How Can I Protect My Roof from Water Damage?

2/21/2023 (Permalink)

Four Ways to Prevent Water Damage on Your Roof

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It protects you and your family from the elements and plays a crucial role in keeping your humble abode in good condition. One of the main ways that roofs can become damaged is from water. If H2O isn't properly drained from the roof, it can cause leaks and other serious problems. 

In this blog, SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma will discuss four ways to protect your roof from water damage!

1. Clean Your Gutters

One of the best ways to protect your roof from water damage is to ensure you keep your gutters clean. When leaves and other debris build up in your gutters, it can cause blockages that prevent proper drainage. To play it safe, have your gutters cleaned at least twice a year by a professional to ensure they are clear and debris-free.

2. Check for Leaks

One of the most common causes of water damage to roofs is leaks. If left unrepaired, these leaks can slowly cause more damage over time. Check your roof regularly for any signs of small leaks or other issues that could lead to water damage.

3. Install a Roof Drainage System

A roof drainage system helps to move water away from the roof so that it does not cause any problems. Make sure a professional installs the appropriate drainage system for your specific roof type and climate.

4. Regularly Inspect Your Roof

You should always inspect your roof regularly to check for any signs of damage. Make sure you look for cracks, missing shingles, or other issues that could cause water damage. If you find any water damage in your home, contact SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma.

Water Damage Repair and Restoration in Ronkonkoma, NY

Water damage can happen in the blink of an eye, which is why SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our Suffolk County water repair and restoration services will ensure that all water damage is removed properly and your property is completely dry. Contact us today at (631) 585-0007 to learn more!

What Causes Mold Growth?

2/16/2023 (Permalink)

How Does Mold Start to Grow?

Mold is one of the most common problems that homeowners face. It is not only unsightly but can also lead to other issues if it is not addressed immediately. The good news is that understanding how mold forms and taking the necessary steps to prevent it can help you keep your home mold-free. 

Let's take a closer look at why and how mold forms.

What Causes Mold?

Mold needs three conditions in order to form: moisture, a food source, and an ideal temperature. In most cases, moisture comes from water leaks or high humidity levels combined with poor ventilation. Common food sources for mold are organic materials like paper, wood, insulation, drywall, carpeting, fabric, and more. Lastly, temperatures between 40–100 degrees Fahrenheit (or 4–37 degrees Celsius) are ideal for mold growth.

How Can I Prevent Mold Growth?

Once you understand what causes mold growth, it's easy enough to prevent it from happening in your home. Here are some tips for keeping your house free of mold: 

• Check your home's exterior for any cracks or gaps in the foundation that could allow water in.
• Use exhaust fans or open windows when showering/cooking/doing laundry.
• Keep indoor humidity levels below 50% using dehumidifiers.    
• Regularly inspect areas where there is potential for water leakage (such as under sinks).
• Ventilate crawl spaces and attic regularly.
• Repair any plumbing leaks quickly.

Mold Remediation and Restoration in Suffolk County, NY

Homeowners should always be aware of potential areas where mold can grow in their homes so they can take quick action should they spot any signs of it. However, if you notice signs of mold growth in your home, contact SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma immediately; our mold remediation and restoration professionals can assess the situation and provide the necessary services to remove it.

Contact us today at (631) 585-0007 or fill out a form for assistance!

What to Do if Your House is on Fire

1/30/2023 (Permalink)

How to Handle a House Fire

Fires are one of the most destructive natural disasters that can affect your home. If your house catches fire, it's important to know how to handle the situation and protect yourself and your loved ones. The Suffolk County fire restoration and repair professionals at SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma are here to share what you should do if you ever find yourself in this situation.

Immediate Action

If you notice a fire in your home, you should get out of the house as quickly as possible. Leave all belongings behind and exit the building immediately; don't stop for anything! Once everyone is outside, call 911 so firefighters can be dispatched to your location. Ensure to provide them with a detailed description of where the fire is located and how quickly it moves. 

If you live in an apartment complex or high-rise, make sure not to use elevators; they could become stuck in an emergency. Instead, take stairs or ladders if available. Also, regardless of your living situation, keep doors closed when leaving rooms — this will help prevent any flames from spreading throughout. Lastly, plan two evacuation routes ahead of time so that everyone in your household knows where to go in an emergency.

After You’ve Left

Once you have exited your home, stay outside until authorities arrive on the scene and give you further instructions about going back inside. In some cases, depending on the damage caused by smoke or flames, it may not be safe for anyone to enter for several days following the incident. If that is the case with your home fire, contact friends or family members who may be able to provide temporary housing until safety has been restored. You may also need to contact your insurance company or landlord to start filing claims.

