3 Tips to Prevent Winter Storm Damage

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

Properly insulating pipes before temperatures drop can save you a lot of hassle

Three Tips That Can Help You

If you live somewhere with subzero temperatures during winter, you have probably heard about the importance of winterization. In a nutshell, this is the process of preparing your home for the blizzard conditions you can expect to experience between December and February. For these months, homeowners take the time to winterize homes because it can prevent significant damage. You, too, can protect your home in Henrietta, NY before the next winter storm. Here are three tips to help:

1. Look Up
One of the first places to check when winterizing is the roof. How are the tiles or metal? Make sure to keep an eye out for holes or dents, and make repairs as necessary. Gutters are also important. Clear any debris you see to prevent ice dams and water build-up. When it comes to winter problems, roof damage is often a major concern.

2. Look Around
Next, take a look at the siding around the house. Are there any spots you need to repair? Also, do not forget the shutters or windows. If air can somehow get in, seal any leaks and repair or replace any broken or missing parts. In addition to looking around the house itself, look around the yard as well. Do you see any trees that could cause damage if they break? If so, considering trimming them.

3. Look Inside
The roof and surroundings of a home are important considerations, but one of the most important things to think about is inside. Indeed, frozen pipes are a leading cause of homeowners needing the assistance of winter storm damage remediation experts. Properly insulating pipes before temperatures drop can save you a lot of hassle down the road.
Owning a home in a snowy place comes with unique challenges. In order to prevent unnecessary damages the next time you experience a winter storm, take some time to familiarize yourself with the many ways you can winterize your home.

Roof Damage from Storms

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

Severe or even mild thunderstorms can easily cause roof damage, especially if your roof is older than 15-20 years old. These damages can cause water intrusion in your home and if left untreated can cause more serious issues such as mold or wood rot. Some common types of roof damage from storms are:

• Split seams
• Broken or cracked tiles
• Dented or missing shingles
• Dents on gutters or vents
• Holes

All of these issues can cause water to leak into your home and you may not even notice! Unless you physically see the water damage, you may not realize that you have any. If you have an attic that you don't always go into, it is possible to have water leaking before seeing it. It is always a good idea to check for roof damage after a severe thunderstorm. A professional roofing contractor can help you with this.

In addition to these common types of damage, there are some rare occurrences of damage that can happen. Rare types of roof damage are:

• Caving in on itself
• Tree blowing over onto roof

Unfortunately for these types of rare but extreme damage, there is no way to prevent them from happening. The best thing you can do, is to get your roof replaced if older than 15 years, and to make sure to trim your trees prior to a thunderstorm.

Even if water does enter your home from roof damage, know that SERVPRO of East Monroe County is here to help 24/7! (585) 641-0040

How to Prepare for an East Rochester Flood

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding can be unpredictable here in East Rochester New York and leaves homeowners feeling like they have no control. Here is how to prepare for a flood:

• Check with Monroe County Floodplains Map to see if your home could be affected
• If you are within floodplain areas purchase flood insurance
• Have a battery operated radio with extra batteries to listen to the NOAA Weather Radio for updates
• Sand-bag doorways parallel to the direction of the flow and stagger the joints if multiple layers are needed
• Raise your furnace, electrical panel and water heater in your home to reduce potential damage
• Keep a first aid kit in your home
• Keep a three day supply of food and water (one gallon per person per day)
• Keep a seven day supply of all medical items and medication
• Take pictures of your home before and after any water damage
• Call SERVPRO of East Monroe County if there is any water damage to your home

3 Reasons you should Never Drive through Floodwaters

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

There are many reasons someone might try to drive through the deep, standing waters of a flooded street. Perhaps they are trying to pick up their children from school. Maybe they're trying to get home to see what sort of havoc the storm is wreaking there. No matter how good the reasons to drive through flooded roads in Monroe County may seem, however, the reasons not to drive through floodwaters outweigh them.

