Tackling Compounding Damage With Confidence | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda is Here to Help® when any disaster strikes!

The phrase “when it rains, it pours” can be relatable for many different parts of our lives. Life can get overwhelming at work, school and with personal relationships, and it can also get overwhelming when you are faced with emergency situations that were completely unexpected.

Natural disasters and home accidents are always frustrating because they must be dealt with right away to prevent the situation from getting worse. That can be stressful in its own right, because who plans for disasters in their weekly schedules?

Thankfully, that’s where SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda proudly comes in. With one simple phone call, your restoration and recovery will be taken care of by our talented and passionate team.

Top Places Moisture Likes to Hide in Your Home | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen anywhere in your home. Call SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda to restore water damage on your property 24/7, 365.

We need water in our lives, there’s no doubt about that. We use it to run the dishwasher, warm up a bath for our kids and even to hose down the family dog when he or she gets dirty. While having such easy access to water can be a blessing most of the time, a single leak anywhere along a water line or pipe can lead to serious issues. Mother Nature can also create watery messes for us from time to time.

Knowing where to look for water leaks and moisture can help you take action as soon as a problem is discovered. Check these spaces often so you can prevent serious water damage and issues caused by lingering moisture.

Steps for Tackling Standing Water at Your Business | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

Has water damage infiltrated your business? Give SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda a call to get that resolved!

There is nothing worse than arriving at work, unlocking the doors and stepping into a puddle. You left the night before and everything was fine, so why is there water all over the floor?

It might be an unnerving situation or it could send you into a panic—and rightfully so! A single water disaster can create all kinds of damage to your business, and frankly, many businesses without a reliable recovery plan don’t reopen after something like this.

We don’t want that to happen to you! Plumbing failures or natural disasters can wreak havoc on your business, but having a plan and addressing the problem head-on can help you recover faster and more reliably.

Recovery Tips After the Storm Blows On | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda

9/18/2023 (Permalink)

Summer storms affecting your property? Call SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda to restore your space in no time!

We are no strangers to extreme and strong weather here in the Buffalo area. We all know how to prepare in advance of an incoming storm, but sometimes we don’t always get advanced warning of an impending situation.

Storms can quickly develop across Lake Erie and bring heavy rain, strong winds and really unsafe conditions in a moment’s notice. So even if you do everything right, you may still experience home damage in some form. Once you discover the damage, what do you do?

You call SERVPRO® of Buffalo/Tonawanda, of course! Our team is trained to help you recover quickly and efficiently. In the meantime, follow these tips to navigate your home and to stay safe.

Protecting Your Home From Intense Rain | SERVPRO® of Buffalo/Tonawanda

9/18/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda on the case!

While we certainly enjoy the warm sunny days that are abundant in the summer time here in the Buffalo area, we also appreciate a little rain from time to time. A gently falling rain on a lazy weekend can be relaxing as well as beneficial for our plants and lawns.

Not all storms are calm and gentle, though. Severe weather can be dangerous to us and our homes. While our homes are gratefully sturdy and can withstand the elements, sometimes rain still finds a way to sneak in anyway.

Our SERVPRO® of Buffalo/Tonawanda team wants you to stay cozy and dry while the rain falls outside, so we offer some tips for preparing for the rest of the summer storms below.

Your Response to a Water Disaster in Your Home | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

If you discover water damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda right away.

Water plays such a huge role in our lives, and we often take it for granted as we rush through our days making dinner, washing our clothes and running baths for our kids. While it is a vital resource in our lives, water also has the potential to cause significant damage if it ends up where it shouldn’t.

We are no strangers to the power of water in our community. From Lake Erie producing the lake effect and impacting our weather on a daily basis to the strong storms that push through our community no matter what season it is, we face a constant threat of experiencing water damage.

Taking steps to prevent water damage is always the most ideal situation, but sometimes that is just not possible. Thankfully, we are here to help ensure that your damage is reversed and your home is put back together quickly.

Understanding Water Leaks on Your Property | SERVPRO® of Buffalo/Tonawanda

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

Think you may have water damage in your home? Here are some tips from SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda to find the source.

We experience all kinds of wet weather in the Buffalo area. We are no strangers to snow and rain, which means we are no strangers to the potential for water damage in our homes. Water damage has the ability to cause widespread issues in a short amount of time or over many months, making it a tricky form of home damage.

In order to prevent these types of water issues from occurring on your property, you need to understand the most common places for them to originate.

Our SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda team explains the top three locations to keep an eye on this spring and summer below.

Your roof. Most people aren’t up on their roofs on a regular basis, so this part of your home can be tough to keep an eye on. However, you really should make it a priority to give your roof a thorough check after each severe storm and with the change in seasons.

Roof damage can occur in an obvious instance, like due to a falling tree, or it can happen slowly with a single cracked shingle that slowly leaks water into your home.

However it starts, roof damage can introduce water into your home quickly and it can spread and leak down your walls. When that happens, you need to be careful for mold growth because mold loves continually damp and dark spaces like behind your walls and beneath your floors.

