Technology and Water Restoration

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

Flood Removal Inspection Equipment Can Speed Up Recovery of your Piscataway Home

Floodwater can cause significant damage to a home environment. These situations can be even more painful when restorers need to remove further components to repair harm. Interference with structure and contents can increase the amount of time it takes for the home to make a full recovery. Demolishing sections of drywall, for example, creates further damage and lengthens the procedure because restorers must then cut and replace the area.

At our company, we seek to use non-invasive measures in your home as far as possible during flood removal recovery in Piscataway. This approach leads us to use advanced analytic equipment during the inspection phase. When your home soaks in floodwaters, there are visible elements you notice like standing water levels or staining. However, there are also invisible elements like water migration, cavity saturation, and rising moisture content of materials.

Here at SERVPRO, we can assess the invisible elements using inspection equipment. Thermal imaging cameras use infrared light frequency bands to measure temperatures of a surface. While these do not detect moisture, they can detect the after-effects of moisture on a surface, which is useful in assessing whether rising moisture content or migration is occurring. If water is residing in wall cavities, for example, it is likely that the surface temperature drops, which can then be picked up on by a thermal imaging camera.

As far as non-invasive methods are useful, SERVPRO seeks to use them. Unnecessary removal of structural components during inspection can increase the turnaround of a restoration significantly. While it is often necessary to remove the structure to thoroughly dry property and reduce secondary water damage, SERVPRO can use thermal imaging to ensure we only remove structure when needed. In some cases, we can use non-invasive drying tools such as injectidry systems to restore the property.

Make sure your recovery time after a flood is as short as possible. Contact SERVPRO of Pisctaway at (732) 752-4445.

Faster to Any Size Disaster

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Piscataway 732-752-4445

Residential and Commercial Restoration Services

SERVPRO of Piscataway is a leader in the restoration industry and our professionals are faster to any size disaster. SERVPRO of Piscataway professionals are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore or clean your property.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals

• Provide 24/7 Emergency Service
• Highly Trained Water Restoration Specialists
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Industry with over 1,700 Franchises
• Preferred Vendor for Many National and Local Insurance Companies

Have Questions? – We’re Here to Help^® 732-752-4445

Residential Services

Whether you need emergency flood damage restoration or top-to-bottom home cleaning, you can trust SERVPRO of Piscataway professionals to make your house feel like home again. They have the training, experience, and equipment to quickly get your home looking its best. Our residential services include the following:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services

Commercial Services

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Piscataway professionals have the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.” Our commercial services include the following:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Cleaning Services
• Commercial Storm and Major Events

Water Damage in Office Buildings

8/9/2022 (Permalink)

When water enters an office space that houses office equipment, supplies, furniture and computers that could be affected, the resulting damage could be costly. Not only is there the potential of damage to office items and important documents, water can seep into the wall cavities and become trapped behind common building materials.  This would only create ongoing moisture problems long after the water damage incident.

All building are different, but each is at a risk for water damage.  Even the most carefully operated office building will likely experience a water damage event at some point.  With hopes it will never have to be used, the building staff should have a well practiced emergency response plan. The speed of response to a water loss is the most vital key to getting back to normal day-to-day operations quickly.

About SERVPRO of Piscataway

WWW.SERVPROpiscataway.com professionals have the training, experience and equipment to manage water and flooding damage. Whether you have a large water emergency or a small water damage event, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through it completion.

SERVPRO of Piscataway 732-752-4445

When Your Clifton Laundromat Experiences Water Damage From A Faulty Washing Machine Our Crew Can Help

8/9/2022 (Permalink)

Laundromats provide a critical service to those without specific machines in residences they either rent or own throughout the Piscataway area. Many utilize these facilities every day to wash and dry their clothing and other fabrics from their property. Maintenance and upkeep on the machines that you have purchased for this business should happen regularly, and even with this attention, the appliances can still end up malfunctioning to the point of allowing widespread water loss incidents to occur throughout the building. Addressing these concerns quickly exceeds the skillset and equipment of the business owner, and becomes the responsibility of our experienced, and well-equipped professionals.

With linoleum flooring not designed to withstand an onslaught of water damage, your Piscataway laundromat can quickly show the damages and harsh effects of a compromised washing machine. Our SERVPRO professionals have the advanced equipment designed for fast extraction and drying solutions to help protect this tile flooring in your building and to prevent unnecessary damages to the electric-powered units still functional inside.

Often, tile flooring in places like your laundromat gets installed directly over a rough finished concrete floor. While this sub-flooring can provide modest water resistance, concrete is permeable and can absorb a considerable volume of standing water and hold it within its pores. This situation can provide lingering moisture and dampness to the entire property, facilitating conditions like mold growth and allowing for continued structural compromise and degradation. Drying mats can slowly draw moisture from both the tile and sub-flooring to prevent re-installation when possible.

Protecting the other appliances and machines within the laundromat is another concern of our SERVPRO professionals beginning mitigation. Containment of these effects can reduce the moisture and water damage present throughout the building, which can keep our contents department from needing to remove all of the at-risk units in the facility.

Several damaging conditions can dramatically alter the appearance and function of your laundromat after a water loss incident. You can count on the expertise and equipment of our SERVPRO of Piscataway team to make these effects “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call anytime at (732) 752-4445.

Restoring and Repairing Flood Damage in Your Highland Park Attic

8/4/2022 (Permalink)

Severe weather systems that can sometimes affect the Highland Park area of New Jersey offer strong winds capable of hurdling debris and tearing off roofing materials. Once vulnerabilities exist in the exterior defense of your house, it is a direct path for water and elemental exposures to occur that can allow situations like flooding. For the attic of your home, this water damage can spread quickly to the point of getting out of control, and this problem can continue to worsen without the appropriate intervention. 

Among the first steps that must get taken when flood damage is occurring in your Highland Park attic from a compromised roof is to get competent and qualified contractors on the scene quickly for temporary solutions. Our SERVPRO rapid response team features licensed contractors that can offer emergency board up and tarping services to correct vulnerabilities in your home’s construction to allow mitigation work to get started. 

Once our professionals have arrived at your home, we must get to work quickly on extracting water from the attic space, unless this damage has already spread to the floor beneath this area of the property. The SERVPRO team can utilize moisture detection equipment and thermal imagery to locate moisture between floors of your home and into spaces of the attic that are challenging to access. 

Because mitigation work needs to wrap up as quickly as possible, our team works to ensure that we arrive within hours of a call to get this critical extraction and drying efforts started. Once we have managed these effects inside of the house, our licensed contractors on the team can begin their efforts of rebuilding and restoring the damaged roof that allowed the flooding. 

We offer every customer a comprehensive approach to recovery when flooding has occurred, and our qualified and experienced SERVPRO of Highland Park team is available 24/7 to help. Give us a call anytime you need us at (732) 752-4445.

