3 Facts for Homeowners Facing Storm Damage Cleanup

4/16/2022 (Permalink)

What is Pretesting?

The aftermath of an Albany, NY, storm can leave you with severe damage to your home. Flooding is especially troublesome, as it can affect building materials, electrical systems and valuables. Gauging the total cost of repairs can be difficult, especially when it comes to filing a claim with your insurance company. Having storm damage and restoration service performs pretesting can lower the cost of your claim, and there are a few facts you can keep in mind that may help you better understand the process.

1. A Pretest Can Gauge Water Condition

Not all flooding is the same, and the condition of the water can greatly affect the cost of cleanup and your insurance claim. A pretest allows flood damage technicians to grade the quality of the floodwaters and estimate what will be involved in the restoration. For example, if the flood is the result of a burst kitchen pipe, the water comes from a sanitary source and will likely not cause as much damage as water that comes from an overflowing toilet or outdoor flooding.

2. Cost Estimations Can Be Made More Accurately

Pretesting damaged items can lower insurance claim costs by letting restoration technicians know whether clothing, documents and other objects can be repaired or if they must be declared a total loss. Detailed estimations can result in a more efficient filing process, which might help you recover faster.

3. You Can Learn All Your Restoration Options

A pretest of certain items can help you understand which restoration options are available, as well as the cost of each. Technicians from a flood damage and remediation service could also forward this information to your insurance agent so you all remain on the same page as far as being able to lower the total cost of the claim.

When storms and flooding strike Albany, NY, you may be left with damage to your home and belongings. Pretesting can be one of the best options for evaluating affected items and helping you lower the amount on your insurance statement.

We Have the Solutions!

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

We offer a wide range of emergency services for both residential and commercial properties. Give us a call at (518) 456-1111!

SERVPRO has the unique ability to help property owners in a variety of ways. Disasters come in many shapes and sizes. With over three decades of experience we have seen most everything. We cannot say everything because even in the decades of helping our neighbors in the Albany, NY area, we still see new things. But here are a few disasters we commonly take care of.

Water Damage – We see water damage from all kinds of sources. Busted pipes, malfunctioning appliances, human accidents or neglect, and ground flooding to name a few common sources. No matter the cause, or the epic story that explains it, we have a solution to return you to normal “Like it never even happened.”

Fire and Smoke Restoration – A fire can be a very huge inconvenience but it is not the end of the world. Many times, you would be surprised at how much of your personal property can be restored. We specialize in cleaning and deodorizing anything from family heirlooms, documents, to the very walls in your home or business.

Mold Remediation – With naturally high levels of humidity in the area of the country we live in, mold can be an issue if water intrusion is not properly taken care of. Not only do we offer remediation services but we also do mold testing and offer preventative measures such as crawl space moisture barrier installation.

Bio Hazard Clean Up – This area of our work is not enjoyable to talk about but many times it is necessary. We have the training and experience to properly clean up any area they may have the threat of blood born pathogens being present. These cases include trauma and crime scene clean up.

These are by no means the only services we offer. Frankly, whatever mankind or mother nature can throw at a structure, we can more than likely assist in the restoration.

The Necessity of a Professional Water Damage Service

3/6/2022 (Permalink)

The Necessity of Professional Water Damage Services

Dealing with water at home or in the workplace can be unsettling, and that is understandable. The prospect of expensive office equipment being destroyed or luxurious furnishings drowning in water in a flooded home is too much for any property owner to bear. When you pair that with the stress of making a claim with an insurance provider, the need for competent repair services becomes evident. Water damage recovery is time-consuming, costly, and risky if the proper protocols are not followed. Water cleanup activities necessitate a level of commitment and expertise that the average property owner can lack. SERVPRO of South Albany County is here to assist you every step of the way, from restoration to assisting you to manage the insurance paperwork and process.

Skilled Flood Damage Restoration

Mitigation of water damage has its share of complexities which increase with the severity of the situation. If a pipe break or a supply line break led to flooding, the water cleanup crew has to factor in the malfunctioning plumbing system during the repairs. In the case of rain or storm damage, a building may have to contend with clogged gutters and overflowing downspouts. These aspects determine the necessary mitigation efforts. SERVPRO train their workers on how to deal with such problems. Their experience and expertise allow them to apply the correct measures for drying a flooded home as efficiently as possible without posing any more inconveniences than necessary.

