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What to Do When a Heavy Rain Is Forecast | SERVPRO of Stoughton, Brockton

2/20/2024 (Permalink)

Raining on roof home,Rain drops fall continuously with blur green nature background. We're here to restore your home when unexpected water damage hits. Call SERVPRO of Stoughton, Brockton today!

We certainly see our fair share of rainstorms around the Brockton area, and they can range from gentle pattering rain to full-scale severe storms with heavy rain, strong wind and thunder. 

No matter what kind of rainstorm we encounter, water damage is always a possibility. Rain can sneak its way into our homes and leak down our walls and into our floors without much forewarning.

Preparing for storms is always the best way to prevent significant damage. Starting some of the tasks below as soon as a storm is forecasted can help you keep the rain outside where it belongs. 

Preparing Your Home
Each storm system that passes through our area can toss around yard debris and blow leaves onto your roof. As the seasons pass, that debris can get stuck in your gutter system and cause blockages or clogs. 

When the rain comes pouring down, it won’t have anywhere to go and will back up onto your roof or pour over the side of your home and down into your foundation. 

One simple fix for this is to clean out your gutters! This is especially important during the fall season, but it really should be done after every strong storm if debris is building up in the tracks. You should also make sure to check on your sump pump if you have one. The worst time to find out that your sump pump isn’t working is when your basement starts flooding. 

Securing Your Roof

Another helpful way to prepare your home is to make sure your roof is ready for the incoming rain. Since our roofs are the first line of defense when it comes to keeping us safe and dry, they often are the first place to experience damage during a storm. 

Check the roof line for any gaps or cracks, and grab a ladder and inspect your shingles. Even just a single missing shingle or broken corner can be enough to invite water into your attic that will leak throughout your home. 

Doing a thorough inspection of your roof after every storm and tending to issues quickly can help you avoid more damage down the road. You should also do this with your windows and doors. Check the seals for signs of wear and tear or deterioration, and add new caulk or tackle repairs right away. 

Our Water Damage Restoration Process

Even if you do all of this and are seemingly prepared for the next storm, you always run the risk of being surprised by water damage. Water can be sneaky and can get into the tiniest of gaps or cracks. 

Our water damage restoration team is trained to handle every sort of water damage scenario, and we can ensure a thorough and reliable process.

We work hard to save as many of your possessions as possible and we will dry out everything before tackling your repairs. Water can easily warp walls, soak carpets and sag floors, but we are trained to restore all that and more. When you suffer water damage, SERVPRO of Stoughton, Brockton is the team for you. 


Suffering water damage can be really frustrating. Contact SERVPRO of Stoughton, Brockton for a quick restoration.

Understanding Black Mold

1/23/2024 (Permalink)

Black Mold on Ceiling Black mold growing on ceiling, potentially compromising the integrity of the building

What is Black Mold, and Why is it a Concern?

Black mold, scientifically termed Stachybotrys chartarum, is a toxic mold variant that thrives in damp, humid conditions. Often characterized by its dark coloration, this mold is not just an aesthetic concern but poses significant health and structural risks. Its spores, when airborne, can exacerbate respiratory problems, allergies, and even lead to more severe health issues, particularly in those with compromised immune systems. Beyond health risks, black mold can also undermine the structural integrity of buildings, leading to costly repairs and devaluation of property. It is crucial for home and business owners to understand the gravity of black mold infestations and take proactive measures to mitigate its growth and spread.

Primary Causes of Black Mold Growth in Buildings

Understanding the root causes of black mold growth is essential for effective prevention and treatment. Primarily, black mold thrives in environments that provide moisture, organic material, and adequate temperatures.

  1. Moisture: The predominant factor for black mold growth is excess moisture, which can originate from several sources such as leaking pipes, roof leaks, condensation, or high indoor humidity. Buildings with poor drainage systems or those that have experienced flooding are particularly susceptible.
  2. Poor Ventilation: Inadequate ventilation in buildings leads to moisture accumulation, especially in high-humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens. This lack of airflow not only supports mold growth but also prevents the drying out of damp areas, further exacerbating the problem.
  3. Building Materials: Black mold feeds on organic materials found in many building components like wood, drywall, and insulation. These materials, when exposed to moisture, provide the perfect breeding ground for mold.
  4. Temperature: Mold thrives in warm temperatures, typically found indoors. Buildings with inconsistent temperature regulation or poor insulation can have pockets of warmth that encourage mold growth.

Addressing these key factors is crucial in preventing and managing black mold in any building. By controlling moisture levels, ensuring proper ventilation, and using mold-resistant building materials, the risks associated with black mold can be significantly mitigated.

