Save Your Home From Winter disasters With These Pipe-Bursting Prevention Tips

10/25/2022 (Permalink)

It is no secret that winter can be a challenging time for homeowners. Between the frigid temperatures and hazardous conditions, it is important to take steps to protect your home from potential disasters. One of the most common problems during the winter is pipe bursting. This can lead to costly repairs and even displacement if water damage occurs. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips on how to prevent your pipes from bursting in cold weather!

1. Keep your home warm - One of the best ways to prevent your pipes from freezing is to keep your home warm. If you are going to be away from home for an extended period of time, make sure to set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help to ensure that your pipes do not freeze while you are away.

2. Insulate your pipes - Another great way to prevent your pipes from freezing is to insulate them. You can purchase pre-made insulation sleeves at most hardware stores. Simply slip the sleeve over any exposed pipes in your home and secure it in place with tape. This will help to keep your pipes warm and prevent them from freezing.

3. Allow faucets to drip - During extremely cold weather, it is a good idea to allow your faucets to drip slightly. This will help to prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting.

4. Disconnect hoses - Be sure to disconnect any hoses that are attached to your outdoor faucets. This will help to prevent your outdoor faucets from freezing and bursting.

5. Know where your main water shut-off valve is located - In the event that your pipes do freeze and burst, it is important to know where your main water shut-off valve is located. This will allow you to quickly shut off the water to your home and prevent further damage.

By following these simple tips, you can help to prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting this winter. If you do experience a pipe burst, be sure to contact a professional water damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Newtown, Yardley, New Hope as soon as possible. We are always here to help!

How to protect your business from water damage if there's a storm.

10/6/2022 (Permalink)

As any business owner knows, the risk of water damage is always present. That's why it's important to have a plan in place to protect your business in the event of a storm. Here are three simple steps you can take to help minimize the risk of water damage to your property.

1. Before the storm hits, make sure all of your windows and doors are properly sealed. If you have any gaps or cracks, water can easily enter and cause damage. Inspect your property regularly and seal any cracks or holes as soon as possible.

2. During the storm, be sure to keep an eye on local weather reports and warnings. If flooding is expected, take steps to move valuable items and equipment to higher ground. If possible, raise furniture off the ground or onto blocks to prevent water damage.

3. After the storm has passed, inspect your property for any signs of water damage. If you see any, be sure to take photos and document the damage for insurance purposes. Then, contact a professional restoration company like SERVPRO Newtown, Yardley, New Hope to begin the cleanup process as soon as possible.

The best time to prepare for a storm is when you're not cleaning up after one. That's why SERVPRO created the Emergency Ready Program (ERP). Our ERP's help you prepare in the event the unthinkable happens. If you'd like a representative to help you set up your Emergency Ready Program (complete with the mobile app!) contact SERVPRO of Newtown/Yardley/New Hope today!

The reality is no one likes dealing with the aftermath of a storm, but it's important to take steps to protect your business from water damage. By following these simple tips, you can help minimize the risk of extensive damage to your property. And if worst comes to worst, remember that there are professional restoration companies who can help get your business back up and running again.

Hidden Dangers of Water Damage (even if you don't see anything!)

10/4/2022 (Permalink)

Many people believe that water damage only occurs when there is flooding or a major leak. However, this is not the case. Water damage can occur gradually over time, and it can be very dangerous, even if you cannot see it. Here are three hidden dangers of water damage that you should be aware of.

Mold Growth

One of the hidden dangers of water damage is mold growth. Mold needs three things to grow: food, moisture, and warmth. Unfortunately, your home likely has all three of these things in abundance. If you suspect that there is mold growing in your home, it is important to have it removed as soon as possible. Mold can cause a number of health problems, including respiratory difficulties, headaches, and nausea.

Structural Damage

Another danger of water damage is structural damage to your home. When water seeps into the walls or foundation of your home, it can cause the wood to rot and the metal to rust. This can weaken the structure of your home and make it more susceptible to collapse in the event of an earthquake or other disaster.

Health Risks

Finally, another hidden danger of water damage is the potential for health problems. When water seeps into your home, it can bring with it harmful bacteria and other toxins. These toxins can cause a variety of health problems, ranging from skin irritation to respiratory problems. If you believe that your health has been affected by water damage, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Water damage can be very dangerous, even if you cannot see it. If you suspect that there may be water damage in your home, it is important to have it inspected by a professional as soon as possible. Mold growth, structural damage, and health risks are all potential dangers of water damage that you should be aware of.

If you've already discovered that you have water damage and need some help from a Restoration Company, give SERVPRO of Newtown/Yardley/New Hope a call and we can walk you through how to fix it up!

Why consider SERVPRO of Newtown/Yardley/New Hope

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

The last thing any homeowner or business owner wants to think about is what to do when disaster strikes. All you want in this situation is to be back to normal. We could say that is where SERVPRO of Newtown/Yardley/New Hope is different and this blog post would be over... We make it like it never happened.

But, we believe that it's always important to remind our readers exactly what makes the SERVPRO team so special...

We are here 24/7

You can call SERVPRO of Newtown/Yardley/New Hope any time of day or night. We understand that disasters often happen when we least expect them and are always ready to help.

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster - A quick response is crucial to water and fire damage restoration. We are dedicated to responding immediately, day or night.

We're Highly Trained Restoration Specialists

As water and fire damage specialists, we have the experience and advanced training that enables us to get your property back to its pre-water or pre-fire condition.

We Use Advanced Equipment and Techniques - The SERVPRO of Newtown/Yardley/New Hope team responds quickly with state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to dry your home or business and return it to pre-water damage condition.

We're a preferred vendor for most insurance companies - As a preferred vendor for most insurance companies, we work together with all major insurance providers to help make your restoration process as smooth as possible.

No Job is too big

The SERVPRO of Newtown/Yardley/New Hope team is equipped to handle any size disaster. We have the resources and personnel to restore your home or business back to pre-disaster condition.

We're always here to help - When you call SERVPRO of Newtown/Yardley/New Hope, you can expect a quick response and compassionate support. We're always ready to help make it "Like it never even happened."

When you need us, we'll be there. Reach out to SERVPRO of Newtown/Yardley/New Hope at 215-579-4423 for all your water, fire, and mold restoration needs!

SERVPRO's 11 Winter Storm Preparation Tips for Homeowners

9/7/2022 (Permalink)

Winter is coming, and with it comes the risk of winter storms. These storms can cause power outages, water damage, and other hazards. That's why it's important for homeowners to take steps to prepare for them. SERVPRO is here to help! In this blog post, we will discuss 11 tips that will help you prepare for winter weather. Follow these tips and you'll be ready for anything that winter throws your way! 

Tip 1 - Have an emergency plan. This plan should include where you will go if you lose power, how you will stay warm, and what you will do if your pipes freeze. 

Tip 2 - Stock up on supplies. This includes non-perishable food, water, batteries, and first aid supplies. 

Tip 3 - Winterize your home. This means sealing up any cracks or gaps in your walls and windows, and insulating your pipes to prevent them from freezing. 

Tip 4 - Know how (and where) to shut off your water. If your pipes freeze, you will need to shut off the water to prevent them from bursting. 

Tip 5 - Have a list of emergency phone numbers. This includes the number for your local SERVPRO, as well as your utility companies. 

Tip 6 - Keep your gas tank full. This will help you stay warm if you lose power and need to use your fireplace or space heater. 

Tip 7 - Invest in a generator. This will provide you with power if you lose electricity. 

Tip 8 - Clear your gutters and downspouts. This will prevent ice dams from forming and causing water damage to your home.

Tip 9 - Be aware of the signs of hypothermia. These include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, and slurred speech. If you see these signs, it's important to seek medical help immediately. 

Tip 10 - Dress in layers. This will help you stay warm even if you can't heat your home. 

Tip 11 - Have fun! Winter can be a beautiful time of year, so don't let the risk of storms ruin it for you. Get out there and enjoy the snow! 

By following these tips, you can be prepared for anything that winter weather throws your way. SERVPRO of Newtown, Yardley, New Hope is here to help if you do experience any damage from a winter storm. We are always Here to Help®!

Mold vs Mildew: What's the Difference?

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

Let's face it... either way, you don't want to deal with either, but it's important to know and spot the difference between the two as a homeowner.

Mold and mildew are both fungi that can cause damage to your home. However, there are some key differences between the two that you should be aware of. Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp environments, while mildew is a type of fungus that grows in moist environments. Mildew tends to be less harmful than mold, but both can cause health problems if they are not treated properly. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between mold and mildew, as well as how to identify and treat these fungi if they occur in your home.

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp environments, such as bathrooms or basements. Mold can be black, white, green, or even pink. Mold is often fuzzy or slimy in appearance and can cause health problems if it is not removed properly. Some types of mold can release spores into the air, which can cause allergic reactions or respiratory problems.

Mildew is a type of fungus that grows in moist environments, such as laundry rooms or kitchens. Mildew is usually white or gray in appearance and can be powdery or fuzzy. Mildew does not usually cause health problems, but it can damage fabrics and surfaces if it is not removed properly.

If you think you have mold or mildew in your home, it is important to contact a professional for help. SERVPRO of Newtown Yardley New Hope is always here to help! We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and we have the training and experience necessary to safely and effectively remove mold and mildew from your home. Give us a call today to get started.

Emergency Preparedness for Commercial Buildings: What Property Owners Need to Know

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

Emergencies can happen anywhere and at any time. When they do, it is important to be prepared. This is especially true for commercial buildings, which house a variety of businesses and tenants. If something happens and the building has to be evacuated, it is crucial that everyone knows what to do. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the things property owners need to know in order to prepare for an emergency situation.

The first step is to develop a plan. This should include an evacuation route and a designated meeting place for tenants. Property owners should also have a list of emergency contacts, including the police, fire department, and local hospitals. It is important to go over the plan with all of the tenants in the building so that everyone knows what to do in the event of an emergency.

Property owners should also make sure that their building is up to code and that all of the fire safety equipment is in working order. This includes smoke detectors, fire alarms, sprinklers, and extinguishers. tenants should know where all of this equipment is located and how to use it.

In the event of an emergency, it is important to stay calm and follow the plan. Tenants should evacuate the building immediately and go to the designated meeting place. Once everyone is accounted for, property owners can then contact the appropriate emergency services.

By following these tips, property owners can help ensure that their commercial buildings are safe and prepared for any emergency that may occur.

As a bonus for the local business community, SERVPRO Newtown Yardley New Hope offers a complimentary Emergency Readiness Profile (ERP) so that if disaster strikes, anyone in your office can be ready. Feel free to contact us if you would like to schedule your complimentary evaluation.

If you have experienced a loss at your commercial property, consider contacting SERVPRO Newtown Yardley New Hope. We have the capacity to help with any situation thanks to our network and experience with helping larger properties when disaster strikes.

SERVPRO: The Local Resource for Disaster Restoration

7/29/2022 (Permalink)

If you're a homeowner, then you know that disasters can happen at any time. A burst pipe, a flooded basement, or even a fire can cause serious damage to your home and property. When this happens, it's important to have a local resource that you can rely on for help. SERVPRO is the leading disaster restoration company in the country, and we're here to help you recover from any disaster that comes your way!

Our Professionals are standing by

SERVPRO has a team of highly trained and certified technicians who are ready to help you 24/hours a day, seven days a week. We're always here for you when you need us! When disaster strikes, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Newtown, Yardley, New Hope! We'll be there to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Regularly Trained on best practices

Our technicians are regularly trained on the latest restoration techniques and best practices. This ensures that we're always up-to-date on the latest industry standards and procedures. SERVPRO of Newtown, Yardley, New Hope is your local resource for all things disaster restoration!

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster

SERVPRO of Newtown, Yardley, New Hope is a locally owned and operated franchise. We're dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. We're also on call 24/7 because disasters often happen at the most inconvenient times.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our services, please don't hesitate to contact us today! We're always here to help!

5 Hidden Fire Hazards in Your Home (And How to Avoid Them)

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

Nobody ever expects a fire to happen in their home. But the fact is, fires are one of the leading causes of property damage in the United States. In many cases, these fires could have been prevented if homeowners were aware of the hidden fire hazards in their homes.

In this blog post, we will discuss five hidden fire hazards that often go undetected until it's too late. We'll also provide tips on how to avoid these hazards and keep your family safe!

Fire Hazard One: Spontaneous Combustion

One hidden fire hazard that is often overlooked is spontaneous combustion. This can occur when rags or other materials are left in a pile and not properly ventilated. The heat from the rags can cause them to spontaneously combust, leading to a dangerous fire. To avoid this, be sure to keep all rags and other materials in a well-ventilated area.

Fire Hazard Two: Overloaded Electrical Outlets

Another hazard is overloaded electrical outlets. This is a common problem in homes with older wiring. When too many appliances are plugged into one outlet, it can cause a fire. To avoid this, be sure to spread out your appliances and only use one per outlet.

Fire Hazard Three: Flammable Liquid Storage

The next hazard is flammable liquids. Many people store flammable liquids, such as gasoline or cleaning supplies, in their homes without realizing the danger. If these liquids are exposed to heat or flame, they can catch fire and cause serious damage. To avoid this, be sure to store all flammable liquids in a cool, dry place away from any heat source.

Fire Hazard Four: Dryer Vents

Finally, one of the most common hidden fire hazards is a clogged dryer vent. When your dryer vent is clogged, it can cause your dryer to overheat and catch fire. To avoid this, be sure to clean your dryer vent regularly.

By being aware of these hidden fire hazards, you can keep your family safe and avoid a potential disaster. If you have any questions or need help cleaning up after a fire, be sure to contact SERVPRO of Newtown Yardley New Hope. We're always here to help.

Three Steps to Preparedness: How to prepare for the worst

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Most people think of fires as something that only happens to other people. They never think it could happen to them. The truth is, fires can happen to anyone, and they often do. That's why it's important for every family to have a fire preparedness plan in place. In this blog post, we will discuss three steps that you can take to help your family prepare for the worst.

• Record your contents using your smart phone.

The first step is to create a home inventory. This inventory should include everything in your home that you would want to replace if it were destroyed by a fire. Taking photos or videos of your belongings is a great way to create this inventory. Be sure to store these items in a safe place, like a fireproof safe or storage unit.

Don't forget about your important documents.

If your home were to catch fire, you would lose all of your important documents if they were not properly stored. Be sure to keep copies of important documents like birth certificates, passports, and insurance policies in a fireproof safe or storage unit. You should also scan these documents and store them electronically so you can access them from anywhere.

2. Make a plan for your pets and where they'll stay.

If you have pets, it's important to make a plan for them in the event of a fire. You should designate a safe place for them to go and someone who can care for them if you are not able to. Be sure to include your pets in your evacuation drills so they are familiar with the process.

Remember, many local hotels do not allow pets. Be sure to have a record of local hotels that do allow pets so that you can have a place to stay.

3. Plan multiple escape routes.

In the event of a fire, you may not be able to use your usual entry and exit points. That's why it's important to have multiple escape routes planned. Be sure to practice these routes with your family so everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire.

By following these three steps, you can help your family be prepared for the worst. Taking the time to plan ahead can make all the difference in a fire emergency. So don't wait, start preparing today.

Your home is one of your most important investments, so protecting it against fire should be a top priority. If you have any questions about how to better prepare, your friends at SERVPRO Newtown, Yardley, New Hope are here to help!