Fast Restoration Exercise

In cases of water in the home or company, helpful hints from a SERVPRO professional can go a long way. Some flood damage cases spiral out of control because people don't know how to recognize when something is wrong. How does one respond, for example, if a pipe bursts? Following mitigation, a property owner should understand how to safely return to recovery. SERVPRO Professionals can also assess how far the harm has spread. Following a supply line split, a homeowner may determine if such components need repair or replacement.

Prevent Mildew and Mold Growth

SERVPRO can inspect every inch of a residential or commercial building for mold and mildew growth in addition to removing water and drying surfaces. When water damage is ignored, it provides an ideal atmosphere for microorganisms such as fungi to thrive. SERVPRO practitioners use devices to fully extract moisture, removing the possibility of mold and mildew. If mold has already taken hold, the water cleaning crew will perform skilled mold remediation to eliminate and treat the contaminated areas.

Decrease Losses

The longer a home or company goes without cleaning up after a pipe break or supply line break, the greater the damages. Owing to substantial water damage, a wall that would have only needed minor repairs if the reconstruction was immediate would have to be demolished. Another concern for a flooded-out household is the loss of valuables, especially sentimental items such as photo albums and family heirlooms. When a cleanup team reacts quickly after a report of flooding, several things can be salvaged and restored. Damage to hardwood floors and carpets can also be restricted by easy water extraction and drying.

Why SERVPRO of South Albany County

SERVPRO of South Albany County offers a range of services for customers suffering from water damage in the home and in the business. Whether the flooding was due to a supply line break, leaking roof, or pipe break, our team will fix the source and restore the property. If you are in need of water remediation services, call SERVPRO of South Albany County and we will restore your home back to new, “Like it never even happened." 

CALL US

(518) 456-1111

If You Understand Water Damage And Mold, You Understand Why You Need Trained Pros When You Have Damage

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Training, Experience, Equipment, And Response Time, Are All Important When You Have Damage To Your Albany, NY Home

If you suspect mold in your home or business, don't hesitate to call professional help. Water damage can turn to a large mold problem quickly. SERVPRO of South Albany County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

So What's Causing The Mold In Your Albany Home?

• Flooding from storms coming from outside
• Sump pump overflow
• Roof leaks from damaged roofs, ice dams or blocked gutters
• Rain from storms through window frames, exterior walls, or doors
• Leaking pipes, sewer back-ups or overflows
• Damp basements due to high water table or badly managed water drainage
• Condensation on cold surfaces

Mold needs these 3 main things to thrive and stay alive:

• High humidity
• Warm or temperate Temperature
• Poor ventilation

Mold is easier to prevent than it is to clean so keeping a watch on common sources of mold and maintaining a dry, ventilated home and drying homes from water damage within 24 hours of the incident is the best way to prevent mold from happening in the first place. If you have a mold problem and you would like information about how to get it professionally cleaned, please give us a call!

SERVPRO of South Albany County specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

So How Are Our Teams Trained?

SERVPRO of South Albany County is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

If you are dealing with a water damage or mold issue, call us today (518) 456-1111.

Why SERVPRO When Disaster Happens

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of South Albany County to help with your emergency!

When a large storm hits, your clients may be in need of a local disaster recovery team in your area. A professional restoration service, such as SERVPRO, may be able to help. A recovery team has the ability to do a few things that may be just what your clients need.

Respond to Larger Than Normal Damages

Sometimes storm damage may be larger than predicted. When this happens, you may want a team of restoration professionals who can respond to your client's needs quickly. Fortunately, SERVPRO is a locally owned and operated franchise capable of working together with other SERVPRO teams to get the job done. However, as they are a franchise, they can call on corporate for additional resources as needed.

Provide a Quick Response Time

When it comes to disaster recovery, you may want to know that you can get a quick storm response team to your clients. The faster damage can be protected and then repaired, the less likely additional damage may occur. The ability to get a team to the site in a timely manner may save time and money in the long run. SERVPRO has local offices around the country allowing them to have professionals available at most locations.

Provide the Tools Necessary for Large Repair Jobs

In the event of a large disaster, it may be determined that large equipment is required to perform the job efficiently. A restoration team such as SERVPRO has access to the tools of the trade. This means that even in the case of a severe storm or major flooding, they can still begin restoration quickly.

