Surviving A Natural Disaster

5/8/2023 (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
Noemi Garcia, Ron DeFeo 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 for 24 hour emergency service!

Fire Damage? Lower Your Fire Clean Up Costs!

5/8/2023 (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
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24 hour emergency service
Toll Free at 844.254.1480 

Flooding at Hartford Public Library

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!

Efficient Solutions for Enfield Water Damage Restoration

9/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians utilize advanced equipment like drying mats to mitigate water damage in Enfield homes, "Like it never even happened."

Water Damage Cleanup Involves Many Steps

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:

• Structural drying
• Content restoration
• Repairs
• Water removal services
• Surface cleaning

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.

How Does Water Damage Happen?

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:

• Plumbing Issues – From breaks in the lines to damaged fixtures that steadily leak through wall systems and cabinets, plumbing is a common culprit for needed water restoration services.
• Appliances – Water-fed appliances are more common than ever in homes, ranging from washing machines to dishwashers and refrigerators. Leaks from these units can spread fast and cover a wide area, making a fast response vital.
• Flooding – Flood damage is common in Connecticut homes, especially those knowingly living at lower elevations. Flash floods or rising creeks and streams could infiltrate basements and cellars to affect the house.
• Spills/Accidents – Human error accounts for a substantial volume of water damage restoration callout requests SERVPRO manages, from overflowing sinks and tubs to dozens of other possible scenarios.

Clearing Pooling Water from Flooring

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.

How Do You Achieve Thorough Drying?

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:

• Detection devices
• Thermal imagery
• Moisture sensors

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.

Cleaning Up and Repairing Enfield Fire Damage

9/3/2022 (Permalink)

Surprised by fire damage in your Enfield property? Call SERVPRO, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

We Seek Pre-Loss Condition After Fire Damage

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:

• Ruined Materials
• Debris
• Smoke
• Water Damage
• Odors

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.

Working with Your Insurance Provider

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.

Reaching Homes Fast for Fire Mitigation

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:

• Extraction – While you can appreciate the high volumes of water used to put out the fire in your home, this becomes another threat during the restoration process with standing water and pooling in several areas of the property. We have multiple extractors to manage these surface water threats to get other cleaning processes underway.
• Removing Fire Debris – Shoveling out ash, soot, and building remnants can benefit the property in several ways. Not only does this expose structural defects from the fire damage covered by the debris, but it can noticeably reduce soot and smoke odor concentrations.
• Managing Contents – Contents in your home can be the biggest priority for protection and preservation, as you cannot replace some items with a monetary value. We relocate some items, clean some on-site, and have technicians ready to transport harmed contents to our SERVPRO facility for more advanced cleaning.

How Damaging is Soot?

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.

The Lingering Smoke Odors

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.

Who Does Post-Fire Repair?

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.

Why Enfield Mold Damage Should Be Resolved Quickly

9/3/2022 (Permalink)

Mold damage remediation by SERVPRO can ensure positive results. We restore your Enfield property "Like it never even happened."

We Help Customers Through Mold Damage Threats

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.

What Is the Truth about Mold?

To begin overcoming Enfield mold damage, homeowners must understand common misconceptions about microbial growth and how to handle these situations. Some of these include:

• Is Complete Mold Removal Possible?

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.

• Can Mold Get Better without Intervention?

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.

• Can You Clean Up Mold Yourself?

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.

Quickly Overcoming Mold Damage Threats

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

• Preventing Spread – Early mitigation helps prevent spores from spreading to other areas of the property. Containment often involves physical barriers.
• Protecting Contents – Removing mold can be challenging when working around a house full of contents, even when these items are not at risk of mold exposure. We can relocate or clean personal belongings from your home as needed.
• Structural Assessment – Mold can destroy hosting materials, so the earliest stages of mitigation must serve to inspect these affected surfaces for permanent structural damages.
• Overcoming Water Threats – Mold development is possible with water intrusion into your home's living space. SERVPRO professionals assess this infiltration and how to repair it.

How Does SERVPRO Remove Mold?

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:

• Surface Treatment
• Abrasive Cleaning
• Sanding
• Controlled Demolition

Musty Smells Are Expected During Cleanup

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.

Repairs Needed After Mold Threats

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.

SERVPRO Provides Water Restoration Services in Enfield

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

From small spills to large flood causing water damage--Enfield homeowners rely on SERVPRO for extraction and drying.

Why Should Water Restoration be Completed Quickly by SERVPRO in Enfield?

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.

Various Flooring Compositions

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:

• Water clean-up in basements, ceilings, and main floor areas
• Water removal services
• Water damage repairs and restoration

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.

SERVPRO Provides Commercial Fire Damage Repair and Restoration in Bloomfield

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO strives to swiftly restore your fire damaged shop or building "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Verifies Commercial Fire Damage to Structures in Bloomfield

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:

• Fire damage restoration and repair
• Smoke remediation
• Water and chemical retardant cleanup

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.

SERVPRO Provides Commercial Mold Remediation Services in Enfield

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

Leave the mold remediation to our SERVPRO technicians, ensuring a clean and sanitary commercial structure in Enfield.

SERVPRO Eliminates Moisture Sources During Enfield Commercial Mold Remediation

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:

• Mold inspection, remediation, and removal
• Black mold damage repairs
• Water and mold damage restoration

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.

SERVPRO Saves Bloomfield Businesses from Effects of Mold Damage

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO commercial damage restoration services are second to none. Call now for fast and immediate service.

The Role of Isolation in Restoration of Mold Damage in Bloomfield

An effective isolation protocol is one of the most important aspects of controlling mold damage in commercial properties in Bloomfield. It is critical to establish robust containment systems that allow the restorers to remediate the contamination without spreading it to the unaffected areas of the building.  

SERVPRO techs use various types of containment systems during the restoration of mold damage in Bloomfield commercial properties. A typical system consists of a barrier made using-

• 6-mil polyethylene sheeting.
• PVC pipes.
• wood framing.
• spring-loaded expansion poles.

The barrier prevents the airborne spores and the contaminated debris from leaving the affected area. 

The Mold Remediation Process 

SERVPRO techs negatively pressurize the contaminated areas relative to the clean rooms after erecting the isolation barrier to prevent cross-contamination due to airborne spores. We use air filtration devices fitted with HEPA filters to establish the negative pressure zones. The HEPA filters are 99.97% effective in preventing particles of 0.3 microns or larger, including most fungal spores, from leaving the containment zone.  

In most mold-affected commercial properties in Bloomfield, a pressure differential of about 5 Pascals between the contaminated and clean areas is enough to prevent the movement of spores. 

Once the techs set up the containment with the negative pressure, they begin mold remediation. The type of service required for each content item may be categorized in one of the following three ways-

• Restoration: Items that SERVPRO techs clean to remove contamination
• Disposal: Techs dispose of items with heavy contamination or when replacing them does not outweigh the cost of remediation 
• Preserve with risk assignment: Techs can restore irreplaceable items can with a risk assignment 

We work hard to restore  your establishment “Like it never even happened.” Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield at (860) 216-2785; to talk to one of our mold specialists. 

Enfield Residents Trust SERVPRO for Storm Damage Restoration!

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians have the training and experience for every phase of storm damage restoration.

Using Heat To Accelerate Drying After Storm Damage 

Successful restoration of storm damage to your Enfield home is contingent on restorers being able to remove moisture as fast as possible. The longer the moisture stays in contact with the various surfaces, the more damage it can cause. 

SERVPRO techs use several techniques to accelerate drying during the restoration of storm damage to your Enfield home. From altering the moisture content of the air to increasing the airflow across the wet surfaces, SERVPRO techs manipulate the drying conditions to draw the moisture out. Temperature is one of the most efficient ways to accelerate drying after water damage. 

Heating and Cooling Equipment for Water Damage Restoration

Increasing the temperature enables the drying air to hold more moisture, speeding up the drying process. SERVPRO techs use the following pieces of equipment to change the temperature of the drying air in your water-damaged Enfield home-

• Portable electric heaters: Techs use these to direct heat toward a particular area within the building rather than heating the entire airspace. As these heaters require electricity, they might not be useful during a storm damage cleanup if there is a power outage. 
• Indirect-fired furnaces: These use kerosene or diesel and produce significantly more heat than portable units. Techs use indirect-fired furnaces to heat a large area of the affected structure. 
• Direct expansion units: These commercial heat exchange units can provide heating and cooling. The DX units can also provide humidity control in the water-damaged area of the building.   

While SERVPRO techs use portable heaters and indirect furnaces in residential buildings, the direct expansion units are used in commercial properties. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield at (860) 216-2785; our techs are available 24/7 to assist you. 

Water Damage Restoration in Enfield is Fast with SERVPRO

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration is no DIY project. Cal SERVPRO for a team of experts for your home.

Drying Structural Cavities During Water Damage Restoration

Structural cavities behind walls, ceilings, or cabinets can be challenging to dry after water damage to your Enfield home. SERVPRO techs use various drying and ventilating systems to replace the cool, moist air from these cavities with warmer and drier air. 

The most common ventilating system that SERVPRO techs use to dry cavities after water damage to your Enfield homes consists of vents or hoses attached to air movers. Restorers direct air into the cavities by drilling small holes in walls or ceilings. After drilling the holes, techs can either push air into the cavity or draw air out.  

Using Negative or Positive Pressure to Dry Cavities During Water Cleanup 

Once the SERVPRO techs identify trapped or hidden moisture inside a structural cavity in your Enfield home, they have the following two options to dry the structure-

• Applying positive air pressure
• Applying negative air pressure 

Whether the restorers apply negative or positive pressure depends on the individual situation and the extent of moisture present. Positive pressure is achieved when the drying air is pushed into the cavity. The forced air can improve the circulation and increase the temperature of the surfaces helping them to dry quicker. 

Another method of drying the cavities involves drawing out the cool, moist air from recesses after water damage. SERVPRO techs use this method only if there is no visible contamination exists. 

When drilling holes into the structure is not feasible or practical, the techs use drying mats to draw out the moisture. Restorers often use drying mats to remove water below tiles or under hardwood floors. 

We are committed to helping you when you need it the most, so call SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield at (860) 216-2785 for fast and efficient service. Remember, We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.  

The Need for Elaborate Fire Damage Restoration in Enfield Homes

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

The smoke from an Enfield house fire can significantly affect the home's indoor air quality. Call SERVPRO for fire and smoke damage restoration.l

SERVPRO Has Resources Suitable for Fire Repairs in Enfield

Fires cause significant damage within a short period. House fires can be life-threatening within two minutes and can engulf an entire property in five minutes. On average, the response from the Enfield fire department takes slightly over 5 minutes, so any incident can significantly damage your structure and valuables. Once the fire department hands over the property to you, there is still significant work to do, collectively known as fire damage restoration.

Although the damage may be significant, it is still possible to save some things. Appropriate Enfield fire damage restoration procedures help salvage more items and complete other necessary procedures such as replacement and refinishing. SERVPRO provides the required tools and Fire Restoration Technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration to facilitate your recovery efforts.

Necessary restoration actions

• Capturing all fire residues
• Removing compromised materials
• Removing bad odors

Fire leaves properties dirty due to the accumulation of soot, ash, and discoloration of materials. Completing restoration without cleaning is impossible. In most cases, it is among the first steps you must take. Fire cleanup is not the same as regular house cleaning because smoke residues spread vastly, reaching every corner of a property. The soot particle sizes vary and can be very small, thus penetrating cracks and crevices. Effectively capturing residues is essential during cleaning. Our SERVPRO crews use physical removal methods such as HEPA vacuuming to collect residues or dissolve them in cleaning solutions.

Fire effects on materials

Most materials exhibit changes once exposed to high temperatures. Partially burnt structural materials show visible signs such as charring. Changes may also be less visual but have dire implications. Structural materials may lose their core strength, while utilities such as electric cables can be compromised when heat melts their insulating covers or residues clogging air ducts. Our SERVPRO technicians strip down affected areas removing all the compromised materials, paving the way for cleanup, deodorization, and rebuilding.

Steps necessary for removing odors

• Identifying odor sources
• Physical removal of odorous materials
• Neutralizing odor molecules 

SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield is ready to go the extra mile to facilitate fire damage restoration. Call us at (860) 216-2785. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How You Can Respond to Flood Damage at Your Bloomfield Home

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

Need help in restoring your flood damaged Bloomfield home? SERVPRO is Here to Help.

With SERVPRO, Flood Restoration in Bloomfield Is Easier

Several creeks and other waterways run through the Bloomfield area, so flooding is likely, especially after torrential rainfall or when a storm passes through the area. As the water volumes in the waterways swell, any property close to the bank is exposed, resulting in flood damage.

Apart from overflowing rivers, the road and pavement networks can cause flood damage at your Bloomfield home since the area is flat. Knowing what to do once the water breaches your property is essential because it determines the costs and inconveniences you incur. Involving SERVPRO lightens your workload and minimizes the risks you would face from such an incident.

Problems to address after flooding 

• Water extraction challenges
• Contamination--Black Water
• Material deterioration 

Flooding leaves pools of water stagnating inside homes which is both inconvenient and promotes the proliferation of microbes. Floodwaters also spread dangerous chemicals and biohazards. Timely water removal is one of the crucial steps for controlling flood damage. However, your attempts to remove the water might not be successful if you do not have the appropriate extraction resources. SERVPRO makes a difference since we use advanced technologies such as self-priming pumps to facilitate the extraction of the floodwaters.

Managing contamination

Contaminants are particularly challenging to address for several reasons. For instance, extracting dirty water does not remove harmful materials from surfaces and contents. Also, exposure to such substances can be a health risk. Taking elaborate steps to rid the property of any trace of toxic materials is another crucial flood restoration process. Precautions are also necessary to limit contact with dangerous materials. Our SERVPRO crews have sufficient PPE, including rubber boots, heavy-duty gloves, and bodysuits, allowing us to clean and finish any section of your house comfortably. Besides cleaning, we also do controlled demolition to remove compromised structural materials for disposal.

Unsalvageable materials removed during flood restoration

• Carpets and pads
• Drywall, insulation, and wall fillings
• Composite wood 

SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield quickly responds when notified about flood damage facilitating management of any problem, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (860) 216-2785.

The Role of Humidity in Water Damage Cleanup of Enfield Shops

7/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO sets up LGR low-grain refrigerant dehumidifiers to tackle RH and water damage in your Enfield shop.

Humidity Can Slow Water Damage Recovery

The moisture in the air of the impacted regions of your business can be a substantial restoration obstacle to overcome. Improperly managing humidity can lead to greater difficulties in drying the shop, preventing moisture, and a higher likelihood of structural deterioration.

Understanding Relative Humidity

The relative humidity is an important measurement to help overcome water damage in your Enfield boutique or shop. This term essentially describes the capacity of the environment to hold water. Higher relative humidity RH amounts allow a greater volume of grains of water, permitting surface drying to continue unabated. The management of humidity and its limitations directly impact restoration processes like:

• Content recovery.
• Structure drying.
• Mold prevention.

Setting Up Dehumidifiers in Your Shop

As the shop's humidity increases from evaporation or additional moisture damages, it can ultimately plateau and stop water restoration processes altogether. Dehumidifiers are a credible line of defense against this rising threat in the structure, managing this growing moisture content through processes like condensation and absorption. The placement of dehumidifiers should be relative to the number of air movers in the shop.

Overcoming Persistent Moisture Concerns

One of the main obstacles to knowing how your shop became damaged by water or flooding is preventing this situation from reoccurring. This solution might be the repair or replacement of compromised plumbing, or it could mean sealing up structural vulnerabilities allowing intrusion by external precipitation and runoff. When your business requires reconstruction or repairs, we can help with our Commercial Contractor License #: 0646584.

From water management to removing ruined contents or building materials, SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield can help when your shop suffers a disaster. We are ready to help get your doors back open and make these conditions "Like it never even happened." Call now at (860) 216-2785. 

How Fire and Soot Damage Affects Bloomfield Homes

7/8/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damaged home in Bloomfield? No worries, call SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."

Cleaning Fire and Soot Damage

 There are many focal points for fire mitigation and cleanup. When addressing the threats of fire byproducts like soot, SERVPRO professionals prioritize specific objectives when we first arrive:

• Surface damage
• Structural damage
• Harsh odors
• Water and moisture effects
• Airborne contaminants

Post-Fire Debris

Debris is a combination of ash, soot, charred materials, destroyed contents, and other fire and soot damage in Bloomfield homes. These deposits increase the presence of soot and odors in the environment, making them one of the first obstacles for our responding SERVPRO team to overcome when starting fire mitigation.

Surface Soiling

Soot is most directly associated with physical soil deposits on the surface of materials. Because these solids can stain underlying surfaces or corrosive soot deposits can be, SERVPRO must use solvents and detergents as soon as possible. We can use alkaline wet cleaning products to balance harsh pH for less structural damage.

Soot Particles in the Air

Airborne contaminants are another concern for the property and one of the forms of soot damage that SERVPRO must overcome. Smoke and aerosolized solids are a common byproduct of combustion, and these particulates continually circulate in the air until coming to rest on damaged surfaces. HEPA air scrubbers and environmental cleaning equipment are needed to reduce these airborne threats' presence.

Widespread Malodors

Soot is also connected to malodors spread throughout the structure. As surfaces get cleaned and debris removed from the property floors, the severity of post-fire odors lessens. Soot cleanup can help make deodorization faster and more efficient by counteracting strong smells early in the restoration process.

Soot is one of the more challenging developments of a fire and should be dealt with as soon as possible. Because these corrosive byproducts are interconnected with many post-fire loss effects, our SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield professionals work fast to mitigate them. Give us a call now at (860) 216-2785. 

Surviving A Natural Disaster

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.

Cutting Costs After Fire Damage

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

A bathroom is severely burned after a Connecticut house fire

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

Keys to Rebuilding After A Commercial Loss

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

Bloomfield Storms affect local businesses

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

Basement Water Damage? Follow These Steps

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.

Where There's Fire There's Smoke...Odor

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke damage can be insidious and difficult to treat alone.

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.

Connecticut Hurricanes 2024 - Are You Ready?

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is ready for any disaster

It’s easy to become complacent when storms and hurricanes haven’t been a recent threat. We tend to focus our weather prep on ice storms, blizzards, bomb cyclones. Still, it’s important that residents of Connecticut remember storms like Irene and Sandy and keep in mind that we are definitely not immune from catastrophic storms or hurricanes. At SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield we want to keep you safe and your home protected. If there is a catastrophic event and your home or commercial property in Connecticut sustains storm damage, we are here to help. Remember, we mitigate damage after the storm has passed.

 Here are some tips to help mitigate damage of your residential property before the clouds roll in.

• Do a full inventory of homes and contents – Go room by room with a video camera and taking photos with a digital camera or your cell phone to provide a quick inventory of collectibles, works of art, antiques and other irreplaceable items. Upload your photos to the cloud or email them to yourself so you maintain a virtual copy.
• Collect insurance policies pertaining to the home. Familiarize yourself with what they do and do not cover. Call your insurance agent for a quick review of your policy.
• Prepare supplies in case of a power outage or evacuation – stock up on essentials like batteries, bottled water, canned goods, flashlights, etc. Buy a wireless battery pack for your mobile
• Clear all drains around the house and identify low-lying areas vulnerable to water and ensure that they drain away from basements and foundations.
• Prepare to move all boats, RVs, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles or anything else that may be parked outside or in a non protected area.
• Make sure that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and drain away from the structure.
• Landscaping should not allow water to collect next to the foundation of the building. Remove any damaged or low-hanging branches.
• Inspect the seals of windows and doors along the frames to check for cracks and ensure they are not compromised in any way.
• Look for items that can become projectiles during heavy winds and move them to a protected area or secure them in some manner. Disassemble playscapes or move outdoor toys to a place where they will not be susceptible to being picked up and hurled through the air by the wind.

Commercial properties can also take steps to mitigate the damage before the rain even starts.

• Back-up all records and store the back-ups off site. Move hard drives to a higher ground where they will not be as susceptible to water damage. If possible, send vital documents to the cloud or another virtual storage service.
• Have mops, buckets, tarps and a wet/dry vacuum on hand in case of leaks or flooding. Placing tarps over computers and other electronics can minimize damage later.
• Move paper records into filing cabinets and leave the bottom drawers empty so that if water does flood the office, hopefully paper will be high enough to be protected.
• Walk through the basement or any offices on a lower level to see what furniture, records or electronics could be compromised or damaged during any flooding, and move them to a higher location or place them in protective containers.
• Take a video inventory of each office and its contents for insurance purposes.

At SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, we are ready to help you recover your normal after storm damage. Weather events are getting more hazardous by the season and storm damage has become more of a “when” than an “if”
Our phones are open 24/7 to talk to a live agent. Call us at 860-216-2785 and one of our priority responders will be to your home to get a scope of the damage.

Are You Ready for 2024 Connecticut Storms?

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

Hurricane Irene's storm surge caused major damage. By Cyclonebiskit https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=16253690

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.

Fire Damage - Let the Experts Handle Your Home

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

It's hard to see the damage that fire can cause to your home. Let SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield step in while you catch your breath.

Fire damage in your home can be traumatic and scary. After the smoke has cleared and the fire engines have left, you may feel tempted to just brush some soot away and try to go on with normal life. If you are lucky enough to clean up the soot that seems to sneak into every crack and crevice, you may be unaware that the lingering smoke damage and compromised air quality can affect your belongings, your pets, your family for long after the flames have been extinguished.

When there is an immense amount of smoke in your home, as there is after a fire, the effects may linger in unexpected places – clothes, furniture, carpet, even your walls. Along with the smoke, you risk inhaling absorbed soot or other particles left from burnt debris, extinguishing chemicals, and more. Your eyes, skin, sinuses, and even your lungs may feel the effects of smoke and fire damage.

Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785 immediately. We can have our priority responders to your property in under an hour, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Our responders will assess the damage, go over the scope of work and develop a game plan.

From there our crews get to work. First we will work with you to go through the contents of the damaged areas. We will assess and salvage any items in which the cost to restore them is less than the cost to replace them. The contents are removed from the property and taken to the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield warehouse, locally owned and operated in Bloomfield, Connecticut. At our warehouse we clean, sanitize, and restore the items and then store them in our secure vaults.

Back at the house, our crews will extract any water that may have been a result of the fire fighters’ hoses, bust pipes, or other things that may have happened during the course of the blaze. It is vital to remove the water as soon as possible because sitting water can weaken the home’s structure and foster mold growth. After the excess water has been extracted we will use our state of the art equipment to continue drying the home.

Next comes our cleaning crews. The reviews speak for themselves as customer after customer has expressed their amazement at how quickly and thoroughly they work to remove soot from every affected area. We have the best equipment in the business to effectively eliminate odor contamination caused by the fire and the water.

• “The team of women who spent hours cleaning everything in the house were thorough and so very polite and patient with this harried home-owner. A+ to everyone at SERVPRO and many thanks for returning our home to normal once again.” – Lisa B, Google Reviews

Then we begin the demolition stage. Our crews will remove portions of the home too badly damaged to salvage.  We understand that it can be hard to see even more of your home demo’ed but your project manager will work hand in hand with you to explain the entire process. It is VITAL to proceed with the demolition because dangerous bacteria and acidic soot can increase the extent of the damage exponentially.

Dealing with a house fire is hard, traumatic, and draining. Allow SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to help you through the process of bringing your normal back, to make it "Like it never even happened." Our highly trained staff will work with your insurance company and with you to make this process as painless as possible.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is Leading The Ranks!

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Entrepreneur.com has released its 2022 franchise ranking and SERVPRO is #1 for cleaning and restoration - again!

According to Entrepreneur.com, one of the biggest business publications and websites in existence, SERVPRO has been ranked #8 in the 2022 Franchise 500 Rank and the #1 franchise in the cleaning and restoration industry for the 19^th consecutive year. This means that one of the spaces most familiar with business practices, projected growth, and franchises chose SERVPRO to be listed in the top ten of all franchises in the world. This decision is based on factors like growth, financial strength, stability, and brand power. We are proud to announce that as of 2021, SERVPRO has grown 14.4% over the past 3 years. This growth is absolutely astronomical when you consider the economic and global conditions of the past three years. While SERVPRO as a whole is clearly thriving, we at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield are beyond delighted to announce that we have been named in the top 12 of all SERVPRO franchises nationwide. We are committed to providing the highest level of customer service, to being faster to your disaster, and to have our clients tell us when we are done that their home is "Like it never even happened!" Call the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield offices at 860-216-2785 today to help you handle any water damage, mold remediation, commercial cleanings, and more. We are waiting for your call!

You've Had A House Fire - Now What?

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage is insidious and trying to handle your own fire damage repair in Connecticut will be overwhelming. Call us at 860-216-2785 and let us help

If you have had a fire in your home, you may be feeling overwhelmed and more stressed than you’ve experienced before. After the fire department has gone, you may find yourself asking “What’s next?” The fire damage may be obvious, as well as the immediate water damage from the firemen’s hoses but the chemical agents and remnants can cause secondary damage well after the fire trucks have driven away.

At SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield we understand the instinct to want to start doing things, to rent a steam cleaner or buy a bottle of cleaning spray and start trying to handle the mess yourself. What you don’t realize is that you may be exacerbating the problem. Cleaners and chemical agents can react with residue and create toxic fumes that could permanently ruin your home, make you very sick, or worse.

So what do you do when you’ve had fire damage? Call us at 860-216-2785 and call your insurance company. Because of our dedication and commitment to making your home look and feel “like it never happened” SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield is listed as a preferred vendor to most insurance companies in the Connecticut area.  Your insurance company will assign you an adjuster and reach out to us, or you can call us directly at 860-216-2785. Our emergency responders can be on site within an hour of your call. They will talk you through the process of what needs to be done, the general scope of work and give you a verbal estimate, all for no cost.

From there we can step in while you catch your breath. Our 24/7 crews are extensively trained in safe and efficient ways to return your home to as normal as possible. Our office staff is well versed in working with insurance companies and adjusters. Our project managers are there to answer your questions and make sure you are on the same page and comfortable with the process.

SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield completely understands that a house fire was not a situation that you expected, wanted, or likely prepared for. From the initial demo until the last little piece of decoration is cleaned of soot, we will be with you every step of the way.  We have the equipment like air scrubbers which can remove the lingering smoke odors from rugs and couches. Our fire cleanup crews will blow your mind with how quick and thorough they are. Just read one of the reviews left by a recent customer :

“SERVPRO never let me down. They did an amazing job with my garage, it was caught up with some fire and the smell from it was horrible. And also everything was drenched from the firefighter’s efforts to put out the fire. SERVPRO crews really took the time to eliminate the odor and dry everything up. Incredible crews. I will definitely recommend your services to everyone I know.”

We are a locally owned company with national resources and we take great pride in all of the services we provide. We are proud to offer

• Water damage restoration services
• Fire damage restoration services
• Mold remediation
• Storm damage restoration
• Commercial Cleaning Services

SERVPRO Bloomfield/Enfield will be faster to your disaster and can take your fire emergency from “disaster” to “did that even happen?”

Commercial Restoration Services in Northern Connecticut

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

No Job Is Too Large

When water strikes your business it is never a convenient time. And every hour you spend cleaning up your business is money and productivity lost. So, if you have an emergency at your Connecticut business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield. One of our highly experienced personnel will be at your location quickly to provide the assistance you require. "Like it never even happened," we'll restore your commercial property to pristine condition. 

No Job Is Too Large

At SERVPRO, we are equipped with best of the best in restoring large losses. Our state of the art large-loss specialists are pre-qualified and placed throughout the United States to handle any disaster small or large. All large losses are supervised by our commercial operations manager to ensure timely communication and large loss mitigation.

Overview of Commercial Services

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm and Major Events
• Disaster Recovery Team

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team

The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team is here to help no matter the conditions. Whether you are experiencing damage from a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood the SERVPRO team is there when you need us most. We have teams on standby and are available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year.

Catastrophic Storm Response Teams include:

• 2017 California wildfires
• 2017 Hurricane Irma
• 2017 Hurricane Harvey
• 2016 Hurricane Matthew
• 2015 Carolina floods
• 2014 Polar Vortex
• 2012 Sandy
• 2010 Nashville floods
• 2008 Ike
• 2007 Chicago floods
• 2007 Ohio floods
• 2007 California wildfires
• 2005 Katrina/Wilma/Rita

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in water damage remediation, fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, chemical cleanup, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.206.6141) any time.

If your home or business suffers a flood, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield today at 860.206.6141 for immediate water damage cleanup and restoration of your structure and property

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002

IICRC Certified

Noemi Garcia

Certified SERVPRO technicians

Call 860.206.6141

24-hour emergency service

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Download the ReadyPlan app today!

Rough weather is no surprise when living or owning a business in northern Connecticut. As many as 50% of Connecticut businesses close down following a disaster such as heavy rain, snow and winds, according to the latest research.  Of the businesses that are still standing, the majority of these businesses had an emergency ready plan in place. Pre-planning ensures business owners an insurance policy to protect their property from harm's way. Not only does pre-planning help your business but it ensures reliability in your employees and customers knowing their employer is prepared for the worst.

Download the SERVPRO Emergency ReadyPlan application on your iPhone or smartphone today. By establishing an Emergency Ready Profile for your business you decrease the disturbance of having an immediate plan in action when a storm hits. Knowing how to prepare and what to expect is essential in minimizing how much water, mold, and fire affects your business.

• A no cost assessment of your facility or business.
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

We Save You Minutes While Time Counts

Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help you minimize the effects that water, fire and mold have on your home or property. Whether you are a homeowner or a multi-site property or risk manager the SERVPRO Ready Plan app has been designed to help you be ready for whatever happens. 

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002

IICRC Certified

Noemi Garcia

Certified SERVPRO technicians

Call 860.216.2785 

24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

24/7 Emergency Water Damage Restoration Services in Northern CT

1/28/2022 (Permalink)

The flooded basement was caused by leaky pipes.

Are you suffering from water damage in north central Connecticut? Don’t worry SERVPRO is here to help. From small puddles to big floods we’ve got you covered. SERVPRO's water damage restoration service cleans and restores your belongings and building materials to their original state. When it comes to flooding or water damage, speed is crucial. The sooner the damage is reduced, the more likely it is to rescue building materials, personal belongings, and avoid mold growth.

When a water damage disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is ready to provide 24/7 emergency water damage restoration in Connecticut!

Water Damage's Unseen Hazards

Whatever has caused your water problems - leaking pipes, a flooded basement, an overflowing dishwasher — it isn't good. Water damage is not only ugly, but it also poses a threat to your health. Mold and mildew can take root in your Bloomfield or Enfield house or company if all of the components are not fully dried. This can lead to structural damage and damage to any personal belongings.

It is critical to use SERVPRO of Bloomfield, CT's experienced water damage restoration services to avoid this. You'll have a hard time cleaning and drying regions such under the floors or in the walls, but we will ensure they are 100% dried and cleaned.

What to do after flooding?

You’ve been hit by water damage. Now what? Be sure to follow SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield’s tips to ensure you follow the proper steps to avoid further damage.

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002

IICRC Certified

Noemi Garcia

Certified SERVPRO technicians

Call 860.216.2785 

24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Why You Should Hire SERVPRO For Your Commercial Cleaning Needs

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

Water cleanup at local Five Guys Restaurant.

If you own or run a business, you understand how difficult it can be to strike the right balance. There are obstacles that can be anticipated, and then there are situations that arise unexpectedly.

 When your office or building in north central Connecticut floods, the consequences can be devastating. Flood water can damage building materials, office supplies, and even inventory, resulting in lost time and income.

Let us help you get back to business.

At SERVPRO, we understand how important your business is to not only your livelihood but also your family. We have more than 50 years of knowledge and skill to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned as the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*. Aside from fire and water, SERVPRO employees are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills, always according to the cleaning and decontamination requirements set by the CDC and local authorities.

A Message from the Community

“100 stars go to SERVPRO for the outstanding service. They really are the guys to call for any disaster in your home. The most reliable crews, very professional, and stress-free to deal with. They made the whole process in restoring my home as smoothly as possible. I’m very happy with the outcome, everything was perfect. Thank you very much for your amazing customer service.” - Courtney L. 

SERVPRO’s Residential and Commercial Cleaning Services Include:

SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield offers cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Our cleaning services include the following:

• Air Ducts and HVAC

• Biohazard and Sewage

• Trauma and Crime Scene

• Carpet and Upholstery

• Drapes and Blinds

• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors

• Odor Removal and Deodorization

• Vandalism

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002

IICRC Certified

Noemi Garcia

Certified SERVPRO technicians

Call 860.216.2785 

24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Frozen Bursting Water Pipes? Here's the scoop

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

When you hear of the potentially disastrous effects bursting water pipes can have, you may wonder what causes a pipe to burst. The short answer is the expansion of hydrogen and oxygen molecules, but let’s be realistic - what you’re probably wondering is how to prevent bursting pipes and what to do in the unfortunate case that pipes do freeze and can’t hold the pressure.

Let’s start by talking about what steps can be taken on the preventive side:

Tip #1: Insulate your pipes

This is the A-#1 tip to reduce the risk of pipes freezing and bursting. When your pipes are properly insulated, you decrease the risk of bursting pipes significantly. Here are a couple of things to consider when choosing the right insulation for your pipes:

Location matters. Are you insulating indoor or outdoor pipes? The colder the area the pipes are in, the more necessary it is to insulate. Not only does this help with the bursting risk factor but there are a few bonus benefits, as well!!

R-value rating. Why does this matter? In short, the R-value refers to the amount of thermal insulation provided by the insulation product and is rated on a scale between 1 - 5. The higher the R-value rating, the more protection your pipes will have. NOTE: All pipe insulation products should have the R-value rating clearly marked on the packaging or in the product description.

Tip #2: Let your faucets drip slightly

Letting your faucets drip ever so slightly will help release pressure in pipes helping to avoid the chance of burst pipes. Keeping water moving a little makes it harder to freeze. This isn’t the most eco-friendly solution, but it has been known to help. (You can also keep a bucket under the slow dripping faucet to capture the water and use it to water plants or wash dishes!)

Tip #3: Keep your thermostat temperature consistent

Keeping the temperature at a steady level inside your home helps combat fluctuation in pipe temperature, which could factor in freezing pipes. 

In closing, remember that things happen and these tips are not 100% guaranteed, but will definitely help. In the event that you do have an emergency situation, remember that SERVPRO is certified and ready to help.

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your residence or commercial building and your property after suffering damage from a fire, storm, water, mold, or biohazard disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002

IICRC Certified

Noemi Garcia

Certified SERVPRO technicians

Call 860.216.2785 

24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Roof Damage? We’ll Take Care of It Fast

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Whether the damage is a slow leak or a completely destroyed roof, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield will repair it all, quickly and safely.

When a rain, wind, ice or snow storm damages your roof, you need to have it fixed quickly. Ranging anywhere from a slow leak to a gaping hole, roof damage leaves your home and your possessions open to damage from the elements. And because the damaged areas can be difficult to access, it can put your own safety at risk if you attempt repairs on your own.

We Have the Right Equipment and Skills

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the right equipment and the right skills to take care of your roof damage fast, so you avoid more damage and you and your family stay safe, too.

In fact, we have our own construction services crews, which can take rapid steps to protect your home by tarping over damage, before they do the necessary rebuilding to fully restore your roof to pre-damage condition.

And because roof damage can happen at any time of the day or night, SERVPRO is available around the clock. We’ll get to your home quickly and assess the damage. Once we protect your roof with tarps or by boarding it up, we’ll present a plan to completely repair the damage to the roof and any other affected parts of your structure.

And because we’re SERVPRO, we can clean and restore whatever was damaged inside your home, too: furnishings, furniture and personal items.

While You’re Waiting for Help, Stay Safe

It can be tempting to get up on your roof to prevent further damage, especially if a storm is ongoing, but it’s more important for you to be safe. The most common cause of home repair injuries is using a ladder! Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield and we will get to your home as soon as possible. While you’re waiting, follow this advice to prevent serious injury.

• If the roof damage is extensive, get everyone out of the house
• Stay out of the areas directly below the damage
• Don’t try to climb onto the roof, which could collapse if there is hidden damage
• Don’t try to remove debris from the roof
• Once outside, assess the damage from the ground
• Be careful around any fallen power lines—stay away and call the power company

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your residence or commercial building and your property after suffering damage from a fire, storm, water, mold or biohazard disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

SERVPRO’s Training Sets Us Apart

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees are highly trained in all aspects of damage remediation, including water, storm, fire, mold and biohazard cleanup!

When you call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield for fire, water, storm or other damage to your home or business, you can be sure that you’ll receive a quick response from one of our crews that brings industry-best equipment and procedures to your emergency. What you’ll also get is one of the nation’s best-trained crews of damage remediation experts.

Even though we are a locally owned and staffed franchise, we benefit from the training provided by the SERVPRO corporation. In operation for more than fifty years and based in Tennessee, the corporation has operated a National Training Center for almost thirty years, where they teach restoration and mitigation skills to franchise owners and employees.

A Range of Industry-Leading Training

To give you an idea of the depth and breadth of the training provided by SERVPRO, take a look at the offerings that our employees have access to.

New Franchise Training

New franchise owners start with a fifteen-day hands-on training program at the training facility at SERVPRO headquarters. This is also a valuable course for franchise employees. The program covers all aspects of the basic skills required to do damage remediation the SERVPRO way:

• Fire restoration
• Water restoration
• Carpet and upholstery cleaning
• Mold mitigation

Employee Certification Training

Our employees earn certifications after taking this self-paced program and successfully passing the examination. Modules include:

• General crew training
• Fire restoration
• Water restoration
• Carpet and upholstery cleaning

IICRC Training Program

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is proud to be a member of the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the damage restoration industry’s premier organization. In fact, the SERVPRO corporation is an approved IICRC Training School. We offer year-around classes in:

• Fire restoration
• Water restoration
• Carpet cleaning
• Upholstery cleaning
• Applied structural drying

E-Learning

Our employees have ongoing access to the corporation’s web-based training program. At their own pace, employees review videos and support materials, then complete each module by testing.

Continuing Education

SERVPRO offers employees both credit and noncredit courses in emergency damage mitigation. These courses are also available to community-based insurance agents, insurance adjusters and real estate professionals. Courses include:

• Water damage restoration
• Fire damage restoration
• Understanding mold in the restoration industry
• Restorative drying for loss control
• Mitigation awareness response seminar (non-credit course)

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your residence or commercial building and your property after suffering damage from a fire, storm, water, mold or biohazard disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

SERVPRO Halts Damage Fast

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield starts work on your water, fire, storm or other disaster FAST, because that saves you time and money.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield understands how important it is to stop and quickly clean up water, storm, wind, fire, biohazard or other damage in your home or business. That’s why we are available for emergencies 24/7, and that’s why we get to your emergency FAST.

Our Cleanup Process Starts with Speed

SERVPRO has a time-tested process of cleaning up residential and commercial damage. It begins with a swift response to your call, with one of our experienced crews arriving ASAP to assess the damage and create a plan for the cleanup. If called for, we take immediate steps to protect your home or business from being damaged—this may mean we board over your roof, for instance.

Next, we examine your home or business and its contents, put together a digital inventory, then pack up and remove all salvageable items to our warehouse for cleaning and storage. Back at your building, our crew is busy cleaning and reconstructing. Meanwhile, we also coordinate your claim processing with your insurance company. Finally, we replace your cleaned possessions back to your restored home or business.

Why So Fast? Because It Saves You Time and Money

The truth is that beginning damage remediation quickly halts the damage in its tracks, and that means that the necessary cleanup and reconstruction work is minimized. The end result? Your remediation job is completed sooner and at less cost.

A good example of how that works is water damage. Not only is it important to stop the spread of water in your property, it’s also essential to remove the moisture by thoroughly drying out the structure and your possessions. This will help prevent a mold infestation and increase the odds of being able to fully restore everything.

What happens if you don’t remove water quickly and completely? Here’s the tick-tock.

One hour later

• Water, flowing wherever it can, is soaked up by your walls, floors, furniture, upholstery, etc.
• Your documents, books and photos are quickly damaged
• Furniture finishes bleed into your carpeting

One day later

• Drywall swells up and warps
• Metal tarnishes
• Wood swells and cracks
• A musty odor is noticeable

One week later

• Mold colonies have a chance to become established (after just 48 hours)
• Floors, doors, windows and studs swell and warp; paint blisters
• Metal corrodes and rusts

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your residence or commercial building and your property after suffering damage from a fire, storm, water, mold or biohazard disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Keep Water Out of Your Suffield Basement

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Following these tips from SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can help prevent water from entering your Suffield basement.

When your basement floods, it can cost you time and money—and may ruin appliances, furnishings and personal belongings that you have stored there. Sometimes the flood is from a sudden intense storm, a burst pipe or an appliance leak, but often the water enters more slowly and frequently, leaving you with ongoing damage to your Suffield home.

Prevent Water from Entering Your Basement

A common cause of water in basements in north central Connecticut is from foundation leaks. If you have a perimeter drainage system that isn’t keeping the water out, you’ll want to hire a professional waterproofing firm to correct or upgrade your system.

But often, the fix is much easier and faster—and something you can do yourself. Typically, you want to home in on the features of your house and yard that direct water away from your foundation.

Check your gutters. Your house’s drainage system includes your gutters and downspouts. Gutters can get clogged with leaves and debris, so make sure they are cleaned out; some homeowners have to do this a couple of times a year if trees surround the home.

Next, check your cleaned-out gutters after a heavy rainfall. If water overflows along the run of a gutter, it may need to be adjusted to the appropriate angle to direct water to the downspout.

Your downspouts should extend far enough to prevent water from pooling near your foundation. If not, purchase extenders to carry the water ten feet or more away from your home.

Check your slope. The ground surrounding your home should slope away from the foundation on all sides to carry water away from your foundation. You can fill in small depressions or swales with clay-based soil, but if there are large soggy areas or your home is surrounded by hills that drain water toward it, you’ll need to hire a civil engineer to regrade your property.

SERVPRO to the Water Damage Rescue

When you do get water in your basement, you can call on SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to clean up the damage. We are the north central Connecticut experts in water damage restoration and we will arrive at your home quickly, gauge the damage and outline a plan to get you back to normal. And we don’t just repair structural damage; we can clean, sanitize and restore your possessions affected by the water damage, including furniture, personal items—even clothing. We’ll even coordinate with your insurance company to expedite your homeowners claim!

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the people, skills and equipment to help homeowners recover from water damage and eradicate mold. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785 any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We Employ Great People!

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

If you ever wonder how you will be treated as a SERVPRO customer, please read on! Our crew members are polite, helpful and respectful.

In addition to the high-level training and top-notch products and equipment that SERVPRO is famous for, we at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield are especially proud of the way our people do their jobs and treat our customers.

We understand that every one of our customers is in a situation they don’t want to be in: facing home damage from a water, fire, storm or biohazard disaster. At the very least, they’re inconvenienced, and at the worst, they’re shell-shocked by their sudden change in fortune. Because of that, our SERVPRO crew takes care to respect and empathize with every customer.

So, no matter the nature of your emergency, you can be sure that while SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is taking care of your home and possessions, our people are taking care of you! This is what our customers have to say:

“We can't say enough about the project managers … . They were always responsive and answered all of our questions, and were extremely professional. It was a difficult time for us; the water caused a lot of damage but we felt good about our decision to go with SERVPRO. We hope nobody has to go through what we went through, but if you do, we highly suggest SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield.”

“We had a flood in our basement and SERVPRO came out and did a great job. Everyone from the office to the crews were polite and professional. I would recommend them to anyone looking for a professional company.”

“I cannot say enough about how wonderful the SERVPRO team was in handling our flooded basement. From drying out, caring for our belongings and an abatement, they were caring and professional the entire way. Someone was always available to answer my calls and email, even late at night. They helped us navigate through insurance red tape and kept us informed throughout the whole process. They will be the first I call if anything like this should ever happen again and I HIGHLY recommend them.”

“After two huge trees crashed into my house, I was told I had to move. This is where SERVPRO comes in. They came in the middle of the night, cleaned and created some order from chaos. They were beyond helpful throughout a long and tedious process for many days. When it was time to move, they again exhibited a courtesy and professionalism that is rare in this day and age. Their movers treated my possessions as carefully as they would their own. Nothing was too much trouble for them, and get this … no matter what we asked of then, they did it with a smile. This is one of the best experiences I've had in my 86 years!”

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your residence or commercial building and your property after suffering damage from a fire, storm, water, mold or biohazard disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Northern Connecticut Businesses Can Purchase SERVPRO’s Proprietary Disinfectant

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

Your customers strongly prefer businesses that are visibly clean. Be sure yours is by using SERVPROXIDE, our proprietary disinfectant.

As a corporation, SERVPRO was well-prepared to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Building on our expertise in deep cleaning and disinfecting, SERVPRO developed and began offering a new professional corporate pathogen cleaning service called Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

One key element of this cleaning program is SERVPROXIDE™, our in-house hospital-grade disinfectant. When used as directed, SERVPROXIDE kills 99.999% of bacteria and viruses. We feel that this product is so effective and easy to use that, for the first time in more than five decades, SERVPRO has decided to sell  SERVPROXIDE directly to corporate customers (through Amazon Business) in northern Connecticut and beyond.

Customers Strongly Prefer a Clean Facility

A “Cleaned with SERVPRO Disinfectants” window sticker is available with certain SERVPROXIDE purchases. Why is that important? Well, one thing that COVID-19 has shown business owners is that customers really care about cleanliness. In fact, in a 2020 Harris Poll, 71% of consumers expect businesses to be cleaner than their own homes. Now, as our nation continues to fight the pandemic, business owners need to take steps to show customers that they are maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness in their facilities.

When used as directed, SERVPROXIDE kills a wide range of pathogens, disinfects hard surfaces, sanitizes soft surfaces and neutralizes odors on fabrics and carpets—yet it carries the EPA’s lowest toxicity rating and is NSF-rated for use on food contact surfaces with no rinse required. (Note that if you experience COVID-19 contamination at your facility, SERVPRO advises hiring a professional pathogen cleaning service to completely sanitize your facility.) 

“Since launching our professional pathogen cleaning service, our customers have been asking for support with their daily follow-up cleaning. We listened,” said Mike Stahl, SERVPRO’s Chief Marketing Officer. “SERVPROXIDE can elevate everyday cleaning for business owners as they proactively clean registers, door handles, restrooms, counters, tabletops, or any other surface.”

This Is One Happy SERVPROXIDE Customer!

“Being 100% sure that our cleaning practices are effective gives us the opportunity to focus on what we do. We make pizza!!! Anyone that works in a high-volume pizzeria knows what a whirlwind of chaos it can be. The fact that SERVPROXIDE is ready to use and requires no dilution, gives me peace of mind about what we’re using on our food surfaces, as well as NSF and EPA registrations. I want our customers to know that we take their health seriously, and that’s why we choose to use SERVPROXIDE in our food truck. You trust us to make pizza, we trust SERVPRO to make our disinfectant. It’s as simple as that. Also, pineapple DOES belong on pizza,” stated Danny Bruckert, owner/pizza maker for Groundlings Pizza Co., Brooklyn, NY.

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property after a natural disaster. We also offer year-round commercial cleaning services and HVAC maintenance. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

SERVPRO Cleans Up Biohazard Contamination in North Central Connecticut

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Whether it's a sewage backup, bloodborne pathogen, chemical spill or other biohazard mess, call SERVPRO for fast, complete and respectful cleanup.

If you own or manage a business, you know what a balancing act it can be. There are predictable challenges to be met and then there are situations that occur without warning. Having a sudden biohazard contamination at your north central Connecticut facility is one of those situations, and being able to deal with it quickly can make a huge difference to your operations and your profitability.

Maybe your sewage backed up. Maybe there’s a chemical spill. Perhaps there was an accident or crime, and now you have bloodborne contamination in your building. Whatever happened, it’s essential that you get the biohazardous substances cleaned up fast and completely, all while following safety and cleanliness regulations. And, you have to prevent ongoing contamination while you protect the health of your employees and customers.

That’s where SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield comes in. We have the specific training, experience, equipment and products to safely, swiftly and thoroughly clean up even the worst biohazard messes in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

SERVPRO Understands Biohazards

Obviously, with the health risks involved, biohazard cleanup is a challenging task. But everyone at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield understands that it can also be an emotional situation. So, when we show up to help you, all our crew members treat you, your employees and your property with respect and empathy.

We also know that a biohazard crisis can occur at any time of day or night. That’s why, 24/7, our crews are ready to come out promptly to evaluate the situation. Because every minute counts in a biohazard emergency, we recommend you follow our Biohazard Emergency Tips to help protect your building and your people.

We Handle Sewage, Bloodborne Messes and More

Biohazard situations come in many types, and we can handle them all:

• Sewage backup
• Crime scenes
• Accidental deaths, suicides and homicides
• Bloody accidents
• Hoarding situations
• Animal waste and/or remains
• Chemical spills
• Drug labs

Beyond the obvious mess, sewage backups sweep dangerous bacteria and viruses into your building. SERVPRO restores your facility by cleaning out the sewage and completely drying, disinfecting and deodorizing your building and furnishings.

A bloody accident or crime scene is extremely disturbing and the blood, body fluids and other contaminants may pose a serious health risk. Let us handle the mess, the danger and the disturbing nature of the scene quickly and completely.

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property after a natural disaster. We also offer year-round commercial cleaning services and HVAC maintenance. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

What’s It Like to Hire SERVPRO for Water Damage Remediation Services?

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

Your home's water damage may be small or large, but SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield will respond promptly, clean up thoroughly and work respectfully.

Water damage in your home can be a seemingly endless problem that can drain your time, energy, emotions and—let’s face it—your money. Sometimes the damage is sudden and overwhelming, such as after a hurricane or other strong storm, when parts of your home are overrun by water. Other times, the damage is less overwhelming but still quite serious, such as when a water appliance fails or a pipe bursts. And other times, the damage is more subtle, for instance when a small, unnoticed leak creates a colony of mold.

All these situations need to be treated as a true water emergency and dealt with promptly and professionally. That’s why you should call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to restore your home and property back to before-damage condition. SERVPRO has the people, tools and experience to do your water damage cleanup and restoration job the right way. See what our customers have to say about working with us.

“The team was amazing! They did an excellent job and worked every moment they were here. Extremely efficient and everything looks great!!!”—Deb in Manchester

“The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield met and went above my expectations of a restoration company when a water pipe burst. Everyone I came in contact with was professional and had a great vibe about them. I felt at ease working with SERVPRO and will be recommending them in the future.”—Gerard in Enfield

“The water damage disaster I recently experienced must’ve been my lowest point but the SERVPRO team was the very definition of what professionalism is supposed to be, if not more. They were meticulous and did not leave a single stone unturned. They were knowledgeable and did their jobs while respecting me, my time and space, and the property itself. They treated me as more than just a client and inspired me to keep pushing forward.”—Harry in Bloomfield

“The SERVPRO team did a great job cleaning up the mess in our home from some flooding that was caused by a broken pipe. They called within an hour of us notifying our insurance company and arrived an hour later. They stayed late into the night removing carpet, ceiling tiles, hardwoods, etc. It was extremely hot and humid and hard work. Dustin Jones was our project manager. He did a great job explaining everything to us and staying in touch throughout the cleanup process. We felt very confident and comfortable that the job was being done right. Thanks very much.”—Dave M. in Bloomfield

“I had a major water loss at my house in Farmington. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield was very professional, understanding and helpful. At first, the event seemed overwhelming but with the help of SERVPRO, everything went smoothly.”—Lori in Farmington

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the people, skills and equipment to help homeowners recover from water damage and eradicate mold. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785 any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Count on SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield for Storm Damage Cleanup

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

Get ready for the next big storm by deciding to call on SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to clean up any storm damage at your home.

As we enter hurricane season, it’s good to know in advance where to turn if your house suffers damage from a wind, rain or other storm. In that kind of situation—after a hurricane, tornado, blizzard or maybe just a bad thunderstorm or protracted rain storm—you and a lot of other homeowners will all need help to protect and restore your homes. But how to decide on a reliable, experienced, well-equipped storm damage restoration company that can respond quickly to your emergency?

At SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, we have a long record of providing just that kind of storm damage restoration. Take it from our customers, and read what they think about their experiences with us.

“I love how professional this company is. They are experienced in mold removal, as I had some in my basement due to a previous flood. I haven’t had any problems with flooding after any storms since then. Great customer service and very responsive. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield was the right choice.”—Traci in East Granby

“I cannot say enough about how wonderful the SERVPRO team was in handling our flooded basement. From drying out, caring for our belongings and an abatement, they were caring and professional the entire way. Someone was always available to answer my calls and email (thanks, Jorge!), even late at night. They helped us navigate through insurance red tape and kept us informed throughout the whole process. They will be the first I call if anything like this should ever happen again and I HIGHLY recommend them.”—Elizabeth in Granby

“The SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield staff was very polite and nice. I'm happy they came so quickly!”—Jennifer in Simsbury

“The crew from SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield was very polite, professional and efficient. The gentlemen were extremely neat with the cleanup.”—James L. in Durham

“My water damage came from the massive storms that rolled through Connecticut. My roof had a leak, but I was unaware of it until there was standing water in my home. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield was able to come out immediately and help assess the damage. I was thrilled with the process AND the end result.”—Samantha in East Granby

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other flooding disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other flooding disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

A Word from Our Commercial Customers

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

You can't afford down time when your commercial facility has a water, fire or other emergency. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield pronto!

Every business owner or manager gets hit with unpleasant surprises from time to time. That’s when you must respond quickly to deal with the situation and get your business back on track. When that unpleasant surprise is a water, fire, storm, mold or biohazard emergency, your business should call our business!

We’re SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, and we can clean up your leaks and floods, your after-fire damage, your lingering mold issue, your sewage mess—just about any disaster and damage your facility endures, we can clean up. And we do it quickly, completely and respectfully. Read on for what some of our customers say about our work and our people.

“Having never dealt with water damage before, I was more than pleasantly surprised at how quick their response was and how thorough SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield was with my business. In fact, they even did a couple of things that I wasn't expecting that helped with the cost of the whole restoration (over $30K). Staff were experts in each area and very customer oriented. I would highly recommend them to anyone who has a need for their services! A+++”—Victor E. in Bloomfield

“Your project manager, Brandy, handled this loss from beginning to end and was courteous, professional, and truly went the extra mile for us. Brandy not only knows the “ins and outs” of mitigation and restoration but she also knows the business aspects … [she] helped shift things around as needed to keep us going. We were elated with the work that was completed ….”—Robert in Suffield

“I am Head of Technology and Operations for a large broadcast network in Hartford. I want to thank your team for coming to our building yesterday and disinfecting our area on such short notice. Going forward, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield will be our emergency contact in case this happens again. Thanks so much!”—Mike N. in Hartford

“SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield was very impressive, both in the field and in the office. They came out fast and removed tons of water from a pipe break at my property in Springfield. I would recommend the SERVPRO team to anyone I know if they have a pipe break, ice dam, water damage or something similar.”—Kathy in Springfield

“Excellent, trustworthy cleaning service! The team is super efficient. They work quickly, quietly and most importantly, they do a fantastic job. Nothing was left out and everything was done right. I highly recommend SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield!”—Camille in Bloomfield

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property after a natural disaster. We also offer year-round commercial cleaning services and HVAC maintenance. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Clean Up Water Damage in Your Bloomfield Home the Right Way

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

Even if you have just a little water damage in your Bloomfield home, you need to get everything completely dried and dehumidified—and it's not easy.

Small or large, water damage in your Bloomfield house needs to be taken seriously. Puddles or flood, it’s a genuine emergency that can end up costing you thousands of dollars. The problem is, the job is not as simple as mopping up the water and hoping it dries.

It’s not just the water you see on the floor that’s the problem; it’s also the moisture. Your floors, floor coverings, walls, furnishings and possessions all need to be 100% dried out. That’s not something you can necessarily do by yourself. And if you try, will you be sure all the moisture is removed? If not, you can suffer more structural damage, lingering odors and the very real potential for a serious mold infestation.

A professional water damage remediation company like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield will bring your home and property back to before-damage condition. SERVPRO has the people, tools and experience to do the job the right way.

Removing the Water

SERVPRO brings in our powerful pumps and truck-mounted vacuum units to quickly remove the majority of water from your property—sometimes, hundreds or thousands of gallons! Depending on how much water needs to be removed, we may use powerful submersible pumps in addition to industrial wet/dry vacuums. 

Among the other tools and equipment we use to remove the water from your Bloomfield home are:

• Moisture detectors, hygrometers and other meters to measure the degree of saturation
• Infrared cameras that can detect water lurking behind walls and ceilings

It’s important that water removal be done thoroughly, which will speed up the next step, drying and dehumidifying. 

Drying Your Property

Even the best water extraction equipment cannot remove all the moisture in floors and walls that have been soaked. Because nearly all building materials (such as wood, drywall and flooring materials) are porous, they absorb water, and that can cause them to swell, warp, degrade or become infested with mold.

The SERVPRO crew measures square footage, temperature and humidity levels to calculate how many air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to dry your home. Then we bring our best equipment to bear on restoring your home:

• Industrial-grade dehumidifiers to help prevent secondary water damage (swelling and warping)
• High-speed air movers to create airflow that accelerates the evaporation of moisture

We’ll carefully monitor the progress using moisture meters until everything is sufficiently dried and dehumidified.

Meanwhile, SERVPRO dries, cleans and deodorizes your furnishings and personal possessions. When everything is fully restored, we return your property to your home, leaving you with no traces of the water disaster!

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the people, skills and equipment to help homeowners recover from water damage and eradicate mold. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785 any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

What Our Customers Say About SERVPRO’s Fire Cleanup Services

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield will do its best to make your fire damage restoration experience as easy and quick as it can be.

There are very few silver linings when it comes to experiencing a house fire, but many SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield customers in north central Connecticut have managed to find the positive in a difficult experience. We are so grateful to be able to make a real difference in the lives of our customers on some of their most difficult days!

“Their response time is uncanny! They arrived before I could finish cleaning up the house to show them around. Our back office had caught fire from a power strip but luckily it was extinguished within minutes. The team that came was very kind and informative—even my kids learned a few things!”—Nikita in Enfield

“Just want to give a great big shout out to the SERVPRO crew. They came in to help us with the water and smoke damage after the fire. Everyone was so helpful, kind, hardworking and compassionate. All those qualities were so appreciated as we navigated through this stressful time. Thank you all so much for a job very well done.”—Josh in Bloomfield

“Recently we had a fire in our kitchen from a towel catching fire by the stove. Just a few days later, SERVPRO removed all the damaged material and furniture from our home. The builders were able to start the reconstruction process very soon, thanks to their speediness. I’m very happy with the hard work put in by the SERVPRO team.”—Saul in East Granby

“On an extremely windy and very cold night two weeks ago, our woodstove experienced a sudden and profound back-draft, which filled the main floor of our house with thick, dark smoke, and also caused a small fire in the room. Through our insurance company we engaged SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield shortly after the event. This was an entirely new experience for us and after our first interaction with SERVPRO staff we knew we were in good hands. They really know their stuff. The project was handled with professional efficiency from start to finish and the results were absolutely amazing. The team of women who spent hours cleaning everything in the house was thorough and so very polite and patient with this harried home-owner. A+ to everyone at SERVPRO and many thanks for returning our home to normal once again.”—Liz in Hartland

When you have suffered damage from a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration and cleanup, as well as natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage and mold remediation, water and mold damage, and chemical and biohazard cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from fire, water, mold, sewage, storm, natural disaster and other damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered damage from a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

SERVPRO Will Remediate Fire Damage in Your Granby Home

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to thoroughly clean and deodorize your Granby home and possessions after the flames have been put out.

Your Granby home caught fire! Fortunately, everyone is safe and unhurt. But your house? There could be a lot of damage ... and maybe you can’t even stay there until it’s cleaned up and repaired. Beyond the practical challenges of getting your life and home back in shape, you’re facing strong emotions and the uncertainty of exactly how to restore the damage to your home and your possessions—and fire, smoke and soot are extremely challenging to fully clean up.

You need to find a local fire damage cleanup expert who is trustworthy and knowledgeable—and who can get the job done quickly and completely. In Granby and north central Connecticut, turn to SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield. We have the resources, experience and equipment to fully restore your home. We’ll respond ASAP, evaluate your home and property and clean, restore and deodorize your possessions and structure.

This is our three-part approach to remediating damage from fire, smoke and soot after a house fire in Granby.

We Clean and Restore Your Building

A house fire leaves soot and other damage on your walls, ceilings, floors and trim. Upon arrival, we assess the damage, then use the appropriate equipment and products to clean each surface. We remove all traces of soot and prepare the surfaces to be repainted if necessary.

We Clean and Restore Your Personal Possessions

SERVPRO will evaluate your furnishings—including area rugs, furniture and window treatments—and your personal possessions—such as electronics, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, artwork, books and documents—to determine what is restorable. We test each item to determine which of our many cleaning techniques will be safest and most effective.

Because fire damage remediation can be complicated, SERVPRO creates a digital inventory of all your damaged items. This makes it easy to track every possession as it moves through the restoration process, while creating clear documentation for your insurance claim.

We Deodorize Everything in Your Home

In addition to cleaning your Granby home and everything in it, SERVPRO deodorizes your structure and possessions of lingering smoke odor. Rather than masking odors, we use advanced equipment, such as foggers that penetrate all the crevices in your home and furnishings, to remove smoke odors at the source.  

When you have suffered damage from a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration and cleanup, as well as natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage and mold remediation, water and mold damage, and chemical and biohazard cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from fire, water, mold, sewage, storm, natural disaster and other damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered damage from a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

How to Prepare for Hurricane Season

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

With hurricane season starting in north central Connecticut, be prepared for the storms with these tips from SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield.

Summer and fall are known as hurricane season in many parts of the U.S. Each year, it seems like there are more storms, the storms are more powerful and damaging—and the season starts earlier and goes on longer. That means that you need to be prepared for hurricanes that might park over your home or business and drop lots of rain while the winds whirl—and that means increased property damage!

This summer and fall, make sure you prepare your home or business to withstand more wind and more water from more hurricanes. Here are several important steps to take when a hurricane is forecasted for your area.

Reinforce Your Structure

Few weather events can cause the kind of damage that a hurricane can, with its high wind speeds and wind-driven rain. If a hurricane is on its way, check these parts of your house or business.

• Roof: The winds of a hurricane can peel some or all of your roof right off. Even just a few missing shingles will allow water to penetrate your home or business. Before the storm, check for missing or damaged shingles, and consider hiring a roofing pro to repair or replace them.
• Gutters: A well-working gutter will route water from your roof and away from your home. Look at your gutters before the storm: are they securely attached? are they unclogged? Again, a roofer can do this and perform any needed repairs.
• Windows: Windows are particularly vulnerable to hurricane damage, so you may want to cover them, either with plywood or hurricane shutters.
• Lawn and Driveway: If large objects aren’t secured in place, they can be thrown around by the strong winds, potentially smashing into your home or business or other property. If you can store objects inside (garbage cans and outdoor furniture, for example), do so. Otherwise lash everything down.

Keep Your Family Safe and Healthy

The strong winds of a hurricane can cause power outages that can last for a week or more. It’s wise to set your refrigerator and freezer to the lowest possible temperature before the storm arrives. Food will keep for 4 hours in an unopened refrigerator and will remain frozen for 48 hours in a full freezer.

Protect the health and safety of your family by putting together a cache of food, water and other supplies. This should include:

• Nonperishable food to last three days or more
• A gallon of water for each person per day
• An emergency kit that contains:
  —First aid supplies
  —Flashlights and batteries
  —Charged cell phones
  —Pain relievers and essential medications
  —Important paperwork (for identification and insurance claims)
  —Cash

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other flooding disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other flooding disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Commercial Mold Cleanup in Enfield

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

If your Enfield commercial facility has a mold problem, call the pros at SERVPRO of Enfield/Bloomfield to clean it up for good.

Your Enfield commercial building can become infested with mold in a number of ways. All it takes is moisture plus some time, and the mold spores that are naturally floating around in the air can find a place to grow!

How can you prevent a mold problem? And if your building already has mold, how can you get rid of it?

Preventing Mold in Your Enfield Commercial Building

The primary way to prevent mold from growing in your office, factory, restaurant, hotel, retail shop or warehouse is to keep water out. No water = no mold.

• Routinely check your facility for leaks (especially from the roof, around windows, near pipes and vents, and close to water fixtures). Clean up and repair any leaks ASAP.
• Periodically check the humidity in your building. Even a too-high level of humidity can cause mold to grow.
• If employees or customers report a mildewy odor, look into it.
• If you have a flood in your building, get the water cleaned up and building materials, furnishings and items completely dried out within 48 hours—or call a professional water damage restoration company like SERVPRO.

Getting Rid of Mold

If you discover a mold infestation in your place of business, the most important thing is not to ignore it. You can try to tackle the problem yourself, but mold issues have a way of persisting. You think you can dry out the area yourself and simply wipe away the mold, but mold is a stubborn foe.

Here at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, we are highly skilled at mold removal. We have the sophisticated training, the proven procedures, the equipment (like air movers, commercial dehumidifiers and moisture meters) and the experience to eradicate your mold infestation the first time.

These are the steps we recommend you take (and not take!) once you discover a mold problem at your Enfield commercial facility:

What not to do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces that has visible or suspected mold.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

What to do:

• Stay out of the affected areas.
• Turn off your HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield for mold remediation services.

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property after a natural disaster. We also offer year-round commercial cleaning services and HVAC maintenance. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Summer Storm Damage Cleanup in Suffield

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

Summer storms in Suffield can gravely damage your home or business. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield for start-to-finish storm damage cleanup.

In Suffield, Connecticut, summer storms—thunderstorms, heavy rainstorms and even tornadoes and hurricanes—can occur with little to no warning, causing a lot of damage to your home or business. While winter storm damage gets a lot of attention, the flooding and structural damage from summer storms in northern Connecticut can be just as costly and difficult to clean up.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is ready to work with you on recovering from summer storm damage.

• We offer around-the-clock emergency service, so we get to you fast
• We are highly trained in the science of water damage restoration
• We are locally owned and operated, with our headquarters just down the road in Bloomfield

Stormwaters Are Dangerous and Dirty

When stormwater surges into your home or business in Suffield, it carries with it a number of problems.

• First, your building, furniture and possessions get soaked and stained, leaving you with a tough cleanup job.
• Next, stormwater is dirty and often contaminated with chemicals, oil, and bacteria and other pathogens, putting you at risk of disease or injury.
• Finally, the heavy soaking that your property takes in a storm means that thoroughly drying everything out will be a challenge. If just a bit of moisture remains—maybe behind a wall panel—you may have to contend with a stubborn mold or mildew problem.

Why Call SERVPRO for Storm Flooding Cleanup

The foundation of our business is flooding cleanup and storm damage restoration. With our technical expertise, latest technology, and range and quantity of equipment, our crews can tackle the biggest cleanups to return your salvageable building materials and items to their pre-flood state.

• That’s why we hire, train and support both specialized water damage restoration techs and applied structural drying techs. These skilled crewmembers know how to evaluate your damage, measure moisture in the air and bring the latest drying technology to bear to get your home or business back in pre-storm condition.
• Additionally, while big storms can overwhelm many restoration companies, that won’t happen with us. We are one of more than 1,700 SERVPRO franchises across the country, and have access to equipment and staffing that smaller companies simply can’t touch. (SERVPRO even musters Disaster Recovery Teams for major storms and disasters.)

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other flooding disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other flooding disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Psssst: Time to Clean Your Cellphone!

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

A cellphone can carry a shocking number of disease-causing germs! Our tips will help you keep it cleaner.

One of the things we’ve learned over the past few years while coping with a viral pandemic is that keeping our environment and possessions cleaner pays off in better health. So, we at SERVPRO® recommend that you continue basic hygiene measures such as washing your hands frequently. And we strongly recommend that—pandemic or no pandemic—you regularly clean your cellphone. Because that essential little device goes with you just about everywhere. You touch it, then touch something else, then touch it, then... you get the idea.

To be blunt, your cellphone is loaded with germs. And to be specific, a recent study done by the University of Arizona revealed that cellphones are covered with ten times more bacteria than a toilet seat!