Your bathroom spaces. Every home’s bathroom is used frequently. From brushing teeth to washing the dog in the tub, you are constantly running water through your fixtures. Any time you turn on a tap, you are increasing your risk of a water leak. This is why it is so important to check the water lines and pipes around your fixtures often!

Catching a puddle while it is forming or stopping a leak on its first or second drip can help you prevent water damage altogether. It is also important to address any lingering moisture issues in your bathroom and try to run vents or open a window to dry out this space between uses.

Other appliances. This one might also seem obvious, and that’s probably because you have dealt with an appliance malfunction or two over the course of your homeownership career. Leaky or malfunctioning appliances are a common cause of water damage.

This is due to the fact that dishwashers and washing machines are constantly filling up and draining water. Over time, hose lines and connectors can experience wear and tear and drains can get clogged. Do your best to keep them clean and maintained, and check beneath and behind them for signs of water damage or water spots often.

Another helpful tip is to try and replace your outdated appliances whenever you are financially able to do so. This increases your confidence that you have the most reliable equipment in your home.

Dealing with a water emergency? Our SERVPRO specialists can be on the scene of the disaster ASAP to restore your water-damaged home!

Content Removal Services After a Water Damage in Buffalo

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Buffalo - Tonawanda can assist with your content inventory.

Most of us use our basements for storage. We store old books, clothing, photos, holiday decorations and whatever else we had to keep that we really did not need to.

When you have a water damage and when it is in your basement full of belongings, it is overwhelming. It is a challenge and time consuming to most homeowners. It is a challenging task to go through the saturated items to see what is damaged, what can be saved and depressing when you lost sentimental items that can never be replaced. SERVPRO can assist during this process if help is needed. A customer decides what they will be keeping vs discarding, SERVPRO of Buffalo - Tonawanda will haul out the damage items, clean the items that are going to be saved and proceed with the remaining cleaning throughout the basement. We also offer document drying through our corporate office in Tennessee. We also offer the services to re-packed content into new boxes. SERVPRO offers offsite disposal or can have a dumpster placed if there is a lot to remove. If you have a water damage, SERVPRO technicians will be there to help. Call us at 716-694-9949

Family operated since 1972

The Questions SERVPRO Will Ask To Better Assist You With A Water Damage.

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

A sink line broke and luckily the customer caught it in time. It still affected a portion of the floor and required removal and drying of the floor.

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling overwhelmed, stressed, helpless and have no idea of what to do. Who knew a toilet line break could cause so much damage? You need a professional to guide you through this arduous time. SERVPRO of Buffalo - Tonawanda has the specific water damage training and knowledge to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration.

When you call, the receptionist will ask several questions regarding your emergency. These questions will help us plan the action needed. It will help with what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask:

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

SERVPRO of Buffalo - Tonawanda specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke, or water damage event. Family operated since 1972.

Team Sullivan! Family Operated! Est 1972

4/7/2022 (Permalink)

In the photo is the owners daughter, Ashley. Ashley has autism and often helps out at the office.

SERVPRO of Buffalo - Tonawanda is operated by the Sullivan family since 1972. Our staff is always ready to help!

Celebrating our 49^th year in business. We know what to do and you know who to trust. Our franchise is the largest in Western New York covering multiple cities in Western New York.

Floods, fire, mold, and water emergencies do not wait for regular business hours and neither do we.

Our IICRC certified technicians at SERVPRO of Buffalo - Tonawanda are ready to provide emergency services and cleaning 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — including all holidays! We are there when disaster strikes! 

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home or business and rapidly absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. Our SERVPRO arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage, lowers restoration costs, and lessens down time in your business.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 at (716) 694-9949

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• North Buffalo, NY
• Tonawanda, NY
• Grand Island, NY
• Kenmore, NY
• Town Of Tonawanda, NY
• City Of Tonawanda, NY
• Kenilworth, NY
• Green Acres Valley, NY
• Sandy Beach, NY
• Riverside, NY

SERVPRO of Buffalo - Tonawanda Adds Another Van To Its Fleet

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Buffalo-Tonawanda keeps growing by adding another van to be used for water damage clean up.

Ready To Help and growing. SERVPRO of Buffalo- Tonawanda just purchased another van to add to our fleet. SERVPRO of Buffalo - Tonawanda has been servicing and assisting the Buffalo area for almost 50 years! Family owned and operated by the Sullivan Team. A company you know you can trust. It’s not easy to start a business and to remain the top restoration company. It is a lot of challenging work and dedication. Many days we spend more time with our customers, than our own family. Why? It is our passion to help. We get satisfaction with a happy customer in a time of need. We are your hero! We put in long hours to clean up your water damage, smoke damage from a fire or mold. Our trained technicians are always there to walk you through the process and to make sure you are satisfied. If you have damaged caused by water, fire, or mold. Call us at 716-694-9949.

How To Avoid Pipe Bursts!

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

Pipe bursts/leaks can cause detrimental water damage to your home!

Pipe bursts are some of the most common causes of water damage. Small changes can prevent a buildup of damage to your pipes over the years. Here are some tips to keep your pipes from getting damaged and to protect your home from water damage.

