Trust SERVPRO for Water Damage Restoration in Setauket

4/7/2024 (Permalink)

Standing water is difficult to remove from your home alone. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for certified technicians and equipment.

Water Damage Repair in Setauket Requires Skill

Water intrusion in homes is unwelcome and can cause a lasting impact. You must take appropriate steps to restore your residence to normal. 

After experiencing water damage in your Setauket home, our SERVPRO® technicians can remove water to prevent further damage. Water restoration can include:

• Preserving the property’s structural integrity.
• Repairing salvageable contents.
• Containing other areas of your home where the damage may spread.

If the water is more than two inches deep, we can use electrical submersible pumps to remove it. Performing water removal quickly helps prevent further destruction. Stagnant water can become more destructive as it remains on your property. Water removal also enables our SERVPRO team to conduct more detailed inspections. 

In some water damage cases, we can adequately dry a property by setting up air movers and dehumidifiers. In other cases, cutting out drywall, removing carpet padding and carpeting, and applying antimicrobials is necessary to prevent subsequent mold infestation. 

As we dry your property, we can use several tools to ensure accurate monitoring of moisture levels. They include:

• Infrared cameras 
• Hygrometers. 
• Moisture meters
• Moisture sensors

Hygrometers detect moisture saturation levels. With infrared cameras, our SERVPRO technicians can determine if there is inviable moisture build-up under floorboards or behind walls. We monitor changing moisture levels continually throughout the drying process. 

The restoration process may also include repairs to return your home’s soft and hard goods to a preloss state. It may also be necessary to perform reconstruction based on the destruction. Fixes may include floor repair, drywall replacement, repainting, and carpet installation. These repairs can ensure your building’s usability and integrity. Water damage can also leave bad smells behind. Therefore, deodorization may be necessary. We can use air scrubbers to eradicate malodors. Our SERVPRO technicians can take all the steps required to repair your property. 

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson has the skill and equipment to repair your property. Call us at (631) 476-5300. We’re Here To Help®.

Rapid Restoration of Setauket County Water Damage

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

Fast-drying can minimize water damage in your Suffolk County home. SERVPRO has the technicians and equipment to make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Is Ready 24/7 to Mitigate Water Damage in Setauket County Homes

There is little time to waste when destructive water events occur in your home or business. Water spreads fast along surface materials and can rapidly infiltrate and saturate porous building elements. The moisture migration must be stopped with efficient and point emergency services completed by competent restoration professionals. Our SERVPRO team helps with rapid: 

• Extraction
• Content management
• Bulk material removal
• Repairs and controlled demolition

The experience of our restoration crew with water damage in Setauket homes allows us to complete a variety of needed mitigation steps as soon as we arrive. Early actions are critical in saving the customer money and preventing avoidable harm and destruction to the structure. For this reason, WRT-Certified technicians are available 24/7 from our SERVPRO facility to help. 

Containing the Water Damage

Establishing effective containment is an early way to reduce the necessary work in water-damaged homes and businesses. Physical barriers and powerful drying along the perimeters of a work zone greatly limit the available motion and migration of moisture. Having an established drying zone makes every drying principle easier to manage and regulate, including: 

• Airflow
• Temperature
• Humidity

Removing Standing Water 

Extraction is the most focused and effective mitigative action our SERVPRO team can take against water damage in area homes. There are several effective strategies for eliminating surface water and pooling throughout the structure with dozens of water removal tools in our inventory. Any standing water is a threat to the residence and its building materials, so the conditions must be overcome quickly with a combination of:

• Pumps - Pumps represent the most powerful extractors in our supply, from engine=driven and gas-powered trash pumps to electric submersibles for a range of standing water concerns. 
• Vacuums - Often, this points to the versatility of our wet vacuum units, as these are lightweight and highly portable for multi-story structures, challenging locations, or shallow pooling. 
• Deep Extraction - Attachments and extensions are a valuable resource for mitigation, as this allows water removal from carpet and padding and wood plank flooring.

Thorough Drying of Water Damage

Despite the importance and need for effective mitigation services, few actions are as critical to recovery and restoration as thorough structural drying. Our WRT-Certified technicians help in this effort through many types of restorative approaches:

• Surface Drying - Surface water that is not removed with extraction devices must be dried up with tools like air movers. Direct blasts of air across wet surfaces promote evaporation. 
• Cavity Drying - When water remains trapped in structural cavities, practices, and equipment are used to overcome these concerns. From weep holes that promote airflow to the use of positive pressure systems that infuse dry air into the cavity, we can help. 

• Saturated Material Drying - It is essential that the drying measures implemented in a damaged property address wet materials. Water soaks into porous elements like drywall and carpeting, requiring specific water removal and restoration techniques. 

Can SERVPRO Complete Repairs? 

Water emergencies often come with the need for repairs and reconstruction, which can be problematic for the customer. Unlike many restoration companies, our SERVPRO team has a general contractor license to complete needed build-back work following water restoration services in a household. This license lets us seamlessly transition to the subsequent recovery phase, saving customers time and money on pursuing a subcontractor to complete this portion of the repairs. 

Water damage in the Town of Brookhaven homes can be quickly and thoroughly resolved by trusting in the fast response and thorough restoration of our SERVPRO of Port Jefferson team. Call our knowledgeable professionals today at (631) 476-5300.

SERVPRO Saves Setauket Homes from Lasting Effects of Water Damage

3/14/2023 (Permalink)

Looking for a restoration company? Look no further, SERVPRO is just a call away at (631) 476-5300.

It Pays to Hire Professionals Like SERVPRO After Water Damage to Your Setauket Home   

Water damage to your Setauket home can impact the structural integrity of building materials if not managed promptly. SERVPRO restorers must remove the excess water in the structural materials and return the moisture content to preloss condition. 

SERVPRO techs use the latest technology and equipment to manipulate the drying conditions when restoring water damage to your Setauket home. Humidity and airflow are crucial parameters that the techs control to accelerate the drying rate. Reducing the drying air's humidity and increasing the air's velocity flowing across the wet surfaces promote faster evaporation. 

Role of Air Movers in Water Restoration 

SERVPRO techs use air-moving equipment to increase the evaporation rate at the surface level. As the moisture evaporates from the surface, the layer of air directly above the wet material becomes quickly saturated with water, creating a boundary layer. 

Air movers can create a directional airflow to disturb this saturated air layer and replace it with warmer, drier air, shifting the equilibrium in favor of evaporation. SERVPRO techs usually use the following two types of air overs in domestic water cleanup incidents:

• Centrifugal air movers
• Axial air movers 

While centrifugal air movers can create high static pressure, they cannot move large volumes of air. Hence, these pieces of equipment are ideal for directing the airflow to a specific spot. On the other hand, axial air movers can move large volumes of air and cover larger areas of affected materials. 

Drying Structural Cavities

Drying structural cavities can be challenging as guiding airflow to these places without controlled demolition is difficult. SERVPRO techs direct air into such cavities by drilling small holes in -

• Walls
• Ceilings
• cabinets 

Call SERVPRO of SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300 for a service you can trust.

We Act Fast to Limit Damage to Your Stony Brook Home After Water Damage

9/12/2022 (Permalink)

Stony Brook water damage bothering you? Call SERVPRO, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Steps that Guarantee Safety During Water Removal in Affected Stony Brook Homes 

Whatever an incident leaves your Stony Brook property flooded, removing all the standing water fast is essential to keep the damages at manageable levels. Water removal may require different steps, including scooping the water with buckets or pumps and controlling the evaporation rates by managing temperature and air movements. It is easy to forget safety when juggling all these activities.

Safety of the affected people

Carrying out the process of water removal from your Stony Brook home is impossible without people being in contact with the spilled water. That contact can pose a wide range of risks. There is the risk of electrocution because water conducts electricity. Our SERVPRO technicians address these risks in different ways. We have electrical circuit tests to verify that no electrical hazards exist after we turn off the power. We also have PPE, Personal Protective Equipment, like rubber boots and gloves to protect against contaminants.

Safety of the structure

Water can damage structural components, especially after extended exposure. It can also ruin the physical appearance by affecting finishes. For example, it can cause chipping or bubbling of paint, ruining the visual appeal of a wall, ceiling, or other parts of the structure. Apart from removing water fast, there is also a need to take additional precautions. When drying your premises, our SERVPRO technicians make calculations to ensure balanced drying. This prevents issues such as condensation, which can transfer moisture to elevated surfaces, or cracking or warping in materials such as wood due to unbalanced drying. 

Safety of the equipment

The equipment used during removal plays a crucial role in expediting the process. However, damaging the equipment during the operation would amplify the cost of restoration, especially if using hired ones. Our SERVPRO technicians are highly trained, so we operate our equipment safely and in ways that guarantee maximum efficiency. For example, we ensure nothing blocks the vents of the air movers. We also use GFCI, Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters, when operating electric-powered equipment in wet environments.

Call SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Rocky Point, Water Damage, High Humidity, and SERVPRO Solutions

8/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers water removal from humidity-compromised Rocky Point properties--and solutions to prevent future occurrences.