Summer Storms

8/4/2022 (Permalink)

Summer storms can cause a lot of damage to your home.  Water damage, broken windows, power outages and even fires are some of the problems associated with summer storms.  Damage to your home can be expensive but there are ways to protect your home from costly repairs.

1.) Clean your gutters - Clear any debris from your gutters to make sure all that rain water can easily flow off your roof and away from your home. When water can’t get through your gutters, it pools on your roof and around your house in ways that can cause damage.

2.) Trim your trees - Some of the worst storm damage is caused by falling trees. A healthy, sturdy tree is unlikely to topple in high winds, but one with dead limbs, or disproportionate growth may. Maintaining them will help you protect both your property and the tree itself.

3.) Back Up Your Sump Pump - When heavy rains come, sump pumps can get overloaded. a flooded basement can cause all sorts of damage to your things–especially if it’s a finished basement. Plus, when water covers wiring or electric appliances, things get dangerous. Make sure your sump pump has a battery backup just in case the electricity goes out. You might also consider installing a second, battery operated pump that will come on if the main one fails.

4.) Gather Emergency Supplies -The Red Cross recommends keeping a three-day supply of food and water for your family, and a seven-day supply of any medications. You might also add a battery operated radio, and a car adaptor for your cell phone. Nothing fancy here, no need to build a bomb shelter, just a little stash in a duffle bag or plastic container in the garage or basement.

5.) Secure Windows and Doors - Windows and Doors often get damaged in thunderstorms.  Weatherproof windows and doors that are durable enough to withstand harsh climates and weather can avoid such damage.

If your home has damage from a storm, call SERVPRO of Piscataway at 732-752-4445

Self Pay vs Insurance

8/4/2022 (Permalink)

Homeowners in Need of Fire Damage Restoration Should Call SERVPRO for Help

Fire damage can derail your daily routine, and it can create a flurry of phone calls to your insurance, to a professional cleaning service, and to other contractors necessary to finalize repairs. Each case is unique, and your insurance claims adjuster will guide you through their process. However, SERVPRO can be a resource to restore your home after fire damage and to liaise with other relevant parties until the goal of restoration is met.

Our SERVPRO team is specialized and certified by The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to handle the most stringent fire cleanup efforts. Our industry knowledge and expertise prepare us to come into your home, assess the situation, and make recommendations for the next steps. Throughout the process, we document our actions and provide any information you may need from us to file your insurance claim.

What are the steps to clean fire damage?
Fire damage is complex because it often entails the effects of the flames as well as the residue left behind by extinguishers and sprinkler systems. When our SERVPRO team comes in, we first ensure the safety of all present and then prioritize the tasks at hand. As we use pumps and other equipment to extract and evaporate the water in your home, we may place furniture on risers, so it no longer soaks water. Once humidity levels are back to normal, we concentrate on the smoke and soot itself. Our technicians take into consideration the following when making their action plan:

    •    The path of the fire- we follow its path to assess how widespread it is. Air vents are part of our consideration when evaluating the presence of smoke in other rooms in your home.
    •    The composition of burnt material- organic materials leaves a fine residue on the surfaces of your home, while man-made objects leave a stickier remnant.
    •    The smell in your home- as necessary, we apply air purifying techniques such as ozone generators and thermal fogging to get rid of the foul smell left behind by the flames.

Fire damage is our area of expertise at SERVPRO of Piscataway. Call us at (732) 752-4445 and let us work for you until your home feels, “Like it never even happened.”

What is a Pack Out?

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

Floods, fires, and storm damage to your home are stressful and devastating. It is not just the floor and walls that are damaged, it's also your furniture, your clothes, and your valuables. It is sometimes the sentimental items that mean the most to our customers.                                      

Pack-outs are a vital component to the mitigation work that our team can do. We arrive with production trailers full of packing materials, boxes, blankets, and other protective gear to keep the contents removed from your property safe through the travel to our nearby facility.

Salvageable vs. Unsalvageable:

Our packout process is begins with our team “packing out” your property’s contents to be temporarily relocated for the duration of the restoration process. When you have a disaster, one of the first things we do is send a team to sort and box your belongings. To ensure every item is accounted for, we scan and catalog every item into our system before placing them in labeled boxes. This process also ensures customers get all of their belongings back!

Unfortunately, some items—either due to the type of item or the amount of damage it sustained—aren't able to be saved by our team. These unsalvageable items are cataloged the same as all of the other belongings, but they are generally disposed of instead. However, before we take any such action, we always meet with you to review the unsalvageable items so you can make a final decision!

We know how important it is to save sentimental items. Our technicians work hard to ensure your belongings are treated with the respect they deserve, while working diligently to restore your property to it's preloss condition.

While much of the restoration work by our SERVPRO team can happen onsite, many individual contents require specialized attention, cleaning, and deodorization, that best occurs in our care.

Once your belongings are safely at our facility, they are moved to one of our many temperature-controlled storage pods where we will safely keep them until you are ready for your belongings to be packed back in your time.

If you have a disaster and need a team of local professionals, call SERVPRO of Piscataway today at (732) 752-4445!

How To Avoid Frozen Pipes in Your Piscataway Home

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

6 Great Tips to Keep Pipes From Freezing

Cold temperatures can cause water pipes to freeze. Freezing in a pipe creates a lot of pressure inside the pipe and can cause the pipe to burst and likely lead to serious flooding, especially when there's no one around to turn off the water. The best prevention against frozen pipes is to keep them warm enough to stay above the freezing point. You can do this with any one of six simple steps or, better still, a combination of measures.

Not Just for Cold Climates

It is a common misconception that frozen pipes are an issue only for homes in typically cold climates. However, the homes that are actually more vulnerable to frozen pipes are those in typically warmer climates because the pipes may not be properly insulated against frigid temperatures, or they may be located in unprotected areas (or even outdoors). Abnormally cold weather puts these pipes at risk.

Wherever you live, you need to worry only about the water supply pipes, not the drain pipes. Water pipes are small, only about 1 inch in diameter or smaller. Drain pipes are 1 1/2 inches and larger and are usually made of plastic. Drain pipes carry waste water, but they do not hold water and are not pressurized like water pipes, so freezing inside drains is not a concern.

Keep the Heat On

If you or your tenants are leaving for a long period of time, make sure that the heat is kept on in your property. It may be difficult to convince your tenants to leave their heat on when they are away, especially if they are responsible for paying their own utility bills. You should inform them that the heat can help prevent pipes from freezing, and if pipe freezes and burst, it can cause a lot of water damage to the property and to their possessions.

The heat does not have to be kept as high as you normally would keep it if you were actually in the property, but keeping it set above 50 F is a good idea. This should provide enough heat to keep the pipes warm and to prevent any water inside from freezing.

