Archived Storm Damage Blog Posts
Recent Storms near Manchester, Vermont
10/24/2024 (Permalink)
Recent Storms in Manchester VT
Many are aware of the devastating storms we have recently had near our small town of Cambridge, NY . In less then 1 hour over 6 inches of rain occurred. Many homes and businesses were had several inches of water that was devastating to all. We here at SERVPRO of Bennington and Rutland Counties were proud to be there to restore our community back to the way it was.
The faster our crew can arrive to the scene the better the outcome will be for your home or businesses so calling us immediately is essential. The longer water sits the lingering moisture prolongs the deterioration process making it more then likely that some of the structure will be unrepairable and need to be removed. This can also lead to secondary damage such as mold growth.
SERVPRO of Bennington and Rutland Counties offers highly trained professionals and state of the art equipment to help you recover from a flood damage. We are available around the clock and are open 24/7 to assist you at any time!
Flash Floods
10/24/2024 (Permalink)
What is a Flash Flood?
What is a flash flood? A flash flood is a rapid flooding of low-lying areas, usually caused by heavy from severe thunderstorms, hurricanes, or collapsing of human made structures like dams. The National Weather Service defines flash flooding as flooding that begins within 6 hours of heavy rainfall. They also recommend people get out of the area of the flash flood and not attempt to face it or cross its paths.
What makes these floods so dangerous is how rapidly they can occur and how fast moving the water can be. Flash floods are serious, and many lose their lives yearly from them. There are several steps however you can take to keep you and your family safe during a flash flood!
- Have an emergency plan and kit ready to go.
- Follow evacuation orders immediately.
- Stay up to date on weather forecasts.
- Do not attempt to walk and or drive near flooded areas.
- If it is too late to evacuate your home call 911 and move to the highest point in your home.
We here at SERVPRO® know the seriousness of flash floods and we are always here to help. If you’ve experienced any water damage due to a recent storm, give SERVPRO of Bennington/ Rutland Counties a call and well make sure to make it “Like it never even happened.”
Flash Floods
9/19/2024 (Permalink)
What is a Flash Flood?
What is a flash flood? A flash flood is a rapid flooding of low-lying areas, usually caused by heavy from severe thunderstorms, hurricanes, or collapsing of human made structures like dams. The National Weather Service defines flash flooding as flooding that begins within 6 hours of heavy rainfall. They also recommend people get out of the area of the flash flood and not attempt to face it or cross its paths.
What makes these floods so dangerous is how rapidly they can occur and how fast moving the water can be. Flash floods are serious, and many lose their lives yearly from them. There are several steps however you can take to keep you and your family safe during a flash flood!
- Have an emergency plan and kit ready to go.
- Follow evacuation orders immediately.
- Stay up to date on weather forecasts.
- Do not attempt to walk and or drive near flooded areas.
- If it is too late to evacuate your home call 911 and move to the highest point in your home.
We here at SERVPRO® know the seriousness of flash floods and we are always here to help. If you’ve experienced any water damage due to a recent storm, give SERVPRO of Bennington/ Rutland Counties a call and well make sure to make it “Like it never even happened.”
Storm Damage
9/19/2024 (Permalink)
How to Prevent Rain Damage and Water Inundation in Your Building
Rain damage can lead to mold growth and structural damage to your property. This is something no business ever wants to experience and have to go though. Fortunately, there are several different precautions you can take to avoid water inundation in your commercial building.
Building envelopes are barriers between the interior of a building and the outdoors. Some examples of this would-be doors, windows, the roof, and even the walls or foundation. Regular maintenance on these envelopes is essential to maintain their integrity. These envelopes are your buildings primary protection against water damage. You want to keep an eye out for cracks, deteriorating seals, mold growth, or other signs of envelope failure.
At times of heavy rain, it may be necessary to set up temporary precautions to protect the buildings envelopes against rain damage. Remember, that barriers should not go around the entire building because water that gets between the barrier and the building needs to be able to escape.
Weather is among one of the many things that business owners cannot control. Hopefully, the above precautions will be able to minimize or eliminate a water damage from happening. However, if these steps do not work you will want to hire a professional mitigation team to handle the work. We here at SERVPRO of North Rensselaer South Washington Counties are a team of highly trained professionals with the skills to restore any size building that has been impacted by a water damage. Our staff has state of the art drying equipment that will aid in this restoration process. We are a 24/7 emergency service company that is always here to help! Please give us a call at (518) 677-3444 if you experience any water damage large or small!
Recent Storms near Cambridge, New York
9/8/2023 (Permalink)
Recent Storms in Manchester VT
Many are aware of the devastating storms we have recently had near our small town of Cambridge, NY . In less then 1 hour over 6 inches of rain occurred. Many homes and businesses were had several inches of water that was devastating to all. We here at SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties were proud to be there to restore our community back to the way it was.
The faster our crew can arrive to the scene the better the outcome will be for your home or businesses so calling us immediately is essential. The longer water sits the lingering moisture prolongs the deterioration process making it more then likely that some of the structure will be unrepairable and need to be removed. This can also lead to secondary damage such as mold growth.
SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties offers highly trained professionals and state of the art equipment to help you recover from a flood damage. We are available around the clock and are open 24/7 to assist you at any time!
What is a Flash Flood?
9/1/2023 (Permalink)
We are Here to Help! Give us a Call 518-677-3444
What is a Flash Flood?
What is a flash flood? A flash flood is a rapid flooding of low-lying areas, usually caused by heavy from sever thunderstorms, hurricanes, or collapsing of human made structures like dams. The National Weather Service defines flash flooding as flooding that begins within 6 hours of heavy rainfall. They also recommend people get out of the area of the flash flood and not attempt to face it or cross its paths.
What makes these floods so dangerous is how rapidly they can occur and how fast moving the water can be. Flash floods are serious and many loose their lives yearly from them. There are several steps however you can take to keep you and your family safe during a flash flood!
- Have an emergency plan and kit ready to go.
- Follow evacuation orders immediately.
- Stay up to date on weather forecasts.
- Do not attempt to walk and or drive near flooded areas.
- If it is too late to evacuate your home call 911 and move to the highest point in your home.
We here at SERVPRO know the seriousness of flash floods and we are always here to help. If you’ve experienced any water damage due to a recent storm, give SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/ South Washington County a call and well make sure to make it “Like it never even happened.”
We Can Take On Any Winter Storm!
9/16/2022 (Permalink)
If you experience damage from a storm to your home or business, please call us at 802-375-1500!
With winter and cold weather just around the corner we here at SERVPRO of Bennington & Rutland Counties want you to be prepared!
A winter storm is typically occurring at extremely low temperatures where precipitation forms snow or sleet, or even rain that freezes and turns to ice when hitting the ground. A winter storm can be life threatening so it is important to be able to differentiate the different possible storms for your safety!
Blizzards are a combination of blowing snow which creates low visibility. Blizzards are dangerous storms that can have an accumulation of a lot of snow fall on the ground. If you get stuck in a blizzard for a long period of time it can lead to hypothermia and even frostbite.
Snow Flurries usually last for a short period of time but vary with intensity. Typically, they are light and within a few seconds of hitting pavement the snow usually melts right away.
A Snow squall although it is brief can cause some major safety concerns. They are short intense snowfalls that come with strong winds and greatly impact your visibility of your surroundings. So be careful when driving in situations like this!
Ice storms are storms that cause at least a fourth of an inch of ice forming on the ground or exposed surfaces. Ice storms create extremely poor driving conditions, so you want to be extremely cautious if you get caught driving in an ice storm. Tree branches and power lines also have been known to fall during ice storms due to the weight the ice puts on the, which can cause them to snap.
No matter the winter storm or damage that occurs from it we here at SERVPRO are here to help! If you experience damage from a storm to your home or business, please call us at 802-375-1500.
What Should You Do as a Homeowner After a Storm
9/1/2022 (Permalink)
Call us at 518-677-3444!
Lately we have seen our fair share of rainfall here in New England! And significant rainfall can lead to flooding and ceiling leaks. Whether you have a basement flooding or have secondary damage from moisture getting into your home, SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties can help!
No matter the severity or extent of the damage we have a team of skilled professionals who are faster to any disaster. Stormwater events are usually categorized into two groups.
• Category 2- this is when water comes through a window, or a ceiling and the contamination is not as significant.
• Category 3- generally involves basement flooding’s with groundwater which contain several harmful microorganisms, fecal matter, and other contaminants.
The most important thing to do if you find yourself in a situation like the ones described is to give us a call! The faster we are notified the faster we can be on site and start the mitigation process and decrease the amount of damage in your home.
Once we are on site we will:
1. Extract standing water if there is any.
2. Remove unwanted/unsalvageable contents.
3. Use our state-of-the-art equipment including meters to determine which other areas may be wet.
4. Set up drying equipment and sanitize the structure.
5. Dry and clean contents.
6. Perform any demolition that is needed.
7. Provide reconstruction resources/services as needed.
We are a 24/7 emergency service team who is eager to help you in any disaster! If you experience a water damage from a storm, give us a call at 518-677-3444!
Tips to Prepare for a Hurricane
9/1/2022 (Permalink)
Hurricane season is fast approaching. Here are some things you should do to prepare before the storm:
- Review your local authority’s plan to prepare and respond to hurricanes so you are aware of how it will impact you and your family
- Create a plan that includes where you will evacuate to, how you will receive emergency alerts and warnings, and how you and your family will communicate with each other
- Stock up on emergency supplies that could last up to 5 days
- Prepare a “go-bag” in case you need to evacuate with short notice
- Prepare and protect your property
- Prepare financially
Prepare the following:
- Emergency food and water supply
- Emergency medicine supply
- Emergency power sources such as flashlights, candles, extra batteries
- Fire extinguisher
- Important documents, including medical documents, wills, passports, and personal identification’
- Safety and personal items
Even if you are not in a hurricane-prone location, share this information with your friends and loved ones so they are prepared for this upcoming hurricane season. If you are in a hurricane-prone location, make sure your neighbors and community are also prepared.
Preparing for a Winter Storm
9/1/2022 (Permalink)
Snowplow, plowing snow on snow covered roads.
Are you ready for a severe winter storm? It’s important to know how to keep your family, home and self safe with winter storm season approaching. Here are a list of things to do:
- Stock your food pantry with non-perishable items in case you lose power.
- Buy bottled water in case your pipes freeze and you have no access to tap water.
- Fill your prescriptions and pick up hygiene items
- Build an emergency kit include items such as first aid items, flashlights, batteries, a fire extinguisher, matches, candles, cash, travelers’ checks, important family documents blankets and sleeping bags.
- Stock up on ice melt and check your tools
- Prepare for a power blackout.
- Make an emergency communication plan with family
- Protect your water pipes
- Seal your windows and doors
- Check or install new smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Prepare your yard
- Ready your car
- Stay informed
- Be careful
Know Your Hurricane Categories
8/16/2022 (Permalink)
Call us at 518-677-3444.
The best way to prepare for any sort of natural disaster is to educate yourself and understand them! Hurricanes are no different, when you are sitting at home watching television and you see reports that a hurricane is coming you likely think, how bad is this storm and what do I need to do to protect myself and my family?
One of the most common tools used to decipher and understand hurricanes is called the Saffir Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. This scale categorizes hurricanes based off their wind speeds primarily. There are 5 categories on this scale. Hurricanes reaching a category 3 or higher are major hurricanes with life threatening and significant potential for extreme damage.
Category 1 hurricanes have wind speeds between 74-95mph. This level of a storm will likely cause minimal damage to your home. This speed of wind however can still lead to some damages and loss of power.
Category 2 hurricanes have wind speeds between 96-110mph. Winds of this speed can cause an increase in damage to your home and property. Several trees may be down, roads can be shut down, and power outages will most definitely occur.
Category 3 hurricanes have wind speeds between 111-129mph. Significant damage will be done to most homes such some roof damage. Power outages will occur lasting several days typically with this high level of a storm.
Category 4 hurricanes have wind speeds between 130-156mph. Storms of this category are very deadly and destructive. Significant damage that is sometimes irreparable will be done to your home and property.
Category 5 hurricanes have winds that are greater than 157mph. This is the highest category of a storm on this scale. A storm of this caliber is highly destructive leaving buildings, homes, and even entire residential areas uninhabitable for weeks or even months.
We here at SERVPRO can help you prepare for any storms that lay ahead by completing an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). Please call us if you have any questions we are always here to help. We can be reached at 518-677-3444.
Torrential Rain Dangers for Your Home
6/1/2022 (Permalink)
Call us for all you water damage needs! 518-677-3444
Torrential rain is any amount of rain that is especially heavy. It is not a technical weather term as there is no formal definition of torrential rains. However, the meteorologist define heavy rainfall as rain that accumulates at a rate of 3/10”, or more, per hour.
Dangers of Torrential Rain on a Home
Heavy rain can trigger any one or more of the following deadly events”
Runoff:
If heavy rains arrive more quickly than the ground can absorb water, you get what is called run off. Runoff can carry pollutants (like pesticides, oil and yard waste) into nearby creeks, rivers, lakes, and sometimes Homes.
If a home is not sealed in the foundation or in the bottom sills are damaged the water can seep into the home causes a world of damage. A lot of the times we see this kind of this happen in the spring months due to the ground being hard from winter and the ground already engorged.
Flooding:
If enough rain falls into rivers, and other bodies of water it can cause their water levels to rise and over flor onto normally dry land.
If a home is near a lake or pond, a torrential rainfall could cause that body of water to rise up and flood its surroundings. Damaging, foundations, siding, roofs. Etc.
Mudslides:
If rain is continuous over a period time, the ground and soil can liquify and carry unsecured objects, people, and even buildings away in debris flows. This is exacerbated along hillsides and slopes since the ground there is more easily eroded away. In the US mudslides are common and pose as a great threat to residents. Sometimes even destroying entire cities, and small towns.
At SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties, we always recommend to prepared for any disaster. Even though at most time the weather is unpredictable, being cautious and aware will help is any disastrous situation. If you would like to know more about Rain Safety and how to prepare yourself, Give us a call! 518-677-3444
Did a Windstorm cause damage to your home?