High Humidity Concerns for Your Rocky Point Residence

Higher humidity levels are a common complaint and catalyst of problems that could affect Port Jefferson area homes. Without the appropriate management of this situation, many more traumatic scenarios could erupt with little warning, including mold growth and structural degradation. Understanding what to do and what you can expect from professional restoration teams like ours can better prepare you for what must happen to protect your house from irreparable moisture damage.

With so many water damages that could originate from dampness and moisture in your Rocky Point home, combatting these conditions is imperative to protecting the investment in your property and the contents and people inside. As you might expect, multiple tools and machines can effectively address humidity in your home. Our SERVPRO experts can show up fast with the full measure of our equipment inventory to start recovery immediately.

Our professionals utilize the most critical piece of equipment in situations with high grain moisture content. The excessive humidity along the harbor leading to the Long Island Sound accounts for our array of dehumidification devices. Our Low Grain Refrigerant Dehumidifiers (LGR) can handle large loss scenarios. Still, they are also ideal for widespread dampness that could begin to saturate construction materials, flooring, and open areas of your property. 

Moisture detection equipment can help our SERVPRO professionals identify problem areas within your home that could continue to be an issue even after effective drying. In some cases, our technicians must recommend or encourage continued efforts after restoration to manage moisture in areas like basements of homes in the region. By installing a permanent dehumidifier in problem areas, homeowners only have to manage collection trays to continually reduce damaging moisture content in the air.

Higher humidity levels are a given that many homeowners throughout the area must contend with regularly with the proximity to the harbor. Our SERVPRO of Port Jefferson team can help you to manage this situation and prevent further compromising scenarios like mold growth or structural degradation. Call us anytime you need help at (631) 476-5300.

Answered: Your Burning Questions About Water Damage Remediation in Setauket

3/17/2022 (Permalink)

Carpets can be soaked and ruined by water damage. Don't try and salvage them alone. Contact SERVPRO today for remediation assistance.

How Fast Can Water Damage Happen in Setauket

Want to know how quickly water damage can happen? Imagine you put a load of laundry in the washing machine and went out to mow the lawn. You were not very far away, but during the hour or so, you were outside, gallon after gallon of water spilled on your floor from a broken hose.

Indoor water spills causing water damage in Setauket homes are not an uncommon call we get. A common mistake many homeowners make is to throw down towels and wipe the walls and think that is enough. However, the water has also had an opportunity to travel behind baseboards wick into drywall, and if it has reached carpeted areas, the carpet and padding can have moisture problems.

It is crucial to engage a professional cleanup company when your home has a water loss. SERVPRO technicians remove any standing water and use different types of moisture detectors to determine precisely where there is an excess of moisture. Extra time is spent extracting as much water as possible wherever it has collected as it lessens the drying time for the room.

Our technicians are specially certified in the science of air and water vapor and have working knowledge for using the correct equipment configurations to dry your home using techniques that pull moisture up and out of building materials and room contents. When a room has the moisture levels appropriately reduced, it lowers the probability of secondary damages such as mold growth or odors.

After drying, our technicians clean the area with our EPA-registered disinfectants. This hand cleaning is another step in our remediation process that further inhibits mold and foul odors. Once the cleanup is complete, SERVPRO technicians go over the areas addressed and ensure homeowners are satisfied with our work. We can also offer suggestions for repairs to ensure the washing machine should not be a contributor to a water spill in the home again.

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson is available to assist you with water damage cleanup 24-hours a day at (631) 476-5300. Our technicians are local and proudly serve our community mitigating water loss to make it "Like it never even happened."

Why Is Professional Water Mitigation Important at Your Rocky Point Home?

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

Fast-drying after a water leak in your Rocky Point home can minimize water damage. SERVPRO has the techs and equipment, "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Provides Rapid Water Mitigation Services to Rocky Point Residents

Disasters and smaller water spills happen, and that dishwasher in your Rocky Point home might leak. What starts as a drip could evolve into a fountain spilling water across the hardwood floors. Water can be destructive and cause pervasive damage to materials that absorb it.

Water can create a perfect growth environment for mold and mildew, which requires cleanup to help avoid potential health effects. Therefore, finding water damage professionals to address the situation is vital. SERVPRO is fast to perform any necessary water mitigation in your Rocky Point home to prevent further damage.

Reasons you should use water mitigation experts

• They have experience and training
• They have high-quality equipment
• Quick and Full removal of moisture
• They can save more possessions

Our technicians set up a staging area to easily access equipment and products needed during mitigation. The teams are trained in evaluating structure and content after water damage. Depending on the nature of contamination and the porosity of the materials, they know whether to replace or restore.

Types of dehumidifiers used during restoration

• LGR Dehumidifier
• Conventional refrigerants dehumidifiers
• Desiccants

How Dehumidifiers Help with Moisture Control

Dehumidifiers are devices that reduce and maintain the humidity level in the air by condensing it into liquid water. A low grain refrigerant dehumidifier has a double cooling system that re-cools before reaching the evaporator coils, therefore more condensation, and more moisture removal. It is more energy-efficient and more effective in particularly challenging areas where higher amounts of water are involved.

Desiccant dehumidifiers are most effective in colder and drier conditions. They pull moisture out of the air through chemical attraction instead of condensation; hence they are not limited by low dew point temperatures. Our SERVPRO technicians use this type of dehumidifier to extract water from hardwood floors and other difficult materials.

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson provides quick water mitigation services. You can contact us at (631) 476-5300. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster

Does Water Mitigation Save Setauket Resident Money?

1/28/2022 (Permalink)

When water damage affects your family home, the professionals need to be called in. Team SERVPRO can effectively mitigate the situation in your home.

SERVPRO in Setauket Uses Water Mitigation Techniques that Reduce Losses Significantly for your Home

Residential properties are not designed to sustain water losses over an extended period. While small spillages may be fine to deal with on a case-by-case basis, larger water intrusion events, such as a consistent leaking appliance or pipe, should often be dealt with by professionals. Some types of flooring in a home may be susceptible to mold growth with constant exposure to moisture. Other types of flooring, such as laminates and ply, may slowly begin to bubble up or cup. Suppose you notice any of these signs in your home, particularly close to wet room areas like laundry rooms. In that case, it is vital to have a professional restoration technician investigate further. Water exposure can lead to:

• Persistent mold growth
• Water discoloration on materials
• Structural water damage

The process of reducing losses associated with water is known as water mitigation by Setauket residents. Water mitigation can cover a wide range of activities, including fast-drying methods and water migration assessments. It is well understood that restoring materials is less expensive than replacing them, which is why mitigation is such an essential part of any professional restoration technician's tool kit. Our experience in dealing with water intrusion issues has led to us expanding our roster of technicians and their expertise. Today, we incorporate Textile Cleaners (JTC), Carpet Cleaners (CCT), and Applied Structural Drying Technicians (ASD) among our roster to ensure that we have the necessary skills to deal with whatever size disaster we face. 

• Water exposure is a time-sensitive issue, so powerful drying equipment such as rapid-air movers and water extractors are used in most mitigation services.
• Taking a specialized approach toward restoring upholstery and textiles can often help save money for homeowners who can avoid expensive replacements.
• Applied structural drying refers to assessing and drying structural cavities like wall, floor, or ceiling spaces. Usually, this process is used when water intrusion results from pipes or flooding. 

To protect your home and reduce damage from water intrusion, contact SERVPRO of Port Jefferson for water mitigation expertise at (631) 476-5300.

Where Can Property Owners Get Water Damage Cleanup Services in Rocky Point?

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO water damage specialists hold a higher standard for all restoration services we provide. We use the latest technology and equipment.

They Can Hire SERVPRO to Assist Them in Performing Water Damage Cleanup in Rocky Point

Water can ruin the structures and contents of your home in various ways. Within the first 24 to 48 hours of a water loss, water can damage walls, flooring, drywall, wooden doors, and electronics. Mold infestation can also occur. That’s why it is best to work with a water cleanup company near you like SERVPRO for prompt repairs.

We can perform water damage cleanup in your Rocky Point home efficiently. We understand everything concerning water damage and the importance of successfully restoring the structures and contents. SERVPRO has highly skilled and friendly restorers who are on standby waiting to get dispatched to your residence at any time or day.

Two types of destruction can occur on affected materials. Primary damage occurs when materials come into direct contact with water, while secondary damage occurs when water vapor ruins materials. Secondary damage typically occurs on hygroscopic materials. Examples of primary and secondary water damage include:

• Delamination of carpet backings
• Rusting of metallic surfaces
• Buckling and swelling of hardwood flooring
• Mold infestation
• Softening and falling of wallpaper
• Moistening and crumbling of ceiling tiles

Our SERVPRO team can remove water from your home quickly to minimize the chances of primary and secondary destruction occurring. We use portable pumps to remove water from affected surfaces. We use industry-approved techniques to extract the maximum amount of water as fast as possible. If your carpet has delaminated, we can remove and dispose of it. To dry the affected surfaces, our technicians can use air movers and dehumidifiers. These tools can remove moisture hiding inside wall cavities, cabinets, woodwork flooring, and carpeting. This can eliminate the chances of bacterial and mold infestation.

