1/3/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO at Hartford Public Library
Hartford Public Library experienced some flooding last week and needed a team to assist in restoring the library back to top shape! They called in the team at SERVPRO! When water damage strikes your business or property you can trust our locally trained technicians to handle it immediately and effectively!
9/3/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO technicians utilize advanced equipment like drying mats to mitigate water damage in Enfield homes, "Like it never even happened."
Enfield continues to grow as one of the larger communities in Hartford County, with more than 42,000 residents from its humble start in 1679. Even more than in the past, homes are susceptible to damages and emergencies related to water in their properties. As a leading restoration outfit serving the county, SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield can work quickly to help with needed restoration solutions like:
With Enfield water damage, our professionals need to respond quickly to help. We recognize the urgency of these disasters and have trained technicians available 24/7 to respond. Our Green Fleet of service vehicles stays stocked with needed equipment to help with mitigation and emergency services, such as extractors, demolition tools, and packing materials.
The modern home has many ways that water and moisture damage occur, and property owners should be aware of these potential issues. Understanding the scope of the damage water can cause is a focus of the inspection SERVPRO professionals conduct to focus on restoration efforts yet to begin. Common causes of water emergencies in the home are:
When standing water is a concern for your residence, many exposed materials can be at risk. Our restoration team's most glaring mitigation obstacle is removing pooling from floors, which requires multiple extractors. We rely on trash pumps and submersibles for deep water removal to reach a shallow depth where wet vacuums are more suitable choices.
Removing Water Trapped in Materials
However, surface pooling is only part of the water damage obstacles for SERVPRO professionals. Specialty extractors and drying equipment is needed to pull moisture caught in flooring materials and structural cavities. Weighted extractors and carpet wands are essential for certain flooring types, while drying mats are effective with semi-porous installations like planks.
Every restoration project involving water requires drying measures. The more widespread and involved the disaster, the more drying required. Centrifugal and axial air movers are at the heart of this mission, evaporating surface water into humidity for collection by placed dehumidifiers. We also account for the successes of drying measures by tracking moisture with tools like:
Are Damage Repairs Necessary?
Our general contractor license (0646584) allows many of the build-back services and repairs your home might need after water exposure. Often, homeowners are at a loss for securing additional contractors while restoration work is underway, and with SERVPRO, you do not have to. We seamlessly transition from cleanup to reconstruction to make water disasters in your residence "Like it never even happened."
Enfield water damage threats can rapidly impact homes and businesses in the area, making the quick response of SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield critical. We introduce containment measures and mitigation solutions to protect what matters most. Call us now at (860) 216-2785.
9/3/2022 (Permalink)
Surprised by fire damage in your Enfield property? Call SERVPRO, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.
With dozens of historical landmarks on the national registry and larger commercial properties in the area like Asnuntuck Community College, when disasters like fires occur, SERVPRO must act fast. A structure fire can leave your property contending with several layers of needed cleanup and recovery, with the largest hazard contributors being:
The city’s emergency responders first address Enfield fire damage. When extinguishing is completed, we can be ready to enter the building and work on the required mitigation and restoration services. Preparedness during the earliest stages and mobilization after the first notice of loss ensure that this cleanup starts as it should when the property is deemed safe to enter.
Fire damage can be widespread and destructive, whether your home or business. In most cases, restoring these disasters is a process moved through your insurance provider to secure needed funding for the project. As a preferred local vendor for insurance work with national and regional brands, we understand the required documentation and evidence to secure a damage claim approval and work fast to get the process green-lit so mitigation and restoration can start.
Extinguishing a fire does not stop the damage it can do to your home. Experienced restoration professionals must move fast from our warehouse with products, tools, and equipment to mitigate loss and protect what matters most to our customers. Some of the focal points of mitigative effort include:
Soot is one of the more problematic byproducts of fire damage, and with the way it can spread to many exposed surfaces in the house, it creates a sizable concern for responding technicians. We must evaluate several factors to determine the needed cleaning products to help, including solvents and detergents. Dry smoke requires special products like chemical sponges to remove.
Odors are another product of combustion that can overwhelm areas of your house. While surface cleaning and efforts like debris removal can help to reduce the severity of smells and malodors, the full deodorization and neutralization of these threats come with equipment from our inventory like HEPA products, hydroxyl machines, and oxidation units.
Repairs and reconstruction are common after structure fires. Unlike other restoration companies, because we have a general contractor license (#0646584), we can complete the needed build-back services like demolition, patches, temporary construction, and full rebuilding of damaged areas in your house.
Enfield fire damage requires a fast and focused response from trained, certified professionals like our SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield team. We can help when disaster strikes at (860) 216-2785.
9/3/2022 (Permalink)
Mold damage remediation by SERVPRO can ensure positive results. We restore your Enfield property "Like it never even happened."
Mold is misunderstood and often not taken as seriously as it should be. Usually, homeowners see these microbial growths as more of a nuisance than a pressing concern for the property. As surfaces and building materials become hosts for colonies, the cost and time to remediate these conditions increases.
To begin overcoming Enfield mold damage, homeowners must understand common misconceptions about microbial growth and how to handle these situations. Some of these include:
Mold spores occur naturally in almost every environment. Remediation is designed to remove any active colonization threatening the household but does not attempt complete spore removal. The operation cost would be high, and the success would be limited.
Part of remediation is eliminating the causes of mold damage. The situation will likely worsen if these are not addressed along with the removal of active colonies.
DIY approaches might make sense for smaller projects, but when removing mold from residences, much can be missed or inadequately performed, which makes remediation better suited for professionals.
With the fast response of SERVPRO professionals, mold concerns can be rapidly addressed. Often, it is pressing to overcome the spread of these threatening situations and their acute effects that could make comfortable living impossible. We work in many capacities, including
Removing mold is the primary function of the IICRC-certified remediation team arriving at the house to help. Without removing the surface mold found throughout the house, the situation worsens, and microbial colonization spreads to sensitive hosting materials of the property. There are multiple remediation options based on factors like the severity of the infestation and the location of damaged construction materials. Approaches include:
Both signs that mold damage might exist, and one of the more challenging obstacles of remediation is the harsh, musty smell generated by active colonization. Spore activity can create a discernible odor that is strongest closer to the infestation. For this reason, homeowners can often use this sign to indicate hidden mold growth. Remediation professionals utilize deodorizing equipment, oxidation, and masking products to help.
Microbial growth overwhelms and destroys organic matter used as a host. Over time, these structural elements degrade and deteriorate, requiring replacement to restore integrity. Moreover, controlled demolition is often a more direct and proven method for removing set-in mold colonies from porous materials. Our general contractor license can help with these needed repairs and build-back services.
Enfield mold damage can be a threatening and stressful situation for homeowners. We work fast to provide the most comprehensive remediation solutions, including containment and mitigation. Give our SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield specialists a call today at (860) 216-2785.
9/2/2022 (Permalink)
From small spills to large flood causing water damage--Enfield homeowners rely on SERVPRO for extraction and drying.
Many consumers assume that they can open the windows and let the wet carpet or hardwood floor dry on its own after a plumbing water leak in Enfield. Small water leaks may dry completely after a few days. Larger amounts of water may be absorbed by porous materials causing swelling, warping, buckling, and loss of structural integrity if not dried properly.
SERVPRO provides water restoration and drying services to Enfield consumers and homeowners. We recommend contacting us immediately. SERVPRO can be onsite within four hours of your call, assess the situation, and provide appropriate guidance regarding how to proceed based on your specific situation.
Porous materials such as carpets and fabrics absorb water quickly and can also be dried promptly. The carpet under padding may take longer to dry. This is due to being covered by the carpet. It may need to be exposed for the under pad to completely dry.
Semi-porous materials such as plywood subfloors, hardwood floors, and cabinets take longer to absorb moisture and also take longer to dry. Removing all traces of water before these surfaces have an opportunity to absorb moisture and begin swelling can avoid significant secondary damage. Subfloors can lose structural integrity. Hardwood floors swell and buckle, often requiring replacement. The same applies to cupboards, especially those made from compressed wood products.
Immediate action by SERVPRO utilizing a combination of weighted water extractors, suction pads, air movers, and dehumidifiers can prevent this type of secondary damage. Our clients appreciate the quick service, especially when they know the importance of preventing secondary water damage.
SERVPRO provides water restoration services, including:
Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield for water restoration services. We provide service to Enfield and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (860) 216-2785.
9/2/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO strives to swiftly restore your fire damaged shop or building "Like it never even happened."
A fire in a commercial building in Bloomfield can be devastating for the business, employees, customers, and suppliers. They are all folks that depend on your business to reopen quickly after a fire. However, dealing with the fire's damage and the firefighters' efforts to quash the fire can be overwhelming. Often structural elements are damaged in the fire.
SERVPRO provides Bloomfield commercial fire damage assessment, controlled demolition, repair, and restoration services for our Bloomfield commercial clients. SERVPRO works closely with our clients to ensure that your return to full operations is accomplished as rapidly as possible.
Whenever a fire damages a building, one of the initial activities is to assess the structure's integrity to verify that it is safe to enter the building and does not pose a risk to our clients and our technicians. If a building is severely damaged, we may need to arrange for an engineer to inspect the building and verify the integrity and soundness of the structure. Since this is a demolition/construction site, everyone is expected to wear hard hats and work safety boots for personal protection.
SERVPRO removes all damaged material for disposal and cleans and dries all surfaces to remove smoke odors. Our building services team provides all the reconstruction activities required to rebuild and restore your building for a fast return to full functionality. We can save you time and reconstruction costs by coordinating all the trades during restoration.
SERVPRO services cover the full suite of restoration activities to keep your business in business:
Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield for commercial fire damage services. We provide service to Bloomfield and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (860) 216-2785.
9/2/2022 (Permalink)
Leave the mold remediation to our SERVPRO technicians, ensuring a clean and sanitary commercial structure in Enfield.
The strong odor of mold comes as a surprise to many business owners in their Enfield commercial buildings. Our clients may not realize they have a high moisture or water leak problem until they notice the smell or observe a mold colony in an area seldom visited. Mold spores need moisture, warmth, and organic material to form a colony, all available in our buildings and offices. A mold colony can materialize in as little as 24 hours once the right conditions are in place.
SERVPRO provides commercial mold remediation services to Enfield business customers. Our mold remediation services include an assessment of the infestation, its size, the source of moisture, and a plan to remove the infestation while protecting other areas of your facility. Clients are advised if specific inspection and documentation protocols are required based on local and state laws and the size of the infestation. We can provide advice and guidance based on your situation.
Barriers are installed to prevent mold spores from migrating to other areas of the premises during the removal and remediation process. This approach allows businesses to continue operations in other areas of the building. SERVPRO also locates the source of moisture. Our building services team can assist with necessary repairs to eliminate the water source and prevent future mold infestations.
Our technicians are skilled in all aspects of mold remediation, including odor control, fabric leaning, drying techniques, and water damage restoration. We work closely with our commercial clients and their employees to complete remediation quickly to minimize the impact on your business. Our services include:
Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield for mold remediation services. We provide service to Enfield and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (860) 216-2785.
6/17/2022 (Permalink)
If you get a hurricane warning, seek shelter immediately.
Planning and preparation are key if you are to best handle a blizzard, flood, hurricane, tornado, or other natural disaster. From the Connecticut Guide to Emergency Prepardeness, here are some quick tips to help keep you safe.
Blizzards
Weather forecasters are usually good about letting you know ahead of time if a blizzard is coming. You should avoid driving and make sure to have enough food and supplies with you to last a few days. Plan on not having electricity or phone service. If there is snow, make sure inlets and outlets for your furnace and other appliances are not blocked. You want to avoid ventilation problems and carbon monoxide build-up. Also be sure your car’s tail pipe (exhaust) is clear of snow or ice before starting the car.
To Restore Your Property After A Natural Disaster Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield at (860) 216-2785
Flash Flooding
Move quickly to higher ground. Water rushing at you in a flood can easily knock you off your feet. It does not have to be very deep to do so if the current is strong. If you’re in a car and water comes around you, get out and move to higher ground right away. Cars can be swept away in just two feet of moving water.
Hurricanes
Strong winds with thunder and lightning usually indicate a hurricane. The winds may be 75 miles per hour or more. Hurricane season in Connecticut is June 1 through November 30. If you receive a hurricane-warning take shelter right away or evacuate if you’re told to do so. You can learn more about what to do before and after a hurricane at ct.gov/hurricane.
Tornadoes
A tornado warning means you need to take shelter immediately. If you are in your car, stop. Do not try to outrun the tornado. Get out and lie flat, face down in a low area. Cover your head and wait for the tornado to pass by. If you are home, go to your basement, storm shelter, or a room near the middle of the home. If you are in a tall building go to the middle of the building to a stairwell or hallway.
After any storm, we’re here to help. We help people recover from natural disasters and other catastrophic events. Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
5/9/2022 (Permalink)
Emergency Safety Tips
Whether you have burst pipe water damage, a water damaged floor, storm damage, water damage in your basement, or any other major water cleanup issue, your primary focus should be safety. After any major water damage consider:
• Is your house safe? If you’re not sure, don’t take a chance. Find somewhere else to stay until you’re certain your house is safe again.
• Are there electrical or "slip and fall" hazards? After major storms, these are some of the most prevalent dangers we see.
• Are you only doing things you know are safe? Don’t take risks.
• If you have water damage in the basement can you see what and where you are walking on. Don't walk on or near an area that doesn't have sufficient lighting.
• Are you trying to lift wet materials? If so, be careful. When items are soaked with water they become very heavy.
Contact A Water Removal Service
You’re wise to contact a professional water removal service like SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield. You want the job done right and right away. That’s what we do. Never hesitate to call for help.
Responding Fast To Flood And Water Damage
A SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield highly trained technician can respond immediately to water damaged basements and other flood or water damage at your home or business. We have the experience, expertise, and training to restore your home or business quickly and safely.
The sooner the water is removed and the drying process begun, the better condition your home or business will be in. And the cost to repair water damage will be lower.
Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield to discuss. Call 860.216.2785. We’re the water removal service professionals who have saved property and saved money for the owners of flooded basements and water damaged properties. We've served clients in Ellington, West Hartford, Avon, Springfield, Manchester, Bloomfield, and beyond.
2/7/2019 (Permalink)
Beginning fire damage restoration as soon as possible can make a big difference in cost and results. Don't hesitate!
A fire at your home or business is a real crisis. Once the fire is out, you need to deal with damage from the flames, the smoke and soot, and the water or chemicals used to extinguish the fire. This process can be time-consuming and costly.
The most important thing you can do to reduce fire damage restoration costs is to begin the process without delay by contacting a licensed, insured professional fire damage restoration services company. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can restore your property, clean it up, and work with you to keep costs down while keeping the quality of the work high.
Act Quickly
The more time between your fire and the fire damage restoration, the more costs tend to increase. If you act quickly, some fire-damaged possessions can be saved, so you can avoid replacement costs. The longer you wait, however, the more likely it is that you won’t be able to restore valuable possessions. And certain kinds of damage—from water and soot, for instance—grow worse over time, so delaying can make the restoration more difficult and more expensive. Save your property and you save money!
What can be saved? It depends on the extent of the fire damage, but at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield we can often save clothing, books, photographs, kitchen items, furniture, leather goods, heirlooms and more. We begin every fire restoration job with a complete evaluation of the scope of the fire cleanup and a plan for restoring what is salvageable. Our documentation will also make filing your insurance claim quicker and simpler.
For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785
Address Water Damage ... Quickly
In addition to damage from the actual flames, many homes and businesses suffer additional damage from smoke, soot and the water and chemicals firefighters must use to put out the fire. Water, especially, can cause widespread damage—damage that can become much worse if you delay.
After the fire is out, make sure that your home or business is completely dried out. If you don’t, mold, mildew and other consequences will lead to further damage and loss—mold colonies can begin to grow just 48 hours after water damage occurs. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield Wethersfield uses industrial dehumidifiers and air movers to rapidly dry saturated carpets, padding, furniture and any other wet items. Quick and thorough drying will save you money by preventing further damage to your building and possessions.
Address Damage from Smoke and Soot ... Quickly
Again, you’ll minimize your fire damage restoration costs with prompt action. If too much time elapses between when the fire damage and the cleanup occur, the effects of smoke and soot damage can last for months.
While you’ll easily recognize water damage, you may not immediately see the extent and seriousness of smoke and soot damage. Soot is created when wood-, coal- or oil-based substances are burned. These carbon particles float into the air and can settle anywhere, staining and discoloring objects, and can even endanger your health.
Household items, including clothing, dishes and utensils, furniture, carpet and drapes, as well as walls, floors and ceilings, are especially affected by smoke and soot. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield cleans and deodorizes restorable items to preloss condition, if at all possible. After our restoration you may not be able to tell which items were affected by the fire and smoke and which were not.
For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785
Other Blog Posts You Might Find Helpful
We're Here For You
We’re the fire restoration and clean-up company that saves property and saves money for the owners of fire-damaged homes and businesses. Whether you're in Bloomfield, Enfield or any of our served towns, we can help.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
We serve Bloomfield, East Granby, East Hartland, Enfield, Granby, North Granby, Riverton, Suffield, West Granby, West Hartland and West Suffield, Connecticut.
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785
2/7/2019 (Permalink)
Taking basic precautions can help prevent fires at these five most common locations in your home.
A fire can start almost anywhere in your home, but some areas are more likely to catch fire than others. America’s 350,000 annual house fires happen for many reasons—faulty electrical wiring, overheated appliances, unattended candles and fireplaces—but taking simple precautions at these five locations may prevent a fire at your home.
Kitchen
Half of all residential fires start in the kitchen due to appliances that use heat/electricity, cooking-related incidents (such as an unattended oven or stovetop), or fabric and material (a dishcloth, for example) that's too close to heat or a flame. An oven/stovetop with baked-on grease and residue can easily cause grease fires. Never leave food cooking on a stovetop unattended.
For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785
Appliances
Appliances that operate with electricity, gas or heat are potential fire hazards requiring fire restoration. Appliances 15 years or older are particularly prone to fire damage, especially if they aren't regularly cleaned, inspected and maintained. It's a good idea to only run appliances when you're at home.
Bedroom
There are many potential fire hazards in bedrooms: bedding, curtains, plush items, mattresses. Mattresses made after 2007 are flame-retardant and comply with higher safety standards, so if yours is older, consider purchasing a new one. Install smoke alarms in each bedroom and make a fire escape plan that includes two ways to exit the room (usually through the door and a window).
For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785
Chimneys and Fireplaces
Chimneys and fireplaces can develop structural problems over time, which can cause temperatures to burn too high or chimney liners to loosen or detach, which can allow burning embers and ash to escape to combustible areas in walls, attics and roofs. Keep chimneys and fireplaces cleaned and maintained, and have them inspected and professionally cleaned at least once a year or when there is a quarter-inch buildup of creosote or soot. Keep rugs, tapestries and other fabrics away from the fireplace, and always keep a spark screen in front of the fireplace.
Living Room
Like bedrooms, living rooms contain many potentially flammable items: electronics, drapes/curtains, furniture. Candles are among the leading fire hazards in living rooms. Never leave a burning candle unattended and place it away from flammable/combustible objects.
Fire Cleanup
If you do experience a fire, professional fire damage restoration services like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can handle the entire fire cleanup process—from assessing the smoke and fire damage to rebuilding your home—"Like it never even happened."
For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785
We're Here For You
We’re the fire restoration and clean up company that saves property and saves money for the owners of fire damaged homes and businesses. Whether you're in Bloomfield, Enfield or any of our served towns, we can help.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
We serve Bloomfield, East Granby, East Hartland, Enfield, Granby, North Granby, Riverton, Suffield, West Granby, West Hartland and West Suffield, Connecticut.
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785
1/29/2019 (Permalink)
Icicles hanging from your roof's eaves can mean an ice dam has formed, putting your home at risk of water damage.
Icicles glistening at the edge of your roof can be lovely in appearance, but the ugly truth is that they are a sign that your roof is at risk of water damage. Call SERVPRO to remove ice dams from your roof.
Those icicles are formed when snow forms a layer on your roof, is warmed by the air in your attic and begins to melt and trickle down over the shingles. Once the melted water hits the eave and is exposed to colder air, it cools and refreezes. Some of it drips off the gutter, freezes and forms icicles, but the water can also form into a thick ridge of ice--an ice dam--at the edge of the roof and gutter. Another way ice dams form is when snow and ice get trapped in a gutter already filled with leaves.
For Water Damage Restoration, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785
Once that hump of ice forms and grows on your eaves, any water that melts and trickles down the slope of your roof is blocked. The water will back up and seek a way out. Unfortunately, that escape route is often through the roof shingles, through the layer of insulation and into your house’s ceilings and exterior walls. The result can be stained and sagging ceilings, ruined Sheetrock, soggy insulation that can turn moldy, warped floors and peeling paint.
How to Prevent Ice Dams
The root cause of ice dams is having a warm attic roof, and that comes from having insufficient insulation and venting in the attic. Taking four simple steps should prevent most ice dams from forming. (Additional benefit: you’ll save money on fuel bills because you’ll keep more of your heated air inside!)
Another way to prevent ice from forming dams on your roof is to install heated cables along the roof’s edge in a zigzag pattern.
For Water Damage Restoration, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785How to Know If You Have an Ice Dam
Icicles are your first and most obvious clue. Get a good look at them and if they are confined to the gutters and you see no ice or water backed up behind them, you probably aren’t at risk of an ice dam--yet. (Icicles also pose a hazard if they fall off, so if you can, remove them before trouble starts--just don’t stand directly below them!)
Inside your home, check for water stains or moisture in your attic and along the ceiling of your exterior walls.
Part 2 of this blog post will tell you how to quickly and safely get rid of an ice dam.
We're Here For You
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
We serve Bloomfield, East Granby, East Hartland, Enfield, Granby, North Granby, Riverton, Suffield, West Granby, West Hartland and West Suffield, Connecticut.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
For Water Damage Restoration, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785
1/29/2019 (Permalink)
An ice dam on your roof can cause stained and sagging ceilings, ruined Sheetrock, soggy insulation, warped floors and peeling paint.
Dealing With an Ice Dam
Once you’ve determined that you have a dam problem on your roof, you need to act fast to prevent or minimize water damage. A quick way to halt the damage is to freeze the water that is seeping into your home. Do this by taking a box fan into the attic and aiming it at the underside of the roof where there is an active leak. The stream of cold air should freeze the water in a matter of minutes.
This is, however, a temporary fix only—that water still needs a way off your roof. You can make this happen by physically removing ice and snow from the roof or melting a path for the water to safely drip off the edge of the roof.
For Water Damage Restoration, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785
Removing the Ice Dam
With a great deal of caution and care, you can climb a ladder and, using a mallet, gently break pieces of the ice dam off. Do not use a sharp tool, such as an axe—you might cut through your shingles. This is dangerous and risky work and is not recommended.
The preferred method to physically remove ice and snow is to use a snow rake. Standing on the ground, remove snow 3–4 feet back from the gutter. Take care not to damage the roof itself or to pull chunks of snow directly onto yourself!
Another recommended way to treat an ice dam is to create a vertical channel or channels to the gutter to allow the melted water to escape. You’ll need a calcium chloride ice melt product (never rock salt or sodium chloride, which can damage your roof). Fill an old pantyhose leg with the product, tie it off and lay it on the roof with one end near the gutter and the other pointing toward the peak. (You’ll want to cover any shrubbery or plants below to prevent damage from the dripwater.)
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield's Professionals Can Resolve Ice Dams and Repair Resulting Water Damage
Dealing with ice dams on your roof can be risky, both to your personal safety and to your home. A call to SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is the first step to a rapid and professional solution to your problem.
We will quickly and safely remove the ice dam and then thoroughly repair any water damage to your home. We use advanced equipment and scientific drying techniques to restore both your home and your damaged property.
Once the water has been removed, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield’s professionals reconstruct damaged areas of your home to their pre-water damaged condition—drywall; carpet, tile and flooring; and painting—"Like it never even happened."
For Water Damage Restoration, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785
We're Here For You
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
We serve Bloomfield, East Granby, East Hartland, Enfield, Granby, North Granby, Riverton, Suffield, West Granby, West Hartland and West Suffield, Connecticut.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
For Water Damage Restoration, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785
12/21/2018 (Permalink)
"This whole neighborhood was hurting after a sewage backup but we got it cleaned up fast."
“I love working at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield. I’m on a cleanup and restoration crew that’s dedicated, well-trained, multi-skilled, and fun to be around. And we get to do such interesting work that helps people get their homes back in good order and helps businesses get back in business. Here are two true stories about recent projects SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield worked."
West Hartford, Connecticut Sewage Backup
“This isn’t my favorite project to talk about. The smell was awful. The scene felt overwhelming when we arrived to find about ten houses surrounded by raw sewage from a pipe that clogged up and then backed up. Many neighbors had sewage several inches deep in their basements. The SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield crew was on the scene pumping out the basements, removing damaged property, and cleaning up what we could restore. It was a big job, but with our contacts we can call in as much equipment and manpower as needed. We got it all done and the homeowners were so appreciative."
Dozens Homeless After Hartford Fire
“This job was amazing. It happened a few months ago when dozens of people lost their homes in a fire. The fire blazed through two separate multi-family buildings in Hartford, Connecticut. After we got clearance from the fire departments, we were quickly on the scene."
“The SERVPRO crew I was on spent the whole night and into the next day securing the property and personal belongings from the fire and water wreckage. That was like 36 straight hours of work. We did everything from turning off the electricity and water, boarding up the windows and doors, and removing hanging debris from the outside of the building."
“About 20 of the people were out of luck. They lost just about everything in the fire. They looked to us salvage what we could from their homes and personal belongings. Sifting through the ash and rubble we did find some items we could clean up and restore for those poor people."
For Cleanup Or Disaster Recovery Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
See Other Blog Posts
Every month on the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield blog we publish educational articles on how Connecticut residents can protect their homes and businesses from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm, or other damage.
We're Here For You
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
12/10/2018 (Permalink)
Especially at this time of year, we believe in giving thanks and spreading joy. Our office Christmas decorations help with that.
At SERVPRO we work hard and we celebrate hard. We believe the best companies do their work well but also know how to appreciate life and the holidays with the most important asset in any company-- employees.
This year at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield our employees challenged each other to see who could create the best Christmas wonderland in their office space. Most of us went wild with holiday decoration fun.
One employee's office features a snow pathway to his desk, Christmas presents, stuffed animals, and a colorful "JOY" sign.
Another employee wears her Santa hat, hung Christmas stockings, put down a glittering snow path way to her desk, and placed some of the most popular children's movie characters around her space. The Minions and Winnie the Pooh are bringing smiles to the office staff.
A third employee has made his brown desk look like the edges are dripping with frosting. At first glance some of us thought that desk was a gingerbread or cupcake desk, but we did not bite. A huge red bow dominates his main office wall. A row of bright poinsettia plants gives the office an outdoor feel.
Then there's the employee with many gold and silver stars twirling from her office ceiling. Over her desk is a snowy archway crowned with a bow. She's got Santa figurines and a snow globe. But in this office the favorite decoration by far is a huge box of candy canes. I wonder why.
A team of employees has taken a different approach. Their space is long and narrow with limited light (they need to limit the light for the screen work they do). Walk into their space and you're greeted with a ceiling and walls aglow with a few hundred colored Christmas lights. All the lights lead your eye to end of the space where you see a good-size fully decorated and lit Christmas tree.
Another well decorated area appears at the top of this post.
We think of this season as a time of thanksgiving and joy. In Bloomfield we have a lot to be thankful for and joyful about. Our staff consists of talented, dedicated, fun-to-work with people. Our clients are terrific. And business is growing strong.
Here in Bloomfield we hope you and your family, like us, will enjoy and every holiday. May you have fun family times, wonderful gatherings with friends, and a great end to your year. And don't forget to try to top our Christmas decorations. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
12/4/2018 (Permalink)
A little lint in the wrong place can cause a fire hazard
Don’t you love the convenience of washing and drying your own clothes at home? The time, money, and energy you save is great. But SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield knows the handy convenience of a home dryer can turn into a fire risk.
Dryers Cause 14,000+ Fires
According to Consumer Reports, every year, firefighters across the country respond to about 14,630 home fires caused by clothes dryers. One-third of these fires is caused by an accumulation of lint, which means that not cleaning out your dryer vent can set you up for a dangerous situation. This is far more serious than the decrease in drying efficiency caused by partially blocking your dryer's duct work.
To avoid this risk and stop the build-up of lint fire, properly maintain your dryer. Regular maintenance means frequent cleaning and may require professional help when necessary.
Check For Lint Every Time
Every time you use your clothes dryer check for lint. Most dryers have a lint filter or screen that’s easy to access and clean by hand. It may take 10 seconds to clean it. Remember, lint is very dry and combustible. A fire can happen easily if the lint hiding inside your dryer ignites.
Do go beyond just cleaning the lint screen. Clean every part of the dryer where lint can accumulate. This means:
• Removing lint from filter after every load.
• Cleaning the pipe that vents your dryer to the outside once every three months.
• Scrubbing the lint filter twice a year to remove buildup.
• Replacing accordion-style ducts (these are risky because they can sag and allow lint to build up at low points and trap lint in their ridges. Use a rigid metal duct instead.)
• Using duct connectors and metal clamps (or foil tape) to join sections of duct. Avoid sheet metal screws because they can catch lint and cause buildup.
• Calling for professional cleaning if your dry times become longer.
Fire remediation experts advise cleaning the whole machine to reduce the chance of fire.
Check Your Dryer’s Ventilation System, Too
Your dryer’s indoor vent should be inspected before the dryer is installed to make sure that it’s not damaged. Protect the outdoor vent from weather and small creatures that enjoy making a home inside of it. That usually means covering the outdoor vent so that the vent stays open when the dryer is on (so that lint can escape) but closes when the dryer isn’t being used. By taking the entire ventilation system into account, you are less likely to experience a fire due to excess lint.
Fire Risk Assessment
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can do a full house fire risk assessment for you. We can examine your dryer, the ventilation system, and other typical home situations that increase a fire risk. If you’d like, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can cleanup and/or reconstruct and repair any potential risks.
Call Ralph and SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Hundreds of people have called us for help with their fire, storm, and water damage issues. They tell us that three main reasons they choose SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield are because we:
1. Respond immediately and work quickly
2. Have experience and solutions for virtually any water or fire damage problem
3. Answer all questions and will help with insurance claims
Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7/365.
11/30/2018 (Permalink)
At SERVPRO it can feel like we're in the Cavalry coming to the rescue
One of the great things about working for SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is that we often get to do amazing work. Nothing feels better than helping a homeowner overcome damage from a roof collapse or major fire or mold infestation or water damage. At times it feels like we’re the Cavalry coming to the rescue.
Here are two recent examples.
Burst Pipe Floods A Nonprofit’s 75,000 Square Foot Headquarters
Water flooded a 75,000 square foot Connecticut nonprofit agency in 2018 when a sprinkler pipe burst. The agency’s ability to serve their many clients and keep their employees safe were greatly compromised. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield performed emergency water extraction of several inches of water. Then we completely dried the 75,000 square foot area with industrial dryers. We tested for mold and mildew. Our crew removed and replaced all damaged building materials.
During the work we discovered and removed hazardous asbestos and applied an anti-microbial spray. Because of our work the nonprofit was back serving clients within days. The building was safer and in better shape after we left than before the pipe break occurred.
Saving $30,000 For Bloomfield Homeowner
Also, in 2018, a Bloomfield, Connecticut homeowner suffered a major water loss behind expensive kitchen cabinets. Most cleanup and restoration crews would have done the easy, standard fix. They would just cut through the cabinets to fix the plumbing. But we don’t do just standard work without investigating to see if there’s a better solution.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield chose to save the cabinets by cutting through the pipes below the cabinets. Making this creative decision made the pipe repair work a tad more expensive ($800) but it saved the kitchen cabinets that the homeowner had paid $30,000 for. You should have seen the smile of relief on that homeowner’s face.
For Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
See Other Blog Posts
Every month on the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield blog we publish educational articles on how Connecticut residents can protect their homes and businesses from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm, or other damage.
Here For You
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
11/26/2018 (Permalink)
You can stop water damage from condensation. Learn how.
Not all basement water damage is caused by runoff from rain, storms, and melting snow. Sometimes your basement water damage is from condensation. Here’s how to diagnose the problem and deal with it.
Water Droplets A Sign of Condensation
Also called sweating, condensation shows up in your basement as water droplets, wet spots, or puddles on your basement floor or basement (foundation) walls. Condensation happens when moist, warm air hits cool basement foundation walls or uninsulated cold-water pipes. The result is often damp carpets, rusting appliances, and an unpleasant clammy climate in your basement. In crawl spaces, condensation encourages wood rot and insect attack, and can buckle and delaminate plywood.
Nonprofessionals can easily confuse a condensation problem with runoff or subsurface water damage. Before you treat your basement for condensation, make sure you have correctly diagnosed the problem. To identify condensation, tape foil over damp spots and check those spots after a day. If moisture forms on the outer foil face, water is condensing from the air and you have a condensation problem. If moisture forms on the foil underside, water is seeping in from outside and you have either a runoff or a subsurface seepage problem.
If You Have Water Damage Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Another way to diagnose a condensation problem is to observe if you have obvious flows of water after each rain. If the problem isn’t worse after a rain but you have a persistent dampness in your basement, your problem may be basement condensation rather than water leaking through the walls. And if the dampness seems to be a hot-weather problem, basement condensation is the likely cause.
Easy Solutions First
Try solving your condensation problem with the simple, inexpensive solutions first. If you have a full basement, air it out by opening windows and running fans. Then consider installing a dehumidifier. You can buy a good heavy-duty one for $250-300. The dehumidifier can process 50 pints in 24 hours. If possible, place the dehumidifier near easy drainage. If there is a basement shower that gets a lot of use, install a basement exhaust fan that draws the damp air out of the house.
During colder months, turn up the heat in the basement. Be sure your clothes dryer vents to the outside with no duct leaks. And don't dry clothes on a line in the basement or store wet firewood in the basement.
When Air Circulation May Be The Problem
If the condensation in your basement is modest, and you have no obvious sources of excess moisture, increasing air circulation may resolve the problem. Some basements don’t have air-conditioning vents. It’s often a simple matter to create a couple of vents. If you already have vents, make sure they are open.
A more expensive and complex solution to a basement condensation problem is to reduce the extent to which moist air contacts cool surfaces where that air can condense. This means insulating exposed duct work, pipes, and walls – anywhere that water tends to condense. If the moist air can’t reach the cool surfaces, it won’t release water as condensation.
Another effective but costlier solution drying out basement to damp-proof your basement walls with a waterproof coating. Or apply a crystalline penetrant that clogs concrete pores.
Solutions like these solve the majority of basement condensation problems. If you continue to see moisture after trying these solutions, then you're probably not dealing with condensation.
If You Have Water Damage Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield knows of one homeowner who had basement water damage because the property needed a swale. Houses on hilly sites can use a shallow trench with gently sloping sides, a swale to catch and divert runoff away from the house. Once this homeowner created a swale the basement water damage stopped.
More Water Damage Information On Our Blog
You can learn more by reading other posts about water damage and water damage cleanup on our blog.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime. We are proud to serve our local communities including Glastonbury, Marlborough, Portland, Rocky Hill, and Wethersfield.
11/12/2018 (Permalink)
Basement water damage can often be prevented so you don't face a costly cleanup
If you have a soggy basement, you're among the majority. The American Society of Home Inspectors estimates 60 percent of U.S. homes have wet basements, and 38 percent run the risk of basement mold.
1,000 Gallons for Every Inch of Rain
The water usually comes from rainfall and melting snow. Think about this: A house with a 1,500-square-foot roof sheds 1,000 gallons of water for every inch of falling rain. You may also have rising groundwater, which may even be fed by an underground spring. Once the water accumulates around your foundation, it works its way inside through cracks, joints, and porous material.
Before you call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield you may want to tackle the problem on your own. Here are some tips on drying out your basement and keeping it free from water damage.
Safety First
Is it safe for you to tackle the water damage? If you’re not sure, don’t take a chance. Find somewhere else to stay and call in the professionals until you’re certain your house is safe again.
One way to judge the safety issue is finding out whether you have electrical or "slip and fall" hazards. Don’t walk through your water damaged basement if you can’t see what you’re walking on. Stay out of areas that lack sufficient lighting. And if you try lifting wet materials be careful. When items are soaked with water they become very heavy.
If You Have Water Damage Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Water Damage from Runoff
If you know the water damage is from runoff the probable cause is rainwater or melted snow that isn't routed away from your house. A damp crawl space or wet basement walls and floors just after a storm or as snow melts are telltale signs the problem is runoff. Runoff percolates through porous topsoil and then stops at the compact soil near the base of the foundation. Hydrostatic pressure forces the water through gaps or cracks in walls and footings. Water also moves through porous walls by capillary action.
Carefully inspect your basement, looking for where runoff can enter. Check that the ground outside your basement foundation slopes away from your house at least one inch vertically for every foot of horizontal travel. Be sure downspout runoff isn't pooling or percolating into the soil near your home’s foundation during a storm, and that downspout seams aren't leaking.
Fix Cracks
Patch and seal any cracks you find in your basement walls or foundation. Use a polyurethane masonry caulk for small cracks. For 1/4-inch or larger cracks, use hydraulic cement, which expands as it dries.
Your driveway curbs should channel rain and other runoff to the street, not onto your property. You can also check for unsealed cracks in your driveway. Driveway cracks can allow water to collect below grade.
If You Have Water Damage Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
We know of one homeowner who had basement water damage because the property needed a swale. Houses on hilly sites can use a shallow trench with gently sloping sides, a swale to catch and divert runoff away from the house. Once this homeowner created a swale the basement water damage stopped.
More Water Damage Information On Our Blog
You can learn more by reading other posts about water damage on this blog:
FEMA’s Take On Restoring Flood Damage In Bloomfield/Enfield
Saving Water Damaged Electronics
The Surprising Danger In A Flood Or Sewage Backup
Water Shut Off
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime. We are proud to serve our local communities including Bloomfield, Enfield, Granby, Hartland, North Granby, Salmon Brook, Suffield, Thompsonville, and West Granby.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
10/26/2018 (Permalink)
We aim to make the insurance agent's and the claim adjuster's jobs easier
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has worked with many insurance agents and claim adjusters. We understand your situation. As an agent or adjuster, you have a responsibility to keep claim costs down while providing the best services possible for your clients. Here are a few reasons we’re trusted by so many insurance agents and adjusters:
Fast Emergency Response
Restoring commercial or residential property is the first priority at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield. Your insurance client will appreciate our immediate response and you will know we’re doing everything we can to limit the damage and the costs.
Pretesting Reduces Claims Expense
Like insurance agents and claim adjusters, we know restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. Our goal is always to restore whenever possible and replace only when necessary. That’s why SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield performs pretesting on every loss so we can determine restorability.
Claims Inventory Service
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can provide insurance agents and claim adjusters with an itemized loss inventory. We give you an Excel formatted report and pictures of important items. Your work is made simpler and clearer because we provide you with a complete and accurate picture of the incident.
Electronic Claims Information
Our corporate Claims Information Center provides the fast, accurate information you need to make sound decisions, including:
• A complete electronic job file (by email or on paper)
o First notice of loss
o Detailed estimate
o Digital loss photos
o Scanned forms and paperwork
• Informative reports (including job cost data) to improve results
• Performance comparison to industry standard
Superior, Time-Tested Training
Effective training is the best way to help ensure your clients receive the service they deserve. All SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield crews are trained to IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards in fire and water cleanup and restoration. We also conduct continuing education classes.
Vendor Qualification Compliance and Professionalism
If you call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, we will use only qualified vendors to service your clients. Our commitment means you receive:
• Access to the SERVPRO National Call Center to achieve prompt handling of your claims
• Assurance that our crew uses industry best practices
• Efficiencies through our insurance and file documentation requirements
• The benefits of our quality assurance program
Serving Adjusters and Your Clients
A SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield professional's job is to reassure your clients, perform quality service, and report to you quickly. We know your job is to interpret the policy and adjust the claim. We don’t want you to have to deal with problems from vendors. Working with you, we strive to save you time so you can focus on priority files, while having complete control of every loss you’re assigned. We offer you 24-hour emergency response, damage mitigation, loss assessment, and an electronic file within hours. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield’s documented, measured performance increases value for you, your agency, your managers, and your clients.
Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO leaders in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry. The SERVPRO System is geared to achieve customer satisfaction and mitigation results, adding to your competitive advantage.
Here To Help
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, natural disaster cleanup, and natural disaster restoration. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We serve homeowners, businesses, and organizations in Bloomfield, Granby, East Granby, Enfield, Hartland, and Suffield.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 24/7/365
10/15/2018 (Permalink)
Here's a true store of a hardware store that suffered major fire damage and yet was back functioning at 100% within 10 days.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield wants you to be able to reopen your business as soon as possible after a fire or any natural disaster. Here’s an example of how we helped one Bloomfield, Connecticut business do just that.
When a car crashed into a Bloomfield, Connecticut hardware store in August 2018 the car burst into flames. The car fire quickly became a commercial building fire. The hardware store was an independent shop with a business owner who could ill afford to be out of business for very long.