Think Before You Touch Your Phone

Pay attention to what you touch before and after you use your phone. A gas pump? Your lunch? What else? Anyway, try to wash your hands with soap and water before you pick up your cell phone, or at least clean up with hand sanitizer.

• When eating: try not to use your phone while eating. Wash with soap and water when done
• On the road: when running errands, use wipes or hand sanitizer before using your phone
• In the bathroom: your “go zone” should be a cell phone “no-go zone”

Develop a Phone-Cleaning Routine

Because you touch your cellphone throughout the day, you should follow the advice of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which is to clean all high-touch surfaces in your home and at work regularly.

Start by wiping your cellphone with a soft, dry cloth when you return home. Then, two to three times a week, thoroughly disinfect the phone.

• Avoid bleach, bathroom cleaners or other abrasive cleansers. Instead, use disinfecting wipes and soft dry cloths
• Remove the phone from its case, then wipe the phone and case with the dry cloth
• Using disinfecting wipes, clean the case and phone, including ports and buttons, being careful not to drench the surface
• Air-dry for five minutes, then finish by wiping the phone and case dry with a new soft cloth

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Offers the Highest Level of Cleaning and Disinfecting

Think of all the frequently-touched surfaces in your home or business: faucets, phones, computers, light switches and more. To provide the most thorough cleaning and disinfecting, SERVPRO created a new service called Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. Designed to exceed CDC standards, this proactive deep cleaning program is built around hospital-grade cleansers, proven procedures and SERVPRO’s highly-trained staff. Want to better protect the health of family members, employees and customers? Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned will do it!

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your residence or commercial building and your property after suffering damage from a fire, storm, water, mold or biohazard disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Ready to Reopen? Cleanliness Matters to Your Customers

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

As you welcome back customers, show that you value their health and safety—have SERVPRO of West Hartford clean and disinfect your business.

After an extremely challenging year of coping with a worldwide pandemic, business owners are eager to get back to resuming normal operations and welcoming back consumers for shopping and dining. But a year like 2020, filled with anxiety and uncertainty, has left its mark on people in many ways. Bottom line: it may take some effort to reassure consumers that your business is a safe place to be.

Last year, SERVPRO commissioned a survey* to determine consumer attitudes about cleanliness in places of business and how that affects their willingness to frequent stores and restaurants. The results were pretty striking.

• More than 80% said businesses need to be more aggressive and thorough about cleaning than they were before the pandemic hit
• 71% want the businesses they visit to be cleaner than their own homes
• 70% say they think about ways to reduce exposure to the coronavirus when away from their homes
• 76% believe that the way a business handles cleanliness reflects their overall approach to running their business

How SERVPRO Can Help Your Business Reopen and Welcome Back Customers

In response to the pandemic, SERVPRO launched a new service called Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, which provides businesses and homeowners with deep cleaning, disinfecting and COVID-19 cleanup. This new defensive cleaning program goes far beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices to incorporate proactive viral pathogen cleaning. Our more than 50 years of experience in biohazard cleanup and decontamination means you can trust SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to bring a higher standard of clean to your facility.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is based on our 3Cs:

• Consult: We meet with you to create a unique cleaning service based on your facility’s individual needs.
• Clean: Our crews do an expert deep clean using our proprietary EPA-approved hospital-grade cleaning solutions, while adhering to CDC cleaning and decontamination standards.
• Certify: The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield in your front window, along with digital emblems and other collateral, shows your customers your commitment to having the cleanest facility possible for their safety.

One more thing our survey showed: 64% of the respondents are more likely to shop or dine at a business that displays a decal testifying to professional cleaning than one that doesn’t. As you reopen or expand services, know that your customers are looking for proof that they will be as safe as possible in your business. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned can give you that edge.

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property after a natural disaster. We also offer year-round commercial cleaning services and HVAC maintenance. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

*Proprietary study prepared by Message Factors, Inc. Results are based on experiences and perceptions of 1,000 consumers surveyed May 2020.

Commercial Basement Water Flood Damage Cleanup in Bloomfield CT

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Basement Water Flood Damage Cleanup in Bloomfield CT

Commercial Basement Water Flood Damage Cleanup in Bloomfield CT

Your business can’t afford downtime. When floods cause commercial water damage, every minute you spend dealing with your flooded business costs you money. At SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield, we understand that when you need water mitigation, flood cleanup, or water damage restoration, you can’t afford to wait. When our team performs commercial basement water flood damage cleanup in Bloomfield CT, we respond quickly and we work fast. 

At SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, our team answers your call 24/7 because we know what’s at stake. When we do commercial basement water flood damage cleanup in Bloomfield CT, we arrive quickly. We bring the manpower, the solutions, and the equipment we need, and we get the job done fast.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield Water Flood Damage Cleanup 

You know what happens if you put emergency water cleanup on hold. As the hours pass, stagnant pools of floodwater settle into your basement. The water eventually goes away, but before it leaves, it seeps into your basement and storage areas. Water and debris damage your stored property, appliances, equipment, and stock. If your water damage cleaning crew doesn’t do the work fast, bacteria and odors settle in. The cleanup process becomes even more challenging. 

At SERVPRO, when we perform commercial basement water flood damage cleanup in Bloomfield CT, we work fast. We have seen how our water damage recovery process prevents commercial property from further damage and minimizes financial losses. We get the job done with our specialized equipment. We remove water, dry out surfaces, dehumidify, deodorize and restore your basement.  

Basement Flood Cleanup Walkthrough

We begin commercial basement water flood damage cleanup in Bloomfield CT with a walkthrough and assessment. We determine your immediate needs, identify areas of concern, and quickly organize a water remediation, cleanup, and restoration plan that meets your approval. 

Separating Damaged and Undamaged Property

When we can rescue salvageable property, it helps minimize your financial losses. We begin by separating salvageable property from property that’s wet, soiled, or damaged. This preventative action stops floodwater-saturated property and equipment from contaminating dry, undamaged items. We remove salvageable property and place it in a safe, dry area away from your wet basement.

Water Removal

Water extraction is a critical step in our process of commercial basement water flood damage cleanup in Bloomfield businesses. When dirty floodwaters saturate wood, carpeting, upholstery, drywall, and other porous surfaces, these areas gradually deteriorate. If they remain even slightly wet, they also provide a perfect environment for mold, mildew, and bacteria. We prevent ongoing basement water damage by removing the water with our powerful extraction equipment.

Dry-Out 

When we perform commercial basement water flood damage cleanup in Bloomfield CT, we do a thorough dry-out. Left behind moisture provides a perfect place for bacteria, mold, and mildew to grow. They do more than leave annoying scents in the air. Mold, mildew, and other contaminants sometimes cause health effects for young children and adults. We use our specialized drying equipment to completely dry out wet surfaces and minimize the potential health effects.

Dehumidification 

Commercial basement water flood damage cleanup in Bloomfield CT requires a multi-faceted process. Dehumidification is the final step for thoroughly removing the moisture that floodwaters leave behind. During this final water removal step, we use industrial dehumidifiers to remove the moisture from the air before it creates new problems.  

Odor Removal 

When floodwaters drain away from your basement, sewage, dirt, bacteria, and organic materials leave behind an unpleasant odor. Mold and mildew often add to the noxious scent. Our team eliminates the floodwater odors by thoroughly deodorizing your basement. We use industrial solutions and specialized equipment to eliminate lingering odors before they drift into your building’s upper levels.

Restoration Completion

Our team provides professional restoration services to finish each commercial basement water flood damage cleanup in Bloomfield CT. We clean, repair, and return your salvageable property, and we haul away unsalvageable items. We perform structural water damage repair, drywall replacement, and wall repainting. We also replace damaged carpeting and decor. We perform all the tasks you require to get your flooded business back to its pre-flood condition. 

Contact SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield

We’re your local SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield team and we’re dedicated to providing commercial basement water flood damage cleanup in Bloomfield CT. For more information about water damage recovery, cleanup for flooded businesses and flooded houses, water damage reconstruction, water damage recovery, and restoration services.

Great Reviews from Satisfied Customers

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

We at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield strive to provide outstanding customer service ... and we have the receipts to prove it.

When it comes to fire and water damage restoration in the north central Connecticut area, we at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield think we’re the best choice. We hold certification by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and have an A– rating by the Better Business Bureau.

But it’s our numerous positive reviews from Yelp and Google that we’re most proud of. Read on to see what other homeowners have to say about our staff and services.

A Pleasure from Start to Finish

“I had an awful sewer leak in my house and after the plumbers did their work, SERVPRO came and did cleanup. It was a pleasure dealing with them from start to finish. … They arrived on time (crew of 3), got to work and did a great job. Quick, thorough, and clean!!! … Came in UNDER what initial estimator suggested. I am VERY happy I contracted with SERVPRO and the work they did!”

Best Ever

“I highly extend my appreciation to the crews of SERVPRO; they are the best ever. Great crews to deal with, no hassle, very polite, fast and reliable when it comes to working. They really made an extra effort to clean up everything inside my flooded house; everything was spotless.”

Amazing Customer Service

“100 stars go to SERVPRO for the outstanding service. They really are the guys to call for any disaster in your home. The most reliable crews, very professional, and stress-free to deal with. They made the whole process in restoring my home as smooth as possible. I’m very happy with the outcome; everything was perfect. Thank you very much for your amazing customer service.”

Caring and Professional

“I cannot say enough about how wonderful the SERVPRO team was in handling our flooded basement. From drying out, caring for our belongings, and an abatement, they were caring and professional the entire way. Someone was always available to answer my calls and email, even late at night. They helped us navigate through insurance red tape and kept us informed throughout the whole process. They will be the first I call if anything like this should ever happen again and I HIGHLY recommend them.”

A+ to Everyone at SERVPRO

“Our woodstove experienced a sudden and profound back-draft, which filled the main floor of our house with thick, dark smoke. Through our insurance company we engaged SERVPRO shortly after the event. This was an entirely new experience for us and after our first interaction with SERVPRO staff we knew we were in good hands. They really know their stuff. The project was handled with professional efficiency from start to finish and the results were absolutely amazing. The team of women who spent hours cleaning everything in the house were thorough and so very polite and patient with this harried homeowner. A+ to everyone at SERVPRO and many thanks for returning our home to normal once again.”

Response Time is Uncanny

“Their response time is uncanny! They arrived before I could finish cleaning up the house to show them around. Our back office had caught fire from a power strip, but luckily it was extinguished within minutes. The team that came was very kind and informative—even my kids learned a few things!”

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your residence or commercial building and your property after suffering damage from a fire, storm, water, mold or biohazard disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Your Hartland Basement Flooded After a Storm? Do This

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

If you have a flooded basement, here's how to handle it—or call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, the experts in flooded basements in Hartland, CT.

Basements can flood and cause water damage any time of the year, but late winter/early spring poses its own risks. Maybe there’s a late-season snow or ice storm. Maybe there’s a protracted deep freeze—winter’s last blast of cold air. Maybe everything warms up fast and there’s an early and intense thaw with flooding. Or maybe there’s rain that falls upon snow and the whole mess seems like it’s trying to get into your Hartland basement!

Unfortunately, February and March are prime time for flooded basements here in Connecticut, thanks to unpredictable weather and sudden storms. Read on for tips on how to cope with water damage in your basement.

(Note that while you can attempt all the repair yourself, if you don’t thoroughly dry out your basement, furniture and other possessions, you stand a strong chance of creating a mold infestation. If you have any doubts about tackling this job, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield will handle everything, start to finish, no worries.)

What To Do When Your Basement Floods

• Act fast: The sooner you respond to the water in your basement, the sooner you can stop the flow, start cleaning it up and, if needed, get professional help.
• Be safe: First, shut off the electricity to the basement. This may require getting an electrician to your home if you can’t reach your electric panel. Wear protective gear, especially boots and gloves. Consider a mask or goggles, too. And be careful walking around, since the wet floor may be slippery.
• Stop the water flow: If it’s a burst pipe that’s flooding your basement, shut off water to the house at the main valve. And if your basement has a floor drain, make sure it’s not clogged.
• Get rid of the water: If you have a sump pump, use that. Otherwise, a wet/dry vac or a mop and a bucket will do.

What To Do After the Water’s Gone

• Dry your stuff: Remove your wet furniture and possessions from the basement to dry. Ideally, you can drag things outside to dry in the sunshine. Everything will need to sit for at least 48 hours to prevent mold from growing, and even then, your items may not be completely dry.
• Get rid of carpet: Generally, carpeting is a lost cause after a basement flood. You’ll need to rip it up and toss it out and let the flooring dry.
• Let the basement dry out: Open windows and doors, and run fans and dehumidifiers. This will take several days. Also remove wet or damaged drywall and insulation—that’ll have to be replaced.
• Wash and sanitize: Once everything’s dry, wash it all, including walls and floor, and use a disinfecting spray or cleaner to discourage mold growth.

If You Need Flooded Basement Cleanup

When you call the flooded basement cleanup experts at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, we’ll respond ASAP, stop the water damage in its tracks, evaluate the situation, remove all the moisture from your home, and restore your possessions and structure to before-damage condition.

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other flooding disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other flooding disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Prevent Home Heating Fires in Your Suffield House

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

Winter is prime time for home heating fires. Avoid one in your Suffield home by following our basic tips.

We all love the comfort of a cozy, warm home when the temperature drops in north central Connecticut. Most of the time, you turn up the thermostat, set a fire in your fireplace, turn on the hot water … and comfort is literally at your fingertips. But don’t get complacent, because fire danger lurks in our home heating systems.

Follow these basic tips to reduce the chance of a home heating fire in your Suffield home.

Prevent Home Heating Fires with Regular Maintenance and Cleaning

Have your furnace inspected by an HVAC professional each year. Change your furnace filter each month and clear away anything flammable, like cardboard boxes and old paint, from the area around your furnace.

Have the HVAC expert check your water heater to be sure it is operating safely, as well.

Likewise, have your chimney cleaned every year, ideally before the heating season starts. A chimney sweep will remove soot and highly flammable creosote, and will inspect your chimney and fireplace for structural damage, like cracks, that could lead to a chimney fire.

Bonus: While you don’t use your clothes dryer to heat your home, it does contain a heating element. And if enough lint builds up in the dryer cabinet, it can ignite and cause devastating fire damage. Remove lint from the dryer’s trap after every use, and have a pro in once a year to clean the dryer duct and cabinet.

Use Your Fireplace Safely to Avoid a Home Heating Fire

Learn how to set a clean-burning fire using the top-down method, and always use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks from igniting nearby carpet or other flooring or objects.

Use Other Sources of Heat Safely to Prevent a Home Heating Fire

Space heaters are convenient, but beware: they are involved in almost three-quarters of fire-related deaths in the home. It’s important to purchase a space heater that has an emergency cut-off that will kick in if the heater is knocked over. Always plug the heater into a GFI outlet, which will cut electricity in case of a malfunction. Next, never run a space heater unattended and don’t fall asleep with one running. Finally, keep a three-foot margin around the heater when it is operating—and keep objects, furnishings, bedding, clothing, pets and especially children away.

Important: Under no circumstances should you use a gas oven to heat your home—it’s both a source of a house fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.

When you have suffered a home heating fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration and cleanup, as well as natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage and mold remediation, water and mold damage, and chemical and biohazard cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from fire, water, mold, sewage, storm, natural disaster and other damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a home heating fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Ask These Questions to Avoid Fire Damage in Your East Granby Home

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

Walk around your home and ask yourself these questions to help prevent fire damage in your East Granby, CT home.

If you need fire damage restoration in your East Granby, CT home, call on SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield. We are ready to help you with complete professional fire damage restoration services that will get you back in your home ASAP.

Look, nobody wants to have their home damaged or destroyed by a house fire, and we certainly hope it doesn’t happen to you and your family! That’s why we’ve created a list to help you avoid fire damage in your East Granby house.

Go through your house area-by-area asking yourself these questions. If any answers are “no,” you can make easy changes to reduce your chances of needing fire damage restoration.

Throughout the House

• Do your lighting fixtures have bulbs with the recommend wattage? Are the bulbs at least 12 inches from shades and combustibles?
• Are your electric cords in good condition? Are they running freely, not squished under carpets or crushed beneath furniture? Are your outlets feeding only the specified power load?

Basement

• Are the areas around your furnace or boiler, wood stove and water heater clear of flammable debris and combustible items?
• Are the access doors on your water heater closed?
• Are the wires and insulators on your electric breaker panel in good condition?
• Are any oily rags stored in air-tight containers away from heat sources?

First Floor

• Do you have at least one smoke detector installed and in working condition?
• Does your kitchen have a working fire extinguisher?
• Have you stored your towels, pot holders and other flammable items away from the stovetop?
• Is your stovetop free of built-up grease and food?
• Is your furniture made of fire-resistant upholstery?
• Has your chimney been cleaned and inspected in the last year? Does your fireplace have a screen to block sparks and is the area in front of the fireplace clear of flammable objects?

Second Floor

• Does each bedroom have a working smoke detector? Is there a working detector in the hall outside each sleeping area?
• Do all family members know how to escape a fire at night?
• Are space heaters at least three feet away from beds and other flammable materials?
• Are electric blankets UL-approved? Are the cords undamaged?

Laundry Room

• Is your dryer cabinet, duct and surrounding area free of built-up lint?
• Is your duct made of metal instead of plastic?

Garage

• Is the door between the house and garage solid and weather-stripped to prevent flames and gases from traveling?
• Is your garage free of junk, trash and flammable materials, such as old newspapers and used oil?
• Are gasoline (in approved containers) and oily rags (in air-tight containers) stored away from sources of ignition?

When you have suffered damage from a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration and cleanup, as well as natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage and mold remediation, water and mold damage, and chemical and biohazard cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from fire, water, mold, sewage, storm, natural disaster and other damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered damage from a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

SERVPRO Basement Flood Cleanup in Enfield CT

2/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Basement Flood Cleanup in Enfield CT

Sometimes floodwaters enter your home when you least expect them. When the water recedes, it usually leaves a dirty mess behind. In winter, sometimes the snow melts so quickly it rises fast and flows right into your basement. Springtime rains often cause water surges that require emergency flood cleanup.

We know that rising water can damage your home day or night, so we’re ready to work whenever you make the call. When we perform SERVPRO basement flood cleanup in Enfield CT homes, we bring the manpower and equipment to take on any mess a flood leaves behind. 

At SERVPRO, we’re experts at getting your home back to normal. Whether you need basement flood cleaning services or a top-to-bottom flooded house cleanup, we have the expertise to get the job done right. We respond 24/7 and we work fast. 

SERVPRO Basement Flood Cleanup 

When you need SERVPRO basement flood cleanup in Enfield CT, we send professional cleaning and restoration experts to your home. Each member of our team is a SERVPRO-trained professional. We arrive with specialized industrial equipment to remove water, dry out surfaces, dehumidify, deodorize and restore your home to its pre-flood condition.  

Basement Flood Cleanup Walkthrough

Before we get started with SERVPRO basement flood cleanup in Enfield CT homes, we inspect your basement and evaluate the damage. We do a walkthrough to search for visible and hidden damage. We inspect unfinished and finished areas for signs of floodwater damage. We look for areas that require black water clean up and examine porous surfaces for water saturation. We see what needs to be done and we plan our work accordingly. 

Separating Damaged and Undamaged Property

Protecting and salvaging property is essential to SERVPRO basement flood cleanup in Enfield CT homes. When dry property and floodwater-soaked property remain in the same storage areas, the wet items often contaminate the dry items. We separate damaged and undamaged personal property to minimize the risk of additional loss.

Water Removal

We begin SERVPRO basement flood cleanup in Enfield CT homes by using industrial-grade extraction equipment extraction to quickly remove the water. Wet fabrics, carpets, and other porous items provide a fertile environment for mold, mildew, and bacteria. Our equipment gives us the power to extract the water and dry out your most vulnerable surfaces. 

Dry-Out 

SERVPRO basement flood cleanup in Enfield CT promises a thorough dry-out and cleanup process. We understand that bacteria, mold, and mildew often remain a concern after floodwaters leave your home. They thrive on porous surfaces that retain moisture. Even if you can’t see bacteria, mold, and mildew, you can smell and sometimes feel the contaminants in the air. They sometimes cause health effects for young children and adults with sensitive lungs. We minimize this risk by drying out any remaining moisture with specialized drying equipment. 

Dehumidification 

When your home has flood damage, humidity often lingers in the air. When fabrics and other surfaces absorb the moisture, it often causes mold, mildew, and gradual deterioration. We use industrial dehumidifiers to remove the moisture from the air before it causes problems.  

Dehumidification is critical to SERVPRO basement flood cleanup in Enfield CT homes. To do it right, we calculate room sizes, relative humidity, and temperature. We use these measurements to determine how many dehumidifiers we need and where to place them for the best results.  

Odor Removal 

Floodwaters often contain bacteria, sewage, dirt, and organic materials. The waters recede, but they leave odor-producing debris behind. If left untreated, the odor often moves beyond your basement into the rest of your home. During our SERVPRO basement flood cleanup in Enfield CT homes, odor removal is one of our most important steps. We use specialized equipment and solutions to eliminate odors before they drift into the rest of your home.  

Restoration Completion

We complete your restoration by repairing and salvaging items we identified during our walkthrough. Our tasks often include drywall replacement, painting, and carpet cleaning. We clean and repair salvaged items and arrange to replace furniture and decor as needed.  

Commercial Flood Cleanup

We also provide commercial SERVPRO basement flood cleanup in Mansfield CT. Our team performs expert flood cleanup services for any type of business in any size commercial or industrial building. We bring the manpower and the equipment to perform each task professionally. We work quickly to minimize your business downtime.

Contact SERVPRO

We’re a local business but we’re proud to be part of the national SERVPRO team. We are IICRC Certified. We provide SERVPRO basement flood cleanup in Enfield CT homes and businesses, and we’re just a phone call away. 

For more information about SERVPRO basement flood cleanup in Enfield CT, give us a call at (860) 216-2785.

Don’t Let Snow and Ice Damage Your Enfield Home

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

A storm with lots of snow and ice can can cause water and structural damage to your house. Follow our tips to protect your Enfield home.

Winter storms can damage your Enfield home in many different ways: water damage from flooding, wind damage and structural damage from the weight of snow and ice. (And of course, with prolonged cold temperatures can come severe water damage from frozen and burst pipes, too!) Read on to learn ways to keep your home safe when a big winter storm is on the way.

Keep the Water Out

One of the primary ways to keep water from entering your home is to make sure it has somewhere else to go. That’s why it’s a good idea to have proper grading that slants away from your foundation, and downspouts that direct water several feet away from your home. Follow the same principles when you’re shoveling or snowblowing: pile the snow at least several feet away from your foundation rather than at the base, so that when the snow starts melting, it doesn’t overwhelm your home’s defenses.

If an ice dam forms at the edge of your roof, follow our advice on ways to safely clear the ice dam and avoid water damage.

Protect Your Structure

Too much snow on your roof can cause it to leak or collapse. And heavy snow mounding up in your gutters can tear them from your home. Prevent this by preparing before the storm: clean your gutters and check your roof for any missing or damaged shingles or damaged flashing around vents and chimney. Repair damage, replace missing shingles and reseal any gaps. During or after the storm, use a roof rake to remove heavy snow from your roof and gutters.

You may find after the storm that your garage door has frozen shut. Don’t attack it with a shovel and don’t try to force it open with the automatic door opener. Instead, disengage the opener, clean away the snow and ice, then lift the door by hand.

Finally, if you have any tree branches that are close to your house or a power line, trim them back before the storm hits to prevent them from drooping or breaking off entirely.

If You Need Snow and Ice Damage Cleanup in Enfield

When you call the storm damage cleanup experts at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, we’ll respond ASAP, make any quick repairs to stop the storm damage in its tracks, thoroughly evaluate the situation, remove all the moisture from your home, and restore your possessions and structure to before-damage condition. We can even remove ice dams!

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Ice Dam? Here’s How to Remove it Now

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Snow and ice can be pretty—but the damage they cause to your home can be pretty costly. Here's how to remove an ice dam before it results in a leak.

Winter’s snow can be beautiful, but it can also bring the risk of severe water damage to your home from ice dams forming on your roof. Essentially, an ice dam is a block of ice that forms at the edge of your roof and blocks melted water from running off the edge and to the ground. Instead, meltwater gets forced under the ice and can penetrate your roof and invade the walls and ceilings of your home. Hello, costly water damage!

How does that block of ice form in the first place? It has to do with the freeze-thaw cycle that can occur as snow on your roof melts, trickles down the slope of your roof and freezes again before it can drip to the ground. This process repeats until a frozen wall is formed, which builds its way back up the roof until you have an icy mound blocking any meltwater from escaping the roof.

Once the ice dam forms, your goal is to remove it before water starts leaking through your roof into your house. Here are three ways.

Clear the Snow

You can remove the snow from your roof by using a roof rake or roof shovel. These tools are designed to let you clear the portion of your roof near the gutter while you stand on the ground. (Do not climb onto the roof to rake or shovel the snow—you’ll put yourself at risk of a serious injury!) Your goal is to clear enough snow to allow the ice dam itself to melt naturally in the sunshine or warmer daytime temperatures.

Warm the Eaves

Another option is to encourage melting of ice dams (or prevent their formation entirely) by warming up the edges of the roof itself. The best way to do this is to purchase electric cables designed to be laid along the roof edge. The cables warm the roof enough to melt an ice dam or stop one from forming.

Cool it Down

It may seem counterintuitive, but another way to stop a leak caused by an ice dam is to freeze the leak from the inside! Bring a box fan to your attic and aim it at the spot that’s leaking. The cold air will refreeze the meltwater, giving the ice dam time to melt naturally—or with a little help from you.

How to Deal with Water Damage Cleanup

Any water damage from the ice dam will have to be cleaned up promptly to prevent further problems. When you call the experts at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, we’ll respond ASAP, make any quick repairs to stop the damage in its tracks, thoroughly evaluate the situation, remove all the moisture from your home, and restore your possessions and structure to before-damage condition. We can even remove the ice dam!

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

No Kitchen Fires!

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires happen suddenly and can cause lots of damage to your house. Follow our tips to prevent a kitchen fire in your home.

Most home fires start in the kitchen, and most of those are related to cooking. Since the kitchen has sources of ready fuel, such as cooking oils, gas appliances, towels and more, a kitchen fire can rage out of control quickly and spread to the rest of your home. But if you follow just a few basic guidelines, you can really reduce the odds of a kitchen fire happening to you. Whether you’re cooking or not, follow our tips to prevent a fire from starting in your kitchen.

No Fires When You’re Cooking

Stay put.

The most important thing to do when you are cooking is to never leave your cooktop or range unattended. If cooking in the oven, be sure to be within earshot (to hear a timer go off, for instance) and no further than the next room. If cooking on the stovetop, do not leave the kitchen, period.

Keep it clean.

A fire needs fuel to burn, so keep your stovetop and cooking area free of combustibles. This means towels, oven mitts, paper towels, food wrappers and other items should not be near the stove. It also means that spattered grease should be cleaned up promptly, both on the stovetop and in the oven.

Dress for success.

When cooking, your clothes should be close-fitting to prevent them from touching a flame and catching fire. In particular, if your sleeves are long or loose, roll them up.

Cool it down.

Don’t toss hot grease into your kitchen trash. Let it cool down first, perhaps in an empty can, before disposing of it.

Keep it empty.

Don’t store food inside your oven—if you forget about it and preheat, you may start a fire.

No Fires When You’re Not Cooking

Don’t be plug ugly.

The key to a safe kitchen when you’re not cooking is to use electricity safely. That means all appliances should be plugged directly into a wall outlet, never an extension cord. And that outlet must be properly grounded and must match the appliance’s rating plate. Further, it’s a smart idea to unplug small appliances, like your toaster, when you’re not using them. Finally, check your cords to be sure they are all undamaged and replace any that are frayed or cracked.

Ovens are for eating, not heating.

Never use a gas oven to heat your home. You risk both a fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration and cleanup, as well as natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage and mold remediation, water and mold damage, and chemical and biohazard cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from fire, water, mold, sewage, storm, natural disaster and other damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

How to Avoid Water Damage From Frozen Pipes

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen and burst pipes can cause expensive water damage to your Bloomfield home. This is how to prevent or stop the damage.

One of a homeowner’s most dreaded events is a frozen and burst pipe. The water damage that can occur can be tremendous, ruining both furnishings and structural elements of your home—and even create a serious mold problem.

In just the first 24 hours, 250 gallons of water can flow from a burst pipe, and cleanup costs can reach well over $50,000. Insurers know that the average residential water damage claim ranges from $10,000 to $15,000.

Unfortunately, here in central Connecticut, we are at the mercy of New England winters and their frigid temperatures. Pipes can freeze from being uninsulated and exposed to extremely cold temperatures or even merely freezing weather that lasts for days and days. Even a strong, constant wind can drive the temperature around your pipes down enough to allow them to freeze.

Here’s what happens when a pipe freezes:

• Ice blocks the interior of the pipe and expands.
• The ice creates pressure inside of the pipe that can reach up to 1,000 times the normal pressure.
• The pipe bursts, not always at the blockage, but wherever the water pressure finds a weak spot.
• Sometimes the leak starts when the pipe bursts, but not always. Sometimes nothing much happens until the frozen pipe starts to thaw and leak.

Unfortunately, when the leaking occurs out of sight—behind a wall or ceiling or in a basement, for instance—that burst pipe has a chance to create lots of water damage before you even know it.

Do You Have a Frozen Pipe?

While the frozen pipe may be hidden, certain clues may give it away. Your may notice a difference in your water flow:

• Reduced water pressure in the sink or shower
• Discolored water
• No water flowing at all from a faucet
• A toilet that doesn’t refill

Or you may notice some other signs:

• Sounds: dripping, bubbling or whistling noises in pipes or behind walls
• Smells: odd or unpleasant odors from drains or sinks
• Stains: discoloration or water stains on walls or ceiling

And of course, any dripping, puddles or gushing water can be a clear sign of a burst pipe, too!

Any of these clues should spur you to hunt for a frozen or burst pipe. The culprit is likely to be near an exterior wall, at the foundation near where the water service enters your home, in the basement, attic, garage or crawlspace, or under sinks—all places that may not be particularly well insulated.

Start the hunt by turning on all the faucets one by one:

• If none of the faucets work, your freeze is probably close to where the main water pipe enters your house.
• Once you find a non-working faucet, work your way back toward the main water line to determine the general area of the blockage or leak.

With the location of the freeze narrowed down, now you can investigate further:

• Look for an area of pipe that has a layer of condensation on it. There may even be a spot where the condensation has frozen.
• Feel for temperature differences along a pipe. The coldest spot should be the ice blockage.

Prevent the Pipe from Bursting if You Can

Depending on whether there’s an active leak, you may have found the freeze in time to prevent most of the water damage. If the pipe is still frozen, take these steps:

• Shut off the water to the whole house at the main valve and open up all the faucets in your home (this will relieve pressure).
• Thaw the blockage by gently warming the pipe. You can use a hair dryer to start warming the pipe at the faucet or fixture and work your way back to the frozen spot. Or you can wrap an electric heating pad or towels soaked in hot water around the pipe.
• If pipes inside an exterior wall are freezing, cut an opening in the wall to expose the pipes to the home's warm air. Wrap insulation around the pipe and up against the exterior wall. (Cover the hole later with a hinged door or panel, which will allow access during future freezes.)

Finding a Burst or Leaking Pipe

Your job’s not over when you’ve managed to thaw out a frozen pipe. Now you have to determine if that pipe has burst anywhere along its length or developed a pinhole leak.

• Turn the water on at the main valve and listen for leaks or dripping. A sound of water rushing in your walls is an indication that you have a burst. In that case, shut the water off immediately. Likewise, if you see a flood or puddle of water, turn the main valve off pronto.
• If there’s no obvious sounds or sights to indicate a burst pipe, investigate further to see if you have a smaller leak. Check seams and joints visually for small leaks. At the same time, run your fingers over these areas to detect the slightest moisture.
• If you still haven’t found any leaks, go around your home and turn on each faucet in turn. You’re looking for low water pressure, which can indicate that you have a slow leak in that particular line.

You Have a Leak: Now What?

Small or large, that leak you have found needs to be dealt with promptly. Water damage leads to a complicated and costly cleanup, so you’re much better off preventing as much of the damage as possible.

Act quickly by taking some or all of these steps:

• Consider cutting the electricity to your house if the leak is substantial or if water on the floor poses a risk of electrocution.
• For a large leak, use a circular sleeve clamp lined with rubber to form a waterproof seal. Because you’ll need to have the correct size on hand, consider keeping different sized sleeve clamps on hand.
• Make your own temporary patch out of a length of flexible rubber from an old radiator or heater hose. Slide it over the leak, place a small block of wood over the leaky area and clamp it with a C-clamp.
• For a small pinhole leak, wrap good-quality duct tape tightly around the pipe to hold back the water until you can get a plumber to your home.
• If your burst pipe is overhead, drill weep holes in the ceiling to drain out the water.
• Clean up all standing water. This will keep you safer while helping to reduce the chances of water damage and mold growth.

SERVPRO Will Clean Up the Water Damage—Completely

The problem with water damage is that it’s challenging to clean up completely and if not done right, can lead to further problems down the road. You can attempt your own cleanup for minor leaks if the damage to your structure isn’t too severe and the items affected—furniture and property—aren’t too heavily damaged.

The key to effective water damage cleanup from a burst or leaking pipe, though, is to know if all the moisture is removed—and a homeowner can only guess at that. (Oh, and you need to get your home and property dried out within 48 hours of the leak, because that’s when mold can start to grow.)

With all that, your best bet is to call a professional water damage remediation company like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield. When it comes to water damage, we have seen it all! Our skilled damage restoration experts have the know-how, equipment and products to thoroughly clean and restore your home and property to its before-water-damage condition. Here’s our process:

Inspect and assess: We arrive promptly at your home and inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled. With this information we can devise a plan to ensure proper and complete restoration of your water damage.

Remove and extract water: We start the water removal process ASAP. Using powerful pumps and vacuum units, we quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, helping to prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Dry and dehumidify: Next, we use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. Our professionals use room measurements, temperature and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.

Clean and sanitize: We clean all the restorable items and structures damaged by the water using a number of techniques. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.

Restore: Finally, we restore your home or business to its pre-water-damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

If you’ve suffered water damage from a burst or frozen pipe, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield will work closely with you to be sure that all the damage is 100% cleaned up and repaired, that your possessions are completely restored and that the whole process is as smooth as can be—from pack-out through final move-in—even including coordinating your insurance claim.

Prevent Water Damage from a Frozen or Burst Pipe: Before a Freeze

Reduce the chances of a burst or leaking pipe after a freeze and avoid the resulting water damage to your home and possessions by taking some steps before and during a freeze. Here’s how to keep your pipes too warm to freeze in the first place.

Protect your pipes

Start with an evaluation of your vulnerable pipes in the areas of your house, such as your basement, attic, garage and crawl space, that are more exposed to cold. Also check under bathroom and kitchen sinks. Determine which ones are most at risk of freezing. Check for wear and damage, too.

Insulate those at-risk pipes in the attic, crawl space or other out-of-the-way place with un-faced fiberglass insulation (wear protective gear) or foam pipe sleeves. Or wrap the pipes with heat trace cables.

Keep the cold out and the heat in

These steps will help prevent heat from escaping your home, potentially saving you on your heating bills, too.

• Seal up gaps around doors, windows and outlets with caulk.
• Insulate larger areas in the attic or basement by screwing foam board to wood framing. Use rigid foam insulation to insulate foundation walls in the basement.
• Install storm windows and replace broken or old windows with energy-efficient ones.

Use a smart leak/flood detector

Smart leak/flood detectors and water-shutoff valves let you immediately stop a flood of water, practically eliminating water damage. Connected to your home’s Wi-Fi, the smart leak detector can send an alert to your smartphone if it detects a drop in water pressure. Some devices shut the water off automatically, while others let you do it remotely through the app.

Prevent Water Damage from a Frozen or Burst Pipe: During a Freeze

During a cold snap, check up on your vulnerable pipes and take these steps to minimize the chances of water damage.

• Keep a slow drip of water trickling through the pipes.
• Open doors to cabinets, vanities, closets and pantries to allow warm air to surround the pipes.
• Use space heaters to warm up areas near vulnerable pipes.
• Gently warm the most vulnerable pipes with a hair dryer, heating pad or cloths soaked in hot water.

If you know you’ll be away from your home during a freeze, take these steps to avoid returning to a burst pipe and a water disaster.

• Keep your thermostat at 55° F or higher.
• Shut off the house's main water valve.
• Use a freeze-sensing system that will monitor your home's internal temperature, and set up a smart leak detector that will shut your water off at the first sign of a leak.
• Ask a trusted neighbor to check inside your home once a week.

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the people, skills and equipment to help homeowners recover from water damage and eradicate mold. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785 any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Is Smart Fire Detection Technology Right for Your Home?

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

Adding smart technology to your home's system of smoke detectors can give you even more protection from housefires.

Many of us are incorporating smart technology and devices into our homes: smart speakers, appliances, doorbells, lightbulbs and more. In addition to making your everyday life easier, smart home tech might actually be a lifesaver.

New devices and technologies are being developed all the time, but right now, you can install several fire prevention and detection devices that can stop a fire or minimize fire damage in your home. (Many homeowners can confidently install these devices themselves; if that’s not you, hire an electrician to do the installation and testing for you.)

Smart Smoke Detectors

Connected to an app on your smartphone, these devices can send a notification that smoke has been detected at your home, allowing you to alert authorities immediately from anywhere. Some smart detectors can be wired into a home security system, which can automatically contact your fire department. Other capabilities may include:

• Turning on lights and offering verbal directions to help your family escape a fire
• Turning off your HVAC system to reduce spread of smoke
• Allowing a camera to be set up to record a fire event, providing evidence for your insurance claim

And, while this feature is not in the “lifesaving” category, many smart smoke detectors can send an alert to a smartphone if its battery level is getting low. That’s right: no more 3:00 a.m. chirping, no more hunting for the guilty detector and a chair to climb on, no more ripping the device off the wall and yanking the battery out, no more stumbling back to bed cursing.

Smart Batteries

Instead of buying a smart smoke detector, you can install smart batteries in your existing detectors. These will also send alarm and low-battery notifications to your smartphone.

Smart Heat/Fire Detectors

A smart heat detector does not replace a smoke detector, but because it uses a different way to detect a fire, it can be a good complement to your existing detectors, especially if you get a lot of false alarms.

Smart Kitchen Fire Prevention

The number one cause of home fires is cooking fires, and most of those start when someone leaves the kitchen while the stovetop is in use. A smart sensor uses motion sensing technology to shut off the stovetop if no one is in the kitchen for a specified period of time. It then detects when you return to the kitchen and restarts cooking.

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration and cleanup, as well as natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage and mold remediation, water and mold damage, and chemical and biohazard cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from fire, water, mold, sewage, storm, natural disaster and other damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Burst Frozen Pipe Cleanup in Suffield, CT

1/16/2021 (Permalink)

Burst frozen pipe cleanup in Suffield, CT causing basement flooding.

At SERVPRO, we understand that most burst frozen pipe cleanup in Suffield, CT homes can be challenging. Our team of professionals provides the assistance you need to handle your emergency. We respond fast with the workforce and the equipment to get the job done. 

When a pipe freezes and bursts, it requires immediate attention. Water flows throughout your home, leaving a trail of damage behind. When it pools in your coldest rooms, it sometimes freezes. The result is often a combination of water damage and ice damage. 

SERVPRO professionals give burst frozen pipe cleanup in Suffield, CT homes our traditional commitment. Our highly-trained staff remains on-call 24/7. We respond when you need us, and we arrive ready to do the work. Whether your problem begins with an appliance leak, a broken pipe, or a frozen pipe leak repair, we do the job quickly and professionally. 

SERVPRO Burst Frozen Water Pipe Damage Cleanup 

Timing is crucial when managing burst frozen pipe cleanup in Suffield, CT homes. If you plan to submit an insurance claim, the coverage issues are often complicated, but your duty to protect your property is clear. When we enter your home, we keep that in mind. We help protect your property by extracting flooding quickly, separating your contents, and drying wet areas before they freeze. 

To accomplish this, SERVPRO uses specially designed extraction, deodorizing, cleaning, dehumidifying, and drying equipment. We do what's necessary to protect your property and minimize the chances of further damage.

Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

Before we begin on SERVPRO's burst frozen pipe cleanup in Suffield, CT homes, we conduct a thorough inspection. We walk through your home to document visible damage. We also search for areas where water might accumulate or freeze and cause hidden harm. Once we've inspected the areas involved, we establish a strategy to do the work quickly. 

Water Extraction

We quickly sort and separate damaged and undamaged property. This is an essential aspect of burst frozen pipe cleanup in Suffield, CT homes. When dry property remains in saturated areas, the water often damages items that could have been salvaged. 

After separating your property, we bring in our specialized extraction equipment. Our team then removes the water before it has a chance to cause damage or freeze. The faster we complete the process, the more property we save. 

Drying 

When a porous surface becomes saturated, it requires extraction and drying to remove all the moisture. Moist surfaces provide an ideal environment for mold and mildew to grow. Within days, you can smell it on porous surfaces and in the air. 

To achieve optimum drying, we use drying equipment in every affected room. Our industrial equipment dries your property, stops ice from forming, and prevents mold and mildew from causing permanent damage. 

Dehumidification 

After extraction and drying, moisture often lingers in the air. Excess water settles into your furniture, flooring, carpets, and other porous surfaces. Then gradually damages your property and provides an ideal environment for mold and mildew. To minimize the risk of this additional damage, the SERVPRO team dehumidifies the air.

We calculate room-size, relative humidity, and temperature in each affected area. The data helps us determine the number of industrial dehumidifiers we need and where to place them. The process removes the humidity from your home and helps to prevent ongoing damage. 

Odor Removal 

Each frozen pipe burst homes' recovery process doesn't end when the moisture is dry. Next, we complete the SERVPRO deodorizing process to remove the odors that soaked properties leave in the air. Our team uses industrial scrubbers, foggers, and odor-neutralizing products. 

Cleaning and Sanitizing 

Effective burst frozen pipe cleanup in Suffield, CT homes, requires cleaning and sanitizing all affected surfaces. The SERVPRO team performs these tasks using specialized equipment and professional-grade solutions. 

Repair and Restoration

Burst frozen pipe cleanup in Suffield, CT homes, inevitably require restoration and repair. We do wall reconstruction, drywall replacement, painting, and other repair and restoration tasks. We also salvage, repair, or replace home decor and furnishings. We work professionally to restore your home to its previous condition. 

Commercial Building Restoration

SERVPRO professionals also perform commercial burst frozen pipe cleanup in Suffield, CT. We have the workforce, expertise, technology, and equipment to manage any size job in any facility. We work quickly to minimize business downtime. 

Contact SERVPRO

We are a locally owned and operated SERVPRO franchise, and we're committed to recovering homes. When you call us, we respond immediately, and we get the job done fast. 

For more information about burst frozen pipe cleanup in Suffield, CT, give us a call at (860) 649-0836.

Water Damage Cleanup in Granby CT

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

Basement Water Damage Cleanup in Granby CT

Water Damage Cleanup in Granby CT

When you call SERVPRO for water damage cleanup in Granby CT, we arrive ready to get the job done. We’re on call 24/7 because when water damages your home, it’s an emergency.

A broken pipe or a leaking roof can release a damaging stream into your home. Water settles into porous furnishings, floors, and decor and begins causing damage immediately. Without prompt cleanup, water deteriorates fabric, wood, and other surfaces. It stains upholstery, carpeting, and draperies, and leaves behind damp areas where mold and mildew thrive. 

At SERVPRO, we are cleanup and restoration professionals. We understand that water from a broken pipe or a leaky roof can cause significant damage in a very short period of time. When you call our team for water damage cleanup in Granbury CT, we take steps to save your home from further damage.

Our team brings in specialized equipment and solutions to maximize our efforts. We are highly trained professionals who get the work done right every time.  

SERVPRO Water Damage Cleanup 

When water flows into your living areas, you don’t care how it got there. You just want it gone. Whether your problem started because of pipes freezing or a hot water heater leaking, you just want your home livable again. Until your flooring, walls, furniture, and home furnishings are dry, clean, and odor-free, it doesn’t feel like home at all. 

When you need water damage cleanup in Granby, CT, our team arrives fully prepared to do the job. We implement a multi-step process to restore your home as quickly as possible.

Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

Before we begin residential water damage cleanup in Granby CT homes, we conduct a thorough inspection. We do a walkthrough, looking for obvious and not-so-obvious damage. This is an important step as water not only saturates surfaces in the open, it also finds its way into hidden spaces. Once we determine what we need to accomplish, we establish a strategy for completing your water damage cleanup and discuss our recommendations with you.

Water Extraction

 We separate your wet and dry property before we begin water extraction. This allows us to minimize the damage that occurs when wet and dry property come into contact because they share the same space. We use specialized industrial equipment to extract as much water as possible. 

Drying 

We use industrial driers to remove the remaining moisture. When surfaces finish drying naturally, they often stay damp, allowing mildew and mold spores to settle in and grow. Damp surfaces provide the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth. Within days of a water release, you will notice the scent throughout your home. Industrial driers remove moisture completely. This eliminates disrupts mold and mildew growth before it damages fabric and surfaces in your home.  

Dehumidification 

When you have water-saturated areas in your home, moisture lingers in the air. It increases when water evaporates as we dry your property. Eventually, moisture settles on porous surfaces allowing problems to continue.

To effectively dehumidify your home, the SERVPRO team measures each room’s size, relative humidity, and temperature. We use these factors to calculate the correct number of industrial humidifiers and air circulators to place in each room. 

Odor Removal 

Odor removal is our next step in completing water damage cleanup in Granby CT homes. We remove offensive odors with industrial scrubbers, foggers, and other specialized equipment. We use odor-neutralizing solutions to finish the deodorization process.

Cleaning and Sanitizing 

To complete our water damage cleanup in Granby CT homes, we clean and sanitize each room. We perform this task using specialized equipment and professional-grade solutions.

Repair and Restoration

When the SERVPRO team completes your water damage cleanup, we perform the repairs necessary to restore your home. This sometimes includes drywall replacement, painting, structural repairs, furnishing replacements, and other tasks.  

Commercial Building Restoration

The SERVPRO team also performs commercial water damage cleanup in Granby CT. We handle all clean-up and restoration jobs regardless of building size or facility type. Our staff works fast and efficiently to minimize business interruptions. 

Contact SERVPRO

We are a locally owned and operated SERVPRO franchise, and we’re committed to professional performance. When you call us, we respond quickly to your emergency. For more information about water damage cleanup in Granby CT, give us a call at (860) 649-0836.

SERVPRO + Veterans = A Winning Combination

12/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO recently earned a HIRE Vets Medallion Gold Award in recognition of our commitment to employing military veterans.

SERVPRO Industries, LLC was honored to receive a 2020 HIRE Vets Medallion Gold Award at a recent ceremony held at the U.S. Department of Labor. Selected in recognition of its longstanding commitment to hiring and working with veterans to build durable careers, SERVPRO has long recognized the value of the diverse skills veterans often gain through their military service.

SERVPRO Veterans Programs Specialist Jamie Peters acknowledged the honor: “We are proud to receive this award as a symbol of our commitment to hiring the brave men and women who served our country. SERVPRO Industries, LLC prioritizes hiring veterans because we share like-minded values, dedication and selfless mentality to serving others. Veterans are a good fit for us, and we are committed to developing these veterans within the company. They make us a better organization, and we are thankful for their service."

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is proud to be a part of a corporation that recognizes and values the work of military vets. Locally, we are committed to creating an environment where vets can build enduring careers that are productive and satisfying.

About the HIRE Vets Medallion Award

Overseen by U.S. Secretary of Labor Eugene Scalia in November 2020, the federal HIRE Vets (Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans) Act Medallion Program honored 675 companies and organizations that consistently recruit, hire and retain veterans.

The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is awarded to businesses that demonstrate unparalleled commitment to attracting and retaining veterans. The Silver and Gold Awards are based on a number of criteria, ranging from veteran hiring and retention to providing veteran-specific resources, leadership programming, dedicated human resources, and compensation and tuition assistance programs.

About SERVPRO

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,800 individually owned and operated franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your residence or commercial building and your property after suffering damage from a fire, storm, water, mold or biohazard disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Frozen or Burst Pipes Leading to Water Damage? Why SERVPRO is Your Best Option

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

A frozen or burst pipe can mean big water damage trouble. Here's why calling SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield will get you back to normal ASAP.

It may have started with a sudden gush or a slow seeping, but if you discover a frozen or burst pipe in your home, you need to act quickly to minimize the water damage to your structure and possessions. A few things you’ll want to do immediately are:

If your pipe is frozen:

• Shut off the water at the main house valve and open all the faucets in your home to relieve pressure.
• Warm the connecting pipe (with a hair dryer or electric heating pad) to slowly thaw the ice blockage.
• Check for leaks.

If your pipe has burst:

• Shut off the water at the main shutoff valve and consider shutting off the electricity, too, for safety.
• Clean up standing water to stay safe and prevent more water damage.
• For a pinhole leak, try patching it quickly with duct tape or by clamping a flexible rubber patch over the hole. For a larger leak, try a sleeve clamp sized to your pipe.

The Damage is Done … Now What?

As you stand looking at the water spewed by your burst pipe, one of your most important decisions is to hire a reputable water damage mediation company. Here’s why SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is your best option to clean up after your frozen or burst pipe.

We are fast

When it comes to water damage from a burst pipe, the faster the cleanup starts, the better the results. Within one hour of your call, we will schedule our service, and we’ll be at your home within four hours to begin mitigating your water damage.

We are experts

When you hire SERVPRO to handle your water damage, you’re hiring people with the industry’s best training, experience, technology and equipment. Our crew members undergo extensive and rigorous water restoration training and certification. As a Top 50 SERVPRO franchise (out of more than 1,800 nationwide), SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has a solid record of exceeding customer expectations. And our warehouse in Bloomfield is filled with equipment that extracts water and thoroughly dries your building, furnishings and possessions. We use moisture sensors and meters, water extractors, air movers, dehumidifiers and deodorizers.

We do it all

When it comes to water damage, SERVPRO handles the whole job of restoring your home and possessions to their pre-damage condition—from evaluating the water damage, to repairing your house, to cleaning your personal items. We guarantee an unbroken chain of custody for all your possessions, and we even work with your insurance company to ensure a smooth and rapid claims process. So when a pipe has burst, you can count on SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to get you back to normal ASAP.

 We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your residence or commercial building and your property after suffering damage from a fire, storm, water, mold or biohazard disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Clean and Sanitize Your For-Sale House

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Before you list, cleaning and sanitizing by SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can help your house sell faster and for more money.

Did you know that SERVPRO offers a unique way to help you sell your house faster—and potentially for a higher amount? Our professional cleaning and sanitizing service will set your home apart from the competition—especially in the midst of a pandemic.

Give your potential buyers the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your house is as clean as it can be. That tells them something about the way you have cared for your home over the years. You want home buyers to leave your house after a showing eager to put in a bid!

Another way our deep cleaning may make your sale easier and faster is our mold check-up. If we find any traces of a mold infestation, we can quickly begin to treat the problem. Nobody wants mold, but if it isn’t discovered until your home inspection, a mold problem will hold up the selling cycle and cut into your selling price.

A Thorough Cleaning and Sanitizing

SERVPRO is prepared to clean and sanitize your home because we are ready to do that level of cleaning at a moment’s notice. After all, we are the experts at all kinds of disaster cleanup, including the toughest biohazard and pathogen cleanup. Our crews are thoroughly trained and equipped to handle the most challenging jobs.

Our workers prepare for your job by gearing up in one-piece personal protective suits with hood and boots, and wearing individually fit-tested N-95 respirators. They quickly and safely destroy pathogens with our proprietary hospital-grade cleansers and disinfectors. They first seal your house and fog it with disinfectants that penetrate into crevices. Once that stage of the work is done, the crew does the hands-on work of cleaning and sanitizing the high-touch surfaces and objects in your home, including:

Throughout

• Carpets
• Tile, laminate and hard-wood floors
• Drapery and blinds
• Handrails
• Doorknobs and window hardware
• Light switches

In the Kitchen

• Countertops and tabletops
• Appliance handles
• Cabinets and pulls
• Sink and faucet

In the Bathroom

• Vanity, sink and faucet
• Shower and tub
• Toilet
• Cabinets and pulls

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your residence or commercial building and your property after suffering damage from a fire, storm, water, mold or biohazard disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

What to Do If You Have Emergency Water Damage in Bloomfield CT

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Emergency Water Damage in Bloomfield CT

Did you know that hurricanes cause an estimated $4.6 billion in emergency water damage per event? And that’s just the damage caused by storms! It’s not even counting things like overflow, burst pipes, and sewage backup. Emergency water damage is scary because it can ruin properties and affect the inhabitant’s health.

As such, it’s important to take care of it as soon as possible. But exactly what should you do when you discover water damage? And is all water damage serious? If you have these types of questions, then you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about dealing with this home problem. Let’s get started!

What Are the Different Types of Emergency Water Damage?

Before we begin, it’s important to first go over the different types of emergency water damage. Keep in mind that the extent of the damage is often determined by the type of water in the house.

There are three types of water: white, grey, and black. Blackwater, which contains fecal matter, is the greatest cause for concern. You can learn more about them by checking out this guide here. However, it’s vital to remember that even the smallest leak is capable of developing into a dangerous mold. So, all water damage should be handled with abundant caution. 

Sewer Backup

Sewer backup occurs when raw sewage is forced into your home through pipes and drains. Generally, this is one of the more costly types of damage since it almost always involves black water. There are a variety of things that can cause this type of water damage. More often than not it’s caused by a large block in the city sanitary main or aging pipes.

However, it can also be caused by natural events like storms. This happens when leaves or other debris block the gutter system. The result is a backup entering the home. 

Overflow Damage

Overflow occurs when water escapes from appliances. This can be caused by clogs, like when a toilet overflows from a clog. However, it can also be caused by machines that are beginning to break down. For example, when a water heater breaks down it can discharge water and flood an entire area.

Most of the time the water that comes out of this type of situation is greywater. However, in some cases, it can also be black water. Often people associate overflow with appliances like dishwashers and toilets. However, you’d be surprised by the number of household appliances that can cause flood-like conditions. 

Flooding 

While sewer backup and overflow can cause flooding, the term refers to a specific type of water damage. Officially, flooding involves water that enters your home from a source that overflowed. Generally speaking, a flood isn’t localized to one house. It affects acres and acres of land. As such, the term is reserved for the type of flooding that accompanies hurricanes and other rough storms.

Flooding can contain a mixture of grey and black water, depending on the area where it hit. These are generally the most serious types of water damage because they can cover rooms, floors, and even the entire property, in water. 

Construction Damage

Construction water damage occurs when buildings undergo major construction. For example, if a roof is damaged, then there may be a large hole in it for an extended period.

During this time a rainstorm can cause water to enter the home. Generally, this type of damage is the least serious. However, it can still cause serious damage in the form of mold if left unattended. Temporary solutions like tarps and buckets are a good way of protecting against this construction water damage until you can get it fixed. 

What to Do When You Discover Emergency Water Damage

When you discover emergency water damage there are typically a million things running through your head. What should you do first? Call someone? Deal with the water?

It can be easy to panic and make a potentially dangerous mistake. Luckily, in this section, we’ve broken down what you should do into six easy steps you can follow. Just make sure to follow these tips, and you should be fine. 

1) Make Sure Everyone is Safe and Stop the Water

The most important thing is safety. Emergency damage caused by flooding presents a potentially dangerous situation, especially if it comes in contact with electrical devices. Contact with charged water can cause serious injury or even death. As such, if the situation is serious, then you should evacuate yourself and your family from the area.

If you can, then you should try to get any valuable objects you don’t want to lose — things like family jewelry, cash, or heirlooms. However, remember that no material possessions are worth your life. It’s not worth it to try and risk your safety for these objects. You can make the situation safer by turning off the main power and all the individual fuses.

You should do this even if your power isn’t working. However, don’t try it if you can’t safely access the power controls. Next, you should try to stop the flow of water. More water means more damage, so the quicker you can stop it.

If you can’t access your home, or you can’t identify the source of water, then you immediately contact a professional. Once you do, they’ll immediately walk you through the water damage restoration process. 

2) Remove the Standing Water (If Possible)

The longer that standing water is left sitting, the more damage it will do. As such, if you have the means, then you should try removing it yourself. You will require a sump pump to deal with standing water. If there isn’t much water, then you may be able to get away with a wet vac.

However, before you begin, make sure that you first put on protective gear. This includes things like a respirator, rain boots, and rubber gloves to protect you from the contaminants in the water. When using a sump pump you should find the lowest spot possible in the flooded area. In some instances, you’ll need to lower the pump down with a rope.

Never dive down into flood water to place the sump pump. Once you get most of the water out of the area, open all the windows and doors in your house to let air start circulating. If you want more tips on what to do immediately after flooding, then check out our guide on dealing with water damage. 

3) Document the Damage and Contact Insurance Company (If Applicable) 

After you deal with the standing water, it’s important to document the extent of the damage with detailed pictures. This step is important even if you don’t have insurance. You can send them to repair and restoration professionals to quickly give them an idea of what they’re dealing with.

If you have water damage insurance, then you should contact your agent as soon as possible. The quicker you get in touch with them, the faster you can get access to your claim. Once you have them on the phone allow the agent to walk you through the process. Most of the time you will need to make a detailed list of the damages caused by the water.

Also, ask about samples. Some insurance companies require samples of water damage, like a moldy piece of rug. You should also keep receipts of all your expenses during the cleaning process.

Some insurance providers will even cover things like motel bills during the nights when you can’t stay at the house. Unfortunately, many insurance companies don’t cover flooding that occurs during storms or other natural events. Usually, this requires a separate policy. 

4) Clean Up to Protect Your Health

Now it’s time to start cleaning up your home. The first thing you should do is get rid of any debris that may have entered. Make sure you are careful of any potentially dangerous debris like sharp objects, fecal matter, and mud. If the damage is extensive, then it may not be safe to live in your home.

During this time you should also move your furniture and electronics to a safe place where they can dry out. Once you remove as much physical debris as you can, spray down the area with clean water. Now it's time to prevent mold growth. Mold typically develops within a day or two of contact with water.

As such, time is of the essence. Remove any carpets from the area. Mold is next to impossible to remove from carpet fibers. Then, disinfect all hard surfaces with a bleach solution. However, typically families can set up a clean room, that’s untouched from damage. You can live in this room until all the serious restoration and cleaning has been finished.

However, organizations like the AFHH recommend not having children in your home during this process. Unfortunately, even the most thorough DIY cleaning isn’t enough to stop the water from absorbing into your drywall, floor, and ceiling. As such, you will need to consider hiring restoration services. 

5) Begin the Restoration Process

Even the most thorough DIY cleaning process likely won’t be enough to entirely rid your home of water damage. As such, we highly recommend hiring a professional to check the extent of the damage. The individuals are knowledgeable enough to spot hidden damage that will get worse if left unchecked.

You can find these types of companies through your insurance provider or on your own. Typically, if you go through your insurance company, then they’ll give you references you can use. However, if you aren’t insured, or you don’t want the insurance company’s reference, then you will need to find a company on your own.

So how do you find a company you can trust? One way is by making sure that they’re certified with the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, or the IICRC. IICRC’s standards ensure that only respectable companies can become certified. 

How to Prevent Water Damage in the Future

If you suffered expensive repairs because of water damage, then you probably want to know how you can prevent it in the future. While there is no 100% effective solution, there are practical measures you can take to reduce the extent of damages. For example, consider replacing the floors in flood-prone rooms with waterproof material like concrete, tile, or stone.

You should also check for leaks and cracks around your property. Water can easily enter through these areas so make sure you seal them. If your water damage was caused by faulty pipes or appliances, then you should replace or repair them.

You can also stop potential seepage by rearranging your storm drains and gutters. Make sure these things are facing away from the house so that water doesn’t get in the basement or into the foundation. If your basement is prone to flooding, then you should consider putting appliances on risers. This will protect things like your washing machine and dryer from small floods. 

Do You Need Help With Emergency Water Damage? Contact SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

We hope this article helped teach you what to do when you discover emergency water damage. When it comes to this type of property damage, preparation is key. Unfortunately, even the most prepared individuals can be taken by surprise. When you feel overwhelmed by home damage, then get in touch with a professional like the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield.

When it comes to protecting our Connecticut communities from water damage, you won’t find a more trained team of specialists. We offer 24/7 emergency services that will get to you faster than any other company. Don’t let minor water damage turn into a massive problem by ignoring it. Contact us today and let us help you get your life back to normal. 

Leak in Basement? Get the Water Out Fast with a Sump Pump

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

You can stop a basement water disaster in its tracks with a high-quality, reliable sump pump. Here's why and how to buy one.

Never had a water leak in your basement? Good for you, but don’t relax just yet. Many homeowners know they have a slow, minor leak and they deal with it as needed. But so many others have a perfectly dry basement … until they suddenly don’t. This kind of water disaster often happens after a heavy rainstorm or a severe snowmelt overwhelms your outside drains, sending water into your basement. A basement flood can also occur if an appliance in your basement, such as a water heater or washing machine, leaks.

Even without an indication that you may have a water problem in your basement, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield recommends installing a sump pump to prevent a sudden flood from damaging your property and structure.

A water-activated sump pump sits either in a pit (or sump) in your basement floor or just above the floor. Water collects in the sump pit (slowly or rapidly, depending on the leak), and when it reaches a certain level, the pump turns on and pumps the water outside your home.

What Kind of Pump Should I Buy?

A reliable, well-working sump pump can keep your basement dry and prevent severe water damage. You should only purchase and install a sump pump that is well reviewed. If you’re not handy, have it installed by a professional.

SERVPRO also advises that you consider purchasing a second pump for backup in case the first one fails or is overwhelmed by water. You can either store the backup pump nearby or have it installed next to the first one. Consider, also, choosing a second pump that has a battery backup. That way, if the power goes out, as it often does during a big storm, this second pump will still work.

We recommend choosing a sump with these features:

• A submersible pump (which sits in the sump pit) can be covered with a lid to keep debris out and block operating noise
• A pump with a cast iron core will last longer than one with a plastic core
• A pump with a mechanical switch will be more reliable than one with a pressure switch
• A pump designed with no-screen intake and an impellor will experience fewer clogs
• A solid float is preferred because it won’t get filled with water and burn out your pump’s motor
• A pump with an alarm offers more protection from a flood by alerting you that water has exceeded a set level

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the people, skills and equipment to help homeowners recover from water damage and eradicate mold. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785 any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

SERVPRO Restores Documents After a Disaster

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Among the possessions damaged in a fire, water or other disaster are documents, photos and other paper items. Let SERVPRO help restore them.

A water, fire, biohazard or mold disaster has hit your Bloomfield home or business, and not only is your structure damaged, but so are your possessions—including important documents, photographs, books and other papers. You may think these fragile items are a total loss, but with our rigorous training, experienced staff, quality equipment and supplies, and the latest advanced techniques, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield can recover and restore many damaged paper items.

SERVPRO knows that time is of the essence when it comes to mitigating damage to your possessions. That’s why we arrive quickly to evaluate your disaster and create a plan to begin remediation ASAP.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield offers document restoration services to individuals with small residential damage, all the way up to large commercial losses. Our range of services includes drying, cleaning, disinfecting, deodorization, re-jacketing and digitizing. We perform our restoration services in our secure warehouse facility, under 24/7 surveillance (and adhering to HIPAA standards) to provide extra security for your sensitive information.

How We Restore Your Documents

Among the documents we can restore are:

• Paper documents, including letters
• Personal and business records
• Books and magazines
• Photographs, including film and negatives
• Business files
• Blueprints and maps
• X-rays

SERVPRO uses the latest technologies to restore your documents. Depending on the type and extent of damage, we use:

• Vacuum freeze-drying, the same method used by the Library of Congress to repair its historical books and records. It’s also the only document restoration technique approved by the National Archives and Records Administration and the General Services Administration.
• Gamma irradiation to sterilize documents that have been damaged by floodwater or sewage, and may have been exposed to bacteria, viruses, pesticides or other harmful chemicals.

We Can Digitize Your Documents, Too

Once the restoration is completed, we offer the option to digitize your documents, photos, records, etc. When we convert your important papers to digital format, you get the benefit of:

• Instant access to your records on a variety of devices
• The ability to quickly and easily share your records, documents and photographs
• Less space needed for storage
• A digital backup that is protected from future water or fire damage

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your residence or commercial building and your property after suffering damage from a fire, storm, water, mold or biohazard disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Protect Your Business from a Flood

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

A serious—or even minor—flood can put you out of business. Make plans and take steps now to minimize flood damage.

Even if your building is located in a flood zone, there are ways to reduce the chances that a flood will damage your commercial property. Thinking ahead and taking some steps to prepare are the keys to minimizing commercial water damage.

What You Should Know

Flood zone: Check your local flood map on FEMA.gov to see if your property is in a flood zone. (Remember, floods can and do happen outside of flood zones.)

Learn your BFE: Check the FEMA flood map or local government authorities to see if your building’s lowest floor is above the base flood elevation (BFE). If not, consider raising your structure to at least three feet above the BFE.

Flood insurance: If you are in or close to a high-risk flood zone (Special Flood Hazard Area), consider purchasing flood insurance.

What You Should Do Outside Your Building

Landscaping and drainage: Choose plants native to your area to help prevent soil erosion and improve drainage. Evaluate the slope of your property and your downspouts to be sure they direct water away from your foundation.

Fuel tanks: If you have fuel tanks on your property, anchor them to prevent damage to your building or other properties.

Barriers: Keep a supply of water-absorbent barriers, sandbags or tarps on hand to help divert water away from the building. If your building is below the BFE, consider adding watertight shields over doors and windows. If you repeatedly experience serious flooding, think about creating permanent flood walls around your property.

What You Should Do Inside Your Building

Electrical components: Help avoid system damage and electrical fires by raising electric components (switches, sockets, circuit breakers and wiring) above your BFE by at least one foot. Have a backup electrical power system that can take over in a flood-induced power outage.

HVAC: Protect your HVAC components by moving them to an upper floor or constructing a floodwall around the equipment.

Shut-off valves: Know where your cut-off valves are for gas, water and electricity.

Cracks and leaks: Seal cracks and utility pipe penetrations with urethane-based caulk, and apply a waterproof coating to exterior and basement walls, especially if you have had leaks.

Flood-resistant materials: Choose materials that resist water damage for carpeting, wall coverings and insulation.

Sewer backflow valve: Prevent sewage from backing up into your building by installing an interior or exterior sewer backflow valve.

Sump pump: Install a portable sump pump and connect it to a generator or battery for backup.

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property after a natural disaster. We also offer year-round commercial cleaning services and HVAC maintenance. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Protect Your Business from a Fire

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

Take action before a fire to prevent or minimize damage to your commercial facility from flames, smoke and water.

A fire can in your place of business can damage or destroy your equipment and structure, potentially putting you out of business, at least temporarily. Worse, a workplace fire can injure or kill you or your employees and customers.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is ready to respond to your commercial fire disaster. We’ll arrive A.S.A.P. to evaluate your restoration needs, quickly put our expert crews to work remediating smoke, fire and water damage to your facility and property, then restore everything to pre-fire condition—all while coordinating with your insurer for a swift, smooth process.

There are several things you as a business owner or manager can do to either prevent a fire disaster from starting or minimize the damage if one does start.

Understand Your Risk

Learn about fire codes and standards by reading handbooks created by the National Fire Protection Association.

Ask your local fire department to help you develop a fire prevention plan and/or have a fire marshal assess your building for fire safety. Another option is to request fire risk assessment guidance from your building's property manager.

Be Equipped to Prevent Fires

Your building’s facilities and equipment should be the first line of defense in preventing a fire disaster.

• An automatic sprinkler system will provide primary fire protection for your business. In fact, a sprinkler system is the best way to fight the spread of a fire, with a properly installed and maintained system proving to be 95% effective. If your facility doesn’t have one, consider installing one.
• You should also have working smoke detectors and fire extinguishers on every floor of your building, and all employees should know where they are and how to use them.
• Pay attention to your power cords. Check them regularly and replace any damaged cords, connectors or insulation. Avoid using extensions cords or power strips.
• Many appliances used in businesses, such as coffee machines and computers, can heat up and pose a fire hazard. Leave space around them so that they can cool down, and keep all appliances away from combustible materials, like paper or cloth. At day’s end, consider unplugging appliances, since many business fires occur after work hours in an empty and unmonitored building.

