Recent Storm Damage Posts

The Most Troubling Mansfield Flood Damage Issues Are Invisible

Name: SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
Telephone: (860) 461-7194

9/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's fast service for storm damage can prevent mold damage in Mansfield properties.

Mansfield Flood Damage Experts That Can Help

After suffering devastating flooding, Mansfield residents understandably fixate on the visible effects of the event rather than the potential unseen issues. However, this tendency usually obscures the full extent of damages and may, over time, facilitate the further deterioration of their homes. Such problems result from waterborne microbes like bacteria, fungi, and parasites.

Nearly every year, Mansfield homeowners experience flood damage and need the assistance of remediators like SERVPRO®. When flood victims come to us, we offer them a wide range of solutions, including water removal services, basement flooding cleanup, biohazard remediation, and water damage repairs. As our technicians are performing these tasks, they work to neutralize harmful microbes and eliminate related threats by:

Using cutting-edge foggers to treat all floodwater-impacted structural elements and interior areas with powerful, commercial-grade disinfectants that kill harmful bacteria
Removing irreparably mold-damaged materials, damp wiping surfaces covered in mold and mildew, and vacuuming excess mold spores into HEPA filters, so surfaces aren’t permanently discolored and further damage is prevented
Treating wooden elements and surfaces affected by floodwaters with antifungals so that they do not later develop structure-destroying dry rot
Refinishing/repainting impacted walls and ceilings to restore them to their preloss condition and protect them from additional harm from the elements
Sanitizing HVAC systems and their ductwork to prevent or limit the further spread of troublesome microorganisms around flood-ravaged residences
Fogging interiors with strong deodorants that effectively address the persistent foul smells associated with a flooding event

Homes are typically restored to preloss condition once these measures are taken. With all of that said, remember that high-quality flood damage assistance is just a quick phone call away. Day or night, your helpful neighbors at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield are always here for you. Contact us at (860) 461-7194 whenever you need us.

Does SERVPRO Provide Flood Damage Repair and Restoration in Mansfield

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

Getting help after a storm is essential to mitigate the damage situation. Team SERVPRO will assess quickly and start the remediation process.

Can SERVPRO Provide Temporary Emergency Flood Damage Repairs in Mansfield

High winds and heavy rain can cause extensive damage to your home in Mansfield in minutes. First, the winds cause tree limbs and other projectiles to puncture your roof and windows. Next, the floodwaters penetrate your home, leaving contaminated debris covering everything. With all of the water everywhere, it is difficult to know what to focus on first as you recover from the devastation.

Fortunately, SERVPRO® has a great deal of experience dealing with these types of emergencies that cause flood damage in Mansfield homes. Our team leader will be onsite in less than four hours to assess the damage and make arrangements for resources to be deployed to protect your home from further damage and begin repair and restoration.

We provide temporary board up of broken windows and doors to prevent additional rain, water, and even rodents from entering your home. Waterproof tarps cover roof punctures to protect the roof and the attic from further damage.

We are a fully licensed general contractor providing residential and commercial contract services, mold remediation, and biohazard cleanup under license #0646584. Damage caused by the floodwaters and wind damage can be cleaned up, disinfected, and dried before we begin restoration of your home. Electrical, plumbing, floor, drywall, roof repairs, and much more can be arranged to help return your home to its original condition, “Like it never even happened.”

Delays caused by a lack of electrical power can cause secondary damage to many porous products. We provide portable power solutions to keep our equipment running as we remove water, clean and disinfect your home and dry all the structure and contents.

Our services include:

Water Cleanup
Water damage restoration and repair
Basement flooding cleanup

Call SERVPRO of Manchester / Mansfield for flood damage restoration services. We provide service to Mansfield and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (860) 461-7194.

Flash Flood Damage Cleanup in Hebron – Call SERVPRO

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

a flooded street with water covering the roads up to the stairs of houses

Flooding and resulting flood damage can happen rather quickly and needs to be dealt with effectively. SERVPRO is standing by 24/7 - 365 days a year.

Protect Your Family from Bacteria from Floodwaters in Hebron – Call SERVPRO

Flash flooding can occur in minutes after a heavy rainstorm in Hebron. It might not even rain much in your area, but the floodwaters arrive and inundate everything in their path. Along the way, the floodwaters pick up lots of debris, bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and even biological material, which are often left inside your home, covering the walls, floors, and contents. SERVPRO® provides flood damage cleanup in Hebron and surrounding areas. We deploy high-capacity pumps, weighted water extractors, air movers, and dehumidifiers to remove the water and dry your home. We also clean and disinfect your home and personal possessions to ensure that it is safe for your family to move back into the house and use the contents.

Our rapid response also prevents secondary damage from water absorption by porous materials, including drywall, carpets, fabrics, wood furniture, and hardwood flooring. Our team can be onsite within four hours of your initial call.

We discuss all aspects of the cleanup and restoration process with you, the client, and your insurance company adjuster. In many cases, items can be cleaned, disinfected, and returned to like-new condition. Many of our clients prefer this approach since their family heirlooms, and treasured knickknacks can be cleaned and returned to the home.

Repairs are made to any structures damaged by the floodwaters that cannot be restored. We focus our restoration activity on returning your home to its original condition, "Like it never even happened.®"

Call SERVPRO for all our company's flood damage restoration and repair services. Our services include the following:

Water removal services
Water damage restoration and repair
Basement flooding cleanup

Call SERVPRO of Manchester / Mansfield for flood damage cleanup services. We provide service to Hebron and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (860) 461-7194.

SERVPRO Repairs Flood Damage to Tile and Vinyl Floors in Coventry

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

a flooded room with water leaking in from outside

When your home or business is facing flooding, time is of the essence. Contact SERVPRO for professional technicians and water removal equipment.

Can SERVPRO Repair Damage to Ceramic Tile Caused by Flood Damage in Coventry?

Many clients are surprised to learn that flood waters can damage tile floors in their Coventry homes and businesses. They expect debris and contaminated material after a flood; however, tile floors are considered non-porous and should be fine after thorough cleaning and disinfection. SERVPRO® provides flood damage cleaning, repair, and restoration services to our flood damaged clients in Coventry and surrounding areas. We immediately deploy high-capacity pumps, water extractors, air movers, and dehumidifiers to remove water and reduce high humidity to normal levels inside the home. All surfaces are cleaned and disinfected. Any items or structure that cannot be repaired is removed and disposed of. We can also help with restoration and repairs, including electrical, plumbing, floor and wall repairs, and much more.

Tile floors would seem to be impervious to water, especially in a flood situation that has inundated your home. However, vinyl and ceramic tiles are often glued or cemented to a wood subfloor. The water and moisture can penetrate the subfloor through cracks in the grout, causing swelling and warping of the wood. Any time a subfloor warps or swells, ceramic tile can crack. Vinyl tiles will become dislodged. Both situations require the replacement of the tiles and often the subfloor if we cannot properly dry it.

Our fast response to your flood damage requests is aimed at minimizing this secondary damage. We respond in less than four hours from your call and use non-penetrating moisture meters to check for potential subfloor moisture issues.

SERVPRO provides the following services to our clients experiencing damage from flooding:

Basement flooding cleanup and restoration
Flood restoration
Water removal and damage repairs

Call SERVPRO of Manchester / Mansfield for flood damage restoration services. We provide service to Coventry and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (860) 461-7194.

Prepare for the Next Storm: Gather Your Information (Step 1)

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Wreckage of a neighborhood destroyed by a tornado

Follow these tips from SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield to minimize damage and recover faster from a storm or natural disaster.

Storms come and storms go, and the trick to weathering them is to be prepared! Whether you know there’s a storm heading right toward you and your home or not (yet!), you and your family will be much better off if you prepare now for the inevitable next storm or natural disaster.

We at SERVPRO® recommend you take a series of steps to be in the best position possible to minimize storm damage to your home and to get through the storm and its aftermath safely and as comfortably as possible. We recommend starting ASAP on these tasks, because some of them will require planning and time to accomplish. But when you have checked off the items on our list, you’ll be glad that you are as prepared as you can be!

Gather and Store Important Information

The first thing to do to prepare for a storm or natural disaster is to pull together in one place the information you may need if your home or property is damaged or if you need to evacuate. This step can be a bit time-consuming, so we recommend doing it over a weekend or over the course of a couple of weeks.

Check your coverage. Review your homeowners coverage with your insurance agent or representative once a year. Consider updating or adding new coverages to reflect your current needs.
Gather and protect your documents. You should have a waterproof, fireproof container in which you keep copies of important documents and records, such as identification, passports, birth and marriage certificates, insurance policies, bank and mortgage records, automobile titles and proof of vaccination. You could also protect important keepsakes or family photos in the safe box, if there’s room.
Document your home and possessions. Set aside some time, perhaps on a weekend, to do a room-by-room inventory of your possessions. It’s a good idea to take photos or videos. Write down serial/model numbers, purchase dates, prices and, for art or jewelry, appraisal values.

If a storm or other disaster causes damage in your home, you can then take a new set of photos and videos to show the damage. Store the photos/videos and inventory document in that safe box at home; keep a duplicate set either uploaded to the cloud (digital records) or stored in a bank’s safe deposit box (paper copies).

When a Storm Hits

Another important way to prepare for a storm or natural disaster is to pre-select the damage restoration company you will use. SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield is ready and able to come out to your home promptly, evaluate the damage, create a plan to remediate it, then go to work on cleaning and restoring your possessions and your home to before-storm condition.

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage remediation, fire restoration services and chemical cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860)461-7194 at any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

Prepare for the Next Storm: Make a Plan (Step 2)

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Be ready before the big storm hits! Prepare now for storm damage and disruption with these tips from SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield.

The time to do basic storm-ready preparation is long before the storm arrives. Storms and other natural disasters are happening more frequently and are more intense, so one of the smartest things we all can do is to be as prepared as possible for the damage and disruption a storm can bring.