Our SERVPRO team uses moisture meters to monitor moisture levels throughout the water restoration process to verify that the drying process is taking place as it should. After reducing moisture levels to normal, we remove the drying equipment.

When you need water restoration services, call SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What Can Homeowners Expect from Water Restoration Companies in Setauket?

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage may be traumatic for ones health. SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians handle all the work for your home. Pre-loss condition is our goal.

Reliable and Certified Water Restoration Companies in Setauket Like SERVPRO Restore Homes to their Original State

Water damage in a property is a traumatic event, and it is necessary to perform water restoration. Water damage restoration is a service that entails removing water from the affected area of a property and drying it to restore it to its original state. Engaging the services of a certified restoration company like SERVPRO as soon as possible helps minimize damage and restore your property to its former condition or better. Our professionals can restore your property efficiently and effectively.

SERVPRO is among the reputable and certified water restoration companies in Setauket with a team of friendly and highly skilled restorers. You may depend on us to keep your property safe, dry, and clean for your family, and we comply with the restoration industry standards. We use the latest equipment, tools, and products, as well as innovative methods, to minimize property damage and quickly restore your home.

SERVPRO's team of restorers can use extraction equipment like portable extractors to eliminate excess water from carpeting and other kinds of flooring. We can use carpet wands to remove water from carpets and a squeegee wand to extract water from hard surface flooring. We may also use centrifugal air movers with multiple blades to move the air so that evaporation occurs faster. The rotating impeller speeds up evaporation by increasing air movement in the affected area. With this equipment, we can dry porous surfaces thoroughly.

In addition to cleaning the affected area thoroughly, our technicians ensure that the surface is disinfected. Our cleaning methods include the following:

• Wet cleaning
• Spray and wipe cleaning
• Dry cleaning

Our SERVPRO restoration team can use sterilant, a sanitizer that eliminates bacteria and fungi spores. As a result, we always leave our customers' properties better than they were before we arrived.

The contents and structures of your home can suffer severe damage from a water leak. Contact SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300 for professional assistance within hours. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What Must Happen for Damaged Setauket Homes After Burst Pipes?

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

Setauket Homeowners rely on SERVPRO to mitigate water damage after a burst pipe caused by freezing or air hammer sudden pressure

Substantial water damage incidents like burst pipes in Setauket homes require fast mitigation and restoration approaches.

Burst pipes are among the most substantially damaging emergencies property owners can face. These events introduce hundreds or thousands of gallons of water to the damaged areas and require immediate action to resolve. Some of the causes for these events include:

• Air hammers in water lines
• Aging plumbing
• Malfunctioning pressure regulators
• Freezing pipes

Stopping the Water Damage from Getting Worse

Stopping the flow of water must be one of the first stages in water damage restoration for Setauket properties. Stopping the flow of water to repair the plumbing means shutting off the main water valve where the service line enters the home.

Controlled Demolition Solutions to Reach Damaged Plumbing

A priority of our technicians is to reach the damaged area of the plumbing system to assess the condition of the pipe and what must get done to repair it. Water service is a vital utility for the home, so restoring pressurized water into this piping can be critical. We have a general contractor license for the controlled demolition and needed plumbing repairs.

Water Removal and Drying

Among the final emergency services conducted with urgency in your damaged home is water removal. Because burst pipes can introduce thousands of gallons of standing water depending on the location, we must arrive with a variety of extraction tools to overcome these threats. We also have hundreds of drying tools in our inventory, even beyond the basic air movers and dehumidifiers.

Burst pipes are a situation that can leave your home dealing with substantial damage. Our SERVPRO of Port Jefferson team must arrive fast and begin mitigation like water removal services to protect your home and its contents from irreversible harm. You can reach our professionals 24/7 at (631) 476-5300.

Carpet Cleaning After Water Damage in Setauket Homes

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

Our vehicles are loaded with equipment to clean your water damaged carpets and dry your home.

Let SERVPRO Help You Save Your Carpet

Significant water damage incidents within your Setauket home require multiple recovery, drying, and cleaning levels. While our professionals can arrive quickly with advanced equipment and tools to manage extraction and moisture removal, cleaning up after eroded contents and damaged construction materials requires not only state-of-the-art machines but also commercial-grade cleansers. Many water damage incidents can see areas like your carpeted floors getting replaced if saturation persists for too long. Still, if drying happens quickly enough, our professionals must only thoroughly clean this flooring material.

It has always been the mindset of our SERVPRO team to provide good water cleanup and restoration efforts for your Setauket home. We want to get jobs done quickly and thoroughly, and with this goal, lean heavily on industry-leading equipment for powerful mitigation. These techniques can save our customers time and money on the restoration work to follow and keep the damages from getting worse and affecting new areas of your house.

Carpeting is a natural magnet for all manner of dust, debris, dander, and contaminants. While homeowners can address the upper layers of this soiling with regular vacuuming, the bulk of the sediment rests at the fibers' base against the backing of the material. When water damage incidents occur, this tightly packed soiled area can loosen and affect carpeted floors' entire appearance and feel.

Our SERVPRO professionals have sophisticated carpet cleaning units for both steam cleaning and hot water extraction approaches that can quickly improve both the look and function of this flooring material. Often our focused cleaning efforts at this stage of restoration can be enough to preserve the carpeting. Still, if soiling and degradation are too excessive, we might have to remove this material altogether.

Cleaning is an overlooked aspect of restoration when held against the powerful machines that play a role in mitigation. To protect areas like soiled carpets after water damage incidents, you can trust in the fast response and the equipment of our SERVPRO of Port Jefferson team to make this damage "Like it never even happened." Give us a call anytime you need us at (631) 476-5300.

Dealing With Water Damage Inside Rocky Point Walls

4/23/2021 (Permalink)

Don't let water take over your home. Call SERVPRO for help right away. We will leave your home looking "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Helps Rocky Point Homeowners with Water Damage

The problem with water is that it gets everywhere. If you have ever dropped a glass of water or had a faucet overflow, you know that everything around is saturated within moments.

When you are dealing with water damage in your Rocky Point home, it is essential to be aware of potential damage inside walls. Depending on the nature of the water damage incident, the insides of walls can become damp.

SERVPRO has several ways to help with moisture inside walls:

• We use monitoring equipment such as moisture meters, probes, and infrared imaging to examine walls and track moisture.
• We can oversee the removal and replacement of drywall and insulation.
• We can use structural cavity drying equipment to direct airflow inside cavities and increase the rate of evaporation.

Structural cavity drying equipment is also helpful for drying under or behind cabinets.

When we are finished drying out the area, we deodorize with foggers, pellets, or generators, to leave your home smelling good.

Drying inside walls is vital for preventing structural damage and mold growth. Do not delay; call SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300.

Can You Save Belongings After Water Damage?

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

Homeowners deal with many inconveniences, including water damage. Our skilled technicians are just a phone call away.

Water Damage Repair with Help from SERVPRO Salvages the most Materials and Belongings in your Setauket Home!

Damage from water comes in all forms throughout different zones of the home. Whether you had a burst pipe or massive spill, or overflow within your Setauket home, SERVPRO is here to help. Unwanted water could ruin cherished belongings, saturate wood furniture, and more. 

SERVPRO knows how to care for your belongings when you contact us for water damage repair in Setauket. Some critical factors to keep in mind when going over wet belongings include:

• Paper goods like documents, photos, and books call for the quick response and intricate methods. Our expert water restoration technicians (WRT) know how to meticulously clean and dry items to salvage whatever possible. 
• Fabrics/textiles like bedding, draperies, rugs, and clothing should get cleaned and dried as soon as possible. We may use hot water treatment or special cleaning agents to keep bacteria from developing.
• Electronics and devices that become waterlogged may not be salvageable. However, we have trusted vendors that will carefully inspect and care for any electronics in question. 

Why SERVPRO?

We use a list of proven cleaning techniques to salvage your belongings. Some methods used most often include:

• Wipe and clean
• Wet and dry methods
• Abrasive cleaning
• Immersion
• Foam application, and more

Everything is restored to our fullest ability when you call us for water damage repair, followed by cleaning and sanitization. SERVPRO of Port Jefferson has you covered! Call us at (631) 476-5300, and we can send out our Green Fleet right away for the initial assessment.

Kiwanis Club Meeting Tuesdays East Setauket

1/31/2021 (Permalink)

Property owners breathe a sigh of relief when the SERVPRO green fleet swiftly arrives for water loss mitigation.

Three Villages Setauket Kiwanis

Visitors often ask, what are the three villages and why are they called the three villages. The villages are Old Field, The Setauket, and Stony Brook. These villages collectively took on the term “The Three Villages” from their shared history and proximity to each other. Many organizations in the area have adopted this title and incorporated it into their club names, schoolboard titles, and government organizations.

The local Kiwanis Club of The Three Villages meets in East Setauket, relatively central to the villages and comfortable for everyone to meet.

Meeting Details are:

Location: Mario’s, 212 Main St, East Setauket

When: Tuesdays at 7 p.m.

Next Meeting: February meetings – Feb 2,9,16, and 23rdThe Three village Kiwanis help the community and operate numerous events throughout the year, including the Three Villages Kiwanis Bench 5K, food pantries every Saturday at 380 Nichols Rd., Setauket.

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson provides water removal assistance to Setauket residential basements and retail/business commercial companies and surrounding areas. Call (631) 476-5300. Our SERVPRO team is always ready to respond 24/7 to help with all your water removal needs.

Enjoy North Shore Beaches at Rocky Point

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

If you don’t act quickly, water damage on your property can escalate. Contact our experienced SERVPRO team right away.

Protect The Long Island Pine Barrens Near Rocky Point

Rocky Point is 21 miles east of Port Jefferson on the northside of Long Island and is considered part of Brookhaven's town. Rocky Point is famous for being the original home of extensive research and transmitting facilities owned by RCA. This site covered a total of 5,200 acres. RCA also developed the first color television at this site, as well as RCA operating the first large radio transmitter.

The location was called Radio Central and began transmitting signals to many European nations on November 5th, 1921. Radiotelephone service started in 1927 between London and New York. The site was decommissioned in 1970, having been replaced by undersea cables and later satellite communications. Even today, there are still many concrete ruins, radio towers, and telephone poles marking the area that is now overgrown by the forest.

The area is close to a large population center, New York, and many people come to Rocky Point every year to vacation and enjoy many outdoor activities. There are hiking trails, parks, and beaches offering outdoor activities all year round for locals and visitors.

The Paumanok Trail

The Paumanok trail runs for 125 miles from Rocky Point to Montauk Point. It links to many other hiking trails in Suffolk County. The route is easily accessible for many people at various points along the path. It is close to beaches, rivers, and amenities offered by metro environments. Whether you are just out for a relaxing walk in the natural environment or interested in many outdoor plants and forests, there is something for everyone.

Glacial kettles,

Rolling hills,

Panoramic vistas

Sandy dunes

Coastal plain ponds

Beech forests

Marsh habitats

Many insects, seals, hawks, butterflies, and much more.

The majority of the trail is restricted to hikers and walkers; however, there are portions available to cyclists using mountain bikes along the route. Mountain bikers can use the segment from East Hampton to Sag Harbor. ATV's and other motorized vehicles are restricted on the entire trail. Some parts of the course (20 miles) are not completed due to private ownership issues.

The Long Island Pine Barrens

The Long Island Pine Barrens encompasses a vast area providing natural habitats for many species and provides pristine drinking water for Long Island from underground aquifers. These reservoirs are protected by the federal Environmental Protection Agency and continue to provide the purest drinking water for Long Island.

The predominant forests are pitch pine, with various oak trees completing the canopy covering the area. There are 1000's of plant and animal species that call the barrens home. There are marshes, bogs, swamps, and wetland areas. There are over 100 species of birds and a massive population of butterflies and moths.

There are many activities available within the barrens:

Hiking

Dog-friendly parks

Bird watching

Camping

Family-friendly parks

Boating on the waterways

Guides and maps to these activities can be downloaded and saved to your computer to further study and plan for your excursions into this vast wilderness. Visitors are always urged to consider that the Barrens provides pristine drinking water to Long Island residents. Always avoid contaminating the land and the water while visiting the area.

North Shore Beach and More

North Shore Beach is a private beach; however, visitors can become members by purchasing a membership for less than $2 a day. The beach association was established in 1928 and encompassed one of the longest beaches in the United States. Favorite activities of residents and visitors include:

Long walks along the beach

Kayaking

Fishing

Boating

Swimming

Sea combing or

Just relaxing while soaking up some rays.

There are many amenities along the beach, which make your visit more enjoyable. For example, free Wi-Fi at all beach areas allows the streaming of pictures and videos to all of your friends. Kayakers will appreciate storing their kayaks on kayak racks for a small registration fee. There are renovated bathhouses at Broadway Beech Road and Friendship Beach.

There are parties on the beach, bonfires, lobster fests, sunset wine parties, golf outings, and clubhouse events. There is always something to enjoy year-round. There is free parking for members at these beaches as well. Dogs are allowed on the beach during dog-friendly beach hours. Dogs must be leashed, and dog walkers must always pick up after their pets.

The area around Rocky Point is all about outdoor activities, enjoying and protecting the environment and the natural habitat of many bird species, animals, sea life, and insects. Please become a member of North Shore Beach and enjoy everything they have to offer.

Safety Concerns During Water Removal in Rocky Point Homes

Residential and business people are very concerned when they find water flooding their premises, whether from a leaky pipe or a flood. Many consider that the first step is to rush in and begin removing some of their contents to prevent water from damaging these items. 

Some also focus on stopping the water leak – shutting the main water valve off or removing material that might be blocking drains.

SERVPRO encourages its customers to first assess the situation from a safety perspective to avoid unnecessary accidents and damage. The following are some of the considerations every client should think about before entering:

Consider electrical hazards, turn the power off if needed.

Water on tile and hardwood floors can create slippery conditions.

Wet materials are heavy – safely lift items, ask for help.

Call SERVPRO to initiate water removal before the water can cause long term damage to structures and the contents in your home.

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson provides water removal assistance to Rocky Point residential basements and retail/business commercial companies and surrounding areas. Call (631) 476-5300. Our SERVPRO team is ready to respond 24/7 to help with all your water removal needs.

Explore Setauket's Wineries with an Exclusive Tour and Tasting Session.

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Enjoy wine tasting on an exclusive tour, exploring Setauket's Wineries.

Tapped Enterprises Run Tours of Setauket and Port Jefferson Wine-making Enterprises Throughout December.

Setauket on the Northern Coasts of Long Island has a growing reputation for producing excellent wines, many of which make it into the local restaurants, stores, and bars. Tapped Enterprises is a collective of experts in wine and craft brewery. These tours incorporate a fun learning experience alongside premium wines that can be enjoyed with friends or in large groups and birthday parties. Tapped Enterprises owns a fleet of buses for touring the northern coastal region's wineries. Standard trips include an expert sommelier, guided tours at wineries and breweries, food, and drinks from December 19th. 

• The wine and dine tour takes passengers across the North Fork of Long Island. Guests stop off at two premium wineries, plus lunch at the Cooperage Inn included in the tour price.
• The Classic Wine Tour takes guests directly to where the grapes are grown. Tour members get to visit three of Long Island's vineyards, learn about the winemaking process and taste the vineyard's young wine selection. 
• Paint and Sip tours begin with a day of painting under a professional artist's tutelage before traveling to a nearby vineyard for more wine and tasting. Ideal for groups. 

Water leaks can cause exponential damage to your property without a professional restoration. Contact SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300.

Intrigue and Patriotism Connect the Past and Present in Setauket on New York's Long Island

11/14/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage Mitigation Needed in Setauket? Just Call SERVPRO--We're Faster To Any Size Disaster!

The Setauket Historic District and Countless Fascinating Stories Provides a Visible and Engaging Connection Between the 17th and 21st Centuries

European settlers first made their home in the area now known as the Setauket-East Setauket hamlets within what is now known as Brookhaven's town in the mid-1600s -- 1655, to be precise. The first arrivals arranged for a purchase of the land from indigenous people living there, the Setalcott. Originally these new European-derived residents lived in other New England areas, but they bought and moved onto the Setalcott land to pursue farming and fishing.

Did All the Land Purchase Become Present Day Setauket-East Setauket?

The land purchased in 1655 from the Algonquian-speaking indigenous people encompassed what is now known as Setauket, Stony Brook, and Port Jefferson. A translation of "Setauket" means "land at the mouth of the creek." The purchase included the coast along Little Bay, Setauket Harbor, and Port Jefferson Harbor plus land south. Named Setauket and Brookhaven, an English language nod to the many streams in the area, interchangeably over the years, the town was also christened Ashford, after Ashford, Kent in England. This name change parallelled the influence of Captain John Scott, who was briefly known as "President of Long Island" around 1663. Scott claimed to have ties to Ashford, Kent in England, demanding the renaming of Setauket to Ashford, and constructing Egerton, a stately home within its boundaries. Eventually, Scott was imprisoned for "sundry heinous crimes" after a trial in Hartford, just across the Long Island Sound, through the efforts of John Winthrop, leader of the Connecticut Colony. The settlement then reverted to the name Setauket.

Are Any Buildings Dating from Early Times in Setauket Still Standing?

Many structures are preserved in the Old Setauket Historic District. Most are residences. The business districts in the town of Brookhaven tended in the past and currently to congregate in Stony Brook and Port Jefferson. Two of the centuries-old homes are:

• The 1665 Brewster House

This structure is the oldest standing building in Setauket. The original simple cabin received much remodeling over the centuries, transforming from one room to a classic shingled saltbox. In addition to sheltering the Brewster family for six generations, it also served as a general store and tavern. During the American Revolution, Joseph Brewster welcomed British troops into the structure. Meanwhile, his cousin Caleb Brewster, a spy for the American patriots, sent information perhaps obtained in the Brewster house to General George Washington.

• The Thompson House

Constructed in 1709, this five-room farmhouse built in the saltbox style housed five generations of Thompsons. The Dr. Thompson residing in the home during the American Revolution counted members of General Washington's Culper Spy Ring among his patients.