Get Your Employees on the Fire-Safe Team

Enlist your employees to be a key part of preventing and escaping fires at your workplace.

• Choose an employee to be your fire prevention officer. This person will keep track of your safety plans and will supervise the response to a fire.
• Create and communicate a fire emergency and evacuation plan, and post it in several locations in your facility. Include guidelines to assist disabled persons. Hold a fire drill at least once each year.
• Provide each employee with an easily-grabbed emergency kit containing bottled water, a flashlight and a mask or cloth to protect against smoke inhalation.
• Build a first aid kit, store it in a central location and make sure your employees know where it is.

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property after a natural disaster. We also offer year-round commercial cleaning services and HVAC maintenance. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Keep Water Out of Your Basement

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

Regular maintenance, repairs and smart planting can help prevent water from entering and damaging your basement.

You can live in your home for a decade or more, and never experience water damage in your basement, but that is no guarantee that it will never happen. Sometimes water enters a basement through condensation or seepage, but sometimes it enters in a gush after a heavy rainstorm or snow melt. The fact is, 98% of basements in the U.S. will be damaged by water.

The most obvious sign of water in your basement is a pool of water on the floor. Water can enter your basement from a leaking roof or through poor drainage outside your home. If you notice water accumulating after a storm, that’s a good indication that water is entering from outside the home.

Regardless of how it gets in, water in your basement can result in ruined carpeting, drywall and framing. It can even buckle flooring above the basement and lead to a stubborn mold infestation. Stains, discoloration, warping, sagging, peeling or bubbling of your walls, floors or ceiling are signs that you have water damage.

What to Do Outside Your Home

For every inch of rain that falls, a 1,500-SF roof sheds 1,000 gallons of water. Your goal is to keep that water outside of your home and basement.

It starts with the grading of your yard. Soil should slope away from your foundation for at least 4 feet, at the rate of 1 inch per foot. If your grading does not meet this standard, add soil to the perimeter of the house and rake it smooth.

If you suspect your property has a high water table, call a professional in to evaluate the situation and determine solutions.

Evaluate your lawn and plantings. Any type of flowers or shrubs close to your foundation can attract water, increasing the chances that water seeps into your basement. Keep small plants at least 12 to 18 inches from your foundation. Planting grass next to your foundation, on the other hand, is beneficial.

Trees should not be too close to your home, as the roots can damage the foundation, leaving cracks that provide a path for water to enter. Plant trees at least 10 or even 20 feet from your house.

Clogged roof gutters are a guaranteed way to encourage water to leak into your home’s foundation, so clean them out regularly. Add 4-foot or longer extensions to your downspouts and have them empty onto splash blocks to guide water away from your foundation.

What to Do Inside Your Home

There are a few tasks you can do to prevent greater damage if you do get some water in your basement:

• Regularly test and maintain your sump pump, if you have one.
• Patch cracks in walls and waterproof the walls to seal them.
• Prevent condensation by running a dehumidifier.

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the people, skills and equipment to help homeowners recover from water damage and eradicate mold. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785 any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Generator Safety After the Storm

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

It's convenient to run a generator if you lose power after a storm, but you must follow safety guidelines to avoid a CO poisoning tragedy.

Enduring a natural disaster, like a hurricane, tornado, blizzard, flood or other big storm, is bad enough. Even worse is when that disaster leads to tragedy. In August 2020, Laura, a category 4 hurricane, hit the state of Louisiana with winds of 150 miles per hour and a storm surge of up to 15 feet. Hundreds of thousands of people lost power, and subsequently, numerous individuals lost their lives due to carbon monoxide poisoning created by unsafe use of generators.

As reported in The New York Times, “The electrical outages have been deadly, as several people who turned to generators to power refrigerators, lights and air conditioners have been overcome with fumes.

“At least seven people have been killed by carbon monoxide from generators, including four members of a family found dead in a home in Lake Charles. A fifth member of that family was taken to a hospital. Their generator was in a garage and the deadly gas was able to seep into the house through a garage door that was left cracked open, [Lake Charles mayor Nic] Hunter said.

“Another man in Calcasieu Parish, which includes Lake Charles, died of carbon monoxide poisoning from a generator, as did an 84-year-old man and an 80-year-old woman in the same home in Allen Parish, to the northeast, said health officials, who warned people never to place generators in homes or in closed garages.”

The Basics of Generator Safety

Produced by portable generators, carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that can quickly turn deadly. It can take as few as 5 minutes for carbon monoxide to build up to levels high enough to kill, according to the National Institutes of Health.

SERVPRO recommends that you follow these guidelines to safe generator use to prevent CO poisoning.

• Never run a generator in an enclosed space or inside a house. That includes your home’s basement and garage. Most generator-related CO poisoning is caused by generators that are run indoors or in partially enclosed spaces in which deadly levels of carbon monoxide builds up.
• Set up your generator so that it has 3 to 4 feet of clear space on all sides and above. This will allow for enough ventilation to prevent a buildup of CO.
• Locate the generator at least 20 feet from your house. Direct the engine exhaust away from windows and doors.
• Also use a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector when you are running your generator to alert you quickly if CO is accumulating.
• Never run your generator in the rain. Instead, set up a tent or canopy to shield it from the downpour while maintaining good ventilation.
• Immediately leave your house, get to fresh air and seek medical attention if you or others show symptoms of CO poisoning, such as dizziness, headaches, nausea and tiredness. Stay outside until first responders determine your home is free from dangerous CO.
• Consider purchasing a new generator that has a sensor that will detect dangerous levels of CO and automatically shut itself off.

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We Clean Up the Toughest Commercial Biohazard Messes

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO knows how to quickly completely remediate the nastiest biohazard messes at your place of business.

Even the most careful business owner or facility manager can suffer a nasty biohazard situation, such as a sewage backup, chemical spill or bloody accident scene. Biohazard cleanup jobs are among the most challenging tasks for damage remediation companies to handle, but SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has deep expertise in cleaning out the worst biohazard situations.

We are ready to safely remove and dispose of biohazards from your commercial facility in accordance with OSHA and health regulations. Commercial biohazard messes that SERVPRO tackles include:

• Sewage backups
• Crime scenes
• Deaths by suicide, accident or homicide
• Blood and bloodborne pathogens
• Chemical spills
• Meth labs

A biohazard mess can hit your facility suddenly and unexpectedly, putting the safety and health of your customers and employees at immediate risk. And biological and chemical contamination can present serious long-term health hazards. SERVPRO has the right training, procedures, tools and products to transform these unhealthy environments back into clean, safe workplaces.

As soon as you discover a biohazard situation, SERVPRO recommends that you follow the steps in our Biohazard Emergency Tips—Until Help Arrives guide to protect your employees and your property.

SERVPRO Now Provides Specialized Biohazard Cleanup for Viral Pathogens

In response to the increased risk of contamination by viral pathogens, SERVPRO has created a new defensive pathogen cleaning program, called Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. This program should not be confused with typical janitorial cleaning services. Based on our more than 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, it includes these unique components:

• Consult: We evaluate the unique cleaning needs of your facility and create an appropriate program.
• Clean: We use our own EPA-approved hospital-grade solutions to thoroughly clean all areas of your building. Our highly-trained crews meet or exceed the CDC-recommended cleaning and decontamination standards.
• Certify: Once your facility has been cleaned, you receive a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield to display at your business, as well as digital icons for your website and marketing. This tells your employees, customers and the entire community that you have done everything you can to protect them from viral pathogens.

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property after a natural disaster. We also offer year-round commercial cleaning services and HVAC maintenance. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Survive a Business Disaster with a Business Ready Plan

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

A disaster can put you out of operation—and even close your doors forever. Prevent that with an emergency preparedness plan.

Would you know—step by step—what to do to save your business and quickly resume operations after a flood, fire, biohazard contamination, hurricane, tornado or other natural disaster? (And it’s not just natural disasters: human-caused hazards include accidents, acts of violence and acts of terrorism, while technology-related hazards include the failure or malfunction of systems, equipment or software.)

After a disaster, close to half of all businesses shut down. Help your business be one of the survivors in case of disaster by having an emergency preparedness plan—a Business Ready Plan—in place.

The Business Ready Plan provides an immediate plan of action that will help managers and owners of commercial property minimize business interruption after a disaster. You’ll know what to do, how to do it, what resources to call on and how to communicate and make decisions in case of emergency, when quick action counts.

How It Works

As you develop a Business Ready Plan for your business, you create a clearly defined plan of action to take in case of emergency, with the goal of minimizing business interruption and maximizing your odds for survival.

Your no-cost Business Ready Plan includes:

• An assessment of your facility and normal business operations.
• Creation of a concise Profile Document with the most critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A step-by-step plan to help you restore operations following a disaster.
• Identification of your preferred disaster mitigation and restoration provider, so that you don’t waste valuable time researching contractors and getting quotes after a disaster.
• Development of the chain of command for making decisions and authorizing work.
• Identification of key facility details, such as shut-off valve locations, mechanical system details and priority areas of the building for rapid restoration.

We Partner with the Pros

Business Ready Plan partners with SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield,  specialists in property damage cleanup. SERVPRO’s expertise includes cleanup of fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying, as well as mold mitigation and removal. Our Large Loss Division handles the cost and operations of large commercial disaster recovery projects.

Business Ready Plan also partners with SANTE Property Damage Restoration, which specializes in restoring property after a disaster. Our skilled professionals will be at your site quickly to evaluate the damage, secure your building to protect it from further damage or intrusions, and then get to work restoring your building to its preloss state—even while you continue to operate your business.

Ask yourself: are you ready for the unexpected? Can your business survive a sudden disaster? Call (800) 345-4552 for your FREE Business Ready Plan.

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property after a natural disaster. We also offer year-round commercial cleaning services and HVAC maintenance. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

6 Signs You Need Water Damage Restoration Services

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

Water damaged wall with mold.

In 2017, the total amount of insurance payouts for water damage was $13 billion, with the average claim costing around $10,000. The commonality of water damage means you need to know the signs of water damage so you don't end up paying a ridiculous amount of money.

Read on for six signs you may need water damage restoration services.

1. Stained Walls

The most common sign that you need water damage restoration services is discovering discolored walls or ceilings. This is not a sign of paint aging. You have water damage.

Water will dry between leaks leaving minerals and salt to leave a discolored look on the walls. If you have dark paint, stains can be less noticeable. Look for brown, yellow, green, or orange discoloration in this case.

You may find that your ceilings are the most common place you see discoloration. This does not mean stains cannot occur on the walls or floors too. Anywhere that has pipes, can cause discoloration from a leak.

2. Smelling Mold

If you sense a strong odor throughout the house and it reeks of mold, you have water damage. A water service restoration service should be called right away if you have a moldy smell.

If the smell comes from the walls, the room may feel damp too. Through water damage restoration, the smell can be eliminated by removing all of the excess water.

3. Warped Flooring

One of the most noticeable water damage signs is having warped flooring. When water gets into the subflooring, you will see and even feel it.

Depending on the material of your floor, it could rise or become uneven. Sometimes the floor will break away from the foundation and sink.

Water Damage Cleanup is needed to get under the flooring and remove all of the water.

4. Wall Damage

Wall damage is not the same as discoloration. A leaky pipe could lead to your wall peeling or bubbling up. Soft walls are a sign that there was recent water damage.

If you can visibly see damage on a wall from a leak, it is likely the leak has gone unnoticed for a long time. This means you will need immediate water damage restoration services.

5. Moldy Baseboards

Moisture building up in the home usually comes with mold. Baseboards on a wall could have subtle mold growth that means you have water damage.

Mold is uncommon in a room with windows unless there is water damage. If you spot a moldy baseboard, you can peel it back to see how much damage there is.

6. High Water Bill

If there is an unusual spike in your water bill, something could be wrong. If you are unsure why your bill has all of the sudden gone up, it may be worth it to get your pipes checked out.

Leaks can come from a lot of different places which makes them hard to find. Check the toilets, sinks, and the main water supply. These areas will affect the amount on your bill the most.

Get Water Damage Restoration Services Now

If you are experiencing any of these six issues within your home, you need to get water damage restoration services now. Getting a leak taken care of as soon as possible can save you from further damage on your walls, floors, and even furniture. Don't wait, call the professionals right away.

For more information on water damage restoration services, contact us today.

Enjoy Your Fire Pit and Campfire … Safely!

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Enjoy your fire pit or campfire with friends and family—but follow our basic safety guidelines to prevent a fire disaster.

It’s summer and that means friends and family gather around campfires and fire pits to share the dancing flames, conversation, laughter and maybe even s’mores. But while you’re enjoying the fun, you must heed some basic safety rules to make sure the flames don’t spread and turn pleasure into tragedy.

Whether it’s a fire pit or a campfire you’re enjoying, you’ll want to take these important precautions to prevent a fire disaster.

Starting the Fire

• Don’t use flammable fluids—lighter fluid, gasoline, alcohol, diesel fuel or kerosene—to light or relight fires.
• Don’t start a fire on a windy day.
• Seasoned hardwood is the best fuel. Soft woods, such as pine or cedar, can pop and throw sparks, so don’t use them. Don’t burn trash, leaves, paper, cardboard or plywood.

When setting up and using a fire pit:

• Don’t overload the fire pit. Make sure you can close the lid to extinguish the fire in an emergency.
• Your fire pit should be at least ten feet away from buildings, trees, shrubs and other flammable objects.

When setting up your campfire:

• Don’t build a fire in dry conditions or if a fire is prohibited. Use an existing fire ring if there is one.
• Your fire should be fifteen feet or more away from tents, shrubs, trees or other flammable objects. Look up to make sure there are no low-hanging branches overhead.

Enjoying the Fire

• Have a fire extinguisher, garden hose or bucket of water nearby.
• Establish a three-foot safety zone around the fire and make sure children and pets stay out of the zone.
• Keep flammable material and fluids far away from the fire.
• Don’t wear loose-fitting or flammable clothing, such as nylon.

Extinguishing the Fire

The risk doesn’t end until the flames and embers are 100% out.

• If time allows, let the fire burn completely to ashes.
• Pour water on the fire until you no longer hear hissing sounds. Make sure all the embers are doused, not just the red ones.
• With a shovel, stir the embers to make sure all are wet and cold to the touch.
• If you don’t have water, cover the embers with dirt or sand and stir until everything is cool. Don’t just bury the fire and walk away, as the fire can smolder and reignite.

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO® of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration and cleanup, as well as natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage and mold remediation, water and mold damage, and chemical and biohazard cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from fire, water, mold, sewage, storm, natural disaster and other damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Where Are Your Home’s Shutoff Valves?

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

If you have a sudden water emergency in your home, you can minimize the damage if you know where your shutoff valves are.

Often without warning, you can experience the bane of homeowners everywhere: a burst or leaky pipe, or even a flooding appliance. Maybe it’s a toilet that seeps or a washing machine hose that splits. Maybe it’s a water stain on a wall, indicating a leaking pipe, or maybe that pipe bursts clear open! Whichever way it happens, you’re in for potentially costly water damage. At that point, your best line of defense is to quickly stop the flood by shutting off the flow of water at its source.

Even if you turn off the shutoff valves at the first sign of trouble, you may still suffer water damage to your home. For everything from a small leak to a water disaster that spans several floors of your home, call on an experienced disaster recovery company like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, which has specialized training, expert staff and the latest equipment to help you restore your home and possessions.

You’ll be ready to respond to a water disaster in your home if you know where all of the shutoff valves are located and how to operate them.

Locate Your Whole House Shutoffs

Main Shutoff Valve

The location of this valve will vary depending on if you have metered water or a well.

• Metered water: the shutoff valve will be on one side of the water meter. The meter itself may be in your basement, on an exterior wall or close to the street in a concrete "meter pit."
• Well: the valve will be on the side of the pressure tank nearest the house. (When you shut off the main valve, also cut power to the tank to prevent the motor from burning out trying to compensate for the loss of pressure—then remember to turn the power back on when you restore water flow.)

Hot Water Shutoff Valve

The hot-water outlet on your water heater should have a valve that controls your home’s hot water. If your water heater lacks a valve, have one installed.

Locate Your Appliance and Fixture Shutoffs

• Toilet: Look on the toilet under the tank for this shutoff valve, which usually has a ribbed oval handle.
• Sink: Look under the sink, inside the vanity or sink cabinet. Typically, the hot water shutoff valve is on the left and the cold water valve on the right.
• Dishwasher: You may need to check in a couple of spots for this shutoff valve. First, look on the 1/2-inch hot-water sink-supply line that leads to the dishwasher under the kitchen sink. Not there? Go to your basement, stand below the dishwasher and look up. Find the supply line that runs along the ceiling joists and check for a shutoff valve.
• Washing machine: You’ll find these valves (one for hot and one for cold) at the spot where the house-supply lines meet the washer hoses. Tip: Close off these valves when you leave your home for more than a few days.

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the people, skills and equipment to help homeowners recover from water damage and eradicate mold. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785 any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

What Not To Do in a Thunderstorm

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

Whether you're outside or in your home, here is a list of essential things NOT to do when lightning is in the area.

Each year, about 400 people are struck by lightning in the United States. Now, about 90% of those people survive, but many have lingering injuries and burns. Getting hit by lightning is not something you want to do!

Check this list of what not to do if lightning is present and you’ll greatly reduce your chance of being struck by lightning.

What Not To Do If You’re Outside

Stand Out in the Open

When the thunder roars, go indoors! Try to get inside an enclosed building, which is the safest place to be. But if you are caught outdoors with no shelter available, crouch down low, with as little of your body as possible touching the ground.

Stand Under a Tree

Due to their height, trees attract lightning as it travels to the ground. The human body, unfortunately, conducts electricity even better than a tree does, so if you're near a tree, the lightning can jump from the tree to you. Avoid this very dangerous situation!

Lie Down on the Ground

You never want to be the tallest target if you’re caught out in a thunderstorm. But don’t lie down on the ground in an attempt to make yourself shorter. By stretching out on the ground, you actually make yourself a bigger target.

Sit on Concrete

Concrete, really? Yes, stay away from concrete, because buried within most concrete to strengthen it is metal rebar or wire mesh, both effective conductors of electricity.

What Not To Do If You’re at Home

Stand Near a Window

Stay away from windows during a thunderstorm because many windows contain metal parts that can attract lightning.

Use a Landline

While it is safe to use a cellphone (if it’s not plugged into a charger) during a thunderstorm, do not use your landline. Lightning can travel through the phone lines and electrocute you.

Keep Your Computer Plugged In

Even a top-rated surge protector can’t withstand a direct lightning strike, so unplug your computer and other devices, and consider unplugging appliances, too. If it’s plugged into an outlet, it’s at risk of being damaged by an electrical surge.

Use Small Appliances

Any appliance—iron, blowdryer, etc.—that’s plugged into an outlet can carry a current from a lightning strike, so don’t use or even be near a small electrical appliance.

Take a Bath or Shower

If lightning strikes near your house, powerful currents can travel through the pipes in your home and electrocute you in your bath or shower. Get cleaned up after the storm!

Wash the Dishes

For the same reason, don’t wash dishes during a thunderstorm. The dishes can wait.

Do Laundry

You definitely do not want to be near your washer and dryer during a thunderstorm! These appliances are connected to your home’s electrical system and they are metal, so lightning can run right through them and electrocute you.

Source: Bob Vila

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Your Home Appliances Pose a Fire Hazard

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

One way to prevent a devastating house fire is to follow these guidelines for the safe use of your home appliances.

Every year, approximately 370,000 homes catch fire in America, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and those household fires cause billions of dollars in property damages. 

Of these house fires, about 9%—approximately 34,000—involve electrical equipment. Each year, these electrical home fires account for approximately one in ten fire deaths.

While home electrical appliances—used for cooking, heating, cleaning and more—make our lives easier, they are also potential fire hazards, causing 7% of home fires and 4% of deaths. By following safety guidelines and doing regular maintenance and cleaning, homeowners can operate their appliances safely.

In general, when using any electric, gas or heat appliances:

• Clean, inspect and maintain appliances regularly, especially those 15 years or older.
• Run appliances only when you're at home.
• Purchase appliances with a UL mark, which proves the item meets Underwriters Laboratories safety standards.

The Two Most Common Appliance Fire Risks

The worst culprits in appliance fires are clothes dryers and gas water heaters. Read on for tips that will help you prevent an appliance-caused fire disaster in your home.

Clothes Dryers

Even if you empty your lint tray every time you dry clothes, lint can still build up inside the dryer cabinet, causing a blaze at the heating element or burners. Especially dangerous are dryers that are vented with flexible vinyl hoses, which can easily catch on fire.

• Remove lint after each use by keeping vents and filters clean.
• Don’t place items stained with combustible fluids, like gasoline or furniture polish, in the dryer.
• If your furnace is close to the laundry room, don’t hang clothing or drop dryer lint near it.

At least once a year, clean the lint from the exhaust hose at the back of the dryer, from the dryer cabinet, from around the drum and from the vent line. Replace vinyl vent lines with smooth-walled metal ducts. Follow these steps to clean lint build-up from your clothes dryer.

• Lint trap: Pull out the lint screen, push a snorkel brush straight down into the trap and twirl the brush to clean out any lint at the bottom of the trap. (Using a shop vac with a long crevice tool will also work.) Shine a flashlight down the trap to make sure it's clean.
• Ductwork: Disconnect the duct from the dryer exhaust and the exterior vent. Take the duct outside and clean all the parts with a round dryer-vent brush. If the duct is plastic or ribbed metal, replace it with a smooth metal one. Reassemble the metal ductwork and seal the joints with aluminum tape. Don't use screws, which snag lint.
• Outside vent: Working from inside, spin the vent brush a few inches into the duct, then pull it back and clean off the bristles. Repeat until the bristles reach as far as the exhaust hood on the outside wall. Then go outside and clean the vent hood if necessary.

Water Heater

Because water heaters are frequently located near the washer and dryer, clothes can get piled up against the water heater near the flame, posing a direct fire hazard.

• Store paint and other flammable liquids in their original, labeled and sealed containers away from heat sources.
• Don’t keep anything flammable near a furnace or water heater, such as debris, combustible materials and rags. Use masking tape to mark off a “combustible-free” zone three feet away from your water heater.
• Keep burner/element access doors closed and combustion chamber covers in place.

Be Safe in the Kitchen

While most kitchen fires are cooking-related, not all are. Non-cooking related fires typically originate in refrigerators, freezers or dishwashers. Follow these tips to help prevent non-cooking related fires from starting in your kitchen.

• Plug all kitchen appliances, including microwaves, toasters and coffee makers, directly into a wall outlet, never into an extension cord.
• For larger appliances, such as ovens and refrigerators, use only properly grounded outlets with circuits that match the rating plate on the appliance.
• If you have older two-prong outlets in your kitchen, don’t use an adapter. Hire a qualified electrician to replace the old outlets with properly grounded three-prong outlets.
• When moving kitchen appliances, be careful not to roll over or pinch power cords.
• Unplug small appliances when they’re not in use.
• Regularly clean stove hoods, filters and vents.
• Never use a gas or propane oven to heat your home. 

Oven/Stovetop

Every year, an average of one out of every eight homes suffers a kitchen cooking fire. Cooking fires cause 23% of home fires and 9% of home-fire deaths.

Cooking fires mostly occur on the cooktop, usually in the first 15 minutes of cooking. If a fire starts on your stovetop:

• Turn off the burner and slide a lid over the pot or pan.
• Don’t throw water on a grease fire—it may cause it to spread and intensify.
• Don’t try to carry the pot or pan outside—you could spread flames throughout your house.
• If the lid does not stop the fire, use a fire extinguisher.

Follow these guidelines for safe cooking:

• Keep flammable material, such as oven mitts, dishcloths, paper towels and napkins, three feet away from the stove.
• Clean your oven and range thoroughly at least once a month to remove built-up food splatter and grease.
• Never leave food cooking on a stovetop unattended.
• Don’t hang dishtowels on the oven door.
• Keep aerosols far away from flames.
• Cook on back burners and turn pot handles inward to prevent spills and burns.
• Turn gas stovetop flames off before reaching above the stove.
• Dress appropriately when cooking; avoid loose clothing and keep sleeves rolled up.
• Keep an operating fire extinguisher in the kitchen.
• For a gas stove, periodically check that its pilot lights haven’t gone out.

Microwave

• Use only microwave-safe containers.
• Don’t heat food or materials that are flammable, such as aluminum foil, Styrofoam or some plastic containers.

Toaster/Toaster Oven

• Clean out accumulated crumbs that can build up and catch fire on the bottom of the toaster.
• Never use these appliances unsupervised, because the heating elements can become faulty over time and may not turn off.

Be Safe Using Your Other Appliances

Bathroom Appliances

• Use GFCI outlets and don’t overload them.
• Don’t use hairdryers or other electrical appliances near the sink, bathtub or shower.
• Keep curling irons, hairdryers, straighteners and other hot equipment away from combustible materials.
• Unplug electrical appliances, such as curling irons and hairdryers, when not in use.

A Note on Vintage Appliances

While they may still work, old-fashioned plug-in appliances—a decades-old fan or vintage coffeemaker—were designed to meet outdated safety codes and may have wiring that’s frayed or damaged. If you are determined to use an antiquated electronic appliance, have it rewired by an electrician.

Make Sure Your Home’s Electrical System Is Safe, Too

Since electrical appliances are connected to the home’s electrical infrastructure, preventing an appliance-related fire disaster includes making sure your home’s wiring and electrical equipment is operating safely. Overloaded extension cords, hidden electrical shorts, bad connections and oversized bulbs and fixtures can melt wire insulation and ignite nearby flammable items and materials, potentially causing a house fire.

Pay Attention to These Signs of Danger

It’s important to recognize the signs of impending danger in your electrical system. Shorts, overloaded circuits and bad connections generate heat that can ignite combustibles such as wood framing, rugs or the insulation around a cord or wire. These are some of the signs of dangerous concealed wiring hazards:

• Electrical cords that are warm to the touch.
• Charred or plastic burning odors, which may indicate oversized bulbs and light fixtures.
• Warm-to-the-touch switches or receptacle plate covers, which may mean a poor electrical connection.
• Fuses that regularly blow or circuits that often trip, which may be caused by a defective circuit breaker or a short in the cables buried in walls or ceilings.
• Lights that dim, flicker, are unusually bright or have bulbs that regularly burn out prematurely.
• Appliances that give off a rubbery or burning smell when you run them.
• Appliances that spark.

When you see any of these signs of electrical trouble, hire a licensed electrician A.S.A.P. to make the necessary upgrades or repairs to prevent a fire.

Lamp Safety

• Never place anything that can burn—such as towels or scarves—over a lamp or heat-producing appliance.
• Make sure bulb wattages don’t exceed the fixture’s recommended maximum. Prevent overheating by checking all the light bulbs in your home and changing them if necessary.

Outlet Safety

If you plug in an appliance and the cord slips out of the electrical outlet, the blades inside the outlet may have loosened—and can generate intense heat that can lead to fires. You should replace electrical outlets as soon as you notice that plugs don't fit snugly in them.

Homes built before 1965 typically have ungrounded two-pronged outlets, while newer houses usually have three-pronged outlets. If your home is older, consider upgrading wiring to accept three-pronged outlets, particularly if you are replacing older outlets that may be cracked, damaged or covered in paint.

Follow these good practices when plugging in appliances to minimize fire risk:

• Turn off appliances before unplugging them to avoid creating an arc inside that could start a fire.
• Plug only one high-wattage appliance into a receptacle outlet at a time.
• Plug only one heat-producing appliance, such as a toaster or coffee maker, into a receptacle outlet at a time.

Hire an electrician to make sure your outlets are as safe as they can be:

• Install tamper-resistant (TR) receptacles in outlets near where children will be present. 
• Help prevent shocks by installing ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in the kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, basement, garages, outdoor areas and other places where water is nearby or electrical equipment can get wet. (A GFCI can either be installed in your electrical system or built into a power cord.)
• To help prevent fires, have a qualified electrician install arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs), which can help protect against arcing and sparking.

Power Cord and Extension Cord Safety

Damaged power cords pose a serious fire risk, so evaluate the cords in your home:

• Make sure electrical cords are not trapped against walls or under carpets where heat can build.
• Never use electronics with frayed or exposed wires. A short circuit can result in a spark, which can cause a house fire.

Intended for temporary use only, extension cords are often used more permanently. Consider having a qualified electrician add more circuits or outlets so you do not have to use extension cords.

• Stay within the electrical limits of extension cords and power strips. Exceeding the recommended power rating—for heavy, medium or light duty use—can be dangerous. Replace undersized cords with larger-gauged ones.
• Plug major appliances directly into outlets, never into an extension cord.
• Don’t run extension cords under carpets or furniture.
• Inspect your extension cords and replace those that are undersized or frayed.

Sources: This Old House, Nationwide, Family Handyman, The Travelers

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration and cleanup, as well as natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage and mold remediation, water and mold damage, and chemical and biohazard cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from fire, water, mold, sewage, storm, natural disaster and other damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Keep Your HVAC Systems Humming with Routine Maintenance

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

A clean, well-maintained HVAC system will be more efficient, more reliable and last longer, saving you money over the years.

As a business owner, you know that your facility costs account for a large percentage of your spending each year. Besides rent or mortgage expenses, energy costs are considerable—U.S. businesses spend $400 billion on energy alone each year!

HVAC systems, along with lighting, are the biggest energy consumers in the average commercial building. Regularly maintaining these systems will mean they’re more efficient, less likely to break down and will last longer—and that will save you money in the long run.

Follow this advice to keep your building’s HVAC equipment in top shape, consuming less energy and serving you longer.

Preventive HVAC Maintenance in the Spring and Fall

Preventive maintenance should be performed in the spring for cooling systems and in the fall for heating systems. Preventative maintenance serves as a tune-up for your building’s HVAC systems, helping them run more efficiently throughout the season.

Hire a commercial HVAC professional such as SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to inspect and clean your system. If maintenance is needed, it can be done right away without inconveniencing you or your employees.

These outdoor components should be inspected, cleaned, lubricated, adjusted or replaced if necessary:

• Coil and cabinet
• Drain pans and condensate lines
• Compressor
• Fan motor and blades
• Control box, switches, wiring and safety controls
• Refrigerant

These indoor components should be inspected, cleaned, lubricated, adjusted or replaced if necessary:

• Blower assembly and housing
• Belts
• Evaporator coil, drip pan and condensate lines
• Burner assembly
• Ignition system
• Safety controls
• Heat exchanger
• Flue system
• Control box, wiring and connections
• Air filter
• Duct system

Other Routine Maintenance

Air Filters

Restricted airflow through the HVAC systems limits performance and increases energy consumption, while using clean air filters can lower energy consumption by up to 15%.

• Inspect air filters every three to four weeks to be sure the filter has not become clogged.
• Change air filters every three to six months (or more often if usage is heavy). Use a high-efficiency, pleated air filter.

Programmable Thermostats

• Check your programmed thermostats at the beginning of the heating and cooling seasons to make sure that the settings still fit your needs.
• Check thermostat operation monthly, and repair or replace if necessary.

With proper HVAC maintenance, your building’s heating and cooling systems can operate more efficiently year-round and generate energy savings for your business.

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property after a natural disaster. We also offer year-round commercial cleaning services and HVAC maintenance. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

Commercial Cleaning Services by the Pros at SERVPRO

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a water, fire, smoke, chemical, mold or other disaster, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Prescription: Pack Your Medical Go-Bag

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

If you have to evacuate during or after a storm, having a medical go-bag will make your time away from home easier and safer.

If a big storm or other emergency hits your home, you may have to pack up your family and evacuate your home in a matter of minutes. Prepare for this by having a well-stocked medical go-bag—it could save your life. But don’t wait: get started now, before a storm threatens!

Since you may have to leave your home quickly, pack the items in an easy-to-carry, water-resistant kit. Store it in a designated place and make sure all family members know where it is kept. Check the go-bag periodically and replace any out-of-date or damaged supplies. 

Basic Items to Include

Whether you buy a kit from a drugstore or put it together yourself, your medication go-bag should include: 

• Antiseptic wipes and an antibiotic ointment
• Bandages, gauze and tape for treating burns, cuts and wounds
• An antihistamine for allergic reactions
• Pain relievers
• Stomach, antacid and anti-diarrheal remedies
• Mosquito repellent and aloe gel, hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion
• Eyewash solution
• Water-purification tablets
• Scissors and tweezers
• Thermometer
• A copy of your health insurance card

Other Items to Include

Also include at least seven days’ worth of over-the-counter and prescription medications you and family members take on a regular basis. Consider asking your doctor for 60- or 90-day refills of your prescriptions. That way, you’re more likely to have extras on hand for your medication go-bag. As refills arrive, rotate your go-bag supply so that it remains up to date. And remember to check your medications periodically to ensure that they have not expired.

If you and your family have special medical needs, add additional items to your kit: hearing aids with extra batteries, an epinephrine auto-injector, glasses, contact lenses or syringes, for example.

Public Safety Items

In 2020, the CDC currently recommends that people include additional items in their go-bags to help prevent the spread of viruses and the flu. Consider adding these items to your go-bag:

• Cloth face coverings (for ages 2 and above)
• Soap and hand sanitizer
• Disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces

Sources: Ready.gov, Consumer Reports

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

Storm Damage Restoration

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Cleaning and Disinfecting for Virus Eradication

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Protect your family, customers and employees with SERVPRO's professional virus cleaning service.

Most of the time, we humans can afford not to give much thought to viruses, bacteria and other pathogens. We know they’re out there, but we have long been able to feel confident that science and medicine will protect us from the worst effects. Unfortunately, when a previously unknown pathogen sweeps the globe, we are all vulnerable to infection and illness, without any reliable vaccine or treatment. In that scenario, we must fall back on time-tested ways to prevent transmission and infection from occurring.

Typically, viral pathogens spread primarily through person-to-person contact. Transmission occurs when an infected person produces airborne respiratory droplets by coughing, sneezing—or even by speaking or breathing. These drops travel through the air and can be inhaled by others, especially those who are within about six feet of one another. This is the most direct way of transmission.

Another, less direct way to catch a virus is by touching a surface or object that has had virus cells deposited on it, then bringing the viral cells into your body by touching your mouth, nose or eyes. Research indicates that viral pathogens can live on surfaces from a few hours to a few days. This is why medical experts recommend washing your hands frequently and avoiding touching your face—easy ways to break the path of transmission.

Another way to disrupt the path of transmission is to disinfect the surfaces of objects, furniture and fixtures that may carry viral or bacterial contamination.

The Importance of Proactive Cleaning

SERVPRO offers homeowners and business owners an extra level of assurance that their homes and facilities are thoroughly clean and disinfected to minimize the transmission of emergent viral pathogens. Do all you can to keep your family and friends, customers and employees safe from threat and prevent disease: call on SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield for proactive cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection of commercial properties.

As a corporation, SERVPRO is in a unique position to perform these essential services at a time of urgent need. Americans can rely on the preparedness—the expertise, training, equipment and personnel—of SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield.

According to the CDC, “Cleaning of visibly dirty surfaces followed by disinfection is a best practice measure for prevention of … viral respiratory illnesses in households and community settings.” (SERVPRO advises that you visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) website for the latest and most accurate information on viral pathogens.)

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is prepared—right now—to clean, sanitize and disinfect your home or business to eradicate traces of viral and bacterial pathogens. Whether you have no indication of existing contamination, or are aware that your structure may have been contaminated, SERVPRO’s crews stand ready to minimize risk within your building.

Please be aware, however, that while SERVPRO’s cleaning process can remove existing viral pathogens, structures we clean proactively will not be protected from future contamination if an infected person subsequently enters the building.

Who Seeks Proactive Cleaning?

Both homeowners and business owners hire SERVPRO for proactive cleaning. Whether you want reassurance that your building is free from contamination or you are coping with a suspected contamination situation, rely on SERVPRO to restore your peace of mind, your health and your safety.

Especially when a family member has been diagnosed with a virus, our cleaning services for homeowners let you be confident that the other residents of the home will have a lower risk of exposure.

Business owners, too, can protect their employees and customers with our proactive cleaning service. You will know that you are doing everything you can to keep Americans—ones you know and ones you’ve never met—healthy.

Another benefit of proactive cleaning is to reassure your customers that your place of business is a safe place to be. In the midst of this viral threat, with so many unknowns, people seek reassurance. As many states have already temporarily closed down table service at restaurants and bars and curtailed the hours of nonessential businesses, hiring SERVPRO to thoroughly clean and sanitize your facility says, loudly and clearly, that your business has taken all the precautions it can to protect the health of your customers and the public.

Many types of businesses can benefit from SERVPRO’s proactive cleaning, which targets viral and bacterial pathogens:

• Restaurants and bars
• Retail stores
• Offices, especially medical offices
• Schools and universities
• Nursing homes, senior centers and rehabilitation facilities
• Banks and other financial institutions
• Gyms
• Hotels, B&Bs and other hospitality sites
• Libraries
• Theaters and entertainment venues
• Apartment buildings
• Factories and warehouses

SERVPRO: Uniquely Ready to Provide Proactive Cleaning

We were ready for this. As a corporation, our baseline level of expertise and preparation on a day-to-day basis makes us uniquely ready to provide proactive cleaning of viral pathogens for several reasons.

Our People

A key part of the SERVPRO business model is being fully staffed and prepared for your most difficult job. Our employees are thoroughly trained in the use of all our equipment and cleaning products. We support them with rigorous safety training and procedures.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is always prepared because we can call on the resources of three other top-performing local SERVPRO franchises—SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield, SERVPRO of Glastonbury/Wethersfield and SERVPRO of West Hartford—that are owned and operated by Noemi Garcia. This means we’re ready for just about anything! We can get to your job faster, and we allocate staff and equipment as needed to tackle the really big, urgent jobs. Among these four franchises, we have at our disposal thousands of different pieces of equipment and dozens of trucks and other vehicles.

Our Protective Gear

We have the right personal protective gear for the job. If there is no indication that your facility or home has been contaminated by a viral pathogen, our crew will wear a mid-grade protective suit, but if contamination is suspected or confirmed, all workers will wear a top-grade suit, which is thicker and features integrated boots and hoods. Our employees wear N-95 masks that are individually fit-tested to ensure complete coverage and protection.

Our Products

We use hospital-grade cleaning and disinfecting products that are safe to use and effective at killing germs. In high demand, these products are difficult, if not impossible, for other vendors to locate. But SERVPRO, with its foresight and purchasing network, is prepared with a substantial supply of pathogen-fighting cleaners and disinfectants.

Our Methods

We use two different modes of cleaning to attack contamination. First, we seal off your home or place of business and fog it using sprayers and misters. This allows our cleaning and disinfecting agents to penetrate deep into crevices that would otherwise remain untouched.

Then our crews get to work, doing hands-on cleaning and disinfecting of every flat surface in your structure, including furniture, fixtures and objects. Our crews let the disinfectant remain in place for the CDC-recommended amount of time necessary to kill disease-causing germs.

Our Coverage

If you are concerned about potential or suspected viral or bacterial contamination in your home or business, you need not be worried about any additional liability. As a professional damage restoration and cleaning company, part of a network of more than 1,800 franchises across the United States, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is fully insured against any hazards we may encounter in our work.

What We Clean and Disinfect

Cleaning removes the soil and dirt that harbors infectious agents, while disinfecting kills the remaining environmental pathogens. SERVPRO meets or exceeds the CDC’s guidelines to clean high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables.

Areas of the home or business we clean include:

Kitchen/food areas

• tables and chairs
• countertops
• cabinets and pulls
• doorknobs
• floors: hard surfaces/wood
• mats
• food contact surfaces
• light switches
• paper towel/napkin dispensers
• push doors
• salt and pepper shakers
• sinks and sink hardware
• soap dispensers
• tabletops

Bathrooms

• bathroom stalls
• countertops
• cabinets/vanities and pulls
• doorknobs
• floors: hard surfaces/wood
• handrails
• light switches
• paper towel/napkin dispenser
• sinks and sink hardware
• soap dispensers
• toilets
• diaper-changing station

Classrooms

• book covers and binders
• carpets
• chairs
• computer equipment
• countertops
• doorknobs
• floors: hard surfaces/wood
• small hard-surface items
• light switches
• mats
• paper towel/napkin dispensers
• rugs
• sinks and sink hardware
• soap dispensers
• tabletops/desktops

Offices

• carpets
• chairs
• telephones
• computer equipment
• countertops
• doorknobs
• floors: hard surfaces/wood
• light switches
• rugs
• shared office equipment
• tabletops/desktops
• water fountains

Retail space

• shelving and racking
• displays
• mannequins
• packaged inventory
• carpets
• fitting room stalls
• chairs
• telephones
• computer equipment and registers
• sales counters
• doorknobs
• floors: hard surfaces/wood
• light switches
• rugs
• tables
• water fountains

Hallways

• carpets
• doorknobs
• floors: hard surfaces/wood
• handrails
• light switches
• rugs
• water fountains

Other

• fitness equipment
• lamps
• storage bins
• shelves and racking
• lockers
• playground equipment
• stair handrails
• elevator cars

How We Clean Porous and Non-Porous Surfaces

Cleaning—using a detergent and water to physically remove germs, dirt and impurities from surfaces and objects—does not necessarily kill all germs on porous and non-porous surfaces, but by reducing their numbers, you can greatly reduce the risk of spreading infection.

Some materials cannot be cleaned with detergent and water without being damaged. For this reason, paper and paper products cannot be cleaned or disinfected.

Porous materials that are not water-sensitive, like carpet, area rugs, upholstered items and draperies, are wet-cleaned using a hot water extraction or preconditioner and rinse method. Cleaning methods typically used on water-sensitive materials, such as vacuuming or dry sponging, do not remove enough soil and residue to be effective.

We effectively wet-clean non-porous materials, like hard-surface floors, cabinets, countertops, doorknobs and plumbing fixtures, using a variety of SERVPRO hard-surface cleaners (general purpose) and cleaning methods.

How We Disinfect Non-Porous Surfaces

It is important to understand that not all porous surfaces can be disinfected, such as carpet, area rugs, upholstered items and draperies.

We use hospital-grade chemicals to kill germs and disinfect non-porous surfaces or objects, like hard-surface floors, cabinets, countertops, doorknobs and plumbing fixtures. SERVPRO follows CDC recommendations that advise using a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant.

We apply these disinfectants using a spray bottle, pump-up sprayer, electric sprayer or mister. Once thoroughly sprayed, we allow the disinfectant to remain on the surface for ten minutes, sufficient to kill germs.

We follow the CDC’s recommendations to use disinfecting wipes on electronic items that are touched often, such as phones and computers. If necessary, we use more than one wipe to keep the surface wet for the recommended length of contact time.

Safety is Our Priority

SERVPRO puts a premium on the health and safety of our people. Our workers are thoroughly trained and equipped to handle potentially contaminated areas and materials. While working, our employees wear personal protective equipment, including appropriate protective suit with integrated hood and boots, N-95 respirators, nitrile gloves and goggles.

We clean and disinfect our own tools and equipment as we work to avoid spreading any contamination in your home or place of business.

Once we have successfully cleaned your building, our crew bags, removes and disposes of all waste, including used gloves and disposable respirators, and bags and removes cleaning towels to the SERVPRO facility for laundering.

We’re Here for You in a Time of Crisis

In just about any disaster situation, the team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home or business. In this time of uncertainty and peril, we have the expertise and preparation to reassure you, your family, customers and employees that your safety and health will be protected. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Commercial Cleaning Services by the Pros at SERVPRO

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's commercial cleaning service ensures that your workplace is always tidy and safe for employees and customers.

The coronavirus crisis of 2020 has made Americans acutely aware that an important aspect of staying healthy includes cleaning and disinfecting our homes and businesses. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield offers specialized coronavirus cleaning services that can help ensure that your home or business is as safe as it can be. You can trust SERVPRO because we offer:

• highly skilled and trained staff
• hospital-grade cleaning and disinfecting products
• top-line personal protective equipment, including N95 masks and hazmat suits
• established and proven procedures

Coronavirus cleaning by SERVPRO gives your customers and employees the assurance that you’ve done all you can to keep them healthy. But SERVPRO can also keep your workplace clean and safe on a year-round basis, not just in an emergency.

Your Business Will Shine with our Year-Round Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield’s commercial cleaning services bring our well-earned reputation for reliability and attention to detail to the job of keeping your office, restaurant, retail store or manufacturing facility clean, safe and always looking its best.

Among the workplaces, large and small, that we clean are:

• office buildings
• high- and low-rise residential buildings
• retail stores, including big box stores
• medical buildings, including hospitals and rehabilitation facilities
• restaurants
• hotels and motels
• manufacturing and industrial facilities
• government and military workplaces

Contracting with SERVPRO for commercial cleaning services guarantees:

• a safer environment for your workers and customers
• a consistently high level of cleanliness
• quality work by skilled personnel using industry-best equipment, products and procedures

SERVPRO also provides specialized commercial cleaning services, such as biohazard/sewage, air duct/HVAC and odor removal. And of course, we are always available—24 hours a day—to respond to a sudden business emergency that requires expert cleanup and restoration.

You know you can rely on SERVPRO for disaster recovery services resulting from flood, fire and smoke, storm, mold, biohazard contamination and more. And on a day-to-day basis, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield will also help you keep your workplace clean and safe for your employees and customers.

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property after a natural disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Fighting a Pandemic with Proactive Cleaning

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield joins the fight against a worldwide pathogen by offering proactive cleaning and disinfecting of homes and businesses.

When the novel coronavirus, which causes Covid-19 disease, took root at a senior care center in Kirkland, Washington, among the workers who went in to clean and disinfect the facility—saving lives and helping to fight this new and deadly threat to us all—were SERVPRO professionals.

As the coronavirus circulates the globe, SERVPRO offers homeowners and business owners the extra reassurance that their homes and facilities are thoroughly clean and disinfected. In response to the coronavirus crisis, SERVPRO offers proactive cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection of commercial and residential properties with the goal of minimizing the transmission of emergent viral pathogens, including the coronavirus.

As a corporation, SERVPRO is in a unique position to perform these essential services at a time of urgent need. Americans can rely on the preparedness—the expertise, training, equipment and personnel—of SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield.

Do all you can to keep your family and friends, customers and employees safe from this new and uncertain threat: call on SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield for proactive cleaning of your home or business.

About the Coronavirus and Covid-19

Declared a pandemic on March 11, 2020 by the World Health Organization (WHO), the coronavirus outbreak has focused the attention of nations, individuals, businesses and organizations on ways to fight the spread of the virus and minimize the impact of the disease.

The coronavirus is believed to spread primarily through personal contact, between people who are within about six feet of one another, through airborne respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It may also be possible to catch the virus by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes.

“Social distancing” has become the new watchword and the key to slowing the pandemic. In this rapidly changing situation, Americans are experiencing unprecedented canceling of events and widespread closings of schools, restaurants and workplaces. Along with avoiding large crowds and keeping a six-foot distance from others, the most common advice from experts is to wash hands frequently and avoid touching faces.

Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) website for the latest and most accurate information on the coronavirus and Covid-19. Because this outbreak is unfolding rapidly and unpredictably, we at SERVPRO encourage you to check back with the CDC frequently for updates.

The Importance of Proactive Cleaning

According to the CDC, “Cleaning of visibly dirty surfaces followed by disinfection is a best practice measure for prevention of COVID-19 and other viral respiratory illnesses in households and community settings.”

Today, when the need is most urgent, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is prepared—right now—to clean, sanitize and disinfect your home or business to eradicate traces of coronavirus or other pathogens.

Whether you have no indication of existing contamination, or you are aware that your structure may have been contaminated with coronavirus, SERVPRO’s crews stand ready to provide increased assurance that you, your family, your customers and your employees will not be exposed to coronavirus within your building.

Please be aware, however, that while SERVPRO’s cleaning process can remove existing viral pathogens, including the coronavirus, structures we clean proactively will not be protected from future coronavirus contamination if an infected person subsequently enters the building.

SERVPRO: Uniquely Ready to Provide Proactive Cleaning

We were ready for this. As a corporation, our baseline level of expertise and preparation on a day-to-day basis makes us uniquely ready to provide proactive cleaning of viral pathogens for several reasons.

Our People

A key part of the SERVPRO business model is being fully staffed and prepared for your most difficult job. Our employees are thoroughly trained in the use of all our equipment and cleaning products. We support them with rigorous safety training and procedures.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is always prepared because we can call on the resources of three other top-performing local SERVPRO franchises—SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield, SERVPRO of Glastonbury/Wethersfield and SERVPRO of West Hartford—that are owned and operated by Noemi Garcia. This means we’re ready for just about anything! We can get to your job faster, and we allocate staff and equipment as needed to tackle the really big, urgent jobs. Among these four franchises, we have at our disposal thousands of different pieces of equipment and dozens of trucks and other vehicles.

Our Protective Gear

We have the right personal protective gear for the job. If there is no indication that your facility or home has been contaminated by coronavirus, our crew will wear a mid-grade protective suit, but if contamination is suspected or confirmed, all workers will wear a top-grade suit, which is thicker and features integrated boots and hoods. Our employees wear N-95 masks that are individually fit-tested to ensure complete coverage and protection.

Our Products

To fight the coronavirus, we use hospital-grade cleaning and disinfecting products that are safe to use and effective at killing germs. In the midst of a pandemic, these products are difficult, if not impossible, for other vendors to locate. But SERVPRO, with its foresight and purchasing network, is prepared with a substantial supply of coronavirus-fighting cleaners and disinfectants.

Our Methods

We use two different modes of cleaning to attack coronavirus contamination. First, we seal off your home or place of business and fog it using sprayers and misters. This allows our cleaning and disinfecting agents to penetrate deep into crevices that would otherwise remain untouched.

Then our crews get to work, doing hands-on cleaning and disinfecting of every flat surface in your structure, including furniture, fixtures and objects. Our crews let the disinfectant remain in place for the CDC-recommended amount of time necessary to kill disease-causing germs.

Our Coverage

If you are concerned about potential or suspected coronavirus contamination in your home or business, you need not be worried about any additional liability. As a professional damage restoration and cleaning company, part of a network of more than 1,800 franchises across the United States, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is fully insured against any hazards we may encounter in our work.

Who Seeks Proactive Cleaning?

Both homeowners and business owners hire SERVPRO for coronavirus proactive cleaning. Whether you want reassurance that your building is free from contamination or you are coping with a suspected contamination situation, rely on SERVPRO to restore your peace of mind, your health and your safety.

Especially when a family member has been diagnosed with Covid-19, our cleaning services for homeowners let you be confident that the other residents of the home will have a lower risk of exposure.

Business owners, too, can protect their employees and customers with our proactive cleaning service. You will know that you are doing everything you can to keep Americans—ones you know and ones you’ve never met—healthy as you slow the spread of coronavirus.

Another benefit of proactive cleaning is to reassure your customers that your place of business is a safe place to be. In the midst of this viral threat, with so many unknowns, people seek reassurance. As many states have already temporarily closed down table service at restaurants and bars and curtailed the hours of nonessential businesses, hiring SERVPRO to thoroughly clean and sanitize your facility says, loudly and clearly, that your business has taken all the precautions it can to protect the health of your customers and the public.

Many types of businesses can benefit from SERVPRO’s proactive cleaning, which targets the coronavirus and other pathogens:

• Restaurants and bars
• Retail stores
• Offices, especially medical offices
• Schools
• Nursing homes, senior centers and rehabilitation facilities
• Gyms
• Hotels, B&Bs and other hospitality sites
• Libraries
• Theaters and entertainment venues
• Apartment buildings
• Factories and warehouses

What We Clean and Disinfect

Cleaning removes the soil and dirt that harbors infectious agents, while disinfecting kills the remaining environmental pathogens. SERVPRO meets or exceeds the CDC’s guidelines to clean high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables.

Areas of the home or business we clean include:

Kitchen/food areas

• tables and chairs
• countertops
• cabinets and pulls
• doorknobs
• floors: hard surfaces/wood
• mats
• food contact surfaces
• light switches
• paper towel/napkin dispensers
• push doors
• salt and pepper shakers
• sinks and sink hardware
• soap dispensers
• tabletops

Bathrooms

• bathroom stalls
• countertops
• cabinets/vanities and pulls
• doorknobs
• floors: hard surfaces/wood
• handrails
• light switches
• paper towel/napkin dispenser
• sinks and sink hardware
• soap dispensers
• toilets
• diaper-changing station

Classrooms

• book covers and binders
• carpets
• chairs
• computer equipment
• countertops
• doorknobs
• floors: hard surfaces/wood
• small hard-surface items
• light switches
• mats
• paper towel/napkin dispensers
• rugs
• sinks and sink hardware
• soap dispensers
• tabletops/desktops

Offices

• carpets
• chairs
• telephones
• computer equipment
• countertops
• doorknobs
• floors: hard surfaces/wood
• light switches
• rugs
• shared office equipment
• tabletops/desktops
• water fountains

Retail space

• shelving and racking
• displays
• mannequins
• packaged inventory
• carpets
• fitting room stalls
• chairs
• telephones
• computer equipment and registers
• sales counters
• doorknobs
• floors: hard surfaces/wood
• light switches
• rugs
• tables
• water fountains

Hallways

• carpets
• doorknobs
• floors: hard surfaces/wood
• handrails
• light switches
• rugs
• water fountains

Other

• fitness equipment
• lamps
• storage bins
• shelves and racking
• lockers
• playground equipment
• stair handrails
• elevator cars

How We Clean Porous and Non-Porous Surfaces

Cleaning—using a detergent and water to physically remove germs, dirt and impurities from surfaces and objects—does not necessarily kill all germs on porous and non-porous surfaces, but by reducing their numbers, you can greatly reduce the risk of spreading infection.

Some materials cannot be cleaned with detergent and water without being damaged. For this reason, paper and paper products cannot be cleaned or disinfected.

Porous materials that are not water-sensitive, like carpet, area rugs, upholstered items and draperies, are wet-cleaned using a hot water extraction or preconditioner and rinse method. Cleaning methods typically used on water-sensitive materials, such as vacuuming or dry sponging, do not remove enough soil and residue to be effective.

We effectively wet-clean non-porous materials, like hard-surface floors, cabinets, countertops, doorknobs and plumbing fixtures, using a variety of SERVPRO hard-surface cleaners (general purpose) and cleaning methods.

How We Disinfect Non-Porous Surfaces

It is important to understand that not all porous surfaces can be disinfected, such as carpet, area rugs, upholstered items and draperies.

We use hospital-grade chemicals to kill germs and deep cleaning the non-porous surfaces or objects, like hard-surface floors, cabinets, countertops, doorknobs and plumbing fixtures. While no disinfectants have yet been tested specifically for the coronavirus, SERVPRO follows CDC recommendations that advise using a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against viruses similar to SARS (CoV-2).

We apply these disinfectants using a spray bottle, pump-up sprayer, electric sprayer or mister. Once thoroughly sprayed, we allow the disinfectant to remain on the surface for ten minutes, sufficient to kill germs.

We follow the CDC’s recommendations to use disinfecting wipes on electronic items that are touched often, such as phones and computers. If necessary, we use more than one wipe to keep the surface wet for the recommended length of contact time.

Safety is Our Priority

SERVPRO puts a premium on the health and safety of our people. Our workers are thoroughly trained and equipped to handle potentially contaminated areas and materials. While working, our employees wear personal protective equipment, including appropriate protective suit with integrated hood and boots, N-95 respirators, nitrile gloves and goggles.

We clean and disinfect our own tools and equipment as we work to avoid spreading any contamination in your home or place of business.

Once we have successfully cleaned your building, our crew bags, removes and disposes of all waste, including used gloves and disposable respirators, and bags and removes cleaning towels to the SERVPRO facility for laundering.

We’re Here for You in a Time of Crisis

In just about any disaster situation, the team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home or business. In this time of uncertainty and peril, we have the expertise and preparation to reassure you, your family, customers and employees that your safety and health will be protected. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time.

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

5 Ways to Prepare for a Storm

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

You'll ride out the storm and a subsequent power outage more easily and safely if you are prepared with essential supplies.

A bad storm—wind, rain, snow or ice—can at worst endanger your life and at least make for some challenging hours and days, especially if you lose power. You and your family will weather the storm much more easily and safely if you prepare by having some key supplies on hand well before you need them.

1. Food & Water

Stock up with a two-week supply of food and water. Choose foods that are high in calories and nutrition, and that don’t require refrigeration, water or special preparation, such as canned food, dry mixes and other staples. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends storing at least one gallon of water per day per person. Keep your food and water in a cool, dry and ideally dark place. Periodically, check expiration dates and replace items as necessary. And if you have a pet, keep a two-week supply of that food on hand, too.

2. Lights & Electronics

If your power fails, you’ll want lighting and a way to power your phone or other electronic device. Before the storm, stash away several flashlights and a compact lantern that offers abundant light. Don’t forget to include an ample supply of batteries for the lantern and flashlights and portable radios, too. When a storm is predicted, be sure to fully charge your phone and devices—and if you have one or more power banks, charge them, too.

3. First Aid Kit

Be ready to handle minor injuries on your own, because emergency facilities and personnel may be in great demand during a major storm. Have a first-aid kit on hand that includes bandages, gauze, a cold compress, scissors, tweezers, a seven-day supply of necessary medications and more. Store these essentials in a portable carrying case so you can grab and go if you need to.

4. Documents & Records

After a storm disaster you may need ID to prove who you are. Gather and store (in a portable waterproof, fire-safe security chest) your important identification documents, such as birth certificates, Social Security cards, marriage certificates, adoption papers, passports, naturalization documents, wills, living wills, powers of attorney and property deeds/titles. Include important DVDs, portable disks and flash drives, too, if there’s room.

5. Cash & Gas

Make it a habit to keep some spare cash tucked away at home for a real emergency. (If you have the means, you’d be wise to build up a separate supply of easily-accessible funds that you can tap after a storm disaster to cover sudden expenses.) And when a storm is in the forecast, gas up your vehicles so that you can charge up your electronics and run errands—or evacuate if necessary.

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Is Your Fire Extinguisher Ready to Work?

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

A fire extinguisher—one that's maintained and one you know how to use—can make all the difference if a fire starts in your home.

Many homeowners wisely own one or more fire extinguishers, small metal canisters that propel a directed spray of flame-retardant chemicals. With an extinguisher at the ready, you can douse a small fire before it gets out of control, or contain a larger blaze long enough for firefighters to arrive. But the extinguisher needs to be the right type and must be maintained in order to do its job in an emergency fire damage to your home or business.

Note: Don’t use your fire extinguisher if you aren’t sure you have the proper type of extinguisher, if you don’t know how to use it or if you are in imminent danger from the fire.

What Type of Extinguisher Do You Have?

No fire extinguisher can be safely and effectively used for every type of fire. Generally, fire extinguishers are categorized based on the type of chemical agents they contain and the types of fires they combat. This information appears on the extinguisher’s label, along with instructions for use.

The types of fires are:

• A class: ordinary combustibles, such as wood and paper.
• B class: combustible liquids, such as kerosene, gasoline, oil, and grease.
• C class: electrical fires that involve circuit breakers, wires, outlets and other electrical devices and equipment.
• D class: combustible metals, such as sodium, potassium, titanium and magnesium.
• K class: vegetable oils and animal fats; these fires generally happen in kitchens.

These are few of the most common extinguisher types:

• Dry chemical: suited for A-B-C or B-C class fires, these common types of extinguishers are found in schools, homes, hospitals, offices, garages, kitchens and laboratories.
• Carbon dioxide: suited for B-C class fires, these extinguishers are often used in laboratories, computer rooms and other areas with sensitive equipment.
• Water: most suited for A class fires; cannot be used in B-C-D class fires. These extinguishers are inexpensive and environmentally friendly.
• Wet chemical: suited for A-K class fires, these devices are often employed in commercial kitchens and restaurants.    

Check Your Extinguisher

At least once a year:

• Make sure your extinguisher is in a conspicuous and readily accessible place.
• Make sure the pressure dial reads in the green or “charged” area.
• Check that the pull pin is securely fastened within the handle and held in place by the tamper seal.
• Make sure the nozzle is unblocked.
• Check for visible dents or cracks in the extinguisher body.
• Review how to use the extinguisher with everyone in your house.

How Long Will a Fire Extinguisher Last?

Fire extinguishers eventually expire for a few different reasons.

• Over time, the seal on the neck weakens and allows compressed gas to escape. Extinguishers that have lost much of their pressure will not operate. You can check the extinguisher’s pressure with a pressure gauge.
• A-B-C class extinguishers can fail when the chemical in the canister base solidifies. You can delay this process by periodically shaking the extinguisher.

Unfortunately, you can’t trust an extinguisher’s expiration date and there is no surefire way to know if your extinguisher will still work. Because fires can be extremely destructive and fire extinguishers are relatively low-cost, go ahead and replace or recharge any extinguishers you aren’t sure of.

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration and cleanup, as well as natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage and mold remediation, water and mold damage, and chemical and biohazard cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from fire, water, mold, sewage, storm, natural disaster and other damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Home Heating Fires Can Be Deadly—Prevent One in Your Home

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

Home heating fires can be deadly! Stay comfortable and safe by following our home heating safety advice.

Each year across our country, there are more than 50,000 home fires caused by heating equipment, accounting for roughly 15% of all reported home fires. Worse, these heating fires cause $1 billion of annual property damage. Worst yet, almost 500 people die from home heating fires each year.

Clearly, a home heating fire can destroy your home and property, and put the lives of your family at grave risk. Stay safe by following our basic heating safety tips to help prevent heating fires while you and your family stay warm.

General Heating Safety

• Keep flammable items at least three feet from space heaters, fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators and candles. (By far, the most common cause of heating fires is combustible material being too close to the heat source.)
• Never use your oven to heat your home.
• Hire professionals to inspect, clean and maintain your fireplace, wood stove, chimney and furnace every year.

Space Heater Safety

Space heaters are the most common source of home heating fires. They cause 85% of deaths and almost 80% of injuries. Space heaters may be convenient, but please take extra caution when you use them!

• Keep a three-foot clear area around the space heater at all times. Be vigilant about keeping children and pets away from the heater.
• Turn the heater off when you leave the room, go to sleep or leave your home.
• Buy a space heater that senses overheating or tipping and shuts off automatically.
• Plug the heater directly into a wall outlet rather than an extension cord or power strip.
• Never run the cord under a carpet.
• Never operate the heater if the cord, plug or the heater itself is damaged.
• Place the heater on a stable, level surface and not in a highly-trafficked area, such as a doorway.
• If you have a fuel-burning space heater, always use the correct kind of fuel.

Fireplace Safety

• Keep sparks from flying into the room by placing a sturdy metal screen or glass partition in front of your fireplace.
• Keep a bucket of sand near the fireplace to smother a fire.
• Put the fire out completely before you go to sleep or leave your home.
• Let the ashes cool completely (for three or more hours), then shovel them into a metal container with a lid and cover the ashes with water. Bring the container outside and place it at least three feet away from your home or garage.

Wood Stove Safety

• Place your stove on a level noncombustible, fire-resistant base.
• Burn dry wood, not paper.
• Never use flammable fluids to start the fire.
• Put the fire out before you go to sleep or leave your home.

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration and fire damage cleanup, as well as natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage and mold remediation, water and mold damage, and chemical and biohazard cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Make a Food Plan for the Next Winter Storm Outage

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

With a supply of non-perishable food on hand and some planning, you will be ready to safely outlast a winter storm power outage.

Snow or ice storms can knock out power quickly, and the outage can last for days or even a week or more. An urgent concern then will be how you will feed your family. You’ll weather the storm more easily and healthfully if you prepare by having a supply of water and nutritious food set aside.

Keep the Staples on Hand

It’s become a joke: those pre-storm shoppers emptying the grocery store of bread and milk. Avoid that last-minute trip by shopping for staples well before the storm hits. Throughout the year, pick up extra non-perishables, and periodically check for freshness, replacing older items as needed. Then, when a storm is in the forecast, check your stocks of food and plan what to eat first.

Healthy shelf-stable options include:

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

Will Your Refrigerated Foods Be Safe?

Keep your refrigerator closed and it will maintain a safe temperature—below 40° F—for about 4 hours, according to the Department of Agriculture . A full freezer will stay cold for 48 hours, and a half-full one for 24 hours. (Pro tip: fill your freezer and gain another 24 hours by filling containers with water and freezing them.) 

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

Putting it All Together

Sandwiches will be a go-to during your power outage. For fresh salads, combine canned fish or meats, pouches of precooked grains, vegetables, beans and/or fruits.

Do your best to keep meals balanced and healthy, and make sure everyone is drinking enough fluids. Another pro tip: Include fresh or dried fruits and fresh or canned vegetables in sufficient quantities so that all family members get enough fiber.

If you have school-age children, a power outage can be a great opportunity for them to take over the planning and preparation of meals. Give them guidelines (fruit/vegetable + grain + protein, for example) and let them make the choices.

Who knows: with preparation, that power outage you dreaded could even be the source of some important family memories.

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how to protect your home or business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, and storm recovery services.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Prepare for a Winter Storm Power Outage

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

A little time spent planning and preparing will help you be comfortable and safe if you lose power during a winter storm.

A severe snow or ice storm can be a life-altering event—especially if you lose power to your home for several days or even longer. You can’t stop Old Man Winter, but you can prepare for a power outage by laying in supplies and planning ahead.

Beyond the important tips listed in this article, it’s a good idea to have a fully-fueled vehicle and extra cash on hand when a storm is imminent.

Food and Water

You may need to feed your family for several days or more. Stay energized and healthy with some preparation.

• Water for three days or more (one gallon per person, per day)
• Food for three days or more (fresh fruits and vegetables, high-energy non-perishable foods)
• Baby formula and food (if needed)
• Pet food (if needed)

Heating and Lighting

Plan ahead to avoid the darkness and cold while you wait for your power to return.

• Flashlights, lanterns, head lamps and extra batteries
• If you have a generator: 24-hour or more supply of gasoline (run the generator outside only)
• Wood fireplaces or wood- burning stoves, coal for coal-burning stoves
• Extra blankets
• Candles
• Fire extinguisher

Electronics

Stretch out the life of your electronics by charging up before a potential outage.

• Fully charged cell phones, tablets, etc.
• Fully charged power bank
• Phone chargers to use in your car
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Extra batteries

Medical and Personal Hygiene

Having a family medical kit and extra prescription meds on hand can make a big difference in a protracted outage.

• Necessary medications (at least a seven-day supply)
• First aid kit
• Other necessary medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, etc.)
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items
• Baby diapers and wipes, if needed

Important Information

Take a few minutes ahead of time to locate and set aside essential papers in a safe place.

• Family and emergency contact information
• Copies of personal documents, such as passports and Social Security cards
• Medical information and medical insurance card
• Phone numbers of your insurance company and agent

Tools for Snow and Ice Removal

While you’re waiting for the power to return, you’ll also need to dig out of the storm.

• Shovels, ice choppers, roof rake and other tools
• Sand, rock salt or non-clumping kitty litter for icy walkways and steps
• Fully fueled snow blower

Source: The Hanover Insurance Group

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and storm cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

Ways to Avoid Winter Water Damage to Your Home

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Space Heater Safety Basics

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

Follow our basic safety guidelines to prevent a space heater fire that could destroy your home.

Electric space heaters are handy for taking the chill out of a room and keeping you and your loved ones comfortable in your home. Unfortunately, they also cause about one in three winter house fires and four out of five winter heating fire deaths. Why? Space heaters can easily overload home electrical circuits, they have components that can become very hot and some models are prone to tipping over. 

As with many consumer products, today’s space heaters are safer and more efficient than older models. Particularly in the last decade, renters and homeowners benefit from better technology and more built-in safety features, like a tip-over shutoff switch.  

When Purchasing a Space Heater

Always buy a new space heater, never a used one. When you are researching and making a purchasing decision on a space heater, always look for these features:

• A safety certification label from an independent testing organization, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), ETL/Intertek or CSA International.
• Automatic shutoff features, like a sensor that shuts off when it detects that the heater has overheated or tipped over.
• A sturdy electrical cord that’s at least 6 feet long.
• A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) plug to prevent electric shock is a plus, but if you buy a model that doesn’t have one, don’t use the heater near water.

When Using a Space Heater

When using your electric space heater, follow these guidelines:  

• Plug your heater directly into an outlet, never an extension cord or power strip, which can overheat and start a fire.
• Keep people, furnishings and objects at least three feet away from the space heater.
• Be especially vigilant in keeping children and pets away from the space heater.
• Never use a space heater for cooking, drying clothing or warming linens.
• Don’t store clothing on or around the heater, and keep it away from curtains and bedding.
• Don’t use the space heater in high traffic areas, such as doorways—it could become a tripping hazard.
• Keep the heater away from sources of water, such as the kitchen or bathroom.
• Never leave the heater running all night or when you are sleeping.
• Turn off the space heater when you leave the room.
• Unplug the heater when you’re not using it.

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services and cleanup, as well as natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage and mold remediation, water and mold damage, and chemical and biohazard cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Do You Have a Burst Pipe in Your Home?

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

You don't always know right away that you have a burst pipe. These are the signs that you may have a damaging leak in your home.

Many burst pipes in the winter are due to freezing, but pipes can leak from other causes, too, such as poor installation or aging. Just a trickle of water from a small hole can, over time, destroy drywall, ruin flooring and cause other damage that costs you hundreds or thousands of dollars to repair.

Stop the leak before it becomes a big, expensive problem by paying attention to these signs of a burst or leaking pipe.

Less Water Pressure

A sudden unexplained drop in pressure when you wash your hands, fill your sink or take a shower—or more clogs in your toilet or sinks—may mean you have a leak. If no water comes out of a faucet at all, you may have a frozen pipe.

Water Marks

A leaking pipe behind one of your walls can leave dampness on the drywall. Pipes that serve upstairs bathrooms or laundry rooms can leak down into the ceiling, leaving clear marks. These spots may tell you exactly where the leak is.

Standing Water

If a leak is big enough or goes on for some time, you may notice puddles, drips or gushing water coming out of the area. Follow the source of the water to determine where the leak is in the pipe. Outside, a break in the water main can cause a sinkhole or puddles in your yard near the source of the leak.

Water Discoloration and Odors

Brownish water may indicate your pipes have rust in them, which can create or result in leaks. Pay attention to a sudden water odor, too—a leak in your plumbing system can prevent sewage from being pushed out of your home, causing a stink.

Odd Sounds

If you notice bubbling and whistling sounds when you turn on a faucet, you might have or may be developing a leak. If you hear a dripping sound within your walls when you run the water, a leak may already have started.

Higher Water Bills

If your water usage hasn't changed, a sudden high bill could indicate a leak. If you notice your water meter seems to be running constantly even when you're not using water, suspect a leak, as well.

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the people, skills and equipment to help homeowners recover from water damage and eradicate mold. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785 any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Burst Pipe in Your Home? How To Seek the Leak

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

Water stains on a wall or ceiling may show you exactly where a leak is, but it's not always that easy. Follow our steps to seek the leak.

Often, if you experience a burst water pipe, you’ll know it almost immediately. There may be a puddle or drip, or water stains on the drywall or ceiling. If the pipe freezes before it bursts, you may not have any water flowing through the pipe at all. If the damage happens on an exposed pipe in your basement or elsewhere, you can often spot the hole in addition to the leaking water. But other leaks are hidden behind walls and are not so obvious.

Signs of a Burst Pipe

These are the clues of a burst or leaking pipe in your home:

• Sudden drop in water pressure
• Water marks on ceilings or walls
• Puddles of water
• Discolored or smelly water
• Unusual sounds when running water
• Sudden jump in water bills

Seek the Leak

If you suspect a leak, you’ll need to do some sleuthing. This step-by-step procedure will help you locate the source of your mysterious leak.

Turn off all appliances that use water, and don't use any faucets, toilets or other sources of water during the test. Look at the water meter. After 30 minutes, check it again to see if it moved at all during that time. If it did, you have a leak.

To determine if the leak is inside or outside, shut off the main water valve coming into the home. Watch your water meter; if it stops moving, your leak is likely inside the house. If the meter continues moving, the source is likely a water main leak outside the home.

Once you know you have a leak, look for the visible signs of leaks to figure out where the problem lies. Start with obvious places like toilets, sinks and showers. If you can't find the leak yourself, call a plumber to help you find and fix the problem.

After You Find the Leak

Cleanup from even minor water damage in your home or business should be done by experienced professionals like SERVPRO® of Bloomfield / Enfield to remove all the water, ensure that your structure is sound and reduce the risk of developing a stubborn mold problem.

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the people, skills and equipment to help homeowners recover from water damage and eradicate mold. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785 any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield at 860-216-2785

Most Chimney Fires Are Preventable

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

Follow our tips step-by-step to prevent a destructive chimney fire from happening in your home.

Chimney fires strike more than 25,000 times each year in the U.S., and they cause more than $125 million in property damage. The most common cause of chimney fires is not having your chimney regularly cleaned and inspected. With chimneys, an ounce of prevention is truly worth a pound of cure! Protect your home and your family by keeping your chimney clean and in good working condition, always looking out for signs of trouble. This article tells you what a chimney fire is, how it starts and how to stop one from occurring in your home.

Two Types of Chimney Fires

Chimney fires come in two varieties—fast and loud or slow and quiet—but they’re both extremely destructive and can cause your home to go up in flames.

If you suddenly hear cracks and pops as loud as gunshots, followed by a deep, rumbling sound, you’ll know you have a chimney fire. Black, flaming creosote will fall into the firebox, and then, like an explosion, flames will shoot from the top of the chimney and back down into the firebox, pushing smoke into your living space. Finally, the flue may crack and flames can shoot into your walls.

?Slow-burning chimney fires never get enough air or fuel to burst into plain sight, but they can still cause similar damage to the chimney and nearby combustible parts of your home as their louder siblings do.  With a slow fire, though, you may not even know a fire occurred until your next chimney inspection.

Either way, you can’t control a chimney fire by yourself, so call 911 ASAP! Because firefighters have to fight the flames from the top of the chimney, water will flood into your house, causing water damage on top of the fire damage. You’ll need to hire a professional disaster recovery company, like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, to completely restore both the fire and water damage to your home.

If You Have a Chimney Fire, Act Fast

If you discover a chimney fire, immediately:

• get everyone out of the house, including yourself
• call 911

Take these additional steps to help save your home only if you can do so safely:

• Place a chimney fire extinguisher or fire suppressant into the fireplace or wood stove to consume oxygen and starve the fire
• Pour sand or baking soda onto the fire in the firebox (keep a bucket of sand nearby for this purpose)
• Close the glass doors on a fireplace or the air inlets on a wood stove

While you wait for the fire department outside, try to keep the fire from spreading by hosing down your roof (not the chimney).

Once the chimney fire is completely extinguished, call a fire damage restoration expert like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, who will remove damaged material, treat your possessions for smoke and soot contamination and restore your structure and property to pre-fire condition.

What Causes a Chimney Fire?

Fireplace and wood stove chimneys expel the substances produced when wood burns, including smoke, gases, water vapor and unburned wood particles. These by-products of combustion exit the fireplace or wood stove at high temperatures and flow up into the relatively cooler chimney, where they condense onto the chimney walls as a black or brown residue called creosote. Whatever form it takes—crusty and flaky, or sticky and drippy, or shiny and hardened—creosote is extremely combustible. When your chimney’s flue temperature gets high enough, built-up creosote can start a chimney fire, which burns at up to 2,000°F.  

The longer the smoke stays in the flue, the more creosote will form. Creosote is more likely to build up in your chimney if your fireplace or stove:

• is burning unseasoned wood
• isn’t pulling in enough air
• has cooler than normal chimney temperatures

Therefore, the key to preventing a chimney fire is to burn the right kind of fuel, set your wood-burning stove or fireplace up correctly to burn a fast, clean fire—and have your chimney and fireplace or stove cleaned and inspected regularly.

Prevent a Chimney Fire: Clean and Inspect

Every time you use your wood stove or fireplace, more oily, black, sticky creosote condenses onto the inside of your chimney. There it waits, growing thicker and putting your home and family at risk of a fire, until it is removed.

The best way to ensure that you never have a chimney fire is by cleaning and inspecting it regularly. Hire a certified chimney sweep each year before fire burning season starts, in late summer or fall. (If you haven’t done it yet this season, call today before you light another fire!) 

The chimney sweep will remove both creosote and any debris carried into your chimney by animals or wind. In addition, he or she will inspect your chimney to look for:

• creosote that’s puffy or looks like honeycomb
• metal in the damper, smoke chamber or chimney that’s been warped by heat
• cracked, damaged or collapsed flue tiles
• discolored and/or distorted chimney cap
• creosote flakes and pieces on the roof or near the house
• roofing material damaged by hot creosote
• cracks in exterior masonry
• soot deposits around mortar joints of masonry or tile liners

In addition to scheduling an annual chimney cleaning, you should make it a habit to regularly check the condition of your chimney and fireplace. Schedule another cleaning when you notice creosote that: 

• falls into the firebox during a fire
• resembles a honeycomb on the inside of the chimney
• is more than 1/4-inch thick

Schedule more frequent cleanings if you burn fires more than a couple of times a week, use lots of artificial logs or burn green or unseasoned firewood.

Prevent a Chimney Fire: Look for Signs of Trouble

Check for these indications that your chimney has been damaged. If you spot any of them, don’t light another fire until you have your fireplace and chimney inspected.

• Buckled masonry: Look for cracking or settling inside the firebox or on the fireplace’s surround or hearth, because just a tiny opening will allow sparks and high heat to reach the flammable parts of your home.
• Soot in your firebox: Crumbly black soot falling into your firebox is a sign that creosote is building up. Call for a chimney cleaning.
• Debris in your firebox: If you notice what looks like broken tiles or pot shards in your firebox, be very concerned. Especially in older homes with terra-cotta chimney liners, these pieces are a sign that the liner has already been damaged by a chimney fire. Don’t use your fireplace until it’s been inspected by a certified chimney sweep.
• More smell of smoke: If you smell more smoke than usual when you use your fireplace—or smell it outside the room where the fireplace is—extinguish the fire and call 911. Your local fire department will use heat-sensing guns or thermal imaging to check for danger and damage to your chimney.
• Changes in your walls: If heat has been escaping from cracked masonry, a damaged liner or an improperly installed prefab metal firebox, your home’s wood framing can dry, char and may ignite at a much lower temperature. If you notice pictures falling off the wall or areas of bubbling or peeling paint, call for a chimney inspection.

Prevent a Chimney Fire: Follow Best Burning Practices

Prepare your chimney and fireplace or stove so that it burns efficiently and safely, every time.

• Install a chimney cap on the crown of the flue to keep debris and critters out of your chimney. A cap will also prevent acidic rainwater from entering and corroding the chimney. 
• Insulate your chimney’s flue liner (the layer between the flue and chimney walls) to prevent flue temperatures from getting too cool. Wrap a heat-resistant insulation blanket around the liner or pour an insulation mix (such as vermiculite) into the space between the liner and flue.

When you start a fire, you want it to burn hot, fast and clean to create far less smoke, vapor and unburned wood particles, allowing little to no creosote to form in the chimney. This starts with using the right fuel.

• Always burn seasoned hardwood that has dried for at least six months and has a moisture content of 20 percent or less (you can test this with a wood moisture meter). When you burn green or unseasoned wood, energy is used initially just to evaporate the water trapped in the wood cells. This, in turn, keeps the resulting smoke cooler and more likely to condense in the chimney and form creosote.
• Use dried twigs or branches for kindling and torn or crumpled newspaper or pine cones for tinder. Avoid cardboard or glossy magazine pages that contain chemicals that can emit toxins when burned.
• Use the best fire starters for fuel, kindling and tinder, such as well-seasoned hardwood or CSIA-approved logs. Never use gasoline and kerosene to start a fire—these flammable liquids can quickly create a conflagration. And burn coal only in a coal-burning wood stove, because it can significantly raise the temperature in the flue, increasing the risk of a chimney fire.

Once you have selected the right fuel to burn cleanly, you need to build a fire that will burn hot and fast.

• Build a clean fire by using the top-down burn method, in which the largest logs are at the bottom of the fire and the smallest pieces at the top, which allows the air to mix well with the fuel. Start by placing the largest pieces of wood in the bottom of the fireplace or wood stove, with the ends at the front and back. Next, stack four to five increasingly smaller levels of wood on top of the first level, placing each layer perpendicular to the one below. Once the stack is about half the height of the firebox, add kindling (the smallest pieces of wood) in smaller and smaller pieces, then top off with wood shavings or crumpled newspaper. Light the material on the top and the fire will gradually burn its way down to the largest logs.
• Keep the damper open to allow enough air to quickly move heated smoke up the chimney. When using a wood stove, don’t close the stove damper or air inlets too much or too soon.
• Don’t overload the firebox of a wood stove in an attempt to get a longer burn time—that’ll produce more smoke and creosote.

Lastly, extinguish your fire safely and thoroughly before retiring for the night or leaving your home.

• Spread out the wood and embers, then shovel ash from the bottom of the fireplace to cover them.
• Next, completely cover the cooled wood and embers with baking soda to extinguish any remaining embers.
• After the firebox cools (for a minimum of three hours, but preferably eight), shovel the ashes into a metal container.
• Fill the metal container with water and store it outside your home and away from other flammable materials until you’re ready to discard them.

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire restoration and cleanup, as well as natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage and mold remediation, water and mold damage, and chemical and biohazard cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from fire, water, mold, sewage, storm, natural disaster and other damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We Focus on Safety

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

These latest safety initiatives at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield help keep our workers ready to respond to your disaster.

Here at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, we place a premium on the safety of our workers. Earlier this year, we hired a new safety coordinator, Rhonda, who came to us with more than twenty years of experience in construction and warehouse management.

Rhonda says she “likes to learn new things and do different things”—and she’s certainly accomplishing that at SERVPRO! Here are just some of the initiatives she and SERVPRO have been working on in recent months.

Enhanced Training

Training programs and training videos are now available in both English and Spanish. We’ve reinforced our employees’ safety awareness by implemented new training in:

• How to wear a respirator mask. Workers learn to test if the mask is the right size, fits correctly to the face, is tightly sealed and allows adequate breathing.
• Safe processing and disposal of blood-borne pathogens.
• Correct use of fire extinguishers and generators.
• Using a third plug adapter to prevent fires. Each piece of equipment and all trucks are equipped with a third plug adapter, so that our grounded equipment can be used safely even in older homes that lack the third grounding prong.
• Cleaning service products. All our chemical products are documented in a binder that explains appropriate uses, how to use and what protective equipment is required. This not only keeps our workers up to date on products, it allows them to share this information on the spot with our customers.
• Proper operation of forklifts.
• How to properly lift heavy loads and how to use shoulder dolly straps.

Consistent Procedures

Once a month, the safety coordinator meets with crew chiefs to determine what additional safety measures are needed. Among the new procedures making every day at SERVPRO even safer are:

• Every truck that leaves the SERVPRO lot is fully equipped and inspected. Each crew and crew chief are provided with duffel bags containing hard hats, goggles, safety vest, shoulder dolly straps for heavy loads and the chemical information binder. Trucks are inspected each day and are consistently assigned to a specific crew to increase safe and responsible operation. Each truck is equipped with a first aid kit, an eyewash station and a fire extinguisher.
• Each crew is provided with a blood-borne pathogen duffel bag containing hazmat suits, thick gloves, tweezers, needle containers and sealable bags for safe waste disposal. We have contracted with a respected vendor to locate metal storage containers in our parking lot, in which bagged blood-borne waste is stored and picked up for final disposal.
• Fire extinguishers are inspected and dated each month to assure they are in peak condition.
• Forklifts are inspected each day.

These new initiatives build on our already substantial safety program to make sure our crews are safe, healthy and ready to respond to your disaster!

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home or commercial building after suffering damage from a fire, water disaster or a storm. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We Have the Capacity for Your Disaster

12/10/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the resources and capacity to respond to the biggest, most urgent disaster.

By its very nature, a disaster—whether from a fire, storm, wind, leak or flood—is unpredictable. In some disasters, the damage is contained, but others require an all-hands-on-deck approach. Other local disaster restoration services may say they can handle it all, but SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield truly can—thanks to our resources and capacity.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is one of four SERVPRO franchises in central Connecticut owned and operated by Noemi Garcia—the others are SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield, SERVPRO of Glastonbury/Wethersfield and SERVPRO of West Hartford. This makes a couple of crucial differences to our clients.

First, Noemi is a driven, hands-on manager who ranks among the top owner/operators of the 1,800+ SERVPRO franchises in America. In fact, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is rated among the top 25! Our owner place a daily focus on providing excellent work and improving every customer’s experience.

Second, each of the four franchises can immediately call on the resources of three other local SERVPRO franchises, coordinating quickly and effectively to respond to the most urgent disasters. We can get to you faster, and we allocate staff and equipment as needed to tackle the really big jobs. Among the four locations, we have access to thousands of different pieces of equipment and scores of trucks and other vehicles—not to mention our highly skilled team members.

We saw this in action during the first cold snap of 2019. We handled so many emergency calls for cracked and burst frozen pipes that we had 1,000 air handlers drying out customers’ homes and businesses in Connecticut and Massachusetts—at one time!

With the resources of four top-rated SERVPRO franchises at our disposal, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is ready for just about any fire, storm, smoke, mold or water disaster!

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home or commercial building after suffering damage from a fire, water disaster or a storm. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

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

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

SERVPRO Handles Large-Scale Disasters, Too

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

Our expertise in responding to large-scale disasters means we can handle your water, fire, storm, mold, sewage or other disaster in your home.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is part of a network of more than 1,800 franchises that can combine resources to respond to storm disaster—like a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood—no matter how large. In fact, SERVPRO strategically positions elite prequalified large-loss specialists throughout the United States to handle any disaster, whenever and wherever it happens.

Our crews have handled all sorts of major natural disasters like Hurricane Harvey in 2017, when we had more than 7,000 professional restoration experts working in the Houston area alone.

Catastrophic Event Response

A SERVPRO operations manager supervises every large-loss project for seamless communication, expert coordination of resources and—most important to those whose lives have been disrupted by a large disaster—timely damage mitigation. At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to:

• dispatch trained production professionals through our network of strategically placed teams
• coordinate with local SERVPRO franchises
• muster and oversee the temporary labor force needed to get the job done

Recent mobilizations of SERVPRO’s large-loss disaster recovery teams include:

• 2018: California wildfires, including Camp, Woolsey and Hill fires
• 2017: Hurricanes Harvey and Irma
• 2017: California wildfires
• 2016: Hurricane Matthew
• 2015: Carolina floods
• 2014: Polar vortex
• 2012: Sandy
• 2010: Nashville floods

Like all SERVPRO teams, our large-loss disaster recovery teams are available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. We are prepared for any size disaster, whether it’s a burst pipe in your basement, a fire in your kitchen—or a major hurricane!

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property after suffering damage from a fire, water disaster or a storm. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Ways to Avoid Winter Water Damage to Your Home

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent costly damage to your home in winter with some pre-season maintenance and cold-snap tasks.

Burst pipes, storms, rooftop ice dams and other cold-weather hazards can unleash winter water damage at your house. Prepare your home to withstand the challenges of a New England winter and remain water-tight.

Prepare for Winter Storms

Do these tasks before winter hits and you’ll have a better chance of preventing storm-related damage to your home.

• Clean out the gutters.
• Disconnect and drain all outside hoses. Shut off the inside valves that supply water to outdoor faucets and hookups if you can. Open outdoor faucets to allow residual water to drain, and keep them open during the cold weather months.
• Have a contractor check your roof to see if it can sustain the weight of a heavy snowfall. Repair roof leaks.
• Remove tree branches that overhang your (and your neighbor's) house.

Prevent Burst Pipes

A frozen pipe that bursts can cause an immense amount of damage in a short time, unleashing up to 250 gallons of water in 24 hours. These tips can help prevent a big leak from a pipe that bursts (and you may even save on your heating costs, too).

• Insulate walls and attics, and caulk and weather-strip doors and windows.
• Wrap water pipes in your basement or crawl spaces with foam insulation sleeves.
• Keep your home’s temperature set to at least 55 degrees, and make sure your furniture isn't blocking your heating vents.
• If you have a fireplace, keep the flue closed when you're not using it.

During a deep freeze, keep your pipes from freezing by:

• Opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Keeping a slight trickle of water flowing through faucets connected to pipes that run through unheated or unprotected spaces.
• Draining the water system if your house will be unattended during cold periods.

Avoid Ice Dams

Ice dams form when water from melted snow refreezes above your eaves or in the gutters and seeps in under the roof, soaking interior walls. Here’s how to prevent ice dams from forming on your roof:

• Adequately ventilate your attic.
• Insulate the attic floor well to minimize the amount of heat rising through the attic from within the house.
• Clear leaves and debris from your gutters and downspouts.

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the people, skills and equipment to help homeowners recover from water damage and eradicate mold. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785 any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield / Enfield at 860-216-2785

Winterize Your Plumbing Now

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Take simple steps to winterize your home's plumbing, and you could save yourself many thousands of dollars worth of water damage.

Whether you stay home or travel south for the winter, one thing you must do to prevent costly water damage repair in your home is to prepare your pipes for the winter. When water in a pipe freezes, it expands, which can burst that pipe open. You could suffer tens of thousands of dollars worth of damage to your home and belongings in mere hours. Avoid that kind of trouble by winterizing your pipes.

If You’re Staying Home

Even if you will be in your home all winter, using your plumbing as usual, certain pipes and fixtures can still freeze in cold weather. When the temperature drops, take these steps to prevent a flood in your home.

• Locate all the plumbing that runs along the inside of your exterior walls. Protect these pipes from the cold by insulating them with foam-like wrap and using duct or electrical tape to keep it in place. Then, wrap your pipes that run through unheated spaces, like attics, crawlspaces and basements.
• Shut off your hose bibs (the outside faucets where you connect your hoses) by locating the inside shut-off valves for these fixtures (commonly found under the kitchen sink) and turn them off. Then, go outside and disconnect the hoses if they are in place. Now, turn on the hose bibs to allow any water inside the pipe to drain. Turn off the outside shut-off valves, too. (No water will flow to the hose bib while the shut-offs are engaged, so write yourself a note to open them back up in the spring.)

If You’re Going to Be Away

If you travel for any length of time during the winter, or you own a property that you don’t live in full-time, winterizing is a must. Unattended plumbing systems are much, much more likely to fall prey to winter weather.

• Begin by turning off your main water valve. The valve may be in the basement or near the crawl space, when either is present. You may also find main valves in the same room with the water heater.
• Go outside and turn on your hose bib (the outside faucet) to allow water to drain out of all the pipes. If you have a basement, turn on any faucets there to drain the water.
• In winter, ordinary water may freeze in your fixture’s traps and rupture your pipes. Buy a large bottle of windshield wiper fluid, which won’t freeze, and pour about 2 cups of this fluid into each drain, including sinks, showers and bathtubs. The liquid will drain down to the trap and stay there. Finally, pour about 4 cups of the fluid into each toilet (but don’t flush).

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the people, skills and equipment to help homeowners recover from flooding damage and eradicate mold. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785 any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

How SERVPRO Cares for Your Possessions

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

To ensure that all your possessions are tracked every moment they are in our care, SERVPRO tags and QR-codes every item.

If you’ve experienced disrupting damage from a fire, smoke, water, sewage or storm disaster, nothing is more important than restoring your home and possessions “Like it never even happened.”

That’s why SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield upgraded its inventory system earlier this year to ensure that your furniture and personal possessions are securely tracked while we clean and store them and repair your home. The heart of our process is a computer-based tracking system that shows at a glance exactly where your items are and what work has been performed.

Caring for 100% of Your Items

SERVPRO will take care of 100% of the items in your home, either cleaning or storing them. The process starts at your home, where our project manager determines what work needs to be done to restore each item. Everything is individually labeled with your name, QR-coded and photographed. Next, the objects are securely wrapped: furniture in blankets then plastic wrap, glass in bubble wrap then plastic wrap, etc. Smaller personal items are boxed, photographed and then packed and labeled.

You witness the entire process and at the end, sign off on a form that lists all the items with the before-wrap photos. (This list also provides essential information for your insurance claim.)

Once wrapped, your possessions are loaded into storage containers or vaults; the container, too, is labeled and QR-coded. With a scan, SERVPRO staff can immediately tell where an item is in its facility, and if the item needs cleaning, is being or has been cleaned (and when) or is waiting in a secure storage container. Certain items, like smoke-damaged clothing, or unique possessions, like pianos or pool tables, are entrusted to specialty cleaners that SERVPRO contracts with.

An Unbroken Chain of Custody

At our facility in Bloomfield Connecticut (built in 2015 and one of the largest SERVPRO warehouses in the U.S.), we have multiple rooms dedicated to storage. When a homeowner needs to retrieve items early—documents required for insurance claims or the contents of a room that’s ready to be set up, for example—we quickly locate the items in our system and determine exactly where they are stored.

The entire time your possessions are in our care, we ensure an unbroken chain of custody. Finally, once all items have been returned to your home, you review and sign off on the original tracking form to ensure that all your items are present, clean and in good condition.

When your home and possessions have been damaged by a wind, water or fire event, and you just want your daily life to return to the way it was, rely on SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to care for your possessions professionally, securely and respectfully!

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property after suffering damage from a fire, water disaster or a storm. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Survive & Thrive: Prepare Your Small Business for a Natural Disaster (Part 1)

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

Having an emergency response plan in place before a natural disaster hits can help your business survive the damage & thrive afterward.

You have worked hard to build and maintain your business. But it could all be jeopardized if a natural disaster—flood, hurricane, fire, blizzard—damages your property, puts your employees at risk and knocks your company out of action for days or weeks.

You can’t stop the disaster from heading your way, but you can do specific preparation that will help your business carry on. Start your emergency response planning by evaluating the potential for damage.

1. What Are the Risks?

Which natural disasters are most likely to hit your area: tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes, floods? Which risk is the greatest? Identify the most imminent weather threat and start planning for that, then work your way down the list.

2. What Do the Experts Say?

Do your research by visiting reputable sources such as Ready.gov, FEMA and the American Red Cross. The Red Cross’s Ready Rating program offers free online disaster preparedness planning, and some of their chapters also provide free CPR and first-aid training for small businesses.

3. How Might Your Business Be Impacted?

Begin your planning with a business impact analysis (BIA). The BIA will help you create and refine plans for emergency response, crisis communications and business continuity. Explore the potential effect a disaster could have on your business, including lost or delayed sales and income or increased expenses from repairs. You’ll want to take into account your existing customer communication, inventory management and record-keeping practices.

Next: Developing the Disaster Recovery Plan

Now that you have finished this research and analysis process, you are ready to dig in and develop a thorough set of plans to put into place if a natural disaster hits your business. Your plans will cover these areas:

• Emergency response
• Communications
• Data management
• Business continuity

Read Part 2 of this series for tips on creating and implementing these essential plans in the event of a fire, flood or storm disaster.

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property after a natural disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Survive & Thrive: Prepare Your Small Business for a Natural Disaster (Part 2)

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

Having an emergency response plan in place for your business gives you a head start on surviving a natural disaster and recovering afterward.

Natural disasters, like storms, floods or wildfires, happen fast and they can be fierce! If you’re not prepared, they can cripple your business.

If you follow steps 1–3 in Part 1 of this series, you’ll be ready to create a series of plans to follow when disaster strikes. Answering these questions will help you and your employees survive the disaster, communicate to your customers, retain your data and minimize costly downtime.

4. How Will You Respond to the Disaster?

If a natural disaster strikes, you’ll need to put your emergency response plan into action fast. Decide how you will protect employees and customers, what you will take with you if evacuating, where you will meet up and how you will manage business operations and communicate during and after the disaster. Once you have a plan developed, practice it.

Before a disaster strikes is a good time to select an experienced disaster remediation company like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to quickly and thoroughly repair damage to your building and property.

5. How Will You Communicate After a Disaster?

The crisis communications plan details how you will keep in contact with employees and customers. Determine who will be the spokesperson for employees and customers (which may be different persons). You may want to draft key boilerplate messages ahead of time.

6. What About Your Data?

If your office or store is destroyed, what would happen to your business’s financial and other essential data, such as customer records? It’s wise to back up your data regularly, both internally on a physical drive and externally in the cloud.

You also may want to consider adding data compromise coverage to your business insurance policy. This can help you with the financial or legal burden if information is lost, stolen or accidentally released.

7. How Will Your Business Move on from a Disaster?

How will? A continuity plan describes how your business will continue to operate after a natural disaster, including recovering lost data, communicating with customers and suppliers and fulfilling orders and service contracts.

Business property insurance may help protect your company from substantial losses in the event of a covered claim, and business interruption coverage may help reimburse you if you’re temporarily unable to do business after a covered loss.

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property after a natural disaster. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

Natural Disaster Statistics and Facts

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Sump Pumps: Your Last Line of Defense Against Basement Water Damage

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

Having a sump pump in good working order is an important way to prevent basement flooding and the resulting costly damage.

If you’ve ever had a flooded basement after a storm or burst pipe or washing machine leak, you know how devastating the damage can be. Even a few inches of flood water can ruin your household items, cause rust and rot in your basement and cripple your essential mechanical systems, including your hot water heater and furnace/boiler. By collecting and removing water to a home’s exterior, a sump pump can prevent some serious and costly damage.

Any home that regularly experiences even a little water penetration into the basement or crawlspace should be equipped with a sump pump—but all homeowners should consider installing one to help prevent sudden water damage from a flood or storm.

How a Sump Pump Helps Prevent Basement Flooding

A sump pump is an electric pump that sits in a hole, called the sump pit. The pit is located at the lowest corner of the basement or crawlspace so that when flooding occurs, water drains directly into the pit. When water in the pit reaches a predetermined level, the pump automatically kicks on and pumps the water outside the house through a PVC pipe.

Most basement water problems stem from exterior drainage problems. As you consider installing a sump pump, evaluate (in the rain, if you must) the drainage around your home. Are gutters clogged? Do downspout extensions move roof runoff at least 4 feet beyond the foundation? Does the soil within 3 feet of the foundation slope away from the house?

Even if these conditions have been met, water may still find its way into your basement. Perhaps a utility trench invisibly channels runoff back to the house or you have a seasonally high ground water table. These situations call for a sump pump.

And just because you’ve never had water in your basement, don’t think it can’t happen! Even if you don’t have a chronic water problem in your basement, a powerful storm, such as a hurricane, or a long-lasting or heavy rain storm can inundate your home. The driest basement can, under the wrong circumstances, become a flooded mess.

Installing a sump pump, even in the absence of an ongoing basement water problem, is still a wise and relatively low-cost investment.

How to Choose a Sump Pump

Consider these factors when selecting a pump:

• There are generally two types of sump pump: pedestal and submersible. Choose a submersible pump over a pedestal pump if your sump basin has the space. Submersible pumps allow the sump pit to be covered with a lid, reducing pump noise and keeping debris out of the pit.
• Choose a pump with at least 1/3 horsepower, which is sufficient for most homes.
• Buy a pump with a cast iron core, not a plastic one. Cast iron helps to dissipate heat to the surrounding water, lengthening the life of the pump.
• To minimize clogging, the pump should have a no-screen intake design and an impellor that can handle solids up to ½-inch in diameter.
• Choose a mechanical switch over a pressure switch. The float should be solid.
• Look for a pump with an alarm that tells you when the water reaches a preset level, detecting a water leak before it causes costly damage.  Sump pumps can burn out, lose power, become clogged or misaligned, or malfunction in a variety of other ways, so an alarm can help you resolve flooding before damage occurs.
• Seriously consider installing a battery backup to keep the sump pump working in the event of a power outage, which is most likely to happen during heavy rains and floods—just when the pump is most needed. The backup power comes from a car battery—or even better, a deep cycle boat battery. Most of the systems charge the batteries while the power is on, so that the battery is fully charged in the event of a power outage.

Some Notes on Installation

Many homeowners will have a sump pump professionally installed, while those comfortable with plumbing and electricity should be able to install a sump pump system themselves in 2 to 4 hours (this does not include creating a sump pit). Here are a few installation tips to consider:

• The sump pit should be large enough for the pump to operate properly. For most homes, the pit should not be less than 24 inches deep and 18 inches wide. A float jammed between the pump and the pit is a common reason why sump pumps fail.
• Install a check valve to prevent water in the discharge pipe from flowing back into the sump pit after the pump turns off.
• Place the battery (if including backup) in a protective plastic case and set it on a wall-mounted shelf—not on the floor.
• The water discharge pipe should be 1 1/2-inch-diameter PVC pipe.
• An electrical outlet for plugging in the electric pump and the charger for the battery-backup pump should be near the sump pit. If necessary, hire a licensed electrician to install a new outlet. Don't use extension cords to power the system. Per code, a sump pump must be plugged in to a functioning ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet.
• When pumping the water outdoors, the water must be released onto a downhill slope and at least 20 feet away from the house so that it can't drain back into the basement or crawlspace. Another option is to pump the water into a drainpipe that leads away from the house. And while you don’t want your discharge pipe too close to your house, shed, garage or other structure, make sure it stays on your property, not your neighbor’s, and does not drain into a public sewer or residential septic system.

Keep Your Sump Pump Humming

A sump pump does you no good if it’s not working when a storm hits and water gushes into your basement. Ensure your peace of mind by performing routine maintenance.

Do a visual (and slightly hands-on) inspection of your sump pump at least three to four times a year. Some homeowners even hang a sign in their basements reminding them to check the sump pump frequently. Grab a flashlight and give your pump the once over:

1. Is the pump plugged in? Is the power cord in good condition?
2. Test the GFCI outlet that the pump is plugged into and reset if necessary.
3. Is the drain hose connected properly? Is it unblocked and unfrozen?
4. Is the pump totally upright and on a solid, even surface with no leaning?
5. Is there any debris in the pit that could clog the pump and prevent it from working properly? Clean it out.
6. Does the float move freely? Adjust it if necessary.
7. Pour a bucket (about 5 gallons) of water into the sump pit. Does the pump start automatically and quickly clear the water?