SERVPRO may be in the business of storm damage remediation—and we have seen it all—but we hope you will follow our recommended steps to be ready to weather a storm and its aftermath. These steps will require a little time to cross off your list, so make it a priority to set aside an afternoon to talk through these items. You’ll be glad you did!

Develop a Plan for a Storm or Other Emergency

This is another step you should take well before a storm is forecast for your area. You’ll want to gather your family members together to agree on a plan and to be sure everyone understands the details.

Make an escape plan. In case you need to evacuate your home, you should know in advance where you will go. Choose both a local place you can all walk to and a more distant location if the evacuation affects a wider area around your home. Those locations may be a public shelter or a relative’s or friend’s home. Map out the evacuation route and consider practicing it. Also, choose a meeting place in case you are separated when the storm hits.
Pick a contact person outside of your area. This may be a friend or family member who will be your point of contact for information and communicating if you are safe.
Join forces with your neighbors. When a disaster hits, it’s often your neighbors who can offer the most help. Share contact information and talk through some of the actions you can take to help one another and stay safe together.
Check your first aid kit. Make sure your first aid kit is fully stocked, supplement it if not, review the contents with your family and consider taking a first aid class through the American Red Cross.
Pack a go bag. Stuff a duffel or backpack with meds you need to take, a supply of shelf-stable food and water, first aid supplies, important papers (ID, insurance, etc.), contact information and more.

After a Storm

Another step in getting ready for a storm or natural disaster is to know which area company you will use for damage restoration. Consider SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield: we’re the local expert in fire, water and storm damage remediation. We will arrive quickly, gauge the damage, develop a remediation plan, inventory and remove damaged possessions, clean and restore them, and do necessary repairs to your home.

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

We’re Here for You

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

SERVPRO Handles the Biggest Storms and Natural Disasters

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield is part of a national team of experts in major storm damage cleanup.

We’ve all seen the headlines, and many of us have experienced it firsthand: hurricanes, tropical storms and other storms are getting bigger, happening more often and causing much more damage. The wind speeds are often greater, and sometimes, hurricanes or tropical storms linger over an area, shedding vast amounts of rain. Even worse, one storm is often followed by another, with little time to recover in between.

The result? Americans are suffering more frequent and intense storm damage than we used to. The need for experienced, professional storm damage restoration is growing, too. And in the aftermath of a big storm, lots of homeowners need lots of help to repair, rebuild and restore their homes and possessions.

As a nationwide expert, SERVPRO® has a well-deserved reputation for coming to the rescue after a major storm. That’s because more than a decade ago, SERVPRO created a division devoted solely to handling damage from large-scale storms and natural disasters.

The SERVPRO corporation, headquartered in Gallatin, Tennessee, learned a lot in its response to the 2010 Nashville floods. We used that experience as a motivation to create a network of skilled teams to handle large-scale, widespread disaster cleanup. Now, we strategically position Disaster Recovery Teams in anticipation of major storms and disasters. Staffed by the best of the best of SERVPRO’s storm damage remediation pros, the Disaster Recovery Team is ready to respond 24 hours a day, every day.

What Our Major Disaster Recovery Experience Means to You

Even if your storm damage isn’t caused by a major regional disaster, you still benefit from SERVPRO’s large-scale disaster expertise. The SERVPRO corporation has learned so much about the best way to respond to disasters over the decades, and that expertise is reflected in the rigorous training that our professionals undergo. Our standard operating procedures also evolve as we learn from responding to intense, overwhelming disasters.

And, as one of more than 1,800 SERVPRO franchises across the United States, SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield can call on our fellow franchisees for needed equipment and staffing.

Rest assured that SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has the expertise, technology and equipment to handle even biggest and the smallest flood and storm cleanups in north central Connecticut!

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

We’re Here for You

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

Trust SERVPRO for Storm Damage Cleanup

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Help is on the way! Professionals from SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield arriving at your home after you've had storm damage is a welcome sight.

Storms, by their nature, can be unpredictable—and so can the damage they leave behind. After a tropical storm or hurricane, you may lose a few roof shingles or end up with a completely flooded house. A big thunderstorm may knock out your power for a few hours or send a tree crashing through your window. And a winter storm might leave you to shovel your way out or cause a frozen pipe to burst and flood your basement.

Whatever happens, know that SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield is ready with the skilled staff, tools and products to quickly halt and clean up your storm cleanup. After a storm, when many of your neighbors have suffered damage to their homes, too, be ready to call the north central Connecticut experts at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield.

“The massive storms that blew through the area caused severe water damage in my home. I had no clue that my room had a leak until I discovered standing water in my home. I called SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield, and they were able to come out and do a full assessment of the damages immediately. I was very pleased with how they handled everything and delivered satisfying results.”—Sarah in Hebron

“The SERVPRO team from Manchester/Mansfield gave us excellent customer service and courteous, timely, great work! They got rid of all the fallen branches and took care of our roof. The property looks good as new.”—Sue C. in Manchester

“After the amazing service I received from SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield, I will definitely be recommending them to anyone who is in need of mitigation services, and will definitely go to them again if I have any other emergencies. Their communication was above and beyond, and their storm damage restoration services were, as well. The project manager was super helpful and informative throughout the process.”—Julian in Mansfield

“9.5 out of 10 because the staff was polite and helpful throughout the duration of the job. They were prompt and attentive to my concerns, and the crew clearly explained the mold and restoration process with knowledge and professionalism. I will use them again for future needs and I will recommend SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield.”—Zack in Manchester

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

We’re Here for You

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

Prepare for the Next Hurricane

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Take steps to prepare for a hurricane and you'll better protect your family and your home or business from injury and damage.

’Tis the season … the hurricane season, that is. Seems like it starts earlier each year, and is busier, too, with stronger storms. That means you should take weather forecasts seriously and be prepared to protect your home and family from a powerful windstorm. Follow the basic guidelines in this article, and you’ll be ready to handle a hurricane.

Get Your Home or Business Ready

You want to make sure your home or business facility is able to withstand high winds and wind-driven rain. Pay attention to these four areas to prepare for a hurricane.

Roof: Roofs are particularly vulnerable to strong winds, and a damaged roof will allow water to enter your home or building. Before the storm, check your roof to make sure that no shingles are missing or damaged. You may want to hire a roofing pro to examine your roof and replace or repair any weak areas.
Gutters: To help prevent flooding, make sure your gutters are in good shape, secured to the structure and not clogged. A roofing professional can take care of this, too.
Windows: Consider adding hurricane shutters to your windows to protect them from strong winds. As an alternative, you can cover windows and doors with sheets of plywood secured to the frames.
Exterior: Hurricane-force winds will turn unsecured objects into projectiles, causing more damage if they strike your home or business. Bring garbage cans, furniture and other large objects inside if possible or lash them down.

Get Your Family Ready

A storm brings with it the possibility of injury or illness. You should have on hand a fully-stocked emergency kit that can keep your family safe for at least several days. It should include:

First aid supplies
Flashlights with batteries
Fully charged cell phones
Pain relievers and medications taken regularly
Important paperwork (for identification and to file insurance claims, if necessary)
Cash

A power outage, often lasting many days to a week or more, frequently accompanies a strong windstorm like a hurricane. Prepare to hunker down and survive several days without power by taking these steps:

Have on hand a minimum of three days’ (and up to two weeks) worth of canned and nonperishable food.
Set aside a gallon of water per person per day.
Set your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest temperature before the storm hits. A closed refrigerator keeps food safe for 4 hours, and a full freezer will keep food frozen for 48 hours.

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage remediation, fire restoration services and chemical cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860)461-7194 any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO® publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

SERVPRO Repairs Summer Storm Damage in Columbia, CT

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage to your Columbia, CT home or business means a difficult cleanup job. Call SERVPRO for start-to-finish professional storm damage cleanup.

Summer is storm season in Columbia, Connecticut. Powerful thunderstorms, damaging rainstorms—even tornadoes and hurricanes—can hit almost without warning, and the result can be wind or water damage to your home or business. Winter storms are known to cause a lot of damage in central Connecticut, but summer storms can cause flooding and structural damage that can be equally expensive and challenging to clean up.

The Problem with Stormwater

When it enters your structure and causes damage to your building, furniture and possessions, stormwater can be extra difficult to deal with.

In a storm, your Columbia home or business may get drenched. With furniture, flooring, structure and your personal items soaked, you’re going to have a tough time getting everything completely dried out. And if you don’t—if any moisture lingers—mold or mildew may start to bloom in just 48 hours.

Unfortunately, stormwater often enters your home or business after flowing down roads and hills. It is frequently polluted with chemicals and oil, and may contain bacteria and other pathogens, which can cause illness or injury.

SERVPRO® Provides Start-to-Finish Storm Cleanup

If your home or business is damaged by a summer storm, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield for complete storm damage remediation services.

Our 24/7 emergency service means we get out to you quickly
We are experts in the latest water damage restoration techniques
Based in Bloomfield, we are locally owned and operated

But we’re not just local. SERVPRO is also the national expert in storm damage cleanup and restoration. In fact, SERVPRO strategically positions Disaster Recovery Teams in anticipation of major storms and disasters.

Being a national expert means that we’re never overwhelmed by a major storm. As one of more than 1,700 SERVPRO franchises across the United States, we can call on our fellow franchisees for needed equipment and staffing.

We possess the expertise, technology, and equipment to handle even the biggest flood and storm cleanups. Our crews include technicians who specialize in water damage restoration and applied structural drying. They are trained in evaluating storm damage, precisely measuring moisture in the air and using the latest drying technology to fully remediate the damage to your home or business.

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

We’re Here for You

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

SERVPRO Repairs Storm Damage in Northern Connecticut

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

This tree crashed onto a Stafford home, causing water and structural damage. SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield cleaned up the storm damage ASAP.

