The Likelihood of Mold Damage in Brooklyn Homes

4/12/2023 (Permalink)

Let our fast response team in Brooklyn eliminate the mold damage in your home.

SERVPRO Remediators Help Manage Active Mold Damage in Brooklyn Residences

Because of the borough's placement amid large bodies of water and severe weather systems in every season, many conditions can exist to support mold growth and spread in area residences. Mold development is more likely than many homeowners believe. It could exist and migrate without the property owner's knowledge until it breaches the surface of the living area.

It is often advisable to act fast when mold damage in Brooklyn properties is discovered. AMRT-certified technicians of our roster are available 24/7 to mobilize for mitigation and remediation of active colonization in your household. Prompt action helps to reduce the further spread of this harmful organism. Our remediation work is based on data acquired by third-party mold inspection agencies per strict New York guidelines regarding mold remediation.

How Does Mold Form?

Mold is an opportunistic threat to your home, meaning that when the conditions are met to facilitate its growth, it is likely to do so. Mold spores occur naturally in most environments, but without temperature and moisture conditions being met, these spores are a harmless part of the atmosphere in your household. When damp conditions exist or relative humidity becomes a concern, these spores can settle on organic materials and begin colonization.

Organic matter in your home, be it building materials or contents, are food sources for the growing colony. It is crucial to evaluate the condition of the affected materials as remediation gets underway to determine the most efficient solution. As IICRC-trained mold removal specialists, we can help manage mold damage across multiple hosts.

Where Does Mold Target?

Mold requires organic matter to grow and thrive, so not all surfaces and materials found in your home are capable of supporting colonies. However, porous elements common to modern home construction are welcoming to these spreading microbes. Some of the usual hosting materials for mold include:

• Drywall
• Wood Framing
• Carpeting
• Clothing/Fabrics

How Can SERVPRO Remove Active Colonies?

Remediation is a recovery action designed to remove active colonies and destructive organisms from the property by our AMRT-certified technicians. Depending on the impact of microbes on the hosting material, the type of material impacted, and the desire to salvage the structure, several remediation options are possible:

• Surface Cleaning – This process utilizes sporicidal products in our inventory to target superficial mold damage mostly visible on a surface.
• Sanding – Hand-sanding or power tools remove a thin top layer of material like wood framing to eliminate mold without compromising structural integrity.
• Media Blasting – Pressurized air or water can be combined with media like sodium bicarbonate or dry ice chemicals to destroy mold colonies without damaging the hosting material.
• Controlled Demolition – The final remediation measure when other less invasive or destructive methods are not possible to eliminate the current mold threat.

Should Repairs Occur?

Mold damage repairs are often necessary, primarily when exposure to spores occurs over a more extended period. Our contractor license allows us to provide several types of build-back and reconstruction services that resolve the harm that active microbial threats caused the structure.

How Do You Prevent Mold from Happening Again?

As important as the efforts made to overcome active colonization and the impact on building materials and contents are, preventing the situation from recurring is another priority. Without addressing the intrusion of moisture into the affected areas of the residence, mold damage is likely to happen again. Often this is resolved through repairs and reconstruction of compromised portions of the property during the final stages of remediation.

Mold damage to Brooklyn homes can be a direct and damaging threat to a structure and its occupants. Our SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn remediation team is ready to help when you need it. Call today at (718) 522-4400.

Keeping Mold Damage from Returning in Brooklyn Homes

4/10/2023 (Permalink)

Brooklyn homeowners benefit from SERVPRO's mold remediation services. From demolition to build-back, you can count on us!

Recurring Mold Damage Can Be Harmful

One thing is worse than mold growth in your home or apartment, and that is when the problem happens again and again. As leading remediation specialists, we have the technicians and the products to remove mold colonies. We also understand what your residence might need to keep that mold threat from returning once we leave.

Mold damage in Brooklyn homes can appear in several locations and be more widespread and intrusive than it appears on the surface. We must work to remove all the active mold organisms from the house, including what you might not initially see. Thorough removal practices are the first step in keeping mold gone for good. In performing actions to prevent a recurrence

we ask three questions:

• Where Did the Moisture Enter?

No mold and microbial threats to your home exist without moist conditions. When addressing mildew and mold, SERVPRO technicians must eliminate the penetration points for moisture and water damage.

• What Structural Damage Resulted?

Water damage can often destroy parts of the structure, leaving vulnerabilities that future moisture and dampness might exploit. Even if the initial threat has been resolved and repaired, a full scope of the property’s condition is vital to ensure all build-back is complete.

• Can Permanent Equipment Help?

It is possible that installing permanent machines like dehumidifiers can regulate moisture in the environment that keeps conditions favorable for mold growth.

Applying Mold Inhibiting Products

Another one of the effective ways that we work to keep mold from becoming a recurring threat to your home is by applying mold inhibitors. Antimicrobial agents can eliminate surface mold spores but continue as a barrier against further colonization for new growth.

Mold damage does not have to be a continuous and repetitive threat to your household. Call SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn at (718) 522-4400.

SERVPRO Provides Mold Removal Services in Brooklyn

11/8/2022 (Permalink)

Don't let mold take over your property, Call SERVPRO of Northeast Brooklyn at (718) 522-4400.

SERVPRO Recommends Immediate Mold Removal from Buildings in Brooklyn

Mold spores are everywhere inside buildings in Brooklyn, waiting for the right conditions to multiply and infest a room, inside walls, and under sinks inside cabinets. Mold spores need moisture, an organic food source, and warm locations. All of these conditions are available in our homes and commercial buildings.

SERVPRO provides mold removal services in Brooklyn and surrounding areas. Consumers can avoid mold growth by removing all moisture sources and keeping the immediate area dry and clean. Even with your best efforts, mold colonies can begin growing in as little as 24 hours after a water leak. Mold grows quickly, contaminating the surfaces in the area and releasing a strong, musty smell. This smell is the first indication of a mold problem for many consumers.

Our mold removal technicians can be onsite in less than four hours from your call. After they have evaluated the situation, the first step is to remove the source of the moisture. They also remove contaminated materials and contents that cannot be cleaned and restored. In severe infestations, they may need to use controlled demolition techniques to remove ceiling tiles, drywall, and flooring materials. Everything is bagged in place before being cleared to avoid the transfer of mold-contaminated particles to other areas of the building.

Once contaminated materials have been removed, the area is dried, disinfected, and cleaned before being restored. SERVPRO can help with restoration after contaminated materials have been removed. Our construction contractor license Residential: 2015353DCA and Mold Remediation: 00055 allows us to provide our clients with a complete range of reconstruction services.

SERVPRO provides the following services:

• Mold inspections, remediation, and removal
• Black mold damage removal
• Bathroom and basement mold remediation and removal

Call SERVPRO of Northeast Brooklyn for mold removal and restoration services. We provide service to Brooklyn and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (718) 522-4400.

Don't Let Mold Damage Shudder Your Brooklyn Business

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

Mold infestation? Call SERVPRO for fast and effective mold remediation.

Mold Damage in Your Brooklyn Business Is No Need to Panic 

Much hype exists in the media about the dangers of mold, leading to your need for a fast fix if an infestation manifests in your Brooklyn commercial space. We have the certification to offer professional mold remediation services. We are happy to evaluate your scenario and discuss the process from start to finish. Our crews master the techniques during the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training. We also invest in the equipment needed to lessen mold growth efficiently and safely. 

Avoid Long-Term Shutdowns  

Every minute your business is on hold because of mold damage, your Brooklyn customers lose access to your products and services. We are sensitive to this issue as statistics show that nearly half of companies that shut their doors temporarily because of a disaster might not reopen. When our project manager arrives, we discuss ways to partition off the moldy area safely and according to local ordinances. Permitting you to operate in at least a portion of your commercial building with as few limitations as possible during mold remediation is a priority. We also make every attempt to find and help arrange to eliminate the water source fueling the mold growth. 