In addition, do these tasks at least once a year (or hire a professional to do an inspection):

1. Clean and lubricate the pump. The sucking action of the pump can pull small stones into the grate, blocking the inlet or damaging the pump over time. Unplug the pump, disconnect it from the discharge pipe and pull the pump out of the sump. Hose away any debris on the screen at the pump’s base and rinse off its housing. Lubricate the pump bearings, if required (check your owner’s manual).
2. Inspect the check valve. If the internal flap doesn’t swing freely, flush it out, and if you see mineral deposits, soak it in vinegar. Make sure its arrow points up when reconnecting it to the discharge pipe.
3. Test the float switch. A failed sump pump is usually the result of a switching problem. Sometimes the pump can shift inside the basin, causing the float that operates the switch to lodge against its side. Debris can also interfere with the action of the pump switch. Pour a few gallons of water into the sump. If it comes on and sucks out the water, the switch—and pump—are good to go. If not, repair or replace the switch.
4. Press the GFCI outlet’s test and reset buttons.
5. If you have a backup battery, unplug the pump to see if it functions properly on battery power alone. Then, top up the battery’s cells with distilled water.
6. Ensure the outlet pipes are tightly joined together and draining out at least 20 feet away from your foundation. Make sure the vent hole in the discharge pipe is clear.

Signs of a Failing Sump Pump

Eventually, machines fail and even a well-maintained sump pump has an end date. Contact a professional if you encounter any of these signs:

• Aging. Experts recommend that you replace an average-use unit every 7–10 years or 5–7 years if your pump runs frequently.
• Odors. If you detect rotten, moldy smells in your basement, your sump pump may be malfunctioning.
• Rust. An older pump may not have been made with rust-resistant materials. A pump with rust that can't be scrubbed away needs to be replaced or the rusted part needs to be repaired.
• Noises. Sump pumps shouldn't generate loud noises. If your pump is making unusual noises, like humming, clanging or banging, it could be time for a replacement.
• Water. The most noticeable sign your sump pump needs repair or replacement is the presence of water in your basement.

To avoid the stress of trying to buy and install a new sump pump while flood water seeps closer and closer to your basement, have a backup sump pump handy—and be sure to test it regularly, too.

When All Else Fails

If a storm is pouring water into your basement and has knocked out the electricity and you don’t have battery backup, your sump pump won't do a thing, unfortunately. Instead of watching your basement fill with flood water, you can attempt this old-school, low-tech trick.

If you live on a slope, make a siphon. Fill a garden hose with water from the outside spigot, seal one end with your thumb and have a friend seal the other. Place one end through the cellar window and into the standing water. Then, have your friend carry the other end as far downhill as possible (the outlet has to be below the intake). Release your thumbs and gravity should begin pulling water out of your basement and away from your home.

Other options to pursue when the water is rising and your sump pump won’t kick in include using a manual bilge pump and setting up a bucket brigade. CAUTION: DO NOT ENTER a flooded basement until you CUT ALL POWER to your residence.

If Your Basement Floods

In spite of your best efforts, the water poured in and you’re looking at inches or even feet of water in your basement! That’s a disaster and you have to act fast to restore the water damage and prevent further damage, like mold growth.

For complete cleanup, you want to call on a reputable damage restoration company that will:

• Get there fast to inspect and assess the damage.
• Have a team of highly trained water damage specialists ready to go.
• Pack out, clean and store your possessions.
• Use the latest equipment and expert techniques for water removal and extraction, drying and dehumidification, followed by cleaning and sanitizing.
• Complete necessary repairs of your structure and restore your possessions.

There’s a Coverage for That

Many property casualty insurers offer coverage for water backup and sump pump discharge or overflow damage. This would include water damage from a sewer or drain within your home, but not from a flood or surface water backup. Contact your home insurer for details.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally
100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Be Prepared for a Big Storm

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

When a big storm is heading your way, use the time to prepare your property and plan to evacuate, if you need to.

Here comes hurricane season! A hurricane or other major storm can threaten your life and destroy or severely damage your home and property. You can’t stop the storm, but you can be prepared.

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

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Does Your Commercial Building Harbor Mold?

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

If you catch and treat mold early, you can avoid a big mold remediation job.

If found too late (and 48 hours after a leak can be too late!) a mold infestation in your commercial building can be costly and time-consuming to eradicate. Catch and treat a potential mold problem early!

Ask these questions:

• Does your building have a history of moisture problems? Fix them now!
• Have building occupants reported musty or moldy odors or health problems?
• Do you regularly check your commercial building’s air ducts and air handling units?
• Is the humidity in your building high enough (above 45%) to cause condensation?
• Are building materials or furnishings visibly damaged? If they have been wet more than 48 hours, act fast and call for help immediately. 

Clean up small mold problems and fix moisture problems before they become large problems. If you discover a larger mold infestation, select an experienced remediation manager such as SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield.

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized mold remediation training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building or property. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

If you discover a mold infestation at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

Commercial Water Damage Experts

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you discover a mold infestation at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Commercial Fire Cleanup When You Need It

8/21/2019 (Permalink)

The owners of this workshop called on SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield for cleanup after a fire. They were back in business A.S.A.P.

Recently, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield helped two local businesses recover from fire damage. Read more to learn how we can help your fire-damaged workplace recover “Like it never even happened.”

Workshop Fire

When combustible dust in this workshop caught a spark from a machine, a fire was ignited. Fortunately, the fire didn’t spread to the rest of the building because the employees were trained to suppress the flames until emergency help came.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield arrived soon after the fire was put out by local firefighters. We assessed, mitigated and restored this disaster in no time, minimizing damage and downtime.

Commercial Warehouse Fire

A fire struck this warehouse when airborne dust caught fire. But unlike the workshop fire, considerable damage occurred. SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield arrived on the scene as soon as possible to mitigate the damage and restore the customer’s warehouse back to working order within a few days.

Warehouse and workshop fires are a real hazard to both your business and your employees. That’s why SERVPRO urges employers to thoroughly train workers to respond to a fire and to provide them with the equipment needed. And if a fire should strike your place of business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield as soon as possible to begin the cleanup and restoration process.

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in fire damage restoration, storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Other Helpful Blog Posts

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

Fire Damage Restoration for Businesses

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Prevent Air Conditioner Water Damage

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Check on your air conditioning system regularly, and you'll prevent or catch a problem before it becomes a water disaster!

A home air conditioning system working at peak efficiency can collect 10 to 20 gallons of water daily, which should drain into a collection pan and then into the sewer system. However, if the drain becomes clogged and the unit produces more water than it can handle, the overflow of water can damage floors and carpeting—and cause stubborn deposits of mold.

Because most of the unit is typically hidden from view, water damage can cause hundreds of dollars worth of damage before you know it. Follow these steps to avoid costly water damage repair—and get more efficiency from your AC system.

• once a month, change the air filter and check the condensation line and the drains
• have a professional air conditioning repair service clean the condensation line once or twice a year
• consider installing a safety float switch, which will automatically shut down the power to an AC unit whenever condensation builds up, or a condensation pump to help ensure the free flow of excess water

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO has the people, skills and equipment to help homeowners recover from water damage and eradicate mold.

Other Blog Posts You Might Find Helpful

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how to protect your homes and businesses from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

7 Ways to Reduce Fire Risk in Your Garage

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Take these smart steps to reduce your risk of experiencing a fire disaster in your garage.

The second most common location of house fires (after the kitchen) is the garage. Many people keep gas, oil, oily rags and other flammable materials in their garages—not to mention cars, trucks, mowers and other gas- and oil-powered vehicles.

Your garage may also contain flammable clutter, such as newspapers, cardboard boxes and paper waste. Finally, the garage tends to be a small, enclosed space, so that if a fire does start it can engulf the entire space faster.
 
You can reduce the risk of cleaning up fire damage by following these tips:

1. Seal any fuels, fluids or cleaners you keep in your garage.
2. Store flammable liquids in small amounts and far away from sources of heat, like a space heater.
3. Store flammable materials away from other flammables.
4. Clear out clutter.
5. Keep propane tanks outside, not in your garage.
6. Don’t overload the circuit box when using drills and other electrical devices in your garage. Unplug every electrical device after use.
7. Keep a fire extinguisher in the garage.

We're Here for You

If a fire does damage your garage, call SERVPRO. We’re professionally trained to handle fire damage cleanup and restoration. We have the tools, experience and knowledge to get your garage and home back to its pre-fire condition.

Other Blog Posts You Might Find Helpful

SERVPRO publishes educational articles on how to protect homes and businesses from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

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

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Get Rid of that Lingering Smoke Odor

7/19/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke odor after a house fire is tough to get rid of. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield to have it professionally eradicated.

After a home fire, you may experience a lingering odor of smoke, which may be severe, depending on the fire’s size, intensity, duration and source of fuel. You could try a household deodorizing spray or disinfectant, but you’ll get only temporary relief, and the spray may interact with the smoke odor to create an additional odor.

Instead, you’re better off hiring a professional fire damage restorer like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield. We have the training and equipment to completely remove lingering smoke odor.

SERVPRO uses chemical or additive counteractants to break up smoke molecules and eliminate the odor. We’ll select the appropriate counteractants depending on the material burned in the fire and will professionally apply them to furniture, carpets and drapes—even clothing.

Another method SERVPRO uses to remove smoke odors is an ozone treatment, in which we place your smoke odor-affected items inside a tent while an ozone generator runs.

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of 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.

Other Blog Posts You Might Find Helpful

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes 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 and other damage.

Source:  Liberty Mutual

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

We serve Bloomfield, Enfield, Suffield, West Suffield, East Granby, Granby, North Granby, West Granby, Hartland, West Hartland, Hartford, West Hartford, East Hartford, Somers, Ellington, Tolland and Vernon, Connecticut.

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a fire or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Do These Five Things After a Flood

7/19/2019 (Permalink)

Do these five things fast to minimize damage, hazard and expense after you suffer a flood.

Disaster has struck, your home is flooded and you need to figure out what to do—quickly! These five essential tasks to start with that will make your recovery from a water disaster safer, easier and faster.

1. Halt the Damage

Cut power to your home at the circuit panel. Inspect the exterior of your property for signs of potential danger, like a collapsed roof. If you are not sure that the home is safe to enter, stay outside.

2. Gather Your Documents

Be prepared by gathering your important papers ahead of time, including:

• homeowners’ policy records
• documentation of flood insurance, if applicable
• personal identification
• proof of ownership

3. Create a Record

Document the condition of your home through words, pictures and videos. If the property deteriorates after the initial damage, update your information. Keep receipts for all your flood water repair - associated purchases and expenses.

4. File Your Claim ASAP

The sooner you start the insurance claims process, the sooner you’ll get your expenses covered.

5. Begin Repairs

As soon as possible (ideally within 48 hours), remove the water from your home and completely dry the structure and your possessions. A specialized professional disaster remediation company like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield will do this job quickly and thoroughly.

When you have suffered a flood or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has the people, skills and equipment to help homeowners recover from water damage caused by a flood. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785 any time.

Other Blog Posts You Might Find Helpful

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes 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 and other damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

We serve Bloomfield, Enfield, Suffield, West Suffield, East Granby, Granby, North Granby, West Granby, Hartland, West Hartland, Hartford, West Hartford, East Hartford, Somers, Ellington, Tolland and Vernon, Connecticut.

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a flood or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

How to Choose a Sump Pump

7/19/2019 (Permalink)

Follow these tips to purchase a sump pump that will serve you well for years, preventing storm damage that can flood your basement.

If you get water in your basement when it storms, a sump pump can prevent some serious storm flooding cleanup. Take these factors into consideration when selecting a pump:

• Choose a submersible pump over a pedestal pump if your sump basin has the space. Submersible pumps allow the sump pit to be covered with a lid, reducing pump noise and keeping debris out of the pit.
• Buy a pump with a cast iron core, not one made of plastic. Cast iron helps to dissipate heat to the surrounding water, lengthening the life of the pump.
• To minimize the chance of clogs, the pump should have a no-screen intake design coupled with an impellor that can handle solids up to ½-inch in diameter.
• The switch should be mechanical, not a pressure switch, and the float should be solid.
• Look for a pump with an alarm that tells you when the water reaches a certain level.

Once your pump is installed, ensure your peace of mind by performing sump pump routine maintenance each spring.

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts from SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes 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 and other damage.

Source: BobVila.com

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

We serve Bloomfield, Enfield, Suffield, West Suffield, East Granby, Granby, North Granby, West Granby, Hartland, West Hartland, Hartford, West Hartford, East Hartford, Somers, Ellington, Tolland and Vernon, Connecticut.

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Ride Out a Thunderstorm Safely—At Home

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

When thunder rumbles, get inside fast! Once inside, follow these tips to be even safer in a storm.

Summer is peak season for thunderstorms and lightning. If you’re outside and hear thunder, immediately stop all outdoor activities and go inside a building or hard-topped vehicle.

You're safest inside during a thunderstorm, but there are ways to be even safer in your home:

• Unplug televisions, computers and any other high-value electronics before the storm hits.
• Don’t touch electrical equipment or cords, including corded phones (using cell or cordless phones is safe).
• Stay away from windows, doors and porches.
• Don’t take baths or showers—water conducts electricity.

If you think your home has been struck by lightning:

• Call 911 immediately. If you see fire or smoke, leave the house. Ask your fire department to check for hot spots in your walls.
• If you use gas for heating and cooking, contact your gas company or a licensed contractor to test for leaks before re-entering your home to be sure no gas system components were punctured by direct or nearby lightning strikes.

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts from SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes 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 and other damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

We serve Bloomfield, Enfield, Suffield, West Suffield, East Granby, Granby, North Granby, West Granby, Hartland, West Hartland, Hartford, West Hartford, East Hartford, Somers, Ellington, Tolland and Vernon, Connecticut.

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Don’t Ignore Your Commercial Roof Drainage System

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

Regular maintenance of your roof drainage system, like cleaning out gutters, will help you avoid water damage to your commercial property.

You hardly notice a well-operating rooftop drainage system—gutters, downspouts, interior drains and scuppers—until it malfunctions, damaging your building and property. Paying a little attention on a regular basis can keep your drainage system removing water efficiently—and prevent expensive water damage.

At least twice a year, in the spring and fall, do an inspection, cleanup and, if needed, repair of your business’s roof.

• Clear away loose debris or objects, such as leaves or twigs
• Trim trees away from the roof
• Ensure that downspouts channel water away from your building’s foundation
• Check all parts of the drainage system for leaks, and repair or replace if necessary

During your inspection, pay close attention to your gutters.

• Clear gutters of washed-down roofing granules
• Check for standing water. If caused by a blockage, clear out the debris. But if there is no blockage, your gutter may not be properly sloped to the downspouts
• Make sure your gutters are made of non-combustible metal, securely anchored by gutter straps

If you have suffered a flood or other water disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts from SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes 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 and other damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

We serve Bloomfield, Enfield, Suffield, West Suffield, East Granby, Granby, North Granby, West Granby, Hartland, West Hartland, Hartford, West Hartford, East Hartford, Somers, Ellington, Tolland and Vernon, Connecticut.

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If you have suffered a flood or other water disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

SERVPRO's One-of-a-Kind DNA

5/15/2019 (Permalink)

Outstanding customer service and attention to detail are built into SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield's DNA.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is owned and operated by Noemi Garcia, who also owns SERVPRO of Glastonbury/Wethersfield and SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield. For the last several years, this dedicated management team has been ranked in the top 50 of SERVPRO’s 1,800 franchises overall and in the top 25 for sales performance. Our unique DNA is what sets up apart.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is a hands-on family-run business, and Noemi oversees every facet of her four SERVPRO franchises. They focus like lasers on employee accountability and attention to detail—and it shows!

Our Employees Are Held Accountable

Our customers are people who have suffered a sudden disaster—from fire, wind, water, storm or mold—and they are often stunned and feeling vulnerable. That’s why we empower each SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield employee—in the office or the field—to do what it takes to achieve customer satisfaction in a professional and respectful way. Here’s a sample of what our customers say about our employees:

• “She has gone above and beyond and has repeatedly exemplified every value that your company's mission statement has put out there.”
• “I like to give praise when people do a good job, and he has been so much more than we expected.”
• “SERVPRO not only did their job so well, they provided peace of mind. All SERVPRO staff members were kind and courteous and understood what we were going through.”
• “I know that you will always be ready at a moment’s notice and will be able to help me and my business stay on track. Everyone that I have dealt with has been super helpful & friendly over the years.”

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

The Details Matter

Once we receive the call, our team arrives promptly and quickly evaluates your damage. Throughout the entire damage remediation process, our employees take every detail seriously and treat your home or office and your damaged possessions with care and professionalism:

• “SERVPRO walked me through the whole process. It was seamless. They cleaned and dried the basement, then helped me through the insurance process. ... They were fast friendly and reliable.”
• “The whole team is quick to respond and knows what they're doing. And they work with the insurance company to get the job done right. They are friendly and thorough.”
• “... they came out instantly. The SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield emergency service team was very responsive, professional and discreet."
• “They were meticulous and did not leave a single stone unturned. They were knowledgeable and did their jobs while respecting me, my time and space, and the property itself.”

That’s the one-of-a-kind DNA of SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield! When you have a water, fire, smoke, mold or storm damage disaster, trust our leadership, accountability and attention to detail to make it “Like it never even happened.”

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, 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 storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts from SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes 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 and other damage.

SERVPRO to the Rescue

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

We serve Bloomfield, Enfield, Suffield, West Suffield, East Granby, Granby, North Granby, West Granby, Hartland, West Hartland, Hartford, West Hartford, East Hartford, Somers, Ellington, Tolland and Vernon, Connecticut.

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Your Business Flooded. What Now?

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

A flood can be devastating. You need to act fast to minimize the damage, cost and downtime to your business.

If your business has been hit by a flood, it’s important to act quickly to minimize damage and reduce disaster recovery costs. First things first: call your insurance provider, and then attend to the 3 B’s.

Be Safe

Don’t enter your building until you know it’s safe.

• Check for electrical hazards; turn off power if possible
• Check for structural damage
• Wear protective gear: boots, gloves and respirators
• Check for biohazards that may contaminate the flood water, such as lead paint and asbestos

Be Quick

• Mold starts growing in as little as 48 hours, so begin water removal ASAP. Open windows and use air movers to remove moisture from the air
• Once standing water is removed, check for concealed pockets of water: under carpets and padding, between layers of building materials, behind trim and walls, under cabinets and furniture, and in mechanical spaces
• Address contaminants. If the flood water is laden with bacteria or chemicals, you’ll need to bring in an expert on biohazards, like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, to evaluate, treat and inspect your building and property

When you have suffered a flood or other water disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Be Thorough

• To help with your insurance claims, document everything with photos or video—structural damage, water-damaged property and discarded items—both before and after cleanup. (SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield will document your entire job and work with your insurer for the smoothest, fastest claim process.)
• Clean all salvageable material and apply disinfectants on biohazard-affected property. Use a HEPA filter when vacuuming
• Confirm that all building material is 100% dry before beginning reconstruction

Or ... Call SERVPRO

Recovering from a commercial flood is stressful, time-consuming and can be disastrous when you factor in your business’s downtime. But you can be sure that all the details are handled quickly and professionally when you call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield after a commercial water disaster.

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts from SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes 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 and other damage.

Commercial Building Mold Remediation

When you have suffered a flood or other water disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

More Helpful Information from SERVPRO

You may be interested in these articles from SERVPRO of Glastonbury/Wethersfield and SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield.

Commercial Restoration Is So Different

When Your Belongings Are Damaged by Mold

Water Disaster? Use the Pros

After Water Damage, Removing the Water Isn’t Enough

Source: Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

We serve Bloomfield, Enfield, Suffield, West Suffield, East Granby, Granby, North Granby, West Granby, Hartland, West Hartland, Hartford, West Hartford, East Hartford, Somers, Ellington, Tolland and Vernon, Connecticut.

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a flood or other water disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Rooted in Community

4/8/2019 (Permalink)

Ralph DiCristofaro, owner of SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, is proud to support business, community and youth sports organizations.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield, which has been recognized as a top 25 SERVPRO franchise (out of 1,800 nationwide), is owned and operated by Noemi Garcia (Noemi also owns and operates three other local SERVPRO franchises, SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield, SERVPRO of Glastonbury/Wethersfield, and SERVPRO of West Hartford).

Beyond managing these successful businesses, employing more than a hundred workers and restoring the homes and businesses of countless customers, Noemi believes in the value of community involvement and service—and put that belief into action.

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Professional Affiliations

Noemi strives to be the best SERVPRO operator she can be, which includes keeping up with industry and regional business trends and building solid relationships. To that end, Noemi maintains active memberships in:

• Risk Management Society (RIMS)
• Society of Industrial and Office Realtors (SIOR) Connecticut and Western Massachusetts chapter
• Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) Greater Hartford chapter

In addition, Noemi is a member of these local business organizations that support and strengthen the Bloomfield community:

• Rotary Club of Bloomfield
• Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce

Noemi believes in maintaining professional ties and supporting the communities where she works and lives, because she understands that operating successful businesses, like her four SERVPRO franchises, is only part of what it means to contribute to the health and welfare of her region.

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

Other Helpful Blog Posts from SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield publishes 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 and other damage.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

We serve Bloomfield, Enfield, Suffield, West Suffield, East Granby, Granby, North Granby, West Granby, Hartland, West Hartland, Hartford, West Hartford, East Hartford, Somers, Ellington, Tolland and Vernon, Connecticut.

100 Peters Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

When you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

How Businesses Can Prevent Frozen Pipes

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Check pipes throughout your business facility to protect them from extreme cold weather.

You can avoid or reduce potential business interruptions and related losses resulting from cold temperatures with proper preparation. Cold temperatures can reach areas of your facility that you seldom visit or can’t see, such as:

• Crawl spaces
• Closets
• Enclosed spaces (e.g., attics, lofts, roof spaces)
• Warehouses
• Isolated storage areas

If Your Home or Business has Suffered Storm-Related Damage, Including Frozen or Cracked Pipes, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Strategies to Help Prevent Frozen Pipes

In severe cold, water pipes may freeze and break. If possible, make sure pipes that are located in isolated or poorly heated spaces are shut off and drained or protected with a supplemental heating source.

• Properly insulate and/or provide approved heat tracing for pipes located in exterior walls or unheated spaces
• Drain any piping that is not needed during winter
• Maintain a minimum interior temperature of 40° F

Protect Your Fire Protection System

Fire protection sprinkler systems only work if water can flow freely when needed. Ensure that wet piping systems, which may be subject to cold temperatures, are sufficiently heated to prevent freezing. In severe cold weather, the response time of the local fire department may be delayed, making a working sprinkler system even more essential.

If Your Home or Business has Suffered Storm-Related Damage, Including Frozen or Cracked Pipes, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

If you lose heating in a building protected by wet sprinklers, try to restore it immediately. If that’s not possible, as a last resort shut off your sprinkler systems and completely drain them, then notify local fire officials and contact your insurance carrier.

• Ensure that anti-freeze sprinkler systems have sufficient concentration of antifreeze to withstand freezing weather
• Inspect dry systems to help ensure air settings are correct, air maintenance systems are in good operating condition and any pipe closets are well insulated. If any heat tape or heating systems are being used, ensure that they are UL-listed for this specific purpose and are in good operating condition. Dry-pipe sprinkler systems low points and auxiliary drains should be opened and drained of water or condensation
• Insulate and heat-trace branch lines on wet sprinkler systems exposed to extreme cold weather
• Check fire pump test headers to ensure they have been properly drained
• Routinely check fire pump and dry-pipe sprinkler system equipment rooms to ensure the heaters are in good operating condition

If Your Home or Business has Suffered Storm-Related Damage, Including Frozen or Cracked Pipes, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Remember, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is ready to help with your frozen pipes and severe weather damage. We know the safest, most advanced and quickest ways to help you recover from burst pipes and other damage to your home or business. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time, 24/7.

More Information on Our Blog

Visit the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield blog to find many informative articles on how to prevent and recover from winter storm damage.

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield

Top 50 Franchise Nationally

We serve SERVPRO 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
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

If Your Home or Business has Suffered Storm-Related Damage, Including Frozen or Cracked Pipes, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Make a Plan to Escape a House Fire

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

Make a plan and practice it BEFORE you need to escape a house fire!

If a fire breaks out in your home, you have to get out fast—even though you may be plunged into darkness, have trouble breathing and are trying to keep family members calm while fighting your own panic. That’s why it’s important to create and practice an escape plan before a fire starts.

Make a Plan to Get Out

• Have a plan for young children who cannot get outside by themselves. Decide who will help each child get out safely.
• Teach everyone to use the back of a hand to check doors for heat before opening and, if the door is hot, to use a different way out. If you need to use an escape ladder, show everyone where you keep it and practice how to use it.
• Teach children to never hide from firefighters and never go back inside a burning building.
• Learn two ways out of every room in your home, in case one exit is blocked or dangerous to use.
• Remember, if there is smoke, you need to get low and stay below the smoke.
• Choose a meeting place a safe distance from your home. Once you’re out, stay out!

For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Practice Your Plan

Fires can start anywhere and at any time, so run through the plan at different times of the day or night, and practice different ways out. Do this at least twice a year.

• Check your smoke alarms: Test your smoke alarms each month with your kids so they know the sound. Make sure there’s a smoke alarm on every level of your home, and one in each bedroom.
• Know where to go: When the smoke alarm beeps, everyone needs to get out of the house quickly and meet at the safe meeting spot.
• Perform a Fire Drill: Have kids head to their bedrooms and wait for the drill to begin. Assign adults to help children under 6. Put one adult in charge of sounding the smoke alarm and running the drill. Next, sound the smoke alarm, start the timer and have everyone hurry to the meeting spot. Once everyone gets to the safe meeting place, stop the timer. Try to have everyone there in less than two minutes. If not, keep practicing.

In a real fire, get to the safe meeting place, then call 911 and keep everyone close until firefighters arrive!

For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

We're Here For You

If you do experience a fire, professional fire 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. 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
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service

For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Own an Older Home? These Fire Risks May Be Lurking

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

An inspection of your older home could be a lifesaver if it uncovers unseen fire hazards.

If your house is more than 40 years old, it can harbor some unseen fire risks. If you learn about them ahead of time, you can take action to prevent a fire from starting—and keep your home sweet home safe for many more years to come.

Outdated Wiring

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there are about 46,000 fires involving home electrical systems each year, and the majority of those could be prevented with a routine inspection. The CPSC says that in many cases, homes that were built between 40 and 100 years ago hadn't been inspected since they were built.

Be alert to obvious warning signs of a failing electrical system:

• flickering or dim lights
• a shrinking of your television picture
• frequent power outages
• sparks
• unusual sounds like sizzles or burning smells
• smoke
• any kind of electrical shock
• damaged insulation
• warm or hot outlets or switches
• reliance on extension cords for everyday use

For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

If you can't remember the last time your electrical system was inspected, hire a certified electrician or electrical inspector to prevent a potential disaster. Even if you've had an inspection less than a decade ago, you should contact a professional immediately if you start to notice the warning signs of a bad electrical system. Hire only a licensed and insured electrician to do electrical work.

Balloon Framing

In newer homes, each floor is individually constructed to ensure that fire stops between them, but in balloon-frame homes, there's nothing to stop a fire from spreading. Commonly used from the late 1800s through about 1940, balloon framing was a construction method in which a continuous wood stud wall stretched all the way from the foundation of a home to the attic. If your home has balloon framing, flames can spread from the floor to the roof in just seconds.

If you aren’t sure what kind of framing your house has, hire a skilled professional to inspect it. If your home was constructed with balloon framing, a major remodel—to open up the walls and ceilings and install solid blocking to act as fire stops—may be your only option. Alternatively, you may be able to install insulation in empty cavities that would slow or prevent the spread of fire.

For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Source: Liberty Mutual

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
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785 
24-hour emergency service

For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Be Prepared for Winter Storms

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

Preparing BEFORE the storm is the best way to weather the storm!

A big snow storm or deep freeze is coming. How do you prepare so that your home suffers little or no damage? Can your roof support the weight of a few feet of snow? How do you keep your pipes freezing? Will ice dams present a problem?

Don’t wait! Heed early weather warnings and prepare before a snow storm or cold snap hits. Starting 48 hours early means you’ll get a lot more done than if you wait until the snow starts falling.

Can Your Roof Hold All That Snow?

Fluffy snow can weigh as little as 3 pounds per square foot compared with 21 pounds for wet, heavy snow, according to FEMA. Most roofs can support 20 pounds per square foot of snow, according to USA Today. If a portion of your home’s roof is flat, such as over a porch, take extra care to prevent snow and ice buildup there.

If Your Home or Business Has Suffered Storm-Related Damage, Including Frozen or Cracked Pipes, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

And don’t forget about ice, which weighs 57 pounds per square foot. An inch of ice equals about a foot of fresh snow, so 4 inches of ice on your roof could put your roof at risk of collapse.

Don’t Let Water Pipes Freeze

Planning ahead is the key to protecting your water pipes. If you lose power, if your furnace malfunctions or if pipes located next to exterior walls get too cold, your pipes can freeze and burst, resulting in lots of water damage.

Keep your house warm by using a generator or other alternative source of heat, like a wood or coal stove. Seal your home’s doors and windows, insulate openings in your attic and wrap insulation around your pipes.

Prevent Ice Dams

When ice builds up at the edge of your roof, it forms a dam that keeps melting snow from draining properly. Then the water backs up into your walls, ceilings and insulation.

If Your Home or Business  Has Suffered Storm-Related Damage, Including Frozen or Cracked Pipes, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Stop ice dam removal by adding insulation above the ceiling and increasing roof ventilation to keep the roof area warmer and prevent ice buildup. Inspect your roof's drainage, keep gutters and downspouts clean, and trim trees to keep leaves to a minimum. You can even install self-regulating heat cables on gutters, downspouts and roof drains.

More Information on Our Blog

Visit the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield blog to find many informative articles on how to prevent and recover from winter storm damage.

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

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
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service

If Your Home or Business Has Suffered Storm-Related Damage, Including Frozen or Cracked Pipes, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Your Pipes Are Frozen. Now What?

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

If a frozen pipe bursts in your home or business, you need to act fast to prevent further damage. Preparation is the key.

When the weather outside is frightful, your home or business is at risk of damage from burst pipes. Deep, biting cold weather can freeze pipes that run on exterior walls, while a powerful storm may cut power, causing your inside temperature to plummet and your pipes to freeze.

Frozen pipes are no joke. When a frozen pipe bursts, you often must repair the flooring, drywall and any furniture, fixtures or possessions left on the floor. The average insurance claim for damage from a burst pipe is about $18,000.

If Your Pipes Freeze

• First, turn off the flow of water to prevent further damage. (If you haven’t already, find your main water shut-off valve and clearly mark it with a bright sticker—you may have to find it in the dark.) Take care to avoid an electrical shock if you must be in or near standing water.
• Next, call a plumber or contractor skilled in rapidly resolving water damage emergencies, like SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield.
• Take photographs to document the damage for your insurance company. Keep the broken pipe because your insurance company may want to inspect it.

If Your Home or Business has Suffered Storm-Related Damage, Including Frozen or Cracked Pipes, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Preventing Frozen Pipes is Best

Make sure your heating system works 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, leave the heat set to at least 65 F. Have someone check your home and property, if possible. If you will be away for extended periods—say, for the winter—have your water turned off.

Others things you can do 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 outdoor hoses, store them inside 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 F at all times, and 65 F when you’re out of town
• During severe cold, turn on both hot and cold faucets near outside walls to allow a trickle of water to run overnight

If Your Home or Business Has Suffered Storm-Related Damage, Including Frozen or Cracked Pipes, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Remember, SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield is ready to help with your frozen pipes and severe weather damage. We know the safest, most advanced and quickest ways to help you recover from burst pipes and other damage to your home or business. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield (860.216.2785) any time, 24/7.

More Information on Our Blog

Visit the SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield blog to find many informative articles on how to prevent and recover from winter storm damage.

Water Damage and Repair

Water Shut Off

Source: The Spruce

We're Here For You

The team at SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield has specialized training and experience in storm damage restoration, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial services and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785.

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
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service

If Your Home or Business Has Suffered Storm-Related Damage, Including Frozen or Cracked Pipes, Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Keeping Your Fire Damage Restoration Costs Down

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

Fire Damage Repairs

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
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service

For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

The 5 Most Common Places a House Fire Starts

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.

• Dryers: lint, fiber and dust buildup is a primary cause of a laundry room fire. Keep vents and filters clean by removing lint after each use, and at least once a year, clean the lint from the exhaust hose at the back of the dryer.
• Dishwashers: heating elements in the dishwasher can overheat and catch fire, especially in older models.
• Microwaves: although convenient, microwaves can be dangerous if you heat food or materials that are flammable, such as aluminum foil, Styrofoam or certain plastic containers.
• Toasters/Toaster Ovens: the electrical elements inside a toaster can become faulty over time and may not turn off, which could start a fire. Crumbs can accumulate and become stuck at the bottom of the toaster, so clean it regularly. Never leave these appliances unsupervised when in use.

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
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service

For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

Ice on Your Roof? It Could Become a Dam Problem (Part 1)

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!)

1. Seal the spots where warm air leaks from your living space to your attic! This may include areas around the chimney and house frame that can be sealed with flashing; the attic hatch or opening for whole-house fan, which can be covered with foil-lined foam board; HVAC and exhaust ducts that can be covered with foil-faced fiberglass; and gaps around electrical cables and vent pipes that can be plugged with sealant.
2. Insulate your living space to prevent heat loss through the ceiling! Check with your local building department to determine how much insulation your attic needs.
3. Vent the space between the insulation and the roof sheathing, so that any heat that does leak is carried to the outside! A proper attic ventilation system should include soffit vents, a ridge vent and baffles at the eaves, and should provide at least 1 SF of opening for every 300 SF of attic floor. Any ducts from the kitchen, bath or dryer should lead directly outdoors through the roof or walls, not the soffit.
4. Clear your gutters and downspouts of leaves and other debris! Because this work is done on a ladder, consider hiring a professional.

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

Ice on Your Roof? It Could Become a Dam Problem (Part 2)

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

After A Fire And A Sewage Backup SERVPRO Saves The Day

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
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.216.2785
24-hour emergency service

Enjoy Your Holidays

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!   

Reduce Fire Risk: Keep Your Dryer Lint-Free

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 Noemi 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.

SERVPRO To The Rescue