Lack of Vision

Deep waters obscure your view of the actual street. If you can't see the pavement, you don't know what you're driving into. There could be any number of hazards below the surface:

• Fallen branches from damaged nearby trees
• Signs or other items that have washed into the street
• Sinkholes where the water has weakened the pavement

Don't risk getting hurt or stuck by something you cannot see.

Damage to Car

Your car is not amphibious. It is an electrical machine, and water and electricity don't mix. It wasn't made to go through water deeper than a couple of inches, and even that is pushing it. On a flooded street, your car may stall or die completely if too much water gets into certain parts of the car.

Danger to You

Floodwater tends to move rapidly and take everything in its path with it. This includes your car and, by proxy, you. Fast-moving water can flip your car, not only causing more damage to the vehicle but also putting your life in danger. Avoiding flooded roads may mean avoiding potentially serious injuries.

Compared with the reasons not to drive on a flooded street, the reasons that tempt you are faulty. Your children are probably safer at the school than they would be in your car, and water mitigation specialists can fix whatever is happening to your home. Follow these travel tips and only drive where you can see the road.

4 Commercial Roof Maintenance Tips

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Roof Maintenance Tips

The roof is one of the most important parts of any building. A roof leak can lead to water damage and mold growth. Consider adding these four maintenance tips to your roof maintenance plan to avoid problems with your roof.

1. Have Regular Inspections Done
Schedule a professional roof inspection at least once per year. Inspectors can look for wind damage, leaks or sagging areas so that they can be addressed before they get worse. It is also a good idea to have your roof inspected after a weather event, such as hail or high winds, that could have caused damage. However, avoid walking on the roof yourself. This can lead to roof damage.

2. Repair Leaks Immediately
You should call a professional in Rochester, NY, to repair a roof leak as soon as you become aware of it. If you put repairs off, the ongoing leak could lead to damage to inventory and equipment, electrical damage, a roof collapse or a need for extensive water restoration efforts. The earlier you have repairs done, the less you are likely to pay in repair costs.

3. Keep Your Roof Clean
Debris on your roof can contribute to poor drainage. This may result in standing water that could promote algae growth and lead to deterioration. Periodically clean debris, such as tree limbs and leaves, off your roof and AC units.

4. Clear Snow in the Winter
The weight of accumulated snow on your roof can cause damage or even lead to a roof collapse. It may also contribute to ice dams forming that can lead to leaks. Make removing snow from your roof a regular part of your snow removal plan.
Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your roof and avoid problems, such as a roof leak. The time and money you invest in maintaining your roof now will pay dividends down the road.

When Storms or Floods hit Rochester, SERVPRO is ready!

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Monroe County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Rochester, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 585-641-0040

Preparing for a Winter Storm

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

The dreaded time of year for most is coming. The most extreme winter storms bring snow, ice, sleet, as well as strong winds and frigid temperatures. This is nothing new to those who live in Rochester, NY. Winter comes quick and it’s time to prepare for a storm. To improve your safety in your home during a winter storm, you should make several preparations:

• Create an emergency kit. You will need a home kit that’s stocked for at least three days in case of a power outage. This includes necessary items such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, blankets, and first-aid supplies.
• Insulate your home. Install storm windows and shutters, and insulate your attic and walls to keep the cold air out. Weather-stripping doors and cover windows with plastic from the inside for extra insulation.
• Shield your pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting. If your home is left unattended, leave the heat on to a temperature of at least 55° F to prevent frozen pipes.
• Protect your heating equipment. Have your furnace, wood stove or fireplace inspected and cleaned every year to assure they are working properly.
• Know how to shut off utilities.Should you need to vacate your home due to flooding, you will need to shut off utilities. Learn how to shut off natural gas, electricity, and water supplies in your home.

Winter storms are ruthless, even with extreme preparation, there is still damage that is unpreventable. Remember to call SERVPRO of East Monroe County at (585) 641-0040 for all of your storm damage needs. As always, we are Here to Help.

