Recent Water Damage Posts

Turning the Tide: SERVPRO's Comprehensive Water Damage Restoration Services

6/17/2024 (Permalink)

Imagine coming home to discover your house transformed into a watery disaster zone, courtesy of a burst pipe.

It's a scenario that strikes fear into the hearts of homeowners everywhere. However, amidst the chaos and despair, there exists a beacon of hope: SERVPRO®, the trusted name in water damage restoration.

The Calamity: A Burst Pipe

The sudden rupture of a water pipe can turn a peaceful home into a scene of chaos within minutes. Whether due to aging infrastructure, extreme temperatures, or an unforeseen accident, a burst pipe unleashes gallons of water into places where it doesn't belong. From soaking carpets and furniture to seeping into walls and ceilings, the damage can be swift and extensive.

Initial Response: Navigating the Crisis

In such moments of crisis, quick action is crucial. The first steps involve shutting off the water supply to prevent further flooding and ensuring the safety of all occupants. Once these immediate concerns are addressed, the focus shifts to damage assessment and mitigation. Here's where SERVPRO steps in.

SERVPRO: The Restoration Experts

SERVPRO is not just a cleanup crew; we are a lifeline in times of water damage emergencies. With their expertise and experience, Our team swiftly assess the extent of the damage. Our thorough inspection identifies areas affected by water intrusion, even those not immediately visible to the untrained eye.

The Restoration Process

Once the assessment is complete, our team formulates a comprehensive restoration plan tailored to each unique situation. This plan typically includes:

Water Extraction: Using powerful pumps and vacuums, SERVPRO extracts standing water from affected areas, minimizing further damage and mold growth.

Drying and Dehumidification: Industrial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers are deployed to remove moisture from floors, walls, and air spaces. This step is crucial in preventing secondary damage and mold formation.

Cleaning and Sanitizing: Salvageable belongings and structures are meticulously cleaned and sanitized to mitigate the effects of water damage and restore them to preloss conditions.

Restoration: Finally, our skilled technicians undertake repairs and reconstruction as necessary. This may involve replacing drywall, repairing structural damage, or restoring damaged surfaces like carpets and hardwood floors.

Beyond Restoration: Restoring Peace of Mind

While SERVPRO's primary mission is physical restoration, our impact goes beyond repairing walls and floors. We restore peace of mind to homeowners by handling the complexities of insurance claims and providing clear communication throughout the process. Our dedication to customer satisfaction ensures that homeowners can focus on rebuilding their lives with minimal disruption.

It's all in the Timing

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

We realize that, at times, we may sound like a broken record.   

“Call us immediately” 

“Act quickly” 

“Do not delay” 

We admit that we stress this point repeatedly however, because it is so important, we probably won’t stop talking about it. Why is getting help as quickly as possible such a consequential factor when you have a flood? In this blog post, we provide you with a water damage timeline to help you see how quickly a small flood can turn into a major problem.  

Water Damage Timeline 

In the First Hour:

  • Water will quickly move throughout the dwelling, saturating everything in it's path.
  • Stains or finishes that are on furniture that gets wet will be released. This can cause staining to the carpeting and flooring of your home. Additionally, any furniture that is moisture sensitive, such as antiques or unfinished materials, will be affected.
  • In particular, paper goods are vulnerable in the first hour. Due to their porosity, it doesn't take long for water to render books and documents unsalvageable.
  • Artwork that is hanging on your walls can be permanently damaged when water drips down the walls in that first hour. 

The First 24 Hours:

  • Drywall, which is found on the walls and ceilings of most Connecticut homes, gets saturated and begins to disintegrate. Many people discover their water leak only after the ceiling is already on the floor. That's how quickly this can happen. 
  • You will notice a musty smell and normal household odors grow stronger. 
  • Any uncoated metal surfaces, which are vulnerable to moisture in the air, will begin to tarnish.
  • Your furniture may begin to show signs of damage. In particular, laminated furniture and flooring will begin to swell and crack due to the moisture. 
  • Free-floating laminated flooring may also begin to pop out of place due to swelling.

48 Hours to 1 Week: 

  • The 'clean water' situation will have been upgraded to a 'gray water' intrusion.
  • You will notice an earthy smell in the home, which is caused by standing water as well as building materials and contents that have begun to decay.
  • Because of the high moisture levels, fungi, mold and mildew will begin to grow at this time, especially on porous materials such as sheetrock and carpeting. 
  • Wood building materials begin to show signs of damage as they swell, warp and split. You will notice this on window frames, wall moldings, the interior doors in your home and even studs and joists at this time. 
  • Rust and corrosion will begin to occur on metal items. 
  • Electronics in the home will begin to malfunction. 
  • Wood flooring and furniture begin to swell from the saturation. 
  • The Indoor Air Quality in the structure is compromised and health hazards can become an issue. Occupants of the home who are at risk due to health issues may begin to experience negative health effects.

More Than 1 Week: 

  • A 'black water' situation is most likely the case at this time due to the growth of bacteria and other harmful contaminates in the home. 
  • Mold spores will spread quickly and begin to break down natural materials, wallpaper, wood paneling, and other building materials
  • The structural safety of the home is in question as wood building materials are compromised.
  • The air quality in the home can pose a danger to all inhabitants.
  • The costs associated with your insurance claim exponentially rises.  The demolition and replacement of, rather than the restoration of, damaged materials becomes necessary. 
  • Our water damage restoration crews will be required to wear personal protection equipment in order to work in your home. 

If you have a water leak in your home, give us a call as soon as it is discovered to minimize the damage to your home.  

It's all in the timing.

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

How long will it take to dry out my house?

It's the question on everybody's mind when the SERVPRO team is called to your home after a water damage. And it seems like it should be an easy answer however there are a number of variables that can affect how quickly the restoration of your home will take. 

When our team arrives at your home, we begin to document the cause of water damage, the extent of damage, and all surfaces involved. We then formulate a water damage restoration plan using a software program that is designed determine the number of air movers, air scrubbers and dehumidifiers are required to begin the drying process.

Of course, our team knows that there is more to this work than technical specs and we don't completely rely on a computer system. Our property managers utilize their decades of experience restoring homes and businesses after water damage in determining a treatment plan. 

So, to answer the question - when will it be dry? On average, a typical house will be dry in about four days, depending on the extent of the damage. For example, vacant homes usually have more severe damage and mold may have begun to grow before the water damage was discovered, necessitating more extensive treatment. 

We all want the restoration work to be done quickly and efficiently. Our crew works as a team to do the job right and allow you to go back to your normal routine as quickly as possible.

Rain Causes Flooding in New Milford

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

The rain last week has caused flooding to a number of area homes and businesses. We've received many calls from home and business owners who need help drying out their homes.

Quick action is the key to limiting damage if you have flooding. Here are some actions that can prevent mold from growing in your  home. 

  • Protect your belongings – remove light furniture and upholstered items as well as other items that are susceptible (cardboard boxes, carpets and other porous items) from the affected area. 
  • Remove as much water as possible using a wet/dry vacuum. 
  • Use fans to circulate the air and speed up the drying process. A good rule of thumb is to run the fans for an additional week after the area appears dry. 
  • A dehumidifier can be used as well to remove excess moisture and dry out the room. 

Water damage can easily be hidden underneath rugs or carpet, so be sure to give your home a thorough inspection if you suspect water damage. Although carpets can be steam cleaned, they are tough to treat and padding typically cannot be saved. 

If you do have wall to wall carpeting in your basement that has gotten wet from flood water, give us a call. We are an IICRC trained mold and water mitigation company and have the tools and expertise to treat your Newtown home for damage.

Restore or Replace?

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

Part of our jobs when we are working in a home that has water damage is helping the homeowner and insurance adjuster determine what items in the home can be saved and restored and which need to be discarded.  Our team assists our customers in determining which of their possessions are salvageable, and which cannot be saved. 

We go through the contents of a home on a piece by piece basis and while each item is a unique case, we do use a few factors to determine whether it gets boxed, sent to our facility for cleaning or put in the dumpster.

The type of water that has flooded the home is an important factor in determining what stays and what goes. Clean water does not pose as much possibility of health effects as potentially contaminated water does. If there is concern that water is contaminated from sewage or chemicals, we are unlikely to suggest it be cleaned. It's not worth the risk.  

Typically, porous fabrics such as mattresses, pillows, carpeting and particle board cannot be salvaged. They absorb water quickly and are breeding grounds for mold spores to grow.  However, there are cases in which we are able to clean area rugs and wood if we are called to the job quickly and the piece has not become oversaturated.  

Our ability to be on the job quickly helps us minimize damage to personal possessions that have water damage. The perfect example of this is wooden furniture. It takes quite a fit of time for it to really absorb and become completely water logged. If you get  personal belongings out of the standing water and begin the drying process right away, you have a good chance of being able to save them. 

The SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County team has the experience in caring for the belongings of your Sandy Hook home. We understand that it can be difficult to part with treasured items, and do our best to help save them. If you experience a flood, calling us immediately at (203) 743-5362 will help minimize the damage. 

Little Refrigerator Leaks Can Cause Big Damage

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Your refrigerator operates 24-7 and is one of the hardest working appliances in your home.

Because  most homeowners do not inspect their refrigerators and leaks are often hidden behind the large appliance, a breakdown or leak that causes water damage can come as a surprise.

Refrigerator leaks are most often a result of a faulty or broken ice maker or water line. While these can suddenly burst, they often present as a slow leak, causing water damage to the walls and floor over the course of time.

Preventative measures include inspection of the area behind your fridge and the hoses. Look for any signs of deterioration of the lines, hard water deposit buildup, water damage and mold on the walls and floor. You can also look at the flooring from below- your basement can often show evidence of a leak. Installing a braided stainless steel hose will reduce your risk of a water line break as well.

The crew at SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County has cleaned up water damage from brand new as well as old refrigerators.

A refrigerator water line leak can happen to anyone.

If you have a leak, call us at (203) 743-5362 for immediate water damage restoration service.

Watching the Clock

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

If your New Milford home has experienced water damage, whether from a pipe burst, an appliance line leak or a flooded basement, calling a restoration company immediately will reduce the damage to your home and possessions.  The sayings "time is of the essence" and "there's no time to waste" are applicable here. The longer that your home is left untreated, the greater the effects of the water damage will be.  

What might appear as a water stain in the morning could progress to the ceiling having fallen on your couch by noon.  Once wet, sheetrock can quickly deteriorate and fall to pieces. As time passes after a water damage event, the flooding can cause your porous furnishings such as carpeting, mattresses and furniture to become water logged, rendering them unsalvageable. Home insulation and carpet padding also retain moisture.  Electronics are susceptible to internal degradation from the moisture in the air.  When treated quickly, wood and laminate flooring can often be saved using our floor mat system however if left to penetrate and go beneath the wood to the subfloor, this option is unlikely. 

Secondary water damage issues can also arise if restoration is delayed. What may have entered your home as clean water, such as an ice dam melting through your ceiling or water from a faucet leaking, may become contaminated and change to gray or black water, which can be a health concern and require a higher degree of handling. The growth of mold spores is also a concern when a home has had flooding that goes untreated.  

Upon arrival to your home after we receive your call, one of the SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County estimators will assess the damage. If you have not yet determined the cause of the water damage, their first course of action will be to do so.  Our technicians use a variety of tools such as moisture readers and sensors, probes and infrared technology in their evaluation. This, coupled with decades of experience and the highest level of industry training, gives them an accurate picture of the situation.  

Typically, our first course of treatment is to remove any standing water from your home using water extractors, submersible pumps, dehumidifiers and air movers. If necessary, we will order dumpsters to be brought to your home for the disposal of unsalvageable personal items and structural materials such as flooring, carpeting and wallboard. Our crew may also move household belongings from your home to our storage facility while your home is being cleaned. They may also restore some items such as furniture, area rugs, and photos off site.  Throughout the process, our office staff will communicate with your insurance company to address any concerns and gain approval for planned restoration work.  

After we have removed the excess water from your home, we begin sanitizing it. We use both wet and dry cleaning methods to remove dirt and pollution from the carpets, walls, furniture, baseboards, appliances and pieces of furniture that were affected by the water.  Industrial air scrubbers, which clean the air by passing it through special filters, remove any contaminants from the air of the home.  Our crew uses antibacterial and antimicrobial treatments to sanitize and disinfect any contaminated items and deodorization to eliminate any odors

Once your home is dry, clean and restored, we are able to bring your household items back, have the dumpsters removed and move our equipment out.  Although each water damage restoration job we encounter is unique, our essential approach is consistent. At SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County, our goal is to arrive at your home and begin the water damage process quickly after receiving your call, restore it professionally and thoroughly and help you get back to normalcy.  If you experience water damage in the Newtown area, call our office at (203) 743-5362. We are available 24 hours a day and have staff ready to respond to your call. 

Bathtub Overflow? We Can Help!

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

It happens a few times a year - an overflowing bathtub causes flooding in a Newtown area home. It happens easily - you turn on the tub and then go to get your magazine or answer the phone. You get distracted and don't remember the tub was on until you notice water dripping through the ceiling. 
 
Although you might be shocked that you forgot the water running and have caused damage to your home, our restoration technicians will not be. We see this sort of accident frequently and will arrive with the necessary equipment we need in order to secure and restore the water damaged areas in your home.

This includes extracting the water in your home using pumps and vacuums. We will check the subflooring for moisture. Even if you have ceramic tiles, water can seep in and around grout lines or fixture seals however in some cases, our technicians might be dry the subfloor from underneath to preserve the tiles. And, of course, if you do have water seeping through your ceiling, we will remove the ceiling and dry the joists and beams out before replacing with new sheetrock. 

Accidents happen. It doesn't have to be the end of the world. Call SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County to help make it "Like it never even happened."

What Happens When Water Damage is Caused by Somebody Else?

7/24/2021 (Permalink)

What happens if you have a new refrigerator installed in your home and the water line leaks, destroying your wood floors? Or your oil delivery company overfills your tank, causing a toxic spill in your basement? Or perhaps a plumber improperly installed a pipe, causing water damage to your New Milford home. Who pays for the damage- your insurance company, you or the third party? 

At SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County, we have team members that have been specially trained in "successful subrogation". Subrogation, by definition, is when an insurance company seeks payment or restitution from a third party that caused damage or injury to an insured person or property. Usually this means your insurance company will try to recover payments from the insurance company covering the party at-fault. 

If you have experienced water, fire or biohazard damage to your home that was caused by a third party, our staff can help you work with your homeowners insurance company in determining who is responsible for the damages. As a first responder to your disaster, we are trained to identify and save evidence that may assist your insurance company in recovering costs.  

If you have a dishwasher leak due to faulty installation at your Sandy Hook home, call us at (203) 743-5362. We will come to your home to start the restoration process and our office staff will help guide you through the insurance claims process. 

Heavy Rains Cause Water Damage to Newtown Homes and Businesses

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

It's been a wet summer in Litchfield County. Between the tropical storm last week and heavy rains all weekend, homes and businesses are flooded in Connecticut.

If you have been hit hard by mother nature, call our office at (203) 743-5362 for immediate service.

If your property has been damaged by severe weather such as a high winds, heavy rain or flooding, it can be devastating to your family or business. To get the complex storm damage repair completed quickly and safely, you need a restoration service company that specializes in bringing your home back to its preloss condition. 

SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County provides specialized emergency cleanup and restoration services to bring your property back to normal with minimal interruption. Whether you need a roof tarped, windows boarded up or water pumped out of your basement, our teams are on call and ready to respond to your emergency. 

Wet Carpet? We Can Help.

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

When there is a flood, a building's carpet is usually affected. Whether a traditional cut pile or a commercial glue down, wet carpet always needs to be addressed. Our treatment of damaged carpet is not a one-size fits all application, but rather it varies depending on the category of water loss and current condition of carpet 

There are three categories that water flooding falls into.

Category 1 is clean water that may be found when a bathtub overflows or ice maker line leaks. If the restoration process begins within hours of occurring the likelihood of salvaging the carpet is extremely high. 

Category 2, also referred to asgray water, is water that has picked up some forms of contamination, such as water from the dishwasher or a washing machine flood. The soap, food particles and soil that are found in the water create a CAT 2 water loss.  Salvaging carpets under this condition is also possible however the emergency service of drying must begin quickly.

Category 3 water damage is defined by water that is contaminated and potentially hazardous. Think raw sewage or water damage that started as another category due to prolonged interaction with bacteria and other pathogens on the building materials that populate due to the increased moisture content. Toilet overflows, sewage backups and flooding from ground water are examples of a CAT 3. Carpeting hit by CAT 3 water is not salvageable. 

In the end, safety is our number one priority when determining whether your carpet will be restored or replaced. 

How Much Does Water Damage Restoration Cost and Other Top Questions.

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

When we receive a call from a homeowner who has had flooding in their home, these are the most common questions that we are asked.

How much does will my water damage restoration cost? 
Unfortunately, we cannot give an estimate on water damage restoration over the phone. However, we do provide you with a professional estimate after inspecting your home. Some of the factors that affect the restoration estimate are the length of time that the restoration will take, the equipment needed, the man hours required, any barriers or containment that might be needed and whether any demolition or removal of wet materials is required.

Will my claim be covered under my insurance policy?

Although we see hundreds of claims and might have a good idea of whether your water damage will be covered, only your insurance agent can answer that question.  Our office staff is very experienced in interacting with insurance adjusters and will work directly with your provider including submitting documentation.

What products might you be spraying in my home? 
When necessary, we may use SERVPRO's proprietary decontamination products on affected areas. This reduces that likelihood of microbial growth and sanitizes your home.  The most common product that we use is SERVPRO Oxide, an EPA registered chlorine dioxide based disinfectant and stabilizer. Our homeowner's appreciate that this product is safe for use on all surfaces and is not harmful to people or their pets.

Can I remain at home during the drying process?
The majority of our customers are able to stay in the home during restoration. There are cases in which the home is deemed hazardous due to toxic conditions, a lack of heat or structural damage. In these cases, your insurance company might pay for you to be temporarily relocated. 

How quickly can you get here? 
On average, we can have a team equipped and ready to begin the recovery process on your home within 2 hours of your call. 

How quickly does mold begin to grow after a flood?
Mold can start to grow within 24 hours, which is why it is important to get the water damage restoration process started asap. 

Do you have any other questions about the water damage restoration process? Give our office a call at (203) 743-5362

We are Ready to Help After Snow Storms

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Although the winter has been a relatively mild one here in Connecticut,  the past two weeks have brought freezing temps and a snowstorm that reminded us that we do live in New England, after all. This past week, our team has received a high volume of calls from customers who had water damage to their homes and businesses due to frozen pipes bursting.  We've been kept busy drying out homes and providing emergency generators to heat homes that required it during restoration.  Heavy snow on roofs created ice dams, which caused even further water damage to structures from ceiling leaks in our area.  Heavy tree limbs break and cause damage to roofs.

We can only hope that the winter calms once again and we will soon be seeing signs of spring. However, if February turns out to be a beast, our team is on call and ready to help. 

How Long Will it Take?

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

How long will it take to dry out my house?

It's the question on everybody's mind when the SERVPRO team is called to your home after a water damage. And it seems like it should be an easy answer however there are a number of variables that can affect how quickly the restoration of your home will take. 

When our team arrives at your home, we begin to document the cause of water damage, the extent of damage, and all surfaces involved. We then formulate a water damage restoration plan using a software program that is designed determine the number of air movers, air scrubbers and dehumidifiers are required to begin the drying process.

Of course, our team knows that there is more to this work than technical specs and we don't completely rely on a computer system. Our property managers utilize their decades of experience restoring homes and businesses after water damage in determining a treatment plan. 

So, to answer the question - when will it be dry? On average, a typical house will be dry in about four days, depending on the extent of the damage. For example, vacant homes usually have more severe damage and mold may have begun to grow before the water damage was discovered, necessitating more extensive treatment. 

We all want the restoration work to be done quickly and efficiently. Our crew works as a team to do the job right and allow you to go back to your normal routine as quickly as possible.

Leaky Pipes Cause Water and Mold Damage to Homes

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

In our years in the water damage restoration industry, we have seen many causes of water damage - from toilet overflows to burst pipes to roof leaks.

Leaky pipes are the cause of many calls to our office. They are often hidden behind walls and cabinets and not discovered until the damage is widespread. Because of this, a pipe leak can cause a considerable amount of damage as the water becomes absorbed into walls, carpeting and ceilings. If allowed to leak long enough, a pipe can damage wood support beams and cause structural issues to a home.

There are some signs of a leaky pipe that you can be on the lookout for that will help you deal with the water damage before it becomes a major issue.  

  1. A musty smell. A home should not have a musty smell. If you notice an odd smell that doesn't go away after cleaning the area, it's possible that there is water or mold in your walls that are causing this. 
  2. Lifting or buckling of floors. If you notice your vinyl floors lifting at the corners or your wood floors or tiles buckling, it's possible that water is seeping in from the edge (particularly if it is in a kitchen or bathroom)
  3. Warping or discoloration of your cabinets. Check under the sink in your kitchen and bathroom. If there is any warping of the wood or staining from water, it's possible there is a leak that is allowing water to drip behind and can be causing mold to grow behind the cabinets.
  4. Peeling wall paint or  wallpaper. When your walls have absorbed too much water from a pipe leak and reached a saturation point, the wallpaper and paint will begin showing signs of damage. 
  5. Water stains on your ceiling. This is a telltale sign that there is leaking going on - whether from a toilet overflow or a bathroom sink pipe leaking. 

While it may be tempting to ignore a minor sign of water damage such as a small stain on a ceiling, keep in mind that the problem will not resolve itself. Allowed to continue, your leak go from a little problem to a big one. The moisture present will also allow mold to grow, which will require a secondary restoration treatment. 

If you see any of these signs of water damage in your home,  call SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County at (203) 743-5362.

Restore vs. Replace After Water Damage

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

As a SERVPRO franchise, we adhere to the SERVPRO rule of thumb that restoration is preferable to replacement if possible. Numerous insurance and restoration industry studies have concluded that restoring property after water damage is less expensive than replacing it. Restoration is also less time consuming and disruptive, meaning our customers can be in their homes and experiencing life as normal sooner after water or fire damage. Bethel area businesses will have their doors open sooner, meaning less revenue lost.

 SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County understands that a house is much more than just wood and sheetrock. It is devastating enough to see your antique wood floors water stained or your furniture covered with soot. We aim to restore these treasures, as well as family heirlooms and your children's toys, to make the experience a bit easier for Brookfield area homeowners.  

We use several methods in the restoration process including : 

Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues. 

Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning. 

Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning,  

Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if cleaned with water 

Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.  

Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.  

After your home and possessions are thoroughly cleaned, we remove odors and sanitize them so that they are ready to be returned to your home. 

Of course, there are some instances when an item, such as wet carpeting or mattresses, cannot be restored. In these cases, SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County will remove these pieces from your home and discard them ourselves. We work with your insurance adjuster to make sure you are properly compensated for damages.  Our crew and office staff are committed to make your Fairfield County home "Like it never even happened." Call us at (203) 743-5362 if you have questions about the home restoration process after you have experienced a refrigerator line leak in your Connecticut home. 

Bathtub Overflow? We Can Help.

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

It happens a few times a year - an overflowing bathtub causes flooding in a Newtown area home. It happens easily - you turn on the tub and then go to get your magazine or answer the phone. You get distracted and don't remember the tub was on until you notice water dripping through the ceiling. 
 
Although you might be shocked that you forgot the water running and have caused damage to your home, our restoration technicians will not be. We see this sort of accident frequently and will arrive with the necessary equipment we need in order to secure and restore the water damaged areas in your home.

This includes extracting the water in your home using pumps and vacuums. We will check the subflooring for moisture. Even if you have ceramic tiles, water can seep in and around grout lines or fixture seals however in some cases, our technicians might be dry the subfloor from underneath to preserve the tiles. And, of course, if you do have water seeping through your ceiling, we will remove the ceiling and dry the joists and beams out before replacing with new sheetrock. 

Accidents happen. It doesn't have to be the end of the world. Call SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County to help make it "Like it never even happened."

The World Has Been Put on Hold, Water Damage Hasn't

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

The Covid-19 pandemic has caused most of our lives to halt to a stop. Despite this, home and business owners still face many of the same challenges that existed prior to this outbreak. Dishwashers malfunction, roofs leak and basements flood just like before.

We are all concerned about spreading the coronavirus and some of our friends and customers have expressed concern over having people in their homes and businesses. Yet, water damage must be addressed quickly. Please be assured that our crew is practicing the highest level of safety as they work, for their own protection as well as yours. Some of the practices our franchise is adhering to strictly are:

  • Personal Protection Equipment: Our crew is wearing gloves and masks on every job
  • Social Distancing: We are following social distancing guidelines and maintaining a safe distance from each other as well as those who must remain in the building as we work
  • Disinfecting: We are wiping down surfaces that we touch - such as doorknobs and light switches -  with SERVPROxide, a hospital grade disinfectant. When deemed necessary, we are also applying the same disinfectant with a fogger in order to further sanitize. 

Why can't you just wait for a few weeks until things go back to normal?

Unfortunately, the more time that goes by with untreated damage, the worse the situation gets. 

The First 24 Hours:

  • Drywall, which is found on the walls and ceilings of most Connecticut homes, gets saturated and begins to disintegrate. Many people discover their water leak only after the ceiling is already on the floor. That's how quickly this can happen. 
  • You will notice a musty smell and normal household odors grow stronger. 
  • Any uncoated metal surfaces, which are vulnerable to moisture in the air, will begin to tarnish.
  • Your furniture may begin to show signs of damage. In particular, laminated furniture and flooring will begin to swell and crack due to the moisture. 
  • Free-floating laminated flooring may also begin to pop out of place due to swelling.

48 Hours to 1 Week: 

  • The 'clean water' situation will have been upgraded to a 'gray water' intrusion.
  • You will notice an earthy smell in the home, which is caused by standing water as well as building materials and contents that have begun to decay.
  • Because of the high moisture levels, fungi, mold and mildew will begin to grow at this time, especially on porous materials such as sheetrock and carpeting. 
  • Wood building materials begin to show signs of damage as they swell, warp and split. You will notice this on window frames, wall moldings, the interior doors in your home and even studs and joists at this time. 
  • Rust and corrosion will begin to occur on metal items. 
  • Electronics in the home will begin to malfunction. 
  • Wood flooring and furniture begin to swell from the saturation. 
  • The Indoor Air Quality in the structure is compromised and health hazards can become an issue. Occupants of the home who are at risk due to health issues may begin to experience negative health effects.

More Than 1 Week: 

  • A 'black water' situation is most likely the case at this time due to the growth of bacteria and other harmful contaminates in the home. 
  • Mold spores will spread quickly and begin to break down natural materials, wallpaper, wood paneling, and other building materials
  • The structural safety of the home is in question as wood building materials are compromised.
  • The air quality in the home can pose a danger to all inhabitants.
  • The costs associated with your insurance claim exponentially rises.  The demolition and replacement of, rather than the restoration of, damaged materials becomes necessary. 
  • Our water damage restoration crews will be required to wear personal protection equipment in order to work in your home. 

When your Home Has Water Damage, Timing is Everything

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

If your New Milford home has experienced water damage, whether from a pipe burst, an appliance line leak or a flooded basement, calling a restoration company immediately will reduce the damage to your home and possessions.  The sayings "time is of the essence" and "there's no time to waste" are applicable here. The longer that your home is left untreated, the greater the effects of the water damage will be.  

What might appear as a water stain in the morning could progress to the ceiling having fallen on your couch by noon.  Once wet, sheetrock can quickly deteriorate and fall to pieces. As time passes after a water damage event, the flooding can cause your porous furnishings such as carpeting, mattresses and furniture to become water logged, rendering them unsalvageable. Home insulation and carpet padding also retain moisture.  Electronics are susceptible to internal degradation from the moisture in the air.  When treated quickly, wood and laminate flooring can often be saved using our floor mat system however if left to penetrate and go beneath the wood to the subfloor, this option is unlikely. 

Secondary water damage issues can also arise if restoration is delayed. What may have entered your home as clean water, such as an ice dam melting through your ceiling or water from a faucet leaking, may become contaminated and change to gray or black water, which can be a health concern and require a higher degree of handling. The growth of mold spores is also a concern when a home has had flooding that goes untreated.  

Upon arrival to your home after we receive your call, one of the SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County estimators will assess the damage. If you have not yet determined the cause of the water damage, their first course of action will be to do so.  Our technicians use a variety of tools such as moisture readers and sensors, probes and infrared technology in their evaluation. This, coupled with decades of experience and the highest level of industry training, gives them an accurate picture of the situation.  

Typically, our first course of treatment is to remove any standing water from your home using water extractors, submersible pumps, dehumidifiers and air movers. If necessary, we will order dumpsters to be brought to your home for the disposal of unsalvageable personal items and structural materials such as flooring, carpeting and wallboard. Our crew may also move household belongings from your home to our storage facility while your home is being cleaned. They may also restore some items such as furniture, area rugs, and photos off site.  Throughout the process, our office staff will communicate with your insurance company to address any concerns and gain approval for planned restoration work.  

After we have removed the excess water from your home, we begin sanitizing it. We use both wet and dry cleaning methods to remove dirt and pollution from the carpets, walls, furniture, baseboards, appliances and pieces of furniture that were affected by the water.  Industrial air scrubbers, which clean the air by passing it through special filters, remove any contaminants from the air of the home.  Our crew uses antibacterial and antimicrobial treatments to sanitize and disinfect any contaminated items and deodorization to eliminate any odors

Once your home is dry, clean and restored, we are able to bring your household items back, have the dumpsters removed and move our equipment out.  Although each water damage restoration job we encounter is unique, our essential approach is consistent. At SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County, our goal is to arrive at your home and begin the water damage process quickly after receiving your call, restore it professionally and thoroughly and help you get back to normalcy.  If you experience water damage in the Newtown area, call our office at (203) 743-5362. We are available 24 hours a day and have staff ready to respond to your call. 

Restore or Replace? Determining What Can Be Kept After Water Damage in Your Home.

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

Part of our jobs when we are working in a home that has water damage is helping the homeowner and insurance adjuster determine what items in the home can be saved and restored and which need to be discarded.  Our team assists our customers in determining which of their possessions are salvageable, and which cannot be saved. 

We go through the contents of a home on a piece by piece basis and while each item is a unique case, we do use a few factors to determine whether it gets boxed, sent to our facility for cleaning or put in the dumpster.

The type of water that has flooded the home is an important factor in determining what stays and what goes. Clean water does not pose as much of a health hazard as potentially contaminated water does. If there is concern that water is contaminated from sewage or chemicals, we are unlikely to suggest it be cleaned. It's not worth the risk.  

Typically, porous fabrics such as mattresses, pillows, carpeting and particle board cannot be salvaged. They absorb water quickly and are breeding grounds for mold spores to grow.  However, there are cases in which we are able to clean area rugs and wood if we are called to the job quickly and the piece has not become oversaturated.  

Our ability to be on the job quickly helps us minimize damage to personal possessions that have water damage. The perfect example of this is wooden furniture. It takes quite a fit of time for it to really absorb and become completely water logged. If you get  personal belongings out of the standing water and begin the drying process right away, you have a good chance of being able to save them. 

The SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County team has the experience in caring for the belongings of your Sandy Hook home. We understand that it can be difficult to part with treasured items, and do our best to help save them. If you experience a flood, calling us immediately at (203) 743-5362 will help minimize the damage. 

Why Do We Always Say "Call Us Immediately"?

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

We realize that, at times, we may sound like a broken record.   

“Call us immediately” 

“Act quickly” 

“Do not delay” 

We admit that we stress this point repeatedly however, because it is so important, we probably won’t stop talking about it. Why is getting help as quickly as possible such a consequential factor when you have a flood? In this blog post, we provide you with a water damage timeline to help you see how quickly a small flood can turn into a major problem.  

Water Damage Timeline 

In the First Hour:

  • Water will quickly move throughout the dwelling, saturating everything in it's path.
  • Stains or finishes that are on furniture that gets wet will be released. This can cause staining to the carpeting and flooring of your home. Additionally, any furniture that is moisture sensitive, such as antiques or unfinished materials, will be affected.
  • In particular, paper goods are vulnerable in the first hour. Due to their porosity, it doesn't take long for water to render books and documents unsalvageable.
  • Artwork that is hanging on your walls can be permanently damaged when water drips down the walls in that first hour. 

The First 24 Hours:

  • Drywall, which is found on the walls and ceilings of most Connecticut homes, gets saturated and begins to disintegrate. Many people discover their water leak only after the ceiling is already on the floor. That's how quickly this can happen. 
  • You will notice a musty smell and normal household odors grow stronger. 
  • Any uncoated metal surfaces, which are vulnerable to moisture in the air, will begin to tarnish.
  • Your furniture may begin to show signs of damage. In particular, laminated furniture and flooring will begin to swell and crack due to the moisture. 
  • Free-floating laminated flooring may also begin to pop out of place due to swelling.

48 Hours to 1 Week: 

  • The 'clean water' situation will have been upgraded to a 'gray water' intrusion.
  • You will notice an earthy smell in the home, which is caused by standing water as well as building materials and contents that have begun to decay.
  • Because of the high moisture levels, fungi, mold and mildew will begin to grow at this time, especially on porous materials such as sheetrock and carpeting. 
  • Wood building materials begin to show signs of damage as they swell, warp and split. You will notice this on window frames, wall moldings, the interior doors in your home and even studs and joists at this time. 
  • Rust and corrosion will begin to occur on metal items. 
  • Electronics in the home will begin to malfunction. 
  • Wood flooring and furniture begin to swell from the saturation. 
  • The Indoor Air Quality in the structure is compromised and health hazards can become an issue. Occupants of the home who are at risk due to health issues may begin to experience negative health effects.

More Than 1 Week: 

  • A 'black water' situation is most likely the case at this time due to the growth of bacteria and other harmful contaminates in the home. 
  • Mold spores will spread quickly and begin to break down natural materials, wallpaper, wood paneling, and other building materials
  • The structural safety of the home is in question as wood building materials are compromised.
  • The air quality in the home can pose a danger to all inhabitants.
  • The costs associated with your insurance claim exponentially rises.  The demolition and replacement of, rather than the restoration of, damaged materials becomes necessary. 
  • Our water damage restoration crews will be required to wear personal protection equipment in order to work in your home. 

If you have a water leak in your home, give us a call as soon as it is discovered to minimize the damage to your home.  

Common Causes of Refrigerator Leaks in Newtown Homes

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

A leaking refrigerator can cause substantial water damage to your Brookfield area home.

Although refrigerator leaks are often caught quickly if they occur while you are home, if you happen to be away when your refrigerator develops he problem, the damage can be widespread. The flooding can cause damage to wood floors, walls, furniture and even through the ceiling to the floors below.  There are preventative steps homeowners can take to reduce their risk of an appliance leak.  

  1. Make sure your ice maker water supply line isn't kinked and is securely fashioned. Improperly installed water supply lines can also cause flooding. 
  2. Inspect to see that the defrost drain isn't blocked or partially clogged. If this is the case, you might notice ice build up inside your freezer. If you notice this happening, clear the drain with hot water and remove any debris or food with a stiff brush or wire hanger. 
  3. Check the connection between the water filter and the water supply. This can cause a leak in refrigerator models with a filtering system.

If you have flooding from a refrigerator leak in your Bethel, CT home, give SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County a call at (203) 743-5362. Our team has over twenty years of experience in water damage restoration in Connecticut.

#waterdamage #SERVPRO #flood #flooding

Common Questions That Newtown Homeowners Have When They Experience Water Damage

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

When we receive a call from a homeowner who has had flooding in their home, these are the most common questions that we are asked.

How much does will my water damage restoration cost? 
Unfortunately, we cannot give an estimate on water damage restoration over the phone. However, we do provide you with a professional estimate after inspecting your home. Some of the factors that affect the restoration estimate are the length of time that the restoration will take, the equipment needed, the man hours required, any barriers or containment that might be needed and whether any demolition or removal of wet materials is required.

Will my claim be covered under my insurance policy?

Although we see hundreds of claims and might have a good idea of whether your water damage will be covered, only your insurance agent can answer that question.  Our office staff is very experienced in interacting with insurance adjusters and will work directly with your provider including submitting documentation.

What products might you be spraying in my home? 
When necessary, we may use SERVPRO's proprietary decontamination products on affected areas. This reduces that likelihood of microbial growth and sanitizes your home.  The most common product that we use is SERVPRO Oxide, an EPA registered chlorine dioxide based disinfectant and stabilizer. Our homeowner's appreciate that this product is safe for use on all surfaces and is not harmful to people or their pets.

Can I remain at home during the drying process?
The majority of our customers are able to stay in the home during restoration. There are cases in which the home is deemed hazardous due to toxic conditions, a lack of heat or structural damage. In these cases, your insurance company might pay for you to be temporarily relocated. 

How quickly can you get here? 
On average, we can have a team equipped and ready to begin the recovery process on your home within 2 hours of your call. 

How quickly does mold begin to grow after a flood?
Mold can start to grow within 24 hours, which is why it is important to get the water damage restoration process started asap. 

Do you have any other questions about the water damage restoration process? Give our office a call at (203) 743-5362

How Long Will it Take to Restore my Home After Water Damage?

4/3/2019 (Permalink)

The length of time that it takes to dry out a home after water damage depends on the circumstances.

How long will it take to dry out my house?

It's the question on everybody's mind when the SERVPRO team is called to your home after a water damage. And it seems like it should be an easy answer however there are a number of variables that can affect how quickly the restoration of your home will take. 

When our team arrives at your home, we begin to document the cause of water damage, the extent of damage, and all surfaces involved. We then formulate a water damage restoration plan using a software program that is designed determine the number of air movers, air scrubbers and dehumidifiers are required to begin the drying process.

Of course, our team knows that there is more to this work than technical specs and we don't completely rely on a computer system. Our property managers utilize their decades of experience restoring homes and businesses after water damage in determining a treatment plan. 

So, to answer the question - when will it be dry? On average, a typical house will be dry in about four days, depending on the extent of the damage. For example, vacant homes usually have more severe damage and mold may have begun to grow before the water damage was discovered, necessitating more extensive treatment. 

We all want the restoration work to be done quickly and efficiently. Our crew works as a team to do the job right and allow you to go back to your normal routine as quickly as possible.

Deciding Whether to Restore or Replace in Water Damage Restoration

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

Part of our job is working with you and your insurance company on deciding whether to restore or replace the damaged items in your home.

As a SERVPRO franchise, we adhere to the SERVPRO rule of thumb that restoration is preferable to replacement if possible.

Numerous insurance and restoration industry studies have concluded that restoring property after water damage is less expensive than replacing it. Restoration is also less time consuming and disruptive, meaning our customers can be in their homes and experiencing life as normal sooner after water or fire damage. Bethel area businesses will have their doors open sooner, meaning less revenue lost.

 SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County understands that a house is much more than just wood and sheetrock. It is devastating enough to see your antique wood floors water stained or your furniture covered with soot. We aim to restore these treasures, as well as family heirlooms and your children's toys, to make the experience a bit easier for Brookfield area homeowners.  

We use several methods in the restoration process including : 

Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues. 

Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning. 

Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning,  

Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if cleaned with water 

Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.  

Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.  

After your home and possessions are thoroughly cleaned, we remove odors and sanitize them so that they are ready to be returned to your home. 

Of course, there are some instances when an item, such as wet carpeting or mattresses, cannot be restored. In these cases, SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County will remove these pieces from your home and discard them ourselves. We work with your insurance adjuster to make sure you are properly compensated for damages.  

Our crew and office staff are committed to make your Fairfield County home "Like it never even happened."

Refrigerator Leaks Cause Water Damage to Newtown Homes

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

Refrigerator leaks can cause substantial water damage to your kitchen.

Your refrigerator operates 24-7 and is one of the hardest working appliances in your home.

Because  most homeowners do not inspect their refrigerators and leaks are often hidden behind the large appliance, a breakdown or leak that causes water damage can come as a surprise.

Refrigerator leaks are most often a result of a faulty or broken ice maker or water line. While these can suddenly burst, they often present as a slow leak, causing water damage to the walls and floor over the course of time.

Preventative measures include inspection of the area behind your fridge and the hoses. Look for any signs of deterioration of the lines, hard water deposit buildup, water damage and mold on the walls and floor. You can also look at the flooring from below- your basement can often show evidence of a leak. Installing a braided stainless steel hose will reduce your risk of a water line break as well.

The crew at SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County has cleaned up water damage from brand new as well as old refrigerators.

A refrigerator water line leak can happen to anyone.

If you have a leak, call us at (203) 743-5362 for immediate water damage restoration service.

Freezing Temperatures are Forecast for Fairfield County This Weekend- What to do if Your Pipes Burst.

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

A small piece of broken pipe that burst due to freezing can cause substantial amount of water damage to Newtown homes.

It’s been a relatively mild winter in Litchfield County however this weekend the forecast is for snow and the thermometer dropping below zero.

Here at SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County, our main concern on a weekend like this is that the freezing temperatures will cause pipes to freeze and burst in Sherman area homes.

When the outdoor temperatures drop to single digits, the water inside the pipes of a home can freeze. As it freezes, the water expands and creates pressure in the pipes, which can cause them to burst.  This will cause a loss of heat to that area of the house and, when the weather warms up, the melting water will cause flooding through the broken pipe.

You can avoid frozen pipes by:

  1. Insulating them - especially those close to outside walls, attics or crawl spaces where the chance of freezing is greatest.
  2. Seal gaps and air leaks around pipes
  3. Disconnect all outdoor hoses and turn off water to exterior faucets and sprinkler systems.
  4. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.
  5. During a cold spell turn on both hot and cold faucets near outside walls to allow a small trickle of water to run during the night.

So, you’ve followed our advice and you still have frozen pipes? We recommend that you:

  1. Turn on your faucets to determine where the frozen ice is and relieve any pressure in the pipes.
  2. Once you have identified the room that the frozen pipes are located, place a space heater in the room.
  3. Turn your water off at the source to reduce your risk of flooding if your pipes do burst
  4. You can also attempt to warm the frozen pipes with heat tape of a hair dryer.
  5. Call a plumber if you cannot resolve the problem.

You’ve tried to avoid a pipe burst but it’s happened. Now what?

  1.  If you haven’t already done so, turn the main water valve to your home off and open all faucets.
  2. Make three phone calls:
  • Call your plumber,
  • Call your insurance agency 
  • Call your water damage restoration specialist (that’s us!)

SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County specializes in restoring homes after frozen and burst pipes have caused water damage.

Call us at (203) 743-5362 if the pipes in your Sandy Hook home burst this weekend.

Our water damage restoration technicians are on call 24/7 to help you when you need it most.

Heavy Rains Cause Flooded Basements in Fairfield County

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County restores flooded basements caused by heavy rains.

Fairfield County has seen more rain this summer than I can remember. Starting with the water and wind damage caused by the tornadoes and microbursts that hit New Fairfield and Brookfield last May, rain throughout the summer and now with a week of rainfall in September, it’s been wet!  

With the rain, we have received several calls from homeowners who have flooded basements.  Even one of our production managers discovered a lake in his Warren, CT basement this morning. The source of the rainwater can come from many different sources including: 

  • Water leaks in from the outside through a basement window   
  • Sump pump failure, which can cause water overflows from your sump pump crock   
  • Water seepage from cracks in your concrete floor or foundation   
  • A sewer system back up into your basement  

In many houses with flooded basements, contents of the basement such as storage, tools, boxes etc. may also have water damage.  When responding to water damage, quick action is key to minimizing the damage. 

If your Fairfield County basement is flooded from rainwater or a sewage leak, call SERVPRO of Newtown & Southern Litchfield County at (203) 743-5362. We are available 24/7 and ready to respond to your water damage emergency.

Home Appliance Leaks Cause Water Damage in Newtown

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

A dishwasher overflow can cause flooding to your Brookfield home.

30% of the residential water damage claims that we respond to are caused by an appliance failure such as a dishwasher, washing machine or refrigerator line leak.


Of course, there are many water damage disasters that are just that – unpredictable and unavoidable events that could not have been prevented. We recently restored a Newtown home after the ice maker supply line leaked from a brand new, professionally installed refrigerator, causing damage to the kitchen and basement below. However, most appliance related water damage events are due to age or deterioration of the appliance.


There are some easy steps that homeowners can take to reduce their risk of water damage from supply line leaks in three appliances- the dishwasher, refrigerator and washing machine.


Dishwasher
Dishwasher lines and hoses can spring a leak or blow out, often in the middle of the wash cycle, and flood your kitchen with hundreds of gallons of water.
A defective pump and/or pump seal may be the cause of a dishwasher leak. As your dishwasher ages, and because of the use of detergents, the rubber gasket that seals the pump housing could have broken down and become ineffective.
Another reason that your dishwasher may leak is because your kitchen sink pipes are clogged. The reason for the leak is that dishwasher discharge hose is connected to the sink drain. If you notice your sink or dishwasher draining slowly, clear the clog before it gets worse and causes an overflow.
A faulty seal on your dishwasher door can also cause your dishwasher to leak.


Washing machine
If you notice a puddle on the floor of your laundry room, don’t ignore it! Your washer may need a minor repair that can prevent a major catastrophe. There may be a loose connection on one of the hoses or a missing rubber washer. You may find that you have a washing machine hose that has a pinhole leak that could lead to an eruption and cause flooding throughout your home.
If you notice water on the floor in front of your front load washer, check your door seal. Soil, debris and soap buildup can cause the seal to fail and allow a leak. Also check to see if there is any deterioration of the seal or trapped items (like a pesky sock)
If there is a puddle under your washer, there could be a hole in your water pump and it should be replaced.
Also check to make certain that the door on your front load washing machine is opening and closing properly. A faulty hinge could allow water to leak out.


Refrigerator
The water damage that we usually see from refrigerators is generally caused by a failure of the ice maker supply line. Over the years, the supply line can weaken and become vulnerable to bursting. There may be a slow leak that can cause mold to grow throughout the years or there can be a sudden failure that causes flooding. Since most of us don't often look behind our refrigerators, a slow leak or deterioration of the line can go unnoticed. Periodically take a look behind your fridge at the supply line to make sure it is in sound condition.


Most homeowner's insurance policies do not cover water damage that could have been avoided with proper maintenance or what might be considered neglect. Making a habit of periodically checking your appliances for wear and addressing small water leaks or clogs when they first happen will save you from dealing with an uncovered water damage loss later on.

What Can Be Saved After Water Damage in Your New Milford, CT Home?

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

Our floor mat drying system extracts moisture from hard flooring such as wood and tile, allowing the floors to be saved rather than demolished.

Excess water, whether it be from a dishwasher supply line leak, a toilet overflow or a broken pipe, can cause substantial water damage to your home. Not only has a home been affected by flooding, often the contents of a home are damaged as well. SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County crew members assist our customers in determining which of their possessions are salvageable, and which cannot be saved.  

We go through the contents of a home on a piece by piece basis and while each item is a unique case, we do use a few factors to determine whether it gets boxed, sent to our facility for cleaning or put in the dumpster. 

The type of water that has flooded the home is an important factor in determining what stays and what goes. Clean water does not pose as much of a health hazard as potentially contaminated water does. If there is concern that water is contaminated from sewage or chemicals, we are unlikely to suggest it be cleaned. It's not worth the risk.  

Typically, porous fabrics such as mattresses, pillows, carpeting and particle board cannot be salvaged. They absorb water quickly and are breeding grounds for mold spores to grow.  However, there are cases in which we are able to clean area rugs and wood if we are called to the job quickly and the piece has not become oversaturated.  

Our ability to be on the job quickly helps us minimize damage to personal possessions that have water damage. The perfect example of this is wooden furniture. It takes quite a fit of time for it to really absorb and become completely water logged. If you get  personal belongings out of the standing water and begin the drying process right away, you have a good chance of being able to save them. 

The SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County team has the experience in caring for the belongings of your Sandy Hook home. We understand that it can be difficult to part with treasured items, and do our best to help save them. If you experience a flood, calling us immediately at (203) 743-5362 will help minimize the damage. 

Dishwasher Leaks Cause Water Damage to Newtown, CT Homes

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Newtown & Southern Litchfield County restores homes with water damage after the dishwasher has leaked.

Most busy New Fairfield area families wouldn't get by without their dishwasher. It saves time and thoroughly cleans our dishes, leaving us the time to enjoy life!  

The downside of dishwashers is that they contribute to a significant amount of water damage due to appliance failure in homes.  Dishwasher leaks can cause water damage that often goes unnoticed for long periods of time. Water seeping out of the dishwasher door is obvious however chronic leaks may occur beneath the unit. These leaks slowly rot the wooden subfloor and create the perfect environment for the growth of toxic mold.    

There are a few primary causes of dishwasher leaks that you should be aware of.   

Leaky Door Seal  

The seal around the dishwasher door may eventually fail due to wear and tear or accumulation of soap residue or food particles. This is an obvious leak as you’ll notice water pooling on the kitchen floor in front of the unit after every dishwasher cycle. Cleaning  the door seal and corresponding surface on the unit with white vinegar is worth a try however if excess wear or other physical damage is present, seal replacement will be necessary.  

Defective Water Valve  

If you remove the kick plate of the dishwasher and look underneath the unit, you will see where the water hose connects. Usually, leaks will be seen as a slow drip. You will often be able to see rust or mineral residue encrusting the valve. Valve replacement is the only option.  

Worn Pump Seals  

The drain pump that removes water from the dishwasher incorporates rubber seals around a metal shaft. As these seals wear over time, water may begin to drip from the pump housing. Often times, leakage only occurs while the drain pump is running, so looking under the dishwasher when the unit is off or not running in drain cycle may fail to pinpoint the drain pump as the source of water leakage. Rebuilding or replacing the pump is required to stop leakage.  

Doing an annual check of your dishwasher for signs of deterioration or leaks will help avoid water damage in your home.

Call SERVPRO of Newtown & Southern Litchfield County at (203) 743-5362 if you spot water or mold damage in your kitchen. 

Hidden Pipe Leaks Cause Water and Mold Damage to Bethel, CT Homes

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

One sign of a leaky pipe is discoloration and warping of your kitchen cabinets. Leaky pipes cause water and mold damage to Newtown homes.

In our years in the water damage restoration industry, we have seen many causes of water damage - from toilet overflows to burst pipes to roof leaks.

Leaky pipes are the cause of many calls to our office. They are often hidden behind walls and cabinets and not discovered until the damage is widespread. Because of this, a pipe leak can cause a considerable amount of damage as the water becomes absorbed into walls, carpeting and ceilings. If allowed to leak long enough, a pipe can damage wood support beams and cause structural issues to a home.

There are some signs of a leaky pipe that you can be on the lookout for that will help you deal with the water damage before it becomes a major issue.  

  1. A musty smell. A home should not have a musty smell. If you notice an odd smell that doesn't go away after cleaning the area, it's possible that there is water or mold in your walls that are causing this. 
  2. Lifting or buckling of floors. If you notice your vinyl floors lifting at the corners or your wood floors or tiles buckling, it's possible that water is seeping in from the edge (particularly if it is in a kitchen or bathroom)
  3. Warping or discoloration of your cabinets. Check under the sink in your kitchen and bathroom. If there is any warping of the wood or staining from water, it's possible there is a leak that is allowing water to drip behind and can be causing mold to grow behind the cabinets.
  4. Peeling wall paint or  wallpaper. When your walls have absorbed too much water from a pipe leak and reached a saturation point, the wallpaper and paint will begin showing signs of damage. 
  5. Water stains on your ceiling. This is a telltale sign that there is leaking going on - whether from a toilet overflow or a bathroom sink pipe leaking. 

While it may be tempting to ignore a minor sign of water damage such as a small stain on a ceiling, keep in mind that the problem will not resolve itself. Allowed to continue, your leak go from a little problem to a big one. The moisture present will also allow mold to grow, which will require a secondary restoration treatment. 

If you see any of these signs of water damage in your home,  call SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County at (203) 743-5362.

We have the experience and training to make it "Like it never even happened."

Frozen ice causes the Housatonic river to overflow in Kent, CT

1/16/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage to houses, schools and businesses in Kent, CT from the Housatonic River overflow should be cleaned up professionally by our team.

Northwest Connecticut doesn't experience flooding on a regular basis however this past weekend's flooding in Kent, CT shows that it can happen! After the warm temperatures and rainfall on Friday, the drop in temperature caused substantial ice dams to form on the Housatonic River.  This stopped the flow of the water and caused the river to overflow onto Route 7 and beyond. 

Several homes and businesses were flooded, even requiring a state of emergency to be declared and emergency evacuations conducted for several residents. Kent schools were closed closed for safety as well. We are so thankful for the emergency personnel who have helped the residents during this event. 

In addition to water damage, of concern is that the floodwater is dirty water, containing sewage and other contaminants. Bacteria and viruses are present in floodwaters and can cause unsanitary conditions and pose a health risk to residents. The water that is in your basement and may be covering your possessions should be cleaned professionally to ensure that it is cleaned and sanitized properly and you don't expose yourself to harmful water.  

The SERVPRO of Newtown & Southern Litchfield County team is trained and equipped to restore homes and commercial buildings from the water damage in basements that floods cause.  Call us at (203) 743-5362 if you have flood damage so that we can begin the restoration process as soon as possible.

Below zero temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and burst in New Fairfield

12/27/2017 (Permalink)

The pipes in this New Milford home burst due to inadequate insulation in the soffits. Both the garage and the bonus room were affected by water damage

With the thermometer dipping into negative degrees this week, pipes in Litchfield County homes are at risk of freezing, especially because many homes are vacant while families travel for the holidays. 

Although pipes can freeze anywhere in your home, there are some areas that are more susceptible than others.

1. Your Crawlspace - Many older homes in CT have a crawlspace rather than a full basement. These are typically not insulated and the pipes are exposed to the environment. Lining the sides of the space with foam board and the ground with plastic can help. You may also consider installing a heat cable that runs along the pipes and is turned on when the temps drop. 

2. Under the Kitchen Sink - In particular, sinks that are on an exterior wall tend to experience frozen pipes. An easy solution to this is leaving your cabinet doors open to allow the warm air in the home to circulate.

3. Bonus Rooms Above the Garage - Most bonus rooms are built above an unheated garage. They are exposed to the cold air (especially along the exterior walls). Keeping the temperature in your garage above freezing with the use of space heaters on frigid days can help. 

Frozen pipes can happen to anyone. We have responded to water damage from burst pipes in houses built in the 1700's as well as homes that are new construction. We've seen it all and have the experience to restore your home quickly and thoroughly. If you have a pipe burst, give us a call at (203) 743-5362

Icemaker supply line leak causes damage in New Milford home

11/21/2017 (Permalink)

We always try to save your flooring if it is possible. By using our floor mat system, we are able to remove moisture from hard wood floors.

We write quite often about frozen pipes, toilet overflows and flooded basements, all of which are common causes of water damage in Litchfield County homes. Another very common call that comes into our office is from home and business owners who have had a supply line leak. Supply lines are the water lines that connect to appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers and toilets.  

Built in ice maker supply lines are a big culprit when it comes to water damage. Who would ever think to inspect and maintain their ice maker line annually? Yet, usually due to a cracked hose or a loose compression nut, we receive a few calls every month due to these leaks.  

We recently received a call from a New Milford homeowner who had been away from their home for the weekend. When they returned, they noticed puddled water on the hardwood floors of their kitchen.  A closer inspection revealed that the water was coming from behind their fridge. 

Our crew arrived at the home shortly after the phone call and our crew chief Davi inspected the home. He found that the water had not only damaged the kitchen flooring, it had also made its way down to the basement below. Our restoration plan included the removal of the dropped ceiling in the basement as well as the insulation. We had to remove a small area of the wood flooring in the kitchen as well as some of the wallboard and baseboard molding. Using our drying mat system, we were able to remove the moisture from most of the wood flooring. Dehumidifiers and air movers were used to dry everything out. 

It was stressful to come home to water damage in their kitchen but by calling SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County, these New Milford homeowners received fast and professional restoration of their home. 

CAT 1? CAT 2? CAT 3? What kind of water damage do you have?

10/29/2017 (Permalink)

If you have a pipe burst in your Litchfield home, you have clean water damage. Appliance leaks are gray. A sewage backup or flooding is black water.

Our approach to treating water damage in Washington, CT homes depends on which category it falls into.

CAT 1 or Clean Water

Clean water is just that- water that has come from a source that is not contaminated. Examples of this would be a pipe bursting or a refrigerator leak. Also, if you have a leak that allows rainwater in through your roof, it is considered clean. Although clean water can cause significant damage, it is not considered hazardous to human health as there are no microbes in the water.  The biggest hazard clean water presents is if the area that has been damaged is not properly cleaned and dried. This can result in mold and fungus growth. 

CAT 2 or Gray Water

Gray water is water that is slightly contaminated, either because of the nature of the source or because of neglect. For example, clean water can become “gray” water if it is left untreated for an extended period time. When a toilet or washing machine overflows, the resulting water would be considered gray because of its source. Toilet overflows containing urine only are considered gray.

CAT 3 or Black Water

CAT 3 water is highly dangerous to human health. Black water can include toxic materials such as bacterial diseases, chemicals, pesticides, microbes and more. Sewage based components such as bacteria, fungi, feces, viruses and parasites. Black 3 water situations are usually caused by sewage backups or overflows and flooding. 

Since the human eye cannot see bacteria, it is not always obvious whether the water in your home is a CAT 2 or CAT 3.  If you experience a flood from a heavy rain, the water may look “clean,” but if there is any ground water that has backed up into your home as a result, there may be invisible microbes lurking in the water. 

Any water damage that is not treated correctly will eventually elevate to the next category. Even a simple pipe burst can turn into a biohazard and mold issue if not treated. If you have any water damage in your Bethel area home, call SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County at (203) 743-5362 for service that you can count on. 

7 tips to keep the pipes in your Bethel home from freezing this winter!

10/25/2017 (Permalink)

Follow these safety tips to keep the pipes in your Fairfield County home from freezing and bursting this winter!

The number one call we get in our Brookfield office during the winter is from homeowners whose pipes have frozen and burst. There are some preventative steps that can be taken to reduce your risk of water damage during freezing weather.

1. Wrap your outside faucets with foam insulation or install a freezeproof faucet to protect from freezing.

2. To keep the wind out of your home, caulk around your pipes before they enter the house. 

3. Disconnect your garden hoses - you wont be needing them until April.

4. If the weather is forecast to drop in the single digits, leaving inside faucets at a slow drip will reduce the risk of pipes freezing. 

6. Open the cupboard doors in your kitchen and bathroom to allow the warm air to hit the pipes.

7. If your New Milford home is vacant over the winter, have it winterized by shutting off and draining all of the lines.

What happens if you follow all of these tips and still find your home flooded from a burst pipe? Call our Brookfield office at (203) 743-5362 and speak to Keri or Bianca. They will start off by gathering some information about your situation and then send a team over to start the restoration process. 

"Restore vs. Replace" after water damage in New Milford area homes

8/18/2017 (Permalink)

Restoring home contents after a flood is preferable to replacing them if possible. Call SERVPRO at (203) 743-5362 if you have water damage.

As a SERVPRO franchise, we adhere to the SERVPRO rule of thumb that restoration is preferable to replacement if possible. Numerous insurance and restoration industry studies have concluded that restoring property after water damage is less expensive than replacing it. Restoration is also less time consuming and disruptive, meaning our customers can be in their homes and experiencing life as normal sooner after water or fire damage. Bethel area businesses will have their doors open sooner, meaning less revenue lost.

 SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County understands that a house is much more than just wood and sheetrock. It is devastating enough to see your antique wood floors water stained or your furniture covered with soot. We aim to restore these treasures, as well as family heirlooms and your children's toys, to make the experience a bit easier for Brookfield area homeowners.  

We use several methods in the restoration process including : 

Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues. 

Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning. 

Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning,  

Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if cleaned with water 

Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.  

Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.  

After your home and possessions are thoroughly cleaned, we remove odors and sanitize them so that they are ready to be returned to your home. 

Of course, there are some instances when an item, such as wet carpeting or mattresses, cannot be restored. In these cases, SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County will remove these pieces from your home and discard them ourselves. We work with your insurance adjuster to make sure you are properly compensated for damages.  Our crew and office staff are committed to make your Fairfield County home "Like it never even happened". Call us at (203) 743-5362 if you have questions about the home restoration process after you have experienced a refrigerator line leak in your Connecticut home. 

Water damage from heavy rains in New Milford, CT

8/11/2017 (Permalink)

If you have a flood in the basement of your Connecticut home, call SERVPRO of Newtown & Southern Litchfield County immediately to minimize the damage

Litchfield County has experienced a significant amount of rainfall this summer! With the rain, we have received several calls from Sherman area homeowners who have flooded basements.  In many houses with flooded basements, contents of the basement such as storage, tools, boxes etc. may also have water damage. 

The source of the rainwater can come from many different sources including:

  1. Water leaks in from the outside through a basement window  
  2. Sump pump failure, which can cause water overflows from your sump pump crock  
  3. Water seepage from cracks in your concrete floor or foundation  
  4. A sewer system back up into your basement 

When responding to water damage, quick action is key to minimizing the damage. If your Fairfield County basement is flooded from rainwater or a sewage leak, call SERVPRO of Newtown & Southern Litchfield County at (203) 743-5362. We are available 24/7 and ready to respond to your water damage emergency.

Washing machine leaks cause water damage to Newtown, CT homes

8/1/2017 (Permalink)

A leaking washing machine can cause substantial water damage to your Sherman, CT home.  When a leak occurs, the water will flow out of your machine or it's hose until you discover the mess. The flooding can cause damage to wood floors, walls, furniture and even through the ceiling to the floors below.  There are preventative steps homeowners can take to reduce their risk of an appliance leak.  

  1. Make sure your hoses aren't kinked. There should be at least 4 inches between the wall and your washing machine.  
  2. Check your detergent. Too much of it or the wrong kind (in high efficiency machines) can clog the overflow tube and cause a leak. 
  3. Inspect to see that the drain hose is properly inserted into the drain line - it can become loose during machine use.  
  4. Check your supply line hoses to make sure they aren't brittle or cracked. We recommend using stainless steel braided hoses to avoid deterioration. 
  5. If your washing machine is in a high risk area (adjacent to living areas or on a second floor) consider installing a  washing machine leak detector with an alarm that alerts you if it detects water on the floor. It will also close the valves so that flooding doesn’t continue.  
  6. Turn off your washing machine water supply at the lever whenever you leave home for an extended period. 

If you have flooding from a washing machine leak in your Bethel, CT home, give SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County a call at (203) 743-5362. Our team has over twenty years of experience in water damage restoration in Connecticut.

#waterdamage #washingmachineleak #SERVPRO #flood #flooding

Avoid sump pump failures with this inspection checklist in Brookfield, CT

7/18/2017 (Permalink)

Check your sump pump on an annual basis to avoid water damage in Fairfield County, Connecticut!

Many of our customers have a sump pump installed in the basement of their  Litchfield County home to keep it dry. Sump pumps ensure that the water drains properly and does not collect in your home, causing water damage. If you maintain your sump pump, it should perform it's job and you will forget that it is there. However, If you neglect your sump pump, a failure can happen, resulting in water damage and a big mess. Inspecting a sump pump is a task that a homeowner can do on their own. We recommend doing an annual inspection.  

  1. Check the power source for the pump. It should connect to a ground fault circuit interruptor (GFCI) for maximum safety. Inspect the cord to the pump, looking for evidence of wear and tear. 
  1. Find the outlet pipe that allows the water to drain outside of your home.  Make sure that there aren't any clogs or damages done to the drain making it impossible for water to exit the home and flow away from the foundation. 
  2. Make sure the pump is level and upright. When it runs, the vibrations from the motor or the force of the water can cause it to tilt, which will let the float shift out of place. 
  3. Locate the sump pump in the lower level of your home and check the inside of it to ensure that the pump is not clogged with debris.  
  4. Take the pump out of the basin. At the bottom, there should be a grate, which needs cleaned of any debris that could cause a malfunction. 
  5. Slowly pour approximately 5 gallons of water into the pump to simulate if a storm were to hit.  As you pour, watch for it to turn on and start pumping the water out of your home.  If should start pumping when the water reaches about 8-12 inches below the basement floor.  This task simply assures you that the pump will run when it needs to and that nothing has malfunctioned. 
  6. If your sump pump contains a float in the basin, make sure that it is also functioning properly and not caught on anything while running the test.  This float is what lets the sump pump know when the water reaches a certain height and activates the pump. 

Most sump pumps work with no issues however we do receive calls from those unlucky homeowners that experience a failure and have a flooded basement. If your sump pump fails, give SERVPRO of Newtown & Southern Litchfield County a call at (203) 743-5362.

What if you have water damage caused by a third party in Fairfield County?

7/9/2017 (Permalink)

The home owner of this Sandy Hook home noticed water on the wood floors. When we pulled the refrigerator out, we discovered a supply line leak.

What happens if you have a new refrigerator installed in your home and the water line leaks, destroying your wood floors? Or your oil delivery company overfills your tank, causing a toxic spill in your basement? Or perhaps a plumber improperly installed a pipe, causing water damage to your New Milford home. Who pays for the damage- your insurance company, you or the third party? 

At SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County, we have team members that have been specially trained in "successful subrogation". Subrogation, by definition, is when an insurance company seeks payment or restitution from a third party that caused damage or injury to an insured person or property. Usually this means your insurance company will try to recover payments from the insurance company covering the party at-fault. 

If you have experienced water, fire or biohazard damage to your home that was caused by a third party, our staff can help you work with your homeowners insurance company in determining who is responsible for the damages. As a first responder to your disaster, we are trained to identify and save evidence that may assist your insurance company in recovering costs.  

If you have a dishwasher leak due to faulty installation at your Sandy Hook home, call us at (203) 743-5362. We will come to your home to start the restoration process and our office staff will help guide you through the insurance claims process. 

What is the cost of water damage restoration in Fairfield County?

7/5/2017 (Permalink)

Using the Xactimate program, the SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County team is able to provide our customers with an accurate quote

When faced with water, mold or fire damage, the question most people have is "How much is this going to cost?"  

After Brendan, Ted or one of our other estimators come out to your home to assess the damage, they use a program called Xactimate to determine the cost of the restoration.  Xactimate is the industry's leading claims estimating solution. The software uses pricing from a variety of industry professionals, including contractors, insurance companies and adjusters, to determine the cost of each item individually. Our team draws the floor plan of the home using Sketch and click on items that we want to add.   We are able to go room by room of your home and get an accurate quote for materials and labor.  Providing our customers and their insurance adjuster with a quick and accurate restoration costs analysis, allows us to begin the process of restoring their water or fire damaged home quickly.  

If your home has water damage from a toilet overflow or soot from a furnace puffback, give us a call at (203) 743-5362 and our estimator will come out and provide you with a reliable estimate of what the restoration will cost. 

Water Damage in Fairfield County - Your Initial Call

5/31/2017 (Permalink)

Although water damage in your Bethel area home may have you feeling overwhelmed, Keri will calmly guide you through the process

Quick action is crucial when you are dealing with water damage. The severity of the damage to your home can increase within just a few hours. 


When they pick up your call, Keri and Bianca (our Brookfield, CT office staff) understand that you may be feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and a bit vulnerable. Our staff has the experience of taking hundreds of calls like yours each year and can calmly guide you through the process. 


Upon answering your call, we will gather the necessary information in order to determine what equipment and resources will be needed as well as the size of the crew to send. 


Some of the questions Keri and Bianca might ask are:



  • Your name and phone number as well as email address

  • If you are a renter or property manager, the homeowner's contact information

  • Your home insurance policy information 

  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business as well as the billing address

  • When the water damage occurred and what caused it

  • Whether there is electricity and heat available in the home


The following step will be for the office to schedule an appointment for one of our estimators to come to your home along with a crew to inspect the damages and formulate a restoration plan. They typically begin work immediately in order to minimize the water damage. 


The team at SERVPRO of Newtown & Southern Litchfield County are your Connecticut water restoration specialists. If you have a flood or leak, call us at (203) 743-5362

Stop roof leaks before they cause water and mold damage to your Fairfield County home

4/14/2017 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO team removes attic mold caused by a leaking roof at your New Fairfield home.

A leaking roof can cause not only damage the structural integrity of your Sherman home but can be a health and fire hazard as well.  Leaks can be caused by a variety of reasons such as a roof that was incorrectly installed or damage from a storm or high winds.  Here are some of the ways a roof leak can affect your home and family. 


 Compromised structure 


A leaking roof can cause damaged rafters, ceiling joists and wall studs, as well as rotting to the interior and exterior trim.  The water causes the wood to warp, weaken and deteriorate. Repairs to the infrastructure of your home can be costly.  


Attic and ceiling damage 


The initial dangers of a roof leak are damage to the attic area and the items stored there. If there is no attic, or the size of the leak is really big, it will damage the interior ceiling. You will notice water spots and perhaps bubbling or peeling on the affected ceiling and walls  The dripping water can also damage ceiling fans and light fixtures. 


Fire hazard from water damage 


If electrical wiring is present in an attic or ceiling, a leaky roof could pose a fire threat from shorted wires. It is highly recommended to turn off electricity to the area that’s affected and have an electrician examine it. 


Interior mold 


One of the more serious issues that occur from a roof leak is mold growth. The consequences of letting the water settle without repairing the leak immediately can be harmful to your health. Mold damage can spread throughout the home’s structure, HVAC system and into personal belongings. Black mold is the most common type resulting from chronic water intrusion. SERVPRO of Newtown & Southern Litchfield County can remediate mold found in your Sandy Hook home.  


High utility bills/wasted energy 


Water leaking through the roof causes damage to the insulation in the attic, which becomes saturated and takes a long time to dry out. If a roof leak repair is put off,  your home will lose hot and cool air, resulting in higher utility bills.


If you discover that a roof leak has caused water or mold damage in your Roxbury, CT home, call SERVPRO of Newtown & Southern Litchfield County at (203) 743-5362

Preparing your New Fairfield home for vacation

3/14/2017 (Permalink)

Leaving your cabinet doors open can help keep pipes warm while you are on vacation.

March can be an unpredictable month for weather here in Litchfield County – temperature's in the 60's one day, a snowstorm the next. With spring break coming, many Newtown area homeowners will be going on a much needed vacation. Here are some tips to prepare your home to avoid an unexpected  disaster upon returning. 


1. Turn off all water sources:  


Turn off your water at the main source.  


Open up all of your faucets and drain the water lines. 


Drain your toilets as well.  


Turn off the valves for your exterior faucets  


Turn off water valves to the dishwasher, washing machine and all sinks  


2. Keep your pipes warm:  


Open the cabinet doors in bathrooms and kitchens where your pipes are located to avoid their freezing and bursting.   


Insulate any exposed pipes with foam or rubber sleeves.  


3.  Inspect your hoses: 


Inspect any that hoses that connect to major appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers and refrigerator ice-makers. Make sure there are no kinks; replace any old or damaged hoses. 


4. Keep the weather out:  


Check that all doors and windows are securely shut and locked. A rainstorm can do a lot of damage through a non-latched window. 


5. Check your gutters:  


Clear your gutters of any potential blockages and take the time to make sure that your downspouts are still moving water at least 10 ft. from the home.  


6. Inspect your sump pump:  


If you have a basement and if you have a sump pump make sure that it is in working order. The last thing you want to do is come home to find your basement flooded. 


7. Fire prevention:  


Unplug appliances and electronic devices.  


Thoroughly check wood stoves and fireplaces to ensure that they are out.  


8. Keep the temperature right:


 Set your thermostat to a temperature closer to outside temps (warmer in the summer, cooler in the winter) but which still protects your plants, pets and furniture. 


It's always a good idea to have a friend check on your Roxbury, CT home while you are away. Make sure someone has your contact info and our number (203) 743-5362  in case there is water or fire damage while you are away.  


If you have a vacation planned this month, we at SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County hope that you enjoy the sun and relaxation! 

Ice dams can cause water and mold damage to your New Milford home

1/21/2017 (Permalink)

A melting ice dam can cause water and mold damage even where you cant see it.

Winter weather is the source of many of the calls we receive at our office in Brookfield, CT. In our last blog post, we discussed the actions that homeowners should take if the pipes in their home freeze and burst due to low temperatures.  Another common call we get in the winter is water damage in homes due to ice dams on the roof. 

After a snowfall,  the roof over the attic of a home can get warm enough to melt the underside of the layer of snow on the roof. This water trickles down between the layer of snow and the shingles until it reaches the eave of the roof, which stays cold because it extends in the unheated area beyond the side of the house. There, the water freezes, eventually becoming a mound of ice. As the water accumulates, it backs up under the shingles of your roof. In time, it will drip through your insulation and into the ceilings and walls of your home. 

Prevention of ice dams can be achieved by insulating your home properly and using heated cables, as well as other methods. If an ice dam has already formed on your roof, you can rake your roof with a special tool to remove the snow as well as deice it as described in the link above.

If the ice has already started to melt into your home, call SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County! The leaking water will cause wet insulation, wall studs and sheetrock, not only damaging your home but also creating an environment perfect for mold and mildew growth. 

SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County's team is IICRC certified for water and mold damage and has the training required to mitigate the devastating effects water and mold can cause.  Call us any time at (203) 743-5362 if you discover water damage in your home.

What to do if your pipes burst in Fairfield County this winter!

1/7/2017 (Permalink)

The most common call we get in the winter here in the New Fairfield, CT area is from customers whose pipes have frozen and burst.  Often, a homeowner isn't aware that their pipes have frozen and they walk into their home after a thaw to a flood.  As devastating as this might experience can be, there are steps that can be taken to minimize the damage while you wait for help to arrive. 


Turn off your water and electricity. 


If you live in a house, turn off your water supply (and don't wait until a pipe bursts to locate it!) as well as the electricity  to the area of the house where the burst has occurred. If you live in an apartment building or condo, be sure to alert your building manager immediately as the water could also affect neighboring units. 


Place a catch bucket under the leak 


If water is coming through the ceiling, place a bucket or garbage can under the leak to catch the water. If the ceiling is bulging or the leaking is widespread, piercing a hole in the sheetrock will allow the water to flow through one spot.  


Drain your pipes 


Run all of the faucets throughout your house with cold water to clear as much water from the pipes as possible. Flush the toilets as well. Turn off your hot water heater and run the hot water from all faucets.  


Call a plumber 


Again, preparing ahead will work in your benefit. It can be difficult to find a plumber who is   immediately available to respond to your frozen pipe emergency.  Choosing and establishing a relationship with a local Litchfield County plumber ahead of time will go a long way in getting quicker service. 


Call SERVPRO of Newtown & Southern Litchfield County 


Our water mitigation team will respond quickly and begin the clean up process. The sooner we are called to dry the home out and remove wet sheetrock, carpets, flooring  and other materials, the less the damage can spread and cause additional problems. 


Call your Insurance Agency 


The sooner you submit a claim, the quicker you will be reimbursed for payments made to plumbers and contractors.  Our experienced office staff, Keri and Bianca, will handle insurance negotiations and paperwork from our end so that you don't have to.  


Discovering that your home is flooded because of frozen pipes can be a stressful experience. We've been told by many customers throughout our twenty years as a franchise that having our team come out quickly and efficiently mitigate the damage has taken much of the stress out of the situation.  Give us a call  at (203) 743-5362 24/7 if your pipes freeze  this  winter in the  Brookfield area!

New Milford Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

11/29/2016 (Permalink)

This New Fairfield, CT home’s basement flooded due to heavy rains.

 

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Bethel, CT basement could flood, including: 

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

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - (203) 743-5362

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

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

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

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

Basement Flooded?

Call Us Today (203) 743-5362– We’re Ready To Help 

Faster to your Brookfield, CT Water Damage Event

10/11/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Bethel Body:

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (203) 743-5362

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

  • Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
  • Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
  • Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
  • Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

  • Drywall begins to swell and break down.
  • Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
  • Furniture begins to swell and crack.
  • Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
  • A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

  • Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
  • Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
  • Metal begins to rust and corrode.
  • Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
  • Paint begins to blister.
  • Wood flooring swells and warps.
  • Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

  • Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
  • Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County

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

24 Hour Water Damage Service

4/25/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Newtown & Southern Litchfield County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO of Newtown & Southern Litchfield County

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