Adherence to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Protocols 

Containment

Our Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians (AMFT) follow the procedures developed by the EPA for commercial buildings and schools. After we locate and determine the dimensions of the mold outbreak, the SERVPRO team partitions the affected space off from the rest of your business. Heavy-duty sheeting defines the perimeter. We then use negative pressure air scrubbing technology for two purposes. First, it seals the partitioned space, preventing drift. Second, it pulls airborne contaminants, including spores and other moldy residues, through HEPA filters, exhausting the air to the outside.  

Removal 

Scraping and brushing remove active mold colonies from solid surfaces. SERVPRO also works hard to save porous materials with innovations like soda blasting. Through gentle abrasion to agitate and dislodge the surface mold, the soda also inhibits the rebound of mold growth. Vacuuming and wipe-downs ensure we collect all debris for appropriate disposal as hazardous waste. 

Disinfection 

To inhibit mold regrowth, SERVPRO applies EPA-registered antimicrobials to affected areas. We might consider using disinfectant-infused sealers to provide a barrier and a smooth, mold-free surface for refinishing.  

Mold remediation is a specialty of SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn. Rely on our expertise and experience; call (718) 522-4400 for an evaluation as soon as you suspect mold damage. 

More about Brooklyn.

Contractor Licenses:

Residential: 2015353DCA

Mold Remediation: 00055

Why SERVPRO Delivers Successful Water Removal Services in Brooklyn

6/12/2022 (Permalink)

To make in appear "Like it never even happened," call SERVPRO to removal water from your Brooklyn home

SERVPRO has the Training and Equipment Needed for Water Removal

When you are wading in water in your Brooklyn brownstone from a burst pipe or appliance overflow, you are not interested in being a recovery company’s first job. You need help fast from a team of the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained technicians who are familiar with the challenges of evacuating water in a multi-unit residence. Transitioning seamlessly from extraction to structural drying is also why our crew fits your job requirements.

IICRC Training Sets Us Apart

Water removal in Brooklyn completes quickly when our experienced Water Restoration Technicians (WRT) are on the job. A seasoned project manager assesses the scenario and devises a plan following industry best practices. Technicians establish the perimeters of the water’s migration using sensitive moisture metering devices and thermal imaging cameras. We make educated decisions about liquid water trapped in building cavities, choosing the most advantageous ways to access and release the fluids. Our mastery of controlled demolition strategies like staggered flood cuts that preserve the integrity of firewalls is why our customers express confidence in our skills.

Specialized Equipment Simplifies Cleanup

SERVPRO’s signature green service vehicles stock pumps and truck-mounted extractors that permit us to suction up and contain the water for off-site disposal. We arrive at the scene with a broad range of tools and products onboard to prevent delays that could cause more significant damage to develop. Drying equipment rolls off the truck once the water removal completes. Heated air movers and dehumidifiers partner to create the balance of air temperature and ambient humidity. This facilitates the movement of water absorbed by structural components into the atmosphere as vapor. Capture and remove the vapor, then proceed. 

Deodorization Experts Neutralize Smells

Our clients appreciate the one-stop shopping approach they experience with SERVPRO. Technicians hold multiple restoration industry certifications, able to respond to the specific concerns raised during a project. If wet materials emit unpleasant smells unresolved by drying, we investigate further. Our Odor Control Technicians (OCT) follow a proven multi-step protocol to find the source of malodors and neutralize them. Certification in the use of advanced technology such as hydroxyl generators or ozone machines is another reason why SERVPRO can manage all aspects of water restoration.  

SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn is the answer to your urgent water removal questions. Why not call (718) 522-4400 to see the difference state-of-the-art training and equipment make? 

Effective Mold Removal in Your Brooklyn Home with SERVPRO Experts

6/12/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO removes moisture sources and mold by using containment barriers to prevent cross-contamination in your Brooklyn property.

Mold Remediation Services in Brooklyn Properties

Mold problems in Brooklyn homes may seem harmless and manageable. However, it could turn out to be complicated if not mitigated sooner. Ceilings and walls are common spots for growth. This is because they are made of porous materials, and porous surfaces readily absorb and retain moisture, thus offering a conducive living environment. Knowing the signs and quickly reacting can help prevent further mold contamination in your home.

Sometimes it is better to leave mold removal work in your Brooklyn home to experts. On your own, the risks and challenges are significant. Reaching the ceiling is not easy, which means it requires appropriate equipment. Also, this kind of work needs protective gear, tools, and techniques. SERVPRO eases the process compared to dealing with the problem on your own. And with lasting results.

Actions that can prevent mold formation on ceilings and walls

• Inspect plumbing and gutters
• Improve ventilation Perform regular house checks
• Cleaning mold off your ceiling

To control mold growth, we start with controlling moisture. So it is imperative to identify the water sources in your home and remove or manage them; otherwise, the problem is likely to recur. Mold damage is often visible in damp unventilated rooms. Our SERVPRO crews check for roof and plumbing systems problems like leaks from damaged pipes and gutters.

Containing the affected area using plastic sheets is essential as it helps prevent cross-contamination. After setting up the containment, our SERVPRO teams open the ceiling to expose the mold-damaged framing for cleanup and other restoration steps. Restoration may involve applying an antimicrobial product, replacement, and humidity control.

Other crucial steps

? HEPA vacuuming loose residues

? Wire brushing semi-porous surfaces

? Blast cleaning with soda or dry ice

SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn helps reduce the chance of mold regrowth by addressing moisture issues. Call us at (718) 522-4400 for mold removal services. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What are the Stages of Mold Damage in Brooklyn Homes?

2/24/2022 (Permalink)

Let our fast response team at SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn eliminate your mold damage.

The Type of Damage Determines the Mold Remediation Needed in Brooklyn Properties. 

Many factors ultimately play a role in how widespread and destructive mold colonies become. The conditions to facilitate mold and microbial growth can occur from several sources, including:

• Flooding
• Water damage
• Humidity

Light Mold Infestations

Mold remediation for Brooklyn homes might be a complex endeavor, even with initial light damage that could result. The early infestation period where only a few surfaces are impacted, and the spread and severity of the conditions is not severe is an excellent time to implement surface cleaning approaches. With antimicrobial products and sporicidal chemicals in our inventory, we can wipe and spray down impacted hosting elements to eradicate surface mold and make the material uninhabitable for future infestation. 

Penetrating Mold Damage

The second level of mold damage is when the organism moves beyond the first thin layer of surface material to more deeply seat into hosting elements. This penetrating mold damage requires more than superficial cleaning efforts to resolve. Sanding, soda blasting, and sponge pressure cleaning are more aggressive measures capable of helping to eliminate the entire hyphae of an invasive organism. 

Structural Degradation

At this stage, considerable deterioration of hosting materials has already occurred. In some situations, homeowners might not recognize mold damage for weeks or even months, allowing the organism to progressively weaken structural elements used as hosting materials like drywall and wood framing. Mold inspections can determine which of these elements is salvageable. We must discard these construction materials through controlled demolition for those that are not. 

Depending on the severity of mold damage throughout a home or business, the type of remediation necessary is likely to change. Our SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn AMRT-Certified technicians provide a thorough inspection to identify the needed mold removal approach. You can reach our experienced roster 24/7 to help when you suspect mold growth at (718) 522-4400.

Why Should Williamsburg Properties Owners Hire Mold Removal Companies?

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

When you notice a mold infestation on your property, time is already of the essence. Contact team SERVPRO right away to investigate and help you.

For Mold Removal Companies, SERVPRO Offers Detailed Mitigation in Williamsburg

Mildew and mold growth within your Williamsburg property can cause health effects. The last thing you want to do is wait if you suspect mold, nor do you want to disrupt it using DIY methods that can cause more harm than good. The best way to ensure your entire property gets Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned; you need to enlist the help of mold specialists with the right level of training and all of the necessary equipment for the job.

Many people will reach for the phone to search for mold removal companies in Williamsburg, but you have everything you need when calling our local SERVPRO franchise. We handle mold remediation using safe, proven methods that will ensure your home or business gets back to normal fast. These are some of the top reasons why it is best to contact our skilled crew for mold cleanup:

• Limit the Spread – Something you never want is for mold spores to get released into the air, where they can travel into unaffected areas of your property. As we begin remediation services, we put up containment barriers and use powerful air scrubbers with HEPA filtration to pull particulates from the air. We also have unique processes to help us address any spores that may have wafted into your HVAC duct system.
• Get to the Source – People attempting DIY mold cleanup will often neglect the root cause of the problem. There may be a hidden pipe leak, issues with air circulation, or standing water that is bringing on excessive moisture. We address the situation at the source to help you keep it from happening again.
• Proven Methods and Thorough Cleaning – Our team wears personal protective equipment (PPE) from the initial assessment, all the way through the cleanup, and ends with sanitizing. We have proven methods using EPA-registered products to get you the mold cleanup and deodorization you deserve.

Why trust any other mold removal companies when you have the best at SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn? Call us at (718) 522-4400.

Why Do Brooklyn Residents Need Skilled Water Damage Help?

1/16/2022 (Permalink)

Leaking ceilings can have many causes from storms to broken pipes. Contact SERVPRO to effectively tackle the water damage in your home. Call now!

SERVPRO Quickly Restores Brooklyn Properties Dealt a Water Damage Blow

If you notice ceiling leaks, you may have a leaking roof from storms coming through the Brooklyn area. When there has been no rain in the forecast, you may want to consider the possibility of leaking pipes that are starting to saturate your building materials. Rather than trying to scope out the issue on your own and causing more damage in the process, calling in skilled water restoration technicians (WRT) to get to the heart of the matter is best. Water removal services and restoration is where we shine at SERVPRO, and we are available around the clock to assist!

Why call SERVPRO, and what constitutes the need for a call to help with water damage in Brooklyn? This all depends on the type of incident, the area impacted, and how much water is involved. The good news is that our SERVPRO team is highly efficient, and our rapid response times put our Green Fleet at your door, ready to work within just hours of your initial call. We believe:

• Quick response and proper water mitigation efforts help to lessen loss and overall costs
• It is crucial to work with the mission to restore versus replace whenever possible
• Using quality products and equipment to remove water and clean your interior is crucial
• Helping our clients to ensure their homeowner’s insurance claim goes as smoothly as possible is part of every project

SERVPRO never leaves any stone unturned, which is why we are the leaders in the area when it comes to water-related incidents like:

• Appliance malfunction/leaks
• Basement flooding
• Overflowing toilets, tubs, and other spills
• Burst pipes and ceiling leaks

Just as water removal is essential, we also take the time to clean, deodorize, and sanitize all surfaces to ensure no foul, musty odors get left behind. You can trust our highly-trained team at SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn will be there fast to get the project handled right the first time. Reach us 24/7 at (718) 522-4400.

Why is Professional Flood Damage Assistance Best After Flash Flooding in Williamsburg?

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage restoration by SERVPRO is second to none. Our techs have the knowledge and experience for any size disaster.

SERVPRO Technicians Address Flood Damage Fast with Advanced Technology for Williamsburg Property Owners

The thing about flash flooding damage restoration in Williamsburg is that it happens in an instant. Even if you are not in an area known as a flood zone, the perfect storm may come through Williamsburg and bring a lot of damage in its wake. While this is an unexpected event, how you respond dictates how well your property can recover. SERVPRO features skilled IICRC-certified water restoration technicians (WRT) capable of handling any size project, regardless of what is involved. We have honed our processes to accommodate all customers in need, both commercial and residential.

Why Call SERVPRO to Handle Flood Restoration?

Once you call us, our Green Fleet of vehicles stocked with equipment and products gets deployed to your property within hours. We mobilize fast to help you recover with as little damage and stress as possible. A few things to remember about flooding events:

• Floodwater may carry a variety of chemicals, viruses, bacteria, and debris
• Even a clean water event can turn into a Category 2 or 3 event depending on what water comes into contact with
• Calling in skilled technicians ensures all moisture and bacteria gets addressed carefully and efficiently
• DIY methods generally fail in these situations as water follows the path of least resistance and migrates to dry spaces – thus becoming invisible to the naked eye, where it can cause immense secondary damage

SERVPRO adjusts accordingly as we work, using pumps, extractors, drying equipment, and dehumidifiers to restore your interior, including monitoring of indoor air quality (IAQ). When done with the flood damage restoration, all surfaces get cleaned thoroughly using EPA-approved antimicrobials and sanitizing agents. Our efforts culminate to ensure your property gets left Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. 

When you need prompt, reliable help with flood damage, give us a call at SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn at (718) 522-4400.

How Can SERVPRO Help with Active Mold Threats in Williamsburg Homes?

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

Damp areas, like areas around windows, can foster mold growth. Inspect your home often for signs of mold and mildew.

Quickly Removing Mold Colonies Can Protect Williamsburg Properties and Their Occupants

Mold can be a rapidly developing threat for area homes and businesses in moist conditions. Whether following water damage or flooding, unresolved damp pockets can welcome mold growth and the damage that comes with it. We are leading remediation professionals that can help to overcome these threats. 

Identifying Where Mold is Growing

Initial inspections of the property are a telling sign of credible mold removal companies in Williamsburg homes. Our SERVPRO professionals can inspect suspected damaged areas for indicators of active mold growth and structural concerns, including:

• Surface spotting
• Foul odors
• Damp areas
• Sampling

Mold Removal Strategies to Eliminate Active Colonization

There are several possible methods for removing active colonies from a residence. Surface treatment solutions are among the most common when our professionals reach the scene before extensive damage results. Biocide and sporicidal cleaning products kill spores on contact and make the surface uninhabitable. When more than superficial cleaning is necessary, we have advanced remediation options like media blasting and sanding.

Black Mold Damage Repairs in Williamsburg Homes

Not all mold removal companies can meet the total needs of your home during remediation and restoration. Our SERVPRO professionals have a general contractor license to provide many repair and reconstruction services where necessary to damaged homes. Our team is ready for action, from the initial controlled demolition and bulk material removal to the reconstruction of removed structural elements like wall assemblies. 

Mold can be one of the most underrated threats to area homes and businesses, so it is a situation best left to remediation professionals when it gets discovered. As leading mold removal experts, our SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn team can help eliminate active colonies and restore the damage they cause. Call us today at (718) 522-4400.

What Actions Drive Water Mitigation for Brooklyn Residences?

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Don't let water ruin family treasures. We have the tools to help restore your possessions.

Specific Steps Help to Protect and Preserve Wet Areas of Brooklyn Properties After Water Damage

When water damages impact Brooklyn residences, the situation can prove overwhelming for the customer. As leading water restoration specialists for the city, we can respond fast with the mitigative solutions to make water damages "Like it never even happened." 

Emergency Services to Protect from Further Harm 

Water mitigation in Brooklyn homes can often indicate actions taken in many areas of the property. Pressing concerns like standing water might be prioritized, but our technicians must also combat developing threats like structural vulnerabilities or exposed contents. 

Water Removal Options for Pooling or Trapped Water

As you might expect, homes and businesses alike deal with some degree of standing or pooling water damage after a disaster. Burst pipes can leave more of a threat in this regard than a slow leak from inner-wall plumbing, but the certainty of needing water removal services remains the same. Evaluating the condition of exposed surfaces can determine what extraction methods suit the situation best, including:

• Vacuuming
• Pumping
• Draining
• Absorption

Protecting What Matters Most After a Disaster

Another crucial mitigation action that our professionals can take is addressing the damage and potential harm to contents and personal belongings. In some situations, moving and relocating items in the path of migrating moisture is enough to prevent irreparable harm. We do provide intricate cleaning and restoration solutions at our nearby SERVPRO facility for more pressing recovery needs. 

The processes of mitigation are among the essential services that our SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn team offers. Every water damage incident presents a finite timeline for restoration and recovery, and many of our emergency services provided help to meet these pressing deadlines. Our experienced team is standing by at (718) 522-4400.

