Recent Water Damage Posts

Understanding and Managing Receding Rainwater: A Key to Protecting Your Property

5/28/2024 (Permalink)

Spring showers may bring May flowers, but they can also lead to the challenge of receding rainwater. This natural process, while often overlooked, plays a crucial role in property maintenance and environmental management. As rainwater recedes, it can either nourish the soil or cause a myriad of problems if not properly managed. Understanding the dynamics of receding rainwater and implementing effective management strategies is essential for homeowners and businesses alike.

The Dynamics of Receding Rainwater

Receding rainwater refers to the process by which water from heavy rainfall or storms drains away from surfaces and infiltrates the soil or flows into drainage systems. This natural runoff is influenced by several factors, including soil composition, landscape slope, and the efficiency of drainage infrastructure. In urban areas, impervious surfaces like concrete and asphalt can hinder the natural absorption of rainwater, leading to increased surface runoff and potential flooding.

Challenges and Risks

Improperly managed receding rainwater can lead to significant problems. Water pooling around foundations can cause structural damage, while excessive runoff can overwhelm stormwater systems, leading to localized flooding. Moreover, stagnant water can create ideal conditions for mold growth and attract pests, posing health risks to occupants. In agricultural settings, poor drainage can lead to soil erosion and nutrient runoff, negatively impacting crop yields and water quality.

Effective Management Strategies

Landscaping Solutions: Incorporating rain gardens, swales, and permeable pavements can enhance the natural absorption of rainwater. These features not only reduce runoff but also beautify the property and support local ecosystems.
Gutter and Downspout Maintenance: Regularly cleaning and maintaining gutters and downspouts ensures that rainwater is directed away from the building. Extending downspouts further from the foundation can prevent water from pooling around the base of the structure.
Rainwater Harvesting: Installing rain barrels or larger cistern systems to collect and store rainwater can reduce runoff and provide a sustainable water source for landscaping and gardening.
Drainage Systems: Ensuring that storm drains and other drainage infrastructure are clear and functioning properly is critical. In areas prone to heavy rainfall, investing in a robust drainage system can mitigate flood risks.
Soil Management: Improving soil health through aeration and the addition of organic matter can enhance its water-absorbing capacity. Healthy soil not only absorbs rainwater more efficiently but also supports plant growth and reduces erosion.

Receding rainwater is a natural phenomenon that requires careful management to prevent property damage and environmental degradation. By implementing effective strategies, homeowners and businesses can protect their properties, promote sustainability, and contribute to the health of local ecosystems. Whether through landscaping improvements, regular maintenance, or advanced drainage solutions, taking proactive steps to manage receding rainwater is a wise investment in the resilience and beauty of your property.

Secondary Damage After A Fire

4/3/2023 (Permalink)

Massive damage can be done by fire, especially if the building's structure is compromised. The fire will damage the contents, the walls, and the furnishings. Yet many individuals are unaware that the devastation is simply the beginning.

The protection of the occupants' humans and pets comes first when a fire breaks out in a Greenwich building. The next crucial step is to save the building and stop the spread of the disease when that has been done. That is when firefighters' efforts are useful. They need to use an enormous amount of water to put out the fire. To put out a building fire in a house or company, more than 2,000 gallons of water are frequently required. When a commercial structure is impacted significantly, this might further increase.

This amount of water will go a great way toward protecting the building's structure, but the harm done will need to be repaired along with the fire damage. In this situation, SERVPRO of Greenwich can help. We have the tools necessary to deal with both types of damage.

It is important to contact a damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any property damage. If you’re in need of restoration for water, fire, or mold damage, call on the premier restoration company in Fairfield County to help. SERVPRO of Greenwich has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had damage to their property. If you have any type of damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

How Long Will My Water Job Take?

3/31/2022 (Permalink)

Trust SERVPRO of Greenwich for all of your water damage remediation needs.

When you sustain water damage at your home or business, all you likely will want is to be back to normal. Having water damage can be overwhelming, so you want the repairs to be over as soon as possible. We understand that, feeling, so we want to get it done for you in a timely manner.

In a usual situation, you can expect full remediation in three to five days.

Day one, when we arrive on scene for the first time, is for stabilizing the issue. This means extracting water and setting equipment to begin the drying process. During this time, we communicate with your insurance company to find out exactly what your coverage is. This informs us as to what repairs will be covered.

Days two through five are for monitoring moisture levels in your home or business, as well as making necessary structural repairs signed off on by your insurance company. Assuming that moisture levels are declining normally, no extra days of drying will be needed.Once the area is thoroughly dried, and moisture levels are back to a regular level, we remove our equipment and you are good to go.

It is important to contact a damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any storm damage. SERVPRO of Greenwich has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had damage to their property. If you have any type of damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Attic Moisture Is Not Good

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

Moisture and water damage can occur anywhere in a home or business. But there are areas that are at higher risk for these types of problems. Due to the fact that attics and crawl spaces are not frequented, moisture and water within may go unnoticed for a longer period of time. This can lead to a myriad of issues.

Mold Growth

Unchecked and unattended water may lead to the growth of mold. This is especially true when temperatures begin to warm, as it only heightens the likelihood of perfect conditions for growth.

Foul Odors

Due to mold, or just musty conditions, you may develop a bad smell that can only be fixed by drying and deodorizing the affected area.

Destruction of Belongings

Anything that you have stored in these spaces may become compromised by water damage or mold.

To prevent any of these issues from happening, make it a habit to check your attic and crawl spaces for moisture regularly. Also, make sure that your roof is secure, and replace any shingles that are damaged or missing.

What Happens If Your Toilet Backs Up

2/24/2022 (Permalink)

Sewage back-up can happen for a number of reasons. It can result from a clog, a full septic tank, or a heavy rainstorm. You can often feel helpless as you watch the water reach the top of the toilet and then start to pour out onto the surrounding floor. It also may feel gross, as we all know what sewage contains. But there are steps you can take to limit the damage and get you back to normal as soon as possible.

Shut off your water - You do not want any more water than is already present to backflow out of the toilet.
Throw rags on the water to soak it up - Use cloth that you do not mind discarding afterwards. This will limit how much the water is able to flow through the floor and walls. Do not attempt to clean the area, as you risk contamination and adverse health effects.
Call your plumber - Get a plumber out to fix the issue.
Call a damage remediation company - This will likely need a professional fix, for the safety of you and your family, as well as for mitigating the risk of water damage now and down the road.

It is important to contact a damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any water damage. Greenwich has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had damage to their property. If you have any type of damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Water Damage To Hardwood Flooring

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

Many homes and businesses in Greenwich have hardwood floors throughout their space. When it is well maintained, hardwood floors are a great option that both look good and last for a long time. That being said, they are susceptible to damage from water, especially if not remediated properly.

Mold - Hardwood floors can be porous, and also have spaces between the boards where water can get into and leave moisture. This moisture can lead to mold down the road if the water is not adequately dried early.

Cupping - When a hardwood floor is heavily damaged, the moisture can lead to the boards warping and cupping, changing the shape. This both looks and feels suboptimal.

Cracking - You may be tempted to dry the water out yourself. But wood floors must be dried at the right temperature, and at the right speed. If these conditions are not met, the wood can crack due to changing shape too quickly.

Properly remediating water damage to a hardwood floor is a job for a professional, and can be easily botched if not done right the first time.

It is important to contact a water damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any water damage. SERVPRO of Greenwich has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had water damage to their property. If you have any type of water damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Insulate Your Pipes Before It Is Too Late

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

When frozen pipes burst, the resulting water damage can be devastating. It can destroy belongings and furniture, as well as threaten the structure of your home. Preventing pipes from freezing in the first place is the first line of defense against this type of water damage. Insulating your pipes is a good method to prevent frozen pipes when temperatures increase freezing risk.

To minimize heat loss and prevent frozen pipes in areas exposed to cold air, you can insulate your water pipes to be more resistant to temperature change. The important pipes to focus on are those that are more exposed to different temperatures, like those found in your attic, garage, or against exterior walls.

You can either have a professional like a plumber install insulation, or you can do the project yourself. If you plan on insulating the pipes yourself, you just need to purchase insulation material that fits the length and diameter of any pipe that you want done. Follow the instructions for installation, and you should be more protected from frozen and burst pipes than before.

Freezing Pipes And Appliances

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

Cold weather, like the temperatures that we are currently facing, can quickly cause pipes to burst in homes throughout Fairfield County. These types of water damages can cause major damage, with hundreds of gallons of water flowing into your home. But not every water damage is a catastrophe that causes tens of thousands of dollars in damage. However, that doesn’t mean that even a “minor” water damage won't be a major inconvenience.

We recently responded to a home in Greenwich that had one such water damage, where their washing machine had overflowed and spilled out into their finished basement. Upon inspection, we found that the hose that flowed away from the washer was frozen, so the machine could not drain at all. Unfortunately, the washing machine was irreparably broken, and had to be replaced. This type of damage could happen to any appliance where water is involved, such as a dishwasher.

Keep your home warm enough so that water temperatures do not dip below freezing. YOu can also install insulation around pipes to keep them warmer.

It is important to contact a water damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any damage. SERVPRO of Greenwich has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had any water damage to their property. If you have any type of property damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Water Damage In Greenwich Commercial Storeroom

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Recently, SERVPRO of Greenwich received a call from the store manager of a sunglasses retailer in Greenwich. A pipe leak caused water to pool on the floor of the storage area where stock was being kept. We responded within an hour, and began to remediate the damage.

First, we moved the affected products to another location, so the entire storeroom was available to be remediated. Then, using water extractors and mops, we removed the standing water from the area. Once, all pooled water was removed, we set up an array of air movers and dehumidifiers to thoroughly dry the area, including floors and lower walls. The final step was to remove the stored items from wet cardboard boxes, and transfer them into new, dry boxes.

Much to the store manager’s surprise, she did not even have to close the store. We were able to do our job quickly and efficiently with no business interruption.

We have the skilled technicians and specialized equipment needed for your storm damage remediation needs. That’s why SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton should be your first call. Contact us at 203.324.1642 for assistance.

Water Damage After A Fire Is A Real Thing

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Everyone dreads a fire in their home or business; beyond the safety concerns, it can lead to costly repairs and damage that can keep you out of your space for weeks, or even months. Fire damage can cause horrible odors, severe discoloration, and obviously, serious structural damage.

But what many people don't know is that the damage from a fire only starts there. If the fire department is called, they will be using a lot of water to extinguish the flames. Unfortunately, they will do whatever needs to be done to put the fire out. Because of this, once the fire is out, your home or business will likely have suffered serious water damage on top of the fire damage. If the water is not extracted and properly dried out, it can lead to secondary damage, such as mold growth.

That’s where SERVPRO of Greenwich comes in. We not only remediate the fire damage, but will also fix any water or mold growth resulting from fire fighting efforts. We can even fix structural damage, whether it was from the fire, or from firefighters using axes to fight the blaze.

We have the skilled technicians and specialized equipment needed for your water remediation needs. That’s why SERVPRO of Greenwich should be your first call. Contact us at 203.324.1642 for assistance.

How Does SERVPRO of Greenwich Clean Up Water Damage?

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

Our water damage remediation process is top-notch.

Even a small amount of water damage can cause serious issues for you. If left unmitigated, water damage can lead to health issues and the degradation of your home or business. SERVPRO of Greenwich has the experience and tools to quickly and efficiently remove any excess water, and dry the area out. We take the necessary steps to do the job right the first time, which ensures that you and your property don't suffer secondary damage from water. Here is our process:

Quickly identify the source of the water if not already known
Detect any unseen or hidden moisture with infrared cameras
Remove standing water with our industrial extractors
Set up both air movers and commercial-grade dehumidifiers to begin the drying process
Routinely check moisture levels, and dry the area until satisfactory levels are achieved
Checking for any sign of secondary damage, such as mold, and treating the issue if necessary

Time is of the essence when you have any amount of water damage. When left, secondary damage can result. Depend on SERVPRO to get it done the right way. If you have any water damage issues at your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Greenwich today. We can be reached for immediate assistance at 203.324.1642.

Can You Live At Home During Water Damage Remediation?

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Any amount of water damage is an inconvenience, and a major water event can be life-interrupting. That’s why we take our responsibility to fix the damage very seriously. Our goal is to get you back to normal as soon as possible. We respond quickly with our arsenal of industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers to begin drying as soon as possible. This process can be slightly disruptive, but is necessary.Many homeowners want to know if they can remain in the home during the process. The answer to this question depends on a few factors.

Severity

A majority of the time, you can remain in the home during the SERVPRO remediation process. After we set up equipment, we are usually able to remove it under a week. In some circumstances, the units must stay in place longer. Additionally, if conditions present a health hazard, we advise temporary relocation.

Location

If the damage affects an area of your home like a bedroom or kitchen, you may not be able stay in the home. If you can’t have food or a bed, you may need to temporarily relocate.

Comfort

While it may be possible for you to stay in the home, you make the decision to stay in a hotel until the remediation process is completed. This totally depends on personal preference.

SERVPRO of Greenwich is here to help with any water damage that you may have at your home or business. We pride ourselves on around-the-clock service and quick on-scene response time. Give us a call at 203.324.1642 to learn more or get assistance.

What Is Secondary Winter Water Damage?

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

When a pipe bursts in your home or business, the water soaks every material that it comes into contact with. That could be anything from drywall and carpeting, to insulation, or furniture. Many people are tempted to attempt remediation on their own. They mop up all standing water and dry off surfaces to the touch. But proper and complete remediation goes so much deeper.

Most people think of water damage, and assume that if things look and feel dry, that they are in the clear. But this is not always the case. If a proper level of dehumidification does not occur, moisture will linger in previously soaked material. Over time, this can lead to a few serious issues. First, an odor can arise that can be described as mildewy or stale. But most serious is mold growth. Especially if temperatures warm slightly, moisture in the structure can be a perfect site for spores to grow.

If you have a burst pipe in your home or business, please do not try to fix the problem on your own. Call a professional remediation company like SERVPRO of Greenwich. We’ll make sure that the job is done right, and we’ll take the extra steps to ensure that you are not at risk of secondary damage due to winter weather.

Do You Have Hidden Water Damage?

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage is evident, it is easy to identify. This could be inches of flooding in your basement, or water coming out of your office’s ceiling. When you see things like this, you know that you need help. But water damage can be harder to see in some cases. And when water damage goes unnoticed and untreated, it can lead to larger and more expensive repairs. Just using your senses, you may be able to identify a problem. Read through these situations so that you are better equipped to notice signs of water damage that can signal an issue.

If you SEE strange coloring

Many materials that are common in homes and businesses can become discolored when exposed to prolonged contact with water. When materials like drywall, ceiling tiles, or flooring become saturated, they tend to change colors. For drywall or ceiling tiles, yellowing or darkening is common. When hardwood floors become saturated, they will darken. They may also tend to get misshapen. If you see any of these signs, call a water remediation professional.

If you SMELL odors

We all know the smell. Often described as “musty”, “stale”, or “mildewy”, these unpleasant odors are not only offensive to the nose, but can also be an indicator of water damage that we can’t see. When materials in your home or business are exposed to water, mold can begin to grow. The mold growth will almost always give off a foul scent, alerting us that there may be an issue. If you smell any of these signs, call a water remediation professional.

SERVPRO of Greenwich is available around the clock for homeowners and business owners who have any type of water damage. We pride ourselves on our response time, experience, and professionalism. If you have any water damage, big or small, don't hesitate to give us a call.

High Humidity Can Cause Low Level Water Damage

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

When relative humidity is excessively high in Greenwich, stagnant moisture can lead to water damage.

Exceptionally high humidity in your home in Greenwich could mean water remediation services are needed. Relative humidity in most American homes varies, but generally stays in a safe zone. This goes from absolute dryness to 40% relative humidity. There are many causes for high moisture levels in a home, from environmental changes to bad ventilation. In the event that your home feels sticky or moist, and can tell that the humidity level is higher than normal, your home and the items in it could suffer water damage.

Additionally, if the condition linger, secondary damage like mold growth and foul odors can result.

SERVPRO of Greenwich gives quick and economical dehumidification administrations if dampness is the main issue in your home, just as intensive checks to ensure there are no different sorts of harm in the structure.

Could Your Ice Maker Cause Water Damage?

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

Why Do Ice Makers Present Such A Threat?

An ice maker is a nice thing to have. Never having to fill up ice trays is a luxury. But your ice maker could be the cause of some costly damage that is hard to detect until it is too late.

Hundreds of gallons of water can leak out over time. This can lead to a number of issues, which can range from rotting drywall, rotting flooring, and serious mold growth. Because the issue is concealed behind your fridge, the damage may go undetected until it is too late. By the time you find the issue, you may have costly damage to repair. There are steps to take to reduce the risk of this type of damage in your home or business.

Replace the plastic tubing that connects the water source to your ice maker with copper tubing. This material is far less likely to become compromised by wear and tear over time.
Install a battery-operated flood alarm. Not only useful for ice makers, these alarms can be placed by any potential source of water damage. If it comes into contact with moisture, it will alert you.
Regularly check behind your fridge for signs of water. If you see any moisture, investigate further. If you find out that you do have water damage, call SERVPRO of Greenwich.

SERVPRO of Greenwich has decades of experience in the remediation and restoration of residential and commercial property after a water damage occurs. We have the knowledge and equipment to ensure that the job is done the right way the first time.

Don't Try To Remediate Water Damage Yourself

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

For a homeowner, not many things are worse than finding water damage, no matter the size. When the amount of water is on the smaller side, many people try to clean up by themselves. Time is important when dealing with these issues, but doing it in the right way is equally crucial. By not cleaning and drying in the right way, the situation can become worse, especially down the road. Here are some common mistakes that homeowners make, so that you can know how to navigate the situation properly.

1. Not Doing It Right The First Time Around

The water damage, no matter the size, requires certain measures that homeowners often overlook. For example, if the area is not properly ventilated while you attempt to dry, there may be lingering moisture left behind. This can lead to secondary damage, which can take many forms. If moisture does remain, the issues that can result include mold growth, rotting drywall, and strong odors.

2. Putting Off Remediation

Especially when the water damage is on the small side, water in your home can present a real problem. Water immediately begins to seep into flooring, subfloor, and walls. Delaying the remediation can increase the likelihood that other issues will come your way.

3. Not Bringing In A Remediation Professional

Attempting to remediate the water damage yourself is no small feat. Trying to do it quickly, and in the right way, can prove to be a serious task. Often, special equipment and proper techniques are necessary to accomplish this. Failing to successfully remediate the damage can lead to the issues mentioned above. If you find yourself with any amount of water damage, please call SERVPRO of Greenwich.

What Are Drain Flies?

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

You may have noticed small flies around your kitchen sink or shower, and wondered where they came from. You may have a very clean home or business, so their presence is strange. These flies are known as sewer flies, sink flies, and most commonly, drain flies. They thrive on stagnant, shallow water, typical of drains attached to sinks and showers. They are especially fond of sinks, as there can be organic matter for them to feed on.

How To Locate The Source

If you suspect that you have these pests present in your home, there are ways to find out where they are coming from. In the evening, place tape over the drains in your home or business. If the flies are originating from any of your drains, they will stick to the tape. This will show you what areas need to be addressed, as well as the extent of the issue.

How To Eliminate The Flies

With a deep clean, the issue may be resolved within a week. Do a thorough cleaning of the problem area, whether it is yoru sink or shower. You can also pour boiling water down the drain a couple times daily. This may work as well. For a persisting issue, you can turn to drain cleaners such as Drano. This won't necessarily kill the flies, but will dissolve any organic matter that the flies may be feeding on.

Using Thermal Imaging To Eliminate Moisture

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

View from a thermal imaging camera showing a spot of moisture.

This image shows a possible moisture spot that may need to be addressed.

When we respond to a water damage, many times our skilled technicians are able to determine with the naked eye where problem areas of moisture exist. But we pride ourselves on getting the job done right the first time, which eliminates the possibility of secondary damage such as lingering moisture and mold growth.

This is why we sometimes employ the use of thermal imaging to detect areas of moisture that are unnoticeable via eyesight. When there is moisture present, the area will be a slightly different temperature than the surrounding material. When scanning an area that has been affected by water with a thermal camera, any spots that differ in temperature are easily seen. Then our team can further investigate to determine if further action is necessary to properly remediate the damage.

SERVPRO of Greenwich uses thermal imaging cameras to make sure the job is done right the first time. If you have water damage in your home or business, call us immediately. We are available 24/7 to provide damage restoration.

Protect Your Home Against Groundwater

1/26/2020 (Permalink)

Groundwater may not be covered by insurance.

As a homeowner, many people feel safe knowing that they have insurance protecting their home. One common misconception is that all water damage is covered by their homeowner insurance. Many policies will not cover water that landed on the ground, and subsequently flowed into the home. This can include rainwater, river runoff, and drenched ground surrounding your home. If you are not sure that your policy covers groundwater, you can check with your carrier. if you believe that you may be at risk for this type of damage, you can take action. You may be able to purchase additional coverage on your homeowner policy, or purchase a separate flood insurance policy.

SERVPRO of Greenwich provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Dirt From Water Damage

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

If you have a water damage, sometimes it is not as easy as removing the water and drying everything out. This low-income housing complex had a burst pipe on their second floor. The water leaked down to the first floor, and carried with it a whole lot of dirt and debris. The photo demonstrates just how much dirt the water stream actually brought with it. Our crew removed the water, dried everything out, and then washed the floors so that the customer was happy. If you have water damage, please do not hesitate to call us.

Huge Water Extraction

1/31/2019 (Permalink)

This person called us with over a foot of water in their large finished basement. We were on scene within minutes with our large water pump to extract the water. Usually, we only need one hose to pull all the water out of any given structure. There was so much water here that we had to use two hoses. Luis can be seen here making sure the water is flowing out properly to minimize the amount of time it took to remove all the water. If you have water in your home or business from a storm, please call us.

Acting Quickly May Save Your Belongings

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

When a basement floods, everything that is sitting on the floor gets wet. Some things may be okay, but most of your belongings will become damaged, the extent of which only gets worse the longer they stay submerged. Many times, if the water is pumped out and extracted quickly, some items can be saved, at least to some extent. We specialize in large-scale water extraction, and can pump thousands of gallons of water in a timely manner. This is a photo of a recent homeowner’s basement who called us. With our equipment, we got the water out, and began the drying process.

Small Pipe, Big Problems

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

It is astonishing just how much damage a little water can do. Take a look at the damage in this bedroom. The entire ceiling had to be removed and some of the walls were affected as well. You can see the size of the pipe that caused the damage. If a pipe this size can produce that much water, imagine if the pipe had been one of the larger ones in the home.

We had to remove the ceiling and portions of the wall to begin the drying process. Once that is done, we can bring in our fans and dehumidifiers.

Water Damage Response Time

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

When a water issue strikes your home or business, response time is the most important factor when containing the damage. SERVPRO of Greenwich is extremely fast, but steps that you can take on your own before our professionals arrive can make a huge difference.

Within Minutes:

Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

Drywall begins to swell and break down.
Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
Furniture begins to swell and crack.
Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
A musty odor appears.

Flood At A Car Dealership

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

Last month, the combination of a burst pipe and excess rainwater caused a local car dealership to flood.

SERVPRO of Greenwich was called in to remediate the damage. What was unique about this instance is that the water affected both carpeted and laminate flooring. This presented a challenge because we needed to use multiple types of drying and dehumidifying tactics to successfully fix the issue. We also had to do the job while not disturbing or damaging the automobile inventory.

As you can see in the photo, we were able to completely dry out the affected area. The carpet in the office areas were left dry and odor free.

What is Ice Damming?

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

An ice dam is an ice build-up on the eaves of sloped roofs of heated buildings that results from melting snow under a snow pack reaching the eave and freezing there. Freezing at the eave impedes the drainage of meltwater, which adds to the ice dam and causes backup of the meltwater in a manner, which may cause water leakage into the roof and consequent damage to the building and its contents if the water leaks through the roof.

Ice dams are a common sight in the Northeast. We've handled several claims this past month stemming from ice damming. What we've found is the flatter the pitch of the roof, the easier it is for an ice dam to get a grip. Gutters at the eaves can also trap snow and ice. If snow and ice build up high enough in the gutter, it can provide a foundation for an ice dam.

Stay tuned for our next blog, where we’ll tell you how to prevent these dangerous ice dams.

Ice Dam Prevention

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

PREVENTING ICE DAMS

You can scrape snow from the roof whenever it falls, using a snow rake from below or a broom or plastic shovel from above. BE CAREFUL: The first method can bury you in snow, while the second can send you slipping off the roof. Hire someone who knows how to use a safety line.

You can replace your shingle roof with standing seam or other metal roof. Or you can replace the bottom three feet or so of your shingle roof with a wide metal drip edge. Whatever you do, install a water-repellent membrane under any new roofing.

NOTE: If your roof is not very steep, an ice dam can still form on metal roofing and drip edges.

DEALING WITH EXISTING ICE DAMS

1. Remove the ice dam by breaking it free in small chucks. Do NOT use an ax or other sharp tool! You’ll cut through the shingles. Instead, tap lightly with a blunt mallet. This is slow, dangerous work, so hire someone experienced at roofing. Even if you do it safely, the chunks of ice can take pieces of shingle with them.

2. Clear out gutters and downspouts. Again, this is ladder work and an easy way to damage either plastic or metal gutters and spouts.

3. Melt troughs through the ice dam with calcium chloride ice melter. Do NOT use rock salt! It will damage paint, metals, and plants beneath the eave and wherever the salty water drains.

A good trough-maker is a tube of cloth (a leg from an old pair of panty hose works well). Fill it with calcium chloride, tie off the top, and lay it vertically across the ice dam. It will slowly melt its way down through the dam, clearing a path for the underlying water to flow free.

WHAT DAMAGE DO ICE DAMS CAUSE?

When an ice dam gets big enough, melted water backs up behind it and seeps underneath the shingles. Eventually, it will drip into the insulation and down into the ceilings and exterior walls beneath the eave, ruining sheetrock and paint. If the ice dam breaks free, it can pull shingles and gutters off with it, and it will damage anything it falls on: shrubs, windowsills, cars, pets, and people. If the roof sheathing stays wet, it can form mildew and start to rot.

That's where we come into play. We can't prevent the ice damming from happening, but we can help you take care of the damages that it can cause.

Frozen Pipe Water Damage In Stamford

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

Temperatures have fluctuated between cold and bone-chillingly cold. When it gets very cold, homes and businesses are at higher risk of pipes freezing and ultimately bursting.

Here are a few tips to remember:

• Check around your home or business for areas where water supply lines are in unheated areas. Wrap exposed pipes with foam, insulated materials or pipe heating cables. Watch these locations on a daily basis when temperatures is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

• If you are going out of town, and you suspect that temperatures will drop, turn off the water to your home and open all the taps to drain the water system. Set your temperature no lower than 55° F.

• Unhook the water hoses from the exterior of the home and bring them inside, to maintain their life.

• Drip your faucets, to reduce the build-up of pressure in the pipes during an arctic blast weather advisory.

• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.

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

• Open cabinet doors when temperatures are below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The warm air can circulate around the pipes and prevent the water from freezing.

Popular Locations of Frozen Pipes:

• Outside wall

• Under a sink

• Unheated crawlspace or basement

• Outside water spigot

• Swimming pool supply lines

• Water sprinkler lines

• Attics

• Garages

Tips on Thawing Frozen Pipes:

• If a pipe bursts before it is thawed, immediately shut off the water at the water main to prevent further damage!

• Frozen but not ruptured? If you turn on the faucet and the water doesn’t come out or comes out in a trickle, your pipes are probably frozen. You need to act quickly to thaw the frozen pipe before it bursts.

• Identify the frozen water supply pipe.

• Open a faucet supplied by the frozen line, even if you have not found the frozen spot.

• To find the blockage, follow the pipe back from the faucet to where it runs through cold areas such as an exterior wall, unheated crawl space or in some cases an unheated basement if the pipe is near an outside wall.

• Often the frozen area of the pipe will be frosted or have ice on it. If the situation is getting critical the pipe may be slightly bulged or look slightly fissured.

Frozen Pipe Behind a Wall:

• Leave the main water valve near your water meter open when thawing the pipe.

• If the frozen pipe is behind a wall or ceiling, you’ve got a challenge on your hands. You have three choices:

• Turn up the heat in the house and wait.

• Use an infrared lamp or lamps to heat the wall where you think the frozen area is located. Infrared lamps are better than regular heat lamps because the heat passes through the air without heating it, directing more energy to warming the wall and frozen pipe.

• Tear out part of the wall or ceiling to get at the frozen section of pipe. Then thaw the pipe as an exposed pipe.

If Your Pipes Burst…

• Turn off the water supply. Locate your water shut off valve and turn off the main water shut-off valve. You should find this in the basement or where the service pipe enters your home. Drain the system by turning on all your cold-water valves.

What You Can Do to Manage the Damage (until we get there):

• Water Buckets. If you notice the leak quickly you can catch dripping water in buckets.

• Make a hole in the ceiling to let water out.

• Turn off electronics/appliances

• Open Drawers, closets and cabinet doors to in enhance drying.

Water Damage Restoration in Stamford

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaned and dried floor after a water loss.

This elementary school in Stamford, CT had a pipe burst on an upper floor. Water poured onto the floor and eventually started to flow onto the floors below, causing multiple layers of water damage in the process. SERVPRO of Greenwich responded quickly and effectively. As you can see in the photo, the floor was restored to its previous state, and school was resumed in a timely fashion.

There's never a convenient time for fire, water, or any other damage to strike your Stamford commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

Commercial Water Damage Restoration
Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
Commercial Mold Remediation

2-story Residential Water Damage

7/21/2017 (Permalink)

Water damage bubbling paint in a Stamford home.

A pipe break caused this house to flood on he second floor. The water flowed down the walls into the first floor, damaging the walls and carpeted floor in the process. This before picture shows the first floor ceiling with gallons of water bubbling the paint.

SERVPRO of Greenwich was called in to clean up the aftermath. We pulled up the damaged carpet to reveal a gorgeous hardwood floor. We cleaned the wood floor and delighted the homeowner. The owner was thrilled-she said "This floor never looked this good in the 10 years I've owned this house".

Whether your Fairfield County home has emergency flood damage or you need your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration

• Fire Damage Restoration

• Mold Remediation

• Storm Damage Restoration

• Cleaning Services

• Building/Reconstruction Services

Saving Personal Items from Water Damage

3/9/2017 (Permalink)

One of the most common topics after a client suffers water damage, is how and what they can save from water damage. Unfortunately, there is no clear cut answer to this question. Every water damage is unique in some sense, so what can be saved is really on a case by case basis. However, here are some guidelines that you can use to make the best decision possible.

What Type of Water Damage

Determining whether the water that damaged your personal belongings is clean or contaminated will be a big factor in whether or not it can be salvaged. Obviously, if you are dealing with clean water, the chances of you being able to save some of your belongings is higher. Even though it may be possible to restore something that is damaged by contaminated water, it is more than likely not worth the health risk that it may bring.

Porous vs Non Porous Materials

Porous materials such as fabrics, wood, and paper are very good at retaining water. This also means it increases the chance of other dangers like mold growth, and damage beyond repair. This is not always the case and if handled quickly and properly, many times these items can be saved as well. On the other hand, porous materials like marble, metal, and porcelain - among others - usually have no problem being restored. Since there is really nothing for bacteria and mold to root itself in, a simple cleaning is usually no problem.

The Amount of Time the Water Saturated

Another factor that will come into the equation of determining what can and cannot be saved is how long the materials have been wet for. The longer an item sits in water, the deeper it can penetrate. As you can imagine, this makes it increasingly more difficult to bring it back to its normal state. The perfect example of this is wooden furniture. It takes quite a bit of time for it to really absorb and become completely water logged. If you get personal belongings out of the standing water and begin the drying process right away, you have a good chance of being able to save them.

Factor in the Replacement Cost

Water damage restoration of personal belongings is no different than any other type of repair. You will always want to evaluate how much it is going to cost to repair something versus simply replacing it. Is the item you want to save really worth paying a professional to do work on it? Sometimes it is, sometimes it is not.

You should also take into account that paying for restoration does not guarantee your item will be returned to its original state. If that’s the case, you’ll have to replace the item anyways.

If you are unsure about whether or not one of your items could be salvaged, it is best that you get it analyzed by a professional. If you hire a water damage restoration company to handle a dry out of your property, they will be able to assist you in assessing damage to your personal belongings as well. To speak to a professional water restoration representative at SERVPRO, contact them today. They are always there to help.

Do You Need Help With Water, Mold, or Fire Restoration? Call SERVPRO of Greenwich today!

If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (203) 629-3480

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