A professional restoration service like SERVPRO of South Albany County, may be able to help with any disaster recovery needs your clients may have. We have the ability to mobilize several teams for larger than normal damages. This may also include a faster response time. A professional team also has the resources, including tools and equipment, necessary to deal with large jobs.

How to Create a Fire Escape Plan

11/28/2021 (Permalink)

How to Create a Fire Escape Plan

Is your family prepared in case of an emergency? Fire can break out at any time and is almost always unexpected. Protect your family by creating a fire escape plan that helps to ensure safety when necessary.

Involve the Entire Family

The entire family should be a part of making your household's escape plan. Go through each room together to determine which exits are viable and which need to be unblocked. If you have young children in the home, consider drawing a floor plan. On the plan, mark at least two exits per room. Use a different color to mark where the smoke detectors are. Hang the plan in each child's bedroom.

Account for Small Children and Pets

Remember, not everybody will be able to get out on their own. If you have toddlers, newborns, elderly or furry family members, account for them in your emergency escape plan. Does the dog usually sleep in the living room? Consider moving him closer to the bedrooms in case of fire in the middle of the night. In your plan, you must also decide who will get children or elderly family members during an emergency.

Designate a Meeting Place

Your fire escape plan should end with a designated meeting place. This meeting place makes it easier for you to count heads and determine if everyone made it out safely as you wait for the fire department. If you live in a neighborhood, use a trusted neighbor's house as the meeting place. If your home is rural, choose a tree or another landmark that is far enough away from the house to be safe but close enough that people won’t get lost trying to find it in the dark.

Once you are finished creating your plan, be sure to practice it. Have your family walk through your fire escape plan several times and from several different rooms in the home to ensure everyone knows what they should do in case of a real emergency. 

3 Things to Consider for Commercial Properties in Times of Inclement Weather

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Take Steps Right Away

Water damage from inclement weather is a common contributor to mold growth. To prevent the weather from damaging your facility, it is necessary to promptly take precautions. This will contribute to mold prevention by keeping significant damages that lead to fungus growth from developing on a commercial building. Inclement weather can lead to damages such as:

• Damp construction materials
• Unnoticed leaks
• Mold growth from higher humidity levels
  
  

Here are some things to know when a bad storm is coming your way:

How Inclement Weather Can Damage a Building
In addition to dampening the construction materials of the property, bad storms can cause power outages, keeping the HVAC system from providing favorable humidity levels for climate control. Given the proper climate, mold spores will develop into colonies within 72 hours. Likewise, leaks can develop on a property due to damaged pipes, shingles, or wind damage.

The Weather Patterns of Your Property's Location
The location of your property will determine what type of weather patterns you should prepare for. Likewise, different seasons will bring varying weather concerns. During the winter, it is necessary to prepare for bursting pipes due to freezing water and increased water pressure. In the summertime, preparations should be made in case of flooding, wind, and rain. A mold prevention plan should consider the climate of the property's location and prepare adequately.

Clean Up After Inclement Weather
After a bad storm, it is necessary to inspect the property for any damages that may have ensued. It is especially important to search for any leaks on your property to prevent the decomposition of dampened materials. If you find any leaks, repair them immediately and call a water damage restoration service to help clean and dehumidify your property.

In case of bad weather, take steps right away to lessen the likelihood of water damages. This will contribute to mold prevention by keeping the building's materials from becoming habitats for mold colonies.

Search These 3 Places In Your Home for Mold

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

Search These 3 Places In Your Home for Mold

Mold growth can take place in any location with enough humidity and oxygen. While it is important to mitigate flood and leak damage to prevent mold, it can also develop in less obvious spots. Due to the prominence of water and air in the environment, nearly any location in your home can potentially encourage mold. As you inspect the building, you might find some specific areas where mold most commonly appears.

1. Sinks and Toilets

Generally, the bathroom is one of the rooms that endures the most humidity. The appliances that face the most exposure to water and moisture are the sinks and toilets. From the humid atmosphere to the water necessary to use them and potential pipe leaks, these areas create the right environment for mold to develop, especially the dark, enclosed area under the sink. Be sure to clean and dry their surfaces as thoroughly as possible.

2. Walls

Another location ideal for mold growth is behind the wall. Even though walls themselves are not great for mold, since they are in exposed, lit and generally dry areas, you can still get a moldy drywall. This is due to the dark, enclosed space behind walls, which can be moist due to the plumbing system's pipes. If you find mold in the wall, it is most likely there is mold behind it as well. It can also indicate a larger problem that needs immediate attention, such as a pipe leak.

3. Wood and Laminate Floors

Even though laminate floors may give any room in your home a natural, earthy look, they are very vulnerable to mold, especially if they are above concrete. This material is porous, which allows it to absorb water and mix with it. This can lead to mold on wood and laminate. Prevent nearby spills and leaks or replace the floor with ceramic tile.

Some areas in your household are more susceptible to mold growth than others. Search these places and call a mold cleanup service to deal with severe cases.

4 Ways to Prevent Bathroom Mold

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Keep Mold Out Of Your Home

Bathroom mildew and mold are issues that almost every single homeowner has to deal with at some point. Luckily, these problems are also extremely easy to resolve and prevent, as long as you handle the situation correctly. Here are four of the best ways to keep mold out of your Albany, NY home's bathroom.

1. Perform Regular Mold Inspections.
How can you know whether you have a mold problem if you don't look for it? Performing regular home inspections can help you catch mold issues while they're still small and easy to fix. Doing so can also help prevent you from randomly stumbling upon a massive mold problem later on down the road.

2. Ventilate Your Bathroom While You Shower.
Long, hot showers might be relaxing, but they also create a perfect environment for bathroom mildew. Properly ventilating your bathroom while you shower can help prevent condensation from building up and causing a humidity problem. You can do this by either cracking a window or door open, or activating your bathroom ventilation system during your shower.

3. Keep Your Shampoo Bottles on a Separate Rack.
Storing your shampoo and conditioner in the shower might be convenient, but moisture can become trapped underneath the bottles, resulting in hidden mold growth. Keeping your shampoo and body wash bottles on a separate bathroom rack, outside the shower, allows the area to dry out more thoroughly.

4. Hang Your Bathmat Up to Dry.
Placing a bathmat on the floor outside your shower is a great way to prevent puddles from forming on your bathroom floor. However, you need to make sure that you also remember to hang your bathmat up to dry after you use it. Otherwise, the moisture that the rug collects just sits on the bathroom floor. Ultimately, it's as if you never had a bathmat to begin with.

Mold growth might be a common bathroom occurrence, but that doesn't mean you can't take the proper steps to help prevent the issue. As always, make sure to contact mold remediation experts if you do discover bathroom mildew growing in your home.

Why Restore vs. Replacing

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

When your home has been damaged by fire or water damage, our goal at SERVPRO of South Albany County is to make your property "Like it never even happened," quickly and at the lowest cost to you.

Part of restoring your home and belongings is determining what items and structures can be saved utilizing our state of the art restoration techniques and equipment and what will ultimately have to be replaced. Insurance and restoration industry studies have concluded that restoring property after fire and water damage is less expensive than replacing. Restoring is also less disruptive to our clients, often allowing them to remain in their homes during the process and resume life as normal quickly.

As a preferred mitigation and restoration vendor for most major insurance companies, our SERVPRO Team is highly trained to determine when restoring can be accomplished with the high quality results that our clients deserve. This "restore" versus "replace" mentality can save money while preserving family heirlooms, keepsakes, and other items that are impossible or cost-prohibitive to replace.

If your home or business have been impacted by water or fire damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of South Albany County today at 518-456-1111.

SERVPRO of South Albany County Carpet Cleaning Services

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Did staying in most of 2020 take a toll on your carpets? How DIRTY are your carpets and floors?  Where your children play with their toys and lie down to watch their favorite cartoon.  Did your dog track in muddy footprints? The IICRC states that 70% of soil in carpet is dry soil.  Vacuuming is a key component to proper care and maintenance of carpet. Even the highest quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling over time and SERVPRO of South Albany County can clean that for you.

In between carpet cleaning use these maintenance tips:

- Regular vacuuming

- Using walk-off matts to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet

- Remove stains and spots immediately

- Moving furniture to change traffic patterns

A good rule of thumb would be to professionally clean your carpets every 12 months.

So, if you need your carpets clean, make sure you call SERVPRO of South Albany County.

Flooding tips for your basement

12/5/2020 (Permalink)

Sometimes bad weather conditions can cause your basement to flood. If this happens here are some probable causes for the flooding.

• Surface inflow, or overland flooding. During periods of heavy rain or stormy weather, surface water may gather up around the house, or accumulate on hard surfaces such as driveways or roads adjacent to a home. During extreme weather conditions, this water can flow into your home. Being in close proximity to a natural stream or road-side ditch can also present a risk. Proper grading on your property will reduce the risk of surface water getting into your home.

• Foundation drainage issues. Homes usually have some form of a drainage system built around them. This helps promote the movement of water away from the basement and helps keep your foundation from leaking. However if there are cracks in your foundation it can cause major leaking and basement issues such as mold.
• If your basement is equipped with a sump pump it can mean that the foundation drainage system of your home requires some assistance to keep up with the groundwater around it. Sump pumps, when working properly and properly maintained, can safely pump excess water above the foundation and away from your home. Ideally, this water should be routed to the lawn or storm sewer. If the pumps cannot keep up, or fail to operate (perhaps due to a power failure, or malfunction), the groundwater level around the foundation can rise to the point that it fills up and pours out onto the basement floor.

Remember, if a flood happens in your basement, SERVPRO of South Albany County is "Here to Help." Call us today at 518-456-1111!

Faster to Any Size Disaster!

11/28/2020 (Permalink)

We never plan on a disaster occurring. It certainly isn’t something that’s convenient or planned. Water, fire, storm, and mold can throw your home or place of business into turmoil, preventing you from getting the work done that you need done. A speedy response is essential and SERVPRO is proud of that fact that we are Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call SERVPRO of South Albany County at 518-456-1111 and we’ll be there fast to help you! We have 24-hour call service and our professionals are available 24 hours a day with an emergency response. Our expertly trained technicians and advanced equipment will make dealing with disaster simple and fast. We will thoroughly work to restore your home or place of business to its previous state. We at SERVPRO of South Albany County are here to help!

Call SERVPRO for Any Size Disaster

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Albany County can help you with all sorts of disasters! We value restoration over replacement and will work thoroughly and quickly to restore your home or place of business. Our highly trained technicians and advanced equipment is prepared for any size disaster. SERVPRO is the team to call to help you manage water, fire, storm, and mold incidents. We are proud to have a 24/hour emergency line, where you can reach our rapid response team at any time. Our speedy response makes the difference in the event of a disaster. Avoiding all disasters might be impossible, but there is a well-trained team of professionals who can help you through it. Call the team at SERVPRO of South Albany County for your water, fire, storm, and mold concerns, at 518-456-1111

Protect Your Home

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of South Albany County we want to protect our customers from fire and flood damage as soon as possible. Did you know that we also do bioremediation and commercial cleanings? We protect our customers and clients by using natural and safe chemicals. We want to make your home, office, or place of business safe for all those who enter. If your technician decides to introduce chemicals, you will be informed on the effects and contents of the product.

We’ve compiled some of our most used terms and chemicals to help you ensure the safety of your clients, tenants, and employees.

Antimicrobial Agents: 

Are any chemicals that prevent the spread of microorganisms through water or on damp surfaces and materials. If we believe that black or gray water has contaminated the space, we will use antimicrobial agents to clear out any toxic matter.

Disinfectants:

We use a hospital-grade disinfectant that is healthy and safe. The disinfectant will kill 99% of all encountered organisms. This will leave your surfaces almost completely sterile. Chemicals such as alcohol, chlorine, or formaldehyde may be used to ensure all surfaces are clear of bacteria.

Sanitizers: 

When using a sanitizer our aim is to lower the amount of microbes to a level that is safe for ‘public use.’ Sanitizers are usually not used alone because they are not strong enough to eradicate all of the bacteria. We don’t want to risk the chance of bacteria returning, so we may combine sanitizers with other cleaning agents.

Sterilants 

Sterilants eradicate fungi spores and are a very effective chemical. Sterilants prevent the spread of mold in water damaged areas. This chemical cannot be applied to every surface, so we are careful with what we use them on.

Collaboration and Cooperation Will Keep You Safe 

We promise to explain the restoration process to you to ensure your safety and peace of mind. We are experts in our field and need your cooperation to do what we do best. We are here to serve you 24/7 365 days a year.

SERVPRO’s Advanced Technology Helps Get the Job Done Right

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

People are often surprised by how much training and expertise is required of SERVPRO professional technicians to address mold, water, fire, or storm issues. Our employees go through a significant amount of initial training as well as ongoing training to be well-prepared for any remediation issue they face. Above and beyond that, SERVPRO of South Albany County uses advanced technology to help restore a property to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively. Our advanced technology helps get the job done right.

The equipment we use to help face any issue head-on

One of the most damaging problems in many homes and businesses is water. It can be water that comes from storms, water from a pipe break, or even water left behind as the aftermath of a fire that was extinguished. Left unchecked or undetected, water can cause many unwanted issues. Fortunately, SERVPRO of South Albany County technicians have the technology to detect and address water issues. Water detection is the first step. When a home or business owner suspects water problems but is unsure where the water is at or what’s the cause, our moisture detection and measurement technology can really save the day, from infrared cameras to moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters that measure the extent of moisture saturation. Once water is located, we use various technologies to extract the water, including powerful extraction equipment that is either truck mounted or even submersible in high water situations.

Once the majority of water has been removed, more advanced technology is used for the drying phase was water remediation; if left unchecked, the moisture could lead to mold and odors. SERVPRO of South Albany County uses industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove any remaining moisture from walls, ceilings, carpeting, and more.

Sometimes odors happen with water damage. If we find that odor is an issue, we have advanced technology that can remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality. We can also use thermal foggers and deodorization agents.

Our technology goes beyond equipment

SERVPRO water damage restoration services may also include using state-of-the-art, OSHA-approved cleaning agents. These disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms. Our advanced technology helps get the job done right, beginning to end!

If your home or business has suffered from water damage, don’t delay! Contact SERVPRO of South Albany County at (518) 456-111 today and see how we can help!

SERVPRO of South Albany County Facebook and Instagram Pages

10/21/2020 (Permalink)

Come and like us on our Facebook and Instagram page: SERVPRO of South Albany County

Follow us on our jobs and community activities, get helpful information on seasonal fire, water, commercial, flood and mold prevention.

SERVPRO of South Albany County is locally owned and operated—so we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

SERVPRO of South Albany County proudly serves Vorheesville, Ravena, Coeymans, Bethlehem Center, Berne, Altamont, Fort Hunter, Dunnsville, Westmere, and West Township. Call us with your mitigation concerns at (518) 456-1111.

We're Prepared for Large Jobs

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

When your commercial property undergoes a devastating loss, you should feel confident contacting SERVPRO for help! We know the importance of getting your business up and running again as soon as possible. We understand that your business needs to be running in order to thrive. That’s why we will do everything possible to make that happen. 

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of the best, highly trained people in restoration. We have special large loss training and highly experienced people leading this department. Our large losses are handled directly by a commercial operations manager to ensure we are working efficiently and seamlessly to help your business.

If needed, our SERVPRO will bring in other highly trained franchises to help with manpower and to provide additional equipment. 

Our SERVPRO has provided large loss commercial property restorations for schools, universities, the hospitality industry, property managers, municipalities, etc. We have provided services from damage due to flooding, fires, hurricanes, blizzards and more!

We are available to help you 24/7, 365 days a year. Don’t hesitate to give us a call for help or with any questions you may have.

A Team On The Rise

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

We are fierce competitors always striving to improve our game. We approach every job with a dedication to hard work and an understanding that we should always be learning and improving from our experiences. We have been on the front-line of some of the countries biggest natural disasters where we managed every stage of the recovery & reconstruction process. 

Our aggressive work ethic has helped us to earn the trust and respect of many well-recognized subcontractors including many of the north easts largest reconstruction contracting companies who rely on us when everything is on the line.

Of course, our experienced professionals can only be as good as their equipment allows. We boast an impressive inventory of restoration equipment allowing us to be prepared to manage and mitigate multiple disasters at one time.

We are proud of our team and will continue to build upon the hard work that has brought us so far already!

We are Cleaning Experts

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

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

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today- SERVPRO of South Albany County (518) 456-1111.

Restore Vs. Replace: Why Having a Professional Matters

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

A general misconception among people that have suffered fire and/or water damage is that, “It is less expensive to replace rather than to restore.” However, professional technicians at SERVPRO of South Albany County are trained to see beyond the misconceptions. Our certified technicians know that prioritizing mitigation and restoration efforts will not only stop further damage and reduce the loss, but also prevent secondary damage from occurring.

Having a professional on scene to assess the damage quickly can be the key difference between hundreds of dollars of cleaning vs. thousands of dollars of replacement. The mitigation process of cleaning yields excellent results at a cost-effective price. Mitigation stops further damage and reduces the loss, while restoration puts the damaged items back to their preloss condition. For ultimate results, mitigation needs to begin within twenty-four hours of a loss. Any delay will complicate or, may devalue the mitigation effort.

Our SERVPRO professionals utilize testing and measuring equipment to ensure that the moisture content has been returned to normal standards. Thus, preventing a multi-thousand dollar mold claim in the future, caused by ineffective drying. State-of-the-art meters and sensors allow us to document and record data that justifies equipment usage, as well as allow us to know when to safely remove it. Only the professionals at SERVPRO of South Albany County can make it, “Like it never even happened."

Choose SERVPRO of South Albany County

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Choosing the right company if you have experienced a water, fire, or mold damage can be one of the most important choices you make. After helping many disaster victims, SERVPRO of South Albany County has the expertise, facilities, and equipment to help you resolve your emergency fast. Our team of professionals technicians is certified, bonded and insured -- not to mentioned trained to help you get your property back to its original state as soon as possible.

As the trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO provides 24-hour emergency help and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Call SERVPRO of South Albany County today for more information. We can be reached at 518-456-1111.

Emergency Response Matters

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your business. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When an emergency arises in your business, give us a call and we'll be there fast with the help you need. The first step to reopening your doors is just a telephone call away.

The SERVPRO of South Albany County professionals are available 24-hours a day and have the expertise, training, and equipment required to put you back in business. Our technicians are highly trained and are ready for dispatch to restore your business.

Whether you need your business cleaned up or dried out, SERVPRO of South Albany County will be there to help make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 518-456-1111.

Life Happens, But We’re Here For You When You Need Us

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Life happens. Kids spill drinks, pets have accidents and homes get dirty. You handle much of the maintenance of your home, but when it gets to be too much, you can rely on your local SERVPRO of South Albany County Professionals. We specialize in cleaning and restoration and have highly trained technicians to help you manage and restore your home.

Some of the many services we provide are:

• Air Ducts & HVAC
• Carpet & Upholstery
• Drapes & Blinds
• Plumbing
• Tree Removal
• Sewage and Gutter
• Contents Disposal
• Deep Cleaning
• Paint
• Debris Removal
• Ceilings, Walls & Hard Floors
• Deodorization

You know SERVPRO as a leader in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration, but our expertise can also make a dirty carpet "Like it never even happened." Call us today at (518) 456-1111 to schedule an appointment.

We Will Get to Your Disaster Faster

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes your home, time becomes even more of a precious commodity. There’s no time to waste, Call SERVPRO today!

When disaster strikes your home, time becomes an even more precious commodity. There’s no time to waste when your home or livelihood is on the line—you need help right away.

We know how crucial a fast response is, which is why responding faster to any size disaster is more than just a slogan in our world.

The Importance of a Fast Response

Time is not a luxury you have when it’s your belongings or business on the line. This is especially true where water damage has come into play, which can be through various means such as flooding, appliance and/or plumbing failures, storm damage and fire damage, as water is used to put out the fires.

It can only take minutes for water to spread throughout your property, where it saturates everything in its path. Things like the walls, floors, upholstery and your belongings are all fast casualties of water.

The effects of water damage within the first 24 hours include:

• 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 items spread and stain
• The arrival of a musty odor

The damage will worsen as time goes on. Between 48 hours and a week later, you could begin to see:

• The growth and spreading of mold and mildew
• Swelling and warping of doors, windows and studs
• Metal beginning to rust and corrode
• Paint beginning to blister
• Wood flooring swelling and warping
• The possibilities of serious biohazard contamination

If left unchecked for over a week, the damage done can dramatically increase the restoration time and costs and can also impact structural safety.

Ways We Can Help

Providing an immediate response to any size disaster is what we are here for! Our fast response times can help minimize the damage and keep the cleaning and restoration costs manageable.

It doesn’t matter what day or time it is, our trained cleanup and restoration specialists will quickly be dispatched to your property or business.

Being a locally owned and operated franchise helps us be close by and ready to respond whenever the call comes in. A major perk of being part of a national network of over 1,700 franchises is that we have access to more resources for the cleanup and restoration projects that may be larger or stem from major storm situations.

Remember, if you need us, we’ll be there—no matter the time or day. The team of highly trained restoration experts at SERVPRO of South Albany County are available for emergency cleanup and restoration services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Ways to Ensure Your Home Is Protected From Water Damage

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

You can call on the highly trained experts at SERVPRO of South Albany County, who are here to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Water damage is one of the most common and costliest disasters your home may experience. Anything from malfunctioning appliances like dishwashers or washing machines to a burst pipe or storm damage can be the cause of water damage in your home.

There are plenty of steps to take to protect your home from some trying common water damage scenarios that homeowners deal with.

Protecting Your Home

Dealing with water damage is enough of problem, but it can have a long-term impact on your home. Mold usually follows water damage as mold can begin to grow and flourish within 24–48 hours after moisture exposure.

When looking for solutions and ways to protect your home from water damage, it can be helpful to break it down by areas of impact, such as basements, kitchens, bathrooms, flooring and ceilings.

A way to prevent water damage in the basement is to ensure there is no water seeping in. Do this by resealing vulnerable areas of the basement, making sure water drains away from your home and installing a backwater valve.

Plumbing issues in the kitchen and bathroom are your usual main causes of water damage, as well as appliance failures.

Look at and check the following items:

• Inspect all appliances regularly, looking for any issues with hoses and faucets
• Check all seals and caulking around your showers and tubs to make sure there are no leaks
• Know where the main shut-off valve is in your home
• Never leave the house while the washing machine or dishwasher are running

While it’s not always possible to protect your personal possessions from water damage, there are things you can do to at least decrease the amount of destruction. Using waterproof bins and storing items up off of the floor is always recommended when using the basement or garage for storage purposes.

Where to Begin on Cleanup

If you have suffered water damage to your home, there is a good chance you can salvage items that can be dried out within 48 hours.

The first step is to contact your insurance provider immediately and evaluate the extent of damage to your home and possessions as well as identify the type of water that is involved.

There are three types of water that cause damage:

1. “Clean” water such as from rain, condensation, leaky pipes, etc.

2. Gray water like dirty water from dishwashers, washing machines, clean toilets, etc.

3. Black water, which would be water from sewage or serious flooding from nearby rivers, etc. This water can cause serious health problems.

Following a water damage disaster, it is important to dry your home out and dehumidify the area, removing wet objects and disinfecting remaining materials as soon as is safely possible.

Here’s an interesting pro tip: You can freeze wet books, photos and papers in a frost-free freezer to give you some extra time. This prevents mold and mildew from developing, causing more deterioration. Once you are able, you can remove them from the freezer and air-dry or fan-dry the pages.

It may seem like recovering from water damage is an overwhelming and slightly impossible task, but it doesn’t have to be. You can call on the highly trained experts at SERVPRO of South Albany County, who are here to make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Fire, Smoke, Water, And Mold Damage Restoration

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

One of the most profound losses that business people and homeowners experience are mainly caused by fire, water, mold or smoke damages. Witnessing your home and precious belongings being consumed by water or fire can be traumatizing. The only reassurance you can have after such a disastrous loss is obtained from having a clear support and guidance in rescuing as much property as possible.

In the indoor environment, water is the only long-term most catastrophic material. Structures and other personal properties can deteriorate rapidly as a result of too much flooding or moisture.

We have successfully restored much water, fire and smoke damaged structures in South Albany County.

We have a wide variety of residential and commercial services to our clients. Over the years, our company has grown all over the Albany community as a result of the exemplary services that we provide. We have a team of certified and fully trained professionals who are ready to respond to all emergencies at any given time.

Our company can tackle any disaster since we have all the necessary equipment for fire, smoke, and water mitigation.

Some of the services that we provide are as follows,

• Fire damage restoration

• Restoration of water damage

• Restoration of storm destruction

• Mold damage restoration and others.

As a leading restoration firm, we are capable of handling it all; from damage restoration, to water removal, to the cleanup of fire damage.

If not handled carefully and immediately, natural disasters can cause extensive destruction to your property. That's why you need a company that is fully equipped and experienced to restore your property to its initial condition. SERVPRO of South Albany County is the company you need for quick mitigation of any form of natural disaster.

Our team of emergency support is on standby 24/7, so you shouldn't hesitate to give us a call night or day.

Call us today at (518) 456-1111, and we respond immediately.