Brooklyn Flood Damage Specialists Use a Range of Tools

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers specially-formulated cleaning and disinfecting products for flood damage cleanup and restoration in Brooklyn

SERVPRO has the necessary equipment to remediate Brooklyn flood damage

Floods can cause all kinds of water damage to your home, from saturating the carpet and drapes to soaking into drywall or causing wallpaper to peel off. Dealing with flood remediation can seem like a daunting task, but if you call SERVPRO, it will be much easier than you thought.

SERVPRO knows that you want the mess cleaned up as fast as possible after flood damage to your Brooklyn home. There are many aspects to flood damage remediation, and the company you call must have the right equipment for every element. For example:

• Pumping out water might require a free-standing motorized pump, or we might need a truck-mounted pump if there is no easy access to electricity.
• Cleaning wet items might require steam cleaning, hydraulic washing, or UV cleansing.
• Drying might require air movers, dehumidifiers, or portable heaters.

We might also need to carry out disinfection or treatments to prevent fungal growth. We have a variety of antimicrobial products suited to all situations of flooding.

We equip our technicians with the best industry-standard equipment, so they always have the right tools for the job.

For a flood damage service, you can trust, call SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn at (718) 522-4400.

What Happens after Flood Damage in Brooklyn?

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage is no easy task. SERVPRO has the man power and equipment for any size job necessary.

SERVPRO’s process helps Brooklyn homeowners

Brooklyn is one of the most famous areas of New York and is popular with tourists throughout the year. It is also a wonderful place to live, with a rich arts culture and lots for a family to do, plus it is close to the heart of New York City.

Brooklyn’s European settler history goes back hundreds of years. The Dutch first settled Long Island’s Western edge in the mid-seventeenth century. The area we now call Brooklyn was originally six independent cities, populated by the Dutch. These include:

• Graves End, the only colonial town founded by a woman and once a popular gathering place for non-conformists.
• Brooklyn Heights was a hotbed of Abolitionist sentiment and also features beautiful brownstone row houses.
• Flatbush is a culturally diverse area with a mix of modern and traditional brownstone buildings and a delicious diversity of ethnic restaurants.
• Bushwick is a working-class area with modern homes, grassroots community organizations, and several parks.
• Flatlands features several historic homes, cheek by jowl with plenty of modern shopping districts.

Enjoy an outdoor adventure in Brooklyn.

Brooklyn boasts several lovely outdoor spaces, despite being a busy urban area. There are plenty to choose from for a perfect relaxed day out with family and friends. Why not start with:

• Brooklyn Botanic Garden is ideal for plant-lovers, with 14,000 taxa on display. The garden has several beautiful themed areas, including Shakespearean, a Japanese hill-and-pond garden, a rose garden, a water garden, a fragrance garden, and a children’s garden.
• Jamaica Islands Wildlife Refuge is an area of wetlands and salt marshes dotted with islands. It is the perfect place to spot horseshoe crabs and terrapins and do some bird watching.
• Coney Island is ideal if you want some fresh air and entertainment in one place. You can enjoy the beach or take a ride on one of the many fairground attractions.

If the weather turns bad and you want to go inside, look no further than the New York Transit Museum. The museum dates back to 1976, when entry cost one subway token. The original plan was to keep it for a few months, but people loved it so much that it is still popular. You can see retired buses and subway cars, plus other artifacts from New York’s transit history. There are also exhibits about the history of fare-paying, the impact of labor laws on transit systems, and the impact of transit systems on the environment.

What happens after flood damage?

If you have the misfortune to suffer flood damage, you might wonder what happens next. It is essential to deal with flood damage quickly so it cannot spread. Thankfully, SERVPRO is Faster To Any Size Disaster. Call us as soon as you can after flood damage, and we will aim to be at your property within four hours.

Our tried and tested process gets results:

• We assess the situation and draw up an action plan.
• We make your home safe and deal with any immediate hazards.
• We remove standing water from floors and press water from carpets.
• We dry your home and belongings while monitoring moisture levels.
• We clean water-damaged items.

We also deodorize your home when we are finished.

If you need a reliable flood damage process, call SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn at (718) 522-4400.

What Should You Look for in Brooklyn Mold Removal Companies?

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Mold remediation is no DIY project. For the safety of you and your family call SERVPRO and let their IICRC certified technicians do the job.

 SERVPRO supports Brooklyn homeowners

When you notice a patch of fungus in your home, you will probably want to clean it up. However, it is better to wait for the professionals. Home-made or commercial mold cleaners can sometimes make the situation worse by adding extra moisture and encouraging the fungus to propagate.

If you are looking for mold removal companies in Brooklyn, here are some things to ask about.

• Response time – SERVPRO responds to your first call within an hour and aims to be at your home within four hours.
• Training – we train all our techs to The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification standards, so you know you are getting a knowledgeable team.
• Use of containment – containment stops spores from spreading further and is a vital part of effective mold remediation.
• Monitoring – your team should monitor moisture and humidity levels in the affected area to ensure the environment is dry enough to discourage mold regrowth.
• Checking in– your SERVPRO team will follow up with you after a week to ensure you are satisfied.

If you are looking for mold removal companies you can trust, call SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn at (718) 522-4400.

Home Fires in Brooklyn Can Escalate Quickly and Leave Considerable Damage

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO technicians are ready at a moment's notice. Give us a call right away if your home has been affected by fire damage.

SERVPRO Helps Restore Homes with Fire Damage in Brooklyn 

New York City is arguably the most vibrant city in the world, and Brooklyn can rightfully claim its share of that fame. This famous borough is often portrayed in books, movies and is a must-see in tours of the City. Most may not realize that Brooklyn is in Kings County, the second-most densely populated in the United States of America. It also shares the honor of being named the most populated borough in New York City, sharing a border with Queens and boasting connections to Manhattan via tunnels and bridges. Its name honors Breukelen, a Dutch village. If Brooklyn was its own city, it would follow Los Angeles and Chicago in terms of population. Appropriate to its diversity, the borough’s motto is “Unity makes strength.”

Starting around the turn of the century, Brooklyn has become a preferred place to live, and the area has gentrified considerably. Although this process has brought up affordability concerns, it has also evolved into the home of start-up firms, artists, and entrepreneurs, as well as young families. Brooklyn is used to leading the charge in adapting to its residents’ needs, just as it did in the 1800s when it supported industries springing within its borders by creating services and utilities to meet the growing population.

Life in Brooklyn

From an economic perspective, Brooklyn adds considerable value to the financial landscape of New York, but its riches go above and beyond what can be expressed in currency. 

No other offering manifests the borough’s cultural wealth than its cuisine. The food culture in Brooklyn reflects the diversity of its population, and both residents and visitors can enjoy everything from Asian to African to Italian. The number of restaurants is astounding and would take a while to visit. However, Brooklyn is most famous for its pizza, hot dogs, cheesecake, and bagels. Unlike other pizzas, Brooklyn-style pizza is thin and crispy, with toppings extending to the pie's edge. Rumor has it that one of the hidden ingredients in the world-famous New York pizza is literally in the area’s water quality. Water is also identified as the key to making the best bagels. Regardless of what the secret is, people from all over crave these specialties.

Getting around in Brooklyn can be challenging due to many people moving around in its streets. Several groups, including Transportation Alternatives, have embarked on improving pedestrian and bike pathways and advocating for better public transportation and reduced vehicle traffic. About a dozen bridges connect Brooklyn to nearby locations, but the Brooklyn Bridge, built in 1883, is perhaps the most notable among tourists and residents. Not only does it offer a practical option to connect with Manhattan, but it also allows one to appreciate the City from a distance. Some landmarks you should expect to see include-

• The bridge itself- make sure to explore historical markers and appreciate the suspension cables and towers holding it up. When you consider its age, the structure becomes even more impressive and a testament to Brooklyn’s progressive nature.
• The Statue of Liberty- this famous monument can be viewed in all its splendor from the Brooklyn Bridge. Appreciating it from a distance reminds us once again of its importance and all this gift from France symbolizes.
• Skyscrapers- as you walk from Brooklyn into Manhattan, you get to appreciate the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building, and the view really is spectacular, particularly if the sun is setting as you cross it.

