Recent Why SERVPRO Posts

Need for Deodorization in North Syracuse Homes after Mold Damage

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

technicians in PPE in a hallway SERVPRO professionals in North Syracuse are trained to handle every level of mold damage, including the odors that come with it. Call us today!

SERVPRO Eases North Syracuse Mold Restoration Processes

A house with mold is readily identifiable since the contamination causes deterioration of surface finishes leaving flaking paint and discolored or stained patches. Another sign that a North Syracuse home has mold damage is deteriorating indoor air quality or bad smell. Deodorization is as crucial as other mitigation steps.

A musty smell is a likely change you might experience in your North Syracuse home after mold damage. The unique scent is emitted by the mycotoxins released as the colonies develop across surfaces. Since mold causes deterioration similar to rot in materials, odors can also be emitted by the deteriorating material. SERVPRO has abundant deodorization resources for different restoration tasks, so it is easy to deal with odors generated from microbial growth processes.

Helpful mold deodorization resources:

  • Ozone and hydroxyl generators
  • Thermal foggers
  • Air filtration devices

Odors may be invisible, but that does not mean they are not physical. Odorous compounds such as mold colonies are volatile and continually release molecules into the air, which are felt as unpleasant smells. Combating the moldy odor in your house requires neutralizing the source. One way to achieve this is by using a chemical agent that pairs with the odor molecules, offsetting them. Our SERVPRO technicians use thermal foggers, which heat solvent-based deodorizers, vaporizing them and allowing deep penetration into materials where they can pair with the molecules and neutralize them. 

Using activated oxygen is another alternative. Ozone and hydroxyl generators are handy for this purpose. Ozone is an unstable oxygen molecule that works when the extra atom mixes with odor molecules changing their chemical structure and thus neutralizing them. Hydroxyl generators are another alternative that works by releasing hydroxyl radicals that combine with odor molecules releasing carbon dioxide and water.

Dealing with Airborne Odors

The unpleasant moldy odor in your house might remain in the air rather than materials because of the particulate matter and aerosols released into the air during demolition and cleaning processes. Dealing with these issues requires elaborate air purification processes.

Various air purification resources:

  • Electronic filters
  • Ventilators
  • Air scrubbers

Electronic filters help remove microorganisms from the air. The system works by passing the contaminated air through an electrically charged grid, thus killing the microorganisms. Air scrubbers may be more efficient for moldy residues since they manage odors and improve air quality. The air scrubber draws in polluted air and passes it through activated charcoal and HEPA filters. In terms of odor management, activated charcoal plays the primary removal role. 

Ventilating an area is a physical way to remove polluted air from a house. Because the approach tends to spread residues, it might be counterproductive in a moldy environment where fine residues and microscopic spores are abundant and can be distributed around the property by the high volumes of fast-moving air. Therefore, this method is rarely used as a primary odor control solution, but it can help improve other processes. For instance, after dry fogging a house to deodorize it, ventilation is essential to remove all the remaining fumes. Our SERVPRO technicians have all these categories of deodorization resources and thus can use them where we deem necessary.

SERVPRO of North Onondaga County works diligently to address all issues triggered by mold damage restoring everything to its preloss state. You can reach us at (315) 457-3432. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Mold Removal and Prevention in North Syracuse Basements

6/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technician with PPE suit Mold remediation in your basement is no DIY project. Call SERVPRO of North Syracuse for the help and experience needed for your home.

How to Clean Mold in Your North Syracuse Basement

Wet basements can be a breeding ground for unpleasant pathogens, including mold. Mold in the basement is common due to frequent moisture problems and the lack of proper ventilation and light. Hiring professional services is strongly recommended if the mold problem in your north Syracuse basement seems severe or has spread over a wide area.

Residues from colonies are likely to be released into the air during mold removal in a North Syracuse property. This means that they can easily spread to unaffected areas. Without proper mold handling skills, you may worsen the overall situation. Also, protective gear is essential when handling mold problems. SERVPRO technicians seal off the basement to prevent the spores from spreading to the rest of your house. Our crews use plastic sheets and duct tape to cover openings like vents or doorways.

Why your basement may have been affected

  • Flooding
  • Unresolved water leaks
  • High humidity build-up

A flooded basement is an ideal environment for mold. Damp items such as furniture and carpets can serve as breeding grounds. Also, leaky pipes or drains in your basement increase the risk of finding a mold by surprise.

Cleaning mold

SERVPRO technicians may choose to start with a HEPA-fitted vacuum as this removes the mold from the surface while ensuring no debris is left. Then we scrub the area with a disinfectant before sealing the surface.

How to prevent a mold recurrence

  • Consider waterproofing your basement
  • Apply a sealant to walls or floors after the mold removal 
  • Moisture levels in your basement can be controlled by using a dehumidifier 
  • Prevent condensation by insulating exterior walls, roofs, windows, and pipes

SERVPRO of North Onondaga County is efficient, trustworthy, professional, and thorough in mold removal services. Call us at (315) 457-3432 to help identify all the mold, and address all traces "Like it never even happened."

Conditions that Cause Mold Damage in Liverpool Homes

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

Mold on the Wall in A Corner SERVPRO is prepared with restoration equipment and experienced technicians. Call today (315) 457-3432.

Many Common Conditions Can Result in Needing Mold Remediation for Liverpool Properties

Mold is an underrated yet heavily destructive emergency for homes. Moist conditions can result from several circumstances to allow mold to develop and spread. 

