Spending Less Money on Your Home in the Long Run

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

Routine Maintenance to Save You Money

Your homes’ maintenance cost can add up to a considerable sum over time. The best way to keep maintenance costs low for any structural system, or appliance is to handle the issues sooner rather than later, as well as anticipate potential problems. Most home systems, such as HVAC or plumbing, can be maintained for years without major incident, as long as homeowners schedule routine upkeep. Here are the three best ways to keep service costs low and maximize the lifespan of every system in your home.

1. Take Care of Minor Fixes-

It’s a good idea to start small when it comes to maintenance. Addressing issues that seem minor when they arise can help to prevent serious issues from developing down the road. In general, scheduled or preventative maintenance is more affordable than emergency repairs in terms of the cost of parts, labor and incidentals.

2. Perform Preventative Maintenance-

Homeowners should schedule periodic inspections of the structural systems, appliances and other aspects of a residence. Inspections may draw attention to issues that require maintenance. Cleaning components and getting the parts necessary to prevent problems from occurring down the line tends to have a lower maintenance cost than fixing ruined parts and restoring damage it can create.

3. Get The Job Done Right-

It is important to have trained professionals install, service and repair home appliances and systems such as HVAC and plumbing. Maintaining high management standards may cost a little more per job, but the risk of experiencing major problems that prove to be very costly is significantly reduced. Bonded and insured professionals also typically guarantee their work.

The longer a problem persists, the more severe it may become and the higher the maintenance cost will become. When it comes to structural systems and appliances at a home in Manhattan, regularly scheduled inspections, maintenance, preventative measures and timely repairs can help homeowners avoid costly emergency fixes for major problems that can cause major damage.

Why Choose an IICRC Certified Company?

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

What Being an IICRC Certified Company Means-

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is an IICRC-certified firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. As a result? Our technicians are amply qualified to take care of any commercial or residential loss you may encounter.

The IICRC Certification Requirements We Follow-

In order to keep and maintain our elite status as an IICRC Firm, our office takes steps to meet the following requirements:

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintaining a written complaint policy and agreeing to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry-

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace. This benefits our customers, as they directly benefit from our trained and certified technicians.

About Us, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan-

At SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan we specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after fire, smoke or water damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are (as you may have gotten by now!) an IICRC certified firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

For behind the scenes footage, be sure to follow us on social media where we post almost every day!

Why Choose SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan for Restoration?

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

More Than 50 Years of Experience

Since 1967 SERVPRO corporate has been the leader in the restoration industry. With over 1,800 franchises nationwide, even stepping outside of the States, SERVPRO has created a system that allows for personal touch while giving access to resources on a much larger scale. As a part of that system, we at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan believe that part of the importance is in the name itself, to “serve” and to be a “pro”, as in a professional. Here are some values we believe it takes to provide service and professionalism.

Nothing is more important to us than the people and community we serve. With every job, starting with our initial call to the last interaction, our clients will know that their wellbeing and peace of mind matter to us most. We consider ourselves a company of helpful problem solvers, that value people first, and happen to be excellent with the work of restoration. Much of our love for our community can be seen in our involvement, and programs we have developed to help our local community outside of our work with restoration. If you are looking for a company that will treat you with professionalism as well as compassion you deserve then you have come to the right place.

Restoring Hope-

With the occurrence of disasters, we see many people come home and walk into something terrible: like severe water damage. Ceilings caved in, a house filled with water. We are there to tell you that it'll be alright. At our core SERVPRO is a team of problem solvers. Our team of technicians are excellent at what they do. Most importantly? We want to help our customers find hope in a seemingly hopeless situation. 

Excellent workmanship-

Over the years some of the most consistent feedback has been about our quality of workmanship, because for us, a home that has been affected by damage isn't just about walls and a roof, it's about the memories and experiences those things carried. Our passion to give our best on every job is driven by our heart for restoring your most valuable assets, your home, and your heart. We know that excellent workmanship should come with excellent care in these situations, and it is our pleasure to deliver both 

If you are looking for restoration done to the highest standards, by a crew who will care about what it means to you, then you have found the right place to help! Contact our SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan Team by calling us up 24/7 at 212-768-9400

What to Avoid After a Flood

4/23/2022 (Permalink)

Keeping Yourself Safe During a Flood

In the midst of a storm, water can invade your home and cause considerable damage to your property in the form of flooding. However, your main priority should always be to keep yourself, your family members, and your pets to safety. Let the storm pass and when conditions are safe, you can return to assess the damage, and then begin the cleanup process. Below are some things you should not do when returning to the site of a flood:

Do Not Make Contact With the Water-

Floodwater can contain many different types of contaminants including bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and debris. Help protect your skin from harmful water by wearing rubber boots and gloves and keeping your hands and face from making contact with the water. If contact occurs despite your best efforts, wash immediately with soap and clean water.

Do Not Enter Standing Water-

After a flood, homes, yards, streets, and other areas can be covered in standing water. Powerful winds often accompany heavy storms, so it is not uncommon to find downed powerlines after a storm. Since water from a flood is usually murky, you cannot always tell what lies beneath the surface. If the water has been electrically charged, you could experience an electric shock if you enter a flooded home. Rubber boots will help protect against the risk of electrocution.

Do Not Let the Water Sit

The longer water sits, the more time bacteria have to multiply. When items are left to sit in water for long periods of time, the structural integrity of those items can begin to break down. The water should be safely extracted as soon as possible. By cleaning the water faster, you can help to lessen any water damage to your home. Since mold can begin forming in as little as 24 to 48 hours, it is important to begin the drying process as soon as the water has been extracted.

By following a few precautions, you can help keep yourself safe from the dangers of floodwater.

If you ever experience a flood or some type of water damage in Midtown Manhattan, a professional restoration company like SERVPRO can help get your home back to its original condition- or better. Call us 24/7 at 212-768-9400 for a free assessment and quick help!

Why Standing Water Should Be Avoided

4/23/2022 (Permalink)

Flood Water, Be Careful!

After flooding occurs, the surface water left behind can affect your Midtown Manhattan home and or office. Standing water can absorb into the materials and ultimately allows for the deterioration of exposed structural elements. The pooling of the water can also present potential health effects or hazards for those exposed and remaining in the area. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan offers the quickest possible extraction, as well as drying solutions for your Midtown Manhattan property after flooding. We also have ways to reduce the standing water concerns by offering extremely efficient flood removal for Manhattan homes. To accomplish this, we call upon a wide array of extraction and moisture removal tools in our well stocked inventory. 

So, What Tools Are Best for Drying Up Flood Damage? 

Every flooding situation is different from the last, there are different tools and machines that can remove water or dry the area better than others. Identifying the most efficient solution is always the priority, once the sooner standing water gets addressed, the less damaging the flood becomes. Some of the standard water removal and drying tools include:

• Air Movers
• Floor Mat Systems
• Dehumidifiers
• Positive Pressure Systems
• And much more!

After a flood, you want your home to look like it did before the disaster as soon as possible. Our SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan team can help anytime you need us. Let us take the hassle of dealing with a disaster off your shoulders, call us today at (212) 768-9400

Storm Safety in Your NYC Apartment

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

Be Ready-

People of New York, the only wrong time to prepare for a hurricane or bad storm is when it’s too late!  If you live near the coast, hurricanes are an ever-present danger. Knowing how and what to prepare for a hurricane can save your life and the place you call home. In the Atlantic, hurricane season lasts from June 1st to November 30th. Stay prepared with our best tips and practices for Storm Safety here in the big apple.

Prepare Online-

Doing your research and preparing for a storm by compiling a list of organizations and websites with critical information can assist you in the long run, even if it doesn’t seem necessary now.

1. Bookmark the page(s) on your power company’s website where outage maps and updates are posted if the power goes out. Sign up for the company’s emergency email alerts (if they offer them) to stay in the know.

2. Install FEMA’s app. If your power company has an app, install that, too.

3. Photograph your items. In the event of catastrophic damage following an evacuation, photographs make filing an insurance claim easier. Store the photos online using a service such as Dropbox or Google Docs.

4. Review your renters insurance policy for natural disaster protection. Then, scan your policy documents and store the file online with your photos.

5. Research the most convenient evacuation centers in your area and the traffic routes you’d take to reach them. If your apartment is in an evacuation zone and you receive an evacuation order, it is in your best interest to follow it rather than waiting the storm out.

Preparing Your Apartment before a Storm 

While storms can cause severe structural damage, you can take steps to keep the rain and wind at bay and keep yourself safe.

• Store everything you need to be comfortable for a few days. Create an emergency prep bag. Make sure it includes:

• A first aid kit
• Flashlights
• Batteries
• Bottled water
• Non-perishable, canned food
• Prescribed medications
• Emergency blankets
• A radio for news and weather updates
• A water purifier

• Make pet preparations. If you have a dog, cat, or other beloved pet, make sure you have an emergency prep bag for them, too! Also, locate nearby shelters or hotels that can accommodate both of you.
• Charge your devices. This includes cell phones, laptops, tablets, and, more.
• Request preventative maintenance from your landlord or super. If you have a leaky window or other outstanding maintenance issue, request that your landlord fix them ASAP before things get worse.
• Unplug electronic devices (like desktop computers) and appliances (like coffee makers and toaster ovens) if you lose power. Doing so will help prevent an electrical surge from damaging them when power returns.

If you have experienced any kind of storm damage in your Manhattan apartment be sure to give SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan a call, let us handle the hassle of cleanup and restoration so you don’t have to. 

Handling Commercial Losses With Ease in NYC

4/10/2022 (Permalink)

Handling Your Commercial Loss

When it comes to commercial restoration, you shouldn't leave anything to chance. That's why property managers all over NYC rely on professionals like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan. Compared to other restoration companies, our skilled technicians and the advanced equipment we use to take care of any-scale disaster is unmatched. Our use of professional equipment and train technicians allows us to restore your Manhattan commercial property or retail business back to its preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more efficiently.

Here are some of the unique tools we have to restore your property:

• Infrared cameras can be used to identify hidden water locations for the thorough removal of moisture that is hidden from the naked eye.
• Sensitive moisture meters/detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation.
• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water from events like floods. 
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.
• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace.
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.
• Air Scrubbers that are able to filter the air of contaminants and fumes.
• Thermal Foggers and environmentally-safe Deodorization Agents to leave a pleasant scent upon use.

When disaster strikes, you can count on SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan to take care of your property, so you can put your commercial business back in order. Give us a call at 212-768-9400 24/7!

Prepping for the Storm Ahead

4/10/2022 (Permalink)

With Winter gone and Spring weather here again, the storms can be as unexpected as the damage they cause. However, with the right preparation, most of the storm damage can be minimized or prevented entirely, saving you time and money. Below we have listed some tips to help prevent damages upcoming storms may cause.

Clean Out Your Gutters-

When it rains, and your gutters are clogged, it could cause the overflow to run down into your home. Often, this water can go undetected and sit. Over time, mold can grow in these areas that remain wet. Having clean and sturdy gutters before the rain comes can minimize the damage a storm may cause.

Maintain Landscaping and Unclog Drainage-

Depending on the land your home is built, water runoff can accumulate around your foundation, and flood your homes. Fortunately, there are solutions with the right landscaping. Better pathways can be created for water runoff, guiding the water away from your home. If you have noticed puddles or water accumulation near your home when it rains, contact a professional to help, before a storm comes. That can make the difference in whether your home is damaged or not.

Trim or Remove Damaged or Dead Trees-

Storm damage often occurs when a tree or limbs break off and fall onto a home. Snow and rain can weigh down trees, while wind can make them bend. If this happens to trees and limbs that are dead or damaged, there’s a high chance that they will break. Before the storm season comes, be sure to trim your trees, and remove all dead limbs. 

Spring is Here, Time to Do a Home Checkup

4/10/2022 (Permalink)

Winter is Gone, Spring Has Arrived-

With winter behind us, New Yorkers can look forward to blooming flowers and spring cleaning now. To make sure your home is in good shape, here are some tips to inspect for damage, these will not only save you money in the long term but prevent unnecessary property damage. Even after a mild winter, it is critical to assess your property’s exterior to make sure the cold weather hasn’t left you with damages you didn’t expect. It is also important to react quickly and take the necessary steps to prevent property damage from combining with the effects of rain showers to come this spring. Winter weather can be hard on your residential and commercial property, make sure to look for problems that frigid temperatures, snow and ice may have caused.

Winter storms are accompanied by lots of moisture – snow, freezing rain, ice, hail and wind. This can cause common issues like ice dams, frozen pipes and frost heave that may cause damage to your home or business. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is always there to help resolve your property damage restoration needs as soon as you call us, 24/7. Our local disaster restoration services includes:

• Inspection and Assessment of any damaged areas
• Water Removal
• Water Extraction
• Drying and Dehumidification
• Cleaning and Repairs
• Restoration and Reconstruction, as necessary.

There are several common problem areas to inspect during spring for potential damage, including your roof and gutter system, foundation and yard, plumbing system and your property’s exterior. From the top down these areas could see potential damage from the worst that the winter elements can bring. From your roof to your plumbing, here are some signs of damage to look out for:

• Roof and Gutter System Damage
• Window, Door and Exterior Damage
• Foundation and Other Drainage Problems
• Plumbing Damage
• Preventing Property Damage Starts With Routine Inspection

If you've noticed any of these above issues just give us a call at Give us a call at (212) 768-9400!

Commercial HVAC Cleaning In Midtown Manhattan

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

HVAC Cleaning In Progress

Breathe in Clean, Green Air

If you choose to clean your air duct system and use improper tools or don't properly clean all of the debris, you will worsen the condition of your air quality rather than improve it. This is why you call a professional to let them handle the cleaning of your HVAC system. At SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, we have developed a targeted approach to cleaning air vents and systems pushing air through. We only using the highest-rated equipment and environmentally friendly cleansers to safely, yet effectively, purify your air ducts the right way.

What Happens After Cleaning?

As a result, you will note a marked improvement in air quality. Cleaning your air vents is safeguarding the health of your occupants. In addition, our team of air duct cleaning specialists will assess the condition of your venting system if you believe there are any pre-existing conditions (such as mildew, mold growth, etc.) and assist in eradicating the issue. 

Healtheir Environment?

The air you breathe inside is definitely not cleaner than the fresh air you breathe outdoors. Indoor air is around 2-5 times more polluted than fresh outdoor air. Unlike in the outdoors, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system builds up contaminants inside of them. Not only can these trigger allergies and other health issues, but it causes your energy costs to increase as the system uses more power to function. 

Our goal is to contain the work areas, ensuring minimal disruption to your business operations. After the air duct cleaning is complete, we conduct a final inspection and provide you with our final report. 

Mold In the Winter Time

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

Mold In the Winter time?

There is a common misconception that mold is a seasonal problem. Many homeowners think mold issues disappear when the weather is cold. While temperature does affect the way mold grows, it’s a year-round problem for New Yorkers. It’s important to be aware of how and where mold can grow in your home, even during the winter months. Keep reading to learn the answers to the most-asked winter mold questions our technicians are asked.

Does mold grow in cold temperatures?

YES! Mold needs three things to grow: moisture, adequate food source, and the correct temperature. But contrary to what many people think, mold can grow in cold temperatures.

Different types of molds thrive under different conditions, and some molds are more likely to grow in the winter months than others. Unfortunately this comes from the temperature conditions we create ourselves. Mold growth can occur when we heat our homes to stay warm...

So, does mold die in the winter?

Cold weather will not kill mold. Mold spores are opportunistic, they wait for the right conditions and then begin to spread. Even extreme temperatures do not kill mold spores, but they can deactivate them for a period of time.They become dormant and will begin to multiply and grow again as soon as the temperature rises back to ideal. Controlling the temperature alone will not solve your mold problems if you have them. The key to removing mold from your home and keeping it from reoccurring is to control humidity levels and properly treat it at the source. 

Mold growth on windows during the winter?

The fall and winter months bring precipitation and dew onto surfaces in our homes that can begin to collect  moisture. Places like your window panes, are ideal for mold to expand and grow as moisture collects and sun shines through. When the temperature drops during the winter, the warm air in your home comes into contact with the cool glass of your window panes, depositing more water vapor and leading to an increase in moisture buildup around your windows. That’s why sometimes mold tends to collect around windows during the colder months.

How do you prevent mold from growing in the winter?

Here’s what you can do in your home to prevent mold from growing and spreading during the winter months::

• Keep humidity below 50% throughout your home at all times. 
• Inspect pipes and fix plumbing leaks as soon as possible to prevent water from collecting.
• Use mold-killing cleaners in bathrooms and areas of your kitchen where moisture collects.
• Avoid having carpets or rugs near windows, sinks, or other places that can become wet.
• Inspect your air ducts and change filters on your furnace regularly.
• Always use a ventilation fan during showers or baths to prevent moisture buildup.
• Clean your gutters often to prevent moisture from building up on collected debris.
• Get rid of old recycled material, newspapers, and any upholstery or fabric that has been exposed to moisture.
• Call a Professional cleaning crew like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan  is prepared and certified to handle any mold issues you may be facing this Winter. Don't waste another day with mold in your home. Call us for a free consultation at (212)-768-9400

Where Does the Water Go?

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

So Where Does the Water Go?

It's a frustrating scenario trying to figure out where the water ends up after a leak occurs. When a leak is discovered from an appliance or an open entryway (window, door, hole), it's crucial to find out proper steps to take.

In the case of multiple-units, like co-ops or apartment buildings, it's even more difficult to deal with. It is necessary to find the travel of water to determine a water restoration solution properly. Multi-unit housing is not an unexpected location for such detective work, as every apartment is typically plumbed separately, yet shares walls, ceilings, and floors with other living spaces. It is inadequate for a landlord to respond only to the complaint of one tenant when it is very likely that the water from the leak eventually spreads throughout the building where you cannot even see it and other tenants have not yet noticed. 

Is It Easy to Follow the Spread of Water from Space to Space?

Water is often characterized as moving along the path of least resistance. This fact does not always hold up to scrutiny, as a number of other factors weigh in. For example, if water runs along the outside of a pipe, think condensation on a cold water supply pipe parallel to the floor in a warm, damp basement, some water will drip in a line along the expanse of the pipe to the floor. Instead of just one wet spot below the pipe, there will be many damp areas, tracing on the floor over the length of the pipe. If, on the other hand, the cold pipe is perpendicular to the floor, the condensation will tend to run down that pipe, depositing in a circle around the bottom. Other examples can result in even more varied answers. 

So How Do Trained Technicians Follow the Water?

Since water follows pathways not quite as straightforward as folklore might think, SERVPRO must find more reliable ways to discover where water migrates and hides. Our technicians master basic moisture detection strategies during the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training. We use detectors with and without prongs to locate the presence of moisture, helping us trace the outline of a water incursion. For added data, we also employ special moisture meters to determine levels of water absorbed by permeable materials. The moisture levels become baselines for our Applied Structural Drying (ASD) technicians when we move on to determining drying goals after we remove all standing water.

Why Does It Matter? Shouldn’t the Water Just Dry Up Inside the Building?

One of the concerning factors to consider is the possibility of mold growth if all water is not removed from every space within an apartment building. Mold spores need only a small amount of moisture to “germinate” and begin their growth curve. Only oxygen, water, and an organic surface upon which to multiply are necessities for molds. No light is required so that mold colonies can breed in between walls, above ceilings, and in any building cavity. Because of the potential of mold damage when wood framing, drywall, ceiling tiles, and other building materials are just slightly wet, landlords must find and make arrangements to remove all water after a leak.

How Do Professionals Get Water Out of Confined Spaces?

Portable extractors can be brought far inside the units of even a large apartment building. The mobile units are much more flexible in uses, fitting in tight spaces much easier than the large yet more powerful truck-mounted variety. The equipment can be carried like a backpack, capable of extracting up to 12 gallons of water before needing to be drained to begin a fresh attempt to remove all the water practical. If the extractor cannot reach moisture, even with extenders, we have to consider some controlled removal techniques such as drilling access holes into the drywall. 

We Target the Source of Water Damage

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

We Target the Source of Water Damage

There are a lot of reasons why water damages happen, oftentimes it can come "out of nowhere". Addressing these concerns begins by identifying the source of the damage, which can sometimes hide behind layers of wall or ceiling materials. In some situations, you might not be sure that a water loss exists until you can recognize some of the effects these incidents can leave behind.  

When you suspect water damage to your office building, you want to resolve it as soon as possible. Prolonged exposure to moisture creates more damages to the structural elements as it allows for more compromising effects like deterioration or mold growth. Our SERVPRO technicians have a fast and thorough response that can help you to not only identify water losses and moisture, but dry up this damage to make it “Like it never even happened.” 

How Do You Identify Water Damage?  

When you are not sure that a water loss incident exists, how can you know for sure? Several indications that can reveal water or moisture, even if the majority of this damaged area exists behind surface materials in wall cavities or structural openings. You can start by looking for things such as:  

• Yellowing – Drywall is one of the most common structural materials used in office spaces. While you do not typically have to worry about the metal framework becoming damaged by water, drywall can quickly and readily absorb moisture and water from a persistent leak. The surface around this water-damaged area of the sheetrock can often show yellowing in an uneven blotch. 
• Spotting - Prolonged exposure to moisture, or the unresolved saturation of materials, can facilitate mold growth in areas that you cannot see. The migration of mold colonies can show as spotting on the surface of the drywall, which can be multiple colors: black, green, blue, or even orange.  
• Material Deterioration – Sagging or damaged materials are often an excellent indication of water damage. As materials get saturated, they can become too heavy for screws or nails used to install them to support them. Sagging ceilings or bloated wall surfaces can indicate a substantial water loss concern. 

Do You Need Professional Restoration for Damp Drywall?  

With drywall being such a key and standardized element to most buildings, restoring it after a water loss is something that you want to address immediately. Because these materials can become irreparably damaged in often as little as 24 hours of exposure, removal and reconstruction is often the fastest and most reliable approach for overcoming damp drywall. Our SERVPRO professionals can help with restoring these damaged areas and elements in the office, as sheetrock can be a considerable challenge due to:  

• Structural Deterioration – Exposure to migrating water or moisture in any area of your office can allow for the bloating and deterioration of drywall surfaces.  
• Porous Surfaces – The sheetrock’s permeance and porosity make it one of the most susceptible structural elements to moving water or the presence of moisture in the environment.  
• Facilitate Mold Growth – Because drywall is an organic material, it can be a host for developing mold colonies. 

No matter how subtle water losses might initially appear, they all must get addressed with the same care in the cleaning and restoration process, as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan can help 24/7 each day of the year by calling (212) 768-9400.

Let SERVPRO Handle Post Fire Cleanup

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning soot off the walls

Letting SERVPRO Ease the Burden of a Fire Damage

You can trust SERVPRO to Clear, Clean, and Restore Your Manhattan Home after a fire. The resulting problems can be as simple as a coating of soot residues throughout a living room, or as extreme as the destruction of load-bearing walls and other support structures leaving you with a foundation to rebuild. regardless we have got you covered 

What Your Fire Means to Us

At SERVPRO, we understand that fire damage is more than just scorched materials, ash and soot residue. We care about the toll this takes on you and your family and are there for you to make sure the stress is off your shoulders.

If the fire burned for an extended time, flames could have reached the roof or burned deep into surrounding walls, and shattered windows. Because of things like this, our fire Restoration Technicians perform the following, protective tasks:

• Board up windows and doors
• Cover damaged roofs with tarps or plywood sheets
• Remove water left by fire-fighting efforts
• Sort through and pack up items left behind
• Dispose of any hazards created 

So, Can SERVPRO Make The Repairs as Well?

Absolutely! SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan has trained construction experts who can perform any repair and reconstruction effort except for complete replacement of your home. We truly will make it look, “Like it never even happened.” 

No matter how small, or large the job; contact SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan to schedule a service call, an inspection, or just to ask questions. Call today at (212) 768-9400.

Post Construction Cleanup Professionals

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

What is Post Construction Cleanup and Why You Should Choose Us-

At SERVPRO we are very experienced in cleaning up, and construction sites are no stranger to our skillset. We offer quick and easy cleanup services after the work has been completed, before the finishing touches go into the building's construction. For when you have work done, big or small, we can handle any size site cleanup with our extensive network and readily available equipment. 

Post Construction Cleaning: Once the floors are down and the drywall is up, it’s time to remove the debris and dirt in order to lay carpet, paint and decorate.  SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan can provide the debris removal services to prepare the building for interior design so you don't start off with a dirty base .

Dehumidification and Drying: During the construction phase, a building can trap moisture. Excessive moisture could result in mold growth. If you think one of your projects may have a moisture issue, rely on us at SERVPRO to provide the assistance you need to eliminate moisture and prevent the potential for mold.

Final Cleaning: When openings, you want your business to look its best. Your local SERVPRO Franchise provides cleaning services to give the building that extra shine; these include:

• Carpet, resilient and non-resilient floor prep and finish
• Ceiling, walls and fixture cleaning
• Deodorization
• Air Duct Cleaning
• Debris Removal 
• Window Cleaning

Dirty Water Cleanups

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

Did You Know There Are 3 Varieties of Water Damage?

If the disaster seems manageable you may be tempted to handle it yourself, unlike a large flood or burst pipe. While this may seem like a cost saving idea in the short run, the hazards and future problems can become very costly. In reality, cleaning up and restoring a water damage isn’t always as straightforward as it seems.

Below we have highlighted three major things you need to be aware of when addressing water damage from a small to big water loss.

1) Know What You’re Dealing With

Water damage can be caused by  the three types of water listed:

• Clean water (Category 1)
• Gray water (Category 2) 
• Black water (Category 3) 

It’s crucial to understand the differences between each of these categories, Category 2 and Category 3 water both present risks to you, your employees, customers and loved ones. And all three categories need to be handled in a different manner to be done properly.

Clean Water-

The most common sources of clean water normally come from a pipe, water heater, steam lines or even rainwater after a storm. The basic rule of thumb- it should look and smell like tap water. These types of water can be handled with normal water loss procedures, however recovering from Category 2 and Category 3 water damage involves additional considerations.

Gray Water-

A Category 2 water loss, or “grey water” refers to a source of water which contains a large degree of chemical, biological, or physical contaminants that can cause health effects. 

Black Water-

Category 3 water loss involves water that is contaminated and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents. Such water contains things like silt, organic matter, pesticides, heavy metals, regulated materials, or unsafe substances.

2) Make Sure You Investigate All of the Damage

The challenging thing about recovering from water damage from something like a broken pipe or storm damage is that you can typically only see the visible surface damage. The majority of the moisture is actually hidden in walls, floors and more, making it necessary to identify and thoroughly dry all of the affected areas to prevent mold growth. If the wall has insulation, we will use flood cuts. We may even need to remove your base molding and flooring materials depending on damage, these are things that can become overlooked doing it yourself.

3) Establish Proper Airflow and Keep the Windows Closed When Drying

Once moisture becomes present, your first thought may be to open windows to assist in the drying process, in reality this may not be your best move. For example, if your building is mechanically ventilated, the systems need constant pressure levels to work correctly. You should avoid excess heat, cold, and humidity, or you may end up slowing the drying process. After we remove wet materials and create necessary cuts in the walls, we begin placing down drying equipment. This process continues until moisture meters read safe levels again.

No matter what type of water damage you’re dealing with, don’t hesitate to call us. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is here to help!

Burst Pipes= Big Problems

1/16/2022 (Permalink)

As the weather gets colder, many residents experience frozen pipes as a side effect. While freezing temperatures are not year round, it's important to know what to expect when they do occur. If temperatures drop and you happen to encounter a leak in your house, it could be due to a variety of factors:

• An improperly connected appliance.
• Clogged Drain
• Broken sink, bathtub, toilet, washing machine, or dishwasher.
• A clog in a drain.
• Or a broken pipe

The very real possibility of a broken pipe. A broken pipe can cause an enormous amount of damage to your home. In particular, the most amount of damage occurs when you don't know where the break is or if you don't have direct access to the water break. 

Broken pipes occur for a variety of reasons: freezing, corrosion, water pressure.

Freezing

With colder weather, extreme temperatures can cause pipes to expand and break. Once the ice melts, the water can flood your home. It's important to note that pipes can freeze when they are exposed to temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. In particular, the pipes that are most prone to freezing are found in unfinished basements and in attics during the colder months.

Corrosion

Older pipes break down with age, and require a trained professional in order to replace pipes. If ignored, it can cause an enormous amount of flooding. It's best to have a professional like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan to come inspect your pipes if they are older and may need replacing.

Water Pressure

High pressure can cause the pipes in your home to break. Water is transported from a water company supply line to the house, needing to pass through a pressure regulator. If the regulator is faulty, it can cause the water pressure to rise exponentially. If the pressure gets high enough it can lead to a pipe breaking in your home.

Why Us?-

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is an expert in resolving water damage. If a pipe breaks, we are there to help you clean up the water and damage as well as properly dry out your home. Our Project Managers and technicians are able to help you locate the source of the water, to clean up the damage from where it started. We take extra care to ensure that there is no moisture left in your surfaces. If a broken pipe ever occurs on your property, make sure that you give us a call and we will be right there!

Leaving the Water Damage Up to the Pros

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

Your once flooded basement can look like this!

Your Contents During a Water Damage

There are 3 phases regarding the contents of your home/building SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan will take to restore your property. Following these steps allow us to efficiently do our job, restore items that can be saved and reduce damage to the structure as quickly as possible.

Pack Out- 

Our Content Specialist will begin the process by thoroughly inspecting inventory, then begin to physically package, move and ready the items to be stored, to ensure minimal damage is brought onto your property during the unforeseen loss you just encountered.

Content Cleaning- 

Our expertly trained cleaning specialists are certified professionals who are knowledgeable about the various types of content and the appropriate cleaning procedures necessary, as well as the factors that cause/caused them.

Content Inventory- 

During the damage analysis, home item inventory, pack-out and resetting stage of our services; our well trained Inventory Specialists will take photos of each and every step along the way, creating an inventory of what was salvageable and what was unsalvageable.

With a focus on limiting the damage, we always work as fast as possible to protect your property from further damage. During the entire process we work directly with your insurance agent or adjuster on your loss for a streamlined and expedited process. We always will keep in contact with you so you know what is going on while we work with your property. 

A Recap of what SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan can do for you-

• Professional and Concise Inventory of Contents
• Pack Out and Moving Services
• Specialized Cleaning and Decontamination of Contents
• Contents Repair and Restoration
• Secure Contents Storage
• Thorough and Accurate Pack-Back and Reset Services

Do you or someone you know need their property professionally inventoried, packed up and stored in a safe and secure facility? If so, don’t hesitate and give us a call today!

My Pipe Burst… Now What?

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding in your home from a burst pipe, what is next-

A burst pipe is one of the last things you want to come home to, the mess and damage it causes is not a simple cleanup. It definitely is going to be easier with some professional help…

Follow the steps below to control damages from a broken pipe:

• Immediately turn off your home’s water supply using the main cutoff valve.  
• Drain your pipes by running cold water through the faucets and flushing the toilets. 
• Thoroughly dry affected areas by running fans for approximately 2-5 days depending on the severity.
• If repairs and cleanup turn out to be more than you can handle, contact your insurance company. Most homeowner policies cover burst pipe water damage, and you should let your agent know you'd like to hire SERVPRO.

Don't wait to give us a call!

We have enjoyed a warm winter so far here in New York City, but it’s best to be ready for the unexpected cold we know very well. By knowing what to watch out for, what to do and who to call, you can minimize the problems from ruptured pipes on a cold winter day.

And remember, our team is always ready to help you clean up a water damage and complete the necessary repairs. We take care of it all, start to finish and we even offer our certified mold remediation services if necessary. When a broken pipe in your home tries to ruin your winter, give us a call here at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan and let us get your life back to normal as fast as possible. 

Extension Cord Safety

1/12/2022 (Permalink)

Why choosing the right extension cord is important-

Extension cords are a common and convenient way to bring power to electrical devices when outlets are not nearby. However, when used without proper care and caution, they can become fire hazards and pose serious risks to your safety.

Follow these tips below to help keep your home safe when using extension cords:

Selecting extension cords

• Only buy cords that have been approved by an independent testing laboratory.
• For outdoor projects, use only extension cords marked for outdoor use.
• Read instructions for information about the cord's correct use and the amount of power it draws.
• Select cords that are rated to handle the correct wattage of the devices with which they'll be used. 
• Consider the length you'll need, longer cords can't handle as much current as shorter cords of the same gauge.
• Choose cords with polarized or three-prong plugs.
• For use with larger appliances, choose thick, round, low-gauge extension cords. For smaller appliances and electronics, you can use thin or flat cords.

Using extension cords

• Never remove an extension cord's grounding pin in order to fit it into a two-prong outlet.
• Avoid powering multiple appliances with one cord.
• Never use indoor extension cords outdoors.
• Don't plug more than one cord together.
• Don't run extension cords under a rug or furniture.
• Don't bend or coil cords when they're in use.
• Cover cord receptacles with childproof covers when not in use.
• Never use extension cords that feel hot to the touch.

Caring for extension cords

• Always store cords inside where they can remain dry.
• Unplug extension cords that are not in use.
• Throw away damaged cords immediately.
• Pull the plug, not the cord, when disconnecting from the outlet.
• Remember, extension cords are intended to be temporary wiring solutions. If you find you're using them on a permanent basis, this can create an unnecessary risk in your home.

Keeping Warm and Staying SafeKeeping Warm and Staying Safe

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Want to stay warm, make sure you are staying safe too-

Over half of all home fires related to heating, these resulted from fires that started when heating equipment was placed close to things that are flammable. These are things such as: upholstered furniture, clothing, mattresses or bedding. Space heaters should be placed a minimum of three feet away from anything that can burn, and need to be turned off when people leave the room or go to sleep.

Here are some tips to keep your home safe this winter while staying warm-

• Have a three foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• Hire a qualified professional to install a stationary space heater, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a professional.
• Always use the correct kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a safety screen to stop sparks from flying into the room.
• Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. 
• All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
• Install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms to avoid the risk of poisoning. 
• If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not light the appliance. Leave the home immediately and call your local fire department or gas company.
• Don’t use your oven to heat your home.

Cleanup at a Fair Cost

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

Cleanups don't have to clean you out!

The effects of COVID-19 have taken their toll on everyone, especially economically. Due to the halt in business activity people have been forced to limit services and reduce their workforce. Business and residents have gone with no work due to businesses closing down, unable to stay afloat. An unprecedented amount of requests for unemployment relief have been filed causing a backup in the government’s ability to process claims in a timely manner. In turn, creating a loss of income and a debt accumulation not just for residents but for business owners. 

We get it!

These are not easy times and keeping healthy is a top priority. Here at SERVPRO, we understand that disinfecting our homes, businesses, schools and medical facilities is of utmost importance, but many may not have the available finances to support these costs when they need it most. 

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan has been working with our customers to ensure they are able to receive the service needed at a cost they can actually afford. Our top priority is making sure our community is staying safe and healthy during this rough patch. For details, feel free to contact us through our website or phone number. We’re there to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the community we call all home.

Dealing with the Cleanup After a Fire

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

What's next?

Few things are as devastating to any homeowners as a house fire. If your home catches fire, our team at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan works to aid you in the process of rebuilding. However, there are a few things you must do after a fire has occurred that applies to homeowners anywhere in Manhattan, or anywhere else. 

Give Your Insurance Adjuster a Call

You must call your insurance company promptly after. Your agent will help you figure out what happens after the fire has been put out, and they will walk you through the process of finding the proper contractors. Your adjuster should assist you in finding a place to stay in New York while your home is no longer livable, and they can help you figure out the financial situation you are now in. 

Calling in the Restoration Specialists

SERVPRO is a restoration company that helps people with their homes following a fire throughout the US. What makes a restoration company imperative is that you cannot just head back into your home after there has been a fire. There are numerous hazards that must be cleaned, boarded, and a variety of other issues that must be handled first. For example, the water used to put out the fire can cause water damage, a whole other problem to add to the list following a fire. 

Sort Your Property 

Once you have a restoration specialist handle the details inside your home and you’re cleared to enter, it’s time to sort your property out from what can be saved and what you must part with. There may be undamaged items in your home that you can salvage. There are many more that are unsalvageable, and those items will need to be sorted and disposed of. 

Being the victim of a house fire is heartbreaking. It’s also a scary process to deal with, but you are not required to go through this alone. The people you hire at SERVPRO are there to help you with your new needs, we are here to make sure you know what to expect and how to handle it!

Christmas Fires- No Thanks! Some advice on how to stay safe!

12/24/2021 (Permalink)

Play it safe this Christmas season

It was found that between 2015 and 2019, United States fire departments responded to an average 160 home fires that started from Christmas trees per year. And from that these fires caused an average of two deaths, 12 injuries and $10 million in direct property damage annually. You definitely do not want to add to those numbers this year. At SERVPRO we do fire cleanups and restorations frequently, seeing the toll it can have is the reason we want to share some advice to stay safe this winter.

Here are some tips we have below:

• Get a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. 
• Cut 2" from the base of the trunk before placing it down. 
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators or lights. 
• Add water to the tree stand daily so it does not dry out. 
• Use lights that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Don't use anything that gets warm.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to sleep.

Who to Call When Winter Weather Hits

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO for your winter disaster-

Winter has arrived and the freezing temperatures, snowy days, and ice storms have come with it. This cold weather, snow, and ice storms can cause major damage to your home or business property. When these types of disasters strike, immediate action is necessary to prevent additional damage to your property. SERVPRO has the experience, expertise, and the resources to remediate damage caused by winter weather. Below are a couple of the common damages we deal with during the winter. 

Frozen Pipes?

The freezing tempurtues accompanied by the weather can cause your pipes to freeze and burst. In general, your pipes are more likely to freeze below 20 degrees Fahrenheit but regardless you should be careful once it drops below freezing. The resulting damage can be very destructive. Outdoor pipes or pipes in an unheated areas will freeze more easily if they are not properly insulated. We recommend shutting these off if possible or insulting them if needed. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan can quickly and safely repair water damage caused by frozen pipes.

Roof Damages?

Snow and ice can create the environment for significant damage to occur to your gutters or roof, and many times both of them together. The additional weight created by the dense snow and layers of ice that build up can cause a roof to collapse if not taken care of properly. When there’s a cold snap, the melted ice drips water that can get into cracks and small spaces. When this occurs it eventually expands once it has frozen, causing larger cracks to be created and even more damage. The repetition of this cycle can create major damage you should be watching our for and examining before each winter season.

Flu Season in The Office

12/4/2021 (Permalink)

The Flu

Flu season is upon us and with the new COVID-19 variant it is essential to keep you and your employees healthy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states, influenza activity often begins to increase in October, peaks between December and February, and can linger into May. This means cleanliness is essential now more than ever for everyones well being.

What You Can Do

Remember to encourage everyone to thoroughly wash hands with warm water and soap frequently and when it is not available use hand sanitizer containing alcohol. You should also wipe down surfaces that are frequently touched like door handles, phones, printers, etc… These are all hotspots for germs to find their next victim, don’t let it be someone in your office! We offer commercial disinfecting and surface cleaning if you have had someone sick in the office or just want to take the extra precaution. Regardless of the scenario you can never be too careful, when you feel sick stay home and keep away from others. Let's keep everyone happy and healthy this holiday season!

Thankgiving Deep Frying Dangers

11/25/2021 (Permalink)

Dangers of Deep Frying
With Thanksgiving right around the corner make sure you are staying safe if you choose to deep fry your bird! Deep frying oil can reach temperatures of over 400 °F. When cooking at this temperature, extreme safety measures must be taken to prevent burning oneself or starting a fire. Like other oils, cooking oil is a highly flammable liquid. To prevent flare-ups and house fires, avoid letting oil contact direct flames. Because of this hazard, it is highly recommended to have a kitchen fire extinguisher available when deep-frying.

Water is a very dangerous liquid when deep frying. When water encounters very hot oil (about 350 °F) water vaporizes instantaneously turning into super-heated steam. It expands quickly, which can cause oil to splatter and risk bodily injury. Do not let water get into the hot fat or use water to cool, or clean the appliance while food is deep-frying.

In the event of a grease fire, never use water to put out the fire. 

Using water can cause flaming oil to splatter and spread. A kitchen fire extinguisher or covering the fryer with a metal lid is the best way to put out a grease fire. Call 911 immediately if a grease fire occurs.

Preparing the Fryer

• If you do not own a fryer, use a deep, heavy skillet to fry. However, avoid using cast iron as it breaks down oil faster than other metals. If you have a deep fryer, read the directions in the owner's manual before using the appliance.
• Purchase and prepare all the ingredients you plan to deep fry.
• Have a grease fire rated extinguisher nearby.
• Before filling the deep fat fryer with oil, make sure the fryer is turned off, away from water sources and wiped dry.

Commercial Restoration Done Right

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial damage restoration

If you own a New York commercial building, you know there are tons of risks. Commercial buildings are constantly in danger of being damaged from poor maintenance, the elements and a number of other causes. If you do have damage to your building, you need to get it fixed and the damage restored to usable condition as soon as possible. 

Fire damage 
One of the most common ways NYC commercial buildings are damaged is due to a fire. Even a small fire in a large building can make the entire building unusable due to smoke and water damage. If your building is damaged by fire, you need to hire a company with expertise in fire restoration. 

Water damage 
Water damage can occur in a number of ways. A flood can send millions of gallons of water surging through your building, causing extensive damage. High winds can damage roofs or windows and allow rain to enter your building and cause damage. Water damage also can come from an interior source, such as a burst pipe or sewer damage. In any of these cases, you need professional cleanup and remediation to ensure your building is returned to usable condition and also that there are no long-term issues, such as mold growth. 

In any case where your commercial building has sustained damage from fire, water or some other cause, SERVPRO can help. Our professional staff and proven methods can help you get your building back to usable condition quickly after you are hit with a disaster.

What Makes SERVPRO the Right Choice?

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, we have a well trained team of professionals that are prepared to handle any situation, 24/7 and 365 days a week! Our results are proof of our promise to provide the best service to our clients with expedited service that does not compromise on value!

Always On Call

Whether it is Four in the morning or in the afternoon, SERVPRO is able to dispatch a team of professionals to quickly address any issue you may have. Burst pipes? Fire damage? Flooding? No matter what you’re facing, we have a team standing by with the best equipment and professionals. 

No Job Too Big

Did you know that the SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team is both prequalified and strategically positioned to handle a natural disaster of any size within the United States? Our SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is uniquely positioned to help in case of any large loss with urgency and unmatched mitigation efforts. Whether flood or tornado, hurricane or storm, the Disaster Recovery Team is prepared for the unpredictable! We were ready to mobilize during Hurricane Sandy in 2012, calling upon our 1,700 strong network of franchises across the globe!

Proven Track Record

At SERVPRO we are a trusted franchise that has been the leader in the cleanup and restoration industry for 50 plus years. In that time, our services have been trusted by businesses, homeowners, the insurance industry, and the government! 

No matter how big your disaster, we will make sure it looks "Like it never even happened." Call today for more information and help. 

Tropical Storm Henri- What to do?

8/21/2021 (Permalink)

Tropical storm Henri is evolving into a hurricane that will slam the Northeast, high speed winds, flooding, and heavy rain are expected. It is important you and your family stay safe and prepared, below are some tips on how to do so:

How to Prepare for Tropical Storm Henri-

• Be informed- make sure you are receiving alerts, warnings, and public safety information before, during, and after emergencies. 
• Learn if you live in a hurricane evacuation zone- if you do, make a plan to evacuate
• Learn whether your property is in a flood-prone or high-risk area via the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) flood maps.
• Create and commit to memory your family emergency plan and discuss it with them.
• Assemble an emergency kit with what you will need such as food, water, medication, and communication.
• Prepare for possible power outages and blocked streets.
• Take photos or videos of your personal property and store these records in a safe place.
• Prepare your home with temporary plywood covers to protect windows and sliding doors if possible.

Create a Plan-

• Pick more than one safe place in your home where you can go if there is an emergency.
• Pick two ways to get out in case you have to leave, and keep these exits clear.
• Pick a place for your family to meet in case you are separated -- one in and one outside your neighborhood.
• Pick a place where you can stay in case you must evacuate your home.
• Make a plan to keep your pets safe if there is an emergency.
• Know how to turn off the electricity, gas and water in your home.
• Take photos of possessions inside and outside your home in case you need them for insurance purposes.

Once it's over?

Once a hurricane is underway, the experts urge people to avoid driving and stay indoors. Flooding and damaging winds can make traveling extremely dangerous. Nearly 90% of all hurricane-related deaths involve water, according to the National Weather Service.

If you must travel, experts warn not to walk or drive through flowing water. Six inches of swiftly moving water can knock you off of your feet and cars can be swept away in just two feet of moving water. Stay safe and stay informed, SERVPRO will be there for you after the storm. 

Dealing With Fire and Smoke Damage

7/31/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot

A fire in your home or business is a devastating experience that comes with extensive damage throughout the area. The smoke and soot damage is hard to identify at times and still leaves behind linger smells and irritants. Our experts at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan will survey the site and determine the damage done from the fire and whatever was used to put it out. Using state of the art machines to detect the areas that have been affected. The visible soot may be able to be wiped off at first but the damages normally run deeper than you expect. 

What we do

Our crew will come out and use the latest technology and equipment to clean up the entirety of the affected area. We clean up and restore your place to its original condition  and much more hygienic and clean then it has ever been. Using things like air scrubbers and specialized chemicals we will get to remove the soot that is stuck to walls and items, and clean the smell from these items as well. Nothing is worse than your lingering smoke smells after a disaster. Do not suffer, give us a call today and let us handle smoke and fire related damages so they get done right. 

What NOT To Do After A Flood

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

During a storm, flood water can invade your home and cause considerable damage to your property. However, your main priority should always be to get yourself, your family members, and your pets to safety. Once the storm has passed, you can return to assess the damage and begin the cleanup process. Here are four things you should not do when returning to the site of a flood.

1. Make Contact With the Water
Floodwater can contain many different types of contaminants including bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and debris. Help protect your skin from harmful water by wearing rubber boots and gloves and keeping your hands and face from making contact with the water. If contact occurs despite your best efforts, wash immediately with soap and clean water.

2. Enter Standing Water 
After a flood, homes, yards, streets, and other areas can be covered in standing water. Powerful winds often accompany heavy storms, so it is not uncommon to find downed powerlines after a storm. Since water from a flood is usually murky, you cannot always tell what lies beneath the surface. If the water has been electrically charged, you could experience an electric shock if you enter a flooded home. Rubber boots will help protect against the risk of electrocution.

3. Let the Water Sit
The longer water sits, the more time bacteria have to multiply. When items are left to sit in water for long periods of time, the structural integrity of those items can begin to break down. The water should be safely extracted as soon as possible. By cleaning the water faster, you can help to lessen any water damage to your home. Since mold can begin forming in as little as 24 to 48 hours, it is important to begin the drying process as soon as the water has been extracted.
By following a few precautions, you can help keep yourself safe from the dangers of floodwater.

If you have experienced a flood or any type of water damage in Midtown Manhattan, a professional flood restoration company can help get your home back to its pre-flood condition. Give our team a call at 212-768-9400 for a free assessment.

Storm Safety: Apartment Edition

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

Be prepared for any storm with our apartment guide edition of Storm Safety!!

New Yorkers, the only wrong time to prepare for a hurricane is when it’s too late. If you live near the coast, hurricanes are an ever-present danger. Knowing how and what to prepare for a hurricane can save your life and your belongings.

The Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June 1st to November 30th. Stay prepared with our best tips and practices for Storm Safety here in the big apple.

Prepare Online

Do your research and prepare for a storm by compiling a list of organizations and websites with critical information that can assist you in the long run.

1. Bookmark the page(s) on your power company’s website where outage maps and updates are posted if the power goes out. Sign up for the company’s emergency email alerts (if they offer them) to stay in the know.

2. Install FEMA’s app. If your power company has an app, install that, too.

3. Photograph your items. In the event of catastrophic damage following an evacuation, photographs make filing an insurance claim easier. Store the photos online using a service such as Dropbox or Google Docs.

4. Review your renters insurance policy for natural disaster protection. Then, scan your policy documents and store the file online with your photos.

5. Research the most convenient evacuation centers in your area and the traffic routes you’d take to reach them. If your apartment is in an evacuation zone and you receive an evacuation order, it is in your best interest to follow it rather than waiting the storm out.

Prepare Inside Your Apartment

While storms can cause severe structural damage, you can take some steps to keep the rain and wind at bay.

6. Store everything you need to be comfortable for a few days. Create an emergency prep bag. Make sure it includes:

• A first aid kit
• Flashlights
• Batteries
• Bottled water
• Non-perishable, canned food
• Prescribed medications
• Emergency blankets
• A radio for news and weather updates
• A water purifier

7. Make pet preparations. If you have a dog, cat, or other beloved pet, make sure you have an emergency prep bag for them, too! Also, locate nearby shelters or hotels that can accommodate both of you.

8. Charge your devices. This includes cell phones, laptops, tablets, and, yes, even the devices you use to charge your various devices.

9. Request preventative maintenance from your landlord. If you have a leaky window or other outstanding maintenance issue, request that your landlord fix them now before things get serious.

10. Unplug electronic devices (like desktop computers) and appliances (like coffee makers and toaster ovens) if you lose power. Doing so will help prevent an electrical surge from damaging them when power returns.

Prepare Outside Your Apartment

11. Test your generator (if you have one) to ensure it’s in good working order. Also, verify that you have enough gas to operate it.

12. Report any overgrown tree branches that risk falling on your unit. Heavy tree branches can damage your belongings and your vehicle.

13. Secure any outdoor items. You’ll reduce the risk of them being scattered or damaged by high winds and heavy rain.

14. Park your vehicle in a safe location. Park your car away from possible flooding areas or places where it could be in danger of falling debris.

15. Get to know your neighbors. Working together helps everyone stay safe during a hurricane. Suggest an emergency fund to repair damage to common areas or help neighbors heavily-impacted by the storm.

At SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, we understand that natural disasters can be catastrophic. We're dedicated to educating and servicing our community to help keep all New Yorkers safe. If you're dealing with damage from a storm, give us a call at 212-768-9400.

Is Standing Water Dangerous?

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

Standing water can lead to structural damage and mold. If you've experienced a burst pipe or a flood, call us at 212-768-9400 for immediate help!

Surface water can affect your Midtown Manhattan home and its tenants in multiple ways. While this standing water can absorb into materials and ultimately allow for the deterioration of exposed structural elements, pooling can also present potential health effects or hazards for those exposed and remaining in the area. 

SERVPRO offers fast extraction and drying solutions for your Midtown Manhattan home after a flood. 

We can help reduce the standing water concerns by offering efficient flood removal for Manhattan homes. To accomplish this, we can call upon a wide array of extraction and moisture removal tools in our broad inventory. 

What Tools Are Best for Drying Up Flood Damage? 

Because every flooding situation is different from the last, there are different tools and devices that are best to remove water or dry the area. Identifying the most efficient solution is always the priority, as the sooner standing water gets addressed, the less damaging flooding typically becomes. Some of the standard water removal and drying tools include:

• Air Movers
• Dehumidifiers
• Positive Pressure Systems
• Floor Mat Systems

After a flood, you want your home to look like it did before the disaster as soon as possible. Our SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan team can help anytime you need us. Call us today at (212) 768-9400

How to Spend Less on Maintenance

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Three Ways To Keep Service Costs Low

Home maintenance costs can add up to a considerable sum. The best way to lower maintenance cost for any structural system or appliance is to handle issues sooner than later and anticipate potential problems. Most systems, such as HVAC or plumbing, can be maintained for years without major emergency incidents as long as homeowners schedule routine upkeep. Here are three of the best ways to keep service costs low and maximize the operational life of every system in a home.

1. Fix Minor Problems
It’s a good idea to start small when it comes to maintenance. Addressing issues that seem minor when they arise can help to prevent serious issues from developing down the road. In general, scheduled or preventative maintenance is more affordable than emergency repairs in terms of the cost of parts, labor and incidentals.

2. Do Preventative Maintenance
Homeowners should schedule periodic inspections of the structural systems, appliances and other aspects of a residence. Inspections may draw attention to issues that require maintenance. Cleaning components and getting the parts necessary to prevent problems from occurring down the line tends to have a lower maintenance cost than fixing broken parts and restoring damage.

3. Get Jobs Done Right
It is important to have trained professionals install, service and repair home appliances and systems such as HVAC and plumbing. Maintaining high facility management standards may cost a little more per job, but the risk of experiencing major problems that prove very costly is significantly reduced. Bonded and insured professionals also typically guarantee their work.
The longer a problem persists, the more severe it may become and the higher the maintenance cost. When it comes to structural systems and appliances at a home in Manhattan, regularly scheduled inspections, maintenance, preventative measures and timely repairs can help homeowners avoid costly emergency fixes for major problems that can cause major damage.

IICRC Certified Team

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

We are proud to be IICRC Certified here at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan!

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is an IICRC-certified firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies.

As a result? Our technicians are amply qualified to take care of any commercial or residential loss you may encounter.

IICRC Certification Requirements

In order to keep and maintain our elite status as an IICRC Firm, our office takes steps to meet the following requirements:

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace. This benefits our customers, as they directly benefit from our trained and certified technicians.

About SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after fire, smoke or water damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are (as you may have gotten by now!) an IICRC certified firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

For behind the scenes footage, be sure to follow us on social media!

Why Choose Our Team For Restoration Work

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

We're proud to serve you, Manhattan! Here's why you can count on our team.

Over 50 Years of Excellence

Since 1967 SERVPRO corporate has been a leader in the restoration industry. With over 1,800 franchises nationwide, SERVPRO has created a system that allows for personal touch while giving access to resources on a much larger scale. As a part of that system, we at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan believe that part of the importance is in the name itself, to “serve” and to be a “pro”, as in a professional. Here are some values we believe it takes to provide service and professionalism.

Nothing matters more to us than the people we serve. With every job from our initial call to the last interaction, our customers will know that their wellbeing and peace of mind matter to us. We consider ourselves a company of helpful problem solvers, that value people first, and happen to be excellent with the work of restoration. Much of our heart for people can be seen in our community involvement, and programs we have developed to help our local community outside of our work with restoration. If you are looking for a company that will treat you with professionalism as well as compassion, you have come to the right place.

Restoring hope

With the occurrence of disasters, we see many people come home and walk into something terrible: like severe water damage. Ceilings caved in, a house filled with water. They think, "How am I ever going to fix this?" and our response carries in it's simplicity carries, a seed of hope:

“There is a way to fix that, we do it every day” 

At our core we are problem solvers. Our team of technicians are excellent at what they do. Most importantly? We want to help our customers find hope in a seemingly hopeless situation. That is what we do "every day".

Excellent workmanship

Over the years some of the most consistent feedback has been about our level of workmanship.

For us, an apartment that has been affected by fire damage isn't just about walls and a roof, it's about the memories and experiences those things carried.

Our passion to give our best on every job is driven by our heart for restoring your most valuable assets, your home, and your heart. We know that excellent workmanship should come with excellent care in these situations, and it is our pleasure to deliver both 

If you are looking for restoration done on excellence, by a crew who will care about what it means to you, then you have found the right place!

Contact our SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan Team by calling 212-768-9400

How to Prepare for a Storm

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

Storms can be as unexpected as the damage they cause. Often, with the right preparation, much of the storm damage can be minimized or prevented altogether. Here are some tips to help prevent the damages storms may cause.

Clean Your Gutters

When it rains, and your gutters are clogged, it could cause the overflow to run down into your home. Often, this water can go undetected and sit. Over time, mold can grow in these areas that remain wet. Having clean and sturdy gutters before the rain comes can minimize the damage a storm may cause.

Landscaping and drainage

Depending on the land your home is built, water runoff can accumulate around your foundation, and flood your homes. Fortunately, there are solutions with the right landscaping. Better pathways can be created for water runoff, guiding the water away from your home. If you have noticed puddles or water accumulation near your home when it rains, contact a professional to help, before a storm comes. That can make the difference in whether your home is damaged or not.

Damaged or Dead Trees 

Storm damage often occurs when a tree or limbs break off and falls onto a home. Snow and rain can weigh down trees, while wind can make them bend. If this happens to trees and limbs that are dead or damaged, there’s a high chance that they will break. Before the storm season comes, be sure to trim your trees, and remove all dead limbs.

How We Handle Commercial Losses

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to commercial restoration, New York City property managers want to leave nothing to chance. That's why they rely on professionals like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan.

What sets us apart from other restoration companies is our skilled technicians and the advanced equipment we use to take care of any-scale disaster. This use of professional equipment allows us to restore your Manhattan commercial property or retail business back to its preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.

Here are some of the unique tools we have to restore your property:

• An infrared camera may be used to identify hidden water locations for the thorough removal of moisture that is hidden from the naked eye.
• Sensitive moisture meters/detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation.
• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water from events like floods. 
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.
• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace.
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.
• Trailer mounted generators and desiccants (Large Commercial Air Dryer) provide power and large scale drying capabilities.
• Air Scrubbers that are able to filter the air of contaminants and fumes.
• The use of Thermal Foggers and environmentally-safe Deodorization Agents to leave a pleasant scent upon use.

You can count on SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan to take care of any size loss you may have, so you can put your commercial business back in order and get you back to doing what you do best--serving your customers!

Give us a call at 212-768-9400.

Spring Checkup: How to Inspect Your Property for Winter Damage

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

With a long winter behind us, New Yorkers can look forward to blooming flowers and spring cleaning. To make sure your home is in good shape, here are some tips to inspect for damage to save you money in the long term from property damage.

Even after a mild winter, it is critical to assess your property’s exterior to make sure the cold weather hasn’t left you with water damage. It is also important to react quickly and take the necessary steps to prevent property damage from compounding effect of rain showers to come this spring.

Winter weather can be hard on your residential and commercial property be sure to look for problems that frigid temperatures, snow and ice may have caused.

Winter storms are accompanied by lots of moisture – snow, freezing rain, ice, hail and wind. This can create common issues like ice dams, frozen pipes and frost heave that may cause damage to your home or business. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is always here to help resolve your property damage restoration needs quickly.

Our local disaster restoration services includes:

• Inspection and Assessment of any damaged areas
• Water Removal
• Water Extraction
• Drying and Dehumidification
• Cleaning and Repairs
• Restoration and Reconstruction, as necessary.

There are several common problem areas to inspect during spring for potential damage, including your roof and gutter system, foundation and yard, plumbing system and your property’s exterior. From the top down these areas could see potential damage from the worst that the winter elements can bring. 

From your roof to your plumbing, here are some signs of damage to look out for:

Roof and Gutter System Damage

The function of your roof and gutter system is to remove excess water from your property to prevent damage. High winds, hail and winter storms can tear off or destroy shingles and ice can obstruct the flow of water in gutters and downspouts, allowing water to breach the structure. Winter forces can cause obvious holes in your roof from wind or branches, but additionally less noticeable damage from hail or other debris can cause indentations and divots that overtime can lead to ice and moisture damage. Heavy buildup of ice on your roof can cause your gutters and downspouts to separate from your roofline, disrupting the flow of water and cause water intrusion and damage to the inside of your home or business. 

Window, Door and Exterior Damage

Cold temperatures, snow and hail can take a toll on the structure of your property including the windows, doors and exterior of your home or business. Without proper repair, peeling paint, cracks in sealant and other damage could lead to moisture infiltration and a water damage disaster. After winter passes, damaged paint should be removed, primed, sealed and repainted. Cracks and air leaks should be sealed and repaired to prevent more devastating damage later, and missing siding should be replaced before springtime showers arrive to prevent additional water and structural damages.

Foundation and Other Drainage Problems

Another potential casualty of winter weather is your foundation and yard. Hairline cracks in the concrete of a foundation that develop naturally over time can expand, causing major structural damage over time if not properly taken care of quickly. Water can find its way into cracks, freeze and make them larger during the frigid cold months of winter. Getting your foundation repaired in the spring can help prevent more problems from developing as time goes by. The best way to avoid foundation damage is to keep moisture moving away from your foundation. Each spring check your gutters and downspouts for debris or clogs, make sure they are functioning properly, and that they drain at least 10 feet away from your home. Make sure the ground around your home is graded away from your foundation and consider adding a rain garden to your property to combat a bigger problem.

Plumbing Damage

Another vulnerable system in your home or business that could be damaged from cold winter temperatures is your plumbing. To adequately deliver water to and from your sinks, boiler, and your plumbing system keeps the water forever flowing. However, during cold winter days and nights cracks and stresses can occur and eventually lead to leaks and pipe breaks that can have a damaging effect on your local commercial or residential property. Remember to survey your pipes regularly for cracks and leaks, paying closest attention to the pipes that are closest to the elements or in poorly insulated areas such as the basement or crawlspace, or outside walls and attics. Take this opportunity to add some additional insulation as a precautionary measure for the future winter weather to come.

Preventing Property Damage Starts With Routine Inspection

Taking a proactive approach to property damage starts with inspecting your property for damage. First and Secondary water damage is multi-faceted and can affect almost every area of your home or business which had water or flood intrusion. If you see any signs of suspected water damage or other types of property damage including mold, smoke, biohazard, your best course of action is to contact SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan. We are trained and certified to handle your water restoration, mold remediation, and other cleanup and property restoration needs. We can arrive quickly perform an inspection, and get you started on the road to recovery and restoration, “Like it never even happened.” 

Need help with Storm Damage? Give us a call at (212) 768-9400!

Thunder Storms: How to Prepare

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

We're Here to Help with any Storm Damage You Might Be Facing.

Thunderstorms have the potential to be very dangerous. Make sure you follow these tips to prepare  you and your household for a potentially dangerous storm. Thunderstorms happen often and can cause a lot of damage to your home. Of course, there are ways to help prevent or minimize any damage. To prepare for a Thunderstorm, you should do the following:

1. Build an emergency kit and make a family communication plan.
2. Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage.
3. Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
4. Stay inside your home or a secure building.
5. Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.

Some Thunderstorm Trivia You May Not Know:

• Thunderstorms can occur in clusters or in a line formation.
• A single thunderstorm can be very severe if the storm stays in place, pummeling a location for a prolonged time.
• Warm, humid conditions are highly favorable for development of Thunderstorms.

Dealing with Storm Damage? Call our team at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan for help!

Call us today - 212-768-9400

Proactive Cleaning and Disinfecting for your Business

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

Need General Cleaning and Disinfecting for Your Business?

We have all become aware that no matter where we live, every community must practice social distancing, frequent hand washing, and proactive cleaning in our workplaces.

At SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan our "everyday" is handling complex cleaning situations, including those where viruses and other pathogens are present.

We only work with hospital-grade, EPA-approved cleaning solutions. Our Certified Master Cleaning Technicians perform jobs every day where they may be confronted with bacteria, viruses, mold, and other pathogens. We know how to do this while keeping you and us safe.

You may wonder how our application techniques or products are different from what is available to the public.

• Commercial cleaning techniques are based upon years of scientific research to determine best practices. Concentrations of ingredients, the application process, temperature, and dwell times are studied for each situation. SERVPRO certified technicians know the formulas.
• Industrial-grade equipment provides a reliable distribution of cleaning agents
• Specific education establishes service standards and guidelines from the CDC, EPA, and OSHA/safety.

Take care of your business. Call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan at (212) 768-9400.

We Are Here to Help: Water or Fire Damage

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Are HERE TO HELP - (212) 768-9400.

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask a few questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at our SERVPRO corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Why Is There Water Damage in My Manhattan Office Building?

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Nobody has time for property damage, especially when you already have enough to deal with in the office.

Our SERVPRO technicians can thoroughly inspect the damaged area to find the source of water damage and restore your property to its original state. 

There are a multitude of reasons why water damage occurs, oftentimes it can come "out of nowhere", surprising property owners. Addressing these concerns begins by identifying the source of the damage, which can sometimes hide behind layers of a wall system or ceiling materials. In some situations, you might not be sure that a water loss incident exists until you can recognize some of the symptoms these incidents can leave behind.  

When you suspect water damage to your office building, you want to resolve this threat soon. Prolonged exposure to moisture or damp, structural elements allows for more compromising effects like deterioration or mold growth. Our SERVPRO technicians have a fast and thorough response that can help you to not only identify water losses and moisture, but dry up this damage to make it “Like it never even happened.” 

How Do You Identify Subtle Water Damage?  

When you are not sure that a water loss incident exists, how can you know for sure? Several indicative symptoms can showcase water or moisture, even if the majority of this damaged area exists behind surface materials in wall cavities or structural openings. You can start by looking for:  

• Yellowing – Drywall is one of the most common structural materials used in office spaces. While you do not typically have to worry about the metal framework becoming damaged by water, drywall can quickly and readily absorb moisture and water from a persistent leak. The surface around this water-damaged area of the sheetrock can often show yellowing in an uneven blotch. 

• Spotting - Prolonged exposure to moisture, or the unresolved saturation of materials, can facilitate mold growth in areas that you cannot see. The migration of mold colonies can show as spotting on the surface of the drywall, which can be multiple colors: black, green, blue, or even orange.  

• Material Deterioration – Sagging or damaged materials are often an excellent indication of water damage. As materials get saturated, they can become too heavy for screws or nails used to install them to support them. Sagging ceilings or bloated wall surfaces can indicate a substantial water loss concern. 

Is Professional Restoration Needed for Damp Drywall?  

With drywall being such a standard element to your entire office space, restoring it after a water loss is something that you want to address immediately. Because these materials can become irreparably damaged in often as little as 24 hours of exposure, controlled demolition and reconstruction is often the fastest and most reliable approach for overcoming damp drywall. Our SERVPRO professionals can help with restoring these damaged areas and elements in the office, as sheetrock can be a considerable challenge due to:  

• Structural Deterioration – Exposure to migrating water or moisture in any area of your office can allow for the bloating and deterioration of drywall surfaces.  

• Porous Surfaces – The sheetrock’s permeance and porosity make it one of the most susceptible structural elements to moving water or the presence of moisture in the environment.  

• Facilitate Mold Growth – Because drywall is an organic material, it can be a host for developing mold colonies. 

Is Damage Assessment Worth the Wait to Start Mitigation? 

When you believe that there is a problem with your office building, you owe it to your staff and your customers to address it as soon as possible. Rushing to get this done, however, might not be the best decision. A pre-job damage assessment conducted by our project manager can ultimately make the restoration more efficient and direct with accurate information and the appropriate recovery tools. Scoping a restoration project before it starts is helpful because:  

• Identify Existing Problems – Noting all the existing problems with our SERVPRO DryBook Software can keep our technicians, our customer, and their insurance company all on the same page regarding what must happen and the progress of our restoration process. 

• Content Assessment – Your office has many valuable items from its commercial-grade equipment and electronics, to individual desks, chairs, and other furniture. Our professionals can assess the damage to each of these items individually. 

• Recognize moisture Beyond the Surface – With sophisticated technologies and tools, such as thermal imagery and surface moisture meters, we can identify the presence of moisture pockets even beyond surface materials. 

• Label Pre-Existing Conditions - By meeting with the property manager of your office, we can determine areas that might have already been damaged or compromised before water losses. Directing our technicians at this loss incident alone can save time and money. 

No matter how subtle or blatant water losses might initially appear, they all must get addressed with effective drying and cleaning approaches as soon as possible. Our SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan can help 24/7/365 by calling (212) 768-9400. 

Going Home After A Fire Loss

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

It's daunting to return home after a fire. Feel safe and reassured, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan can restore your home safely to it's original state.

Trust SERVPRO to Clear, Clean, and Restore Your Manhattan Home

Fire can happen in any home in New York City. The resulting problems can be as mild as a coating of soot residues throughout a living room, or as severe as the destruction of load-bearing walls and other support structures. 

Is the Damage to My Home just Burned Property and Soot over Everything?

No. At SERVPRO, we understand that fire damage is more than just scorching and covering everything in ash and soot residues. If the fire burned for an extended time, flames could have reached the roof or burned deep into surrounding walls, and shattered windows. Fire Restoration Technicians also perform the following, protective tasks:

• Board up windows and doors
• Cover damaged roofs with tarps or plywood sheets
• Remove water left by fire-fighting efforts

Can SERVPRO make these Repairs as Well?

Absolutely! SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan has trained construction experts who can perform any repair and reconstruction effort except for complete replacement of your home.

No matter how small, or large, the fire; contact SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan to schedule a service call, inspection, or simply to ask questions. Call today at (212) 768-9400.

Fire Restoration in Manhattan

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

Save our Phone Number so you're better prepared in the case of any fire: 212-768-9400

Whether you have experienced them first-hand or not, fires can be extremely destructive. When out of control, they can completely destroy everything in their path, including your prized possessions, clothes, photos, and more. They can leave behind negative effects not only on buildings but your emotions as well. In the New York City area, many homes and businesses have become victims to fire and smoke damage. These events can be catastrophic and can cause you to feel as if there is no bringing your life back to normal. However, with SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan’s 24-emergency service, you can be certain that fire damage restoration is easily within reach. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan’s professionals specialize in Manhattan neighborhoods like Hell's Kitchen, Chelsea, Murray Hill, Kips Bay, Turtle Bay, and Gramercy Park if damages occur from fire, water and smoke.

Do not attempt to clean up from disasters on your own. Our professionals possess the expertise and resources to strategically restore your building or structure to its original condition, if not better. Let a professional service take away your stress and confusion. We empathize with you as we are skilled in this arena. We also possess the proper certification and equipment to effectively and thoroughly conduct a full restoration of the property. We carefully treat your space with attention and professionalism. 

Fires can spread rapidly so it is essential to enlist with using a professional restoration service immediately. We can respond quickly and greatly reduce more damage and costs you may have to pay for continued structural damages. Fire damage can also induce other damages such as water, odor and smoke. A skilled technician can help you with restoring damages associated with:

• Offensive Odors
• Fire
• Smoke
• Water
• Upholstery and Fabrics

These situations can accrue even more damage to your building costing you more time and money over time. You have the ability to remedy these issues by contacting a professional disaster recovery team near you; SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, 212-768-9400. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan helps cleanup and restore spaces to help you get back to “Like it never even happened.” 

What Can Affect Water Removal from Midtown Manhattan Homes?

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Dealing with water damage? Don't go it alone, our Midtown Manhattan team is here to help you with any size problem.

Our Team Has Highly Trained Technicians Who Can Troubleshoot Hard-to-Spot Water Damage Issues

No matter what type of water damage, the average person can have difficulty performing water restoration. Although each situation is unique in terms of determining the outcome, there can easily arise oversight of minor issues such as moisture movement can influence the experience negatively.  When SERVPRO responds to an incident at your Midtown Manhattan home, one of our responsibilities is to ensure that the job is done correctly by skilled technicians who can identify and treat your home.

Why is moisture movement hard to detect?

Moisture movement can complicate water removal from your Manhattan home by necessitating sophisticated removal procedures or demolition to reach hidden areas. Such steps lead to higher costs or lengthen restoration periods. 

The four main methods of moisture movement are:

• Liquid flow
• Capillary suction
• Air movement
• Vapor diffusion

Apart from liquid flow, which you can readily see, the other processes are hard to notice without the use of advanced techniques or tools. As the moisture moves, it transfers damage from the areas initially affected. It also causes further deterioration of materials.

What can stop moisture movement once water spills?

Although understanding that moisture movement is happening is useful, stopping the process is not that easy. Our SERVPRO technicians help by using several approaches, including:

• Expediting water extraction to limit the liquid flow
• Running dehumidifiers to manage humidity, limiting moisture spread through air movement
• Making flood cuts or removing wet materials to curb capillary suction

We have different types of water removal equipment, which ease removal under different circumstances. For instance, submersible pumps are perfect when the water pools deeper than 2 inches, while portable units help ease access to different sections of the property.

Taking these steps earlier helps minimize secondary damage caused by moisture migration. You can end up reducing costs involve or improve the turnaround time of the entire renovation task.

Water removal can run more smoothly with an experienced and well-equipped team at your side. Call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan at (212) 768-9400 to help. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Preparing for Winter Weather

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

Stay prepared with these winter safety tips!

When you are dealing with storm, flood, and water damage, immediate action is crucial. You should choose the company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. Here are some helpful tips that better prepare your home and business during these harsh winter months.  And remember to add our phone number to your contact list as your choice for emergency fire and water damage cleanup; 212-768-9400. 

Staying Prepared Tips

• Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pips for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it off.
• If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
• Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
• Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puffbacks.

 PREPARE YOUR BUSINESS:

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Inspect walkways, and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potentials.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas.
• Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
• Ask SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan about starting a Disaster Recovery Plan for your business.

How to Prevent Mold Returning

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

Don't waste any more time to getting rid of your mold. Follow these prevention tips to stop mold from returning.

Many NYC residents can feel overwhelmed by dealing with mold issues. Why? In addition to having to call and schedule a professional, many times mold growth can return to the same spot it was found. A very common issue for mold can still come back given the right conditions. Once mold removal has taken place, you may feel relieved, but it's important to learn from the mold outbreak. You should take the necessary measures to prevent the mold from returning.

1) Remove Any Sources of Standing Water

Any mold remediation expert can tell you that mold loves standing water. Even the smallest puddle of water can lead to an infestation. Before you end up having to call those mold removal experts again, keep an eye out for the places in your home where water is likely is end up. You might find it behind the sink, around the basement drains, or at any low point in the basement of your home. Wipe up any puddles that you find.

2) Make Sure That Your Indoor Humidity Is Less Than 45%

Mold likes to grow in humid conditions, Albany Park residents. If you can, keep your indoor humidity at less than 45%. There are things that you can do to help keep this humidity under control, such as using a dehumidifier to dry out the air. You can also open the windows on dry days to allow the air to circulate. Your mold removal experts, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, can provide additional tips, and even help you pick out the best dehumidifier for your home. Our technicians want to make sure that your mold is gone for good!

3) Know How Mold Spores Get In

Mold spores can get into your home through any damp, open source, such as an air conditioner. Even central air units that haven’t been cleaned and maintained properly can let this mold in. If you’re worried about re-contaminating your home, before the job is complete, ask us where the mold is likely to sneak in. We you know where to look and can stop it before it starts.

4) Understand What Mold Smells Like

Our technicians will tell you that the number one sign that your home or business has a mold problem is the way that your house or business smells. Manhattan residents, mold tends to have a musky, moldy (this is the best descriptor) smell. It’s very distinctive. Once you’ve smelled it the first time, you’ll be able to recognize it again and again.

5) Keep an Eye on the Areas Most Likely To Be Affected

We’ve already mentioned that there are certain parts of your Manhattan home or business that are likely to be affected by mold, such as those that attract standing water. However, you should keep an eye on your bathrooms, kitchen, and basement, especially in the laundry area. These are the places that mold remediation will focus on once the invasive spores have a chance to grow. Simply watching (and sniffing the air) in these areas can help you detect mold before it really becomes a problem.

Call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan today to discuss your mold remediation by calling our office at 212-768-9400

NYC Commercial Services

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

Enlist a vendor you can rely on. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is here for you

Running a successful business in New York City is hard enough, let alone during a pandemic. You have enough to do to keep your business running, so be sure that you have the best vendors possible to take care of your commercial property. Your time is better spent that having to figure out what to do about the inevitable wear and tear that gradually builds in your office over time. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, call in SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan professionals to help with your commercial cleaning projects.

Whether it’s disinfecting your offices, removing an odor problem or deep cleaning your HVAC/air ducts, you can rely on us to make your workspace look and feel its very best.

When you call 212-768-9400 you will be bringing in a quality contractor who carries these benefits:

• Award-winning training
• Over 50 years’ experience in the industry
• More than 100 exclusive cleaning products

Specialty Commercial Cleaning Services 

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan professionals offer cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. They have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Their cleaning services include the following:

1. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned:   Our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO of Ravenswood Professionals to bring a higher standard of clean to the places we gather.
2. Air Ducts and HVAC: If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating odors, dust, and other contaminants. We routinely inspect the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC).  Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment. This can, in turn, save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.
3. Biohazard: Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. We are trained to safely clean and remove biohazardous substances and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.
4. Ceilings, Floors, and Walls: Ceiling and wall cleaning should be part of the cleaning maintenance of your business. You should also clean walls before painting so that the primer and paint can adhere properly. Whether you are preparing to paint or just looking for professional cleaning, we can help.
5. Document Restoration: In the aftermath of a disaster, some of your most valued contents could be lost forever. As a leader in the restoration industry, we know that timely mitigation is the key to recovering damaged possessions. With years of experience and state-of-the-art technology, our restoration professionals will help you recover your paper goods before it’s too late.
6. Odor Removal:  As experts in deodorization, our professionals are trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. These odors can come from a number of sources both inside and outside a structure.
7. Sewage:  Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. Our team has specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage.
8. Trauma and Crime Scene:  After the police have finished processing a crime or accident scene, the cleaning and restoration process can begin. Many times, crime and accident scenes have biohazard contaminants that pose a serious health risk. We will respond immediately with protective equipment and experience to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.
9. Vandalism:  Vandalism and graffiti can be very upsetting. It can range from relatively minor pranks to malicious destruction of property. Often simple acts of vandalism, like breaking a window, can cause significant water and mold damage if not addressed in a timely manner.

No matter what your needs may be, we have a commercial a cleaning solution for you.  Call us today for more information or to set up an appointment –212-768-9400

Why Can't I Remove Water Myself In My Manhattan Home After A Flood?

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

Don't undergo cleanup alone after your water loss. Trust SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan to take care of your water loss right away!

Can SERVPRO return my home to it's pre-water loss conditions?

Water damage in your Midtown Manhattan home can be mitigated by our SERVPRO team. Homeowners and renters can rest assured, our team will be able to quickly fix and correct any water damage. The result? Your home will be as good as new!

Why can’t I just fix the water damage myself?

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan uses commercial-grade equipment in all of our New York City water losses. We have more resources and professional grade options than anything available at a home improvement or renovation shop. Our trained technicians also follow a careful process that ensures we do not miss anything and provide a safe environment once again.

1. Inspection and Assessment – Technicians and Project Managers examine the home to make certain we understand the damage extent and have the equipment needed for restoration.
2. Water Removal & Extraction – We use pumps and smaller vacuum units to draw out the majority of the water in your home.
3. Drying the Structure – Technicians use air movers and dehumidifiers to lower humidity and draw moisture out of structural property like wall framing and drywall.
4. Cleaning and Sanitizing – Specialists clean off any debris that may have been brought up by the water and deodorize restorable items.

If you have water in your home, contact SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan at (212) 768-9400 immediately. We are here to help you restore your home or apartment to a dry, safe condition.

Fire Safety: Space Heater Edition

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Don't take a chance with your space heater, New Yorkers! Use these tips to practice fire safety.

In the colder months of the year, New Yorkers look for ways to make chilly areas warm and comfortable. While space heaters can be useful to keep small areas warm, it’s very important to use them with caution. Using a space heater can be safe if you follow these simple recommendations.

Heating

• Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• Supervise children when a fireplace, fire pit, or other space heater is being used. Use a sturdy, metal screen to prevent contact burns, which are even more common than flame burns.
• All heaters need space. Keep things that can burn, such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.
• Use heating equipment that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• Never use your oven for heating.
• Install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment, according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
• Install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms to avoid risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.

Portable electric space heaters

• Turn heaters off when you go to bed or leave the room.
• Use and purchase portable space heaters with an automatic shut off so if they’re tipped over they will shut off.
• Place space heater on solid, flat surface.
• Plug power cords directly into outlets and never into an extension cord.
• Inspect for cracked or damaged, broken plugs or loose connections. Replace before using.

Fuel burning space heaters

• Always use the proper fuel as specified by the manufacturer.
• When refueling, allow the appliance to cool and refuel outside or in a well-ventilated area.
• When using the heater, open a window to ensure proper ventilation.
• In portable kerosene or other liquid-fueled space heaters, always use the proper grade of the proper fuel.
• All new unvented gas-fired space heaters have an oxygen depletion sensor that detects a reduced level of oxygen in the area where the heater is operating and shuts off the heater before a hazardous level of carbon monoxide accumulates. If you have an older heater without this feature, replace it.
• If the pilot light of your gas heater goes out, allow 5 minutes or more for the gas to go away before trying again, do not allow gas to accumulate, and light the match before you turn on the gas to the pilot to avoid risk of flashback.
• If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not attempt to light the appliance. Turn off all the controls and open doors and window. 

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is here to help you recover from any fire.  Our trained technicians will remove the smoke and soot from your home. Call us at 212-768-9400 for any fire restoration needs!

How to Put Out An Electrical Fire

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

An electrical fire can be devastating! Follow these tips to make sure that you and your loved ones stay safe!

Winter in New York means spending more time indoors where it's warm and using more electricity – to heat our homes, power devices that keep us entertained and light up our houses indoors and out during the holidays. 

Electricity is a hidden danger to the residents in your community. Because it is so frequently used, most people tend to underestimate the risk potential and dangers that come with electrical fires. 

In fact, one-third of all home structure fires stem from an electrical source, and because they tend to be difficult to identify, they are usually much more dangerous and destructive than other types of fires. Here at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, we want to share what you should do if an electrical fire starts in your home.

IF AN ELECTRICAL FIRE STARTS

1. Cut off the electricity. If the device that is causing the electrical fire is found, and you can reach the cord and outlet safely, unplug it. 

2. Add sodium bicarbonate. If the fire is small, you may put it out by smothering it with baking soda.

3. Remove the oxygen source. It may also be put out by removing the oxygen source with clothing or a heavy blanket if the fire is small and it is safe to do so.

4. Don’t use water to put it out. Water is a natural conductor of electricity and if you throw water on an electrical fire, you can get shocked or electrocuted. Also, water may enable to fire to spread by conducting electricity throughout the room and potentially igniting flammable materials.

5. Check your fire extinguisher. Electrical fires are a Class C fire, which means that you will need an extinguisher that is appropriate for this type of fire. Most residential fire extinguishers are multi-purpose and labeled ABC, but it is crucial to verify this before using it on an electrical fire. 

Keep These Tips Handy

In an effort to keep you and your loved ones safe, please keep these tips handy for combatting an electrical fire in the event of an emergency Knowing how to respond quickly could be the difference between a small fire and a devastating disaster. For fire restoration, call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan at 212-768-9400.

Boarding Up After A Fire

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

If your home or business has experienced fire damage, you may need to board up the premises for safety precautions.

In New York City, fires occur more heavily in the colder, winter months. It's important for New Yorkers to learn and prepare for what to do in case of a fire in their home or business--- and how to safely board up their home afterwards if needed.

After a fire occurs, buildings likely have windows or doors that are no longer secure. By boarding up, owners make sure that the building is secure.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan Professionals  can help with the board up. Our team of trained technicians will have both the tools and supplies to make your fire damage and your boarding up as easy and seamless as possible.

Assessing Damage

The first step after a commercial or residential fire loss is to have the damage has to be assessed by professionals. Whether there has been a fire in a home or in a business, owners need to take note of any and all damages that occurred. By calling a professional and keeping as much documentation as possible, it allows for your insurance company to cover your claim better and respond effectively.

Depending on the scope of the fire, the damage may be contained in one area or it may have throughout into multiple rooms. In assessing the building, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan technicians are able to note what has been damaged-- as well as structure stability of the building.

Focus on Fire Cleanup

Soot and smoke, damaged items that need to be cleared out or restored. Once a fire has come through your home, the results can be time-consuming and widely varies due to the scope of the fire and the method to which the fire was put out: foam, powder, water, etc. can determine how SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan professionals will proceed in cleaning up.

A major area of concern for New York City Property Managers, Tenants, and Homeowners are getting rid of the smoke scent and soot damage. If not taken care of right away by a restoration company like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, the smoke scent can linger and ruin your quality of life and the value of the property.

Call Us at 212-768-9400

Dealing with fire damage is difficult, which is why it's important to work with professionals who specialize in fire damage restoration. Call our office to schedule or to answer any questions you may have about fires.

Broken Pipes- What Homeowners Need To Know

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Broken pipes season is upon us. Here is everything you need to know in order to be prepared!

Burst Pipes: It happens more often than you would think. A burst pipe can cause NYC properties to flood in a short period of time, encompassing an entire property in just minutes. Many homeowners are overwhelmed with the water damage and often feel helpless.

While dealing with the effects of a broken pipe can be overwhelming, learning about broken pipes before an issue occurs can help NYC Property Owners take control and know what to do if it ever occurs in their home.

How Did My Pipes Break?

There are a variety of issues that can cause your pipes to break or burst. Common causes of pipe problems include:

• Rusted or old pipes
• Cold temperatures below 29 degrees F
• Improperly installed pipes
• A sudden increase in your pipes’ water pressure

Types of Damage

A burst pipe can have serious repercussions. One of them is mold growth. The growth of mold is a common issue in homes that have had pipe breaks. Why? Whenever there is moisture, there is the ability for mold growth. When a building undergoes pipe bursts, water damage is everywhere.

Additionally, building materials often deteriorate after a pipe break. Common surfaces that almost always need to be replaced upon water damage are laminate surfaces, drywall and subfloors.

The first thing a homeowner should do is call up a water restoration professional like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan. Technicians work to remove water and cleanup any signs of damage. The sooner our technicians are able to come in, the more confident you can be that your home is safe to come back to and no additional repair costs will accrue down the line.

Please note that a plumber is able to fix broken pipe and examine other pipes to check for widespread problems. Meanwhile, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan Restoration experts can focus on mitigating the damage that has already occurred and can help to restore furniture, documents, electronics and other items that could suffer.

Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Broken and Leaking Pipes?

Though insurance coverage may vary with individual policies, the majority of home insurance policies will generally cover the costs of broken or leaking pipes. If your apartment floods due to another tenant, it's important to get in touch with your insurance agency right away. It's important to connect with the other tenant to see if their policy will cover your property as well.

Some policies may not cover the costs of damage if it is not addressed right away. If broken pipes or other water damage occurs slowly over time, insurance companies will try to deny your claim.

Start Your Claim RIGHT Away

It's important to report right away, as most insurance companies will cover sudden breaks or leaks. To ensure you are fairly compensated, it can be helpful to provide your insurance company with documentation of the damage.

When a broken pipe results in a flood in your home, you may be unsure what to do next. By knowing what causes pipe breaks and what to do next can save homeowners both peace of mind and lower damage repair costs.

Give SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan a call at 212-768-9400 for immediate help for all water pipe breaks, frozen pipes, or other water damage issues. Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook!

How To Prevent Grease Fires

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Grease Fires are common and difficult to put out. Give us a call at 212-768-9400 for any fire restoration needs!

New York City is home to countless restaurants and cafes that deliver delicious meals and bites to New Yorkers everywhere. Unfortunately, a common type of fire known as a Grease Fire can occur and create extensive fire damage that can plague restaurant owners and those cooking at home.

Often beginning in the kitchen, a grease fire can quickly become a big disaster. Notoriously difficult to put out, grease fires can present themselves as a difficult issue.

The first reaction to a fire is to pour water on it, which for grease fires, can actually spread the fire and make it worse.

How do I put out a Grease Fire?

1. Turn off the heat. Make sure to not pick up the pan. Picking up the pan can cause the fire to quickly spread to you or spill onto other surfaces in the kitchen.
2. Put a lid on the pan to cut off oxygen to the fire. Once it has sufficiently cooled down, you will be to move and clean it.
3. If the fire gets out of hand, make sure to call 911 to get assistance right away from the FDNY.
4. NEVER pour water on an active grease fire or fan the fire. Both of these actions will only spread the fire.
5. Do NOT fan the fire with a dry or wet cloth, it can make it worse and spread the fire.
6. If all else fails, use a fire extinguisher to put out the flame.

How to Prevent A Grease Fire

1. Never leave your cooking unattended, always keep an eye on any pots or pans.
2. Make sure that you have a sufficiently sized lid for all of your cooking ware.
3. Heat the oils in your pans slowly, don't put your stove on the highest setting right off the bat.
4. Turn the heat off if you think your pans are getting too hot.

Due to the nature of a grease fire, it is highly recommended that you seek out the help of a professional like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan for fire restoration help. In addition to cleaning up any damage such as burned materials, soot, or grease, a professional can help your kitchen rid itself of the smoke scent.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan has the knowledge and decades of experience to help you quickly and effectively repair damage from a grease fire.

We hope these tips will help you prevent grease fires from occurring and practice fire safety in the kitchen. In case of any emergency, it's important to have the phone number of a fire damage restoration company on hand. Please call us SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan at (212) 768-9400.

Thank You To Our Team!

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Thank you to our incredible team!

We wanted to take a moment to share just how much we appreciate our team. The past year has shown extraordinary circumstances that have proven challenging for everyone from our customers to our dedicated staff. 

In the restoration industry, hard-working and dedicated employees are hard to come by. Our crew works in difficult conditions - cleaning homes after a fire, cleaning a COVID-19 positive office, dealing with a sewage backup, etc. They are also on call throughout the day, a large commitment that not all are willing to make to help others in their time of need.

Cleanup and Restoration also requires our technicians to be trained in a multitude of fields and to have the certifications necessary to work at our office. In addition to their service knowledge, our technicians also provide exemplary customer service to our customers- many of whom are distraught about their property damage or their safety.

Our technicians are an incredible group of people who show up day after day ready to help. They couldn't do their jobs, however, without the support of our office staff. In our office, the phones are always ringing and when our staff answers a call, they know that on the other end are people who might be in the midst of a challenging time.

The employees in our office are well versed in the in's and out's of the water, fire and mold damage restoration industry. They work hard every day to help our customers through the restoration process.

From our technicians on the field to the dedicated staff that helps to coordinate and schedule our jobs, we are so thankful. Cheers to everyone in our office as we celebrate this New Year!

Does Bleach Get Rid Of Mold?

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Bleach is not fully effective to treat mold. Professional-Strength products are needed to treat the source of mold and prevent it from returning.

It's a scenario we see (and hear!) often from customers. Before they call us in to solve their mold issue, they tried to clean it up themselves using bleach or other household cleaning products. At first, the mold seemed to disappear and the area appeared clean. However, the mold always comes back eventually.

Why can't I use bleach to clean up mold?

Mold can appear as small, dark spots under the bathroom sink or a large area of flooding in the basement. DIY mold cleanup can appear to be quick, easy and sanitary with the use of commercially sold cleaning products. However, these products only remove the surface of mold and can’t get at the roots.

Find out how to effectively remove mold in your NYC home today by reading below.

The Problem With Cleaning Supplies

The bottom line is that household cleaning products only solve the surface level issue, not the underlying cause.

Chlorine bleach is an effective way to remove mold from the surface, but here are a few reasons that it isn’t the way to correctly disinfect your building:

1. Chlorine can evaporate
2. Does not reach the roots of mold
3. Bleach can be dangerous if used improperly
   
   

Below we compiled some ways to properly cleanup mold and fungus for your home or office.

Effective Mold Removal

Fungus cleanup should start with an experienced cleanup company, like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan. While there are plenty of drugstore options for cleaning supplies, the only way to effectively get rid of mold is by having a professional company remove it with industrial strength cleaning materials.

Common DIY methods also include hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, borax and even tea tree oil are alternative ways to remove surface mold. However, deep cleaning requires industrial-strength biocides. These tough cleaning solutions aren’t easily available, but SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, a trusted mold remediation professional, has access to all the gear and cleaning supplies necessary to solve your mold issues.

Call our office at 212-768-9400 for quick scheduling to get your property properly cleaned of any mold or fungus. Avoid bleach or other harmful chemicals and don't attempt to clean it yourself. Choose our team at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan to provide the effective cleaning solutions and techniques that can target the roots of mold and leave your home looking better than ever!

COVID-19 Cleaning Services

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

We've been on the frontlines since the beginning of the pandemic in March. Call us at 212-768-9400 for disinfection services today!

New York City, We're Here to Help

As New York prepares for an uptick in cases and for the end of the Coronavirus pandemic, we wanted to remind our customers that we're still here to provide professional disinfection services. While a vaccine is being distributed, many in New York have been affected by the virus affecting the safety of themselves, co-workers, and loved ones.

At SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, we are specialists in cleaning services. Our team of technicians and project managers adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.  SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan has been busy cleaning facilities or all types including hospitals, schools, restaurants, and government offices.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or office requires a disinfection service, give us a call at 212-768-9400.

How SERVPRO Can Help Improve Your Business

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Cleaning can take your business to the next level. Contact us today to schedule your workspace at 212-768-9400

A clean work area is characteristic of a successful business. It's an old adage that still rings true today, especially in a city as productive (and competitive!) as New York City. To others it might sound silly, but successful business owners know to look for opportunities to improve and limit waste. To have a properly cleaned office, it's worth looking into professional commercial cleaning services like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan.

Below are FIVE reasons why enlisting a commercial cleaning service like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan can help your business save money and cut margins.

Reduces The Need To Replace Office Supplies and Equipment As Often

When grime is left to build up, it puts more wear-and-tear on your office equipment. Keyboard keys get stuck, the small hole on an office chair becomes a large rip, and countertops and flooring show many dark stains. Replacing items cost more than repairing them. With regular cleaning, professionals can catch these potential problems before they cost you more.

Find And Fix Damage Before It Becomes A Serious Problem

Regular deep cleaning is like a regular check-up to your doctor's office. Regularly scheduled deep cleaning can help catch problems in your office that would otherwise go unnoticed. Problems such as water and mold growth from hidden water leaks are best fixed in the early stages. The longer commercial water damage is allowed to continue, the higher the cost of repairs.

Water and mold damage restoration is also important for your employee’s health. Mold spores are a well-documented pollutant and may even be a violation of health codes. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is the local specialist for commercial mold remediation, with technicians on staff 24/7 to take care of your business.

Encourages Productivity

Did you know that a dirty environment affects daily production? Offices that are left uncleaned can become cluttered and grimy, making it difficult to concentrate on the tasks at hand.

By hiring a commercial cleaning company to take care of this for you and let your employees get back to work.

Improves Customer Satisfaction

A clean work area contributes to a happy and stress-free environment. Not surprisingly, when your team members are happy and satisfied with their job, they deliver better customer service. And when your customer service is top-notch, so are repeat business and referrals! 

Reflects Trustworthiness

When customers walk into your business, what impression are you giving them --an impression of an honest and successful business or a failing business in disrepair?

Dusty light fixtures, scuff marks on the tile flooring, and water-stained walls needing water damage restoration are subtle ways to lose your customer's trust. Put your best foot forward and keep your customer loyalty by hiring a local New York City cleanup & restoration company that also does commercial cleaning.

By the way, these business improvements can be seen in various types of commercial and public buildings. Whether you’re a school, church, restaurant, gym, or warehouse, you’ll find that a clean and hygienic environment will benefit you and your team. Call us SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan today and let us help you improve your business.

Signs of Water Damage

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Follow These Tips to Avoid Water Damage! Need Water Restoration Services? Call us at 212-768-9400!

Most New York City homeowners state that its important to have a home inspection before moving in to their apartment, townhouse, or home. But, many of us neglect to investigate homes where we lived in years for signs of structural damage. In particular, it is critical to pay attention to signs of water damage.

For a property owners especially, water damage to their residential property is the biggest headache and consumes an enormous amount of time to resolve with the wrong restoration company

Here are signs you should look for to spot water damage early on.

1. Changes in Floors, Walls and Ceilings

Many homeowners don’t notice the changes to structural elements. They are hard to spot in familiar surroundings even if you are good at cleaning up and upkeep. When water damage is on the cards, you can observe dry walls or ceiling being flaky. This condition if left unchecked, can become bloated. Tiles made of ceramic material often develop mold and cracks in the grout when damage by water.

2. Running water sounds

Water damage isn’t always visible but make noticeable sounds. Drips, creaks in the floorboards and the sound of constantly running water may be signs that you need repairs. Small drips can result in holes in your concrete foundation, threatening the structure of the entire home.

3. Increasing water bills

A sudden surge in utility bill is an ideal indicator of water damage on such occasion. Ensure to check the visible pipelines and faucets in the house for any leaks. If you fail to find leaks in the visible areas, consider the possibility of water damage inside walls.

If you spot any sign of water damage, call a plumber as soon as possible. You need to inspect you home regularly for signs of water damage to protect your family and your property.

Always treat a water damage seriously. Call in a professional like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, we will work for you to restore your property.

 If you notice water damage in your property, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan at (212) 768-9400.

Water Damage Classes

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Learn about different classes of water damage from the experts at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan

Did you know that there are different classes of water damage? SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan technicians are well versed in this IICRC classification system, and we wanted to share so you can be better informed in case you ever have to deal with water damage in your home or workplace!

Classes of Water Damage Losses are determined by the rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected by water damage to your property. Determining the Class of Water is an important first step and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to restore your business. Here are four IICRC water damage classifications:

Class 1 - Slow Evaporation Rate 
Water losses that affect only part of a room or area, or losses with lower permeance/porosity materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, vinyl composition tile or VCT, concrete). Little or no wet carpet or cushion is present. Minimum moisture is absorbed by materials, releasing moisture slowly.

Class 2 - Fast Evaporation Rate 
Water losses that affect an entire room or carpet and cushion. Water has wicked up walls 12" - 24". There is moisture remaining in structural materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, concrete).

Class 3 - Fastest Evaporation Rate
Water may have come from overhead. Ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet, cushion and sub-floor in the entire area are saturated.

Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations
These consist of wet materials with very low permeance/porosity (hardwood, plaster, brick, concrete, stone, and crawlspace). Typically, there are deep pockets of saturation, which requires very low specific humidity.

Dealing with water damage? Don't go it alone! Call our office at 212-768-9400 for immediate assistance.

Appliances That Can Cause Water Damage

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Routine Maintenance of your Household Appliances Can Save You Time and Money!

A common cause of water damage are leaks, spills, or flooding from common household appliances in NYC homes. To ensure that your appliances are in good working condition, we suggest that you get all of your appliances checked at a minimum of once a year. 

Home appliances that need to be checked  

Washing Machines 

When a home washing machine happens to have a small leak, it can appear to be a small issue. Although a small leak seems to be a minor, it should not be ignored. We have experienced small pinhole leaks in a water supply line that have broken out into an all-out basement flood. For best safety practices to prevent water damage, it is best to check the connecting hoses leading to your washing machine a couple of times per year.

In some cases, our customers install an automatic shutoff valve to the water supply line for their washing machines. A shut off valve can help save a home from 500 gallons of water damage. Most water shut off valves on washing machines work because they automatically shut the water entering the washing machine once a full cycle is complete. The valve will remain closed until the next person is looking to wash the laundry. 

Refrigerators

We all appreciate the convenience of an automatic ice maker in our kitchens. But did you know it can also be the culprit of household floods? Our SERVPRO crews have had to clean water damages caused by the water line that supplies an ice maker. When the water lines get damaged, they can leak or, worse yet, become completely unattached. We know it might be a hassle to get behind your home's refrigerator, but it is essential to waterline periodically for crimps and make sure the valve connection is secure. We recommend our customers leave a four-inch gap between the refrigerator and the wall for safety from water damage. This will allow easy access to pull out the fridge and prevent future crimping in your water line.

Dishwashers

The last known home appliance that can cause severe water damage comes from dishwashers. This household appliance has a supply line just like refrigerators and washing machines. If a dishwasher water supply line was to burst, you could guarantee that your kitchen will be filled with water after a wash and rinse cycle. In some of our more severe water damages caused by dishwashers, we have seen a dishwasher back up. Backup typically occurs when debris has clogged the drain, and the water has nowhere to go but inside your home. 

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan highly recommends annual, routine inspection of the hoses and connections for your appliances. Doing so can save homeowners significant repair costs instead of handling a water loss claim.

If your Manhattan home falls victim to a water emergency, time is of the essence. Contact SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan at 212-768-9400 for immediate water restoration assistance. 

Smoke Damage After A Fire

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Dealing with Fire Damage? Leave it to SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan!

A fire in your home can be devastating and lead to an enormous mess of soot, smoke, and debris. In some cases of a minor fire in the home, many people attempt to clean up the damage themselves. Unfortunately, that is never a good idea. Cleaning up smoke and soot damage requires professionals like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan to do the job.

Any home, apartment, or house that has been burned in a fire is typically not safe to enter or spend time in until cleanup occurs. Besides the danger of inhaling the smoke/soot, there can be structural damage. The integrity of walls and floors may have been damaged along with other hazards. That's why it's very important not to enter the home until professionals tell you it is safe to do so.

After the firefighters leave, it's important to quickly call a fire restoration company like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan right away. Ash and smoke, if left untreated, will cause corrosion, discoloration and a lingering powerful and offensive odor. Ash, specifically, will start causing damage and discoloration almost immediately and the damage may be permanent and irreversible. Anything that was made of plastic will begin discoloring within minutes. Metals will easily tarnish and corrode and fiberglass will begin to yellow.

If you get fire damage restoration professionals in soon enough after a house fire, they can mitigate or eliminate the smoke and ash damage from the fire and prevent further damage to your property. Unfortunately, if you don’t get the pros in early, the damage becomes worse and worse and the costs to repair will begin to skyrocket within just a few weeks!

Know Who to Hire

Many companies claim to be fire damage restoration specialists, but they may not actually have the proper training and certification to do the job. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the primary oversight agency for the industry. Companies recognized, registered and certified by the IICRC will have taken extensive coursework to earn their certification.

What a Trained and Certified Fire Damage Restoration Professional Does

A trained and certified fire damage restoration professional will first identify all affected materials and the source of odors, if possible. They will be extremely thorough. They will identify what can be salvaged and cleaned and what cannot be and must be completely replaced. They will then begin the clean-up process by removing built-up ash residue. Once the ash is cleaned, they can better identify the sources of odors, which they will treat with special detergents made to neutralize the odors. Once fire damaged materials are treated, they will be sealed to prevent future odors from emitting into your home.

For fire restoration services, call us at 212-768-9400 for immediate scheduling and service to your property.

Fire Safety: Candle Edition

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Candles are a beautiful, yet potentially dangerous edition to any home. Here's why!

While candles are beautiful and a wonderful edition to any apartment, a lit candle is also an open flame. Candles are a potential fire hazard if not carefully monitored when lit. In fact, an estimated 8,200 home fires are started by candles each year according to the National Fire Protection Association.

A study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests that 85 percent of candle fires could be avoided if consumers followed three basic safety rules:

• Never leave a burning candle unattended.
• Never burn a candle on or near anything that might catch fire.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
• Never use water to extinguish a candle. 
• Never use a candle as a night light or while you may fall asleep.

Those are our candle fire safety tips! Despite taking caution and being careful, mistakes can happen. If you do experience fire damage, give us a call at 212-768-9400.

Fire Safety: Space Heater Edition

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Here are some safety tips for your space heater so you can stay safe and warm this winter!

In the colder months of the year, New Yorkers look for ways to make chilly areas warm and comfortable. While space heaters can be useful to keep small areas warm, it’s very important to use them with caution. Using a space heater can be safe if you follow these simple recommendations.

Heating

• Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• Supervise children when a fireplace, fire pit, or other space heater is being used. Use a sturdy, metal screen to prevent contact burns, which are even more common than flame burns.
• All heaters need space. Keep things that can burn, such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.
• Use heating equipment that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• Never use your oven for heating.
• Install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment, according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
• Install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms to avoid risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.

Portable electric space heaters

• Turn heaters off when you go to bed or leave the room.
• Use and purchase portable space heaters with an automatic shut off so if they’re tipped over they will shut off.
• Place space heater on solid, flat surface.
• Plug power cords directly into outlets and never into an extension cord.
• Inspect for cracked or damaged, broken plugs or loose connections. Replace before using.

Fuel burning space heaters

• Always use the proper fuel as specified by the manufacturer.
• When refueling, allow the appliance to cool and refuel outside or in a well-ventilated area.
• When using the heater, open a window to ensure proper ventilation.
• In portable kerosene or other liquid-fueled space heaters, always use the proper grade of the proper fuel.
• All new unvented gas-fired space heaters have an oxygen depletion sensor that detects a reduced level of oxygen in the area where the heater is operating and shuts off the heater before a hazardous level of carbon monoxide accumulates. If you have an older heater without this feature, replace it.
• If the pilot light of your gas heater goes out, allow 5 minutes or more for the gas to go away before trying again, do not allow gas to accumulate, and light the match before you turn on the gas to the pilot to avoid risk of flashback.
• If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not attempt to light the appliance. Turn off all the controls and open doors and window. 

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is here to help you recover from any fire.  Our trained technicians will remove the smoke and soot from your home. Call us at 212-768-9400 for any fire restoration needs!

Cleaning Up Smoke and Soot After Home Fire

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

Call (212) 768-9400 for any and all fire restoration needs in the NYC area

In the aftermath of a fire comes the cleanup process. A fire in your home or apartment is already traumatizing and mired in fear and frustration. A part of that cleanup process is removing the resulting smoke and soot.

While smoke removal may seem like a straight-forward process, but removing smoke damage from anything can be tricky. Every surface affected by the fire can retain that strong, stale smoke. Difficult to remove and very nauseating for those having to be in the room, leaving headaches or other health issues.

Not to worry, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan has a lot of experience in fire restoration, so we would like to share our methods to cleaning up smoke damage after a home fire.

Cleaning Smoke Damage

After a fire, there can be a lingering odor in your home. This scent cannot be masked with air fresheners or perfumes. Before beginning the fire damage cleanup and restoration process, you can begin with the following:

• Stop the soot and ashes from spreading by shutting off the A/C and opening all doors and windows to allow the fresh air to circulate throughout the home.
• Set up an air purifier. Allow it to run throughout the entire process to protect the air quality in your home.

If you haven’t already reached out to your local fire damage cleanup company, like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, then give us a call at 212-768-9400 and setup an appointment to scope your home and begin restoration.

Signs You're In Good Hands

Choose a certified fire restoration company to ensure your home is taken care of as soon as possible. This company should have well-trained and IICRC-certified techs that have a lot of experience, like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan.

Call the Smoke Damage Cleanup Experts

Often times, most people find the process to completely eliminate smoke odor after a home fire is just too time consuming and tedious. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is here to help and with our advanced, state of the art equipment, we get it done right the first time.

What's more, our highly skilled techs are sympathetic to the tragedy of a house fire and understand that communicating effectively with you is important. We also work with your insurance company from start to finish, to ensure peace of mind for all parties. Don't wait! Give us a call today at (212) 768-9400!

What is the difference between Mold Removal and Remediation?

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Indoor mold growth should be remediate immediately

Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy.

Some mold spores will be found floating through the air and in house dust. The mold spores will not grow if moisture is not present. Indoor mold growth can and should be prevented or controlled by controlling moisture indoors. If there is mold growth in your home, you must have it cleaned and fix the water problem. If you have the mold remediated, but don't fix the water problem, then, most likely, the mold problem will come back.

At SERVPRO Midtown Manhattan we have the tools and training to quickly remediate the mold in your home or business. We only send out trained technicians to handle to work on our projects.

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same.

• Step 1: Emergency Contact (212) 768-9400
• Step 2: Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
• Step 3: Mold Containment
• Step 4: Air Filtration
• Step 5: Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
• Step 6: Cleaning Contents and Belongings
• Step 7: Restoration

If you suspect mold in your home or business contact SERVPRO Midtown Manhattan(212) 768-9400 so we quickly remediate your mold problem!

Source: www.epa.gov/mold

How we train our Technicians at SERVPRO

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO STAFF TRAINING CENTER

At SERVPRO we take pride in sending highly trained technicians to service our Midtown Manhattan locations.Each of our technicians are IICRC Certified and are required to maintain that certification. Our technicians are trained to look for damages that may not be visible to the naked eye and utilize state-of-the-art equipment to locate damages.

Our training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

IICRC Training and Certification

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Employee Certification Training

The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Initial Franchise Training

A 15-day hands-on course at the SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility is the foundation of the SERVPRO training program. This course is primarily for new Franchise owners and covers many restoration topics:

• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
• Mold Mitigation

e-Learnings

All of our staff have access to web-based training. This voluntary program is designed to be an ongoing, self-paced coaching series for a Franchise's employees. Video presentations and support materials are followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module. This keeps our technicians and office staff up to speed on industry standards and the professional quality you expect.

Book a trained SERVPRO technician at (212) 768-9400

Employee Test Positive for COVID-19? Here's What You Need To Do!

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

Protect Employees from COVID-19

Employees who exhibit symptoms at work or become sick during the day should immediately be separated from other employees, customers, and visitors and sent home. Employees who develop symptoms outside of work should notify their supervisor and stay home.

Sick employees should follow CDC-recommended steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Employees should not return to work until they have met the criteria to discontinue home isolation and have consulted with a healthcare provider.

Employers should not need sick employees to provide a COVID-19 test result or healthcare provider's note to validate their illness, qualify for sick leave, or return to work. Healthcare provider offices and medical facilities may be extremely busy and not able to provide such documentation in a timely manner. After following all the recommended CDC guidelines;

• Contact a SERVPRO Consultant for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned COVID Cleaning! We have developed expertise from cleaning up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable, including confirmed COVID-19 locations.
• Asses all areas used/accessed by the infected Employee/s
• Schedule a Covid Cleaning with your local SERVPRO provider (SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan 212-768-9400)

Workers without close contact with the person who is sick can return to work immediately after disinfection.

If more than 7 days since the person who is sick visited or used the facility, additional cleaning and disinfection is not necessary.

 Continue routing cleaning and disinfection. This includes everyday practices that businesses and communities normally use to maintain a healthy environment.

*cdc.gov, https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fs351

Thanksgiving Safety Tips - Pandemic Edition

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is here to help you navigate safety tips to let you make the most out of your holiday in 2020

Thanksgiving is the one of the biggest days of the year for fire loss started from kitchen fires. In addition, many homeowners are anxious about hosting Thanksgiving festivities amidst a pandemic.

We here at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan want to share what YOU need to know to stay safe from fires and COVID-19 this year.

Wonder what you can do to stay safe and keep your kitchen under control? Follow these simple safety tips on preventing fires. In addition, due to widespread fear on the pandemic we have also included some safety tips to help prevent the spread of the virus.

Fire Safety Tips

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stove top so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking and check on frequently on your dishes.
• Keep children away from the stove by at least 3 feet.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

COVID-19 Safety Tips

• Bring your own food, drinks, plates, cups, and utensils.
• Wear a mask and safely store your mask while you are eating and drinking.
• Avoid going in and out of the kitchen or any other food-preparation areas.
• Use single-use options, like salad dressing and condiment packets.
• Suggestion? Host a small outdoor meal with family and friends who live in your community.
• Try to keep your guest list minimal.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and items between use.
• If celebrating indoors, bring in fresh air by opening windows and doors to allow circulation.
• Limit the number of people in food preparation areas.
• Have guests bring their own food and drink.
• If sharing food, have one person serve food and use single-use options, like plastic utensils.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is here for all of your cleanup and fire restoration needs. Make sure that you're practicing fire safety this Holiday season and exercising extra precaution with company this year.

Fear that you were in contact with an individual who has COVID-19? It's better to be safe than sorry! For any questions or to schedule, give us a call at 212-768-9400.

Find Mold In Your Apartment? Here's What You Need To Know

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

Mold is a health hazard and should be remediated as soon as it is detected!

One of the most common calls we get here at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is to remove mold from properties here in the city. Mold is not a minor issue, it is a top environmental hazard. Mold begins to grow in warm, damp areas. The perfect place for growth is in basements, attics, and other dimly-lit areas of a property with poor ventilation and high humidity.

No rental property is immune from a mold outbreak. Common causes include an unattended spill, faulty plumbing, open window during a rain storm, or an appliance that has a leak. Whatever the reason is, it's important to be prepared!

Remember, whether you own or manage a rental property in New York, mold is an issue that can add up to an expensive bill and a lengthy cleanup. Landlords are also subject to lawsuits from neighbors if the mold spreads to their apartment.

Gather evidence and report it

Mold is found by scent or sight, you should be able to see the off color dots that will line up on surfaces. If you do have mold in your home, you are usually able to locate it on sight so make sure you take a photo of the mold. You'll want the evidence to show to your landlord or property manager.

First, call them to explain the issue immediately. You will need to refer to your lease but most states require owners to remove mold at their own expense as soon as they are notified. After you have a conversation about the problem, send the photos their way so you can start working on a plan to get the mold out of your apartment.

After you get in touch with your property manager/landlord, call a Mold Remediation Expert. A local expert in taking care of mold, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan works closely with several buildings and property managers to ensure quick and easy removal of mold. All it takes is one call, and we will be able to dispatch technicians to come remediate your mold issue. Give us a call at (212)768-9400 to get rid of your mold NOW!!

What Causes Burst Pipes and What Should I Do??

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

Pipes bursting are a common issue for NYC homeowners and tenants in the colder months.

What Causes Burst Pipes?

Burst pipes are a common occurrence in New York City as the colder months set in. Many residents and workers are in buildings where the pipes are potentially older than their grandparents! It sounds like a car backfiring, this loud pop sound, when these water pipes burst. The result is major flooding in the home and structural damage problems for homeowners. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan has compiled a list of the four main reasons why burst pipes occur:

1. Frozen Pipes
2. Moving Pipes
3. Water Pressure
4. Corrosion

Frozen Pipes

In the Winter months, serious issues arise for the water supply pipes in the home. Cold temperatures generally cause contraction to occur. Ice has more volume than water, so when water freezes inside a pipe it expands and increases pressure inside the pipe. The pressure builds, and needing to escape it’s forced to burst out of the pipe. The burst will occur at the weakest point in the pipe, with pressure bursting right out of the side of the pipe wall.

To prevent frozen pipes, make sure that your home never goes below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Open your cabinet doors below the sink to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes as well.

Moving Pipes

Pipes can actually move around within the walls if they’re not properly secured AND the water is suddenly turned on or off. One way to know for sure is if you can hear your water pipes making noise inside the walls or floors. If your pipes sound like they’re clanging against each other, it’s called a water hammer. What you’re hearing is that the pipes are moving back and forth due to not being held into place properly. Gradually, these pipes become weakened in the joints until one pipe fails and pressurized water has a crevice to escape from. This causes the water pipe to break and flood an entire floor within a few moments!

Water Pressure

Water pressure must be kept at a normal setting in order for your water supply pipes to function properly. Any noticeable increase in the water pressure can translate to a burst pipe. It can also lead to a sink, toilet, or tub. As pressure increases, the pipes will cave in and separate, causing a rupture. Think your water pressure is getting too high? Here’s what to do!

1. Monitor it by attaching a pressure gauge to a sink spout and turning on the faucet. The pressure will move the needle on the gauge and display the water pressure in psi (pounds per square inch). 

• The water pressure in most homes is between 30-50 psi to avoid damage to pipes and plumbing fixtures.

1. If your home’s water pressure is too high, a SERVPRO technician can install a pressure reducing valve to bring it down to safer levels.

CORROSION

Pipes are meant to last a long time and provide decades worth of reliable service, but they aren’t able to last indefinitely. Over time, buildings experience corrosion which can mean that pipes will show signs of failure or decay. Corrosion is caused by an imbalance of pH in the water. At first, this seems to be a minor issue, but it takes its tolls on the pipes over the years. 

Many water supply pipes are made of galvanized iron, the minerals inside the water slowly wear down the galvanized coating and expose the iron pipe beneath. In time, the iron turns to rust and gradually clogs the interior of the pipe which prevents water from getting through. As a result, your pipe may burst or the water flow may be stopped entirely.

What Should I Do Now?

If you experience a burst pipe, the first step is turn off the Water Main. Then, be sure to call a professional from SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan to remediate the water damage and to determine the cause of the burst pipe. Why is it important? Early detection and annual checkups can help prevent this issue from happening again in the future. Our team of experienced water remediation technicians are able to assist in giving tips for preventing water damage in addition to offering cleanup services.

If this happens to your building, don’t worry. Our team will be on site as soon as possible to start removing water and determining the source of damage to prevent future disasters. We know that burst pipes are unexpected and downright terrifying, but leave it to us to get it fixed promptly. We’re able to remove water quickly so you won’t have to replace everything and you can go back to your daily routine as soon as possible.

Trust the #1 Name in Water Restoration for New York City and call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan at (212)768-9400 for water restoration needs.

Why Fall is the Season for Duct Cleaning

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Trust our team members to clean your HVAC system. Remember, clean ducts = clean air!

Fall is a time for hot drinks, sweaters, apple cider donuts --- and duct cleaning! SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan believes it is important for businesses and homeowners to schedule a duct cleaning for their HVAC (Heating, ventilation & air-condition) system each year.

The Case for Annual Duct Cleaning

Over the course of a year, dust, mold and various toxins can grow rampant within your air ducts. This causes the air quality in the structure to drop significantly. Our SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan professionals are professionally trained and equipped to perform this necessary service for residential and commercial properties.

Other Benefits of Annual Duct Cleaning

It is SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan's mission to prevent mold, fire and water damage wherever possible. Duct cleaning services give our technicians the ability to inspect the ducts for signs of damage or even microbial growth. If damage is discovered, it can be fixed quickly.

The Biggest Reason for Air Duct Cleaning?

Everyone who comes through your door deserves clean air to breathe in. Case closed. Whether it is a customer, your family, or your co-workers. Once cleaned and inspected, you can guarantee that the air you breathe is clean and pure. Call our office at (212) 768-9400 to book your air duct cleaning today!

Fall Edition: Home Maintenance Tips For Your Home

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Fall is a time to truly enjoy the scenery around you --- and also to prepare for winter!

When Autumn rolls around, it becomes the perfect time to tidy up and prepare your home for the chilly months to come. It’s an ideal time to get work done before shorter days and ice prevent you from taking proactive measures. On the list below, we have gathered information on what you can do to make sure your home is in great shape all season round this Autumn.

1. Take care of your trees

Make rounds throughout your front and backyard to make sure that your trees and bushes are in good condition and under control. Taking care to prune any precarious branches now will prevent any falling limbs once winter storms come along. Winter storms have been known to take down many tree limbs in the area, so it’s smart to tidy up before it becomes a headache later. 

Did you know that SERVPRO of Southern Staten Island can take care of trees or other debris that fall on your property? We’re experienced in removing dead trees, whether they fall on your house or on your yard.

2. Rake your leaves

This tip seems intuitive, but many people love the look of fallen leaves on their yards. What they don’t realize is that leaves left throughout the season on your lawn, can prevent spring growth. Whether you use a leaf blower or a rake, just be sure to gather all leaves.

Pro-Tip: Be sure to wear gloves to make sure you don’t damage your hands.

3. Clean out your gutter

During the later part of Fall (like November) be sure to clear out your gutters and downspouts. The reason? Clogged gutters can cause water to pool, which can damage your roof or siding. By cleaning it out, you’re making sure that your outdoor drainage system is in peak condition before winter comes along.

4. Add Weatherstripping

Applied to the frames of any door or window, weatherstripping is an easy way to make sure your home is warm and your heating bills are cut. Also, consider adding a door sweeps to your doors leading to the outside (front, back, garage, etc) to make sure that a draft doesn’t follow you when you enter or exit.

Still feel like your energy bills are high? SERVPRO of Southern Staten Island has expert technicians who are certified to check your Heating units for optimal use.

5. Take down the window A/C units.

Summer is now behind us, so be sure to box away all of your air conditioning units. Can’t remove them? Then cover the entire exterior with an insulating wrap (Easily found at any hardware store) This will prevent cold air from coming into your home.

6. Clean Your Dryer Vents

The lint that collects in your dryer is actually dangerous. Besides making your dryer less efficient, it can actually start a fire. With cool, dry weather comes an increase in static electricity. The result? That lint collecting in your dryer can catch on fire. Reduce the risk by hiring a SERVPRO professional to clean out the vents for you.

7. Schedule a chimney and heating system check-up

Getting ready to turn up the heat? First, make sure that your chimney, furnace, and boiler are cleaned, maintained, and in working order. It’s a crucial safety measure that should not be taken lightly.

Pro-tip: Invest in a chimney cap: they prevent animals like racoons from entering your home.

8. Deep clean your kitchen

With Thanksgiving around the bend, it’s a great time to give your kitchen a deep clean. This makes sure that your space is not only efficient, but looking good too! Some areas to look out for:

• Clean the oven
• Vacuum the refrigerator coils
• Clean light fixtures
• Wash out your garbage and recycling bins
• Clean small appliances
• Degrease and wipe down the range hood and filter

9. Check Your Smoke Detector

The cooler months are when fires are most likely to occur, with heating systems and fireplaces being used. Take special care to test smoke AND carbon monoxide detectors. Also, make sure you have a current fire extinguisher (i.e. not expired!) Use precaution, by checking on these safety devices, you are proactively taking care of your entire home!

If there is ever IS a fire in your home, be sure to contact SERVPRO of Southern Staten Island to take care of any damage. As always, we encourage our community to be safe and take all caution.

10. Prepare for Winter: Get supplies!

The New York area is prone to some harsh winter. Be sure to prepare well in advance to make sure that your home is stocked up for whatever weather comes your way! Here are some important items to make sure you have on deck:

• Snow Shovels, Ice Scrapers
• Ice melt
• Emergency Kits (One for each car, one for your home)

That’s our list! Fall is, arguably, the most beautiful season for us in the Northeast. Leaves falling, crisp air all around. In between pumpkin patches, apple picking, and drinking spiced lattes, make sure that you give your home some TLC. 

Let us know which of our 10 Maintenance Tips you will try out first by tagging us on social media. 

What you should know about reopening protocol for Gyms and Fitness Facilities

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Shield

Five months after New York City shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, gyms and fitness centers are finally set to re-open. Luckily, those looking to stay active have taken advantage of the warm weather, working out at the park or running in the streets. While a delight for some, many have wondered when they will be able to return to their building or neighborhood's local gym. As September arrives, many New Yorkers have begun to wonder where they will go to stay active once the temperature drops this Fall. 

Suffice to say, it has not been an easy journey for fitness centers to get the green light to reopen. There were several delays in order to allow adequate time for required local health department virtual inspections. The result of which put many gyms, in particular small family-owned, out of business.  The Governor’s announcement that health clubs could reopen came with several caveats, subject to rigorous health and safety standards including that facilities be limited to the third of their capacity and face masks be worn at all times. 

To accommodate physical distancing and create a safe environment, gyms are requiring members to book up to seven days in advance with the right to implement more stringent policies for members who repeatedly miss their booked visits.  Before each club visit and check-in, you must acknowledge and consent to a health declaration an hour prior to your scheduled check-in time, if you are experiencing any symptoms you will not be permitted in the club.  Temperature checks will be required upon each entry to the clubs and a strict no quests policy will be enforced. Classes are indefinitely suspended. 

Though there are many new specific rules in place for public gyms to reopen, landlords, and building managers are struggling to work out the logistics of inviting residents back into amenity spaces safely. This will include being vigilant on cleaning and disinfecting practices in order to pass inspection and remain open.

We at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan have a solution, our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. This is a proactive viral pathogen cleaning. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO professionals to bring a higher standard of clean to the places we gather, especially places like gyms with shared equipment. Not all gyms are the same, so we’ll tailor a bespoke cleaning program based on the unique needs of each facility. 

Based on the agreed plan which can be a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly program, an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards by the CDC. 

A Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield will be posted on the front window along with digital emblems, this beacon represents a facilities commitment to the comfort and security of their tenants, employees and community. Call us today for your consultation. 212-768-9400

What you should know about mold after a storm

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

Mold can develop quickly after a flood

Hurricane season is most definitely upon us! The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season is the first on record in which nine tropical storms formed before August 1st.  As most of you living in NYC know, Tropical Storm Isaias blew through the streets of the city on Tuesday afternoon with fast winds and heavy rain.  New York City’s power utility said it saw more outages from Isaias than from any storm except Superstorm Sandy in 2012.  Isaias closed bridges, halted commuter trains and sent thousands of trees limbs crashing down on homes, cars and streets of New York.  

The SERVPRO midtown Manhattan crew was dispersed throughout the city cleaning up the immediate aftermath of the storm.  Responding instantly to a storm of any speed or magnitude is our specialty, however we also pride ourselves in handling the residual damage caused by a storm that may not be so visible, a fungus known as mold. 

After a natural disaster such as a tropical storm or hurricane that causes flooding or standing water, tons of excess moisture can contribute to the growth of mold.  Mold can grow in homes and buildings and can produce allergens and irritants. Mold can develop within a little as 24-48 hours after water exposure and what’s worse is that it will continue to grow until steps are taken to stop it. If your home or building has been flooded, or has been exposed to excessive moisture after the storm you may be at risk for mold, even if you have since dried the area. 

We do not recommend that you dry the area yourself. Water damage mitigation if not done properly can create mold growth after a storm. It can create a constant mold problems if property is not dried out completely and there is a high change it will begin to grow on material such as drywall, studs, carpeting and insulation, which can be extremely costly to replace once it is damaged. We do not recommend you try and remove the mold yourself with bleach or any other disinfectants.  Our SERVPRO professionals use anti-fugal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies to help prevent new colonies from forming. We at SERVPRO midtown do mold testing and safe mold remediation. You can call us at SERVPRO for immediate service 212-768-9400.  

What you should know about mold. Mold can enter though heating and air conditioning systems. It can enter though vents, widows and open doorways. It can also attach itself to shoes and clothing and be carried indoors. When mold spores drop on a place with excessive moisture where leakage might have occurred the mold with then grow. 

Usually mold can be seen or smelled, mold often produced a strong, musty oder. During SERVPRO’s inspection and mold damage assessment various technologies will be used to detect mold and hidden water sources.  

We at SERVPRO are at your service at a moments notice when it comes to water damage or flooding after a storm.  However mold can infest your home in a more subtle, insidious way.  Here are some helpful tips on how to keep mold from entering your home and preventing it from spreading throughout.

• Make sure your roof gutters and roof are cleaned frequently 
• Check under potted indoor plants to make sure water does not accumulate
• Remove or replace wet carpets or rugs that are not drying properly 
• Increase ventilation and air flow as often as possible especially when showering, cooking, using the dishwasher or clothes dryer
• Use de-humidifiers and fans to help remove excess moister and condensation 
• Whenever there is a spill or leak, clean it up immediately 

If you do detect mold in your home or building SERVPRO midtown is here for you. Call us anytime at 212-768-9400. We provide a 24/7 emergency service with highly trained specialists who will come to inspect and assess right away. STAY SAFE! 

Electrical fire risk for NYC residential buildings

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

Warning sign of a potential electrical fire

Residential building electrical fires are a real threat in uncertain times. Many residents of NYC have left their apartments and vacated the city due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Some residents are planning to return after the summer months in the fall and others are looking to stay away from high-rise living completely.  Those who have left their apartments in residential buildings have the added stress of worrying their belongings will stay safe without their supervision. 

Nothing can be quite as devastating to your home as fire damage of any kind. The key is prevention and attention to detail when at home or before leaving your home for an extended period of time. In many cases the start of an electrical fire can be prevented with simple checklist and attention to some key warning signs:

Prevention 

• make sure to unplug appliances and turn off all lights 
• check all outlets for burn marks or any form of discoloration around the socket or light fixtures 
• make sure you don’t smell any burning 

Warning Signs 

• If the appliance is plugged in and feels hot it might be a sign, don’t ignore it 
• If you feel any kind of shock when you are plugging something in 
• If a light fixture is flickering 

Severe weather can be just as much of an electrical fire starter as man made electrical hazard fires that are caused by poorly managed extension cords, hair tools, light fixtures, light bulbs with the wattage too high, faulty outlets or old and outdated appliances. Although nearly half of all electrical fires occur between the winter month span of December through March, there is still high risk in the summer months when the temperature is extremely high.

Currently, NYC is experiencing another heat wave with temperatures soaring as high as 97 degrees with a high humidity to boot. High temperatures can easily cause electrical problems as there is a lot more strain on the power grid. Power outages are likely to occur, most commonly known as brown outs. Since every resident in a building is looking to stay cool there is an excessive use of air-conditioners which require a lot of power and causes a strain on the transmission lines.  Overheating can likely occur and cause damage to the circuit components and can cause a fire.  The best defense is an offense. Check your local weather report and stay ahead of the heat wave. If you know one is on the way don’t use certain appliances that day such as dishwashers, ovens, dryers to avoid heating up your apartment. 

However careful you are and as many checklists as you may perform a fire may still break out. We at SERVPRO specialize in fire damage. We are also experts in removing smoke oder and deep-clean soot from carpet and upholstery, we use industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment among other vital cleaning techniques to illuminate any trace of damage. We pride ourselves in clean up and sanitation upon completion of any job that we do.  We understand the kind of trauma it can cause to have fire or water damage to you household, we want to ensure that we restore as much of your property as possible but also leave you feeling at ease knowing that job was done to your satisfaction and your home was brought back as close to normal as it can be. 

Since Covid-19 is still a very prominent threat in our community that we care for so much for, we are now offering Certified: SERVPRO Cleaning. It is a proactive viral pathogen cleaning with approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions and decontamination standards set by the CDC.  We are dedicated to making the transition back to normal or the “new normal” as smooth as possible by mitigating as much risk as possible. We are fast and efficient and whether its an electrical fire in your building or certified: SERVPRO cleaning to make you feel safe to return, we are available 24 hours a day 7 day a week. 

We are committed to serving our community and its residents to the best of our ability. When it comes to fire damage and floods we have 5 decades of experience that shows how effectively and efficiently our operation runs. We are the leading experts in unprecedented disasters. The current pandemic falls under that category and we are at the forefront of ensuring that we are proactive in making NYC residence feel safe to return home. 

Leave it to the Professionals

7/10/2020 (Permalink)

The best decision you can make when your home is exposed to fire is to rely on an expert for the safest cleanup methods. Certain tools and knowledge are required in taking the necessary precautions to get your home back to its original condition post fire. 

Walls may need proper cleaning, prior to repainting. Sometimes they may need to be replaced completely along with the floors. Let’s not forget any additional damage possibly caused by the attempts from firefighters to extinguish the fire, all of which in most cases requires a professional’s skills. Otherwise, it is highly likely one can unknowingly cause secondary damage to their property. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan strictly adheres to IICRC guidelines and takes all necessary precautions to restore your home or property after a fire. With the restoration methods you need, we can get your property looking "Like it never even happened." 

We are here to help and assist you in the event our mitigation services are needed. We are committed to servicing you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days out of the year. Feel free to reach out to us if and when the need arises at 212-768-9400.

What to do after a Fire:

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

The first and most important step to take after a fire is to make sure that you and your loved ones are safe. Should anyone feel at all ill, it is imperative that you seek medical attention.

The next step is having the Fire Marshall assess whether or not it is safe to be in or near the building in which the fire or smoke damage occurred. Once again, the top priority after a fire is to maintain safety through the entire restoration process. Electrical hazards are common occurrences after a fire and can be extremely dangerous. As well as possible electrical hazards, there are water hazards. The water used to put out the fire creates a prime location for slipping and falling.

As soon as the Fire Marshall declares the building safe then you as well as your highly trained SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan professionals can begin restoration. We maintain the restore versus replace mentality to preserve the items that hold sentimental value, as well as saving you money! The following is a list of what to-do and not-to-do after a fire.

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change the HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire 

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting your SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan Professional.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat, or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may leave a smoke odor.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan offers the following services after a fire to make your house a home again.

Contents Restoration: We can dry clean, wet clean, spray and wipe, foam clean, abrasive clean, or immerse clean after we pretest your belongings to see what can be restored to pre-fire conditions.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs: We offer an organized and efficient move out to provide you with a quicker remodeling process as well as protecting items from further damage.

Electronic Cleanup: We want to protect you from the possibility of hazardous electronics by offering restoration to remove residue and prevent further damage.

Document / Photograph Drying: We can air dry, dehumidify, freeze-dry, vacuum freeze-dry, or vacuum thermal dry your documents to prevent their destruction. We understand that documents are often irreplaceable and we want to provide you with their swift restoration.

Contents Claim Inventory Service: We can provide you with a Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) which encompasses a pre loss list and value of contents, detailed reports, information to settle claims, assistance with the burden of proof for claims, and most importantly peace of mind.

How To Be Prepared for a Hurricane

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

Are you ready for hurricane season?

FEMA Hurricane safety tips: Learn what to do before a hurricane.

To prepare for a hurricane, you should take the following measures:

• For beginners, you should have an emergency response protocol in place. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan can assist you with this by creating a complimentary Emergency Ready Profile customized to your property. Your ERP can help you with building a plan in the event of an emergency. Additionally, you should have a first aid kit with all essentials and a communication plan in place for the security of you and your family.
• Know your surroundings.
• Learning the elevation level of your property will help you know how your property will be affected when tidal flooding or storm surges are forecasted.
• Identify and determine whether levees and dams in your area pose a hazard to you.
• Learn community hurricane evacuation routes, how to find higher ground, and determine where you would go and how you would get there if you needed to evacuate.

How to Make a Plan for Securing my Property?

• Cover all windows. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. Another option is to board up windows with 5/8” marine plywood, cut to fit and ready for install. Tape will not prevent windows from breaking.
• To reduce roof damage, install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure.
• Ensure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed so they are more wind resistant. 
• Clearing loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts will reduce soil erosion which can affect your homes foundation and cause water damage.
• Reinforce your garage doors to avoid dangerous and expensive structural damage.
• Plan to bring in all outdoor items that may not be tied down: furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else.
• Secure your boat if you own one.
• Install a generator.
• Be prepared to take shelter on or below the 10th floor if you’re in a high-rise building.
• Consider building a safe room.

SERVPRO is the leading restoration company in the industry. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan knows the key to limiting business interruption is fast mitigation. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is equipped to remediate disasters of any size and will be onsite within a couple of hours helping reduce future damage, with the right equipment, training and procedures to ensure your structure is back to a state "Like it never even happened," while saving you time and money.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – A Defensive Cleaning Program

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touch points, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan today at  212-768-9400 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

The Service You Need at a Cost You Can Afford

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Let us limit your stress by working with your budget

The economic effect of COVID-19 has affected everyone. Due to the freeze on activity businesses have been forced to limit services and reduce their task force. Business and residents have gone without work due to business closings. An exorbitant amount of requests for unemployment relief have been filed causing a backup in the government’s ability to process claims in a timely manner. In turn, creating a loss of income and debt accumulation not only for residents but for homeowners alike. 

These are hard times. Here at SERVPRO of Southern Staten Island, we understand that although disinfecting our homes, businesses, schools and medical facilities is of utmost importance, many may not have the financial means to support the cost of disinfection services. 

We at SERVPRO of Southern Staten Island are working with customers to ensure we are able to provide you with the service you need at a cost you can afford. For details, feel free to contact us at 718-979-4100. We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Ahead of the Curve

5/8/2020 (Permalink)

As we begin to reopen the country, we all have a feeling of uncertainty going into spaces we used to have no worries about. The grocery store, a restaurant, your own cubicle are all spaces that we used to frequent. At SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan we are offering our disinfectant services to ease employee and customers minds about entering places of business. Within the city we have a responsibility to take care of our fellow neighbors. 

Practicing preventative cleaning for reopening is imperative. When SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan comes into your space we are able to disinfect your space with EPA approved products. With the volume of calls coming in, we want to make sure you have the proper service. Because of this, we are scheduling several weeks in advance, as we understand these are unforeseen times. We plan to lead you through every step of the way. 

We are providing disinfecting services for COVID-19 as well as general detailed cleanings for unoccupied homes collecting dust. 

Our Disinfectant services include:

• Ultra Low Volume (ULV) misting or electrostatic spray of certain affected areas with EPA approved hospital grade disinfectant. This mist will eradicate any aerosolized particles allowing for a safer entry of decontamination personnel.

• Electrostatic spray application of EPA Approved Hospital Grade disinfectant. Positively charged ions are produced within the chemical which adhere to surfaces in the affected area. This ensures total coverage of the affected area. 

• Surface wiping of critical contact areas. Fixtures, keyboards, phones, door handles, certain contents within the affected area are hand wiped. A 5-10 minute dwell time should be allowed post wipe down. Walls up to a height of approximately 5’ throughout traffic areas.

• Technicians will wear half face respirators with P100 filters, coveralls, goggles and nitrile gloves.

Since many homes have been vacant for some time, we also offer a detailed floor to ceiling deep cleaning, from base molding to crown molding including: content manipulation, steam cleaning of drapes, carpets and upholstered furniture if needed. We would clean every square foot leaving your home in immaculate condition. 

In addition, you would receive a dedicated team, seal of approval, an email update of job progress with photos of our crew onsite. Lastly, we will create an Emergency Ready Profile customized to your property as supplemental guidance for response protocol in the event of an emergency. We are available 24/7, 365 days out of the year. Any questions please call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, 212-768-9400.

Here to Help YOU

5/8/2020 (Permalink)

This pandemic has caused fear and worry among our community members and you may be thinking to yourself “How can I keep my exposure minimal?” or “How do I combat this virus before it enters my home?” SERVPRO can help you in being proactive! We have several levels of proactive cleaning services that we offer to our customers year round that can help minimize exposure by thoroughly disinfecting businesses and homes. As a company, we follow CDC guidelines when performing these services. All our employees are all highly trained and maintain correct certifications to get the job done to the highest standard. 

Several businesses have already contacted us to perform proactive cleanings of their office spaces, restaurants, theaters, and much more. The best part is that you do not need to vacate your home or business for an extended period of time.  Unlike you would if you were to have a bug fogging service performed. Our cleaning products are Hospital grade, EPA registered and not harmful to you, your pets, or your customers once the cleaning has been performed. Meaning whether you are having a home or your restaurant cleaned, we can have you back in the structure and living your life quickly without having to worry about a place to stay, work, or harm to guests or pets. 

As an industry leader, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan has been performing services like these for years to proactively clean against everything from SARS, Swine flu, to the common cold! If you or someone you know is interested in having these services performed or obtaining an estimate for these services, please don’t hesitate to give us a call today! 

Stay Safe. Stay Healthy.

April Showers Brings May Flowers

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

We are continually on the frontlines fighting alongside essential workers and healthcare professionals.

We all know the saying ‘April Showers bring May Flowers’, and right now we are in one of the largest storms we’ve faced. Navigating COVID-19 has been a tumultuous task. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is continually on the frontlines of this fight working alongside essential workers and healthcare professionals. We are here to help those in need and who have been affected by the coronavirus. How are we helping clean our community?

1. We use Eco-Friendly products: SERVPRO is an eco-conscious brand. All of our products are safe to be used in homes or office spaces. We have more about our products in our blog ‘Protect Your Home’
2. We follow CDC guidelines: We send our employees into the field fully protected in full PPE. We take our employees' health seriously and aim to protect them everyday.
3. Offering Proactive Cleaning: Before COVID-19 took hold of New York City, our team was prepared for the fight by offering proactive cleaning to a multitude of offices, retailers, and essential businesses.
4. Cleaning from Top to Bottom: We offer fogging services that clean up to 8ft up all the way to your floor. We are helping slow the spread of COVID-19 through continuous cleanings throughout the city.
5. Preparing for Openings: We are ensuring the safety of your space before opening back up to the public. Our team is staying aware of when openings are as dates continue to shift.
6. Acts of Service: We are putting our essential workers first by providing weekly lunches for the military that has come in to support New York City.

We are incredibly ready to help get things back to a new normal. We want to help get New York moving and ready for business. As a business that plays a vital role in commercial clean-up, we will be there when you need us. We are all in this for the long haul and New York City has been doing an amazing job showing the world why we are the best city. We have worked together through a multitude of storms and we only come out of it stronger and more united. Call us today at (212)768-9400 to see how we can help you prepare for re-opening your doors. We can service you within Manhattan and beyond.

Owner Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Owner, Robert Citrangola II

At SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, we are stepping up to ensure the safety of every member of our community. “Crews are working in the field and administrative staff are working from home everyday. We are doing the most we can right now to help those in need,” said Robert Citrangola, owner of SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan. Robert has been following SERVPRO for years and has owned his own franchise for a decade. He gave us firsthand accounts on how it was being on the front lines in one of the hardest hit cities, New York City. While each job brings its own anxieties, we are grateful to be able to help in this fight that is affecting our home and family. We will be there from the start of this to the end of this.

Robert has found that keeping connected to the community and to his team is vital during this time. He wants to ensure that his team is prepared and ready to be fully beneficial to the city. Coronavirus has continued to rise in New York City, but as people continue to venture out it is imperative that we continue to serve our community by keeping New York City clean.

“As a leading clean-up force in this, we have to treat each job with extra attention and care. This is a difficult time for people, so we need to always remember to treat our clients with a new sense of understanding. This is imperative to keeping our business strong. We also want to keep our employees safe, so we ensure that all field employees are in full PPE wear and are protected. New York City and State have been hit hard, but with the contribution of other Franchises it has helped flatten the curve. If we continue to work together, we will all come out of this better.”

Our employees make all of this possible. We are ensuring the safety of our employees by providing full PPE gear for any job site. Citrangola spoke on the importance of full PPE and the peace of mind it provides for employees in the field. “We are following all the CDC and Corporate guidelines to keep our employees protected,” said Robert. His team is fully backed by their franchise and corporation in what they are trying to achieve within the city.

As a whole SERVPRO is providing services to military, first responders, and healthcare workers. We believe that ensuring the safety of those on the front lines of this is essential to creating community. We have been able to provide lunches for the military that has come to serve New York City during our time of need. We know how far some extra support can go because we have been on the other side of this. We are proud to be able to serve our city everyday and our ability to connect with others all over the country to ensure our customers' needs are being met. 

We hope to continue to be a first response to anything that comes your way. From clean-ups to floods, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan will be there to help 24/7, 365 days a year. 

Protect Your Home

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

With over 50 years in restoration, SERVPRO is a leading company in the industry.

At SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan we want to protect our customers from fire and flood damage as soon as possible. Did you know that we also do bioremediation and commercial cleanings? We protect our customers and clients by using natural and safe chemicals. We want to make your home, office, or place of business safe for all those who enter. If your technician decides to introduce chemicals, you will be informed on the effects and contents of the product.

We’ve compiled some of our most used terms and chemicals to help you ensure the safety of your clients, tenants, and employees.

Antimicrobial Agents: 

Are any chemicals that prevent the spread of microorganisms through water or on damp surfaces and materials. If we believe that black or gray water has contaminated the space, we will use antimicrobial agents to clear out any toxic matter.

Disinfectants:

We use a hospital-grade disinfectant that is healthy and safe. The disinfectant will kill 99% of all encountered organisms. This will leave your surfaces almost completely sterile. Chemicals such as alcohol, chlorine, or formaldehyde may be used to ensure all surfaces are clear of bacteria.

Sanitizers: 

When using a sanitizer our aim is to lower the amount of microbes to a level that is safe for ‘public use.’ Sanitizers are usually not used alone because they are not strong enough to eradicate all of the bacteria. We don’t want to risk the chance of bacteria returning, so we may combine sanitizers with other cleaning agents.

Sterilants 

Sterilants eradicate fungi spores and are a very effective chemical. Sterilants prevent the spread of mold in water damaged areas. This chemical cannot be applied to every surface, so we are careful with what we use them on.

Collaboration and Cooperation Will Keep You Safe 

We promise to explain the restoration process to you to ensure your safety and peace of mind. We are experts in our field and need your cooperation to do what we do best. We are here to serve you 24/7 365 days a year.

Best Practices: Grocery Shopping

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Don't forget to thoroughly wash your produce.

Going to the grocery store today can feel daunting. Having to fully suit up to step out of your apartment is unlike anything we’ve ever experienced. For many of us we are unable to place grocery orders online due to the lack of slot times. So what do you do when you have to go into the grocery store?

First, make sure to bring a mask. If you are lucky enough to have a sewing machine, you can sew your own mask for you, friends and family. We have also been seeing creative masks from bandanas and scarves to Halloween masks and containers. Remember the mask is to protect others. We have to live everyday as if we already have COVID-19 to help protect others.

Gloves. While gloves are hard to come across, we need to remember to dispose of them properly. Gloves are not meant to be thrown on the pavement after being used. When taking off your gloves remember to do so following the correct directions. Remember to always immediately wash your hands after removing your gloves. While wearing gloves be mindful about not touching your face or phone. This is one of the ways to cross contaminate while wearing gloves.

While inside the grocery store be mindful of what you are touching. Being very specific about what you are buying cuts down on the amount of touching multiple items throughout the store you do not end up purchasing. We have to be mindful of the others who are also shopping within the store with us. Maintain a social distance from other customers at all times possible. Now is not the time to hoard food and toiletries; we need to remember that we are all in this together.

When you come home from the store, leave your shoes outside of your apartment. Your shoes can carry in tons of germs! This is probably a smart rule to practice in regards to living in NYC. Immediately wash your hands, un-bag your groceries, disinfect containers, and wash your produce. Using a vegetable brush is ideal, but if that is unavailable soaking your produce in three parts water and one part vinegar is extremely effective. Wipe down your phone, cards, keys, door handles, and countertops since these are areas that are high touch. Then change into your home clothes. Maybe they are not so different from the clothes you were just in, but they are clean from outside contaminations. Lastly, wash your hands again. 

Enjoy a night in because you just made it all the way to and from the grocery store. This is a task on its own without a pandemic especially in New York City. Time to congratulate yourself for accomplishing another task while keeping those around you safe! We are here for you New York and will continue to serve you until our city is clean.

When the Lights Go Out

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

2003 Northeast Blackout

Power Outages, they happen to everyone. We want to make sure you are prepared for whatever may come your way during one. With summer around the corner and the potential of air conditioners blasting to cool down your apartment, power outages do happen. In the city a power outage can be pretty nerve-wracking, but we want to be there to help you feel safe. So what do you do in the unfortunate event of a power outage?

Think battery operated! From battery operated lanterns and flashlights to phone chargers, having  extra batteries on hand and making sure your devices are able to be charged is crucial.The NYC Emergency Information App has been a lifesaver for me. It gives you not only information on emergency events, but also on planned events throughout the city. Having charged devices will allow you to stay in contact with news, family, and friends. 

Candles! Who doesn’t collect candles in New York City? Usually we just use them to make a space feel more cozy, but in a blackout you may be using them as a source of light. Be sure to keep them away from curtains or in spaces where they could be easily knocked over. 

Food! Most New Yorkers may not be fans of cooking, but having a few staples in your pantry may be just what you need during a power outage. When takeout is not an option we may have to resort to canned soups or cereals. Hopefully your apartment has a gas stovetop! That will still be of use during an outage other than just being a home for pots and pans you don’t have storage for.

Staying in place during a power outage is ideal, but not always an option. If you are caught on the streets during a power outage we suggest making your way home. Keep an eye on New York City’s major transit sites to ensure the train you need is running. Hailing a cab or grabbing a shared ride can be difficult during this time. If walking is too far, there are also Citi bikes! 

While we may not enjoy a power outage sometimes it is nice to be able to open your window and wait for the storm to pass. We hope you stay safe and remember to minimize the amount of electricity you use during a heatwave! 

Here are some more useful contacts during a blackout:

• For power and electricity outages, call the Con Edison 24-hour hotline: 1-800-75-CONED (752-6633) (TTY: 800-642-2308). You can also report an outage online on Con Edison’s website.
• For heat and gas outages, call National Grid 24-hour hotline: 718-643-4050 (TTY: 718-237-2857)
• If you live in New Jersey, call PSEG 24-hour hotline: 1-800-436-7734 (TTY: 631-755-6660)

Here To Help

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

The U.S. Navy hospital ship USNS Comfort

During this time we are seeing our Emergency Response Teams at the forefront ensuring the health and safety of our country’s citizens. Hospital staff are putting their lives and the lives of their families at risk in order to treat the many flooding NY hospitals. Police are patrolling neighborhoods ensuring people are not congregating, and we are abiding by lockdown rules. Restoration companies and custodial workers are putting in the elbow grease in cleaning and sanitizing facilities for when facilities and businesses return to normal.

What can we do to help?

Stay home. Wash your hands and avoid touching your face. Wear gloves and a mask outdoors to limit the spread. 

People are under a lot of stress at this time. Many of us are working from home. Schools are out and students are being homeschooled. Confirmed cases are continuing to rise, and people are becoming stir-crazy. Practicing self care is important in maintaining mental stability. Turn off the televisions, have some quiet time, exercise, take a relaxing bath, listen to music or work on a hobby. 

If you are exhibiting mild symptoms and have no underlying pre-existing conditions, stay home and isolate yourself from others to avoid potential spread.

In this time, it is essential for us to come together as a community by keeping our distance in order to alleviate the demand on hospital resources and allow the most vulnerable cases to be treated effectively. It is important we keep stress levels to a minimum and show compassion to those suffering economic loss at this time. Give if you are able to give. Lend a hand if you’re able. Honor those who care enough to devote their lives for the benefit of our community.

Keeping Your Pet Safe During a Storm

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Our owner Robert's puppy friend, Baxter

When a thunderstorm or hurricane is upon us, it is key to have precautions in place. In our previous blog, In High-Waters, we discussed the importance of having a plan of action. What about a plan for those who cannot care for themselves? 

Your pets are your family, and we know the importance they hold. Preparing for a storm can be overwhelming to think about, but it will make everything run smoother in the long run. We have created some steps to protect your little furry friends. 

Keep your pets inside if possible: This is the best way to guarantee that they will not run away while scared. 

Not only do you need to have supplies for yourself, you need to have supplies for your furry friend.

Here are some of the supplies you may need:

Water for each pet

Non-perishable pet food

Pet medications

Leashes and ID Tags

Dog Bed, Toys, and Treats

First Aid Kit

Vaccinations are up to Date

So you did everything you could, but somehow your pet still escapes.

What to do if your pet escapes:

Stay Calm: This is easier said than done. You need to protect yourself and your pet. Many pets get nervous due to storms and hearing their owner yell may make them think they are in trouble.

Microchip your pets: If your pet does escape from your backyard, it is imperative there is a way for an animal shelter or vet to reach you and verify that you are the owner of your pet.

Current Pictures of your Pets: This will make it easier to locate your pet via social media or flyers.

Pet ID: Making sure your pets tags are up to date is imperative. Always include a phone number and Owner’s name.

Prepare for Possible Injuries:Is it serious or something you can take care of yourself? Call a vet, they may be able to help you over the phone. 

Keeping your best friends safe is always a priority. Make sure you are prepared to care for those who look to you for safety everyday.

GO GREEN

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

Let's make the effort to take care of our community and our planet.

In lieu of all the panic surrounding COVID-19 and its impact on health and the global economy, we would like to take a moment to look at the silver lining. By now we’re all aware of the outbreak and slow down of human activity around the globe. However, an interesting side effect to our reduction in activity has allowed the Earth to begin healing itself. 

The murky canals of Venice are beginning to clear. Dolphins are even beginning to appear. Nitrogen dioxide has dropped significantly over China due to the reduced industrial activity. The inhalation of pollutants like Nitrogen dioxide can increase risk of asthma and inflammation of the lungs. Particulate matter, such as smoke, soot, dust and pollen have lowered. Due to the reduction of activity, the holes in the ozone layer are beginning to repair themselves. 

These changes, however, are only temporary, so what can we do to reduce our carbon footprint? I know I will be making some changes to my lifestyle, and I encourage you all to join me. 

Stop Smoking - We all know it’s a horrible habit. I will be making a serious effort to stop. Toxic air pollutants are released into the atmosphere through cigarette smoke. Toxic chemicals in cigarette butts litter the environment and seep into our soil and water. 

Don’t Litter - Aside from litter being an eyesore, it’s dirty. They harbor germs which can in turn create bacterias and viruses which can be spread through animals. We don’t litter in our homes, why do so outdoors? The Earth is also our home. Treat the animals as you would a baby. We wouldn’t leave small items or plastic bags lying around for fear they’d choke or suffocate. The same goes for animals who mistake items they find outdoors for food. 

Ride a Bike - We live in NYC. We have bike lanes. I purposely moved to Harlem to be closer to work in Midtown. I’ll be purchasing a bike and riding it daily once we’re back in office. Nearly one-fifth of US emissions come from cars and trucks, every gallon of gas emits around 24 pounds of carbon dioxide and other global warming gases.

Carpool - An alternative to riding a bike is carpooling. We already know the effects of cars on the environment. By limiting the number of cars we can reduce the amount of pollutants emitted into the atmosphere. 

Eating low on the food chain - Eating more fruits, vegetables, grains and beans are not only good for your overall health, but livestock and dairy are responsible for a little over 14 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. If we ate less meat and dairy, less would need to be produced, resulting in a reduction in pollutants.

Buy local and organic food in season. Transporting and cooling food from spoiling requires fossil fuels. 

Buy vintage or recycled clothing at consignment stores and thrift shops - We’re New Yorkers and “Fashion is Life”, who doesn’t love to find those one of a kind pieces. If you have the time, take up a sewing class or YouTube one. Not only can you express your individuality and sense of style, but you’d also limit your purchasing of fast fashion. It may be trendy and cheap, but styles quickly change and get dumped in landfills where they decompose producing methane. We’re not even accounting for the transportation and production of these goods from places like China and Bangladesh.

Wash Clothes in Cold Water - Growing up, I was always told, “cold water cleans, hot water disinfects”. Unless, you were sick or threw up on yourself, there is little use for hot water when washing clothes. You can save up to 500 pounds of carbon dioxide by washing two loads of laundry in cold water each year. 

Switch to LED lightbulbs - They may cost more but they require less energy and last longer, eventually saving you money.

Opt for a fan - Fans are a cost effective and energy efficient alternative to air conditioners.

These are just some of the many changes we can make to create a cleaner environment. We should take this time as an opportunity to reflect on the effect we as humans have on the Earth and what we can do to protect it for the sake of our health, our lives and the lives of the ones we love and those of future generations to come. 

In High-Waters We Will Be There

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

Our crew is prepared for any job no matter how big or small

At SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, we are ready for whatever you need. During stressful times we want to ease your mind with our expertise in fire, water, mold and clean-up restoration. We have mastered our industry with 53 years of experience throughout the company. 

Questions like “What should I do if my office building experienced flooding?” “How do I dry my carpet after a flood?” and “How do I check for mold or structural damage?” can be answered by our team. We offer a piece of mind through quick service and responses. We are here to serve you 24/7, 365 days a year. Our customers are our top priority. 

Floods happen to 14,000 people in the United States of America annually. If the unfortunate happens, here is what we suggest.

When a flood begins:

• Turn off power and electricity: If you cannot get to the breaker box call your electric utility to shut off the meter.
• Make sure the water supply is turned off: This will help ensure that less damage is done if it is coming from an internal system.
• Secure your belongings: If you are present when the flood starts, move valuables away from the water source.
• If your flood is occurring because of weather or uncontrollable circumstances: Call an emergency maintenance number. We suggest keeping one on file for any event.

Once controlled:

• Document, Document, Document! Photograph damages for claims.
• Call SERVPRO: We will get the water out as soon as possible!
• Check Building Integrity: We will work alongside you and a contractor to ensure your building is safe.
• We will search for mold and other damages to ensure your safety.

After the Flood:

• We will ensure clean-up is satisfactory
• Maintain checks on plumbing and roofing to minimize potential damage
• Live your life: We want to ensure a seamless transition back into your day to day routine.

Floods can happen to anyone we want to create a seamless process for you to get back to your normal way of life. Call us today if you experience any flood, fire, or clean-up remediation needs. 

We Are Here to Help

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Let our team help your team

We at SERVPRO® of Midtown Manhattan, a local franchise of the nation’s Premier Cleaning and Restoration Service are in constant awareness of what is going on in our community and the rest of the world in relation to the Coronavirus (COVID-19). The health and safety of our employees, customers, partners and the communities we serve are our number one priority.

As the situation continues to evolve, we are closely monitoring the most up-to-date guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and implementing their recommendations, for cleaning and disinfecting, residential. commercial, governmental, and institutional facilities. 

What can you do to minimize the spread of dangerous germs and keep your organization operating, while also protecting client’s safety during any personal interface?

We are committed to helping you and your business navigate these challenging circumstances with everyone’s safety as our top priority. To assist in keeping your staff and facility safe, SERVPRO® of Midtown Manhattan is offering several cleaning options providing deep cleaning and disinfecting on a weekly or bi-weekly basis utilizing approved cleaning and disinfection products and protocols.  

This helps by maintaining traffic flow through your facility while recurrent disinfecting may decrease the probability of a viral spread. While, staying home and social distancing is important, when certain professions require you to be at your post, SERVPRO® of Midtown Manhattan can be there to see that commercial, governmental, or institutional post is SERVPRO® clean. 

Feel free to call or reach out to SERVPRO® of Midtown Manhattan 24/7 for any questions you may have on the process. Our motto: ‘We are here to help!’ 

We understand some of you may prefer to limit your time in public places. We are ready to serve you at www.SERVPROmidtownmanhattan.com or call us at 212-768-9400.

We Are Cleaning Experts

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

Keep Calm & Keep Clean

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, 212-768-9400

Time for Spring Cleaning

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

Let us come up with a remediation plan that best suits your needs

The New York City Metropolitan area consists of an average population of 19.5 million residents and millions more tourists throughout the year from across the world. With the flu season reaching its peak and the change of seasons, increase in bacteria and viruses will naturally find its way to spread throughout homes, businesses, schools, hospitals, social environments and public transportation. It is recommended to wash your hands daily and be aware of your surroundings, however, you can only do so much. Good health is reliant on a hazard free environment. 

Along with harmful bacteria, a general cleaning to prevent the build up of dust or mold is important to maintain a safe environment. Generally, it goes without saying that your employees will appreciate the courtesy of looking out for their health and comfort. 

What are some reasons why commercial cleaning services are necessary?

Cleanliness is beneficial to everyone's overall health. Mold, mildew, dust and dirt are capable of affecting those prone to allergies and illness. The lasting effect of inhaling such elements can be detrimental to one's health over time. Our team of professionals can ensure there are no harmful elements in your workplace leaving all in awe at how great one feels. 

A clean work space will motivate employees to work more efficiently. Research has suggested, a messy space is a messy mind. It can be difficult to focus on tasks and navigate your space in disorganization. 

Dirty carpets, grimy baseboards, bathrooms and lingering odors do not leave the best impression for anyone who walks into your business. Setting a standard for cleanliness will brighten everyone's mood and make people want to return. 

Lastly, here at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, we have the tools and a professional team specialized in an array of restorative and cleaning services. From water, fire and mold mitigation to bioremediation and general cleaning, stocked with commercial grade equipment and cleaning agents; we are well equipped to tackle the toughest of messes with the attention to detail and delicacy you deserve to get you ready and running as soon as we're through. 

Buckled Floor? Call us ASAP!

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

Floor buckling happens most often after a floor has been flooded for an extended period.

What Causes Hardwood Floors to Buckle?

Floor buckling is the most extreme reaction to moisture in a hardwood floor. Buckling occurs when the wood flooring pulls up from the subfloor, lifting several inches in one or more places. Fortunately, this is not a common occurrence.

If caught early, spot repair and replacement may be possible. Once the standing water is removed, several boards can be taken up from the floor so that the air can circulate across and below the floor. When the floor has dried to a more stable moisture level, repairs can usually be made.

What can SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan do?

• Set up floor protection, drying mats and drying equipment
• Wear PPE
• Clean all affected areas
• Content Manipulation, full Pack out and Storage
• Removal of buckled floorboards

Additionally, our upcoming Reconstruction Division will be able to replace the flooring for you, professionally. Call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan today at 212-768-9400!

Water dripping from your ceiling or visible signs of water damage on the drywall or plaster above your head is nothing to take lightly.

1/13/2020 (Permalink)

There may be more water at play than you can visibly see and ignoring a leak can lead to structural damage and mold and mildew growth.

Water coming from the ceiling is a symptom of some other home system that is leaking. When a ceiling shows signs of water damage and dripping water, the place to look is in one of two home systems: the roofing system or the plumbing system. Ceiling leaks may be evidenced by actual water dripping down, but before the problem escalates to that point, you may see blistered or peeling paint, or discoloration over a spot in the ceiling.

Identifying Roofing System Leaks

If there are signs of water damage or dripping water coming from the ceiling that is directly below an attic space or directly below the roof surface itself, there is almost no question that the true cause is a hole or other type of damage in the shingles or other roofing material that make up the roof system. There are rarely any plumbing pipes or fixtures running through an attic, so signs of water damage in a ceiling below an attic or roof are always caused by a roof problem. In addition, roofing system leaks will make themselves known through other symptoms:

• The leaking occurs during or shortly after a rainfall. It may take some time for the water to appear, but if it appears during or after a rain, the roof is the place to look for the source.
• If there is active water dripping, it will often be brown or dirty if it comes from the roof. Water making its way into your home often picks up dirt and impurities along the way.
• In cold climates, if ceiling leaking or damage coincides with the presence of ice buildup along the eaves of the house, you likely have ice dams that are causing ice and water to back up under the shingles and down onto the ceiling. Because ice dams occur along the edges of the roof, the ceiling damage or leaking is often near the edge of the room, or may even appear on an exterior wall, since the water may be dripping directly down into the walls.
• In the attic, you may find damp and soggy insulation. Gain access to the attic and look for areas of insulation that show signs of wetness. Do not assume, however, that the roof damage is directly above this part of the attic, because water can flow for quite some distance down along sheathing or a roof rafter before it drips down onto the insulation and through it to the ceiling surface. If you spot damp insulation, pull it back and examine the drywall or plaster lathe beneath. It may be obvious that you've found the source of the ceiling leak.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan cleans your HVAC unit as if it were our own.

1/12/2020 (Permalink)

HVAC maintenance cleaning overdue? Leave it to the experts, call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan!

Residential Air Duct Cleaning in New York

As anyone who owns a home knows, you constantly strive to keep things clean – frequent dusting, upholstery cleaning, and floor maintenance are typically the first items that come to mind. However, an often-overlooked cleaning issue is air duct maintenance – many people are unaware of the harm that a neglected air venting system can cause.

After years of use, the ducts accumulate an innumerable amount of debris, including layers of dust, pollen, contaminants and other pollutants that can affect your air quality. Furthermore, air ducts that aren’t cleaned regularly are more prone to burn out and malfunction.

Ready to schedule an appointment or have other questions about our services?

When you clean your air ducts, the inhabitants of your residential property will experience several benefits, particularly those who suffer from allergies or other respiratory disorders. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), air ducts should be cleaned once every 2 years to prevent potential health risks.

Whether you live in a New York apartment complex or own a residence elsewhere in New York, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan provides a host of green cleaning alternatives, including all-natural air duct cleaning services. Our team of certified professionals combine the latest technology with an eco-friendly approach with our upcoming HVAC cleaning division.

Call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan today at 212-768-9400!

Protect your Employees, let SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan clean your ducts!

1/12/2020 (Permalink)

If you are looking for Commercial Air Duct Cleaning in New York, you’d better address the professionals – SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is your expert.

Cleaner, Greener Air

If you clean your air duct system incorrectly or use improper tools, you can worsen the condition of your air quality. At SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, we’ve developed a targeted approach for cleaning your air vents – we only use the highest-rated equipment and environmentally friendly cleansers to safely, yet effectively, purify your air ducts.

As a result, you will note a marked improvement in air quality as cleaning your air vents is essentially safeguarding the health of your occupants. In addition, our team of air duct cleaning specialists will assess the condition of your venting system if you believe there are any pre-existing conditions (such as mildew, mold growth, etc.).

CLEANER AIR. HEALTHIER WORKPLACE.

If you think the air you breathe indoors is cleaner than what’s outside, think again. The indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. When dust, debris and other contaminants build up in your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, they can trigger allergies and other health issues. But they also reduce energy efficiency, which increases your energy costs. 

After we have completed the evaluation and inspection, we develop and provide our customers with a scope-of-work document, outlining the work to be performed and a time frame for completing it. Next, our certified technicians use powerful equipment to remove the pollutants. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan's upcoming HVAC cleaning division will systematically clean every component of your Commercial building’s ventilation system.

We maintain an open line of communication with all Centers of Influence throughout the entire cleaning process. Our goal is to contain the work areas, ensuring minimal disruption to your business operations. After SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan's air duct cleaning is complete, we conduct a final inspection and provide each customer with daily progress reports throughout.

As always, only trained SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan employees in our HVAC division will  perform the work. It’s an approach that differentiates us from the rest because we want you to be completely satisfied with the results and make "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan today 212-768-9400.

What Should NYC Residents Do When a Pipe Bursts in Your Home?

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

When a pipe breaks in the house, every second counts. We highly recommend you take time now to become more familiar with your home’s plumbing!

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN A PIPE BURSTS?

Follow these steps to control damages from a broken pipe:

• Immediately turn off your home’s water supply at the main cutoff valve.  
• Drain pipes by running cold water faucets and flushing toilets. 
• Locate and fix the break with epoxy putty or a pipe repair clamp.
• Thoroughly dry affected areas by running fans for approximately 2-5 days depending on the severity.

If repairs and cleanup turn out to be more than you can handle, contact your insurance company. Most homeowner policies cover burst pipe water damage, and you should let your agent know you'd like to hire SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan.

GIVE US A CALL

We’re all enjoying a warm January here in New York City, but it’s best to be prepared for the unexpected. By knowing what to look for, what to do and who to call, you minimize problems from ruptured pipes on a winter day.

Our teams are always ready to help you with busted pipes, water damage and repairs. We take care of it all, and we also offer certified mold remediation services. When a broken pipe at the house tries to ruin your winter, give us a call here at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan!

Dehumidifiers get your home dry in a jiffy when you call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Call your leading Restoration Provider SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan today for immediate relief of any disaster 212-768-9400!!

WHEN TO USE: Use to reduce moisture levels in the air and accelerate the drying process in water restoration.

HOW IT WORKS: Our dehumidifiers cool incoming air before it passes over cold evaporator coil. The cold coil condenses water vapor into water that collects in condensate pump and is removed by automatic pump-out system.

WHEN/ WHERE NOT TO USE:

• For Indoor Use only. Do NOT expose to rain, water or snow.
• All refrigerant dehu performance is limited if ambient dew point is under 36º F.
• Do not use with any solid-state speed control device.
• Unit must be connected to an 115v/60Hz circuit protected by a GFCI device.
• Do not use an extension cord with this unit.

SET-UP AND OPERATION:

• Optimal operating range is between 70º and 90ºF.
• Uncoil and straighten entire drain hose for proper drainage. Pump purges system every 20 minutes or when reservoir is full.
• Always store, transport and operate unit in horizontal position. If in vertical position, return to horizontal and allow at least 30 minutes before turning unit on.
• To reduce possible water leakage while moving, press purge key at end of job prior to turning unit off to ensure all water is drained from unit.

ITEMS INCLUDED:

• #70978 4-PRO – 10.9” x 9.91” x ..79” 3/PK
• #70846 40’ Drain hose

OPTIONAL ITEMS:

• #72490 Protect-it Leak Tray (10/pk.)
• F530 Duct Attachment Kit

FEATURES:

• Precision Control technology auto-adjusts to optimize water removal across range of conditions.
• Solid state control panel.
• Automatic humidistat sets and maintains desired humidity level.
• Hour meter displays total operating hours and can be set to record current job hours.
• 40’ condensate hose.
• 25’ power cord with hospital-grade lighted plug.
• Durable, rugged roto-molded housing.
• Easy-carry handles.
• Attached cord and drain hose storage wraps.
• Stackable up to three units for transport and storage.
• Quiet operation.
• Easy access for cleaning and maintenance.

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Power: 6.2 amps / 115v / 60Hz
• Moisture Removal: 80 pints/day AHAM 134 pints/day @ 90º F/90% RH
• Airflow: 121-180 CFM | 3.43 – 5.1 CMM
• Operating Range: 33ºF to 100ºF | 1º - 38ºC
• Dimensions: 12.5”W x 17.6”H x 21.5”D 31.8W x 44.7H x 130.8D cm
• Weight: 65 lbs. | 29.5 kg.
• Power cord : 25’, 14/3 black with hospital- grade plug
• ETL listed to CSA standards.

MAINTENANCE: (Follow Dehumidifier Maintenance Checklist) Daily (if used):

• Inspect power cord for damage or wear; replace if needed.
• Inspect and vacuum or replace filter. Do NOT use compressed air or expose filter to any liquids as it may damage the electrostatic filter.
• Inspect drain hose for obstacles, kinks or clogs.

Monthly Maintenance:

• Inspect coils; clean when dust accumulation is visible.
• Inspect and clean pump, pump housing, check valve and impeller assembly.

DECONTAMINATION PROCESS:

Change filter after each job if mold or other contamination is possible. To decontaminate equipment, wipe thoroughly with hot water and detergent taking care not to expose electrical components to water. Let dry and apply EPA Registered Disinfectant as per label instructions.

COMMON REPAIRS:

• Clean or replace filter as needed.
• Clean pump check valve and basin.

WARRANTY: Lifetime on rotomolded components. Six years on compressor and coils. One year on parts and labor.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan crew proudly wear their PPE

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Not only are the staff at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan certified in multiple areas of Restoration, we always wear our PPE. Call 212-768-9400

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is protective clothing, helmets, goggles, or any other garment or equipment designed to protect the wearer's body from an injury or infection. The hazards addressed by protective equipment include and are not limited to physical, electrical, heat, chemicals, biohazard and airborne particulate matter.

Most common types of PPE:

1. Latex, vinyl, or nitrile gloves
2. Goggles
3. CPR mouth barriers
4. Aprons
5. Full protective suits
6. Respirators
7. Waterproof boots

PPE Rules to Remember:

1. ALWAYS check PPE for defects or tears before using.
2. If PPE is torn or defective, replace it for a new one immediately.
3. Remove PPE BEFORE leaving a contaminated area.
4. Do not reuse disposable equipment!

Water Damage is Oftentimes Better Left to the Professionals

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

It’s completely natural to want things to go back to the way they were after your residence or business is devastated by water damage.

Did You Know There Are 3 Varieties of Water Damage?

If you’re dealing with anything other than a large incursion, you understandably may be considering handling the cleanup and drying yourself to save money or time. The problem with doing it yourself is that cleaning up and recovering from water damage isn’t always as straightforward as it seems.

Which is why we have highlighted 3 key things you need to be aware of when addressing water damage from a minor clean water incursion or Category 1 water loss.

1) Know What You’re Dealing With
Water damage can be caused by three different types of water, including:

I. Clean water (Category 1)

II. Gray water (Category 2) 

III. Black water (Category 3) 

It’s important to understand the differences between all three categories because Category 2 and Category 3 water will present health risks to your employees, customers and loved ones. All three categories need to be handled differently.

The most common sources of clean water damage typically occur from a pipe, water heater, steam lines or even rainwater. The basic rule of thumb is that it should look and smell like tap water. Recovering from Category 2 or Category 3 water damage or heavy flooding involves additional considerations.

A Category 2 water loss, aka “grey water” refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological, or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when exposed or consumed. This type of water damage carries microorganisms and nutrients of microorganisms. Category 3 water loss involves water that is grossly contaminated and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents. Such water may carry silt, organic matter, pesticides, heavy metals, regulated materials, or toxic organic substances.

2) Make Sure You Investigate All of the Damage

The challenging thing about recovering from water damage from something like a broken pipe or rainwater incursion is that you can typically only see a small part of the actual damage. The majority of the moisture is often hidden in walls, and it’s critical to identify and dry all of the affected areas to prevent a different issue, mold. The methods for dealing with damage to walls depend on the type of materials and what’s behind those materials. Drywall can often be salvaged, when you respond quickly to said damage.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan uses moisture meters that allow us to assess structural integrity. If the integrity checks out, then our drying approach will depend on wall contents. If the wall has insulation, we will use flood cuts. If there is no insulation, then usually the best method is to create access holes. And if you’re dealing with a firewall, we will use staggered cuts. We may even need to remove your base molding and flooring materials. If your floors are carpet, we may be able to pull back the wet area and dry it using a fan.

3) Establish Proper Airflow and Keep the Windows Closed When Drying

Once moisture is discovered, your first instinct may be to open windows to help with the drying process. However, it may not be your best move. For example, if your building is mechanically ventilated, the systems need constant pressure levels to work correctly. You also want to avoid excess coolness or heat and humidity, or you may end up complicating the drying process.

Once we’ve pulled away wet materials and established holes or cuts in the wall as needed, we will begin placing our drying equipment. To prevent mold, make sure all the layers and materials are dry before putting everything back together.

The Big Dry Out

If you’ve experienced water damage, hopefully you’re dealing with clean water and a small area. No matter what type of water damage you’re dealing with, don’t hesitate to call us. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is here to help! 

Call our Office, 212-768-9400

Safe Disposal Options for Smoke Detectors:

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, the leading professional, for your Restoration needs today! 212-768-9400.

The radioactive material in a smoke detector can become a problem, if the detector is not properly disposed. Smoke detectors placed in the trash or burned will release their radioactive material into the environment. This holds true for any chemical or potentially hazardous material, which is why proper disposal is very important.

The life expectancy of smoke detectors is about 10 years, after this their sensors can begin to lose sensitivity. You can find the manufacturer date on the back of your smoke detector. Be sure to remove the smoke detector from the wall or ceiling to check the date of manufacture. Replace the smoke alarm with a new one if the unit is more than 10 years old or the test alarm does not work.

You can return your old or unneeded smoke detector to the original manufacturer for disposal as hazardous waste. The brand name and/or address can be found on the back of the device or in the user’s manual. After removing the battery, return the entire unit intact with a note indicating that the device is intended for disposal. Detectors should be mailed by surface mail or UPS Ground so they don’t travel by airplane.

Worried about your personal belongings during a flood? We've got you covered!

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan specializes in handling the items inside your home or office during the stressful restoration period.

There are 3 phases regarding your content SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan will take to restore your property.

1. Pack Out- Our Content Specialist will properly inventory, package, move and store your belongings to ensure minimal damage is brought onto your personal property during the unforeseen loss you just encountered.
2. Content Cleaning- Our Cleaning Specialists are highly trained and certified professionals whom are knowledgeable of the various types of content and the appropriate cleaning procedures, as well as, the environmental factors that affected them.
3. Content Inventory- During the damage analysis, home item inventory, pack-out and resetting stage of our services; our highly trained Inventory Specialists will obtain photos every step of the way and create an inventory of what was salvageable and what was unsalvageable.

With a focus on limiting the damage, we’ll work quickly to protect your property. Throughout the entire process we will work directly with your insurance agent or adjuster on your covered loss for a streamlined and expedited process. 

What will SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan do with my personal property?

• Professional and Concise Inventory of Contents
• Pack Out and Moving Services
• Specialized Cleaning and Decontamination of Contents
• Contents Repair and Restoration
• Secure Contents Storage
• Thorough and Accurate Pack-Back and Reset Services

Do you or a loved one need the contents of your property professionally inventoried, packed up and stored in a safe and secure facility? 

Don’t hesitate! Call today! 212-768-9400!

Do Pipes ONLY Burst in the Winter?

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

Water systems come in all different shapes and sizes, but all share one characteristic: they can fail when temperatures get extreme.

Cold weather causes water pipes to freeze and eventually burst. Due to the pressure of unfrozen water between the ice and the closed faucet heightening, the metal splits. This phenomenon can happen in warmer climates, as well. When colder air passes by the warm water in the pipes, pressure is created, and boom! The pipe ruptures.

Cold weather is not the only cause of water pipe failure. Warm weather also causes thousands of pipes to burst each year. During the summer months heat related water main bursts are at peak levels. Even if your pipes are underground, they are not safe from extreme temperatures.

Have you ever noticed that in the summer months there seems to be roadwork going on everywhere? Some of that is due to underground water pipes rupturing due to the heat. Most towns and cities keep extra roadwork crews readily on call to deal with this problem.

A good way to tell if the heat is affecting your pipes is by feeling the temperature of you water. If you turn on the cold water and you feel lukewarm to hot water coming out for several minutes, chances are your water pipe has already begun to leak or has gained pressure.

Before you freak out, call your local certified Restoration Company, SERVPRO of Southern Staten Island at 718-979-4100.

What Should NYC Residents Do When a Pipe Bursts in Your Home?

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

When a pipe breaks in the house, every second counts. We highly recommend you take time now to become more familiar with your home’s plumbing!

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN A PIPE BURSTS?

Follow these steps to control damages from a broken pipe:

• Immediately turn off your home’s water supply at the main cutoff valve.  
• Drain pipes by running cold water faucets and flushing toilets. 
• Locate and fix the break with epoxy putty or a pipe repair clamp.
• Thoroughly dry affected areas by running fans for approximately 2-5 days depending on the severity.

If repairs and cleanup turn out to be more than you can handle, contact your insurance company. Most homeowner policies cover burst pipe water damage, and you should let your agent know you'd like to hire SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan.

GIVE US A CALL

We’re all enjoying a warm January here in New York City, but it’s best to be prepared for the unexpected. By knowing what to look for, what to do and who to call, you minimize problems from ruptured pipes on a winter day.

Our teams are always ready to help you with busted pipes, water damage and repairs. We take care of it all, and we also offer certified mold remediation services. When a broken pipe at the house tries to ruin your winter, give us a call here at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan!

Most people know that when their water heater is leaking, it means bad news.

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

This minor nuisance can turn into a significant problem before you know it, so it is something that should be handled quickly and professionally.

A small trickle of water can be easily cleaned up with minimal damage to your floors. However, this small trickle will soon turn into a flood that will cause damage to your sub-floors and even dry wall. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to quickly and effectively diagnose where the leak is coming from and how great the threat is of causing a more severe problem.

You may be able to determine yourself if the leak is an easy repair, or if you require a brand-new water heater. Regardless of your findings, we recommend always contacting a licensed plumber to look at the issue and either fix the leak or replace your water heater altogether. A plumber will look at two main areas to determine once and for all where the leak is coming from and how serious it is.

Below is a list of the four most probable causes of a leak in your water heater. You can inspect these areas yourself before contacting a plumber to give them an idea of what is wrong and what equipment they will most likely require repairing or replace your water tank.

The Cold and Hot Water Inlet and Outlet Connections:

• If this area is the source of your leak, it is a very easy fix. Simply check the inlet and outlet pipe's connections and see if they are loose and causing water to leak. If this is the case, you may just need to tighten the connection with a wrench or replace a faulty pipeline. 

The Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve: 

• The temperature and pressure relief valve play an essential part in keeping your water heater running smoothly. It is responsible for monitoring the water temperature and pressure within the tank.
• If there is too much pressure in the tank, or the water becomes too hot, this valve will drain some of the water out of the tank. 
• If this T/P valve is the source of your leak, you will most likely be able to see water running down the side of your tank from the valve.
• If this is the case, it could mean you need a new valve because the one you currently have is broken, or, it could also mean it is working properly and there is too much pressure in your water tank, so it is forcing water out through the T/P valve to prevent a bigger problem from occurring.
• A licensed plumber can determine which one of these scenarios is the cause. 

The Heater Drain Valve: 

• As previously stated above, the drain valve is a standard but an easy issue to repair. If water is leaking from the valve, make sure it is closed completely. If this watertight drain valve continues to leak, you may have to replace it entirely, but it is relatively inexpensive.

The Bottom of the Water Tank: 

• Lastly, the most common cause of a leaking water tank. As discussed above, when sediment builds up in the bottom of a water tank for years and years it will eventually corrode through the bottom of the tank and begin to leak. If age and deterioration is the cause of your leak, you will need to call a professional plumber to replace your water heater. 

No matter the extent of damage caused by the leak or what you believe the issue with your water heater is, we always recommend that you call a professional and licensed plumber to double check the source of the leak and make necessary repairs or replacements. 

We also highly recommend you contact your local, professional and certified Restoration Company, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan to make the water damage disappear after the repairs!

Our office phone number is 718-979-4100

Water Damage Can Be Expensive, Insurance Coverage Can Help!

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

You want to make sure your business can be helped in the event that water damage occurs. Not all commercial insurance policies are the same, though.

Insurance Coverage for Commercial Water Damage

It can be expensive to pay for the cleanup and restoration of water damage, which is why it’s important to have thorough commercial water damage coverage from your insurance provider. 

Water damage can be sourced in so many ways and the coverage differs among available commercial insurance policies depending on the cause. You may need to add water damage coverage or get additional coverage on top of the standard policy to cover a greater range of water damage sources. When getting quotes, pay attention to what different companies offer and inquire about what the coverage options are for water damage.

Leaks and burst pipes are among two of the more common causes for commercial water damage, so business owners should especially make sure their policies cover such damage. However, slow, gradual leaks often aren’t covered by commercial property policies. This is because companies see this as negligence, something that could have been prevented with proper maintenance unlike an accident, which happens suddenly and could not have been avoided.

Keep this all in mind when choosing what commercial insurance to get for your business. If you already have a business and commercial insurance for it, look over your policy. Review the coverage to see whether your business is protected against water damage and to what extent. Contact your insurance agent, and inquire with them what additional coverage, if any, you can get to further protect your business. While no business owner wants to deal with water damage, it’s better to be safe and have that insurance than to find yourself unprotected.

If your business ends up suffering from water damage, then you need to seek immediate assistance from a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, that helps restore damage in commercial properties.

Our professional technicians will begin their work by containing the damage to prevent it from spreading further and becoming worse. Furthermore, they always have the correct equipment to properly dry your commercial property and restore or replace any damaged building materials. If mold has grown as a result of the water damage, our technicians can address that problem as well.

Call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan today at 212-768-9400!

The longer your belongings stay in water, the worse the damage will be.

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

Any area that is not dried thoroughly within 24 hours may have long-term mold problems

Do you have the time?

Remediation of Mold, just one service we offer at SERVPRO!

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let mold beat you up, call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan immediately! We are available 24/7/365 at 212-768-9400.

This NYC home was stricken with visible mold spores following a massive flood. The Project Manager identified the bathtub as the source of the loss as the pipe backed up and overflowed CAT 3 water.

Upon your local SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan’s arrival, our team protected themselves with Personal Protective Equipment from head to toe. Then, our crew flood cut the walls 4 feet in both bedrooms, the bathroom, and the laundry room.

All affected areas were then HEPA vacuumed, cleaned, sprayed with antimicrobial, and then encapsulated to prevent any mold from returning. This was all done under negative air pressure with air scrubbers operating with HEPA filters. 

The floors were cleaned in all areas, and the bathtub, which was the source of the loss (the pipe backed up and overflowed CAT 3 water), was cleaned and sanitized. 

Water can unleash a slew of issues on your business. Don't let it get you down, call us today!

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is available 24/7/365, no matter the weather to restore your home or business from any unfortunate event.

How unfortunate for this business to be gravely damaged with mold and a hazardous sewage back up simultaneously. Our scope of work was derived by the air quality test due to the affected area surpassing 10 SF.

Flood cuts were performed in the bathroom and the area immediately outside of the bathroom. The affected areas were then HEPA vacuumed to remove any mold spores, sprayed with an antimicrobial to treat and disinfect, and then finally we encapsulated the affected areas to prevent mold from returning in the future.

We had air scrubbers running while the HVAC was turned off to prevent the spread of mold spores while we performed our services. After the remediation all surfaces were cleaned and disinfected, yet again. We will let the mold hygienist know that he can come in for post-remediation clearance testing. This family is more than grateful this holiday season!

Call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan today so we can make, "Like it never even happened."

We've Got What You Need.. Real-World Experience & The Resources to Return your Property to it's Normal State

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Properties are always at risk of being damaged by natural elements. If your business gets hit by a disaster, you'll need to call us!

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is the leading first responder whom you should notify immediately following significant damage to a business, which includes but is not limited to floods, fires, mold, sewage backups and crime scene.

The job of a restoration company in a few words is to clean up the mess, preserve and protect the business and its contents so that further damage will not occur.

If you didn't know, now you know. Call us today, 24/7/365 at 212-768-9400!!

How Long is Too Long to Wait to Call SERVPRO...

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Fire got you down, call your local SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan. Leave it to the professionals, call us today at 212-768-9400!

How does SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan determine how to handle smoke damaged items?

Temperature, whether the fire is smoldering or blazing, as well as materials burned, each affect necessary cleanup measures differently. To make matters worse smoke particles can easily penetrate any crack and crevice. When not handled properly, particles will leave a smoke odor behind that lasts months after a fire. Proper ventilation, consistent debris removal, proper cleaning and immediate odor neutralizing efforts are critical to saving as many of your belongings as possible. However, timing is THE most crucial component of successful smoke remediation.  

Are you running out of time?

The IIRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification), a globally recognized leader in all types of remediation, identifies these time windows:

• Within minutes
  Porous materials and synthetics must be immediately addressed to prevent permanent discoloration.
• Within hours to days
  Wooden furniture, flooring, painted walls, and clothing can become permanently stained if not addressed within hours to days of damage, and metal surfaces will at this point begin to rust, pit, and corrode, requiring refinishing or replacement.
• Within weeks
  Prolonged soot exposure will embed itself in the fibers and surfaces, resulting in a longer, more costly restoration with a higher likelihood of replacement.

Don't leave your Christmas tree up too late after Christmas

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan specializes in Fire and Smoke Restoration, don't hesitate to contact us at 212-768-9400.

This family had planned to remove their Christmas tree from the house the day after the fire. Instead, wiring beneath the dried-out tree fueled a fire that spread so quickly, the family couldn't escape.

The NFPA and several fire departments in the New York City area recommend the following safety tips: 

• Make sure string lights have no loose connections, cracked lamps or frayed cords.
• Use only a single extension cord that can reach your home's outlet without being too long and being tangled.
• Use UL-approved lights and cords.
• Make sure lights are off when you go out and before you turn in for the night.
• Make sure all outdoor light connectors are away from metal rain gutters and off the ground.
• Never use candles to light or decorate a tree.
• To lessen the chance of a fire hazard, purchase a freshly cut tree.
• Make sure to keep your tree at least three feet away from any heat source.
• Water the tree every day, and remove it from your home after Christmas or once it becomes dry. 
• Don't burn Christmas tree branches or wrapping paper in your fireplace.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that could burn. 

Christmas trees aren't the only item you'll need to be careful with. Two out of every five home decoration fires are started by candles. The four most common days for candle fires are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, police report. 

Remember: 3 Feet from the Heat

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

More than 25,000 residential fires are caused each year by space heaters. Don't delay call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan now at 212-768-9400

More than half of all home heating fire deaths resulted from fires that began when heating equipment was too close to things that can burn, such as upholstered furniture, clothing, mattresses or bedding. Space heaters should be placed a minimum of three feet away from anything that can burn, and must be turned off when people leave the room or go to sleep.

• Have a three foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
• Install wood burning stoves following manufacturer’s instructions or have a professional do the installation. All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
• Install and maintain CO alarms to avoid the risk of CO poisoning. If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not light the appliance. Leave the home immediately and call your local fire department or gas company.

Never use your oven to heat your home.

Commercial Drying Equipment - Industrial Fans

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Stop what your doing and call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan right now, 718-979-4100! We are here to help 24/7/365!

WHAT IS AN AIR MOVER?

A major piece of drying equipment which is used by restoration professionals during water damage restoration and drying projects. Despite it's prevalence, many people don’t know how this unit works, or how to select the best one for their project. Air movers have a few alternative names, such as blower fans, commercial air blowers or air mover fans. They’re used to increase air circulation, which speeds up water evaporation and reduces drying time, compressed air is used to maximize airflow.

ADVANTAGES OF AIR MOVERS

Their low power draw means that they’re safe to use in a wide variety of settings, and it makes ideal for water damage restoration projects. Compared to other types of fans, these units also have high velocity, which makes them ideal for cooling and ventilation purposes.

AIR MOVERS USAGE

With these advantages, it’s no surprise that air movers are used in so many industries.

Some of their many applications include:

• Reducing water damage to carpets and floors
• Drying carpets for carpet technicians
• Flood and disaster restoration projects
• Drying concrete and paint
• Improving ventilation in large areas
• Removing fumes or gases from a work space

There are some truly creative uses for air movers, but most of them fall into a few basic categories:

• Drying: Drying is one of the most common usages.

By rapidly increasing air circulation, commercial air movers promote evaporation. Rapid air circulation is critical for shortening drying times. An air mover can reduce carpet drying time to a more than 20 minutes. Industrial models also make it feasible to dry large areas quickly.

• Curing Concrete and Paint: Industrial air movers are also widely used in the construction industry.

They speed up the concrete setting and cut down on how long it takes paint to cure. Air movers are an odorless, fast alternative to chemical admixtures and they are particularly useful in humid areas where concrete and paint tend to sweat as it dries.

• Removing Fumes: Because of their high-powered blowers, air movers are used to remove fumes or gases from an area.
• Blowing: These units can also be used to ventilate large work spaces or cool engines and other equipment.

Your home is as important to us as our own home. Don't let mold get you down!

12/28/2019 (Permalink)

Mold from the outdoors can enter the home through open doors, windows, and vents. It may also cling to clothing, shoes, and pets as a gateway inside.

Whilst bathrooms and basements are habitually moist areas, vulnerable to mold growth, any moist area in the home can become affected. The below are examples of areas in the home that can breed mold if the ideal growing conditions are present.

• Drywall
• Ceiling Tiles
• Carpet
• Furniture
• HVAC ducts
• Roofing
• Paneling
• Wallpaper
• Below Sinks
• Areas around pipes

Mold can be seen in many different colors (ie. brown, green, and black) and often times appears as spots. Additionally, a musty odor may be present. While it is impossible to eliminate all mold spores in an indoor environment, the mold spores will not grow in the absence of moisture. Thus, controlling moisture is the key to preventing mold growth.

Remember the following:

• It's important to identify and repair water problems, such as leaks in plumbing or other structures that may lead to moisture buildup.
• Clean and dry areas of any leakage and water damage in the home within the initial 24-48 hours to prevent mold problems.
• Use of an air conditioner or air dehumidifier during humid seasons can help reduce the potential for moisture buildup.
• Avoid the use of carpets in humid basements and bathrooms.
• Using fans and maintaining good ventilation in the home can also improve indoor air quality and help prevent or control dampness.
• Add mold inhibitor products to household paints.
• Keep indoor humidity levels low (ideally between 30%-50%).
• Use bathroom fans or open bathroom windows when showering for air circulation.
• Vent appliances that produce moisture, such as clothes dryers and stoves, to the outdoors when possible.
• Adding insulation can reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (such as windows, piping, roof, or floors).

Please call us today, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, 212-768-9400 so we can take care of your issues immediately!

On the hunt for a professional deep clean? Our reputation is spotless!

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Has your HVAC unit caused a water leak? Be sure to call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, your local, leading Restoration company!

With Christmas time here, all of us in New York City know that the brutally cold weather has arrived. This can bring several issues to your home or business!

For this Laundromat the HVAC unit was improperly maintained and caused a water leak. Thankfully, they called SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan to make “Like it never even happened.”

We are available 24/7 for any water damage or fire damage that can occur to your property this winter. No job is too big or too small! Call our office at 212-768-9400.

When winter weather bestows the unexpected on your property, be prepared. Call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan!

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

Winter weather can introduce unnecessary havoc on your property. Don't panic! Call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan!

With Christmas only a week away, all of us here in New York City know that the brutally cold weather is almost upon us. There is nothing like a New York winter. However, the temperature can drop extremely low and powerful snowstorms are common.

Winter can be a long, cold, and dark season in New York. A snowy Christmas would be nice, but intense snowfall can lead to property damage. Now is the time to familiarize yourself with your locally owned and operated SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan.

We are available 24/7 for any water damage or fire damage that can occur to your property this winter. Call our office at 212-768-9400.

Fire Loss Cleanup in Home

12/13/2019 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage done to a local home

House fires can be one of the most traumatic events a person can endure. Your home not only holds your most prized possessions but also is a place where your loved ones reside.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is proud of the work we do to restore homes back to the state they were originally in. Our crew of highly trained technicians will restore your home as thoroughly and rapidly as possible.

Our crew will work hard to make sure your home is returned to a safe and healthy environment. We know that home fires can be extremely stressful for a homeowner.

We promise to try and make the restoration process as stress-free as possible. When disaster strikes call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan and we promise to make it “Like it never even happened.”

What to Do With a Broken Window

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

Storms can lead to unexpected damages in your home that can cause much bigger issues. In the event of a broken window, it is important deal with this issue immediately. 

First you must take photos of the damage for insurance purpose and then clean the glass from the area as best as possible to minimize risk of cutting yourself. Once the glass is cleaned, a tarp can be secured over the window until a new window can be put in. 

A restoration company like SERVPRO can be used to do the full clean up and assess anymore damages after a storm. Never hesitate to contact the professionals. 

Water Damage in Drywall

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

Drywall is a fundamental part of your home, in the event of a water damage though it is often forgotten. While the material is fairly durable, a leak can wreak havoc on it. Because of the porosity it can wick up water and become problematic. Areas affected by this are prone to mold and become more serious then they started out. In these cases it is necessary to contact a company such as SERVPRO to remove and treat the issue at hand. Do not leave yourself at risk and always deal with water damages promptly. 

Keeping Your Gutters Clean

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

As fall beings to approach, leaves begin to pile into gutters. It is important to keep your gutters free of debris so water can run into them without resistance. Some steps to prevent clogged gutters include: Trimming trees near the home, installing gutter guards, and removing materials that have fallen into the gutters with a scoop or by hand. If you are unable to clean them yourself there is a plethora of companies who do this work.

Clogged gutters can result in degraded foundations, cracked roofs, flooding in many areas of the home, and broken gutters. The results of a clogged gutter will require much more effort to repair then simply fixing it before it occurs. 

How to Deal With an Electrical Fire

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

Faulty wiring and poor maintenance of your electrical systems can result in a dangerous fire. In the case of such an event it is crucial you handle it correctly before and after. If you see the start of a fire you must shut off power from the breaker box, it is important you do not pull out anything plugged in as it could be electrically charged and result in harm to yourself. Do not use water to extinguish an electrical fire, nor a standard fire extinguisher if the power is still connected. A class C fire extinguisher is required for these types of fires, but if the power is cut then a class A extinguisher should be used. Once you have put out the fire completely the results will be damage to some extent and the lasting odor of a fire. SERVPRO is able to handle this clean up and before you know it, the fires damage will disappear. It is important to deal with an issue like this immediately and the longer you wait, the more lasting damage.  

Why you should leave fire cleanup to the professionals

7/11/2019 (Permalink)

When any type of fire occurs in your home, it's probably smartest to rely on experts to instruct you on the safest cleanup methods. After a fire has damaged any part of your home or property, there are certain precautions that one must take in restoring the area. More often then not, certain tools and knowledge is required. 

For many property owners, walls or floors must be entirely replaced, and this requires professional assistance. Because without the proper methods, it is very possible to cause further damage without realizing. You want your property to be restored properly so you can once again live or work properly in the area. 

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is more than willing to come assist you in any situation like this. We operate in the midtown area and will respond to the scene as soon as we can.

Giving to Prep for Prep

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

We are proud to announce our donation to the NPO Prep for Prep, a leadership development and educational program founded in 1978 right here in New York City. 

We fully believe in the way that Prep for Prep donates to the community, providing high achieving minority students with efficient academic resources and scholarships. 

Good luck students and continue to thrive!

Tornado Safety Tips

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

With the extreme shifts in weather patterns, it is more important now than ever to be prepared for whatever.

Here are some suggestions on safety during a tornado from FEMA:

If you are at home during a tornado:

• Go to a windowless interior room on lowest level of your house. Go to a storm cellar or basement if your house has one. If there is no basement, go to an inner hallway or a smaller inner room without windows, such as a bathroom or closet.
• Get away from the windows.
• Go to the center of the room. Stay away from corners because they tend to attract debris.
• Get under a piece of sturdy furniture such as a workbench or heavy table or desk and hold on to it.
• Use your arms to protect head and neck.
• If you are in a mobile home, get out and find shelter elsewhere.

If you are at work or school during a tornado:

• Go to the basement or to an inside hallway at the lowest level.
• Avoid places with wide-span roofs such as auditoriums, cafeterias, large hallways, or shopping malls.
• Get under a piece of sturdy furniture such as a workbench or heavy table or desk and hold on to it.
• Use your arms to protect head and neck.

If you are outdoors during a tornado:

• If possible, get inside a building.
• If shelter is not available or there is no time to get indoors, lie in a ditch or low-lying area or crouch near a strong building. Look out for flood waters which may also fill low areas.
• Use your arms to protect head and neck.

If you are in a car during a tornado:

• Never try to drive faster than a tornado in a car or truck. Tornadoes can change direction quickly and can lift up a car or truck and toss it through the air.
• Get out of the car immediately and take shelter in a nearby building.
• If there is no time to get indoors, get out of the car and lie in a ditch or low-lying area away from the vehicle. Be aware of the potential for flooding.

The More You Know...

6/10/2019 (Permalink)

Knowledge is invaluable when disaster strikes.  Having a plan in place can keep us safe.

Here our some tips from the American Red Cross concerning Thunderstorms:

About Thunderstorms

A thunderstorm is considered severe if it produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter or has wind gusts of at least 58 miles per hour. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding, and high winds can damage homes and blow down trees and utility poles, causing widespread power outages.

Know the Difference

Severe Thunderstorm Watch - Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property. 

Every year people are killed or seriously injured by severe thunderstorms despite advance warning. While some did not hear the warning, others heard the warning and did not pay attention to it. The information in this section, combined with timely watches and warnings about severe weather, may help save lives.

There is no job too big or too small

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Many times, the work that we perform in a Large Loss Water Damage scenario is very much time sensitive. In an emergency setting, its crucial that the initial hours of the loss be utilized effectively and efficiently. Water is dangerous if neglected, and its important to call professionals such as SERVPRO Of Midtown Manhattan who are accustomed to responding to such jobs.Our location has a full staff of project management combined with hard working and qualified technicians who is very hands on in making certain that our emergency trucks are ready to go at a moments notice, and that our technicians who are performing the labor are NEVER without tools or materials.       Our aggressive work ethic has helped us forge quality relationships with many staples in the Midtown Manhattan community, and we would love to continue that pattern by arriving on time, fully prepared, and ready to trouble shoot or re-mediate any restorative needs that may incur.

3 Basic Construction Safety Tips to Avoid Problems

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Busy construction worksites are often very dangerous places to be. Many things can go wrong throughout the process of a project, so it is in one's best interest to take the proper preventative safety measures. These three basic tips will help minimize any risk.

1. Find the correct Personal Protective Equipment to Wear on the Job.

Wearing the proper gear for a job proves to be very helpful in preventing injury. When lifting heavy objects, be sure to wear a secure back brace to limit damage to your body and the surrounding areas. Wearing proper construction footwear such as non-slip rubber soled shoes will prove to be very helpful in avoiding slipping and falling. 

It is also extremely important to protect your lungs and wear breathing masks to avoid inhaling dangerous toxins around you. 

Limit Crowding Within the Work Area

It is not uncommon for those working on a construction site to crowd around large and powerful machinery. Although it may often be unintentional, staying away from this powerful machinery is your best bet in limiting damage to other workers and even pedestrians. This rule should be strictly enforced on a construction site, and it is the responsibility of the foreman to ensure his surroundings are clear before engaging in his work. 

Loading and Unloading Equipment Safety

Make sure there is ample room around you when loading and unloading heavy equipment off of machinery. Proper clearance of all obstacles and people around you is key in avoiding damaging any people or structures that are around you. Make sure that all objects are secured using the correct tie-down procedures. 

By following these tips, you can make your construction site as safe and efficient as possible for you and your team. Although these tips may seem basic is should always be your first priority to practice the correct safety measures in the workplace.

Claim filing Assistance

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

Disasters can be harrowing and stressful experiences. If your home has just experienced a serious fire, for example, the last thing you probably feel like doing is filing a time-consuming claim and negotiating with an insurance company. The mere thought probably makes your head feel like it's going to explode. If you're interested in a reputable restoration company that is more than happy to handle claim filing on your behalf, then it's time to get into contact with SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan. We'll communicate with the insurance company for you to see to it that you get the coverage you deserve, period.

If you're in Manhattan and looking for a reliable restoration company that can assist you with the often frustrating and time-consuming claim filing process, give SERVPRO a call as soon as possible. If your property has just experienced any type of severe disaster (whether a fire, flood or anything else), our company is right here waiting to help you. If you're worried about the damage a disaster may have caused your property, we can give you much-needed peace of mind.

Reach out to the team at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan today to learn more about our in-depth restoration services. Call our company ASAP to learn more about our efficient insurance assistance as well. We're here to help you!

Fire, Smoke, Water, And Mold Damage Restoration

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

One of the most profound losses that business people and homeowners experience are mainly caused by fire, water, mold or smoke damages. Witnessing your home and precious belongings being consumed by water or fire can be traumatizing. The only reassurance you can have after such a disastrous loss is obtained from having a clear support and guidance in rescuing as much property as possible.

In the indoor environment, water is the only long-term most catastrophic material. Structures and other personal properties can deteriorate rapidly as a result of too much flooding or moisture.

We have successfully restored much water, fire and smoke damaged structures in Manhattan, New York.

We have a wide variety of residential and commercial services to our clients. Over the years, our company has grown all over the New York community as a result of the exemplary services that we provide. We have a team of certified and fully trained professionals who are ready to respond to all emergencies at any given time.

Our company can tackle any disaster since we have all the necessary equipment for fire, smoke, and water mitigation.

Some of the services that we provide are as follows,

• Fire damage restoration

• Restoration of water damage

• Restoration of storm destruction

• Mold damage restoration and others.

As a leading restoration firm, we are capable of handling it all; from damage restoration, to water removal, to the cleanup of fire damage.

If not handled carefully and immediately, natural disasters can cause extensive destruction to your property. That's why you need a company that is fully equipped and experienced to restore your property to its initial condition. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is the company you need for quick mitigation of any form of natural disaster.

Our team of emergency support is on standby 24/7, so you shouldn't hesitate to give us a call night or day.

Call us today at (212) 768-9400, and we respond immediately.

6 Tips for Pet Safety During a Hurricane

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricanes are frightening for us and can have the same effect on our furry friends.  Having a plan in place can keep you and your pets calm during the storm.  Here are some pet friendly tips from Pet MED:

1. Make a Plan

Have supplies set aside and ready.  This includes: an emergency kit, pet supplies in a separate bag ready to go, and an escape option.

2. Be a Stickler

Whatever your decision is, stick to it. Otherwise, you may put your pet in real danger. If you decide to leave town at the first sign of warning, then do so as planned. Changing your mind or changing the plan often leads to unnecessary confusion. 

3. Get Your Kit On

A pet emergency kit isn’t that much different to yours. Enough water for three days, non-perishable food (include a can opener if needed), a solid carrier, litter, litter box, puppy pads, plastic bags, medicine and medical records for both you and your pet in waterproof containers, extra leash, and a picture of your pet on you in case the worst happens and you get separated. Tags and/or microchipping your pet will also make it easier to recover, should it get lost.  

4. Staying In

If you’re staying home to ride out the storm, keep your pet in its carrier or on a leash. You never know when you might be forced to evacuate. And even if that doesn’t happen, you don’t want to be tracking down a petrified pet during the chaos. Therefore, secure your pet before the storm hits.  

5. Going Out

Stay tuned to the news reports. If you’re told to evacuate, you must do so at first warning. Moreover, it helps to have everything ready to go. We suggest a backpack that holds all the essentials for you and your pet. And make sure you know ahead of time exactly where all the shelters are and how to get there.  

6. Stay Calm

Whether you leave early, choose to stay, or are required to evacuate due to the storm's severity or due to house damage, remember to stay calm. Your pet can sense your emotions, so a calming demeanor can lead to a less-panicked pet. Oh, and don't forget to speak to your pet in a calm, soothing voice, too.  

Hurricane Evacuation Tips from NYC GOV

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

New York residents are not strangers to the extraordinary, but being prepared is always in fashion.  Check out these evacuation tips from NYC.gov, being in the know is en vogue!  

If You Must Evacuate

• Know your zone. Determine whether you live in an evacuation zone by using the Hurricane Evacuation Zone Finder at NYC.gov/knowyourzone or call 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115). Zones are color-coded and labeled 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 when represented on a map. If your address is in one of the City’s hurricane evacuation zones, you may be ordered to evacuate if a hurricane threatens New York City.
• Evacuees should be prepared to stay with friends or family who live outside evacuation zone boundaries.
• If you cannot stay with friends or family, use the Hurricane Evacuation Zone Finder, or call 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115) to identify which evacuation center is most appropriate for you.
  • Evacuation information is subject to change. For the latest information, visit NYC.gov or call 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115). Visit the MTA's website at www.mta.info or call 511 for the latest transit information. If you need assistance evacuating during an emergency, please call 311.
  • Information on evacuation centers, including accessibility features, is subject to change. Please visit NYC.gov/knowyourzone or contact 311 for updated reports on building status and accessibility features.
• When a coastal storm is approaching, the City may order the evacuation of neighborhoods in danger of flooding from storm surge, starting with zone 1 and adding more zones as needed. Zones will be evacuated depending on life safety-related threats from a hurricane’s forecasted strength, track, and storm surge.

*If the City issues an evacuation order for your area, do so as directed.* The City will communicate through local media specific instructions about which areas of the city should evacuate. If a mandatory evacuation is issued, do so as directed. Use public transportation if possible, keeping in mind that public transportation may shut down hours before the storm. For additional information about how to evacuate, including transportation options, please contact 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115).

How to Evacuate

Since flooding and high winds can occur many hours before a hurricane makes landfall, evacuees should leave their homes immediately if instructed to do so by emergency officials. The City strongly recommends evacuees stay with friends or family who live outside evacuation zones. Evacuees should plan their mode of transportation with special care and take the following steps:

• Plan to use mass transit as much as possible, as it offers the fastest way to reach your destination. Using mass transit reduces the volume of evacuees on the roadways, reducing the risk of dangerous and time-consuming traffic delays. Please note that public transportation may shut down hours before the storm.
• Listen carefully to local news media, which will broadcast reports about weather and transportation conditions.
• Leave early. Hazards like strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding may force the early closure of roads, bridges, and tunnels. Also, evacuate early if you rely on elevators to get out of your building. Elevators may be out of service and may not be available at all times.
• Allow additional travel time and consider your transportation, dietary, and medical needs (oxygen, extra batteries/chargers, eyeglasses, prescriptions, etc.). Bring all medications with you and have contact information for your health providers written down to carry with you.
• The City advises against car travel during an evacuation. The City will be working hard to keep roads clear, but traffic is unavoidable in any evacuation.
  • Be ready for a long, slow trip. The City will monitor conditions along major transportation routes to help vehicular traffic flow as smoothly as possible.
  • Evacuation route signs point the way to high ground, away from coastal flooding. If you must evacuate, leave your home before storm conditions make roadways unsafe.
  • Stay tuned to local media for information about road and bridge closures. New York State's 511 can help you monitor traffic on State roads.
  • Many evacuation centers do NOT have parking available.
  • Wind restrictions and vehicle bans may be implemented on area bridges. Large vehicles such as trailers, trucks, other vehicles with higher wind profiles will be restricted sooner than cars or SUVs.
  • In any significant rainstorm, *avoid driving through standing water.*

Post Construction Cleanup

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Once the floors are down and the drywall is up, it's time to remove the debris and dirt in order to lay carpet, paint and decorate.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan professionals can provide the debris removal services to prepare the building for its final installation details. 

Structural integrity, safety, and deadlines are all part of the construction day to day.  When your work is done, we can do the rest.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan can help you meet your deadlines by providing thorough post-construction services in an efficient manner.  Our services include:

• Post Construction Cleaning
• Dehumidifiation and Drying
• Ceiling, walls and fixture cleaning
• Deodoraization and Sanitation 
• Final Detailed Cleaning
• HEPA vacuuming 
• Fast Track Drying
• Window Cleaning
• Debris Removal
• Emergency Response Restoration and Clean Up Services

Water Damage During Construction

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage during a construction project can be crippling.  The damage can interrupt the progress of your project and really derail projected completion dates.  SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan understands that mitigating the damage is time-sensitive.  

We have the equipment and team to ensure that the structural damage due to water can be mitigated as quickly as possible.  Our knowledgeable team has the expertise to place the appropriate pieces of equipment to thoroughly dry your structure and put your crew back on track.

Work on the project can most likely continue, minimizing the disruption to the work in progress.  We are fully licensed and certified to work with commercial properties in NYC.  Be sure to call the leaders in restoration and cleaning, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan.

Tips for Hurricane Preparedness

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

As the leader in water damage restoration, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan knows fast mitigation is the key to limiting business interruption.  SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is faster to any size disaster and can be on-site within a few hours to help reduce the future damage water can cause.  We have the right equipment, procedures and training to help ensure the structure is dry the first time, saving you time and money.

FEMA Hurricane safety tips: Learn what to do before a hurricane.