If you have been reading up on Brooklyn, you may have noticed that the arts community is an integral part of it. In DUMBO (an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), many galleries and artist spaces have flourished, and you can find works suitable for all tastes. 

Originally a ferry landing, the area’s warehouses, and industrial buildings became ideal for companies such as Etsy and West Elm to set up their headquarters, as well as artist lofts where creativity reigns. On any given day, galleries exhibit pieces by established artists as well as up-and-coming talent. Renovations and new construction have resulted in unique buildings, often commanding top dollar in real estate transactions, but many families have grown along with the City and whose traditions remain rooted in Brooklyn.

Whether you are curious about Brooklyn’s pizza, art, accent, or people, you will not be disappointed. New York City, and this borough, in particular, embody the very vision of the American Dream, and its confluence of cultures is evident block after block. Take a walk, ride a bike, or hop on a tour bus and venture out to explore.

Protecting Your Brooklyn Home in Case of Fire

The risk of a home fire is as prevalent in Brooklyn as it is in other communities. However, the high population density and some buildings' age may make your home more vulnerable to the consequences of smoke and fire, whether in your home or a neighboring unit. At SERVPRO, we pride ourselves on our ability to mobilize quickly and begin the restoration process as soon as we arrive. Our expert team knows the area well and understands the limitations natural to the different neighborhoods' pace and composition, and we work within those parameters.

When you find yourself in need, a call to our 24/7 hotline invites us to bring EPA-approved cleaning solutions, extractors, and specialized equipment to remove the debris left behind by the fire and extinguishing efforts. We also employ the necessary methods to remove the pervasive smell of smoke typical of fires of all sizes, and we explore your insulation and ventilation as an added precaution. Our team is a one-stop guide to the restoration process and the coordination with other relevant parties, including sub-contractors and insurance as needed.

SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn is your friendly neighbor when disaster strikes. Call us at (718) 522-4400 and let us minimize disruptions to your daily life. Like you, we want to leave your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Why Should the Pros Handle Basement Water Cleanup in Brooklyn?

10/31/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn at (718) 522-4400 to have a team sent to your property to assist with basement water damage.

SERVPRO Should Be Your First Call to Help with Water Damage – We Can Restore Your Brooklyn Basement to Pre-Loss Condition

No Brooklyn homeowner or property manager wants to see standing water in the basement. When it comes to home issues, water damage is high on the list because it spreads quickly and brings the potential for health effects should mold and mildew colonize. Rather than waiting, you can contact SERVPRO to facilitate water extraction, drying, and reconstruction. With our IICRC-certified water restoration technicians, we make it look, “Like it never even happened.”

Why Should SERVPRO Be My First Call?
We get in quickly to inspect the water damage to your Brooklyn basement. We take into careful consideration a variety of factors, including:

• Contaminants – The water within your basement could harbor various contaminants ranging from chemicals to sewage. We treat the area carefully to keep contamination from spreading as we work to remove water.
• Structural Issues – Without prompt water extraction and drying, significant damage can come to your walls, foundation, and the first floor above the basement.
• Difficult Spaces – Our skilled crew knows where to seek out potential areas where moisture may have traveled. We use our proven methods and tools to get into the ductwork, crawlspaces, and other tight areas otherwise tricky for homeowners to reach using DIY efforts alone.

We have access to equipment sufficient for handling water removal projects from small to large. Each of our trucks come filled with dehumidifiers and air movers that help us to facilitate drying to bring relative humidity back to normal levels. We ensure that all surface areas impacted by flooding in the basement get treated with EPA-registered antimicrobials to halt mold growth and the onset of musty odors.

Should your basement require controlled demolition, our franchise does it all – including general contracting, drywall removal, tile floor repair, and more. Residential Contractor License #: 2015353DCA.

Call SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn at (718) 522-4400 to have a team sent to your property to assist with basement water damage. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Why are Chemical Treatments not the Only Answer for Mold Removal?

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification provides best practices for mold remediation in Brooklyn properties.

Brooklyn Residents Need Mold Removal that Tackles the Problem from Different Angles

When it comes to keeping your Brooklyn home clean, it is easy to grab the nearest powerful cleaner to melt away dirt and grime. However, when it comes to fungal growth, you might need a different approach.

If you need mold removal in your Brooklyn home, the first step is to call SERVPRO. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster, and we are available 24 hours.

Why is it a bad idea to spray the mold with home cleaners?

Most home cleaning products are not designed to fight mold. They might help clean away surface mold contamination, but they do not tackle problems, such as:

• Mold growing inside affected materials
• Underlying moisture that allows the fungus to grow
• Loose mold spores escaping and starting new colonies in other parts of your home

It is also important to note that some cleaners, especially bleach-based ones, can provide more moisture and make mold growth worse.

What techniques does SERVPRO use to fight mold?

Our technicians use a range of techniques provided by the IICRC to fight mold:

• HEPA vacuuming to remove loose mold spores, and hoover fungus from dry non-porous surfaces such as glass and metal
• Damp wiping to clean mold that is growing in a layer of soil
• Sanding, damp wiping, wire scrubbing, and other abrasive methods for semi-porous surfaces such as concrete or wood
• Baking soda or dry ice blasting for larger areas of wood and brick

 These techniques do not involve chemicals at all – even baking soda blasting uses completely natural ingredients, plus the added benefits of not introducing additional moisture to the treatment area.

Do we use any chemical treatments

Yes – we apply antimicrobial agents when needed. Our antimicrobial treatments are EPA-registered and designed to kill bacteria, mold, and mildew. We sometimes use wet fogging for deodorization – the fogging machine disperses odor-eating products in a fine mist.

Chemical treatments have their place in mold removal, but it is best to use them in conjunction with a range of other techniques for the best results. Our technicians know when to use each product and which safety precautions and personal protective equipment they should use.

For a mold removal service that nears total elimination, Mold Remediation Contractor License #: 00055, call SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn at (718) 522-4400.

What Are the Benefits of Professional Water Restoration in Brooklyn?

6/28/2020 (Permalink)

Don’t panic when facing water damage on your property. Contact team SERVPRO for effective water removal services.

There are many reasons why one might consider the experience and fast response of our SERVPRO team for their water-damaged Brooklyn apartment.

As independent as many Brooklyn property owners might be, many water loss incidents are too severe for them to address. It is easy to consider the possibility of facing even considerable water damage when you believe that surface water is the only concern. Unfortunately, water losses can happen from hundreds of sources in your apartment, many of which get out of control too quickly for DIY approaches.

Recovering your apartment when it is your responsibility to do so, should almost always fall into the hands of water restoration companies in Brooklyn like our SERVPRO team. Choosing a professional approach over attempting the restoration on your own ensures that you get the best possible care for your residence in a timely fashion. Water restoration itself embodies many phases, from the initial extraction and content management through thorough drying and cleaning of your apartment. It is much more than just removing standing water that you can see in your unit's damaged areas.

What Makes SERVPRO a Wise Choice for Recovery?

As a reputable restoration team in the borough that we serve here in New York City, we understand that we are among the many options that residents have when it comes to professional restoration. We offer many advantages to choosing our service when disaster strikes. The more that you know about us and the commitment we have to our customers, the more you can appreciate the links that we go to make water losses or any disaster "Like it never even happened." Some of the distinct advantages and benefits to choosing our professionals include:

• Fast Response
• 24/7 Availability
• Experienced Technicians
• Extensive Training
• Cutting-Edge Equipment

No matter why you need professional restoration services, our SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn team can help when you call (718) 522-4400.

Click here for more information about Brooklyn.

What are Signs of Mold Growth in a Bathroom?

