Winter is here! SERVPRO tips to keep windows dry.

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Keep your windows frost free

Most winters in Upstate NY are dreadful by the time Halloween rolls around, but the fall and winter of 2019 gave us a little more warmth, and most importantly, more time to enjoy outdoor activities! 

Unfortunately for us upstaters, perfect fall days can't last forever. The past few weeks have brought some below freezing temps which leave our hands, homes and offices cold and our windows covered with frost. 

So finally with those cold temps we saw some snow flurries! That snow may be pretty and hey, some people even enjoy the winter cold but it can also come with damages that you might not even consider.

So keep this in mind while you're admiring the frost from the inside your cozy bedroom, window frost while sometimes beautiful, can also be damaging and surprisingly enough can even cause mold in your home or office. So follow these tips to keep your windows warm and dry..'

#1 Use a dehumidifier inside your home to keep the moisture out.

#2 Seal any gaps or cracks in your windows.

#3 And most importantly, heat your homes/offices properly! 

So keep these tips in mind when it starts flurrying this winter season! Stay warm for the rest of 2019 and in the New Year!

Mold: A HOT topic

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Damage, No Problem

Water damage in your home or office? You could be at risk for mold growth - this topic is actually a lot more complex than you might think. So let the SERVPRO Professionals break it down a bit. 

"On January 29th, 2015 - Governor Andrew Cuomo signed NYS Senate Bill S3667D-2013 which will create Article 32 to the Labor Law. This article will establish the licensing of mold inspection, assessment, and remediation specialists and minimum work standards. According to the bill - the law goes (went into effect) 180 days of Jan 29th - which if calculated correctly would be July 28th 2015."

Now that this law is in effect - mold remediation specialists are required to have much more certification on their ends. The specifics about requirements to become a licensed assessor or remediator have been left to New York State Department Of Labor. But for homeowners, all you need to know is that any contractor that performs mold remediation/abatement services must be certified.

When should you hire a mold remediation company?

• New York State has set fourth a guideline that whenever 10 sq ft or more of mold is found you should consult a mold remediation specialist.

Need a few more tips?

• Request proof of pollution insurance
• Request proof of workers compensation and liability insurance
• Request employee and company certification.
• Obtain a written contract for all work to be done and costs to be incurred.

Or you could just call SERVPRO of Broome, Tompkins and Tioga Counties. Lucky for YOU, all SERVPRO of Broome, Tompkins and Tioga County employees are certified mold remediators and stay up to date on all certifications and requirements set forth by New York State. Our team will continue to advance in mold remediation techniques as the industry advances each year.

Mold is a serious threat to home and office owners, so having professionals who know how to handle the job is crucial. We're just down the road. Give us a call and read on to learn more. 

Mold Damaged Documents

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Damaged Books

If your home or business has important documents that are affected by Mold, we can HELP!

We use a specialized process called Gamma Irradiation. This is used for cleaning/ disinfection and decontaminating documents or other consumer goods. In gamma irradiation, high-energy photons are emitted from an isotope source (Colbalt 60) producing ionization(electron disruptions) throughout a product. In a CAT 3 situation (sewage or flood water), documents are not only deteriorating but are also infected with all types of bacteria. In most storm situations you are dealing with CAT 3 water: therefore, most of the affected documents that you will encounter will be contaminated. If this is the case then decontamination is always a must. In Living cells, these disruptions result in damage to the DNA and other cellular structures. These photon-induced changes at the molecular level cause death to the organism or render the organism incapable of reproduction. The gamma process does not create residuals or impart radioactivity in processed products.

For additional information or questions on processes involving fire, water, or mold damaged documents please call our office, and we would be happy to further discuss and provide a free estimate for services.

EPA Certified Firm

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

Whether you’re working on your home or business, choosing the right vendor can be difficult. No matter what the project, there is one thing that should be a number one priority when work is being performed in your home or business- SAFETY. Safety is extremely important to us; this is why our franchise is an EPA Certified Firm.

This means our workers are certified and trained in the use of lead-safe work practices to avoid potential lead based paint hazards to consumers and workers alike. Find out more about the laws governing renovators. https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-renovation-repair-and-painting-program-rules.

Not only have our employees undergone lead safety training, but OSHA training as well to insure safety on all job worksites from any hazard. When it comes to proper clean up Fire, Water, Mold, or Biohazards you can be sure we are doing it the right, safe way to prevent further contamination to any home or business.