Among the specialized services provided in northern Connecticut by SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield is storm damage repair. With our 24-Hour Emergency Service, our experienced pros can quickly be at the scene of a water, fire or structural damage emergency at your home or business. Once we arrive, we evaluate the situation, take fast action to prevent further damage from occurring and put our seasoned crew to work on remediating the damage to your structure, furnishings and possessions. And, SERVPRO® can work with a homeowner’s insurance company to streamline the processing and payment of a storm damage-related claim.

These are just a couple of examples of how SERVPRO acts fast to make sudden storm damage “Like it never even happened.”

Intense Storm Caused Damage Inside and Outside of a Stafford Home

A storm barreled through Stafford, CT with intensely powered winds, which caused a tree to fall over in the homeowner's yard. On the way down, the tree broke windows and damaged the front porch of the home. The broken windows allowed water to get into the house, which in turn damaged the floors.

Once the storm was over, the homeowner was quick to call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield to come and clean up the damage. SERVPRO quickly and efficiently repaired the structural damage to the windows and porch caused by the falling tree. We also completely remediated the water damage inside the house, drying everything out quickly to prevent a potential mold infestation.

Storm Shattered a Window on the First Floor of a Northern Connecticut Home

It was a homeowner’s worst nightmare: while a couple was away from their home for several days, high winds from a powerful storm broke a window in their living room. Days went by and the owners never knew about the ever-worsening water damage to their walls and floor. Imagine their shock when they returned!

They immediately called SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield and we responded quickly, assessed the damage and began an intense dry-out effort, monitoring moisture levels and using powerful drying and dehumidifying equipment in a battle against further water damage and mold. The homeowners and SERVPRO are happy to report that the battle was won and the damage was completely remediated!

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

We’re Here for You

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

Broken Frozen Pipe Cleanup in Vernon, CT

1/16/2021 (Permalink)

Broken Frozen Pipe Cleanup in Vernon, CT

At SERVPRO®, we know that a broken frozen pipe cleanup in Vernon, CT home can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, it's a common occurrence during winter's temperature extremes. Pipes freeze and sometimes break. Water quickly escapes, causing problems throughout your home. Some water freezes and expands on freezing days, causing ice damage. An appliance leak, a pipe leak, or a busted copper pipe can easily cause a messy household emergency in the wintertime. It sometimes happens no matter how many precautions you take.

We know the difficulties involved with broken frozen pipe cleanup in Vernon, CT homes. Water damages your upholstery, flooring, walls, ceilings, and personal belongings. Also, it seeps inside walls and ruins plumbing and appliances. SERVPRO understands the urgency to get the cleanup done. When you call, our team responds 24/7. We arrive with the workforce, the equipment, and the expertise to restore your home to its pre-damaged condition.

SERVPRO Broken Frozen Water Pipe Damage Cleanup

When managing damage and broken frozen pipe cleanup in Vernon, CT homes, timing is crucial. Whether or not you plan to file a homeowners insurance claim, you must take appropriate steps to protect your property from further loss. SERVPRO responds fast so we can assist you. We assess the situation, determine your cleanup needs, and minimize the potential for damage. We use specially designed extraction, deodorizing, cleaning, dehumidifying, and drying equipment to perform each task quickly.

Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

SERVPRO assesses broken frozen pipe cleanup in Vernon, CT homes by conducting a thorough inspection. We walk through your home and document the areas needing attention. Water causes apparent problems. It also accumulates and sometimes freezes within walls, inside appliances, under flooring, and other hidden places. After we complete our inspection, we work quickly to perform the required tasks.

Water Extraction

Before beginning an extraction, we quickly sort and separate damaged property from undamaged property. This extraction is an essential part of broken frozen pipe cleanup in Vernon, CT homes. If your damaged property and undamaged property remain nearby, wet items often contaminate items that could have been salvaged. After separating your property, we use specialized extraction equipment to remove the moisture before it causes additional damage.

Drying

We use drying equipment to remove any remaining moisture. Without this step, water still in porous surfaces allows mold and mildew to grow. While you might not see it, you can smell it in the air.

Our team uses industrial drying equipment to finalize the drying process. This step minimizes the chance of water damage and ice damage that occurs when surfaces are even slightly wet.

Dehumidification

After broken frozen pipe cleanup in Vernon, CT homes, evaporating moisture remains in the air. If left untreated, it resettles into your fabrics, flooring, carpets, and other porous surfaces. The SERVPRO team dehumidifies the air to prevent this problem.

We calculate the area, the relative humidity, and the temperature in each affected room. The data allows us to determine the number of industrial dehumidifiers we need for the job. It also tells us the best placement for effective dehumidification.

Odor Removal

Next, we complete the SERVPRO deodorizing process. This process is an essential component of broken frozen pipe cleanup in Vernon, CT homes. Even after we clean your saturated rooms and personal property, there's often an unpleasant odor in the air. Our team uses industrial scrubbers, foggers, and odor-neutralizing products to remove any unpleasant scents.

Cleaning and Sanitizing

Cleaning and sanitizing are critical elements of SERVPRO's broken frozen pipe cleanup process in Vernon, CT homes. Our team uses specialized equipment and safe, professional-grade solutions to clean and sanitize affected surfaces.

Repair and Restoration

Repair and restoration are the final steps in completing broken frozen pipe cleanup in Vernon, CT homes. We repair structural and decorative damage caused by frozen pipe repair, saturation, and freezing expanding ice. The SERVPRO team does wall reconstruction, drywall replacement, painting, and other repair and restoration tasks. Also, we salvage, repair, or replace personal property and decor. We work hard to complete every last detail professionally.

Commercial Building Restoration

SERVPRO professionals also perform broken frozen pipe cleanup in Vernon, CT commercial properties. We have the workforce, expertise, technology, and equipment to manage any job in any commercial facility. We work quickly and efficiently to minimize business disruption.

Contact SERVPRO

We are a locally owned and operated SERVPRO franchise, and we're committed to broken frozen pipe cleanup in Vernon, CT homes and businesses. When you call us, we respond immediately to perform water line leak cleanup, water damage cleanup due to leaking pipes, and other water cleanup problems.

For more information about broken frozen pipe cleanup in Vernon, CT, give us a call at (860)461-7194

5 Services to Look for in a Storm Restoration Company in Manchester

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

When a storm or natural disaster hits your Manchester home or business, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield for professional storm damage cleanup.

In the last few years, Connecticut has suffered 15 tornadoes, tropical storm Isaias, and several heavy snowstorms. Storm damage doesn't always come from wind. Flooding, fires, and hail can demolish valuables and homes.

Fallen trees and downed power lines destroy property and create danger. High winds can rip roofs from houses, and lightning can start ferocious fires.

Once a natural disaster has occurred, storm restoration experts can help you. While some property may be a write-off, many damages are not permanent.

Storm restoration experts like SERVPRO® can help you recover the residential or commercial property. Make sure you hire professionals with the skillset to handle a range of damages. All storm restoration companies should handle water, fire, and mold damage.

Storm restoration experts can help you clean, repair, and rebuild your property. Let's take a look at the five essential services to look for in a restoration company.

Prerequisites

Before we outline vital services, there are some basic essentials to keep in mind. Reputable storm restoration companies should be professional and certified. For best results, your storm restoration contractor should carry as many of the following traits as possible.

27/4 Availability

Your chosen storm restoration company should have 24/7 availability. The first 24-48 hours, after a storm has left or calmed down, are crucial. In these hours, much of the damage is still reversible without extensive repair.

This is especially true for water damage. If water is left sitting, it can cause mold and rot. Even after draining the water, mold can cause health effects to your family. Storm restoration contractors should begin their work as soon as possible.

Certification

Seek out restoration contractors that have professional qualifications, especially for cleaning services tailored for disease prevention.

Reputable companies like SERVPRO go beyond the industry standard. SERVPRO uses its unique "three C's" approach to clean even viral pathogens. The SERVPRO model is based on bespoke consulting and expert hospital-grade cleaning.

Each location cleaned by SERVPRO will also be stamped with its own shield. All employees and customers can see the business's commitment to comfort and security.
All SERVPRO certifications comply with industry-standard CDC, RIA, and IICRC qualifications. All cleaning products are also EPA approved.

Find a storm restoration company with equal or comparable certifications. IICRC (Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification) is an excellent place to start. Other qualifications to look for include the following:

ACAC (American Council for Accredited Certification
IAQA (Indoor Air Quality Association)

Insurance Compatible

With the hope that you already possessed storm damage insurance, make sure your contractor possesses the know-how. Storm damage restoration contractors should understand how to work with insurance companies.

Insurance can be confusing to navigate. But if not done correctly, you may end up with large bills that your insurance will not cover. Worse than having no insurance is paying for insurance and your cleaning bill.

Experienced Professionals

If you can, find a storm restoration contractor that has been in business for a long time. Storm restoration is an industry founded on experience.

Each situation is vastly different and requires a new approach. Fire damage, flooding, mold, or roof damage all demand specialized procedures.

Years of experience will ensure that companies operate safely. Companies like SERVPRO have been serving customers since 1967. With over 53 years of experience - your damaged property is in safe hands.

Range of Services

Perhaps the most crucial factor is what services your contractor offers. Every storm restoration contractor should be able to handle a few different types of damage. Often, storms will cause more than one form of damage to a building.

For example, water damage and extraction are often paired with mold treatment. If your storm restoration company can only handle one type of damage, you may have to contact several companies. Multiple contractors can be expensive and confusing.

Storm Restoration Services

Storm restoration services should include a range of possibilities. The specific services in demand may vary according to the type of damage. The following are five key examples.

1. Water Damage Mitigation

If your building suffered water damage from storm flooding, this service is vital to look for. Make sure you check if your potential contractor has this service before moving further.

Water damage mitigation takes qualified expertise to conduct well. Companies should have the correct knowledge, experience, equipment, and training.

Water damage mitigation is the repair of basement floods, broken seals, and broken or frozen pipes. Storm damage isn't always necessary; you may have a faulty, leaking water heater.

