Saving Flood-Damaged Belongings in Northampton

1/7/2024 (Permalink)

If flood damage occurs in your home, you need everything repaired quickly. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for certified technicians.

Flood Damage Cleanup by Trained SERVPRO Technicians

Flood damage can happen anywhere and anytime, whether residents live in Northampton or elsewhere. Flooding often comes with other complications, including sewage, mold, or pests. Professional mitigation is a must for keeping home occupants safe during the restoration process.

Certified SERVPRO® professionals respond to Northampton flood damage restoration needs within hours of a resident’s call. This crew can provide power sources and other tools necessary to mitigate the damage and begin the processes required to return a home’s structural components and contents to a pre-flood condition.

Flood Damages Come from More Than Just Water

Flood damage usually comes with much more for homeowners to be concerned about than just water, which can make DIY cleanup ill-advised for a plethora of reasons:

• Presence of needles, sharps, and chemical runoff from floodwater
• Floodwater affecting home electrical systems can make interaction with appliances risky
• Sewage, debris, and pests from flooding affect sanitation and comfort in the home
• Mold growth from floodwaters can begin within as little as 24 hours after exposure

Restoration professionals like the crew at SERVPRO are trained and equipped to handle floodwater and debris efficiently and safely to ensure homeowner safety after flooding occurs.

SERVPRO Streamlines Claims Filing and Contents Restoration

Another essential aspect of SERVPRO’s success in flood restoration is its pack-out and move-back systems.

SERVPRO pack-out and move-back, inventory system, documentation

• Pack-outs entail organizing and packing flood-affected items room by room for off-site storage at a SERVPRO warehouse
• SERVPRO’s paper and digital inventory systems detail useful information about packed items that can prove essential for proof of loss claims filing
• After the home and its contents are sufficiently cleaned and restored, items are moved back and placed in the appropriate room to minimize disruption to homeowner routines and comfort

SERVPRO of Hampshire County is Here to Help® when property owners need it. Residents can call (413) 324-1300 for assistance with flood-related disaster cleanup.

Immediate Flood Damage Response in Northampton

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO places powerful trash pumps to extract floodwaters from Northampton properties. Here to Help®

SERVPRO Tackles Northampton's Flood Disruptions Head-On

The feelings of frustration and stress that flooding in a residence brings to homeowners are immeasurable. When water enters a home unexpectedly, it's not just the mess but the worry about what comes next. Even though each incident has unique qualities, one fact remains the same: the cleanup must begin quickly.

Homes in Northampton sometimes face flood damage due to unexpected weather changes, poor drainage, or even the cresting of the Connecticut River. Homeowners can get a jump on the cleanup by moving items out of areas of the home where water is entering.

Here are some frequently seen problems caused by flood damage:

• Structural damage like warped floors and swollen walls
• Ruined personal items like photos, documents, and furniture
• Mold growth, which thrives in damp conditions and poses health risks
• Potential electrical issues that could risk safety

Here's how SERVPR® in Northampton leaps into action

• They begin with a complete assessment to understand the damage scale
• They extract large amounts of water swiftly using high-grade equipment
• They dry and dehumidify to ensure no sneaky damp spots remain

Drying Floors and Contents

Using equipment that brings warm, dry air and units that dispose of humidity hurry the drying state of the mitigation along. The techs keep close tabs on the moisture left behind through regular air and surface measurements when we say the home is dry; it's dry.

Salvaging of Wet Items

Restoration of salvageable items to their former glory is what SERVPRO's certified techs pride their service upon. Saturated vital documents are not automatically ruined beyond repair. The technicians have access to advanced devices that can use the same restoration methods as the United States Library of Congress.

SERVPRO of Hampshire County is available 24/7 to handle any size of flood damage restoration. (413) 324-1300

Northampton Flooding Necessitates Expert Water Damage Restoration

1/31/2023 (Permalink)

With advanced equipment, SERVPRO restores property to pre-damaged conditions, "Like it never even happened."

Professional Northampton Water Damage Restoration

Northampton homeowners often have to deal with the effects of powerful storms and the flooding they sometimes cause along the area’s rivers. These residents must act fast to limit their losses and find effective professional remediation when powerful winds, torrential rains, and rising storm waters damage their homes. Luckily, SERVPRO can help them recover.

SERVPRO is skilled at performing the water damage restoration work Northampton residences usually require following severe weather. Company water damage remediation teams are highly experienced in providing water removal services, completing basement flooding cleanup projects, and performing water damage repairs. After your initial call, SERVPRO’s cleanup and restoration crews:

• Generally, arrive at your home within four hours, ready to professionally inspect it for black water-related problems.
• Employ state-of-the-art extraction equipment to remove any remaining destructive waters from your residence rapidly.
• Shovel out and safely dispose of dangerous biohazards like chemical wastes, farming refuse, and sewage discovered after standing waters are extracted.
• Locate and discard irreparably-fouled structural materials, furnishings, and other household contents
• Inject salvageable structural materials with industrial-strength disinfectants and fog all impacted spaces with the same heavy-duty antimicrobials
• Scientifically dry, monitor the progress of such efforts, and thoroughly deodorize odorous rooms utilizing the latest technology.

Following these actions, residents are often shocked to find their homes perfectly restored to their pre-storm state. This is why our company is known for making water-impacted homes previously seem like they never even suffered stormwater damage in the first place.

So, when the natural elements get the better of your residence, remember that your highly-trained and experienced friends at SERVPRO of Hampshire County are just a short phone call away. Contact us any time of the day or night at (413) 324-1300 for fast and effective water damage restoration assistance. Once all is said and done, you are going to be glad you did.

Clean and Dry Out Your House After Flood Damage in Northampton

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

Our techs are ready 24/7, 365 days a year.

Rapid Cleanup of Flood Damage in Northampton

Storms happen year-round in our area and can leave us with the after-effects of such weather. Flood damage in Northampton is one of these consequences. There are a few reasons that might cause us to have problems with too much rain. 

Streams in Northampton can cause flood damage if sufficient rainfall forces water to flow over their banks. Another reason is if the ground is dry and dense, which keeps water from entering the land. Instead, the rain must run across it, seeking low spots. If a residence sits in one of these lower-lying areas, it can quickly become a victim of flooding.

When flooding happens to a residence, one of the first things people need to know is to move their most valuable and fragile things, including food, to a higher level. Refrigerated items might not last more than a day or two, so you should give this less priority over boxed, bagged, and canned goods. These are much less perishable and can sit for days in a box, whereas items from your refrigerator might quickly begin to spoil and become unusable.

Other things to keep in mind regarding a flood are:

• Flash flooding happens without warning so keep off lower roadways or those marked as such,
• Have extra water available, as well as basic food items and any needed medications, and
• Keep family documents on you, such as IDs, passports, credit card information, insurance cards, etc.

When the flood recedes, wait for official announcements regarding returning home, using electricity or water, and notices about downed power lines. Always think of these as live and capable of causing harm, so never touch or attempt to move them. SERVPRO is ready to help start cleaning up the flood damage and begin restoration of your house.

SERVPRO of Hampshire County wants to assure you we are here and able to assist you with cleaning up and drying out your home. Call us at (413) 324-1300. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Do Not Make These Flood Damage Cleaning Mistakes

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

You need the right equipment when it comes to flood restoration. SERVPRO uses the latest technology and equipment.

SERVPRO Cautions Northampton Homeowners

Flooding in your home is inconvenient and stressful, and you want to start cleaning up immediately. However, before you rush to deal with the flood problem in your home, please be aware that people make common mistakes when cleaning up a flood.

If you are trying to fix flood damage in your Northampton home, please try and avoid these mistakes:

• Using the wrong equipment. A regular mop and brush are not enough for flood damage. You need proper water extraction gear, such as the kind used by SERVPRO.

• Ignoring the risk of hidden damage. Flood water can seep into walls, drywall, insulation, and wooden floors, causing damage. Our techs use monitoring equipment to check for hidden water damage.

• Forgetting about the contamination risk. Flood and stormwater can contain microbes, human waste, dangerous chemicals, and other contaminants. We train our teams in the safe disposal of contaminated water and materials.

Our teams have the training and equipment to assess the situation and take action. We check for hidden damage, deal with contamination risks, and ensure your home is structurally sound.

Do not take risks with flood damage cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Hampshire County at (413) 324-1300.

Call Professional Restorers in the Event of Storm Flood Damage in Northampton

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

If you find yourself in need of assistance with Storm damage remediation, call SERVPRO at (413) 324-1300

SERVPRO Performs Storm Flood Damage Repair in Northampton

Natural disasters like storms wreak havoc on communities yearly, leaving many people without homes. Taking too long to respond to the aftermath of a storm might cause the porous materials in your home to disintegrate or your house to experience rapid mold colonization.

You should call a reliable restoration service provider such as SERVPRO when there is storm flood damage on your Northampton property. Our team can help you with water damage repair. We can repair, rebuild, and recover your residence to get it back to its state before the loss. Storms can leave a trail of damage behind, including:

• Flood damage
• Wind damage
• Hail damage 
• Ice and snow damage

Our SERVPRO response team can handle the damage and follow the proper restoration process to completion. We are a leader in the restoration industry, and we have garnered enough trust from our customers. Our restoration process can involve these steps:

• Debris removal
• Emergency repairs
• Water damage repair 
• Drying and dehumidification
• Cleaning and disinfecting

You can place your absolute trust in SERVPRO restorers to handle storm damage of any size in the shortest time possible. We have cutting-edge technology that can exceed our customers’ expectations. We can use self-priming trash pumps to extract the floodwater. These pumps use force to generate a pumping action by using the pressure differential in a liquid. 

Our SERVPRO technicians can also use our heavy-duty venting fans and dehumidifiers to dry your house. The equipment lets us dry buildings more rapidly by moving vast amounts of dry air into them. We have different air movers that generate an airflow of incredible velocity from 1,000 to 3,000 cubic feet of air per minute. This air movement is helpful for general ventilation. It can remove vapors, unpleasant smells, and fumes from a house. 

You do not have to worry even when your house has sustained damage. Contact SERVPRO of Hampshire County at (413) 324-1300 for efficient and professional restoration. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Why Calling SERVPRO Should be a Priority After a Flood in Westhampton

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding from storms can happen at any time. Call SERVPRO so that your home can be restored as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.

Who to Call After Flood Damage in Westhampton

Did you know that the thought of losing your home or possessions to flooding is a common fear among homeowners? These forces of nature are often unexpected and can be caused by just about anything. Heavy rainfall, backed-up drains, storms, or natural disasters can all be a trigger for excess water entering the home and causing harm. We offer a single solution that can be sought anytime via our 24-hour emergency call line.

The first thing homeowners can do when calling us about flood damage in Westhampton properties is to give us the information you have available. Providing us with all the facts can help us to ascertain what type of equipment we need and which technicians to send. At SERVPRO, we are well aware of the stress that flooding can cause to our community and promise to deliver a focused customer approach in any work we do.

It is important not to panic but at the same time to act quickly. Standing water can cause permanent damage if left too long. However, never put your safety in jeopardy in an attempt to save possessions. SERVPRO technicians can remove furniture and other items to a clean location either on-site or in a local facility. We are also trained to spot potential hazards like electrical wires or structural damage and deal with them safely.

Your SERVPRO technician can carry out an initial visual inspection to decide the type of equipment that is most effective for your needs. Generally, we remove standing water below two inches with powerful heated extractors. Water levels above 2 inches may require submersible gas pumps to be brought in to drain the affected area quickly.

It is only natural to assume the worse in an emergency. However, we work toward a restore-over-replace mentality. That means doing our utmost to save your possessions. In some cases, we may perform a pack-out service which involves labeling all goods and sending them to a specialized facility where they can be deep cleaned, dried, and restored.

We have extensive experience in dealing with situations just like yours. SERVPRO of Hampshire County is ready to receive your call at (413) 324-1300 anytime, day or night.

How Objects React to Standing Water in Ware Flood Damage

2/27/2022 (Permalink)

When the flooding situation in your home isn’t mitigated, the flood damage simply escalates. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 - 365 days a year.

Calling SERVPRO Immediately after Flood Damage Can Help to Reduce Restoration Needs

Standing water can be one of the most destructive forces of all in your home if it is allowed to remain undisturbed. However, while some objects and materials can rather quickly break down and be destroyed in standing water, others can be surprisingly resistant to its effects. How much flood damage to your Ware home ends up costing you typically depends on what, exactly, is swamped and soaked in water.

Materials that Are Vulnerable to Standing Water

The bulk of any replacement costs in your Ware home after flood damage should likely come from these objects and materials. When swamped with water, they can begin to chemically oxidize, break down, develop mold and fungal growth, and experience other destructive processes. These materials may be ripped to pieces, dissolved, or otherwise physically damaged to such an extent that we cannot do anything to restore them to their prior state. This category of belongings can include breakable objects, some fabrics, paper products, raw iron, and many other materials, especially when given extra time. This is part of why fast water extraction is so essential: many of these materials can be saved if we remove the water before it has a chance to cause excessive damage.

Materials Resistant to Standing Water

Some objects and materials may be barely affected by water, even over time. These materials include water-resistant metals such as stainless steel, unpolished stone and masonry, some types of wood, hard plastics, and other non-porous materials. However, keep in mind that standing water rarely acts alone in damaging your home. Some of the most expensive damages can come from objects and debris carried in by the water, or staining from dirt and mud particles in the water.

SERVPRO of Hampshire County is an experienced local provider of damage mitigation, restoration, and repair services. Our technicians are IICRC certified and are ready after any significant storm to respond to your call for help. Call us at (413) 324-1300.

How to Handle Storm Flood Damage in Amherst

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

"We're Faster To Any Size Disaster"

SERVPRO Can Perform Storm Flood Damage Repair in Affected Amherst Residences

After a thunderstorm hits, there is a risk of property damage, including flooding. Storm flood damage needs to be handled well to protect your home and health. Unlike typical water damage, floodwater might contain microorganisms, pesticides, and sewage which complicate the restoration process. When you notice flooding in your residence, call experts from SERVPRO to remediate the damage and remove floodwater safely.

Our restoration experts have the equipment and training required to handle storm flood damage in your Amherst residence. We can inspect your property and mitigate the damage before starting the restoration process. SERVPRO’s flood damage restoration process may include:

• Water removal
• Cleaning structural elements and furnishings
• Drying
• Dehumidification
• Mold remediation
• Replacement or repair of structural elements like ruined drywall and wood.

Our SERVPRO technicians can use moisture meters to find the actual moisture level or content of various materials. Some moisture meters are calibrated to measure certain materials like drywall and wood. Some meters are adjustable for several materials that can be adjusted for drywall and wood. We also use centrifugal pumps to remove water. These pumps convert rational energy from a motor to power to move fluids. They include high-pressure pumps, self-priming trash pumps, and electric submersible pumps.

We can dry the affected areas using air moving and dehumidifying equipment. Our SERVPRO team uses air moving equipment to improve evaporation at the surface level and minimize drying time. When water evaporates from damp materials, the air above the wet material becomes cooler and saturated. The boundary layer of cool, humid air can reduce evaporation. Air movers enhance evaporation by introducing airflow at the surface levels. They replace the cool, saturated boundary layer with drier, warmer air from dehumidifiers.

Our water restoration technicians (WRT) can also use structural drying equipment to direct airflow into cavities and replace the moist, cool air with dryer, warmer air, increasing the temperature of the surfaces and lowering the vapor pressure. This expedites the evaporation rate.

If your home has flooded due to a storm, SERVPRO of Hampshire County can restore it to its former state. Call us anytime at (413) 324-1300.

What Essential Steps Help Clean Up Items after Flood Damage in My Northampton Home?

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Storm and flood damage restoration service for your home should be handled by SERVPRO. Our IICRC certified techs are trained and experienced.

SERVPRO Can Help You Deal with Contamination, Deep Soiling, and Other Problems Caused by Northampton Flooding

Floodwater interacts with the contents in your house in different ways, including submerging those on the floor. These include carpets and rugs, dripping on vertical surfaces, and absorption through porous barriers. Such exposure affects items uniquely, which determines the steps taken to clean them up. 

What Simple Steps Can Help Ease Content Clean Up?

After addressing other challenging aspects of flood damage incidents in Northampton, such as extracting standing water from the property or removing deteriorated materials, cleaning contents emerges as the other challenging process. There is a need to tackle problems such as rusting, shrinking, contamination, and other kinds of deterioration to restore items to their pre-damaged state. Our SERVPRO technicians perform various steps that help reduce the time or work involved during the actual cleaning process. They include:

• Separating salvageable and unsalvageable materials

Removing unsalvageable items for immediate disposal eliminates clutter and saves time

• Pre-treating washable items

Steps like wetting damp fabrics with clean water help remove debris such as mud

• Partial or complete move-outs

Cleaning contents in a designated area within or away from the affected property helps add convenience

Is There Sophisticated Equipment That Helps With Content Cleanup?

Although it is possible to complete many cleaning actions by hand, it might take longer or lead to unsatisfactory results. Since our SERVPRO technicians strive to remove any soiling or staining from flooding, "Like it never even happened," we utilize various equipment types during the cleaning process, including:

• Upholstery cleaning equipment 
• Pressure washers
• Immersion cleaners 

For the best outcome, a cleaning exercise should address visible soils, remove any traces of contamination in non-porous items and deal with bad odor.  

Cleaning helps in many ways after flooding incidents. Call SERVPRO of Hampshire County at (413) 324-1300 to help salvage your contents.

What Steps Can Hampshire County Residents Take to Prevent Water Damage from Flooding?

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

Owner Kevin Fall gives tips on how to prepare for flood damage.

IICRC-Certified SERVPRO Techs Assists Hampshire County Homeowners with Water Damage from Flooding

Storms, ground flooding, and the subsequent water damage caused by both have heavily impacted residences in Western Massachusetts, especially after heavy July rainfall and inclement weather from the remnants of Hurricane Ida. In the wake of this recent disaster, over 100 homeowners called SERVPRO of Hampshire County for basement flood cleanup.

SERVPRO professionals in Hampshire County remediate water damage from flooding with a combination of 24/7 service, highly-trained and certified technicians, and commercial-grade restoration equipment and facilities designed to tackle small or large-scale disaster cleanup needs. SERVPRO of Hampshire County’s licensed restoration services after a flood include general contracting (license #: MA CS-107843) and residential contracting (license #: MA HIC 180066).

Other certifications local SERVPRO technicians and staff hold include:

• Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Water Removal Technicians
• OSHA 10-hour General and Construction Industry Training
• Applied Structural Drying Technicians
• Water Damage Restoration Technicians
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technicians

Precautions for Residential or Basement Flood Damage

SERVPRO of Hampshire County owner Kevin Fall suggests in this video the following for protecting homes, particularly basements, from flooding:

• Keep water away from important fixtures and appliances like water heaters, furnaces, and laundry machines by identifying where water is coming from and keeping vulnerable areas like entryways blocked with sandbags
• Use wet vacuums and dehumidifiers to keep water damage under control
• Preparation is key to minimizing damages. Keep downspouts and gutters clean, with spouts directed away from the home. Clear out storm drains near the property if they are obstructed to lessen further flood risk.
• Homeowners can often salvage basement contents by keeping belongings in storage totes or elevated on palettes. In basements with carpet, the flooring can prove difficult to clean.

SERVPRO of Hampshire County stands ready to offer mitigation services that can make disaster-affected homes look “Like it never even happened.” Property owners can find out more by calling (413) 324-1300.

How Long Does Flood Damage Restoration in Northampton Take?

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Storms cause all sorts of water damage throughout the house. SERVPRO has all the equipment and manpower needed for all the water restoration needed.

SERVPRO Provides Efficient Flood Damage Support to Northampton Residents.

A flooded property requires immediate attention and can become a hurdle, impacting your everyday life. Water intrusion events are generally sudden and can throw your schedule out. Our services are designed to help relieve stress during restoration and repair by communicating with you thoroughly as well as acting as the bridge between the insurance adjuster and the restoration process. We can help you with:

• Basement flooding cleanup
• Sewage cleanup
• Emergency services water damage

Our goal is to make flood damage restoration in your Northampton home as smooth as possible. This process could include enlisting the help of certified builders and providing you with realistic deadlines. If you remain in the property, we can extract, dry, and disinfect areas of the house in high usage first, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Dedicated SERVPRO crew chiefs can oversee the process using their extensive experience.

Sorting through non-salvageable materials and disposing of them is essential to carrying out efficient restoration work. 

We offer additional services such as vapor barrier installation to protect your home from damage in the future. 

Our use of industrial-grade water restoration equipment can help return your home to its preloss condition, “Like it never even happened.”

For expert assistance, contact SERVPRO of Hampshire County for flood damage repairs at (413) 324-1300.

Northampton Flood Damage Drying Techniques

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

After a flood, count on SERVPRO for assistance. Call us at (413) 324-1300, we are available 24/7.

Systems to Remove Flood Damage from Your Home

Excess rainfall can affect nearly every home in some fashion. When it causes streams or rivers to crest their banks, the problem increases significantly and can cause thousands of dollars in repairs. 

Standing water is the primary source of flood damage to Northampton homes, but removing it lessens the problem; it does not eliminate it. To do that, SERVPRO removes moisture from the property and the air. When lowering the air humidity levels, we use either a Closed or an Open system. 

Closed System for Flood Damage Restoration

We seal the affected area from other parts of the home and outside air for a Closed system. Dehumidifiers are the first machines we use for this process. A Closed system is a preferred method for smaller areas with a high humidity level since it is easier to seal off a single-entry point with plastic sheeting or close and seal the doors and windows. Technicians also use the HVAC in a Closed system; air conditioning can significantly help the dehumidifiers speed up the process. 

Flood Damage Remediation Using an Open System

An Open system is more efficient for larger areas. We use fans and air movers to force out the moist air inside the home and replace it with drier air from the outside. However, if the humidity level of the air outside is not significantly lower than inside, this is not an efficient process. Higher temperatures outside are also necessary. 

Although an Open system can work faster, it does come with a set of disadvantages. Additional monitoring is required to check the equipment and keep watch on the open doors and windows to prevent trespassing, theft, and vandalism. If we use the HVAC, then there is an energy loss for every minute it is on. Finally, the weather can turn, and the process must either stop or switch to a Closed system. 

SERVPRO of Hampshire County knows that removing flood water is only the beginning of restoring your home to its original state. We are here to get you through every step and explain what we need to do. If you require our help, call us at (413) 324-1300 today. 

What Should Northampton Homeowners Do After Storms Bring Flood Damage?

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage sometimes requires removing flooring and drywall to dry and restore you home. But no worries! SERVPRO is always on the job,

Whether Your Northampton Property has a Leaking Roof from Storms or Something Else, SERVPRO is There to Handle Flood Damage and More!

Significant rainfall in Northampton could lead to flooding and ceiling leaks. Whether you have basement flooding or worry about secondary damage from moisture getting into your home, SERVPRO can help. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, giving you peace of mind in knowing you have skilled technicians at the ready!

No matter the severity of a storm, flood damage in Northampton can turn into a hazardous situation. If moisture gets into your home on any level, you run the risk of costly secondary damage or mold and mildew growth, which can bring potential health effects. Stormwater events generally get classified as follows:

• Category 2 –This is when you may have water coming in from a window or your ceiling with low contamination.
• Category 3 –This often happens with basement flooding/groundwater floods, including harmful microorganisms, fecal matter, chemicals, and other contaminants.

Once you call us for flood restoration or basement flooding cleanup, we will:

• Extract all standing water.
• Remove and dispose of all unsalvageable building materials and contents.
• Carefully inspect for hidden moisture pockets.
• Dry and sanitize all structural components.
• Clean and dry impacted contents.
• Perform controlled demolition, as needed. General Contractor License #: MA CS-107843 - Residential Contractor License #: MA HIC 180066

SERVPRO of Hampshire County can be reached at (413) 324-1300 when you need fast, efficient flood damage cleanup after a storm.

Can My Flooded Northampton Basement Be Restored?

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

Water can build up outside quickly and eventually force its way inside your house causing flood damage to occur.

SERVPRO provides water restoration services in Northampton

Flooding due to weather events can be catastrophic for many. At the very least, the consequences of floodwaters entering your home are disruptive and problematic. Not only is it an issue of functionality or comfort, but there are also real health concerns associated with the debris and organisms brought into your home.

In Northampton, flood damage is assessed and handled by our trained SERVPRO team. Our water restoration technicians train with the best in the industry to resolve imminent issues and anticipate those that could develop over time. At its core, our process requires water extraction, drying, and sanitizing the space, so it returns to its original condition. To complete the process, we may bring into your home some of the following-

• Submersible and truck-mounted pumps
• Air circulators and dehumidifiers
• Thermal foggers

Decide to mitigate your loss by calling our team at SERVPRO of Hampshire County. A quick call to our 24/7 line at (413) 324-1300 can make all the difference in restoring your home.

Northampton is a City Growing in Every Positive Way

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

We love our community, and are always on call to remediate storm damage.

Enjoy Northampton’s Many Attributes – From Historical to Modern 

The city of Northampton has seen its share of hardships and required adaptation over the decades. From housing the prestigious and nationally recognized Smith College to its arts community, Northampton is a municipality growing in all the best ways. Rising from a low economic point in the 1970s, residents have created a community where people want to remain and raise their families instead of larger areas like Springfield to the south. There are several ways that the town continues to create a positive impact on its residents. 

A Focus on the Arts  

Despite a smaller size for a mid-sized town at around 29,000, Northampton has grown into a cultural and art-centered community in recent years. This revitalization alone can be a great testament to area residents' determination and perseverance following an economic decline that completely bottomed out in the 1970s and would take a few decades to rebuild and restore. As with many hard times, it brought about art in music, theater, and various still media. 

The pinnacle of art exhibitions for the community happens twice a year, with the Paradise City Arts Festival held on both the weekends of Memorial Day and Columbus Day. The festival welcomes various cultures and crafts together in a blend of all things art. This event has been a highly regarded display of local talents and craftworkers annually since the mid-1990s. Live entertainment has also become a staple of the art scene. There are multiple venues throughout the city that host these performances, including the Academy of Music and the Calvin Theater.

The Dynamics of a College Town  

Smith College is a prestigious women's institution here in Northampton that has become a community staple. Its involvement with four other Pioneer Valley colleges makes it a leg of the Five College Consortium with other liberal arts institutions such as Amherst College and Hampshire College. This connection allows students of these five schools to attend courses or programs at any of the others with additional costs. The presence and growth of Smith College in the town have also helped to bolster the evolution of retail, specialty shops, and employment opportunities. 

With the nearly three thousand extra residents brought to the area every semester, the need for part-time employment opportunities and retail locations is evident. Areas of Northampton have grown immensely with the development of the college and its temporarily boarded undergraduates. It is this blend of a younger permanent resident base and the college crowd that allows places like Thornes Marketplace, Campus Center, and Kingsgate Plaza Shopping Center up and running. 

Historic Sites of Northampton 

As much as the community is always looking towards the future and adapting to the country's changing conditions, Northampton officials have also recognized the need to preserve historical properties and architectural styles from succumbing to aging degradation. An excellent example of this is the Elm Street / Round Hill Historic District. Elm Street's one-mile stretch features nearly 140 buildings ranging from homes built in the 1700s to more modern architectural styles. Much of Smith College falls under the historic heading, as the school dates back to 1871. 

Smith College also owns and maintains structures dating back as far as 1725 with the acquisition of the current Sessions House (109 Elm Street) constructed initially by Jonathan Hunt. The Haven House on Smith College's campus was the residence of the American poet/author Sylvia Plath for her first years at the school in the 1950s. Just off of the main strip of historic properties on Elm is the hold of former President Calvin Coolidge, who served as Commander in Chief from 1923 to 1929. 

A Warm Welcome to the World 

Over the past decades, Northampton has become a community more accepting of alternative lifestyles, religions, and orientations. Having a safe and accepting location for community members ensures that they can live out life with joy and pursue dreams created by the top minds leaving institutions like Smith College. Without prejudice and restrictions, artists and individuals create art in all forms, from music and still art to live theater and films such as: 

• The Cider House Rules
• Malice
• In Dreams
• Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? 

Storm Response Team to Help for Any Northampton Disaster 

While Northampton has never had the unfortunate luck of encountering severe natural disasters like hurricanes that can impact the coastal states, there are several types of extreme weather events that can occur here. Blizzards and cold snaps can be structurally damaging or ruin under-insulated pipes in a house. However, flooding remains one of the most destructive forces Hampshire County must contend with for homes and businesses. Between 1950 and 2010, nearly 350 flooding events were recorded. 

How SERVPRO responds to these events impacts the potential damage that homes and businesses suffer from flood losses. We appreciate that mobilizing quickly in a crisis can ensure that beneficial emergency services such as extraction can promptly start. We have powerful water removal tools that we can utilize as soon as our water restoration technicians arrive at the flooded residence. Some of these include: 

• Wet Vacuums
• Submersible Pumps
• Weighted Extractors
• Carpet Wands 

Cleaning is also a vital element to flood removal for Hampshire County homes. With substantial loss incidents, exposure to contaminants and harmful substances cannot be ignored. In some situations, demolition is necessary to prepare the property for recovery. With a general contracting license for residences (MA HIC 180066), we can complete the tear out, repairs, and reconstruction your property requires. 

Flood damage can be a devastating situation for area homes, especially when contamination is a concern. Let our SERVPRO of Hampshire County team help, however possible, by calling (413) 324-1300.

What Are All Those Holes In My Wall For After Flooding?

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

After a flood incident occurs. You can trust that your home is in good hands with our experienced technicians at SERVPRO.

SERVPRO uses multiple restoration techniques in Northampton homes with floodwater problems.

When floodwater enters a home, it is not uncommon for the majority of the visible water to recede into other areas of the structure, known as "migration." SERVPRO technicians use their equipment to track the migration path and, in some cases, help the structure release the moisture it is holding through actions such as creating weep holes along walls, allowing better drainage of the water.

Why Did My Tile Come Loose After Flood Damage?  

After flood damage in a Northampton property, tile flooring bears the brunt of the loss in many cases. While ceramic tile floors with an intact grout line seal have one of the best outcomes from flood water contact, laminate and adhesive floor tiles tend to have one of the worst. Upon exposure to floodwater, the glue holding down the tiles tends to deteriorate, and the tile delaminates and requires removal. This also calls attention to the probability that water seeped into the subfloor, and it necessitates drying. The techs use most commonly:

• Drying mats
• Air movers
• Industrial dehumidifiers
• Air scrubbers 

There is a certain amount of controlled demolition that is common. With their residential contractor license, #MAHIC180066, the SERVPRO techs bring the knowledge of building as well as safely removing damaged structural elements and readying the property for the needed repairs. 

Mold is a threat after floodwater enters a home. It does not come in with the moisture but can find optimum conditions for naturally occurring airborne spores to germinate. Once this happens, an infestation can spread rapidly throughout the area. The technicians can remove damaged sheetrock or other items and perform abatement as needed to neutralize the issue. The application of antimicrobial solutions assists in inhibiting the setup of mold colonies during the mitigation. 

SERVPRO of Hampshire County at (413) 324-1300 to handle storm and flood damage in your home. The technicians are available 24/7 to handle any size water cleanup and restoration service needed.  

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How Can I Fortify My Home Against Flood Damage?

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

Storms and flood damage happen. Our technicians are ready to go. Call us today!

Northampton Residents Are Worried About Preventing Flood Damage 

Northampton homeowners know the importance of taking good care of their home – and they know that sometimes it’s worth spending a little money now, to save expense and stress later.

When flood damage hits Northampton, homes are at risk of extensive damage. Flood damage repairs can be costly and inconvenient. SERVPRO recommends doing all you can to fortify your home against floods before anything happens, to reduce the possible harm and protect your house.

What can I do to boost my home’s flood resistance? 

Here are some things to consider if you want your home to be more resistant to flooding:

• Apply water-resistant paint to the outside of your property
• Cover pet flaps and vents if it looks like a storm is coming
• Use sandbags to protect your property when the weather dictates
• Consider installing flood-proof doors and windows if you are in a high-risk area

Is there anything else I can do? 

As well as taking care of your home’s structure, SERVPRO recommends keeping on top of home maintenance projects. Things that can reduce your flood damage risk include:

• Dealing with any roof repairs or loose tiles as soon as possible
• Cleaning gutters and downspouts regularly and repairing any damaged parts
• Checking your door and window seals and replacing them if needed

You might also consider hiring a landscape gardener to ensure flood water will run away from your home.

What should I do if flood damage occurs? 

No matter how many precautions you take, you cannot wholly prevent flood damage. If you need flood mitigation, call SERVPRO as soon as you can. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster, and we know how to repair and restore your home after a flood.

Our professional team will extract water from your home and make it safe again if it has suffered structural damage. We also handle the removal of damaged carpets, and we clean and restore furniture Wherever possible. We will not quit until your home is appropriately dry and clean again, and we even carry out odor removal, so your house smells fresh.

 For help with flood damage, call SERVPRO of Hampshire County at (413) 324-1300.

More about Northampton.

What Steps Are Crucial in Disinfecting Property Flooded by A Storm?

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

What should you do when floods damage your home? Call SERVPROI! We know how to safely remove the water.

SERVPRO Can Help Clean, Disinfect, or Remove Materials as Part of Flood Damage Restoration in Your Northampton Property 

When a storm floods your property, one of the problems you have to worry about is contamination. Failure to decontaminate the affected areas can pose significant risks. It is important to note that you can clean up your Northampton property, but leave traces of contaminants.

Can Contamination Persist After Cleaning?

Cleaning is a necessary part of flood damage restoration when Northampton properties flood. However, several factors influence its effectiveness in removing contaminants, including:

• Whether affected materials are porous or non-porous
• Whether cleaning involves the use of disinfectants or antimicrobial products
• Procedures used in the application of cleaning agents
• Site management procedures such as content manipulation

What is easier to decontaminate, porous, or non-porous material?

Floodwaters contain massive levels of contaminants, such as chemicals and biohazards. In most cases, decontamination is only feasible for non-porous or semi-porous materials such as wood furniture or some floor and wall materials. Porous materials, including carpets and pad, allow deeper penetration of contaminants minimizing chances of proper decontamination. Our SERVPRO technicians remove such materials for disposal for the safety of your family.

Which steps are necessary when decontaminating hard surfaces? 

• Allowing products at least 10 minutes of dwell-time
• Use of products at correct temperatures of at least 68°F
• Ensuring the cleaning solution spreads evenly around the property

Our SERVPRO technicians use various approaches to ensure we decontaminate all areas thoroughly. For instance, to ensure we apply sufficient products on vast areas such as floor surfaces, we use electric or pump-up sprayers for application. We also clean the surfaces we want to decontaminate before applying the disinfectant since the products need physical contact to be effective. Some organic matter can also neutralize the products.

Restoring sanitary conditions to your property after a storm floods it is crucial. Call SERVPRO of Hampshire County at (413) 324-1300 to assist. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

More about Northampton.

What Kinds of Safety Concerns Should You Have if Your Home Floods After Torrential Rains?

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

It’s rainy season in Northampton. Call SERVPRO for all of your water damage restoration needs.

Rely on the Experts from SERVPRO to Keep Everyone Safe During Flood Damage Recovery in Northampton

When seasonal storms bring heavy rains and high winds to Northampton, the Connecticut River can also rise, exposing your residence to flooding from all angles. Regardless of the source of the water invading your home, the quantities that eventually flow inside can be substantial, causing damage to both the structure and its contents. You need professional help to turn back the pages on the disaster.

How Can You Tell if a Restoration Company Has Your Best Interests in Mind?

After you make the call after selecting a restoration company, it is natural to be nervous. Flood damage to your Northampton home is an intensely personal and stressful experience, and you want to have confidence that your restoration partner always has your family’s safety and welfare prioritized. Our mission is to return our customers’ property to a clean, dry, and sanitary condition, following best practices, including adhering to safety protocols from assessment through the final walkthrough. 

How Does a Reputable Disaster Recovery Company Manage Safety on the Flood Damage Worksite?

The caution SERVPRO exercises when approaching your flooding recovery project has as its foundation the reality that water damage restoration presents dozens of dangers that put both occupants and our crews at risk. We follow a protocol that safeguards all persons on your damaged property while providing premier flood damage mitigation, remediation, and restoration services. In theory and practice, water damage restoration can expose individuals to the following overall risks, and our first action when arriving at your site is to assess for the presence of any or all:

• Slip, trip, and fall dangers, related to slippery and submerged surfaces and debris
• Working in confined spaces, with potential for physical injury or entrapment in rising waters
• Exposure to chemical agents mixed into the floodwaters or used for cleaning and disinfection
• Environmental hazards, including
• Materials such as lead or asbestos
• Potential structural breakdowns such as wall or ceiling collapses and disturbance of supportive framing or foundations by the force of water, silt, and debris
• Electrical hazards, perhaps requiring temporary shutdowns
• Biohazards such as mold and infectious human waste when sewage backs up 

What Is Next, After the Risk Assessment?

Just because risks exist does not mean the project does not move forward. SERVPRO puts into place research-based, commonsense protections and proceeds cautiously under adapted conditions:

• Hands-off water removal occurs with the placement of submersible, gas-powered pumps.
• As debris becomes visible, cleanup is possible.
• Truck-mounted extractors use power from our generators, so electrical shutdown does not delay our response, removing and containing for lawful disposal even vast amounts of contaminated floodwaters.
• When contact with infectious or otherwise contaminated fluids and materials is necessary, crew members wear personal protective equipment (PPE). 

How Are Electrical Hazards Managed After Restoring the Power?

Eventually, we use on-site electricity for our equipment, including smaller extractors and the inventory of machines that assist in structural drying. We employ Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFC) that cut the power when too many current flows. Crew members also inspect cords and plugs regularly for damage and ensure that cords used are managed with zip ties or other strategies to avoid tripping.

• Team approaches to work in confined spaces ensures that no technician is without communication as portable, plugin extractors enter the battle to remove all water.
• Light fixtures and electrical boxes should be water-free before use.
• Metal tools, including measuring tapes, ladders, and more, must not contact working circuits or energized equipment.
• Diagrams of electrical wiring, cables, and power lines must be available before controlled demolition to avoid cutting into the grid.

Crew members avoid:

• Plugging in or unplugging wet appliances or equipment
• Switching on or off any electrical tool or machine while standing on a wet surface

What Approaches Do the Restorers Take with Other Hazards?

Structural Concerns

Northampton storm and flood-damaged structural components can warp, crumble, or collapse. Before beginning flood mitigation and remediation our crews:

• Inspect for gas or other utility line ruptures, reaching out for appropriate assistance if needed.
• Evaluate water for water collected above ceilings or between walls, planning for and implementing a strategy of weep holes or flood cuts to release the water.
• Test floors for weakness, especially if the introduction of heavy equipment might cause supports to fail.   

Hazardous Materials 

• Chemicals or infectious pathogens can be mixed in the floodwaters, requiring proper PPE and containment of the workspace and the fluids removed.
• Airborne hazards mandate the use of negative pressure air scrubbers in work areas, and wrapping of the space in 1.6 mil polyethylene.
• If we encounter asbestos or lead-based paint, our managers must arrange for removal by licensed personnel.

The team at SERVPRO of Hampshire County delivers flood assessment through build-back services. Explore what we can offer you by calling (413) 324-1300.

Contractor Licenses:

General: MA CS-107843

Residential: MA HIC 180066

Flood Damage In Your Amherst Home

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Let our experts save your flood damaged property

Early Thaws Lead to Flood Damage in Amherst

Extreme weather patterns and sharp shafts in temperature can expose your Amherst home to flooding at previously unexpected times. When heavy snows are followed swiftly by spring-like thermometer readings, the resulting meltdown can find its way into your basement or crawl space. The swings in outdoor conditions and effects on conventional mitigation and remediation equipment make our professional response even more reassuring.

Drying Essentials

Science determines how quickly and effectively we can dry out flood damage in your Amherst residence. The faster our crews can dry out a home, the better the outcome. Lingering moisture prolongs the deterioration process, making it more likely structural components might require removal. Slowed drying frequently leads to the need for demolition and rebuilding. Secondary damage, such as mold, is also probable when drying times are extended. Four factors affect the amount of time needed for drying:

• Temperature
• Amount of water to be evaporated
• Humidity
• Air movement

Colder Temperatures Affect Restoration Approaches

Drying happens much faster in warm temperatures, with the ideal range being from 70 to 90 degrees. If the flood damage in your home occurred in a space, such as an unheated garage, basement, or crawl space, where temperatures are lower, then SERVPRO managers and technicians need to adjust the other variables to enhance the drying time.

Emphasize Extraction

The more water SERVPRO removes in its liquid state, the less time and effort it takes to dry out the space. We are aggressive in completing water removal with pumps, truck-mount, and portable extractors as they are 1200 times more effective than drying alone.

Ways to Increase Temperature

SERVPRO vans are loaded with equipment needed to manage flooding. Heaters are part of this inventory, and we position them to raise the temperature so that evaporation happens more efficiently. Building smaller drying chambers within the affected area with 6-mil polyethylene barriers is a way to direct heat into wet spaces for maximum effect.

Choosing the Correct Dehumidifier

We select from among refrigerant, low grain, and desiccant dehumidifiers to remove the water vapor present due to heat and air movement. In a chilly basement or crawl space, a desiccant dehumidifier might be the best choice, capable of removing water vapor at a much lower temperature.

SERVPRO of Hampshire County offers highly-trained technicians and state of the art equipment to help you recover from flood damage. Call us at (413) 324-1300 to schedule an appointment for your cold-weather flood cleanup needs.

For more about Amherst click here.

We Can Save Your Home In Amherst After A Flood

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Let our crew help after a storm damage disaster.

Keeping the Customer Safe After Flood Damage In Amherst

Flooding from swollen rivers and creeks can occur at any time. We often hear about massive flooding where entire towns are flooded. Then there are the sudden downpours, which flood a local stream. The floodwater is gone almost as fast as the rainstorm. Your home or business may be left with floodwater inside your home, along with mud and debris washed in through open doors and windows.

SERVPRO not only has the experience to deal with flood damage in Amherst and surrounding areas. We also have a highly trained staff. Our team is ready to respond within a minimum of four hours, and the team stays in contact providing updates regarding arrival times and who is arriving at your home.

Staying Safe

There are many things to be concerned about during flood events. During the actual flood, make sure you and your family or employees get to high ground. Always have an evacuation plan and make sure everyone knows what to do. Do not enter floodwaters, even those that are receding.

There are multiple hazards, aside from potential electrical hazards due to the water and potential short circuits. Also, the water in your home could be contaminated. Floodwaters collect all sorts of bad things, from garbage to overflow from sewer systems. SERVPRO encourages our customers to avoid entering flooded building areas. Wait until our team has had an opportunity to review the situation.

Protection and Disposal

Our SERVPRO crew chief and technicians are thoroughly trained, regarding how to handle contaminated debris and items in your home or business. We implement control measures in situations where exposure to these types of contaminants may pose health threats to staff and clients. Clients must remain outside of the area. SERVPRO team members working in the affected area must wear personal protective equipment during the inspection and while completing all decontamination activities. We want to restore your home, “Like it never even happened.” and keep you safe too!

Call SERVPRO of Hampshire County at (413) 324-1300 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve Northampton, Granby, Easthampton, and surrounding areas. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

For more about Amherst click here.

Granby Property Under Water? Or Just Flooded? Call SERVPRO for Fast Cleanup and Restoration

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Rescues Homes from Flooding in the Granby MA

Flooding is a hazardous situation, even when Granby homes are not contending with contaminated losses. Any homeowner wants to make the most efficient path to get their home back to its original condition, and that often means seeking the expertise and advanced equipment available to professional restorers like our SERVPRO team. Our experience in these situations helps us to finish projects faster than many homeowners could do themselves.

Standing water alone can be a severe threat to a property, but flood damage in Granby homes demands several things to happen quickly. Depending on how the flooding originated, the appropriate steps must get taken to prevent this situation from getting worse. With a team of residential contractors licensed (MA HIC 180066) through the state of Massachusetts, we can offer emergency board-up and tarping services that can reduce the continued penetration of floodwater into the property.

Because there is a limited timetable to protect many of the contents and construction materials exposed to this floodwater, our professionals have a fast response whenever disaster strikes. Our team can often respond to your emergency within hours, even in the middle of the night. This prompt response can help to relocate at-risk belongings and allow our technicians to deploy extraction and drying machines to reduce the harmful impacts in the house.

The SERVPRO technicians that get dispatched to your flooded address have accreditations through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in Water Restoration (WRT), Applied Structural Drying (ASD), and some with Applied Microbial Remediation (AMRT) as well. With this range in education and expertise, we can complete tasks efficiently, leaving the formerly flooded home “Like it never even happened,” whenever possible.

We cannot ever give an exact time that our services can begin or end, and that is primarily due to our thoroughness and commitment to providing the highest quality results possible. After a flood, our SERVPRO of Hampshire County team can show you that We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster from the moment that you call. Reach out to our emergency response team anytime at (413) 324-1300.

We Can Help After A Flood In Your Amherst Home

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Our crew is ready 24/7 to respond to your storm damage emergency.

Get Help When Flood Damage Strikes Your Amherst Home

Severe thunderstorms can bring heavy rains and intense winds to your Amherst home, causing flood damage in critical cases. Unfortunately for your home, the thunderstorm uprooted a nearby tree. As it fell, the branches punched a hole through your window and allowed hundreds of gallons of water into your home.

Upon discovering the water in your home, you need to reach out for local Amherst flood damage remediation services immediately. Leaving the water to its own devices for too long can cause microbial growth, as the excess moisture feeds omnipresent mold spores. Whenever your home suffers any type of water damage, always get help as swiftly as possible.

The other important thing to remember about flood damage is that the waters inside may not be safe to be in contact with. When you get in touch with a professional cleanup and remediation service, like SERVPRO, we can determine what category of water is in your home. Fortunately, your home is suffering from rainwater and a few debris left behind by the fallen tree.

The first thing SERVPRO can do once the tree has been removed is clean up any debris and remove the water from inside of your living room. Our highly trained Institution of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration-certified (IICRC) technicians can use wet/dry vacuums, as well as rover-mounted extractors, to remove the excess water. Rover-mounted extractors are particularly excellent for any carpeted floors, as they simultaneously dry the carpet while removing water.

After removing the excess, SERVPRO can move any furniture out of your living room and bring it to our facility to be dried and cleaned. It can be stored there until the work in your living room is done. Our technicians can make flood cuts along your walls, removing any damaged material to ensure that no mold growth occurs. As a final touch, we can set up drying equipment in your living room. We use devices such as desiccant dehumidifiers, axial fans, flood drying mats, and air movers for drying. These devices help us ensure that the moisture levels are returned to their proper amount.

Once finished, we can put you in contact with a contractor to restore your living room. After we return your things in their preloss state, we can return your home to you, hoping that you feel, “Like it never even happened.”

If your home needs flood damage remediation services, get them immediately. Dial (413) 324-1300 to speak with SERVPRO of Hampshire County. No matter the day or time, our technicians can help.

A Flood Can Spell Big Trouble For Your Home In Granby

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

If you need a second opinion or our sophisticated approaches, give our SERVPRO of Hampshire County rapid response team a call today at (413) 324-1300.

Can You Fully Restore Flood Damage To Your Granby Residence?

Flooding in your Granby residence does not always have to be widespread and traumatic, depositing several inches of standing water throughout the property. Many instances of flooding only affect one single room of your house or even the crawlspace beneath the main floor. These circumstances, while less immediately destructive than flash flooding with high volumes of water, have the potential to still be as damaging and severe if not addressed quickly. As a homeowner, you might want to know if this is a situation you can handle on your own, or if you need to seek out professional assistance.

As much as you might expect a plug of our SERVPRO mitigation and recovery services for flood damage in Granby homes, there are many of these scenarios that you can handle without our experienced team. Understanding how to judge these situations can improve not only your success with the recovery of your property but also the full-time period and investment made in your efforts and those of a professional restoration team (should this later be necessary.)

You first need to understand how widespread specific effects have become, starting first at the source of this damage. For breaches to blockwork, you can often apply hydraulic cement with a trowel over the vulnerable area to stop the flow of water so that you can begin extraction and drying efforts. Other penetration points in the exterior of your house become matters of discretion into your abilities with emergency construction solutions like tarping over compromised roof areas until the breach can get repaired.

As for extraction, while our SERVPRO team might have multiple options of various sizes and strengths to suit every water removal and drying effort, you can often make do with a wet vac and conventional drying methods. This approach is only going to work provided that wall cavities and other inaccessible areas have not become damaged by moisture and require additional specialized equipment.

When you are assessing your ability to handle flood damage in your home, it is a choice that needs to get made quickly and confidently. Damage can continually worsen until the affected areas get thoroughly dried and managed. If you need a second opinion or our sophisticated approaches, give our SERVPRO of Hampshire County rapid response team a call today at (413) 324-1300.

For more about Granby click here.

Let Our Professionals Help With Flood Damage Preparation For Your Amherst Home

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Our goal is to leave your house, “Like it never even happened.”

Is Flood Damage Preparation In Amherst For You?

Surprises never stop when you are a homeowner. When you think all home improvement jobs are done, you are surprised by a new part of your home needing attention. It is not uncommon for homeowners to learn that they are vulnerable to flood damage, even when their home is not located in a designated flood zone. The best you can do is prepare and align your resources and hope that you will never need them. Pay close attention to recommendations issued by your insurance company and the federal government, but make sure to assess your local resources as well.

If you are concerned about flood damage in Amherst, reach out to us at SERVPRO and let us explain our approach to restoration after a water event. Aside from having a team on call 24/7, our technicians hold an Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Combined with on-the-job experience, our crew brings to you the latest in the industry to address any flood damage to your home. Call us, and our Green Fleet will arrive at your home to take action.

A big concern when there is flooding is the presence of black water. Flood water carries pathogens and debris which pose a risk to your family. When it comes in contact with your home and belongings, we need to take action. As it permeates your most porous possessions like upholstery and carpeting, it threatens your health. Our SERVPRO team acts quickly to remove any unwanted materials and dispose of them according to environmental recommendations. Simultaneously we bring in high-power pumps to extract water and restore moisture levels in your home. Knowing the proper order in which to eliminate floodwater residue helps minimize your material loss and disruption to you and your family.

SERVPRO of Hampshire County is your best ally when disaster strikes. Call us at (413) 324-1300 as part of your emergency preparedness plan and let us be proactive in protecting your home. Our goal is to leave your house, “Like it never even happened.”

Click here for more about Amherst.

Let Our Crew Restore Your Granby Home After A Flood

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Hampshire County, our goal is to help every homeowner return their residence to a safe condition for occupation.

Restoring Flood Damage Effects In Granby Homes

The Granby community’s location near state parks and two major highways make it ideal for travel and business. That location also makes us vulnerable to flooding from nearby rivers and swamps, however.

No matter how high or low the water reached, Granby flood damage needs removal and restoration as quickly as possible. SERVPRO restoration teams train extensively with the latest equipment to handle every type of water intrusion and its effects.

The beautiful wood floors in so many of our homes are extremely vulnerable to flooding. They are underwater almost immediately and remain so until removal of all surface flooding and thoroughly drying the floorboards. Removing the majority of the water with one of the pumps in our inventory is relatively simple. It is drawing off the rest that often proves difficult.

SERVPRO technicians have to balance removing the water quickly against causing additional damage to the wood surface. Drying out too quickly can crack and splinter or even warp the individual boards until they lift away from the subflooring and twist away from each other. To keep this from happening, response team members use extraction wands with a built-in heating device to apply a low heat while removing moisture between the floorboards.

If they note swelling, then technicians carefully puncture the stain or varnish to increase the rate of evaporation. If needed, they also set up a dehumidifier to draw moisture from the surrounding air. The drier air also increases the evaporation rate without harming wood floors.

Finally, technicians examine the sub-flooring for floodwater. If any water did seep in, they remove it with an extraction wand. To remove excess humidity, they use an air mover with a hose to force warm, dry air into the crawlspace which forces out the damp air to preserve the sub-floor framework and underside of the floorboards.

At SERVPRO of Hampshire County, our goal is to help every homeowner return their residence to a safe condition for occupation. We're here to help you. Call (413) 324-1300 to get started.

Click here for more about Granby.

Our Professionals Know When Snow Melts Your Granby Home Is At Risk For Damage

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

If this water vapor remains, mold and other problems related to elevated humidity become much more likely to plague your home.

When Snows Melt, Flood Damage Mitigation Experts Restore Homes In Granby

Depressions around your Granby home's exterior can hold more snow, and drifting can add several feet of snow and ice to what already exists. Once this begins to melt, water can slip into your home quite easily. If your home rests on lower portions of a hillside, freshly melted snow can increase the flow.

SERVPRO technicians are ready to remove flood damage in your Granby residence with efficient techniques and protect your home from further problems. Flooding picks up soils and other debris, including organic matter from trees, your and neighbors' yards, and even the street. We use special cleaning equipment to remove not only the water but also the sediment left behind.

Our drying methods rapidly remove the moisture that evaporated from the standing water and entered the air inside your residence. If this water vapor remains, mold and other problems related to elevated humidity become much more likely to plague your home. We explain to our customers that helping them save money includes helping them prevent possible damaging situations, as this is much less costly than restoration through cleaning or replacing of materials.

With flooding, odors quickly become noticeable and make a home inhospitable. Odors continually remind occupants that the house is now dank and damp, a breeding ground for pathogens and other microbes. Achieving normal humidity of the air and moisture content of flooded contents reduces the odors, but many remain. Our IICRC-certified Odor Control Technician (OCT) uses industry-recognized methods to eliminate these odors at their sources.

While still-damp environments, including even those barely moist, are not ideal candidates for treating through ozone, our hydroxyl generators do not have the same precautions. We can safely use them in such environments, as well as while these areas remain occupied by our workers and others helping to get your home's condition back “Like it never even happened.” Neutralizing odor-causing substances with easily formed chemical bonds, the new molecules disintegrate in new ways that do not produce odor. Additional methods, such as thermal fogging, once your home is arid again, add to the effectiveness of our odor control treatments.

Contact us, SERVPRO of Hampshire County, at (413) 324-1300, so we can help you move beyond flood damage and its terrible effects. Our professionals have the experience and advanced equipment needed to mitigate all of the effects caused by flooding.

Click here for more about Granby.

Some Warning Signs of Damaged Pantry Items After Flooding in Your Northampton Home

12/23/2018 (Permalink)

When your home pantry or other household items are affected by flooding, it can be hard to figure out what is salvageable. Call SERVPRO.

The Question of Food After Flood Damage in Northampton

One complication of flood damage in Northampton that can often be overlooked is food. Depending on where and how you store your food and how extensive the flood damage is, your pantry could stay fully stocked, or you could find yourself eating out for days or weeks in the future. While this may seem like a trivial concern, the value of the food in most homes is significant enough for SERVPRO to be concerned about it. Follow these tips to save on meals while restorations are underway in your home.

Put Perishables in Coolers
Many cases of flood damage to Northampton homes knock out power to specific objects, rooms, or even entire buildings for days at a time. On top of that, in some circumstances, even working appliances can represent a safety risk if they remain in use. Until a SERVPRO professional checks to make sure your home electrical systems are safe, you might be best off storing perishable items like meats, dairy, and vegetables in coolers full of ice. Be sure to bag and wrap individual items to prevent them from being soaked in water as the ice melts.

Don't Toss Out Cans
Canned goods that have been soaked in flood waters may still be perfectly safe to consume. Although it may be unsafe to open damaged cans, those that clearly have no dents, cracks, or holes can be saved and eaten later, even if their labels are marred. This advice also applies to bottles, packages, and other sealed containers that successfully resist damage.

Get Rid of Ruined Items
We cannot save or restore ruined food items. Any open or damaged packages or perishable items that may have encountered floodwaters should be thrown away to avoid the many health risks that can come with their consumption. In general, if you have any doubts as to whether or not a food item has been contaminated, you should err on the side of caution and throw it away.

SERVPRO of Hampshire County can help to mitigate and reverse the effects of flood damage in your home. For our professional services and advice, call us 24/7 at (413) 324-1300.

Click here for more about Northampton.

Flood Damage Specialists in Easthampton Describe Psychrometrics Drying Goal Theory

9/3/2018 (Permalink)

Flood Water Extraction and Drying Are Cornerstones of SERVPRO Storm Services in the Easthampton Area

SERVPRO Provides Skilled Storm Damage Cleanup and Drying of Flooded Properties in Easthampton

Many times when a severe thunderstorm hits the Easthampton area, problems with your property can occur. If the wind blows a rock or branches into your roof or a window, then it is likely that flood damage can happen at your place of residence. Once water gets inside a structure, many building materials and contents can get ruined. If structural components stay wet for an extended period, then the problems can get much worse. If organic materials remain wet for more than two days, your flood damage situation can turn into a mold remediation project.

Whenever our SERVPRO technicians receive an emergency call after a storm, we begin the restoration process immediately. We know that quickly removing moisture from your flood-damaged property in Easthampton is essential when it comes to preventing secondary problems. First, we patch the hole in your roof or broken window so that no more rain can enter your building, if not too extensive. Next, we extract all of the standing water and moisture present in porous materials such as carpet and upholstery. After the extraction phase, we then set up drying equipment to dry out wet building materials as quickly as possible.
 
Depending on the severity of the disaster, and September is Disaster Preparedness Month, our SERVPRO team sets up different amounts of air movers and dehumidifiers that create an ideal environment for rapid structural drying. We then monitor moisture levels inside the materials and take humidity and temperature readings to make sure our equipment is working efficiently. If things are not working as we would like, we can adjust the ratio of air movers to dehumidifiers, and shift their positioning to maximize efficiency.
 
We take relative humidity RH readings to give us an idea of how much moisture is in the air. However, relative humidity readings are not the best gauge because air can hold a more substantial amount of water at higher temperatures. We then take temperature readings so that we can figure out the exact grains of water per pound of air or specific humidity SH. Specific humidity can be determined by using a psychrometric chart. The chart tells us how many grains of water are in a pound of air using recorded temperature and relative humidity readings. These are tools for controlling the rate of evaporation and a successful conclusion for the established drying goals.
 
If you ever notice problems that have to do with moisture inside your home, call SERVPRO of Hampshire County at (413) 324-1300 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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Summer Storms Can Bring Flood Damage To Your Amherst Home

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Water from the rains come gushing into your guest bedroom, and before you know it, the room is flooded, and your furniture is soaked.

Summer Storms Can Bring Flood Damage

Summer brings warm weather, vacations, and outdoor barbeques, but it also brings seasonal storms with it that can cause intense flood damage to your home. Lightning, thunder, whipping winds, and heavy rain are all a product of these severe storms and each one can have a significant impact on your residence. When lightning strikes a tree outside your house and causes it to plunge through part of your roof, the situation can seem like something out of a nightmare. Water from the rains come gushing into your guest bedroom, and before you know it, the room is flooded, and your furniture is soaked. It is imperative to reach out to professionals as soon as you can.

In order for a contractor to fix the new hole in your roof, the flood damage in your Amherst home must be dealt first. The contractor cannot work with sopping wet patches of material. The sooner you get a professional restoration company into your home, the better, as they can remove the flooded water and dry out the space.

When SERVPRO arrives at your house, the first thing we can do after our investigation is put a tarp over the hole of your roof so no further moisture can get inside while we work. Afterward, our technicians can clean up any floating, and potentially dangerous, debris from the tree that fell into your home. Once we are dealing with just the flooded water, SERVPRO can then bring in advanced trade technology so that we may remove it.

Our techs use devices like wet/dry vacuums and portable pumps to remove the flooded water from your guest room. To assist in removing water from the soaked carpet and drapes, we can use an extractor to remove the moisture. An extractor has a heating element that further helps to dry fabric materials as it pulls the water away from them. Additionally, SERVPRO can use tools like ventilation box fans and air movers to dry out your floor and the area of your roof that had been damaged by the rain. The very last thing that we can do for you is to put you in contact with a contractor that we recommend so they can fix the hole in your roof.

When an accident befalls your home, never hesitate to call for help. Get in touch with SERVPRO of Hampshire County by dialing (413) 324-1300. Our experts always make it a priority to arrive at your home as swiftly as we possibly can.

Click here for more about Amherst.

Protecting Homes from the Effects of Stormy Weather with Water Removal Services in Westhampton

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

Don't Sleep on a Park Bench After a Storm in Westhampton, Call SERVPRO for Water Removal

Rapid Water Extraction Mitigates Storm Damaged Homes

Storms can bring tremendous amounts of water into Westhampton rather quickly, and at times cause minor flooding in lower areas. When this water ends up inside a home, it can create problems for the homeowner. Rainwater can end up in a house other ways, too.
 
Residences that sustain heavy rainfall might need water removal services. Besides flooding in Westhampton, rain can end up inside a home from roof leaks.  During winter, ice dams can create loose shingles where water can come into the attic area. Strong winds can create gaps in siding which can also create problems during spring storms.
 
SERVPRO's IICRC-certified employees can bring this problem to a halt quickly. We not only remove the offending water, moisture, and humidity invading your home, but we also repair the places, for minor and fast closures, which permitted it to enter, keeping water from future storms entirely outside. When the structural damage is significant, then an outside contractor must rebuild the damaged house components.
 
In the unfortunate event that a tree lands on your home and makes holes in the roof, we can provide emergency services to remove the tree and then tarp the area, so damage remains minimal. Yard debris also causes problems, so we understand when customers desire that we eliminate this type of mess.
 
Removing the water from inside your home occurs with appropriate equipment and tools. When water evaporates into the air, SERVPRO can remove it with the equipment that finds it in the air. Absorbent materials also hold onto water, so we increase the environment's temperature and help it re-enter the air again, making it easier to extract. For huge messes like floods and caved-in roofs, we use larger equipment such as our truck-mounted pumps. No matter the size or kind of job, we have industry-leading equipment designed to solve the situation.
 
SERVPRO of Hampshire County technicians come from the families of Amherst, Ware, Belchertown, and others in our surrounding areas. We want to help those in our communities recover from storms, floods, and other water-related disasters with water removal services. Call us at (413) 324-1300 when your family home or business sustains such damage. We can help make it "Like it never even happened" for you in a fast and efficient way.

Click here for more about our town.

Restoring Your Home and Your Life after Flood Damage Happens to Your Ware Residence

2/21/2018 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO as soon as possible to minimize the effects of flood damage in your home.

SERVPRO Works Hard to Restore Your Home Back to Safe Conditions for Your Family after Flood Damage

Nature often comes to mind as a beautiful, peaceful force that people in the Ware community travel out of their everyday environment to experience. Nature sometimes makes house calls and a substantial amount of costly damage might take place instead of a calm and relaxing interaction.

Ware residences in low-lying areas can sustain flood damage at any time of the year, but Spring can mean a much higher chance of this happening than other seasons. Increased rain and melting snow can mean the ground becomes too saturated to hold additional water, and this all too often results in flooding of our local homes and businesses.

Just like a quick response before flooding occurs can save many of your more valuable possessions, a timely reaction after a flood can also decrease you and your family's overall frustration. This includes lower restoration costs, a reduction of possible health risks, fewer damages to personal belongings, and also a shortening of the amount of time your home remains unlivable. Responding slowly can only bring increased damages and more significant loss of property, among other consequences.

The water in a flood does not only look dirty, but it also carries pathogens and chemicals that can cause health effects. Elimination of these microbes and chemicals through proper handling of your home's interior can adequately decrease exposure to these elements and protect your family. However, we must address many other aspects of flood damage in your home before we can consider it completely restored "Like it never even happened."

Structurally, your home must provide adequate shelter that poses no risks to the occupants. Homes where water remained for lengthy periods often sustain severe damage to walls, floors, wiring, and electrical features, and many other situations that all need competent workers to restore safe conditions.

Odor also plays a role in disasters affecting homes, even when the culprit is clean, and not dirty, water. Our Odor Control Technician (OCT) can help you resolve this specific problem, also, so your home smells fresh and clean when the restoration work ends. Removing the damaged materials eliminates a considerable portion of the odor-causing microbes and other particles, but when an odor lingers, we can assure you that we can go that extra step for you and your family.

Helping the communities of Granby, Ludlow, and Hadley, SERVPRO of Hampshire County takes flood damage very seriously. We want individuals and families in the surrounding areas to live in safe, clean, dry homes. Call us at (413) 324-1300, at any time, day or night, any day of the year, whenever flooding affects your home.

Click here for more on the town of Ware.

What To Do After Flood Damage To Your Easthampton Home?

1/23/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding due to natural disasters such as storms can cause heavy damage to your Easthampton home.

What To Do After A Flood

Flooding due to natural disasters such as storms can cause heavy damage to your Easthampton home. The floodwater if not promptly and efficiently removed can cause secondary structural damage that can cost you thousands to restore.

It is crucial to know what to do after a storm has caused flood damage to your Easthampton home for a fast and efficient restoration. Being prepared for the aftermath is the key to getting your home back in order as soon as possible. Here are some things that SERVPRO technicians recommend you should do after a storm.

Safety First
The first and perhaps the most crucial thing to do after a flooding incidence is to ensure safety. Make certain that your family is safe before trying to do anything else. Turn off your home’s electric supply (even if the power is out) before the storm causes flooding.

Floodwater can be contaminated with nasty bacteria that can have adverse health effects. If possible, avoid handling floodwater by yourself. SERVPRO technicians have the necessary expertise and experience to handle and remove floodwater safely. Most importantly, avoid drinking tap water after a storm at all cost.

Get Professional Help For The Cleanup
SERVPRO technicians are available 24/7 to offer emergency services after a flooding incidence. There is no doubt that you need professional help to remove floodwater from your home. Successful flood damage restoration requires heavy-duty extractors, dehumidifiers, and air movers to eliminate the water and residual moisture to minimize the damage.

Professional restorers can also help you in filing an insurance claim. Make sure that you keep your insurance adjuster in the loop and provide him/her with as many details as you can. Maintaining an inventory of items damaged in the flooding is also a great idea. Our technicians can help you in this as well.

SERVPRO technicians are available 24/7 to offer emergency services after a flooding incidence. Call SERVPRO of Hampshire County at (413) 324-1300 today to talk to one of our flood restoration experts and discuss your situation. Our goal is to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Click here for more about Easthampton.

Heavy Snowfall Can Cause Flood Damage to Your Westhampton Home

1/11/2018 (Permalink)

Heavy blankets on snow on your roof can cause flooding in your home when weak spots in your roof give way and collapse.

SERVPRO Offers IICRC-Certified Restoration Services 24/7

Many envision a flood in Westhampton as one that overtakes neighborhoods slowly in the Spring. However, substantial snowfall can also cause flooding in your home when weak spots in your roof give way and collapse. One of the first services we perform when we arrive is placing a tarp over the affected area of your home to prevent any additional damage.

A Westhampton home can suffer flood damage from snow crashing through the roof. Such snow can affect every level of the home, from top to bottom. The situation can become worse when a homeowner does not realize a problem with the roof happened and only becomes aware of the problem when water becomes visible in the living areas of the home.

Water slowly seeps down from melting snow, allowing many materials to absorb substantial mounts. A great deal of damage happens in the attic, of course, but living areas also need professional mitigation. Your personal belongings can also end up severely affected and require specialized care. Restoration typically costs much less than replacing items, and at SERVPRO, we prefer to always take the most cost-effective options available to us.

Although this kind of flood does not impose debris and sediment on a house as a typical flood does, we still must treat your home for contamination. Even the best-kept homes can harbor vermin, including rodents and birds, many of which carry disease. Pathogens carried by these animals, previously undetected mold, and other unhealthy substances can cause health effects. Our pumps remove not only the water but a substantial amount of the contaminants, also.

Drying a home includes removing saturated carpeting, sections of walls and ceilings, airing out other enclosed areas, including closets and cabinets, and installing dry materials. We save our customers expensive replacement costs by cleaning personal belongings, furniture, and household items. Flooding in your home can cause extensive problems, but at SERVPRO, we train our technicians according to IICRC standards. Because they understand the latest in restoration technology, we can provide you with the most appropriate services for your unique situation.

SERVPRO of Hampshire County can help your family by restoring your home after flood damage or other catastrophic events. Call us locally at (413) 324-1300 to reach our round-the-clock service.

Click here for more on the town of Westhampton.

Cleaning Up After Flood Damage From A Hurricane In Granby

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

The heavy amounts of water produced by these storms can go through properties of an area and cause a significant amount of flood damage.

Cleaning Up After A Flood

Highly unpredictable regarding patterns, hurricanes are one of the most difficult to predict storms. People living on coastlines endure storm surges and high waves. Even if you are not in the direct path of a hurricane in Granby, it can cause plenty of damage from its flooding rains. The heavy amounts of water produced by these storms can go through properties of an area and cause a significant amount of flood damage.

Streams can overflow their banks from the excess rains, quickly filling streets and homes within Granby with water. If your home experiences flood damage from one of these powerful storms, the cleanup needs to be done efficiently and fast to avoid additional harm, which is why you need to contact SERVPRO as soon as possible.

It's in your best interest to choose our professional team since your home can sustain mildew and mold growth, plus even more damage, the longer you wait. We are available to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year for this reason. We realize that flood damage never comes at a convenient time.

SERVPRO’s restoration services being with pumping out the accumulated water. Special, heavy waterlogging equipment, such as truck-mounted portable water pumps, are used to extract and get rid of the standing water. Equipment such as this ensures a fast response and quick drying times.

Industrial strength dehumidifiers and fans are placed to control the moisture levels in your home and dry it thoroughly. We monitor these devices daily, and their position changed when necessary, so we get your home dry as soon as possible. We also use dry and wet fogging, ozone, and crystals treatment for deodorization. To remove any mildew or mold, we use scientific HEPA techniques.

When it comes to your possessions, SERVPRO techs restore, clean, and decontaminate anything that is salvageable, while we dispose of the rest. Different procedures, such as disinfectant and deodorizing agents, are used to clean draperies, clothing, and necessary documents. Sofas, carpets, beds, chairs, utensils, mattresses, appliances and more can be salvaged if prompt action can be taken.

SERVPRO of Hampshire County works with you to restore your home back to its normal state as quickly as possible after flooding. We are specially trained to handle these situations with the right equipment, so do not hesitate to call us at (413) 324-1300 when a problem arises near Easthampton, Granby, or Amherst.

Click here for more about the city of Granby, Massachusetts.

What To Do If You Experience Water Damage in Your Hampshire County Home Or Business

4/5/2017 (Permalink)

A flooded basement in Stockbridge, MA.

In our previous posts on preparing for severe weather, we've explored the definitions and dangers of flooding.  Today, we will help you respond effectively if you find yourself with water damage in your Western MA home or business.  The quicker you respond, the less damage you are likely to experience.

1. If you find that water has entered your Western MA property, before you enter the flooded area, think SAFETY first.  Check for electrical hazards and structural damage.  Wear protective gear like boots and gloves.


2. Try to identify the source of water and shut if off as quickly as possible. Stop up any leaks, shut off any running faucets, use sandbags towels as a barrier against flowing water on the floor.


3. Call SERVPRO of Hampshire County at 413-589-8975.  Don't wait.  If left unchecked, water can harm your property’s structure and furnishings, and encourage the growth of mold. Our water damage technicians are skilled at mitigating secondary water damage. This limits out of pocket expenses and reduces stress and inconvenience. 

From the moment they arrive, our SERVPRO of Hampshire County technicians get to work drying out your home. We remove any contaminated and non-salvageable materials and do everything we can to make your home safe. Our focus is getting your home dried out as quickly as possible to minimize damage to your house and inconvenience to you.
 
Our team brings powerful air movers and dehumidifiers to help dry out your home, including water damaged materials such as carpets. Air movers help dry your home by expelling the moist, humid air from the room and bringing in warm, dry air to create a drier atmosphere and increase evaporation. This type of refrigerated low grain dehumidifier can extract up to 30 gallons of moisture per day from the ambient air within your home.
 
Our qualified SERVPRO technicians are experienced in placing our equipment in the most efficient manner, to dry your home out quickly. Whether the problem is confined to just one room or affects your whole house, we come equipped with everything needed to start drying it out straight away. Moreover, if your home needs professional products to help mitigate any resulting mold growth, our technicians are trained to apply those too.

Whether you live in Ludlow, Northampton, Belchertown, Amherst, South Hadley or the Berkshires, if you experience water damage, call SERVPRO of Hampshire County at 413-589-8975.

Are You Ready For Potential Flooding in Western MA? Part One

4/4/2017 (Permalink)

This blog is the first in a series exploring extreme weather.

Are you prepared if you experience flooding in your house or business?  It's a common misperception that flooding only occurs in flood-prone zones.  In fact, flooding can happen anywhere it rains.  Did you know floods are the most common and widespread of all weather-related natural disasters?  In the U.S. floods kill more people each year than tornadoes, hurricanes or lightning!

At SERVPRO of Hampshire County, we've witnessed many homes and people's lives affected by water damage. Make sure you are familiar with the following terms:

FLASH FLOOD or FLOOD WATCH: Flash flooding or flooding is possible within the designated watch area - be alert.

FLASH FLOOD or FLOOD WARNING: Flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent - take necessary precautions at once! Get to higher ground!

URBAN and SMALL STREAM ADVISORY: Flooding of small streams, streets and low-lying areas, such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains is occurring.

FLASH FLOOD or FLOOD STATEMENT: Follow-up information regarding a flash flood/flood event.

If you experience a flooding situation in your home or business, don't wait.  Many kinds of water damage cannot be seen by the untrained eye and require the right expertise and equipment.  For examples of water damage we have mitigated, visit our Before/After pictures on this site.

SERVPRO of Hampshire County is available 24/7, 365 days a year for your emergency needs whether it be water damage, fire/soot damage, mold or any kind of cleanup.

Flood terms provided by The National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL) 

Are You Ready For Potential Flooding in Western MA? Part Two

4/4/2017 (Permalink)

This is the second blog post in our series on extreme weather.

In Part One, we shared some facts about the dangers of flooding and important flood terms.  In this blog, we will explore the areas most at risk from flash floods.

Densely populated areas are at a high risk for flash floods. The construction of buildings, highways, driveways, and parking lots increases runoff by reducing the amount of rain absorbed by the ground. This runoff increases the flash flood potential.

Sometimes, streams through cities and towns are routed underground into storm drains. During heavy rain, the storm drains can become overwhelmed and flood roads and buildings. Low spots, such as underpasses, underground parking garages, and basements can become death traps.

Areas near rivers are at risk from flash floods. Embankments, known as levees, are often built along rivers and are used to prevent high water from flooding bordering land. The city of New Orleans experienced massive devastating flooding days after Hurricane Katrina came onshore in 2005 due to the failure of levees designed to protect the city.

Dam failures can send a sudden destructive wall of water downstream. In 1889 a dam break upstream from Johnstown, Pennsylvania, released a 30-40 foot wall of water that killed 2200 people within minutes.

Mountains and steep hills produce rapid runoff , which causes streams to rise quickly. Rocks and clay soils do not allow much water to infiltrate the ground. Saturated soil also can lead rapidly to flash flooding. Vacationing or recreating along streams or rivers can be a risk if there are thunderstorms in the area. A creek only 6 inches deep in mountainous areas can swell to a 10-foot deep raging river in less than an hour if a thunderstorm lingers over an area for an extended period of time. 

Additional high-risk locations include low water crossings, recent burn areas in mountains, and urban areas from pavement and roofs which concentrate rainfall runoff.

SERVPRO of Hampshire County is available 24/7, 365 days a year for your emergency needs whether it be water damage, fire/soot damage, mold or any kind of cleanup.  Call us - 413-589-8975.

Content provided by The National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL).