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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts

The Threat of Smithtown Mold Damage on Structures

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

two employees in PPE in a mold damaged attic Our SERVPRO technicians in Smithtown are at your service when you detect mold damage in your home.

SERVPRO Remediates Mold Damage to Protect Property

Homeowners must appreciate the impact of mold on their properties. Because of the proximity of our communities to major water bodies on Long Island’s North Shore, several homes contend with groundwater concerns and higher humidity. Without appropriate moisture content management and ventilation, the result can be the formation of mold colonies. Our SERVPRO AMRT-Certified technicians are trained to help with:

  • Moisture removal
  • Surface cleaning
  • Odor removal
  • Structural repairs
  • Mold inhibition

Responding fast is one of the best defenses against Smithtown mold damage. We understand the importance of a quick arrival window as mold colonies continue to spread through the structure and new hosting materials until containment is established and remediation work begins.

How Does Mold Damage Threaten a Home? 

With more than 120,000 in Smithtown and a substantially larger population through Suffolk County, many homes and businesses could get impacted by mold and microbial damage. There are a few ways that active colonies can destroy your home or make comfortable living impossible:

  • Structural Deterioration – Mold uses organic matter as a food source, destroying hosting elements the longer they stay exposed to the organism. After as little as 24 hours, materials like drywall often require demolition
  • Moisture Damage – The same conditions that allowed mold growth initially can also be detrimental and destructive to the property. 
  • Volatile Organic Compounds – VOCs are a byproduct of colonies, and their presence can directly impact living conditions. Widespread VOCs overwhelm a property with harsh, offensive malodors. 

How Does Mold Get Discovered?

As destructive and harmful to property as mold damage can be, it is surprising that finding the colonies can often seem elusive. Mold often forms in darker, moist environments, so these typically do not describe the high-traffic areas of your household. There are signs to alert you to possible mold growth, and these include:

  • Odors – Volatile organic compounds produce strong, musty smells from active colonies, which can penetrate nearby areas and signal mold trouble. 
  • Structural Damage – The deterioration of building materials like drywall is a strong indicator that some type of damage exists, be it water or mold. 
  • Spotting – Physical spotting on surfaces can show the earliest colonization of hosting materials. These can be any color: black, blue, orange, green, and others. 

Removing Mold Damage 

There are multiple approaches to removing mold and microbial growth from a property. The factors that determine the ideal solution range from the type of hosting material to the severity of the infestation. The degree to which microbes have penetrated an impacted building material also determines what methods are best for removal, including:

  • Antimicrobial products
  • Mechanical action
  • Abrasive cleaning
  • Demolition

Fast Damage Repairs 

With a general contractor license (#51995-H) and IICRC AMRT-Certifications, we have the training and accreditation to complete a wealth of building services your property might need. After mold exposures, controlled demolition is often a significant factor in the approach to restore the property and prevent the spread of spores and colonies. Our team can also replace discarded materials, repair structural compromise that permits moisture infiltration, and repair damaged utilities like plumbing that could contribute to the moist environment.

Smithtown mold damage impacts many surfaces, contents, and materials throughout an affected property. Remediation professionals need to act fast to help. With a roster of accredited AMRT-Certified professionals, our SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown team is ready to mitigate loss and repair the damage that mold can do to a house. Give us a call today at (631) 265-9200.

When Your Smithtown Bathroom Suffers Mold Damage

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

Magnified Mold SERVPRO is prepared with restoration equipment and experienced technicians.

SERVPRO Helps Remediate Mold Damage Threats

The presence of mold in your home threatens the structural elements and creates a volatile environment for your family. Fast restoration and remediation services are needed when a high-traffic house area like the bathroom suffers from these organisms.

What Mold Can Damage in the Bathroom

The mold damage in your Smithtown bathroom can be alarming to see. As fast as these symptoms can develop in moist conditions, multiple materials in the room can begin to get ruined by colonies:

  • Vanity
  • Flooring
  • Paint
  • Drywall

Cleaning and Remediation Solutions

The preferred method of mold remediation and removal is surface cleaning. Using antimicrobial and sporicidal agents from our inventory, we can apply these products to colonies on hosting materials to destroy the accessible spores. We also have more intricate recovery options, such as sanding and media blasting, to remediate beyond the surface layer.

While surface cleaning and other remediation solutions are favored, it is not always practical for the existing damage. Our certified and licensed team can help with controlled demolition services that cut out the ruined hosting materials. We safely discard these elements and leave a clean and stable foundation for reconstruction. 

Preventing Recurring Mold in the Bathroom 

Recurrences of mold can be one of the direct concerns for remediators. The extensive work and effort that goes into clearing an active mold issue can be undone by the regrowth of new colonies in the same bathroom spots. We can overcome structural vulnerabilities and moisture penetration through repairs and permanent regulation equipment. 


Mold can be an underappreciated threat to your home or business. Professional remediation is critical with threats like structural deterioration and recurring development in areas like the bathroom. Our SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown team is ready to help when you need us. Call now at (631) 265-9200.

Why SERVPRO Smithtown Mold Inspections Use Industrial Hygienists

11/13/2022 (Permalink)

mold growing on the ceiling in the corner of a room Mold infestations quickly take over any allotted space. Contact SERVPRO 24/7, 365 days a year for effective services and a custom remediation plan.

Mold Inspections Can Require Testing and Lab Work

Visually inspecting your Smithtown property for unwanted and developing damage should be a normal event that occurs regularly and always after any water leaks or other situations that cause elevated humidity. Mold multiplies at a rapid pace, easily overtaking obscure areas. When our preliminary mold inspection reveals possible mold activity, many customers request further testing. Such additional testing requires an independent industrial hygienist (IH).

After we perform a mold inspection in Smithtown, SERVPRO works with an IH who provides an independent assessment for the customer. The IH can perform a detailed evaluation using additional methods to determine the mold varieties within a building or house. We then follow their written directives as we remediate the structure. Mold is not always bad or causes health effects, but mold and spores always exist inside your property. The only exceptions to this are specially built ‘clean rooms’ used in certain industrial settings. Even the cleanest medical environment harbors mold particles.

What causes problems with the overgrowth of mold in our living spaces include:

  • Deterioration of the surface material generated by the colony growing into and eating away at it,
  • Stained areas left behind on more durable surfaces (porcelain, ceramic), and
  • Odors that can transfer to clothing, upholstery, and other textiles.

