Recent Water Damage Posts

Ceiling and Wall Assemblies Water Restoration in New Providence Homes

3/24/2024 (Permalink)

a water damaged ceiling tile with water leaking through it Remediating water damage is a tricky task. Our certified technicians know how to get the job done quickly and efficiently. Contact SERVPRO 24/7.

SERVPRO® Tackles Water Damage in New Providence Homes

New Providence, situated in the northwestern corner of Union County, New Jersey, is a borough along the Passaic River. The Passaic River County Park offers scenic trails for hiking and biking, while New Providence Veterans Memorial Park provides a tranquil setting for picnics and outdoor recreation. One notable landmark is The SaltBox Museum, an 18th-century farmhouse situated on Springfield Avenue. The movie Win Win, released in 2011, took place at New Providence High School and was written by Tom McCarthy and Joe Tiboni, alums of the school.

Water restoration for New Providence homeowners entails addressing the primary consequence of water infiltration, for example, ceiling and wall assemblies, where structural deterioration may ensue. These assemblies typically have insulation and electrical elements. Identifying the extent of water damage is crucial for effective restoration. Finished ceiling and wall materials, as they can conceal underlying issues that may exacerbate the situation if left unaddressed. SERVPRO crews conduct thorough inspections to identify materials within the ceiling and wall assembly that may be affected.

Materials that can make up a ceiling or wall assembly

  • Wooden framing
  • Drywall
  • Wallpaper
  • Plaster

Exposure to water can result in these materials weakening, warping, or collapsing, thereby jeopardizing the structure's overall integrity. Continued water intrusion can ultimately lead to wood decay, metal parts corroding, and insulation degradation. 

Restoration Solutions for Ceiling and Wall Assemblies

Drywall comprises gypsum material covered with paper on its front face, back, and long edges. It comes in various thicknesses, including ¼", ½," and ?," with ½" being the standard for residential purposes. Drywall may also possess specific qualities like water-resistant or mold-resistant variants, designed for use in areas prone to moisture, such as showers or tub surrounds.

SERVPRO crews utilize a non-invasive moisture meter to identify the wet areas within the drywall. However, since multiple layers of materials like insulation and framing could also be affected, a penetrating moisture meter becomes essential for accurately measuring the moisture content within the drywall. These penetrating meters prove especially valuable when our restorers suspect the non-invasive meter may provide inaccurate readings due to the presence of metal components concealed behind the drywall.

Procedure for drying the assemblies

  • Removing the baseboard
  • Drilling holes between the wall studs
  • Setting up the cavity drying equipment

SERVPRO of Western Union County ensures thorough water restoration of ceiling and wall assemblies. Call us at (908) 791-9177. Faster to any size disaster™.

Mitigating Water Damage for Residents of New Providence

3/30/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO drying equipment on a water damaged floor SERVPRO has the training and equipment to restore your water damaged home in New Providence.

SERVPRO Technicians Have Extensive Experience in Water Mitigation and Restoration

When properties become wet, they begin to suffer damage. Water intrusion can occur from multiple sources but are most commonly the result of a malfunction in the home's infrastructure. Water can permanently harm your property's structure and contents without professional intervention.

When consulting about water damage in New Providence, it is essential to recognize that restoration is a highly-skilled job. Technicians train, grow experience under supervision, and gain qualifications before being put in charge of restoring a homeowner's property. One of the core roles we perform for this community is mitigating loss following unexpected property damages. The fastest way to reduce loss, and protect your belongings or home from moisture, is through drying. Once moisture is out of the property, we can confidently say that no more damage is likely to occur, so the mitigation phase of our work is complete. Our job then becomes returning damaged belongings or structures to a preloss condition which is part of the restoration phase. 

Many methods when mitigating damage relies on psychrometry: the drying science. Psychrometry allows a restorer to understand and calculate the interaction between temperature, moisture, material, and air. You may find that certain items, such as clothing, dry quickly. That occurs because textiles are generally porous, allowing air and temperature to circulate rapidly through the fibers. Other parts of your home, such as the subfloor, may absorb moisture slowly, which can take longer to dry depending on the density or porosity of those materials. Some materials may lose their shape, color, or strength following exposure to moisture. Our team can calculate and apply the correct solution to any size disaster using drying science.

Basic Principles of Psychrometry and Drying Method

  • Drying a wet property relies on speeding up natural evaporation by using air circulation, heat, and knowledge of material porosity.
  • The moisture on wet materials evaporates into surrounding air until it reaches cooler surfaces, where it recondenses into liquid. 
  • When the surrounding air becomes saturated (high humidity), it is no longer capable of absorbing additional moisture. Humid environments slow the evaporation of wet materials.

Moisture can harm your property in two ways. The first is the impact of liquid which can absorb into materials causing them to warp, discolor, bleed, shrink or buckle. The second impact comes from evaporated liquids which can deposit moisture onto upper surfaces, windows, or inside walls. Drying a property correctly needs to focus on controlling humidity to increase evaporation of liquid while preventing vapor damage or high humidity. In a nutshell, drying the air is essential to dry the floor. To achieve both of these goals, our technicians must combine two pieces of equipment. Air movers circulate heated air to evaporate moisture, and dehumidifiers extract the evaporated water from the air. SERVPRO technicians calculate their approach first and then monitor the conditions using equipment readings to ensure they are balanced efficiently.

Methods for Drying Wet Materials

  • The solid wood used in floorboards or frameworks of a home can take longer to dry and often requires advanced equipment such as desiccant dehumidifiers to dry appropriately.
  • Drywall generally dries quickly, but if it imbibes too much liquid, it may weaken or break apart, requiring replacement.
  • Wall, floor, or ceiling cavities often require special attention to prevent water from pooling inside and stagnating. We can either remove wall portions to allow circulation or adapt equipment to direct air into the cavities. 

Drying a wet property can be complex without professional knowledge. Contact SERVPRO of Western Union County for water damage restoration at (908) 791-9177.