On Site within an Hour
After the fire was out, the business owner called SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield around 5 p.m. We arrived on the scene within an hour. Our crew talked to the business owner, surveyed the damage, and created a plan to restore the building. Before nightfall we covered four holes in the hardware store roof with temporary tarps to prevent further damage. We secured six broken store windows so the store would be protected from the elements, vandalism, and from any potential burglary for the night. We also filled several barrels with broken glass.
First, Keep the Business Open
Early the next morning a full SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield crew arrived. A first priority was to section off the damaged portion of the hardware store so the remainder of the store could be safely opened for business. Another top priority was to remove the smoke smell and the soot damage. Members of the SERVPRO crew loaded hardware store furniture and equipment onto a truck for delivery to our Bloomfield warehouse. Tables, chairs, electronic equipment, and more were professionally cleaned and restored at the warehouse.
Test for All Major Issues, Don’t Just Deal with the Obvious
Our commercial building restoration process always includes testing the site for potential issues that may not be a part of the damage but are still important to eliminate. As part of that process we tested the hardware store for asbestos.
It’s ironic that in most cases of commercial fire damage restoration a huge issue is water—the water used to put out the fire. At the Bloomfield hardware store, we used negative air machines and large commercial dehumidifiers to dry the site. It’s critical that the drying process go beyond removing visible water and moisture. After commercial fires, water and moisture are often hidden inside walls or other hard to reach places. We do a thorough exam to make sure no moisture is left behind. Doing so eliminated potential mold and mildew problems later. Our commercial-grade negative air machines and industrial dehumidifiers dry materials more thoroughly and much faster than lesser equipment.
As other SERVPRO crew members became available, we added them to the hardware store crew to sped the restoration process. The list of required actions was long. It included scrubbing soot from floors, walls, and fixtures; cleaning duct work; and removing and replacing ceiling tiles.
Clean, Repair and Reconstruct Inside and Out
While some crew members worked on these interior issues, others repaired the four holes in the hardware store roof and replaced the six storefront windows. Within about 10 days SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield had the store’s furniture and equipment cleaned, restored, and back in place. All the damage had been repaired and, in some cases, the “new” store was of even higher quality than the existing store before the fire. The hardware store never had to close its door completely and was up and running as if the car accident and fire had never happened within those 10 days. Fast action by the business owner and by SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield kept the business’s lost revenues to a minimum and kept insurance costs down.
When you have a fire, any downtime threatens the life of your business. Employees who cannot work may find new jobs. Customers who depend on your goods and services may seek alternative suppliers. Lost revenue may affect capital investments, shareholder confidence, and the bottom line. Don’t let any of this happen to you. Start restoration as soon as possible with a professional crew that has the training, equipment, and experience to do the job right.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Our staff is highly trained in commercial building restoration services. We study IICRC standards and best practices in cleaning and restoration. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
9/24/2018 (Permalink)
A little attention and maintenance can get you years of more use out of your commercial HVAC system
Never take your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system for granted. Try working without air conditioning in 90-degree weather or without heat in freezing temperatures. No one wants to do that. Too many businesses don’t think about their HVAC until it breaks down and a major inconvenience can’t be avoided. That inconvenience often comes with a major bill to pay.
Once a year or so, hire a professional to inspect your HVAC system. If maintenance is needed, that same company can take care of it right away without any inconvenience to you or your employees.
Some businesses have an HVAC inspection done every fall and again in spring. Those are times when the HVAC had just gone through a major season and the strain is more likely to have caused small potential issues to start rising. An HVAC professional will inspect and clean all of your unit’s wiring and mechanisms. That’s a major challenge for anyone without the training or expertise.
For HVAC, Cleanup, Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
How to Prolong the Life of Your HVAC System
As a business owner, you can perform several simple maintenance chores that can prolong your system’s life, increase its efficiency, and potentially save you from the cost of a major commercial disaster at just the wrong time:
• Get a high-efficiency, pleated air filter for your system
• Keep your heating units and AC free of pollen, leaves, and grass
• Keep two feet of space clear around your outdoor AC and heating units
• Inspect refrigerant lines for leaks or cracking every month
• Replace air filters every 90 days
• In the summer, turn off the water running to the furnace humidifier
• In the fall, replace the humidifier filter and turn the water back on
3 Annual HVAC Tasks
On a yearly basis you can perform these three important tasks:
1. Replace the carbon monoxide detector battery
2. Make sure your outdoor AC unit is on firm and level ground
3. Clean AC condensation with a bleach and water mixture
For HVAC, Cleanup, Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
Caring for your HVAC properly throughout the year will keep your work environment air quality and atmosphere pleasant. That will keep your employees and others who visit your building happy. Routine HVAC maintenance will also save you money by improving and maintaining the energy efficiency throughout your building.
Research Before You Buy
If you do have to buy a new HVAC system do your research. Start with some articles like 4 Top Tips To Finding The Right Commercial HVAC System by Sierra Air Inc.
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is always ready to inspect and maintain your HVAC system. And we’re here to answer any questions. We’re also trained and experienced in large cleanup jobs like fire damage, water damage, mold remediation, and more. Call us today at 662-690-6502.
Check Out Other Blog Posts
Every month on the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield blog we publish educational articles on how Bloomfield and Enfield residents can protect their homes and businesses from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm, or other damage. We also talk about the communities we serve, like we did in this post.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Our staff is highly trained in building services and property damage restoration. We study IICRC standards and best practices in cleaning and restoration. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
9/10/2018 (Permalink)
Storm damage can often be prevented or lessened if we just plan ahead
Here in the Bloomfield/Enfield region of Connecticut we can suffer from many types of storm damage. Some of those are wind damage, flood damage, and hail damage. Here are a few quick tips to consider should storm damage hit your home or commercial property.
Wind Damage Restoration
Hurricanes often cause severe wind damage. Your roof is particularly susceptible. Roof damage from strong winds may lift roof shingles, cause cracks, or remove part or all of the roof. Harsh winds and rains can shear away asphalt tiles. Flying debris can also cause cracks and holes in your roof and siding. Roof damage repair may challenge homeowners and business owners after a disaster, especially because a roof leak may not be obvious.
Roof Leaks
Why are many roof leaks and roof damage hard to detect? The storm may loosen flashing without creating a problem that’s easily visible to the eye. Loose flashing can cause another roof leak even weeks after the initial storm damage. A small roof leak can produce damp, moldy conditions inside your home or business. You best bet is to secure roof repair immediately after the wind damage. Doing so can prevent long term interior damage. A wind damage restoration expert, like the professionals at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, will help assure the homeowner or business owner receives a comprehensive roof assessment and roof repair services when hurricane or wind damage hits the Bloomfield-Enfield area.
Flood Damage & Recovery
If your home or business is near water or in a low-lying area, flood water damage is a risk. Heavy rains and flooding may cause water damage many miles from the coast or from any large body of water. If the land around your home or business cannot absorb the additional water flooding may happen. Even homes and businesses at higher elevations can sustain flood damage if frozen pipes break. Flood pump failures contribute to basement flooding and contaminated ground water in some Connecticut locations, too.
Flooding may also disrupt your municipal water system. Experts need to assess ground water and evaluate the condition of pipes following flood damage. Hiring a storm restoration firm, like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield may allow you to begin your cleanup process even before water restoration occurs. And don’t forget-- cleaning before water restoration often proves essential yet challenging.
By relying upon a trained water damage restoration specialist, you'll usually obtain faster storm remediation. These experts may suggest ways to help mitigate flood water damage in the future, for instance, by requesting backup flood pump installation.
Hail Damage & Recovery
Hail may be the most overlooked cause of major storm damage. Hail can damage not just your roof but also your siding, exterior walls, and any detached sheds or outbuildings. You may think you’ve survived a hail storm but do know that hail damage is difficult to identify. Again, you’re wise to hire a storm damage restoration professional to inspect your roof, exterior walls, and outbuildings for damage. Dark spots on your roof are areas where the roofing granules have been knocked away. These weakened spots can lead to other more extensive problems such as leaks and cracks. Cracked and chipped siding is also a sign of hail damage.
Impact Damage & Recovery
In a major storm practically anything can become a creator of damage to your home or business. Think about trees. Your home may survive storm damage only to have a tree on your property succumb to the wind, hail, or rain and fall onto your house. A neighbor’s outdoor lawn furniture can become wind-blown projectiles. Extreme wind pressure turns regular outdoor items into tools of destruction. After storm damage, the professionals at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield do a walk around to look for the signs of these types of unusual damage.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Our staff is highly trained in building services and property damage restoration. We study IICRC standards and best practices in cleaning and restoration. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
8/31/2018 (Permalink)
Is your business prepared for a natural disaster? We can help you get there.
Each September, through National Preparedness Month, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reminds Americans to be prepared for disasters or emergencies in their homes, businesses, commercial properties, and communities.
Businesses can use this opportunity to find ways or help employees, vendors, and other businesses to understand more about preparing for disasters and reducing risks to health and the environment.
The EPA says there are many ways to reduce risks from contamination, leaks, spills, hazardous materials, and other dangers. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield suggests you visit the EPA’s page devoted to National Preparedness Month.
While not all-encompassing, this EPA page gives businesses and others many ideas and links to more information. Among the major sections are sections on general emergency information, how to report emergencies, communities, and a section for schools, businesses, and other facilities.
The business section covers topics like emergency planning, hazard resilience, decontamination, and risk communication. Among the helpful information SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Glastonbury found there was the Wastewater Response Protocol Toolbox (WWRPTB). It’s a useful tool for planning for and responding to wastewater contamination threats and incidents. The main audience for the toolbox is government agencies, emergency responders, and utilities.
The WWRPTB is designed to be a planning tool. It's not intended to be a reference document for use during an actual emergency when decisions need to be made rapidly. Cover are: who to notify, what actions to take, how to conduct a threat evaluation, how to safely collect and ship samples, steps to recover from a contamination event and more.
The WWRPTB addresses the preparedness and response needs for threats and contamination events in wastewater systems. These events can include contamination with toxicants as well as infectious, flammable, explosive, or radioactive substances. As an “all hazards” document, the WWRPTB discusses the response to accidental and negligent contamination events in addition to its primary focus on intentional contamination. The content and format are based on an earlier EPA guide on planning for and responding to threats and incidents of intentional contamination of public drinking water supplies.
Another useful tool we found on the EPA site is the Containment and Disposal of Large Amounts of Contaminated Water: A Support Guide for Water Utilities. The guide is intended for events involving emergency response activities at water utilities. In these types of events, an Incident Command System (ICS) may be established to manage the response, including decontamination activities. The guide provides a summary of key information that may be useful in addressing containment, treatment, and disposal of water contaminated with a CBR agent within any part of a drinking water, wastewater, and/or storm water system resulting from an “all hazards” contamination event. The information and recommendations were developed primarily for drinking water, wastewater, and storm water utility personnel involved in response activities. But others can benefit including decision makers involved with emergency response planning, such as emergency management agencies, environmental agencies, public health agencies, law enforcement, as well as other federal, state, local, and tribal agencies.
What To Do This Month
For your business, National Preparedness Month is a good time to:
-- Review and update your business's emergency response plan
-- Train any new employees on emergency and preparedness procedures
-- Remind employees of the importance of safety
-- Conduct emergency preparedness drills
If you don’t have an emergency response plan or aren’t certain whether your plan is as good as it needs to be, contact SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield. We can help.
The Restoration Leader
SERVPRO is the leader in the restoration industry. Our Bloomfield/Enfield franchise is locally owned and operated. We have over 30 years of experience in residential and commercial restoration and building services. We serve businesses and homeowners in Bloomfield, Enfield, Granby, Hartland, North Granby, Salmon Brook, Suffield, Thompsonville, West Granby
With SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield you have one point of contact. We save businesses save time and stress, and we keep costs low.
More Information On This Blog
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Our staff is highly trained in building services and property damage restoration. We study IICRC standards and best practices in cleaning and restoration. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
8/22/2018 (Permalink)
Has your business or commercial property recently become a victim of commercial water damage? Then you need to know you can take steps to mitigate the damage to your commercial property.
First, know you must act fairly quickly to preserve as much of your property as possible. Acting quickly is also important in decreasing any health risks to your employees or others after commercial water damage has happened.
One of the first considerations if your commercial property has major water damage is to prepare an adequate space for water damage restoration. You may need a clean and dry staging area where you can bring water damaged furnishings and equipment to be dried out, cleaned up, and worked on. Many commercial business owners don’t realize that some equipment that may look completely ruined can be restored if treated quickly and properly.
Be Sure The Power’s Off
Always remember that before you enter your commercial space (or any flooded building) you must make sure the electrical power to the business is shut off. And consult with the local fire department or other first responders to make certain they agree that you can safely reenter the commercial building.
During flooding events small animals and reptiles tend to seek shelter inside of buildings. Depending on where your business is located you may want to be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space.
Questions about commercial water damage? We are experts. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860.216.2785
Wear Proper Protection
Put on proper protection before you enter any flooded building. This includes an organic vapor respirator that you can purchase at any paint and building supply store. Wear rubber gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection.
Once inside, the first thing is to ventilate the water-damaged areas. Open windows. Place fans where they can best move the air to dry out the area.
In any major commercial water damage situation there’s likely to be items you need to throw away. For example, any items that are porous and have absorbed contaminated floodwater cannot be restored. If your commercial space has drywall, mattresses, pillows, box springs, particle board, carpets, or carpet pads, they must be discarded if they have become water-saturated.
Some Good News
But here’s the good news: If your water damaged commercial space includes clothing or household fabrics that can be machine-washed, you may be able to save them. Use your washing machine to clean these items with a 10-minute soak at minimum in hot water with detergent. The soap and normal wash should remove most of the contamination and any staining that is present.
Know that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection. You’ll need professional cleaning services, and possibly building renovation. Many water damaged commercial spaces have water damaged walls and installation that must be removed and replaced. Professionals also know how to uncover pockets of saturation and exposed them so they can dry and be sanitizing.
Questions about commercial water damage? We are experts. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860.216.2785
Stop Mold Growth
After major commercial water damage, mold is a threat. Mold growth can take a few days to appear. It thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particle board and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
During your restoration process keep good airflow throughout the interior environment. Maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of mold growth. And let your commercial space dry out completely before you begin any rebuilding.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in commercial water damage restoration services, natural disaster prevention, fire damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
8/14/2018 (Permalink)
Local businesses and commercial property owners use us for many business services
When your home or business has a fire, wind, water, or other emergency, you need to prevent additional damage. The best solution is to quickly take emergency protective measures. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield provides many of these measures under what we call building services:
• Roof tarping
• Boarding up of damaged windows, doors, and walls
• Removing debris and junk
• Preventing theft with 24-hour live security
At SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield we simplify the commercial building restoration process by handling both the damage restoration and reconstruction after fire, wind, water, or other damage. After securing your commercial or business property, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield technicians begin the cleanup and restoration process. If your business needs reconstruction, we will rebuild your property and bring your commercial building back to full use.
Among the restoration services and building services we provide are:
• Carpet repair and installation
• Document drying
• Dry cleaning
• Drywall installation
• Drywall removal
• Electrical
• Electronics restoration
• Fine art restoration
• Furniture restoration
• General contracting
• Hardwood floor repair
• HVAC services
• Linoleum floor repair
• Marble floor repair
• Mildew and mold remediation
• Move out
• Painting
• Plumbing
• Portable power
• Roofing services
• Scalable resources
• Temporary fencing
• Temporary warehouse space
• Tile floor repair
• Tree removal
Opportunity After Disaster
Of course, we hope that your home or facility never suffers the type of damage that would require our building services. But if damage should occur to your commercial property, there’s often opportunity hidden for you in the destruction. Many of our building services can play a role in improving your commercial building or property so it can withstand future storms and disasters.
You may choose to not only rebuild “Like it never even happened,” but improve on what you had before the damage happened. Doing so can improve your business’s ability to attract customers and revenue. Or, quality restoration services can help enable you to stay in business or get back in business faster after the next natural disaster.
That carpeting that was old and starting to show its age could be replaced with flooring that’s more long-lasting, attractive, and easier to maintain. That roof that was marginal at best could be improved to protect against future leaks and bills. Outdated electrical could be upgraded to provide better service and reduce the risk of future electrical issues. These are just a few examples of the opportunities that restoration can provide.
The Restoration Leader
SERVPRO is the leader in the restoration industry. Our Bloomfield/Enfield franchise is locally owned and operated. We have over 30 years of experience in residential and commercial restoration and building services.
We serve businesses and homeowners in Bloomfield, Enfield, Granby, Hartland, North Granby, Salmon Brook, Suffield, Thompsonville, West Granby
With us, you’ll have one point of contact, and we’ll save you time, stress, and keep costs low.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Our staff is highly trained in building services and property damage restoration. We study IICRC standards and best practices in cleaning and restoration. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
8/10/2018 (Permalink)
Mold is a health issue but you need to know what type of mold you're dealing with
Mold comes in many types and forms. In fact, there are more than 100,000 types of mold including about 150 types of mold found in homes--each of which can have several subtypes. The good news is that most people tolerate exposure to moderate levels of many different molds without any apparent adverse health effects. The bad news? Some molds may cause health effects.
In this post you’ll learn about identifying some common types of mold in your home.
The most common types of mold you may find in your home include aspergillus, cladosporium, and stachybotrys atra (black mold).
Aspergillus is a fairly allergenic mold that is commonly found on foods and in home air conditioning systems. Cladosporium is typically a black or green "pepper like" substance that grows on the back of toilets, painted surfaces and fiberglass air ducts.
Black Mold (Stachybotrys Atra)
Black mold is most likely to appear in your home in places that are particularly warm, humid, and damp—like basements or crawlspaces that may have leaks or other sources of moisture. You can identify black mold by its black color. Most other molds are green or gray in color.
Removing black mold is a step-by-step process that requires patience, an investment in protective gear, black mold removal products, and the courage to brave dark, cramped spaces inhabited by fungus. These are among the reasons why many homeowners hire SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to remove black mold.
We know mold. Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield at (860) 216-2785
Mold or Mildew: What’s the Difference?
Mold and mildew are types of fungi. Typically, mold is black or green, and mildew is gray or white. Mold tends to grows on food, while mildew grows on damp surfaces, like bathroom walls, basement walls, or fabrics. Mold grows in the form of multicellular filaments or hyphae, while mildew has flat growth. Mildew is often referred to as a kind of mold.
Orange or Red Mold
Mold that appears to be orange or red in color is usually found outdoors. It thrives on decaying plants and moist wood. This type of mold, which can appear slimy, is harmless. The main reason to remove it (should you decide to) is for appearances.
Aureobasidium
Often referred to as “bathroom mold,” aureobasidium is found on caulk, windows, bathtubs, and showers. It’s a black mildew.
We know mold. Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield at (860) 216-2785
Wallemia
This type of mildew is relatively harmless and grows in dust in homes. Wallemia does not need moisture to grow.
Fusarium
This toxic mildew is very common after a flood. Exposure to fusarium may cause some negative health symptoms.
The Importance of Testing
Unfortunately, you can’t identify most types of mold in your home with a photograph or with your naked eye. Most molds look similar. What you can do is send a sample for black mold testing to a qualified mold laboratory.
Remember that it’s critical to know the types of mold and the amounts you inhale. If you’re concerned, consider testing the air in your home or call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
7/31/2018 (Permalink)
We're proud to provide services to great towns like Enfield, Connecticut. Here are a few things that make the town great.
The first good thing about Enfield, Connecticut is that it’s part of our home base. Bloomfield/Enfield SERVPRO is honored to serve the Enfield community. We’ve helped a lot of people and made a lot of friends in Enfield. But there are so many other things that are good about Enfield.
2nd Good Thing: A Lovely Town
Enfield is a lovely town in North Central Connecticut just minutes from the Connecticut River and Suffield. Enfield is a community in Hartford County with a population of slightly more than 44,000 people (2010 census). Among the major employers in town are Lego and Hallmark Cards.
3rd Good Thing: Beautiful Parks
On Enfield’s Brainard Road, you’ll find Brainard Park. It’s full of amenities like an immaculate playground equipment, two lighted softball fields, and several shaded picnic areas.
Another nice Enfield park is Powder Hollow Park on Dust House Road. This park features a Little League baseball field, a regulation-sized baseball field, winter ice skating, and shaded picnic areas. Also in Enfield are White Acres Park, Mark Twain Park, Hazardville Park, and a dog park.
For Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
4th Good Thing: Golf And Other Interesting Things To Do
Enfield is home to the Grassmere Country Club, a public nine hole golf course that many people list as a favorite. It’s also a popular venue for small weddings, banquets, and corporate outings. You’ll also find a brewery, good schools, fine restaurants, and other interesting places in Enfield.
5th Good Thing: The July 4th Town Celebration
Every year Enfield hosts a three-day celebration of our country’s birthday that attracts 10-20,000 visitors a day. Among the highlights at the 2018 celebration were 6 bands, the Taste of Enfield (foods from local restaurants), kids’ rides and games, a firehouse tour, a teen zone with music, sports, games, and a teen battle of the bands, and, of course, a large fireworks show. The best part is that it’s all free.
6th Good Thing: Museums & Tours With Access To Enfield’s Rich History
The Enfield Shaker Community, the town’s contributions to the gunpowder and carper industry and much more of Enfield’s rich history is preserved and promoted courteous of the Enfield Historical Society. The Enfield Historical Society operates three museums--all free of charge.
The Old Town Hall Museum was built as the third meeting house of the First Ecclesiastical Society of Enfield in 1774. More than two centuries later it continues to serve the town. The Martha A. Parsons House Museum was built in 1782 and houses two centuries of Parsons family possessions. The Wallop School Museum was built in 1800 and remained in service until 1949. The Enfield Historical Society also provides free tours and other services to schools.
7th Good Thing: Town Services
The town website contains lots of useful information including a large town services section that has pages of services for adults, building inspections, neighborhoods, seniors, tax information, and veterans.
For Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
8th Good Thing: People Like Enfield
And the eighth good thing about Enfield is that so many people seem to enjoy living and/or working in Enfield. On one review site, Niche, we found these comments:
“I love our town of Enfield. It’s a small town feel with one of the largest land areas in Connecticut. Close to Hartford and Springfield, we have a safe town and enough amenities to keep the town happy.”
“I have lived in Enfield for a year now and I love the town. It has a rural/suburban feel. You have many different shopping options available. I enjoy driving through the different sections of Enfield. The people here are friendly, you always see people out walking and bettering the town.”
“Enfield is close to neighboring cities with many options for entertainment and food. It's a quick drive to MA, or over to Hartford if you work or go out there.”
“Enfield is great because it has a lot of things to do, a good public education system, and also offers scenic and quiet areas as well. Lots to do and close to cities like Springfield and Hartford!”
Check Out Other Blog Posts
Every month on the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield blog we publish educational articles on how Bloomfield and Enfield residents can protect their homes and businesses from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm, or other damage. We also talk about the communities we serve, like we did in this post.
For Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
Here For You
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
7/12/2018 (Permalink)
Cleaning up blood or other bodily fluids is dangerous and requires a professional
Hazardous chemical spills and biohazards are more common than most people think. Choosing the right company to clean up a spill is critical. Here are some general guidelines that will help you choose a company that will do the job right. You’ll also find answers to many of the most frequently asked questions SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield receives about biohazard cleanup.
Choose a Trained Professional
Many biohazard cleanups are required after someone has died in an accident or in a violent way. No one should have to deal with the personal impact of cleaning up after the traumatic loss of a loved one. The professionals at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can get a traumatic event scene cleaned up quickly, compassionately, and discreetly.
Another reason to choose a trained professional is safety. United States government regulations classify all human and animal remains (including blood, urine, feces, vomit, and bodily fluids) as biohazards because they have the potential of carrying life-threatening pathogens.
Those pathogens can include Hepatitis B and C, AIDS, HIV, MRSA, tuberculosis and many more. The safe cleanup and removal of biohazardous materials involves extensive analysis and detailed work, and the use of state-of-the-art cleaning and odor removal technologies. We have the training, experience, and equipment to do the job.
Check the Biohazard Cleanup Service’s License
If you use a licensed professional firm you can be more certain the firm will conduct safe cleanup, removal, and disposal of any and all biohazardous waste. Be certain that the biohazard cleanup service is registered and compliant with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Department of Homeland Security (FEMA) regulations. These two federal agencies oversee disasters and workplace safety.
You also want certainty that the cleanup crew coming into your home or business is bonded and insured.
Pick a Service that Will Help with Your Insurance Company
In most cases, your insurance should cover much or all of the cost of traumatic event or crime scene cleanup. You can minimize or eliminate your out-of-pocket expenses by working with licensed and bonded professionals like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield. We will deal directly with your insurance companies. That will save you time and headaches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: Not unless your regular cleaning or janitorial service has been properly trained and equipped to handle biohazard cleanup and waste such as blood or bodily fluids, and also has a legal place to dispose of the recovered biohazardous waste.
Q: Who pays for biohazard services?
A: In many cases home, business, or auto insurance will pay. Ultimately the property owner may be responsible for cost of the service.
Q: Can I have an employee of my business clean the scene?
A: Federal Regulation 29cfr1910.1030 states that no employee can be placed in a position to be exposed to biohazard cleanup of blood spills without first:
More Information On Our Blog
You can learn more about hazardous waste, chemical exposure, and biohazards by reading other posts on this blog:
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
6/21/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO technicians are highly trained in mold remediatiion
When you work with mildew, mold, or the water-damaged materials that mold thrives in, you must practice good principles of water damage restoration. Dealing with mold and water-damaged materials opens you up to a range of health and safety concerns.
Some of those concerns are: exposure to microbial contaminants, chemicals, lead, asbestos, electrical shock, and slip-and-fall hazards.
Here are some general guidelines and items to consider.
1. Use professional moisture detection equipment so you can accurately measure and document the conditions.
2. Wear proper protective equipment.
We know mold. Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield at (860) 216-2785
3. Be sure to inform any building occupants of the water-damage issue and protect them from any health and safety issues.
4. Evaluate and document the source and time of the water event. This should include examining visible material deterioration, pre-existing damage, and microbial growth.
5. Professional water-damage restorers set moisture content or drying goals. You may need separate goals for water-damaged building materials, furniture, and other contents based on the extent of the damage and the material damaged.
6. Be sure to include any other interested people in your goal-setting. All interested parties should agree on the plan of attack, the drying standard, and more. Agreement and communication before you begin eliminates the risk of disagreement or disappointment after the water-damage restoration and mold removal is complete.
We know mold. Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield at (860) 216-2785
7. Removing mold and water damage is a process. You want to record, calculate, and document moisture measurements throughout the process. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield recommends daily documentation. With frequent progress checks you can make adjustments any time you think the drying process is not proceeding as planned.
8. Remember to identify and correct or control any issues that contributed to the mold or water damage in the first place. You do not want to clean out mold and restore water-damage without doing all you can to prevent the same problem from reoccurring. Leaking pipes must be fixed. Poor drainage has to be addressed.
9. One variable to track during mold removal and water-damage restoration is room temperature. Controlling the room temperature will enhance the evaporation rate and the effectiveness of dehumidification. And, microbial growth is sometimes related to the temperature.
10. Removing mold and restoring water-damage materials should be followed by cleaning. The type and extent of cleaning depends on the scope of the damage and the type of damage. But cleaning is always important in helping to prevent future issues and restoring your property to its best possible condition.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
6/18/2018 (Permalink)
Volunteering strengthens your community and makes you feel good
At SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield we believe in giving back to the community. We encourage all our employees to do the same.
In the United States more than 62 million people volunteer every year. Many choose to give their time to volunteer work because they find it deeply rewarding. It feels good to put energy into a cause that improves your community. Volunteering can also enable you to awaken dormant skills or practice a hobby in a more meaningful way. You could make new friends, professional contacts, and probably have some fun. You may even explore a new potential career path. So, how do you start?
Identify your interests and the skills you want to use. Do you enjoy working with children? Do you like working with numbers and financial data? Do you have a soft spot in your heart for someone who has a certain type of disability? Are you skilled at conversation, cooking, fundraising, mentoring, or in another area?
Once you've identified your area of interest and the skills you’d like to use, get tactical. Find organizations who need your skills and check out their mission statement. Make sure the group’s goals align with your values. Look at financials to see how funds are allocated and make sure their affiliations line up with your intentions. Find statistics about whom they serve and how they make an impact.
Don’t overcommit. Start volunteering a little and increase your volunteer time if it’s working for you.
Here are just a few of the ways that a little volunteering from you can make a big difference in Bloomfield, Enfield, Granby, Suffield, or your community.
Tutor a Student
Today students include people of all ages--not just children. Teaching literacy to adults can change lives. Helping someone learn English can expand his or her horizons. You could tutor in an academic subject or teach others about computers and the Internet. Don’t forget life skills like cooking, sewing, budgeting, and home repairs.
Visit a Nursing Home
Many Bloomfield area nursing homes have plenty of residents whose families and friends are gone or not available. These residents are often lonely, desperate for conversation, and eager to connect with another person. By spending an hour or two a week you can make a huge difference in someone’s attitude and outlook on life. And you may learn something about life from those who have already traveled the journey before you.
For cleanup and restoration after a natural disaster call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at (860) 216-2785.
Organize a Yard Sale for Charity
Do you enjoy tag sales? Then think about putting one together and donating the funds you raise to a local charity or nonprofit group. We bet most of the people in your town have electronics, furniture, clothes, or equipment that they’d be willing to donate to help the right cause. These items have value and can be recycled to those who will use them again.
Serve on a Community Board
Charities and community service organizations around Bloomfield and Enfield often compete with other bigger, for-profit businesses for the community’s attention and support. In many cases, nonprofits are at a distinct disadvantage. They may lack the resources to attract, compensate, and retain the best executive staff and administrators. If your talents are administrative, or if you have executive or board experience, your knowledge and insights could make a huge impact at a not-for-profit, community-based organization or charity.
For cleanup and restoration after a natural disaster call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at (860) 216-2785.
Volunteer at a Hospital
Hospital volunteers provide crucial support to the hospital staff. Volunteers also offer comfort and convenience to patients, families, and visitors. Volunteer opportunities include everything from manning information booths, to sitting with patients, to providing a roaming book and magazine cart, or working with children. Your volunteering might also involve helping with food service or pushing wheelchairs.
The opportunities to volunteer in the Bloomfield/Enfield area are endless. You might build a house with Habitat for Humanity. You could donate your old clothes or volunteer at a soup kitchen. Think about giving your old eyeglasses to an organization that collects them and distributes them to people in need. Or consider volunteering at a food bank or homeless shelter. Volunteering is a great way to make your community a better place.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
5/24/2018 (Permalink)
Keep fireworks fun by using them safely
On Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, New Year’s Eve, and at other times many of us enjoy gathering with family, relaxing, and celebrating. When you’re celebrating, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield would like you and your family to have fun but to also be careful.
When dealing with fireworks, sparklers, or anything else that has the potential to cause harm if mishandled, follow safety guidelines from the American Red Cross or other similar groups. Here are some fireworks safety tips we support. Have a safe and fun holiday!
The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public fireworks display put on by professionals. Stay 500 feet or more away. If, however, you choose to put on a display of fireworks from your home the American Red Cross and others recommend:
1. Never give fireworks to small children.
2. Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks and similar materials.
3. Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.
4. Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.
5. Light only one firework at a time.
6. Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
7. Never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures, or flammable materials.
8. Leave any area immediately where untrained amateurs are using fireworks.
9. Know your fireworks. Read all the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
10. Always have a responsible adult supervise firework activities.
11. Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.
12. Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area, away from buildings and vehicles.
13. Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak the dud in a bucket of water.
14. Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them into metal or glass containers.
15. Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
16. Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and placing them in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
17. Don’t attempt to travel on a plane with fireworks. FAA regulations prohibit the possession and transportation of fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage.
18. Report any illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to your local fire or police department.
19. Keep all pets far away from fireworks and the noise.
20. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2015 U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 11,900 people for fireworks related injuries. Fifty one percent of those injuries were to the extremities and 41% were to the head. Fireworks are serious fun. Please treat them as such.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, chemical cleanup, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
5/15/2018 (Permalink)
Come celebrate Beautiful Bloomfield May 31-June 3
Each June, our home town—Bloomfield, Connecticut—comes together for a week-long celebration. The celebration includes many community events designed to bring both town and area residents together in fellowship and fun. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield wants to help spread the word and celebrate with our great town.
This year’s events showcase the diversity of Bloomfield, a beautiful town, that was voted an all-American City in 1970. The Bloomfield events also offer an opportunity for people to get to know our town better. We hope you will participate and learn more about Bloomfield attractions, features, businesses, and history.
Thank You, Joel Neuwirth
Bloomfield Town Councilman Joel Neuwirth came up with the celebration idea. Joel and his hard-working committee bring the festival to life each year. They have lots of information and updates available on a dedicated website appropriately named Celebrate Bloomfield.
As of May 16, 2018 here are some of the exciting events planned for this year’s May 31-June 3 festival. Be sure to visit the Celebrate Bloomfield site for updates. Some events require registration. Others require a fee.
Thursday, May 31
Paint night, 5:30 p.m. on the Bloomfield Town Hall lawn. $15 materials charge. The Bloomfield High School Band will entertain.
Friday, June 1
-Author Luncheon, at 1p.m, at the Wintonbury Hills Golf Course. Meet writer Martha Hall Kelly, author of Lilac Girls. Open seating buffet. Details on the website.
-Kick-off concert by the Bloomfield High School Band on the Town Hall lawn at 7 p.m.
-Family Movie Night at 8 p.m. on the Bloomfield Town Hall lawn
-Community Awareness Task Force table for Diaper Bank donations
-Food and drink from Pasticerria's, Waypoint Spirits, and more
Saturday, June 2, The Main Event
-Entertainment from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. including radio personality Brad Davis, Les Julian (children’s performer), steel drums, and much more. See the list on the Celebrate Bloomfield site.
-Face painting for children with Juliet Woods DeBeatham
-Poetry reading at Prosser Public Library from 1-4 p.m. More than 15 local poets will share their work.
-Food vendors including Ben's Fried Dough & Lemonade, RePublic, Pasticerria’s, Back East and Thomas Hooker Breweries, Waypoint Spirits, Sweet Water Deli & Juice Bar, Chik-Fil-A, Fair Food/Laurie Gruendle (fried mozzarella, funnel cakes, deep fried Oreos, soft pretzels), Angella’s Hot Spot Jamaican Food Truck, and Jeff's Kettle Corn
-Bloomfield Fire Department smokehouse and fire engine. Ride to the top of the fire engine’s ladder.
-Community Awareness Task Force - table for Diaper bank donations
-Mayor's Fund-raising Dinner from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Gillette Ridge Golf Club. Tickets are $50 per person/$90 per couple. All funds will benefit the Bloomfield Social & Youth Services Department. Tickets available in the Town Manager’s office, Leisure Services (330 Park Avenue), and Prosser Library.
Craft Fair under the tent, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. More than 60 vendors.
Sunday, June 3
Wintonbury Land Trust hikes. Explore parts of town you never knew existed. See the beauty that is Bloomfield.
Please go to Celebrate Bloomfield for more complete information, to register, and for updates.
Celebrate That Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, chemical cleanup, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
5/11/2018 (Permalink)
You can control mildew and mold if you use proper procedures and equipment
In the first of these posts we talked about the need for a thorough assessment of the mold problem (step 1) and about properly preparing the area and yourself (step 2). Once you’ve prepared you’re ready to remove the mold and apply a stain-blocking paint.
Step 3: Remove the Mold
Here’s some good news. The best way to remove mildew and mold from walls is also an easy and cheap way. Use a bleach/water solution. (Reminder: Mildew is a surface type of mold that won’t damage your home’s structure but still needs to be removed.) Mix one part bleach to three parts water. Apply that solution with a sponge or rag. There are also a number of commercial solutions you can find at your local hardware store.
Remember to always use waterproof rubber gloves and goggles when you’re working with bleach. If your kitchen or bathroom has tile grout you may find patches of mildew in the grout. You can scrub it away with an old toothbrush. Be sure to wash down the walls after you’ve scrubbed.
More Details on What to Wear, How to Prepare & Clean Up
We provided this information in part one of this blog, but we know some of our blog readers don’t always see every post, so here’s the info again. This is important. Wear old clothes and shoes. Either launder or throw the clothes and shoes away when you’re done. Wear a N-95 or P-100 respirator along with goggles and long rubber gloves. Set an old box fan or a cheap new one in a window to ventilate the room while you work. Throw the fan out when you’re done cleaning, because the spores are almost impossible to clean off.
Tape plywood or cardboard around the window openings so the spores can’t blow back into your house. Wrap and tape any moldy carpeting in plastic, and double-bag mold-infested debris in garbage bags for disposal. To control airborne spores, you can moisten moldy areas with a garden sprayer while you work. Turn off your furnace and air conditioner and cover ducts and doors to contain spores. Keep your wet/dry vacuum outside when you vacuum.
We know mold. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Step 4: Apply a Stain-Blocking Paint
Once you’ve removed the mold, you may have stains left on the wall surfaces. Prime the wall with a good interior primer/sealer and paint over the stains.
Step 5: Prevent More Mold
It’s best to not consider yourself done when all the mold is gone. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield recommends you also take steps to reduce the risk of any mildew or mold growing in the future. The key to stopping most mold is to control dampness. The worst mold infestations usually occur in damp crawlspaces, in attics and walls where water has leaked in from the outside, and in basements with poor foundation drainage. Be sure to stop leaks, ensure good ventilation in attics, keep crawlspaces dry, and route water away from your home’s foundation.
Congratulations, you’re done! Stay vigilant and look for potential signs of mold by keeping in mind where and how it can grow.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, mold remediation, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
4/30/2018 (Permalink)
We know mold and mold remediation
A major mold infestation can ruin your home and your health. Don’t let that happen. Mold releases microscopic spores that cause health effects, as well as irritating, even injurious, odors. Try to avoid mildew and mold and deal with a small amount of mold as soon as you see it.
You may find mold on drywall or painted interior walls. Mold’s more likely to grow in kitchens and bathrooms where you have moisture and humidity. Your interior walls can also become mold breeding grounds if your roof or exterior walls let water in. In severe cases, when drywall remains wet, mold can begin to grow and penetrate throughout the drywall and you must remove and replace the entire sheet of drywall.
Step 1: Closely Examine the Area
If you spot mold on any interior wall, first assess the damage. How large an area is affected? What is the condition of the wall? Has the integrity or strength of the drywall been compromised? If your drywall is compromised, crumbling, bowed out, or covered with black or bluish splotches, remove and replace it. If the wall is structurally sound but covered with mold, you should be able to remove the spots with a cleaner and a lot of scrubbing.
Use caution, especially if the mold is extensive. Disturbing big infestations of mold can be bad for your health, particularly if you are an allergy sufferer or have a weakened immune system. At times, you’re better off calling the mold professionals SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to remediate your walls. This is always true after extensive water damage from flooding or another major natural catastrophe. In those cases and others, you probably have "black mold." As a general rule, if the mold covers more than 10 square feet call in the professionals. Or call your local public health department and ask for mold-testing advice.
We know mold. Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Step 2: Prepare the Surrounding Areas & Yourself
To fight mold you have to use some pretty strong and potentially harmful substances like bleach or commercial mold-killing chemicals. That means you want to protect surrounding surfaces like flooring, window frames, and nearby walls from any spills. Cover your floor with plastic drop cloths. Tape them in place so they don't move. Cover nearby window frames, walls, etc. with plastic sheets securely taped into place. Have some old towels handy to catch any spills. It’s also important that you wear protective equipment. Wear waterproof rubber gloves and goggles.
More on What to Wear, How to Prepare & Clean Up
Wear old clothes and shoes. Either launder or throw them away when you’re done. Wear a special N-95 or P-100 respirator along with goggles and long rubber gloves. Set an old box fan or a cheap new one in a window to ventilate the room while you work. Throw the fan out when you’re done cleaning, because the spores are almost impossible to clean off. Tape plywood or cardboard around the window openings so the spores can’t blow back in. Wrap and tape moldy carpeting in plastic, and double-bag mold-infested debris in garbage bags for disposal. To control airborne spores, moisten moldy areas with a garden sprayer while you work. Turn off your furnace and air conditioner and cover ducts and doors to contain spores. Keep your wet/dry vacuum outside when you vacuum.
For Steps 3 and 4 Read Removing Mold from Walls Part II.
Mold Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, mold remediation, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
4/16/2018 (Permalink)
The best commercial water damage is the damage you avoid. Here are some ideas on doing just that.
Business owners usually think commercial water cleanup is caused by floods, massive rains, and storms. That’s often true. Weather events, storms, and flooding do shut down businesses and create major water damage in commercial buildings. Unfortunately, many business owners, commercial space renters, and entrepreneurs don’t think about and try to prevent other typical causes of water damage.
1. Sprinkler systems
Some older office and retail buildings have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty, not well maintained, or in need of replacement. Many a time a poor sprinkler system has damaged commercial inventory and business assets and shut down business. Check your system to make sure that it’s not faulty or in need of repair or replacement.
2. Appliances and equipment
Restaurants and catering businesses sometimes suffer water damage from their appliances or equipment. But any business that has appliances or equipment that use water could suffer water damage. If an appliance fails and spews water across your commercial building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water damage emergency.