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

Moldy clothes or belongings in your Brooklyn flat? Call SERVPRO for remediation using advanced equipment

SERVPRO has extensive training to handle any type or size of mold remediation in Brooklyn homes

One thing to remember about mold growth is that it will not stop until the conditions allowing it to flourish in a home get eradicated. Only then will remediation efforts work to halt any further mold colony spread or growth. It is vital not to rely on DIY methods and engage a professional company. Signs that you may have a mold issue in your Brooklyn bathroom include:

• A musty odor that is persistent
• Visible signs of mold growth
• Delamination of tiles or wallpaper
• Damp conditions that do not diminish due to poor ventilation

Can Tile With Mold Damage Get Reused After Cleaning?

When SERVPRO techs handle mold damage remediation in Brooklyn properties, their goal is to save as much of the structure as possible. Porous items such as sheetrock and fabrics may require disposal if there is no way to return them to a sanitary standard for reuse. However, if the fabrics and clothing can be washed and disinfected in an Esporta washing system, these can be restored.

Not only do the technicians remove the items that got ruined by the mold infestation, but they also scope the property to discover the reason for it. Frequently seen reasons for this type of issue in a bathroom are unseen leaks behind a wall or poor exhaust ventilation trapping the moist air from showers or baths in the bathroom. In the case of common walls in apartments and condos, the water source should be inspected and fixed. If any building materials require removal and disposal, the technicians can offer any needed repairs or complete reconstruction with their general contractor license #2015353DCA.

SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn at (718) 522-4400 is certified to handle mold damage remediation as indicated by our New York State license #00055 in local properties and can determine the reason for the infestation and necessary repairs to help prevent reoccurrences.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open in Brooklyn, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn today at (718) 522-4400 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Let Our IICRC Certified Technicians Restore Your Brooklyn Apartment After A Fire

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

After this apartment fire, we responded and began clean up procedures right away and packed all the belongings to prep for restoration.

Pre-Reconstruction Steps to Clear Brooklyn Apartment Fire Damage

While every Brooklyn home and apartment owner is not expected to understand our restoration terms like mitigation, its role in the recovery of your property is vital. Mitigation is the phase of restoration where our technicians work to eliminate further loss in a residence through preventative actions. With fire loss incidents, there are many avenues of mitigation beginning as soon as our team arrives.

Mitigation takes place before much of the reconstruction and build back after fire damage in Brooklyn properties. Effects get addressed based on their severity against the household, so starting with the removal of fire debris is an ideal place to begin. Through shoveling remnants of construction materials and ash to dry vacuuming loose debris along surfaces and flooring, we can remove catalysts for noxious odors and soot/smoke particles.

Air quality is a concern after every fire loss situation because unknown contaminants could exist in the environment due to the combustion of specific materials. Soot itself can be a hazardous presence in the air, making the deployment of filtration equipment vital. We have multiple dual-function devices like our hydroxyl generators and ozone machines that both feature onboard HEPA filtration with the primary functions of neutralizing harsh odors in the environment.

Pre-cleaning surfaces not meant to get removed and replaced can stop situations like the aerosolization of soot particles resting on damaged materials. This layer of carbon residue requires varying cleaning strategies from one type of hosting material to another, and we arrive with dry cleaning, wet cleaning, abrasive cleaning, and agitative cleaning equipment and products to help. Cleaning residues from exposed surfaces makes the environment safer for our licensed (#2015353DCA) general contractors working on controlled demolition and full-scale build back after that.

Pre-construction mitigation tactics can help to save our customers time and money on the recovery their property needs after a fire loss incident. Our SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn team features talented restoration professionals accredited by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC.) Give us a call anytime disaster strikes at (718) 522-4400.

See more about Brooklyn.

We Are The Leader In Brooklyn Water Damage Restoration

1/4/2020 (Permalink)

We have the state of the art equipment necessary to restore your home and prevent further damage after a water loss incident.

Signs Your Brooklyn Floor Needs Professional Help for Water Damage

When a water damage event happens in your home, the first thought is to clean it up yourself. Most people have mops, rags, and some have wet/dry vacuums to assist in wiping up the water. 

The downside to this action is that water migrates quickly and can wind up far away from the origination point, setting up your Brooklyn home for water damage. One example might be when a pipe breaks in an upper floor in a bathroom, gravity pulls the water downward, and it runs under the tile floor, between the floor joists and exists into the living room below, all over a couch and carpeted floor. If any moisture gets left behind in these areas, it can trigger issues such as mold or musty odors. 

Why SERVPRO? 

The technicians use advanced detection equipment to thoroughly scope the property to determine the migration path of the water. This equipment ensures that the property has the water extracted and dried without the potential for issues after-the-fact. They use powerful extraction equipment and have specialized drying equipment to handle flooring of different types including hardwood floor, tile, and cement. 

Signs Water Remains On-Site

Giveaways that water damage is still within the property include any of the following: 

• Warped or buckled sheetrock
• Musty odors
• Mold
• Delaminated tiles
• Effervescent on cement or brick
• Bubbles in the paint on walls

Help With Rebuilding

Water ruins floors and sheetrock rapidly, and they often require removal as part of the restoration process. With their residential contractor license #2015353DCA, SERVPRO can offer property owners the option to let the same techs that cleaned up the water loss, full restore the home with their rebuilding service. 

Alert for the Signs of Mold 

If conditions are right, mold spores can germinate and begin to spread as fast as 24 hours after a water loss in the home. SERVPRO techs have extensive training and hold certifications for mold remediation #00055. They know the warning signs for colony establishment and how to safely remediate existing mold to avoid spreading spores throughout the home. 

SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn is available 24/7 at (718) 522-4400. Their certified techs have the training and equipment to handle any water damage to your home to make the loss "Like it never even happened."

See more about Brooklyn.

Water Crisis in Your Townhome? Call SERVPRO for Remediation and Restoration

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

When there is water damage to area townhomes, SERVPRO of Brooklyn responds to return them to preloss conditions.

Why SERVPRO Is Uniquely Qualified to Respond to Water Damage in Brooklyn

The residential housing stock in Brooklyn typically has a long history, with many renovations over the years. When a water crisis occurs in your home, the original structures plus any remodeling or rehabbing that happened can create barriers to fast water removal and rapid structural drying. We have many talented and multi-certified and experienced employees who have “seen it all,” yet are up for the next challenge. That is why we are confident when we take on your unique project.

Layers of Building Materials Lengthen Drying Times

When water damage in your Brooklyn townhome is complicated by multiple layers of sheetrock, expect extended drying times and increased potential for secondary damage like mold growth. The drying time for a single layer of saturated drywall typically is five to seven days. Adding layers in place because of DIY or professional remodeling you or previous owners completed requires adjusted drying times, often more than twice as long. Our team is skilled in the use of penetrating moisture meters with non-stick probes to establish the presence of moisture and to monitor progress. We can head off issues that might be brewing deep inside your walls. 

Controlled Demolition 

Floors, ceilings, and built-in cabinetry can funnel water damage into remote spaces and cavities within your home. When we follow the migration of water, the following question arises: can we employ controlled demolition techniques to gain access to caches of water and damp areas challenging to extract and dry? The training and mentoring by more experienced experts our employees receive is another reason why SERVPRO can respond to unusual water damage circumstances with creativity. Opening up moisture-filled spaces with holes and strategically placed cuts allows our extraction equipment to reach the water. Our air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers are also able to utilize planned demolition to introduce psychrometry - or the science of drying - to mitigate and remediate water damage far from the original loss.

Build Back Support 

Our residential contractor license permits us to offer our customers rebuilding services after controlled demolition. This wrap-around approach is why SERVPRO ensures your water-damaged home eventually returns to preloss condition, “Like it never even happened.”

We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster, why SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn is the water disaster recovery company upon which our community relies. Call us at (718) 522-4400 to discuss your options.

Here is additional information about Brooklyn.