Advanced equipment helps contractors locate and extract the water before mold grows. It is key that technicians also monitor the drying process. If mold begins to grow, you may need to have an expert remove it.

2. Mold Damage

Mold damage can be tricky and dangerous for inhabitants. 24/7 availability is critical because mold can grow in less than 48 hours.

The faster your storm restoration contractor can arrive, the cheaper the cost. Mold damage becomes more expensive over time.

Mold is often caused by leaks in pipes or heavy rain entering the home. When left untreated, mold can cause health effects.

Mold can also rot wooden structures, causing structural weaknesses. Indoor air quality is significantly reduced by mold.

Mold doesn't need to start in your building or home. Mold spores are microscopic and can enter your home through the following:

Air vents
Heating systems
Clothing or pets
Windows and doors

3. Cleaning Services

Storms cause havoc. Most imagine wind, rain, and floods when they think of storms. But the mess left behind by storms can be a health hazard.

Carpets are ruined, strange smells begin, sewage can overflow, and more. Storm restoration contractors should be able to handle any mess. Mold, sewage, smells, and stains are all fair game.

Carpet and Upholstery

Storm damage often causes stains and soiled carpeting or furniture. Make sure your storm restoration company can deal with these types of damages.

Bonnet cleaning is ideal for low pile carpets. It uses minimal moisture and only cleans the fibers you can see, not deep into the carpet. The process involves using a bonnet cleaning machine.

After a thorough vacuum, a bonnet machine with a bonnet cleaning chemical can be effective. Devices have a circular brush that scrubs away surface stains.

Hot water extraction (HWE) combines hot water and chemicals injected at high pressure. Once the chemicals and water lift the soiling materials, a powerful vacuum removes them.

HWE can be portable or truck mounted. Portable machines reach higher floors easier.
Deluxe preconditioning and rinsing or premier cleaning restores deeply soiled areas.

This is a commercial-grade cleaning service. Dry cleaning can also help to clean upholstery that can lose its color.

Preventative maintenance can help in circumstances other than storm damage. Regular vacuuming, spot removal, and moving furniture help to keep your carpet healthy. Get a professional to clean your carpets once a year regardless of storm damage.

Sewage

Sewage spill is a serious health concern in the wake of a storm. Any water leaking from a sewer system will likely contain bacteria and viruses.

Sewage leaks should be dealt with immediately and professionally. Special training and equipment are necessary to deal with leaks of that sort. If you're unsure whether there is contamination, assume there is.

Storm restoration companies should be equipped to handle contaminated water. SERVPRO breaks down water contamination into three categories.

'Clean water' is sourced from a clean location. Broken faucets, water supply to the shower, or any clean water source. Clean water won't harm but can degrade to 'gray water' or 'black water' over time.

'Gray water' is any water that would cause health issues or concerns if ingested. Examples include toilet overflow (containing some urine) or leaks from a washing machine. This kind of water can contain viruses or bacteria.

'Black water' by comparison, is extremely unsanitary and can cause severe illness or even death. SERVPRO recommends avoiding all contact with black water. This includes storm flooding from rivers, toilet water (with feces), or water left to mold.

Black water can contain sewage and strong chemicals. Always deal with leaks or floods as quickly as possible to avoid water contamination.

Odor Removal

Removing an odor is challenging. Advanced equipment and professional expertise prevent wasting time and energy.

Odors can emanate from anywhere in or around a building. Odors can be unpleasant and make your living or working space untenable. Meanwhile, gases like carbon monoxide can cause serious harm without a trace.

Professional companies identify the cause of the odor and where it makes contact. Odors then need to be removed over time. Odor removal products aim to neutralize the scent without covering it.

4. Walls, Floors, and Ceilings

In the hopes that your building's structure is still intact after a storm - leaks can often be an issue. After clearing out the water and any potential mold growth - floors, ceilings, and walls are next.

If your business was affected, cleaning these areas is essential to the appearance of your building. Stained walls, floors, and ceilings do not make a good appearance.
If your floors are tile or stone, the job is likely easier.

Tile and stone will need deep cleaning and sanitization. Special care must be paid to natural stone and ceramic tiles. Again, prevention techniques like complete grouting treatment and the sealant help keep out dirt and water.

Hardwood floors, however, will require special treatment. Hardwood floors appear easy to maintain, but over time they can absorb soil.

Wood floors also bend and change color if they are soaked in water. Floods can ruin a wood floor if not promptly treated. Professional tools can remove stains and reapply coating to prevent further damage.

Remember that it is especially important to let wooden floors dry out after a flood. Do not re-cover wooden floors with carpeting before dehumidifying them. Wet flooring and foundations can be a breeding place for mold - much of the building's heat is often stored there.

5. HVAC and Air Duct Cleaning

Storms can whip up clouds of dust and debris, especially tornadoes. Dust or other dirt can block and cause HVAC malfunction.

Even after thorough cleaning of surfaces and smells, your HVAC system may not function well, especially if it was already in need of maintenance before the storm.
Make sure your storm restoration company takes a look at your HVAC systems. Cleaning out an odor will likely include HVAC cleaning as well.

Any other contaminants can be spread through HVAC systems. Mold or other irritants are airborne and small enough to carry through a building via HVAC. Additionally, heating systems can breed mold growth if warm water leaks.

Take Action

Storms can tear apart towns, homes, and businesses. It's imperative to take action if you can afford to do so.

Make sure you work with a storm restoration service that works with insurance. Seek out experience, certifications, and high standards.

While a restoration service can be expensive, your home or business comes first. Make sure you get into contact with contractors as early as possible.

Early intervention lowers cost and helps you get a better price. Contact us now if you have storm damage and need help.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

6 Facts About Floods (Part 1: Where and When Floods Happen)

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Knowing when and where a flood may occur can help you be prepared for one. Learn the facts and know how to protect your home and family.

Whether caused by rainstorms, hurricanes, burst dams or another incident, floods are the most common natural disaster that occurs in the United States. They are frequent, often deadly and cause vast amounts of property damage. Protecting your home and family may hinge on your ability to make the right choices about what to do in a flood—and that ability depends on knowing the facts about floods, starting with where and when a flood may occur.

Fact #1: You don’t have to be in a flood zone to be at risk of a flood.

If you’re in a place where it can rain, then you’re potentially at risk of a flood, whether or not you’re in a designated flood zone. According to FEMA, one out of five flood insurance claims originates not in flood zones but in low- and moderate-risk areas.

Fact # 2: Rivers and streams aren’t the only sources of flash floods.

While they usually happen near rivers and streams, flash floods can occur in other locations, too, such as in urban areas and near dams. In built-up cities and towns, there are more impermeable surfaces, such as buildings, sidewalks, streets, parking lots and highways. That means there’s less land available to absorb runoff from rainwater or snowmelt. Urban areas, hit with lots of water with nowhere to go, can quickly become flooded. Any property near a dam can be devastated by a flash flood if that dam fails. A wall of water released by a dam may not stay in a river channel, but can spread and quickly inundate a wide swath of land.

Fact #3: Floods happen during the winter, too.

Flood threats in the winter include heavy rainfall, rapid snowmelt and ice jams. All these risks are caused by fluctuations in temperature. A sharp warming can bring lots of rainwater to an already saturated area, and can cause snowpacks to melt quickly. Often, the rainwater and snowmelt combine to cause severe and sudden flooding. An ice jam is also caused by higher temperatures that break up ice along rivers and streams. Large chunks of ice travel downstream and get trapped near bridges and other structures, blocking the flow of water and causing flooding upstream. Then, when the jam breaks up, the water can surge downstream, causing more flooding.

Read part 2 of this article to learn about the risks posed by floodwaters.

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

We’re Here for You

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

6 Facts About Floods (Part 2: Staying Safe in a Flood)

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Evacuating from a flood poses many risks. Learn the facts about floodwater and stay safe!

Part 1 of this article explained how floods can happen in unexpected locations and circumstances. That’s why even if you’re not in a designated flood zone, you should always be prepared to survive a flood or other natural disaster: plan an evacuation strategy and have an emergency kit ready, including a supply of shelf-stable food.

In this part of the article, learn about the potential dangers of venturing out into floodwaters.

Fact #4: Evacuating your home brings new risks.

If you can avoid it, try not to leave your home during a flood, because walking or driving through floodwaters poses additional hazards (as described below). If you remain in your home and the floodwater begins to rise inside, you should immediately move to a higher level of your house. Avoid sheltering in a part of your house where you could become trapped, however, such as in an attic. Your last option is to climb onto your roof and wait or call for help.

Fact #5: It’s dangerous to drive through floodwaters.

Floodwater is often deeper than it appears. Surprisingly, your car can begin to float in only 12 inches of floodwater, putting it at risk of being swept into a current. Another risk is that of stalling out and being trapped in your vehicle, surrounded by water. Even if you are able to negotiate the floodwater in your car, know that the water hides multiple hazards, such as washed-out pavement, debris that could damage your tires or undercarriage, and downed electrical wires that pose a risk of electrocution.

Fact #6: It’s dangerous to walk through floodwaters.

Many of the risks of driving through water also apply to walking through floodwaters. Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock you over! In addition to the risk of coming into contact with sharp debris and live electrical wires, you must also protect against the sewage and chemical contamination that is often found in floodwater. If you absolutely must walk through floodwater, wear protective gear such as rubber boots and gloves.

Bonus Fact: SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield can help you recover from a flood by restoring your property and possessions to their pre-water damaged condition.

If your home or business suffers damage from a flood, windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

We’re Here for You

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a flood, windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

Protect Your Devices in a Thunderstorm

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Some low-tech, old-school steps can protect your most high-tech home devices from a thunderstorm's fury.

A big thunderstorm, packed with lightning, wind and rain, can do a lot of damage to your home, including starting a fire or knocking a tree onto your roof. While these are some of the obvious risks of a storm, there’s another kind of damage that deserves your attention: a powerful lightning strike that could destroy the high-tech gear inside your home, including TVs, computers, routers, modems, smart devices, and more.

If a bolt of lightning strikes a nearby electrical pole, the resulting power surge can ruin all of your electrical devices. A little preparation before the storm, however, can vastly reduce the chance for that kind of storm damage—and will cost much less than replacing all of your electronics after a storm!

Unplug Your Devices

It’s almost too obvious, but the easiest and most effective way to prevent lightning-induced damage to your tech devices is to unplug everything you can before the storm hits. Go from room to room and pull cords out of outlets. It’s a small hassle—after the storm passes, you’ll have to plug everything back in and reset some of your devices—but if your electronics aren’t receiving any power, they cannot be damaged by a surge.

(One exception to this may be your WiFi router—if that’s your only way to connect to the internet. You may need to get up-to-date forecasts and information to stay safe during a severe storm, so weigh that necessity against the cost of a new router.)

Tip: If you’re going on an extended trip, you’ll want to unplug all your devices before leaving.

Use Low Tech to Protect High Tech

Used for centuries, lightning rods are metal poles that you attach to your roof to keep lightning from striking more vulnerable parts of your home. This old-but-good technology remains an effective way to protect a home—and lightning rods don’t just keep lightning from making a direct hit on your house. They also draw the lightning away from nearby power lines and light poles, reducing the chances for a power surge. Putting a lightning rod on top of your home might seem old-fashioned, but it could save your high tech equipment.

Sorry, But Your Surge Protector May Not Save You

Surge protectors are great at protecting your electrical devices from minor power spikes. Unfortunately, most surge protectors can only handle surges up to around 4,000 joules—and the average lightning strike rings in at around 1,000,000,000 joules! No surge protector can handle an electrical strike that is more than 250,000 times more powerful than what is rated for.

Don’t get rid of your surge protectors just yet, though. Surge protectors still offer protection from distant lightning strikes and everyday power surges, so they are a worthwhile investment.

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

We’re Here for You

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

Be Ready for a Storm Before It Hits

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

A summer storm—hurricane, tornado or thunderstorm—can knock out your power and severely damage your house. Do these five things to prepare now!

Any time of the year is a bad time to get hit by a storm that can damage your home or knock out your power. Summer storms—such as hurricanes, tornadoes and powerful thunderstorms—can be a real challenge if you’re not ready for them. You and your family will weather the storm much more easily and safely if you prepare by having some key supplies on hand well before you need them.

1. Food & Water

Make it a practice to keep a two-week supply of nonperishable food and water on hand. Foods, such as canned and boxed food and other staples, should be high in calories and nutrition and not require refrigeration, water or special preparation. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends having at least one gallon of water per day for each member of your family. Store your food and water in a cool, dry and dark place. Periodically, check the expiration dates and discard and replace expired items. If you have a pet, store a two-week supply of your pet’s food, too.

2. Lights & Electronics

Summer storms are notorious for causing power outages. If your power fails, you’ll want lighting and a way to power your phone or other electronic device. Keep on hand several flashlights and a compact lantern—as well as a supply of batteries. When you know a storm is on the way, fully charge your phone and devices—and if you have one or more power banks, charge them up, too.

3. First Aid Kit

If you suffer minor injuries during or after a big storm, you may not be able to call on busy first responders for help. Be prepared to handle basic medical care on your own with a first-aid kit that includes bandages, gauze, a cold compress, scissors, tweezers, a seven-day supply of necessary medications and more. Store these essentials in a portable carrying case so you can grab and go if you need to.

4. Documents & Records

You may have to evacuate your home or deal with insurance claims after a storm. Gather your important identification papers and other documents, such as birth certificates, Social Security cards, marriage certificates, adoption papers, passports, naturalization documents, wills, living wills, powers of attorney and property deeds/titles. Store everything in a portable waterproof, fire-safe security chest. If there’s room, include important DVDs, portable disks and flash drives, too.

5. Cash & Gas

You should always have a supply of cash tucked away at home for an emergency. (If you have the means, build up a separate supply of easily-accessible funds that you can tap after a storm disaster to cover sudden expenses.) Gas up your vehicles before the storm hits to avoid long lines and the possibility of a gas shortage.

Just a few hours of preparation, long before the clouds arrive, will help you and your family stay safe and comfortable through a hurricane, tornado or severe thunderstorm and its storm disaster aftermath.

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

We’re Here for You

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

Get Your Home Ready for Summer’s Storms

6/6/2020 (Permalink)

Examine and secure your home and property now before a hurricane or other windstorm causes costly damage.

Roofing, garages, doors and windows are all vulnerable to damage from the strong winds of hurricanes and tornadoes. Replacing those components—or rebuilding your home entirely—are major expenses to be avoided if possible. And don’t forget that your car may also be damaged by wind!

This article will help you protect your home and property from wind damage before a storm or hurricane hits.

A Stronger Garage Door

Garage doors are considered the weakest part of a home in a windstorm. In fact, most residential hurricane damage starts with wind entry through these doors.

If your garage doors are made of lightweight materials, they may be quite vulnerable to high winds. Ideally, garage doors are windowless, less than 9 feet wide and rated to withstand more than 50 pounds of pressure per square foot. Check for a pressure rating sticker on the inside of your garage door. If the sticker shows a rating of 50 pounds or less—or you don’t see a sticker at all—consider purchasing new wind-resistant doors.

A Protected Roof

Don’t wait for an impending storm to make sure that your roof is protected against wind damage. Have it professionally inspected:

Shingles should meet or exceed the local building code, be rated high in wind and impact resistance, and be fitted tightly together and properly nailed down
Roof sheathing should be securely nailed down and seams sealed and waterproofed
Any attached HVAC units should be securely installed

Secured Windows and Doors

If your region is prone to hurricanes and heavy storms, consider installing impact-resistant windows, which are designed to withstand forceful winds.

Strong winds can rattle any exterior door that’s not properly secured. You should inspect your home’s doors:

Check hinges for missing screws. How many hinges are there? Three provides more strength than two
Check the threshold to make sure it’s tightly screwed into your house, not just the door frame

Consider installing new wind-resistant doors that have a high design pressure (DP) rating, which measures the wind force a door system can withstand.

Safely Stored Vehicles

If possible, park your vehicles inside a garage or storage building before a storm arrives.

If you must park outside, stay away from objects that could cause damage, such as branches, lampposts and power lines. Never park vehicles under a tree if a storm is on the way.

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

We’re Here for You

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO® publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

Protect Your Home from Storm Water Runoff

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Water flows off the edge of a house's roof

All that water has to go somewhere! Here are several ways to direct storm water runoff away from your home.

In the natural environment, storm water runoff is absorbed by soil, evaporates into the atmosphere or flows into bodies of water, such as streams, lakes or rivers. But on your property, storm water runoff can quickly overwhelm natural and man-made systems, leading to flooding repair and property damage.

Some ways to manage storm water runoff on your property include planting trees and other vegetation, building rain gardens and installing rain barrels or cisterns to collect roof water. Consider these additional aspects of managing runoff, which can point to some long- and short-term improvements to your home and yard that can prevent expensive water damage after a storm.

Evaluate Your Property

During or right after a storm, go outside and observe how water flows on your property. Note the different grades and slopes and whether they divert the flowing water away from your home. Look for low spots where water pools and identify any steep slopes that show signs of surface erosion.

Add Permeable Surfaces

Rain that falls on roofs, driveways, patios, roads and other impervious areas moves at greater speeds and can pool, eventually flooding your home. Consider replacing impervious areas with water-absorbing surfaces, such as permeable paving stones or pavers.

Direct Water Away from Your Home

Your roof gutter downspouts, driveways, walkways and patios should direct runoff away from your house to areas that can absorb or slow the surface flow, such as landscaped areas. If your driveway or other impervious surfaces have a negative pitch back toward the house, consider installing trench or area drains to divert water away from the house.

Keep Your Basement Dry

Basements that are prone to water intrusion should have a water collection system in place, such as a sump pump system with a battery backup. Consider elevating your home’s mechanical systems or installing curbs around finished areas and storage areas.

Be Aware of High Water Tables

Have your sewer or septic system checked by a professional. If the groundwater rises too high, it can affect the efficiency and operation of the system, which may lead to a sewer backup or waste leaching above the ground or back into the house.

Seal Your Envelope

Make sure that your house’s exterior—its envelope—is maintained, including roofing, flashings, weather barriers, windows, doors and sealants.

If your home or business suffers damage from a storm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

We’re Here for You

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO® publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a storm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

Power’s Out? What Will Your Family Eat?

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

Plastic bins filled with nonperishable food and supplies.

Keep a supply of nonperishable food on hand to help you feed your family during a power outage caused by a storm.

When a strong thunderstorm, hurricane, tornado or snowstorm hits your area, you can lose power—and that outage can last for days. How will you feed your family? Follow these tips for weathering storms and outages safely and nutritiously.

Stock Up on Staples

Avoid a panic trip to the grocery store by shopping for staples while the weather is still clear. Periodically pick up extra non-perishables throughout the year, and keep a manual can opener in your home. Rotate the items occasionally so that your stock is fresh. Then, when a storm is in the forecast, check your stocks of food and plan what to eat first.

Healthy shelf-stable options include:

low-sodium canned beans
vegetables
fruit (packed in fruit juice)
breakfast cereal
peanut butter
pouches of fully cooked whole grains
nuts
whole-wheat crackers
snack bars
shelf-stable milk or plant milk (the kind sold in aseptic boxes)
bottled water

How Long Will Refrigerated Foods Last?

A closed refrigerator will maintain a safe temperature—below 40° F—for about 4 hours, according to the Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. A full freezer will stay cold for 48 hours, and 24 hours if half full. (A quick way to fill up your freezer to gain another 24 hours is to fill containers with water and freeze them.)

Although often stored in the refrigerator, bread, butter, fresh fruit and vegetables, jelly and hard cheeses (such as cheddar) will keep for days at room temperature.