Two places of worship still grace the triangular green that have seen centuries of events in Setauket. A natural landmark within cannon range is also an important piece of the region's history still extant.

• Caroline Church dates from 1729, the oldest Episcopal Church in the area. Its original name of Christ Church was changed in 1730 in honor of Queen Wilhelmina Karoline of Brandenburg-Anspach, Queen of George II of England. Its walls still bear scars from the Revolutionary War Battle of Setauket briefly fought on the green.
• Presbyterian Church, also on the green, was reconstructed in 1812 on the site of another church of the same denomination that burned down from a lightning strike. That earlier church was occupied by the British and loyalists during the Battle of Setauket.
• Patriot's Rock, a glacial boulder surrounded by a 3.5-acre wooded property, played a vital role in the Battle of Setauket in August 1777. A cannon positioned near the Rock fired across the Village Green at the Presbyterian Church fortified by Loyalist troops under Lieutenant-Colonel Richard Hewlett. British fortifications included gravemarkers removed from the nearby church cemeteries.

What Is the Culper Spy Ring and How Were Setauket-East Setauket Residents Involved?

During the Revolutionary War, little reliable intelligence on the activities of the Loyalists and British was available. Benjamin Tallmadge, a resident of Setauket, curated a small, trusted cadre of people. The group became known as the Culper Spy Ring. Some of the information gathered and communicated to General George Washington include:

• A surprise attack on French forces after their alliance with the Continental Army
• A plan to counterfeit Continental currency
• An infamous Continental Army general's defection -- the treason of Benedict Arnold 

Note: A somewhat fictionalized account of the Culper Spy Ring's work was the premise behind the television series Turn: Washington's Spies, based on Alexander Rose's book Washington's Spies: The Story of America's First Spy Ring (2007).

Who Can Help with Water Damage Recovery Inside Setauket Historic Residences?

The Setauket housing stock has weathered centuries of wear and tear along with the odd musket ball. Our community's desire to celebrate the past requires water emergency mitigation and remediation companies to take a restorative look at the harm occurring because of a plumbing leak, appliance malfunction, exterior deterioration, or storm activity.

Does Training and Experience in the Water Restoration Business Make a Discernible Difference?

When you need water restoration in your Setauket home, check out the companies' credentials on your shortlist. Your dwelling needs attention from managers and technicians who are:

• Licensed by the state and local municipality
• Trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)
• Experienced in responding to water issues in older homes
• Devoted to restoration over "tear out and remodel" mindset
• Trustworthy and resolute, determined to bring your house to preloss condition

Can You Count on a Rapid Response and the Most Innovative Techniques and Equipment?

At SERVPRO, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster. We answer calls 24/7, arriving with fully-stocked service vehicles and IICRC-trained crews. Our project managers assess safety hazards and give the go-ahead for emergency services such as:

• Pumping and truck-mounted extraction of water
• Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces with EPA-registered products
• Residual moisture detection and metering
• Efficient drying planning and implementation, using air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers

Call on the experts at SERVPRO of Port Jefferson when water threatens the integrity of your cozy abode. Call us at (631) 476-5300 and expect a professional assessment and practical, efficacious interventions to make it "Like it never even happened."

How Can My Rocky Point Home Get Damaged By Water?

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Green Fleet Parked at a Water Damaged Home Means another Rocky Point Homeowner Can Rest Easy!

Water losses can be destructive to structural elements, but our SERVPRO team can help with fast extraction, drying, and reliable reconstruction solutions.

Because of how out of control water loss scenarios can become, it is critical to secure experienced water restoration and reconstruction specialists for your Rocky Point residence. From identifying the source of the water damage to a full recovery of the property to return it to preloss condition, mitigation and other corrective steps can begin as soon as our technicians arrive at the scene.

Understanding how your home can get damaged by these loss incidents and when you need water damage repair for your Rocky Point house is vital to making the process as efficient as possible. From the time that our team first mobilizes at our warehouse to roll out the Green Fleet, we depart with all of the necessary tools and personnel to protect as much of your home and its contents as possible. Mitigation is not a one-size-fits-all solution after a water loss, so our technicians choose only the services that you need to streamline recovery.

What Do Restorers Do to Recover Damaged Homes?

The entire restoration process does not happen all at once. When our team first arrives, we carefully scope out the damage to determine the full extent of work to get performed and the needs of the structure and its contents. While there are multiple approaches for mitigation and emergency services, there are a few that are common to most water loss incidents. These include: 

• Extraction - Removing surface water is one of the key ingredients to managing a water loss incident from the time our professionals first arrive. There are multiple tools and pieces of equipment that can efficiently remove standing water, though the most standard choices include wet vacuums and submersible pumps.
• Drying - Drying is not something that can happen immediately. This process is one of the lengthiest elements of water restoration. Ensuring that all areas of your home are free of moisture pockets and dampness can help you to avoid costlier microbial threats.
• Content Management - Caring for your belongings begins as soon as our technicians arrive. Water exposure can have a disastrous effect on items in your home, making it essential to address these potential concerns with both on-site and off-site recovery options.
• Controlled Demolition - Reconstruction and repairs might not always be necessary after smaller water loss incidents, but we can prepare for this build back with controlled demolition efforts. Removing damaged portions of structural elements streamlines the repairs and reconstruction that the property needs to save both time and money.

How Bad is the Water Damage?

It might not always be clear just how compromised your home has become after a water loss incident. While you might be able to see surface water concerns, most homeowners do not have the technology or equipment to identify moisture damage beyond the surface layer. Our SERVPRO team can utilize several sophisticated pieces of equipment to determine where water is and how concentrated this damage has become. Some of the tools to conduct this analysis include:

• Surface Moisture Meters
• Probing Detection Devices
• Thermal Imagery 

What Materials Are Most Sensitive to Water Damage?

While ultimately water damage can affect all of the materials and contents in your home, certain structural elements are more susceptible than others. It might be impossible to avoid these materials becoming exposed to migrating water. However, with a fast response from our competent technicians, we can work quickly to protect these elements and prevent demolition and reconstruction, if possible. Some of the most sensitive elements and materials include:

• Drywall - Drywall is one of the most porous materials used in your home. Because of this, sheetrock can quickly absorb water when exposed. This is one of the hardest materials to protect because irreparable damage can happen as early as 24 hours into exposure.
• Wood Flooring - The cellulose in wood planks promotes rapid absorption of standing water after a loss incident. In many situations, it is possible to protect wood plank flooring after water exposure, but this often involves specialty equipment like our floor mat drying system.
• Carpeting - Carpets are also highly absorbent, which can make these materials become saturated quickly after exposure with standing water. With tools like carpet wands and weighted extractors, we can remove most of the trapped water before attempting more complex drying solutions. 

With a team of licensed contractors on our roster, we can offer effective and efficient restoration solutions as well as seamlessly transition to reconstruction and build back. As destructive as water losses can be, our SERVPRO of Port Jefferson team can make it “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today at (631) 476-5300.

Can Cracks in Drainage Pipes Lead to Water Damage in My Rocky Point Residences?

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Says--Inspect for Drain and Water Line Leaks to Help Prevent Water Damage to Your Rocky Point Home

Attention Rocky Point Homeowners--SERVPRO Can Restore Your Home Following Leaks in Pipe and Drain Lines

Winter weather in Rocky Point brings us many days of freezing snow and ice. Such cold temperatures cause water in pipes to swell, sometimes cracking those pipes and letting leaks develop. Drainage pipes can also sustain similar problems. When drains leak, however, they only do so while you are flushing water through a tub or sink.
 
Without the pressure found in the water pipes supplying your Rocky Point home, these broken-down drains leak water into your home and cause water damage at a much slower pace than if a break occurred in a feed line. Because water coming from a drain seeps in at a slower rate, as well as below the floor, it may take months to notice the situation.
 
SERVPRO's water damage specialists hold certifications from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and can restore your home “Like it never even happened,” after such a situation develops. We use thermo-hygrometers to detect excessive amounts of water vapor in the air. Leaks in your residence's drainage system can create a damp environment, as well as a foul odor. When we detect elevated moisture in your home's air, our infrared imaging cameras show us areas holding increased amounts of moisture in the nearby materials.
 
When drains turn out as the source of the water damage inside a house, sealing these off or otherwise repairing them protects our subsequent work on the materials of the home. Without locating the area allowing water to leak into your home, mitigating and restoring any areas with water damage becomes pointless.
 
Cutting away any elements of the home that we cannot restore requires replacements, so we always remove as little as possible. As we do this, we keep an eye out for mold damage and additional hazards. Water can corrode electrical conduits, as well as cause other problems. We advise you of each new development and assist you in deciding which options best suit your needs.
 
SERVPRO of Port Jefferson can help restore your home, every step of the way, when water damage ruins our home. Call us at (631) 476-5300. We serve those in Miller Place, Mount Sinai, and Poquot.

To learn more about Rocky Point, click here.  

How Do I Disinfect My Setauket Home After a Water Leak?

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Call us today at SERVPRO of Port Jefferson (631) 476-5300, and we can take a look for you!

SERVPRO Technicians Clean and Protect Against Secondary Damage

When a pipe bursts, your first thoughts are most likely; stopping the leak, drying anything with excess moisture, repairing the damage, and then cleaning your home. While cleaning, you must use the proper procedures and products to do so properly.

How Do I Know if I Need to Disinfect After a Leak?

Our Specialists at SERVPRO Use a Variety of Methods and Products to Clean Your Home

Almost any kind of water cleanup in Setauket requires disinfecting and sanitizing to avoid dangerous microbial growth. If the water contains possible contamination, such as a leak found in the bathroom with gray or black water, it is critical to take additional precautions in addition to standard surface cleaning. Excess moisture in the air, building materials, and personal belongings can also cause secondary damage if not adequately addressed. 

If I Do Not Disinfect Properly, What Could Happen?

• Dangerous mold growth that may cause health effects
• Previously dormant mold spores may quickly grow into colonies
• Strong offensive odors 
• Structural damage such as damaged walls, ceilings, or flooring if visible mold appears

What is the Best Way to Avoid Further Mold Growth if it is Already Present? 

• Thoroughly dry the area to limit more mold from growing
• Restore moisture content to preloss conditions in materials and contents 
• Use air scrubbers containing HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters to remove 99.7% of particles down to 0.3 microns
• Use antimicrobial products such as SERVPRO EPA-registered disinfectants Vanquish and Microban 

What is the difference between disinfecting and sanitizing?

• Both are antimicrobials, limiting microorganisms from developing or growing
• Disinfectants destroy 99% of microbes 
• Sanitizers reduce microbes to acceptable levels 

Using disinfectants and sanitizers alone is not enough to completely eradicate microbial growth. SERVPRO professionals restore moisture content, use air purifying equipment, and dry impacted areas to limit further microbial growth. 

For 24/7 assistance, contact SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300. We make it, “Like it never even happened.” 

More about Setauket

The Right Way to Deal With Water Damage in Your Setauket Home

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

Homeowners have to deal with many things which may include water damage. Contact SERVPRO right away.

Our SERVPRO Teams Know Exactly How to Handle Your Water Damage 

When water damages your house, the first thing you may be worried about is the cost of cleaning and drying the affected areas. Before you trouble yourself with figures, focus on minimizing water intrusion by shutting off the mains. Most plumbers install a switch that allows the homeowner to cut off the water supply in the event of a burst pipe or another problem that can cause water damage.

The main water shut-off valve is often installed in a place where you can access it easily, like the kitchen or the bathroom. To handle water damage in your Setauket home, you can call the remediation experts at SERVPRO. The bad thing about the flooding caused by broken pipes is that it can take place when you least expected it. For instance, you can come home from work to find water pooling on your floors. In such a case, switch off the electricity and salvage some of your valuable items.

Many property owners want to get a quote over the phone. Although it is possible to estimate how much our services cost, we cannot be certain. The strategy we employ while charging our clients is to first visit their homes and assess the damage. We put several factors into consideration. For instance, if your electric outlets are no longer functioning because of a ruined circuit, we can estimate the amount of fuel our portable generators can consume. We can also evaluate your plumbing system using thermal imaging technology to find out if your pipes need to be replaced. In such a case, we consider the cost of materials while getting your quote.

Water may also ruin your furniture. Several issues take place when water affects upholstery. These problems include:

 Swelling – The frames of furniture are usually made from wood, and they can, therefore, crack or swell. The frames of joints weaken because of swelling. Water may also cause the adhesives to break down.

 Color bleeding – When the dust cover becomes damp, it can bleed. If the water caused the dust cover to sag, the floors and carpets could get stained. The legs of wooden furniture often stain carpeting.

Water can also ruin wood furniture. It can make spots on the finish. The other negative consequences include cracking, weakening of the joints, or swelling. Our SERVPRO team can eliminate water spots with unique wood care products. When restoring properties, we use the best tools, including vacuum cleaners, air movers, and EPA-approved detergents.  

When dealing with a water loss incident, do not worry. Call SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300 for a free estimate, and effective restoration. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.     

Find out more about Setauket.

Eliminating Water Damage In Setauket

3/8/2020 (Permalink)

For more information on what we can do for your home, call us today at (631) 476-5300.

Eliminating Water Damage In Setauket Homes

Despite its position on Long Island sound, Setauket homeowners often find themselves underwater from their own appliances rather than water rushing up from the coastline. Removing not just this water, but the after-effects as well.

If removed quickly, water damage in Setauket leaves behind only moderate physical issues like buckled floorboards and crumbling drywall. In these homes, SERVPRO restoration teams concentrate on eliminating the odors that damp property like carpets, drapes, and upholstery can generate to prevent the home from smelling and feeling clean again.

Our first step is to find the source of any odor and remove it if possible. In addition to personal property, structural property such as floor trim can absorb mold and mildew, generating some powerful odors. Team members don masks and other protective gear where needed and carefully remove all contaminated items to avoid further contaminating the home.

To deal with mild odors, SERVPRO specialists use absorption, filtration, and masking agents. The first two trap moisture, humidity, and some oils which produce annoying odors. As they work, team members then deploy masking agents to cover the malodors with a pleasant one until they are no longer needed.

For stronger odors and those generated by bacteria and fungus, they use disinfectants and sanitizers. They spray these chemicals directly onto affected surfaces to inhibit growth and reduce the odors until other team members can clean them off surfaces for disposal.

For strong odors in the air, technicians use pairing agents. They generate them with a ULV wet fogger that creates a cloud of particles that bind with the malodors, changing them and causing them to fall onto surfaces for easier cleaning and removal.

If these powerful odors penetrated furniture and structural property, team members utilize ozone generators to create an unstable oxygen molecule that mixes with and breaks down the malodors completely. Ozone is more often used with smoke odors.

At SERVPRO of Port Jefferson, teams work to eliminate the effects of water damage here and in nearby communities like Ridge, Rocky Point, and Stony Brook. For more information on what we can do for your home, call us today at (631) 476-5300.

For more about Setauket click here.

We Have The Specialized Equipment To Restore Your Rocky Point Home Properly After Water Damage

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

Our drying techniques salvaged the saturated wood floors in this home, saving the home owner thousands of dollars.

Discovering Water Damage in Your Rocky Point Kitchen

A burst pipe in your kitchen, even when there are minimal amounts of water spilled into the room, can cause a massive headache. Not only is your daily routine impacted, but you may be facing unexpected expenses. After you have mopped up excess water and dried your kitchen floor, it is crucial to inspect the rest of your kitchen to see if your cupboards and your baseboards have incurred any damage.

When you notice water damage in your Rocky Point kitchen, perhaps near the baseboards or the cupboards, it is essential to take care of it right away to mitigate secondary damage such as dangerous mold infestations or warping of expensive wooden cabinets.

SERVPRO water restoration technicians use specialized equipment to assess and take care of the water damage. In the case of water absorption into your cupboards and baseboards, it is important to use inspection devices to determine the exact location of moisture pockets and the level of moisture within the impacted areas.

Thermal imaging cameras (infrared cameras) identify temperature differences on the surface of the material. The surface of wet material is a different temperature than dry materials, so using thermal imaging cameras allow technicians to identify which areas need further attention quickly. Depending on the time of day and the temperature within the room, the wet surface may be warmer or cooler than the dry surface.

Wet surfaces retain temperature differently than dry surfaces. One reason is that when water evaporates from a surface, it cools the surface, indicating moisture. The other thing to consider is thermal capacitance, the capacity of a substance to store thermal energy. Water damage has a high ability to store heat, so the temperature changes slower than dry materials. If the air in the room becomes colder in the evening, the surfaces with moisture with store heat longer than the surfaces without moisture. Conversely, if the air in the room becomes warmer during the day, the surfaces with moisture stay colder longer than the surfaces without moisture.

It is important to note that thermal image cameras are just one of the tools used by SERVPRO technicians to detect moisture since they do not detect moisture under the surface of the material. For specific moisture levels, technicians go on to use moisture meters before beginning specialized drying procedures.

For 24/7 assistance after a burst pipe, contact SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300.

See more about Rocky Point.

We Have The State Of The Art Equipment To Restore Your Port Jefferson Home

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

We have the expertise and experience to handle any flood damage disaster in your home 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

Rising Instances of Flood Damage in Port Jefferson

Flash flooding after heavy rains in the Port Jefferson area has grown more frequent in recent years. The Village’s drainage infrastructure becomes overwhelmed, forcing rainwater runoff into properties rather than guiding it away. Finding a reliable flood remediation company might be on your agenda the next time extreme weather dumps several inches of rain over a brief period, some of which intrudes into your house. Our highly-qualified team can help.

When flood damage prone sectors of Port Jefferson contend with overland incursions of water your home’s foundation and basement take a beating. Large quantities of water trapped inside the lower levels of your residence require immediate removal to prevent progressive deterioration of structural components. Any furnishings, documents, and other personal possessions stored in your cellar also need specialized attention from skilled content technicians to return to a usable condition.