Fire Damage Repair and Restoration Services in Suffolk County, NY

No one wants their home to catch fire, but sometimes things happen beyond our control. If your home has sustained fire damage, SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma is here to help. Our dedicated team of professionals is here to help restore your home and get you back on track, "Like it never even happened."

Contact us today at (631) 585-0007 or fill out a form for assistance!

How Homeowners Can Protect Their Homes from Winter Storm Damage

1/30/2023 (Permalink)

How to Protect Your Home from Winter Storm Damage

Winter storms can cause a lot of damage to homes — especially on Long Island. From snow and ice buildup on roofs to frozen pipes, these kinds of weather-related disasters can be costly to repair. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma is here to share some steps homeowners can take to protect their Suffolk County homes from winter storm damage. 

Let’s look at a few of them:

Maintain Your Roof and Gutters 

Every autumn, before the winter season arrives, it’s important to ensure that your roof is in good condition and free of any debris or buildup that could prevent melting snow and ice from draining off the roof properly. You should also ensure that your gutters are clean so they can effectively carry water away from your home. If you need help with this task, consider hiring a professional roofing company to inspect and maintain your roof.

Insulate Your Pipes 

Frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of winter storm damage to Long Island homes. To prevent this from happening, insulating any exposed pipes in basements, attics, crawl spaces, garage walls, and other areas where temperatures may drop below freezing is important. You can find insulation kits at most hardware stores or hire a plumber for a more comprehensive solution.

Clear Snow Away From Your Home 

Snow buildup around your home can lead to water seeping through cracks in foundations or windowsills and flooding near doors and windows when the snow melts quickly due to warmer temperatures. To prevent this damage, homeowners need to clear away any snow buildup near their homes as soon as possible after each winter storm passes through their area. This will help keep water from pooling around your home, which could lead to costly repairs.

Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration Services in Suffolk County You Can Count On

Protecting your home from winter storm damage is an important step in keeping you and your property safe during the frigid Long Island winters. However, should your Suffolk County home sustain storm-related damages of any kind, SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma is here to help save the day with our storm damage cleanup and restoration services. 

To speak with a member of our friendly team, give us a call at (631) 585-0007 or fill out a form!

How to Spot Water Damage in Your Home

1/30/2023 (Permalink)

How Do I Know If I Have Water Damage?

Water damage can be disastrous for homeowners on Long Island. Not only can it cause costly repairs, but it can also lead to the growth of mold and mildew. That's why it is important to know the signs of water damage so that you can address the problem quickly before it gets out of hand. The water damage repair and restoration experts at SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma share some tell-tale signs that water damage might be present in your home.  

Stains on Ceilings and Walls 

The most obvious sign of water damage is visible stains on ceilings and walls. Stains, discoloration, or bubbling paint are clear indications that water has been present in an area where it should not be. If you spot these signs in your home, call SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma immediately to assess the damage's extent and recommend repair solutions.

Musty Odors 

Another sign of water damage is musty odors from various rooms throughout your house. Mold and mildew grow best in damp, dark environments, so if you notice a strange smell inside your home, it could indicate that water has made its way into places where it should not be. Don't waste any time — call us right away if you suspect moisture may be lurking beneath the surface.

Peeling Wallpaper or Warped Flooring 

If wallpaper or flooring starts to peel or warp, this could mean too much moisture is present in certain areas of your home. This issue needs to be addressed quickly as moisture buildup can lead to all sorts of problems — including structural issues, health concerns, and more costly repairs down the line. 

Reliable Water Damage Repair Services in Suffolk County, NY

Water damage is nothing to mess around with; if left untreated, it can quickly become an even bigger problem than when you first noticed the signs. If you suspect your Suffolk County home has sustained water damage of any magnitude, SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma is here to help.

Please contact us at (631) 585-0007 or complete a quick form on our website, and let us help save the day in your home!

Why is Upholstery Cleaning Important?

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

Reasons Why You Should Clean Your Upholstery

Upholstery is one of the most important aspects of a room. Not only does it add comfort and style, but it also plays an important role in maintaining a clean environment. Many people don't realize how dirty their upholstery can get, which can lead to many problems. 

SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma is here to discuss the importance of upholstery cleaning and provide tips on maintaining your furniture's appearance and comfort!

Provides a Cleaner Home

Upholstery can accumulate dust, dirt, and other debris over time. This can cause the fabric to break down and become discolored. Dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens can also be trapped in upholstered furniture if it is not properly cleaned. Regular cleaning of your upholstery will help to ensure that these contaminants are removed and disposed of properly, reducing the risk of allergies or other respiratory problems.

Preserves the Beauty of Your Furniture

In addition to keeping your home clean and safe, regular upholstery cleaning helps maintain its appearance. Dirt and stains on furniture detract from its beauty, which is why SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma uses specialized tools to deep-clean fabrics, restoring their original color and texture. As a result, your furniture can look like new and last longer.

Schedule Regular Upholstery Cleanings in Ronkonkoma

It is important to note that upholstery cleaning should be done regularly. SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma recommends cleaning your furniture at least once a year to ensure that the fabric remains clean and free of dirt or allergens. Keeping your upholstery clean will also help prevent wear and tear, meaning you'll get more years of use out of your furniture.

If you need upholstery cleaning in Ronkonkoma, call us at (631) 585-0007 or contact us online.

Common Reasons Why a Basement Will Flood

11/21/2022 (Permalink)

4 Reasons Why Your Basement Might Be Flooding

A flooded basement is every homeowner's nightmare. Not only is it a mess to clean up, but it can also lead to serious damage to your home and possessions. If you're dealing with a flooded basement, you're probably wondering what caused it. 

The Suffolk County water damage repair and restoration experts at SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma are here to share four of the most common reasons for basement flooding aside from plumbing problems:

1. A Blocked or Failing Gutter System

A common reason for basement flooding is a blocked or failing gutter system. When gutters become clogged with leaves and other debris, they can no longer channel water away from your home, which can lead to flooding in your basement and structural damage to your humble abode over time. To prevent this from happening, be sure to clear your gutters regularly and have them inspected by a professional at least once a year to ensure they're in good working order.

2. Snow Melting Too Quickly

If you live in an area where snowfall is common — such as Long Island — you might be familiar with the problem of snow melting too quickly and causing flooding in your basement. This can happen when there's a sudden warm-up after a cold snap, causing the snow to melt rapidly and overwhelm your drainage system. To lessen the chance of this from occurring, be sure to shovel any snow around your humble abode immediately after it falls and keep an eye on the forecast so you can be prepared for any potential flooding.

3. Poor Drainage Around Your Home

Flooding can also occur when poor drainage around your home causes water to pool near the foundation and seep into your basement. As mentioned earlier, this can be due to anything from improper landscaping to a faulty gutter system. In a conscious effort to avoid a dangerous situation, make sure that all drains and gutters around your home are functioning properly and that any landscaping slopes away from your foundation.

4. A Broken Sump Pump

If you have a sump pump in your basement, it's there for one purpose: to remove any water that might accumulate so that flooding doesn't occur. However, if the sump pump fails, it won't be able to do its job, leading to a flooded basement. To keep your home flood-free, be sure to test your sump pump regularly and have it serviced by a professional every few years.

Suffolk County Water Damage Repair and Restoration Services

Basement flooding is never fun, but fortunately, help is only a phone call away. The professionals at SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma are equipped with the certifications, experience, and equipment needed to get things cleaned up quickly and efficiently so you can get back to normal life as soon as possible.

If you have flood or water damage at home, contact our friendly team at (631) 585-0007!

Holiday Electrical Safety Tips All Homeowners Should Know

11/21/2022 (Permalink)

5 Holiday Electrical Safety Tips

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and fun. But they’re also a time when home electrical safety should be on everyone’s mind. From stringing up holiday lights to cooking large family meals, there are plenty of opportunities for things to go wrong and spark a fire. 

The Suffolk County fire damage repair and restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma have put together this list of holiday electrical safety tips every homeowner should know.

1. Check Your Lights Before You Plug Them In

Look for frayed wires, broken sockets, and loose connections. If you find any damaged areas, throw the strand away and replace it with a new one. Also, make sure to keep all light strands away from water. This includes using extension cords rated for outdoor use if you need to string your lights along the outside of your home.

2. Avoid Using Nails or Tacks to Keep Lights in Place

Avoid using nails or tacks to secure them in place when putting up holiday decorations. Instead, use hooks or other fasteners that won’t damage the wiring in your walls. And be careful not to overload outlets by plugging in too many decorations at once.

3. Be Mindful of Overloading Your Circuits When Cooking

When cooking holiday meals, avoid overloading your circuits by plugging in too many appliances at a time. If you’re using a slow cooker, electric skillet, or any other portable device, make sure to unplug it when you’re finished cooking and before stepping out of the house. And never leave food cooking unattended — not even for a minute!

4. Be Cautious When Using Space Heaters and Fireplaces

Be mindful of space heaters and fireplaces during the colder months. Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including curtains, furniture, and clothing. And make sure to turn off space heaters and blow out candles before going to bed or leaving the house.

5. Have Your Home’s Electrical Work Inspected

Have your home’s electrical system inspected by a licensed professional every few years to ensure everything is up to code and working correctly. This is especially important if you live in an older home with outdated wiring.

Suffolk County Fire Damage Repair and Restoration Services

If your home sustains a fire, SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma is here to help. Our trained team of fire damage remediation specialists understands the sensitivity of this unfortunate situation; we can help bring your humble abode back to its original state in a timely and efficient manner.

To speak with a member of our friendly team, contact us today at (631) 585-0007 for more information.

How Do You Recover from Storm Damage?

8/29/2022 (Permalink)

Storm Damage Recovery Tips

When a storm arrives on Long Island, it may cause some unexpected damage to your home. And while you can’t control the storm’s damage, you can control how you are prepared to handle the aftermath. The Suffolk County storm damage restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma are here to share some helpful tips on what you should do after your house sustains storm-related damage.

Assess Your Home’s Damage

Once the storm has passed and it is safe to go outside, inspect your home thoroughly to learn the extent of the damage. You’ll want to check for things such as broken electrical lines, loose shingles, broken siding, and more. However, if you see damaged power lines on the ground, it’s vital to keep ten feet back and contact the utility company right away. Another thing to keep in mind: If you smell gas or suspect a leak, quickly evacuate your home immediately and do not close the door behind you. Once you’re a safe distance away from your house, call 911 and your gas company’s emergency number without delay.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Before reaching out to your insurance provider, take photos of any house impairments. Ensure you do not transfer or remove anything until you have documented it through pictures and/or videos. With proper documentation, the insurance company can assess the damage and compensate you. Moreover, it’s imperative to save your receipts for hotel costs and other temporary finances for your insurance claim. Your insurance provider will assist you with a claim number and a list of local emergency service workers. 

Begin the Restoration Process

Once you have your insurance claim number, determine what storm damage-related repairs you need to have repaired and restored. Regardless of the size of the damage, completing any repair or restoration work on your own can be dangerous — that’s why it’s important to have a professional complete this work for you. They’ll be able to assess the situation in a timely manner and get your home back on its feet “Like it never even happened.”.

Need Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration in Suffolk County?

If your home sustains storm damage, choose SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma to help save the day. Our team of storm damage cleanup and restoration professionals has the expertise and specialized training to restore your Suffolk County home quickly and efficiently, “Like it never even happened.”

Contact us today at (631) 585-0007 or fill out a form for assistance!

What to Do If Your Basement Floods

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

How to Handle a Flooded Basement

Whether you had a pipe burst or a storm passed through, you might encounter a flood in the basement of your Long Island home when you least expect it. Dealing with a flood in any part of your house can be stressful; however, it is easily fixable! From the trained Suffolk County water damage repair and restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma, here are some helpful tips to follow should you find yourself in this situation. 

Turn Off Your Home’s Water Supply

A common diagnosis of a flooded basement is heavy rain or groundwater flooding, but a plumbing failure could also cause it. For instance, when a pipe bursts, it can release hundreds of gallons of H2O every hour if left unrepaired. That said, the minute you notice a pipe burst, you should shut off your home’s water supply immediately, if possible (and safe), to prevent further damage.

Inform Your Insurance Provider

Once you have stabilized the water outbreak, it’s imperative to let your homeowner’s insurance provider know about the situation right away; some insurance plans cover the flooding caused by failed plumbing or groundwater flooding. During your call, communicate with an agent to learn whether it will be covered under the products you have taken out and what damages need to be repaired. Also, keep in mind: if your insurance provides flooding protection, take photos of the basement to receive compensation.

Remove Personal Items

As your basement dries, it could be damp for a few days. After taking photos of the damage and calling your insurance provider, call a trusted professional to help restore your property and remove your personal belongings from the room to prevent mold from growing in the humid atmosphere. If you were to try to repair and renovate things on your own, it could spell trouble because the water may still be charged with electricity.

Contact a Water Damage Repair and Restoration Expert in Suffolk County!

From major leaks to floods, let the leading water damage repair and restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Ronkonkoma get your home back up and running in no time. Our trained remediation specialists have the certifications and expertise to revive your property “Like it never even happened.”

Give our friendly team a call at (631) 585-0007 or fill out a form for assistance!