Allow the Faucet to Drip

If you are afraid a pipe will freeze, you can open the faucet fed by that pipe just a bit so the faucet drips slightly. Allowing the faucet to be open like this relieves pressure in the system. If a pipe freezes, it is actually the pressure that is created between the blockage and the faucet that will cause the pipe to burst. Allowing the faucet to be open will prevent this pressure from building up and thus keep the pipe from bursting. If the faucet is served by both hot and cold water pipes, open both faucet taps slightly, or set a single-handle faucet (such as a kitchen faucet) to warm.

Keep Interior Doors Open

Pipes are often located in cabinets. When the temperature drops, it is a good idea to keep these cabinet doors open so that the heat from the rest of the house can keep the pipes warm as well. You should also keep all interior doors open so that the heat can flow throughout the home.

Seal up Cracks and Holes

Seal gaps around holes where pipes run through walls or floors, especially where the hole is letting in cold air. Use caulk or spray foam insulation (such as Great Stuff) to fill the gaps. If possible, seal holes on both the interior and exterior side of wall or floor. Cold outdoor air that gets in through holes and gaps can make a cabinet compartment, which is usually pretty cold, even colder.

Apply Heating Tape

Heating tape works like an electric blanket for pipes, supplying heat directly to the pipe to keep it warm curing cold spells. This can be a good solution for short sections of pipe that are at high risk for freezing and are easily accessible so you can install the tape and can monitor it for problems.

There are two types of heating tape. One type turns on and off by itself when it senses heat is needed. The other type must be plugged in when heat is needed and unplugged when not in use; it does not have an automatic or manual on/off switch. Much like a space heater, these products can be dangerous, so you must follow the product’s direction and safety procedures exactly.

Add Extra Insulation

Pipes that are located in areas that do not have proper Insulation such as basements or attics, may need extra insulation to keep from freezing. Pipes in basements or attics are not the only ones that may not be properly insulated from the cold. If you have had a problem with pipes freezing anywhere in your home, extra insulation could be a good answer

Insulation can help keep a pipe closer to the temperature of the water inside the pipe, but it does not add heat to the pipe and will not prevent freezing if the pipe is exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.

Call SERVPRO of Piscataway at 732-752-4445

Burst Pipes in the Winter

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Piscataway uses technology to locate ceiling leaks and moisture before professional water damage restoration.

Whether caused by a leaking roof from storms or worn appliance hoses and cracked plumbing lines, required water damage remediation in Piscataway can sneak up on homeowners. Moisture moves unseen along framing and behind walls.

Does the Location of the Leaks Matter?

Unresolved water damage repairs in Piscataway risk secondary harm to building materials and can create the need for basement mold remediation or attic mold removal.

Here are some places to check for trapped moisture:

• Collecting under cabinetry due to burst pipes or worn dishwasher hoses
• Pooling over a ceiling or behind a wall after leaking roofs let water run down rafters
• Causing basement flooding when leaks follow a superhighway to your finished lower living level by washing down wall studs

How Does SERVPRO of Piscataway Find the Trapped Moisture?

We use specialized, state of the art tools which help our technicians pinpoint water sources to focus water damage remediation and drying efforts:

• Moisture Sensors -- affirm water is present
• Moisture meters -- generate data on moisture levels
• Thermo-hygrometers -- measure temperature and relative humidity to monitor drying efforts
• Thermal imaging -- detect cached water for removal behind structures

Contact the well-trained and equipped team at SERVPRO of Piscataway for your water restoration needs. Call (732) 752-4445 - 24/7 to schedule an assessment.

Storm Damage Versus Flood Damage

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

You may not think there is a huge difference between storm and flood damage, but your insurance company sure does. It's absolutely vital to make sure that your Piscataway business is covered for both types of damage. Doing research on the ins and out of your insurance company can prevent you from spending thousands of dollars in property damages.

The Difference Defined
Differentiating between the two types of damages can be tricky.

Insurance companies typically label the accident as storm damage if the destruction was a result of one or more of the following:

• Heavy rainfall
• Cyclones and tornadoes
• Hail storms
• Hurricanes and other tropical storms

The Insurance Code of Practice defines flood damage as "the covering of normally dry land by water that has escaped or been released from the normal confines of any lake, river, creek or other natural watercourse, whether or not altered or modified, or any reservoir, canal or dam."

Even though it is obviously possible for the above storms to cause flooding in your building,your insurance company will not see it that way.  While it is absolutely possible for the above incidents to cause flooding, your insurance company won't see it that way.

How to File a Claim
If your commercial building is covered, then you need to file your insurance claim as soon as possible by contacting your insurance company.

Separate your damaged and undamaged property and make a itemized list of both, including the items model number, serial number, and brand name. Do NOT throw anything away until your insurance company sends out an adjuster to inspect it.  If you still have any receipts or bills, include them in the report.

Both severe storms and floods can cause massive amounts of water damage, but your insurance company still treats them like separate accidents. Make sure to contact remediation experts if your commercial building has recently suffered from storm or flood damage.

Contacting a professional restoration company such as SERVPRO of Piscataway can do all the work for you. Our technicians will come in prepared with all the required insurance paperwork, will take photos of all salvageable and salvageable content, as well as all structural damage. We will create detailed itemized lists of all content for your adjuster and we will submit all information to your insurance and work with your adjuster.

Our technicians are on call 24/7 365 days a year- they can be called out on a moments notice if your business experienced flood or storm damage, because we know how precious time is when dealing with property damage.

SERVPRO of Piscataway 732-752-4445

Water Damage Cleanup in South Plainfield

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage is probably not on most homeowner's minds. However, there are many ways that water damage can occur in a home and when it does it causes a lot of property damage and a lot of stress.

How is Water Found?

Originating at the start of the water damage incident, SERVPRO technicians use various forms of moisture detection equipment to "see" underneath floors and within walls as they work their way outward. This method is especially helpful for determining if elevated moisture levels exist in floor joists or wall cavities.

When there is a water loss issue on an upper floor of a home, water follows gravity and migrates downward, through the floor joists and ceiling into the story below. SERVPRO technicians know that it is vital to extract all water damage from a South Plainfield home. When the loss occurs in an upstairs room and affects lower levels, the technicians scope the area to determine areas of elevated moisture.

How Does SERVPRO Dry Inside Walls and Under Floors?

When needed, techs drill small holes referred to as "weep holes" to allow for drainage and expanded airflow. Fans work for drying surfaces only and are not enough for complete drying needs. The technicians deploy centrifugal air movers and use specialized attachments to direct airflow between levels within floor joists and directly into wall cavities.

When weep holes are not enough, or sheetrock begins to buckle or warp, there is no restoration potential, and it requires removal. This action halts any further wicking of moisture and opens up the wall or ceiling area for better airflow.

How Do Technicians Know When a Home is Dry?

Before drying, they set goals for ambient moisture levels. During and after the drying phase of water loss clean up, the technicians take readings on meters to ensure they attain set goals. They scope the premises again to ensure no residual areas of moisture remain. This attention to detail negates secondary issues occurring such as mold or foul odors.