Winter Storms in Rochester, NY

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

Winter season is upon us and with it brings snowstorms. This includes heavy snow on roofs, freezing temperatures that can cause ice dams, and wind storms that have the ability to knock down trees. Here are a few tips to get your home and business through the winter:

• Keep your roof cleared off- Nobody wants to spend more time than they have to outside in the winter, but as a home or business owner, it’s important that you don’t let snow or ice buildup on your roof. This can lead to roof and water damages.
• Keep your pipes from bursting- Keep your heat set at a constant temperature and let your faucet drip cold water to relieve strain on the pipes.
• Insulate your home- If any windows bring in cold air, cover them with plastic to keep the cold air out

If this winter season threatens the integrity of your home or office, call SERVPRO of East Monroe County to help make it, “Like it never even happened.” (585) 641-0040

SERVPRO Storm Response

12/6/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to fire & water damage, SERVPRO of East Monroe County should be the first name that comes to mind. Our team works endlessly to make sure our customers are happy. We have one objective in the aftermath of a disaster, to make their loss, “Like it never even happened.”

No matter the job or the size, our SERVPRO teams are ready to handle any size loss. With 1,700+ franchises nationwide, we have access to numerous highly trained personnel and thousands of pieces of equipment. Our SERVPRO Disaster Recovery teams are strategically placed throughout the country to respond when needed. Our Teams have a proven track record for success, assisting with cleanup of floods, tornadoes, wildfires, and damage caused from frigid temperatures.

Whether it’s a major storm event, or a faulty appliance, we will be there with one call. (585) 641-0040

Be Prepared for Outages during Storm Season

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

As the seasons change, New York will be entering storm season. Whether it be wind, rain, freezing precipitation, or snow, keeping your home prepared for weather emergencies is crucial. Here at SERVPRO of East Monroe County, we’re passionate about signal-boosting preparedness information to our communities.

No matter the storm event, there is always a risk of power outages in your power network. Power outages may disrupt communications, water, and transportation. They may also create obstacles to business as usual, such as preventing you from being able to use gas stations, ATMs, banks, and other services as normal. At the most critical, power outages can cause food spoilage, water contamination, and disrupt medical devices, posing health risks to communities.

Review these steps to see how you can protect yourself and your household in the event of a power outage:

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed until power is back on.
• Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.
• Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.
• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.
• Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power dependent medical devices.
• If safe, go to an alternative location for heat and cooling.
• Check on neighbors.

To read more about how you prepare for power outages and storm events, visit ready.gov. If you experience storm damage to your home, make sure to call SERVPRO of East Monroe County at 585-641-0040 as soon as possible - even without power, we are able to respond 24/7 during storm events.

We have the Effective Removal Strategies in Monroe County after a Flood

9/24/2020 (Permalink)

We have the state of the art equipment necessary to extract the water quickly to mitigate the water damage in your home after a flood.

Storm Debris Cleanup and Water Removal in Monroe County Homes

After a flood, your Rochester home might not even look the same as it used to. Invading water can bring untold debris and threats into the property, and these are conditions that you must recognize. It is crucial that if you are one of the first people to re-enter your home after a flood that you do so cautiously. You are looking for several potential hazards, including shock threats, structural weaknesses, holes, and dangerous debris like broken glass or contaminants.

Post-storm debris cleanup is regularly the first step in the restoration of flood damage to homes. Our SERVPRO professionals can also utilize this time when we first begin working on your property to remove standing water to better protect your house from requiring more elaborate controlled demolition. In certain situations, our technicians must shovel out sediment, mud, and other solids deposited on the floors of the affected areas of your house. Dry and wet vacuuming can also help to remove smaller bits of debris that are not as easily removed with shoveling and sweeping.

In many situations, we cannot begin full debris removal and cleaning of the affected areas because our SERVPRO technicians must first contend with standing water. Flood damage scenarios can allow for several feet of standing water in the most directly damaged areas of the house. Because the presence of solids is expected in this water, we can utilize stronger options with larger intake hoses like our gas-powered trash pumps.