Contractor Licenses:

Residential: 2015353DCA

Mold Remediation: 00055

Brooklynites Rely on SERVPRO to Make Their Homes Whole Again after a Damaging Event

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Don't Get Sold The Brooklyn Bridge for Home Restoration Services--SERVPRO

Why Choose a Full-Service Restoration Partner in Brooklyn

With hundreds of vendors vying for your business after a water, fire, storm, or mold event in your Brooklyn residence or condo, townhouse, or brownstone your might believe it necessary to act as a general contractor. Arranging for different companies to handle individual tasks and coordinating their efforts wastes time and money. Your focus is better aimed at regaining yours and your family’s emotional equilibrium after a disaster. Let our full-service restoration team manage the details.

Water Damage
Dozens of reasons might lie behind your need for water removal in Brooklyn, but the most critical issue going forward is finding a company that can deliver a rapid response, ridding your residence of the excess moisture with pumps, extractors, and an appropriate drying plan. Our crews are Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-accredited, up to speed on the latest water removal techniques and operation of state-of-the-art equipment. We do not fall for gimmicks, and untested means to come to your aid. Hard work and proven methods are our mainstays.

Once you engage our services, we take on all the tasks needed to mitigate further water damage and remediate the harm already done. We permit no downtime, working ceaselessly to make it right. The multiple certifications in specialties like Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) and Applied Structural Drying (ASD) held by our crew members allows us to move from task to task without delay. The full-service approach is why SERVPRO delivers on our promises fast and professionally.

We hold both general contractor (Residential Contractor License #: 2015353DCA) and mold remediation ( Mold Remediation Contractor License #: 00055) licenses giving us the flexibility to take on secondary damage issues and help arrange for rebuilding and restoration of structural components destroyed by the water loss. Our commitment to transforming a watery mess to preloss condition is at the center of our mission, and we are eager to help you with the consequences of plumbing leaks, appliance malfunctions, spills and overflows, or any other event that requires water removal in your home.

Fire Damage
Fire cleanup in Brooklyn is an involved process. If your residence has a sprinkler system or the fire department needed to use quantities of water to quell the blaze, the first order of business often is water removal and drying. The reason water damage moves to the front of the line is exposure to the risks of slips and falls, or electrical shock, in addition to the deterioration water does on its own. Our multi-certified technicians can switch from task to task with confidence.

Soot and other residues need evaluation and matching with appropriate products and methods before cleanup, and ventilation can become an issue in multi-unit buildings. These issues are why SERVPRO’s full-spectrum restoration capability has benefits. We often use air scrubbers that use negative pressure to force contaminants through HEPA filters before exhausting to the outdoors. Air quality is improved, including the clearing of any fumes from cleaners or solvents used to remove protein-based soot from kitchen fires.

We have workers specially trained as Odor Control Technicians (OCT) to resolve lingering smells. A clean and dry home that still contains malodors is not where we welcome our customers. If deep cleaning and debris disposal does not do the trick, we use advanced technology such as thermal foggers, hydroxyl generators, and ozone machines to neutralize the tiny odor-bearing particles floating or settled in your residence through a chemical reaction that eliminates the stench. Do not rely on coverups when we offer this service.

Mold Remediation
Mold damage in your Brooklyn residence can be more of a challenge than the average homeowner can manage. Hosting mold and mildew in your home does not label you as a poor housekeeper. It merely means that the spores these organisms use to reproduce have found a source of moisture. Spores are present in every environment indoors and out on the streets. They coexist invisibly until an opportunity presents itself in an unmopped spill, leak under the sink, or condensation on a window pane.

Within 24 to 48 hours, the watermeal results in active mold growth and eventually, damage. Molds munch on organic surfaces, including wood, wallboard, ceiling tiles, and insulation. A few dead skin cells and soap scum on bathroom tile provide an incubator. A regular phase of any of our water damage projects is inspecting for mold growth, and our ability to remediate the fungal invasion as well is why SERVPRO’s extensive menu of disaster remediation services is so advantageous to our customers.

After you find mold and call us, we send a specially prepared and equipped remediation crew to your location. We isolate, contain, and remove the microbial overgrowth following the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) protocols. Frequently we employ an air scrubber negative pressure system to seal the affected area off, and our crew wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to limit contamination from the debris we remove, bag, and discard. Count on us to help you pinpoint the unwanted water source and arrange for its elimination, so mold spores go hungry in the future.

Storm Damage
Severe weather can strike anywhere, and the devastation it can do to your Brooklyn residence is often significant. Roofs can fail, and trees and light poles can damage windows and even knock holes in exterior walls. When your living spaces suffer this kind of damage, you definitely need to obtain professional help immediately. Not only do you require assistance to secure the building to prevent further damage from the elements, but you also are likely to have a long list of concerns inside your house or apartment as the water spreads.

If you use lower level storage, storm-related flash flooding can cause damage to rarely used items, seasonal clothing and decor, mementos, and documents. When we arrive, we might suggest moving the endangered stored items to our production facility where specially trained technicians can evaluate their condition and use appropriate techniques to clean, dry, and restore the articles. We utilize the Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) to document the location and condition of the items, another example of why SERVPRO considers every aspect of the damage done to our customers.

Many of your neighbors might also have storm damage, but with our team on your side, you do not wait for help. Our affiliation with a nationwide fellowship of disaster providers means we can scale our response to the level of need in the community. We also can arrange for repair and rebuilding services to ensure this tough situation does not get even more disheartening as remediation completes. Once again through rigorous training and testing, we can offer these two licenses to our customers: Residential Contractor License #: 2015353DCA and
Mold Remediation Contractor License #: 00055 thereby assuring them of a full-service recovery.

SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn is by your side every step of the way after a crisis damages your home. Call (718) 522-4400 24/7 for help with any household emergency and see how We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

A Walk Across The Brooklyn Bridge

3 Reasons To Rely On SERVPRO For Large Loss Response

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

For any catastrophic loss call SERVPRO of Northwest Brooklyn

Relying On SERVPRO 

In the event of a major storm, fire or flood in Park Slope, NY, commercial property owners may obtain a faster and more professional response from a local franchise location of a national restoration company. Here are three reasons to choose SERVPRO to handle catastrophic loss.

1. Many Franchise Locations

SERVPRO has more than 1,700 franchise locations. This means that the closest professionals can arrive on site in four hours or less, which may be faster than other regional mitigation and restoration services. In the event of widespread damage such as flooding or storm damage, additional experts and equipment may report from nearby locations.

2. National Corporate Support

The backing of one of the nation's leading mitigation and restoration companies enables local franchises to be better trained and equipped than most independent companies. Insurance jobs are only offered to locations that satisfy all of the requirements of a 21-point Participation Agreement. This oversight and company-wide services such as the Claims Information Center elevate the standard of service and make SERVPRO the right choice in the event of catastrophic loss.

3. Industry-Leading Standards

This national corporation is also a certified training school for the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration. Each franchise must employ at least one technician who specializes in a particular area such as storm damage to maintain certification. The IICRC requires technicians to obtain continuing education credits to ensure that professionals keep up with current best practices in the mitigation and restoration field. This means that the work performed by these employees should be up to the highest standards in the industry.

All of these factors enable SERVPRO to respond to catastrophic loss caused by fires, flooding or storms faster and more effectively than independent mitigation or restoration companies. Within one hour of contacting the national corporation, property owners can expect a response from a franchise in Park Slope, NY.

Why Mold Grows in Homes

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Mold growth can occur in 24-72 hours

The air in your home in Brooklyn, NY, is full of mold spores. They travel inside on pets, clothing, shoes, and bags. The spores are invisible to the naked eye, so you may not even realize they are present unless you see black mold growing on a wall or smell an odor that gives it away. There are several elements that contribute to mold growth as well as preventative measures you can take to protect your home.

Causes of Mold Growth

The main culprit in fungus growth is moisture. There are several reasons excess moisture may be present in your house:

• Water damage from leaks
• Humidity level higher than 50%
• Condensation from windows or HVAC system
• Spoiled food

The mold cleanup process should not only include mitigating the problem itself but also addressing the circumstances that made it possible, to begin with. Mold remediation specialists are trained to handle both mold growth and water damage so that the problem does not return.