3. Pipes and plumbing
Just like in a residential home, the plumbing system in a commercial business can fail. A broken pipe or faulty plumbing can result in major water damage in just a few hours.
4. Sewer lines
Sewer backups are another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated black water which can cause health issues and ruin products and office furnishings.
5. Water Heaters
Water heaters in commercial buildings can crack or lose their seal because of high pressure. You want to make sure and follow the manufacturers guidelines and flush your water heater regularly to make sure it is working properly.
6. Roofing
One of the more obvious ways commercial buildings suffer water damage is through an old or leaky roof. Inspect the roof frequently (at least every six months) to make sure it does not need to be reseal and to be sure it drains properly. Even small leaks should be fixed immediately.
Commercial water damage? Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield. Call anytime 24/7 at 860.216.2785.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
4/10/2018 (Permalink)
Doing our job well is a great perk in and of itself, but one thing that makes it so much more rewarding is receiving notes and cards from our customers. You can see many of those notes on the Testimonial page of this website. To save you some time, here are some of our favorite community voices from among the many we’ve heard from.
“...a big thank you. We are so pleased with the outcome. The house sparkles. Everyone was so professional and friendly. It made us feel relieved that the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield crew took such pride and care.” — John and Slury in Thomaston, Connecticut
"SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield is a great company to work with, especially Ralph DiCristofaro, the owner. Ralph was very helpful and understanding." — Donna in Bloomfield, Connecticut
"SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield serviced my house in Newington, Connecticut. They were very responsive, professional and courteous. I will refer them to anyone I know for fire damage or water damage." — Tony in Newington, Connecticut
"Justin and Jose were very courteous and kind and did a fantastic job. I'm thankful to have had these two courteous, competent and good workers come to my home." — Patricia C. in Plainville, Connecticut
"A tree fell and hit my house in West Hartford, Connecticut. I called SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield and they came out immediately to tarp my roof. They extracted water in my house to prevent water damage. Thank you SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield." — Jeff in West Hartford, Connecticut
"I just wanted to thank Nate for moving so quickly. He connected me with Alex who sent down Phil, a carpenter and Eric, a prep man. They removed the upper cabinets and started the drying and cleaning process. Both Phil and Eric were very professional. Thanks for the great service."— Keith in Bloomfield, Connecticut
If you’ve been a SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield customer, thank you. Whether we’ve received a note from you, done multiple jobs for you, or haven’t heard from you in years, we appreciate doing business with you. Customers make our business go and grow. It’s always our aim to do all we can to earn more and more of the notes you’ve read here.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, chemical cleanup, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
3/14/2018 (Permalink)
To restore your home after fire damage takes time and expertise.
We’re not going to kid you. Fire damage restoration is tough work. People call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield frequently to ask for advice on how to clean up after a fire. Here are seven of the best tips we give people who ask about fire damage restoration.
Most people can put these tips into practice. But remember that fire damage restoration takes time, work, and skill. Realistically consider whether you want to try these ideas on your own or whether you’d be better off hiring highly trained restoration specialists who will guarantee their work.
With any fire you’ll have a degree of smoke damage to your walls, wall paper, and paint. If the smoke damage is not too serious, you should be able to scrub it clean with detergents and bleach. Soot from smoke damage is greasy stuff, so always try to dust as much of it off from a surface before trying to scrub the surface clean. Often, you’ll want to repaint, but make sure all surfaces are clean and dry before you paint.
Until your house is restored, limit your activity and movement in the house. This helps prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets. Keep people’s hands clean so you don’t further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork. Protect your things by placing clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas. Before you clean know the best cleaning method for that particular cleaning job (one example: Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.) Wash both sides of the leaves on your houseplants. Change your HVAC filter and tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.
Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield for Cleanup and Restoration. Call (860) 216-2785.
Firefighters are great. They save many a live and many a home. But they do introduce mold and mildew into houses when they must use water to extinguish the fire. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield highly recommends you hire fire restoration professionals to deal with mold and mildew. Mold and mildew can cause serious health problems. It’s difficult for a nonprofessional to know for certain if he’s clean up all the areas affected by the mold and mildew. And mold and mildew can contaminate your furniture, carpets, clothing, mattresses, walls, and vents. The best thing you can do immediately is to air out every room and clean out all vents and filters.
Your floors and carpets end up absorbing the worst of the damage from all the water used to put out a fire. In almost every case, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield recommends that you pull up any carpets that have water damage and replace them. Water can also seep underneath vinyl flooring and into the cracks in hardwood. You must address this. If you have experience with flooring, you can lift it up and clean under it. But you may want to call a professional fire damage restoration company to assist you.
Cleaning smoke damage from clothing is one of the biggest jobs you’ll have after a fire. Make sure you don’t smear the greasy soot into the clothing or just throw the smoky clothes into the wash. Often times dry cleaning is the best bet, and you should ask around local dry cleaners to see if any have experience with post-fire laundry. Removing smoke odor is another issue and we’ve covered it in another blog post.
Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield for Cleanup and Restoration. Call (860) 216-2785.
Dishes are also important items to clean thoroughly after a fire because they will be in contact with your food. Scrub all dishes well, let them soak in a solution of bleach and water (2 tablespoons of bleach per gallon) for at least 20 minutes and scrub some more for safety. When in doubt, if a dish, pot, or pan won’t come clean, cut your losses and throw it out – especially rubber or wooden dishes that absorb smoke.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, chemical cleanup, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
2/28/2018 (Permalink)
Don't give up on fire or water damaged valuables until you check out SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield's ultrasonic cleaning
Your valuable possessions may look ruined after a fire or water event but that’s not necessarily true. An ultrasonic cleaning system from SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield may restore your possessions. It’s a most efficient and effective way to restore your smoke, water, soot, and mold damaged property.
Ultrasonic systems use a process known as cavitation. Our ultrasonic systems can perform intense cleaning. They create millions of microscopic bubbles to help remove dirt, mold, and soot even from hard-to-reach crevices. The bubbles are repeatedly formed and immediately collapse. This action causes the bubbles to penetrate into every niche and crevice. There’s no scrubbing or abrasive chemicals. The process involves submerging your items into a pre-wash station, then a wash station, then a rinse station.
The ultrasonic process at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield uses ultrasound (usually from 20–400 kHz) and an appropriate cleaning solvent (sometimes ordinary tap water) to clean items. While the ultrasound works with just water, using a solvent appropriate for the item to be cleaned and the type of soiling present enhances the cleaning.
Some Restored As Good As New
Fire is terribly destructive. Items that are physically burned or melted cannot be restored. But SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can restore property that has been engulfed in smoke, covered in soot, stained or discolored by water or contaminated by chemicals or molds. With ultrasonic cleaning we can restore some items to be functional or even to good-as-new condition: "Like it never even happened."
Among the items ultrasonic cleaning might save without removing them from your home or property are:
A different cleaning process at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can save some:
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
2/12/2018 (Permalink)
We appreciate the town we are located in: Bloomfield, Connecticut. Here are some of the reasons why.
If you’re like most of us you may not stop often to appreciate where you live and work. Here at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, we consider ourselves fortunate to be located in the great town of Bloomfield, Connecticut. Today we’re pausing to express a little gratitude for a few of the things that make Bloomfield so appealing.
Bloomfield is a picturesque Connecticut town of about 20,000 people. Our town’s graced with rural beauty, abundant land, quality schools, dynamic commercial building projects, and a highly educated work force.
Homeowners value Bloomfield as a quiet, friendly haven from the big cities. Bloomfield also offers an unmatched opportunity for businesses seeking a strategic location in New England. It has the largest tract of undeveloped industrial land in Connecticut’s Capitol Region, making Bloomfield, Connecticut the perfect place to build a dream home or an international headquarters.
Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield for Cleanup and Restoration. Call (860) 216-2785.
Bloomfield is located in Central Connecticut, 10 minutes west of the state capital, Hartford. Our town is easily accessible to Bradley International Airport and Interstates 84 and 91. The town encompasses 26.4 square miles.
Bloomfield Gives
We’re a town that provides for the community. The Bloomfield town government has many departments that provide a wide range of services including veterans’ services, energy assistance, youth service programs, senior citizen and disabled resources, a food bank, and more.
We also protect our environment. For 35+ years the Wintonbury Land Trust has led the charge to protect and preserve land and natural resources.
Bloomfield has many interesting sites to see, places to visit, and assets to appreciate. They include: the 787 acre Penwood State Park, Marion Wilcox Park, Gillette Ridge Golf Club, Bloomfield Fire Department, and Thomas Hooker Brewery.
Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield for Cleanup and Restoration. Call (860) 216-2785.
Great Public Schools
The public school system in Bloomfield is another asset. Bloomfield High School ranked in the top 10% of Connecticut high schools (#36) in the 2017 U.S. News & World Report’s “Best High Schools in CT”. And Lead CT, a Connecticut-wide education consortium that promotes best practices in education, recognized Bloomfield Public Schools in 2016 as a model in “coherence and capacity”.
Strong Chamber of Commerce
The Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce has represented businesses of all sizes for almost 50 years. The Chamber promotes business success in Bloomfield through a variety of events, programs and initiatives. Businesses use the chamber to learn how to better manage costs, including healthcare benefit costs. Chamber educational programs help businesses improve productivity and performance.
The many assets of Bloomfield, the well educated population, and the town’s giving natural help make it an ideal place for SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to have our headquarters.
We're Here To Help
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield serves Bloomfield, Enfield, and surrounding towns by providing fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage restoration, chemical cleanups, natural disaster cleanups, and more. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
1/26/2018 (Permalink)
When the biggest disasters strike SERVPRO responds with thousands of restoration and cleanup professionals
On August 22, 2017--three days before Hurricane Harvey hit the Texas coast--SERVPRO was already there. Granted, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield did not play a role but more than 240 SERVPRO franchises with 550 crews did. It’s reassuring to know that if a similar storm or other natural disaster hits Connecticut you can rely on not just our franchise but hundreds of others close by.
A Hurricane Harvey Hero
Jeff Stone directed the Hurricane Harvey storm team. Jeff describes coordinating 550 crews from 240 franchises as a very difficult task. He conducted a daily WIP (Work in Progress) telephone conference call with as many franchises as possible. The WIPs allowed Jeff to remind crews of correct procedures, update them on the inflow of work, and walk them through the changes in the affected area that may impact their day-to-day work. Both frontline and back office staff were requested to be on each of the daily calls.
$180 Billion In Damage
Responding to a major natural disaster like Hurricane Harvey demands crews from far away come to the aid of the people in need. The wide devastation of Harvey required many SERVPRO crews to live away from home for weeks. A few facts explain why. Hurricane Harvey was a Category 4 storm that caused $180 billion in damage. That’s more than any other natural disaster in U.S history. The hurricane affected 13 million people from Texas through Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Kentucky. SERVPRO had similar responses from hundreds of franchises in those other states.
Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield for Cleanup and Restoration. Call (860) 216-2785.
Storm Site Leader: Dave Howarter
While Jeff kept a big picture perspective, Dave Howarter served as the Hurricane Harvey storm site leader. Dave’s the one who arrived three days before the storm. He served as the main contact for any SERVPRO franchise impacted by the hurricane or participating in the cleanup. Dave also maintained close contact with the ERTs (Extreme Response Teams) who handle the larger cleanup and restoration sites.
Educating People
Another key player in the Hurricane Harvey response was Bryan Stone. Bryan provided interviews, education and information to many media outlets including CNBC, Channel 12-Beaumont, TheStreet, the Houston Chronicle, Inside Edition, and Texas Monthly. On Facebook Bryan posted a video on where people should send donated items to the one of the most devastated areas. In Texas Monthly Bryan explained to people how to clean up their homes without getting sick from the contaminated flood waters. With more than a million Texans displaced by the storm, trillions of gallons of rain inundated more than 40,000 homes in greater Houston alone.
7,000 SERVPRO Pros Deployed
The total number SERVPRO professionals deployed across the Texas coast after Hurricane Harvey reached 7,000. Among the safety advice Bryan delivered was for people to follow the same types of procedures SERVPRO professionals practice. For example, he advised people to wear goggles and gloves. The SERVPRO crews also were required to wear rubber boots and particulate (P90) respirator masks.
Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield for Cleanup and Restoration. Call (860) 216-2785.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, chemical cleanup, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
More Information On Our Blog
You can learn more by reading other posts on this blog:
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
1/19/2018 (Permalink)
Space heaters, when used properly, are safe and can cut your utility bill.
On January 17, 2018 a space heater caused a fire to break out at 4:30 a.m. at a home on Brooksdale Drive in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. While one of the two residents had to be hospitalized, the residents of that home were lucky. The local fire rescue department had installed smoke detectors in the home and those detectors alerted the residents and helped get them to safety. Space heaters cause about one-third of all winter house fires and 80 percent of all winter heating fire deaths, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Having combustible materials too close to a space heater (or heating unit) accounts for more than half of all home heating fire deaths across the country. But for us here in the Bloomfield/Enfield Connecticut region, here are three pieces of good news about space heaters and fire safety.
1. Your local Connecticut fire department may offer free smoke alarms.
You may be able to call your local fire department and have them inspect your home and provide free smoke alarms. Programs like this one in Bridgeport, Connecticut happen frequently. In Meriden, Connecticut in 2018 a foundation bought hundreds of smoke detectors for the local fire department to give away.
2. Today’s space heaters are safer.
Consumer Reports says that space heaters get a bad rap. Many of today’s space heaters are not just better-looking but also safer. In the past 10 years manufacturers have improved built-in safety features like a tip-over shut-off switch says Jill Notini, vice president of the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.
Space heater or other fire safety concerns? Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785 anytime
3. Follow simple safety rules and you greatly reduce or eliminate any space heater concerns.
Here are some basic rules for using space heaters:
A. Use newer space heaters, not older models.
B. Never buy a used space heater.
C. Only buy a space heater that has a safety certification from the Underwriters Laboratories or Intertek’s ETL Mark.
D. Don’t leave your space heater on when you’re not in the room.
Space heater or other fire safety concerns? Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785 anytime
E. Plug your heater directly into an outlet.
Avoid using an extension cord or power strip because they could overheat.
F. Keep a three-foot perimeter around the space heater clear.
Never store clothing around or on the heater or place it too close to curtains or a bed.
G. Beware of children and pets around a space heater.
Either could knock over a space heater. And unplug the heater when you’re not using it.
Adding a portable space heater to your cold-weather arsenal can make bitter cold winter days much more bearable. When used with care, space heaters can provide safe supplemental heat in a small, targeted area.
More Safety Information
Every month on the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield blog we publish educational articles on how to protect your home and business from fire disasters repair.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
1/8/2018 (Permalink)
Snow turns to ice turns to damage to your home. Here's how to avoid it.
Ice storms are hard to predict and even harder to deal with. But you can take steps to prevent your home or your office from suffering ice damage. Even after a damaging ice storm you can take actions that can mitigate future 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. Please don’t think of ice as just a minor annoyance. Ice can wreak major havoc. But even little steps can make a difference. If a 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.
Prevent 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.
What you can do now
Add insulation to your attic. Also, make sure you insulate recessed lighting fixtures so they don’t heat up your attic. For more, see Bob Villa’s How To Avoid Ice Dams And Water Damage.
What to do after a storm
Remove the snow from your roof with a roof rake, especially if 6 inches or more accumulates. Do not use a regular rake, because you can damage the shingles and gutters.
Assess your roof’s risk of collapse
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 SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield 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 cave-in.
What you can do now
Determine that your roof is in good condition. Check your attic and look for daylight through the boards, dark streaks or stains, sagging or leaks or water damage. See problems? Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield.
What to do after a storm
If you have 6 inches or more of snow on your roof 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.
Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield for Cleanup and Restoration. Call (860) 216-2785.
Keep your gutters clear
Clogged gutters can back up and flood your home or business or saturate the ground and damage the foundation.
What you can do now
Clear your gutter of debris (if you do this yourself, make sure you properly brace the ladder, and that you wear gloves for the chore). Be sure water drains at least 10 feet away from your home’s foundation.
What to do after a storm
Clearing your gutters is still the first step. Make sure you remove any tree limbs that could fall.
Prepare your home’s pipes
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.
What you can do now
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.
What to do if after a storm
Besides using a space heater in rooms where pipes are vulnerable, open the vanity doors so that air circulates and keeps pipes warm.
Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield for Cleanup and Restoration. Call (860) 216-2785.
Don’t let ice damage grow into water damage
Left untreated, ice can lead to major water damage. Water quickly ruins carpet and personal items, and can cause mold and make structural damage worse. As soon as you notice water on the ground or on your walls, make sure to call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield. Get to water damage quickly enough and you can get the area dried out and prevent or lessen further 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 The Hartford’s Extra Mile in Nancy Dunham’s article, “12 Tips to Ice Out Ice This Winter.”
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, chemical cleanup, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
More Information On Our Blog
You can learn more by reading other posts on this blog:
Frozen Pipes!
Roof Leaks
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
12/20/2017 (Permalink)
Don't try to remove asbestos on your own. Call in a professional.
Asbestos Removal Questions Answered
Q: What is asbestos?
A: Asbestos is a carcinogen used extensively in building materials prior to the 1970s. It’s commonly found as duct and pipe insulation, vermiculite attic insulation*, ceiling and wall acoustical tiles, cement asbestos siding, floor tiles, floor tile adhesives, and automobile clutches and brakes.
*Vermiculite insulation is distinct from other common blown in insulation and easily spotted. Vermiculite insulation appears as gray-silvery chips about the size of a pinky nail.
Q: If I have asbestos in my home do I have to have it removed?
No. If the asbestos-containing materials in your home are undamaged, leave them alone. It’s more dangerous to disturb them, says the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). But in most states, you must disclose the presence of asbestos to buyers of your home.
If you do remodeling and asbestos-containing materials are disrupted, the best thing to do is to have them removed professionally. Or if a storm or other natural disaster exposes asbestos you should have it removed. Removal is complex. Hire a trained and accredited asbestos professional. Improper removal may actually increase your and your family’s exposure to asbestos fibers.
Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield for Cleanup and Restoration. Call (860) 216-2785.
Q: What are the greatest health risks if I’m exposed to asbestos?
A: Exposure to asbestos increases your risk of developing lung disease. That risk is greater if you smoke. Disease symptoms may take many years to develop following exposure and asbestos-related conditions can be difficult to identify. Three of the major health effects associated with asbestos exposure are lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis (a serious progressive, long-term, non-cancer disease of the lungs).
Q: Can asbestos be removed while people continue to work or live on the property?
A: Yes, but those workers will probably have to be relocated to another part of the building temporarily. And the part of the building where asbestos is being removed must be sealed off. This prevents contamination of the other areas.
Q: How do you seal off an area during asbestos removal?
A: Methods of sealing off an area include using polyethylene film, duct tape, and negative air pressure machines fitted with HEPA filters. When properly applied, the film and duct tape don’t allow air-borne asbestos fibers to travel to other parts of the home or building. The negative air pressure machine pulls fresh air into the asbestos area while not allowing any asbestos fibers out into the surrounding environment.
Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield for Cleanup and Restoration. Call (860) 216-2785.
Q: Can a regular vacuum cleaner be used to remove asbestos?
A: No. Only a special vacuum cleaner designed for asbestos containment (class H) can be safely used when cleaning up during and after asbestos removal. Even an ordinary vacuum cleaner fitted with a HEPA filter is not safe. That ordinary vacuum cleaner will expel the asbestos fibers into the room air.
Q: What does it cost to remove asbestos from a house?
Asbestos removal costs vary depending on how much work must be done. Some contractors have a minimum fee of $1,500 to $3,000. Complete removal in a 1,500-square-foot home with asbestos everywhere—walls, floors, ceilings, attic, roof, pipes—could be as high as $20,000 to $30,000. But that’s unusual.
Q: Where can I go for more information?
The federal government’s Environmental Protection Agency has lots of information on asbestos and how to protect your family.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, chemical cleanup, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002 IICRC Certified Ralph DiCristofaro Certified SERVPRO technician Call 860.216.2785 24 hour emergency service
12/6/2017 (Permalink)
No one wants a natural disaster to hit but it could cut your tax bill
Most people don’t realize they can cut their tax bills after a natural disaster damages their home according to a December 2017 article by Lew Sichelman. In the article, Patrick O’Connor, president of one of the country’s largest tax consulting firms, says to call your local tax appraiser’s office after major damage. If you do call, the value of your property could go down significantly and that would reduce your tax bill.
Examples include homes damaged by natural disasters like the recent Northern California fires, and the hurricanes that hit the Gulf Coast, Florida, and Puerto Rico. Here’s how it might work. Imagine your Bloomfield, Connecticut house was worth $500,000 before a natural disaster. But the natural disaster that hits Connecticut decreases your home’s value to $230,000. If your local appraiser or tax assessment office knows that, he or she can reduce the valuation on your Bloomfield home or business appropriately.
If you don’t let the tax authority know your house could be assessed as if it were in normal condition despite its diminished market value. Most local tax officials don’t visit every house in their district every year so they may not be aware of the need to charge you less.
Avoid preventable disasters. Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield (860) 216-2785
Across Connecticut, Massachusetts, and the country each town, city, and county has its own system for valuing property. When disaster strikes some authorities proactively assess the local damage. Others do not have the resources to do so. Regardless, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield recommends you call the Bloomfield, Enfield or your other local tax appraiser office just to make sure they know your property has lost some value.
In some states, like Texas, you’re required to tell would-be buyers if your home suffered flood damage.
Maximizing Your Tax Relief
To receive the most tax relief, you usually need to document the condition of your house when it suffered the damage and after SERVPRO cleanup restoration at the end of the year. Also report any repairs done on your property and what still needs repair.
Federal Income Tax Refund Possible
Also, whether you were insured or not when the snow storm, hurricane, flood, or other natural disaster struck, you may be eligible for a federal income tax refund because of the damage. The IRS has a provision called Section 165 that allows for a deduction as a result of casualty losses. Of course, tax law is subject to change so always check with a professional tax advisor.
Avoid preventable disasters. Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield (860) 216-2785
Cash From The SBA
Another way to get cash is a Small Business Administration (SBA) loan. The SBA usually makes loans to businesses, but after a named disaster, the SBA makes low-interest loans to individuals. In December 2017 interest on these SBA loans was 1.75 percent amortized over 30 years. The loans are capped at $200,000 for rebuilding and $40,000 for personal property like autos, clothing, and tools.
If a natural disaster does major damage to your home or business, call your insurance company first. But remember to call your local appraiser’s office later.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
11/22/2017 (Permalink)
Roof valleys can collect debris, stop the flow of water, and start a roof leak
One of the biggest problems homeowners face is roof maintenance and roof leaks. Against all types of weather your roof is your first line of defense. Because roofs can last 25 or 30 years we sometimes tend to not think about a 10 year-old or 15 year-old roof needing attention. But it doesn’t matter if you live in an older home or a brand new home--you need to inspect your roof (regardless of the roof’s age) at least a few times a year and make any necessary repairs. One advantage of inspecting your roof frequently is that you may spot small repairs you can make yourself at little cost. Finding and fixing the small issues prevents them from growing into bigger and much more costly issues.
Be Careful
Most roofs are not safe for you to climb on. We don’t encourage it. But you can do a pretty good job inspecting your roof from the ground using a pair of binoculars. Or if you’re careful, you can climb a ladder to get a closer look at the roof. Look for:
• Cracked caulk or rust spots on flashing
• Shingles that are buckling, curling, or blistering
• Missing or broken shingles
• Cracked and worn rubber boots around vent pipes
• Missing or damaged chimney cap
• Cracks in the mortar in your chimney
• Masses of moss and lichen, which could signal the roof is decaying underneath (black algae stains are just cosmetic)
• Wet spots
Flashing
If flashing seems damaged or missing get a professional roofer to inspect and see if it needs replacing. Flashing is more complicated than the rest of the roof so we advise you to not handle it yourself. Roof problems? Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield at (860) 216-2785. Replacing Asphalt
Shingles
As they age, asphalt shingles can become more brittle and less flexible. That means that if they’re blown upwards by strong wind, they may break instead of snapping back. If you must replace one or more shingles, replace entire shingles-- not just one tab of a shingle. To replace shingles, lift up the tabs of the damaged shingle, and the tabs of the shingles above it. This gives you access to the nails. Remove the nails (usually 3-4 near the top of each shingle) and pull out the damaged shingle. Replace it with a new one of a similar color and style. Don’t forget to replace the nails from the course above when you nail in the new shingle and cover any nails or nail holes with a glob of roofing cement. You may want to stick the tabs down with a little of the cement. That will give the shingle more strength against a wind.
Vent Pipe Flashing Jacks
Roof jacks around plumbing vents can wear out over time. Replacing the roof jack is the best solution. That begins with removing the shingles that lap over the vent base so that you can take off the damaged vent and replace it with a new one. Make sure the replacement is the same size. Nail down the upper side of the vent base and replace the shingle above it. If the shingle is damaged you’ll have to notch a new one to take its place. Roof problems? Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield at (860) 216-2785.
Roof Valleys
The valleys where two planes of your roof meet often catch leaves, branches, and debris. When that happens water can stop flowing down the roof. It’s like having a dam on your roof. That can force water back up under your shingles. So keep any valleys in your roof free of debris. Some builders cover roof valleys with metal. If the metal loses its coating it can begin to rust. That means a leak won’t be far behind. Use a scraper or a wire brush to remove the rust and clean the metal so that you can recoat it with a rust inhibiting paint.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
11/10/2017 (Permalink)
We clean up hazardous chemical scenes and crime scenes.
If your home or business is vandalized, broken into, or damaged by intruders, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can help. We can clean up your property and remove any potential hazards left behind. We can perform an emergency board-up after vandals break in through a window or gain entry through destroying a door. Or, perhaps you had a fire and used a fire extinguisher to put it out. You might be left with the extinguisher’s residue sprayed over many surfaces. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield professionals can clean your home or business with dry cleaning methods that can leave your property as good as new. We also can use our air purifying equipment to remove any dangerous particulates in the air. Acid Damage
A sister SERVPRO franchise in California responded when home intruders had one thing in mind--to damage an entire apartment with acid. The criminals poured acid all over the carpets, vinyl floors, and appliances. SERVPRO crews worked for three days to remove all the flooring, remove all the appliances, and clean and sanitize the property. The SERVPRO work made the apartment safe for repair. Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield for Crime Scene and Vandalism Cleanup (860) 216-2785. All the Right Equipment
In every situation that involves hazardous chemicals, our crews dress in full PPE (personal protective equipment). The SERVPRO PPE includes tyvek suits, respirators, and heavy rubber gloves. Additionally, we installed a large negative air fan or air scrubber to clean any contamination caused by the chemicals. Our crews removed all the contents and disposed of them according to safety guidelines and regulations. We Handle Nearly Every Hazard
You’d have to struggle to come up with a hazardous chemical or criminal scene that SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield commercial cleaning professionals cannot safely and thoroughly clean up. We are trained in and have all the equipment to perform cleanups in so many situations:
• Accidents
• Animal waste/remains
• Blood, bodily fluids, and tissue remnant
• Chemical spills
• Crime scenes
• Fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals
• Fire extinguisher residue
• Graffiti cleanups
• Hoarding scenes
• Homicide cleanups
• Meth lab cleanups
• Suicide/death accidents
• Tear gas and pepper spray cleanups
• Vandalism cleanups Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield for Crime Scene and Vandalism Cleanup (860) 216-2785. We’re Local But We Have National Resources
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is locally owned and managed. We can respond immediately to your crime scene or chemical hazard emergency regardless of the scope or size of the damage. We’re part of a national network of over 1,800 franchises with special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large-scale events and disasters.
Whether your cleanup emergency occurs in a big-box store, a small office building, your home, or practically any other site, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
10/30/2017 (Permalink)
Professionals may be able to restore your water-damaged electronics
Water-damaged electronics can present a serious hazard. Do not attempt to turn on or operate any electrical device that you suspect has been damaged by water. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can coordinate the restoration of your electronics, including TVs, DVD players, computers, tablets, cell phones, and more.
The Key To Electronic Cleanup
The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield starts by cleaning the exterior of your electronic devices to help stop further corrosion and damage. With us, your electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician.
Cleaning Up Corrosion
When it comes to cleaning up corrosion after water damage, be careful. If you don’t use proper tools and techniques you can further damage your water-damaged electronic devices. You could also potentially injure yourself. Remember: electronic devices and liquids generally don’t mix. Any time you apply a liquid cleaning solutions to an electronic device, you need to be cautious. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield recommends that the average consumer never attempt to repair a water-damaged electronic device without professional assistance. When in doubt, take your device to a professional. If you are confident about cleaning up corrosion on your water-damaged electronic device by yourself, please keep these tips in mind:
1. Keep safety first
If you’re standing in water or your clothes are wet please remove yourself from any potential shock hazard before even thinking about retrieving a submerged or soaked electronic device. If the device is still on, turn it off. If possible, rotate and shake the electronic device to try to drain out any fluid.
2. Always remove any batteries or power connectors.
This not only prevents harm to you, but also prevents any short-circuiting of your electronic device. By doing this, you will also be exposing extra connectors that may already have corroded, so exercise caution. A shorted battery may be a fire and/or chemical hazard. If you see or feel any heat, smoke, steam, bubbling, bulging, or melting avoid handling the electronic device.
3. Look for white or green “crusty” areas on the device.
You may find them on the battery connectors, charging ports, SIM card connectors, or any other major metal connectors on the device.
4. Use cotton swabs and a cleaning solution such as isopropyl alcohol.
You can also use baking soda and water or vinegar to clean corrosion. Gently apply the solution to the affected area and wipe back and forth until you’ve removed the corrosion. If necessary, leave some solution on the corroded area and wipe it off later.
5. Dry your electronic device with a soft cloth or a hair dryer on a cool setting.
Do not use heat to dry out your device. Make sure your device is dried extremely well before attempting to replace the battery and turn the device on. Any water left in the device could cause additional water damage.
6. Take special care with electronic circuit boards.
If you think water or any liquid has reached an electronic circuit board take the device apart carefully. Follow the instructions and remember the order of the disassembly so you can put the device back together later. Soak up any remaining liquid on the circuit board with a lint-free cloth. Don’t use paper products (they could leave lint or scratch the board). Avoid rubbing any cloth on the circuit board because that might scratch or dislodge parts. Place the cloth over the board and press gently. This will soak up the liquid. Remove the worst of any remaining particles by brushing with a toothbrush. This includes any globs of dried liquid. You don’t need perfection at this stage. Then remove any dust or loose pieces of dried liquid by spraying the board with compressed air. Spray in one direction in quick bursts, since the canister can become extremely cold if used for longer sprays. Rinse the circuit board with clean or distilled water to remove any sticky materials. If your circuit board was wet by clean water and you didn’t have to remove dried materials, you may be able to skip this. Pat the board gently with a cloth to remove the majority of the moisture and allow it to dry completely. Clean any residue off the circuit board using a cotton swab. Moisten the cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol. Do not use a dripping wet swab. Swab gently in stubborn areas and be careful not to upset the components. The alcohol should take care of most of the work without rubbing.
7. Cross your fingers
When you try to repair a water-damaged electronic device there are no guarantees. The water-damage or corrosion may be permanent. These steps improve your chances of repairing it, but in the end you just have to cross your fingers and hope for the best.
More Information
You might also want to explore the educational information on our sister franchise’s blog, SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
10/13/2017 (Permalink)
Our crews are experts on water damage repair and restoration
When water from a flood, storm, or sewage break damages your property you need to know the dangers and avoid them. Water damage comes with lots of potential health and safety hazards. Here are a few of things you need to know.
Stay Out Of The Water
First, stay out of the water completely until a professional has done an assessment of the dangers that lurk in the water in your home or business.
Don’t Risk Electrocution
Stagnate flood water could be carrying electrical currents from electrical appliances that are running in the basement or from the source of the flood. People who do mitigation for water in the home regularly have the attire and equipment to avoid electrocution, and to remain safe while extracting the water out of the home. Water in business properties that contains electrical currents is a serious liability concern, so stay out of the water and keep others out.
Avoid preventable disasters. Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield (860) 216-2785.
Start Mitigation and Drying Quickly
Mold can grow around a water damaged space in just 24 hours. The mitigation and drying process need to be started as quickly as possible with water in business properties, or with any water in home basements and other areas. You can minimize water damage cleanup if the water damage and restoration company removes the water and starts drying out the structural materials quickly.
Avoid Legal Concerns
Water damage in business properties and mold can cause legal concerns, because if there’s mold after the water has been cleaned up, the toxic air could be considered an unsuitable working environment. After the water’s removed the area has to be sealed and sanitized to contain and kill the mold. The mold can get into the ducts and spread throughout your ventilation system if it isn't taken care of as needed.
Check For Structural Damage
If water in business spaces or water in home residences sits for too long, it can start to deteriorate the materials and compromise the building. This can make the business or house unsafe to live or work in. Soggy beams or crumbling concrete could cause the house or building to cave in. You may want to have a structural consultant look at your business or home if you don't know how long there’s been water damage. Other materials around the house will also be damaged, so be sure to remove and replace any materials that you feel aren't stable or safe.
Avoid preventable disasters. Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield (860) 216-2785.
Check For Sewage Contamination
At first you may not know where the water is coming from. Even if the source is heavy rains or melting snow, there could be sewage in the water. Inhalation of raw sewage is toxic and dangerous, and the mitigation and sewage cleanup company will be capable of dealing with the contaminated water, without jeopardizing their own health.
Water cleanup, mitigation, and restoration services are complex. They must be handled in a detailed, professional way. Drying your home or business property on your own may not be successful. We recommend letting the water cleanup company pump out everything that they can, then use commercial drying fans and dehumidification systems. As soon as you see flooding water, or you find out that you have had a flood, call the water cleanup services in your area to get help.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
10/5/2017 (Permalink)
We can help you be prepared for major storms
According to the Wall Street Journal, when homeowners in Florida began taking stock of the damage from the Category Five level Storm Irma in September 2017, one pattern began to emerge: homes that were built to the stricter building codes seem to have fared better.
Bill Wheat, executive vice president and chief financial officer at home-building giant D.R. Horton Inc., said his company’s early assessments “indicate that the more recent building standards post-Andrew over the last 20 years have held up relatively well.”
The Journal reported in late September that Julie Rochman, chief executive of the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, a research organization backed by insurers, said it is too early to say definitively what role the building code played in minimizing destruction during Irma. But she said early feedback from a research team that put in place instrumentation throughout southern Florida during the storm is encouraging.
Avoid preventable disasters. Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield (860) 216-2785
Make Quality Renovations
What that means to you and me is that anytime we are thinking about renovating or building we need to consider using materials and methods that make any new construction as storm-worthy as possible. Cutting corners on building costs is not the way to go whether you live in Florida, Connecticut, or anywhere else.
Reduce Windstorm Losses 72%
Kevin Simmons, a professor at Austin College, conducted research about insured-loss data from 2001 to 2010. His conclusion is that building codes can reduce windstorm losses by up to 72% and that there were $6 in losses saved for every $1 of additional construction costs. Professor Simmons’s paper is expected to be published shortly in the Land Economics Journal.
Use Different Building Materials
Another lesson from both Harvey and Irma is the need to consider different building materials. The Washington Post quoted Robert Gilbert, a professor and the chair of the civil, architectural and environmental engineering department at the University of Texas at Austin saying that communities should build with the reality of floods in mind. That would include ideas like avoiding materials like sheetrock that water easily destroys and replacing them with materials like concrete that hold up better in water. Gilbert also thinks flood insurance should be available in every part of the country.
Avoid preventable disasters. Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield (860) 216-2785
Northeast Could Face Extreme Weather
Superstorm Sandy, hit the coasts of New Jersey and New York on October 29, 2012. Sandy was a huge reminder that storms can strike anywhere and that they are expensive. People tend to think of hurricanes as only hitting in Florida but that’s not true. The entire East Coast including Connecticut is vulnerable. Sandy was an extremely catastrophic damaging storm in terms of property damage. It showed that the Northeast is at risk for extreme weather events much like other parts of the country says Jeanne Salvatore, Senior Vice President of the Insurance Information Institute.
Despite the fact that it wasn’t labeled as a hurricane when it hit the Northeast, Sandy caused unprecedented destruction of property in the Northeast says Jeanne Salvatore, a senior vice president at the Insurance Information Institute. The Insurance Information Institute on hurricanes says more than a dozen states were impacted by Hurricane Sandy resulting in $18.75 billion in insured property losses, excluding flood insurance claims which are covered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
Check Your Insurance
What can you as a homeowner do to prepare before disaster strikes? Jeanne Salvatore advises all homeowners to make sure that they are properly insured.
“People need to know how to protect their property against wind and flood. They have to have the right type of insurance and they need a backup plan,” says Salvatore.
“Make sure that your insurance is up to date,” she adds. “Also, consider getting flood insurance or at least looking into it at floodsmart.gov. We’ve seen time and time again that places that have not flooded before are flooding now. You may be in a low risk area but that doesn’t mean it’s a no-risk area.”
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm restoration fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
More Information On Our Blog
You can learn more by reading other posts on this blog:
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
9/25/2017 (Permalink)
After the fire in your business or home is put out, take precautionary measures to prevent injury and further losses.
A fire at your business or in your home can mean major losses. If a fire starts, remember to stay calm and act rationally. Having quick access to a written plan of the steps you need to take after fire damage can save precious time and keep your fire damage losses down.
After the fire in your business or home is put out, take precautionary measures to prevent injury and further losses. Your best bet is often to call a fire damage restoration company. Or you may want to handle the fire damage restoration yourself. If so, here are some steps to consider:
1. Think long and hard before deciding not to use an emergency fire damage restoration service
Nearly every corner in the country now has 24/7 access to an experienced, professional fire damage service like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield. Companies like ours help reduce the fire, smoke, and soot damage at businesses and in private residences. Involving the fire damage restoration professionals also reduces the risk of injury. The professionals have the right equipment and training to safely deal with the aftermath of a fire. Commercial fire damage usually results in a lot of smoke smell. Smoke smell can be a health hazard to anyone working in or near the premises. Commercial fire damage services can help to quickly get rid of the smoke damage.
2. Evaluate the extent of the fire damage
You’ll want a complete and accurate assessment of all damage so you can determine how much it will cost you to restore your business or home. An accurate fire damage assessment will quicken the process of restoration. Speeding the process allows you to get back to your daily activities in the shortest time possible. For businesses this means less business interruption, less revenue loss, and a greater chance of recovering the full extent of your business.
Understanding the level of fire damage will also help you determine what items you need to get rid of. This will help to reduce the smoke smell in your business or home. Your insurance company will also want a full and accurate assessment of fire damage so they can pay your claim efficiently.
For professional fire, smoke, and soot restoration call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield at (860) 216-2785.
And what about water? The fire cleanup process often involves getting rid of standing water. If any pipes or tanks were affected by the soot damage, you will need to purify the water before you use it. Don’t risk getting poisoned.
In the process of fire cleanup, you should be careful not to touch any wires that may have been affected by the fire, or water.
5. See if professionals can save valuable items that appear destroyed
After a fire some items will probably have to be thrown away. But sometimes what looks like an item that is not salvageable can be restored by professionals. Books, leather items, and other valuables might fit into this category.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
8/28/2017 (Permalink)
Make sure your emergency plan includes saving your pets
You may have a good disaster emergency plan for your family but what about your pets? Will you be able to safely move and protect your pets should a fire, flood, hurricane, or other natural disaster strike? FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) has some important guidelines for you.
Create A Pet Emergency Supply Kit
To keep your pets safe in a natural disaster think first about food and water. Prepare a pet emergency supply kit similar to the emergency supply kit you have for your family. FEMA suggests having two pet kits—one with everything your pets will need to stay where you are; another lightweight, smaller version to use if you have to get away. Your pet’s kit might include:
• 3 days of food in an airtight, waterproof container
• 3 days worth of water for your pets
• Medicines and medical records
• First aid kit with a pet first aid reference book
• Collar with ID tag, harness or leash
• Crate or pet carrier
• Sanitation supplies (pet litter, litter box, paper towels, plastic trash bags, etc.)
• Copies of a picture of you and your pet together (in case you get separated)
• Familiar items like your pet’s favorite toys, treats, or bedding
Avoid preventable disasters. Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield (860) 216-2785
Have A Plan
Before a natural disaster occurs you should have a plan on how you and your pets will get away, should you need to leave. How will you assemble your pets? Where will you go? Consider whether family or friends are willing to take you and your pets in during an emergency. Find facilities like hotels and shelters in your area that might be viable options for you and your pets.
Plan with neighbors, friends, or relatives to make sure someone will be available to care for or evacuate your pets if you cannot. Talk with them about your evacuation plans and show them where your pet’s emergency supply kit is. Have at least two locations, one in your neighborhood and another father away, where you will meet in an emergency.
Avoid preventable disasters. Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield (860) 216-2785
Consult Your Vet
You can also seek advice from your veterinarian. He or she might have good thoughts on what to put into your pet’s emergency supply kit. Your vet may also have names of vets or veterinary hospitals in other cities where you might have to seek temporary shelter. Discuss the need for permanent identification (like micro chipping) and whether to enroll your pet in a recovery database.
Your pet is an important member of your household. Any pet is much more likely to survive an emergency like a fire, flood, tornado, or terrorist attack if you do some good emergency planning. Preparing your pets for an emergency makes sense. Get ready now.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
8/11/2017 (Permalink)
A natural disaster is characterized by a great deal of damage.
The sheer size and geographic diversity of the United States means that our country experiences a variety of different natural disasters on a frequent basis. Rather than just an extreme natural event such as a hurricane, a flood or an earthquake, a natural disaster is characterized by a great deal of damage and/or loss of life.
Flooding: The Most Deadly Weather Hazard
According to the National Weather Service weather-related deaths in the United States rose in 2015 from 388 in 2014 to 522. That number is still slightly below the 10-year average (2005-2014) of 552 deaths. Thunderstorm winds and high winds were the next most deadly weather events, claiming 65 lives, up from 55 in 2014.
Twice As Many Male Deaths
Of the 2015 weather-related deaths, males, as usual, accounted for more deaths, 347 (66%), than females, 165 (32%). The National Weather Service says this gender breakdown is typical. In most years, there are almost twice as many male victims of extreme weather as female, a pattern likely reflecting the higher percentage of men who hold outdoor jobs such as construction and who take part in sports and other outside activities such as fishing and boating.
Avoid preventable disasters. Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield (860) 216-2785
Tornadoes Cause The Most Injuries
In 2015, weather related injuries and illnesses numbered 2,143. That’s down slightly from the 2014 total of 2,203 and more significantly from the 2013 total of 2,767. Tornadoes caused by the far the most injuries with 924, heat caused 640, and thunderstorm and high winds caused 221 injuries.
Texas: The Most Dangerous State
Which state had the most dangerous weather in 2015? Texas, with 86 casualties, took that dubious honor from Washington, which numbered 50 weather-related fatalities in 2014. A large number of the Texas deaths were due to flooding, which claimed 48 victims. Illinois and Florida were the next hardest hit with 32 and 28 deaths each.
Avoid preventable disasters. Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield (860) 216-2785
What To Do In A Major Disaster
The Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association says you should evacuate from your home and contact your insurance agent or company immediately. Let them know how to reach you. In the event of a catastrophe situation, many insurance companies set up 24-hour emergency hotlines.
Many Adjusters Will Starting Writing Checks Immediately
Insurance company claims adjusters--many equipped with laptop computers and portable phones--will start writing checks to pay the cost your temporary living expenses if you’re left homeless by a catastrophe. They’ll also quickly begin to provide funds to rebuild damaged homes. Some companies will open special claims centers. Contact your agent or company if you need additional living expenses while you are out of your home. Do keep all your receipts. Your out-of-pocket expenses during a mandatory evacuation are reimbursable under most standard homeowner insurance policies.
Give Your Insurance Agent A Description Of The Damage You Suffered
Your insurance agent will report the loss immediately to your insurance company or a qualified adjuster who will contact you as soon as possible to inspect the damage. Again, be sure to give your agent a phone number where you can be reached. Take photos of the damage. Photos will help with your claims process and will assist the insurance adjuster in the investigation.
Write A Detailed Inventory Of Damaged Property
Be sure to make two copies of the inventory--one for yourself and one for the adjuster. Your list should be as complete as possible, including a description of the items, dates of purchase or approximate age, cost at time of purchase, and estimated replacement cost.
Make Whatever Temporary Repairs You Can
Cover broken windows, damaged roofs, and walls to prevent further damage. Save receipts for any supplies and materials you purchase. Your insurance company will reimburse you for reasonable expenses in making temporary repairs.
Get A Detailed Estimate For Permanent Repairs
Use SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield or another reputable contractor to give you a written estimate of the cost of repairs to your damaged personal property. Give a copy to your insurance adjuster. The estimate should contain the proposed repairs, repair costs, and replacement prices.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
8/1/2017 (Permalink)
SERVPRO's modern technology makes clean up and restoration faster, easier, and more affordable
Every year, every month, sometimes every day you can hear about another technology advancement or other advancement in the restoration industry. The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield keeps up with the latest in clean up and restoration advancements. When you must deal with property damage you can expect the newest and most advanced technology and techniques from SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield.
That means we can get your home or business back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and effectively at a reasonable cost.
Especially if your business or home suffers water damage, the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) cautions you to act within 48 hours: "If your home has water damage, mildew and mold will develop within 24-48 hours of water exposure. Even worse, it will continue to grow until steps are taken to eliminate the source of moisture, and effectively deal with the mold problem."
Among some modern technology and technical advancements at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield are:
Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment
Too often people think they’ve removed all the water from a flood or water event and repaired the damage when they have actually missed critical steps in restoring their property. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield follows the high and strict standards for restoration and cleaning of the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). We follow the IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide, a specific set of practical standards and techniques that incorporate the advanced field of psychometry. Psychometry is the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively. What looks dry to the eye and feels dry to the hand is often still holding enough moisture to create mold and to further damage property.
We employ advanced scientific drying principles and specialized equipment. A SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield crew can detect, measure, and monitor your property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor. We also use sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters to precisely measure the extent of moisture saturation.
Water Extraction Technology
Our advanced and powerful water extraction equipment speeds the drying process. It quickly removes the bulk of the water from your home or business to help prevent further damage. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also uses submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water. You want water to be removed as quickly as possible to keep the damage level down. And a SERVPRO truck-mounted or a portable extraction unit performs efficient water removal.
Modern Drying Equipment
But water extraction isn’t enough. You need to dry anything that’s been partially saturated by water. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield uses industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers. The typical drying technology available to consumers isn’t powerful enough for big jobs. Our advanced drying equipment is needed to remove the remaining (and often undetected) moisture from ceiling, walls, and floors of your home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.
Why use our high-speed air movers? Because the technology behind them means more moisture evaporates at a faster pace. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield’s industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.
Advanced Technology That Removes Odors And Deodorization
Water, chemical, fire, or other natural disasters often cause powerful odors. These odors are not healthy or safe. We use special techniques and technology (like air scrubbers, thermal foggers, and deodorizing agents) that removes airborne contaminants and restores air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.
Not Just Cleaned—Sanitized
When your home or business needs a thorough cleaning SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield does more than just clean. We clean, disinfect, and sanitize. We use OSHA-approved cleaning agents to clean and remove odors and contaminants from your property. Our deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture. Our disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
7/25/2017 (Permalink)
When a natural disaster exposes electrical components electricity becomes dangerous and even life-threatening.
One of the greatest inventions and conveniences is electricity. Electricity lets us read at night, run major appliances, cook food, heat water, watch television, stay cool on hot days, and much more. It’s safely embedded in nearly every wall of every room of our houses. But when a storm or natural disaster exposes electrical components or compromises them, electricity becomes dangerous and even life-threatening.
A live electrical wire can cause electrical shock or even death. A slight electrical spark can ignite leaking natural gas. When your electrical system suffers storm damage or becomes a danger you should immediately shut off the electrical power.
If your electrical panel is damaged or if you have standing water near your breaker box you should leave the house immediately, keep everyone out, and call for help.
1. Find The Electrical Service Panel
In homes the main electrical service panel (sometimes called a main breaker panel box) contains either circuit breakers or fuses and is usually located in a utility area. It should be easily accessible but away from the main traffic flow in your house.
It’s usually a large metal box with a door that swings open to reveal the electrical circuit breakers. Often it’s in the basement. There are many possibilities for electrical panels and shut-offs so look carefully. Nearly all homes have a single electrical feed but multi-family buildings could have several.
2. Make sure everyone in your home knows where the electrical service panel box is.
You may not be home when electricity needs to be turned off so others need to know how to shut off power without you. If the breakers or fuses are not marked you should label them so everyone will know what each individual breaker or fuse controls (Examples: Kitchen, Master Bedroom, Air Conditioning, etc.).
If You Have Electrical Damage Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
3. Find the “main” circuit breaker.
You’ll see many individual circuit breakers that cut the power to individual rooms or appliances. In an emergency and when you don’t know the extent or source of the electrical damage, the easiest and safest thing to do is to shut off the main breaker. It will cut the electrical power throughout your entire house. The main shut-off is often found at the top of the breaker panel and should be labeled.
4. Breaker switches are usually marked “off” and “on”.
Just flip the main switch to the off position. If you have trouble finding the main circuit breaker just turn off every individual circuit breaker. The main breaker is usually a double-width switch located at the top of the service panel. You may need a flashlight handy when you turn on your electrical power.
If You Have Electrical Damage Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
5. Caution: The electrical line into your house still is live
After the main breaker is off you will still have power in the wire from the road to your house.
Keep everyone away from that outside power line.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
7/10/2017 (Permalink)
Reduce water damage by knowing how to shut off your water during a water emergency
In an emergency you may have to shut off the water to your home. For example, freezing or thawing may cause a water pipe to break. Water pipe breaks are also common with most types of natural disasters (winter storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, and more). Broken water pipes can lead to electrical hazards, long-term wood rot, long-term mold, or even drowning.
Where’s The Water Shut-Off Valve?
1. Look for the water shut-off valve where the water line enters your house. In warmer climates the shut-off valve may be outside your home where the water line meets your home’s exterior. But in most climates the water shut-off valve is just inside the house where the water line enters through your home’s foundation or exterior wall. Scott Finazzo, author of The Neighborhood Emergency Response Handbook, says that if your water comes in through a ground well the valves on either side of the pressure tank should both be shut off.
2. Often the water shut-off valve is a quarter-turn ball valve. If that’s what you have, turn the valve a quarter of a turn until it’s perpendicular to the water pipe. Or your home may have a round handle that you turn clockwise until you can’t turn it anymore. Don’t have a master shut-off value in your home? Have one installed.
If You Have Water Damage Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
3. Another water shut-off option is closing the municipal water meter shut-off valve. This valve, if you have municipal water, typically is in your front or side yard. Look for a round metal lid or box close to your property line. It’s often 24 to 48 inches from the curb or fence line.
If your water meter has a round metal lid use a wrench or pliers to rotate the lone nut on the lid counterclockwise. This will release the latch and you can open the lid. Another type of metal lid requires a screwdriver. Turn the lid until the tabs line up with the gaps and you can lift the lid off. A third type of water meter lid is square or rectangular. You can pry it open with a screwdriver or pry bar.
Don’t reach into the meter box until you inspect the area for debris and rodents. If the box is old and covered with a lot of growth you may want to wear gloves. Once inside the municipal water meter box you’ll need pliers or a specialty tool to turn the valve. Turn it until it’s perpendicular to the water pipe.
If You Have Water Damage Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Shut-Off Valves For Single Rooms
Sometimes you only need to shut off the water to one room. Most newer houses have shut-off valves at every sink and toilet. Your water heater may have several shut-off valves. If your issue is one leaking sink just shut off water to that sink. If you know the water heater is leaking just shut the valves to it off.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, flood damage repair, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
7/3/2017 (Permalink)
Indoor air quality in commercial buildings is a factor in good health
Indoor air quality is a major concern for businesses, building managers, tenants, and employees. Clean air impacts the health, comfort, well being, and productivity of building occupants. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says most Americans spend up to 90% of their time indoors and many spend most of their working hours in an office environment.
More Pollution Inside Than Outside
Studies conducted by the EPA and others show that indoor environments sometimes can have levels of pollutants that are higher than levels found outside. Pollutants in commercial buildings and other indoor environments can increase the risk of illness. The EPA, states, and independent scientific panels have consistently ranked indoor air pollution as an important environmental health problem. While most buildings do not have severe indoor air quality problems, even well-run buildings can sometimes experience episodes of poor indoor air quality.
Commercial Building Cleaning? Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
How To Improve The Air Inside Your Commercial Building
Some pretty simple steps can have a big impact on the quality of the air inside your commercial building:
• Don’t block air vents or grills
• Comply with the office and building smoking policy
• Water and maintain office plants properly
• Dispose of garbage promptly and properly
• Store food properly
• Avoid bringing products into the building that could release harmful or bothersome odors or contaminants
• Notify your building or facility manager immediately if you suspect an indoor air quality problem
Commercial Building Cleanliness Problems? Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
If You Manage The Office
Building managers and office managers have a long list of responsibilities. Assuring the air quality is healthy should be on that list. Here are some ideas on how to fulfill that responsibility:
• Ask tenants and employees to alert you to any air quality issues they may notice
• Maintain a good working relationship with building management on indoor environmental issues
• Place office furniture and equipment with air circulation, temperature control, and pollutant removal functions of the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system in mind
• Work with building management whenever responsibility for design, operation, and maintenance of the ventilation system is shared
• Establish an effective smoking policy that protects nonsmokers from involuntary exposure to secondhand smoke
• Avoid procedures and products that can cause indoor air quality problems
• Integrate indoor air quality concerns into your purchasing decisions
• Make sure the building manager uses only necessary and appropriate pest
control practices. Non-chemical methods are usually preferable.
• Work with building management and the contractor before you remodel or renovate to identify ways of keeping building occupants’ exposure to pollutants to a minimum and to ensure that the air distribution system is not disrupted
• Encourage building management to develop a preventive indoor air quality management program following guidance issued by EPA and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
These tips are from a free EPA booklet on the EPA website, "An Office Occupant's Guide to Indoor Air Quality."
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
6/22/2017 (Permalink)
Thunderstorms often come with other threats like tornadoes, high winds, and flooding.
Spring and summer bring many things—blooming flowers, green grass, fun vacations, and thunderstorms. None of us look forward to the last item on that list. Thunderstorms often come with other threats like tornadoes, high winds, and flooding. Lightning alone kills about 50 people each year in the United States. The Red Cross says that thunderstorms kill more people each year than either tornadoes or hurricanes. You can better weather any thunderstorm with a few preparations like these.
1. Remove any dead or rotting trees near your house. In a thunderstorm or other type of storm a weakened tree could fall and cause extensive damage.
2. Check your homeowner’s insurance. Make sure you are covered for thunderstorm damage. Does your insurance coverage meet your needs? If not, make adjustments.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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 Thunderstorm Damage Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
6. Educate your children about thunderstorms and other natural disasters. Be certain they know to come inside and stay inside whenever threatening weather (gray skies, thunder, heavy rains, lightning, etc.) approach.
7. 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.
8. Have a safe place and be sure everyone in your house knows where that place is. A safe place in a thunderstorm 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.
9. Have supplies ready. A damaging thunderstorm may keep you from shopping for several days or longer. You may not have electricity. Have an emergency kit stocked with items like a weather radio, water, snacks, a flashlight, extra batteries, important phone numbers, and other essentials.
10. Read what the Red Cross has to say about thunderstorm safety.
If You Have Thunderstorm Damage Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and storm water cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
6/6/2017 (Permalink)
After your basement floods quick action can save your carpet and other possessions.
A pipe breaks. Your hot water tank leaks. Rain pours into your basement. A snow melt floods your floor. If your basement floods you have to act fast. Mold and mildew can start to set in within hours, and the damage to your carpet can be permanent. But getting your carpet dry again is difficult. And it can be dangerous. If you don’t want to take on this task yourself, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at (860) 216-2785. If you want to do as much as you can on your own here are some tips.
1. Turn Off Your Electricity
It sounds simple and it is. But people who forget this step are at great risk. The combination of water and electricity can be deadly. Don’t set foot on your squishy carpet until you’ve turned off all power to your basement. If your circuit breakers aren’t marked turn them all off, then turn them on one at a time to confirm which one controls the basement electricity. If your circuit breakers are in the basement, call a professional to make sure your power is turned off before you head downstairs. Next, remove any extension cords and power strips from the floor and unplug or switch off all electrical appliances (washer, dryer, HVAC).
This can be obvious, but not always. The cause for your flooded basement could be six inches of rain in the last 24 hours or a fast snow melt. If your problem isn’t obvious, look for broken or leaky pipes. If clean water is leaking (say from a kitchen sink or bathroom shower) you can start drying out your basement. If the leak is from a sewer pipe or water is spilling out of your washing machine, you need to disinfect. To do that job right you should call a professional. You’ll also need the pros if your flood comes from an overflowing river. River overflows can contain all sorts of dangerous chemicals and debris like manufacturing plant chemicals or decaying animals.
Think of a going out of business sale—everything must go. Furniture, exercise equipment, storage units—those items may have suffered water damage, so they could be heavy and hard to move. Get someone to help you.
Move any electronics upstairs so their components don’t corrode. Get artwork or photos off your basement walls to spare them damage from humidity. If you can’t move furniture, wrap the furniture legs in aluminum foil.
You can sometimes save books by freezing them (the freezing process pulls water out of the pages). Remember that just because something isn’t actually underwater doesn’t mean the flooded basement won’t affect it. Lots of damage comes from the high humidity that exists in any flooded basement.
Now you can get at and treat the carpet. The tools you need depend in part on how much water you’re dealing with. Start with a wet/dry vacuum to remove as much water as quickly as possible. If you don’t have one, you can rent one at your local home improvement store.
If the amount of standing water is beyond the capacity of a wet/dry vacuum, rent an extractor instead to pull water out of the carpet. Extraction is 1,200 times more effective than dehumidification. Use the extractor very slowly so it slurps up as much water as it possibly can.
For A Flooded Basement Or Other Water Damage Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
You may think vacuuming and extracting rides your carpet of all water but it doesn’t. At this point your basement carpet isn’t soaking wet but it will still be damp. Don’t stop. Keep drying. If you don’t, mold and mildew will grow and work their damage.
Turn on every fan you’ve got, but home fans usually aren’t super powerful. Consider renting high-powered fans from your home improvement store. Keep those fans running while you’re working, since they also circulate fresh air, which mold and mildew hate.
Plug in your dehumidifier but do know that your home dehumidifier isn’t built for a job like this. Large home dehumidifiers pull only four gallons of water out of the air every 24 hours. Rent the largest dehumidifier you can find so you can pull 30 gallons of water a day. Do keep checking on the dehumidifier and emptying it.
If your furnace is in your basement, don’t turn on the heat until you make sure it hasn’t been damaged by the flooding and that it’s safe to use. Even if your furnace isn’t affected by the flooding keep the basement heat in the mid 70s. Heat the basement more than that and you’re not doing that much to dry out your carpet while you are encouraging mold and mildew to grow. They both love high temperatures.
The pad under your carpet (most carpets have one) is probably just as soaked as your carpet.
After you’ve removed the water from your carpet, peel the carpet back. Watch out for carpet tacks. Remove the wet pad, even if you have to cut it into strips. Take it outside to dry if the weather is warm and sunny. Or keep it inside and use the fans and dehumidifier to dry it out. If it’s too badly damaged, you may want to replace it.
Often you will have to deal with some odors from the water damage. They’re likely to get worse if you don’t deal with them right away. Once your carpet is dry you should steam clean it to deodorize the basement.
If your flooding was caused by storm water, river water, or a leaky sewer pipe, slip on your rubber gloves and sanitize the room. Use detergent to clean everything that the water touched, including hard floors and walls. Sanitize and disinfect everything with a chlorine bleach solution.
For A Flooded Basement Or Other Water Damage Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Basements that flood once tend to flood again. Think about how to prevent future repetitions so you can avoid doing all this work again.
Can you do something to prevent outside water from coming toward your foundation? That might mean building a swale or extending your downspouts so rain is deposited on the ground at least 10 feet away from your foundation. Keep your gutters cleaned out so they don’t overflow. Make sure water drains away from your home rather than pooling up right next to it.
Look for any depressions in the ground next to your home’s foundation walls. If you find any, fill them in with dirt so the water drains away from the house. Use a clay-type soil that sheds water instead of sandy soil that allows water to soak into the ground. Make sure to keep at least eight inches between the top of the earth and any wood or stucco on your house.
If water entered your home through cracks in your foundation or basement walls, patch them and seal them. Use polyethylene masonry caulk for small cracks, and upgrade to hydraulic cement for cracks that are 1/4” wide or larger. If you suffered a leaky or broken pipe, you’ll need to replace the pipe and repair any drywall or plaster that was damaged in the leak.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860)216-2785 anytime, 24/7.
We serve businesses and residents in Bloomfield, East Granby, Enfield, Granby, Hartland, and beyond. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002 IICRC Certified Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo Certified SERVPRO technicians Call (860) 216-2785 24 hour emergency service
5/25/2017 (Permalink)
Since 1969 SERVPRO has been providing cleaning and restoration services
• Ted and Doris Isaacson launched SERVPRO in 1967 as a painting business in Sacramento, California
• With a cleaning and restoration background, Ted and Doris transformed the company into a franchisor of cleanup and restoration specialists
• Ted and Doris sold the first SERVPRO franchise in 1969
• SERVPRO acquired the Bristol-Myers Domesticare Division with its 175 Franchises in 1979
• In 1988 SERVPRO relocated to Gallatin, Tennessee to be within 600 miles of 50% of the U.S. population
• By 1988 SERVPRO had 647 franchises
• The Nashville Business Journal named SERVPRO the Small Business of the Year in 1991
• In 2000 SERVPRO sold its 1,000th franchise
• To meet growing needs SERVPRO moved to a 140,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility in Gallatin in 2005
• Entrepreneur Magazine ranked SERVPRO the #4 franchise opportunity overall
and the #1 franchise opportunity in the restoration services category in 2016
• In 2017 SERVPRO had 1,700+ franchises across the nation and continues to grow
For Disaster Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Services Of SERVPRO
• SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield works closely with insurance agents, property managers, and local fire/police departments to assist in community disasters
• SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield offers many restoration and remediation services including:
on Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Here To Help
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, natural disaster cleanup, and natural disaster restoration. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
homeowners, businesses, and organizations in Bloomfield, Granby, East Granby, Enfield, Hartland, and Suffield.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 any time, any day
5/15/2017 (Permalink)
Your local fire department needs your support
The Bloomfield (Connecticut) firefighters are a vital community resource. So are the Enfield and other local fire departments in Connecticut. These men and women save lives and property by preventing and putting out fires, educating our communities on safety, and handling many types of emergencies. We all should support our local fire fighters and fire departments. A lack of visible support in other communities has made firefighters feel cut off from local residents and businesses.
Here are some facts about firefighters and some ways that your business or you and your family can help strengthen and show appreciation for the Bloomfield, Enfield, or other local firefighters in your community.
1. Think about it: Bloomfield’s firefighters have been extensively trained. They have life-saving skills. They’ve learned the science and art of fire prevention and suppression. Bloomfield firefighters help our local communities in lots of other ways, especially in life-threatening situations like house fires, car accidents and other disasters. Thank them with a letter to the editor in your local newspaper.
2. If your local fire department hosts a fundraising event be sure to participate.
3. Sometimes Bloomfield and other fire departments sponsor fire safety events. It’s worth the time to go and learn how you, too, can help prevent fires.
4. Many fire departments have a member or officer who will visit schools. She or he will help educate young children on the importance of fire safety. The firefighters also tell school children how to react in case of a fire. In Bloomfield or elsewhere, encourage your local schools to participate in these types of fire safety programs. Children love to learn about firefighters and how important they are as members of a community.
5. Volunteer fire departments often have limited financial resources. Local businesses, families, and individuals often find ways to support their department by performing important tasks like:
• Hosting a fire safety event at your local community organization
• Teaching fire safety to children
• Encouraging people to install smoke alarms in their homes
• (If this is in your skill set) Offering to maintain the department’s website and social media efforts
• Distributing the fire department’s disaster preparedness materials
• Providing refreshments to first responders during long incidents (e.g. a wild fire or large commercial building fire)
• Cooking for the fire department’s on-duty staff
• Helping maintain the fire station and grounds (painting, carpentry, etc.)
• Donating services (like bookkeeping) so the department can devote more financial resources to fire prevention
• Spreading the word about the fire department’s resources (the Bloomfield Fire Department has a website with eight pages full of material on fire prevention and even a Kids’ Corner.)
6. The famous stop, drop, and roll skill is taught to children at various ages so that they have the skills to put out a fire on their bodies if needed. Make sure children in your community learn that skill.
7. You can make a huge impact by becoming a volunteer firefighter. Ask if you can meet with the local fire department chief and discuss what’s involved in volunteering.
8. Fire Prevention Week is the Sunday through Saturday period that includes October 9. For example, in 2018 Fire Prevention Week is October 7-13. Check with your local fire department to see how you can help celebrate that week.
9. Investigate resources like the Firefighters Support Foundation. This foundation produces and distributes advanced, life-saving training programs free of charge to firefighters, rescue crews, and EMS personnel.
10. Whether you live or work in Bloomfield, Enfield, or another town, the best advice is to contact your local fire department to find out what specific needs they have.
19,915 Out Of 29,980 Fire Departments Are All Volunteer
In the United States, 69 percent of firefighters are volunteers. Rural towns in particular could not survive without these dedicated men and women. Out of 29,980 fire departments in the United States, 19,915 are totally volunteer. Volunteer firemen and women have to attend hours of rigorous training. Many times they purchase their own gear. To fund the departments the firefighters have to put on fundraising activities. In addition to hours spent fighting fires and training, they are expected to raise money to buy the equipment necessary to fight fires. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield strongly urges you to support your local department in any way and every way you can. And remember this quotation:
“Volunteers don't get paid, not because they're worthless, but because they're priceless.” -- Sherry Anderson
Fire and Fire Protection Information For You
Every month on our blog, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes educational articles on how to prevent and deal with fires.
Here For You
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also 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 Bloomfield/Enfield (860-216-2785) anytime, 24/7.
We serve clients in Bloomfield, East Granby, Enfield, Suffield, and Hartland.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
4/28/2017 (Permalink)
OSHA helps keep employers and their employees safe
Are you a business owner? Keeping your business site as safe as possible is important. Or maybe you’re a business employee? You have rights and resources to make sure that where you work is a safe place for you and other employees. Both business owners and employees have lots of information and resources available through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
OSHA helps assure that employers provide their workers with a healthful and safe workplace. And workers cannot be punished by employers for raising a health or safety concern or for reporting an injury. If you want to learn more go to http://www.whistleblower.gov/ or Workers’ Rights under the OSH Act.
For Natural Disaster Preparedness, Repair, and Restoration Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Employers and workers can raise workplace health and safety questions or concerns with their regional OSHA office. Just go to OSHA Offices by State or call 1.800.321.OSHA (6742). If you’re in the Hartford, Connecticut area the contact information for the Hartford Area Office is:
William R. Cotter Federal Building 135 High Street, Suite 361 Hartford, Connecticut 06103 (860) 240-3152 (860) 240-3155 FAX
Free On-site Consultation for Employers
Small business owners can have OSHA conduct a free and confidential On-site Consultation Program. The program identifies hazards and OSHA will work with the business to correct any that are found. OSHA consultants provide advice on how to comply with OSHA standards and they’ll assist in helping you set up injury and illness prevention programs. None of this work results in penalties or citations.
Handling A Safety Or Health Complaint
If you’re a worker and you see a healthy or safety risk it’s best to talk first to your immediate supervisor. Use all the available resources at your place of business. The fastest and best resolutions usually come from working directly with management. But if you need to go further you can file a complaint with OSHA by calling 1.800.321.OSHA (6742). There’s also an OSHA complaint form online.
Call On SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield
Another option is to be proactive and call on us to perform an on-site emergency readiness evaluation. It’s not the same as an OSHA consultation. We don’t look for health issues or OSHA compliance. What SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield does is perform an Emergency Ready Profile so your business can be as prepared as possible for a natural disaster or other emergency. SERVPRO has performed many of these evaluations for companies and businesses in the Hartford and Bloomfield area. The standard profile includes an emergency action checklist, a property overview, building access information, and many lists of critical information you need to have quick access to in an emergency and after the emergency.
For Natural Disaster Preparedness, Repair and Restoration Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Here For You
In Bloomfield the team at SERVPRO has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire damage restoration services, mold remediation, building services, and natural disaster cleanup.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002 IICRC Certified Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
4/18/2017 (Permalink)
Many water damaged items can be restored
In Bloomfield, Enfield, and surrounding Connecticut towns, flood damage technicians are the ones who deal directly with residential flood repairs. However, they must adhere to a set of rules and guidelines provided by government authorities. Some of these authorities are national and oversee flooding in all parts of the country, and others are regional. The biggest and most important may be FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
The important thing is that SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield always follows the right restoration directives. FEMA is the source for many of the most crucial restoration directives. So, when it comes to repairing flood damage in Bloomfield and Enfield homes, we use FEMA policies on removal, drying, clean-up, and remediation. Keep reading to find out what FEMA says about flood damage restoration and how it should be carried out.
For Flood Damage Restoration Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
Water Extraction And Drying
FEMA and other agencies stress the importance of speed. At SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, we waste no time getting repairs started. It may be necessary to complete an inspection of the property first, but we can address your most vulnerable items immediately. For instance, we cover large, delicate items with protective plastic to prevent further water intrusion.
Removing Wet Materials
FEMA leaves it up to the discretion of the flood damage repair team to decide what can and cannot be salvaged (unless you’re dealing with black water). If porous materials have absorbed lots of water, we need to determine whether drying is the best option. Not all items removed from the flood site are destroyed. Some (artwork and electronics are examples) get sent to cleaning facilities and are returned.
Cleaning HVAC Systems
Cleaning damaged ductwork is tricky. FEMA recommends the use of a spray washer to hose down accessible surfaces. Pine oil or phenolic disinfectants are a safe choice because they are efficient but won’t circulate harsh chemicals. If your home or building’s internal insulation is saturated, the technicians need to remove it. However, fiberglass is placed in a temperature controlled room for drying.
For Flood Damage Restoration Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
Drying Hard Surfaces
Non-porous surfaces are the easiest items to dry. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield usually applies a wet vacuum first, if there is a sufficient amount of water to remove. Then, as FEMA recommends, we wash the materials with detergents to prevent mold growth. Mold can develop within 24 to 48 hours of a flood, says Ashley Small of FEMA, so remove wet contents, including carpeting and bedding, as soon as possible.
Plastic and metal are slow to react to water, but wood can be permanently damaged rather quickly. Water particles can move inside the material and dehumidifiers are the best way to draw them out.
If You Must Leave Home
If the flood was serious enough for you to leave your home, be sure you stay safe upon your return. FEMA warns that you should check for any visible structural damage, such as warping, loosened or cracked foundation elements, cracks, and holes before entering the home and contact utility companies if you suspect damage to water, gas, electric, and sewer lines.
In addition, it’s important to have a working flashlight and turn off all water and electrical sources within the home, says Dr. Maurice A. Ramirez, author of “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Disaster Preparedness.” Even if the power isn’t operational, it’s a good idea to go to your fuse box and turn off the main, plus all of the individual fuse connections. That way, if the power is reactivated, you’re not at risk for mixing standing water and electricity.
Check Out Our Other Blog Posts
Every month on the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield blog we publish educational articles on how Bloomfield, Enfield, and other Connecticut residents can protect their homes and businesses from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, restoring water damage, sewage, storm, or other damage.
Here For You
In Bloomfield 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 Bloomfield/Enfield in Bloomfield at 860-216-2785 anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
4/5/2017 (Permalink)
Left alone, minor damage often becomes major damage.
In the Bloomfield region, some storms may not seem very powerful, but weaker storms can be deceiving. Hearing about a predicted minor snow, rain, wind, or other storm may cause you to think that there’s little possibility your Bloomfield home or business will suffer storm damage. However, storm damage doesn’t always mean three feet of water in your basement or a 100 foot spruce tree sitting in your bedroom.
Storm damage as minor as losing a few roof shingles or having a screen door blown off its hinges can hurt. Both of these situations and many others require repairs. Left alone, minor damage (like a slow leak or a little crack) can worsen over time. Preventing minor storm damage from becoming a major issue can stop higher repair bills from sneaking up on you.
It’s like having a pebble in your shoe. That’s a small problem. But try walking a few miles with that pebble. The longer you walk, the more damage that pebble can do, right?
For Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
Minor Leads To Major
Bloomfield homeowners and business owners who don’t repair minor damage often are forced to face much greater damage in time. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can help you make minor repairs before they become major headaches. Fix those cracked windows before they break. Repair that minor crack in your foundation before it deepens and spreads. Clean up that small section of mold before grows. By avoiding procrastinating you avoid the risk of major repairs and major inconveniences in the future.
Welcome Mat For Rodents
Any opening (missing shingles, peeling siding, etc.) sends a welcome mat for water and insects, and rodents to enter. Larger openings in your roof can permit rodents and birds to come in and make their homes in your attic space. Some rodents are more damaging than others and won't stay in the attic but will find their way into other areas of your home. If your windows are damaged, your home is at increased risk for burglaries.
Extensive Restoration Training
Because we are SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, 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.
Having the training required to professionally repair your home's siding, shingles, and other components of your roof, gutters, windows and frames, screen doors, and more is important. We are ready to restore your home to its previous beautiful condition. Minor repairs now can provide major protection for your home or business later.
For Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
Here For You
In Bloomfield 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 Bloomfield/Enfield for Bloomfield Storm Cleanup at 860-216-2785 anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
3/27/2017 (Permalink)
You'll find more useful information on our Facebook page. Skim these examples.
Thanks for visiting us on our website. You can find out more about us on our Facebook page. In fact, here are posts you’ll find there.
Drainer Saver
November 28, 2016 Post: A picture and some advice on to prevent cooking grease from stopping up your kitchen drain.
Grand Opening in New Building
October 17, 2016 Post: Check out the pictures of our Grand Opening celebration for our bigger and better facility at 100 Peters Road in Bloomfield. We had great food, a live band, a bounce house, and much more to thank our customers and employees.
Ceiling Fans
July 13, 2016 Post: A quick and helpful hint on saving money if you use ceiling fans.
Tornado Safety
May 13, 2016 Post: We bust another myths about staying safe in a tornado.
Fire Department Thank You
August 13, 2015 Post: Pictures and a huge thank you to the many great local fire departments for saving a family’s home. Includes Blue Hills Fire Department, Bloomfield, Manchester, Suffield, Windsor, Wilson, and others.
Satisfied Customers
February 9, 2015 Post: Here are pictures of a couple who had to abandon their home for six months because of pipe break. In the pictures they’re happily moving back into a completely restored and safe home with SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield professionals bring in the furniture.
Helping In Buffalo
November 25, 2014 Post: Two of our Bloomfield, Connecticut trucks hit the road to help people in need in Buffalo, New York.
Fun Halloween Events
October 10, 2014 Post: We provide a link to fun events in Connecticut to make Halloween even more special for children.
For Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
Here For You
In Bloomfield 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 Bloomfield/Enfield in Bloomfield at 860-216-2785 anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
3/24/2017 (Permalink)
Look for signs of insects before major damage is done.
Around your house it makes great sense to tackle minor headaches before they become major migraines. Consumer Reports suggests doing the following high priority projects early.
1. Runaway Rainwater
Telltale signs: Rain pouring over your gutters and puddling along foundation walls. Why you need to act: Water can deteriorate siding and foundation walls, eventually finding its way to interior spaces and damaging them.
What to do: Inspect your entire gutter system for clogs and corrosion; you can clear clogs yourself, but if your gutters are corroded, you'll want to talk to a pro about having them replaced.
2. Leaky Roofs
Telltale signs: Cracked, curled or missing shingles, which signal that the roof is near the end of its life; also cracks in the flashing around chimneys, skylights, roof valleys, and the rubber boots around vents.
Why you need to act: If your roof doesn't provide a proper barrier to rain and snow, water can find its way to your home's drywall and insulation, leading to rot and interior water damage. What to do: You might be able to replace a shingle here and there, or patch leaky flashing. But if your roof is more than 20 years old, it's probably time for a new one. If it's an asphalt shingle roof with only one layer, you might be able to add a second layer over it, lowering the project cost significantly.
For Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
3. Insect Infestations
Telltale signs: Rotted wood in the sill plate that sits on top of the foundation and cast-off wings along windowsills and walls are evidence of termites. Piles of sawdust along baseboards are a sign of carpenter ants.
Why you need to act: Tiny as they are, these insects can cause major structural problems if left to nosh on your home's wooden framework. What to do: Call an exterminator. Check for accreditation on the database of the National Pest Management Association (pestworld.org).
4. Foundation Cracks
Telltale signs: Cracks in the concrete, especially those that are wider than 3/16 inch, as well as signs of the walls bulging and buckling. Why you need to act: An unstable foundation can compromise the entire structure of your house.
What to do: Hairline cracks can usually be filled with an epoxy injection system. If the cracks seem to be getting bigger, Consumer Reports suggests consulting a structural engineer.
For Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
5. Mold and Mildew
Telltale signs: Musty odors, dank air, and black mold spores growing on surfaces such as bathroom ceilings. Why you need to act: Any surfaces that harbor extensive mold, including drywall, carpet, and ceiling tiles, will need to be removed. Otherwise mold spores will be released into the air, causing allergic reactions and asthma attacks.
What to do: If you catch it early, patches of mold less than 10 square feet can be treated with a homemade solution of 1 cup chlorine bleach per gallon of water. Wear an N-95 disposable respirator, goggles, and heavy-duty gloves. For larger outbreaks, or if the ventilation system is contaminated, call in a mold-remediation pro like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield.
In addition, The Family Handyman offers these home disaster prevention tips:
• Turn off your home’s water supply before going on vacation
• Use metal tubing rather than plastic for ice maker supply lines
• Test your sump pump before rainy season starts
• Monitor foundation or wall cracks
• Trim trees around your house so dead branches won't crash down on your roof
• Put splash pans under washers and water heaters to catch leaks
• Install no-burst hoses on your clothes washer
• Inspect your foundation once a year for termite tunnels
• Strap your water heater if you live in an earthquake-prone region
• Add six foot long downspout extensions
• Install surge protectors to protect your microprocessors and prevent data loss
More Home Disaster Prevention Information
Every month on the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield blog we publish educational articles on how Enfield residents can protect their homes and businesses from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, or other damage.
Here For You
The Enfield team at SERVPRO has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire damage restoration services, mold remediation and commercial services from the disaster cleanup company. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield in Bloomfield at 860-216-2785 anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield 100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Langan, Ron DeFeo Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
3/14/2017 (Permalink)
Don’t allow children into the flooded area during dean-up.
When your Bloomfield property experiences a flood or a sewage back-up the greatest danger is not the risk of disease. The greatest danger is the risk of electrocution or explosion. Do not enter a flooded basement or light matches until the utility companies have shut off the gas and electric service.
If flood waters or sewage enters your basement, you must clean properly to prevent you and your family from becoming sick or injured. Don’t allow children into the flooded area during cleanup.
If you experience a sewer backup in Bloomfield we recommend you call in a professionally trained restoration firm. If it is a small event and you prefer to do the work yourself, the following are suggestions on Bloomfield flood cleanup or sewage problem.
Cleaning and Sanitizing
1. Drain all flood waters and/or sewage by natural draining or pumping.
2. Remove dirt, soil, and debris from surfaces that came in contact with flood waters.
3. Wash down all walls, floors, and surfaces that the flood water or sewage touched with clean, warm or hot water and a low suds detergent.
4. Rinse again with warm or hot water.
5. Sanitize by rinsing walls, floors, and surfaces using one of the following mixtures:
o 2½ tablespoons (tbs) of Lysol/Pine Sol per gallon of water used, or
o 8 tablespoons (tbs) of laundry bleach (i.e., Clorox, Roman Cleanser) in each gallon of water used.
6. Air the area by opening windows or using fans.
7. Prevent tracking flood debris and sewage into clean areas.
For Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
Utilities
Follow these guidelines when you enter a flooded area with gas and/or electricity present:
1. Have the utility companies shut off the gas and electricity.
2. Don't touch the fuse box or any plugged in cords or appliances until the electricity is shut off.
3. If an electrical appliance motor or its controls are submerged under water, don't start it until consulting with the dealer or service company.
4. Do not relight your gas appliances until the gas company has checked them. Make sure all pilot lights are on before relighting burners.
5. Don't light matches until the gas is turned off. If there is a gas leak, it could cause an explosion.
Clothing, Bedding, Furniture Often Must Be Thrown Out
What do you do with clothing, carpets, furniture, toys and/or bedding that have been affected by a flood or sewage back up? You may have to throw them out unless they are professionally and thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Movable objects can be put outdoors for cleaning and drying in the sun. Put all discarded clothing in a tightly closed container until pick-up or disposal.
After clean up, make sure that all clothing and parts of the body that came in contact with the flood waters and/or sewage are thoroughly washed. Be sure to wash your hands immediately afterwards.
Anyone who helps clean up should be particularly mindful of their personal hygiene. Keep your fingers away from your eyes, nose, and mouth. Don’t smoke because even slightly soiled fingers can carry disease germs to the cigarette and then to the mouth. After the flood or sewage damage is cleaned up, thoroughly wash your hands using a nail brush and a lot of soap.
Check All Foods Carefully
Contaminated foods can make you and your family sick. Here’s how to handle your foods after a flood or sewage event:
1. Destroy and discard all contaminated bottled and boxed foods.
2. Canned goods (including home canned jars) may be kept if cleaned thoroughly. To clean containers:
o Scrub with soap and water. (Use a brush around the rim of home canned jars.)
o Submerge in chlorinated water for 15 minutes (1 ounce of bleach per gallon of water).
o Air dry to prevent rusting.
3. Food stored in a freezer will keep for 2 days after losing power, if the freezer is full (1 day for a half-full freezer) and not opened.
