Is Your Business Ready for Disaster? | SERVPRO of Dover/Stillwater

3/15/2024 (Permalink)

Is your business ready for the unexpected? Let SERVPRO of Dover/Stillwater help you prepare for disaster with an ERP!

We know how many different hats you wear as a business owner. It takes a lot of brain power, ingenuity and determination to run a successful business! You have to plan for the future while also tackling day-to-day issues, which can be overwhelming at times. 

Unfortunately, planning for the future is an incredibly important part of safeguarding your business in the long-term. Did you know that a quarter of all businesses that suffer a disaster close and then never reopen? SERVPRO® is Here to Help® you build a reliable emergency plan so that you can stay in control no matter the situation.

Dealing With Emergencies 

Navigating disasters can be overwhelming no matter how large or destructive they are. You have to focus on keeping your staff safe while also making sure that you focus on controlling the situation as quickly as possible. 

In order to do that, you need to know what to do in any scenario! That’s where we come in. Our team can help you create an Emergency Ready Plan for your property to help you work through any sort of disaster situation as soon as it happens. 

Having a plan in place can help you stay focused amidst the chaos, which can ensure you stay on track for addressing repairs and getting back under your feet faster. Our Emergency Ready Plan will outline what to do before, during and after your disaster situation so you are guided every step of the way. 

The Creation of the Plan 

The first step of your plan creation will include a no-cost assessment of your property. We will inspect every room in your building and identify the different potential threats that could impact your business throughout a typical year. We will then create a Profile Document based on our findings. This document outlines crucial escape routes, fire extinguisher locations, first-aid kits and other emergency information. We can also create specific plans for things like creating go-bags or formulating a temporary remote working location.  

We will also make sure to create a strong communication plan for your employees so that everyone will be connected as the situation progresses. For example, if your warehouse catches on fire, you will know who is in charge of calling 911, who is in charge of grabbing fire extinguishers and who knows how to use them properly. 

Stepping in to Help
While having a plan in place can help mitigate a certain amount of damage, it sometimes isn’t enough to completely avoid damage. We can help you in this aspect, too! In addition to helping you prepare for disaster, we can help you clean up from one as well. Our team will get right to work cleaning, sanitizing and restoring your property. 

We know that every minute that you are closed has an effect on your livelihood, so we work quickly to make sure your property is restored efficiently and thoroughly.

Don’t wait for a disaster to happen! Contact SERVPRO of Dover/Stillwater to create an Emergency Ready Plan today.

How SERVPRO Restores Commercial Water Damage in Dover

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

When your business suffers a water loss event, you are working against the clock to dry the water. Call us today. We are equipped and ready to go!

Commercial Water Removal Services Gets Your Fabric and Craft Store in Dover Back to Normal for You and Your Customers 

After Dover has a massive storm that pushes water into your store, you need to do more than mop-up things and put out ‘wet floor’ cones. SERVPRO can clean up so you don’t face unpleasant, musty odors in the future, as well as any other potential issues. We know your customers do not want to encounter this and expect to be greeted by the odor of crisp fabrics and recently cleaned floors instead. 

SERVPRO can mitigate any possible damage in your fabric and craft store in Dover with commercial water removal services. Many business owners find that this is a cost-effective way to prevent water damage, and mold infestation, in addition to clearing away the substances that cause malodorous conditions to develop. Tile flooring, standard in many retail settings, includes spacing between each tile where water can seep in and remain. The most absorbent towels cannot reach into the underside of these tiles and get that water out. 

When our Green Fleet arrives, we bring unique floor mats that, once taped down to the floor and attached by flexible hoses to our Injectidry system, pull any water trapped below the tiles out through these crevices. We understand that you have little control over the cleanliness of the parking area outside your store. Decomposing food items dropped in the parking lot, automobile fluids, and salts from de-icing efforts can all cause serious problems if left underneath these tiles. Extracting these substances, along with the water, keeps many potential future problems from developing. 

The migration of moisture occurs in several different ways. People coming into the store can carry moisture on their footwear in only one way. Once this moisture enters the air, it can migrate elsewhere and create dampened pockets. If it reaches high enough percentages, it can change the environment enough that microbes can begin growing. Spots on clothing detail mildew. Sizing and other finishes applied by manufacturers only slightly protect new fabrics. 

To protect your inventory, we cover each table of fabric bolts, shelving displays, and bins with clear, durable plastic sheeting. This protective covering also keeps the high-velocity air movers from blowing smaller items into a jumble and helps keep things organized. If needed, we apply antimicrobial agents, perform deodorization tasks, and ensure that no permanent damage takes place to your store’s flooring. Continued dampness in the subfloor can cause tiles to crack from the unevenness that develops, but we can stop this by using water removal techniques to mitigate the area.

Serving businesses throughout Hopatcong, Jefferson, and Stanhope, SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater, reach our water removal technicians by calling (973) 810-2825. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster and always ready to answer your call. 

If Water Damage Plagues Your Jefferson Commercial Property, Call Our Experts Immediately!

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

For quick results when dealing with water-damage, call SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater at (973) 453-0257 any time.

How To Deal With Commercial Water Damage In Jefferson Quickly

Most cases of water damage in commercial establishments happen fast when plumbing lines burst, drains clog, or other water-related problems occur. A quick response is necessary for two reasons. The first is that the longer water remains in a property, the higher the level of ruin. The second reason is to ensure normal operations resume as soon as possible. We offer professional restoration services in Jefferson that can meet your need for speed.

The goal of fixing commercial water damage in Jefferson might not be that easy to achieve. One of the biggest hindrances is the lack of resources such as equipment to remove water, clean up the affected area and dry it to pre-damaged levels. The task requires a sufficient workforce to accomplish your desired goal in time. Because SERVPRO sends a team fully equipped to handle any emergency, we can overcome these hindrances easily.

The large open spaces typical in commercial spaces also complicate the restoration process. For example, extracting water and drying a carpeted conference room presents a volume challenge unless the right equipment and specialized skills are applied. Using specialized water extraction equipment such as step-on rover water extractors, our SERVPRO technicians can accomplish the task fast. By stepping on the rover, the technician's bodyweight helps create an airtight seal between the surface and the extractors removing more water. Also, the technician does not use effort to move the extractor allowing coverage of large areas quickly.

Dealing with unique finishes such as wallpaper on surfaces can delay the restoration process. Vinyl wallpaper common in commercial spaces acts as a vapor barrier, making it harder to dry walls. Removing the wallpaper can overcome this problem. Our SERVPRO technicians also use other approaches, such as drilling vent holes at the bottom of the wall and forcing air into the wall cavity. Venting helps dry the wall fast without the extra work and cost of removing and replacing wallpaper.

For quick results when dealing with water damage in Hopatcong, Stanhope, and Mt. Arlington areas, call SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater at (973) 810-2825 any time. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Dover Office Building Fire Restoration and Recovery

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

For any type of fire damage in your office building you can count on SERVPRO to help.

24/7 SERVPRO Response in Dover for Commercial Fire Restoration

If fire sweeps through your Dover office building, repair and restoration must begin as soon as possible. The decisions made early following your commercial fire will significantly impact the results. SERVPRO is available with scalable resources to handle commercial projects along with the help of our IICRC-certified and trained fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT). 

Once you call us for commercial fire restoration in Dover, we arrive to assess the structure as a whole so that our crew chief can determine best practices. It is important to remember:

• Fires in an office building may impact many suites and floors, so there may be a waiting period until the whole building gets cleared for entry.
• Toxic fumes, soot, and smoke may have contaminated the contents of your business that survived the blaze.
• Professional restoration is best to handle any damage from moisture or soot residue that goes beyond surfaces.
• The movement must be minimized, and your building’s HVAC system should be turned off to prevent soot particles from traveling into unaffected suites and floors.

SERVPRO’s Proven Methods To The Rescue

We go through the entire building to examine contents and building materials to determine what can get salvaged and what must get discarded. Specialized techniques may get used to help us achieve our goals, including steps like media blasting.

Media blasting helps blast away damage from a fire while also deodorizing and cleaning the surface. We often use silica sand, sodium bicarbonate, or other particles with pressurized air to break away light charring and soot residues. 

SERVPRO understands that foul odors are never welcome in any office setting. We have odor control technicians (OCT) who have many options for odor elimination to erase all reminders of the fire. 

Let us handle your commercial fire restoration! Call SERVPRO of Dover/Stillwater at (973) 810-2825. We offer a 24/7 emergency response so you can get back to business.

Removing Smoke Odors from Office Furniture in Dover Buildings

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Recovering from a fire at your business location needs to happen very quickly. Contact our experienced technicians to help. Call 24/7.

Post-fire cleanup also involves careful strategies to deodorize fire damage in Dover properties

After a fire loss event, cleaning up means rapidly responding with capable professionals, potent surface cleaning products, and deodorizing equipment. As the soot and post-fire effects spread through office buildings, lingering effects like malodors must be addressed and neutralized. We have several levels of action that we can take for smoke remediation to remove harsh smells after combustion.

Cataloging Content Damage

Fire damage in Dover businesses like offices can be widespread and threatening, so our responding team members need to catalog loss and damage as efficiently as possible. Complete inspections of the property can help to determine varying levels of impact to furniture and electronics, like:

• Soot
• Smoke residues
• Water damage
• Blistering/charring

Thermal Fogging and Counteractants

Reducing the severity of smoke odors in contents can be an important goal of our professionals. The less the concentration of these malodors, the easier they will be to manage in the final deodorization stages. Foggers create a vapor of potent deodorization chemicals that penetrate porous surfaces to eliminate odors. We also have multiple counteractant products that can reduce the severity of malodors on affected surfaces.

Ozone Approaches to Malodor Removal

Ozone machines are one of the most direct and effective deodorization approaches our SERVPRO team uses after a commercial structure fire. These units produce an unstable chemical compound that binds with odor molecules and neutralizes them. While this is unsafe for those unprotected in the environment during this chemical reaction process, once the ozone dissipates, the smoke odors have been resolved, and the atmosphere is safe.

Contents and furniture can become severely damaged in post-fire environments. In large office buildings with open spaces featuring hundreds of items and objects, porous materials absorb damage like odors and require specific attention and approaches to improve. Our SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater team can help when you call (973) 810-2825.

Are Dover Businesses at Risk of Flood Damage?

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial damage restoration services by SERVPRO are second to none. call now for fast and immediate service. 24/7 365 days a year.

SERVPRO Technicians in Dover Can Help Mitigate Losses From Commercial Flood Damage

Over the winter months, your business premises are at a greater risk of damage. Common causes for flooding in commercial properties can include pipes freezing or drainage systems suffering blockages from falling leaves, sleet, and snow. Flooded business property can prevent staff from working or customers from visiting, which ultimates affect the bottom line of the business. Revenue losses from property damages can be especially bad for companies in the public service industry, where customers may need to be refunded. A fast return to business following flooding relies on:

• Quickly assessing flood damage
• Planning a comprehensive restoration
• Executing the restoration solution properly

Dealing with commercial flood damage in Dover relies mainly on the proper execution of drying methods. These methods can include understanding how a building's material assembly can be affected by water or how to set up and run the necessary equipment for maximum drying power. SERVPRO is a professional organization that has experience helping business owners and property managers overcome unforeseen events such as flooding. Our team uses proven methods to quickly restore premises following water intrusion and perform expert inspections of the damages it causes. 

• Thermal imaging cameras are a non-invasive method of assessing water migration into a building assembly. 
• Using thermal imaging cameras can be advantageous because they do not require technicians to drill into or otherwise cause damage to walls and flooring.
• Thermal imaging relies on measuring temperature drops to predict whether or not water may be present in cavities. 

Using a professional commercial restorer can reduce downtime at your business. Contact SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater for flood damage restoration at (973) 810-2825.

How Do I Get Flood Water Out of the Floor of My Dover Business?

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Quick action on your part can help with the flood damage that your business is experiencing. Team SERVPRO is standing by 24/7 for your emergency call.

When Flood Damage Happens to Your Dover Property, You Need Fast Help From SERVPRO

It can be disheartening to walk into your Dover business and find standing water or wet floors and walls from heavy overnight storms. One thing is certain: the longer the cleanup efforts wait, the worse the potential for damages become.

What Should I Do First After Commercial Flood Damage in My Dover Business Property?

If you find your Dover property has flood damage, the first thing you should do is ensure that neither yourself nor anyone else on-site comes into contact with the water. Other proactive measures to take include:

• Turn off the power to the property if there is danger water coming into contact with floor-mounted outlets
• Remove important documents and files if it is safe to do so
• Close doors to the damaged area if possible and turn off the HVAC 
• Fast Extraction is Crucial to a Complete Mitigation

SERVPRO techs remove the water in Dover using the most practical means possible. For smaller spaces, it may include the use of portable pumps allowing the techs to move quickly around the space. For large amounts of water, mainly if debris is part of the problem, truck-mounted pumps can remove copious amounts of water rapidly. Often this latter method gets followed up with the use of portable pumps to ensure the maximum amount of moisture gets removed before moving on to the drying phase.

Why is Flood Water Considered So Dangerous?

While the water in your commercial space may not look or smell harmful, it has the potential to have a diverse array of elements that have the potential to cause injury or illness. Sewage is a frequent component in floodwater, and due to the bacteria present, it should not get touched nor aspirated. When handling this level of cleanup, SERVPRO technicians wear head-to-toe protective clothing, including goggles and respirators with HEPA filtration.

Debris can also be a hazard. Sharp rocks and objects picked up by the water can pose a safety threat, while mud present in the water stains and seeps into any available space where it lands on the property.

Airborne water vapor droplets can have a myriad of bacteria or pathogenic factors present. During the cleanup process, SERVPRO techs run machinery known as "air scrubbers," and they do exactly as the name implies. With their labyrinth of HEPA filtration, they capture particulate matter smaller than the human eye can see and improve the air quality during mitigation.

Drying the property needs professional equipment. The technicians have access to a large array of devices and utilize a large number of air movers at a time to assist in rapidly bringing down the moisture levels. This method brings the interior to a dry state much faster and helps lessen any further degrading of structural elements from exposure to excessive moisture.

Common Damaged Items After Commercial Flood Damage

Floodwater brings some of the most extreme damages to commercial properties. Usually, anything that absorbs this water does not have the potential for restoration. SERVPRO techs remove the items and dispose of them safely. Other frequently seen damages include: 

• Glue-down tiles or carpet
• Sheetrock that has wicked floodwater
• Composite wood furnishings
• Electronics with direct exposure to water

Professional Odor Control Applications are a Must After Commercial Water Damage

While water damage within a property has a distinct, musty odor, floodwater stinks. The smell within the damaged area is stronger and usually needs more robust applications to remove from the premises. SERVPRO technicians often take a multi-layered approach to the odor removal needs within a commercial property and use more than a single application to ensure the area is left odor-free and ready for any reconstruction or repairs to get the business back on track.

Proactive Ways to Avoid Commercial Water Damage in the Future

A good plan is to talk to your insurance adjuster to develop a monthly inspection plan for your property. It can cover areas to watch, such as:

• Directing the grade for your commercial property to divert water flow
• Installation or repair of gutter systems
• Inspection of property looking for signs of small leaks or openings through which water could enter
• Signs of water stains or mold on walls or ceilings
• Use of an environmental monitoring system for both water and fire
• Choose someone to check in on the property during holiday closures or long weekends.

SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater at (973) 810-2825 brings the equipment and expertise to handle any size of commercial flood damage to your property. The certified techs are available 24/7 and arrive quickly to clean up the damages and restore your property to its pre-damaged condition.

What Damage Can a Leaking Pipe Cause in My Dover Café?

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians use the latest technology and equipment for every commercial water damage project. Call now!

Persistent Leaking Pipes Can Saturate Porous Materials in Wall Systems and Ceiling Cavities, Requiring Intricate Drying and Repairs. 

You might not immediately notice a leak in the plumbing of your Dover café. Over several days of leaking into structural cavities, exposed materials can begin to deteriorate and degrade. Addressing both the leak and the structural damage is a priority of our responding SERVPRO contractors.

Among the emergency services and water damage repair for your Dover café, our professionals must consider the most efficient paths to restoring and recovering the property. Opening your business to serve your customers again is the ultimate goal, so we work to extract, dry, and rebuild your structure after substantial water damage incidents.

How Bad is the Water Damage? 

Assessing the severity of water damage can help to identify how pressing controlled demolition and reconstruction are. While direct water exposure to areas like the main store floor with its wood furnishings and carpeting can often get resolved with immediate extraction and drying solutions, leaks in the wall can be challenging to initially identify and even more complicated to determine the severity. Some of the options for this include:

• Surface moisture meters
• Probing moisture detectors
• Thermal imagery

Who Can Repair Damaged Plumbing? 

Repairing the damage to the plumbing network is equally vital to removing surface water and drying out exposed materials. Once a leak gets identified with discovery tools, we can utilize controlled demolition tactics to access the specific breach point to repair the plumbing. Fixing the leak or break ensures that we can pressurize the service lines again and restore the water service to your facility and keep your business going. When repaired quickly enough, it is possible to keep your café running in a limited capacity.

No matter how severe water damages can be, our SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater team can help through restoration, repairs, and reconstruction. Give us a call anytime at (973) 810-2825.

Our Experts Discuss Steps For Dealing With Water Damage In Your Dover Retail Store

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage in your store isn't good for business. Call SERVPRO for fast and immediate service.

Steps for Dealing With Commercial Water Damage In Your Dover Retail Store

Maintaining a professional, clean, and inviting retail store environment is part of running your business successfully. That’s why it is essential to take water damage in your retail space seriously. If you experience a water intrusion incident of any magnitude, do not let it interfere with your business operations by closing your doors for long or risking mold growth that can turn your customers away.

Commercial water damage in your Dover retail store can cause inventory issues and damage to shelves, floors, and building materials. Recovery involves completing certain activities to ensure that your business returns to its usual daily operations. It would be best if you had a well-developed strategy to ensure timely and orderly recovery.

Ensure safety

Even though restoring normal store operations is a priority, the safety and health of your staff and customers is also a major consideration. When you re-enter your water damaged retail store, it is essential to do the following:

• Evaluate the affected areas. Check if there is damaged electrical wiring, falling stock, and uneven flooring.
• Water flowing in the premises may have caused the stock to shift, so be on the lookout for falling objects.
• Have the building’s maintenance personnel or a professional examine the electrical system before turning on the power.

Basic cleanup

The staff can begin taking the merchandise to an elevated level and start extracting water using sweepers and squeegees while waiting for cleanup experts. The manager should record and document the damage and expenses incurred. Rapid action by the staff and store manager can significantly reduce the time required to perform repairs, leading to efficient recovery.

Professional water removal and drying

Trained and experienced professionals handle water damage incidents better because of access to sophisticated restoration equipment. Our SERVPRO technicians can inspect the affected areas to determine the appropriate cleanup methods and equipment to use. If standing water is present, we can use electric submersible pumps to remove it. Our technicians can also use thermal imaging cameras to detect the level of moisture on surfaces.

Our team also knows the adjustments to make on environmental elements like humidity and temperature to dry your retail store effectively. We can use axial air movers to speed up evaporation and minimize drying time. Axial air movers deliver lower pressure at high volume, covering a vast area of affected surfaces and materials. Our SERVPRO crew can also place dehumidifiers in strategic locations in your retail store to allow the humid, moist air in the building to be moved into the units and the dry, warm air they discharge to circulate back into the ruined areas.

When a water damage problem occurs in your Dover, Hopatcong, Jefferson, or Stanhope store, SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater can help. We have the expertise to handle any retail store water damage. Call us today at (973) 810-2825.

Dover, NJ Businesses Need Professional Mold Damage Remediation

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial mold remediation for your property is a job for SERVPRO. Call now for the help you need.

SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater handles Commercial Mold Damage Remediation that Can Help your Business

Mold is a common organism found in indoor spaces. It is not especially harmful to have mold spores in an indoor environment as these microscopic organisms often lie dormant and are as common as dust or pollen. However, when moisture builds up in an area of your business, these spores can awaken and quickly reproduce. Over seventy-two hours, a mold spore can grow into a full-size colony and begin producing more mold spores. It would help if you enlisted a commercial mold specialist for:

• Mold inspection
• Mold removal 
• Mold Remediation 

The process of commercial mold damage remediation in Dover involves a careful inspection of the premises and a conversation with the property manager to assess needs and requirements. In some cases, the business premises can remain in action while remediation is underway. In other circumstances, a mold infestation can become so severe that the property must be temporarily closed to allow for fogging, or possibly, the release of unstable oZone gas to kill biological organisms. 

• Fumigation is often completed using an anti-microbial solvent and running it through a thermal fogging system to mist the indoor spaces. 
• Ozone generators are generally a last-resort measure as the premises must be emptied for up to forty-eight hours. However, these machines alter the indoor environment at a molecular level to destroy molds. 
• Negative air pressure machines are commonly used in remediation to prevent the spread of mold spores from one area to another during aggressive cleaning. 

To preserve a safe business environment, contact SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater for mold damage at (973) 810-2825.

How Can Business Owners Perform Mold Removal in Dover?

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

Mold remediation should be left to the professionals at SERVPRO. IICRC certified techs are ready 24/7 365 days a year.

They Can Hire a Professional Restorer like SERVPRO to Help With Commercial Mold Removal in Their Dover Business 

Mold damage in a business can cause significant damage and affect its operation. It can damage your inventory, and your staff can develop health issues if restoration is delayed. Business owners can avoid these issues by hiring professional restorers like SERVPRO.

What causes mold growth to occur in a business?

Excess moisture in dark areas may lead to mold growth within 24 to 48 hours. If mold removal in your Dover business is not handled on time, it can continue to spread to other areas with moisture.

Some of the issues that can will excess moisture in a commercial property such as an office building include:

• Burst pipes
• Ceiling leaks
• Leaking roof from storms

Some water sources may be difficult to stop. However, if well ventilated, the chances of mold growth occurring are minimal.

How SERVPRO restorers handle mold removal

SERVPRO restorers act fast since we understand how quickly mold can spread and the damages it can leave behind. We begin by conducting a thorough inspection to determine the severity of mold damage in a commercial property. We can use inspection cameras to check confined areas that can be expensive to repair, such as the duct line.

We prefer the equipment since:

• No destruction to the building
• Inspect more areas in a brief period
• Inspects hard to reach areas

We have access to the most advanced products that help us remove mold in the affected area. We can use sporicides to kill the mold. They are disinfectants that act against fungal spores and bacteria.

SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater has the skill and hi-tech equipment to handle mold removal to make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at (973) 810-2825.

Can Spores Spread During Commercial Mold Remediation in Hopatcong?

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has multiply techniques for mold remediation. Their technicians are IICRC certified for any size job.

SERVPRO Techs Have Extensive Training for Handling Commercial Mold Remediation in Hopatcong Properties

While airborne mold spores occur naturally both inside and outside of structures, they do not cause any problems unless the conditions arise to cause them to germinate. If this happens, an infestation can spread rapidly.

SERVPRO technicians use multiple methods to ensure that during commercial mold remediation in Hopatcong structures, the area is known to contain colonies does not get the opportunity to spread to other areas of the building. This gets accomplished through the use of: 

• Negative air chambers
• Containment over vents and doorways
• Tenting directly over the colonies during drying

After drying and abatement of the dried matter, the techs wipe down surfaces with proprietary antimicrobial cleaners and use sealant applications as needed to inhibit any return. After the mitigation efforts complete, SERVPRO can bring in a certified industrial hygienist to measure the air quality and confirm the presence or absence of harmful mold spores. This ensures that commercial properties can reopen for business with total peace of mind the premises is safe for operation. 

Local businesses rely on SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater at  (973) 453-0401 for commercial mold remediation services to eradicate the infestation and get the company reopened. 

Ice Rescue Weekend in Hopatcong

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Let our experienced professionals assist with fire cleanup for your business. Contact SERVPRO right away. We are always available to help.

Crucial Lessons for Raising Awareness and Building of Ice Rescue Skills for Hopatcong Residents

Ice rescue situations may present higher risk levels because the involved party might be in an isolated area; they turn fatal in a matter of minutes, and the danger to rescuers is as severe as it is to the victim. One of the best ways to improve the outcomes of ice rescue situations in Hopatcong is to learn how to control such a situation before an incident happens. The Ice Rescue Weekend program that starts on January 29th, 2021, offers full technician level training equipping participants with sufficient skills to handle rescue safely. The event ends on January 31 2021.

Some of the main highlights of the event include:

• The training offered meets the NFPA 1006 & NFPA 1670 qualifications
• The 20-hour course addresses the three main levels of ice rescue, including Awareness, Techniques, and Operations
• Participants should be over 18 years and have their PPE
• Participation certificates provided after successful completion of the event

SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater helps business owners in Hopatcong clean up their premises after fire incidents, guaranteeing safe access by customers and staff. Call us at (973) 810-2825 to assist you. 

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting for Stillwater Township, NJ, Residents

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

It will be exciting to see the community at the tree lighting ceremony!

Get in the Holiday Spirit with the Stillwater Christmas Tree Lighting

Traditions are a big part of life for residents of Stillwater, NJ. As a township that enjoyed many years of a tree-lighting ceremony, something significant was missing once this tradition stopped about 15 years ago. In 2010, this tradition was resurrected, and it brings joy each year to the faces of children and adults alight. This year’s Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony is not something that you want to miss if you are ready to get into the full swing of the holiday season.

• Date: Friday, December 11, 2020
• Rain Date: Saturday, December 12, 2020
• Time: 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
• Location: Stillwater Township Park

Holiday traditions, such as the annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, are essential to many families in the area. Our team here at SERVPRO of Dover/Stillwater is here to support our local community and businesses throughout the holiday season and beyond. Should you have a need for rapid water drying in your commercial space, we are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to get to work. We are Faster to Any Size Disaster, and you can reach us for emergency services by calling (973) 810-2825.

Who Can Restore a Dover Office Building After its Restrooms Malfunction?

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater is at your service whenever you need us.

Only a Professional Water Restoration Technician Can Restore a Dover Office Building After its Bathrooms Malfunction

Office buildings in Dover are often the home of several businesses, and any disruption in operations can affect the bottom line of more than one enterprise. The sooner a water restoration team goes into the building and assesses how far the water is seeping into walls and carpeting, the quicker the restoration project can begin. More than ever, it is crucial that the team taking care of the issue is knowledgeable in water remediation and has the equipment to work efficiently.

Calling SERVPRO for water removal services in Dover is the best decision any business owner can make. Not only is our staff certified by industry experts, but we are also quick to respond to your call with our 24-hour crew. As soon as the issue happens, we travel to your office building and evaluate the damage while implementing barriers to protected unaffected areas. Our goal is to mitigate your loss and coordinate for repairs as quickly as possible.

Are industrial fans enough to dry a commercial space?
Your initial instinct may be to rent the most potent fans and ventilators you can find to dry the bathrooms and surrounding areas and make the water disappear. Even though this is a sound approach, it may not be enough. Our SERVPRO staff can provide the necessary air circulators, dehumidifiers, and extractors to control humidity, but our work goes beyond water extraction. Some of the dangers of water include:
    •    Weakening of drywall
    •    Residual water that creates a favorable environment for mold growth
    •    Compromising flooring including carpets and laminate

When you call a professional team, you ensure that possible ramifications of excess humidity, including structural consequences and esthetic, are reviewed, and a restoration plan is developed accordingly.

SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater is at your service whenever you need us. Call us at (973) 810-2825 and let our expert team guide you through the challenges of water damage restoration. With our help, your building will feel “Like it never even happened.”

Does SERVPRO Test for Specific Types of Mold during Office Mold Inspection?

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

If mold is left unchecked, it can spread very quickly. Contact our IICRC certified mold damage remediation team for an assessment today.

Dover Entrepreneurs are Concerned about Mold Inspection Results.

Building maintenance can eat up a large chunk of any Dover business’ budget. Building maintenance includes fixing leaking pipes or dripping faucets, window cleaning, clearing out gutters, and even employing a regular cleaning crew to keep the office spick and span.

Dealing with fungus is an essential part of building maintenance. Mold inspection in Dover companies helps keep buildings free from mold and its potentially damaging effects:

• Mold looks unsightly and creates an unpleasant working environment
• Mold can cause health effects
• Mold can damage everything from office furniture to walls, ceilings, and insulation

Mold spreads rapidly throughout a building. The microscopic spores quickly become airborne, travel on employees’ clothes, or get into the HVAC system. That is why it's important to call SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater if you suspect fungus in your office. If you do not see visible signs but can smell a moldy smell, that is still reason enough to call us. We will get back in touch within an hour to arrange a site visit, and our expert technicians will assess the situation and let you know the best course of action.

It is better to get an expert opinion than to run the risk of mold spreading and causing more costly problems further down the line. Meantime, encourage your staff to stay away from the mold and do not attempt to clean it.

What sort of mold grows in an office?

Many common types of fungus thrive inside commercial buildings. Here are five of the most common – and where to look for them.

• Trichoderma is a green and white woolly-looking mold. It typically grows on wet surfaces, including damp wallpaper and carpet and other fabrics such as upholstery or drapes. You can also find it in HVAC systems that have a buildup of moisture.
• Mucor grows in thick white or gray patches. Mucor mostly thrives around air vents and HVAC systems that have a sheen of condensation to provide moisture.
• Cladosporium is a green or brownish mold with a suede-like look. Cladosporium grows in fabrics such as carpets or upholstery, and can also hide under floorboards.
• Alternaria is a prevalent type of indoor mold, which is deep green or brown, with velvety-looking growth. It thrives in damp areas, so look for it under sinks or around faucets.
• Aureobasidium is a pink or brownish mold, which sometimes darkens to nearly black as it ages. It is most commonly found hiding behind wallpaper, and also grows on painted or wooden surfaces.

Of course, you should also be on the lookout for Stachybotrys. This is what people usually mean when they talk about “black mold.” Stachybotrys appear as black or deep green patches of mold with a slimy texture. It thrives in moist, damp areas, and is particularly likely to grow on paper (including wallpaper), cardboard, and wood.

Does SERVPRO test for specific mold types?

In most cases, we do not need to send spores away for sampling and confirmation of the mold type. The mold remediation process is the same for all fungus types, so knowing the specific species is not usually necessary. However, if your office has extensive mold growth, it might be required to test the spores to help figure out why the problem is so bad. A third party expert carries out mold testing – if testing is needed, SERVPRO can find and liaise with a mold testing company on your behalf.

What tests will SERVPRO carry out?

As discussed above, some mold species are hard to spot and might hide behind wallpaper or floorboards. That is why visual inspection alone is not enough. We use a range of moisture meters and other instruments to measure moisture in carpets and walls, and measure humidity. Our tests give a clear indication of the extent and pattern of both mold and water, which is a vital component of mold propagation.

What happens after mold inspection?

After inspection, SERVPRO technicians carry out mold remediation. We:

• Set up containment to keep the spores from escaping
• Scrub, wipe, and vacuum away visible mold
• Use media blasting if appropriate, for a fast and effective result
• Use air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the area

Drying is vital because if there is still moisture, the mold can quickly re-grow. We also deodorize your office to leave it fresh. If you are concerned about mold in carpets, drapes, or office furniture, we can deal with cleaning and replacing these as necessary. We can also assist with re-painting, hanging new wallpaper, and fixing any structural damage caused by the fungus.

If you need mold remediation that leaves your premises Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, call SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater at (973) 810-2825.

Your Dover Office Building Deserves High-Quality Commercial Water Damage Cleanup

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO teams are always available any time you make the call.

Our SERVPRO Teams are Trained and Certified to Properly Handle your Properties Water Damage and Cleanup Needs

If you are in charge of a commercial space that houses multiple businesses, you never want the fallout from a water loss to reach astronomical costs. Even if you have a cleaning service for your building, they are limited as to what they can do with a water damage emergency. Hiring skilled technicians gives you access to industrial-strength equipment and cleaning agents, as well as industry knowledge for ensuring your building is back to normal fast.

There could be many causes for commercial water damage in Dover, including a burst water supply line, problems with your bathroom plumbing, and more. Any significant spills can send water through multiple rooms, so establishing a perimeter is where our team at SERVPRO begins after the initial assessment. The first steps after assessment are critical to ensure that no moisture is unaddressed, or the risk of secondary damage is doubled.

Water Location

Our SERVPRO technicians are trained through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC). They understand that water infiltrates as many areas as possible, following a path to dry materials. Once we arrive at your commercial office building, we use a variety of tools to locate all of the areas in your structure where water travels.

Moisture Meters – These tools help determine moisture content in materials. Some of the meters use probes to penetrate areas like wall cavities and underneath wood flooring. Other non-penetrating meters work by sensor technology that reads moisture levels at the surface. 

Moisture Sensors – These sensors use sharp probes that tell our technicians how much moisture there is within soft materials. The readings determine the presence of moisture if it is more than 17%. 

Thermo-Hygrometers – These tools measure both relative humidity and temperature, with some advanced models that help SERVPRO technicians by recording the dew point. 

Water Removal Procedures

After SERVPRO determines the water migration throughout your office building, we strategically position extractors and pumps to bring out the water to meet drying goals. Our specialized tools are consistently in play during the drying process, including heaters, dehumidifiers, and air movers. 

Whenever you suffer from commercial water damage, you should never go it alone. Calling our skilled technicians at SERVPRO of Dover/Stillwater at (973) 810-2825 deploys a team that gets started right away on assessment and water removal. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster!

See more about Dover.

Remediating Commercial Mold Damage in a Hopatcong Locker Room

12/29/2019 (Permalink)

Hopatcong mold can take over your building quicker than you know. Let SERVPRO help remediate.

Let SERVPRO Help remediate your Hopatcong commercial mold damage.

Mold may be responsible for things like cheese and penicillin, but if left unchecked, it can also affect the structural integrity of businesses. Mold can also have health effects, so it is crucial to minimize these occurrences through comprehensive remediation practices from a specialized team. Whether you have mold buildup in or around a shower area, or there is mold present in other parts of your property, it is crucial to choose a team you can trust to handle the problem.

If your business requires commercial mold damage remediation in Hopatcong, SERVPRO technicians are just a phone call away from cleaning the area any time of the day or night. They can remove damage and restore your facilities to a pre-mold condition that maximizes safety for customers, employees, and other visitors. Not only does remediating mold minimize the potential risk to building inhabitants, but it can also salvage structural materials and other items in your business.

Minimizing Mold in Locker Rooms & Shower Facilities

Without proper remediation, mold can discolor tile grout and weaken wood, so it is crucial to remove mold and mildew and prevent it from proliferating further. Try these tips for keeping your facilities dry and mold-free:

• Reduce moisture as much as possible, ideally to 30 to 50% relative humidity. This goal is challenging to maintain in facilities like locker rooms and showers. Still, it is crucial for preventing further damage from mold.
• Use construction materials in your building that are naturally resistant to mold and mildew, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is also rust and bacteria resistant
• Use water-resistant paint and similar materials to minimize mold growth in your facilities

How SERVPRO Saves the Day

Several methods are used for removing mold from surfaces. Semi-porous materials like wood and concrete can be cleaned with sanding, damp wiping, wire brushes, and other abrasive tools that dislodge soils for safe removal. For long-term exposure, wood items may have to be removed, as mold can eventually cause it to rot. If there are settled mold spores in the area, HEPA vacuums and damp wiping with EPA-registered disinfectants are generally sufficient for removal. 

After containment and cleanup have occurred, the area can be dried with centrifugal air movers and industrial-grade low-grain refrigerant dehumidifiers. Technicians continually test surface moisture levels to ensure that mold cannot thrive on them.

SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater wants to ensure that your home looks, "Like it never even happened." For a rapid disaster cleanup service you can always count on, call (973) 810-2825 today.

To find out more about Hopatcong, click here.

Is Mold Growing on Your Hopatcong Store's Inventory?

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Just a little water damage can cause mold, which can grow on your store's inventory. Call SERVPRO for fast and effective mold remediation.

Strategies for Fighting Commercial Mold Damage in a Hopatcong Retail Store

When there is mold in your retail store, the repercussions can be severe because apart from causing real damage on the structure, the musty smell in the air and spots that develop on surfaces after such infestations can dissuade customers from shopping. Dealing with a mold problem can easy or severe, depending on the strategies applied. A professional AMRT, Applied Mold Remediation Technician, can help initiate the right response. 

Before initiating any step to restore commercial mold damage in your Hopatcong retail store, there is a need to identify the true extent of the problem. While a considerable portion of the mold colonies might be visible on walls, ceiling or other surfaces, the bulk of the infestation is likely to develop in confined areas including subfloors. Mold tends to develop better in most areas with minimal natural lighting. Our SERVPRO technicians can use different strategies, including their extensive experience, to find mold colonies. 

Since moisture is a critical element for microbial growth, stopping any water source and drying excess moisture helps ensure the problem does not recur. Leaks from the roof or broken plumbing lines are likely sources of moisture. If there are heavy wooden frames used in shelves or other materials that can absorb significant amounts of moisture, they can fuel future growth if not dried properly. Our SERVPRO crews use moisture sensors with probes to check whether any materials retain wetness after addressing the primary water source. We then use air movers to improve evaporation and dehumidifiers to dry them. We can also separate vast areas in your store into smaller drying chambers for more effectiveness. 

Killing spores is an essential part of dealing with mold problems in your retail store. Using professional cleaning agents with antimicrobial properties when cleaning the affected areas, helps kill spores. Our SERVPRO technicians also take steps to limit the spread of mold debris, which is crucial in a retail store where cross-contamination can cause great inconvenience. We set up containment airlock barrier zipper chambers to prevent mold debris from spreading. 

With the correct strategy, it is possible to prevent the recurrence of a mold problem. Call SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater at (973) 810-2825 to help clean your store restoring it to preloss state. We're faster to any size disaster.

More about Hopatcong.

Be a Savvy Dover Business Enterprise with SERVPRO's ERP Mobile App

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Offers the ERP Emergency READY Profile Plan to Help Prevent and Mitigate Water and Fire Losses to Your Dover Business

Extreme Weather Patterns Continue Risk of Flood Damage to Unprepared Dover Businesses

When rain and wind storms bear down on Northern New Jersey, Dover businesses can be in the path of significant flooding. The owners and employees of any affected company know all too well the financial stress and worry that accompanies commercial damage from the contaminated water and the tremendous amount of work needed for proper cleanup. Let our Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained team help you through this difficult time.

Retail establishments, restaurants, office buildings, schools, and healthcare facilities are among the commercial enterprises that keep Dover a robust and attractive community. Flood damage to your business affects everyone in the area, limiting the choices for residents and other businesses for as long as you must remain shut down. Nearly 50 percent of businesses that halt or severely curtail the provision of goods or services after flooding risk permanent closure.

SERVPRO has strategies that help keep your business on track even after the flood waters rise. Preparation for the devastation your commercial building might suffer after contaminated waters from overland or flash flooding invade is the key to surviving the crisis. Our Emergency READY Plan and Profile (ERP) is an excellent way to predict how flooding could affect your property, allowing you to adapt to minimize damage in advance.

An ERP also assists our team at SERVPRO to provide you with targeted and effective responses if the worst does occur. When we work with you to develop your personalized plan, we gain vital information about your layout and operations. An experienced project manager visits your site, looking for the strengths and vulnerabilities in your business’s set up. Expect practical pointers to improve outcomes, including suggestions about storage decisions, equipment safeguards, exterior and interior building maintenance tips, and more.

Use our mobile app to give us more details, including contacts for vendors and contractors who designed your systems. Identify SERVPRO as your preferred restoration provider and name agents among your staff, family, or other trusted individuals to act on behalf of you and the company if flooding occurs when you are unavailable.

Businesses served by SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater can rely on our experience, training, and equipment to weather any storm and resulting flood damage. Call us at (973) 810-2825 to set up an ERP consultation or to ask for assistance after a flooding loss.

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The Single Most Important Thing You Need to Know About Commercial Water Damage Remediation in Hopatcong

4/21/2019 (Permalink)

Should your bed and breakfast suffer from water damage, making the call to SERVPRO is critical to your remediation success. Call right away.

SERVPRO - Commercial Water Cleanup Actions For Hopatcong Businesses

Located just North of I-80 and along the lake that bears its name, Hoptacong is a carefully planned, growing town that balances the needs of the local community against a growing reputation as an excellent bed and breakfast location. Keeping those businesses open is vital for everyone.

For a bed and breakfast, commercial water cleanup in Hopatcong has to happen fast to check in the next guest. SERVPRO specialists can remove and clean up the effects of water flooding across the floor, regardless if it is from a faulty sprinkler or a broken pipe in an upstairs bathroom.

After removing the water, one of our primary concerns for a home business is to preserve the wood floors. If the water is out of a backed up toilet, we also have to remove any human waste and clean the floorboards with an anti-bacterial agent to ensure there is no health risk. In most cases though, the water is clean, and our technicians’ concerns are to dry the floors.

SERVPRO specialists start with a content meter to determine the amount of moisture trapped in and around the floorboards. If the percentage is very high, that indicates there is also water pooled in the sub-floor. To find and eliminate it, they lift a floorboard usually under a piece of furniture and insert a hose attached to a small pump.

To draw out the above-trapped water, we use a combination of air movers, exhaust fans, and dehumidifiers. The air movers force warm, dry air across surfaces to push out moisture into the surrounding air. The exhaust fans pull it out with the damp air, or the dehumidifiers capture and draw it out of the air to increase the rate of evaporation, so the wood dries without cracking or splitting.

As long as the water is clean, team members can clean and dry carpets and area rugs. Even if they were vacuumed right before the water disaster has some dirt and other contaminants in it. Our commercial-grade shampooers are far superior to any device available for rent at a retail outlet. The device forces the cleaner into the fibers, agitates it, and then rinses and removes the cleaner, dirt, and water so the carpet or rug can dry.

Our goal at SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater is to help our fellow business owner reopen to support local customers and tourists. If you need our expertise, call (973) 810-2825 today to get started.

Click here for more information about the city of Hopatcong.

Don't Let Water Damage Wreck Your Dover Business

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

This is the beginning of water damage. Don't let this progress, call SERVPRO today.

What to Do When Your Industrial Dishwasher Causes Water Damage in Your Dover Diner

The last thing any business owner wants is for water damage to interrupt their hours of operation. In the case of your diner, the industrial dishwasher malfunctioned and began to leak water into your small kitchen throughout the night. When you arrived in the early morning, to begin prepping your diner for service, you discovered the water in the kitchen that had been sitting overnight. While you can clean up the water that is laying on top of the tile flooring, you cannot account for how much has already been absorbed and therefore should not ignore the problem.
 
Leaving the water damage unchecked inside your Dover diner can cause further damages to your property. The longer that excess moisture sits unchallenged, the more likely it is that mold damage can begin to form. Mold is caused when mold spores are exposed to moisture for a prolonged period. While the floor of your diner may seem dry after mopping up the water, it probably isn't. The water had plenty of time to soak into the base of the floor overnight.
 
Getting professional help to your property as quickly as possible lessens the chances of mold forming, or for unsightly cracks to appear in the tile. Here at SERVPRO, we believe in working by your schedule and coming as soon as possible to your property after your initial call. We understand that your time is valuable and we can work whenever it suits you, through the day or night.
 
When our SERVPRO techs arrive at your diner, they can begin remediating the water damage on your property promptly. Our technicians are IICRC-certified and have been trained excellently, ensuring they can always select the best solution for the damages on your property.
 
First, SERVPRO can begin with setting up dehumidifiers, ventilation fans, and drying mats, blasting the area with fresh and dry air. We can ensure that dry air is getting to every nook and cranny that the water may have run to during the leak. Once we're sure the floor is adequately dry, SERVPRO can use thermal imaging technology to make sure that no pockets of water have gone unnoticed.
 
If faulty equipment causes water damage on your property, always get help as soon as possible. Get in contact with SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater by phoning (973) 810-2825. We can always work when it is best for you.

Click here for more about Dover.

How to Keep Doors Open After Water Damage in a Dover School

1/8/2019 (Permalink)

When your school building is affected by a broken pipe, many kids can be left without anywhere to go. Contact SERVPRO immediately.

Leaking Pipes in a Dover School Requires Professional Cleanup

Being responsible for the educational institutions throughout the district means that sometimes you have to make decisions for your Dover school to keep it running at optimal levels or to curb a problem before it gets out of control. While you have a broad custodial staff to handle messes and general maintenance throughout each school, some situations require the immediate attention of restoration professionals to prevent widespread damages that can keep your facility shut down for a long period.

While leaking pipes and the commercial water damage in Dover that results might seem like something that your school custodial staff can handle, water can spread quickly and affect multiple areas and materials. The last thing that you need is inadequate cleanup and drying of a circumstance like this, as it can lead to secondary effects like mold and microbial growth. Not only can this pose significant health risks or effects to the students and staff, but it also can become a public relations nightmare throughout the community when the general public and parents of the students in school there become aware of mold colonization.

Instead of hoping to get it right, leave it in the hands of our trusted SERVPRO professionals. Our team is available 24 hours a day to respond to emergencies as they happen and prevent them from getting worse than they otherwise would. With our fast response to disasters like leaking pipes in your facility, we can dry out the damaged elements with limited to no demolition. This approach ensures a faster return to school for your teachers and students.

Our professionals have advanced technology and equipment designed to identify moisture pockets in wall cavities, flooring materials, and above ceilings. With our powerful tools like air movers and LGR dehumidifiers, we can thoroughly drop moisture levels below acceptable parameters or remove it entirely, preventing secondary effects like mold growth from resulting.

With an emergency within your school building, you need to act quickly to get the effects resolved and restored to get your staff and students back into the school as soon as possible. You can trust our SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater rapid response team to arrive fast with the tools and expertise to help. Give us a call today at (973) 810-2825.

Click here for more information about Dover.

A Timeline for Fixing Busted Pipes

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Pipe Break in Dover

You may inspect your commercial property on a regular basis, but sometimes bursting pipes still occur. If you experience water damage in Dover, NJ, as the result of a damaged pipe, time is of the essence. You want to get it fixed quickly so that you can avoid as much damage as possible. Here is a timeline of how that may go.

Expert Location

As soon as you notice there is a problem, you may want to call water mitigation experts to fix the broken pipe. The representative who answers the phone will likely ask you a few questions to determine what kind of problem you have.

• Where is the pipe located?
• How big is the damaged area?
• How long has it been leaking?
• How fast is it leaking?
• Have you turned off the water and power to the area?

Damage Assessment

Bursting pipes are as critical as they sound. Water is likely spewing in all directions, soaking everything in its path. Once the technicians arrive, they will assess the damage this has caused and be able to devise a plan.

Water Extraction

If your preliminary report over the phone was accurate, it will likely match the professional assessment pretty closely. This means the technicians can get right to the water extraction. They pump the water out to halt its potential to cause secondary damage.

Surface Drying

It's not enough to just remove the standing water. Everything has to be dried, or your building is likely to develop a mold problem. This is particularly probable if the leak has significantly raised the humidity of the area.

All of these things ideally happen within the first 24 hours. Mold can start to grow in as little as a day, so you are probably rushing the clock to get everything dry again. The sooner you call the problem with your bursting pipes in and get the repair process started, the better chance you have of avoiding secondary damage.

For more on Dover click here. 

Tips for HVAC Mold Cleanup

7/26/2018 (Permalink)

You can head mold problems off at the pass if you conduct a regular inspection of your building.

Getting mold in the air ducts of your office building or warehouse in Dover, NJ, is not hard to do. Mold attaches to the dust particles in the air and can land in the dark, moist areas of the air ducts and grow. Once mold grows on filters or insulation in the ducts, the porous materials have to be completely replaced. Here are four tips for HVAC cleaning when you suspect you have a mold problem.

1. Arrange for Remediation

Mold is not a problem you want to handle on your own. If you don't contain the problem completely, it could spread to other areas of the building. If you miss any of the mold growth, it is just going to come back later. You need remediation experts who can complete the job and test the area to make sure the whole mold issue has been resolved.

2. Turn off HVAC System

The last thing you want when you have mold in your air ducts is for it to spread even further. Until the technicians are through cleaning vents and replacing damaged parts, your whole HVAC system should be off. Do not turn on the system until the HVAC cleaning is complete.

3. Remove Excess Water

If a mold problem exists in your ducts, it is likely that a moisture problem lives there, too. It may be from condensation or from high humidity levels in air. Whatever the culprit, the fact remains that the water must be extracted. Otherwise, it doesn't do much good to solve a problem if you don't also take care of underlying causes.

4. Inspect Regularly

You can head mold problems off at the pass if you conduct a regular inspection of your building. Check for condensation, and make sure the drip pans are draining the way they should. If you detect any moisture during your inspection, take care of it before mold can develop.

While most of the mold remediation should be left up to the professionals, there are several small things you can do to help out or prevent the problem from occurring again. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROdoverstillwater.com/.

3 Things You Need to Know About Category Three Water Damage

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

When flood water fills your commercial building in Dover, NJ, you need to consider its source to determine your best course of action.

If you ever have to deal with water damage in your commercial building in Dover, NJ, the cleanup process may depend on the type of water that fills your space. Most flood water can be categorized as clean, gray or black. Clean, or category one, water comes from a broken water line or another clean source. Gray, or category two, water comes from appliance overflow and may contain some bacteria. Black, or category three, water is the most contaminated. Here's what you need to know about category three water:

1. Where it comes from. This dirty water can come from a variety of sources. River overflow, sewage backup and stagnant standing water could fall into the black water category. Sometimes the contaminants are already in the water when it enters your building, but standing water can start to grow microbes if left alone for too long.
2. What it contains. You know that this category three flood water is contaminated, but what exactly does that mean? In most cases, this type of water may contain fecal matter, chemicals, mold spores, bacteria or viruses. Toilet overflow and other sewage backups often fall into this category because of their source.
3. What to do. If your building is full of water that could be highly contaminated, what are you supposed to do? Your first step should be to call in a commercial water damage restoration team. These professionals can help you get rid of the potentially dangerous water, stop the source of the water, cleanup the microbes and repair any water damage. Calling a team in quickly may help you keep the damage to a minimum.

When flood water fills your commercial building in Dover, NJ, you need to consider its source to determine your best course of action. No matter what category the water falls into, it is still beneficial for you to start the cleanup process as quickly as you can. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROdoverstillwater.com/.

What To Do After the Fire: 3 Steps

5/17/2018 (Permalink)

When starting the fire restoration process, you're likely adding one more responsibility to your long line of daily work duties.

Lining up a plan after your building has experienced a fire can seem like an enormous burden. Setting aside time to deal with such a mess probably wasn't on your schedule, and it can be difficult to juggle the cleanup process alongside your own work. No matter how serious the situation is looking, fire restoration doesn't have to take over your life; instead, follow these steps to ensure everything gets back to normal.

1. Make the Calls

After emergency procedures have been set into motion, tasks that follow usually include a call to your insurance agency. Your fire insurance coverage will depend on your policy and the extent of the damage. You may also want to get in touch with a fire damage specialist who can give a thorough inspection of the building.

2. Steer Clear

A fire can affect the materials of your building in a number of ways, so it's important that you refrain from touching any of the damage prior to the smoke cleaning process. Boarding up the property is one way you can protect the interior from looters or extreme weather. Plywood is the most commonly used material to board up windows and doors after a fire.

3. Begin the Restoration

You may have already brought in the help of professionals to board up your building in Dover, NJ, but it's key that you get a proper cleanup as well. The pros will have the appropriate equipment to clean the fire effectively – so you won't have to deal with lingering smoke damage in the future. The same goes for any water damage that might have occurred.

When starting the fire restoration process, you're likely adding one more responsibility to your long line of daily work duties. Check off that box on the to-do list and hand the hard work over to the specialists. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROdoverstillwater.com/.

Quick Look at Common Damages Caused by Hail

3/31/2018 (Permalink)

If you've had hail damage done to your Dover, NJ commercial building, you know this type of storm damage isn't pretty. What you might not know is that hail can actually cause a variety of problems for your building.

The damages usually fall into two different categories. It's either functional or cosmetic damage. Functional damage is something that will affect the performance of your building, usually the roofing system. Cosmetic damage is something that only affects the look of your building.

Here is a list of the common damages caused by hail during a storm

• Cracked Shingles: As the hail pounds your roofing system, it can cause different kinds of roof damage. Larger hail pieces can actually crack your shingles. This damage may stop your roof from being able to keep water out of your building as efficiently.
• Broken Flashing: Flashing is used at the valleys and hips of your roof to act as waterproofing. This metal strip can also be used where the roof line meets a protrusion, like a chimney or piping. If the flashing is damaged, it can lead to roof leaks and water damage in the attic.
• Missing Shingles: If the hail causes a crack in the shingles, the accompanying wind could get purchase under the material and tear it off of the roof. This type of roof damage may expand quickly as more shingles and roofing materials are torn off of the surface.
• Damaged Siding: The siding of your building could also get damaged by hail. If this happens, the insulation in your walls could get exposed to water damage. If wet insulation isn't addressed quickly, it could lead to mold growth and other issues.

Hail can lead to a wide range of roof damage and other problems for your building. No matter what type of storm damage you have to deal with, it can be a good idea to get help from storm damage repair experts.

A Huge Commercial Fire Loss in Hackettstown NJ.

2/4/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Fire Loss

This picture represents the horrible loss that one of our dear commercial clients suffered in Hackettstown NJ. This unfortunate incident started from an electric failure in one of the shop’s machines and it became a massive fire loss that consumed at least 90% of the entire facility.  A loss like this one touches our heart, not only because this business helps to fuel the economy in our local community, but also because as a business we understand what it means to close your doors even for a couple of hours (imagine a couple of weeks or months). Therefore, every time that we receive a call to address a loss like this, we do everything that is in our power to help our clients during this difficult situation. This time was not different, we received the call and we arrived to the loss within a hour, and after making sure that everyone was safe (no fatalities, only material damage), we started the board up process and we proceeded to explain the plan of action to follow in the restoration process. During the following weeks, we have been in touch with the insurance company, the business owner, and the other parties involved. At the same time, our technicians have been there cleaning, choosing the items that were salvageable, and removing all the items that will need to be gone in order for reconstruction to begin. We are still helping our clients in their efforts to re-build their business, and this is something that we are proud of. We believe in building relationships and show our clients with our actions, that our services are far beyond restoring their loss. We are always here to help because we are involved and we care for our community.

In the event that you ever have a fire or water loss in your business please give us the opportunity to provide our services and become one of your trusted companies. We will be happy to help you to get back on your feet and we will be glad to be there every step of the way. Do not hesitate and give us a call 973-810-2825.

Important Reasons Why Every Home and Business Needs a Humidifier

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

We all know about humidifiers, but most of us do not know the benefits of having one in our home or business. Here we are going to mention seven reasons why should have one or consider to get one.

Reduce Airborne Illnesses

Germs are not fans of moist air, therefore using a humidifier in your home or business will reduce the risk of spreading viruses that normally thrive in dry air. We do not think about prevention often, but we should because taking precaution against spreading illnesses can make a big difference for the members of your family or your staff. You want a healthy family and healthy employees.

Save Money during the cold months

Everybody wants to save money, especially during the holidays and cold months. Another benefit of using a humidifier is that it add moisture back into the air and this makes your property (home or business) feel warmer. This means that you can turn down the thermostat and save some money on your bills.

Soothe Dry Skin

Cold weather can be harsh on your skin and lips. It is not uncommon for people to suffer from cracked hands and lips during the winter time. A humidifier can be a good and helpful tool to alleviate symptoms and soften skin. Your family and your employees will feel better without suffering this conditions.

Protect Wood Floors and Furniture

If you have wood furniture in your business or home, you know that dry air can easily damage it. It can make this furniture split and crack, or cause gaps in hardwood floors. Therefore, using an automatic humidifier to maintain a stable level of moisture in the air can protect your floors and furniture from damage.

No More Static Shock

Have you shake hands with one of your coworkers before and found both of you moving apart because you felt the static shock? Or have you walked around in your home in your cozy socks when suddenly you feel shock with static? One way to help to reduce this is to bump up the humidity levels at your place of work or home, this will help to reduce the charges that causes these shocks.

Reduce Allergy and Sinus Problems

One important benefit of having a humidifier is that an increased moisture in the air can soothe sinus tissue, alleviate allergy symptoms, and reduce asthma attacks. It is essential to mention that it is necessary to check the humidifier settings in order to avoid too much humidity (and promote other problems). Once you make sure that you are adding the right amount of moisture into the air at your work place or home you will realize that most people who suffer of allergies and sinus problems will feel better.

Happy Indoor Plants.

The weather in the cold months can be especially hard for the plants in your business and at home. Therefore, it is important to create the ideal conditions for your indoor plants to survive, most of them thrive in moist conditions and a humidifier will help to create a good environment for them.

Smart Gadgets that could help you to reduce the utility bills of your business

12/26/2017 (Permalink)

If you are a business owner you know how important it is to reduce your utility bills in order to save money every year. Keeping a budget while paying your bills in a business can help you to reinvest, acquire new equipment, and grow your company. One way to reduce your bills and help you to save is to utilize the new technology available in the market. Here we will describe some of the smart gadgets that can make the difference in your annual spending.

Thermostat options: This is an important feature that you could add to your business. A smart thermostat is connected to your Wi-Fi and controls your businesses temperature and can even adjust itself automatically. One popular thermostat option is Nest, it is popular because by learning your habits in about a week it can reduce your heating and cooling bills by 10 to 15 percent (more money saving for your business). Nest also has a feature that sends you text message when your property reaches unusual temperatures (hot or cold), this allow you to set your temperature levels and reduce your bills.

Security Lighting:  These is a great option for every business. Lights that are connected to Wi-Fi not only help you to save money, but they also add security to your property. With multiple features that allow you to turn the lights on and off, turn the lights when someone comes at the door, and even some of the smartest systems will use a battery-powered backup that will keep the lights on if the power goes out. In some cases these lights will turn on if the smoke detector is activated, so people can see clear for an exit.

Washer and Dryer: We know that some business do not have these appliances, but others (like ours) do. For those businesses, there are new smart technology options that allow you to use your smartphone to start, stop, and monitor your washer and dryer. Also, this type of smart technology allows you to view your energy usage, and if paired with Nest thermostat you could save energy and money by delaying your laundry until after your peak energy hours have passed.

These are just some of the smart gadgets that you could add to your business to increase your savings in the long run, there are many more on the market that you can find and can modify to the needs of your business.

Water Damage at your business location.

10/18/2017 (Permalink)

These customers found their office filled with water. They called us and we restored their business and helped them to re-open soon.

A water damage in a business can happen at any time of the day, even when the building is closed. For example, imagine coming to work on a Monday morning and finding your office supplies floating next to those important documents that you were going to fax, and those folders that were supposed to be file. Not a good picture, is it? And the sad part is that we have not even started thinking about the possible damages to the structure, and the closing time that your office may endure due to this incident. 

Before we start talking more about the unfortunate effects of a water loss, we want to make sure that you as a business owner understand the importance of acting fast when having this kind of incident. In other words, when your office suffers a water loss it is time to act! It is crucial that you not delay the process, make sure that everybody is safe, and make the important phone calls (Insurance and Restoration Company) because every minute counts and the damage can increase as the clock is ticking. We cannot stress this enough and the water damage timeline may help you to comprehend what can happen to your property if you delay to take action. First, within minutes water spreads throughout the property and is absorbed into walls, floors, and carpets. At the same time, your files, photos and paper goods are compromised. Second, within one to twenty four hours, drywall and furniture begins to swell and break down, a musty odor appears in the building, and metal surfaces begin to tarnish. Third, between forty eight hours to a week, Mold may grow and spread (increasing your recovery cost), metal begins to rust, wood flooring swells, furniture warps, and it is possible that a serious biohazard contamination develops. Finally, after more than one week, the damage to the property will be extensive, the cost of the recovery will increase substantially as well as the time that the business may need to close operations. As you can see it is important to prevent further damage by calling your insurance and a restoration company that cares.

We will work with your insurance company, once you call us we make sure to be there as soon as possible to start taking action and minimize your closing time. We are a business as well and we understand your needs as a business owner. Therefore, our technicians will arrive on site, inspect the property, explain the plan of action, address any concerns, and start working in recovering your business.

Warehouse (Storage) Fire Prevention.

10/17/2017 (Permalink)

This is a warehouse getting caught on fire. A costly and devastator event for any business.

If you own a business you know that your inventory is a very important asset for your company. The last thing that you want is to lose it and potentially close your business operations because it caught on fire.

A fire in a warehouse could be a costly and overwhelming event for any type of business, by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) "Fires in U.S. warehouses caused an annual average of $155 million in direct property damage, three civilian deaths, and 19 civilian injuries." These are statistics that business owners expect to never been part of. Therefore it should be part of a business priorities to make a fire prevention plan. Here we present some actions to consider in order to keep your warehouse fire safe:

1- IDENTIFY FIRE SAFETY RISKS: Make sure to understand the fire safety regulations that are relevant to your business location. After that identify any fire hazards, who is at risk because of them, make the necessary changes to reduce the risks found, provide training on how to identify and avoid  fire risks, keep a log of your findings, and finally update your log regularly to stay on top of your game of fire prevention. 

2- EVACUATION PLAN: While trying to prevent a fire in your warehouse you must think about the inventory and most importantly about the people working in it. It is essential that all the employees that could be affected know what to do in case of a fire emergency. Each business should have an evacuation plan in place and make sure that all the employees understand it and know what to do in case of a fire. 

3- FIRE PROTECTION TOOLS: Businesses should have the proper fire protection tools (fire extinguisher, sprinklers, smoke detectors, etc.) according with each warehouse needs. Business owners need to provide the proper training for the use of such tools and should set regular inspections to make sure they work correctly and comply with OSHA regulations.

4- ORGANIZE STORAGE AREAS: As part of a prevention plan it is important that businesses keep storage areas organized and exits clear in case of an emergency evacuation. Also, all flammable and hazardous material should be store accordingly with OSHA safety regulations.

5-INSPECTION OF THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS: Businesses need to ensure that all electrical systems are maintained according to the law and they should inspect all cords used in the warehouse regularly.

6-SECURITY: The risk of arson could be diminished by having a proper internal and external security system with cameras and alarms that help protect the warehouse.

7- SMOKING RULES: Another way to help prevent a fire in a warehouse is to prohibit smoking near the premises, or at least 20 feet away the building and any flammable materials.

8- PORTABLE SPACE HEATERS: It is understandable to think about the cost of a fixed heating system for a warehouse, but at the same time business owners recognize that portable space heaters are a high risk element for a fire. Therefore, even though it may be a higher cost, the first option is the one that could save a business a costly recovery expense.

9- WASTE MATERIAL DISPOSAL: all waste material should be removed from the warehouse building to avoid the risk of fire. The accumulation of waste will increase the chances of a fire loss.

10- INSPECTION CULTURE: Companies that have warehouses should implement an inspection culture. A designated employee or employees should make sure that at the end of each working day all items are properly stored, the electrical systems are checked, security systems are working, etc. This will enhance the fire prevention plan.

We hope that these preventive actions are of help for many business owners and that more businesses work actively to avoid risks that could compromise their operations.

Commercial Damage that can affect your business operations.

10/16/2017 (Permalink)

Sometimes businesses need to close due to safety measures, but we are here to help you to restore your business and resume operations fast.

We all recognized how important businesses are for our country's economy. Also, we understand that the motivation of the brave entrepreneurs that create jobs is vital to keep growing as a nation. What is hard to understand is some of the difficulties that business owners have to face in order to keep businesses afloat. One of these difficulties is the vulnerability of a business in times of a disaster, a fire or water loss, and/or any emergency event that can cause the suspension of the business's operations. Depending on the size of the business and the particular loss, sometimes the recovery time may take longer than expected, and this a risk that most businesses cannot allow to happen. Therefore, it is important that business owners learn how to prepare and how to act when an unfortunate emergency or a disaster affect their company and their employees.

All size companies should prepare for the unexpected, but small businesses should prioritize this action, because by the US Small Business Administration website (preapremybusiness.org) "40 to 60 percent of small businesses never reopen their doors following a disaster." With these percentages in mind, lets think that most of our communities are fueled by the development of small businesses. We, our families, our friends, and neighbors either work for a small business or know someone who does. Therefore, it is important that not only the business owners learn about how to be prepared, but that employees get involved as well.

There are many online resources about how to get businesses prepared that business owners should read. Here we suggest only some of ways to start to be prepared. First, one of the most important things is to have a communication plan where everybody knows what to do in case of an emergency. Second, it is important to have updated information on employees, customers, insurance, and vendors in case emergency phone calls need to be done. Third, it may be beneficial to choose one or two people who will be in charge when making important decisions or contacting the insurance company. Finally, we recommend that if you are a business owner do not delay to get your emergency plan prepared, also do not delay calling your insurance and your restoration service company in case of an emergency or disaster. The future of the continuity of your business may relay on how soon you take actions and how quick your restoration company starts working.

If you need us for an emergency were are here. Call us and we will be happy to help you to restore your business and keeping it going. We are here to serve our community and to grow together. We are SERVPRO of Dover/Stillwater 973-810-2825.

How long can you afford for your business to be down

1/12/2017 (Permalink)

Vehicle drove through the glass front of store. We had them re opened in 4 hours. Call us we can help you. 973-810-2825

When it comes to our business even one day out of operation can be detrimental. Our customers are our livelihood and they can be loyal and amazing people. But if you are unable to service them they will go elsewhere and there is no guarantee they will come back. It takes a lot to secure a customer and keep them coming back. But when a emergency situation such as a fire or water loss or a car hits your building ( it happens ) and you must close it is very scary. Where will your customers go to get what they need. How long will you be closed and will you need to temporarily move your business. This is a scary time but that is where we excel. We have skills to get you reopened with the least amount of downtime even if that requires us to work overnights to keep you open or make it so you can open the next day. Whether it is boarding you up and rerouting access or cleaning up and getting electricians in to get you power quick we have all the best relationships to bring in who ever we need to get your doors opened. We make sure if equipment is needed we reduce all trip hazards and use only the newest items to limit the noise and the disturbance that it may cause. Although sometimes there are those situations where the damage is so extensive we may need to find you temporary relocation. We try to keep you onsite whenever possible since that is where your customers know where to find you. And when that is not possible we can set up trailers or find open store fronts locally to get those doors open and your customers happy. So if you ever have a issue with water, fire, or mold please call us so we can make it "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO of Dover / Stillwater 973-810-2825.