Prevention of Mold Growth

Once you pinpoint the issues in your home that are most likely to cause black mold growth, it becomes easier to prevent it. Monitor humidity levels regularly. Inspect your home frequently for leaks, and have any problem that could result in water damage fixed as soon as possible. Make sure your windows, roof, basement and other areas vulnerable to leaks or flooding are in good condition. Store food properly and throw out food that has expired. These tasks may seem time-consuming, but they're a small commitment compared to having to deal with a mold problem.

The best way to prevent the mold spores in the air of your home from becoming the black mold growth on your wall is to control moisture. Adopting the proper vigilance needed to protect your home can save you a lot of time and effort in the long run.

Pretesting and Water Classification: Making the Claims Process More Accurate

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

Black water is contaminated and dangerous.

Pretesting And Water Classification

As an insurance agent in the Brooklyn, NY area, it is your job to move the claims process forward. However, it is also necessary that claims are accurate assessments of the damage sustained to a property. Pretesting water damage can help you deliver an accurate insurance claim.

1. Water Categorization

Water categorization refers to the type of water and its level of contamination. There are three categories.

• Category 1 – White Water
  

White water is considered clean water. It comes from a sanitary source, but prolonged standing could lead to contamination from other sources.

• Category 2 – Gray Water
  

Gray water is contaminated water. This water presents as a darker color and likely has unsafe levels of chemical and biological matter. Avoid contact with the skin and do not consume as it may make you ill.

• Category 3 – Black Water
  

Black water is contaminated and dangerous. This water is likely contaminated with sewage and other toxic chemicals. Contact or consumption could cause serious illness or disease.

2. Category Classification

Pretesting will also provide a classification to the damage. Each category and level require different restoration and mitigation practices which effects price. There are four classifications.

• Class 1
  

Class 1 water damage means minimal exposure. This means that water is affecting a small area of a room and that there is minimal absorption into the surrounding materials.

• Class 2
  

Class 2 water damage involves an entire room and a lot of water absorption into surrounding materials. This level also involves affected structural materials.

• Class 3
  

Class 3 water damage involves the highest level of water absorption. This level of damage typically requires significant repair or replacement of all materials in the space.

• Class 4
  

Class 4 is more related to drying times than water damage. This level involves specialty drying equipment and times due to deep pockets of saturation.

Pretesting provides an overview of the damage inflicted on a property. The higher the category and classification level the more extensive the repair. Therefore, testing the water before a restoration provides an accurate picture and price point for the claim being made.

Mold Mitigation: Protecting Your Income Property From Water Damage

11/30/2018 (Permalink)

Water and mold damage in Greenpoint,NY

Mold Mitigation

One of the scariest things for any property owner is water showing up where it doesn’t belong because it typically signifies greater issues or concerns. For income property owners that concern is twofold because they are worried about the health of the property and the welfare of their tenants, especially as water damage can lead to mold growth. Mold prevention, however, is a simple process that can be implemented in any property.

1. Air Flow and Ventilation

Mold growth requires moisture, and moisture thrives in closed off humid locations. Therefore, to mitigate the potential threat of mold, you should ensure that there is sufficient airflow and ventilation throughout your property by installing vented appliances, air conditioning and dehumidifiers.

2. Waterproofing and Roof Repair

Two of the main culprits for water damage are roof damage and poor seals around plumbing, windows and foundations. Performing annual roof inspections can pinpoint many problems, like missing shingles, damaged flashing and gutter issues, before they lead to leaks in the home. Additionally, checking the interior of basements and windows after storms for water can help you pinpoint any sealant issues.

3. Landscape Grading

Improper grading of landscaping can lead to water buildup in your property’s basement, which can lead to the development of mold, especially if the basement isn’t sealed correctly. Try to ensure that all landscaping is graded away from the house and toward external sewers.

4. Mold Resistant Products

Beyond preventing moisture damage, you can install mold resistant products, like mold-resistant Sheetrock and drywall or paint with mold inhibitors. These products offer hard exterior coatings or chemical composition that make water absorption impossible and therefore mold growth impossible as well. For more information on mold-resistant products and possible installation, you can contact a local mold remediation specialist in the Greenpoint, NY, area.

Water damage can lead to the development of mold, but for vigilant property managers and owners, who take mold prevention seriously, it doesn’t have to be too concerning. By ensuring proper ventilation, structural integrity and adequate landscape grading of your property, you can alleviate both your tenants and your own concerns.

Is a Rental Property Owner Responsible for Fire Damage?

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Park Slope,NY

Owners and tenants may be uncertain about who bears responsibility for damage mitigation and restoration after an apartment fire or a fire at another rental property. Property owners are usually responsible for damage to the property itself, and tenants are responsible for cleaning or replacing their own contents. Find out more about liability for fire damage to rental properties located in Park Slope, NY.

Structural Damage

Landlords are responsible for damage to the property, including:

• Building materials
• Structural components
• Electrical and plumbing systems
• Interior materials such as carpet

A homeowner's insurance policy should cover the cost of cleaning, repairing, or replacing these components after an apartment fire. This coverage can offset the cost of professional mitigation and restoration.

Damaged Contents

Tenants have the responsibility to repair or replace their own property, including:

• Belongings
• Clothing
• Electronics
• Furniture

Landlords may want to recommend that tenants obtain renter's insurance. These affordable policies can help with the costs of content cleaning, restoration, or replacing losses.

Insurance Claims

As soon as a property owner finds out that a fire has occurred, there are several steps he or she should take:

• Document the damage
• Contact the homeowner's insurance provider
  
• Schedule an appointment with a claims adjuster
  
• Proceed with filing a fire damage claim

An adjuster can guide rental property owners through the process of filing a claim. If tenants have renter's insurance, they should also document damage and file a claim through their insurance provider. These claims are entirely separate.

Property owners and tenants both bear some responsibility for cleaning, repairs, and replacing items after an apartment fire or an incident in another type of rental property in Park Slope,NY. Damage mitigation experts can clean and restore damaged building materials and contents. Homeowner's and renter's policies may be able to cover some or all of the cleanup and restoration costs related to the structure or contents.

The Snow Miser is Real: Protecting Your Home This Winter Season

11/15/2018 (Permalink)

Protect your home in Greenpoint,NY from winter storm

Protecting Your Home This Winter Season

A winter storm can produce beautiful scenery in its wake, and it can be easy to overlook the level of damage that is sustained when overwhelmed by the snowglobe-like appeal. However, as a homeowner, it is essential to remedy any potential threats before they cause significant structural damage.

1. Avoid an Indoor Blizzard

A blizzard belongs outside of your home, but with the combination of strong winds and ice, it is possible that the storm may end up overwhelming your property inside and out. Blizzards have a reputation for blowing open doors or even sending ice chunks through windows, and when no one is around this can lead to interior water damage. Invest in durable storm doors and windows to help prevent this type of loss.

2. Prevent Potential Roof Collapse

Living in Greenpoint, NY, it is not uncommon for a winter storm to unload significant amounts of snow, and while that may not be an issue for people with a steep roofline or metal shingles, others may experience significant roof damage and possibly even collapse. Thankfully there are tools and other solutions to prevent snow buildup on your roof.

• Roof Rakes
• Heating cables
• Calcium chloride tablets

3. Ensure You’re Using Snow Removal Equipment Properly

While winter can cause several problems for your home, damaging your property in the process of removing snow is not unheard of. Snow blowers are powerful machines, and when chutes are not correctly controlled that machine can send ice hurling through the air and your beautiful bay window.

4. Have Assistance on Speed Dial

While there are many ways to prevent storm damage in the winter, no method is foolproof. It can be a good idea to have the contact information of emergency restoration services in your area. Additionally, it may be worthwhile to customize an emergency response plan as a precautionary measure.

A winter storm is easy to overlook as a threat because inside you are removed from the immediate danger, but that snow and those winds can be detrimental to the structure of your home. Therefore, to avoid damage, invest in precautionary tools and solutions and always have a backup plan.