SERVPRO: NYS Mold

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage in your home or office? You could be at risk for mold growth - this topic is actually a lot more complex than you might think. So let the SERVPRO Professionals break it down a bit. 

"Last January 29th - Governor Andrew Cuomo signed NYS Senate Bill S3667D-2013 which will create Article 32 to the Labor Law. This article will establish the licensing of mold inspection, assessment, and remediation specialists and minimum work standards. According to the bill - the law goes (went into effect) 180 days of Jan 29th - which if calculated correctly would be July 28th 2015."

Now that this law is in effect - mold remediation specialists are required to have much more certification on their ends. The specifics about requirements to become a licensed assessor or remediator have been left to New York State Department Of Labor. But for homeowners, all you need to know is that any contractor that performs mold remediation/abatement services must be certified.

When should you hire a mold remediation company?

• New York State has set fourth a guideline that whenever 10 sq ft or more of mold is found you should consult a mold remediation specialist.

Need a few more tips?

• Request proof of pollution insurance
• Request proof of workers compensation and liability insurance
• Request employee and company certification.
• Obtain a written contract for all work to be done and costs to be incurred.

Or you could just call our Team, our employees are certified mold remediators and stay up to date on all certifications and requirements set forth by New York State. Our team will continue to advance in mold remediation techniques as the industry advances each year.

Mold is a serious threat to home and office owners, so having professionals who know how to handle the job is crucial. We're just down the road. Give us a call and read on to learn more. 

Mold Damaged Documents

5/12/2017 (Permalink)

If your home or business has important documents that are affected by Mold, we can HELP!

We use a specialized process called Gamma Irradiation. This is used for cleaning/ disinfection and decontaminating documents or other consumer goods. In gamma irradiation, high-energy photons are emitted from an isotope source (Colbalt 60) producing ionization(electron disruptions) throughout a product. In a CAT 3 situation (sewage or flood water), documents are not only deteriorating but are also infected with all types of bacteria. In most storm situations you are dealing with CAT 3 water: therefore, most of the affected documents that you will encounter will be contaminated. If this is the case then decontamination is always a must. In Living cells, these disruptions result in damage to the DNA and other cellular structures. These photon-induced changes at the molecular level cause death to the organism or render the organism incapable of reproduction. The gamma process does not create residuals or impart radioactivity in processed products.

For additional information or questions on processes involving fire, water, or mold damaged documents please call our office, and we would be happy to further discuss and provide a free estimate for services.

How does Duct Cleaning Work?

4/7/2017 (Permalink)

If you have a fuel-burning furnace, stove, or fireplace, the US EPA recommends they be inspected for proper functioning and be serviced before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.

When it comes to cleaning your duct work the SERVPRO way uses a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system.  

• Our process beings by using patentedequipment, including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct’s shapre and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debirs and filth before vacuuming begins.

• Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debirs from the ducting to a 16 gallon container.

• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.

• As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.

• Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

Q&A: Biohazard, Vandalism, & Crime Scene Cleanup

2/6/2017 (Permalink)

Q. What is considered “Bio-hazardous” that SERVPRO can help me cleanup?

A. Blood borne Pathogens, Sewage Backup, methamphetamine Labs, Blackwater intrusions, Mold Damage

Q. What are black water intrusions?

A. These are intrusions from flood waters, sewage, and anything else that has significantly contaminated the water. This type of water hosts harmful microorganisms that can pose a health risk to humans.

Q.How can SERVPRO assist with Crime Scene and Vandalism Cleanup?

A. Our team can assist with Arson Fire Cleanup, damage from graffiti, egg, spoiled foods, and human or animal waste. Our team also specializes in detail cleaning of crime scenes including fingerprint dust cleaning, and with blood & bodily fluid cleanup.

Q. Do I really need a trained professional for Bio-hazard cleanup?

A. Yes. In order to prevent risk to you, your family, or co-workers call in a professional. Our team is trained to effectively remove hazardous biological substances & utilize the top of the line personal protective equipment while doing so. Our team also follows guidelines for proper hazardous waste disposal according to OSHA, EPA and State regulations.

Duct Cleaning: What you Need to Know

1/17/2017 (Permalink)

Some of our clients wonder when to get their duct work cleaned. There are a few factors to consider…when were they last cleaned? Are there pets in the home causing more than normal build up in duct work? Is there concern about your indoor air quality?...