SERVPRO often recommends a pack-out to streamline the restoration of your home’s contents while also making water removal and structural drying inside your house easier. We create detailed inventories of the items removed with our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), tracking articles with lists, digital pictures, and barcoding. Our production facility crews track the evaluation, cleaning, and drying of the packed-out items and store restored items in climate-controlled space until they can be transported back to your home.

At your home, our IICRC-trained technicians assess the structural damage and devise a remediation plan. SERVPRO’s service vehicles stock submersible pumps and water extractors we immediately put into action removing water. Flood waters frequently contain contaminants, everything from sewage backup and lawn or road chemicals to dead animals to mud and sand to salt water from sea surge. Our crews are familiar with appropriate containment techniques and lawful disposal procedures for the Category 2 and 3 (Grey and Black) water.

Once the water exits we move on to structural drying and disinfecting. The SERVPRO crew sets up a perimeter of air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to transfer moisture out of building materials into the warm, dry air where we trap it through evaporation or absorption, gathering it into containers for permanent removal. EPA-registered disinfectants applied throughout the affected areas reduce the possibility of fungal growth and kill residual bacteria and viruses.

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson has the skilled staff and state of the art equipment to remediate your flood disaster. Call us day or night at (631) 476-5300 to schedule an assessment.

The Summer Farmers Market
Starts Sunday, May 5th, click here for more information.

Drip,drip,drip...

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Working to make water damage "Like it never even happened." That's the pledge by SERVPRO of Port Jefferson.

Leaks and moisture build-up can cause serious damage to the floors, walls and ceilings of your home or business if they continue to go undiscovered. This problem can lead to soft dry wall, stained ceiling tiles and other more serious problems. Even though the damage may go unnoticed for an extended period of time, timely and proper cleanup is vital to the successful restoration of your property and equipment.

Leaks from piping, roofs and other water sources can cause damages that go unnoticed for weeks, even months. Do not attempt to clean up the water yourself as that can lead to further damage and contamination if not properly handled.

Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, SERVPRO of Port Jefferson can help protect your home and business from further damage.

Here are some simple maintenance tips:

* Inspect ceiling tiles regularly for discoloration or leaks. This could indicate leaks in the HVAC unit or piping.

*Check waterlines in coffee makers, refrigerators and water filtration systems for kinks or leaks annually.

*Remove standing water with a mop and seek professional assistance for complete drying and restoration.

Baby, It's Cold Outside

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE

As the calendar turns to Fall, and temperatures begin to drop, it’s time to prepare your water pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting. Most of these problems happen in basements that are poorly insulated and unfinished. The good news is there’s a simple tip to prevent pipes from freezing – space heaters.

By placing one or more space heaters you’ll help to prevent the pipes from freezing and bursting. The heat generated acts as an insulation barrier.  You’ll also save money in the long term. As for attics, wrap the pipes with heat trace tape.

Don’t be a penny wise and a pound foolish when it comes to your thermostat temperature setting. Keep it set at a minimum of 65 degrees throughout the day.

It’s also a very good idea to have your HVAC system checked and inspected by a professional before it gets too late. By practicing common sense maintenance you may prevent a disaster.

Make sure to know where the main water valve is located in case your pipes do freeze so you can turn it off. Turn on all faucets to drain the pipes.

Be proactive. Take preventative steps. By acting now you can save money and lots of headaches.

A Renter's Guide to Flood Insurance

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

With the Atlantic hurricane season in session, renters who live on the fifth floor of their apartment complex are not worried about flooding. However, renters are more likely than they think to be a flood victim. SERVPRO® of Port Jefferson encourages all renters to check their area on a flood map to see if they are at risk of flooding. If to your unpleasant surprise you find yourself in an at-risk area do your research and get flood insurance.

                "According to a ValuePenguin analysis, there are 1,274 counties in the U.S. in which at least one in four residents rent their homes. In about a quarter of those counties, floods have caused at least $5 million in property damages over the past 20 years--reflecting modest but not insubstantial losses. However, more than 5% of counties--78 in all--have suffered more than $50 million in damage over the years, and in more than one in five of those, the losses totaled $500 million or more" (Forbes, 2015).

                Even more surprising is that basic insurance does not cover flood damages. Insurance agencies will not cover water damage if the water has hit the ground before entering your home. The aftermath for flooding can range from $10,000 to $50,000 in out of pocket expenses. Not to worry, flood insurance for renters costs much less than for homeowners since the renter will not have to pay for structural damages, which is often the most expensive part of the restoration process.

                Understanding your insurance policies and being prepared this hurricane season is essential for keeping you, your family, and your home safe. If you or your family are having a flood, call SERVPRO® of Port Jefferson's 24/7 call center so we can help you start the renovation process.

How to Prepare You, Your Family, and Your Home for a Flood

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

For those of us that live on the coast, or on a low part of the neighborhood, flooding is all too familiar. However, flooding can also happen from a clogged storm drain or a pipe bursting in the apartment above you. Depending on the severity of the flooding in your areas, there are some ways to help prepare your home and your family for a flood.

1. Have a checklist for Gas, Water, and Electric. This includes:
-disconnecting all appliances,
-turning off electrical power at the main breaker boxes,
-turn off all gas at the main line,
and most importantly,
-Turn off all water at the main line! During flooding, pipes inside the house can burst and create further damage.
2. Have a flood kit prepared for emergency situations. This list should include:
-A gallon of water per person per day
-A 3 day supply of nonperishable foods that are easy to make
-Flashlight
-Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio (NOAA Weather radio if possible)
-Extra batteries
-first aid kit
-Sanitation and personal hygiene items
-Cell phone and cell phone portable chargers
-Family emergency contact information
-Maps of the area
-Emergency blanket
-Extra set of car keys and house keys
-Extra clothing and sturdy shoes
-Rain gear
-Camera for photos of damage
There are also other checklist items to consider if you or someone you live with is elderly, has a pet, or has a child:
-Baby food and formula
-Diapers
-Hearing aids and prescription medications
-Extra food and water for all pets
This checklist is provided to you by the American Red Cross. Click the link for more information.
3. Evacuate or head to higher ground. When evacuating, keep children out of the water and never tread through flowing water that is six inches deep. If you find yourself in a situation where the water is rising above six inches, turn around and go another way. Always try to find high ground for you and anyone else you are with.
4. Install backflow valves or plugs
"During a flood sewer and storm drains can back up and force sewage into your washing machines, bathtubs, sinks, and dishwashers, which can then overflow onto your floors" (Homes.com, 2018).
5. Have a backup water supply and unperishable foods for after the flooding has receded. After a flood, do not drink well water or the city water until it has been tested and verified by the local health department. Buying bottled water for a "just in case" flood comes in handy. All food that has been contaminated by the water has to be disposed of accordingly.
6. Learn how to use sandbags and plastic sheets effectively. While these tools, even if installed correctly, will not keep out all of the water, they will reduce the amount of flooding inside your home causing less damage to your property.
7. Whereas if you live in an apartment, #4 on our list will not do you much good. However, having a backup plan when a pipe does burst will help with keeping everyone calm and organized in the face of the emergency. Call your leasing office to see if they have a plan in place for when such an incident might occur.
These are just a few of the safety and preparation tips for flooding. Help keep you, your family, and your home safe by staying educated and alert about possible flooding situations. If you or anyone you know needs emergency service for flooding call SERVPRO of Port Jefferson for their 1-4-8 emergency services. In 1-hour SERVPRO professionals will address your call, in 4-hours we will send in a group of trained professionals to help with the situation, and in 8-hours we will have your claims sent to your insurance agency.

5.8.18 Hurricane Prep

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

May 6 -12 is Hurricane Preparedness Week. Do you know what to do? Are you Prepared? 

If a hurricane strikes, you’re going to need supplies not just to get through the storm but for the potentially lengthy recovery period that could follow. Have enough non-perishable food, water and medicine to last each person in your family a minimum of one week. Electricity and water could be out for at least that long. You’ll need extra cash, a battery-powered radio and flashlights. You’ll also need a portable crank or solar powered USB charger to charge your cellphone. For more information on how to be hurricane ready go to following website  https://www.ready.gov/kit

Check it out today! #hurricane ready  

5.7.18 Hurricane Prep

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

The first thing you need to do is find out if you live in a storm surge hurricane evacuation zone or if you’re in a home that would be unsafe during a hurricane. If you are, figure out where you’d go and how you’d get there if told to evacuate. You do not need to travel hundreds of miles. Identify someone, perhaps a friend or relative who doesn’t live in a zone or unsafe home, and work it out with them to use their home as your evacuation destination. Be sure to account for your pets, as most local shelters do not permit them. Put the plan in writing for you and those you care about. Check out https://www.weather.gov/wrn/hurricane-preparedness for more information!

Frozen Pipes

2/13/2018 (Permalink)

Freezing air and fluctuating temperatures make your property prone to a water damage resulting from frozen pipes.

When water is exposed to freezing temperatures, it begins to expand resulting in increased water pressure and a possible pipe burst. Water damages incurred from pipe bursts often result in a fairly significant amount of damage in both residential and commercial properties. By following a few simple steps you can help prevent such a disaster.