5/10/2022 (Permalink)
It’s that time of year where the Wind can get up to high speeds. Those higher speeds of wind could cause damage to your home. Wind Damage can be unpredictable and besides the exterior damage your home may have encountered, these could lead to damages inside the home. The following are some tips for cleaning up after a windstorm.
Sometimes the damage can be pricey to repair and you may not have the time or extra money to compete the repairs which is why you would want to file a claim with your insurance company. With filing this claim providing photos of what the home looked like before the damage could be helpful.
Having a company of trusted professionals come and do an assessment and estimate on the damage is very important. SERVPRO of North Rensselear/South Washington Counties has experienced and trained technicians that can prepare an estimate and guide you in the next steps to take to start getting things back to normal. While your repairs are being done, make sure to mention even things you may think are minor as in the future they could lead to more problems.
After a windstorm, call SERVPRO, 24 hours a day 7 days a week! 518-677-3444
Weather can be unpredictable, are you prepared?
4/5/2022 (Permalink)
During the Spring months, thunderstorms are the cause for most of the severe weather. With them, they can bring lightening, tornadoes, and flooding. Because Spring weather can be so unpredictable, there’s a possibility you could be unprepared when sever weather hits. Planning ahead and preparing for storms like you know they are coming is a good idea so you will be ready anytime.
Below, are a few things you can do to prepare for a Spring Storm:
Assess- Take a walk around, see if the winter weather has damaged any of your property. Something that may seem like small damage to roofs or chimneys can turn into a big problem when severe weather hits.
Trim and prune trees- Take away dead branches that are near the home, or near the power source to your home. It is generally recommended that trees and limbs be 10 feet away from your home.
Ensure sump pumps are working- Any runoff or heavy rainstorms can result in a flooded basement. Make sure your pumps are working properly so they are ready if they are needed.
Familiarize yourself with your insurance coverage- As a homeowner you should know what coverages you have in case of severe weather.
SERVPRO of North Rensselear/South Washington Counties, is ready to help if you suffer unfortunate damage from a Severe Spring Storm. We will help guide you through the process from the very first call to the end of the job. You can contact us 24 hours a day 7 days a week at (518) 677-3444.
What To Do When Your Office Space Has a Water Damage
8/26/2021 (Permalink)
Oh no! You walk into your office to start your day of work and you notice the floor and walls are soaked with water! This is not how you wanted to start your day! What do you do and what steps need to be taken to get your space back to normal?
The first thing you need to do is give us here at SERVPRO of Bennington and Rutland Counties a call! The faster that we can arrive on site the better the chances are that the damage will not be as intense. And the more likely we can salvage and dry out your place of business.
The first thing to do is give us a call! Next, our professionals will inspect the affected area to determine the extent of the water damage. After a plan has been established the next steps will be taken by our staff to protect your business and its contents from further damage by extracting excess water and preparing to dry with our state-of-the-art equipment and doing whatever demolition needs to be done if things cannot be dried. The final step is for us to monitor your business and contents to ensure they are drying properly. One of our professionals will arrive on site daily to monitor the drying process.
Please do not hesitate to contact our office if you have any further questions, we can be reached 24/7 at 518-677-3444. We look forward to assisting you in your time of need!
We Can Take On Any Winter Storm!
8/26/2021 (Permalink)
A winter storm is typically occurring at extremely low temperatures where precipitation forms snow or sleet, or even rain that freezes and turns to ice when hitting the ground. A winter storm can be life threatening so it is important to be able to differentiate the different possible storms for your safety!
Blizzards are a combination of blowing snow which creates low visibility. Blizzards are dangerous storms that can have an accumulation of a lot of snow fall on the ground. If you get stuck in a blizzard for a long period of time it can lead to hypothermia and even frostbite.
Snow Flurries usually last for a short period of time but vary with intensity. Typically, they are light and within a few seconds of hitting pavement the snow usually melts right away.
A Snow squall although it is brief can cause some major safety concerns. They are short intense snowfalls that come with strong winds and greatly impact your visibility of your surroundings. So be careful when driving in situations like this!
Ice storms are storms that cause at least a fourth of an inch of ice forming on the ground or exposed surfaces. Ice storms create extremely poor driving conditions, so you want to be extremely cautious if you get caught driving in an ice storm. Tree branches and power lines also have been known to fall during ice storms due to the weight the ice puts on the, which can cause them to snap.
No matter the winter storm or damage that occurs from it we here at SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/ South Washington Counties are here to help! If you experience damage from a storm to your home or business, please call us at 518-677-3444.
Summer Vacation Plans? Protect Your Home From Water Damage While You Are Away!
8/11/2021 (Permalink)
Summer 2021 officially kicks off June 21st, 2021! And with summer usually comes a vacation. We all could use a vacation and the last thing you want to worry about on vacation is a water damage in your home when you return. One of the most common causes of home water damage during the summer is when a family leaves to go on vacation. We leave our homes empty for days, weeks, and some people even months and the tiniest of leaks left unchecked can cause a substantial amount of water damage that can be devastating!
In order to prevent water damages from occurring while you are on vacation it is important to prepare your home! We here at SERVPRO have some tips to ensure the safety of your home!
- Turn off the main water. Turning off the water main to your home will avoid water pressure from building up in your pipes and weaken them.
- Turn off your water heater. This prevents your water heater from having any problem while you are away.
- Drain your pipes. Running faucets in your home will ensure that the pipes are alleviated of any pressure.
- Have a friend or neighbor check on your home. With so much that can go wrong when we are away from our homes having someone to check on your house will be the best way to sure any situation that unfortunately can occur will be handled quickly and this will decrease the amount of damage that can happen.
If you or your loved ones experience any kind of water damage, we here at SERVPRO are available 24/7 for all of your water restoration needs. We have state of the art equipment as well as IICRC water mitigation experts who will be there at any time of the day to help you in a time of need. Please do not hesitate to give us a call if you experience a water damage at 518-677-3444. We are happy to help!
How to Prevent Rain Damage and Water Inundation in Your Building
6/1/2021 (Permalink)
Give us a call if you basement is flooded and you need extraction. 518-677-3444
Rain damage can lead to mold growth and structural damage to your North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties commercial property. This is something no business ever wants to experience and have to go though. Fortunately, there are several different precautions you can take to avoid water inundation in your commercial building.
Building envelopes are barriers between the interior of a building and the outdoors. Some examples of this would-be doors, windows, the roof, and even the walls or foundation. Regular maintenance on these envelopes is essential to maintain their integrity. These envelopes are your buildings primary protection against water damage. You want to keep an eye out for cracks, deteriorating seals, mold growth, or other signs of envelope failure.
At times of heavy rain, it may be necessary to set up temporary precautions to protect the buildings envelopes against rain damage. Remember, that barriers should not go around the entire building because water that gets between the barrier and the building needs to be able to escape.
Weather is among one of the many things that business owners cannot control. Hopefully, the above precautions will be able to minimize or eliminate a water damage from happening. However, if these steps do not work you will want to hire a professional mitigation team to handle the work. We here at North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties are a team of highly trained professionals with the skills to restore any size building that has been impacted by a water damage. Our staff has state of the art drying equipment that will aid in this restoration process. We are a 24/7 emergency service company that is always here to help! Please give us a call at (518) 677-3444 if you experience any storm damage large or small!
Is Your Emergency Kit Ready for Hurricane Week>
5/10/2021 (Permalink)
Give us a Call for all your Storm Emergency Needs. 518-677-3444
If a community is not prepared for a severe storm, the consequences can be devastating. We here in the North Rensselaer and South Washington County area are no strangers to storms! So, we here at your local SERVPRO wanted to share with you a few tips to keep in mind when putting together your emergency kit in the event of a severe storm.
A basic emergency kit should last you roughly 3 days and should include the following recommended items:
- Water (the average person should have one gallon per day)
- Non-perishable Food
- First aid kit as well as any medication that you are currently taking
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Battery powered or hand crank radio
- Mask
- Local map
- Cell phone with backup charger
- Extra set of clothes
- Whistle (to signal for help)
- Pet supplies if you are taking care of an animal.
These are just a few examples of what an emergency kit should contain. You can add whatever you would like to your own! You can also use ready.gov for additional ideas on what to pack in your emergency kit. We want to help you prepare for any storm! If a storm ever damages your home or business, please call us at (518)-677-3444.
What is a Flash Flood?
4/1/2021 (Permalink)
Give us a Call if there is water running into your house from a flash flood. 518-677-3444
What is a flash flood? A flash flood is a rapid flooding of low-lying areas, usually caused by heavy from sever thunderstorms, hurricanes, or collapsing of human made structures like dams. The National Weather Service defines flash flooding as flooding that begins within 6 hours of heavy rainfall. They also recommend people get out of the area of the flash flood and not attempt to face it or cross its paths.
What makes these floods so dangerous is how rapidly they can occur and how fast moving the water can be. Flash floods are serious and many loose their lives yearly from them. There are several steps however you can take to keep you and your family safe during a flash flood!
- Have an emergency plan and kit ready.
- Follow evacuation orders immediately.
- Stay up to date on weather forecasts.
- Do not attempt to walk and or drive near flooded areas.
- If it is too late to evacuate your home call 911 and move to the highest point in your home.
We here at SERVPRO know the seriousness of flash floods and we are always here to help. If you’ve experienced any water damage due to a recent storm, give SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/ South Washington County a call and well make sure to make it "Like it never even happened."
Dangers of Torrential Rain
8/12/2020 (Permalink)
Torrential rain is any amount of rain that is especially heavy. It is not a technical weather term as there is no formal definition of torrential rains. However, meteorologists define heavy rainfall as rain that accumulates at a rate of 3/10”, or more, per hour.
Dangers of Torrential Rain on a Home
Heavy rain can trigger any one or more of the following deadly events
Runoff:
If heavy rains arrive more quickly than the ground can absorb water, you get what is called run off. Runoff can carry pollutants (like pesticides, oil and yard waste) into nearby creeks, rivers, lakes, and sometimes Homes.
If a home is not sealed in the foundation or the bottom sills are damaged the water can seep into the home causing a world of damage. A lot of the time we see this happen in the spring months due to the ground being hard from winter and the ground already engorged.
Flooding:
If enough rain falls into rivers, and other bodies of water it can cause their water levels to rise and over flow onto normally dry land.
If a home is near a lake or pond, a torrential rainfall could cause that body of water to rise up and flood its surroundings. Damaging, foundations, siding, roofs. Etc.
Mudslides:
If rain is continuous over a period time, the ground and soil can liquify and carry unsecured objects, people, and even buildings away in debris flows. This is exacerbated along hillsides and slopes since the ground there is more easily eroded away. In the US mudslides are common and pose as a great threat to residents. Sometimes even destroying entire cities, and small towns.
At SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties, we always recommend to prepared for any disaster. Even though at most time the weather is unpredictable, being cautious and aware will help is any disastrous situation. If you would like to know more about Rain Safety and how to prepare yourself, give us a call! 518-677-3444
Tornado Causes Damage to Home in New York
8/12/2020 (Permalink)
A home was damaged due to a tree falling during a recent tornado in our local area.
Did you know that in 2019 there were 4 tornadoes in the State of New York? A tornado is a vicious rotation of air typically from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can reach winds up to 300 mph! They can occur with little or no warning at all. We recently took care of a home that was damaged due to a tornado in our local area. The entire community was in shock as well as other homeowners in the surrounding areas, which had damage to their homes.
Types of damages that we mostly dealt with were trees on top of houses or broken windows due to trees or high winds. This is a scary time for a homeowner. Tornadoes are terrifying and devastating weather events. And we here at SERVPRO were there to assist our community in this time of need. We have an incredibly fast response time here at SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties when it comes to disasters.
We have the experience and training that will allow us to restore your property quickly and efficiently. We are a 24/7 emergency service response team who will be there to help no matter the size of the storm! If you experience a storm, water, or fire damage, please call us here at SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington for all your disaster needs.
We Can Weather Any Storm!
8/12/2020 (Permalink)
We are here to help!
As a business, it is our job to weather any storm that comes your way regardless of the type or size. Storms can be quite devastating and many are unexpected. We here at SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties remain a reliable option for business owners and homeowners during disasters. It is our job to give you peace of mind and get your homes or businesses back to being “Like it never even happened.”
Our SERVPRO team of professionals have the qualifications and the equipment to get your business or home back to preloss conditions. And we are ready at any time for whatever disaster occurs! Whether it is three in the afternoon or three in the morning we are here to help! We make our services available 24 hours a day for 365 days a year. We want to ensure you that we will help you during overwhelming and unexpected times. We are ready no matter the weather or the time of day we will be there to assist you!
Storm Safety Tips
6/3/2020 (Permalink)
In many areas with the United States, residents are caught up in stressful weather-related storms. Whether the outcome is a flood, or damage done to a home, or even electrical outages. So, how to do you really prepare yourself for what is to come? What measures can you take to ensure the safety of everyone, and everything is your home? Here are some safety guidelines to follow!
- Stay inside a house or a large shelter. If safe shelter is unavailable find a low spot away from trees, metal fences, and poles.
- Make sure all the windows, canopies, and any outside materials are closed and secured.
- Avoid using water! During a Thunderstorm, lightening can strike a house, travel through plumbing, into metal pipes and shock anyone.
- Bring your pets inside during a severe storm, avoid leaving them tied up outside or in a doghouse.
- Avoid using any electronic and turn the main breaker OFF! You could get an electrical shock, and your electronics could be in jeopardy.
- Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are imminent.
- If boating or swimming, get out of the boat and away from the water, get to land and find some shelter.
- Wait at least 30 minutes after you hear the last roar of thunder before going outside.
- Stay up to date with weather reports and updates.
Here at SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties we want our community to stay safe in a storm situation.
Here in your Community, Here to Help.
5/7/2020 (Permalink)
In you are in need of some disinfecting, GIVE US A CALL! 518-677-3444
Here in your Community. Here to Help.
SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/ South Washington Counties strives to be a part of our local Community and is always Here to Help. Despite the disappointing COVID-19 pandemic and its considerable influence on the economy, SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties is able to continue helping out the community by showing our appreciation for all the first responders in our local area. Many of the small towns in Upstate New York have been hit hard and the 1st Responders are on the front line, and we understand the concerns of not having enough cleaning products to keep up with the influx of people contracting the COVID-19 Virus. On April 15th, 2020, SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties, reached out to the Village of Cambridge and offered free cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfection of all the 1st response vehicles. In the coming days, SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties will continue to give free cleaning for all surrounding area 1st Response vehicles. We strive to make sure that all 1st. Responders are fully taken care of as best as we can.
When Storms or Floods hit Washington and Rensselaer Counties, SERVPRO is ready!
4/30/2020 (Permalink)
CALL SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties when storm damage hits your home. 518-677-3444
SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington 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 Washington and Rensselaer Counties, 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 518-677-3444
Storms and Floods: Tips and Safety to Consider!
8/15/2019 (Permalink)
Flood water can wreak havoc on any home or business. Avoiding floods may not be entirely possible but there are ways to reduce the impact of water damages. If a storm is approaching here are some actions to take!
- Consider flood insurance. Floods tend to follow storms and many policies do not cover floods so check your policy to make sure you are covered!
- Locate weak points. Retrofit your doors and seal all windows. You can even have a professional come out to inspect your roof, basement, and gutters.
- Keep valuables on your upper levels. Floods tend to for the most part impact basements so moving irreplaceable belongings to upper levels or even higher up on shelves can help reduce risk of damage.
- Consider purchasing a portable generator.
- Remove or trim rotting trees or branches around your home or business. These are at increased risk of falling and causing injury or damage during a storm!
- Sign up for your communities alert system. So you can be prepared for when a storm is approaching.
- During storm unplug appliances and other electrical devices.
- Avoid flooded roadways. Never drive your vehicle through a road that is flooded.
- Watch for fallen power lines and trees. Always be on lookout!
- Stay away from anything metal! Avoid wires, metal fences, tractors, farm equipment, golf clubs, bicycles, etc.
Storms can hit quickly and unexpectedly, leaving a trail of damage behind. SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide emergency services. Our crew responds quickly to restore properties affected by storms, if you experience storm damage please call us at (518)677-3444.
Flooded Basement? No Problem!
8/15/2019 (Permalink)
Recent basement that was flooded and in the drying process
Cleaning basements especially after a flood calls for a team of professionals with the proper equipment and experience to get the job done right. The water needs to be extracted as soon as possible to reduce the damage. Your basement can become flooded for several reasons, broken pipes, flood conditions (storms), sewer backup, and malfunctioning appliances. Regardless of the cause something must be done and we here at SERVPRO of North Rensselear/South Washington Counties are here to help!
Our team of trained specialists would first pump out or remove any standing water and debris. Cleaning and disinfecting then needs to take place and the final step in the mitigation process would be drying!
As water damage specialists our team of skilled professionals have the advanced training and experience that enables us to get your basement dried properly as well as any of your affected belongings cleaned and dried.
Homeowners and business owners dealing with a flooded basement can rely on us here at SERVPRO of North Rensselear/South Washington Counties to make it “Like it never even happened."
If you experience a flooded basement or any other water damage, please call us at (518) 677-3444.
Precautions to Take During Thunder and Lightening!
8/15/2019 (Permalink)
According to the National Weather Services, so far in 2019 there have been 12 fatalities due to lightening. When lightening strikes do you know what to do? What measures can you take to ensure your safety, your family’s safety, and even your pets? Here are some safety suggestions and guidelines to follow!
- Get inside a house or a large shelter. If safe shelter is unavailable find a low spot away from trees, metal fences, and poles.
- Do not use your balcony, porches, or an open garage area during storm.
- Do not use a phone that is attached to a cord. Only use cordless or wireless phones.
- Do not shower and avoid washing your hands and dishes.
- Bring your pets inside during a severe storm, avoid leaving them tied up outside or in a doghouse.
- Do not touch TV’s, computers, or other electronic devices or appliances with cords.
- Do not lean on exterior doors or windows that could possibly contain some amount of metal components.
- Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are imminent.
- If boating or swimming, get out of the boat and away from the water, get to land and find some shelter.
- Wait at least 30 minutes after you hear the last roar of thunder before going outside.
Here at SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties we want our community to stay safe and follow precautions!
Thunderstorm tips and safety
6/20/2019 (Permalink)
Thunderstorms are in the forecast
Thunderstorms are in the forecast north of Albany tonight and tomorrow. In upstate NY, these types storms are very frequent during the summer months, so we thought it might be a good time to share some tips to help you prepare for the storms yet to come.
Different between a Watch vs. a Warning
Watch: Conditions are favorable for severe storms. Be alert, and be on the lookout for severe weather conditions and be ready to move to a safe place if you hear thunder or see lightning.
Warning: Severe weather is imminent or occurring. Action should be taken immediately.
Strong Winds
Severe thunderstorms are capable of producing damaging winds and hail. It is rare, but sometimes in our area straight line winds can occur if the storm is strong and fast enough. It is very important shelter is taken during a severe storm.
Take Shelter
The safest place in a thunderstorm is inside a sturdy building. Stay away from windows, anything that is plugged in, and plumbing. If you can’t find a substantial structure for shelter, you can get into a car with a metal roof and sides.
While it is nearly impossible to predict when a tragedy will occur, SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties provides 24 hour emergency services for when it does. If your home or business experiences storm damage, call us today at (518)677-3444.
Protecting Your Roof From Wind Storms
5/22/2019 (Permalink)
Wind storms can occur during any season and could be accompanied by another storm such as hurricane, thunderstorm, or even a snow storm. We all know that these types of storms can hit at a moment’s notice. Whenever you experience high winds, you should take shelter immediately to protect yourself from the flying debris. The roof of your home is also extremely venerable during this type of weather.
High winds can lift and/or rip the shingles right off of your roof causing damage and future leaks. You will want to make sure your roof is well taken care of and the materials can withstand high, damaging winds. Instead of shingles and asphalt, replacing your roof with metal or stone might make it more durable.
Trees are also very vulnerable during wind storms. To prevent future roof damage from a fallen tree, make sure you observe your property to ensure there are not dead trees or limbs hanging in the vicinity and that all trees are a safe distance from your home.
If you experience any kind of damage to your roof, it should be addressed and fixed immediately. If a roof is left unfixed, you might end up needing our services for water and/or mold damage.
Have Questions?
Call SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties at (518)677-3444.
Thunderstorm Safety
5/7/2019 (Permalink)
It’s that time of year again when we have to watch the weather channel before making plans outdoors. Spring is well known for its rainstorms and thunderstorms. Rain and thunderstorms are very unpredictable and can come out of nowhere, sometimes at a moment’s notice and can ruin your beautiful afternoon outdoors.
Storms are not just a nuisance, but could potentially be very dangerous. Thunderstorms can be more dangerous and deadly than a hurricane or tornado. The best thing you can do during a thunderstorm watch is take it seriously and be prepared.
- Cancel or postpone outdoor activities.
- Create an emergency kit, in case the power goes out. Have supplies ready and prepare to not have power for several days.
- Make sure flashlights have batteries.
- Unplug electronics (TVs, appliances, computers, etc.) or use surge protectors to protect electronics.
- Secure outdoor objects so they do not blow away or get damaged from high winds.
- Stay tuned to weather reports via radio or internet.
Has your home or business suffered from storm damage? Call SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties at (518)677-3444.
What to do during a storm
9/25/2018 (Permalink)
- 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.
Hurricane Preparedness
9/24/2018 (Permalink)
The Atlantic Hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th. Make sure you are prepared should one be near you! 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 North Rensselaer & South Washington Counties 518-677-3444 to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
Torrential Rains
9/14/2018 (Permalink)
When torrential rains fall, and water cannot disburse or settle in the ground it will enter any building in its way. This prestigious college found inches of ground water entering their large main library with thousands of books and other historical items that could have been damaged for good. This is one row of many isle bookcases that have had their books packed out and sent to a Document Restoration Company to have them all restored to their original state prior to the flooding. After packing up boxes of water damaged documents industrial air movers and dehumidifiers are placed to dry carpeting and custom-made bookcases. Each one of these bookcases were individually elevated in order to dry the carpeting and bookcases completely so that when the documents returned they would be able to be put back in specific areas “Like it never even happened.”
Cambridge Wind Storm
7/30/2018 (Permalink)
On the Afternoon of May 4, 2018, a line of thunderstorms along with a strong cold front, came through our town, Cambridge, NY. These strong storms moved across eastern New York between 6:30 and 10 pm, causing numerous reports of trees and wires down. Very strong winds gusted up to 61 mph. A few intense bands of wind damage, most likely were associated with microbursts. Most all of the damages occurred in Johnstown, NY and Cambridge, NY. Due to this extreme weather it caused several large trees to fall down on houses and cars in these areas. Well over 100,000 people lost power during this event. Many homes were in need of repair and water mitigation. Several streets and yards were covered with trees and debris that took several weeks to clean up and repair.
SERVPRO Teams responding to Hurricane Harvey and Irma
9/14/2017 (Permalink)
Hurricane Harvey made landfall as a Major Hurricane at Category 4 strength on Friday, August 25 causing widespread devastating flooding and wind destruction along the Texas and Louisiana coast. After making landfall, the storm’s track continued through Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee, causing heavy rains and additional flooding situations. SERVPRO has mobilized and deployed Disaster Recover Teams to the most heavily impacted areas of Texas and Louisiana. Over 400 fully-equipped storm crews have been deployed and additional crews are being added daily. Hurricane Irma has made her way through Florida and we are actively routing Disaster Recovery Teams out to help. With disasters of this magnitude, residents and business owners are encouraged to be patient while SERVPRO makes every effort to respond to each need as quickly as possible. Our thoughts are with all who were affected by these devastating storms.
24/7 Emergency Service