1. Consider a water softening system. Hard water can cause significant damage to your pipes over time. Early signs of hard water in your home is if your coffee maker has clogs and gives out earlier than expected. This is due to a high mineral content in the water. A water softening system will lower the hardness in the water and reduce the amount of minerals that can adhere to your pipes.
2. Install a pressure regulator. A pressure regulator will help you detect problems in your water supply before any serious damage can occur. High water pressure is one of the most common causes there is of pipe damage. Increased clogs or mineral adherence will cause the pressure to increase in your pipes and can lead to bursting. Contact your local plumber if your pressure appears to be high.
3. Insulate your pipes. Insulated pipes will help prevent freezing in the winter. If water freezes in your pipes, the pressure builds up and can cause a pipe burst.

If a pipe burst does occur, SERVPRO is here to help! We will help clean up your water damage of any size!

Why PPE?

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

Protecting you and protecting them.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is an important part of a production technicians’ tools. Each SERVPRO production tech has their own PPE readily available for all situations. We use a variety of PPE to keep our workers safe such as gloves, hard hats, boots, full and half respirators, 3 different respirator cartridges, full Tyvek suits with hoods and n-95 masks. Crews will wear rubber boots for water and sewage damage.  Respirators are utilized for many situations such as sewage, animal feces, mold, odors, apply paints, Covid-19, and demolition work. Every job is unique, and we provide our crews with the protection they need to tackle any job, big or small.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Buffalo / Tonawanda is strategically located to respond quickly to your water or flood damage event. When a major flooding event occurs, we can call upon our national network of 1,700 SERVPRO Franchises and special Disaster Recovery Teams if we need additional resources or personnel.

You Can Make Your Home a Safer Place l SERVPRO® of Buffalo/Tonawanda

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

Heavy rains can cause major flooding affecting your home.

After a long winter, who does not look forward to spring? Especially as February turns to March and beyond, people start to long for warmer weather. For residents of the Buffalo area, where winters are cold and snowy, the reprieve of warm weather is usually welcome.

As we start to look forward to warmer days, we are ready for melting snow and the chance to spend some time outdoors without being bundled up against freezing temperatures.

When spring comes to Buffalo, it is worth celebrating. However, as with every season, spring brings different homeowner hazards to keep in mind and plan to mitigate. In the case of warmer spring weather, it is storms.

Spring can bring strong thunderstorms, including wind, rain, and hail.

With severe storms, homeowners can be put in dealing with damage to their homes these weather issues can cause.

There is nothing we can do to stop storms from hitting. After all, we cannot control the weather, can we? But we can always be prepared there to put our homes in the best position to weather the issues.

If you experience any spring flooding in your home, SERVPRO of Buffalo Tonawanda is here to help!

Preparing for Spring and Summer Rain Storms

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding occurring in Buffalo, NY

SERVPRO franchises are gearing up for the Spring/Summer 2021 season to serve you as a leader in the cleaning and restoration industry. Are you READY for what the year may bring your way? While we only hope to see good things come about this summer, it is always a good idea to plan for the not-so-good things—like fire or water damage— that is always an unexpected and unwelcome disasters. We never expected Covid-19 to happen.  What a difficult year it has been for so many.

if one of those disasters comes your way, SERVPRO has over 1,700 independently owned and operated franchises in the United States and Canada. You can trust the team in green to get your property back to normal. We are only a call away!

Whether you are a small business or homeowner facing minor fire or water damage, or a property manager dealing with a widespread disaster, SERVPRO of Buffalo Tonawanda has the resources needed to respond quickly and efficiently. The sooner help arrives, the sooner restoration begins and the sooner you can resume business as usual.

Should a major disaster such as statewide flooding occurs, SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team is always ready to go where they are needed.

If a fire, water or mold damage strikes, no matter the size, call us. Backed by a system of more than 1,700 franchises strong, we will help make your property disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Faster to any size disaster. This is not just another tag line for SERVPRO—it is a commitment to be there when you need us most.

SERVPRO of Buffalo-Tonawanda 716-694-9949

Beware Ice Dams

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

Don't wait to call when you notice water damage, it could be worse than it looks!

The snow is melting here in Buffalo and Tonawanda. Every homeowner should be aware of ice dams and the water damage that they can cause to your home. An ice dam occurs when snow on your roof melts and drips down to the gutter and then freezes again or becomes trapped by ice. The ice can buildup forming an ice dam. If your roof isn’t properly sealed, the water will start to get under your shingles and cause water damage. This is what will cause spots on your drywall ceiling or water leaks. If you can safely knock icicles off your gutter, it’ll bring weight off of your gutters and can help with the water buildup. One key way to prevent ice dams before they occur, is to keep your attic cool in the winter time. This will prevent the snow from melting and then refreezing again. Be sure to seal up your attic bypasses and check the insulation in your attic. If water damage does occur from an ice dam, your first call should be to SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda. We have expertly trained technicians and high-grade equipment to help clean up any size disaster. Call us at 716-694-9949.

Finding and Fixing Leaky Pipes | SERVPRO® of Buffalo/Tonawanda

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

Are you in need of repairs due to water damage? Contact SERVPRO of Buffalo Tonawanda for quick and professional service.