Call SERVPRO of Piscataway when there is water damage to your home or business. Our certified, trained technicians are available 24/7 at (732) 752-4555 to make the water loss in the property, "Like it never even happened."

Before You Leave for Summer Vacation...

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

ummer is here - sun, fun, and summer vacations! Lots of people go away on vacation during the summer. 

In between packing, checking flights and reservations, and other last minute details, water damage is probably the last thing on your mind. But according to Insurance Information Institute, water damage is the 2nd most common insurance claim, and the damage can be much more extensive if you are not home to notice it.

Here at SERVPRO of Piscataway, we have unfortunately seen this happen many times. One instance, was a job we recently completed in Green Brook, where the homeowner was on vacation for 3 weeks and returned to immense water damage in their home. A pipe had burst and caused the ceiling to fall down. (Luckily we were there to restore their home back to normal, and make it seem "Like it never even happened.") 

Preventing water damage before leaving for vacation is possible with a couple preventative measures:

• Close- Turn off the water main valve. Drain out excess water by continuously running the water until it runs out. 
• Check- Check the hoses on all appliances for leaks (refrigerator, washer/dryer, dishwasher). If you have a sump pump, listen to the motor to make sure the water is flowing outside.
• Clear- Look at your gutters and downspouts to make sure they are clear. If they are clogged, have them cleaned.

These simple steps will protect your home from water damage because who wants to come home from a relaxing vacation to a house ruined by water damage? No one! 

If you have water damage- SERVPRO of Piscataway is here for you 24 hours a day - 7 days a week. Give us a call at 732-752-4445.

Have Flooding? Call SERVPRO of Piscataway

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Have A Water Damage Emergency? 
Call SERVPRO of Piscataway at 732-752-4445!

What To Do After Flooding

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

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

SERVPRO of Piscataway 732-752-4445

SERVPRO 1-4-8

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO 1-4-8 Service

24 Hours can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your belongings residential or commercial.

SERVPRO’s 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long term problems.

SERVPRO of Piscataway will provide a timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to content claims and document restoration.

These Services ensure your belongings are restored to preloss conditions when possible while providing security in knowing normal business functions can resume in a timely manner.

1-Within 1 hour from notice of loss we at SERVPRO of Piscataway will contact you to arrange for services

4-Within 4 Hours of loss notification, a professional will be onsite to start mitigation services.

8-Within 8 hours of onsite arrival a verbal briefing of the scope is communicated to the appropriate person.

What you should and should not do until help arrives is

Do’s

Limit movement in the facility to prevent soot particles from being spread  and additional damage from occurring

Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas.

Place wood blocks or aluminum foil between furniture legs and wet carpet

Do Not:

Wash any walls or painted surfaces.

Shampoo carpet or upholstery.

Clean any electrical equipment.

SERVPRO of Piscataway  Professionals are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year

732-752-4445

SERVPRO of Piscataway Content Restoration

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

We often think about our home as the walls, floors, ceilings, and how those can be affected and damaged by water. The home is  more than walls, floors and ceilings and water damage doesn’t confine itself to those areas. Often, sentimental treasures, family heirlooms, or that special piece of memorabilia you waited in line for hours to get signed are affected as well.

When your Piscataway home experiences a water damage event you need a water damage restoration company such as SERVPRO of Piscataway to mitigate and restore your home. One area that is easy to overlook is content restoration. SERVPRO of Piscataway's  team of trained professionals is able to clean and restore your salvageable contents to preloss condition. 

We will start by carefully packing out the content from your home and taking pictures of each item in order to create an itemized list of salvageable and unsalvageable content for you and your insurance company.

Then we will also give you the option of storing your content in our storage warehouse or off-site in a storage facility of your choosing.

Whether your water damage event is due to: a roof leak, pipe break, dishwasher overflow, sewage backup, severe weather or any other reason, SERVPRO of Piscataway will be there helping to make it “Like it never even happened.”

We are ready 24/7, 365, so call SERVPRO of Piscataway at 732-752-4445 today!

SERVPRO 1-4-8

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

24 Hours can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your belongings residential or commercial.

SERVPRO’s 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long term problems.

SERVPRO of Piscataway will provide a timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to content claims and document restoration.

These Services ensure your belongings are restored to preloss conditions when possible while providing security in knowing normal business functions can resume in a timely manner.

1-Within 1 hour from notice of loss we at SERVPRO of Piscataway will contact you to arrange for services

4-Within 4 Hours of loss notification, a professional will be onsite to start mitigation services.

8-Within 8 hours of onsite arrival a verbal briefing of the scope is communicated to the appropriate person.

What you should and should not do until help arrives is

Do’s

Limit movement in the facility to prevent soot particles from being spread  and additional damage from occurring

Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas.

Place wood blocks or aluminum foil between furniture legs and wet carpet

Do Not:

Wash any walls or painted surfaces.

Shampoo carpet or upholstery.

Clean any electrical equipment.

SERVPRO of Piscataway  Professionals are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year

732-752-4445

Is Your Basement Flooded?

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

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 Piscataway basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer 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 - (732) 752-4445

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 Piscataway and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust 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 
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Always Here To Help (732) 752-4445

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Winter is here, and with freezing temperatures could come frozen pipes.  Plumbing breaks and damage can be incredibly costly. So preparation is the key to keep your pipes from freezing.

Helpful Tips

*Locate your water main valve shut off. In case of an emergency you will be able to quickly shut water off. Knowing this information can save you thousands of dollars.

*In the attic, basement and crawl space, be sure to insulate your pipes to prevent them from freezing. These can be purchased from any hardware store.

*Exterior pipes:  make sure you know where all your outdoor spigots are and cover them with insulated spigot sleeves. Make sure outdoor water sources are shut off as well.

*Swimming pool and sprinkler pipes that are connected to the exterior of your home should also be covered with insulated pipe covers (sold at all hardware stores).

If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact us 24 hours /7 days a week.

SERVPRO of Piscataway

732-752-4445

What to Do After Your Pipe Bursts

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

A burst pipe at home can cause a lot of damage to your home or business. If left unfixed, it can lead to even more damage and also become a health risk if mold were to grow.

Here’s a guide on what you can do to fix a burst pipe:

1. Turn Off Your Main Electrical System

Water and electricity don’t mix well. When there’s flooding inside your home, turning off the main power is the first thing to do. Do not go into standing water with the power on.

2. Turn Off the Main Water Supply

It’s easy to stop the source of the flooding if a burst pipe caused it. Simply turn off the main water supply.

3. Get Salvageable Items

You may still need to remove items from the floor, especially the ones that you can still use. Prioritize undamaged items over the ones that have been soaked with water.