Repairing Water Damage in New Providence Demands Skill

3/29/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Equipment SERVPRO is prepared with restoration equipment and experienced technicians.

SERVPRO Can Handle Water Damage in Your New Providence Home

The recovery of a building from water damage is way more than just sopping up the water left standing. Water can seep into spaces that are impossible to see and hard to reach, such as crawl spaces and wall cavities. When these areas are not dried adequately, mold growth and structural damages are inevitable, which means your home’s indoor air quality is altered, negatively affecting the occupants. This is one of many reasons why everyone who finds themselves in such a situation should call a water damage restoration company to at least conduct an inspection.

At SERVPRO, we had the needs of property owners in mind when we set up a branch to repair water damage in New Providence. We have state-of-the-art thermal imaging cameras to help us locate areas of elevated moisture concentrations and moisture meters that help us determine how severe the damage is, which might otherwise be ignored if one judges by mere sight.

SERVPRO does not claim to provide a single solution for all water damage situations. We have certification to show our ability to work in any situation according to set standards and guidelines. Our technicians are trained to handle any work as if it were their own homes. This way, our aim is always to find a scope of work that minimizes the drying time while also maximizing the cost efficiency achieved via bringing down the overall costs of projects.

To monitor the drying process, SERVPRO conducts several measurements throughout the process, with complete documentation. The most crucial measurements that we carry out are:

  • Resistance measurement uses a depth probe to determine moisture levels in building materials.
  • Capacitive measurement to find hidden damp spots.
  • Temperature and humidity measurements in the room or cavities.

To avoid incurring high repair costs, SERVPRO documents every step of the restoration process, which makes the process of making insurance claims for you easier.


For immediate water damage restoration, contact SERVPRO of Western Union County at (908) 791-9177. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Why are Infrared Cameras Beneficial During New Providence Water Mitigation?

9/30/2022 (Permalink)

Drying water damage kitchen floor SERVPRO provides fast and quality water damage restoration services in your area. Call now for the help you need.

SERVPRO Utilizes State-of-the-Art Water Damage Equipment in New Providence Properties

Water damage in a New Providence property can come in many different forms, presenting challenges in the cleanup methods needed. The advanced equipment SERVPRO uses assists in making the restoration service have the best outcome possible.

During water mitigation in New Providence properties, locating the migration path of the water is crucial, no matter what the cause of the incident is. Among the equipment SERVPRO uses, the infrared camera also referred to as "thermography," is one of the most frequently relied on devices because:

  • It causes no damage to the structure
  • Reduces the challenge of inspecting difficult-to-reach areas
  • Allows the techs to cover more area in less time

A penetrating moisture meter makes small holes with a needle to obtain accurate readings during the inspection phase of the restoration service. The use of infrared cameras need only be pointed at the area where water is suspected. The display shows color differentiations designating cooler and warmer areas behind walls. A frequently seen use of this equipment to find moisture within a home is seen in homes with extremely high ceilings. Without a ladder or scaffolding, it is difficult to use moisture meters in these areas of the structure; however, the infrared camera can detect the temp differences while the technicians stand below on the floor. The area coverage of the thermal camera makes inspecting the property go far more efficiently, so the areas that need attention from SERVPRO get focused on more quickly. In some cases, previously unknown issues can get found and repaired during the water damage mitigation service.

SERVPRO of Western Union County at (908) 791-9177 is available 24/7 for all types and sizes of water mitigation in New Providence properties. The trained techs make the damage to the home "Like it never even happened."

New Providence Homes Benefit from Professional Water Damage MitigationCan

7/22/2022 (Permalink)

parked servpro pickup truck DIY homeowners can get a better water damaging result and restoration for their New Providence property by contacting SERVPRO.

You Remove Standing Water from Your New Providence Home?

There is a never-ending push for New Providence homeowners to be more independent and active in restoring and recovering their properties after a loss incident. Even with something as seemingly straightforward as water damage, recovering from the effects of this disaster might require more sophisticated tools and practices that are available to the average homeowner. Many instead choose to trust our SERVPRO team to help.

The task could be overwhelming if you want to know the likelihood of successful water removal in your New Providence home without the appropriate equipment and practices. One of the initial obstacles is understanding the full measure of moisture damage and water migration through construction materials and contents in your home. During the scoping phase by our project manager or crew leader, we can utilize surface moisture meters, hygrometers, thermal imagery, and other advanced devices to detect the presence and concentration of moisture damage.

Effective Extraction Equipment 

Standing water can be an alarming discovery because this water can saturate every material and item that it becomes exposed to, which can make it almost impossible for a homeowner to track fully. Our SERVPRO team arrives with multiple extraction tools to remove this standing water, allowing our technicians to scope the migration of saturation into materials. Depending on the location and severity of these conditions, we can utilize:

  • Electric submersible pumps
  • Truck-mounted extractors
  • Wet vacuums
  • Trash pumps

Moisture Removal 

However, water removal does not exclusively mean the standing water you can see. Removing moisture from flooring and wallboard are two concerns that often accompany pooling water conditions. We can remove most moisture and dampness concerns for flooring and other exposed materials using air movers, drying mats, and wands.

While there are many ways that you can help your home to get efficient restoration responses after a damaging water incident, cleaning and removal are areas best left to our SERVPRO of Western Union County professionals. We can arrive quickly to help when you call us at (908) 791-9177.

New Providence Restoration Professionals Talk Water Damage Mitigation

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

Flooded Living Room No matter if the water loss event is big or small, SERVPRO of Western Union County can mitigate the damage and restore your home!

New Providence Water Damage Basics: The Mitigation Phase

When your New Providence home suffers a water loss, you cope not only with the harm done but also with a steep learning curve as experts discuss recovery. Two terms that might seem interchangeable are mitigation and remediation. Instead, they represent separate phases of the restoration process, both essential to making it “Like it never even happened.” Mitigation tasks have the following purposes and implementation. 