When SERVPRO mold remediation specialists perform work related to the mold found in your property, we do so in a manner that protects everything from further destruction. We might offer to store items in our warehouse to prevent contamination. Our air scrubbers work quickly and keep up with any debris thrown into the air as we perform abrasive cleaning, dry-ice blasting, and controlled demolition of mold-destroyed areas.

After removing damaged materials, we always work with the customer on rebuilding the damaged areas using the most economical ways. 

Before we finish, we do everything to bring it all back to the same condition as before, “Like it never even happened.” Call SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown at (631) 265-9200 for the mold inspection and remediation your property needs.

Repairing Wooden Floors with Mold Damage in Smithtown Properties

7/10/2022 (Permalink)

hardwood floor, poly sheeting SERVPRO removes mold from hardwood floors, using poly sheeting to prevent cross-contamination, in your Smithtown residence.

Effective Mold Cleanup in Smithtown by SERVPRO

Mold growing in homes indicates that there is a problem with moisture. When moisture problems go unnoticed for a considerable period, it may lead to mold growth. It can wear away materials, such as drywall, concrete, wood, carpet, wallpaper, and ceiling tiles. It may take time for the fungi to become rampant and cause large-scale damage to your home, but if not taken care of, the damage could worsen. When you discover signs in your Smithtown home, act immediately by contacting experts.

Mold damage remediation in Smithtown involves assessing the extent of the damage and containing the problem to prevent it from advancing. Also, attending to the moisture source halts the mold spread. The process of removing mold could stir up significant amounts of spores. SERVPRO adheres to EPA safety precautions minimizing the spread of mold spores through the structure. Our teams create a containment plan by hanging plastic sheeting and establishing negative air pressure.

You can control mold growth by:

  • Controlling humidity levels
  • Promptly fixing leaky roofs, windows, and pipes
  • Thoroughly cleaning and drying after flooding
  • Ventilating laundry and cooking areas

Removing mold from wooden floor Surface

Floors may get mold damage due to groundwater seepage or a leak that is not promptly fixed and cleaned. Removing most of the colonies on the surface is possible. But, when it is ingrained, SERVPRO must determine how far the mold has spread for appropriate removal. Often hardwood flooring is supported by crawlspace foundation joists. These must also be inspected and treated with an antimicrobial if mold is discovered.

Indicators of mold on wood floor

  • Warped and twisted floorboards
  • Discoloration
  • Musty smell

Besides the visual confirmation, SERVPRO technicians can check underneath the boards for mold by removing a small floor section. Our teams may have to peel back the damaged floorboards, dispose of them properly, then clean, treat, and dry the subfloor before replacement.

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown has certified Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians (AMRT) and offers effective mold damage solutions for homeowners. Call us at (631) 265-9200. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How Can I Manage Mold on my Own in Smithtown?

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

Mold on Wall SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown is at your service when you detect mold in your home.

Mold in Your Smithtown Home Can Become a Greater Risk if You Fail to Involve a Professional Mold Mitigation Team

When you see mold in your Smithtown home, you must take it very seriously. Excess moisture can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, which can pose a health hazard for your family. Finding the water leak source is the first essential step toward the remediation process, but the cleanup that ensues is just as important. Give yourself peace of mind by delegating your mold remediation needs to specialists.

Mold damage in your Smithtown home can be overcome with the help of our SERVPRO team. We understand that time is of the essence, so we work quickly to thwart the growth of mold colonies throughout your home. As much as possible, we seek to isolate the affected area to prevent the dissemination of mold spores, all while we inspect each nook and cranny to verify their presence. Call our 24/7 hotline as soon as you detect the problem, and let us put our expert team to work for you.

What Are The Steps To Remove Mold?

At its most basic level, mold grows wherever there is excess humidity. Our SERVPRO crew concentrates on controlling the moisture by using dehumidifiers, air movers, extraction wands, and other industry techniques. We monitor our progress using state-of-the-art measuring tools, such as infrared moisture meters. Following our training at the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), we focus on the following steps during the remediation process:

  • Safety- this involves using personal protective equipment and limiting exposure to humans and the spread throughout your home.
  • Documentation- recording each step and its results make for a thorough and efficient process.
  • Finding the source- containing the start of the mold helps us reduce the airborne spread of bacteria, as does removing contaminated surfaces and materials as needed.

Once the cleanup process is over, we also set out to control your home's moisture levels to prevent a recurrence in the future.

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown is at your service when you detect mold in your home. Call us at (631) 265-9200 as soon as you suspect a problem and let us work to leave your home Like it never even happened.

SERVPRO's Fire Restoration Team for Smithtown

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

fire and smoke charred room Fire and smoke cleanup and restoration needed in your Smithtown home? NO NO to DIY! Call SERVPRO

Can My Smithtown Home Be Restored After a Fire?

Most residential fires are usually restricted to one part of the house, often the kitchen or garage. Physical damage from heat and flame is often minor, with most of the problems coming from the smoke particles left behind by burning material.

How are they able to clean my home, so it looks like it did before the fire?

Our technicians use commercial grade cleaners, tools, and training not available to most homeowners to attack the specific types of residues that can exist after a fire in Smithtown.

  • Dry smoke residues are the most common, and often can be cleaned off with a brush or sponge and only a small amount of cleaning agent in some cases. 
  • Wet smoke residues are stickier than dry smoke and require a stronger cleaner and a stiff brush.
  • Protein smoke residues occur when the fire burns beef and other meats. We use cleaners designed to break down the protein chains, which allow our technicians to remove them with little to no damage to affected surfaces.

Are there other residues?

Yes, there is also fuel oil residue, but that is rare in modern, private homes. Dry and Wet smoke residues can also be mixed, requiring more careful cleaning actions.

Is there anything I can do?

When it comes to restoration or cleaning, we advise no. Before our team arrives at your home, however, there are a few things you can accomplish:

  • Keep movement in your home to a minimum to avoid spreading residues. Lay down clean towels on carpets and floors before entering.
  • Empty freezers and refrigerators to reduce odors.
  • Cover the air registers to reduce the risk of soot moving through the vents. Cheesecloth is the best option if available.

At SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown, our goal is to restore each home affected by the fire to its original condition whenever possible. “Like it never even happened.” If you have had a fire of any size in your home, call us at (631) 518-3720 to learn what we can do for you and your residence.

Are There Any Mold Specialists Who Can Help me with Remediation in Commack?