4. Take Photos

Document everything to show your insurance company when you file your claim. Having evidence of flooding as well as the damage it caused will help you support your claim. Make sure to do this before you remove standing water.

5. Remove Standing Water

After you have documented the flood in your home, it’s time to remove the standing water. If You can use a mop and a bucket to clean it.

6. Fix the Issue

You now need to focus on the main cause of the flooding, which is a burst pipe. A plumber can repair the damage and open the walls to make necessary repairs. and check for any signs of moisture or mold growth.

7. Call a Restoration Company

Finally, you should contact a reputable restoration company that can come in and restore your property to its pre-flood condition by removing the water, drying & disinfecting the area and content and checking for any signs of mold growth.

Fortunately, there are companies that deal with emergencies, which means you won’t have to wait for too long before the burst pipe and flood damage get fixed.  Finally, remember to remain calm in situations like this to help you handle them properly.

If you have flood damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Piscataway and we will make it "Like it never even happened." Call us today 732-752-4445.

How We Can Help

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

If water damage does occur in your home, immediately call SERVPRO of Piscataway. Our teams will:

• Assess damage for restorability and safety.
• Determine the extent of the moisture content in effected areas.
• Move and prop up furniture on blocks if necessary.
• Extract the water.
• Remove carpets and carpet pads if necessary.
• Spray to treat germs and bacteria in contaminated areas.
• Start the drying process with air movers and de-humidification equipment.
• Ensure rooms are completely dry and conduct a walk through with homeowners to guarantee customer satisfaction.

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, our team has highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any disaster.  We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs.

If you or someone you know has experienced any type of water damage, give SERVPRO of Piscataway a call today at 732-752-4445.

Facts About Water Damage

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage is a problem that most property owners dread. When it rains heavily or snow melts quickly, the risk of this type of damage increases. Water can cause thousands of dollar’s in damage to wood furniture, upholstery, electronics, household appliances, and plumbing equipment. Water damage also increases the risk of mold growth.

Here are three facts about water damage that will help you secure your home and respond properly to a potential disaster

  1. The Type of Water is Important

Generally speaking, there are three types of water that invade homes: rainwater, fresh water and sewage. Depending on the type of water in your home, you may need to approach any contact or cleanup efforts differently. Sewage can contain harmful bacteria that can make you ill. Fortunately, telling the difference is often easy, as it will typically smell just as terrible as you would expect.

  2. The Trouble Doesn’t End When the Water is Gone

Once the water is removed you might feel a bit of relief, But that doesn’t mean there isn’t moisture still lurking in the shadows. When moisture is hidden in walls, crawlspaces and below floorboards, it can eventually lead to mold.

 Mold is toxic and can cause damage to structural elements in the home, leading to more problems. Make sure you have a mold prevention expert inspect your property to ensure this dangerous substance isn’t invading your home.

   3. Attics Are a Cause for Concern

The most common source of water damage is a leaky roof or malfunctioning gutters, which means your attic is at the highest risk for water damage. Make sure to have your attic inspected regularly by a water damage professional to make sure that a small leak isn’t turning into a serious problem.

If you have any water damage call SERVPRO of Piscataway today at 732-752-4445.

Basement Flooding

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

This basement has obvious signs of water damage.

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

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.

There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer 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

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 Piscataway and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call SERVPRO of Piscataway (732) 752-4445

• 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 
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Three Main Classifications of Water

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

There are three main classifications of floodwater: clear water, gray water, and black water. Judging by the names you may assume these classifications are based wholly on the color of the floodwater, but you would be wrong. There are a few ways to determine the type of water it is.

Clean Water

Clean water originates from water mains, pipes, and other sources of relatively unhampered water in your home. Water damage with clean water is lighter and easier to restore than the other types of water, due to reduced volume of water and lighter safety procedures during the task. This water is identifiable as being clear and unclouded. It is important to remove this water quickly, as it can turn into gray water if it sits too long.

Gray Water

Gray water is water that may or may not have contaminants n it that can cause a potential health risk. There is more care required when cleaning up after this type of water.

Black Water

The most dangerous and damaging type of water is black water, which can originate from a storm flood, a septic tank overflow, or when gray water is left untreated. This water contains dangerous containments, including fungi and microbes that may cause damage to your health. Black water can also stain surfaces easily. This type of water causes the most damage.

If you have experienced water damage to your home, call the water damage restoration experts, SERVPRO of Piscataway at 732-752-4445.

How to Determine if Water Damage is New or Old

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

This ceiling has obvious signs of water damage, leaving behind ring-shaped stains.

Water damage to your home is devastating and stressful. Water damage can cause many problems and one of the more difficult situations to this is detecting whether or not the damage is new or old. 

Your home has pipes everywhere, including on the inside of your ceiling and walls. Because the pipes can't be seen, you can get an estimate of how long the water damage has been there by evaluating the water damage itself. You will not be able to get an exact time, but you will be able to get an estimate on the amount of time it has been there.

1. Determine Materials:             Water effects different materials in different ways. If tile, brick, or other rough materials have been affected by water damage, there is a good chance the damage is old because it takes time to wear on these materials and cause leaks. On the other hand, if the damage is in the dry wall, hardwood flooring, or carpet it could be new or old damage.

2. Look for Rings:                    Drywall, wood floors, and other softer materials may develop "rings" if they have suffered water damage over a long period of time. The water soaks in and will discolor the material and once it dries it will leave a stain behind. When this happens a few times, the effect is like several rings of water damage. This means the water damage is old.

3. Touch the Spot:              Areas that have new water damage are likely to be wet but not soft. If you touch the area and it is soft, this means the water has had time to soak in - so the water damage is old. 

4. Asses Mold:                    Mold growth can begin 24-48 hours after water damage. If you have visible mold growth on the water damaged area, you know it has been soaked for at least 48 hours. More extensive mold indicated water damage that has been there longer.

5. Ask the Professionals:        If you are wondering whether the water damage is new or old, the best bet would be to call restoration specialists that can come and asses the severity of the damage. They will also help with finding the cause and restoring the damage. 

If you find water damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Piscataway today at 732-752-4445.

6 Signs of Water Damage to Look Out For

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

There are many signs of water damage that you should look out for. Water damage can cause serious problems in any home and if you do not deal with the issue quickly, it is likely to worsen over time and cause more issues, such as mold. Mold is toxis and dangerous and can travel through the air in the form of spores, and upon coming into contact with damp walls or floors, it will begin to grow into a colony within 24 hours. 

Sometimes water damage signs are easy to spot (such as when you have a burst of a water pipe spraying water into your home), but most of the time they are not so apparent.

Here are six signs of water damage to look out for:

1. Sounds: Sometimes you can't see water damage, but you can hear it. It might sound like dripping water, it might sound like creaking floor boards or it might sound like rushing water. 

2. Smell: Dampness has a very distinct odor and this might also be accompanied by the musky smell of mold.

3. Pooling Water or Puddles: If there is something dripping or leaking, then this can leave pools of water. If you notice an unusual puddle, this is most likely a sign of water damage. 

4. Coldness: If your home is difficult to heat, this might be a sign that you have dampness affecting your walls.

5. Mold: Mold is proably the most obvious sign of water damage. Where there is mold, it is from water damage.

6. Discoloration: Discoloration is another sign of water damage. Look for streaks of water that are running  down the side of your home. Inside your home look for water marks or stains on the walls or ceilings.

If you have signs of water damage call SERVPRO of Piscataway at 732-752-4445.

How to Protect Your Home Against Water Damage

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

It is important to backup your computer in case of water damage.

When preparing for water damage, creating an emergency and evacuation plan is a smart first step, but what about the things you are leaving behind? Protecting your home and its contents in a disaster scenario is the main concern, and thankfully, there are ways to achieve that. 

By planning ahead and preparing your belonging, as well as learning how to mitigate water damage that starts inside of the home, you can keep your structure and its contents far safer in the event of a water damage scenario.

Ways to Lessen the Damage that Water Can Cause

Create a Backup of Digital and Physical Files

If a flood or other serious type of water damage happens to your home, having the proper documents to help you restore will make the recovery process go much more smoothly. For this reason, it is wise to create backups of all your paperwork in order to have them readily accessible. Make copies of any physical documents and store them in a secure, off-site location. For digital files, make use of a backup system where you can recover files even if your main computer becomes damaged by moisture.

Elevate Valuables, Electronics, and Appliances

While it is impossible to know how high water will rise in a water damage situation, taking the time to elevate household objects is a good way to cover your bases. Appliances can be elevated on cinder blocks to avoid having their bases soaked in water. For electronics and valuables, placing them on the highest shelf or another elevated location might be enough to keep them out of harm's way entirely when the water rushes in.

Know Where Your Home's Water Shutoff is Located

If you are dealing with water damage from a burst pipe or other household leak, being able to shut off your water quickly can do wonders in mitigating the damage. Making sure you and everyone in the household are aware of whee the water shutoff is located is a simple way to ensure you can always cut off the water quickly if need be.

If you are planning ahead for water damage and would like to learn more about your recovery options,  contact us to learn why we're leaders in the water restoration field.

How Water Damage is Classified | SERVPRO® of Piscataway

7/31/2019 (Permalink)

Water is water, right? Not always, especially when that water is a result of flooding and water damage.

There are three different classifications for this type of water: clean, gray, and black. If you understand the differences in these types of water, you understand how to better handle a water damage incident.

Regardless of the type of water that has caused damage, a cleanup and restoration process will be necessary afterward. It is imperative that you remove all of the moisture and damp items as quickly as possible to inhibit the growth of mold, since a wet environment is ideal for mold to grow and flourish.

Understanding Clean Water

As the name indicates, clean water is just that, “clean.” Because this water is free of contaminants, it will not pose an immediate threat to your health. This type of water is generally a result of:

• Broken water lines
• Malfunctioning appliances
• Toilet holding tanks
• Snow melt and rainwater

Cleanup from this type of water damage is the easiest type to work with, as there will be fewer microbes living in the water. But remember, after 48 hours and contact with building surfaces, clean water can move up to category two, which is gray water.

Understanding Gray Water

Where gray water is involved, water damage cleanup and restoration can become a bit more complicated and detailed. This water contains small amounts of chemical and biological contaminants that could create a health risk. It will need to be thoroughly treated before being safe for consumption.

The probable causes of gray water can come from dishwashers, aquariums, showers, etc. The 48-hour exposure time applies here as well, since gray water becomes black water if not treated.

Understanding Black Water

Of the three different classifications, black water is the most serious, and it is considered highly contaminated by harmful chemicals and biological matter. This includes all floodwaters containing soil and sewage.

Sewage is highly contaminated with hazardous microbes, including bacteria, protozoans, molds, fungi and more, and can be harmful to humans.

Some of the diseases that can be transmitted by black water are:

• Cholera
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis
• Gastroenteritis-type illnesses

It is best to treat all waters associated with water damage as black water because water picks up contaminants along its path.

All of our technicians study the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Remediation Certification (IICRC) standards and best practices in water restoration and are available to help determine the steps needed to get your home back to normal. The IICRC is an organization that certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industry.

Whichever type of water caused damage to your home or business, SERVPRO® of Piscataway is here to help get the situation under control and make it "Like it never even happened." Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you need emergency cleanup and restoration services!

An In-Depth Look at the Various Types of Floods | SERVPRO® of Piscataway

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

A flood can occur for a myriad of reasons. Most type of floods that occur are due to storms, however a flood can also occur due to sewer system or drainage issues. Because of how much damage floods can cause, they are considered one of the most destructive natural disasters, causing U.S. residents approximately $8 billion in damages each year. While all floods are destructive, it is important to know the various types and understand the nuanced risks that they pose when they become an active threat.

Common Types of Flooding

By understanding these common types of flooding, communities can be more aware of what their specific risks are and how they can remain safe when waters rise:

Oceanic floods. Cities on the Atlantic Ocean often get hit hardest with severe storms that have gained their power from the ocean. These severe storms can raise tides, causing a significant rise in sea level and leading to coastal flooding. Since the 1950s, the frequency of coastal flooding in Sandy Hook and Atlantic City has increased by 10 times.

River floods. When heavy rainfall occurs over an extended period of time, it is possible for rivers to literally overflow as they cannot expunge the water in a timely manner. This is one of the most common types of flooding and can cause significant damages to inland areas.

Flash floods. When the ground is fully saturated with water and heavy rainfall continues, a flash flood can occur. These floods come about suddenly (hence the name) and can affect any area—even those not prone to flooding. While these will typically subside in a timely manner, they often bring rushing waters and unknown dangers to areas that are not prepared.

Groundwater floods. Groundwater floods are similar to flash floods, but they are in slow motion. Prolonged rainfall can over saturate the ground in the same way as with a flash flood, but a groundwater flood takes much longer to develop and subside. 

Drain floods. While drain and sewer floods are not always weather-related, they can cause just as much damage to property. They can occur due to heavy rains, but can also occur due to a block or malfunction with the drain. This can occur inside or outside a building, depending on the cause.

If you have experienced damage from any type of flood, SERVPRO of Piscataway can help!  We are here 24/7- give us a call at 732-752-4445.

How to Prevent Water Damage Before Leaving for Your Summer Vacation

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

A broken pipe caused this roof to cave in while the homeowner was on vacation.

Summer is here - sun, fun, and summer vacations! Lots of people go away on vacation during the summer. 

In between packing, checking flights and reservations, and other last minute details, water damage is probably the last thing on your mind. But according to Insurance Information Institute, water damage is the 2nd most common insurance claim, and the damage can be much more extensive if you are not home to notice it.

Here at SERVPRO of Piscataway, we have unfortunately seen this happen many times. One instance, was a job we recently completed in Green Brook, where the homeowner was on vacation for 3 weeks and returned to immense water damage in their home. A pipe had burst and caused the ceiling to fall down. (Luckily we were there to restore their home back to normal, and make it seem 'Like it Never Even Happened'!) 

Preventing water damage before leaving for vacation is possible with a couple preventative measures:

• Close- Turn off the water main valve. Drain out excess water by continuously running the water until it runs out. 
• Check- Check the hoses on all appliances for leaks (refrigerator, washer/dryer, dishwasher). If you have a sump pump, listen to the motor to make sure the water is flowing outside.
• Clear- Look at your gutters and downspouts to make sure they are clear. If they are clogged, have them cleaned.

These simple steps will protect your home from water damage because who wants to come home from a relaxing vacation to a house ruined by water damage? No one! 

If you have water damage- SERVPRO of Piscataway is here for you 24 hours a day - 7 days a week. Give us a call at 732-752-4445.

SERVPRO of Piscataway for all Water Restoration

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

New Market Fire Department

From small to large jobs don't worry about it SERVPRO of Piscataway is here 24/7 for all your water restoration problems.

Small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues overtime to reduce damage from floods the key is to act fast, identify the source of water and take immediate steps to stop further intrusion. To avoid hurting yourself or other persons do not use electrical devices while standing on wet carpets or floors.

The New Market fire Department in Piscataway New Jersey just sustained water damage in there building. SERVPRO of Piscataway trained professional team handled water restoration quickly and efficiently, leaving clients happy and pleased with the job that was completed.

SERVPRO of Piscataway for all water restoration.

732-752-4445

SERVPRO 1-4-8

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Piscataway, we are here to serve you 24/7, 365 days a year. Time is critical to minimize damage and lower the cost of your loss, so we stand by a policy we call our 1-4-8 Service Guidelines, to help better serve our customers and provide timely,efficient service.

1:  Within one hour from the notice of loss, a SERVPRO professional will contact you to discuss the cause of loss you've experienced.

4:  Within four hours our SERVPRO technicians will be on site. Once at your home, we will do a walk-through inspection to access the damage and begin mitigation services.

8:  Within eight hours of on site arrival, SERVPRO will contact the appropriate person responsible (this may be the customer, the person responsible for billing, or the adjuster) to provide a verbal briefing of the restoration plan.  

Call SERVPRO of Piscataway at 732-752-4445 to handle any water or fire damage at your home or business.

Water Damage Facts

4/15/2019 (Permalink)

Dealing with water damage is a homeowners nightmare. Whether it came from a broken pipe, overflowing toilet, sump pump failure, or flooding from a storm- water damage can cause more problems than you may think.

In many cases, the damage will go much deeper than the water line. The drywall, wood, and even concrete can act as as sponge which causes the water damage to extend deeper into the structure. An even bigger concern is what can come after the water damage, if not properly dealt with-mold. Mold is toxic. It is created when there is moisture hidden in walls, crawlspaces and below floorboards.

Here are 3 facts about water damage that will help you respond properly to a potential disaster:

  1. Look For Stains

Obvious signs of water damage include- water stains on the floor around the bathtub, toilet, or sink, and on ceilings and walls. Cracks in the drywall, or areas that appear swollen or soft, as well as peeling paint.

  2. Check the Floors

For tile and wood, look for cracked, buckling, or warped flooring. For carpets- be aware of damp spots, gradual rises, soft spots, and a musty smell.

  3.  Watch for Rust and Mold

Check your water heater for rust on the tank, or damp spots on the floor. Corrosion around pipe connections could signal water seeping from the pipes. Check for visual signs of mold.

We at SERVPRO of Piscataway are here to make the cleanup process easier for you and your family.

Give us a call 24/7

SERVPRO of Piscataway

732-752-4445

“Like it never even happened.”

Water Restoration in Basement

4/15/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage in your home sometimes goes unnoticed. Plumbing leaks, flooding, roof damage and storms are just a handful of ways that water can find it's way into your home. Making its way into ceilings, walls, furniture, cabinets; water damage can be both a noticeable and unknown dilemma in your home.

Water damage can begin with subtle changes that might not be noticed right way. such as a unfamiliar odor. Attending to the situation quickly can no doubt reduce the severity of the damage to your home and may also reduce restoration cost. There are various reasons your basement could flood, such as a blocked or failed sewer pipe, storm sewer back up, water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure and many more.

An inspection once a month should be done. Inspect areas of basement that water shouldn't be. 

SERVPRO of Piscataway is available 24/7 for all your water restoration damage. Our technicians are trained and equipped to handle the job.

SERVPRO of Piscataway

Contact us on 732-752-4445

6 Great Tips to Keep Pipes From Freezing

12/5/2018 (Permalink)

6 Great Tips to Keep Pipes From Freezing

Cold temperatures can cause water pipes to freeze. Freezing in a pipe creates a lot of pressure inside the pipe and can cause the pipe to burst and likely lead to serious flooding, especially when there's no one around to turn off the water. The best prevention against frozen pipes is to keep them warm enough to stay above the freezing point. You can do this with any one of six simple steps or, better still, a combination of measures.

Not Just for Cold Climates

It is a common misconception that frozen pipes are an issue only for homes in typically cold climates. However, the homes that are actually more vulnerable to frozen pipes are those in typically warmer climates because the pipes may not be properly insulated against frigid temperatures, or they may be located in unprotected areas (or even outdoors). Abnormally cold weather puts these pipes at risk.

Wherever you live, you need to worry only about the water supply pipes, not the drain pipes. Water pipes are small, only about 1 inch in diameter or smaller. Drain pipes are 1 1/2 inches and larger and are usually made of plastic. Drain pipes carry waste water, but they do not hold water and are not pressurized like water pipes, so freezing inside drains is not a concern.

Keep the Heat On

If you or your tenants are leaving for a long period of time, make sure that the heat is kept on in your property. It may be difficult to convince your tenants to leave their heat on when they are away, especially if they are responsible for paying their own utility bills. You should inform them that the heat can help prevent pipes from freezing, and if pipe freezes and burst, it can cause a lot of water damage to the property and to their possessions.

The heat does not have to be kept as high as you normally would keep it if you were actually in the property, but keeping it set above 50 F is a good idea. This should provide enough heat to keep the pipes warm and to prevent any water inside from freezing.

Allow the Faucet to Drip

If you are afraid a pipe will freeze, you can open the faucet fed by that pipe just a bit so the faucet drips slightly. Allowing the faucet to be open like this relieves pressure in the system. If a pipe freezes, it is actually the pressure that is created between the blockage and the faucet that will cause the pipe to burst. Allowing the faucet to be open will prevent this pressure from building up and thus keep the pipe from bursting. If the faucet is served by both hot and cold water pipes, open both faucet taps slightly, or set a single-handle faucet (such as a kitchen faucet) to warm.