4. If your freezer cannot be started in a day or two, store food in someone else's freezer.
5. You may safely re-freeze meat that has ice crystals on it. If the meat is only "cool-feeling" you’re better off to cook it, and then re-freeze it.
6. Food stored in a refrigerator will keep for 4-6 hours after losing power, depending on how warm the room temperature is. Do not open the refrigerator unless absolutely necessary. You may add ice to the refrigerator if you know it will be turned on soon.
7. Throw out anything with an unusual color, order, or if a perishable food is above 45° F internally.
8. Place discarded food in a tightly closed container until pick up or disposal.
You might also want to explore the educational information on our sister franchise’s blog, SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield.
For Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
Here For You
In Bloomfield 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 Bloomfield/Enfield in Bloomfield at 860-216-2785 anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
3/6/2017 (Permalink)
Most people who suffer fire damage want their lives and their homes to return to normal as soon as possible. Here's how.
Has your home recently been damaged by fire? If so, we bet you’re eager to get started improving your property. Most people who suffer fire damage want their lives and their homes to return to normal as soon as possible. But many don’t know the costs. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to repair smoke and fire damage is $5,844.
Fire damage can make areas of your home unusable until the fire damage has been repaired. More extensive fire damage may make your entire home unsafe. You may have to live elsewhere until cleanup and repair work gets done. No matter how minor or significant the fire damage restoration work is, you want to know how long it will take. The timeline depends on the restorative process and whether you take the opportunity to do remodeling at the same time.
Starting Fire Damage Repair Work
It can be difficult to determine how and where to get started with fire damage repair work. The first step in the repair process is to remove water from the home if firefighters used water during the extinguishing process. Perhaps, a kitchen fire left chemical residue for cleanup. Water extraction can be completed by the professionals from SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield quickly and affordably. We arrive in our green vehicles stocked with equipment and supplies to surmount any cleaning and restoration need you have. Then, you can begin the repair process and decide which items you want to replace and which ones need repair.
Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can also suggest to you and your adjuster what items and materials are salvageable. Keep in mind that smoke damage can also be a problem, and some items, such as carpeting and your HVAC system may need to be professionally cleaned to remove the smoke odor from your home.
Get Professional Help
Repairing your home after you have suffered fire damage is not something that you want to attempt on your own. A fire damage restoration project requires a considerable amount of time and energy to complete. But SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can help you restore your property in minimal time with minimal costs. Our IICRC cleanup and restoration certified technicians have the skills and assets to do a quality job. We are a locally owned and operated fire damage repair franchise. We can also help with mold, storm, chemical, or water damaging events to your property.
More Fire Damage Information
Every month on the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield blog we publish educational articles on how to protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, or other damage.
You might also want to explore the educational information on our sister franchise’s blog, SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield.
For Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785 Anytime
Here For You
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire restoration services, mold remediation, commercial services, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860-216-2785) anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
2/20/2017 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Technicians at Commercial Building
According to Portland Fire and Rescue, roughly half of home electrical fires involve electrical wiring or lighting equipment; and roughly half of those involved equipment such as washers and dryers, fans, and space heaters. One big factor is overloading electrical outlets. Tip number one is to plug only one high-wattage appliance into each outlet at a time. Some other safety guidelines are:
2. Never use an extension cord with a major appliance or space heater – it can be easily over loaded. Plug appliances directly into a wall outlet.
3. If a fuse blows or a circuit breaker trips often, lights flicker or dim, or outlets or switches feel warm, have a qualified electrician inspect and fix the problem. These are often warning signs before a major disaster.
4. Use lamp bulbs that match the lamp's recommended wattage (there is usually a sticker on the lamp). Don’t put a 100 watt bulb into a fixture approved for only 75 watts.
5. Power strips with circuit breakers can be useful tools to temporarily plug several items into an electrical outlet, but if used incorrectly they can cause a fire. The use of power strips and multi-plug outlets increases the draw of electricity through your home's wiring. Before creating additional electrical demand, ensure that your wiring is in good repair and capable of carrying the additional load.
6. Make sure your home has ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in the kitchen, bathroom(s), laundry, basement, and outdoor areas, to reduce the risk of electric shock.
7. Install arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) in your home to protect electrical outlets and prevent fires due to arcing.
8. Run extension cords around carpets, not under them. A cord under a carpet can heat up and cause a fire.
9. Replace or repair damaged or loose electrical cords.
Fire Damage Restoration Questions? Call 860-216-2785 anytime
Home Heating Equipment
Home heating equipment cause a good percentage of winter fires and is a leading cause of home fire deaths. In a recent U.S. study, space heaters accounted for four out of five (80%) home heating fire deaths. Yet, some simple steps can prevent most heating-related fires:
10. Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment (e.g. fireplace, wood stove, baseboard or portable space heater).
11. Do not use extension cords with portable space heaters – plug them directly into outlets.
12. Use space heaters that have a switch that will shut off if the unit tips over.
13. Have your heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
14. Use a sturdy fireplace screen in front of your fireplace to stop sparks from flying into the room.
15. Throw out fire ashes in a covered, non-combustible container and douse the ashes with water.
16. Make sure all fuel-burning equipment (e.g. gas furnaces and ranges, wood stoves and fireplaces) are vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (C.O.) poisoning.
Home Heating Safety Questions? Call 860-216-2785 anytime
Candle Safety
Portland Fire and Rescue points out that candles, although appealing for the ambiance they can create, are a significant cause of home fires. In fact, candles are one of the leading causes of home fire deaths. More than one-third of home candle fires start in the bedroom, and more than half of all candle fires start when things that can burn are too close to the candle. Remember that today you can use battery powered artificial candles so you avoid having any open flame. But if you do burn old-fashioned candles please observe these safety tips:
17. Use candle holders that are sturdy and won’t tip over easily.
18. Keep candles at least 12” away from anything that can burn.
19. Blow out candles when you leave the room or go to bed; avoid the use of candles in rooms where people may fall asleep.
20. Never burn a candle if medical oxygen is used in the home.
Candle Safety Questions? Call 860-216-2785 anytime
21. Anytime you have any concerns about how to make your home safer from fire, please contact
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860.216.2785. In an emergency you can call us 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
More Safety Information
Every month on the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield blog we publish educational articles on how to protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water or other damage.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
2/8/2017 (Permalink)
Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property.
Mold may seem like a small problem. It’s not as dramatic as a flooded basement or a fire-burned kitchen or a hurricane damaged roof. But make no mistake—mold can be extremely destructive, especially if it strikes a prized collection of yours.
Mold often threatens major artworks. In fact, the National Park Service has published a piece entitled, Mold: Prevention of Growth in Museum Collections. In 2007, the University of Illinois and Urbana-Champaign’s Rare Book and Manuscript Library suffered from a mold outbreak after a spike in humidity — one that took eight months to address. The Boston Public Library faced a mold threat to 500,000 rare books in 2015.
Mold In 14-Year-Old Museum
In February of 2017 the Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford, Connecticut had thousands of items at risk from mold. And the building housing the threatened items was only 14 years old. It seemed to have started with a leak in the roof.
Mold was found in the storage facilities of the historic home's museum center, tainting at least 5,000 of the museum's 16,000 artifacts. The vulnerable pieces are varied: 19th-century furniture, upholstery, metal, glass and leather items, as well as books, including some Twain first editions and translations, whose fabric and leather bindings are conducive to mold growth. The spread of mold was halted by fixing the roof and repairing the HVAC system. A key, as with all mold situations, is closely monitoring the archive's relative humidity. But monitoring does nothing to combat the existing mold.
Probably like your most treasured possessions, the Twain artifacts are valuable and delicate. They must be handled very carefully and with special skill. Because mold is damaging to artifacts, the mold spores from each affected artifact must be removed as soon as possible. The total cost at the Twain museum? Would you believe a little more than $1 million.
Of course, smaller collections in private homes or businesses face the same threat. But there are proven ways to fight and remove mold.
Your best defense against mold is controlling the internal environment. Typically, mold won't grow below 45 percent relative humidity. So many private and public collections use large dehumidifiers to keep the humidity down.
Most Susceptible To Mold
Artifacts made of organic materials are most susceptible to mold growth. Photographs, letters, documents and other works on paper are safer if you store them in multiple layers of envelopes.
Another key fact to know about mold is how fast it spreads. Very. In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.
You can’t remove all mold. Microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, outdoors and indoors. Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home or business through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants. And before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
More Mold Information
Every month on the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield blog we publish educational articles on how to protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water or other damage.
Here For You
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield 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 Bloomfield/Enfield (860-216-2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
1/31/2017 (Permalink)
Today, every 8 minutes the American Red Cross responds to an emergency.
In life you can’t rely on too many things. But you can rely on the Red Cross. The American Red Cross does an amazing amount of good. Here are just a few facts and examples:
• Clara Barton and a circle of her acquaintances founded the American Red Cross in Washington, D.C. on May 21, 1881.
• Today, every 8 minutes the American Red Cross responds to an emergency.
• 90% of the Red Cross workforce are volunteers.
• During the Second World War the American Red Cross provided extensive services to the U.S. military, allies, and civilian war victims. The Red Cross enrolled more than 104,000 nurses for military service, prepared 27 million packages for American and Allied prisoners of war, and shipped over 300,000 tons of supplies overseas. At the military’s request, the Red Cross also initiated a national blood program that collected 13.3 million pints of blood for use by the armed forces.
Questions? Call 860.216.2785 Anytime
• The American Red Cross has a presence in nearly every community in the United States and around the world.
• In 2015 the American Red Cross provided 32,000 shelter stays, 980,000 meals and snacks, 500,000 relief items, and 35,000 health and mental health contacts.
• The last weekend of January 2017 at least 60 tornadoes hit the southern states over one weekend. The American Red Cross was there with food, shelter, and recovery help with at least seven Red Cross shelters. Red Cross workers supported those affected for as long as help is needed. During the first four days in Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi, Red Cross and community partners served over 30,000 meals and snacks, distributed over 8,000 relief items, and provided 900 Health Services and Disaster Mental Health contacts. The Red Cross mobilized over 500 workers to help.
Questions? Call 860.216.2785 Anytime
• The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters. It supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood supply.
• The Red Cross gave hope to our men and women in uniform by providing more
than 367,000 emergency assistance services to members of the military and their families in fiscal year 2015—while also processing nearly 7 million blood products to meet the needs of patients across the country, and teaching millions of people critical health and safety skills.
Natural Disaster Information For You
Every month on our blog, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes 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 Bloomfield/Enfield also has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire damage restoration services, mold remediation, commercial services, and disaster repair. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860-216-2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
1/30/2017 (Permalink)
The size of a disaster isn't as important as your quick and appropriate response to it.
Depending on where you live or where you are, your risk of suffering a natural disaster vary greatly. Based on records from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Bankrate published this list on its website.
10. Missouri
The Show-Me State has been shown disastrous weather in every month on the calendar: severe snow and ice storms in winter, tornadoes during the spring, summer and fall, and flooding at virtually any time. Major disaster declarations since 1953: 55
9. Kentucky
Kentucky's had more than its share of landslides, mudslides, and rock slides, as well as flooding and tornadoes. Hurricane Ike ripped up the state in 2008; it had a record snowfall in late 2004; and chemical explosions in the Louisville sewers hit in 1981. Major disaster declarations since 1953: 56
Arkansas has been thrashed by heavy rain, snow, ice, tornadoes, and flooding over the years and has even taken poundings from tropical storm systems. In 2008, storms and tornadoes associated with Hurricane Gustav littered streets with debris, and damaged buildings, roads, and bridges. Major disaster declarations since 1953: 58
This Gulf Coast state has been battered by hurricanes, including Isaac in 2012, Gustav in 2008, and Katrina and Dennis in 2005. Tornadoes in April 2011 rivaled the hurricanes for destructive power, lashing the state with winds that exceeded 210 mph and leaving about 250 people dead and an estimated $1.5 billion in damage. Major disaster declarations since 1953: 58
Louisiana won't soon forget Hurricane Katrina, the now-legendary 2005 storm that government officials say killed nearly 1,000 residents and caused an estimated $80 billion in damage. Numerous hurricanes have ravaged the Gulf state. Major disaster declarations since 1953: 60
Florida has been roughed up by dozens of tropical storm systems since the 1950s, none worse than Hurricane Andrew in 1992. It held the title as the most expensive natural disaster in U.S. history until Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005. Severe freezes have been disastrous for Florida farmers on multiple occasions. Major disaster declarations since 1953: 67
4. New York
Across its wide span from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic, New York has been punished by everything from blizzards to tropical storms. In 2012, Superstorm Sandy killed nearly 50 people in New York and caused more than $40 billion in damage. New York also received disaster declarations for the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Major disaster declarations since 1953: 68
3. Oklahoma
This state has recorded an average of more than 55 twisters per year since 1950. One of the worst in recent history struck near Oklahoma City in May 1999 with winds over 300 mph. It killed 36 people. Major disaster declarations since 1953: 75
2. California
California has it all—wildfires, landslides, flooding, winter storms, severe freezes, tsunami waves, and more. But earthquakes are the disaster perhaps most closely associated with the nation's most populous state. Major disaster declarations since 1953: 79
1. Texas
At least one major disaster is declared during nearly every calendar year in Texas, the second-largest U.S. state by area (after Alaska). The Lone Star State has dealt with tornadoes, floods, wildfires and fairly frequent coastal hurricanes. Major disaster declarations since 1953: 88
This list is based on the number of major disaster declarations within each state since 1953. That means that larger states have a greater chance of appearing here. The list appears quite different when FEMA factors in both population and land area. In that case the ten states most prone to natural disaster are (listed from the greatest risk to the 10th greatest) : Vermont, Delaware, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Hawaii, West Virginia, Maine, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Oklahoma.
Disaster Preparation Information
Every month on the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield 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 Bloomfield/Enfield 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 Bloomfield/Enfield (860-216-2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
1/25/2017 (Permalink)
Scientists say the number of natural disasters is increasing
Natural disasters of apocalyptic scale have become the norm in recent years. Every few months, it seems, another nation is victimized by an unstoppable natural force. So reports Statista, the statistic portal with statistics and studies from more than 18,000 sources.
Scientists have pointed out that natural disaster occurrences have increased and intensified significantly in the last 30 years. Some claim this is an effect of global climate change. Recent disaster records do not refute this claim. Since 1980, eight of the world’s ten most deadly natural disasters have occurred post-2000, the deadliest of which was the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, with 222,570 fatalities.
You’ve probably noticed a growing amount of TV, internet, radio, and other media devoting more and more time to reporting about floods and droughts and storms and earthquakes. In the United States in 2015 there were total 114 severe thunderstorms and 317 natural disasters.
Disasters Impact Greater Than Terrorism
Financial guru Warren Buffett has said that natural disasters, such as Hurricane Katrina and Japan's 2011 earthquake, have a greater economic impact than terrorism. These disasters, as well as tornadoes, floods, and tsunamis, cost the insurance industry billions. If large enough, they can slow economic growth for decades.
One Storm, $50 Billion Damage
Hurricane Sandy (October, 2012) was called a Frankenstorm by the National Weather Service. It combined a 990-foot wide hurricane with a cold front and another storm, as well as high tides from a full moon. It damaged or destroyed more than 650,000 homes, 8 million customers lost power, and it cost $50 billion. Recent years have given us so many examples of the power and costs and death toll that natural disasters can bring. Think Hurricane Katrina, Japan’s earthquake and tsunami, the 2010 earthquake in Haiti and so many more.
Chances are you may never suffer the effects of one of the country’s or world’s greatest natural disasters. But “smaller” catastrophes can be just as devastating to smaller communities, businesses, and individuals.
What To Do In A Disaster
Are you ready if a fire, flood, or tornado strikes your home? It may not be fun to think about, but it never hurts to plan ahead - especially if you live in a disaster-prone area. Know where you should go, who you should notify, and what to bring. A great resource for disaster-planning is FEMA’s Are You Ready? It walks you through steps you and your family can take so that you are better prepared should a disaster strike. Among the many topics covered in detail are technological hazards, natural hazards, water conservation tips, terrorism, recovering from disaster, and family communications planning.
Why Prepare
Being prepared for a natural disaster can reduce your fear, anxiety, and losses. You can reduce the impact of flood water disasters and sometimes avoid danger completely. And FEMA says disasters disrupt hundreds of thousands of lives every year, leaving lasting effects to both people and property.
One of the most important keys is to be ready to be self-sufficient for at least three days. When a natural disaster occurs it can take local government and disaster-relief organizations awhile to reach you. Be able to provide your own shelter, first aid, food, water, and sanitation for at least three days.
Disaster Preparation Information
Every month on the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield 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 Bloomfield/Enfield 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 Bloomfield/Enfield (860-216-2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
1/17/2017 (Permalink)
If a natural disaster strikes do a size-up
When an emergency happens or a disaster strikes, some people seem to know what to do. Others of us can panic or waste time not knowing what to do first. Emergency responders recommend you do a size-up.
What Is A Size-Up?
Conducting a size-up means getting an overall perspective of the emergency, disaster, or situation explains firefighter and author Scott Finazzo. Don’t be totally consumed by what visually appears to be the worst aspect of the situation. In the medical field the example sometimes used is attending someone screaming from a hand injury and not noticing that someone else has a head injury and is losing consciousness. Take in as much information as you can. And ask yourself three questions:
1. What has happened?
2. What is happening now?
3. What is going to happen?
You also want to draw from all five of your senses plus your instinct. What do you see? What’s the extent of the damage? Is anyone yelling for help? Can you hear a dangerous sound like gas leaking or water running? Do you smell smoke or anything suspicious? Is something hot to the touch or cold or abnormal? If you have an odd taste in your mouth you might have inhaled an irritant of some kind.
And trust your instinct. Even if there’s not obvious evidence to take a course of action, if it feels like you should do something (leave the area, get on higher ground, etc.) Scott says it may be wise to follow that gut feeling.
Here are some steps for doing a size-up:
1. Gather facts.
What happened? Where are people and are they safe? Does anyone need help?
2. Assess damage.
How extensive is it? Which part of the facility is damaged?
3. Consider probabilities.
What’s likely to happen next? How can your actions positively affect the outcome?
4. Assess your situation.
Are you safe where you are or should you move? What are you trained and equipped to do? Who do you need to call to get the right type of help?
5. Establish priorities.
What’s most important to do first? Second? Next?
6. Take action.
Considering all the information you have, create a plan, make decisions, and take action.
7. Evaluate progress.
At regular intervals stop and think about your progress. Are your goals being met? Should you change your course of action?
Natural Disaster Information For You
Every month on our blog, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters and deal with them quickly and effectively should they occur.
You have lots of resources on the web that can help you be prepared for a natural disaster. On the Red Cross website under “Get Help” you’ll find at least seven essays on emergency preparation. The website for the Department of Labor’s OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has a large emergency preparedness and response section.
Here For You
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also 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 Bloomfield/Enfield (860-216-2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
1/9/2017 (Permalink)
Commercial hardwood floors are among the toughest and longest-lasting floors
The Good News: Hardwood Flooring Is Hardy
At SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, we love it when a business invests in solid hardwood floors. Hardwood floors are among the toughest and longest-lasting floors on the market, and they rarely succumb to permanent water damage. Remember this if you’re trying to flood proof your business or company or you need to pick out a new floor following severe water damage or a flood. Hardwoods are very dense so they don’t soak up moisture in the same way that a soft wood or other type of commercial flooring might.
Wood Floors Expand & Contract
Commercial and residential wood floors change with the humidity. Usually your business or home will have variations in humidity and your wood floor will respond by expanding or contracting. You may notice the hardwood floor expands during warm, humid weather. During dry weather, wood contracts. This is a normal characteristic of wood flooring, and it never stops, regardless of the age of your hardwood floor. One of the best ways to ensure that hardwood flooring will give the performance you expect is to install humidity controls and ensure that they are functioning before the hardwood floor is installed.
What About Warping, Cupping, & Buckling?
After severe water damage a commercial hardwood floor might warp, cup, or buckle. In most cases, the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield team can use all kinds of clever methods to reverse things like warping, cupping, and buckling. One of our techniques is to use a wood suction mat. This increases the surface area and draws moisture and hidden water from the joints of the planks. The good news? It’s relatively rare for hardwood floors to be deemed non-salvageable. You can find more on cupping and buckling at Today’s Homeowner.
How To Spot Hardwood Floor Damage
Most commercial hardwood floors look great. They open up a space. Hardwood floors are shiny, beautiful, and arguably much cleaner and more hygienic than carpet. But water is the enemy of a hardwood floor. Be mindful the signs of potential water damage to your commercial hardwood floor and take proactive steps to keep your hardwood floors smooth and opulent for years.
Signs of commercial or home hardwood floor damage include discoloration, cupping, heaving, warping, and separation between boards. If you run your hand across the floor slats and can feel every seam between the boards, you likely have a cupping issue. A rise in elevation from the center of the wood slats signifies warping damage.
Information On Our Blog
Every month on the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield 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 Bloomfield/Enfield 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 Bloomfield/Enfield (860-216-2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
1/4/2017 (Permalink)
Is your business prepared in case a natural disaster strikes?
If a natural disaster, major accident, or other event created an emergency at your business would know what to do? Would you act quickly to do the most important tasks first? One way to become better prepared in case of an emergency at your business is to create your company’s own emergency action checklist.
Designed In Case Of Severe Water Or Fire Damage
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has a top line action checklist built especially for events involving severe water or fire damage. The SERVPRO list is designed to keep your business employees safe and help reduce business interruption (the time your company is out of business because of the results of a disaster). You may want to review our list here and adapt it to your own situation.
1. Advanced Warning: Be Alert And Stay Informed
When severe weather is approaching or other potential danger is near your business, stay tuned in to those sources that give you the latest information. Usually, that means listening to local weather reports or news reports. Think about precautions you may want to take before the emergency hits. That could include things like moving your business vehicles to higher ground, turning off utilities, disconnecting electrical equipment, and other steps.
2. Always Think Safety First
Make your employees’ safety your first priority. That includes items like having a business evacuation plan, identifying designated meeting places outside your building, appointing team leaders who can keep track of employees, and more.
3. Stop Damage At Its Source
In some cases, you may be able to reduce or stop the water, fire, chemical, or other damage to your business. For example, if a chemical leak starts a fire, shut down the source of that chemical. Certainly, do not risk your safety or the safety of others.
4. Notify Your Emergency Contacts
Have a list of the places you need to call in an emergency and call them immediately. Depending on the situation, your emergency contacts might include the local fire department and the local police department.
5. Call SERVPRO
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield responds to residential and business emergency situations every week, sometimes every day. We know what to do to keep you, your employees, and your business property safe and minimize damage. Our goal is to make your business fully operational again as quickly as possible.
6. Notify Key Contacts
Key contacts are different than emergency contacts. Emergency contacts are community or governmental resources that will help you deal with the damage or disaster. Key contacts are people like your property manager, insurance agent, maintenance crew, and others you need to inform and who can offer other types of help.
7. Secure Your Business Property
Once it’s safe to do so, secure your building and property. That might mean putting tarps over a damaged roof, covering broken windows, or doing other tasks that will protect your property from further damage.
8. Take Photos Of The Damage
You will improve your ability to collect full damages by taking pictures of everything the water, fire, or other elements damaged. It’s also good to have pictures of how your building and property looked prior to the damage for comparison sake.
9. Write A Summary Of The Event
Details build your case with your insurance company. Write down as many significant facts as you can: time of the damage, extend of the damage, actions you took, and more. Not only does this help advance your insurance claim, it can also help you decide what worked well and what you need to change the next time you have to respond to an emergency.
A Wealth Of Natural Disaster Information For You
Every month on our blog, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters and deal with them quickly and effectively should they occur. Here are a few you might find helpful:
Commercial Restoration Presents Unique Challenges
Home Protection Guide: 29 Tips To Prevent Your Home Or Business From Financial, Structural, & Natural Disasters
Preventing Water, Plumbing, & Other Disasters
When Disaster Strikes Time Is Precious
Here When You Need Us
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield 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 Bloomfield/Enfield (860-216-2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
12/16/2016 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield wants every inch of your facility to sparkle and shine.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield offers specialty cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your commercial or residential property clean, safe, and healthy again.
A Clean Business Keeps Customers Coming Back
Keeping your business looking its best means surpassing standards with unique specialty services. Your business represents you—a clean and attractive business keeps customers coming and leaves a positive impression. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield wants every inch of your facility to sparkle and shine. From cleaning office upholstery to making storefront windows crystal clear, we provide a range of specialty cleaning services that enhance both your working environment and your image.
Our commercial specialty cleaning services include:
• Air Ducts and HVAC
If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating dust, pollen, odors, dirt, debris, and other contaminants.
• Biohazard and Sewage
SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield is trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.
• Trauma and Crime Scene
Many times, crime and accident scenes have blood and other biohazard contaminants that pose a serious health risk. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield will respond immediately and has the specialized training, protective equipment, and experience to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.
Have questions? Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield anytime at 860-216-2785.
• Carpet and Upholstery
Even the highest-quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling over time. Protect your investment by calling us to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery.
• Drapes and Blinds
We carefully inspect and test fabrics to determine which of SERVPRO’s five cleaning methods is best suited to your fabrics.
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
Ceilings and walls are exposed to dirt and dust, pet dander, cooking oils and grease, cigarette smoke, and other contaminants. Your heating and air conditioning system can distribute these contaminants throughout your property.
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
SERVPRO teaches IICRC technical classes in the proper removal of odors. Masking and other short cuts don't work when your odor problem is serious or persistent.
• Vandalism
Often simple acts of vandalism, like breaking a window, can cause significant water and mold damage if not addressed in a timely manner.
Faster to any size disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.
Following IICRC Standards
The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. SERVPRO professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.
A Wealth Of Cleaning Information For You
Every month on our blog, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters or deal with them quickly or protect your property through cleaning.
We’re Here Whenever You Need Us
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also 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 Bloomfield/Enfield (860-216-2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Granby, Hartford, Hartland, Manchester, Newington, North Granby, Salmon Brook, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, Suffield, Thompsonville, West Granby, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
12/12/2016 (Permalink)
Commercial hardwood floors are beautiful and durable but any water damage must be quickly dealt with
Your business is an investment. If your business is family-owned it’s part of your family’s inheritance, so its well being is essential. Sometimes, the worst does happen, and you find yourself facing a watery disaster. If you have hardwood floors, here are some steps to take before and after water damage occurs.
Keep Your Commercial Floor Dry
Don’t allow even small spills or water leaks to pool on your commercial hardwood floor. When you see any signs of moisture, grab a clean, dry cloth or mop immediately. Taking action quickly will minimize the impact on your expensive hardwood floors.
Be Careful With Your Cleaning Process Don’t soak a mop in cleaning solution or water and saturate your floors. Though you want to get your floors really clean, take care to use liquid solutions conservatively. For some good ideas on how to best maintain your hardwood floors go to the National Wood Flooring Association’s maintenance page.
Watch For Changes And Mold
Watch for moisture or changes to your commercial hardwood floor, especially around the perimeter. Keep an eye out for mold in areas that don’t receive much light. Mold is damaging to your hardwood floors and can affect the air quality of your business or commercial space. Mold is a sign that you should take immediate action.
Repairing Your Water Damaged Floor
All is not lost if your commercial hardwood floor (or a hardwood floor in your home) receives water damage. Genuine hardwood floors can be renewed to their original beauty with just a few steps.
First, do a thorough water damage inspection. Then remove any moisture in your hardwood floor and the sub-floor. No direct repairs to water damaged hardwood floors can be started until you remove all the excess water in the air. Don’t sand the hardwood floor while the atmosphere is thick with moisture because the hardwood floor won’t remain level. Usually, the moisture content in the room must be below 12% before you can begin to restore a hardwood floor. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield achieves this with our high-powered dehumidifiers, negative air movers, and HEPA filters.
Faster to any size disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.
You can use large fans and dehumidifiers. Point your fans down to the hardwood floor boards while running your air conditioning. If your water damage is on the main floor, place additional large fans on the level below. Point these units upward toward the moisture to dry the hardwood floors from underneath.
Your flooring may begin to swell somewhat during this process. If you’re able, remove a couple of the damp hardwood boards to allow the wood to “give” and allow additional air to get to your subfloor.
Be Sure To Remove All Moisture
If the underlay or sub-floor is also wet, the entire floor and sub-floor may have to be lifted. You must be certain you remove all sources of moisture. Otherwise, the problem will return. One thing professionals do is erect a polyethylene tent or seal in the affected room to speed up the drying process. This method is common in workplaces like commercial offices, which have a large floor space and lots of flooring materials that may dry at different speeds. Sectioning off the water damaged area also lessens any downtime or inconvenience to your customers or clients.
What If Your Commercial Hardwood Floor Buckles?
If your hardwood floor buckles from water damage drying it fully should restore the boards to a flat position. At that point you can fill gaps or nicks and refinish if necessary. You can rent sanders from any major home supply warehouse, but beware. These machines are powerful. They can take on a life of their own across your commercial hardwood floor or a hardwood floor in your home. Hold the sander tight and show it you’re the boss. After sanding and refinishing, your commercial hardwood floors can be as beautiful as the day they were installed.
Have water damage? Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield anytime at 860-216-2785.
When To Call A Professional
If you’ve made every attempt to dry your commercial or home hardwood floors and buckling remains, that’s a sign that water still exists under your floor. In many cases, this means your wood has become detached from the sub-floor underneath. Solving this issue is going to likely require the help of a professional service like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield.
Depending on the professional opinion you receive, your hardwood floor may be damaged to the point that you need a replacement floor. Repairing may ease your troubles in the short-term, but if you have an unidentified leak or other moisture issue, effects to your commercial hardwood floors will certainly recur.
Don't Enjoy "Do It Yourself"?
If you’re not handy or don’t enjoy construction work, you may want to call in a professional as soon as the water damage occurs. Two advances of using a reputable professional firm is that you can get back in business sooner and know that the job will be done right the first time.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield specializes in commercial water damage repair and restoration throughout Connecticut and the region. We can help restore your commercial hardwood floor and get your business back up and running faster.
A Wealth Of Information For You
Every month on our blog, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters and deal with them quickly and effectively should they occur.
Here When You Need Us
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also 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 Bloomfield/Enfield (860-216-2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
12/1/2016 (Permalink)
Have carbon monoxide (CO) detectors installed on each level of your home and business.
Lose power during an emergency and you’ll be grateful if you have a portable generator for electricity. You might also use an outdoor grill for cooking. But the Connecticut Department of Public Health cautions everyone to use generators and grills with care. Here are some guidelines from the department’s Connecticut Guide to Emergency Preparedness.
Avoid CO Build Up
Misuse of portable generators and outdoor grills or other cooking devises can cause carbon monoxide (CO) to build up in your home, garage, camper, or other confined space. CO can poison animals and people. Follow these guidelines:
1. Don’t use a portable generator inside your home, garage, carport, basement, covered porch, or any enclosed space.
2. Use a generator outside at least 20 feet from your own and any neighbors’ homes or businesses. Keep the portable generator away from doors, windows, and air intake vents so the CO it generates will not be able to travel inside.
3. Propane and kerosene heaters can also help in an emergency but keep them outside.
Whatever your natural disaster question is, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has answers. Call at 860-216-2785.
4. You may be tempted to use your gas oven or stove top to heat your house. Never do that.
5. Before an emergency check to make sure you have CO detectors installed on each level of your home and business. Have them right outside sleeping areas, too. Change the batteries every six months and replace your CO detector every five years.
6. Know that opening windows and doors and using fans is not enough to stop a deadly buildup of carbon monoxide in your home or business.
CO Poisoning Can Look Like The Flu
7. The symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to flu symptoms: headache, tiredness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or loss of consciousness. These signs may be your only warning because you cannot see or smell CO.
8. If you have the symptoms of CO poisoning or if someone around you does, go outside to get in the fresh air. Dial 9-1-1 from a mobile phone or from a neighbor’s house. If you’re in Connecticut you should also call the Connecticut Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
CO or natural disaster questions? Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.
9. After a snow storm, make sure your car's exhaust pipe is clear. A clogged exhaust pipe could lead to carbon monoxide buildup in your vehicle.
10. There’s more information about carbon monoxide on the Connecticut Department of Public Health CO Poisoning page.
A Wealth Of Natural Disaster Information For You
Every month on our blog, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters and deal with them quickly and effectively should they occur.
SERVPRO Excels
Many factors make SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield a great choice for restoration after a natural disaster or for disaster cleanup:
• More than 40 years of experience as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider
• A network of 1,500 franchises nationwide so we can call in any resource you might need
• On site evaluation of your natural disaster recovery needs within four hours of you contacting SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860-216-2785)
• Highly trained staff with experience in all types of natural disasters
• Assistance with dealing with your insurer and filing a claim
• Local knowledge and resources—we know your community and we have relationships with other local organizations that can help you in times of need
Here To Help You
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire damage restoration services, mold remediation, commercial restoration, commercial cleanup, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860-216-2785) any time, any day of the year.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860-216-2785 anytime
12/1/2016 (Permalink)
Dangerous chemicals or other unhealthy substances can make water unsafe to drink.
Water contamination doesn’t happen frequently in Connecticut and the surrounding region but it’s best to be prepared. Dangerous chemicals or other unhealthy substances can make water unsafe to drink. That can happen with a water system failure, accident, terrorist attack, hurricane damage, or in other ways according to the Connecticut Department of Public Health. Hazardous chemicals, human waste, or animal waste can get in to a water supply and make the water dangerous to drink.
Don’t Use Water That’s Changed in Smell or Taste
If a Connecticut water emergency occurs your water company or local officials will tell you if your drinking water is not safe to drink. The Connecticut Guide to Emergency Preparedness says that if your water has an unusual change in color, smell, or taste, or has floating pieces in it don’t use it or drink it.
Disinfect Flooded Wells
If you are a homeowner or business owner in a flooded area and have a private well that has flooded, consider that well contaminated. Flooded wells should be disinfected before use. To be safe, treat your water or use bottled water until you disinfect the well. You can find more homeowner information about flooding, wells, and cleanup at the Department of Public Health’s page on this subject.
Faster to any size disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.
What if you’re told to treat your drinking water? Use treated or bottled water for all your cooking, washing fruits and vegetables, brushing teeth, making baby formula—all water uses. Use treated water to wash your hands before you cook. There is one exception. Adults and older children do not need to use treated water to shower or bathe. They just need to not swallow or get untreated water in their mouths. Infants, toddlers, the elderly, and people with severely compromised immune systems should be bathed using treated or bottled water.
How To Treat Potentially Unsafe Water
There are many ways to treat water you think is contaminated so it will be safe for use. Here are three options:
1. Boil your drinking water at a rolling boil for one minute. Make sure it is clear of floating pieces before boiling.
2. Add water purification tablets per the directions on the tablet package.
3. Add eight drops of liquid chlorine bleach to every gallon of clear water or 16 drops to every gallon of cloudy water. Do not use household bleach that has perfumes or ingredients other than sodium hypochlorite. That type of bleach may be toxic. Mix the water and bleach well and let it stand for at least 30 minutes before you use it.
Have questions? Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield today 24/7 at 860-216-2785.
For more emergency water safety tips, go to the American Red Cross’s Water Treatment page.
A Wealth Of Natural Disaster Information For You
Every month on our blog, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters and deal with them quickly and effectively should they occur.
Why SERVPRO Excels
Many factors make SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield a great choice for fire and water cleanup and restoration. We offer:
• More than 40 years of experience
• A network of 1,500 franchises nationwide so we can call in every resource you need
• On site evaluation of your natural disaster recovery needs within four hours of you contacting SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
• Highly trained staff with experience in all types of natural disasters
• Assistance with dealing with your insurer and filing a claim
• Local knowledge and resources—we know your community and we have relationships with other local organizations that can help you in times of need
Here When You Need Us
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also 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 Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 anytime
11/15/2016 (Permalink)
Don't let water damage ruin your holidays
Your holidays are for being with and appreciating those people you love the most. But if you’re a homeowner, an unnecessary water or plumbing disaster could ruin your Christmas, New Year’s, or other holiday.
If you live in a cold climate, the low temperatures combined with higher traffic in your home’s kitchen and bathrooms can lead to unwanted water and plumbing disasters. You don't want to have to call an emergency plumber or water restoration company to your house in the middle of a family gathering. You don't want to have to send everyone home because your plumbing isn’t working or safe. Or worse yet, if you’re traveling for the holidays, the last thing you want to do is return to a mess after a long trip.
If you’re a homeowner, here are some ways you can help prevent broken or frozen pipes, plumbing issues, and sewage backups.
1. Disconnect all outside water hoses from your outside faucet.Once water freezes, there’s a good chance it will break the pipe and cause flooding.
2. Make sure your automatic lawn sprinklers have been turned off and drained properly.
3. When temperatures get below 25 degrees, consider keeping an indoor faucet dripping at night time.This prevents pipes from freezing.
4. Make sure you know where your home’s main water shut off is. Put a tag on it so anybody can easily find it. You never know when you may be out of town and somebody else may need to enter your house to turn the water off.
5. When you go on vacation consider keeping your heat close to the same temperature you keep it at while at home. If you do turn the temperature down don’t go below 60 degrees. Many people who turn their heat down or off end up with frozen pipes. It’s cheaper to heat your home than it is to pay a disaster cleanup company to clean up a water disaster.
Keep your holidays safe. Call 860-216-2785 and ask for ask your Emergency Ready Profile.
6. In severely cold weather consider leaving the doors of bathroom vanities and kitchen sink cabinets open to allow more heat to get to the plumbing,
7. If you leave town, turn your water off. Water can’t keep running and doing damage if it’s shut off. If you can’t shut off the main water supply because you have an automatic sprinkler system or someone watering the plants while you’re gone, shut off the valves to the most common sources of water damage (dishwashers, ice makers and washing machines). This will protect you in case a hose cracks or lets go. Individual shutoff valves or “stops” are installed on the supply lines leading to most appliances as well as to toilets and faucets. Typical supply stops have a small round or oval handle that you turn clockwise to shut off the flow of water.
8. Install braided stainless steel hoses. Stainless steel braided hoses last longer than rubber or plastic hoses and are less likely to leak. They also prevent mice from gnawing through your lines. Rubber or plastic supply lines that lead from shutoff valves to appliances, faucets, and toilets become brittle and can leak or even break as they age. While you’re turning water values off inspect the supply lines too. If you find any leaks, cracks, bulges, or signs of corrosion, replace the lines before you leave town. Your best choice is line encased in a braided stainless steel sheath. Shorter versions for faucets and toilets are also available.
9. Install heat tape on your roof if you know that you have problems with ice dams building up on your gutters. Ice dams sneak up under your shingles. When this happens the ice may start to melt and leak into your home.
10. During the holidays many things get flushed down toilets that aren’t meant to be flushed. Avoid flushing baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, any type of clothing, and plastic products. Check your toilets periodically throughout holiday parties to be sure they are flushing properly so you can avoid backups.
Keep your holidays safe. Call 860-216-2785 and ask for ask your Emergency Ready Profile.
11. Many people think the kitchen sink disposal will grind up and get rid of just about anything. It’s safer to put many of your food remnants in the garbage rather than the disposal. For example, you should avoid potato peels, orange peels, and large pieces of meat because they may cause damage or a water backup.
12. Make sure all of your home’s C02 detectors work. More deaths are caused by C02 poisoning than by fire.
13. Keep your fireplace safe. Use a metal mesh screen. Don’t use flammables to start a fire. Have your chimney inspected each year. And use fire-resistant materials on the walls around wood stoves. Fire safety is especially important during the holidays when fireplaces are burning in our homes.
14. Be careful about the number of Christmas lights you plug into one socket. Overloading your electrical outlets can lead to fire and smoke restoration.
15. For more holiday safety tips see the National Safety Council’s Holiday Season Safety.
A Wealth Of Natural Disaster Information For You
Every month on our blog, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters and deal with them quickly and effectively if they occur. Here are a few you might find helpful:
Why SERVPRO Excels
Many factors make SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield a great choice. We offer:
• More than 40 years of experience as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider.
• A network of 1,500 franchises nationwide so we can call in every resource you need.
• On site evaluation of your natural disaster recovery needs within four hours of you contacting us.
• Highly trained staff with experience in all types of natural disasters.
• Assistance with dealing with your insurer and filing a claim.
• Local knowledge and resources—we know your community and we have relationships with other local organizations that can help in times of need.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire damage restoration services, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Call 860.216.2785 anytime
11/15/2016 (Permalink)
At work and at home, prevent fires by practicing electrical safety.
It’s the holiday time of year and you probably have parties to give and celebrations to attend. At work and at home you have holiday decorations up. Enjoy your holidays, but please remember to be safe. Here are a few tips to keep your business and your home safer from potential electrical fire cleanup and other hazards that the holidays can bring.
1. Inspect electrical decorations and cords.
Carefully examine electrical decorations and cords for damage before you use them. Have your family or employees check for cracked or frayed sockets, loose or bare wires, and loose connections. Repair any damage before use.
2. Avoid overloading electrical outlets.
When you overburden an outlet you can cause a power outage or create heat that can result in fire. In general, plug in only one high wattage appliance per outlet.
3. If you have a live Christmas tree, water it daily.
A dry tree becomes a fire hazard.
4. String together no more than three strings of incandescent lights.
When you connect more than three strings you can blow a fuse or create conditions for a fire.