Identifying Early Signs of Black Mold

Early detection of black mold is crucial in preventing its spread and mitigating potential health risks. Being vigilant about the signs can help in taking timely action. Here are key indicators to watch for:

  1. Visible Growth: The most obvious sign is the appearance of dark, often black or greenish-black, splotches on surfaces, particularly in moist areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
  2. Musty Odors: A persistent musty, earthy smell is a strong indicator of mold presence, even if it's not immediately visible. This odor can be particularly noticeable in closed spaces or upon entering a room.
  3. Water Damage: Signs of water damage such as water stains, discoloration, or peeling wallpaper/paint can indicate potential mold growth areas, especially if the area remains damp.
  4. Health Symptoms: Unexplained allergic reactions like sneezing, sore eyes, nasal congestion, or skin irritation when at home may suggest mold presence. People with asthma or respiratory conditions may notice worsening symptoms.
  5. Humidity and Condensation: Excessive humidity and condensation on windows, pipes, or walls create ideal conditions for mold growth. Regular monitoring of these areas can help in early detection.

Regular inspections, particularly in prone areas, are essential in catching mold growth early. If any signs are detected, it’s advisable to seek professional assessment to determine the extent and necessary remediation steps.

Effective Strategies for Preventing Black Mold Growth

Preventing black mold growth is more manageable than dealing with its aftermath. Implementing effective strategies can significantly reduce the risk of mold infestation in any building. Here are some key preventive measures:

  1. Control Humidity Levels: Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50% using dehumidifiers and air conditioners. This range hinders mold growth.
  2. Enhance Ventilation: Increase airflow in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens by using exhaust fans and keeping windows open when possible.
  3. Immediate Water Damage Response: Address water leaks and spills promptly. The faster you dry the area, the lesser the chance for mold to grow.
  4. Regular Maintenance Checks: Conduct routine inspections for leaks in roofs, pipes, and walls. Early detection and repair of these issues can prevent mold proliferation.
  5. Use Mold-Resistant Products: When building or renovating, consider using mold-resistant drywall, paints, and building materials, especially in moisture-prone areas.
  6. Keep Spaces Clean and Dry: Regular cleaning and vacuuming with HEPA filters can reduce mold spores in the home. Ensure that areas like bathrooms and basements are well-ventilated and dry.
  7. Proper Insulation: Ensure your home is properly insulated, including windows, doors, and pipes, to reduce the chances of condensation which can lead to mold growth.

Implementing these strategies creates an environment that is not conducive to mold growth, thus safeguarding the structural integrity of the building and the health of its occupants.

Conclusion

Combatting black mold effectively hinges on awareness and proactive prevention. Recognizing the early signs and understanding the causes is vital for maintaining a healthy environment in our homes and businesses. Simple measures like controlling humidity, ensuring good ventilation, and addressing water-related issues promptly can significantly deter mold growth. Regular maintenance and vigilance are key. 

Need Expert Mold Remediation? Contact SERVPRO® Today

If you're facing mold challenges in your home or business, don't wait for the problem to escalate. SERVPRO of Stoughton and Brockton's professional mold remediation services are your solution. Our team of experts is equipped with the knowledge, tools, and experience to efficiently identify, address, and prevent mold issues, ensuring your environment is healthy and safe. Trust SERVPRO of Stoughton and Brockton to provide effective, thorough, and timely mold remediation services. Read more about our mold remediation services or give us a call today!

What the Polar Vortex Means for Your Pipes

1/15/2024 (Permalink)

Thermostat in Snow Polar Vortexes bring exceedingly cold temperatures

As the winter weather continues, "Polar Vortexes" become far more likely, signaling plummeting temperatures and severe weather conditions. This meteorological term, often associated with bone-chilling cold, can have a profound impact on daily life, particularly for homeowners and business owners. In addition to several drops in temperature to worry about, polar vortexes also heavily affect plumbing systems. As temperatures dive, the risk of pipes freezing and subsequently bursting increases, potentially leading to severely damaging water floods. Understanding the polar vortex, how it affects plumbing piping, and the necessary preventive measures are essential for bracing for the winter months. SERVPRO of Stoughton and Brockton has crafted some preventive measures you can utilize to ensure your plumbing stays safe during the ongoing polar vortex.

Understanding the Polar Vortex and Its Impact

A polar vortex is essentially a vast expanse of swirling cold air that typically envelopes the polar regions. However, during the winter, the vortex at the North Pole often expands, pushing frigid air toward the equator and affecting much of the Northern Hemisphere. This shift can result in a sudden and steep drop in temperatures, often catching businesses and residences off-guard.

The critical issue with these plummeting temperatures is their effect on water pipes. Water expands when it freezes, and this expansion can exert extraordinary pressure on pipes, regardless of whether they are made of metal or plastic. When the pressure becomes too great, pipes can burst, leading to water damage, the potential for mold growth, and the need for repairs on top of restoration and cleaning services.

Prevention and Protection

To mitigate the risks of a polar vortex freezing your pipes, consider the following preventive steps:

  1. Insulate Pipes: Wrapping exposed pipes in foam insulation, particularly those in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages, can significantly reduce the risk of freezing.
  2. Maintain Consistent Indoor Temperature: Keeping your home heated consistently, even when you're away, helps keep the internal temperature of pipes above freezing.
  3. Allow Faucets to Drip: Allowing a slight drip in faucets can prevent pressure buildup within pipes, reducing the risk of freezing and bursting.
  4. Drain Water from Pools and Sprinklers: Drain water from the swimming pool and sprinkler supply lines following the manufacturer's instructions.
  5. Close Inside Valves Supplying Outdoor Hose Bibs: After removing and draining outdoor hoses, close the inside valves that supply these bibs but leave the outside valve open.
  6. Insulate Vulnerable Spaces: Increase insulation in areas like attics, basements, and crawl spaces to maintain higher temperatures.
  7. Open Cabinet Doors: Allow warmer air to circulate around plumbing by opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors.

The polar vortex, while a natural weather phenomenon, poses a significant challenge to plumbing, particularly regarding the risk of frozen and bursting pipes. By understanding this meteorological event and taking proactive, preventative measures, you can safeguard your home against the potentially devastating and costly consequences. Prevention actions are far more effective and less costly than repair. Stay warm, stay informed, and prepare your home for whatever the winter brings. 

Should you incur any water or storm damage during the Polar Vortex, feel free to contact SERVPRO of Stoughton and Brockton, and we'll make it "Like It Never Even Happened!"

Breaking Down the Rapid Progression of a House Fire | SERVPRO of Stoughton, Brockton

11/20/2023 (Permalink)

burning house roof Has a fire left your home in a devastating condition? SERVPRO of Stoughton, Brockton is Here to Help®. Call us today!

No homeowner wants to think about the possibility of suffering a house fire. The sheer amount of damage and destruction is one thing, but the danger that a fire poses to your family is another threat entirely. Any time that a fire breaks out in your home, your priority should always be finding your way to safety. 

Fire can fully engulf homes in just a few minutes, so knowing how fast they can spread and what to do if a fire starts in your home can keep your family safer in a true emergency situation.

The Minutes After a Fire Starts

Fires can start in any manner of ways, and they can get out of control quickly. A forgotten candle, an overloaded extension cord or a grease bubble that pops and sparks in the kitchen can lead to a growing blaze. 

Once the fire has started, it will start to consume everything flammable in its vicinity. 

After 30 seconds: The small flame grows into a large fire by consuming all of the available flammable materials. 

After one minute: Black smoke fills the entire room where the fire started. 

After two minutes: The smoke becomes dangerous to inhale. Blackout conditions may have occurred. 

After five minutes: Your entire home is engulfed in flames. 

How to Stay Safe

Your first goal should be either to quickly snuff out the flame or get out of your home as safely as you can. A quick reaction and a fire extinguisher can do wonders, but sometimes the fire will grow out of control before you get the chance to fight it, or you don’t feel safe enough to stay in the room to do so. 

Either way, your safety should be your top priority. Make a quick exit by finding the nearest door or window. If you are in an interior part of your home, you may have to get down on your hands and knees and crawl to safety. 

Even just a couple inhales of that smoke can disorient you and cause you to become sleepy, so stay below the smoke line and get outside to your family’s predetermined meeting location. Once outside, call 911 and make sure your family is accounted for. 

How We Can Help You Recover
Once the authorities have fought the fire and it is completely out, the shock of what just happened may start to creep in. Get on the phone and give us a call. We handle situations like this all of the time, and we can walk you through your recovery process step by step.

Whether your home is only partially damaged or sections of your house are a total loss, we can help you clean and restore your property from top to bottom. We will handle everything from the initial debris removal to the cleaning, sanitization and final reconstruction tasks. 

No fire damage is too large or too destructive for us to handle. We will always be here to help. 

Fire damage can be overwhelming. Contact SERVPRO of Stoughton, Brockton for immediate assistance. 

Answering Your FAQs About Our Construction Services | SERVPRO of Stoughton, Brockton

7/26/2023 (Permalink)

Man at a workbench measuring wood to cut for a home improvement project. Need help with your home renovation? Call SERVPRO of Stoughton, Brockton to help get your home in top shape.

If you’ve ever needed our services before, you were probably dealing with the aftereffects of water damage, storm damage or fire damage. Or maybe you had a mold outbreak in your home or business. But did you know we also offer construction services?

It’s true! While we are perhaps best known for our comprehensive restoration services, we also offer a number of other services, including construction and reconstruction. These services can come in handy if you face a significant disaster situation, like major water damage or a fire, or if you simply want to remodel part of your home.

When you need construction services, it’s completely normal to have many questions before choosing a provider and starting the work. Keep reading as our SERVPRO® team answers some common questions.

Q: How long will the construction process take?


A: Of all the questions we get, this is by far the most common! That makes total sense: You don’t want your house to be a construction zone for any longer than absolutely necessary. 

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, though. The project timeline will be determined by a number of factors, including the reason for the construction work (a remodel vs. extensive home damage, for example) and the size of the project.

When we undertake your project, we will provide you with an estimated completion date. While that may shift over time for factors beyond our control, like access to certain construction components, we will keep you informed of the timeline at every step of the process.

Q: Do we need to be home during construction work?


A: No! You can trust our team to handle repairs and ongoing construction work with the utmost efficiency and care whether you’re in the house or away from it.

We mentioned above that we’ll keep you informed about the project timeline at all times. That also means you’ll be aware of what we’re working on and when we’re working on it. If there are certain parts of the construction process you would like to supervise, you’ll know when they’re happening.

Q: Do I need a permit for construction?


A: That’s one item you can take off your to-do list. When you partner with SERVPRO for your construction needs, we handle permit acquisition. 

Because we are locally owned and operated, we’re your neighbors. We know the ins and outs of our community, including regulations we need to follow. 

Have construction needs? Reach out to us today to get started! We’re here 24/7.

SERVPRO of Stoughton, MA: Your Reliable Ally in Fire Damage Restoration

7/13/2023 (Permalink)

close up of house fire SERVPRO of Stoughton, MA, transforming fire-damaged spaces into safe havens with expert fire damage restoration—your recovery is our mission.

Fire damage can be a harrowing experience, but you're not alone. At SERVPRO of Stoughton, Massachusetts, we specialize in fire damage restoration, bringing your property back to life. We understand that each hour spent restoring your property equates to lost revenue and productivity. That's why we're committed to providing immediate, round-the-clock service. Our team of highly trained experts leverages advanced technology and industry-approved techniques to handle smoke, soot, and fire damage. From initial and ongoing damage assessment to cleanup, repair, and deodorization, we oversee the complete restoration process. We're not just about restoring buildings—we're about restoring peace of mind. Trust SERVPRO of Stoughton, Massachusetts, to turn a fire disaster into a mere memory. Your recovery is our mission.

Fire Damage Restoration: Stoughton and Brockton SERVPRO's Proactive Response to Crisis

6/27/2023 (Permalink)

burnt home interior due to fire damage Rising from the Ashes: Stoughton and Brockton SERVPRO's Rapid Response to Fire Damage Restoration

In the face of fire damage, quick and efficient restoration can make the difference between a minor setback and a significant business disruption. Stoughton and Brockton SERVPRO have proven time and again to be indispensable partners in such critical times.

SERVPRO’s team of professionals understands the urgency that fire damage demands. The intricate process of damage assessment, water removal, smoke, and soot clean-up, and restoration begins almost immediately to mitigate the aftermath of fire and prevent secondary damages.

Their state-of-the-art equipment and industry-approved techniques, coupled with extensive experience, ensure a thorough restoration process. From structural cleaning to content recovery, they meticulously restore your commercial space to its pre-fire condition. They also assist with insurance claims, simplifying the process and reducing stress for business owners.

Stoughton and Brockton SERVPRO's commitment to rapid and effective fire damage restoration allows businesses to bounce back from crises swiftly. Their service guarantees not just a restored physical space, but also a rapid return to normalcy, safeguarding your business's future.

Locating a Leak After a Storm | SERVPRO of Stoughton, Brockton

6/16/2023 (Permalink)

A ceiling weighed down by the weight of water and showing leaks and mold growth Summer storms are great for gardens, not your home. If you experience water damage, call SERVPRO of Stoughton, Brockton to get your home cleaned up.

We are lucky to experience all four seasons in the Brockton area. Warm and sunny summers give way to cozy and snowy winters, and we get to experience everything in between. That also means we encounter many different weather situations throughout the year.

Any time that rain or melting snow is present, your home is vulnerable to a potential water leak that can cause widespread issues.

In order to catch these leaks before they damage your walls, floors and ceilings, you have to know where to look around your home. Our SERVPRO of Stoughton, Brockton team explains some of the places that are more vulnerable to water leaks, so read on to learn more.

Around Your Windows and Thresholds

This is one of the most common places for a water leak to occur, but that should be no surprise! Any space that has direct access to the outside is constantly coming into contact with the elements and can spring a leak at any time.

Rain can easily get in between the window sashes and jambs, which will eventually leak behind your walls and into your wall studs. Typically these leaks aren’t noticeable right away, and you can be left with rotten walls or mold around the framing of your house.

The threshold of your exterior doors also can cause water troubles. A door that hangs slightly ajar or isn’t tight against the door frame can invite water up under the door, which can leak down onto your floors as well as soak into the wood underneath your threshold. If that wood can’t dry out properly, it will lead to warping, sagging and rotting as well.

Along Your Roof Line

Our roofs have the huge responsibility of protecting us from the elements and keeping us dry. They block out the snow on the snowiest winters and offer protection when a severe storm whips through town.

Even though your roof and shingles are built to withstand these impacts, they are not indestructible. Over time, wear and tear can lead to damage during a heavy rain or high wind event.

Leaks can occur around your attic windows or skylights, or water can get up under a missing or broken shingle and leak down your walls that way. It is crucial for you to check your roof after every storm and repair any damage you see right away. If you don’t, this damage will only compound and get worse the next time it rains.

Your Basement

If you cringe every time you hear of a storm with heavy rain or when we are on the brink of a spring thaw after a snowy winter, we hear you. Flooded or damp basements are a common occurrence in our area, and it can lead to structural issues to your home and foundation if it becomes a chronic issue.

Patch up any cracks or leaks you see along your foundation lines, and try to ensure your gutters are clear and ready to move any rain down and away from your home. If they are clogged, the rain will back up onto your roof and pour over the sides of your house and land directly onto your foundation. From there, it will seep down into your basement and can cause widespread water damage in a short amount of time.

By understanding where water issues normally crop up in homes, you can check these spaces often and especially after each storm we experience. If you do notice water damage, call SERVPRO of Stoughton, Brockton for a fast and efficient restoration.

Suffering from water damage? Our SERVPRO specialists can help.

SERVPRO's Storm Response Team Available 24/7

7/27/2022 (Permalink)

Houses and streets are flooded after a major storm. SERVPRO's storm response team is available when major weather events are projected to impact your area, call us 24/7.

The summer of 2022 has broken temperature records around the world. But, so far, there hasn't been much hurricane activity. Although the hurricane season is expected to be active according to scientists, we have only seen a few early season tropical storms. This is normal for July, but it does not mean that the chance of a major storm making landfall is over.

It is crucial to pay attention when a hurricane or tropical storm warning is issued by local officials and meteorologists. SERVPRO is available for assistance before and during major storms. We have successfully managed northeast properties through all of the major storms that have hit our region in the past 20 years. We offer window/glass board up, sandbag, flood and pump-out services. Drying and reconstruction services... basically, we are a complete storm restoration service provider.

We are ready and prepared for the next storm. If damage does occur, we will be there to help both residential and commercial property owners.

Call us today if you suspect you are in a flood-prone region. We will inspect your property and prioritize our response if major weather events are on the horizon.

Commercial Water Damage Restoration In the Boston Area

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

An office building has been emptied because of water leaking from the ceiling SERVPRO of Stoughton, Brockton offers 24 hour commercial water damage restoration services. We can manage any size project.

Commercial Water Damage and Restoration Services are available 24 hours a day in the Boston Area. Team Luzzi is an expansive group of SERVPRO franchises that covers territory from Boston to New Jersey and many places in between. If your residential or commercial property has suffered water damage and needs large-scale restoration, we can help. We have the equipment, labor and resources to mobilize and scale up our production to meet any demand anywhere in our territories or beyond.

* If a storm damages a shopping mall that covers multiple floors, we can help.

* If a water pipe has burst in a multi-family property, causing water damage on many floors, we can help.

*If a music venue is experiencing water damage in an area where electrical and/or musical equipment could be damaged, we can help.

We are the pros you call when you need someone to manage and restore a commercial property after water damage. We have been involved in restoration efforts following every major storms to strike New York & southern New England. Our services are highly sought after when project management, labor or equipment are required.

We offer storm preparedness services. If your commercial property is susceptible to flooding, call us now. We can help prepare for the next major storm, and prevent costly damage.