“Ahh, geez!” That’s what you might say when you find a slowly-leaking pipe has damaged the wood under your floor tiles. Sadly, you didn’t notice it until the damage was done.

And because it was a slow leak, your insurance does not cover the bill. If you own a home or business, take this opportunity to find and fix leaky pipes.

If you’ve never done any plumbing, you might get nervous when you think about fixing a leaky pipe. But reaching the leak is actually the hardest part. Once you can see it, you can often fix it. This video and many others like it show you the basics of fixing a leaky pipe.

Identifying Leaks and Calling Help

Signs of leaky pipes. If you’re standing in water, chances are you have a leaky pipe. But leaking pipes can also be subtle. Signs include:

• Ceiling stains
• Damaged flooring
• Loose, flaking caulking or grout
• Looseness of your sink faucet or handles
• Mold or mildew
• Puddles (of course)
• Tiles that keep coming up
• Toilet that moves when you rock it

Finding the source of a leak. To find a leaking pipe, check under countertops and sinks. Open the access panel behind you tub. To identify a small leak, you might partly fill your tub or sink. As the water runs out, check all the joints you can see for moisture.

Do you need a plumber? Can you easily get to the leak? You can likely fix it yourself. But if you can’t see or reach it, call an expert. Employing a professional now can save you repair costs in future.

“I Did It!”

It’s a great feeling to know you’ve saved money by doing your own repair. But be sure to check you don’t have mold or other signs of damage.

If you need to follow up with a professional clean-up, call SERVPRO®. We’ve been in the business of cleaning up water damage more than 50 years. We’ll take your call at any hour, day or night.

Looking for help with water damage? Reach out any time for the rapid response we’re famed for.

How to stay safe in the aftermath of a flood

5/8/2020 (Permalink)

If you’re experiencing any water damage from flooding, SERVPRO of Buffalo Tonawanda is available 24/7 to assist you with any repairs.

While acting quickly in the aftermath of a flood is advised in most cases, it is important to make sure that you are holding safety in the utmost regard as you do so. There are many hazards that can be lurking in and around floodwaters, which can cause injury or further damage if not heeded.

Here are the top ways to keep safety in mind following a flood:

Tis the rainy season

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

When this customers sump pump failed it left 6 inches of water in their basement. They gave SERVPRO a call and within hours the water was extracted.

Well we all know April showers are supposed to bring May flowers. But in some cases it can also bring flooded basements and sump pump failures. This is common with heavy rain fall and can be devastating if not taken care of immediately. If this rainy season catches you off guard or is too much for your sump pump to handle, give us at SERVPRO a call. We can come to your home, extract the standing water from both carpet and hard surfaces such as concrete or tile. We can also set up drying equipment to speed up the drying process to help avoid any microbial growth. We can also spray an antimicrobial spray to prevent any mold from growing due to a water loss. With three locations locally owned to serve our community, here at SERVPRO we are only a call away. Serving the Buffalo/Tonawanda area for over 47 years.

Fridged temps cause broken pipes.

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

When pipes freeze it can cause severe damage to your home and belongings. Be prepared and proactive to avoid this costly issues.

With the thermometer dipping into the teens the probability of frozen and broken pipes is super high. The fridged cold caused the water in your pipes to expand and crack or break causing water damage in your home.  When pipes crack or break it can cause massive damage to your home and belongings and in this kind of weather it can lead to further problems. It's always wise in this weather to follow a few helpful tips to avoid any costly damage to your home due to the cold temperature. First tip would be to leave your water drip just a little. This will keep the water flowing instead of just sitting in the pipes. Second, try to keep your heat between 62 and above. If you keep the heat in your home above 62 it will help to keep the pipes in your walls warm and help avoid freezing and cracking. You can also use heat blankets to wrap around your pipes to keep them from freezing. We are due for a warm up next week so that also brings flooding to the area. It is wise to make sure any sump pumps are working properly to avoid any back ups or flooding.

The Dangers of Water Damage

1/5/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage puts you and your family at risk

Water damage to your home can pose more than just property damage, it also poses a health risk to you and your family. It is important to get things dried as soon as possible if your home has recently been flooded. Water damage is often accompanied by contaminated water. This is most likely if a sewer pipe has busted or a natural body of water has overflowed. Contaminated water puts you at risk of the bacteria and micro-organisms that are in the water. The dampness of the water is also the perfect environment for mold to grow. Mold spreads rapidly across surfaces and is very contagious. When dealing with water damage, the first step is to remove the water. This allows the SERVPRO team to disinfect and sanitize the affected area. Our team is equipped to handle the drying process from start to finish. SERVPRO will work rapidly and tirelessly to ensure that your home is free of water damage in as little time as possible.