Unresolved Water Damage

Mold remediation for Liverpool is often necessary when water damage to the property goes unresolved. The longer that materials stay exposed to moisture and standing water, the more the environment and hosting materials are impacted to facilitate these destructive colonies. Organisms need moisture to form colonies, and if homeowners only dry up surface water damage after an emergency, structural cavities can be an ideal damp location for growth. SERVPRO tracks drying processes using advanced tools like:

  • Surface moisture meters
  • Hygrometers
  • Probing detectors
  • Thermal imagery

Humid Conditions

Onondaga County experiences several types of adverse weather conditions throughout the year, from heavy snowfall to torrential rains. Moisture and humidity present year-round are among the most significant contributors to mold damage for area properties. Excessive moisture and water content in the environment produce the ideal conditions for mold development in as little as 48 hours, so homeowners need to diligently react when lingering moisture and humidity are a concern within a household. SERVPRO can often manage moisture damage threats in the air through the specific placement and operation of dehumidification equipment like low-grain refrigerant units in our inventory. 

Inadequate Ventilation

Another common reason for mold to develop in homes is poor ventilation. Bathrooms and laundry areas are where this type of inadequacy causes the greatest threats of mold growth and spread. Without the means to ventilate steam and damp conditions possible around water-fed appliances and fixtures of your plumbing system, mold damage can ensue. 

Understanding the common causes of mold development can be instrumental in preventing recurrences in your home and quickly managing the threat when it exists. Our experienced AMRT-Certified professionals on the SERVPRO of North Onondaga County roster are here to help when you need it at (315) 457-3432.

Handling Fire Damage in North Syracuse Requires Professional Help

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO fire damage smoke damage sign SERVPRO fire damage restoration technicians have all the tools and experience for every phase needed for your property.

SERVPRO is Ready to Help You Handle Fire Damage in Your North Syracuse Home

I have fire damage in my home. What steps should taken to repair my property? After fire damage, refrain from cleaning floors, walls, ceilings, and other absorbent surfaces. Improper cleaning can cause stains to set in.

The fire damage in your North Syracuse residence may be too challenging for you to handle alone. That’s why you need the assistance of an expert restoration firm like SERVPRO. We offer turnkey solutions for property owners dealing with fire damage and can assist you in restoring your home by taking several steps, including the following:

  • Testing for smoke residues
  • Water extraction and drying 
  • Cleaning 
  • Odor removal 

Testing for Smoke Residues

We test to determine where the smoke residues are located, if it is possible to clean the residues and if the damages or residues are pre-existing or happened because of the recent event. Our SERVPRO technicians can verify if smoke residues are present by observing the contrast between the unaffected and affected areas or by cleaning a spot and comparing the cleaned spot and the uncleaned areas.

Water Extraction and Drying

It’s necessary to remove standing water from the building using pumps to prevent long-term water-related problems like mold growth or warping of wood flooring. We prevent these issues by drying the damp materials using air movers and dehumidifiers.

Cleaning

Our SERVPRO team can use general surface cleaners to wet clean a wide variety of surfaces, including painted ceilings and walls, wet cleanable wallpapers, hard surface furniture, appliances, paneling, and countertops. If there is grease and difficult soils in your home, we can remove them using heavy-duty cleaners.

Odor Removal

Our SERVPRO team can use ULV misters to remove the smoke odors. The misters produce small deodorant particles (20 to 60 microns in size) that remain suspended in the air for several hours. Due to their small size, the particles can penetrate crevices and cracks to eliminate the odors.

When you need fire damage repair services, contact SERVPRO of North Onondaga County at (315) 457-3432. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Is Professional Help Needed for Water-Damaged Liverpool Homes?

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

Water on floor SERVPRO teams have the tools and experience you need to handle water damages on your property.

Water Restoration Companies Can Quickly Help Liverpool Properties After Disasters. 

You might not always look at water damage events as reasons to acquire professional assistance. Many of these scenarios can damage your property worse than the surface materials might suggest. Experienced technicians like ours have tools for tracking moisture and efficiently removing problematic trapped water.  

Assessing the Situation and Acting

Among the reasons for choosing water restoration companies for Liverpool homes and businesses after water damage is our ability to thoroughly assess the damage and mitigate loss quickly. Emergency services play a critical role in protecting the property from greater harm and reducing out-of-pocket expenses for the customer.

Removing Water and Surface Moisture

One of the initial mitigation actions possible by our professionals is removing standing water from areas in the house. We have multiple extraction tools and equipment uniquely designed for specific loss situations and can help overcome threatening problems requiring rapid water removal.

Providing Peace of Mind

There is no greater value our professionals can provide to homeowners and business owners than peace of mind. Through dozens of intricate cleaning and drying actions. We can interact with your property and its contents to offer a complete and thorough result. Some of the helpful services our team provides in this regard include:

  • Protecting Contents – Personal belongings are greatly at risk when standing water is a threat to your home. We can relocate contents to safe places on-site or our nearby SERVPRO facility for intricate cleaning.
  • Moisture Tracking – We have sophisticated moisture meters and technology like infrared imagery to identify and monitor water migration in affected materials.
  • Repairing the Damage – Our contractor license allows us to handle repairs and reconstruction that might be necessary. So you do not have to pursue third-party assistance.

Water damage does more than pool on the surface. When you need full-scale restoration and repairs, we have experienced WRT-Certified technicians to help. Give our SERVPRO of North Onondaga County team a call today at (315) 457-3432.

Where Is Mold Typically Discovered in North Syracuse Houses?

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Mold in attic SERVPRO professionals are trained to handle every level of mold damage, Including the odors that come with it. Call us today, we are always available.

North Syracuse Homeowners Have Seen Many Types of Mold Damage. 

Mold is an often-underappreciated threat to Syracuse area homes after storm damages, water emergencies, or high humidity concerns. While mold can appear almost anywhere on your property, there are areas where it is more likely to develop than others.

The Common Areas for Mold Growth

There are several areas where mold damage in North Syracuse homes is possible, and identifying these potential threats is critical to preventing costlier harm by finding developing mold concerns early. Some commonly affected spaces include:

  • Bathroom – Steam and water damage present in the bathroom can allow mold development under sinks, behind toilets, and in other damp areas.
  • Basement - Moisture from groundwater and the dark, cool conditions are often ideal for the development of residential mold.
  • Attic – Roof leaks and other moisture concerns can leave this confined space vulnerable to mold growth.

How Do You Know There is Mold? 

Some physical signs and signals could point to developing mold colonies where these effects might not be blatantly obvious. Spotting is the earliest physical stage of colonization, where mold appears on the surface of the hosting material via irregular spots and marks of various colors. Musty odors can also indicate active colonization, even when they cannot be seen.

Can SERVPRO Help with Mold Removal? 

SERVPRO has multiple products and approaches for cleaning surfaces and removing active colonies found throughout a household. We evaluate the type of remediation necessary to ensure that the right steps are taken quickly to prevent further spread and eliminate organisms.

Identifying mold quickly can be a critical element of efficiently mitigating loss in a house and remediating microbial growth. As leading remediation professionals, our SERVPRO of North Onondaga County team can help with effective and thorough mold removal, drying, and repairs where necessary. Give us a call today at (315) 457-3432.

Can Homeowners Prevent Frozen Pipes and Ice Damming in North Syracuse?

12/31/2021 (Permalink)

icicles hanging off of the gutters and pipes of a house Frozen pipes and ice damming can leave large amounts of excess water in your home. Our technicians are standing by 24/7 - 365 days a year.

SERVPRO Provides Water Removal Services Caused by Frozen Pipes in North Syracuse.

If you have previously had frozen pipes and ice damming problems in North Syracuse, you already know how much damage is caused when water pipes freeze and split. Once they thaw, water runs everywhere, often from inside an exterior wall and into the home's main living areas or the basement. Preventing water lines from freezing in the first place eliminates the potential for extensive water damage.

SERVPRO provides frozen pipes and ice damming cleanup services in North Syracuse. If water pipes have frozen and thawed, releasing a torrent of water inside your home, our water removal technicians can help with water cleanup and drying all of the structure and contents. Our fast response to your call limits the amount of water and reduces the damage caused by the water. Ice dams can also cause water to leak into your home through the roof and into the attic insulation. Water then travels into the main areas of the house.

Homeowners can prevent ice dams by removing snow from the roof using a snow rake attached to a long pole to avoid climbing onto the roof. Add insulation in the attic to reduce heat escaping into the attic, which melts snow even during cold snaps.

Keep pipes warm by turning up the temperature in your home for a few days when there is a cold snap. Insulate the water lines using foam rubber insulation or use heating tape wrapped around pipes susceptible to freezing. Don't forget to heat the drain lines as well. Allowing the water to run from water taps slowly can also prevent water lines from freezing. While you may use more energy and water to avoid frozen pipes, the cost is minuscule compared to the damage leaking pipes can cause.

SERVPRO provides the following services when you have a water incident in your home:

  • Water cleanup
  • Water removal services
  • Water damage remediation

Call SERVPRO of North Onondaga County in North Syracuse and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (315) 457-3432.

What Are Mold Removal Companies Available for Residents of North Syracuse?

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

mold damage Mold removal is not a DIY project. SERVPRO technicians are trained and experienced in all phases of mold remediation.

Mold Removal Companies like SERVPRO are Based in Syracuse and Ready to Help

No homeowner likes to find mold growing in their property. Sometimes mold growth can be relatively benign with an easily fixable solution such as resealing or ventilating the affected areas. In other situations, the visible signs of mold growth can be indicative of a much larger problem. Mold is a natural organism that spreads through microscopic spores and requires moisture to live. If a mold issue consistently returns after cleaning away, it may be a sign of a much more complex microbial infestation. In these circumstances, it is vital to bring in professionals that can help with:

  • Mold inspection
  • Mold removal 
  • Black mold damage repairs

The core principles relied on by mold removal companies in North Syracuse are to address the source of the issue and then completely remove any contaminated materials. When working on a mold remediation job, one central tenet is to ensure that the area is sealed while work takes place. Since mold removal often uses aggressive action and machinery, there is a strong chance of mold spores becoming airborne. Containing these mold spores at the source is essential to ensuring that the infestation does not spread to previously unaffected areas. 

  • When using sand or soda blasting equipment, negative air pressure machines can help capture airborne spores released by aggressive cleaning. 
  • A containment barrier is usually set up as an extra precautionary measure to seal off areas of infestation before work begins. 
  • Decontamination of any clothing, boots, gloves, and equipment is vital to prevent mold spores from being transported through the property.

If you suspect a recurring mold issue in your property, contact SERVPRO of North Onondaga County for mold removal companies at (315) 457-3432.

SERVPRO is One of the Most Trusted Mold Removal Companies Serving Residents of North Syracuse

6/25/2021 (Permalink)

mold growing underneath of a cabinet Has your home been facing a mold infestation? Contact our experienced SERVPRO team for mold damage remediation services.

What Makes SERVPRO Stand Out Among Other Mold Removal Companies in North Syracuse

Mold damage can cost you in more ways than one if you don't seek professional help on time. Mold removal companies like SERVPRO have the necessary expertise and experience to mitigate mold from your North Syracuse home safely. 

SERVPRO stands out among other mold removal companies in North Syracuse as we believe in providing a quality service that you can trust. As mold can cause health effects, safety is paramount during mold inspection, remediation, and removal. SERVPRO collaborates with Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) professionals and Indoor Environmental Professionals (IEP) to develop a mold mitigation strategy that is safe and efficient. 

Signs That You Need SERVPRO Mold Specialists to Tackle Mold in Your North Syracuse Home

The best way to control mold damage in your North Syracuse home is to involve the professionals early. Some indicators that your home might need professional mold remediation include-

  • If you notice musty odors, especially in places where the moisture is high
  • If you have water issues such as burst pipes or ceiling leaks. Mold love water and spores can quickly germinate in water damaged areas
  • If there are visible signs of mold, including discoloration that is fuzzy or slimy. It is important to know that mold colonies can have a variety of colors, including gray, white, brown, or green

Remember, black mold is no more dangerous than any other type of mold found in your home. Getting professional help early is the key to successful mold mitigation. 

Call SERVPRO of North Onondaga County at (315) 457-3432 for 24/7 service. 

Clearing the Mess after Flood Damage Incidents in North Syracuse

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

storm damaged home Flood damage restoration for properties needs the help of SERVPRO. Our techs are ready 234/7 365 days a year.

SERVPRO Provides Water Clean Up Resources in North Syracuse Homes to Reduce Inconveniences 

Heavy rainfall releases a significant amount of water within a short while. As the water moves and collects debris like mud, there is a risk of depositing it inside your house, creating a significant mess. Unfortunately, the mud remains behind when the water recedes.

Although mud accumulation does not necessarily mean significant flood damage in North Syracuse homes, removal can be challenging or lengthy. You might need to scoop off the mud manually or use special extraction equipment to ease removal.

Our SERVPRO technicians are comfortable with all removal methods. We can use shovels if the water recedes, leaving a thick layer of mud. Pressure washing is another alternative since the strong force of the water peels of the mud from the surfaces fast. In case there is standing water mixed with debris, self-priming trash pumps come in handy. 

On finishing cleaning, drying the floors and walls is essential to dry off excess moisture to prevent secondary issues like mold, staining, and odors. Our SERVPRO crews use industrial-grade dehumidifiers or air movers, thus leading to a better conclusion of:

  • Water clean up
  • Basement flooding cleanup 
  • Flood restoration

SERVPRO of North Onondaga County strives to deliver satisfactory services when called to resolve flood damage incidents. Call us at (315) 457-3432.

What Can I Do About the Mold Damage in My North Syracuse Residence?

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

"Mold inspection" Don't let mold take over home. Call in the experts at SERVPRO right away.

SERVPRO is Available For Your North Syracuse Mold Damage Emergency!

Finding mold damage in your North Syracuse home can be difficult for any homeowner to face. What matters is how you react to the damage you find, and how quickly you can get professional help into your home. Here at SERVPRO, our goals align with yours. We want to get into your home, remediate the damage, and then leave you feeling good about the work we did, and we want to do it quickly. “Like it never even happened.”

When we offer you our North Syracuse-based mold damage remediation services, we want you to feel confident about the assistance we gave. At SERVPRO, we: 

  • Provide our technicians with excellent training 
  • Use advanced technology and the newest remediation techniques
  • Are available 24/7, whenever an emergency strikes  

If you suspect mold damage is in your home, do not bother trying to reach out for high-cost mold testing. Our technicians can enter your home, do an investigation, and then set up the best remediation course for you. Using advanced technology, we can reduce musty odors and remove active mold colonies. Trust SERVPRO to provide you with expert:

  • Mold Remediation
  • Mold Inspection
  • Attic Mold Removal
  • Mold Removal 

If you think you may possibly have a mold issue, do not hesitate. Reach out to SERVPRO of North Onondaga County by calling (315) 457-3432. We're ready to help!

How Can I Deal With the Fire Damage in My North Syracuse Home?

4/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians Call SERVPRO immediately following a fire in your North Syracuse home. We will leave your home looking "Like it never even happened."

Our SERVPRO Technicians Can Provide You With Expert Fire Damage Restoration! 

North Syracuse has a very long history in New York and was once called Centerville. The small town was first settled in 1788, during mid-summer. Centerville became North Syracuse officially during 1880 and became an official village in 1925. 

North Syracuse Facts: 

North Syracuse is extremely small, with a census population of 6,800 as of the 2010 census. It is located in the towns of Cicero and Clay and North of Syracuse, thus the reason for the name it took on in 1880. The village is reported to only take up two square miles of space, which truly highlights how tiny it is.

What Can I Do in the Surrounding Area? 

Seeing as North Syracuse is so small, people touring the area usually branch out and see various sites throughout the nearby towns and cities. No matter if you are alone or with family, there are attractions for you to see. 

Rosamond Gifford Zoo: This iconic zoo was created more than 100 years ago. In 1986 it went through renovations and redevelopment before it reopened to the public. 

Great New York State Fair: If you catch yourself in North Syracuse during the right time of year, do not miss this legendary event. The fair has been in operation since 1832, so there is plenty of history to be seen. Furthermore, the fair has amazing foods, drinks, and local craft items that you can sample and buy. 

Central New York Regional Market: If you want to do some local shopping, taste local produce, and meet the amazing people who make up central New York, this market is the right place for you. Don't miss out on the organic and local food, as well as the craft goods you can find. 

Fire Damage in my North Syracuse Home? 

Experiencing fire damage in your North Syracuse home is a traumatic event for many families. Here at SERVPRO, we understand many of the local buildings and houses have history to them. We know you might have inherited the home that has been in your family for decades. For this reason and many more, we take our job very seriously and strive to provide you with the best services possible. Call us whenever you need, day or night, our technicians can help you with: 

  • Fire & Water Damage Restorations
  • House Fire Clean Up
  • Smoke Damage

Our IICRC certified technicians have the best training, and we make sure they are equipped with advanced industry-leading technology. For example, say your food caught fire while you cooked in the kitchen, and those flames got out of hand before you could quell them. At SERVPRO, we do not fear any size disaster and can help you restore your home to its pre-fire state. Our technicians can use the following equipment inside of your home to remediate the damage inside: 

  • Thermal foggers for airborne malodors
  • Odor-locking priming paint 
  • Wet/dry vacuums to clean up water from firefighting efforts 

When your home suffers fire damage, do not wait long to get help. Speak with SERVPRO of North Onondaga County by dialing (315) 457-3432. We're here to help you!

Why North Syracuse Remodelers Often Need SERVPRO’s Mold Remediation Team.

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

mold growing in the corner of a room on the ceiling SERVPRO technicians are standing by to investigate and remediate the mold damage situation in your home. Call right away.

Keep Your North Syracuse Home’s Remodeling Job Safe.

There are many ways to raise the value of your home, make things more modern and comfortable, or increase usable floor space. The majority of these projects require tearing out walls and other structural components. All too often, the remodeling crew finds stuff hidden inside these once-hidden areas.

Remodeling crews know that even the cleanest North Syracuse home might need mold remediation. When mold or other microbial infestations appear within dismantled areas, work must stop to protect workers’ safety and health from any unnecessary risks.

Some areas are more prone to hide mold than others. Some prime areas chosen for remodeling work are also those same places where microbes make themselves at home. Others might surprise you. In addition to the kitchen and bathroom as targets of mold infestations, other locations like

  • Under windows – broken seals or twisted frames
  • Exterior walls – pests, misaligned gutters
  • Rooms and hallways under the roof – ice dams and other roofing deficits.

You can rely on SERVPRO of North Onondaga County to get your remodeling project back on schedule and ensure normal microbial populations in your home. Call (315) 457-3432 for fast but thorough mold remediation. 

What Are Some Ways to Avoid Christmas Tree Fires Over the Holidays?

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

Christmas tree fire SERVPRO knows a few things about preventing Christmas tree fires.

SERVPRO technicians handle the cleanup and restoration of fire damage in North Syracuse homes with their experience and advanced equipment.

While the holidays are a great time to celebrate with family and friends in your North Syracuse home, it is also a time to be aware of the many activities that get done during the celebration are also potential fire hazards. Here are some ways to avoid having your home become a statistic during December: 

  • Pick a fresh-looking tree
  • Keep your tree watered; a dry tree can burn faster than newspaper
  • Keep heat sources such as candles away from the tree
  • Get rid of your tree as soon as possible after the holidays, you can take your tree to Natural Resource Center at 7413 County House Road in Sennett, and they will use it for composting

Is Fire Damage Restoration Possible for Furniture?

When your North Syracuse home undergoes fire damage restoration, the fire and smoke damage can be unforgiving to many parts of building materials and contents. However, SERVPRO technicians have a great deal of comprehensive training and state-of-the-art equipment to clean up and restore many items that may not look like they have the potential.

In particular, when the fire was extinguished rapidly before the flames spread, the smoke damage can permeate the entire home. Here are some of the most commonly seen types of damage to furniture and how they get cleaned: 

  • Leather and faux-leather furniture - in cases of fire extinguisher or light smoke residues, SERVPRO technicians have dry cleaning sponges to gently lift away the layer covering the leather and then use specially developed restorative agents for use on the leather.
  • Upholstered furniture - the techs inspect to see if smoke residues penetrated the piece. If it is on the surface only, it can often undergo cleaning for reuse
  • Hardwood furniture - Using wet and dry cleaning agents plus wood soaps, as long as there is no heat or water damage, these articles can get restored

SERVPRO technicians have training in the different levels of the restoration that hardwood furniture may require. They have a wood paste with a solvent to remove a thin layer of the finish. This method is known as semi-refinishing and is an effective method for eliminating issues such as watermarks. This problem usually gets caused by firefighters spraying water that landed on the surface and then evaporated. As long as the furniture piece does not have heat or water damage such as cracked joints or warping, it can get the soot, and smoke residues lifted away and then restored for reuse in the home.

Appliances need immediate attention if they have smoke residues. Soot is caustic to metal and should get removed as fast as possible before it causes pitting to the surfaces. The techs have cleaning solutions that work without marring the polished surface. The techs recommend having electric appliances tested by an industry expert before reusing any chance of interior heat or water damage. 

Area rugs are an investment for many homeowners. Cleaning away stains and smoke damage from a fire in the home can occur in many cases. Before cleaning, the techs test the fibers and backing of the rug to ensure the correct cleaning agent and method gets chosen. For example, some fibers react badly to any type of wet solution by bleeding or shrinking; both can render a rug non-restorable. Spending the time testing the fibers and determining the best way to clean it saves the homeowner the cost of replacing their area rug.

Clothing exposed to smoke damage is something that many homeowners want to get cleaned as fast as possible. Since many articles get manufactured with synthetic fibers, soot bonds with these fibers if not removed. SERVPRO techs ask homeowners to separate clothing into three categories:

  • The clothing they need now
  • The clothing they want to get cleaned but do not need immediately
  • Seasonal clothing they want to keep and reuse

Anything hanging in a closet with exposure to the fire gets removed, and metal hangers get disposed of because they can oxidize onto clothing. Washable items get cleaned through the use of the Esporta Washing System; this powerful piece of equipment can remove all traces of smoke odors and particulate after a single wash. 

SERVPRO of North Onondaga County at (315) 457-3432 handles all sizes of fire damage restoration for local properties. The trained, certified technicians are available 24/7 to restore your home and contents from flame and smoke damage to make it, "Like it never even happened."

What Restoration Services Can I Expect After Disasters in My North Syracuse Home?

8/23/2020 (Permalink)

woman holding a bucket to catch water leaking from ceiling Taking care of your home is one of your top priorities, but when disaster strikes it’s hard to deal with. Contact SERVPRO for remediation services.

Homes and businesses depend on the fast and reliable response of our experienced professionals after fire, water, storm, and flood losses impact their properties.

You rarely have time to lose when disasters strike your North Syracuse home or business. Because many of these loss incidents feature a finite timeline before irreparable damage occurs, the faster the professionals can reach your address, the more likely it is that restoration happens quickly, and costs less than it otherwise would. As a locally owned and operated facility, we have a unique position among our communities to reach disasters promptly. By combining our resources with our sister franchises, we can address even substantial loss incidents in properties more than several thousand square feet in size.

Water

We understand how challenging water losses can be for North Syracuse homes. Many times the situation is worse than it initially appears on the surface. The best way to determine the full extent of the damage is through a process called job scoping. Our project manager and crew chief can walk through the damaged property to identify several factors that indicate what tools, personnel, and methods are necessary to return the house to its original condition.

How Can My Belongings Get Recovered?

Your personal belongings are part of this initial assessment. On an individual basis, we can determine the effect of water exposure on each of your possessions. While relocation can help in some regards for exposed contents, it is also likely that on-site cleaning and drying are necessary. When water damage becomes severe enough in your North Syracuse property, it is also possible that the best solution for your personal belongings is our pack-out process. This keeps your possessions in our care for focused cleaning, drying, and safe storage.

What Strategies Get Used Most Often for Water Removal and Drying?

There is no one set method for drying and extraction after a loss incident. As standard as these tasks might be, there are multiple tools within our inventory that all seek the same result. The severity of the damage in your North Syracuse home and the location of the damage can be factors in determining which of these extraction and drying tools get used in your own house:

  • Wet Vacuums
  • Electric Submersible Pumps
  • Weighted Extractors
  • Air Movers
  • Dehumidifiers
  • Floor Mat Drying System

Storm

Since we first began to consistently track and record weather events throughout the history of New York in the 1800s, there have been nearly 100 hurricanes to hit the state. Even with our positioning in the northern portion of New York, North Syracuse has seen its share of hurricane events and considerable violent storms or damaging snowstorms. Staying prepared for all of these emergencies requires skilled technicians and useful tools available 24/7.

What Are the Benefits of a Large Loss Recovery Team?

We have always said there was no job too big for our restoration team to handle. While our roster focuses most on the events surrounding North Syracuse and our region, we are also part of a large loss recovery team that can confidently address massive loss incidents that impact commercial properties throughout our area. Between our sister franchises, we can pool:

  • Resources
  • Personnel
  • Equipment
  • Products
  • Experience

What Are Effective Flood Removal Approaches?

Flooding is often an unfortunate side effect of a storm loss incident. Whether it is the rising water that penetrates the main floor of your property, or roof vulnerabilities that allow runoff to pour into your attic space, flooding must get addressed as soon as possible. To remove standing water from your North Syracuse home, we have multiple tools in our inventory to help. We use wet vacuums, submersible pumps, and trash pumps to eliminate surface water concerns quickly.

Fire

A fire loss incident in your North Syracuse home can be devastating to the structure. It is because of this destructive force that a fast response to these emergencies is vital. We have trained fire restoration technicians on our roster available anytime that disaster strikes. We can mobilize quickly to reach homes and businesses throughout upstate New York.

What Are Emergency Services?

Reaching the property quickly is not the only factor and effectively restoring and recovering your North Syracuse home or business. Emergency services play a critical role in recovering your residence. Our in-house contractors can perform many temporary construction solutions to eliminate more significant threats to the house while mitigation begins.

What Restoration Steps Occur After a Fire?

Understanding what to expect from fire restoration services can help you appreciate the need for professional technicians like our SERVPRO team. Fire recovery in your North Syracuse home has much more to do with providing a safe and stable environment as it does improving the aesthetics. We can blend multiple tasks to address a myriad of potential problems that could exist after a loss incident. These include: 

  • Surface Cleaning
  • Debris Removal
  • Air Quality Control
  • Deodorization
  • Reconstruction and Repairs

Commercial

There are hundreds of commercial properties that we have helped since we first opened the doors of our SERVPRO location in 1994. In that time, we have become a reputable and trusted restoration team for North Syracuse businesses contending with multiple emergencies in niches like:

  • Water
  • Fire
  • Flood
  • Storm
  • Biohazards 

The Best Times for Cleaning and Restoration

Even without a disaster, the cleaning and recovery efforts that your North Syracuse property might require should not inconvenience your customers. That is why much of our appointments and ongoing engagements for thorough cleaning and renewal of commercial properties occur after hours. We can work around your schedule to help your business look its best.

What Deep Cleaning Solutions Does SERVPRO Offer?

Thorough surface cleaning is also a needed service in modern management of North Syracuse commercial properties. We strive to provide a top-tier solution for the deep cleaning, disinfection, and creation of sanitary spaces that your business needs. Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program can ensure that we meet high expectations for surface cleaning.

Regardless of whatever disaster might impact your home or business, you are never alone and getting your property back to preloss condition. You can count on the fast and reliable response of our SERVPRO of North Onondaga County team. We are available 24/7 at (315) 457-3432.

Must We Move Out For Restoration After Fire Damage Affects Our North Syracuse Home?

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

"We can help" Call (315) 457-3432 Immediately after the fire truck drives away to ensure a speedy and favorable outcome.

SERVPRO Can Help You Plan the Restoration Process to Suit Your Requirements Including Continued Habitation of the Damaged Property.

The combination of financial loss from the damage caused by fire and the hassle of seeking alternative accommodation can make the aftermath of a fire incident in your Syracuse home feel unbearable. SERVPRO has IICRC certified restoration technicians that can help evaluate and carry out emergency procedures that allow you to continue occupying the property during restoration.

Does continued occupation of a house interfere with the restoration of fire damage?

Restoring fire damage in affected North Syracuse homes involves various processes, including: 

  • Agitation of surfaces
  • Demolition 
  • Use of various chemical agents
  • Wetting surfaces

Such steps create heaps of debris, release settled debris into the air, and may also produce strong odors. In general, the processes can make it uncomfortable to occupy a house as it is renovated. Also, your presence in the home can limit what restorers can do. If you determine additional living expenses of vacating the property are worse than the discomfort, our SERVPRO technicians can help make your stay more bearable by performing emergency cleaning in some sections of the property to make them "Livable."

Does cleaning alone overcome all the challenges?

Cleaning can remove soot and other soils deposited on surfaces and materials around the house. However, it might not be effective against other aspects such as odors. When our SERVPRO technicians prepare your home for occupation, we can perform other processes like: 

  • Deodorization
  • Containment
  • Laundering clothes  

Deodorization involves the use of specialized agents that neutralize odor molecules, eliminating the strong smells you experience in your house after a fire. Our technicians can fog the rooms you pick as your temporary abode with water-based or oil-based deodorizers. We can also seal off some areas of the house to prevent the spread of materials between the affected and unaffected areas. 

With the right help, the restoration of your fire-damaged property proceeds with ease. Call SERVPRO of North Onondaga County at (315) 457-3432 to help. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

See more about North Syracuse.

What Is the Rush? Why Does Water Damage Need Such a Fast Response in My Liverpool House?

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

moisture meter pinned to a wall SERVPRO says that hidden moisture can cause secondary water damage to your Liverpool property

Rapid Reaction by Our Highly-Qualified Employees is Why SERVPRO Avoids Long Term Damage from Water Both Seen and Unseen for Liverpool Residents

Water moves, always looking for an outlet out of your Liverpool kitchen, bathroom, utility room, or other space where a sink overflowed or an appliance broke down. Often it is difficult to determine the direction taken by the water because it disappears into cracks and crevices. Permeable materials common in building construction also wick up the water, locking it in where it cannot be seen but can still harm:

  • Drywall
  • Subfloors
  • Laminate flooring
  • Insulation

Will Moisture that Seeps Away from the Original Water Loss Dry without Intervention?

The water damage in your Liverpool home that hides in building cavities and soaks into structures requires quick mitigation and remediation. Allowing it to remain can weaken supporting structures, destroy other materials, intensify the harm, and increase the expense of cleanup. Water is incredibly corrosive, dissolving cellulose products like drywall, soaking and compressing insulation, and providing optimum conditions for mold growth and damage. The destruction starts immediately and becomes incrementally worse within hours, but it often occurs in hidden places, so homeowners erroneously believe the worst has passed.

How Is Hidden Water Damage Found?

Excess water takes unexpected pathways inside your house, why SERVPRO trains our employees in water tracing. A thorough assessment identifies and manages any safety concerns. Then our experienced technicians use moisture detection and measuring devices on a quest to find the damaging fluids. Comparative readings from unaffected structures inform our drying goals. Crew members use controlled demolition to gain access to liquid and absorbed water for removal. Research-based drying techniques finally bring moisture in damaged materials levels in line with those found in unaffected areas of your home.

Skilled technicians trace water migration and guide SERVPRO of North Onondaga County to remove standing water and perform structural drying, preventing progressive and secondary damage. Call us at (315) 457-3432 for an assessment and project plan to ensure we eliminate the potential for further water damage.

SERVPRO Cares

11/5/2018 (Permalink)

Our team takes pride in our community! We care about the people in our community and want to help out in any way that we can. 

Our owner, John Halko, has a huge heart and makes sure to take time to donate to causes that he believes in. John is a long time supporter of the Rescue Mission. In addition to monetary donations, our team has participated in coat drives and donated furniture to support those in need through the Rescue Mission.

We currently hold a Jean Day on Fridays that those in the office are able to participate in. Office employees are able to wear jeans to work on Fridays as long as they donate $2. Currently, the money is being saved to buy toys to be donated to Toys for Tots. Additionally, we are collecting bottles and cans to go towards buying toys for the cause. Last year we were able to donate many toys thanks to our staff. 

If you would like to donate money or toys to the cause, please feel free to drop off at our office. We hope to fill a truck with as many toys as possible to make Christmas grand for children in the area who don't have much.

Fire Damage Can be Detrimental to Your Home

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage can cause a great deal of damage to both the structure of your home and your belongings. After you experience a fire in your home, know that we are so happy to hear that you and your loved ones are safe! 

It is important to clean up from fire damage quickly and efficiently. Smoke and soot can be very hard to clean by yourself. Many cleaning products will not touch smoke and soot damage, or they will push it around spreading it. SERVPRO has created cleaning products to clean different types of smoke and soot from a variety of different types of materials. Throughout the years, our SERVPRO headquarters has worked with experts creating products to clean up after fire damage. We know that you have items in your home that are very near and dear to your heart that would be devastating to loose. Our job is to ensure that these items are cleaned properly. 

When you call us, we can give you tips on what to do to make sure that items are not damaged further until we can get out to the house to perform a proper cleaning. Best of all, we work with insurance companies so that you are not burdened with the cost of cleaning your home from top to bottom!

HVAC Cleaning Experience

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

Have you ever had a bad smell coming from the vents in your home? Did you know that dust, dander and debris can build up in your ducts over time causing allergies, respiratory problems, and other possible health problems? 

Having your ducts cleaned on a regular basis makes it possible to avoid having breathing and other health problems caused by your HVAC. Our technician, Lew who leads all of our duct cleanings has been working with us for over 13 years. He has experience working with many different types of HVAC units and ducting. He has the duct cleaning down to a science. Lew is able to answer any questions you may have regarding the duct cleaning and can walk you through the whole process before he begins. This way, you know exactly what to expect.

Call to schedule your duct cleaning today before you suffer all winter long breathing in the dust and toxins that have gotten into your duct work!

Locally Owned and Operated

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

When you're looking for a company to clean up after water, fire or mold damage you can be sure that SERVPRO will be a reliable company for you! 

We are independently owned and operated. John Halko has owned SERVPRO of North Onondaga County for over 25 years. He grew up in the area, started a business and raised a family in the area. John understands how important your home and business are to you! That's why our SERVPRO will take care of you in your time of disaster. 

John also takes pride in working with other local companies to ensure that everything needed to complete the job is done. We work with local dry cleaners, industrial hygienists, dumpster and storage companies, abatement and contractors. 

We will work with you and make you feel comfortable along the way. Our managers have been with our company for over 12 years and are dedicated to getting you back into your home and business as quickly as possible. 

Sewage Backup

10/2/2018 (Permalink)

Have you experienced a sewage back up in your home or business? Sewage backups can be very dangerous, as the water can contain viruses, bacteria and other contaminants that have potential to cause illnesses. This is why we do not recommend that you clean up a sewage backup yourself. Let your local SERVPRO professionals clean it up for you! We have specialized training and cleaning products to ensure that the affected area is cleaned properly.

When we come out to assess damage, we first consider whether a water damage is a category 1, 2 or 3. From there, we determine the proper way to clean the area.

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

  • Water from a clean source like a broken water line
  • If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 2 water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

  • May contain bacteria and viruses
  • Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

  • May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
  • Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

We'll be there for you! If you experience a sewage backup, give us a call day or night. We have technicians available 24/7 to clean up the water damage quickly and efficiently! 

Why SERVPRO

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

When looking at companies who can provide you with water mitigation, mold remediation and fire restoration services you might ask yourself, why SERVPRO?

Let me tell you somethings about SERVPRO:

1. SERVPRO has been around since 1967 when Ted and Doris Isaacson founded the company which started as a painting business. Today, more than 1,700 SERVPRO franchises exist nationwide. Therefore, SERVPRO has proved to be an outstanding company. SERVPRO is actually one of the top 10 franchises today.

2. Our SERVPRO started over 25 years ago. Our owner started a SERVPRO franchise, with no other employees, one vehicle and just a couple pieces of equipment. Since then, we now operate with about 20 employees, multiple types of vehicles, a wide range of equipment for all types of work in our field. We have been successful, which has allowed us to grow.

3. All of our technicians are trained and specialists in the work that they do. 

4. We work with your insurance company to make sure you are covered for the work that we complete. If your insurance company does not cover a service we recommend, we will let you know the price before the work is done.

5. We work quickly to ensure that your home is back to normal ASAP.

6. We appreciate your feedback! We would like to know if your happy with our services. We also are interested in knowing if your unhappy with our services. We want to make it right, and fix anything that may have gone wrong.