Keep your holidays safe. Call 860-216-2785 and ask for ask your Emergency Ready Profile.
5. Use electrical extension cords properly.
They are for temporary use only. Don’t use one that feels hot. Don’t run extension cords through walls or ceilings or nail or staple them to walls or baseboards. Make sure that cords are not pinched in doors, windows, or under heavy furniture, which could damage the cord’s insulation. Keep extension cords out of high-traffic areas like doorways or walkways where they pose a tripping hazard. Ensure that all extension cords are certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as UL, CSA, or ETL, and read the manufacturer’s instructions. For more, go to Extension Cord Safety.
6. Use battery-operated candles.
The Electrical Safety Foundation International says that candles start about half of all home decoration fires. By using battery-powered candles you greatly reduce this risk at home or at your place of business.
7. If you’re cooking stay in the kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking in the break room, cafeteria, or your home kitchen stay with the stove or oven.
Every year, especially at holidays, people begin to cook then run to another room to quickly do something and forget to go back to the stove in time to prevent a fire. Never leave a stove or oven that’s in use.
8. Keep anything that burns at least three feet any source of heat.
Don’t store newspaper near the fireplace or have paper decorations above a heater, for example.
9. At work check your fire alarms and fire protection equipment.
The holiday season is the perfect time to inspect fire alarms and fire suppression systems or devices. Inspect regularly, perhaps twice year, and make sure everything’s in working order. Are your portable fire extinguishers adequately charged? Are all your smoke alarms working? Do you have enough fire extinguishers, the right types, and are they in the right places?
A Wealth Of Natural Disaster Information For You
Every month on our blog we publish educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters and deal with them quickly and effectively should they occur.
Why SERVPRO Excels
Many factors make SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield a great choice. We offer:
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire damage restoration services, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, Connecticut
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 anytime
10/31/2016 (Permalink)
Remember, safety first. Never try to fight a large fire by yourself.
Did you know that if you battle a fire with the wrong type of fire extinguisher you could make the fire worse? For example, use an extinguisher that contains only water on a flammable liquid fire and you’ll spread the fire and put yourself in further danger. But don’t worry. Fires are divided into five classes and fire extinguishers are specifically made to battle one or more of the fire classes. All this is easier than it may sound. Here are the basics.
1. Remember: safety first. Do not try to fight a large fire by yourself. You’re much better off letting professionals handle any fire. One general rule of thumb is that if the fire is bigger than you are it’s too big for you to put out safely.
2. Only use a fire extinguisher when: 1) the fire is confined to a small area, and is not growing; 2) the room is not filled with smoke; 3) everyone else has exited the building; and 4) the fire department has been called.
3. Most portable fire extinguishers are capable of putting out multiple types of fires. Commercial and residential extinguishers primarily suppress Class A, B, and C fires.
Call the fire experts. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.
4. Below is a list of fire classes and the extinguishers that put them out. Always check the extinguisher you’re about to use to make sure it’s designed to fight the type of fire you have. The type of fire or fires that an extinguisher can put out should be clearly visible on the label. If you’re not sure, the safest thing to do is to evacuate the area.
Class of Fire: A (A in a green triangle)
Fires of ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, cardboard, most plastics, and cloth
Extinguishers to Use: Water, Foam Spray, ABC Powder, or Wet Chemical
Class of Fire: B (B in a red square)
Fires of flammable liquids like petroleum, kerosene, grease, and others (but not alcohol or cooking oil)
Extinguishers to Use: Foam Spray, ABC Powder, or Carbon Dioxide
Class of Fire: C (C in a blue circle)
Fires of energized electrical equipment such as appliances, wiring, circuit breakers and outlets
Extinguisher to Use: ABC Powder
Class of Fire: D (D in a yellow star)
Fires of combustible metals like magnesium, titanium, sodium (often found in chemical laboratories).
Extinguishers to Use: ABC Powder or Carbon Dioxide
Class of Fire: K (K in a black hexagon)
Fires of cooking oils, trans fats (often used in restaurants).
Extinguisher to Use: Wet Chemical
5. The most common type of portable fire extinguishers are multipurpose, dry chemical, ABC extinguishers. They’re small, easy to operate, and can put out the majority of fires you may come across. Most have 10 to 20 seconds of discharge with a range of 8 to 12 feet.
6. Author and 20 year fire-fighting veteran Scott Finazzo says you should not use a fire extinguisher unless you can say yes to all of these questions:
Are there two or more ways for you to escape from the fire?
Do you have the correct extinguisher for the type of fire?
Is the extinguisher capable of putting out the size of fire you are facing?
Is the area free from other hazards?
Can you put out the fire in 5 seconds or less?
A Wealth Of Natural Disaster Information For You
Every month on our blog we publish educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters and deal with them when they occur.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire damage services, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road
Bloomfield, CT
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 anytime
10/24/2016 (Permalink)
After a disaster the clock is ticking. Faster repairs can save further damage and lower your cost.
Fire destroys your home. Water ruins your basement. High winds bring a tree crashing through your business’s roof. There are many more disasters that could affect your business or home. And what many people don’t realize is that when a catastrophe occurs time becomes your most important possession.
The initial damage from a disaster is just the beginning of the ordeal. Things get much worse if you cannot or do not act in a timely manner to repair the damage and prevent further damage. At least two factors make time a critical resource after a disaster.
One factor is that without quick repair the damage usually gets worse. Water does more damage the longer it sits in your building or walls or wherever. Many possessions can be restored after a fire but only if you act quickly.
For businesses, a second factor that makes time critical is the business interruption. Every day a natural disaster keeps your doors closed is another day of lost business revenues. In fact, for businesses the natural disaster is usually less costly than the business interruption that disaster causes.
Save your home or business; save worry, time, and expense. Call Ralph at 860-216-2785.
When you need natural disaster recovery done fast, done right, and done economically, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield. We are always available—24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We’ve handled just about any emergency restoration need you can imagine. We even do non-emergency tasks like carpet cleaning and mold removal.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield arrives quickly with the main goal of restoring your business or home to full function as soon as possible. We’ve enabled businesses who thought they’d be closed for weeks to reopen in days. We’ve saved homeowners thousands by restoring valuable possessions they thought were lost to fire or other damage.
A Wealth Of Natural Disaster Information For You
Every month on our blog we publish educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters and deal with them quickly and effectively when they occur.
Why SERVPRO Excels
Many factors make SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield a great choice. We offer:
• More than 40 years of experience as a leading fire and water cleanup company and restoration provider.
• A network of 1,500 franchises nationwide so we can call in every resource you need.
• On site evaluation of your natural disaster recovery needs within four hours of you contacting us.
• Highly trained staff with experience in all types of natural disasters.
• Assistance with dealing with your insurer and filing a claim.
• Local knowledge and resources—we know your community and we have relationships with other local organizations that can help in times of need.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire damage restoration services, and disaster cleanup services. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 anytime
9/29/2016 (Permalink)
We've got the staff and equipment to handle any natural disaster.
Based on a survey of 1,050 AskTheBuilder.com newsletter subscribers, more than 50 percent of U.S. adults are not prepared to take care of themselves for a few days in the event of a major disaster. When asked why they weren’t prepared, 30 percent said they don’t know how to prepare; 20 percent believed they don’t need to prepare; and 32 percent wrote a specific reason for not being prepared for a natural disaster.
The editor who conducted the survey, Tim Carter, said people who aren’t prepared offered a number of reasons. Among the most frequent were:
“I’m too busy”
“My fire department and utility company will save me”
“I don’t think I will be affected by a natural disaster”
In the September 4, 2016 Hartford Courant article on the survey Tim says, “A big disaster is going to strike where you live.” He recommends not relying on the fire department or utility company to save you. When a natural disaster strikes the fire department and utility company will be overwhelmed with needs. They will probably be busy working to get large community assets like the hospital, government buildings, schools, and retirement homes back up and running.
Get prepared for any natural disaster. Call Ralph at 860-216-2785.
So what should you do? You might think about how you would prepare to go camping where there are no utility hookups. Put together all the equipment and supplies you’d need for that trip. And focus on the basics.
Water And Food
One huge basic is water. You can get by without a shower or bath but you’d be surprised how much water you need to drink, to wash up, and to prepare food. The Red Cross recommends one gallon of water per person per day.
Another basic is food. Have a storage of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items ( at least a 3 day supply for an evacuation). You may need a camp stove and fuel to cook with. Tim mentions inflatable solar camp LED lanterns for light at night.
Shelter And Critical Papers
Think about shelter, too. After a natural disaster you may be able to stay in your home or maybe not. Is there a large shed, detached garage, or other shelter on your property that you could use for a few days in an emergency?
Have your critical papers protected and together in one place. Many (like wills, contracts, insurance policies, and irreplaceable pictures) you may store on a thumb drive or on a remote server. And how about your contact list or address book? You probably have them on your computer or smart phone but what happens if the computer or phone gets lost or destroyed or you can’t power them up? Some people keep a spare set of their critical papers and contact lists with a relative or friend who lives in a different community but is still close by.
Your Go-Bag
One more essential is a go-bag or an emergency supply kit. It’s a small day pack with the minimal things you need to survive for a day or two. See SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield’s Your Emergency Supply Kit Checklist or check out others online. The Red Cross has more good information on how to be prepared.
Call Ralph and SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
We’ve helped businesses and families prepare for natural disasters. They tell us that three main reasons they choose SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield are:
1. We respond immediately and work quickly
2. We are experienced and have the solutions for virtually any natural disaster issue
3. We answer all questions and will help with insurance claims
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield also has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire damage restoration services, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 anytime
9/22/2016 (Permalink)
Water damage emergencies can be costly and traumatic for you
Your home or business can suffer water damage from many causes. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield knows that water damage emergencies can be costly and traumatic for you, your business, and your family. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost for water damage repair across the nation is $2,154. That’s why it’s critical for professionals to immediately assess and fix any water damage problem.
Causes of Water Damage
Sometimes appliances can cause more harm than good. When your washing machine, dishwasher, sink, or toilet flood, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can be there to fix the problem and repair water damage quickly. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has experience with water damage restoration from nearly every cause you can imagine:
• Backed up sewage and septic tank lines
• Leaking or frozen water lines or pipes
• Overflowing sinks, bathtubs, showers, or toilets
• Washing machine or dishwasher overflow
• Heavy rain or storms
• Melting ice or snow
• Cresting rivers or streams
Experiencing water damage? To get help fast, Call Ralph at 860-216-2785
Highly Trained Staff
The SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield staff is highly trained in water damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your business or home from water damage. Our training program includes:
• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes
Always Available To You
SERVPRO OF Bloomfield/Enfield is always available to you. We offer 24/7 emergency services 365 days a year. Whatever the cause of the water damage in your home or business, we offer a full menu of service options to restore your property. You’ll also find many educational essays on our blog that can help you tackle water damage issues:
• Dehumidification after Water Damage Cleanup
• Flood Cleanup
• Flood Preparation and Procedures
• Frozen Pipes
• How To Clean Mold With Bleach
• Protecting Your Home’s Foundation
• Roof Leaks
• Sewer Backups Are Emergencies
• Water Damage? 4 Reasons To Hire A Professional
• Water Damage Cleanup Requires The Right Equipment
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield will do a water damage assessment for you. We can extract water and dry affected areas and furnishings. We’ll assess and get rid of any mold issues. If water’s leaking somewhere we’ll find the leak and present you with a solution that will stop the leak. We can reconstruct and repair any damage and will even help you with your insurance claim filing.
Call Ralph and SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
Hundreds of people have called us for help with their water damage issues. They tell us that three main reasons they choose SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield are because we:
1. Respond immediately and work quickly
2. Have experience and solutions for virtually any water damage problem
3. Answer all questions and will help with insurance claims.
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is also skilled in natural disaster prevention and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 anytime
9/6/2016 (Permalink)
Workers suffer more than 190,000 illnesses and 50,000 deaths annually related to chemical exposures.
According to OSHA, workers suffer more than 190,000 illnesses and 50,000 deaths annually related to chemical exposures. Workplace chemical exposures have been linked to cancers and other lung, kidney, skin, heart, stomach, brain, nerve, and reproductive diseases. There are four major ways you can control exposure to hazardous chemicals:
1. Eliminate or substitute for the dangerous chemical.
2. Install physical controls to access to the chemical.
3. Implement administration and business practice controls.
4. Use protective equipment.
The easiest and quickest way of controlling exposure to hazardous chemicals may be to stop using the hazardous chemical or start using another safer chemical in place of the dangerous chemical. Transitioning to safer alternatives can be a complex undertaking, but a variety of existing resources make it easier. OSHA has developed a step-by-step toolkit to provide employers and workers with information, methods, tools, and guidance on using informed substitution in the workplace.
Need help assessing your chemical exposure risks? Call us at (860) 216-2785.
A second way to control hazardous chemical exposure is to implement a physical change in the workplace that reduces or eliminates the hazard. Examples are changing a process so it minimized the contact workers have with the hazardous chemicals and isolating or enclosing the process. Other companies have switched to a wet method of using a hazardous chemical to reduce the dust or particulates working with the chemical produces. Fume hoods and improved ventilation can be solutions in other situations.
Changing Practices or Controls
A third alternative is to change the work practice or administrative controls. That could mean rotating job assignments or adjusting work schedules so that your workers are not overexposed to a hazardous chemical.
Using Protective Equipment
A fourth way to control exposure to hazardous chemicals is to use chemical protective clothing like eye protection and gloves. OSHA says an estimated 5 million workers are required to wear respirators in 1.3 million workplaces throughout the United States. Respirators protect workers against insufficient oxygen environments, harmful dusts, fogs, smokes, mists, gases, vapors, and sprays.
OSHA can help answer questions or concerns from employers and workers. To reach your regional or area OSHA office, go to the OSHA Offices by State webpage or call 1-800-321-OSHA (6742). Small businesses may contact OSHA's free On-site Consultation services funded by OSHA to help determine whether there are hazards at their worksites. To contact free consultation services, go to OSHA's On-site Consultation webpage or call 1-800-321-OSHA (6742) and press number 4.
We Can Help
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, natural disaster cleanup, and controlling exposure to hazardous chemicals. Our expertise also includes electronics restoration and document drying. And we’re your business’s best resource for mold mitigation and removal. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
8/24/2016 (Permalink)
Never fight a large fire. Call in the professionals.
Pace yourself. You may be in charge of other people. Listen carefully to what people tell you and deal patiently with urgent situations first.
In a fire before you go through a door feel it with the back of your hand. Feel it from the bottom to the top. Do not open a hot door. Doing so puts you at risk of being burned and adding fuel (oxygen) to the fire.
Smoke and heated gases rise. The lower you are the less likely you are to inhale smoke or dangerous gases.
If you decide to use a fire extinguisher to fight the fire remember that the extinguisher’s reach is probably 8 to 12 feet. Stay as far away from the fire as you can.
P: Pull the pin and hold the fire extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you.
A: Aim low. Point the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire.
S: Squeeze the level slowly and evenly.
S: Sweep the nozzle from side to side.
Many times you’re much better off to let fire cleanup professionals handle any fire. Only use an extinguisher when: 1) the fire is confined to a small area, and is not growing; 2) the room is not filled with smoke; 3) everyone else has exited the building, and 4) the fire department has been called.
You’re always best off leaving the fighting of a large fire to professionals. One general rule of thumb is that if the fire is bigger than you are it’s too big for you to put out safely.
Don’t turn your back on a fire. Conditions can quickly change. You need to be constantly aware of the fire’s size, condition, and position.
More turbulent smoke means more dangerous fire conditions. Is smoke pushing out of the top of a door? Then do not enter. Does the area contain significant amounts of smoke? Then the fire probably exceeds your ability to handle it. Call the professionals.
Your family or employees should have a specific place well away from your home or business that you will meet at in case of a fire. Knowing where to meet and having two or more ways to get there reduces the risk of leaving someone behind or not knowing where everyone is if you evacuate your home or building.
If smoke, heat, or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with doors closed. Place a wet towel under the door and call the fire department or 9-1-1. Open a window and wave a brightly colored cloth or flashlight to signal for help.
Immediately after the fire have any injuries treated by a medical professional. Wash small wounds with soap and water. To help prevent infection of small wounds, use bandages and replace them if they become soiled, damaged, or waterlogged.
Help With Fires Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
We’ve Moved: 100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
8/1/2016 (Permalink)
Keep yourself, your family, and your employees safe by following basic home and business safety guidelines.
Your home’s safety and its value are keys to living well, enjoying comfort, and staying financially sound. Yet many homeowners neglect to take easy steps to make their homes safer, avoid structural damage, protect the home from natural disasters, and help maintain property value. What home disasters can you easily avoid? Read these 29 tips and you may prevent a home safety nightmare, save money, and sleep better at night.
1. Test for radon.
This colorless, odorless gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Test every three years. A tightly sealed home increases your risk.
2. Install carbon monoxide detectors on every floor.
Many homes have CO alarms on the main floor and the floor where bedrooms are. But you should have carbon monoxide detectors on all floors, including the basement.
3. Check your smoke detectors.
Do you have enough of them in your home? Are they in good working order? Have you replaced the batteries within the last year?
4. Know about surprising items that can go up in flames.
Battery-charged appliances, paper and cloth towels, and dryer lint are three items people don’t think of when they think of the fundamentals of home fire safety. Any of them could start a fire. Take precautions.
5. Replace 10-year-old electric blankets.
After 10 years, heating pads and electric blankets can become fire hazards. Replace them if they have charred spots, frayed or cracked electrical cords, or are old.
6. Toss out old space heaters.
Space heaters are a prime cause of household fires. Protect your home by replacing old space heaters with the newer models that turn off automatically if they tip over or get too hot.
7. Check your house for mold every 3-5 years.
Mold damages your respiratory and immune systems. It can grow in hidden places like inside your home’s walls. Buy a do-it-yourself kit or hire SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to detect mold every 3-5 years.
8. If you must smoke, do so only outside your house.
More fire deaths are caused by smoking inside the home than are caused by any other factor. Always dampen butts and ashes before throwing them away.
9. Be aware of and check potentially dangerous products like toasters.
Every year common toasters start thousands of household fires. Protect your home by cleaning out the crumbs and unplugging your toaster when it’s not in use.
10. Place critical household papers in a fireproof box.
You may want to include your identification papers (like your Social Security card, passport, and birth certificate). Consider adding financial records, family photographs, and emergency cash in small bills.
11. Trim trees and shrubs around your home or business.
Dead branches hanging over your roof can fall and cause damage to your home. Shrubs that brush against your house can bring an outdoor fire right into your home or business.
12. Keep your gutters clean.
If a gutter, drain, or downspout at your home or business is clogged, water may build up and find its way inside. And you may not know it until major structural damage has been done.
13. Have your chimney and fireplace inspected.
Use binoculars to examine the outside of your chimney for any cracks or signs of damage. Have your flue cleaned and inspected by a certified chimney sweep.
14. Consider how vulnerable your home is to wind damage.
Are your home and business protected from tornadoes, hurricanes, and other damaging winds? Consider how sturdy your doors and windows are. Do you need to fortify them?
15. Know your area’s evacuation routes and shelters.
If you should have to vacate quickly you’ll be better off if you’ve already planned your route and destination.
16. Prepare an evacuation bag.
Include personal hygiene items, water, snacks, spare cash, a flashlight, a phone list of family and key contacts, and anything else that you or your family might need to stay safe for 72 hours or longer. If you have employees on site, prepare an emergency evacuation plan and be sure every employee knows the procedure.
17. Consider having an emergency evacuation kit stored in your car.
Besides what you have in your home evacuation bag, pack other items of use on the road: charged cell phone, first aid kit, tire gauge, jumper cables, road flares, gloves, extra batteries, a fire extinguisher, etc.
18. Protect people and pets with special needs.
Know how you will get them to safety if a natural disaster causes you to evacuate.
19. Read up on emergency preparedness and preventing home disasters.
Your home or business cannot be overly prepared. For protecting your home or business, two good resources are ready.gov and redcross.org. For businesses, download Homeland Security’s 12-page brochure, “Every Business Should Have A Plan.”
20. Have a weather radio, smart phone app, or other means to receive natural disaster warnings and weather updates.
Before a predicted natural disaster or threatening weather turn that weather channel on, leave it on, and keep it close.
Before a predicted natural disaster or threatening weather turn that weather channel on, leave it on, and keep it close.
21. Keep copies of important documents off site.
Have extra copies of birth certificates, passports, financial information, marriage certificates, wills, etc.) stored in a remote location like a bank safe deposit box. Keep essential business papers (bylaws, business plans, leases, tax records, permits, etc.) off site as well.
22. Check your sump pump to make sure it’s working.
Consider installing a battery-operated backup, in case of a power failure.
23. Contact your insurance company if you make certain major structural changes.
For example, if you install a fireplace or add on to your business’s facility you might change your risk of fire or other disaster. Let your insurer know. You may have to update your insurance policy to continue to be protected.
24. Always use the right type of flooring.
Don’t install carpet in front of a fireplace or wood-burning stove. A spark could start a fire. Use linoleum, brick, or another flooring that’s not as combustible as carpeting.
25. Walk through all the areas in your house or business.
Look for dangers like unsafely stored chemicals. Check chemical labels and take the necessary steps to ensure that you are using, storing, and disposing of each chemical according to the manufacturer’s directions.
26. Inspect your foundation.
Look for cracks or damp wood resting on the foundation. Be sure the ground slopes away from the foundation so water will drain away. Be certain that anything planted near your home or business is not causing water to pool around the foundation.
27. At home, store chemicals where children can’t reach them.
Locked cabinets is one good choice. Products such as aerosol cans of hair spray and deodorant, nail polish and nail polish remover, toilet bowl cleaners, and furniture polishes all fall into the category of hazardous materials.
28. At work, store chemicals and hazardous materials where only authorized personnel can reach them.
All types of businesses could face an emergency involving hazardous materials such as flammable, explosive, or toxic substances. Know what chemicals your business has on site and store them safely. Among the hundreds of common workplace hazardous materials are pesticides, mercury, solvents, and lead.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technician
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
7/18/2016 (Permalink)
Let us help you reduce the risk of fire at your home or business.
Fire is impossible unless four elements are present. If you eliminate or prevent one of the four elements from being present, you can protect yourself from fires at your home, business, or anywhere. Here are how the four elements work and what causes them to occur.
1. Heat
Heat is necessary for a fire to start. Unfortunately, heat can build up and start a fire in many ways including contact with a flame, too much friction, or mechanical generation (like with your car’s spark plugs). Firefighter and author Scott Finazzo says heat gets transferred in one of three ways.
1. Direct contact: The heat source touches another object.
2. Radiation: Heat travels in an electromagnetic way like when you put your hands near a campfire.
3. Convection: the heat transfers from one location to the next by the movement of fluids. An example is how a hot stove burner transfers heat into a pot of water.
Concerned about a fire risk or fire damage? Call (860) 216-2785.
2. Fuel
All fires require a fuel--something that burns. That can be wood, fabric, gasoline, ethanol, hydrogen, butane, or one of many, many other substances. Surprisingly, Scott Finazzo says most solids and liquids don’t actually burn. They are heated beyond their ignition temperature and start to give off combustible vapors (pyrolysis). It’s the escaping vapors that burn.
3. Oxygen
The third element every fire needs is oxygen. The air we breathe is about 21 percent oxygen. That’s enough to support combustion but oxygen itself does not burn. Air with a greater percentage of oxygen in it will burn more intensely.
Here’s another point many people don’t know. You can have enough heat, fuel, and oxygen without having a fire. There is one more element required.
4. Chemical Reaction
A chemical reaction occurs when the exact mixtures of the other three elements of fire (heat, fuel, and oxygen) blend in the right concentration to promote ignition.
Take away any of these four elements and you can prevent or stop a fire. Spraying water on most fires, for example, removes the heat to stop the fire. Shutting off the value to the burner on your gas stove removes the fuel and the fire stops. Putting a lid on a grease fire in a frying pan takes away the oxygen and stops the flames. For more information about fires, like the five major classes of fires, you could check Scott Finazzo’s book, The Neighborhood Emergency Response Handbook. Or call us.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
7/6/2016 (Permalink)
We can handle any loss from a natural disaster--big or small
People and businesses rely on SERVPRO to restore damaged property for many reasons. Here are just 10.
1. We Get It
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield understands your situation. You want to keep costs down, repair the damage, and get back to normal. Those are our goals, too.
2. SERVPRO Is Qualified
Our repair and restoration team members have the best training in the industry. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is among the top 10% of SERVPROs in the nation. Our results will create a measurable difference for you.
3. We Respond To You Immediately
You can reach us 24/7. When a disaster strikes we respond as quickly as possible. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can draw on more than 1,650 U.S. and Canadian locations to get the right equipment and right professionals to you faster than other companies.
4. You’re Part Of Our Team
We work with you and for you. You are in charge. You receive a complete explanation of the work we will do and why it needs to be done a certain way. Like you, we don’t appreciate surprises.
5. We Use The Latest Technology
The past few years have seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to restore your property to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.
6. We Practice The Golden Rule Of Restoration
Restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield professionals practice the golden rule, "Restore whenever possible, replace only when necessary." We make sure pretesting is completed on every loss to determine restorability.
7. For Claim And Other Purposes, Your Loss Is Itemized
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can give you an itemized loss inventory. You will receive an Excel formatted report and pictures of important items.
8. We’ll Help You Prevent Losses, Not Just Deal With Them
Our services start with prevention. We’ll come out to your business or home and do a review of how you can protect yourself, your family, your business, and your property from potential losses. That’s another old rule (from Ben Franklin) we like: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Check out our SERVPRO Ready Plan.
9. We Handle Any Loss From A Natural Disaster—Big Or Small
Have multiple locations? No problem. Suffer a small loss from water or fire or wind? We can handle it. Have a massive, complex disaster to recover from? That’s within our scope of services, too.
10. We’re Approved, Certified, And Experienced
We’re trained to IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards in fire and water cleanup and restoration. Our professionals attend SERVPRO continuing education classes. SERVPRO has been in business for more than 45 years. Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO a leader in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry.
Connecticut, Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, and natural disaster cleanup.
Call Connecticut's SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Noemi DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
We’ve Moved: 100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
6/23/2016 (Permalink)
The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield /Enfield has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial storm or water damage emergencies. Regardless of your property type or size, we will respond quickly to clean your property and manage the restoration project through to its completion.
Avoid Hours Of Lost Revenue
Every hour spent cleaning up your commercial business site is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. We act fast to minimize your losses. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield a call.
Commercial businesses depend on us because of our
• 24 hour emergency service
• Immediate response to any size commercial disaster
• Experience handling water, fire, wind, chemical, and other types of disasters
If your business suffers a major loss, call (860) 216-2785.
Commercial Large Loss Division
The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.
SERVPRO has handled large business loss for many types of commercial clients including:
• The hospitality industry
• Property managers
• Universities
• Municipalities
• The Pentagon
Emergency Building Services
When your business or home has been damaged by a storm or water, your immediate concern may include temporary protective measures to prevent additional damages, like placing a tarp over your roof. For many damaged businesses and homes SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has provided services like boarding-up, temporary fencing, pack out and move outs, and temporary warehouse space.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
We’ve Moved:
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
5/26/2016 (Permalink)
Learn business lessons from the impact natural disasters have had on other businesses
Bob Boyd, President and CEO of Agility Recovery delivered a presentation to the Corporate Responsibility Association about lessons learned from business disasters. In reviewing the year 2013, Boyd said the U.S. had 62 Presidentially Declared Disasters affecting 37 states. Eight of those disasters caused more than $1 billion of damages. And 2013 was a relatively quiet year for natural disasters.
One disaster Bob discussed shut down all phone and Internet service to businesses. Among the lessons businesses can learn from disasters like that are:
1. Include the loss of Internet and phone service in your disaster recovery plan and test that plan.
2. Use more than one wireless carrier in case one network becomes compromised or goes down.
3. Have a strategy for processing your business transactions without connectivity.
For Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
What If Smart Phones Go Down?
Mobile phones can also become useless under certain natural disaster conditions. Businesses have learned several key lessons from disasters that knocked out their mobile phone service. The lessons include having a way to communicate with your employees, clients, partners, and others without mobile access and having a strategy for relocating your business operations.
Also, you should have a core team of employees trained in CPR and first aid and have a good working relationship with local law enforcement. Police or other law enforcement may become your best source of storm updates, safety and recovery information, and help during a crisis.
Business Interruption Most Costly Than Storm Damage
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield knows that for businesses, time equals money. The more time your business cannot conduct operations, the more money you lose. In fact, business interruption costs are much greater than the costs of the damage and clean up after a natural disaster.
Know how quickly you can restore data, re-establish connectivity, obtain temporary power, and start conducting normal business again. Know the most likely natural disaster threats to your business and community. Whether it’s hurricanes or flooding or wildfires or something else, be prepared for the threats you’re most likely to face.
Lessons from Hurricane Katrina
Bill Rau owns an antique business in New Orleans. Hurricane Katrina did about $5 million of damages to his business but the business survived and even reopening just six weeks after the disaster. The hurricane taught Bill a lot. Among the most important advice Bill now gives other businesses about preparing for a natural disaster are:
• Consider your employees—they need guidance, clear vision, and security during and after a disaster.
• Keep your business customers in the loop. Let them know you're still open for business.
• Establish cloud-computing—ensure that backup can be accessed outside the affected geographic area.
• Get an insurance advisor to sit down with you so you can find out what may be missing from your policies.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, and commercial disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
5/13/2016 (Permalink)
Survivors and heroes feel fear just like you and I do.
Most of our days on this earth are calm and uneventful. But if a storm or other natural disaster creates an alarming emergency, how can we be mentally prepared?
Scott Finazzo, author of The Neighborhood Emergency Response Handbook, says we have much less understanding of how we would react in an emergency than we think we do. Things like 80 mile-an-hour winds or three foot flames at our home or business can cause emotions and stress to overtake logic and reason. Here are some tips from Scott and others to prepare your mind to function well during a natural disaster.
1. Understand your role
Think about and realize what you’ll need to do during a natural disaster. Your role could be physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging. If you accept and understand that reality now, you’ll be better able to manage your actions and decisions during an emergency.
2. Use visualization
A 20-year firefighter, Scott Finazzo recommends envisioning worst-case scenarios—the sights, sounds, smells, and emotions that come with being in the middle of a major natural disaster. By envisioning in detail, your brain creates a bookmark similar to an actual experience. Later, your brain can “refer back to” what you envisioned. Your brain searches for how you reacted to the earlier experience and the decisions you made even if the experience and decisions were only in your mind. Fabricated memories can dictate your behavior toward logic and reason in critical, stressful situations.
3. Be prepared physically
Preparing yourself physically helps prepare your mind. Have your home well protected. Know your emergency evacuation route. Have essentials and valuables in an emergency kit you can quickly grab on your way to safety. Preparing physically will give you and your family some peace of mind should a natural disaster strike. You’ll have a plan to follow and that can keep you calm and keep your stress level down. The same principle applies to your business and your employees.
In How to Mentally Prepare for Disasters and Emergencies, Ramani Durvasula, a licensed clinical psychologist, says preparation is key. “[Preparation] can largely help because it can address real anxieties about clean water, food, etc,” Ramani says. “With those real issues addressed, it makes it easier to simply focus on the psychological symptoms of anxiety and manage those without worrying about being hungry.”
4. Manage your fear
Survivors and heroes feel fear just like you and I do. What’s the difference between them and us? They have learned how to manage their fear. They acknowledge the crisis and look ahead and think about what they need to do next to be safe and protect others. Realize that in an emergency you will be fearful. But also realize that the best thing you can do when you’re fearful is to act and get out of the fearful situation.
5. Build up and use relaxation techniques
At the Parks & Recreation site an essay by Sonia Myrick recommends breathing, relaxation, and meditation exercises. Sonia also says you can adapt relaxation techniques to almost any situation or emergency.She also recommends cognitive restructuring — a useful technique for understanding and reframing the negative thinking that we all experience from time to time. Cognitive restructuring can change attitudes, values, or beliefs in ways that alter self-expression. It occurs as a result of insight or behavioral achievement.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
We’ve Moved: 100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
5/3/2016 (Permalink)
Evacuation Route Sign to Guide Residents
1. Test for radon.
This colorless, odorless gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Test every three years. A tightly sealed home increases your risk.
2. Install carbon monoxide detectors on every floor.
Many homes have CO alarms on the main floor and the floor where bedrooms are. But you should have carbon monoxide detectors on all other floors, including the basement.
3. Know about the surprising items that can go up in flames.
Battery-charged appliances, paper and cloth towels, and dryer lint are three items people don’t think of when they think of the fundamentals of fire safety. Know they could start a fire. Take precautions.
4. Replace 10-year-old electric blankets.
After 10 years, heating pads and electric blankets tend to cause problems. Replace them if they have charred spots, frayed or cracked electrical cords, or are old.
5. Toss out old space heaters.
Space heaters are a prime cause of fires. Replace old space heaters with the newer models that turn off automatically if they tip over or get too hot.
6. Check for mold every 3-5 years.
Mold can cause health effects. Buy a do-it-yourself kit or hire SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to detect mold every 3-5 years.
7. If you must smoke, do so only outside the house.
More fire deaths are caused by smoking inside the home than are caused by any other factor. Always dampen butts and ashes before throwing them away.
8. Be aware of and check potentially dangerous products like toasters.
Every year common toasters start thousands of fires. Clean out the crumbs and unplug your toaster when it’s not in use. Another common household product that can cause fires is your dryer.
Cleanup And Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
9. Place critical papers in a fireproof box.
You may want to include your identification papers (like your Social Security card, passport, and birth certificate). Consider adding financial records, family photographs, and emergency cash in small bills.
10. Trim trees and shrubs around your home or business.
Dead branches hanging over your roof can fall and cause damage. Shrubs that brush against your house can bring an outdoor fire right into your home.
11. Keep your gutters clean.
If a gutter, drain, or downspout is clogged, water may build up and find its way into your house.
12. Have your chimney and fireplace inspected.
Use binoculars to examine the outside of your chimney for any cracks or signs of damage. Have your flue cleaned and inspected by a certified chimney sweep.
13. Consider how vulnerable your home is to wind damage.
Is your home protected from tornadoes, hurricanes, and other damaging winds? Consider how sturdy your doors and windows are. Do you need to fortify them? Research protective products like concrete canvas or cloth.
14. Know your area’s evacuation routes and shelters.
If you should have to vacate your home or business quickly you’ll be better off if you’ve already planned your route and destination. And consider having an emergency evacuation kit stored in your car.
15. Keep in mind people and pets who may have special needs.
How will you get them to safety if a natural disaster causes you to evacuate?
16. Read up on how to best prepare for a disaster.
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
We’ve Moved: 100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
4/25/2016 (Permalink)
Fire and water may cause more damage but more insurance claims are caused by wind and hail damage
You may be surprised to learn that the leading cause of homeowner insurance claims is not fire damage or water damage. It’s wind and hail damage.
The Insurance Information Institute says that national statistics (2010 to 2014) from property and casualty insurance companies show that three out of 100 homeowners filed claims in the wind/hail category. The number of claims caused by wind and hail was nearly double the second most frequent reason for homeowner claims. In that second position? Water damage and freezing.
Fires Cause The Most Damage
Water damage and storm damage restoration claims were made by nearly 19 out of 1,000 homeowners. Though fire claims are much rarer—fewer than four claims per 1,000 homes—fires cause the most property damage. The average fire claim in the U.S. was for $39,791. By contrast, the average wind or hail claim totaled $8,041.
One Company Paid $2.4 Billion in 2014 Homeowner Claims
The losses covered by just one insurance company are large. Damage caused by wind and hail cost State Farm and its policyholders more than $2.4 billion in 2014, according to the insurer. Texas was the state with the most wind/hail losses, followed by Illinois, Colorado, Missouri, Nebraska, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Iowa, South Dakota and Kansas.
For Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
If you’re concerned about making sure your house is well prepared for a wind, hail, fire, water, or other natural disaster, look through the many posts here at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield. We cover many specifics. We try to give you information that will protect your family, home, and business from natural disasters.
Visit Your Insurance Company's Website
And go to your homeowner insurance company website. Many insurance companies publish tips on their websites on how you can avoid claims. The Travelers website talks about installing water sensors to keep small leaks from becoming big ones. At Nationwide’s website resource center you can learn how to make sure your home is covered for all it’s full value. The Ace website’s Family Safety Guidelines section has an essay on keeping your family and home safe from a tornado.
Among the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield posts that might most appeal to you are:
Flood Preparation & Procedures
10 Key Fire & Fire Damage Facts
Commercial Businesses: The Best Disasters Are The Ones You Avoid
Help Is Here
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
We’ve Moved:
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
4/14/2016 (Permalink)
Get your natural disaster questions answered at 860.216.2785
If a water, fire, wind, or other natural disaster hits your home of business it can be difficult to know what to do and in what order. Here are some of the most frequent questions SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield receives from people who’ve just suffered a disaster:
Q: After my home or business suffers storm damage, who do I call first?
A: When you have an emergency make life and safety your first priority. If you’re not certain your home or business is safe, evacuate and call 9-1-1.
Q: Can I turn the power back on if the damage to my home or business isn’t extreme?
A: If your electric, gas, or water supply has been affected or turned off by first responders, do not turn the utilities on. Wait until you have a qualified official check the systems.
Q: If my business has a facility maintenance team do I need to call an outside disaster recovery team like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield?
A:Yes. Building maintenance staffs are not trained or equipped to handle the aftermath of an emergency or disaster. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is your recovery partner. Our teams are trained to safely, thoroughly, and professionally handle the effects of an emergency or storm damage. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized equipment, tools, and techniques that minimize business interruption, long-term damage, and costs. We work with your maintenance team and/or emergency preparedness team.
For Disaster Cleanup Or Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Q: How can I help my insurance company quickly assess the damage and so restoration can begin?
A: After a disaster, do contact your insurance company representative right away. Be prepared to give your insurer detailed information about the damage. Conduct an inventory of damaged property and items. Don’t throw away any damaged goods until after your inventory is complete. Document all telephone calls with the date, time, parties who spoke, and highlights of your conversations. Take pictures of all damages for later reference. Begin saving receipts for any money you spend related to the loss. Your insurance company may need those receipts to verify all your losses.
Q: What is a work authorization form and why do I need to sign one?
Before your water damage clean up and restoration process begins, you must legally grant permission to perform the work. The work authorization form gives SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (or whichever clean up and restoration company you choose) permission to work in your building or facility and to communicate with and provide a courtesy copy of the invoice to your insurance company.
Q: What’s the best thing I can do to protect my business or commercial facility from another disaster?
A: One critical step every business should take is to create a disaster preparedness plan. Use an all-hazards approach and include the four phases of disaster recovery: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. You’re also wise to call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at any time to discuss your concerns about handling or preventing future disasters. We’d be glad to come to your home or business, answer your questions, and discuss your needs.
Here To Help
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, natural disaster cleanup, and natural disaster restoration. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
4/7/2016 (Permalink)
Identify local waterways that could flood your home or business.
Flooding is one of the most common, most costly, and most dangerous weather disasters you can experience. Flooding may occur from a light rain falling day after day. Or flooding may happen when a deluge of water drops from the sky in a short time. Here’s how you can be prepared and what to do if flooding does strike.
Flood Preparation
1. Identify local waterways that threaten your home or business.
2. Preplan several evacuation routes from both your home and your business.
3. Make copies of important documents (birth certificates, passports, financial information, marriage certificate, etc.) and store them in a remote location like a bank safe deposit box.
4. Check with your insurance agent about your coverage or need for flood insurance.
5. Prepare an evacuation bag. Include personal hygiene items, water, snacks, spare cash, a flashlight, and anything else that you or your family might need to stay safe for 72 hours or longer. For more items see our post, “Your Emergency Supply Kit Checklist.”
Need Water Restoration Advice Or Services? Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
6. Your evacuation bag should have at least a 3-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and a 3-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food.
7. Have a weather radio, smart phone app, or other means to receive flood warnings and weather updates. Keep it close and turned on.
8. Take photographs of every room in your home or business. Be certain to capture the most valuable and hard to replace items (artwork, cars, jewelry, etc.). Store the photos on a portable device like a flash drive or memory card. Keep that device in your evacuation bag.
9. If you have a sump pump make sure it’s working. Consider installing a battery-operated backup, in case of a power failure.
10. Clear debris from gutters and downspouts.
Flood Procedures
1. Follow all appropriate flood warnings by the National Weather Service, local media, or any official authority issuing instructions due to an impending flood.
2. Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
3. Move outdoor furniture or decorative items inside. Move important, valuable items upstairs.
4. Turn off water, gas, and electricity at the main shut-offs and unplug electrical equipment.
5. Lock all doors and windows.
6. Evacuate to a safe location.
7. Avoid driving or walking through moving water. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.
8. Avoid flood waters. They’re usually toxic and filled with hazardous materials and bacteria.
Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.
9. Beware of downed power lines that could go unnoticed on the ground, on a chain-link fence, or in water.
10. Stay away from animals. They may be afraid and defend themselves aggressively.
11. Be especially cautious at night when it’s harder to recognize flood danger.
Here To Help
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in water restoration services, natural disaster prevention, and flood water cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
We’ve Moved: 100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
3/17/2016 (Permalink)
Never think that if you avoid the fire's flames you are safe.