Keep Interior Doors Open

Pipes are often located in cabinets. When the temperature drops, it is a good idea to keep these cabinet doors open so that the heat from the rest of the house can keep the pipes warm as well. You should also keep all interior doors open so that the heat can flow throughout the home.

Seal up Cracks and Holes

Seal gaps around holes where pipes run through walls or floors, especially where the hole is letting in cold air. Use caulk or spray foam insulation (such as Great Stuff) to fill the gaps. If possible, seal holes on both the interior and exterior side of wall or floor. Cold outdoor air that gets in through holes and gaps can make a cabinet compartment, which is usually pretty cold, even colder.

Apply Heating Tape

Heating tape works like an electric blanket for pipes, supplying heat directly to the pipe to keep it warm curing cold spells. This can be a good solution for short sections of pipe that are at high risk for freezing and are easily accessible so you can install the tape and can monitor it for problems.

There are two types of heating tape. One type turns on and off by itself when it senses heat is needed. The other type must be plugged in when heat is needed and unplugged when not in use; it does not have an automatic or manual on/off switch. Much like a space heater, these products can be dangerous, so you must follow the product’s direction and safety procedures exactly.

Add Extra Insulation

Pipes that are located in areas that do not have proper Insulation such as basements or attics, may need extra insulation to keep from freezing. Pipes in basements or attics are not the only ones that may not be properly insulated from the cold. If you have had a problem with pipes freezing anywhere in your home, extra insulation could be a good answer

Insulation can help keep a pipe closer to the temperature of the water inside the pipe, but it does not add heat to the pipe and will not prevent freezing if the pipe is exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.

Water Damage and the Types Of Pollution It Causes

7/12/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage and the Types of Pollution It Causes | SERVPRO® of Piscataway

If you’re familiar with water damage, you’re likely familiar with terms like “black water” and “clear water” to describe the water pollutant levels left behind. Though the implication is that clear water is less hazardous than black water, the reality is that there are three types and they can all cause their own kinds of damage to your home or office.

Because we know the devastation that comes along with water damage, we’ve outlined the three types of water contamination you might come across and what these terms mean.

Basement Floods We Are Here To Help

7/10/2018 (Permalink)

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 Piscataway basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer 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 - (732) 752-4445

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 Piscataway and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust 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 
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Always Here To Help (732) 752-4445

Water Damage Response Tips for Property Owners

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage Response Tips for Property Owners

When water damage occurs in your home or work place, avoid the frustration and potential risk of handling the cleanup yourself.

Let SERVPRO of Piscataway quickly respond with the correct equipment and materials to get the job done.

Even the small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time.

The key to avoid a costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property.  The two things to do for a water restoration is to act fast and thorough drying.

• Identify the source of water and take immediate steps to stop further intrusion
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and other table top items.
• Remove oriental rugs or other colored rugs from wet wall to wall carpets
• Avoid using electrical devices while standing on wet carpet or floors

If you have any questions feel free to contact us 24/7 days a week

SERVPRO of Piscataway

732-752-4445

“Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO 1-4-8 Service

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO 1-4-8 Service

24 Hours can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your belongings residential or commercial.

SERVPRO’s 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long term problems.

SERVPRO of Piscataway will provide a timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to content claims and document restoration.

These Services ensure your belongings are restored to preloss conditions when possible while providing security in knowing normal business functions can resume in a timely manner.

1-Within 1 hour from notice of loss we at SERVPRO of Piscataway will contact you to arrange for services

4-Within 4 Hours of loss notification, a professional will be onsite to start mitigation services.

8-Within 8 hours of onsite arrival a verbal briefing of the scope is communicated to the appropriate person.

What you should and should not do until help arrives is

Do’s

Limit movement in the facility to prevent soot particles from being spread  and additional damage from occurring

Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas.

Place wood blocks or aluminum foil between furniture legs and wet carpet

Do Not:

Wash any walls or painted surfaces.

Shampoo carpet or upholstery.

Clean any electrical equipment.

SERVPRO of Piscataway  Professionals are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year

732-752-4445

Water Damage Facts

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage is a problem that most property owners dread. When it rains heavily or snow melts quickly, the risk of this type of damage increases. Water can cause thousands of dollar’s worth of damage by damaging wood furniture, upholstery, electronics, household appliances, and plumbing equipment. Water damage also increases the risk of mold growth, which is a very expensive problem to remediate.

We at SERVPRO Of Piscataway  can make the cleanup process easier to handle.

Here are three facts about water damage that will help you secure your home and respond properly to a potential disaster:

1. The Type of Water is Important

Generally speaking, there are three types of water that invade homes: rainwater, fresh water and sewage. Depending on the type of water in your home, you may need to approach any contact or cleanup efforts differently. Sewage can contain harmful bacteria and make you violently ill. Fortunately, telling the difference is often easy, as it will typically smell just as terrible as you would expect. If you think that you are dealing with sewage.  We at SERVPRO of Piscataway can cleanup and will have the proper tools and equipment needed to handle the problem safely.

2. The Trouble Doesn’t End When the Water is Gone

Once the water is removed you might feel a bit of relief, But that doesn’t mean there isn’t moisture still lurking in the shadows. When moisture is hidden in walls, crawlspaces and below floorboards, it can eventually lead to mold.

 Mold is toxic and can cause damage to structural elements in the home, leading to more problems. Make sure you have a mold prevention expert inspect your property to ensure this dangerous substance isn’t invading your home.

3. Attics Are a Cause for Concern

The most common source of water damage is a leaky roof or malfunctioning gutters, which means your attic is at the highest risk for water damage. Make sure to have your attic inspected regularly by a water damage professional to make sure that a small leak isn’t turning into a serious problem.

If you Have any Questions or Concerns

Feel free to give us a call anytime 24/7

SERVPRO of Piscataway

732-752-4445

How to prevent frozen Pipes

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Winter is here, and with freezing temperatures could come frozen pipes.  Plumbing breaks and damage can be incredibly costly.

So we at SERVPRO of Piscataway, believe that preparation is the key to keep your pipes from freezing

Here are some Helpful tips In winterizing you pipes indoors and out.

*Locate your water main valve shut off, In case of an emergency you will be able to quickly shut water off. Knowing this information can save you thousands.

*In the Attic, Basement and crawl space, be sure to insulate your pipes to prevent them from freezing. These can be purchased from any hardware store.

*Exterior pipes, make sure you know where all your outdoor spigots are and cover them with insulated spigot sleeves. Make sure outdoor water sources are shut off as well.

*Swimming pool and sprinkler pipes that are connected to the exterior of your home should also be covered with insulated pipe covers (sold at all hardware stores).

If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact us 24 hours /7 days a week.

SERVPRO of Piscataway

732-752-4445