When it comes to ductwork an annual cleaning usually is not be necessary, but call us in and We will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns.

Having Ductwork cleaned can assist with the following:

• Helps to restore peak energy efficiency
• May help to eliminate offensive odors.
• Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

Please call us today for a free assessment if you have concerns about your ductwork. This is especially important if your home or business has been subject to contaminates such as smoke, soot, or mold.

EPA Certified Firm

11/8/2016 (Permalink)

Whether you’re working on your home or business, choosing the right vendor can be difficult. No matter what the project, there is one thing that should be a number one priority when work is being performed in your home or business- SAFETY. Safety is extremely important to us; this is why SERVPRO® of Broome, Tompkins & Tioga Counties is an EPA Certified Firm.

This means our workers are certified and trained in the use of lead-safe work practices to avoid potential lead based paint hazards to consumers and workers alike. Find out more about the laws governing renovators. https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-renovation-repair-and-painting-program-rules

Not only have our employees undergone lead safety training, but OSHA training as well to insure safety on all job worksites from any hazard. When it comes to proper clean up Fire, Water, Mold, or Biohazards you can be sure we are doing it the right, safe way to prevent further contamination to any home or business.

Summer Mold?

6/1/2016 (Permalink)

It’s getting humid and between the sunny days, the summer rain can bring mold growth in your home or office. Believe it or not it only takes a small water leak or even a bit of excess humidity for mold to form in your home. And it doesn’t just stop there, it can spread quickly in as little as 48 hours!

It’s important to be sure your home or office is mold free. However, if you do stumble upon mold growth, SERVPRO’s trained, licensed crews offer free estimates with specialized training and equipment. We’ll give you the full diagnosis and help you better understand how to rid your home for contaminants to protect you and your family from mold infestation. Read on about mold here: http://www.SERVPRObroomecountyeast.com/mold-remediation then give us a call. Remember the estimate is free - so don’t be afraid to pick up your phone or download the SERVPRO Ready App - so you’re always prepared.

Asbestos Code Rule 56

5/26/2016 (Permalink)

When it comes to fire, water or mold damage, every property loss is different as to how it affects property. Our team works to maintain and restore property to original condition, but sometimes tear out of materials may be necessary to get the job done right!  When it comes to removal, in NYS age of the structure plays a huge factor in how removal will proceed.

According to Asbestos Code Rule 56 New York State requires  asbestos testing in certain situations.

In some cases structural materials affected by water, fire or mold need to be removed rather than restored due to structural incompetency. When it is absolutely necessary to do tear out of materials that are affected by fire and water in any structure built prior to 1976, New York State requires asbestos testing to be performed prior to tear out.

SERVPRO follows all NYS guidelines and wants to ensure customer protection and safety at all times. For more information please visit: https://labor.ny.gov/workerprotection/safetyhealth/Links/CR56.htm

SERVPRO: On Mold

1/26/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO

Water damage in your home or office? You could be at risk for mold growth - this topic is actually a lot more complex than you might think. So let the SERVPRO Professionals break it down a bit. 

"Last January 29th - Governor Andrew Cuomo signed NYS Senate Bill S3667D-2013 which will create Article 32 to the Labor Law. This article will establish the licensing of mold inspection, assessment, and remediation specialists and minimum work standards. According to the bill - the law goes (went into effect) 180 days of Jan 29th - which if calculated correctly would be July 28th 2015."

Now that this law is in effect - mold remediation specialists are required to have much more certification on their ends. The specifics about requirements to become a licensed assessor or remediator have been left to New York State Department Of Labor. But for homeowners, all you need to know is that any contractor that performs mold remediation/abatement services must be certified.

When should you hire a mold remediation company?

• New York State has set fourth a guideline that whenever 10 sq ft or more of mold is found you should consult a mold remediation specialist.

Need a few more tips?

• Request proof of pollution insurance
• Request proof of workers compensation and liability insurance
• Request employee and company certification.
• Obtain a written contract for all work to be done and costs to be incurred.

Or you could just call SERVPRO of Broome, Tompkins and Tioga Counties. Lucky for YOU, all SERVPRO of Broome, Tompkins and Tioga County employees are certified mold remediators and stay up to date on all certifications and requirements set forth by New York State. Our team will continue to advance in mold remediation techniques as the industry advances each year.

Mold is a serious threat to home and office owners, so having professionals who know how to handle the job is crucial. We're just down the road. Give us a call and read on to learn more.