While flames can cause the most visible damage to your property during a fire, smoke and soot are silent and sometimes invisible hazards that could cost lives. Water is also a reason for damage after a fire. Even firefighters themselves may cause some damage before they can completely put out a fire. Here are 10 important things to know about fires.
1. In a fire, more people die from inhaling smoke than from the flames. Never think that if you avoid the flames you are safe. Always keep away from smoke.
2. Soot is a coating of fine, black dust created when wood, coal, or oil-based substances are burned. These carbon particles float into the air and settle anywhere. Inhaling soot can caused severe lung deficiencies or even death.
3. If soot contaminates items in your home or business, a fire restoration service provider like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield must assess the damage to see if restoration is possible.
Need Fire Restoration Advice Or Services? Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
4. The worst possible effect of soot is its tendency to cause cancer and cause serious defects in newborns. Soot produces polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. These hydrocarbons are responsible for gene mutation for particular groups of genes. They can cause birth defects and increase the chances of getting cancer.
Water’s Good And Bad
5. Water’s great at putting out most fires but the water itself can cause great damage. You must make sure, after the fire is out, that your home or business is completely dried. If you don’t, mold, mildew, and other consequences will lead to further damage and loss. This is why SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield provides industrial dehumidifiers and air movers to dry saturated carpets, padding, furniture, and any other wet items.
6. Mold colonies can begin to grow just 48 hours after water damage occurs. The combination of fire, water, and mold damage to your commercial property or home could result in a complete loss if not handled properly. See our posts about mold, mold myths, and how to clean up mold.
7. Use caution if you decide to do some of the fire damage cleanup after a fire. Never start your cleaning process until you’re properly attired. Wear heavy-duty gloves, safety goggles, and a face mask. Carefully cover your nose and make sure your safety glasses have no place for dust or soot to get into your eyes.
Why Firefighters Break Windows And Cut Holes In Roofs
8. Firefighters are true heroes. However, they often must break windows and cut holes in the roof of buildings on fire. As a fire burns, the fire moves up and down and across, growing very fast. Firefighters break windows and cut holes in roofs to provide ventilation that slows the fire’s growth. Ventilation also helps get rid of dark smoke that makes it hard for firefighters to see where they’re going. The holes and broken windows help firefighters fight the fire more quickly. The bottom line is that breaking windows and cutting holes in roofs help save lives and property.
9. Firefighters will also cut holes in walls at times. That’s not about ventilation. It’s done so the fire department is sure that the fire is completely out. Fire departments don’t want to risk leaving a fire that’s not visible but is still active inside the walls or in other hidden places.
10. If you have a fire, get a copy of the fire report. In most areas, a fire report is a public document. Ask for it at the fire department or fire marshal’s office. The fire report will help you with information that your insurance company and other official offices may request.
For more, see After The Fire: Returning to Normal from FEMA.
Here To Help
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services and natural disaster cleanup.
Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
We're Moving: At the end of March 2016 we will move to a much larger office and warehouse space at 100 Peters Road in Bloomfield. Please change your address for us. All phone numbers will stay the same.
3/8/2016 (Permalink)
Even clean houses can have hidden dirty, moldy places
Even if you’re a neat and clean freak you may have hidden places in your home that are not so neat and clean. You may be surprised by where the most disgusting places in homes tend to be and how to make them shine.
Most Overlooked Disgusting Place
In a 2015 survey conducted by cleaning services startup Handy, of its 500 top-ranked pros, 37 percent of them rated shower curtains as the most overlooked place in clients' homes. In rare cases, mold, mildew and soap scum buildup can cause serious infections. You can eliminate grime and germs on fabric, plastic, or vinyl curtains by "putting them in the washing machine along with a few towels to keep the curtain from wrinkling. Wash in warm water using a 1/2 cup bleach and 1/4 cup of laundry detergent. Then immediately hang dry the curtain.
Need Cleaning Help? Call SERVPRO Of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
The First Place To Clean
Most people know the bathroom is the first place you want to keep clean. But did you know that in the bathroom one of the best things you can quickly do is wipe down the sink? That’s what Becky Rapinchuk, Clean Mama blogger and author of The Organically Clean Home, recommends. Try her inexpensive chemical-free disinfecting spray you can put together yourself:1/2 cup white vinegar, 1/2 cup vodka (for germ-killing properties), 10 drops lavender essential oil, 10 drops lemon essential oil and 1½ cups water (distilled or boiled and cooled). Spritz your sink and other areas. Come back in 10 minutes to rub down surfaces. If you have a pedestal sink wipe down the front and sides, all the way to the floor.
Toilet Parts Most People Miss
If you meticulously scrub the toilet bowl and toilet seat weekly and there's a lingering musty smell, the next order of business is to clean two parts you're likely missing: toilet seat hinges and the base of the bowl.
If you don't have a toilet seat with hinges that lift, you'll need a Phillips-head screwdriver to unscrew the hinges to remove the seat completely. Once that's done, spray the hinges and cover completely with disinfectant. If the hinges are smelly or stained, Becky Rapinchuk suggests sprinkling a bit of baking soda on the hinges and let that sit. That will take that odor away. Then rinse it and wipe it down.
To tackle another possible source of odor, spray the outside of the bowl and behind the toilet, let it sit and wipe up with a microfiber cloth (or paper towels if really grimy).
Toothbrush Holders Can Hold Millions Of Germs
This benign-seeming bathroom cup is one of the germiest spots in your house. Some experts say the average toothbrush holder has more than 2 million bacteria cells. Bamboo and wood may look attractive, but they're difficult to clean, so go with a dishwasher-safe material like brushed stainless steel, or plastic, and clean it once or twice a week.
Sponges Often Contain E. Coli
Sponges can be a breeding ground for bacteria. It's likely that the one near your sink contains E. coli and salmonella bacteria. A two-minute turn in the microwave can kill most of the viruses, parasites and spores that grow on sponges. Still you should change your sponges every two weeks or so.
Bathtub And Shower Bacteria
About one in four bathtubs and showers harbored the bacteria known as staphylococci. That bacteria can cause problems with superficial skin lesions and urinary tract infections. Keep these germs at bay by using a mild shower spray daily. Do avoid abrasive cleaners.
We’re Here To Help
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in many types of cleaning, natural disaster prevention, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
2/25/2016 (Permalink)
Enter a damaged business or home with caution. Don't take risks.
After a natural disaster the local authorities often ban residents and businesses from re-entering buildings until emergency crews have completed their work and the buildings are considered safe.
But even when the authorities give the okay to return to your home or your business the Environmental Protection Agency advises you to take precautions like:
• Be on the alert for leaking containers, especially of chemicals like caustic drain cleaners and chloride bleach.
• Keep people and pets away from leaking or spilled chemicals.
• Avoid contact with flood water. Often, flood water is contaminated with raw sewage or hazardous chemicals.
For Expert Disaster Advice Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
• Do not combine chemicals from leaking or damaged containers as this may produce dangerous or violent reactions.
• Don’t dump chemicals down drains, storm sewers, or toilets.
• If you have any doubts about your safety, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield.
• Never attempt to burn household or business chemicals.
• Clearly mark and set aside unbroken containers until they can be properly disposed of.
• Leave damaged or unlabeled chemical containers undisturbed whenever possible.
• Don’t turn on drinking water pumps (risk of electric shock) or use the septic system until you have it inspected.
• Open all the windows.
What If You Smell Gas?
If you smell gas or hear the sound of escaping gas, don't smoke, light matches, or operate electrical switches. Don't use either cell or conventional telephones or create any other source of ignition. Leave the building immediately. Leave the door open and any windows that may already be open. Notify emergency authorities. Don't return to the building until you are told by authorities that it is safe to do so.
Stay Away from Building Materials
Avoid walking over or otherwise disturbing building materials. Building materials may contain hazardous chemicals or components such as asbestos. These materials, when carried by the air, can be breathed in and cause adverse health effects. Staying away can prevent physical injury and other health issues. If you suspect that asbestos containing materials may be present in your building or home, do not enter.
Possible Asbestos Materials
Asbestos-containing materials often include the following:
• Boiler/pipe insulation
• Fireproofing
• Floor tiles
• Asbestos roofing
• Transite boards used in laboratory tabletops and in acoustics in auditoriums, music rooms and phone booths
Federal, state, and local personnel are often deployed to affected areas to establish debris-management programs, including household hazardous waste collection and disposal programs. These efforts may take days or weeks to come to all communities. In the meantime, EPA urges the public to exercise caution and report concerns to local environmental, health and waste disposal authorities.
We’re Here To Help
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in virtually all aspects of assessing and cleaning up after a natural disaster. Rely on the professionals. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
2/18/2016 (Permalink)
Businesses that survive a natural disaster tend to have an emergency plan in place.
In the constant pressure to keep costs low, some businesses fail to invest in steps that can save them tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in the future. Even worse, some commercial businesses think they’ve protected their property and employees when they have not.
In the case of natural disaster protection, most businesses understand the need for a written emergency plan. Having a plan like the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile can help prevent a disaster or make handling a disaster much less costly. But just having a plan isn’t enough.
For Expert Disaster Preparation Advice Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Having A Written Emergency Plan Isn’t Enough
Putting an emergency preparation plan together often eliminates risks. For some businesses it might mean getting rid of dangerous chemicals that are being stored on site. Creating your Emergency Ready Profile could reveal a serious fault in your building’s sprinkler system so you can correct it before damage occurs. But businesses with an emergency preparation plan sometimes rest too easy.
Many plans are not kept up-to-date. New machinery is bought but the emergency plan isn’t adjusted to take the protection of that expensive machinery into account. Or your business develops a plan for your existing site but then move the business to a different location.
Have A Dated Plan? Here’s What To Do
Here are a few things to do if your emergency preparation plan may be dated:
1. Review your plan every year. Look for gaps.
Are all your facilities and buildings covered?
Have you made recent renovations that are not noted in the plan?
Have you added or moved hazardous material or valuable equipment?
2. Conduct training for the team charged with implementing your emergency plan.
3. Check to make sure all the key players know how to immediately access your emergency plan.
4. Have SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield do an analysis of your plan.
5. Ask a new facility manager or other key employees to test your business’s emergency plan.
Does the plan make sense to them?
Would they add or change anything?
6. Run a disaster drill.
Conduct a mock exercise around the conference table with all the key players.
Or conduct a full scale mock disaster at your facility.
7. Re-evaluate who’s in charge of the plan.
During a natural disaster you want the decision-makers to be people who remain calm
The disaster team should know the plan and be able to make quick decisions.
Your team should also know how to actively engage others and give clear direction.
Think Before Disaster Happens
When do you want to think about a natural disaster? By far the best time is well before it happens. Having a complete emergency plan, having a trained disaster team in place, and knowing the steps you will take does more than bring peace of mind. It can protect your commercial business and your employees from some of the huge costs involved in a major disaster.
Prepared Businesses Survive
When a natural disaster strikes, one out of every two businesses never returns to the marketplace. And of those businesses that do recover, half go bankrupt within three years. But businesses that survive a disaster tend to be those that have an emergency preparation plan in place before disaster strikes.
We’re here to help. The team at SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in virtually all aspects of cleaning up after water, sewer, fire, smoke, wind or other similar natural disasters. You can create your own SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile with us in less than a few hours. That time could save you days or weeks of business interruption and help keep the cost of any damage from a disaster down.
Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
2/9/2016 (Permalink)
An Emergency Ready Profile can save you valuable time and money should your business be damaged in a natural disaster.
According to a major insurance company, one out of two businesses never returns to the marketplace following a major disaster. Of those that do, half go bankrupt within three years. The businesses that survive plan their response to a disaster before it strikes.
And the property losses from hurricanes, floods, fires, and other disasters are staggering. Insured losses due to natural disasters in the United States in the first half of 2015 totaled $12.6 billion. That’s according to according to a July 2015 presentation by Munich Re and the Insurance Information Institute.
Need Expert Disaster Preparation Advice? Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Pre-planning can serve as a type of “insurance policy” that provides your commercial business with peace of mind. And knowing you are "ready for whatever happens" builds trust among your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.
Create a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile
By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your commercial business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation.
An Emergency Ready Profile can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business. At no charge, here’s what completing the profile provides for you:
• A no cost assessment of your business facility.
You pay nothing to have SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield assess the storm-readiness of your commercial building.
• A concise document with the critical information you need in an emergency.
It takes less than 30 minutes to complete an Emergency Ready Profile. It won’t take you away from current projects. But building your emergency plan will save a lot of time if a disaster strikes.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
You cut costs because the profile can help reduce the time your business will be inactive. Most business owners don’t realize that the biggest cost businesses hit by a natural disaster is not the cost of the cleanup or renovations. By far, the biggest cost is having to close your business down while the repairs are made. Many businesses lose tens of thousands of dollars for every day they are closed. We specialize in getting businesses back in business fast.
• A firm relationship with SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
You gain the assurance of having a local provider who is recognized as an industry leader, knows your needs, and will respond quickly in an emergency.
• A faster path to mitigation by identifying your line of command for authorizing work to begin.
You save valuable time when SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield immediately knows we can begin the work of mitigating the damage to your business. Your cleanup and restoration can happen in the most efficient and effective manner.
• A detailed listing of critical facility information.
You have in one place a reference for details like as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information. You gain a quick reference of what to do, how to do it, and who to call so you’re "ready for whatever happens."
We’re here to help.
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in virtually all aspects of cleaning up after damage caused by water, sewer, fire, smoke, wind, or other natural disasters. Create your own Emergency Ready Profile with us now. Preparation today could save you days of business interruption and help keep the cost of any damage from a disaster down.
Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
2/2/2016 (Permalink)
Things look dry long before they are safely dry.
Removing water isn’t enough. After the water removal step, your floors and walls may look dry at first glance, but they are still wet to the touch. Most building materials, like drywall and wood, are porous and will retain significant water. The retained water will cause these materials to warp, swell, or break down and can also cause mold damage.
Need To Get Rid Of Moisture? Call Us Today – (860) 216-2785
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield will manipulate temperature and relative humidity to remove the remaining moisture. We use specialized equipment, including industrial air movers and dehumidifiers, to remove water and other moisture retained by building materials. Our professionals will carefully monitor the progress using moisture meters until the materials in your home or business return to acceptable drying goals.
Drying Takes Time
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can dry your carpets in 24 hours. Moderately wet drywall dries in 1-3 days. Other materials like hardwood flooring, plaster, concrete, and wood may require 7-10 days to dry. Contractors and claims professionals that promise to dry buildings in three days are ignoring basic scientific principles.
Structural drying is a scientific process that requires professional water damage training and the use of specialized instruments. Your property’s damage is very site-specific. One solution does not fit all cases. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield water damage technicians are highly trained in psychrometrics, the science of drying, and always use IICRC S500 industry standards for professional water damage restoration.
Full Set Of Drying And Restoration Steps
Our water damage restoration techniques include:
• Removing standing water and recovering assets
• Measuring moisture and recording damage
• Detecting any leaks (non-invasively)
• Drying the building structure by technical means
• Restoring machinery, electrical appliances, equipment and furniture, files, and documents
• Cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting to destroy micro-organisms and mold
• Removing or neutralizing odors
We’re here to help you. The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in virtually all aspects of cleaning up after water, sewer, fire, smoke, or other similar damage. Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
1/27/2016 (Permalink)
Be safer, save more of your possessions, and get water damage removed faster. Use SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield.
When your home or commercial property is subjected to water damage you need to act fast to limit that damage and restore your property. Excessive standing water can pose health hazards, ruin valuable property, damage furniture and art, and weaken the structural integrity of your home or business. We recommend you secure professional water removal services. In Connecticut, here are four reasons why you should depend on professionals like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield:
1. Stop Dangerous Bacterial Growth
Standing or slowly dripping water attracts microorganisms. These forms of bacteria can breed very quickly. Moisture is the driving force allowing growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria.
Concerned About Water Damage? Call Us Today – (860) 216-2785
2. What Looks Dry May Not Be Dry
You may not be safe even after the visible water is removed. Furnishings and buildings can soak in and retain excessive levels of moisture. That promotes microorganism development and fungi growth, even when you don’t see any water. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield uses a professional drying process that includes specialized air movers and dehumidifiers. It’s a surer, more thorough, and faster way to remove water and moisture. We continue the drying process until moisture measurement inspections indicate the ambient air humidity is back to normal.
3. Salvage Your Possessions
Materials and furniture exposed to excessive water must be carefully evaluated. A SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield professional can evaluate and explain to you what’s safe to keep and what must be discarded. We use a proprietary software technology called CCIS to inventory each room. We list categories of not-salvageable, salvageable, and questionable items and materials for you and your insurance adjuster. Then you can decide how to proceed with your water damage restoration process. We strongly believe in a "restore before replace" philosophy to keep your costs down and to salvage as much as possible.
4. Protect Your Safety
Attempting to remedy water damaged possessions and materials on your own can cause physical stress and unwanted, unknown exposure to health hazards such as category 3 water. Safety clothing, gear, equipment, and know-how are essential aspects leading to a safe and effective water damage restoration process.
What Should You Look For In A Water Removal Company?
• Industry experience and leadership
• A reputation for professionalism and customer service
• 24/7 emergency services
• IICRC-certified technicians, with extensive supplemental training
• A free estimate, action plan, and work with your insurance agent
Remember, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is here to help. We provide water removal and restoration, and many other restoration services. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7. We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
1/18/2016 (Permalink)
Do you know all you need to know about cleanup, restoration, and safety?
It’s hard to know what you don’t know. This short cleanup and restoration quiz will help you find out about weaknesses you might have in handling a fire, water, or storm restoration or in being safe should a natural disaster strike.
Check your answers at the end. If any answers escape you or to get more information, just click into the blog post link in that answer. You can read our other SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield blog posts to get more details. Now let’s see how well you do. Good luck.
Need Expert Disaster Recovery Advice? Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
1. Be sure any wood-burning stove you buy is made of sturdy, suitable material, such as cast iron or steel. And look for what label?
2. If you have a washing machine, dishwasher, or toilet overflow and the experts say you have gray water on your floors, what does that mean?
3. To help prevent home fires if you smoke, what type of ashtrays should you use and when should you put cigarette and cigar butts in the trash?
4. To protect your home or business’s foundation from cracking due to water damage, the downspouts from your roof should lead water how far away from the foundation?
5. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, how often should your home’s roof be inspected?
6. What’s the most common danger from a home heating oil furnace?
7. To remove carpet stains caused by a spilled liquid don’t rub or scrub. What should you do instead?
8. Which is likely to be more dangerous – a solid chemical spill or a liquid chemical spill?
9. What should you do if you’re caught in a tornado while in your car?
10. Why should you keep a set of pictures of your commercial building?
Quiz Answers
1) The Underwriters Laboratories (UL) label. For more, see this stove and fireplace blog post; 2) Gray water is contaminated water that can cause discomfort or illness and quickly degrade into black water if not treated. For more, see this sewer flood cleanup; 3) Use deep, sturdy ashtrays. Don’t put butts in the trash until they’re cold. For more, see this prevent home fires post; 4) At least 10 feet. For more, see protecting your home’s foundation; 5) Twice a year. For more see roof leaks; 6) carbon monoxide. For more see oil furnace dangers; 7) Blot with an absorbent white or plain cloth. For more see easy carpet cleaning; 8) Liquid. For more, see chemical emergencies; 9) Stop, get out and lie face down in a low area. Cover your head. For more, see surviving a natural disaster; 10) If a storm strikes the pictures can serve as “before” pictures. Take a set after the storm to show the full extent of the storm damage. For more see 3 keys to rebuilding commercial property.
There’s a lot to know. We’re here to help. The team at SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in virtually all aspects of cleaning up after water, sewer, fire, smoke, or other similar damage. Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, East Longmeadow, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
1/11/2016 (Permalink)
Your SERVPRO rep will help your work with your insurance claim adjuster.
Disaster strikes. You’ve got major damage to your home. Fortunately, you have good insurance. But the way you work with your insurance company and its claim adjuster can make a big difference in whether you get your claim approved and receive appropriate reimbursement for the damage. Here are some tips from the Insurance Information Institute.
Start by contacting your homeowner’s insurance representative. Ask your insurance rep:
1. Whether the damage is covered under the terms of your policy
2. How long you have to file you claim
3. Whether your claim exceeds your insurance deductible (the amount of loss you agree to pay before insurance kicks in)
4. How long it will take to process the insurance claim
5. Whether you’ll need estimates for repairs
We work well with insurance companies. Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Your insurance agent or representative is not the person who will come to your home to inspect the damage. Damage assessment is done by an insurance claim adjuster. Your rep will put you in touch with a claim adjuster from the insurance company. You’ll need to prepare for the adjuster’s visit.
Preparing For The Adjuster's Visit
Your insurance company may send you a proof of loss form to complete or the claim adjuster may visit your home first. (An adjuster is a person professionally trained to assess damage.) In either case, the more information you have about your damaged possessions -- a description of the item, approximate date of purchase and what it would cost to replace or repair -- the faster your claim generally can be settled by the insurance company.
To substantiate your loss, prepare an inventory of damaged or destroyed items. Give a copy to the insurance adjuster along with copies of any receipts. Don’t throw out damaged items until the adjuster visits you. You should also consider photographing or videotaping the damage. If your property was destroyed or you no longer have any records, work from memory.
Identify structural damage to your home and other structures such as your garage, tool shed, patio, or in-ground swimming pool. Make a list of everything you want to show the adjuster, for example, cracks in the walls and missing roof tiles. You should also get your electrical system checked. Most insurance companies pay for these inspections.
Get written bids from licensed contractors. The bids should include details of the materials to be used and prices on a line-by-line basis. This makes adjusting the claim faster and simpler.
Keep copies of the lists and other documents you submit to your insurance company. Also keep copies of whatever paperwork your insurance company gives you and record the names and phone numbers of everyone you speak to.
Flood Damage Often Excluded
Flood damage is excluded under standard homeowners and renters insurance policies. Flood coverage, however, is available as a separate policy from the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and from a few private insurers. The NFIP provides coverage up to $250,000 for the structure of the home and $100,000 for personal possessions. Flood insurance claims should be filed with your homeowners insurance company.
We’re Here To Help
The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield frequently helps customers work well with their insurance claim adjuster. Many customers use us to be certain they’re fully prepared for what the insurance company will require before they will consider a claim. Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
12/28/2015 (Permalink)
If you’re planning to burn wood, make sure your stove (or fireplace) and chimney have been thoroughly checked by a professional chimney sweep.
Ah! The warm pleasure of gathering around your fireplace or wood-burning stove on a cold winter’s night. Enjoy the warmth, but do be safe. Here are a few wood-burning stove and fireplace tips.
1. Have a professional annual inspection
If you’re planning to burn wood, make sure your stove (or fireplace) and chimney have been thoroughly checked by a professional chimney sweep. Stoves, fireplaces, and chimneys should be cleaned at least once a year. Wood-burning stoves should be inspected annually for ash and creosote buildup, cracks, and animal or bird nests.
Concerned About Your Wood Stove or Fireplace? Call Us Today – (860) 216-2785
2. Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Make sure you have enough smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Are they in good working order? Important in all homes, these detectors are especially essential in homes with wood-burning stoves.
3. Check your wood-burning stove’s ventilation
Venting the stove is the most important part of the wood-burning system. According to Nationwide, 90% of all stove-related fires originate within the venting system. A venting system is not a chimney – it consists of lengths of 24-gauge or heavier stovepipe which connects the stove to an approved chimney.
4. Consider a moisture meter
If you stack wood outside in the weather, the Environmental Protection Agency advises you to consider purchasing a moisture meter. You can use one to make sure your timber is dry and safe to burn. Meters can be purchased online for a little as $20. Hardwoods—such as maple, beech, ash, hickory, or oak—are the best fuel for a wood-burning stove. Your wood should be cut, split, and air dried for at least a year before burning.
5. Keep flammables away
Keep furniture, drapes, rugs, and anything flammable away from your fireplace or wood-burning stove. Sometimes people move furniture closer to the fireplace or stove during warmer months. If you do that, move the furniture and any home decorations back a safe distance before lighting up your fireplace or stove.
6. Always have the right flooring
Never have carpet installed directly in front of your fireplace or wood-burning stove. A spark could land on it and start a fire. Good flooring to have near your fireplace or stove is linoleum or brick. You want a floor that’s not as combustible as carpeting.
7. Keep your insurance company informed
Tell your insurer you have installed a fireplace or a wood-burning stove. If a spark from the fireplace or the wood stove pops out and burns your couch and a large portion of a neighboring wall, you could be stuck paying the entire bill if the insurance company doesn’t know about that particular heat source.
8. Inspect the dampers
If your wood-burning stove has an automatic draft regulator controlled by a thermostat, carefully follow the manufacturer's installation instructions. A manually operated damper can be installed on the pipe near the stove. This damper should not obstruct more than 80 percent of the pipe area. A second damper higher up on the vertical section of the stovepipe is advisable to permit shutting down the stove in case of a chimney fire.
9. If you’re buying a wood stove, buy quality.
Be sure any stove you buy is made of sturdy, suitable material, such as cast iron or steel. Look for the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) label. If you purchase a used stove, check it carefully for cracks or other defects. The legs, hinges, grates, and draft louvers should also be checked carefully.
10. Never do these six things
Be careful with how you install, monitor, and maintain a fireplace or wood-burning stove. Five things you should never do are:
1. Connect your wood stove to a fireplace chimney unless the fireplace has been sealed off
2. Connect your wood stove to a chimney serving another appliance burning other fuels.
3. Start a wood stove fire with flammable fluids, such as gasoline
4. Extend the stovepipe through a wall or ceiling (unless there’s no alternative)
5. Burn trash in a wood-burning stove. That may start a chimney fire.
6. Let a wood fire burn unattended or overnight
Remember, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is here to help. We work on know about wood-burning stoves and fireplace safety. So call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7. At SERVPRO we’re trained in many restoration services.
We know the safest, most advanced, and quickest ways to help you recover from damage to your home or business.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
12/15/2015 (Permalink)
If your pipes freeze it could cost you $18,000.
Severe winter weather ranks third as a cause of insured catastrophic losses, after hurricanes and tornadoes, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Losses from snow, ice, and freezing temperatures across the United States average about $1.2 billion a year, according to the New York Times.
Concerned About Your Pipes Freezing? Call Us Today – (860) 216-2785
Preparing your home for cold weather can help avoid potentially costly problems, like frozen pipes. When water freezes it expands. That’s why a can of soda explodes if you put it into a freezer to chill quickly and forget it. When water freezes in a pipe, it expands the same way. If the water expands enough, the pipe bursts, water escapes, and major damage can begin.
Average Frozen Pipe Damage: $18,000
The average claim for damage from a frozen pipe is about $18,000, although costs can vary widely. Repairing the actual broken pipe is often the least costly part of the damage frozen pipes cause. The damage to fixtures and home finishes from water spurting from a ruptured pipe is what runs up your bill. When a frozen pipe bursts you often must repair the flooring, drywall, and anything left on the floor.
Preventing Frozen Pipes
So what can you do to avoid frozen busted pipes? First, make sure your heating system is working properly and that vulnerable pipes, like those that run close to your exterior walls, are insulated.
If you go away for several days in the winter, make sure you leave the heat on. The Insurance Information Institute recommends setting your thermostat at 65 degrees.
Have someone check your home and property, if you can. If you expect to be away for extended periods — say, you go South for the winter — have your water turned off.
Others actions you can take to help prevent your pipes from freezing are:
• Seal air leaks surrounding or near your pipes
• Keep your garage doors closed if you have water supply lines in the garage
• Disconnect all outdoor hoses and turn off water to exterior faucets and sprinkler systems
• Open your kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing
• Keep your heat at a minimum of 55 degrees F at all times. Keep it at 65 when you’re out of town.
• During severe cold turn on both hot and cold faucets near outside walls to allow a small trickle of water to run during the night
• Remove your outside hoses and store them inside during the winter
• If you need to be away from home, consider draining your water system before you go
• Identify the locations of shut-off valves so that you’re prepared to stop the flow of water as soon as possible when a pipe bursts
What If Your Pipes Do Freeze?
First, turn off the flow of water. That prevents further damage. To do that you need to know ahead of time where your main water shut-off valve is. Clearly mark it with a bright sticker. You may have to find it in the dark.
Next, call a plumber or contractor like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to conduct initial repairs and cleanup. Take precautions to avoid an electrical shock if you must be in or near standing water.
You should also take photographs to document the initial damage for your insurance company. Hold onto the broken pipe because your insurance company may want to inspect it.
Remember, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is here to help. We work on frozen pipes and severe weather damage. So call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7. At SERVPRO we’re trained in many restoration services. We know the safest, most advanced, and quickest ways to help you recover from frozen pipe and other damage to your home or business.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
12/2/2015 (Permalink)
Water backs up behind ice dams. It can penetrate your roof shingles, tiles, ceilings, and walls—leading to major water damage.
If you have a severe winter and your roof isn’t insulated well enough to keep the snow from melting, it doesn’t have to rain for your roof to leak.
Have A Roof Leak? Call Us Today – (860) 216-2785
When a layer of snow on the roof melts, it first runs down and freezes over the eaves, which causes ice dams, and then the water backs up behind the dam and under the roofing shingles. Ultimately, water will seep in through your ceilings and walls. Obviously, you don’t want that to happen.
Is Water Damage Coming From A Roof Leak?
If you have water stains that extend across ceilings or run down walls, the cause is probably a roof leak. Tracking down the leak is the hard part; the fixes are easier. Here in Connecticut and the snowy Northeast if you have leaks only on warm or sunny days, you probably have ice dams. We’ll cover that later.
Minor Leaks Can Cause Major Damage
Don’t wait to fix any roof leak. Fix leaks quickly even if they don’t bother you much or you’re getting a new roof next year. In just a short time, small roof leaks can lead to big problems. You could have mold, rotted framing and sheathing, destroyed insulation, damaged ceilings, and more.
Preventive Measures: Roof Rakes & Insulation
Hardware and home improvement stores sell long-handled roof rakes. You can stand on the ground and reach the roof of many small and mid-size homes. Raking large amounts of snow off your roof prevents that snow from ever causing a roof leak. Do be sure that the snow isn’t so high and so close to your foundation that it might cause leaking in your basement.
A thick layer of insulation in your attic or crawl space provides an effective barrier against roof leaks. Insulation keeps warm air in your house where it belongs. The roof stays cooler so the snow doesn’t melt quite as fast.
Where Roof Leaks Occur
Many roof leaks occur around chimneys and roof vents. Flashing is supposed to go under adjacent roof shingles and then up the chimney or pipe for a few inches. The flashing joints have to be sealed. If they aren’t sealed, the water runs right down through the roof and into your house. What makes this tricky is that the water may travel a little down the roof and enter at a lower point. Roof leaks may make ceiling or wall stains far away from where the leak actually is.
Tracking Down A Roof Leak
When you’re trying to track down a roof leak, start by looking at the roof uphill from the stains. First look for any roof penetrations. Items that penetrate the roof are by far the most common source of leaks. In fact, it’s rare for leaks to develop in open areas of uninterrupted shingles, even on older roofs. Penetrations can include plumbing and roof vents, chimneys, dormers, sky lights, or anything else that projects through the roof. They can be several feet above the leak or to the right or left of it.
Use Your Attic Access
If you have attic access, the easiest way to track down a roof leak is to go up to the attic with a flashlight and look for the evidence. There will be water stains, black marks, or mold. But if access is a problem or you have a vaulted ceiling, you’ll have to go up onto the roof and examine the roof closely.
If the problem still isn’t obvious, enlist a helper and go up on the roof with a garden hose. Start low, soaking the area just above where the leak appears in the house. Isolate areas when you run the hose. For example, soak the downhill side of a chimney first, then each side, then the top on both sides. Have your helper stay inside the house waiting for the drip to appear. Let the hose run for several minutes in one area before moving it up the roof a little farther. Tell your helper to yell or call when a drip becomes visible. You’ll be in the neighborhood of the leak. This process can take well over an hour, so be patient and don’t move the hose too soon. Buy your helper dinner.
Ice Dams
When snow and ice accumulate in gutters and along roof ridges, melting water is unable to drain properly. As water backs up behind these ice dams, it can seep under flashing or penetrate your roof shingles, tiles, ceilings, and walls—leading to major water damage. To prevent ice dams from ruining your home’s exterior and interior, remove snow from the roof using a roof rake (if it’s a safe option). In the long-term, it’s important to seal air leaks between your roof and attic, increase roofing insulation, and ensure that your ceiling is air tight.
Roof Inspections Twice A Year
According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, your home’s roof should be inspected twice a year—once during the fall and again in late spring—to ensure the best performance and maximize the roof’s lifespan.
Since your roof is the most weather-exposed part of your home, a thorough inspection should include an interior and exterior evaluation of the roof’s structure. Regular roof inspections include a look at interior walls, ceilings, and fireplace flues, assessment of leaks or visible damage, evaluation of downspout/gutter systems and examination of roofing materials (shingles, shakes, tiles, etc.). After inspecting your home from the inside and out, a qualified roofer can make recommendations about maintenance or replacement measures.
Remember, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is here to help. We repair roofs. So call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
At SERVPRO we’re trained in many restoration services. We know the safest, most advanced, and quickest ways to help you recover from damage to your home or business.
We've served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
11/13/2015 (Permalink)
Never leave a stove, grill, oven, or other cooking source unattended.
Cooking fires and cigarette fires can be devastating. Just as difficult can be realizing you could have prevented a fire in your home or business. Here are sixteen ways you can prevent accidental fires.
Preventing Cooking Fires
1. Cooking is the #1 cause of home fires in many communities. Usually it’s because someone’s left the cooking unattended. Never leave a stove, grill, oven, or other cooking source unwatched.
2. Many cooking fire injuries happen when people respond to kitchen fires inappropriately. For example, if you pour water on a grease fire you could make the fire worse. Always use an appropriate way to fight a fire.
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3. Keep the handles of all stovetop pots and pans turn in so small children or anything passing by the stove cannot grab or catch on the handles and cause a spill.
4. Examine the area around your stove. Move away anything (potholders, for example) that could catch fire if it fell on the stove.
5. If you have a cooking fire in a pan smother the fire by sliding a lid over the pan. Then turn off the burner.
6. If the fire is in your oven, turn off the heat and keep the oven door closed.
7. If the fire is in a microwave, unplug the microwave or shut off the power and keep the microwave door closed.
8. Never discharge a portable extinguisher into a cooking pan. Doing so will only spread the fire.
9. Don’t carry a hot pot or pan of grease outside because it can lead to burns and scalding. Wait until the grease is no longer hot.
Preventing Cigarette Fires
10. Cigarettes are the leading cause of fire deaths on a national level. Most cigarette fires are caused by improperly discarded smoking material (cigarettes, cigars, pipes, etc). These fires often start outside, then move to a structure.
11. Never smoke in bed or anywhere you might fall asleep.
12. Don’t smoke in a home where medical oxygen is present.
13. Smoke outside only.
14. Don’t discard cigarettes in potted plants, landscaping vegetation, or bark dust. All these materials can easily catch fire.
15. Use a deep, sturdy ashtray or a non-combustible container that cannot be tipped over.
16. Before throwing away butts or ashes, douse them in water or sand.
Remember, we’re here to help. We're fire restoration experts. So call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7. At SERVPRO we’re trained in many restoration services. We know the safest, most advanced, and quickest ways to help you recover from a commercial fire or a home fire.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has served clients in Avon, Agawam, Bloomfield, Coventry, East Hartford, Ellington, Enfield, Farmington, Hartford, Manchester, Newington, Simsbury, South Windsor, Springfield, West Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
10/26/2015 (Permalink)
Oil furnaces pose few dangers if you have them cleaned and maintained properly.
‘Tis the season your oil furnace is on and hopefully purring. Modern oil furnaces and other heating systems are quite dependable. As a homeowner, you need to pay very little attention to them. Even when a breakdown occurs, a professional can usually solve the problem quickly.
But if your oil furnace isn’t well maintained, is faulty, or is aging you may be at risk for issues including carbon monoxide, soot, smoke, and puff backs. Here are some ways to protect your home and your family from oil furnace dangers.
Home Heating System Problem? Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Danger #1: Carbon Monoxide
The most common danger of burning oil is the release of carbon monoxide into your home. A furnace functioning normally will produce by-products in the form of nitrogen, carbon dioxide, water vapor, and carbon monoxide. These gases are forced up your chimney and out of your house. In rare cases, oil furnaces pose a threat when dirty or malfunctioning.
Solution: Make sure your furnace is cleaned every year and is not malfunctioning.
Danger #2: Soot buildup
Oil soot is a by-product of combustion fuel. Its main components are carbon and sulfur. Oil soot can accumulate on the walls of a chimney and eventually fall to the base where it can end up on the furnace itself if the chimney is directly above it.
Soot can build up to a point where it can restrict the flow of flue gases up the chimney. That means some gases may have a hard time leaving your home—gases like nitrogen, carbon dioxide, water vapor, and carbon monoxide. A build up of carbon monoxide can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Solution: Install a carbon monoxide detector near the sleeping areas in your home. Be sure the alarm is loud enough to wake you. Don’t rely on a detector alone. Keep your oil furnace clean and in excellent working order. Have it inspected annually.
Check furnace connections to flue pipes and venting systems for signs of corrosion, leaks, rust gaps, or holes. Make sure your filters and filtering systems are free from dirt and debris. Inspect fans to ensure they’re venting gases out and not into the house. Keep the combustion chamber and internal heat exchanger clean, up to date and free of debris.
If you notice cracks in the heat exchanger, the furnace must be replaced. Keep your chimney clear of bird and other animal nests that prevent flue gases from traveling up and out.
Danger #3: Smoke
A cold chimney flue causes smoke when the furnace first fires; however, if smoke continues it might mean your furnace is not fully burning the fuel oil or there could be another problem.
Solution: Don’t attempt to troubleshoot or fix this on your own. Call for service.
Danger #4: Puff Backs
Puffbacks are not easy to deal with. A puffback is an explosion inside the burner chamber of your oil furnace. Although such explosions are usually small and confined to the burner chamber, they can do considerable harm to your oil heating system. Sometimes the burner will start easily and need only minor repairs and adjustments.
But puffbacks usually do more damage than that and can send soot and smoke throughout the house.
Solution: A puffback can have many causes but can almost always be traced to a lack of maintenance or a failure to make needed repairs. All heating systems – especially oil-fired systems – should be inspected, cleaned, and adjusted at least once a year by a qualified professional.
One point of inspection in an oil burner, for example, are the two electrodes that create a spark when the burner starts. This ignites oil sprayed into the chamber through a nozzle. If these electrodes become coated with carbon or soot or are not adjusted properly, the oil may fail to ignite. In such cases, a control is supposed to shut off the oil in about 30 seconds, but if the control malfunctions the oil will form a small puddle on the bottom of the burner chamber.
The next time the burner tries to start, the excess fuel in the chamber will cause a small uncontrolled explosion - a puffback - and a sudden dispersion of black smoke and soot throughout the house.
This isn’t a complete list of what can go wrong with an oil furnace. Look for more information in another upcoming blog post.
And remember that SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is here to help. The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized commercial cleaning training and experience. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
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24 hour emergency service
10/12/2015 (Permalink)
To prevent dry rot and on-going structural damage, don't reconstruct or cover wood materials until its moisture content falls below 16 percent.
When the rain stops and the water subsides, flood victims can follow a few simple steps to reduce property damage and limit health risks. Here are some tips we adapted from the nonprofit Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification.
When rising water breeches the natural boundaries of rivers, streams, and other bodies of water it flows across the ground picking up all kinds of contamination. The water can be contaminated with soil bacteria, decaying insects, animal droppings, oils and fluids from roadways, and fertilizers and pesticides from fields or gardens. Avoid it as much as possible.
1. Be careful entering buildings
Make sure the electrical power is off and the structure is sound before entering and inspecting a flooded building. Small animals or reptiles may also seek shelter inside a structure, so be cautious if you’re repositioning contents or removing materials.
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2. Wear protection
Wear an organic vapor respirator, available from paint or building supply stores, along with rubber gloves, eye protection, and protective clothing. Ventilate affected areas by opening windows, and eventually, by placing a fan in a window. Work toward the fan as you clean to minimize cross contamination.
3. Know what to throw away.
Don’t try to restore porous items that contain contaminated flood water. In most cases, throw out any wet drywall, carpeting, carpet pads, mattresses, pillows, box springs, and particle board.
4. Try to save wet clothing and household fabrics.
Clothing and fabrics like drapes may be salvageable. Try washing them and including at least a 10-minute soak in detergent and hot water. That often removes most contamination and stains.
5. Open pockets of saturation.
Look behind areas where water has probably entered. Remove base molding and portions of damaged walls and wet insulation. Locate the water line and measure 15 inches to 20 inches above it. Everything below that line should be removed and discarded. Remove flooring (like hardwood, laminate, or sheet vinyl) so you can expose pockets of saturation underneath. Clean, sanitize, and dry those areas.