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

Got mold? Mold remediati0on services by SERVPRO are top-notch. We use EPA-registered solutions for all cases needed. Call now for the help your home needs.

SERVPRO Can Assist with Mold Inspections in Commack

Anytime a slow leak occurs in one of your water pipes, it is possible that organic materials around it can get wet. If wooden or paper items in your home remain moist for more than two days, fungi can form. Since mold can cause health effects, it is wise to remediate the issues as soon as you see a black fungus begin to develop.

When remediating mold damage in Commack, our SERVPRO technicians start by figuring out the source of the moisture. We can use non-penetrating moisture meters to trace the water to a leak. We can also utilize infrared imaging to use temperature changing to find the moisture source.

After we repair the source, we can then take steps to remediate the contamination. First, we can set up a containment chamber in the affected area to prevent spores from spreading. Once the affected region gets contained, we can conduct the following:

  • Bathroom Mold Remediation
  • Attic Mold Remediation
  • Black Mold Inspections
  • Applied Structural Drying (ASD)
  • Mold Debris Removal

If the black mold is visible on the surface of your building materials, we can use various methods to get rid of the contamination. We can use sanding, scrubbing, or soda blasting techniques to remove surface contamination. Next, we can then take steps to dry out your affected contents and building materials so that a fungus does not form in the same area in the future. We can conduct ASD by setting up a combination of air movers and dehumidifiers. The air movers help push moisture out of your building materials, and the dehumidifiers can pull water from the air and dispense it in liquid form.

If you ever happen to see a black substance forming on the surface of your walls or other items, call SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown at (631) 518-3720. 

What Steps Can I Take to Prevent Water Damage from Pipe Freezes in Smithtown?

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes in kitchen sink Frozen water damage restor5atin is no easy task. SERVPRO technicians have the knowledge and experience for every phase needed for your home.

SERVPRO Provides Water Damage Restoration in the Greater Smithtown Area

According to several industry experts, when the temperature outside drops below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, the water lines inside your house are at risk of freezing and bursting. H2O has a unique property where it expands when it turns into a solid, which could cause your pipes to burst. However, sometimes the water can freeze inside your lines without causing the pipes to break. You can tell if this occurs when water slowly trickles out of your faucets or the pressure does not seem right.

Frozen pipes and ice damming in Smithtown can both cause your structure extensive damage. But, if you notice your pipes have frozen but have not yet leaked, it is a good idea to thaw them out before the lines break. First, determine which pipes have frozen by turning on your faucets one by one. If only one faucet has slow water coming out of it, follow the lines leading to it feeling cold sections. If all of your faucets are pouring slowly, then the frozen area is most likely near where the H2O enters your home.

Once you figure out where your pipes froze, inspect them for cracks, and if you find one, call a plumber to repair it before thawing. If there are no visible cracks, you can use a space heater, hairdryer, or heat lamp to warm up the pipes. However, if you are using a space heater or heat lamp, make sure there are no flammable materials nearby.

If you notice a water leak after you thaw out your frozen pipes, SERVPRO can help by providing fast 24/7 service. Our highly trained team can utilize the industry's most advanced technology to assist you in the following ways:

  • Repair Damage from Ice Damming
  • Water Removal Services
  • Cleaning Up after a Sewer backup
  • Basement Flooding Restoration

If you try to thaw out your pipes, but you still notice that moisture has leaked into your structure, call SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown at (631) 518-3720. 

Who Offers Reputable, Licensed, and Certified Smithtown Mold Damage Recovery Services?

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Got mold? SERVPRO technicians use EPA-registered biocides for all mold remediation services. 24/7 365 days a year we are here to help.

Experience and training are why SERVPRO delivers reliable mold remediation without the hype in Smithtown

Mold damage concerns Smithtown residents, particularly if you have worries about whether mold can cause health effects. The growth of mold can follow inadequate water damage repairs. Mold inspections, remediations, and removal can be tricky interventions, why SERVPRO obtained New York licensure and advanced technician training, the use of innovative techniques, and adherence to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) protocols.

What Are Signs of Mold Damage in Smithtown Houses?

How do you know if you have a mold problem in your home? Sometimes a rapidly multiplying mold colony covers visible surfaces with various colored fungi, organisms of many colors and appearances. Problems occur in hidden areas, resulting in attic mold and the need for basement and bathroom mold removal. Mold takes hold where moisture lingers for more than 24 or 48 hours. You might see staining, softening of building materials, or notice a distinctive musty stench when evaluating your home for black mold damage repairs.

How Do Mold Remediation Professionals Manage a Mold Infestation?

It is critical to address the underlying moisture issue to obtain sustained favorable mold removal results. Our experience with successful water damage restoration is why SERVPRO delivers desired mold remediation outcomes, as we also can provide thorough structural drying. After remedying the leak or seepage, we follow the EPA mold remediation checklist:

  • Locate the mold, employing trustworthy testing services if needed
  • Contain the moldy materials and affected area with impermeable polyethylene barriers and the action of negative pressure air scrubbing equipment 
  • Perform mold removal, including black mold damage repairs, using mechanical means such as brushing, scraping, and gentle blasting with dry ice or soda
  • Wipe up, vacuum, and bag mold materials for local legal hazardous waste disposal
  • Apply EPA-registered antimicrobials to inhibit rebound mold infestation

Commitment to proven black mold damage repairs and remediation procedures is why SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown crews rank highly as mold specialists. Call (631) 265-9200 for assessment and plan development.

Contractor Licenses:

General: 51995-H

Mold Remediation: 0060

Why Use SERVPRO in Smithtown for Detailed Black Mold Damage Repairs?

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

condensation in window Condensation provides an ideal environment for mold growth. Inspect your home often for signs of moisture and mold.

The SERVPRO Mold Specialists Address Damage Carefully, Ensuring Your Smithtown Property Gets Properly Restored

Whenever there is any black mold colonizing in your Smithtown home, there is either a water damage issue or problems with excessive moisture. Moisture is one of the main catalysts that bring on mold growth, so the chances are high that there is some water spill, pipe leak, or hidden moisture that is the culprit. Why contact SERVPRO for mold remediation and damage repairs? Because we come out fast, and we start working right away to restore your property to pre-event condition, “Like it never even happened.”

Why Does SERVPRO handle mold Damage in Smithtown Best?

Letting us inspect and assess your property pinpoints the areas impacted by mold growth in Smithtown and helps determine the cause. Rather than just cleaning the areas where mold is present, we ensure that the water damage repairs are complete and that your relative humidity (RH) levels are normal. Additionally, we approach each mold remediation project with the utmost care, ensuring the safety of our crew and everyone living within your home.

Some steps that the SERVPRO team takes once we arrive at your door include:

  • Construction of barriers and tarping for containment
  • Removal of any standing water
  • Inspecting the area for any slow or hidden leaks
  • Moisture detection with the help of sensors and other specialized tools
  • Use of fans and dehumidifiers to create the right amount of airflow for drying
  • HEPA filtration to remove any airborne particulates from the air within your home
  • Sanitization and deodorization to address any foul, musty odors

What is Relative Humidity?

The amount of moisture in your property that gets held at specific temperatures is relative humidity. If RH reaches high levels, it creates a mold and mildew breeding ground. Our technicians work swiftly to address both RH and your indoor air quality (IAQ) to help achieve our goals.

Call SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown at (631) 265-9200, and we can be there ASAP to help with mold damage remediation and repairs!

Why Smithtown Locals Should Consider SERVPRO for Fire Damage Assistance

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Chair on fire SERVPRO Helps Smithtown residents after a fire strikes. We are here to help with cleanup and restoration.

Fire Damage Restoration with SERVPRO Saves Smithtown Residents Time and Money

Not only is a house fire clean-up a nightmare to wrap your mind around, but you have to think about all of the steps involved to ensure the best results. Rather than taking on the headache of DIY, SERVPRO is the trusted name in Smithtown to handle the restoration of fire damaged homes. Once you place your initial phone call, you can have our Green Fleet at your door ready to tackle the debris, structural drying, and smoke remediation necessary to bring your home back to pre-fire condition.

When handling fire damage in Smithtown, SERVPRO’s technicians follow safety protocols and proven methods to get you the results you deserve. Our objectives include:

  • Ensuring the safety of anyone coming and going 
  • Ensuring soot and smoke residue does not linger long enough to cause secondary damage and corrosion
  • Ensuring the site is fully prepared so that water & fire damage restorations can take place

Each fire event is unique, but our IICRC-certified technicians know how to adapt and adjust equipment and processes to reach the predetermined goals. Some of these goals include:

  • Performing a thorough building inspection for health and safety hazards stemming from fire and smoke damage
  • Tarping and board up of the structure to protect its contents
  • Drying of the structure where moisture is left from first responders extinguishing the blaze
  • Setting up emergency power should electricity be unavailable
  • Pre-testing of various surfaces and materials to prevent additional damage
  • Controlled demolition to replace any unsalvageable materials with brand-new materials – General Contractor License #: 51995-H

Fire damaged homes deserve prompt action and detailed restoration with the help of SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown. Call us at (631) 265-9200, and we can send out a team as soon as possible.

Why Call Pros for Water Damage in a Finished Basement in Smithtown?

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

"Water extraction tools" SERVPRO has the tools and skill to bring your home back from water damages "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Arrives Quickly to Quell Water Damage, Ensuring Your Smithtown Basement Gets Back to Pre-Event Condition

When it comes to basement flooding, you already have a mess to think about. However, a finished basement poses unique challenges when it comes to building materials and areas where moisture may travel. SERVPRO acts quickly when called for basement flooding cleanup so that we can ensure your water damage remains as minimal as possible. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, bringing you peace of mind that our water damage remediation services will save you time and money.

Why Call SERVPRO for Emergency Services Water Damage Response?

Water damage in Smithtown is no match for our proven methods and specialized equipment. We take the time to consider all aspects of your water event, including:

  • Structural Concerns – Without rapid water removal services followed by drying, your basement could see immense damage. Water infiltration throughout the basement can impact walls, building materials, your foundation, or even the first floor of your home.
  • Contamination – Water infiltrating your basement can contain many contaminants even when it is a finished space. It depends on the cause of the water emergency and anything found in your basement. No matter what, our technicians treat the area carefully to ensure contamination does not spread as we work to extract water.
  • Hard-to-Reach Spaces – Fully trained and experienced, our team knows to seek out areas where moisture might have migrated. We take the time to inspect crawl spaces, ductwork, and other tight areas that DIY methods cannot reach.

We are Always Prepared!

Our trucks come with equipment that allows us to handle water cleanup quickly and efficiently. To restore relative humidity, we strategically set up air movers and dehumidifiers that facilitate drying while HEPA filtration addresses indoor air quality (IAQ).

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown is the team you want on your side regarding any kind of water damage. Call us when you need us at (631) 265-9200!

Why Hire Fire Damage Restoration Professionals?

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO fleet ready for action 24/7 365 days a year. SERVPRO technicians are IICRC certified for any kind of fire damaged property. Their techs are savvy and have the equipment for any job.

SERVPRO is prepared and ready to handle fire damage to restore your Smithtown interior fully

If you have a small fire in your home with minimal damage, you may think that you can begin DIY cleanup to get it back to normal. However, soot and smoke penetrate all porous materials, making it difficult to eliminate without skilled restoration efforts. SERVPRO has the tools and tricks-of-the-trade to get it done fast so you can get back to your life as usual.

Should you wonder why it is best to hire IICRC-certified technicians to handle your fire damage in Smithtown, we want you to know some of what we offer here at SERVPRO:

  • A full assessment of your interior and structural elements
  • Removal of all moisture left behind from water used to extinguish the flames
  • Powerful products and proven techniques for cleaning up smoke and soot residue
  • Execution of a detailed plan to restore your interior, which includes the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and smart containment strategies to keep contamination from traveling
  • Total deodorization and sanitization of your interior
  • Complete repair and restoration to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire damage and restoration are critical to ensure your interior gets back to pre-fire condition. Call us at SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown 24/7 at (631) 265-9200 when you need a rapid response. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Why is Mold Damage Remediation Important?

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Moisture meter checking a slab Mold will spread within 24 to 48 hours. Call the professionals at SERVPRO for the mold remediation services needed for your property.

Smithtown residents trust SERVPRO to handle mold damage with care and precision.

Located in Suffolk County, New York, the town of Smithtown is situated along the northern shore of Long Island with a population of 117,801 when the 2010 United States Census got taken. This is a census-designated place (CDP)

Fun Fact: Smithtown, New York, happens to be one of the oldest towns in all of Long Island, with founding dating back to 1665.

Taking a look at Smithtown's history, local legend says that the town was named after Richard Smith, who helped rescue the daughter of the area's Native American chief. This got done after Smith proved that he could encircle the area in one day while riding a bull. There is now a large statue within the town, which is anatomically correct, of Smith's bull. The bull's name was Whisper. 

Learning More About the Local Events in Smithtown, NY

Many annual events take place in the area, including many which are hosted by the Smithtown Historical Society. Some of the popular gatherings throughout the year include:

  • April is the time to enjoy the Spring Farm Festival
  • In September, the Heritage Fair is a time to honor local history
  • Various educational programs and school field trips are offered regularly
  • Local baseball is a prevalent pastime during the summer season
  • Summer Under the Stars is a great time to check out local music outdoors
  • The Brush Barn is an excellent event space in the area where you can rent it out for weddings and more

Of course, there are several very popular restaurants and watering holes throughout the Smithtown area. If you are looking for a night out with friends or you want to have dinner with family, some of the top destinations include:

  • Maureen's Kitchen – the ultimate place to go for mouthwatering breakfast and some of the best pancakes in the region.
  • Chop Shop – this restaurant offers a cozy, traditional steakhouse vibe with a modern menu and excellent meat cuts.
  • Javier's Café – whether you go for breakfast, lunch, or brunch, you have breakfast dishes available at all times. 
  • Café Havana Bar & Grill - is a great place to go if you are looking for a little bit of Latin cuisine and a full selection of craft cocktails. Be sure to ask for an extra side of plantains!

Why Should Smithtown Residents Look for Professional Mold Damage Cleanup? SERVPRO Gets the Job Done Right the First Time!

Once you suspect mold colonization in your home, you need to address it as soon as possible. The faster that you act, the quicker you can eliminate the potential health effects for everyone living within your Smithtown home. SERVPRO will ensure everything gets addressed to locate the source of the problem leading to mold growth, then handling all cleanups. 

The onset of mold damage in Smithtown could stem from a much larger issue. Some of the most common causes of mold growth within the home may include:

  • Water damage from flooding
  • Roof leaks
  • Water damage after a fire
  • Broken pipes or slow, undetected leaks
  • Water spilled due to overflowing tubs or sinks

Call SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown for help with mold damage cleanup at (631) 265-9200. We will ensure everything is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned!

An Active Lifestyle is a Fun Way to Stay Healthy in Smithtown

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO truck in front of a building. SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown supports their community staying healthy.

Outdoor Activities Never Need to Match Smithtown Founder’s Legendary Physical Abilities

Almost everyone needs exercise to stay healthy in Smithtown. Parents of new babies are told to move their newborns legs and arms during playtime activities. Physical therapists explain that movement is essential for rapid healing after an injury. Schools require students participate in Physical Education class activities. Health officials encourage adults to exercise regularly to help them stay fit and maintain a healthy weight. Exercising also increases bone density, helping older Americans avoid broken bones.

The rugged lifestyle required of the people living in the 1660’s no longer exists. Very few of us could ride a bull non-stop from sunup to sundown, no matter how much costly rich land was at stake. However, one of the best ways to get exercise is to walk or hike outdoors. In Smithtown, we have two wonderful areas where people can hike and enjoy the natural environment, as well as get some of the freshest air in the area. 

Two Large Parks for Enhancing Your Exercise and Outdoor Recreation Activities

Smithtown residents are luckier than people living in most other locations across the country when it comes to outdoor facilities. Here, we have two immense parks in our immediate vicinity. Hiking on trails is a wonderful way to relax, stay in touch with nature, refocus your thoughts, and exercise all simultaneously, year-round. 

Caleb Smith State Park Preserve 

Located on West Jericho Turnpike, Caleb Smith State Park Preserve offers hiking, bird watching opportunities, a butterfly garden, and warm-season fly-fishing. Because this is a passive use nature preserve, some activities are not allowed. These include camping, picnicking, horse-riding, or dog walking.

Fishing by those 16 and older requires a license, although children 15 and younger can fish at Willow Lake free of charge. Getting there is quite easy from the gate, and requires very little hiking. 

During the winter, hikers might want to gear up with snowshoes or skis and poles for cross-country hiking. In the Spring and Fall, precipitation can make trails slippery, so deep treads on boots or shoes are almost a necessity. 

To ask questions about operating hours, fees, and other information, you can call (631) 265-1054.

Blydenburgh County Park

Located on New Mill Road (just south of Caleb Smith State Park Preserve), Y\you can find Blydenburgh County Park. The lake here is 100 acres and contains many bends and curves.

Dogs and horses are permitted here, as well as camping and picnicking, making it more popular than the Caleb Smith State Park (where none of these activities are permitted). 

Hiking on the Stump Pond Loop gives hikers of all skill levels an almost 10 kilometer hike. The trail is well-traveled, creating a safe environment. Take a lunch or delicious snack to enjoy during a break and keep your energy levels high.

Call (631) 854-3712 for questions about spending time in the Park.

Staying Safe when Hiking is Important – Here are Some Essential Tips

Prepare for Your Excursion

  • Dress in layers that can be removed during hotter temps but put back on when needed. Avoid cotton and choose knits or lighter wool. Choose bright colors because although off-season is illegal, staying visible helps avoid accidents and can aid in your rescue if you become lost. Make sure shoes are comfortable and have good soles. 
  • Carry waterproof matches and portable fire starters, a flashlight with fresh batteries, a few days worth of medications, energy-dense portable food items, water filter and container, a few rolls of bathroom paper or tissues, a whistle and a small mirror, and a basic first aid kit.

Avoid Getting Lost

  • During an average year, forest rangers in New York search for about 200 lost or missing hikers in our State Parks. Their ability to find people quickly hinges on knowing basic facts, namely the individual or group’s intended hiking trail, and also when they can expect you to return. This makes informing family or a trusted friend of your itinerary essential to your wellbeing. Making changes can lead to difficulties in locating you, should you need a ranger’s help. 
  • Take your map, and keep it in a waterproof bag. Also, before leaving, learn how to use a compass, and combine it with a handheld GPS unit. Additionally, take note of landmarks you pass. Taking photos of these as you hike can also help keep you from becoming lost.

Why Residential Owners in Smithtown Rely on SERVPRO for all Their Water Cleanup Needs

Staying healthy and safe while hiking comes from sound preparation. Preventing problems, or keeping them from worsening after they happen, is also how SERVPRO helps our customers in Smithtown protect their property.

When water spills over the edge of your sink or tub, or when a water line to your washing machine slips off, water becomes the source of a mess. Left to just dry, even with a fan, your Smithtown home can sustain damage that later requires expensive repairs. 

Water sitting on your floors can damage electrical systems, furnishings, and carpeting and other flooring types. The introduction of water into a normally dry home can create a hospitable environment for the already-present (although dormant) microbes, activating them. SERVPRO can handle all of these, including explosive growth of mold and mildew.

During our work on your home, we use different machines and tools to make your house healthy and safe again. Here is a list of what you might find us using inside your residence after a water spill:

  • Water extraction wands for removing trace amounts of water from small areas (corners and under appliances),
  • Ride-on extractors for open areas that use weight to squeeze water out of carpets and padding,
  • Air movers that circulate air and direct it to open windows or 
  • Desiccant machines, which strip air passing through of moisture,
  • Heaters that help raise the temperature so evaporation happens at a more desirable rate.

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown is always ready to provide expert remediation, mitigation, and restoration services after an accident occurs inside your dwelling. Water cleanup must take place first, before other services can safely begin. We handle all your needs in protecting your investment, making everything “Like it never even happened,” for you and your family. Call our 24-hour emergency services line, (631) 518-3720, for fastest service.

How Can Property Owners Handle Water Damage Caused by a Leaking Water Heater?

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

leaking water heater; water on floor Leaking water heaters account for major water loss events every year. SERVPRO knows how to quickly restore your home.

They Should Call an Experienced Restoration Firm Like SERVPRO to Perform Water Removal in their Smithtown Homes

A water leak in your Smithtown property can cause severe structural damage in the long run if it remains unattended for an extended period. The leak might seem slow, but water can seep into various surfaces within a short period. SERVPRO professionals can help stop further damage and restore your property to its pre-damage condition.

What should property owners do after finding out about the water leak?

After a water intrusion incident, you need to contact your insurance company and file a claim. Without wasting time, contact an experienced restorer to perform water removal in your Smithtown property. Before restorers get to your property, you can help prevent additional damage by:

  • Turning off the heater's water supply.
  • Containing the water using a towel and rugs.
  • Switching off the main electricity supply if some parts of your home are flooded.
  • Removing damaged items from the affected area.

What are some of the effects of water damage?

The effects of water damage begin to occur within 48 hours. If ignored more than that, the following may occur:

  • Decrease the overall property value.
  • You may incur high restoration costs.
  • Mold growth may take place in hidden areas.
  • Wallpaper and paint chipping may also occur.

SERPVRO technicians can help minimize the chances of the above effects from occurring. Our technicians work quickly to save as much property as possible. We know how to operate water removal and drying equipment efficiently and effectively to dry structures and contents.

Can you salvage wet furniture and carpets?

SERVPRO technicians can identify salvageable items and those damaged beyond repair. We can dispose of the severely damaged contents properly. We use the latest tools and techniques to ensure effective restoration. If water has seeped into your furniture, we can use centrifugal air movers to direct air to the furniture. The equipment increases evaporation on the surface, leading to fast drying. We can use a carpet clamp on this equipment to float carpets and blow air under them.  

How long does it take for odors to subside?

Construction materials are designed to absorb some level of moisture. However, when the moisture limit exceeds, the materials erode, releasing organic compounds into the air. The decaying continues until the moisture levels drop. That means that the odor can persist for an extended period. Our technicians can use ventilation box fans to generate an airflow of high velocity. The airflow not only removes odors from the structure but also dries hard to reach areas.

Conducting water removal without proper equipment and restoration skills can cause more damage to your property. Contact SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown at (631) 265-9200 to get your property to its preloss state. "Like it never even happened."   

How Do You Clean and Restore Fire Damages After Puffbacks?

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

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

Our SERVPRO professionals help Smithtown homeowners to clean surfaces and remove residues after oil furnace puff-backs. 

When small explosions occur in the ignition chambers of oil furnaces heating Smithtown homes, a blast of ionized soot and particulates can be blown through the ductwork. While these situations can coat these air ducts with these residues, they can also have a direct impact on exposed surfaces and construction materials near the vents and registers throughout your house. Because drywall has become a common ceiling material, this painted or textured surface is often among the first to show puff back damage.

Oily residues that result from fire damage of puff back in Smithtown homes can be a challenge to remove. It is often the focal point of fire restoration companies like our SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown team to restore before replacement when it is cost-efficient. Because these threats can appear as a staining or discoloration of ceiling materials, ionized collections of particles that look like cobwebs, and more, removing and cleaning these exposed surfaces is not universal. 

What are the Threats of Leaving Puff-Back Damage Uncleaned? 

Cleaning up soot damage and residues left behind by oil furnace discharges involves several products in our inventory. With discolorations of materials like drywall, cleaning the surface with chemical solvents and agitative cleaning approaches can often remove much of the stain, but the material must often get repainted or resurfaced after deodorization treatment when necessary. Failing to address the need for cleaning up this puff back damage in your home can result in:

  • Staining
  • Marring 
  • Smoke particles 
  • Odors

An oil furnace can provide thorough heating of your home, but malfunctions in the ignition chamber can sometimes lead to puff back damage. Our SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown team can help. Give us a call anytime at (631) 265-9200.

Learn more about Smithtown.

Do Professionals Use Store-Bought Extraction Tools? 

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Submersible pumps Need professional help in extracting water from your Smithtown home? Call SERVPRO for the job at hand.

Our team has industry-leading equipment for fast and efficient extraction of standing water in your Smithtown home. 

Understanding the difference between home improvement store stock for residential use and the level of equipment SERVPRO professionals use in Smithtown homes can showcase our efficiency.

While there are hundreds of potential options for both drying and water removal in Smithtown properties, we have a broad inventory of cutting-edge, industry-leading units and devices that can efficiently remove standing surface water and evaporate trapped moisture in structural materials and contents of your house. Some of these tools include:

How Do You Choose What Extractor is Best? 

Choosing the right extractor is not always as cut and dry as you might suspect. Solids in the water can make electric submersible pumps a poor choice when they might otherwise be the best. Inaccessible areas of the house might be ideal for wet vacuums and attachments, but the powerful 300-psi truck-mount extractors cannot reach. 

We have practical tools and equipment that can help us to gain control of loss situations quickly. Despite how you might want to shop around for restoration tools, our experienced SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown professionals come with the full measure of our inventory to get to work right away on restoring your home. Call us anytime at (631) 265-9200.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Table tent signs describing the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program on top of a wooden table. 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 in Smithtown, 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 touchpoints, 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 Greater Smithtown today at (631) 265-9200 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.

How do I Restore My Home After a Fire?

5/17/2020 (Permalink)

technician fogging equipment cartoon Need Great IAQ? Indoor Air Quality after a house fire in Smithtown. SERVPRO Has the Solution

Restoration of Your Smithtown Home is a Job for a Professional Service

Restoring your Smithtown home after a fire can be a daunting task. Friends and family are likely eager to help, but coordinating the necessary steps and their sequence is a job for a professional water and fire restoration technician. Not cleaning thoroughly, or using inappropriate cleaning solutions can leave you with a bigger problem in your hands.

Members of the Smithtown community with fire damage to their homes can rely on SERVPRO for a job well done. Our expertise and training prepare us to identify problems in your home and prioritize their solution. From structural damage to the removal of charred items, our team can advise you every step of the way.

How do I clean the air in my home after a fire?

It is easy to determine whether smoke residue and soot are no longer present. Once our SERVPRO team cleans your surfaces with EPA-approved cleaning solutions, you should see a difference. Cleaning the air in your home, and eliminating the smell left behind by the fire is a different matter. To neutralize and obliterate smell molecules our team may choose to use special equipment such as-

  • Thermal foggers
  • Deodorizing pellets
  • Ozone generators

Fire damage restoration goes well beyond wiping down surfaces. Our SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown is ready to help in all aspects of the process. Call us at (631) 265-9200 and let our experts leave your home, "Like it never even happened."

Why Should I Hire Professionals for Water Removal in Smithtown?

4/19/2020 (Permalink)

water damaged home We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

SERVPRO Reassures Homeowners that We Can Restore Your Smithtown Home to Normal with Our Water Removal Techniques

If you find yourself in an emergency water loss situation where water removal is required, SERVPRO features trained technicians fully certified for water restoration. We are ready and available to answer your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week so that we can provide the prompt response and results you need. Calling the experts for restoration makes a difference, rather than trying to take on the drying and disinfecting on your own.

Why Can’t I Perform DIY Water Removal and Cleanup?
While you may have a wet/dry vacuum and a variety of cleaners at home, they never measure up to the specialized technology and equipment that our trucks come equipped with. Additionally, we feature technicians trained via the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) that holds us to high standards. We strive to uphold these high expectations, and our IICRC-Certified team in Smithtown formulates a plan of action to restore your home to its prior condition faster.

What Steps Do You Take to Address Water Damage?
Limiting the migration of water is first and foremost on our minds when we arrive at your Smithtown property for water removal. We work quickly to stop water from moving into other spaces and limit damage potentially spread by technicians on site. Our team wears removable shoe covers as we venture from one area of the home to another to inspect the damage. We also utilize moisture detection tools that are non-penetrating, which allow us to take readings without creating further damage.

What Resources Do You Have to Speed Up the Water Removal Project?
There are several distinct steps to water damage restoration, which includes:

    •    Water detection
    •    Cleanup
    •    Moisture Control
    •    Movement of Your Contents

Once we check the loss site, we do the full assessment to help determine which techniques and equipment should be used. Some of the equipment that we bring for water restoration jobs in Smithtown include:

    •    Moisture Detectors – These tools, including moisture sensors, moisture meters, and thermal cameras, help us to find areas where moisture is hidden within walls and small spaces. Locating hidden moisture allows us to ensure all areas are dry and that the potential for harmful mold or mildew growth gets reduced.
    •    Water Extraction Tools – Not only do we have truck-mounted extractors capable of removing thousands of gallons of water, but we also bring submersible pumps that we can place in a targeted spot to facilitate water removal.
    •    Inspection Cameras – This equipment, such as a borescope, allows us to check the inside of wall cavities without the need for removing them completely.
    •    Dehumidifiers – Proper dehumidification is essential for all water removal projects. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers to help reduce the levels of humidity within the air in your home. This equipment works to remove the damp air from the space, pulling it inward and cooling it to condense the moisture. What this does is prevent the onset of secondary water damage such as the warping and swelling of furniture, floors, and walls. The air is then dried and redistributed throughout your home with the help of fans.
    •    Air Movers – In addition to various industrial fans, we also use high-speed air movers to create beneficial airflow across the carpets, padding, floors, walls, and furniture to accelerate moisture evaporation.

We Work to Perform Efficient Water Loss Remediation
Any water removal in your home calls for more than the removal of any visible water. There are many areas of the home where water migrates, including porous building materials like drywall, studs, carpet padding, and subfloors where water can migrate. Even if your floor seems to be dry after mopping, there may be hidden moisture in the subfloor below. This is why we use professional equipment for the detection and measurement of various moisture levels throughout your home.

Why Do I Have to Worry About Water Migration?
Any standing water must be cleaned up so that moisture detection and drying can begin. Leftover moisture hidden in cracks and crevices not only destroys building materials, but these hotspots pose a threat from the onset of dangerous mold and mildew growth. In some cases, it might be necessary to cut holes in walls or ceilings to allow for dry, warm air to flow through and facilitate drying.

No matter the level of water removal you require in your home, you can trust in our certified technicians at SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown to get the job done and make it “Like it never even happened.” Give us a phone call today at (631) 265-9200, and we will send a team out as soon as possible to begin the assessment so that restoration can begin.

For more about Smithtown click here.

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown is trained in adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown offer cleaning services including the removal of biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business.

About Coronavirus

The CDC is responding to an outbreak of a respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and has spread to 60 locations internationally (as of this publication), including cases in the United States. The virus known as “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”)i is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person or through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.ii

Scope of Cleanup Protocol 

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown can perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection where the customer states that there is no active known threat of COVID-19 contamination or exposure. The customer will be required to acknowledge that cleaning and disinfecting will only apply to the current state of the structure and contents.  The structure would not be protected from future COVID-19 contamination if an infected person was to enter and occupy the building.

Cleanup Scope of Work and Planning 

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables at a minimum. These same surfaces are mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces as well, including:  

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

Cleanup and Disinfecting Procedures

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 waste.  

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar type organisms to COVID-19. 

SERVPROXIDE™, SERVPRO’s proprietary disinfectant, is a hospital-grade disinfectant that has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to COVID-19 on hard, non-porous surfaces. Currently there are no disinfectants that have been tested specifically for this particular emerging viral pathogen. However, per the CDC, this product can be used against COVID-19.  In addition, SERVPROXIDE™ currently has dozens of EPA-approved claims including Feline coronavirus, Canine coronavirus, Staphylococcus (MRSA), E. coli, Salmonella, Rotavirus, Swine flu (H1N1) and more. Porous materials like carpet, rugs, upholstered items, and draperies that are not water sensitive can also be wet cleaned using SERVPROXIDE™.

Rely on SERVPRO to Cleanup and Make Your Damaged Smithtown Home Whole Again

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

3 panel cartoon showing hurricane, flooding, and a house fire Water, Fires, Hurricanes, Tornadoes, and Just Bad Luck Visited Your Smithtown Property? SERVPRO Can Make It, "Like it never even happened."

Smithtown Residents use Our Restoration Services to Overcome Water, Fire Mold and Storm Damages

Property emergencies can take an emotional toll on a homeowner. A situation involving water, fire, storm, or mold damages can be sudden and blindside residents, which makes it tough to find a restoration service you can trust with your property or contents. We have years of award-winning experience in this industry, and we know how to take a severely damaged property back to a preloss condition, "Like it never even happened." By working closely with the chamber of commerce for both King's Park and Smithtown, we can offer residents a transparent, accountable service provider that you can trust.

Storm

When storm damage strikes your Smithtown home, it can displace contents as well as displacing the homeowner. In this interim period away from the property, you need restoration services with the experience to overcome harsh and challenging conditions. SERVPRO has extensive experience in restoring and securing properties adversely affected by weather conditions. Using an array of emergency mitigation procedures, we can stop damage and put in place protocols to get your home back the way it was.

The first few days after a significant flood or storm damage is crucial to the success rate of home restoration. Your Smithtown home may require sub-contractors to perform remodelings, rebuilding, or specialist repair of items like electronics. But before any of that restoration procedure can begin, we need to provide a safe working environment for workers. SERVPRO technicians can enter a property, perform the necessary decontamination, draining and cleaning of your home as well a securing it against unlawful entry using emergency board-ups.

If your Smithtown home is flooded, there is a strong chance of it being a category two or category three water emergency. SERVPRO can use self-priming trash pumps to remove large bodies of water with solid-waste. We can also perform comprehensive structural decontamination of the building, pack out contents for exceptional cleaning and dispose of any waste responsibly and in-line with the environmental protection agency's (EPA) standard. Should you need sub-contractors, we can arrange them on your behalf, so you only have to deal with one point of contact throughout.

Water

Water is absorbed by many of the materials in your structure. When these materials absorb moisture, they can expand or become hotbeds for microbial activity. SERVPRO conducts an extensive review of a water restoration project to understand how far water migrates and the essential equipment needed to fix primary or secondary issues.

Subfloors can be at particular risk of water migration issues because hydrostatic pressure forces water to migrate downwards onto lower levels. SERVPRO can use penetrating moisture meters to gain an accurate picture of what is happening beneath carpets. If water migration is minimal, we can conduct in-place drying using weighted extraction tools and saving time by not having to remove various pieces of furniture or fixtures. In-place drying can effectively dry both exterior carpets and the subfloor pad beneath.

Sometimes the results of a moisture meter may show significant amounts of moisture migration in your Smithtown home. In these situations, SERVPRO technicians can remove carpets altogether as well as the carpet pad. Pads usually break apart easily with an introduction to moisture, so the most efficient solution is to dispose of them. Using rapid-air movers, we can dry the affected subfloor before replacing new pads and carpets to return your home to a preloss condition.

Fire

Many of the materials in your Smithtown home are combustible, and, under the influence of fire, they can release numerous chemicals, including carbon into the home environment. Some of these chemicals, such as carbon monoxide, can be fatal to humans, which is why you should always wait to receive an all-clear from a fire marshall before re-entering a property after the fire. Other chemicals that release during a fire may not be harmful but can cause unpleasant odors as well as staining, which is likely to be concentrated on walls and ceilings but also upholstery and furnishings.

Homeowners with fire damage in their Smithtown home need to be careful when approaching fire restoration. Different types of smoke residues require different cleaning methods and products. Some soils may even respond negatively to the introduction of moisture, and you can risk causing further, or even permanent damage. SERVPRO restoration services are available to provide meticulous content and necessary cleaning to your property.

Our restoration services include specialist upholstery and fabric cleaning technicians (UFT.) Depending on the scope of the project, SERVPRO may decide to clean materials onsite or at a content cleaning facility off-site. Smithtown residents can trust us with valuable upholstery because we always pre-test surfaces before carrying out any cleaning action. Some fabrics and dyes may bleed or discolor in the presence of specific cleaning solutions. By conducting pre-tests on smaller controlled areas, we can ensure that our restoration services do not cause unnecessary harm.

Mold

Microbial infestations can buildup over time, and often the noticeable signs of mold damage in your Smithtown home only appear after months of infestation. Spotting these signs can be as simple as noticing a persistent odor in some areas of the home. Many companies advocate for laboratory testing; however, this can be both expensive and time-consuming. Our approach at SERVPRO is that the visible signs of mold growth are enough to begin a remediation procedure.

The remediation of microbial growth is a tricky task. In the right conditions, mold can proliferate. This can present a problem for a remediation process that may take several weeks to complete effectively. SERVPRO technicians undergo an intensive applied microbial remediation technician (AMRT) with a nationally recognized independent body before carrying out microbial remediation in your home. This training allows us to ensure that our process is correct without risking causing further harm.

Uncontrolled microbial growth can affect your indoor air quality. When working on a mold growth project, our technicians wear respirators to avoid health effects from inhaling spores or other airborne particles. SERVPRO can set up air filtration devices (AFD) in the home, which are large units that work in a similar way to your air-conditioning unit- drawing air in from one side and exhausting it from another. However, rather than cooling air, an AFD passes it through several layers of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to remove any microscopic fungi spores or microbes from the indoor environment.

Our award-winning experience working with residents and commercial restoration services is essential to overcoming mold, water, storm, or fire emergencies. Contact SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown at (631) 265- 9200 now for expert assistance.

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