Best Ways to Avoid Ice Dams

12/8/2019 (Permalink)

Ice dams are very easy to spot, but can be tricky to deal with

Here in Buffalo we get a lot a snow! While it may make the city seem a winter wonderland, the cold also brings ice dams. Ice dams are large pieces of ice that form across your roof. Snow from the roof that melts is refrozen on the roof edges. While frozen, they present little to no danger, but once it begins to melt, the water can seep under your shingles and drip through your roof, causing water damage to your ceiling and floors. One solution is to maintain a constant outdoor temperature across all of your roof to avoid the unfreezing and refreezing of the snow. Make sure you have proper insulation in your attic ceiling. You’ll want to block up any unwanted air escapes. Also ensure your attic has proper ventilation. The best offense is a good defense, so be sure to defend your home from ice dams. If you encounter water damage, SERVPRO is prepared to quickly clean it and restore your home to new.

Possible mold after a water loss

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

This is how mold can spread after a water loss. It can spread fast in the proper environment.

When you find mold growing in your home, It’s imperative you get rid of it as soon as possible. Delay can mean extensive and costly remediation and repairs. On average, professional mold remediation costs $500 to $15,000 but the price can run well into the tens of thousands if the problem is severe.If you find mold growing on drywall, trim, unfinished wood surfaces, or carpets, and especially if the affected area is more than 10 square feet, hire a mold investigator to discover the root and extent of the problem. Not every mold issue requires Testing. If you can see mold, testing is necessary only if you must identify the actual mold species for medical or legal reasons. However, if you think mold is present but can’t actually see it, samples can confirm your suspicions. Sampling typically is used after cleanup to verify successful removal. Do not try to diagnose your mold problems with a home testing kit. They don’t work as well as profession testing. They’ll probably reveal some mold, but only because spores are always flying through the air. These kits can’t:

• Confirm the presence of dead mold spores (which also cause health problems).
• Determine baseline levels of mold in your home in order to compare results with other non-mold-infected areas.

Mold remediation companies will clean up your mold in a few days if just some washing and removing carpetisinvolved, or in a few weeks if demolition and rebuildingisrequired.

SERVPRO’s cleanup process entails:

• Removing water-damaged, mold-infested materials.
• Cleaning and disinfecting walls, carpet, and personal items.
• Removing drywall and studs if mold damage is extensive.
• Vacuuming with HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filtration.

If mold infestation is severe and you are mold-sensitive, you may have to live elsewhere during cleanup. Remediation costs vary depending on how much and where mold exists. To remove mold from ducts, crawl spaces, walls and attics, can range upwards from $500 to $20,000, which is why it’s important to act right away to prevent mold from spreading.

If your house has been in a flood there's a good chance you will end up with a mold problem. However there are steps you can take to try to prevent mold growing in your home after it's been flooded.
After a flood the best thing you can do is contact a mold remediation company or water mitigation company such as SERVPRO to come access any damages and possibility of mold growth.
This way you can be sure that all mold problems will be properly taken care of. You will also have the peace of mind of knowing that your home will be completely safe to continue living in after it's been professionally remediated.

Mold can start to grow after just a day or two so it's important to act as quickly as possible if your home has been flooded. Make sure you only enter your home once it's safe though. If you're going to perform the flood clean up yourself then you should begin my moving things outside that didn't get wet. This is to protect them while you clean up the rest of the house.

SIGNS YOU MAY HAVE MOLD: If you are having a problem with allergies then there's a good chance there could be mold growing somewhere in your home. Common allergic reactions to mold include sneezing, sore eyes and a runny nose or nasal congestion. Do you notice your allergic reactions are worse when you're at home but you feel better when you go out? If so then it's especially likely you could have mold. When you have mold growing that may not be visible often a moldy smell will be the only clue that it's there. Don't ignore mold odors if you can't see any mold. You should thoroughly inspect your home before any mold problems get worse

Visible mold growth might seem like an obvious sign of mold. However many people don't notice small amounts of mold growth or they think it's just soot or dirt. Sometimes people simply ignore visible mold in their house, they don’t think its that important.

If you can see mold growth, even if it's only small, you should take action immediately. Small mold patches can spread and the fact that there is any mold shows that the conditions in your home are right for mold to grow.

If you don't take care of mold it will soon become a bigger problem. Visible mold growth could also be a sign that there is a much larger mold colony growing hidden away from view.

Sometimes you might not realize there is mold in your house, especially if it is unusual looking mold. Some mold growth looks white and thread-like. Other mold appears as clusters of small black spots. Mold can be black, gray-brown, gray-green or white in color. Mold growing behind wallpaper made of vinyl can even appear orange, pink or purple.

Winter Has Arrived in Buffalo, NY: Cold Weather Tips

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Buffalo Tonawanda is ready to help!

The snow has arrived in Buffalo, New York. Cold temperatures are on the way, and SERVPRO of Buffalo-Tonawanda says it’s time to prep for winter. It’s always important to be prepared.
Some tips:
-Protect Indoor Pipes
Avoid frozen and broken pipes that could cause major water damage to your home. A burst pipe can cost thousands of dollars to fix the damage.
-Look for Ailing Tree Limbs
Avoid a tree limb from damaging your roof causing water to enter your attic that could cause a potential mold issue.
-Clean out your Gutters
Allow water to travel correctly to the down spout to avoid water build up that could leak into your home.
-Insulate your Attic or Crawl Space
Keep the heat where it belongs in your living quarters. Keeping the attic cooler which may help prevent damaging ice dams from forming on your roof that can cause water damage to ceiling and walls.
-Put your Storm Windows In
Helps insulate by adding a double layer of protect against heavy rain.
-Repair Loose Roofing Shingles
The snow build up on your roof is heavy and can cause additional damage to loose shingles leading to water and moisture penetration into your home.
-Service your Furnace and Chimney
Chimneys and furnace malfunctions cause many home fires. Have them cleaned, inspected and serviced.
Get your ducts cleaned by SERVPRO of Buffalo-Tonawanda and breathe clean air.
-Secure Outdoor Water Sources
Turn off your exterior water sticker at the main shut off valve to prevent a frozen pipe.
-Set your Thermostat at 65 if you are a Snow Bird and have a family member check on your house.
Setting your heat will prevent pipe breaks during extreme cold temperatures.

If you should experience a water damage or fire, SERVPRO of Buffalo-Tonawanda is ready to help. Call us at 716-694-9949

April Showers Bring May Flowers? | SERVPRO® of Buffalo/Tonawanda Can Help!

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

April Showers Bring May Flowers... AND FLOODING

April Showers do bring May flowers but they also bring flooding. Taking precautions can help minimize the damage that occurs at your home.

The first thing you need to do is check with your insurance to make sure that you are covered. Coverage options vary depending on the insurance company so it is always a good idea to check and see what is available to you.

Second, have your sump pump and chimney checks yearly and make sure your gutters are clean and attached properly. If water does get into your home it needs to be removed quickly and dried out properly so you do not have mold growth in the future. 

SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda will respond to the problem and extract the water and start the remediation process to prevent mold growth at all affected levels!

We hope you do not need us, but are here if you do!  Contact us Today (716) 694-9949

Familiarizing Yourself With the 3 Classifications of Floodwaters | SERVPRO® of Buffalo/Tonawanda

4/19/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Buffalo - Tonawanda is here to help get the situation under control and make it like it never even happened.

Not all water is created equal when it comes to water damage as there are three classifications for it: clean, gray and black. By gaining a better understanding of the different types of water, you will understand how to better handle a water damage situation.

You will always have a cleanup and restoration process to go through no matter what type of water has caused damage. However, before cleanup can begin, the most important aspect is removing all of the moisture and damp items quickly, so as not to enable mold to flourish in an ideal environment.

Frozen Pipe Prevention

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Cold temperatures can cause pipes to freeze. Frozen Pipes can result in costly repairs to you as a home or business owner. The good news is there are ways to prevent pipes from freezing. Here are some tips for this winter.

Frozen Pipes Can Burst

Frozen pipes are a problem by themselves, because they prevent water flow, but even worse, frozen pipes can eventually burst, causing damage and potential flooding. There are ways to protect your pipes from freezing. These include:

Keep your house warm

If you are leaving for a period of time, make sure that the heat is kept on at your property. You should inform them that the heat can help prevent pipes from freezing, and if pipes freeze and burst, it can cause a lot of water damage to the property and to their possessions. The heat doesn’t have to be kept as high as you normally would keep it if you were home but keeping it set above 50 degrees Fahrenheit at all times is a good idea. This should provide enough heat to keep the pipes warm and to prevent any water inside from freezing.

Open Faucets

When temps hit the freezing level it is a good idea to allow faucets to drip. Allowing the faucet to be open like this will relieve pressure in the pipe. If a pipe freezes, it is actually the pressure that is created between the blockage and the faucet that will cause the pipe to burst. With the faucet open you avoid blockage in the pipes.

Insulation in key

Pipes can be fitted with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves to help decrease the chances of freezing. This can be an easy solution for pipes that are exposed, but can get expensive if walls, floors or ceilings have to be opened in order to properly insulate the pipe. Additional insulation can also be added to walls and ceilings to keep the pipes warm.

SERVPRO of Buffalo-Tonawanda is here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us at 716-694-9949.

Why Professional Water Removal Is More Effective Than Doing It Yourself.

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

After a water emergency that floods a home or business, the last thing that most people want to deal with is a bill for cleaning up the damage. This is what leads many homeowners to attempt water extraction on their own instead of calling a professional.

If you're in need of water removal, you may be tempted to save money by trying to get rid of the excess water on your own. However, going this route typically has more consequences than benefits and will result in greater losses of time, money, and your possessions in the long run. Here's why calling SERVPRO for professional water removalis a smart move.

Professional water extraction works extremely well.
While some homeowners resort to opening windows and doors, turning on ceiling fans, and blotting towels around the house, SERVPRO has powerful equipment that ensures efficient and thorough water removal. We're also often able to restore documents, books, furnishings, and electronic devices affected by water damage, plus we'll get your home's humidity back to an appropriate level.

Many water emergenciesare hazardous.
If your house has been flooded with gray or black water, such as that from a natural disaster, backed up sewer line, or a leaky toilet, expert attention to the problem is best. These types of water are risky for untrained persons to handle because it involves disease causing waste and debris. This is the type of material that can't simply be put out with the week's garbage and needs proper and safe disposal. We're knowledgeable about how to get rid of contaminated waste during water extraction, so there are no lingering health risks to your family or pets.

It's important to consider mold and mildew.
One reason that so many homeowners who attempt DIY water removal eventually end up calling a pro is unseen damage caused by mold and mildew. While your flooring and possessions may look and feel dry, without proper water extraction and controlling humidity mold and mildew will thrive, cause off odors, and ruin your home's structure along with your possessions and furniture. SERVPRO technicians are skilled at protecting against the growth of mold and mildew and have effective strategies to combat it.

At SERVPRO of Buffalo-Tonawanda, we know how important it is to get your home back in order as quickly as possible. We'll help you mitigate the costs of any water emergency by restoring your possessions and preventing future damage to your home. For more information about our water removal services or to receive a quote, call us 24/7 at (716) 694-9949

The Water That You Do Not See Is The Biggest Risk.

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. 

The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a serious problem that will affect your property. Our service technicians have the training and equipment to find and dry unseen water before secondary damage occurs. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage and expense during a fire or water damage event. 

When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to work, here are just a few of the tools our technicians use to do their job and restore your property.  

Moisture sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls. 

Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate reading, allowing technicians to monitor the drying process. 

Thermohygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, technicians can calculate and create an environment most conducive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but  also to disinfect and deodorize. 

Ultra Low-Volume Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard to reach areas. 

Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor causing particles. 

These are just a few pieces of the professional grade equipment that each SERVPRO technician is trained to use to help ensure your property is completely restored

Water Dry Out Services

9/28/2018 (Permalink)

Buffalo has many options for consumers seeking quality products at a reasonable price. National
and local chains compete, and the customer wins. The large warehouse-type stores are just as
vulnerable as a smaller store boutique when suffering water damage and flooding if plumbing fails or
torrential rains overwhelm a flat roof’s drainage system. We have the crews and equipment to
respond to a significant water loss.
When water pours through your store, you need fast, and the water removal technicians of
SERVPRO Buffalo-Tonawanda are the ones that can do it. Even with much of the merchandise up
off the floor on steel shelving or pallets, the water must be evacuated for the safety of your staff and
your customers. With floors that extend hundreds of thousands of square feet, the removal task is
best left to professionals.
SERVPRO is a local business with a national network to fall back upon if the scale of a job requires
supplemental equipment and technicians. Sizeable commercial water losses need just as swift a
resolution as those affecting a smaller shop or office. Water that lingers in the property for more than
24 or 48 hours exposes your business to the risk of microbial infestation that might even damage
your inventory.
Our commercial loss team works with you to devise a plan where at least a portion of your business
remains open during the restoration. SERVPRO understands how devastating closing your doors
can be, particularly in the face of the robust competition of other Buffalo area companies engage in
to tempt your customers.
The water removal begins with pumps, moving vast amounts of water quickly out of all areas of your
store. As the water level dips below 2 inches, technicians switch out pumps for extractors. Your
flooring choice of poured concrete seems impervious to water, but it is a porous material that
benefits from rapid water extraction. The floor edges get targeted attention to prevent water from
wicking up the drywall or settling in the cells of cinder block construction.
This water emergency might lead to your development of an Emergency Ready Plan and Profile (ERP)
through SERVPRO in anticipation of future crises. The ERP allows us to collaborate in devising a
concise plan to help both our crews and you and your staff to plan for another loss.
SERVPRO Buffalo-Tonawanda is ready for your water removal challenge, regardless of the extent of
the damage. WE ARE HERE FOR YOU 24 HOURS A DAY, SEVEN DAYS A WEEK. CALL 694-
9949.

Flooding And Water Removal In Home After Water Main Break

9/28/2018 (Permalink)

Pipe breaks and leaks happen very often

Significant water incidents which require extraction services and restoration in your Buffalo
home can happen with little warning. While many might attribute this kind of situation to flooding or
some other natural disaster, the truth is, something as simple as a water break on the main line running near your property could leave you with much water to contend with in your home. Many homeowners do not think about the water line intended to distribute potable water throughout the community. This buried line is just a connection between a water treatment facility and your residence, though when there is a break on this line, it could cause significant issues with homes near the issue. There are a few paths that lead to a need for water removal after a line rupture on the main water line servicing your street.
The first of these considerations is backflow incidents. While many meters offer a last-minute failsafe to prevent an influx in back pressure to your service lines, these designs are not always able to withstand significant force. With back pressure strong enough, water can get forced through your service lines at a pressure your indoor plumbing cannot contain. At a breach, you need SERVPRO water restoration specialists to help you clean up the mess quickly.
Another possibility is a flood-like incident from water pouring (or shooting) out of the ground and
running into your property. This sudden rush of high volumes of water can quickly overcome
vulnerabilities in your home's exterior and allow water to flow into lower levels unabated. This
problem persists until the municipality can reach the appropriate isolation valves to stop the supply
of water to the damaged section of the main line. Our SERVPRO technicians can respond quickly in
these situations to help mitigate the damages your residence might experience.
As you can see, your home can experience significant water loss situations with no warning. Having the right professional assistance to help you clean up the mess and restore the damage once the water line gets repaired can save you time and irreparable disaster to structural components and contents of your home. WE ARE HERE FOR YOU WHENEVER YOU NEED US! CALL SERVPRO of Buffalo-Tonawanda AT 716-
694-9949.

Flooding within your home or business

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Water leaks within a home or business can seep into carpet, flooring, baseboards, and walls while moving throughout the structure.  SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda understands how disruptive water damages can be for a family. Water leaks in a business can not only disrupt the facility, but also can interrupt day to day business functions, which could possibly close the business and affect revenues. 

Timely mitigation is key to the restoration process.  Quick response time helps ensure that damage is contained and the restoration process begins promptly. This saves on the amount of damage, cost of claims, and assists in reducing losses from business interruption due to a loss.  Timely and proper water mitigation will also help keep mold from developing which could cause people to become ill!  SERVPRO Professionals will be able to identify water regardless of where it hides. Your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals cover the Buffalo and other surrounding areas.  We offer 24-hour emergency response from our trained professionals to help make it "Like it never even happened." We are here for you! Contact us at 716-694-9949

Drying out after water damage

6/18/2018 (Permalink)

A water disaster in your home, such as an overflowing toilet or bathtub, can cause damage to other parts of your home, especially if it happened in an upstairs bathroom. Your home is the most significant investment you have made, and you want to keep it looking great and in the best shape. When carpeting in your home becomes saturated from a leak or overflow, you have massive cleanup on your hands. 
 
It is essential when you have water damage that you seek the help of the professional staff at SERVPRO for water removal. Our certified restoration experts are trained to deal with these situations, and we waste no time in getting to your home to help you. There are also steps you can take to help lessen the damage from the water until we can get there to help. 
 
If you can, stop the water at its source and turn off electricity to the area. Do not walk on the carpeting while it is wet, and take small furnishings from the area or place aluminum foil under furniture legs. If possible, you should hang up draperies and take skirts on furniture and pin them, so they do not touch the wet floors. Do not attempt to use a shop vacuum or home vacuum to remove the water and avoid the temptation to turn on heating or fans since they can spread contamination if the event is sewage-related. 
 
When SERPVRO arrives, we assess the situation and the damage. We bring in extraction equipment to physically remove any freestanding water, such as truck-mounted pumps. Water is extracted from the carpeting padding, and any upholstery affected as well. If needed, the carpet and padding could be removed for proper drying. 
 
We also use drying and dehumidifying equipment which is of professional grade to dry the area and get the humidity levels in your home back to normal. We utilize specialized instruments to help find hidden pockets of water. Our techniques for drying and the right extraction help to lower the chance of secondary damage, mold mildew growth and lower costs. 
 
After your carpeting and home are dry, we place everything back where it was. We even work directly with you and your insurance company if necessary, so your insurance claim is processed correctly.

We are here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. SERVPRO Buffalo/Tonawanda, 716-694-9949

24 SERVPRO RESPONSE TEAM

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

A wall injection unit use by SERVPRO of Buffalo-Tonawanda assisting with drying a school with fast, efficient and professional after a water damage.

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

Here are some helpful tips:

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Pipe Break Water Damage In Buffalo, New York: SERVPRO OF BUFFALO TONAWANDA TO THE RESCUE

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

Pipe Break Water Damage In Buffalo, New York: SERVPRO OF BUFFALO TONAWANDA TO THE RESCUE

Winter is always so brutal and cold in Buffalo, NY. Some days we just want to stay in, sit by the fireplace and sip hot cocoa. The cold temperatures keep SERVPRO busy cleaning up pipe breaks in homes. It commonly happens when your heat low is to low or in an uninsulated  attic. The water damage from pipe breaks are quiet tricky for the homeowner to know where exactly the water traveled. You don’t always see water stains. The water can can run along a interior wire or pipe traveling to an area you might not be aware of. SERVPRO of Buffalo-Tonawanda IICRC certified technicians will check all possible affected areas with our high tech moisture detecting tools. We will map out the wet areas and make a decision if it can be dried in place or if we have to remove dry wall or plaster. Maybe factors contribute to that. How long has the water sat? How is the construction of the home?  What’s the age of the home? Certain building materials in older homes can contain asbestos. If that’s the case we will ask your insurance if there is coverage to have it tested for removal. Not all policy’s have asbestos testing coverage. After the decision of in place drying or removal. We stage our work area with protective tarps, perform the necessary work, clean, apply an antimicrobial if required and set up drying equipment. The drying can take anywhere from 2-5 days average. After 24-48 hours of drying, we will send a SERVPRO technician back to your home to moisture test all areas and will continue testing until it is dry per areas standards. Don’t try to handle a water damage on your own, call SERVPRO of Buffalo Tonawanda for assistance.  716-694-9949

READY TO HELP

10/17/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technician responding to pipe break.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 716-694-9949

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO of BUFFALO-TONAWANDA

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

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

6/10/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of BUFFALO TONAWANDA provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Buffalo, Tonawanda, Kenmore, Grand Island, Amherst

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

Here are some helpful tips:

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging