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Everything You Need to Know About Mold Remediation

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Everything You Need to Know About Mold Remediation Everything You Need to Know About Mold Remediation

At some point in your life, you've seen mold. Whether it be in your home, on the walls, ceilings, or in your basement, or on an old piece of bread that got stuck in the back of the refrigerator. Regardless of where you've seen it, you have. However, some people don't see it and live with it every day. There are signs of mold in your home, and the sneaky mold spores that hide are even worse than the ones you can see.

It's important to fully understand mold, how it works, what mold remediation looks like, and what to look out for. SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City is one of the best mold remediation companies around, and we're here to not only remediate mold, but to help you understand more about it.

Mold Facts

Confusion and misunderstanding surround the topic of mold and mold remediation. Some restoration companies will make claims to remove all mold from a building and this is not true. Mold spores occur naturally almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. These microscopic spores float along in the air and can enter a home or business through windows, air ducts, and HVAC systems. Here are some facts that you should know:

  • Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
  • Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems. They can even hitch a ride on your clothing or pet.
  • Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water, and these colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
  • Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
  • Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
  • Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45%.

Mold Damage Tips

Did you know in as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there's a water intrusion? All it takes is a roof leak, or some kind of water entering into your home. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. We have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

So, what should you do? Stay out of affected areas, turn off the HVAC system and fans, and contact us for mold remediation services.

What shouldn't you do? Do not touch or disturb the mold, blow air across any surface with visible or suspected mold growth, attempt to dry the area yourself, or spray bleach solution or other disinfectants on the moldy surfaces.

How Can You Tell If It's Black Mold?

So, you've probably seen a lot of scary news reports about the dangers about black mold. These reports can be alarming and confusing, so it's beneficial to get the facts to better understand it.

This type of mold does produce allergens and irritants, however, many types of mold can do this, so it's important to treat any mold with caution. Just stay out of the affected moldy areas and don't touch or disturb it.

What Our Mold Remediation Process Looks Like

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. Here's what it looks like:

  1. Emergency Contact (201) 482-1932 - The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us. Our rep will ask a series of questions to help us determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel.
  2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment: We carefully inspect your property for visible signs of mold. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view. We use various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources.
  3. Mold Containment: Our professionals use various containment procedures to prevent the spread of mold. We may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process. All fans and heating and cooling systems will be turned off to prevent the spread of mold.
  4. Air Filtration: Our specialized filtration equipment allows our professionals to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. We utilize powerful "air scrubbers" and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.
  5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials: The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. We'll use anti-fungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. It may be necessary to remove and dispose of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and carpeting, to remediate heavy mold growth.
  6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings: We clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, clothing, and other restorable items affected by mold. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and disinfect your belongings. We're also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.
  7. Restoration: Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may have been removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. The restoration step gets your home or business back to normal.

Mold Removal vs. Mold Remediation

We often get the question, "what is the difference between mold remediation and mold removal?" Well, since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. We understand mold and mold growth and have the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home. So, you should know that 100% mold removal isn't possible. However, we can kill mold that we're able to detect and remediate it to protect anyone in the home or business from allergic reactions, irritants, and health problems.

What Causes Mold Growth?

Mold growth is caused by moisture. It's important to find the moisture source before it gets too bad, creating further damage. If your home or business deals with a flood or any kind of water damage, it's crucial to have it restored and properly cleaned and dried to prevent mold growth from happening. However, moisture doesn't always mean water. Mold can grow if humidity levels are too high, if your bathroom fans don't work well and you take hot showers, leaving moisture on the walls, etc. These are all situations that can cause mold growth.

What Can You Do For Mold Prevention?

If you are wondering how to prevent mold, the first step to take is to ensure that your home is not too humid. The humidity level in your household should not surpass 50% as moist conditions are a catalyst for mold to grow - as we mentioned above. You can do so by checking the humidity level more than once a day. Also, be sure to check that your house has smooth air ventilation. Continuous airflow within your home helps prevent the spread of mold.

Does a Dehumidifier Help with Prevention?

Long story short, the humidity level in your home is reduced by a dehumidifier. Humidity is increased in your home any time water evaporates. You wash the dishes, lay your clothes out to dry, or take a shower - the humidity in your home rises. As it intensifies, mold finds the perfect conditions for growth. It seems only natural that to take care of the problem is a dehumidifier, right?

Kind of, but not really. Humidity isn't the singular source that mold thrives on, although it is a biggie. Leaky roofs, flood-prone basements, and burst pipes can also be mold infestation contributors. Your humidity problem will be lessened with a dehumidifier, but if the mold is being caused by a persistent leak, it's not going to help the issue.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey

SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Commercial Services for Hoboken Businesses

9/7/2023 (Permalink)

Commercial Services for Hoboken Businesses Commercial Services for Hoboken Businesses

Cleaning and restoring commercial properties require a unique blend of training, experience, and equipment. SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City has the resources and expertise to give you excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients. Trust us to get to the problem quickly and restore your business "like it never even happened."

Commercial Buildings We Service

We service many different types of commercial buildings. This includes small office buildings, large office/high-rise office buildings, apartment buildings, restaurants, hotels/motels, small retail stores, large retail/big-box stores, high-rise residential, manufacturing and industrial, as well as government and military.

What We Do

We respond quickly to your Hoboken business fire, water, or mold damage emergency, 24 hours a day. Whether the damage occurs in small businesses or big-box stores, we have the training, experience, and equipment to handle the situation. Our national network of 2160 franchises gives us access to personnel and resources to respond to any size restoration emergency.

Let's get into the commercial restoration services we offer.

Commercial Water Damage Restoration

There's never a convenient time for flooding or water damage to strike your business. Every hour spent cleaning is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when an emergency situation arises at your business, give us a call and we'll be there fast when you need us.

We have the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. When you call us, we show up with water damage restoration technicians, applied structural drying technicians, odor control technicians, and upholstery/fabric cleaning technicians.

When it comes to water damage, it's especially crucial to contact us right away to prevent any further damage or mold growth. We will ensure that we not only stop the source of the water damage, but clean it up, restore the area, and provide any additional services you may need.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Fire damage is especially devastating for a business or commercial property owners. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, significant water damage from firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. Every hour spent restoring your business back to pre-fire condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If your business experiences a fire loss, call the fire and water damage restoration experts and we'll respond right away.

You want to make sure you contact us immediately so we can help prevent further damage from happening to your business. Fire damage restoration is extremely important to tackle once the fire has occurred. We can help with soot damage, smoke damage cleanup, and anything else that may have damaged your workplace. That's why we're the fire damage restoration company you can trust.

Commercial Mold Remediation

You probably know that mold can cause major business interruptions, as it can present a serious health risk for people exposed at your commercial property. Mold infestations can be caused by minor water intrusions, like a slow roof leak or loose plumbing fitting, or it can grow if your building fell victim to major water damage from a storm, a sewer overflow, or any other cause.

The important thing to note is that mold spreads quickly through a property if it's left untreated. We will respond quickly, working first to contain the infestation to help prevent its spread to other parts of the building. Next, we will begin the remediation process, working safely and effectively to manage the situation. We have the training, experience, and equipment to contain the mold infestation and remediate it to preloss condition.

Commercial Cleaning Services

You don't have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the score of your regular janitorial staff, you should call us for prompt service. Whether it's removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best.

We offer cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Our cleaning services include Air Ducts and HVAC, Biohazard and Sewage, Trauma and Crime Scene, Carpet and Upholstery, Drapes and Blinds, Ceilings/Walls/Hard Floors, Odor Deodorization, Vandalism.

Commercial Storm Damage Restoration

Storms and inclement weather can be devastating to any business. Wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding can occur suddenly and cause substantial damage in a matter of minutes. There's never a good time for flooding or storm damage to strike your business, and we know that.

We have the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial storm or water damage emergencies. Regardless of your property type or size, we will respond quickly to clean the property and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

Our Training and Certifications

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial ongoing training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC Industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes:

  • IICRC Training
    • The Institute of Inspection and Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industry. Our professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.
  • Employee Certification Training
    • The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include Crew Training, Fire Restoration, Water Restoration, and Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning.
  • Initial Franchise Training
    • A 15-day hands-on course at the SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility is the foundation of the SERVPRO training program. This course is primarily for new franchise owners and covers many restoration topics like fire restoration, water restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and mold mitigation.
  • e-Learnings
    • All of our staff have access to web-based training. This voluntary program is designed to be an ongoing, self-paced coaching series for a franchise's employees. Video presentations and support materials are followed by a test at the end of each module. This keeps our techs and office staff up to speed on industry standards and the professional quality you expect.
  • Continuing Education Classes
    • We offer both credit and noncredit courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate professionals, and franchise staff. These programs are designed to improve knowledge of emergency mitigation. Courses include Water Damage Restoration, Fire Damage Restoration, Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry, Restorative Drying for Loss Control, and Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar (non-credit course).

Why Choose SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City?

We understand the stress, loss, and all of the emotions that go through a manager, building owner, CEO, etc., when a disaster strikes their business. We also understand that time is money - especially for businesses, so your disaster needs to be handled and restored quickly and efficiently.

If your Hoboken business deals with damage caused by a fire, a flood, or anything else - we're here for you. We got your back with all of your water restoration, fire restoration, storm damage restoration, mold mitigation, and cleaning needs.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey

SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Where is the Shut-Off Valve and Why You Should Know It’s Location

8/24/2023 (Permalink)

If you live in a single-family home, you should know where your shut-off valve is. Why? Knowing where the shut-off valve is can save your home from a flood and a lot of water damage. If you're experiencing a burst pipe or any other kind of plumbing issues that is causing flooding in your home, shutting off the valve will stop the water before it gets out of hand.

What Are Water Shut-Off Valves?

The knob or handle that allows you to shut down the water supply is referred to as a shut-off valve. It can be applied to an entire property or a specific area of a home or building. To avoid thousands of dollars in cleanup and repairs, knowing how to shut off the water supply in a timely manner is crucial.

Why Should You Know the Location?

There are several reasons for wanting to know where a water supply shut-off is located. These include:

  • If work needs to be done on a fixture, supply pipe, etc., the water supply must first be shut off.
  • If the building is going to be vacated for a considerable amount of time, shutting off the water supply is a good idea. If a pipe would burst or a water tank develops a leak, having the water shut off will help avoid costlier, excessive damages.
  • To avoid complications, knowing the location of a shut-off valve will be extremely useful in the case of a plumbing emergency. Plumbers often find soaking towels or filled buckets under leaks because no one knew how to shut off the water.

Where Is Your Shut-Off Valve?

Though these kinds of valves can be found in many places, here are some common locations:

  • Next to a water heater
  • Under a sink/toilet
  • Near a water meter, outdoors
  • In the basement or at ground level
  • On the perimeter wall of a building

Need Water Damage Restoration?

When your home or commercial property has water damage from flooding or leaks, we have the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property. Our experience and scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup enable us to properly dry and restore your property.

SERVPRO Team Harvey is skilled and experienced in water damage restoration. We have a process that is typically the same, even though every water damage event is a little different. Our process includes:

  • Emergency Contact - The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will guide you through the crisis and may ask you several questions to help us better understand the equipment and resources.
  • Inspection and Water Damage Assessment - We determine the scope of your water damage at this stage. We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.
  • Water Removal/Water Extraction - The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.
  • Drying and Dehumidification - We use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. Our professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.
  • Cleaning and Sanitizing - We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. We are adept at cleaning contents using a number of techniques. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.
  • Restoration - Restoration is the process of restoring your home or business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall or installing new carpets, or may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey

SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

How to Prevent Storm Damage

8/14/2023 (Permalink)

Storm damage is always hard to predict. You never know if the winds are going to pick up around your home, if the rain is going to flood the sewers, or if a tree is going to get struck, creating a fire. Because it's hard to predict, it's also hard to prevent. However, there are some ways you can try to get ahead of storm damage. Follow along with this blog to learn more about what can happen to your home during a storm and how you can try to prevent it.

Secure Outdoor Furniture

In the summer months, most people have outdoor furniture on their patios or decks. If you see that a big storm is headed your way, it would be a good idea to secure your furniture to prevent any damage. Even the sturdiest looking outdoor furniture can be flung into the sky within moments.

This does not only result in you wasting your money, but it can also pose a serious threat to yourself, your neighbors, and your home. To secure it, use steel security cables to fasten them to the ground. Though this process may seem time-consuming initially, it'll be worth it in the long run when your expensive furniture doesn't get blown away.

If you have a shed or a garage, storing them in there until the storm passes is an even easier and better way to secure things so you're not dealing with damage and broken belongings.

Check Your Trees

Aside from the occasional trim, full-grown trees are often left alone. However, keeping a close eye on your trees and giving them constant care plays a role in storm damage prevention. If strong winds are present, it can cause tree limbs to fall off, putting you, your neighbors, and your home at risk. Weak trees that lack a strong and secure foundation are also likely to get uprooted. Hence, be sure to give those trees some proper care or have a professional come out to get them out before a storm hits.

Get Your Roof Inspected

Getting your roof inspected on an annual basis should be part of your life when you own or rent a home. If you fail to get it checked, chances are, a storm can cause broken or old shingles to fly off, further damaging the roof. You may also be at risk of a roof leak without knowing. You'll know if you have one when a storm hits and you start finding water damage in your home. Get your roof checked once a year, as it is better safe than sorry.

Clean Your Gutters

Ensuring that your gutters are clear from debris is also a big one when it comes to storm damage prevention. If your gutters are full of debris like leaves, dirt, bird nests, etc., this blocks the water from being able to flow, causing flooding and structural damage. The last thing you need to deal with is a mold problem or basement flooding after a bad storm.

Check Your Doors and Windows

It's important to inspect your doors and windows to ensure proper sealing. If there is a little gap in the seal, water can easily flow in, causing flooding, mold, and a big cleanup. If the news calls for a dangerous hurricane, it's a good idea to board up the windows with wood to help prevent the wind from breaking the glass and water from getting in.

Create a Storm Safety Plan

Having a storm safety plan for you and your family is a great start to storm damage prevention. This plan should include a checklist of the things around your home that you need to check ahead of a storm. For example, look for loose siding, loose fence posts, and everything else we listed above. This will help you be prepared in the case that a storm does hit, helping you prevent basement flooding, roof issues, and any other further damage. 

How SERVPRO Team Harvey Can Help

Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. When a storm hits your home, you need the company with storm damage experience and expertise. Flooding and water damage emergencies don't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. We provide emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including all holidays.

Whenever you need us, we'll be there. When Hurricane Sandy hit back in 2012, we worked around the clock to help assist with all the chaos caused. We want you to know that you can always count on us to attend to your needs.

As far as our staff goes, we're highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Another thing to note is the fact that there's no job too large. The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the U.S. to handle any size disaster.

Assuming a fire is caused from a storm, we can be there to help restore your home after that as well. After the firetrucks are gone, your home and belongings likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also extensive water damage from firefighting efforts.

We have specialized fire and water damage cleanup and restoration training experience to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition. We also have specific training and equipment for odor removal and deep cleaning of upholstery and carpet.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey

SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Simple Plumbing Tasks You Should Know

7/26/2023 (Permalink)

Did you know, it is estimated that approximately $49 billion will be lost due to some kind of flood every year. For homeowners, the cost can also be astronomical, especially if flood insurance isn't in place. Can a lot of floods be avoided if you know some simple plumbing tasks like shutting off the water valve or spotting a frozen pipe? Absolutely.

However, there are many plumbing issues that occur that require a professional. Below are some tasks that will help you at least shut off the water supply or know how to prevent a flood. Here are some simple plumbing tasks that you should take note of in case of an internal plumbing problem that causes a flood.

Water Shut-Off Valves

The knob or handle that allows you to shut down the water supply is referred to as a shut-off valve. It can be applied to an entire property or a specific area of a home/building. To avoid thousands of dollars in cleanup and repairs, knowing how to shut off the water supply in a timely manner will help tremendously.

So, why should you know where the valve is?

  • If work needs to be done on a fixture, supply pipe, etc. The water supply must first be shut off.
  • If the building is going to be vacated for a considerable amount of time, shutting off the water supply is a good idea. If a pipe bursts or a water tank develops a leak, having the water shut off will help avoid costlier, excessive damages.
  • To avoid complications, knowing the location of your shut-off valve will be extremely useful in the case of a plumbing emergency. Plumbers often find soaking towels or filled buckets under leaks because their customers don't know how to shut the water off.

Ok, so where is the shut-off valve?

  • Next to the water heater
  • Under a sink/toilet
  • Near a water meter, outdoors
  • In the basement or at ground level
  • On the perimeter wall of a building

What Are the Signs of a Frozen Pipe?

Frozen pipes are a popular cause of flooding in the home. If you can catch a frozen pipe before it bursts, you can get ahead of a potential flood.

  • A bulge or crack in a pipe with ice seeping out is a clear indication of a burst pipe.
  • Frost on the outside.
  • A bad smell from the drain or faucet.
  • No water or slow trickle when a faucet is used.
  • Whistling or banging coming from pipes or bubble sounds when a toilet is flushed
  • Dampness, puddles, or rings on drywall or ceilings

What Are the Signs of a Burst Pipe?

  • Fluctuating water pressure
  • Discolored, smelly water
  • Clanging or dripping noises in the walls
  • Mold growth
  • Puddles under sinks
  • High water bills
  • Water marks on walls or ceilings

Clogged Toilet

If you have a clog in your toilet and the water is starting to overflow, creating a flood in your bathroom - you need to know how to accurately unclog the drains and toilet to stop the flooding. You can always call a restoration team like SERVPRO, but the sooner you get to it, the better.

If the clog is somewhat minor, you can try a plunger, which is self-explanatory. If it's worst than that, you'll want to snake it. There are plenty of YouTube videos that will teach you how to use one successfully.

However, if you believe there is a bigger plumbing problem here, call us. SERVPRO Team Harvey is an experienced restoration company that specializes in water damage restoration, mold remediation, and many different cleaning services.

Plumbing Issues + Flooding = Mold

After any type of flood or water damage issue in your home, the chances of mold growing soars. If you develop mold, that's a bigger issue that needs to be addressed, as most mold is dangerous to live with. Luckily, we are not only experienced with water restoration, but with mold remediation as well.

It's also good to know the difference between mold removal and mold remediation. Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Many restoration businesses advertise "mold removal" and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy. We understand mold, and so should you.

  • Mold can float through the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating system. They can even hitch a ride on your clothing or pets.
  • Mold spores thrive on moisture. mold can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
  • Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
  • Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
  • Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45%.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

For one, we're faster to any size disaster. When water damage strikes, a fast response is critical. Day or night, Hoboken residents and business owners can expect us to respond immediately to your water emergency.

Secondly, we're highly trained water damage specialists. As leaders in the water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to pre-water-damage condition. Our process includes documentation of the drying process to validate your property is dry.

Lastly, we use advanced drying equipment, materials and techniques. We invest in the latest technology and equipment because it helps us restore your home more quickly and to minimize costs. This equipment allows us to detect hidden moisture and extract standing water quickly and efficiently. We also utilize professional-strength cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing products to clean and sanitize the affected water damage area for your comfort and safety.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey

SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Signs You Need Help from a Water Damage Restoration Company

7/10/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can be invisible until the degradation of your property from long-term exposure to many external and internal sources becomes severe. This normally happens when moisture seeps into the structure and ruins parts of your building. For example, a leaky roof or burst pipe may introduce an accumulation of moisture, which results in a variety of damages. It's crucial to address the issue as quickly as possible when you see signs of water damage.

However, most instances are either too big or too complicated for a homeowner to try to restore on their own - so, you may need help from a water damage restoration company to restore your property.

Water Damage + Drywall

Gypsum drywall is a porous material that absorbs moisture. When drywall gets wet, it becomes soft and soggy, which poses issues regarding the integrity of the building's structure. If your wall starts to feel mushy to the touch, it's a red flag that your walls have suffered water damage.

When water pools behind the paint, it stretches, causing a bubble on the wall. You'll likely need a professional to take a look to determine the extent of the water damage.

Water Damage + Wood Flooring

Excessive moisture on hardwood flooring is the main cause of buckled floorboards. You can spot this by noticing cracks in between boards, swelled edges, crowing, and the lifting of boards. When water is allowed to persist on your hardwood floors, such as from a spill or a rise in indoor humidity, it leads to a buildup of moisture that makes floorboards expand, contract, or pop up.

Water Stains

If you notice discoloration on your ceiling, usually a light or dark brown color, you're most likely looking at water damage. This could be due to a leaky appliance on the floor above or rainwater finding its way through your roof. If you have poor plumbing upstairs, this can cause water damage, creating these stains. In this case, you should have someone experienced in water damage restoration services to come take a look.

Mold Infestations

Mold thrives in damp or wet areas - especially in areas where moisture travels through the air, like in bathrooms or basements. If you start to notice mold growing, this could be a result of water damage. In this case, it would be smart to hire a professional mold remediation team to help remove the baseboards and determine the cause and extend of the water damage.

You can also detect mold by its odor, which could indicate where the water damage is coming from.

Sudden Water Puddles

If you found a random water puddle in your home, you're probably very confused unless the source is clear. If it's not, this usually means that your home has suffered water damage from a broken pipe. If you're not experienced in plumbing or water restoration, it's smart to call someone like SERVPRO ASAP.

Natural Disasters

Natural disasters can cause a tremendous amount of water damage. If you're in an area that is known for a lot of rain, storms, or flooding - you probably are aware of how much damage this can cause to your home. Although there are limited ways to prepare for a storm, you should always know to call professionals right away after you've noticed any kind of water damage.

Why SERVPRO is Your Best Bet

SERVPRO Team Harvey are residential and commercial restoration and cleaning experts. Whether you're experiencing water damage or you had a fire in your department store and now you need the soot cleaned, we are here to help you! Rest assured, we provide additional services outside of water and fire damage. We also take care of mold remediation, storm damage, and a series of different cleaning services.

Getting on top of water damage before it causes further damage is crucial. When a water emergency occurs, reaching out to an experienced restoration company should be your first step. We will respond quickly so you don't have to deal with damaged materials, structural damage, or mold issues.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey

SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Why Plumbing Maintenance is Important

6/22/2023 (Permalink)

Keeping your plumbing system healthy with maintenance will not only keep the water coming into your home clean, but will also prevent potential damage and flooding in the future. If you haven’t had your sewer lines looked at in a long time or even your bathroom plumbing system, chances are you’ll deal with leaks in the distant future as well as mold and other issues. Here are some tips to help you ensure that your plumbing is up-to-date and in good shape.

How Often to Get Your Sewer Lines Cleaned?
You don’t want to mess with your sewer lines. Many homeowners do not notice any issues with your sewer until it’s too late. This may then result in some catastrophic problems for your home. A good rule of thumb is to have your home sewer lines cleaned out at least every 18-22 months. This may not be a schedule that is easy for you to remember, but think of it as a period between a year and a half to two years.

If you are experiencing certain issues like the following, it is best to have your sewer lines cleaned as soon as possible:

  • Water pooling in the basement around the floor drain
  • Sewage backup in the bathtub, toilet, or drain
  • Drains working too slowly
  • Odors coming from sewers
  • Frequently clogged drains
  • Pipes making gurgling sounds
  • Water backing up into shower or bathtub when the washing machine is in use

Plumbing Problems that Can Cause Mold
Leaking sinks is one of the most common problems that cause mold. Sometimes, leaks can be hidden - so getting a professional to your own to identify where the leak is coming from is the first step. Not only is this causing water damage, but causing the risk of mold as well if you wait too long.

Clogged drains are another common problem. This can create standing water in your bathroom, creating germs, bacteria, and a bad smell. Fungal growth often happens when drains are clogged or sewer lines are blocked.

Keep Your Plumbing System Healthy
It is important to keep your plumbing system healthy, as it benefits the water that you use every day for cleaning, chores, showering, etc. as well as prevents damage. The damage, if not fixed right away, can cause even more damage like water damage to your floors, walls, etc., as well as mold growth.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, let SERVPRO know - we will take care of and restore water damage, storm damage, and even mold remediation.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey
SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Risks of Grill Fires

6/7/2023 (Permalink)

Summer is here, so that usually means families are grilling more often. Whether you’re having a BBQ or just grilling dinner for the family, the grill is being used a lot more. Everyone loves grilling, especially for a BBQ - but there are some things you should keep an eye out for to prevent fires and accidents.

Keep the Lid Open
You’d be surprised how many people get sent to the emergency room due to lighting their grill the wrong way. According to the National Fire Prevention Association, within a 4-year span, an average of 19,700 patients per year went to the ER because of injuries involving grills. Why? The common mistake people make is turning the propane on and lighting the grill with the lid shut. This allows a dangerous buildup of flammable gas.

Check for Gas Leaks
You’ll be able to do a leak check where the hose hooks up to the propane grill, as well as the burners. If the connections are not tight, you can have a leak. Also, be sure to check the hose throughout the grill to ensure that everything is tight.

Do a Basic Inspection
If your grill has been out all year, it’s a good idea to do a basic inspection before putting it to use. Make sure there are no birds’ nests, bugs, or any other hints that an animal had been living there rent-free for the winter.

After that, you are free to do a decent cleaning. You’ll want to ensure that any of last year’s grease isn’t still hanging on.

Old Grill Utensils
Old grill utensils can not only cause an unwanted spark, but damage to you and your food. There had been many reports of people going to the emergency room due to consuming bristles and stainless steel - as they broke off the tools and cooked into your food. This is also an alarming thought because if your tool breaks while the fire is on, you could have a large fire problem to put out.

Be Careful Where You Position the Grill
If your grill is up on your deck or even in your yard, just be careful where you position it. It should not be close against your home, fencing, or anything that can melt or catch fire. The back of the grill gets extremely hot and will take advantage of melting anything that is behind it.

Choose the Right Grill
Gas grills are easier to maintain and don’t get as hot as charcoal grills. You should note that charcoal grills are more dangerous, as the heat in enclosed spaces can quickly reach 600F, posing a serious fire hazard. This is important to know, especially if you choose to grill on a windy day. Making sure all of the charcoals are cooled before heading in for the night is also extremely important.

If you’re tailgating at a sports event and bring your charcoal grill - it is extremely important to make sure the coals are cooled before entering the stadium, as your grill will be surrounded by many vehicles.

Happy Grilling!
We hope that this information is helpful and keeps you aware of any fire risks during grilling season. In the event that you do have a fire emergency, SERVPRO is the restoration company that will get your home back to the way it was before, like it never even happened.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey
SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Removing Black Soot from Fire Damaged Concrete

5/19/2023 (Permalink)

After a structural fire, even if there isn’t a lot of structural damage, the clean-up required can mean hours and hours of hard work. Afterwards, to ensure that entry is safe, a structural engineer must check concrete and other affected masonry surfaces. The restoration process can begin once an area has been thoroughly cleaned.

One characteristic of concrete is its natural heat resistance. So, structures made of concrete - think vehicle tunnels, parking garages, etc., will often suffer damage only to the surface as the result of a fire. Black soot and smoke damage are fairly common. Cracking (also referred to as spalling) may occur if the fire gets hot enough to hear the structural steel that exists within the concrete in some structures. How long a fire burns can have everything to do with the severity of damage issues. Potentially, concrete could be rendered unsalvageable if its physical characteristics are changed due to a severe fire.

Cosmetic Fire Damage
The process of removing soot from concrete is relatively straightforward. For removing soot, there a couple of approaches that may be used:

  • Using abrasive blasting to exfoliate the surface and reveal the surface below, which is clean.
  • Use water and various chemicals to wash the soot away. Multiple attempts may be needed to remove the soot, which is a lengthy process. Even after the visual damage has been removed, deep within the concrete the smell may have permeated and will remain. Additionally, so that any runoff doesn’t flow into sewers or storms when executing a liquid-based cleaning method, great care must be taken regarding runoff collection.

Severe Fires
If the fire has been severe enough that spalling and cracking on smooth surface concrete layers has occurred, this changes things. Prior to reapplying a skim coat, a rough surface may need to be created on the concrete by a contractor. CSP - a standard to which the rough surface is held - was created by the ICRI (International Concrete Repair Institute). The new coating being applied, or the new layer of concrete, will help determine the level of roughness required.

This roughness cannot be created by chemical cleaning or water cleaning. For creating the roughness referred to here, the best option is abrasive blasting. Occasionally, contractors may use hand tools, so that in one step, surface roughing and soot removal can be carried out.

Sponge Blasting
During this process, the smell of fire should be removed from the concrete at the same time the soot layers are removed. Surfaces that are sponge blasted may actually end up being cleaner than they were before the fire, as long as no spalling or cracking has been sustained by the skim coat. Surface soot damage sustained by the concrete is easily removed in this manner.

If you need concrete cleaned due to soot and fire damage, SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City are your guys.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey
SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Mold Remediation Terms You Should Know

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

Mold is the worst. Not only is it far from visually appealing, but it’s extremely dangerous to be around. When you’re looking for a team to perform mold remediation, you should be up-to-date on the latest mold remediation terms so you know what to look for.

Anywhere at any time, a mold colony can take place. Because these colonies can spread and grow so quickly, to prevent property damage, you must act quickly. It’s best to work with a company that specializes in professional mold remediation, like SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City.

When you’re working with any company that specializes in mold remediation, it can be confusing to hear them speak in terms common to the profession. To help you better understand what’s going on, we’ve included some of the most commonly used terms as well as brief, simplified definitions.

Spores
Emitted from fungi, spores are reproductive, microscopic structures.

Remediation
The process of a remediation of a site includes assessment, containment, removal, and treatment of the mold.

PPE
Technicians wear this type of gear during the process of remediation, specified by OSHA. The letters stand for Personal Protective Equipment.

Porous
In porous materials, mold spores are easily absorbed and can flow because these materials allow easy air passage. Sponges, wood, rubber, and some rocks are considered porous materials.

Mycotoxin
Designated as toxic to humans and produced by fungi, mycotoxins are specific compounds. The term 'mycotoxin' is usually reserved for the toxic chemical products produced by fungi that readily colonize crops.

MVOCs
Released into the air as a musty, moldy odor, and produced by mold colonies, these are chemicals. They are referred to as microbial volatile organic compounds.


Moisture Content
This is exactly what it sounds like, it refers to the content of moisture within a material. Before mold growth occurs, a greater moisture content can be sustained by various materials, i.e. wood, textiles, paneling, insulation, etc.

Microbe
Unseeable by the naked eye, a microorganism that is a type of bacteria and fungi can be referred to as a microbe.

HEPA
Used for removing particles greater than .03 micrometers by about 99.97%, this refers to an air filter technically named high efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filter.

Fungi
This is a somewhat all-inclusive term. Sub classes include puff balls, yeasts, mushrooms, and molds.

Containment and Containment Barrier
To close off an infestation, seals and barriers are put into place. To control airborne spore movement, filtration devices are used. This is all in an effort of containment.

Colony
Viewable by the naked eye, a surface cluster of mold that has spread is referred to as a colony.

Antimicrobial
To combat mold and fungi, a chemical agent is used. To suppress microorganisms, an antimicrobial agent is used on direct contact.

Air Scrubber
To remove mold particulate matter from the atmosphere, this mold abatement process/device is used. Through a series of filters, air is sucked in using a high-powered fan and filtration device. A HEPA filter included.

Air Sampling
Exactly what it sounds like, samples of the ambient air are taken to test for mold and/or other contaminants.

Abatement
When, on a specific property, any source of mold is removed fully, the process is known as mold abatement.

We hope this helped out and taught you everything you need to know about the mold remediation world. If you need mold remediation done at your home or business, give us a call!

About SERVPRO Team Harvey
SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”