Once we have dropped the water level to no more than two inches, devices like our wet vacuums can become useful both for the present debris and for removing the remaining surface water.

Flooding can become a devastating situation for many homeowners, and this can begin with the widespread threats that can enter the property with debris and contaminants. Our SERVPRO of East Monroe County team have effective removal strategies and disinfection techniques that can manage these situations and make flood losses “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call anytime at (585) 641-0040.

Understanding the Risks of Entering a House with Flood Damage in Rochester

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Our Highly Trained Crews can Help After Flood Damage

Floodwater is noticeably dirty and often carries visible pieces of garbage, organic matter like tree branches, and other debris. Dissolved chemicals and liquids might include acids, oils, and pesticides. The residual mess can harbor pathogens long after floodwaters leave your residence, adding to the health risks now in existence inside your Monroe County property. Drying out your home and replacing damaged items must happen only after the elimination of such risks.

Contamination is not the only risk that residents face when entering their property after flood damage occurs. Weakened floors can collapse, as can ceilings in basements if they contain floodwater. The weight of people and water can warp flooring tiles and crumpled carpeting, thus creating trip hazards. Waterlogged walls made of drywall or covered in plaster can also collapse sideways. Electrical hazards exist throughout a property after even a minor flood, including cords, appliances, outlets, and inside walls.

We rely on our building specialists to handle drywall tear-outs, carpet and tile removal, electrical testing, and repairs. Also, clearing out the main drain line and ensuring the sump pump works correctly, as we work on removing soil and silt dumped into corners and closets. 

When we finish clearing a floor of debris, we rinse it with clean running water. While we do not power wash it, it has a similar effect of removing the finer sediments that our shovels and squeegees did not remove. Then we can apply a disinfectant that kills any leftover pathogens.

Once we have cleared floors of debris and we have removed contaminated materials like drywall, we can start drying out the house for you. Our building crew works to ensure that the house’s frame remains not only stable but also strong. Reinforcements might need to occur throughout your home, before the installation of new drywall but after drying takes place. 

SERVPRO of East Monroe County understands the precise steps that must take place to bring your house back to normal, safe living conditions. Call (585) 641-0040, 24-hours a day, year-round, to speak with someone who understands how to make a difficult situation manageable.

Hurricane Season

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South-East Monroe County News And Updates

What to do During a Storm

12/8/2019 (Permalink)

DURING THE STORM

• Use a battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.
• Avoid contact with corded phones. Use a corded telephone only for emergencies. Cordless and cellular telephones are safe to use.
• Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords.  Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers and turn off air conditioners.  Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
• Avoid contact with plumbing. Do not wash your hands, do not take a shower, do not wash dishes, and do not do laundry.  Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
• Do not lie on concrete floors and do not lean against concrete walls.
• Avoid hilltops, open fields, the beach or a boat on the water.
• Take shelter in a sturdy building. Avoid isolated sheds or other small structures in open spaces. 
• Avoid contact with anything metal - tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs, and bicycles.
• If you are not driving, try to safely exit the roadway and park.  Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rain ends. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle.

CALL US TODAY AT (585) 641-0040

What to do After a Storm Hits

12/7/2019 (Permalink)

AFTER THE STORM 

• Never drive through a flooded roadway.
• stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk from the effects of severe thunderstorms.
• Continue to listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or to local radio and television stations for updated information or instructions, as access to roads or some parts of the community may be blocked.
• Help people who may require special assistance, such as infants, children and the elderly or those with access or functional needs.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.
• Watch your animals closely.  Keep them under your direct control.
• If you have storm damage to your home or property, call SERVPRO of S.E. Monroe County!  Timely mitigation is key to minimizing damage to your home and belongings.

CALL SERVPRO of S.E. Monroe County TODAY!! (585) 641-0040

When Storms or Floods hit Rochester, SERVPRO is Ready!