Mitigation Limits Current Damage and Prevents Further Loss

Phase one of your New Providence water damage recovery agenda includes mitigation tasks. Our project manager uses a visual analysis of the affected area and data from temperature and moisture detection devices to define the current perimeter of the water incursion. We then use the skills learned at the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training to arrest the spread and migration of water beyond that line. 

Water Extraction Is Mitigation 

SERVPRO’s service vehicles hold a comprehensive inventory of water extraction equipment. Mitigation starts with a specific extraction course, starting with submersible pumps if standing water is two or more inches deep. Wanded portable or truck-mounted extractors use powerful suction to clean surfaces and fixtures like carpeting of residual water. We scan using infrared cameras for temperature fluctuations that signal the presence of trapped moisture behind, under, or above structures.  

Planned Demolition Can Aid Mitigation  

Mitigation can include controlled demolition to access the hidden water. Sections of drywall removed as “flood cuts” or punched or drilled “weep holes” release water from places it flowed and seeped. Choosing to take these steps might seem to worsen the damage. Instead, they permit SERVPRO crews to prevent the progressive deterioration of porous building materials and avoid secondary issues such as mold damage. We collect and dispose of as much of the hidden moisture as possible. 

Structural Drying Completes Mitigation 

Once the bulk of the water exits your home via pumps and extractors, structural drying commences. Thorough extraction does not eliminate the need for structural drying, but it significantly shortens the time necessary to reach normal moisture levels. SERVPRO Applied Structural Drying (ASD) technicians use the data gathered during the assessment phase and moisture metering of similar types of structural components in unaffected areas of the house to determine drying goals. Air movers and heaters create ambient conditions that evaporate the water absorbed by building materials. Then our dehumidifiers capture and collect the water for permanent disposal. 

SERVPRO of Western Union County has a trained workforce and cutting-edge equipment required to mitigate water damage. Confine the current damage and prevent further loss by calling us at (908) 791-9177.

What to Expect When Professionals Manage Water Damage in New Providence

4/3/2022 (Permalink)

A hand covering a home from water Protect your home after water damage with help from SERVPRO.

Count on SERVPRO to Thoroughly Dry Water Damages

Homeowners in New Providence can experience water crises in a myriad of ways. Historic homes with antiquated copper plumbing leak from age and corrosion. Remodeled homes or new construction feature PVC pipe cut by accident or a loose connection. Appliances malfunction regardless of the age of a home, overflowing or spewing water when pumps or hoses break. Sinks overflow, and windows admit water during thunderstorms. Causes are many, but our expert team can handle them all.

We're Faster To Any Size Disaster

Speed is crucial to turn water damage in New Providence around. Our emergency line picks up round the clock, and fully equipped and Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained crew arrive as soon as possible. On-site, an experienced manager assesses the circumstances, designing a recovery plan custom-made for your home and the harm done. Categorization of water contamination levels and moisture metering and thermal scanning for trapped fluids is done immediately to map the contours of the affected spaces.

Experience Plus the Right Equipment Equals Success

 SERVPRO technicians are familiar with every aspect of water removal and structural drying. Once the plan is in their hands, mitigation and remediation begin immediately. Gas-powered pumps and truck-mounted extractors eliminate the need for your electricity to be live at the onset, avoiding any delays. Water evacuates quickly, including any hidden caches in building cavities. We might make controlled flood cuts or drill weep holes to release water behind walls or ceilings, to minimize damage and disruption.

Through Structural Drying Is Essential

Our focus and hard work continue until moisture levels reduce to normal levels throughout your home. Any water or even excessive humidity levels expose your house's contents and structural components to progressive deterioration and secondary damage like mold development. SERVPRO Applied Structural Drying (ASD) technicians employ their advanced knowledge of psychrometry and drying science to balance heat, air movement, and dehumidification to achieve drying goals determined using industry best practices.

SERVPRO of Western Union County is ready 24/7 with trained technicians and state-of-the-art equipment to resolve your residential water damage. Call us at (908) 791-9177 and let us make it "Like it never even happened."

Is DIY Water Restoration Possible in Berkeley Heights Homes?

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO sign Water damage restoration is no DIY project. SERVPRO specialists have all the training an experience needed for every disaster possible.

Knowing when professional restoration is needed better protects water-damaged Berkeley Heights properties.

Not all damages to your home require the fast response and expertise of our SERVPRO team to resolve and correct. It is often a case-by-case evaluation to learn what steps can be taken by the property owner to reduce restoration time or fully resolve the surface water or moisture issues. The process begins with knowing when water damage is manageable.

When Can You Clean Water Damage?

There are instances where you can avoid professional water restoration companies for Berkeley Heights residential damage. Usually, this involves only a small and manageable volume of water that toweling or mopping could resolve. However, if the moisture spread moves into materials like the flooring or wall systems, basic cleanup will not be possible, and professional intervention is required. 

Water Removal Services

One of the steps that our professional restorers can take is removing standing water on the floors of your home. This involves several tools and equipment such as:

Advanced Water Extraction and Drying

Another aspect of professional water damage restoration is thoroughly drying the property. With flooring materials like carpets and hardwoods, moisture migration requires mats, wands, and other advanced drying accessories.  

Repairs and Reconstruction

Another way that professional restoration is set apart from DIY approaches is the ability of our SERVPRO team to complete repairs and reconstruction where required. Our general contractor license helps with plumbing repairs, controlled demolition, and replacing discarded structural elements.

While there is an allure to DIY restoration and recovery, there is only a small window where this is possible. Still, steps can be taken to help reduce restoration and recovery time through early actions in your residence. Our SERVPRO of Western Union County team is experienced with drying, cleanup, and reconstruction when your home needs it after water damage incidents. Call today at (908) 791-9177.  

Will Trapped Water in Exterior Walls of New Providence Homes Dry Naturally?

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

mold damage on a ceiling Please don't let your home dry on its own, call SERVPRO of Western Union County today.

Often moisture in wall assemblies should be addressed immediately to protect New Providence properties. 

Whether burst pipes, leaking connections, or flood damage, exterior walls can be heavily damaged by moving water. Because moist conditions do not often resolve themselves quickly without prompt action, our SERVPRO team is ready to help.

Using Moisture Detection Equipment 

Overcoming water damage in New Providence homes begins with determining where these threats exist. Moisture detection equipment in our inventory becomes an asset in tracking the movement of water through structural elements. When exterior walls, housing plumbing, and other fixtures suffer moisture damage, specific detection tools can be helpful in learning which building materials have been most heavily impacted.

Controlled Demolition and Inspection 

One of the next steps to restoring water damage to exterior wall systems is eliminating affected materials. The initial evaluation of the property can determine where moisture exists and the likely migration of these damp pockets through sensitive materials often used in the construction of framing and the building envelope. Affected materials might include:

  • Drywall
  • OSB Board
  • Plywood
  • Insulation
  • Felt Paper

Thorough Drying Solutions 

Regardless of how much of the wall system needed removal, the next step in this process is applying drying equipment to the situation and beginning evaporative work. With limited removal like flood cuts, low-profile centrifugal air movers are ideal for infusing structural cavities with dry air. More thorough removal of wall assemblies can make a greater variety of drying tools possible in the restoration.

It is always smart to actively choose to dry and restore water damage rather than assuming or hoping that natural evaporation will occur. Our SERVPRO of Western Union County team can help with effective drying and mitigation strategies starting as soon as we arrive at the damaged property. We are ready to help 24/7 at (908) 791-9177.

How Materials Influence Water Mitigation in Berkeley Heights Properties

11/7/2021 (Permalink)

Servpro water sign Water damage is no easy task to handle. SERVPRO water damage specialists are here to help 24/7 365 days a year.

SERVPRO Focuses on Three Main Aspects of Materials to Determine Their Effect on Restoration

Whenever water leaks into a property, one of the main factors determining the type or level of damages is the materials present in the affected areas. Therefore, understanding how moisture interacts with different materials is essential for water mitigation to be successful.

Materials exhibit three main characteristics that can influence the water mitigation process in your Berkeley Heights home. The three factors have to do with water absorption since moisture only causes damage if materials absorb it. SERVPRO has IICRC-certified water restoration technicians who understand the different characteristics materials exhibit when exposed to water.

The materials in your home can be broadly classified based on:

  • Permeance levels
  • Hygroscopy
  • Vapor barrier

If the water released into your property affects materials with a high permeance rate, mitigation mostly involves extraction with wet vacuums followed by drying. Otherwise, it is impossible to get rid of the water, leading to additional deterioration like rotting and mold. Typical materials with a high permeance factor include carpets and upholstery items. Low permeance factors simplify restoration since water can be easily wiped off. Also, the exposed material does not deteriorate from extended contact.

Another category of material is vapor barriers which include waterproof substances of those with a permeance of 1. Such materials either block moisture from passing through or limit the amount passing through to a minimum. Some vapor barriers you might have in your home include masonry bricks, glossy paint, and Kraft paper insulation. As the name suggests, vapor barriers can block your mitigation efforts by delaying moisture release from surrounding materials. Our SERVPRO technicians use various approaches, including perforation or stripping off the barrier.

SERVPRO of Western Union County evaluates materials, thus delivering quality results during water mitigation. Call us at (908) 791-9177. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What Type of Water Mitigation is Necessary for New Providence Homes After a Pipe Burst?

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

water leaking from the ceiling When a pipe bursts in your home, the situation can be quite unexpected. Contact SERVPRO right away to remediate the water damage in your home.

SERVPRO Helps Extract Moisture, Remove Deteriorated Materials and Perform Water Damage Repairs as Needed in New Providence Properties

Look up. You may only see areas here and there where pipes run through the ceiling of your New Providence property, but the ceiling in most rooms is a major hub for the plumbing in your home. And it is a good idea to inspect all areas of your home, including the ceilings, for signs of water damage.

Handling water mitigation on a New Providence ceiling leak can present additional challenges, such as the effect of gravity on the water damage incident. The weight of the moisture within a ceiling means as the sheetrock gets saturated and deteriorates from the water, it can also fall and cause injury. SERVPRO advises homeowners to avoid areas in their property with sagging ceilings.

SERVPRO technicians have significant training in handling all types of damage from water in homes and working safely when the issue emanates from a ceiling. The technicians can use their equipment to identify how widespread the wicking of the moisture is within the ceiling and how much needs to get removed to make the room safe. Only the damaged portions get removed; the rest will get dried and left intact to lessen the cost of replacing the building materials in the home. The water restoration training of technicians enables them to: 

  • Identify potential safety issues
  • Sort items in the room to identify salvageable articles
  • Remove musty water odors 
  • Apply proactive treatments against mold growth

A ceiling leak requires prioritization of the restoration services. Even though the same actions get taken, each job is diverse, with challenges unique to the property getting assistance. SERVPRO techs ascertain the building materials affected and prioritize the steps needed for the best outcome. Some tasks may require more urgency because hesitating can lead to additional damages that can cost property owners more money to repair in the future. A core part of the training the techs receive is learning to identify what to prioritize. For instance, if a ceiling leak affects wood floorboards in a home, water extraction becomes the most critical application during the water restoration service. 

With the assistance of SERVPRO of Western Union County

P: (908) 791-9177, homeowners in New Providence can have confidence in the water mitigation services performed, and the trained techs are available 24/7.

Why Do Most New Providence Homeowners Seek Water Damage Repair Services?

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

a broken sink pipe Sometimes pipe ruptures are hidden but many times the water damage is readily apparent. Contact SERVPRO for effective remediation services.

Often, Pipe Ruptures Make Them Look for Water Damage Repair Assistance

Water damage in New Providence is often the result of ruptured pipes. In turn, these troubling issues are usually caused by a relative handful of problems. Catalysts for pipe ruptures are varied and range from the generally preventable to the almost inevitable.

SERVPRO, one of the leading water damage repair companies in New Providence, has effectively dealt with the effects of burst pipes on numerous occasions. As a result, our technicians know what most often causes such problems. A few of the situations commonly encountered by SERVPRO’s water damage remediation experts are:

  • Age-related pipe failures, in which metal and plastic pipes break as a result of either long-term corrosion or brittleness
  • Pipes that have burst due to the effects of freezing temperatures
  • Pipe ruptures resulting from clogs arising from mineral deposits and other pressure-producing blockages
  • Water pressure-related pipe failures that occur when more water is pumped through a pipe at a given time than it was designed to handle
  • Faulty pipework done by amateurs, including poor pipe connections that cause significant leaks
  • Catastrophic pipe damage as a result of earthquakes and tremors

Any one or more of these issues could lead to basement flooding and other troublesome circumstances that require emergency water damage services like water removal and water damage repairs.

With all that said, SERVPRO of Western Union County is ready to help whenever you need water damage repair work done. Call us anytime at (908) 791-9177 for assistance.

Property Owners Must Not Wait for Water Removal in their Berkeley Heights Home

5/31/2021 (Permalink)

water on white kitchen tile Water and subsequent mold damage often go hand in hand. Contact SERVPRO to remediate the water damage and help prevent a mold infestation.

Involve IICRC Certified Restorers Like SERVPRO Immediately to Help with Water Removal in your Berkeley Heights Home

When water leaks in your home, it can cause a lot of damage in a short time. Mold could grow, your wooden floor could wrap, and odors could linger in the house. It is critical to contact SERVPRO professionals as soon as possible to help you restore your property.

The effects of trapped moisture

The damage is painfully evident and motivates property owners to handle water removal in Berkeley Heights homes. However, you may end up with severe damages without the required expertise and appropriate equipment and tools.

The moisture left behind creates risks such as:

  • Mold growth: Mold produces toxic spores that can cause health effects. Our technicians treat affected areas using advanced and approved products. We can use chlorine, a disinfectant that destroys 99 percent of microorganisms.
  • Poor structural integrity: Pillars may begin to rot, leading to weak structure.
  • Persisting odors that can make the property uncomfortable to reside 

How do technicians dry an affected property?

Depending on the damage, SERVPRO technicians can use an indirect fired furnace to speed up the drying process. The equipment uses a heat exchanger. It heats the dry outside air before bringing it into the drying environment. The equipment takes evaporated water from wet materials increasing the humidity ratio in the air. 

Small water leaks may seem harmless but can cause expensive damage in the long run. Contact SERVPRO of Western Union County at (908) 791-9177 for excellent restoration services “Like it never even happened.”

Is Water Damage Restoration Essential for New Providence Residents?

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

water leaking from ceiling tiles If you are affected by excess water, don’t go back into the property until it is deemed safe. Call SERVPRO to assess and remediate the water damage.

SERVPRO is a Professional, New Providence Organization that Provides Expert Water Damage Repair

Using a professional water restoration service can ensure that your home remains safe and hygienic after a water intrusion event. Once water enters a property, it can create numerous hazards, including biohazardous substances, personal dangers, and environmental hazards such as the presence of asbestos or lead paints. 

Carrying out water damage repair in your New Providence home requires a careful assessment of potential hazards and how to ensure the working environment remains safe. Our technicians are qualified to carry out a legitimate safety inspection in your home and neutralize potential threats. By creating an organized working environment, we can ensure efficient and safe restoration.

  • Sagging ceilings could indicate a loss of structural integrity or possible collapse. We can assess and mitigate these losses.
  • Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are vital to safety when working on a water damage site.
  • Accurately assessing water contamination levels in the home or hazardous materials. 

Professional services work safely and efficiently. Contact SERVPRO of Western Union County for water damage repair at (908) 791-9177.

Expedite Water Removal in New Providence with Professional Services

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Equipment inside vehicle SERVPRO works to provide Fast and Efficient Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration to home. Call us today.

SERVPRO technicians handle water mitigation to save your home from further damage

If you have had a water spill in your home that is extensive, you may need professional help. Removing the water quickly minimizes the problems and costs that can occur if the moisture remains. 

Scope the Site

To determine the extent of New Providence water damage, our technicians do an initial scope. The amount of moisture left in materials decides the techniques needed to dry your home properly. Our technicians understand absorption rates vary in different materials, which means different materials may take longer than others to dry. Moisture meters can help determine the moisture absorption rate in:

  • Carpets
  • Upholstery
  • Wooden furniture
  • Fittings
  • Content 

Restoring Your Home

Scoping allows us to determine the correct plan of action. We use various processes to put your home back to normal, including:

  • Water extraction
  • Drying
  • Controlled demolition
  • Containment

Our careful planning allows us to provide precisely what your home needs. Each situation is unique, and the individual circumstances must be taken into consideration. 

For water mitigation catered to your situation, contact SERVPRO of Western Union County at (908) 791-9177. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Berkeley Heights Can Visit the Salt Box Museum and Take a Step Back in Time

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO equipment at work. The professional technicians of SERVPRO are IICRC certified for any job. Water damage mitigation should be left to the pros.

It’s a Great Way to Learn More About the Berkeley Heights & New Providence Past

Imagine putting two houses, built at different times and at different locations, together to become one residence. That is precisely what happened with the Salt Box Museum. Formerly known as the Garrison/Dickinson/Genung House, the museum is an absolute delight for history lovers.

When you enter the building, half of the house on your left was most likely built in the early 19th century. Augustus Garrison, the Presbyterian Church Sexton, had the house moved in the mid-1800s. The newer side, in the saltbox shape, was moved and joined with the other side. The entire house was moved in 1967 to 1350 Springfield Ave, New Providence. 

You can see all kinds of memorabilia and artifacts from the American Revolution. Some of the items pre-date the war. It is a fascinating look at an earlier time. The museum is currently accepting tours by appointment. Call (908) 665-1034 to schedule a time to take the tour. Free admission.

SERVPRO Provides Water Mitigation to Berkeley Heights

If you need water mitigation, SERVPRO of Western Union County is here with professional technicians to get the job done right. Contact us at (908) 791-9177 today.  

Ahoy! Community Movies in New Providence

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO truck parked in front of home Enjoy a night out while SERVPRO takes care of your property's water damage. We are available to assist you around the clock.

Join New Providence Businesses for “Movies on The Harbour”

On November 18th, New Providence begins showing community movies again. Sponsored by Pupstar Entertainment & Events, Green Parrot, East Bay & Bristol Wines, this is an incredible outdoor experience for the whole family. It is also a good option for Date Night.  




Ticket Prices, Show Times, and Dinner Options

  • $10 per person which includes a chair, or you can bring a blanket to rest on the grass
  • Start time is 8:00 pm; movie-goers can arrive at 7:30 pm to claim their seats and begin setting up
  • Appetizers and pizzas are perennial favorites from the Special Movie Menu, but the Green Parrot Bar & Grill also has its regular menu items available for purchase
  • For the grown-ups, there is also a variety of 19 different wines available 
  • All movies shown finish at 10:00 pm so parents can get kids home at a reasonable time

SERVPRO of Western Union County is proud to be part of the New Providence community. If you need help in your home with water damage repair, call us today at (908) 791-9177. 

What Are the Three Main Signs That Your Water-Damaged Drywall Needs Replacement in Berkeley Heights?

9/20/2020 (Permalink)

flooded living room with floating couch and lamp Water damage in your home can be very stressful for you and your family. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for professional remediation and mitigation services.

When drywall becomes saturated, there are many reasons that replacement might be better than drying for your Berkeley Heights home.

Because so much of your water service throughout your Berkeley Heights home is stored within the property walls, wall system elements like insulation and drywall become the first and most damaged of exposed materials. While not every situation requires the replacement and reconstruction of these damaged areas, understanding the signals that can indicate severe damage saves time and money when our SERVPRO team gets to work in the house after a water disaster.

What Are the Main Telling Signs That Drywall is Damaged?

When water damage repair in your Berkeley Heights home is necessary, this could indicate several actions that our professionals must take. Regarding damage to the drywall, there are typically several direct signs that severe and irreparable damage has occurred that requires our team's in-house contractors to begin controlled demolition efforts. By removing drywall portions, we can prevent further wicking of moisture to other undamaged panels. Some indicators that sheetrock must get replaced includes:

  • Swelling/Bloating – Overexposure of gypsum board to humidity and water can often lead to swelling of the material, especially at the base closest to the floors. 
  • Sagging – When drywall gets used as a ceiling material, the weight of saturation can cause the board to begin drooping between the studs and eventually separate from screws altogether. 
  • Microbial Growth – Mold colonization, which often first becomes visible as spots on the surface, can usually indicate a need for material removal for remediation purposes.

Drywall is often one of the most sensitive materials that water comes into contact with in a house after a disaster. With how quickly these structural elements can get destroyed, our SERVPRO of Western Union County team must prepare for demolition and build back. Give our professionals a call anytime that you need us at (908) 791-9177.

Click here for more information about Berkeley Heights.

Will the Type of Water Damage Increase the Loss?

7/26/2020 (Permalink)

green gear drying flood-cut walls SERVPRO uses advanced equipment and controlled demolition to restore flood-damaged New Providence properties

SERVPRO Has the Skilled Water Restoration Technicians Necessary to Limit Loss to Your New Providence Property

Once you have water damage in your New Providence home, property drying is just part of the reason to call a highly-trained restoration team. Not all losses are the same when looking at water infiltration. Various kinds of water can bring on different results. SERVPRO features technicians trained via the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to handle any water situation you may face.

What are the Unique Categories of Water Damage?

When handling your need for water restoration in New Providence, our team breaks down water damage into several categories. Due to the variations in water types, trained restoration technicians have the skill necessary to adjust accordingly. This makes water damage restoration preferred over DIY methods alone. These unique classes are categorized based on contamination levels from different water source:

Clean Water – Category 1

By itself, category one water does not pose a significant health threat to humans or pets. This is water stemming from sanitary, clean sources. However, even though the water is clean directly from the source, this type of water damage is not without risk. Without proper extraction and drying measures, there is the potential for mold and mildew growth. Additionally, any clean water event can transform into a Category 2 even when it is left to degrade for too long. Various sources of clean water will include:

  • Showerheads
  • Faucets
  • Waterlines
  • Drinking fountains or bubblers

Gray Water – Category 2

With gray water, there is the potential for health risks for humans and pets. However, the threat is generally not overly significant or life-threatening. When Category 2 water sources are involved with your water damage, various biological, physical, or chemical contaminants are within. These elements are known for causing discomfort or potential illness should the water be consumed or with prolonged exposure. Various sources of gray water include:

  • Stagnant or uncleaned Category 1 water
  • Failed sump pumps
  • Seepage
  • Toilet water without the presence of fecal matter
  • Washing machine or dishwasher discharge

Black Water – Category 3

Industry guidelines for black water describe it as being extremely unsanitary. Category 3 water contaminants are harmful and can lead to moderate to severe illness with exposure or ingestion. This is why this water contamination level must only be handled by highly-trained technicians that use property sanitation and safety techniques. Various sources of black water include:

  • Stagnant or uncleaned Category 2 water
  • Toilet water that contains fecal matter
  • Seawater
  • Sewage
  • Groundwater containing chemicals, pesticides, and organic matter

Our team works to distinguish the type of water present within your home when we arrive at the job site. We take this information and formulate a plan to handle the water damage to minimize the risks to human health. It is vital that homeowners always remain aware of both Category 2 and Category 3 water due to the possible health concerns. Regardless of the water source, our skilled water restoration technicians (WRT) here at SERVPRO can start the cleanup and drying process to help minimize the impact on your health and your property.

What Can Skilled Restoration Help With?

There are many causes for water damage, each of which we are prepared to address when called for restoration services. Some of the issues that we cover include:

  • Frozen pipes
  • Leaking pipes
  • Burst pipes
  • Basement flooding
  • Storm damage
  • Moisture left after a fire loss event
  • Appliance failure, and more

With our water restoration expertise and our step-by-step approach to cleanup and drying, we can restore your interior to get back to preloss conditions faster than DIY methods alone. Just a quick phone call will deploy our Green Fleet to your property within four hours or less to begin the assessment process. The benefits of calling our team includes:

  • Immediate response times
  • Detailed water damage evaluation
  • Specialized procedures for cleaning and drying
  • Moisture monitoring and reporting
  • Controlled demolition
  • Full deodorization and sanitization
  • Follow-up visits to ensure relative humidity is at the appropriate level

You should know that the most common insurance claim from homeowners will be water damage related. Many homeowners will experience some moisture damage to their property within their lifetime of ownership. SERVPRO is Faster to Any Size Disaster, and our technicians are ready to handle your water damage needs. We have technicians standing by to get to work 24/7 for emergency service to limit the loss and return to life as usual.

Do you want to know more about how we can help with your water restoration needs? Call SERVPRO of Western Union County at (908) 791-9177, and we can send out a team. Once our crew chief puts a plan into action, the results will make it “Like it never even happened.”

If a Pipe Breaks in My New Providence House, Do I Really Need a Water Cleanup Crew?

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

Close-up Of Flooded Floor In The Living Room From Water Leak SERVPRO of Western Union County’s emergency services line, (908) 791-9177, is answered 24/7.

Water Damage often Requires Professional Restoration in New Providence

Many homeowners assume clean water poses little risk when a pipe breaks, apart from the initial drenching, but there are a few problems that the release of possibly hundreds of gallons of water can create. Your residence in New Providence needs a professional water cleanup and mitigation crew. Dirty water from a broken drain or toilet can cause additional problems, of course, but unmitigated clean water can quickly become equally filthy.

How Does the Training SERVPRO Technicians Receive Improve the Water Cleanup Services Provided?

SERVPRO’s thoroughly trained water damage specialists know:
    •    The most efficient procedures to extract the water, so it stops spreading (decreasing necessary drying time),
    •    Which common household items harmfully contaminate water (and how to counteract them),
    •    Highly effective methods for eliminating microbial populations in saturated locations,
    •    How to determine the amount of water absorbed by affected materials (which affects drying time), as well as
    •    What to do when unexpected situations arise (including existing mold, lead paint, and the presence of asbestos).

What Else can a Water Cleanup Specialist do that Most Property Owners Can’t?

Our water cleanup specialists in New Providence use a device that easily pinpoints any areas holding onto water after absorbing spreading water. We create a printout of the visual readout on our infrared camera’s screen before we begin any work to compare to later visual readings. We do this to eliminate hidden water.

When water accumulates inside the layers making up your flooring, permanent damage can take place. SERVPRO’s building and reconstruction professionals do much to increase your restoration options. This includes flooring repair and reinstallations of wooden, tile, linoleum, and carpet.

SERVPRO of Western Union County’s emergency services line, (908) 791-9177, is answered 24/7. Residents in the area around Berkeley Heights, NJ, Netherwood, NJ, and Union, NJ can rely on us for water cleanup, as well as mitigation and restoration, no matter how minor or extensive.

We Have The Best Techniques To Restore Your New Providence Home After A water Loss

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage on a wall in a home after a water leak The water from the second floor leak not only affected the second floor, but the first floor as well. We arrived right away and begin restoration.

How Do You Handle Water Damage from a Leaky Dishwasher?

Turn to SERVPRO to Inspect and Assess the Damage in Your New Providence Home

A leaky dishwater can turn your kitchen into a watery mess, and the damage can extend well beyond the visible water. Consider calling a professional company to inspect the damage, use the right tools and fix the problem.

What are some of the tools used to find less obvious water damage in your New Providence Home?

o Thermal Imaging Cameras
o Moisture Meters
o Boroscopes and Inspection Cameras
o Luminometer

How is moisture detected in building materials?

Thermal imaging cameras are used to identify the presence of water that may have leaked into flooring, drywall, etc. These cameras evaluate the extent of the moisture and show how far it has traveled. They may also indicate the presence of water that cannot be detected using other tools.

How is moisture in building materials measured?

Moisture meters provide reliable numbers for SERVPRO professionals to assess this kind of damage. These meters can also be calibrated to measure moisture penetration in a variety of different materials.

What about hidden moisture damage?

Inspection cameras and boroscopes can look behind cabinets, the dishwasher itself and other hard to inspect areas to detect the presence of moisture. They can also detect contamination, and they have the ability to record still images and take video.

Can contamination be detected and measured?

Yes, in most instances. SERVPRO professionals use luminometers to test surfaces and residual water for organic contamination. This allows them to determine if further action is necessary to eliminate this problem.

What if water damages extends beyond the kitchen into the carpets?

Moisture sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets and padding so that these items can be serviced as well.

Count on SERVPRO of Western Union County to provide a complete inspection of water damage in your kitchen. Call us at (908) 791-9177 to get the job done right.

See more about New Providence.

Proper Planning Helps Expedite Water Removal from a Berkeley Heights Home

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

A set of road signs with the words Plan, Action, and Success on them. Water removal from your Berkeley Heights home needs to be quick, let's make a plan.

Let SERVPRO help you make the proper plans for your Berkeley Heights water damage.

When you realize the water spill in your home is too adverse to handle on your own, the next line of thought is whether you can find a professional that can complete the removal fast enough to minimize inconveniences and costs. We managed to remove water from a Berkeley Heights home in record time because of proper planning.

What Rooms or Property Section is affected?

Before taking steps for the actual water removal from the Berkeley Heights home, Our SERVPRO technicians scoped the site to establish how widespread the problem was. The leak started in a laundry on the first floor and spread to the lower floor. Such water loss situations are harder to tackle because the water undoubtedly finds a way into wall and ceiling cavities. Luckily, there was no standing water on the floors since the homeowner had turned off the mains. We used a thermal camera to check for wet spots in the ceiling and wall cavities so that we could know which areas to focus on.

What is wet and how wet is it

The amount of water or wetness left in materials determines the effort needed to dry the property. Our SERVPRO technicians know that absorbency rates vary in different materials, which affects the amount of water the materials hold. As expected, the carpeted floor held most of the spilled water. We also used moisture meters to check other contents such as upholstery and wooden furniture and fittings.

What processes are necessary? 

Once armed with the information on how widespread the water loss is, there is a need to take appropriate steps to counter it. Various processes, including demolition, containment, and drying may be necessary. At home, we had to perform some demolition when opening up the staircase, some cabinets, and other assemblies. We had to replace the pad and dry the carpet, so removal was necessary. Setting up air movers and dehumidifiers helped finalize the drying process.

Planning is crucial when handling water loss situations. Call SERVPRO of Western Union County at (908) 791-9177 to help. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

To learn more about Berkeley Heights, click here.

Save Important Documents with Professional Commercial Water Cleanup in New Providence

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Wet and crinkled magazine pages SERVPRO has several techniques to restore water damaged documents.

Water Cleanup with SERVPRO May Save Documents

If you have had water damage throughout your commercial space, you need to act quickly to dry everything and protect relevant documents. Enlisting the help of the water cleanup professionals will get the job done faster and smarter so that you can get back to business as usual.

Commercial water cleanup in New Providence is crucial whether you had a flood due to a storm or internal issues from a burst pipe. Even if you have information backed up digitally, the chances are good that you have countless records stored inside the building. Prompt response and removal can ensure the paperwork is out of danger from excessive moisture. 

Water Restoration in Action

SERVPRO technicians have the expertise and equipment to handle water damage within your commercial space. We utilize innovative freeze-drying techniques and make sure that all records and paperwork get removed from the building as fast as possible. Our trained contents team can work to remove any of the at-risk items in your building to help prevent any further decomposition or degradation. 

Once deployed at your place of business, our team can get to work with drying units and air movers carefully positioned for optimum results. In addition to document drying and care, we can carefully remove various appliances and equipment to implement moisture removal techniques. 

Get Rid of Tough Flood Odors

Another potential issue from water infiltration in your commercial space is odor control. Musty odors can sometimes remain well after water damage restoration, but SERVPRO can help. Our team can work on treating your carpets and other impacted materials with special disinfectants. Whether a small area has been affected or the entire interior, we can make sure that odors are tackled to leave the air as clean and fresh as possible. 

Whenever a water disaster strikes, the staff at SERVPRO of Western Union County can be there to help. We are available for emergency services, 24/7! Give us a call today at (908) 791-9177, and we can send a team out for assessment.

See more about New Providence on the Passaic River. 

Western Union County 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (201) 496-6024

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Western Union County and Western Union County has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Western Union County

SERVPRO of Western Union County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

What To Do When a Pipe Bursts

7/14/2019 (Permalink)

A pipe burst can happen at any time. When it does, people are often left unsure of what to do. Here at SERVPRO of Western Union County, we are equipped to deal with that type of situation in the best way possible. While you wait for us to get to the scene, there are a couple of things you can do:

  1. Turn of the water to your house. If the water remains on, odds are the water will continue to leak or even flood. By shutting off the source, you are reducing the amount of damage done to your house.
  2. If the pipe continues to leak or drip, use a bucket to collect the water to contain the problem.
  3. If the pipe breaks in a wall or ceiling, switch off the power at the main breaker and avoid electrical fixtures or wiring. The mix of wires and water can be extremely dangerous.

We are trained to help and deal with these kinds of situations. If you ever find yourself in that place, give us a call at (201) 496-6024.

Categorizing a Water Damage

7/14/2019 (Permalink)

When our crew gets to a water damage, they identify the extent of the damage by categorizing the risk and immediate threat the water poses.

Category

Water is categorized to describe how dirty and unsanitary the water is.

  • Category 1 - The source of the water is sanitary and it does not pose a risk. However, if left untreated, it could change categories and become unsanitary.
  • Category 2 - The water is significantly contaminated and it can cause a human to become sick if they come in contact with it.
  • Category 3 - The water is the most unsanitary and contaminated and contains harmful pathogenic or toxigenic agents.

Water is categorized not only for the safety of the homeowner but for our crew as well. By categorizing the water, it also allows us to use the proper chemicals and equipment to deal with the task at hand. If you find yourself in this situation, give SERVPRO of Western Union County a call at (201) 496-6024.

Western Union County Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

7/14/2019 (Permalink)

Although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall, a basement can flood at anytime. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Western Union County basement could flood, including: 

  • A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
  • Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
  • Storm sewer backup
  • Sanitary sewer backup
  • Foundation drainage failure
  • Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
  • And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - (201) 496-6024

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Fort Lee and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

  • We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
  • We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
  • We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
  • Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
  • We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
  • Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (201) 496-6024

Classifying a Water Damage

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

When our crew gets to a water damage, we not only categorize it, but we classify the damage as well.

Classification

Water damages are classified based on the amount of water as well as the material involved in the damage.

  • Class 1 - This is the least amount of water, absorption, and evaporation. Only a portion of a room is affected or a larger area with minimal moisture absorbed. There is little to no wet carpet present.
  • Class 2 - This involves a large amount of water, absorption, and evaporation. At least an entire room with carpet is affected. There is moisture in structural materials and substructure soil.
  • Class 3 - This involves the greatest amount of water, absorption, and evaporation. In this class, the water may have come from overhead. Ceilings, walls, insulation, carpets, etc. are saturated.
  • Class 4 - This class relates to special drying situations. For example, some materials may require longer drying times and even different methods.

Classifying water damages is vital to our evaluation. It lets us know what type of equipment we need to use, the extent of the damage, and how long we can expect it to take. If you find yourself in this situation, give SERVPRO of Western Union County a call at (201) 496-6024.