• Use insulated pipes. They will retain the heat and will not allow temperatures to drop too low. If insulated pipes are not an option, you can cover your pipes using sleeves to maintain safe temperatures during winter.
• Outdoor water pipes are typically unable to maintain a safe temperature to prevent freezing. It is important that you drain these pipes and shut off the water valve. 

Should you discover a frozen pipe, it is important to take immediate action to help prevent any damage from occurring. There are several ways that you can heat and thaw frozen pipes. First you should conduct a thorough check to ensure the pipe has not burst and is not leaking, you also want to ensure the water is turned off. Then, you want to simply heat up the pipe by using a space heater, heat lamp or hair dryer. Wrapping a frozen pipe in thermostatically controlled heat tape may also help.

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson have been providing damage restoration service all over Long Island for over 30 years. Our highly trained and certified staff understands the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your life and home or business.

Our teams are on standby and are ready to respond 24/7/365. No matter how big or small, commercial or residential SERVPRO of Port Jefferson is ready to respond and make it "Like it never even happened."

Prepare your home

12/12/2017 (Permalink)

Some tips to brace your home for a winter storm:

• Clean out the gutters, disconnect and drain all outside hoses. If possible, shut off outside water valves.
• Insulate walls and attics, and caulk and weather-strip doors and windows.
• Repair roof leaks and remove tree branches that could get weighed down with ice or snow and fall on your house – or your neighbor's. (Avoid liability for the latter.)
• Wrap water pipes in your basement or crawl spaces with insulation sleeves to slow heat transfer.
• Consider an insulated blanket for your hot water heater.
• If you have a fireplace, keep the flue closed when you're not using it.
• Have a contractor check your roof to see if it would sustain the weight of a heavy snowfall.
• Make sure your furniture isn't blocking your home’s heating vents.
• During cold spells, keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes, particularly those in the kitchen and bathrooms.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets connected to pipes that run through unheated or unprotected spaces.
• If your house will be unattended during cold periods, consider draining the water system.
• Avoid ice dams – where water from melted snow refreezes in the gutters and seeps in under the roof, soaking interior walls. Here’s how:
  • Ventilate your attic.
  • Insulate the attic floor well to minimize the amount of heat rising through the attic from within the house.
  • Consider having a water-repellent membrane installed under your roof covering.

Carbon Monoxide Fact Sheet

11/16/2017 (Permalink)

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous gas that is created when common fuels such as natural gas, oil, wood or coal burn incompletely. This odorless, colorless, tasteless gas is often called the “silent killer” because it is virtually undetectable without the use of detection technology like a CO alarm.

Reducing the Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:

• Have your chimney inspected by a professional every year.
• Be sure to open the damper for proper ventilation when using your fireplace.
• Make sure appliances are installed and operated according the manufacturer’s instructions and applicable local codes.
• Fuel-burning heating appliances should be inspected and serviced by a certified, licensed professional every year.
• Never use your oven, range, stovetop or clothes dryer to provide heat for your home.
• Never use barbecue grills (gas or charcoal) inside your home or garage.
• Only use portable generators outside in well-ventilated areas away from windows and doors. Never use a portable generator in any part of your home.
• If you will be using a portable generator outside your home, be sure to install battery-operated CO alarms or plug-in CO alarms with a battery backup inside the home.
• Only use battery powered lights in tents and recreational vehicles like trailers, motor homes and boats.
• Never use fuel-burning camping equipment inside an enclosed space.
• Keep dryer, furnace, stove and fireplace vents clear of snow during and after snowstorms.
• Check to make sure that your vehicle tailpipe is not blocked by snow or ice.
• Never run a vehicle inside a garage, even if the garage doors are open. Remove the vehicle immediately after starting it.

Water Intrusion in one room can mean Water Damage in other rooms

6/12/2017 (Permalink)

Removing surface water can help prevent more extensive damage . However, water intrusions invade floors, ceiling and walls to find the lowest point in your home. Standing water from an overflowing bathtub or other water incident will search for pin hole crevices and crack in your floors and walls looking for a way to travel downward. Surfaces such as wood, drywall and carpet pull water away from plain sight and into the interiors of your home.

Should a water incident occur in your home, remove excess water with mopping or blotting, remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying and place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs. These tips may prevent further damage to your home and personal belongings. 

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson's Professionals offer:

• 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines helps you regain control and peace of mind.  
  • 1: Within one hour from notice of loss, a SERVPRO Professional will contact you to arrange for service.
  • Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO professional will be on-site to start mitigation services.
  • Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person. 
• Our Trained Uniformed Professionals arrive with clean trucks and the latest equipment to locate the source of the damage, detect moisture levels and dry all affected areas.
• Proper and immediate handling of even a small water damage may retain the resale value of your home.
• Quality service through documentation and continued communication helps ensure your are satisfied. 

SERVPRO Professionals are available 24-Hours a day, 365 days a year to help get your life back. 

Contact SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at any time 

631-476-5300

When a water damage occurs in your Port Jefferson Home.

2/17/2017 (Permalink)

When dealing with a water damage timing is crucial. Basement flooding or storm damage doesn't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. 

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson professionals respond immediately and efficiently to your residential or commercial water removal or clean-up needs.

Our professionals use advanced equipment and techniques to begin the mitigation procession and remove the water quickly. Our fast response time and advanced drying methods help prevent secondary damage and mold. SERVPRO of Port Jefferson's professionals closely monitor and verify our customers property is dried thoroughly and properly. Our professionals are trained to know how to use are equipment from dehumidifying, deodorizing and disinfecting. Our professionals restore your business or home with minimal disruption to your life and quickly make it Like it never even happened.

When a water damage take control of your life, nobody helps take it back like SERVPRO of Port Jefferson. We provide 24/7 Emergency Service. 

Call Today! 631-476-5300  

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson - Specializes in flooded basement cleanup & restoration

6/17/2016 (Permalink)

One of SERVPRO of Port Jefferson specialties  

This SERVPRO of Port Jefferson  home’s basement flooded due to heavy rains.

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your  basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today -SERVPRO of Port Jefferson

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Port Jefferson and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the tust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help SERVPRO Of Port Jefferson

Call Today: 631-476-5300

With any leak, It's the water you don't see that causes the most damage

3/17/2016 (Permalink)

Happy Saint Patrick's Day From Your SERVPRO Professionals

Any water damage in your home is bad.

But trying to clean it up yourself can be a disaster. Especially when the water you don't see contains bacteria-or cause mold, rot and other unseen damage that can affect the value of your home. So before you risk your health or the valve of your home by cleaning it up yourself.

Your local SERVPRO® of Port Jefferson/Stony Brook is highly trained to safely clean and RESTORE your building, utilizing the following procedures:

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand the equipment and resources.

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

We determine the scope of your water damage at this stage. We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

We use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

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

Step 6 - Restoration

Restoration is the process of restoring 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.

Every water damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same.So, before you risk further damaging the value of your home or facility by attempting to clean up the mess yourself, call your local SERVPRO® of Port Jefferson/Stony Brook water damage cleanup and restoration specialist at 631-476-5300. We look forward to restoring your property "Like It Never Even Happened"

Preventing and Thawing Frozen Pipes

1/21/2016 (Permalink)

The American Red Cross provides information and suggestions around how to prevent water pipes from freezing, and how to thaw them if they do freeze. 

Why Pipe Freezing is a Problem

Water has a unique property in that it expands as it freezes. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including metal or plastic pipes. No matter the "strength" of a container, expanding water can cause pipes to break. Pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines, and water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets. Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation are also subject to freezing. 

Preventing Frozen Pipes

Before the onset of Cold weather, prevent freezing of these water supply lines and pipes by the following these recommendations:

Drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following manufacturer’s or installer's directions. Do not put antifreeze in these lines unless directed. Antifreeze is the environmentally harmful, and is dangerous to humans, pets, wildlife, and landscaping. 

Remove, drain, and store hoses used outdoors. Close inside valves supply outdoor hose bibs. Open the outside hose bibs to allow water to drain. Keep the outside valve open so that any water remaining in the pipe can expand without causing the pipe to break. 

Check around the home for other areas where water supply lines are located in unheated areas. Look in the basement, crawl space, attic, garage, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated.

Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a "pipe sleeve" or installing UL-listed "heat tape," "heat cable," or similar materials on exposed water pipes, Newspaper can provide some degree of insulation and protection to exposed pipes- even 1/4" of newspaper can provide significant protection in areas that usually do not have frequent or prolonged temperatures below freezing. 

During Cold Weather, Take Preventative Action

Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children. 

When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe-even at a trickle-helps prevent pipes from freezing. 

Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst. 

If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55°F

To Thaw Frozen Pipes

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation. 

Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area, running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe

Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by  wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do NOT use a blow torch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device. 

Apply Heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you can not thaw the pipe, call a licensed professional.  

Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes. others may freeze too. 

Future Protection

Consider relocating exposed pipes to provide increased protection from freezing. Pipes can be relocated by a professional if the home is remodeled.

Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in these areas.

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson/Stony Brook are the Disaster Recovery Experts and are here to help! 

Article by: American Red Cross