6. Clean aggressively.
Clean wall cavities and exposed durable materials (studs, joists) by pressure washing with detergent solutions. After thoroughly cleaning and flushing salvageable materials, apply a disinfectant solution liberally. That will help get rid of any bacteria that might have come up through sewers, toilets, and from other places. Use a non-toxic but powerful disinfectant. Be sure to disinfect all affected areas including walls, wood, and non-upholstered furniture that sat in the flood water. A water and flood restoration professional like SERVPRO Bloomfield Enfield may be needed to perform this service safely and effectively.
7. Prevent mold growth.
You may not see it at first, but mold will appear in a few days. Mold thrives in a moist environment with organic material like paper or particle board and with temperatures between 68°F and 86°F. To keep mold from growing, keep the air moving and maintain moderate temperatures as much as possible.
8. Dry out before you rebuild.
To prevent dry rot and on-going structural damage, don't reconstruct or cover wood materials until its moisture content falls below 16 percent. Moisture meters are available online, but it may be best to hire a water restoration professional like SERVPRO Bloomfield Enfield to confirm proper drying before reconstruction. You want to dry everything out as soon as possible.
9. Consider hiring a professional.
A professional water damage restoration company has trained technicians, specialized cleaners and antimicrobial agents, and extraction, drying, dehumidifying and moisture measuring equipment.
We’re here to help. The team at SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized water damage cleanup training and experience to quickly clean and restore your commercial building, home, or property. So call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Ellington, West Hartford, Avon, Springfield, Manchester, Hartford, Newington, Bloomfield, East Hartford, Enfield, Simsbury, Farmington, Coventry, South Windsor, Agawam, and beyond.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
10/5/2015 (Permalink)
If the emergency is a chemical spill inside your commercial building or home, clean it up immediately.
Chemical emergencies can happen when gasses, liquids, or solid materials that can poison people have been released. Some chemicals are very dangerous and can make you sick right away. Others are less dangerous. In general, chemicals in liquid or gas form are more dangerous than solids. Some keys to preventing and being prepared for a chemical emergency are:
1. Have an emergency supply kit ready.
2. Know which room or area is best for you to go to in an emergency and make sure everyone who uses your building knows where that area is. Often, a good choice is a room in the middle of your business, building, or home that lacks windows and is high above ground level.
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3. Take a tour of your business or home to see where chemicals are located. Check the label and take the necessary steps to ensure that you are using, storing, and disposing of each chemical according to the manufacturer’s directions. Keep products containing hazardous materials in their original containers. Never remove the labels unless the container is corroding. Repackage corroding containers and clearly labeled them. Don’t store chemicals or other hazardous products in food containers.
4. At home, store household chemicals in places where children cannot gain access them. Locked cabinets is one good choice. Products such as aerosol cans of hair spray and deodorant, nail polish and nail polish remover, toilet bowl cleaners, and furniture polishes all fall into the category of hazardous materials.
5. Never mix household hazardous chemicals or waste with other products. Incompatibles (such as chlorine bleach and ammonia) may react, ignite, or explode.
When A Chemical Emergency Happens
• Close all your doors and windows.
• If there’s a fireplace, close the damper.
• Turn off fans, air conditioners, and forced-air heating units that bring in fresh air from the outside.
• If you’re told to stay where you are, move to an inside room and bring your emergency supply kit. Check local TV and radio stations or the Internet for official news, information, and instructions.
• Consider whether you should seal the room (see below).
• If the emergency is a chemical spill inside your commercial building or home, clean it up immediately. Use rags and wear gloves and eye protection. Allow the fumes in the rags to evaporate outdoors, then dispose of the rags by wrapping them in a newspaper and placing them in a sealed plastic bag in your trash can.
• Learn to recognize the symptoms of toxic poisoning: difficulty breathing; irritation of the eyes, skin, throat, or respiratory tract; changes in skin color; headache or blurred vision; dizziness; clumsiness or lack of coordination; cramps; or diarrhea.
• Be prepared to seek medical assistance. Post the number of the emergency medical services and the poison control center by all telephones. The national poison control number is (800)-222-1222.
Sealing A Room
During a chemical, nuclear, or radiological emergency, the air outside may be dangerous. For short periods of time sealing the room can help protect you from harmful outside air. If you see large amounts of` debris in the air, or if local officials say the air is dangerous, you may want to take this kind of action.
Use duct tape and plastic sheeting to seal any doors, windows, or vents. Within two to three hours you should take down the plastic and duct tape and air out the room. You can suffocate if you keep the room tightly sealed for more than five hours.
The plastic sheeting should be 2-4 milimeters thick. Cut the plastic sheeting at least six inches wider than the openings. You may want to do this in advance to save time. Duct tape plastic at the corners first and then tape down the edges.
Please refer to our Biohazard Emergency Cleanup Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow the tips to protect yourself and your property.
We’re here to help. The team at SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized in handling chemical emergencies. We have the training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building or property. Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Ellington, West Hartford, Avon, Springfield, Manchester, Hartford, Newington, Bloomfield, East Hartford, Enfield, Simsbury, Farmington, Coventry, South Windsor, Agawam, and beyond.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
9/28/2015 (Permalink)
One step many commercial building services often miss is a thorough cleaning of hotspots and touchpoints
Most commercial building cleaning issues can be handled by your everyday janitorial staff. Your staff’s probably great at taking care of common wear and tear. But what happens when a biohazard, sewage backup, moisture, or another dangerous cleaning issue gets far beyond the normal?
Safety First
After any biohazard or sewage contamination in your business or commercial property, your primary focus should be safety. Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. For example, flood water can contain sewage, pesticides, and other contaminants.
Keep everyone out of affected areas and call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening. Treat all bodily fluids as if they’re contaminated. And turn off your building’s HVAC system if there’s sewage damage.
Need Commercial Cleaning? Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Cleaning Isn’t Sanitizing Isn’t Disinfecting
Another big cleaning issue that many commercial property owners miss is the critical nature of beyond clean bathrooms. Your staff or your commercial cleaning company must understand the differences between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting. All three should be done. The state of your commercial property’s restrooms can seriously impact your bottom line. Dirty restrooms send the wrong message to employees and customers. And clean restrooms protect the health of everyone who enters your building. Keeping restrooms cleaned, sanitized, and disinfected limits and reduces the spread of disease-causing bacteria, viruses and more.
Clean Hotspots
One step many commercial building services often miss is a thorough cleaning of hotspots and touchpoints with an EPA approved disinfectant. Remember, cleaning removes germs, dirt, and grime but doesn’t kill them. Sanitizing reduces the germ load on an area to a safer level determined by applicable public health standards. Disinfecting kills germs on areas with the use of chemicals targeted specifically for that purpose.
Big Culprit In Poor Air Quality
Another area beyond most janitorial services is ventilation systems. Heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Have the ductwork in your building inspected regularly. Without frequent inspections your HVAC system could be circulating dust, pollen, odors, dirt, debris, or other contaminants. The government’s Division of Occupational Health and Safety (DOHS) recommends you comply with all manufacturer schedules for changing HVAC filters, cleaning coils, and other components. Duct cleaning may be appropriate when you have:
• Permanent of persistent water damage in the ducts
• Slime or microbial growth
• Debris build-up restricting airflow
• Dust discharging from supply diffusers
• Offensive odors coming from the ductwork or its components
We’re here to help. The team at SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized commercial training and experience. Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
9/21/2015 (Permalink)
Dry out any wet, non-moldy materials within 48 hours to prevent mold growth
The lists below highlight key parts of a school or commercial building remediation. While the lists aren't complete, they should help you think through potential commercial mold remediation steps and problems.
Investigate
• Keep your building occupants aware of your mold remediation process
• Measure the square feet of the moldy area
• Consider the possibility of hidden mold
• Clean up small mold problems and fix moisture problems before they become large problems
• If you have a medium or large size mold problem, select a remediation manager
• Investigate any areas your building’s occupant express concern about
• Identify any and all sources or causes of water or moisture problems
• Note the type of water-damaged materials (wallboard, carpet, etc.)
• Check inside your commercial building’s air ducts and air handling units
• Throughout process you’re wise to consult with a qualified professional
Need Commercial Mold Remediation? Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield At (860) 216-2785
Remediate
• Adapt or modify remediation guidelines to fit your commercial building’s situation judgment
• Dry out any wet, non-moldy materials within 48 hours to prevent mold growth
• Select the most appropriate cleanup methods for moldy items. The Environment Protection Agency suggests:
o Method 1: Wet vacuum. Steam cleaning may be an alternative for carpets and some upholstered furniture.
o Method 2: Damp-wipe surfaces with plain water or with water and detergent solution (except wood —use wood floor cleaner); scrub as needed.
o Method 3: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum after the material has been thoroughly dried. Dispose of the contents of the HEPA vacuum in well-sealed plastic bags.
o Method 4: Remove water-damaged materials and seal in plastic bags while inside of containment, if present. Dispose of as normal waste. HEPA vacuum area after it is dried.
• Select personal protection equipment to fully protect the mold remediators (Example: N-95 respirator, gloves, and goggles)
• Select containment equipment that will protect your building and its occupants
• Select remediation personnel who have the experience and training needed to implement the remediation plan and use personal protective equipment and containment as appropriate
Questions to Consider Before Commercial Building Mold Remediation
• Does your commercial building have existing moisture problems?
• Have building materials been wet more than 48 hours?
• Are there hidden sources of water or is the humidity too high (high enough to cause condensation)?
• Are building occupants reporting musty or moldy odors?
• Are building occupants reporting health problems?
• Are building materials or furnishings visibly damaged?
• Has maintenance been delayed or the maintenance plan been altered?
• Has the building been recently remodeled or has building use changed?
• Should you consult with medical or health professionals first?
We’re here to help. The team at SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized mold remediation training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building or property. So call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
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Noemi DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technicians
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9/11/2015 (Permalink)
The best way to prevent further fire damage to your home is to contact a professional restoration company that specializes in fire damage cleanup.
After a fire in your home you can minimize further damage by following some simple guidelines like these.
1. Be sure you have permission from your fire marshal to re-enter your home.
2. Get the air moving. Open windows to ventilate areas. Install a fan to circulate air. (But see #3)
3. If your home has substantial water damage and the weather is warm, you will probably need to keep the
windows shut and run a dehumidifier. In cold weather, your heating system is operating and the cold air will usually help
remove the moisture. In this case, change your furnace filter daily until it shows no soot.
Need Soot Removal Services? Call (860) 216-2785
4. Dry wet items as soon as you can. Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry carpets and draperies. If not thoroughly dried, carpets and
floors underneath may be quickly damaged beyond repair by mold and mildew.
5. Don't attempt to clean any household textiles (like drapes and carpets) unless you know the proper procedure. You can cause additional damage.
6. Before carpets, draperies, upholstered furniture, and clothing can be deodorized or cleaned, the soot must be removed. Because soot is oily, it easily stains items. This is why these items should not be touched after a fire. We recommend you hire a professional fire restorer. They will remove soot with a heavy duty vacuum.
7. Remove brass and copper items and clean them using brass or copper cleaner. Smoke can etch brass or copper in 24 hours.
8. Place aluminum foil or plastic food wrap under furniture legs.
9. Remove oriental rugs or other colored rugs from wet wall-to-wall carpeting.
10. Cover your dry, clean items with plastic while the fire restoration process is in progress.
11. Remove any fabrics—including carpet, rugs, and draperies—that have sustained fire or water damage. This should clear some of the soot, ash, and moisture out of your home.
12. Remove any clothing from your home. Send clothing to a dry cleaner that specializes in fire and smoke removal. Proper restoration requires certain chemicals, so make sure the dry cleaner has the necessary materials to remove the smoke smell effectively.
13. The best way to prevent further fire damage to your home is to contact a professional restoration company that specializes in fire damage cleanup. They have special licensing, equipment, and expertise to clean your home effectively and safely return it to its former condition.
14. Before your hire a fire restoration company, secure some references from people the company has helped. Usually the professional fire restorer can provide helpful hints to prevent further damage, determine which of your items can be refurbished, and estimate the cost of deodorizing and cleaning your home.
15. When in doubt, check with a professional. We’ve seen too many people take soot removal, deodorizing, and cleaning into their own hands to save money. They end up losing money because they further harm or destroy the items they’re trying to save.
We’re here to help you. The team at SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized fire restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. We can remove virtually any pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet. We use a thorough fire damage restoration process:
Step1: Emergency Contact
Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
Step 6: Cleaning and Repair
Step 7: Restoration
Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Ellington, West Hartford, Avon, Springfield, Manchester, Hartford, Newington, Bloomfield, East Hartford, Enfield, Simsbury, Coventry, South Windsor, Agawam, and beyond.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
9/8/2015 (Permalink)
After a fire, don't try to clean away a smoke odor from textiles until you have deordorized them.
Removing Smoke Odor From Clothing, Furniture, and Carpets
After a fire you’re eager to clean your home, but be careful. You may waste effort or even make things worse if you don’t use proper methods. Begin by contacting your insurance agent immediately after a fire. Then consult with a fire restoration expert like SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield. For dealing with the smell of smoke in clothing, upholstered furniture, carpets, and drapes, here are some tips.
Need Smoke Or Soot Removal Services? Call (860) 216-2785
After a home fire, several factors can influence the severity of the odor:
• Size of the fire: The larger the fire, the more materials have been burned, and the more smoke you’ll have.
• Length of exposure: The longer an area is exposed to smoke, the more deeply embedded the smoke odor can be in all porous materials.
• Size of the room affected: The smaller the room, the more intense and concentrated the smoke odor can become.
• The material burned: Different materials leave behind different odors. A wood fire smells differently than a fire that burns mostly plastic materials, for example. The type of materials affected may influence the type of products you need to remove the smoke odor.
Deodorize Before You Clean
Before you have anything cleaned, properly deodorize the affected items. We recommend you use professionals. A dry cleaner or professional fire restorer will tell you about counteractants. Counteractants are chemicals or additives that break up smoke molecules and eliminate the smoke odor. You need different counteractants depending on the material burned in the fire. Counteractants may be professionally applied to furniture, carpets, and drapes. Fire restorers also may provide them for laundering clothes.
Some professional fire restorers and dry cleaners use an ozone treatment to remove smoke odors. If they do the work in your home, they’ll put your smoke odor affected items under a tent while an ozone generator runs.
Household Remedies Only Provide Temporary Relief
Yes, you may think about using a household deodorizing spray or disinfectant but they provide only temporary relief from smoke odor. And, deodorizing sprays may interact with smoke odor and create an additional odor.
If it’s impossible for you to have your smoke odor infested items restored by a professional fire restorer, you might try one of these methods:
1. Dissolve one cup of dishwashing detergent—the type used in an
automatic dishwasher—in one gallon of warm water. Completely submerge the items and let them soak all night in your washing machine or bathtub. Drain and launder as usual the next day.
2. For items that can be bleached, mix 4 to 6 tablespoons trisodium phosphate (available from your hardware store) with 1 cup Lysol or household chlorine bleach and 1 gallon of water. Add clothes, rinse with clear water, and dry.
We’re here to help. The team at SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized fire restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. We can remove virtually any pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet.
We use a thorough fire damage restoration process:
Step1: Emergency Contact
Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
Step 6: Cleaning and Repair
Step 7: Restoration
So call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
We've served clients in Ellington, West Hartford, Avon, Springfield, Manchester, Hartford, Newington, Bloomfield, East Hartford, Enfield, Simsbury, Coventry, South Windsor, Agawam, and beyond.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
8/31/2015 (Permalink)
If you receive a hurricane warning take shelter right away.
Planning and preparation are key if you are to best handle a blizzard, flood, hurricane, tornado, or other natural disaster. From the Connecticut Guide to Emergency Prepardeness, here are some quick tips to help keep you safe.
Blizzards
Weather forecasters are usually good about letting you know ahead of time if a blizzard is coming. You should avoid driving and make sure to have enough food and supplies with you to last a few days. Plan on not having electricity or phone service. If there is snow, make sure inlets and outlets for your furnace and other appliances are not blocked. You want to avoid ventilation problems and carbon monoxide build-up. Also be sure your car’s tail pipe (exhaust) is clear of snow or ice before starting the car.
To Restore Your Property After A Natural Disaster Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield at (860) 216-2785
Flash Flooding
Move quickly to higher ground. Water rushing at you in a flood can easily knock you off your feet. It does not have to be very deep to do so if the current is strong. If you’re in a car and water comes around you, get out and move to higher ground right away. Cars can be swept away in just two feet of moving water.
Hurricanes
Strong winds with thunder and lightning usually indicate a hurricane. The winds may be 75 miles per hour or more. Hurricane season in Connecticut is June 1 through November 30. If you receive a hurricane-warning take shelter right away or evacuate if you’re told to do so. You can learn more about what to do before and after a hurricane at ct.gov/hurricane.
Tornadoes
A tornado warning means you need to take shelter immediately. If you are in your car, stop. Do not try to outrun the tornado. Get out and lie flat, face down in a low area. Cover your head and wait for the tornado to pass by. If you are home, go to your basement, storm shelter, or a room near the middle of the home. If you are in a tall building go to the middle of the building to a stairwell or hallway.
After any storm, we’re here to help. We help people recover from natural disasters and other catastrophic events. Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 for 24 hour emergency service
8/24/2015 (Permalink)
Water damage hits at the core strength of your house. It will eventually cause serious structural damage to your home's foundation. In fact, nothing damages and weakens more home foundations than water.
Damp wood invites termites and carpenter ants; plus, water damage causes mold and mildew. And major work on a damaged foundation can easily cost you $15,000 to $40,000. The good news is that there are several simple, inexpensive ways you can protect your home’s foundation from water damage.
For Expert Help Evaluating Potential Water Damage Call (860) 216-2785
Ensure Good Drainage
Creating proper yard drainage around your home is the best way to prevent structural foundation damage. Poor drainage weakens your foundation, causing cracks, uneven settling, and pathways for water to enter your home. You ensure good drainage when you:
1. Clean your gutters regularly.
A clogged gutter will send cascades of water down the side of your house.
2. Make sure downspouts direct water 10 feet away from the house.
During a one inch rain a typical home with four downspouts dumps almost 1,600 gallons of water. Some homes have underground extensions that lead to a dry well, bubbler pot, or discharge on a sloping lawn
3. Check the slope of your yard.
The yard should slope 6 inches down over a 10-foot span away from your foundation.
4. Check all plantings around your foundation.
Be certain that anything planted near your home’s foundation is not causing water to pool around the foundation. Some plantings can form a dam that traps water against your home’s foundation. Don’t plant trees or bushes with extensive or deep root systems near your home’s foundation.
Fix Water Leaks
Small water leaks can lead to big water damage in basement. Repair dripping pipes. Check for dark spots under pipes or on ceilings. Inspect your roof every six months for any missing, damaged or loose shingles. Ensure the flashing around your chimneys is tight. Check caulking and sealants for peeling and leakage and look for cracking on collars around vents. Prevent algae and fungus on wood shakes and asphalt shingles with zinc control strips.
Test Your Sump Pump
Don’t wait until a flood or other major water event to know if your sump pump works properly. Test it every year. During storm season test it more frequently.
Know The Signs of Foundation Water Damage
A quick visual inspection of your foundation and home can reveal water damage issues that you need to deal with sooner than later. Here are eight things to look for.
1. Fractured brick
Cracks in brick cladding may indicate a sunken footing. Look for “stair stepping” cracks near your windows and doorways, running vertically or diagonally near the ground and foundation corners.
2. Wet crawl space
Excessive moisture, staining, or standing water in your crawl space is a sign of foundation failure and may cause mold growth and poor indoor air quality.
3. Damp basement
A damp musty smell often means water is not draining away from your foundation.
4. Fractured basement walls
Expansive soil pressure or lateral earth movement may cause horizontal cracks and water damage. This may eventually cause the basement wall to bow inward.
5. Cracks in interior or exterior concrete
Uneven, sunken concrete slab, garage slab, separation of concrete slabs, steps, patio, or sidewalks may be signs of shifting soil or settlement. Any of these may cause water to enter your foundation or lead to rotting thresholds, mold, and poor indoor air quality.
6. Problem doors or windows
When doors and windows stick you may have warping or distortion of your home’s frame caused by foundation failure and water damage.
7. Cracked Interior walls
Vertical cracks in interior sheetrock or plaster, as well as displaced molding or wood trim may indicate a sinking foundation.
8. Exterior mildew or stains
Persistent mildew or staining on exterior walls and siding may indicate insufficient draining of storm water around your home.
Remember, we’re here to help. We are water damage experts. Many people in the Connecticut region have used our professional water damage restoration services. So call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
8/7/2015 (Permalink)
Getting rid of carpet stains and spills requires fast action
The Carpet and Rug Institute and other websites have lots of free information about the best ways to make your carpets and upholstery last, look great, and stay clean. Based on SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield’s experience and the institute, here’s a simple and proven way you can take care of upholstery and carpet spots and stains.
1. Act quickly
Most carpets today come with a built-in, stain-resist treatment. That makes removing many spots and spills easy if you take immediate action. The longer you delay, the higher the probability of a carpet spill becoming a permanent carpet stain. But do remember that the ability to remove spots and stains depends on many factors and no carpet is completely stain proof.
2. Blot spilled liquids
Use a dry, white, absorbent cloth or white (no printing) paper towel. Do not rub or scrub the soiled carpet or upholstery. In carpets, scrubbing can cause pile distortion. Continue to use a dry cloth or paper towels until the area is completely dry. You can gently scrape up semi-solids (a latex paint, household glue, or hand cream, for example) with a rounded spoon. Break up any solids and vacuumed until the carpet or upholstery spots are completely removed.
Need Expert Help With Your Upholstery Or Carpet Cleaning? Call (860) 216-2785
3. Do your research
If you know what spilled or made the upholstery or carpet spot, go online and search spot removal techniques for that particular substance. The Carpet and Rug Institute has a good spot removal listing. Or call a pro. Make sure you use a reliable source (like SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield at 860.216.2785). Follow the directions carefully.
4. Pretest any spot removal agent
Whenever possible, test any carpet or upholstery spot removal agent in an inconspicuous area. That might mean testing on a closet floor, behind a door, or under furniture you rarely move. You want to be certain the solution will not damage the carpet or upholstery fiber or dye. After applying several drops to the testing area, hold a white cloth on the wet area for 10 seconds. Examine the carpet and cloth for color transfer, color change, or damage to the carpet. If you see a change, try using another cleaning solution.
5. Apply slowly and gently
Place a small amount of the selected upholstery or carpet cleaning solution on the stain. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. Work the spot remover in gently. Start at the edges of the spot or spill and move toward the center (this prevents the spill from spreading). Do not scrub! Blot, absorbing as much as possible. Repeat as necessary.
6. Continue as long as the spill is transferring to the cloth
Continue to use the first cleaning solution as long as there is a transfer of the spill to the cloth. You need not use all of the cleaning solutions if the first solution removes the spill. Be patient.
Complete removal of a carpet or upholstery stain (or spill) may require repeating the same step several times.
7. Rinse and blot
After the spill has been completely removed, rinse the affected area thoroughly with cold water. Blot with a dry cloth until you’ve removed all of the carpet cleaning solution. Some carpet cleaning solutions will cause rapid soiling if you don’t completely remove the solution. Apply a one-half inch layer of white paper towels to the affected area, and weigh down with a flat, heavy object. Continue to change paper towels as needed.
Remember, we’re here to help. We are carpet cleaning and upholstery cleaning contractors. So call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
At SERVPRO we’re trained in many restoration services. We know the safest, most advanced, and quickest ways to help you remove stains and spots from your upholstery and carpets.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
7/31/2015 (Permalink)
Home and business owners depend on SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield for fire damage repairs and fire restoration services.
More than 4,000 people die every year in fires according to U.S. government statistics. More than 25,000 are seriously injured. Most of these deaths and injuries could be prevented. Here’s a checklist of some ways you can help prevent a fire in your home and make your home safer:
• Talk with your kids about the dangers of playing with matches, fire, lighters, and flammable liquids
• Don’t leave the kitchen when you’re cooking (most home fires start on the kitchen stove)
• Know and post your local fire department’s emergency phone number
• Keep gasoline, kerosene, paint thinners, and other flammable liquids in appropriate containers and away from other flammable materials
Need Fire Restoration or Damage Repair? Call (860) 216-2785
• Keep your garage and basement clear of trash, newspapers, and other combustibles
• Don’t use flammable liquids like gasoline, kerosene, or benzene indoors
• Make sure flammable liquids are stored in appropriate containers in a well-ventilated area
• Safely discard cloths or paper towels used with flammable liquids, preferably outdoors in metal containers
• Avoid plugging several appliances into one electrical outlet unless you use a UL-approved outlet with circuit breakers
• Don’t use extension cords with heaters or air conditioners
• Use smoke alarms throughout your home and test them regularly
• Use caution with alternative heating sources like kerosene, wood, or pellet stoves
• Use only the type of fuel that’s meant for these heating sources, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions
• If you must smoke, do so safely:
• Never smoke in bed
• Don’t leave the room with a cigarette burning in an ashtray
• Keep matches, cigarette lighters, and grill lighters in a locked cabinet
• Never smoke when you’re drowsy, medicated, or reclining
• Make sure smokers have deep, sturdy ashtrays, and make sure cigarette and cigar butts are cold before you put them in the trash
If you do experience a fire in the Connecticut region, you can rely on the fire damage repair and restoration services of SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield. We have restored many fire-damaged homes and businesses. You can also rely on us for smoke damage cleanup.
Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
For any commercial or home cleanup and restoration questions you have, call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield anytime, 24/7 at 860.216.2785. At SERVPRO our fire damage restoration teams are trained in the safest, most advanced, and quickest ways to help.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
7/20/2015 (Permalink)
Act quickly but intelligently after fire damages your home.
How do you clean up after fire damage?
First, consider your safety. Only stay in your fire damaged home if you know it’s safe. Remember that electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most common ways people get injured after a fire.
If putting the fire out has left lots of water on your property, avoid lifting wet materials. They could be much heavier than you think. When fire has damaged your property, some of the first steps you should take are:
What To Do After Fire Damage
• Limit movement in your home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep everyone’s hands clean so you don’t further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If your electricity is off, empty your freezer and refrigerator and prop the doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash your houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change your HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.
What NOT To Do After Fire Damage
• Don't try to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo your carpet or upholstery without contacting a professional. You may do more damage.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat, or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.
Remember, we’re here to help. We are fire restoration contractors. Many people in the Connecticut region have used our professional fire restoration services. So call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) anytime, 24/7.
At SERVPRO we’re trained in many emergency restoration services. We know the safest, most advanced, and quickest ways to help you recover from fire and smoke damage. We've served clients in Ellington, West Hartford, Avon, Springfield, Manchester, Hartford, Newington, Bloomfield, East Hartford, Enfield, Simsbury, Coventry, South Windsor, Agawam, and beyond.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
7/10/2015 (Permalink)
This off-the-shelf Red Cross emergency kit and others like it are portable. They contain items you would require to survive for 72 hours.
Most storm, fire, and water damage happens unexpectedly. So emergencies catch people in Connecticut unprepared. You’re smart to have an emergency supply bag or container already stocked with the basics you need should an emergency happen. The Connecticut Guide to Emergency Preparedness advises all of us to have an emergency supply kit or evacuation pack that includes the following:
• Water in jugs or bottles. Your emergency water supply should be at least one gallon for every person for each day.
• Food in cans or sealed packages. Soup and tuna are good examples.
• Cooking and eating supplies: a manual can opener, paper plates, plastic utensils, and a small grill.
• Bleach and an eyedropper to treat water.
• Paper towels, toilet paper, soap.
• Battery-powered radio, flashlights, cell phone, and extra batteries.
• Blankets or sleeping bags and pillows.
• Extra clothing for everyone in the family.
• Baby and child items like diapers, games, toys, and books.
• A first-aid kit. It should include medicines (prescriptions, fever reducers, aspirin), eyeglasses and supplies, list of your doctors with phone numbers, and medical supplies you require (insulin syringes or colostomy supplies for example.)
• Garbage bags and cleaning supplies.
• Pet supplies (food, water, pet carrier, medicines, collar, leash, ID tags, immunization records, etc.)
• Extra set of car keys, credit cards, cash, and important information like your social security numbers and birth certificates.
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape.
• Pictures of family members and pets in case you are separated and need help looking for them.
Need Emergency Cleanup? Call Us Today – (860) 216-2785
In Connecticut or anywhere, flood recovery, hurricane recovery, and recovery from other natural disasters will be much easier if you’re prepared with emergency survival tools and supplies like these.
For property restoration after storm damage, call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785). You can reach us 24/7. At SERVPRO we’re trained in the safest, most advanced, and quickest ways to help you recover from any emergency -- flood, fire, wind, ice, or other storm damage. We've served clients in Ellington, West Hartford, Avon, Springfield, Manchester, Hartford, Newington, Bloomfield, East Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service
7/3/2015 (Permalink)
After storm damage, we get businesses back in business quickly and efficiently
When your business or commercial property is damaged by fire, water, or storm, your immediate concern should be temporary protective measures. For example, a damaged roof should be covered with roof tarps to prevent additional damage. And boarding up windows and doors can secure your business or commercial property until you can remove any water and debris.
After any storm use caution before entering your commercial property. Check for power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage. If any of your electrical equipment is wet, contact an electrician. Prepare loss information for insurance claims and get independent estimates of the damages.
Once you protect and secure your business or commercial property, professionals at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can begin the restoration process. You may need reconstruction work to get your property back to its preloss condition.
Need Building and Reconstruction Services? Call (860) 216-2785
Three other critical steps business and commercial property owners should take are:
1. Protect Yourself From Contactor Fraud
Only hire licensed contractors to do repairs on your commercial property. Check with your local building department to ensure the contractor is licensed. If you hire a contractor, don’t pull the permits for them. If the contractor makes this request, it may be an indication that the contractor is not properly licensed.
2. Take Photographs Of All Damage
Photographs of the after-storm condition of your commercial property can provide proof of damage for insurance and other purposes. Take the photos immediately after the damage and before repair work begins. Keep all your receipts for insurance purposes.
Don’t wait for a storm to begin preparing. Take a complete set of photographs of your commercial property in its current condition to serve as “before” pictures. If and when a storm strikes your business you can take “after” pictures to show the full extent of the damage.
3. Assess The Damage And Contact Your Local Building Department
After assessing the damage to your business or commercial property restoration, contact your local building department for information on the required building permits. Permits are always required for any demolition or permanent repairs, reconstruction, roofing, filling, and other types of site development.
The professionals at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can simplify the commercial property restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save you time and keep your costs low. We offer a full range of restoration services that will get you back in business and bring your building and property back to full use.
We've served clients in Ellington, West Hartford, Avon, Springfield, Manchester, Hartford, Newington, Bloomfield, East Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Noemi DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
6/25/2015 (Permalink)
Biohazard contaminants are dangerous. They can pose serious health risks. This biohazard symbol was developed by the Dow Chemical Company in 1966.
Many people don’t realize how common biohazards are. It sounds like something that may only happen at old industrial sites or where people are not sensitive to the environment. But this is a misperception. Biohazards include fairly frequent occurrences like sewer backups and flood water damage. Biohazards affect tens of thousands of homes and businesses every year.
Need Biohazard Cleanup? Call Us Today – (860) 216-2785
For your health and safety, consider biohazard contaminants very dangerous. SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore biohazard contamination.
Be Safe After A Biohazard Contamination
After a sewer backup, flood water damage, or other biohazard contamination, think about whether it’s safe to return to your house or business. Being exposed to biological or chemical contaminants can pose serious health risks. Flood waters usually contain biohazards like pesticides, sewage, and other contaminants. If you’re not certain your activity is safe to perform do not take the risk.
What To Do After A Biohazard Contamination
• Stay out of affected areas.
• Call emergency service personnel if the situation may be life-threatening.
• Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
• Turn off the HVAC system if there is sewage damage.
What Not to Do After a Biohazard Contamination
• Don’t leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don’t leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors.
• Don’t use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don’t use your television or other household appliances.
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet.
• Stay out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.
Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield anytime, 24/7 at 860.216.2785. SERVPRO’s carpet cleaners service is among the best cleaning services. We’re trained in the most advanced, thorough, and effective ways to perform biohazard cleanups. We've served clients in Ellington, West Hartford, Avon, Springfield, Manchester, Hartford, Newington, Bloomfield, East Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
6/19/2015 (Permalink)
Water damage from floods can be minimized with proper and swift action
To restore your basement and property from water damage and to keep your water damage losses to a minimum requires the proper water extraction equipment. The right water extraction tools for the job are vital for timely restoration and for drying basements, structures, and property in the way that’s most effective. Here’s a quick review of some of the expertise and equipment necessary.
Using Psychrometrics To Fight Water Damage
Psychrometry is the study of air and its properties (temperature, humidity, vapor pressure, dew point, etc.). To minimize basement water damage and water damage elsewhere you must have accurate measurements of the air conditions so you can create the right atmosphere for efficient drying. Water damage restoration contractors know how to control temperature and humidity levels. Doing so maximizes drying conditions without causing secondary damage through an improper drying process.
Water damage cleanup companies like SERVPRO use equipment like moisture sensors, moisture meters, and thermohygrometers to define how much moisture has been absorbed. We also use advanced equipment to verify that your basement or other environment has dried thoroughly.
Water Damage Resolved By Extraction, Air Moving, and Deodorizing Equipment
The most effective way to remove moisture from a basement or structure is extraction. By removing the water quickly the environment dries much faster. SERVPRO uses extractors to clean carpets, upholstery, and floors after water damage. Our air moving and dehumidification equipment speed up evaporation. And SERVPRO’s deodorization equipment produces a mist that penetrates sites where odor-causing residues accumulate. Our water extraction teams also use ultra low volume foggers to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard to reach places.
The right tools are vital for restoring your water damaged basement, property, and possessions to the best possible condition. But more important is the water extraction team. Our teams thoroughly understand how to dry basements, structures, and personal property effectively.
Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
For any water cleanup and restoration questions you have, call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield anytime, 24/7 at 860.216.2785. At SERVPRO our water extraction teams are trained in the safest, most advanced, and quickest ways to help you. We've served clients in Ellington, West Hartford, Avon, Springfield, Newington, Manchester, Bloomfield, Coventry, Hartford, East Hartford, and beyond.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
6/12/2015 (Permalink)
Clean your carpet before it becomes noticeable dirty.
Your carpet acts as a filter. It traps dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils. But you can take simple actions that will keep your carpet clean, fresh, and looking new. In fact, all carpet manufacturers agree on actions you can take between carpet cleanings to increase your carpet’s life span.
Of course, vacuuming is a key component to proper care and maintenance of your carpet. Other actions that protect your carpet include:
• Spot removal
• Pilating the carpet to prevent matting
• Moving furniture to change traffic patterns
• Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet
• Professional cleaning
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can address moderate and heavy soil conditions in your carpets. How often you’ll need our professional carpet cleaners service depends on soil build-up, traffic, and the type and color of your carpeting. Most people find it wise to professionally clean their carpet every 12 months.
Do clean your carpet before it becomes noticeably saturated with soil. If you wait until the carpet looks really dirty, you may never be able to restore it to its former appearance.
Dirt builds up in layers. When a carpet looks dirty you are only seeing the dirt at the tips of the fibers. More dirt is hiding below the surface down near the base of the pile, causing damage to the carpet. When a carpet is saturated with dirt, the soil has penetrated crevices and has become firmly lodged.
Call on our professional cleaning services. Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield anytime, 24/7 at 860.216.2785. SERVPRO’s carpet cleaners service is among the best cleaning services. We’re trained in the most advanced, thorough, and effective ways to clean up your carpet. We've served clients in Ellington, West Hartford, Avon, Springfield, Manchester, Bloomfield, and beyond.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 24 hour emergency service
6/5/2015 (Permalink)
After your house or business suffers water damage don't take chances. Make safety your first priority.
Emergency Safety Tips
Whether you have burst pipe water damage, a water damaged floor, storm damage, water damage in your basement, or any other major water cleanup issue, your primary focus should be safety. After any major water damage consider:
• Is your house safe? If you’re not sure, don’t take a chance. Find somewhere else to stay until you’re certain your house is safe again.
• Are there electrical or "slip and fall" hazards? After major storms, these are some of the most prevalent dangers we see.
• Are you only doing things you know are safe? Don’t take risks.
• If you have water damage in the basement can you see what and where you are walking on. Don't walk on or near an area that doesn't have sufficient lighting.
• Are you trying to lift wet materials? If so, be careful. When items are soaked with water they become very heavy.
Contact A Water Removal Service
You’re wise to contact a professional water removal service like SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield. You want the job done right and right away. That’s what we do. Never hesitate to call for help.
Responding Fast To Flood And Water Damage
A SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield highly trained technician can respond immediately to water damaged basements and other flood or water damage at your home or business. We have the experience, expertise, and training to restore your home or business quickly and safely.
The sooner the water is removed and the drying process begun, the better condition your home or business will be in. And the cost to repair water damage will be lower.
Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield to discuss. Call 860.216.2785. We’re the water removal service professionals who have saved property and saved money for the owners of flooded basements and water damaged properties. We've served clients in Ellington, West Hartford, Avon, Springfield, Manchester, Bloomfield, and beyond.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
Toll Free at 844.254.1480
5/29/2015 (Permalink)
You can clean some mold with bleach but follow the directions carefully.
You can remove mold with bleach, but be careful. Bleach produces harsh fumes. Before you begin ventilate the area well. Open nearby windows and doors and use a fan to provide fresh air. Protect your hands and arms with long sleeve waterproof gloves. Use eye protection.
Dilute Bleach Before You Apply
For maximum effectiveness and safety, dilute the bleach in water (one part bleach to 10 parts water.) When you’re cleaning mold with bleach don’t mix the bleach with ammonia or any other household cleaner. Apply the solution to non-porous surfaces. Non-porous means the surface doesn’t allow water or other fluids to sink in. Metals are nonporous; paper is not.
You don’t need to rinse afterwards (unless you use the surface for food preparation or unless children or pets may touch it.) By not rinsing, the bleach will inhibit mold growing in the future. If you need to clean more than 10 square feet, check with a commercial mold remediation company.
Be Careful Who You Hire
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield are a commercial mold remediation company. We’re experts in mold spore removal. Be careful whom you hire. Some commercial mold restoration companies advertise, “mold removal” and may even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy. Removing all molds from a house or business is impossible because microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors.
Feel free to call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield anytime, 24/7 at 860.216.2785. We've served clients in Ellington, West Hartford, Avon, Springfield, Manchester, Bloomfield, and beyond. At SERVPRO we’re trained in the safest, most advanced, and quickest ways to help you.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 24 hour emergency service
Toll Free at 844.254.1480
5/22/2015 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the specialized fire and water damage cleanup and restoration training and experience to quickly restore your home.
Fire damage is terrible as it is. Let’s not make things worse by spending more money than necessary to restore your fire damaged home. Many times you can save money and keep property damage to a minimum through what’s called emergency mitigation services.
Saving Fire Damaged Possessions
Fire damaged property that may look like it needs to be replaced may actually be recoverable. A fire restoration company can save many a heirloom. But act quickly. Prompt fire cleanup and restoration is important because the items found in your home—furniture, carpet, walls, drapes, and even ceilings—can absorb smoke. If too much time elapses between when the fire damage occurs and when fire cleanup occurs, the effects of smoke damage can last for months.
Time Can Cost You Many Possessions
The more time between the fire and restoration the more costs you incur and the fewer items you can restore. Depending on the extent of the fire damage, you may be able to save clothing, leather, books, photographs, kitchen items, furniture, and more.
Restored To Pre-Loss Condition
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield cleans and deodorizes restorable items, sometimes to preloss condition. So don’t throw anything out until you’re certain it must be replaced. Save your property and save money. Now that’s a win/win!
Call SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield to discuss. We’re the fire restoration and clean up company that has saved property and saved money for the owners of fire damaged homes. Whether you're in East Hartford or Tolland; Bloomfield or Manchester; or anywhere in between, we can help.
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro, Nat Landon, Ron DeFeo
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24 hour emergency service
Toll Free at 844.254.1480
5/15/2015 (Permalink)
What You Need To Know
If your sewer backs up you need to act fast. Sewer backup problems are health hazards and emergencies. Sewer water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that can cause serious illnesses. Know what type of sewer water backup you have:
1) Clean Water
This is sewer backup from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. But if you don’t treat it quickly this type of sewer water backup can become a more serious problem. It can become gray water (category 2) or black water (category 3).
2) Gray Water
Experts use the term gray water to describe a sewer line backup that’s contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. You have gray water (category 2) if the water is from a washing machine overflow; a toilet overflow with some urine (no feces); or a dishwasher overflow. This type of sewer water backup can quickly degrade into black water (category 3) if not treated in a timely manner.
3) Black Water
Pros use this term to describe grossly contaminated water. Sewer drain backups like this could cause severe illness or death if ingested. Avoid all contact with black water. You have black water when you have flooding from rivers or streams; water from beyond the toilet trap; water from the toilet bowl with feces; or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.
Call us whenever you require sewer backup cleaning. At SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield we’re trained in the safest, most advanced, and quickest ways to eliminate all sewer backups. From Hartford to Middletown; Avon to Ellington, we’ll keep you safe and healthy!
SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield
IICRC Certified
Noemi DiCristofaro
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 24 hour emergency service
24/7 Emergency Service