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Monroe County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Rochester, NY,  we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 585-641-0040

Storm Safety during National Preparedness Month

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

As a property owner, if storms are on the horizon, you start looking for ways to protect your home and family. 

Join your community for National Preparedness Month in their ideas and events to prepare for emergencies and disasters of all types, and leading efforts to encourage the community as a whole to become more prepared. “Disasters happen” and not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities, including businesses of all sizes.

If you own a business in the local community, having a business continuity plan can help protect your company, its employees and its infrastructure, and maximizes your chances of recovery after an emergency or disaster. You can do this by taking three simple steps:

• Plan to stay in business
• Encourage your employees to become ready
• Protect your investment

Working with your local government, other businesses, and the community, we choose to work together as a team to ensure that our families, businesses, places of worship and neighborhoods are ready.

Look to Ready.gov/business to find vital information on how to begin preparing for and addressing the unique needs during an emergency. You can also contact SERVPRO^® of East Monroe County to find out more on how to be ready when disaster strikes!

Generator Safety Tips

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

If you have a generator on hand for power outages during severe weather, follow the safety tips below from the American Red Cross:

• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawl space, or any partially enclosed area.
• To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions. Operate it on a dry surface under an open canopy-like structure, such as under a tarp held up on poles. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
• Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent carbon monoxide (CO) buildup in the home. Although CO can’t be seen or smelled, it can rapidly lead to full incapacitation and death. Even if you cannot smell exhaust fumes, you may still be exposed to CO. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air immediately. Install CO alarms in central locations on every level of your home or property and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.

Be sure to use caution when using generators. And if your home receives damage from fire or storm, give SERVPRO of East Monroe County a call at 585-641-0040

Disaster Recovery

11/16/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South East Monroe County not only covers all of Monroe County, but is also a part of all four national SERVPRO storm teams. As a storm team we organize and manage efforts in all 50 states if a wide-spread disaster were to strike. During these catastrophic events, storm teams will mobilize in the area bringing a large number of crews, equipment, and resources to customers affected. Each storm team is managed from one office, where the team receives customer information, organizes that information and responds to the customer quickly and professionally. We recruit crews starting with the closest to the affected area and move outward in concentric circles to ensure we are "faster to any size disaster." As a SERVPRO national response team we respond to disasters as large as Hurricane Harvey and Irma to local flooding or freeze events. 

Most recently the United States has been hit with a few hurricanes including Harvey in the Houston, TX area and Irma hitting the Florida Keys. Northern California was also hit with severe wildfires. Unfortunately, a lot of people were affected by these natural disasters and these jobs are still being taken care of and will be for a long time to insure the homes are in preloss condition. We are thankful that SERVPRO could be of assistance during these difficult times

Dealing with Storm Damage to your Property

11/16/2018 (Permalink)

Dealing with repairs and insurance companies after severe weather hits your property can be difficult. Homeowners can use the following tips to help tackle the storm damage caused by hard rains, flooding, or storm-related issues.

SAFETY FIRST

If you and your family were away from home when the storm hit, do not return until it has been confirmed safe. Contact a storm damage expert like SERVPRO of South East Monroe County; we’ll help you determine if your home is safe to return to.

INSURANCE

You will need to contact your homeowners’ insurance adjuster as soon as possible. If your neighborhood has sustained widespread damage, find out if any special teams of insurance agents, relief workers, or contractors are coming to the area. Check your policy to find out what actions you need to take or talk to your agent to make sure you are following the proper procedures. Not following these actions correctly could result in a reduced claim. Inspect your property and make a list of all damages; take photographs of all noted damage if at all possible.

RECORDING AND DOCUMENTING

Document your neighbor’s damages, as well; this can prevent the insurance provider from downgrading your claim by saying the damage is from your neglect of maintenance or other unrelated issues by giving them a way to compare. Keep a record of all the communication you have with your insurance provider, and don’t do any unnecessary repair work yourself. Hire a trusted storm damage restoration service provider such as SERVPRO of South East Monroe County to handle any repairs.

BE SCAM FREE

Always check the adjuster’s identification. If you are evacuated, ask for money from your claim upfront. If they agree, you will be given a check for an amount that will be deducted from your final settlement. Some providers will automatically offer a partial payment early on during the process. Review it carefully and decline it if you feel uncomfortable with any part of it. Never be afraid to ask questions and to expect an answer that makes sense or seems fair. 

Dealing with a storm's aftermath is stressful, but reacting properly will be an immense help and can prevent problems down the road.

The SERVPRO of South East Monroe County team is ready to help 24/7. Call us for your fire or water damage issues at (585) 641-0040.

Facts about Flooding in the Rochester Area

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Floods rank as one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether you live near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert, there is a potential for suffering from flood damage.

Just because you haven't experienced  a  flood  in  the past,  doesn’t  mean  you  won't  in  the future.  In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3 billion in annual losses in the United States. Commercial flood claims average more than $75,000.

According to the American Red Cross (ARC), floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster.  The ARC offers the following flood safety tips.

• Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing scream where water is above your ankles, stop, rum around and go another Six inches of swiftly moving water can  sweep you  off of your feet.
• If you approach  a flooded  road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road  and waters are rising rapidly around  you,  get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
• Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about run ning water or contaminated water. Keep your pets out of the water too.

If a flood does strike your home or business, contact SERVPRO^® of South East Monroe County. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a  structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task. The SERVPRO® System is prepared to handle any sized disaster. The sooner work begins, the sooner order can be restored.

When fire and water take control of your life, SERVPRO^® of South East Monroe County will help you take it back.

What you can do to Help Prevent Damage During a Hurricane

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

June is the start of Hurricane Season. Hurricane's are defined as an intense tropical weather system of strong thunderstorms with a well-defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 MPH or higher. You can see a storm coming by the change in color of the sky (often greenish), large hail, low-flying clouds and a roar like a freight train.

Below are some helpful hints to follow whether you own a home, RV, boat, car or all of them! 

• It is best to have a plan in place regarding where you are going to go when a hurricane hits. While they may be intriguing to watch, the best place is NOT outside. Your basement or under a set of stairs are great places to wait out the storm. If this is not available, the bottom floor of any building will work.
• Keep your car indoors if possible. Tape up the windows and door with tarps and keep away from any objects that could damage the car if they were to fall on top of it.
• During an emergency, gas stations will often be closed, so always make sure you have at least half a tank of gas to get away instantly
• Have enough supplies on hand to wait out 72 hours, just in case help cannot arrive right away. These supplies can also be stored in the trunk (items like a first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable foods, and medication can stay there at all times.)
• Make sure your car is in proper shape. Have a full tank of gas, wiper blades and tires are ready to go.
• Make sure your cell phone is charged and keep your charger with you.
• Avoid driving in deep waters
• For your boat, remove non-secure items, electronics, excess gear, valuable, and important documents.
• Make sure all openings are clear of debris
• Double all lines that are securing your boat to its securing space
• With your RV, do not drive it during the storm as it is more vulnerable to higher/stronger winds
• Make sure you have a full tank of gas, but empty holding tanks, turn off propane cylinders and cover the regulator.
• Make sure all documents are in a waterproof bag and with you at all times

Life can be unpredictable, but having plans in place help you with whatever may come. For more information, please check out these hurricane tips. As always, once the storm passes, contact your SERVPRO of South East Monroe County at 585-641-0040 to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Flood Damage and SERVPRO

9/10/2018 (Permalink)

Say the words flood damage and people rightly think of foot deep water in their basement or entire neighborhoods underwater. This time of year, it can be a common, even multiple occurrences in some parts of New York.

SERVPRO is an expert in reducing the obvious flood damage to Rochester homes. What surprises our clients are just how many ways a flood can destroy a home even after the water has been removed. Here are the most common ways your home can be dry as a bone and still be unlivable.
Odor - This may seem like a minor thing, but some folks can be allergic to just the smell. If you don't get rid of it, you won't be able to live in your home, and you certainly won't be able to sell it. The smell is also indicative of a worse problem.

Mold and Mildew - If not found and immediately treated and removed, mold and mildew will cause respiratory problems that will drive you out of the house. It is particularly dangerous to people with asthma. If the mold and mildew get into sheetrock and cannot be destroyed by industrial cleaners, then walls will have to be replaced.

Electrical System - If flooding reached high enough to reach electrical outlets, then those have to be inspected by our SERVPRO professionals and possibly be replaced before the power can be turned back on. If they have been compromised, then there is the possibility of a fire hazard when the lights are turned back on.
Plumbing and Sewage - Flooding can overwhelm and damage a home's plumbing system. If it stays under water too long, there is also the possibility that raw sewage can flow backward into your home through the toilets. Septic tanks can also be compromised in the same manner. The cleaning process now becomes much more extensive.

Bacterial Contamination - If sewage gets into your home, this also brings the threat of bacteria which can cause more respiratory problems and other health concerns such as having your kidneys and intestinal (digestive) systems compromised as well.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Flood water in a home is a dangerous threat and needs to be removed quickly. SERVPRO of South-East Monroe County understands that this is only the first step. Other hazards have to be addressed before you are safe again in your own home. To begin the process or if you want to schedule an inspection to help prevent problems in the future, call us today at 585-641-0040

When a Storm or Flood Hits Rochester, SERVPRO is Ready!

11/28/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South-East Monroe County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As a leader in storm and water damage restoration, SERVPRO of South-East Monroe County has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home back to its pre-storm condition. Our restoration process puts an emphasis on scientific drying techniques, progress monitoring and documentation.

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technicians

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Rochester, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 585-641-0040

FEMA Tips for Flood Preparation

11/3/2017 (Permalink)

Before the Flood:

• Have a qualified professional elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel if susceptible to flooding. 
• Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drain of your home or business 
• Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to help avoid seepage. 

During the Flood:

• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so.
• Disconnect electrical appliances.
• Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Do not walk through moving water. Even six inches of water can make you fall.

After the Flood:

• Listen for news reports to learn if the community's water supply is safe to drink. 
• Avoid floodwaters. Water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged.
• Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.

Floods Strike Everywhere

11/3/2017 (Permalink)

On Average, floods coast $6 billion in annual losses in the United States.  The following are a few more little-known facts:

• Floods kill an average of 140 people per year in the United States, making flooding the most deadly natural disaster.
• More than half of all fatalities during floods are auto related, often the result of drivers misjudging the depth of water on a road and being swept away in a swiftly moving current.
• The principle cause of floods in the eastern United States are hurricanes and storms.
• The principle cause of floods in the western United States are snow-melt and rainstorms.
• Underpasses can be some of the most dangerous places during a flash flood - especially at night, when it's difficult to see. 

Call SERVPRO of South East Monroe County Today !! (585) 641-0040

Different Types of Mold

9/12/2017 (Permalink)

From the Ordinary 

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified. Fungi produce some very useful results. Yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads, baked goods, and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages. The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold. An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is a product of mold (Penicillin chrysogenum). Even though some forms of mold can pass value to our lives, other forms of mold can be harmful.  Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people. 

To the Unhealthy 

Intrusion of water into your home or place of business can result in mold growth. Water intrusion can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth. Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments. If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall, and insulation, provide a food source for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health hazard.

What To Do Before A Storm Hits!

9/5/2017 (Permalink)

BEFORE THE STORM

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency supply kit and make a family communication plan

• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.

• Postpone outdoor activities.

• Remember the 30/30 Lightning Safety Rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lightning, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.

• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.

• Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.

• Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.

• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.

• Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives

CALL US TODAY AT (585) 641-0040