ensure that color bleeding does not occur from product use.

Treating fabrics that do bleed solely with dry-cleaning methods or emulsion powders to remove soiling. 

What materials shrink when wet?

When flood damage strikes your Morris Plains home, many of your fabrics may have exposure to liquid water or humidity moisture. Natural materials like wool and cotton can shrink in the presence of water. SERVPRO technicians can act fast to dry these contents to minimize the potential for shrinkage. We can also opt for cleaning methods that use minimal moisture and take extra care to dry these contents before shrinking takes effect by using venting fans, air-movers, or light-extraction equipment. 

What products and methods are suitable for sensitive fabric contents restoration?

Low moisture techniques such as dry toweling, foam cleaning in combination with air-movers to speed up drying.

Avoid using oxidizing bleaches as these can permanently harm natural fibers. If necessary, use a reducing bleach.

Identify fabric patterns for potential issue indicators. Brighter colors, reverse patterning, and glazes could indicate that wet-cleaning causes harm. 

Getting your home back after a flooding event involves restoring both the structure and the contents. Contact SERVPRO of East Central Morris County at (973) 887-9100.

Can SERVPRO Save My Lounge Furniture After Flood Damage?

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Regardless of the type of furniture in the room which is facing flood damage, calling SERVPRO will help to mitigate the situation. Call today!

Morris Plains Homeowners Are Concerned About Belongings After Flood Damage.

Residents of Morris Plains know that it takes time and effort to get your home looking as you would like. Your décor choices and the furniture you buy express your personality and make your house feel homely and welcoming. You might even have antiques or family heirlooms among your furnishings.

It is normal to be worried about your furniture after flood damage in Morris Plains. It is costly to replace your belongings, and you are attached to them.

What does flood damage do to furniture?

Unfortunately, flood damage can wreak havoc on furniture:

• Wood can warp and buckle
• Upholstery gets stained
• Cushions, comforters, and blankets become waterlogged
• Metal surfaces can rust if left untreated
• Damp conditions mean mold might grow on chairs, sofas, cabinets, and tables

Can I save my belongings?

There is not an exact straightforward answer to that question. Whether we can salvage your belongings depends on:

• How close to the flood they were
• Whether the water contained potential microbes or hazards
• The extent of the damage
• How delicate the material is
• How quickly we were able to take action

You can trust our technicians to give you an honest assessment of what is salvageable, what is not salvageable, and the next best steps for us to take.

How can SERVPRO help?

Our priority is to secure your home and remove floodwater. After that, we turn our attention to cleaning and restoring your home and belongings, and throwing out what we cannot save.

For example, we can use air movers and dehumidifiers to dry under and around chairs and sofa cushions. We can dry out wooden tables and cabinets, and apply antimicrobial treatments. Drying is an essential part of flood damage remediation, as it helps prevent microbial growth.

We also have spot cleaning solutions available to tackle stains on more delicate items.

We also use air scrubbers, charcoal filters, and odor-fighting cleaning solutions to leave your possessions smelling fresh - “Like it never even happened.”

If you are concerned about your furniture after flood damage, do not delay. Call SERVPRO of East Central Morris County at (973) 887-9100.

Want to see more about Morris Plains.

What Areas of My Morris Plains House Can Become Damaged in a Flood?

7/8/2020 (Permalink)

No matter how or where your storm damage has occurred, SERVPRO is standing by ready to assist.

There are many entry points for flood damage, and our SERVPRO professionals have the skill and materials to recover damaged areas quickly during the restoration process. 

Flood recovery is one of the areas where our SERVPRO team must act deliberately and quickly to protectMorris Plainshomes. One of the most challenging aspects of this disaster is how many ways it can enter and impact your property. Understanding these points of penetration and the appropriate response to these emergencies can help protect the house when flooding begins.

Even when you do not consider the migration of effects, the pressing need for flood repair inMorris Plainshomes can often have enough of an urgency for property recovery. While emergency services often precede much of the other mitigation steps necessary to restore the damage, these preliminary actions also help to control the entry points for flood penetration. Knowing the most likely areas to contend with flooding can help to implement construction solutions to stop water from finding its way into the house. 

Is Roof Damage Common? 

With the violent storms common to the area, Roof damage is something that many homes have experienced. When any form of compromise happens in your home's structural shell, it can create vulnerable points and avenues of penetration for runoff, wind-driven rain, and flooding. In many ways, this variety of flooding is among the most familiar with the area's properties because of our history with severe weather events. The damage possible to your roof can vary depending on the type of precipitation involved and the circumstances. Some of these conditions include:

• Damaged Shingles - Shingles are a common installation element for area homes, but are susceptible to fierce winds and other damaging conditions. When any portion of these shingles is missing or damaged, there are vulnerabilities present that allow water penetration.

• Partial Collapse - During the winter months, especially, your roof can deal with much strain from heavy snowfall or saturation. When joists and underlayment begin to weaken under the weight of standing snow, these supports can give way and allow for partial collapse of the roof system.

• Ice Damming – In the winter months, cold snaps can form ice barriers along the edge of a roof eave and prevent melting snow from getting into the gutters. As this water refreezes and the dam grows, it can damage shingles. 

How Do Openings in the House Allow for Flooding? 

Breaches in your structural integrity can happen in almost every severe weather event, and when it does, it leaves your home vulnerable to water penetration. In most situations, harsh and fierce winds can have the direst effects on the exterior of your home. Once openings exist, they must first get addressed by responding contractors on our team before we can officially begin with mitigation to remove standing water and other damaging effects inside. Some of the most common structural damages that can occur include:

• Broken Windows
• Missing Siding
• Damaged Foundation Block

How Do Internal Water Damages Get Resolved? 

Our in-house contractors (General Contractor License #: 13VH06046200) can work quickly to establish temporary construction solutions to protect your home in the event of a flood. We have experienced professionals in every niche of the building trades to work quickly on these solutions that allow mitigation to begin as promptly as possible. Addressing water damage inside your house once flood water penetrates the exterior involves many steps in phases that must begin as soon as possible, such as:

• Drying - When it comes to removing water from the damaged areas of your home, there are many solutions for moisture elimination. Often this task falls to air movers, dehumidifiers, and other specialty drying tools.

• Cleaning - Cleaning is undoubtedly one of the primary needs of your home after a flood loss event. Especially in situations where the water is believed to be contaminated, this cleaning takes on a more critical role.

• Controlled Demolition – There are situations wheresimple drying solutions are not sufficient to protect your home and its contents. Controlled demolition removes damaged portions of structural elements and makes later reconstruction and repair more efficient and cost-effective. 

Flood losses do not have to be as devastating to your home as they initially appear. Our SERVPRO of East Central Morris County team can work quickly to establish containment and work to dry out and clean affected areas of your home. Through experienced professionals and cutting-edge equipment, we can make flood losses "Like it never even happened." Call us today at (973) 887-9100.

How Do I Know My Attic is Flooded?

5/16/2020 (Permalink)

Attic Leaks and Flooding Got You Down? SERVPRO Helps Our Morris Plains Neighbors with Rapid Water Extraction and Drying

Storms can damage roofs and flood your Morris Plains attic, our SERVPRO team can help. 

Identifying water damage in your Morris Plains attic might be a challenge if it is not living space. In many cases, homeowners do not recognize potential flooding concerns until water damage migrates to lower levels where occupants are living.

Removing flood damage from Morris Plains homes can be a substantial obstacle when water threats persist for days after a storm passes through the area. Some signs indicate flooding might have occurred in the attic, such as:

• Staining on the ceiling materials
• Damp areas in the ceiling
• Sagging materials
• Musty odors

What Can SERVPRO Do to Help?

Even with a challenging confined space like your attic, we have sophisticated extraction and drying tools that can help to make flooding “Like it never even happened.” Providing a safe and dry space above your living area is critical to prevent microbial threats. Even when mold damages have taken root, we have experienced professionals that can help with remediation and controlled demolition.

Flooded attic? We can help. Give SERVPRO of East Central Morris County a call today at (973) 887-9100.

What Can Remove Floodwater from My Morris Plains Basement?

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

No matter how severe or overwhelming basement flooding might appear, our team can help with efficient extraction and drying techniques.

We have many premier extraction and drying tools to protect your flooded Morris Plains basement from costlier repairs and reconstruction

Flooding can be a traumatic situation, especially when you are not sure how to remove standing water from subterranean levels like your basement. Our SERVPRO professionals have a fast response with premier equipment that can help to manage this situation as soon as possible.

What Are the Risks of Standing Water in the Basement?
While you might think the sight of flood damage in Morris Plains homes is terrible enough, you should also take some time to appreciate the severity of standing water. The more that you understand about how destructive pooling water can become, the more driven you are to ensure that our professionals are working efficiently to remove standing water and drying out the entire house. Some of these potential risks include:

    •    Masonry Degradation – Penetration through concrete masonry units (CMUs) is not an uncommon scenario for homeowners in the area. Prolonged exposure to standing water and further penetrating floodwater can erode mortar joints.
    •    Microbial Growth – Without removing pooling water from the floor of the basement, the moisture content in this level of the house is often far beyond the necessary limits to facilitate mold growth.
    •    Structural Weakening – Concrete floors are typical for unfinished basements, and even with the low permeance of this material, they can still absorb moisture over prolonged periods. The longer directly exposed to moisture, the weaker this concrete becomes.

How Can SERVPRO Remove Water?
Our professionals can utilize many premier extraction tools in our inventory to remove standing water. Depending on the severity of the situation and the depth of standing surface water, we can utilize numerous machines and mechanisms such as:

    •    Submersible Pumps
    •    Truck-Mount Pumps
    •    Gas-Powered Trash Pumps
    •    Wet-Vacuums

No matter how severe or overwhelming basement flooding might appear, our SERVPRO of East Central Morris County team can help with efficient extraction and drying techniques. Give us a call today at (973) 887-9100.

For more about Morris Plains click here.

Morris Plains Restoration Professionals Talk About Post Flooding Safety

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

Spring rains bring flooding and flood dangers to New Jersey. SERVPRO is always equipped and knows how to safely restore your home.

Flood Damage Morris Plains – Stay Safe After a Flood

Once flooding has receded, many people want to get back into their homes to recover individual items, heirlooms, important papers, and other valuable items. These consumers do not realize there are potential dangers which place themselves and their families at risk. There could be electrocution hazards, and because mud and debris cover everything, slips and falls are frequent, and the water may contain a variety of contaminants. Now is the time to call the professionals to clean and restore your home.

SERVPRO provides flood damage services in Morris Plans and surrounding areas. We cover many of the local towns in the area and can be at your home in less than four hours. Our teams are available 24 hours a day and seven days a week to respond to emergencies. We are here to help your recover from the chaos that flooding can create.

Restoring a Home After a Flood

Electrical circuits often experience short circuits when water inundates a home. Never turn on lights or reset circuit breakers until your sure there is no chance of electrocution. Resetting circuit breakers before electrical connections are dried and tested can cause fires. SERVPRO can evaluate your situation and prepare a plan to remove standing water, mud, and debris and contents that have been damaged by the floodwaters.

We use flood cuts on walls to remove water damaged drywall and expose the studs. There are often pockets of water inside the walls after a flood, and the drywall is not only contaminated; it also swells after contacting floodwaters and must be replaced. We also replace contaminated carpeting and underpadding. Severely damaged floors, especially when water and moisture have penetrated the subfloor may necessitate replacement of tile and hardwood flooring.

SERVPRO reviews all of the damage with our clients. We can work closely with your insurance adjuster to return your home to its original condition. We also have a general contractor license: 13VH06046200, which enables our team to save time and reduce the total cost of flood mitigation, repairs, and reconstruction.

Call SERVPRO of East Central Morris County at (973) 887-9100 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve Lake Hiawatha, Boonton Township, and surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster

More about Morris Plains.

How Professionals Restore Flood Damaged Montville Homes

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Storms are frequent in New Jersey and present flooding challenges. SERVPRO is always ready to restore your flood damaged home.

How to Get Efficient Flood Damage Restoration in Your Montville Residence

Heavy rain in Montville usually causes the level of water in the Passaic River to rise, and this increases the risk of flooding in nearby properties. The presence of floodwater in a building often results in undesirable consequences. Many types of destruction can occur, such as ruined drywall, furniture, ceilings, and hardwood flooring.

If your Montville residence sustains flood damage, knowing whom to call for help is crucial. It is not always advisable to attempt to perform flood clean-up on your own because of the many threats present during this kind of disaster. You can get high-quality restoration services from SERVPRO. Our restorers can help you to clean up, dry, and disinfect the affected surfaces to restore your property to its original condition.

After we receive your call, our restorers can get to your home quickly and assess the situation. We can consider the length of time the water has been in the house, hazardous substances in the floodwater, and the presence of mold contamination. Our restorers can identify and resolve any safety hazards.

Floodwater damages increase the longer it sits in a home. Our team can use heavy-duty water removal equipment to give your home the best chance to dry out. When the water has soaked floors, walls, and other surfaces, it is critical to use advanced techniques to dry and dehumidify the property. If you do not remove the water and moisture quickly, wood flooring drywall can absorb it and become discolored or misshapen. Mold can also grow on porous surfaces, and cause health effects to the inhabitants.

Touching or looking at the areas where water pooled cannot give an accurate representation of how wet your home is. Our team can use thermal imaging cameras to find and monitor moisture. A thermal imaging camera makes it easier to detect moisture because the water stays at the same temperature longer than solid structures. With this equipment, our restorers can find moisture that would have otherwise remained hidden. At the end of the drying process, thermal imaging cameras offer excellent documentation that your home is dry.

Flooding can also damage the building materials or finishes of your property, making it necessary to replace them. Water breaks down materials naturally, and it ruins materials like plywood, drywall, wood, and framing. Our SERVPRO team can perform the necessary restoration work. We can remove, replace, and fix any structural components that sustained damage.

Floodwater also poses a risk of infection because of the presence of toxins, bacteria, and other hazardous substances in it. Our team can use anti-microbial solutions to eliminate bacteria and other microorganisms.

When flooding happens in a house, working with a trusted restoration company is essential to ensure correct project completion. Call SERVPRO of East Central Morris County at (973) 887-9100 for effective restoration services. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

More about Montville.

Flood Damage Montville – Rebuilding Your Home

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can be there for your Montville storm damage, from board ups to restoration.

Storm damage in your Montville home can be handled properly, let SERVPRO be your team.

Restoring a home or business after a significant storm has blown through involves many different steps, which can be quite daunting to the average homeowner. There may be roof punctures, broken windows, and even doors that may have significant damage. Wind and rain have flooded your home with debris and water that can cause much damage. Where do you start and who do you turn to for help?

SERVPRO can provide turnkey flood damage restoration in the Montville area. We are the experts at cleaning and drying your home or business after a damaging storm has passed through. We also have a General Contractor License (#: 13VH06046200), which allows us to provide reconstruction services if required covering all of the major trades.

Outdoor Damage Repair

High winds can bring down large trees, damage your roof and puncture walls, doors, and windows. Our restoration services include a full range of emergency services, including board up to cover broken windows and punctures, roof tarps, roofing services, emergency fencing, and tree removal.

Indoor Damage Recovery

In a matter of minutes, your home can be inundated with water and debris. The damage may be contained to one room on the first floor or involve the entire home. We strive to save as much as possible, which helps to manage the total cost of repair and restoration. Furniture and contents that cannot be saved, due to contamination or damage, are documented and removed.

Once the structure is enclosed, we can remove debris and standing water and proceed to dry the structure, walls, and flooring. Our general contractor license includes restoration services for all electrical work, drywall repair, flooring of all types, HVAC, plumbing repairs, and painting. We look after the setup of staging areas as well as provide move out and move in services.

SERVPRO can provide full turnkey services for flood damage events, reducing the stress and worry that many homeowners experience.

Call SERVPRO of East Central Morris County at (973) 887-9100 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve Boonton Township, Mountain Lakes, Lake Hiawatha, and the surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

To find out more about Montville, click here.

Spring Storm Damage

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

High winds uprooted this tree right onto this home's roof

Although it is not storm season yet spring can bring some serious headaches when it comes to weather. The constant High Winds, melting snow, heavy rains, saturated ground etc.. can all equate to problems as a home owner. So here are a few helpful tips to be proactive rather than reactive; however if you have to be reactive make sure to react by calling SERVPRO of EAST CENTRAL MORRIS COUNTY ;)

1. Make sure your sump pump is working, it will be working overtime with the ground saturated with rain and melting snow so keep an eye on it.
2. Check the trees around your property for damage, large broken limbs are just waiting for gusty winds to help it come crashing down on your fence or roof
3. Inspect your house for damage to the roof, siding, exterior foundation walls. 
4. Check for animal nests, Over the winter wild animals may have invited themselves to stay in your warm cozy property. Entry holes near eaves or close to ground, drilling sites by birds or insects, chew marks on wood or wiring, or shredded building materials around the foundation. Check your attic and crawl spaces for animal droppings
5. Seal up leaks. Inspect the sealant around your windows, doors, and places where utility pipes enter the exterior walls of your house. If it is cracked or shrinking, use a urethane-based caulk to seal cracks and prevent water intrusion.

Just a few things you can add to your "Honey do List" that will keep you busy on the weekends. Like you don't have enough to do but hey, welcome to home ownership right. Haha

Severe Weather

3/6/2018 (Permalink)

Severe weather can happen any time, anywhere. Each year, Americans experience an average of*:

• 10,000 severe thunderstorms
• 5,000 floods or flash floods
• 1,300 tornadoes
• 2 land-falling deadly hurricanes

As a member of SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team, SERVPRO of South Everett is “Ready for whatever happens.” When a storm or disaster strikes, SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team is poised for any storm that may happen. With a network of more than 1,700 Franchises, the SERVPRO System strives to be faster to any size disaster. Strategically located throughout the United States, SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team is trained and equipped to handle the largest storms and highest flood waters. Providing experience, manpower, equipment, and other resources, the Disaster Recovery Team is there when large storms hit our area. SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team has responded to hundreds of disaster events. In the aftermath of a disaster, there is only one objective: to help you make it “Like it never even happened.”

With the ability to mobilize local command centers, along with the resources of more than 1,700 Franchises nationwide, no disaster is too big. Recent mobilizations of the Catastrophic Storm Response Teams included:

• 2017 Hurricane Harvey
• 2016 East Tennessee Wildfires
• 2016 Hurricane Matthew  
• 2016 Louisiana Flooding
• 2016 Houston, TX Flooding 
• 2015 Siberian Express
• 2014 Mid-Atlantic Flooding 
• 2014 Polar Vortex  
• 2013 Colorado Floods
• 2012 Hurricane Sandy

No matter the size of the disaster, SERVPRO of East Central Morris County is Here to Help. With the help of SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team, we can handle any size weather event. If disaster strikes your home or business, give us a call at 973-887-9100.

5 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Windstorms

3/6/2018 (Permalink)

Windstorms cause millions of dollars of damage across the East Coast every year. There’s not always a lot of warning before a large windstorm hits, so it’s important to prepare your home well beforehand. Small fixes now can prevent more costly repairs after a storm.

Trim Your Trees

Check your property for any tree branches that hang over your roof, cars, power lines, or shed. Overhanging branches can cause significant damage to your property if they fall, which you can easily prevent by cutting them down before a storm hits.

If you have dead trees or branches on your property, get them professionally removed.

Inspect the Roof and Garage

Any loose roofing material will be particularly susceptible during a windstorm. Further damage can occur when a windstorm rips loose material off the roof. Before the windstorm hits, check your roof for loose shingles, flashing, gutters, edging strips, etc. Make sure any problems you find are fixed ASAP.

Your garage door, if it is not in top shape, can be a liability as well. If you haven’t had it professionally inspected in a while, consider doing so.

Protect Your Windows

Strong winds and flying debris can damage windows, so make sure they are prepared before the storm comes in. If you don’t have stormproof windows installed, you can use aluminum or steel shutters or plywood to protect your windows from damage.

Secure Items Around Your Property

While wind can cause a lot of damage on its own, loose items around the yard can severely increase the damage potential. If you received a report of an impending windstorm, secure or safely store items like:

• Grills
• Patio Furniture
• ATVs
• Garbage and recycling bins
• Container plants
• Wind chimes and other decor
• Trampolines
• Swing sets and toys
• Bicycles

Make sure to store cleaning chemicals, motor fuels, and pesticides in safe places as well. You don’t want chemicals to mix together or spread throughout your yard or home

Put Together an Emergency Kit

If the windstorm takes out the power, in some cases you may have to go without electricity for a few days until it gets fixed. Prepare emergency kits with food, water, and anything else your family might need to get through three days without power.

Even the most prepared home can sustain damage during a bad windstorm. Fortunately, at SERVPRO® of East Central Morris County, we’re prepared to restore your home “Like it never even happened.”

We offer a wide range of services (like board-ups, water damage restoration, tarp-ups, and other roofing services) to help repair your property after a storm. We’re there when you need us with our 24/7 emergency service, so give us a call at 973-887-9100.

Flood Safety TIps

2/28/2018 (Permalink)

Flooded basement

Flooding is a temporary overflowing of water onto the land that is normally dry. Flooding may happen with only a few inches of water, or it may cover a house to the rooftop. There are many possible causes of floods including heavy rain or snowmelt, coastal storms and storm surge, waterway overflow from being blocked with debris or ice, or overflow of levees, dams, or waste water systems, flooding can occur slowly over many days or happen very quickly with little or no warning, called flash floods.

Basic Safety Tips:

• Avoid walking or driving through flood water.
• Do not drive over bridges that are over fast-moving floodwaters. Floodwaters can scour foundation material from around the footings and make the bridge unstable.
• Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
• If there is a chance of flash flooding, move immediately to higher ground.
• If floodwaters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car and enter moving water.
• Avoid camping or parking along streams, rivers, and creeks during heavy rainfall. These areas can flood quickly and with little warning.

After a Flood:

• Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
• Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded and watch out for debris. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways.
• Do not attempt to drive through areas that are still flooded.
• Avoid standing water as it may be electrically charges from underground or drowned power lines.
• Photograph damage to your property for insurance purposes.