Keep the Menu Healthy

For interesting and nutritious meals, combine canned fish or meats, pouches of precooked grains, vegetables, beans and fruits to make fresh salads and sandwiches.

Apples, avocados, citrus fruit, carrots, celery, cucumbers, grapes, green beans, peppers, snap peas and tomatoes can be eaten raw and will be good for days unrefrigerated. These fruits and vegetables will not only sustain you, but as good sources of fiber, they will keep your body running smoothly.

If your home or business suffers damage from a storm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

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SERVPRO® publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a storm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

Batten Down Before the Storm Hits!

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

Outside furniture and plants on a home's deck.

If not brought inside or anchored, your outdoor possessions could be severely damaged—or become dangerous projectiles.

If a storm or hurricane is approaching, everything you own outside your house that isn't bolted down is at risk of being damaged or blown around. Follow these tips to protect your property from becoming wind-tossed projectiles.

Secure Your Outdoor Furnishings

Bring your patio furniture, outdoor toys, container plants, pool cleaning and gardening equipment inside to prevent damage to your house or other parts of your property. Anchor heavier outdoor objects that can't easily be brought inside to something solid with rope, bungee cord, chains, etc.

If possible, bring gas or charcoal grills inside. Important: never use grills inside or store propane tanks inside your home or garage! Chain propane tanks in an upright position to a secure object away from your home, so they don’t get lifted by winds.

Prune Trees and Shrubs

Ideally, you prune dying and weak branches of trees and shrubs throughout the year as part of your regular yard maintenance. If not, do this before the storm to prevent branches from being tossed by powerful winds.

If your home or business suffers damage from a natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

We’re Here for You

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO® publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

Pack a Medication Go-Bag for Emergencies

7/11/2019 (Permalink)

Be prepared for a sudden natural disaster emergency with a well-stocked medication go-bag.

A well-stocked medication go-bag can save your life during a hurricane, flood, fire or other emergency. But don’t wait until a storm threatens.

Whether you buy a kit from a drugstore or build it yourself, keep a medication go-bag on hand that includes:

At least seven days’ worth of over-the-counter and prescription medications you take on a regular basis
A copy of your health insurance card
An antihistamine for allergic reactions
Pain relievers
Stomach, antacid and antidiarrheal remedies
Antiseptic wipes; an antibiotic ointment; and bandages, gauze and tape, for treating burns, cuts and wounds
Mosquito repellent and aloe gel, hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion
Eyewash solution
Water-purification tablets
Scissors and tweezers
Thermometer

If you and your family have special medical needs, keep a more sophisticated kit—stocked with hearing aids with extra batteries, an epinephrine auto-injector, glasses, contact lenses or syringes, for example.

If your home or business suffers damage from a natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

Storing and Maintaining Your Go-Bag

Pack the items in an easy-to-carry, water-resistant kit, and store it in a dry, cool place in your home. Check the kit regularly and replace any out-of-date or damaged supplies.

We’re Here for You

Other Helpful Blog Posts from SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how Manchester and Mansfield residents can protect their homes and businesses from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
We serve Amston, Andover, Bolton, Columbia, Coventry, Hebron, Manchester, Mansfield and Storrs, Connecticut.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

Be Prepared for a Disaster

6/26/2019 (Permalink)

Natural disasters can strike at any time. If you get a warning, make use of that precious time and prepare!

It’s essential to have a plan when a natural disaster looms! If you are ordered to evacuate, do so. If not, use your time wisely, and be prepared:

Communicate where you are and where you will be to someone outside the affected area.
Stay tuned to your local television or radio station or community alert system for emergency information.
Check your emergency survival kit, which should be stocked with essential items.
Collect emergency building materials, such as plywood, sandbags and waterproof tarps.
Fuel up your vehicles and equipment. If you have an emergency generator, store fresh fuel in an approved container in a safe location.
Have car chargers for your cell phone, smart phone and other portable devices and fully charge them before a storm.
Secure all outdoor furniture and other objects or move them inside.
Know how to shut off the gas, electricity and water in your home or place of business. If you need to evacuate, turn off utilities before leaving.

If your home or business suffers damage from a natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

We’re Here for You

Other Helpful Blog Posts from SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
We serve Amston, Andover, Bolton, Columbia, Coventry, Hebron, Manchester, Mansfield and Storrs, Connecticut.

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

Stay Safe in Your Home During a Thunderstorm

6/7/2019 (Permalink)

You're safest in a building during a thunderstorm. These tips will keep you even safer.

Summer is peak season for thunderstorms and lightning. If you’re at home when a storm hits, here are ways to stay safe:

Watching television or going online may seem like good ways to pass the time, but you should unplug televisions, computers and any other high-value electronics well before the storm hits.
Don’t touch electrical equipment or cords, including corded phones (it’s okay to use cell or cordless phones).
Stay away from windows, doors and porches.
Avoid taking baths or showers. Water conducts electricity so if lightning strikes your house, it may travel through water and shock you.

If your home or business suffers damage from a storm, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

If you think your home has been struck by lightning:

Call 911 immediately and evacuate if you see fire or smoke. Ask your fire department to check for hot spots in your walls.
If you use gas for heating and cooking, contact your gas company or a licensed contractor to test for leaks before re-entering your home. Gas system components can be punctured by direct or nearby lightning strikes.

Important: If you are outside and hear thunder, stop all outdoor activities and immediately get into a building or a hard-topped vehicle for safety.

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage cleanup, water damage remediation, fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention and chemical cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860)461-7194 any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts from SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
We serve Amston, Andover, Bolton, Columbia, Coventry, Hebron, Manchester, Mansfield and Storrs, Connecticut.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

If your home or business suffers damage from a storm, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at (860)461-7194

No More Ice Storm Damage from Winter Storms

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

You can prevent most ice damage from winter storms by thinking ahead

In the Manchester, Connecticut area you never know when a winter storm may threaten to bring ice damage to your home or business. Ice storms are hard to predict and harder to deal with. You’re smart to take preventive steps to reduce or eliminate the risk of ice damage.

Of course, even the best laid plans to prevent ice damage may not eliminate all damage. The following steps will help you keep your repair costs down and allow you to keep your home or business as safe as from ice damage as possible.

Avoid what others do. Other people sometimes consider ice just a minor annoyance but ice can wreak major havoc to your home or business. Even small preventive measures can make a difference. If a winter storm is coming make sure you keep your windows shut, your water taps dripping, and your cabinets open. These steps can help prevent freezing and allow you to avoid burst pipes.

No more ice dams
When water freezes, melts, and then refreezes on the edge of your roof it can create an ice dam in your gutters and on the roof. Ice dams can cause water to leak into your home and damage ceilings, walls, insulation, and other areas. To prevent ice dams consider adding insulation to your attic. Keep your gutters down spouts clear. Be sure water drains at least 10 feet away from your home’s foundation. And make sure you insulate recessed lighting fixtures so they don’t heat up your attic. After a storm, if there is a large and heavy amount of snow (8 inches or more), remove it from your roof with a roof rake. Don’t use a regular rake, because you can damage the shingles and gutters.

For a 2-minute video on preventing ice dams watch the CBC’s “What you should be doing to prevent ice dams forming on your roof.”

Call SERVPRO Of Manchester/Mansfield for Cleanup and Restoration. Call (860)461-7194

Check your roof’s strength
Your roof can support a lot of weight. Most roofs in good condition can support about 20 pounds per square foot of snow. Homes in the Manchester/Mansfield Connecticut region and other extreme weather areas are often built to withstand much more. Ten to 12 inches of snow equals about 1 inch of water or about 5 lbs. per square feet of roof. So unless you have more than 4 feet of snow on your roof – assuming your roof is not old or damaged – you are unlikely to have a risk of a collapse.

But do check your roof from your attic. Look for daylight through the boards, dark streaks or stains, sagging or leaks or water damage. See problems? Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield.

As we said earlier if you have 8 inches or more of snow on your roof you may want to remove it with a snow rake. If ice has caused structural damage ask a restoration service like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to look at it.

Protect pipes from freezing
No one wants to return home and find a pipe has frozen, burst, and flooded the home. But it happens all the time. Pipes in bathrooms and laundry rooms located near garages or exterior facing walls are especially vulnerable to freezing.

Close any crawl spaces and add extra insulation near any water pipes. Consider buying space heaters to keep questionable rooms warm if frigid temperatures hit. Never turn the heat off when you leave your home. Open the vanity doors so that air circulates and keeps pipes warm.

Call SERVPRO Of Manchester/Mansfield for Cleanup and Restoration. Call (860)461-7194.

Prevent ice damage from becoming water damage
Left untreated, ice can lead to major water damage. Water can quickly ruin your carpets and personal items. Water damage can also cause mold and make structural damage worse. Whenever you notice water on the floor or on your walls, make sure to call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860-461-7194). We can quickly clean up any ice or water damage and get the area dried out to prevent or lessen the damage. Waiting too long gives the water chance to cause more problems, and you might even deal with more damage if the water freezes again.

More information about preventing ice damage is at AMVIC’s Prevent Ice and Snow Damage to Your Home.

Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield also has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, chemical cleanup, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) anytime.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

Winter Storm Damage Restoration Part II

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

Be safe and careful when you're dealing with winter storm damage

In part one of this post (“Winter Storm Damage Restoration Part I”) we talked about safety, assessing the damage, making a plan, and removing the debris. This post continues with more winter storm damage restoration suggestions.

Water damage restoration
Even with Connecticut’s cold winter temperatures, a big issue with winter storms is water damage. Here’s how damage from melting snow and ice happens on your roof. Warm air rises from your heated living spaces, warming the shingles on your roof and any snow covering the roof. Next, the snow melts and drips down to the colder edges of your home’s roof where it refreezes as ice. Once the ice grows thick enough, it backs up further snow-melt behind it, causing water to seep under your roof shingles, and eventually into your home through leakage points.

How to prevent roof leaks
The best way to prevent water from winter storms from causing roof leaks is to insulate and ventilate your attic. You can also lower the risk of a roof leak by cleaning out your gutters and downspouts in late fall and by using a roof rake to remove snow from the roof's edges. A fourth tactic is to install heat trace cables in the gutters to keep melting snow flowing.

If basement flooding is an issue for your home or business, professionals can remove the water using a flood pump. Basements take on water not just due to flooding. Water in your basement can be from heavy rains, melting snow, burst pipes, and other causes. It’s important to remove stagnating water quickly so you avoid mold growth.

If You Have Questions About Winter Storm Damage Restoration Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at (860)461-7194

Hail damage restoration
Hail can damage your home in three ways: When large hail storms crash into your windows or other vulnerable areas, when the ice causes tears or makes holes, and when the hail melts. Hail storms can result in ice dams. SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield can remove the ice dams around and in your home by using effective equipment designed specifically for this use. We can also repair the ice damage that may follow a hail storm or winter storm.

Roof repair
After a winter storm we find that roof repair is among the most common home restoration services needed. Your roof can get damaged in many ways: strong winds, a hurricane, heavy snow, flying debris, hail, and more. Repair your roof first before you work on water restoration in your home. Without the roof repair any other repairs inside your home may be in vain.

If your business has a flat roof, heavy hail damage and heavy rains can cause it to sink or cause seepage and create a roof leak. So, roof repair requires not only sealing the roof but also reinstalling new tiles and reinforcing the roofing frames.

If You Have Questions About Winter Storm Damage Restoration Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at (860)461-7194

Prevent winter storm damage next time
If you have winter storm damage think about more than just repairing what was affected. Consider if there are relatively inexpensive ways you can help prevent storm damage from occurring again. Check your roof before winter and fix minor issues like a missing or damaged shingle. Be sure your gutters and downspouts are clear and in good repair.

Walk around your house and see if the land slopes away from your foundation. Sometimes it’s worth making trenches or installing a flood pump around you home to prevent water from a flooding river from entering into your home. These trenches can also drain ground water away from your home. Check outside doors for their ability to withstand winds and keep you dry inside.

Storm damage restoration expertise
Every month on the SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield blog we publish educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters or deal with them effectively. We explain how to recover from property damage, and keep your home clean and safe.

Winter Snow Storm Preparation

Here For You
The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire damage restoration services, thunderstorm and lightning damage remediation, commercial services, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860)461-7194 anytime, 24/7.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

Winter Storm Damage Restoration Part I

9/28/2018 (Permalink)

Prevent or reduce winter storm damage with these suggestions

In Connecticut a winter snow, sleet, wind, or ice storm can happen without warning and cause severe destruction of property. In particular, water damage from a winter storm can be devastating. If your home or business suffers winter storm damage SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield suggests you take the following steps.

Safety first
After any winter storm your first priority should be the safety of you and your family. Be aware that there are heighten risks after a storm. Power lines may be down. Drifting snow may place too much weight on a roof. Ice makes walking and driving hazardous. Melting snow and ice can cause flooding and leaking into your home. Before you inspect your home or business for winter storm damage check the local weather. Be sure it’s safe to go outside. Proceed with caution.

Assess the damage
In Connecticut after a winter storm, roof damage is the most probable type of damage. Check your roof for leaks, ice dams, more than 18 inches of snow, and broken tree limbs. You may even want to use binoculars to take a close look at the damage. Snow and ice will eventually turn to water so assess the potential for water entering your house. Look for water damage to walls, frozen pipes, and any pooling of water around your business or home.

Roof damage may include broken or cracked tiles or slate, dents in gutters or vents, split seams, and holes. The sooner you find the damage and repair it, the less damage your house will incur.

If You Have Questions About Winter Storm Damage Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at (860)461-7194

Your home’s doors and windows are generally susceptible to winter storm damage from wind, hail, hurricanes, and in-flight debris. Look for any cracks, holes, glass shards, damaged doors, or damaged window frames. A professional damage restoration service like SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield can help you assess and estimate the restoration costs.

Make a plan
After you’ve done a complete winter storm damage assessment, write up a plan to restore your property. Realize what may look like minor damage to you on the outside may be more significant once you inspect closer. Winter storm damage can run deep, and it’s not easy for a non-professional to uncover all that needs repair. A professional restoration company can create a complete list by using devices that probe and discover any below the surface or hidden storm damage affected areas.

Remove debris
Next, clear and remove all the debris brought to your home or property during the storm. To avoid further wind damage and ice damage, the restoration crew can reinforce any weak structural walls and repair any holes, leaks, or other roof damage. If you desire, our SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield crews can also make improvements to protect your business or home from winter storm damage in the future. You may want to build your home’s ability to withstand ice and strong winds. Connecticut homeowners and business owners have consulted us to ask for ways to prevent ice dams or better protect doors and windows from severe weather.

Storm damage restoration expertise
Every month on the SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield blog we publish educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters and deal with them effectively, recover from property damage, and keep you home clean and safe.

In part two of this post, “Winter Storm Damage Restoration Part II” we’ll talk about roof leaks, hail storms, roof repair, and preventing winter storm damage next time.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

Prevent Summer Storm Damage

7/10/2018 (Permalink)

Summer storm damage can be as bad as winter storm damage

Yes, summers are full of vacations, nice weather, and days off, but eastern Connecticut still gets bad weather in the summer months. Summer often brings heavy, humid conditions, followed by furious storms. Moisture and rapidly rising warm air are the key ingredients to the 16 million thunderstorms that occur in the U.S. each year. A summer storm can clear the air and cool things off (at least for a few days), but our storms also provide intense wind, rain, hail, thunder, lightning, and the potential to destroy. Protect your home against damage from summer storms with these suggestions.

Fallen Trees

A raging summer windstorm can bring down large branches or trees. That’s a threat to your roof, garage, vehicles, power lines, and your family members. Take a walk around your property to check for dead or dying trees and broken or weak branches. Look for loosely attached limbs, rot, disease, or insect infestation. Hire a professional to trim your trees or if necessary, remove one or more.

Power Surge

In Connecticut and elsewhere, lightning can occasionally cause a power surge. A power surge is an unusually high amount of electricity briefly surging through your home’s wiring. Power surges can ruin or damage your sensitive electronic devices and appliances like computers, digital washing machines, and televisions. To prevent damage, install surge protectors. Do remember that surge protectors are not foolproof. If the forecast for your area includes severe weather, unplug individual devices or power strips from their outlet (rather than just switching them off).

For Summer Storm Damage Cleanup Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield At (860) 461-7194

Power Outage

Prepare for the inevitable – in eastern Connecticut summer storms frequently cause regional power outages that may take hours or days for the utility company to fix. To prepare, stock up on emergency lights and non-perishable, ready-to-eat food. Never use fuel-burning devices designed for outdoor use only, such as gas or kerosene grills, inside your home because they produce carbon monoxide, a gas that’s odorless, invisible, and potentially deadly.

Roof Damage

In the middle of a roaring summer thunderstorm, you want a good solid roof over your head. Summer storms can knock trees, power lines, or utility poles onto your roof, puncturing the roof or possibly causing structural damage. High winds can make small defects in your roof (like blisters, a missing shingle, or worn flashing) tear away or fail. Inspect your roofing regularly. That means at least twice a year and after any severe weather. Look for buckled, cracked, or missing shingles and other signs of wear and tear. You can inspect the roof pretty well using binoculars and keeping your feet firmly planted on the ground. If you find any damage, prompt roof repair will help keep you and your belongings dry and will help avoid the need for a more serious fix further on down the line.

For Summer Storm Damage Cleanup Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield At (860) 461-7194

Water Leaks or Floods

When rain or floodwater get into your home you risk severe damage to furniture, appliances, and other belongings, not to mention damage to the structure of the house itself. SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield suggests that good preventive measures include sealing any cracks in your home’s foundation and walls. Also seal cracks you find next to windows and doors, and around your chimney and vent pipes. Clear dead leaves or other debris out of your gutters and downspouts, so that even a ferocious downpour will be directed away from the foundation of your home. If you have a basement, guard against flooding by setting up a sump pump.

Here in Connecticut, cold snowy winters can wreak havoc on a roof. But please be aware that summer storms–which tend to be fast and fierce–can be as serious as the worst blizzards.

After a Storm

If you have a summer storm you should inspect your property afterward for any severe storm damage. In particular, SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield suggests examining your roof and exterior walls looking for things like:

Debris and ponding water
Cuts and punctures in the roof membrane
Edge metal pulled up
Damaged perimeter flashing
Missing or damaged HVAC equipment
Cracks or wear on exterior walls
Damage to skylights, domes, or windows

You can make other smart moves to reduce your risk of storm damage and damage from natural disasters. Other preventive measures can make you and your family much more comfortable should actual storm damage occur. SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield suggests installing CO alarms on every floor of your house. And consider purchasing a generator as a standby source of electricity.

More Information

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how Manchester and Mansfield area residents and businesses can protect themselves from storm damage and natural disasters and restore their property after a flood, fire, or other harmful event. We also try to give you ideas about resources in the greater Manchester and Mansfield community.

Contact Us Anytime

In Manchester the team at SERVPRO® has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire damage restoration services, mold remediation, commercial services, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield anytime at 860.649.0836.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

Thunderstorms & Lightning

3/9/2018 (Permalink)

Manchester, Bolton, Andover, Hebron, Columbia, Coventry, and Mansfield: Don't let a thunderstorm catch you unprepared

Every thunderstorm is dangerous. And every thunderstorm produces lightning. While lightning fatalities have decreased over the past 30 years, lightning continues to be one of the top three storm-related killers in the United States according to ready.gov.

Thunderstorms often come with other threats like tornadoes, high winds, and flooding. Lightning alone kills about 50 people each year in the United States. We want to give you some ways you can prepare for thunderstorms and lightning, survive a thunderstorm, and minimize any potential damage to your house or property.

1. Have an emergency kit and family communication plan in place.

Your emergency kit should contain the necessities you need to survive at home without power or to leave home if it becomes unsafe to stay there. Make sure all family members know where to meet if a storm separates you. Choose a place close to your property but off your property and safe.

2. Review your homeowner’s insurance policy.

Make sure you are covered for thunderstorm and lightning damage. If not, consider making changes.

3. Remove dead or rotting trees near your house.

In a thunderstorm or other type of storm, a weakened tree could fall and cause extensive damage.

4. Use surge protectors.

Electronics (your TV, appliances, computers, etc.) that are plugged in are susceptible to damage from the electrical surges a storm can cause. Plug your electronics into a surge protector and the surge protector into the wall. That gives you an extra layer of thunderstorm protection.

5. Stay tuned to weather reports.

Keep a weather radio or internet service on to listen for forecasts, watches, and warnings. Know the terminology. A thunderstorm watch means the weather is conducive to severe thunderstorms. A thunderstorm warning means a storm is occurring or will start soon and it poses a threat to life and property.

6. Get trained in first aid and learn how to respond to emergencies.

In Connecticut check out the available classes at Red Cross Training.

If You Have Lightning or Thunderstorm Damage Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at (860)461-7194

7. Get inside.

Before a thunderstorm or lightning strikes, get inside your home, a building, or hard top vehicle (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.

8. Shutter your windows.

Before a severe storm, place shutters or plywood over your windows and secure your outside doors. If shutters are not available, close your window blinds, shades, or curtains. They serve as a barrier should the window glass break.

9. Educate your children about disasters.

Be certain your kids know to come inside and stay inside whenever threatening weather (gray skies, thunder, heavy rains, lightning, etc.) approach.

10. Be prepared to lose power.

Have plenty of flashlights and batteries available. Avoid using candles because an open flame during stormy weather can be dangerous. Keep the flashlights where you can quickly find them even in the dark.

If You Have Lightning or Thunderstorm Damage Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at (860)461-7194

11. Have a safe place to gather in your home and be sure everyone knows where that place is.

A safe place in a thunderstorm or lightning is an area in your home that’s away from windows and not in danger from falling trees. Often a windowless interior bathroom is a safe place.

12. If you’re outdoors, reduce your risk of being struck by lightning.

Lightning’s unpredictability increases the risk to individuals and property. Your chances of being struck by lightning are estimated to be 1 in 600,000 but could be reduced even further by following safety precautions. If you are in a forest, seek shelter in a low area under a thick growth of small trees. In an open area, go to a low place such as a ravine or valley. Be alert for flash floods. On open water, get to land and find shelter immediately.

13. Read what the Red Cross has to say about thunderstorm safety.

You’ll find more information at sites like ready.gov, also.

Disaster Preparation & Recovery Information

Every month on the SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield blog we publish educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters and deal with them effectively, and recover from property damage. Here are a few blog posts you might find helpful:

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

Winter Snow Storm Preparation

11/16/2017 (Permalink)

Don't let a big snow storm catch you unprepared.

A huge snow storm is coming. How do you prepare so that your home will suffer little or no damage? How do you keep your pipes from freezing? How do you know if your roof can support the weight of a few feet of snow? Will ice dams present a problem? What if you lose power? Don’t wait to discover the answers to these and other snow storm questions. Prepare before a snow storm or blizzard hits you. A major snow storm can dump snow so hard and fast that you suddenly find a giant blanket of white hanging over your house and you have to just hope the house survives intact.

Time And Safety
One great recommendation is to heed early weather warnings. Another is to be safe. If you have 48 hours to prepare you’re going to get a lot more done than if you wait until the snow starts falling. You may not realize how heavy snow can get. Snow is hard and heavy to shovel if it has a high water content. Don’t do anything that may risk your health or safety. Try to stay off ladders and the roof. Use a snow rake and stay safely on the ground to prevent winter storm damage cleanup.

Wet Snow Could Weigh 21 Pounds Per Foot
Fluffy, fresh snow can weigh as little as three pounds per square foot compared with 21 pounds for wet, heavy snow, according to FEMA. Ice weighs more: 57 pounds a square foot. Most roofs can support 20 pounds per square foot of snow, according to USA Today. And don’t forget about ice. An inch of ice equals about a foot of fresh snow, so 4 inches of ice on your roof could mean trouble. The steeper your roof, the less snow will accumulate. But if a portion of your home’s roof is flat, such as over a porch, take extra care to prevent snow and ice buildup there during a snow storm.

Don’t Let Water Pipes Freeze
To best protect your water pipes during and after a snow storm you need to think way ahead. If temperatures drop too low in your house during a power outage or your furnace malfunctions, your pipes can freeze and burst and cause extensive damage. So keep your house warm by using a generator or another alternative source of heat like a wood or coal stove. Seal your home’s doors and windows to hold in heat. Insulate any openings in your attic (vents, plumbing stacks, access doors, etc.). And wrap insulation around your pipes.

Prevent Ice Dams
Ice buildups at the roof edge or around drains keep melting snow from draining properly. This backs up, or dams, water into walls, ceilings, and insulation. Inspect your roof's drainage, keep gutters and downspouts clean, and trim trees to keep leaves to a minimum. Add insulation above the ceiling and increase roof ventilation to make the roof area warmer and prevent ice buildup. You can even install self-regulating heat cables on gutters, downspouts, and roof drains.

Use Caution With Alternative Heat Sources
Space heaters -- including electric, gas, pellet, and wood stoves -- can be great alternatives to constantly running the furnace and heating the entire house. The nonelectric heaters can also be helpful if the power goes out -- taking the heat with it -- during a snow storm, blizzard, or other harsh winter weather. But take care when installing or placing heaters. Make sure they meet safety standards and codes. Know how to use and maintain them. Otherwise, you risk a fire.

$893 Million In Property Damage
According to recent estimates from the National Fire Protection Association, home fires involving heating equipment caused $893 million in direct property damage and 400 civilian deaths in 2011. Often, these fires are caused by equipment that wasn't kept clean or was placed too close to something that could ignite. The association offers these heater safety tips.
• Keep flammable items, such as paper or bedding, at least 3 feet away from the heater.
• Buy a heating unit approved by a recognized testing lab (such as Underwriters Laboratories).
• Install the equipment according to local codes and manufacturer's recommendations.
• Use a licensed contractor.
• Make sure the heater vents to the outside so carbon monoxide won't build up indoors.
• Keep the vent clean and unclogged.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors.
• Have a qualified professional inspect and clean your heater annually -- before winter snow storms or blizzards hit.

Disaster Preparation Information
Every month on the SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield blog we publish educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters and deal with them quickly and effectively should they occur.

Here For You
The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire damage restoration services, mold remediation, commercial services, and natural disaster cleanup.

Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860-461-7194) anytime, 24/7.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

Storm Damage in Manchester Rarely Minor

8/8/2017 (Permalink)

Even weak storms can cause major damage in small geographic areas

Calling storm damage in the Manchester/Mansfield area minor is a little like calling surgery minor. Storm damage is only minor when it doesn’t happen to you. Some storm damage in the Manchester area may seem slight, but even weak storms can cause major damage in a small area.

Storm damage as minor as having a small tree fall in your backyard or losing a few roof shingles can hurt. Both of these situations and many other minor storm damage events require repairs. Left alone, minor damage (like a slow water leak or a little foundation crack) can worsen over time. Preventing minor storm damage from becoming a major issue can stop higher repair bills and keep you safer.

It’s like that tag inside your shirt that rubs against your neck. That’s a small problem. But try wearing that shirt for hours. The longer you feel a slight rub, the more major that slight rub becomes, right?

For Major Storm Cleaning Or Restoration Needs: SERVPRO Of Manchester/Mansfield. Call 860-461-7194.

Ignoring Minor Storm Damage Can Lead To Major Damage

Manchester/Mansfield homeowners and business owners who don’t repair minor storm damage often are forced to face much greater damage in time. SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield can make minor repairs before they become major headaches. Fix cracked windows before they break. Stop minor water leaks before they grow. Get rid of that small patch of mold before it dominates the wall. Make small repairs at little cost so you can avoid big repairs later at major cost.

Rodent Invitation

Any opening (missing shingles, peeling siding, etc.) is an invitation for water, insects, rodents, and more. Once inside a hidden portion of your home (like a crawl space or attic) some rodents will gradually find their way into other areas of your business or home. And if your doors or windows are damaged or compromised, you’re at an increased risk for burglaries.

Extensive Restoration Training

At SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield we have extensive training in all aspects of repairs and restorations. That’s true for both residential and commercial properties. We have completed jobs of all sizes over the years, and we can successfully handle any size disaster, including the one you’re facing. Our certifications cover the many different cleaning and restorative types of work that storm damage can cause.

For Minor Storm Cleanup Or Restoration Needs: SERVPRO Of Manchester/Mansfield. Call 860-461-7194.

Having the training required to professionally repair your home's siding, roof, basement, foundation, and other components is important. SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield can restore your home or business to its previous beautiful condition.

Check Out Other Blog Posts

Every month SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational blog posts on how Manchester/Mansfield area businesses and residents can protect themselves from disasters. We want to educate you on how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm, and other damage.

We’re Here To Help

Here at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield we often work with business owners and homeowners to prevent storm damage or to repair storm damage. The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water restoration services, natural disaster prevention, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860-461-7194) anytime.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Franchise Owner
Call (860)461-7194
24-hour emergency service

Ice Dam presentation

2/1/2016 (Permalink)

Steve Bennett speaking to the group

Back in December, SERVPRO of Manchester had the opportunity to do one of the things we love to do. We got to speak in front of the CT Valley BNI group about winter weather. We offered some tips on how to prevent ice dams, what to do if you have an ice dam, and how to choose the correct vendor/contractor to assist with the clean up and restoration. We love being able to speak to groups and offer information that we feel is helpful to business and homeowners alike.

If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (860) 461-7194

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