Recent Storm Damage Posts

Yes ... It Floods Here

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

Some South Shore Long Island Residents Some South Shore Long Island Residents their Street During Major Flooding From Storm Surge And High Tide.

Long Island is well... an Island!  As residents here it should be no surprise that flooding is a huge occurrence at all times of the year.  Especially for those located on the north and south shores.  High tides and rain storms occur all year round and cause a lot of problems for Long Island residents. 

The majority of Long Island has the potential for major flooding.  There are many flood zones on Long Island that residents should be aware of.  There are many ways to be prepared for flooding caused by storms before during and after the storm.  You and your family should establish these plans if you are a resident on Long Island, especially if you are located on Long Island's shoreline and are located in a flood zone.  The best thing you can do is stay informed about your area and the storm that is on its way.  After all is said and done if you experience a water disaster, SERVPRO of Farmingdale / Massapequa is here for you.

Frozen Pipes and Snow Storms

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

With temperatures drastically dropping, SERVPRO of Farmingdale / Massapequa wants to help save you from having to deal with freezing and bursting pipes.  There is regular winter maintenance you can do to your home and business that will help prevent flooding in your home.  Even the tiniest of cracks in a pipe can cause flooding and structural damage.  Frozen pipes can be a very big problem but this problem is very preventable.

Prevent Pipes from freezing!

  • Exposed pipes are... well... EXPOSED! Insulate your pipes to prevent freezing.
  • Heat cables can be used to wrap pipes.
  • Carefully look for and seal all leaks properly!
  • When Temperatures are cold, allow warm water drip overnight.
  • Before temperatures drop disconnect outdoor garden hoses and shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside water sources.

If you unfortunately have a pipe that Freezes, call a plumber if needed.  If a pipe bursts causing a flood be sure to call SERVPRO of Farmingdale / Massapequa to restore your home or business.

Emergency Kit

10/21/2021 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Farmingdale / Massapequa is always ready to help and make it "Like it never even happened."  We want to help you, not only after a storm but before.  We all know the essential items we should include in a storm kit, such as water, food, candles, flashlights and first aid items.  There are other everyday items that can help better prepare you and your loved ones during an already very stressful time of an emergency situation.

  • Tools (ex. wrenches and pliers) -to turn off utilities 
  • plastic sheeting and duct tape - to shelter in place
  • manual can opener-for food 
  • car charger- for portable electric devices 
  • extra blankets and warm clothing
  • sturdy pair of shoes
  • a water proof container to hold all important documents and essential electronics.

You can never be TOO prepared for a storm.

Unexpected Weather

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Every now and than Farmingdale / Massapequa and its surrounding Long Island, NY areas get slammed by some pretty intense storms.  Sometimes it may be completely unexpected such as our most current storm.  The remnants of Hurricane Ida caused devastating floods all across the Island.  This storm caught most people off guard and left everyone shocked.  Water rushed into homes, businesses, roadways and even cars all over the Island without much of a warning.  Homes and Businesses were not only destroyed but this unexpected storm was also deadly.

SERVPRO of Farmingdale / Massapequa wants to help save your home, business but also your life.  Strom water can rush quickly and ferociously into your home and leave you little time to evacuate, especially with an unexpected storm. 

Try to stay informed about your areas forecast. Sign up to receive weather notifications to alert you of an upcoming storm.  If you are aware of an upcoming storm and are able to secure your home and business, do so and evacuate properly.   During an unexpected storm the most important thing is you, your family and employee's safety.  Listen to authorities for instructions.  Evacuate if you are told to do so and find a safe shelter.  DO NOT walk, swim or drive through flood water.  If you are in a home or building, get to the highest location possible.  These few tips can be the difference between life and death.

Hurricane Preparedness

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

The 2021 Hurricane season is upon us here on Long Island. The official start date for the Atlantic hurricane season is June 1st and continues through November 30th. The SERVPRO of Farmingdale/Massapequa team, is equip with the right tools and training to help you and your home or business after any size disaster. However, there are steps you can take before a storm strikes your Long Island business or home. Following thesetips ahead of time will help lessen your stress if a disaster is to occur.

  • Know your risks. Based on your location on the Island, know your risks for flooding and storm surge.
  • Know what your insurance does and does not cover.
  • Create a plan with your family in case of evacuation. Collect all important items and paperwork.
  • Make sure you have all important phone numbers, such as your doctors office and emergency contacts.
  • Be sure to have all important documents such as your ID and insurance policies.
  • Create an emergency kit.
  • Be informed. Get alerts from FEMA.
  • Know emergency evacuation routes.
  • Board up windows to prevent damage from wind and flying debris. Trim trees and Cut limbs that may cause damage if snapped.

When a disaster strikes your Long Island home or business SERVPRO of Farmingdale/Massapequa is just one phone call away. 516-221-3666

Storm Disaster Kit

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

Natural disasters can be predicted but also come on quicker than expected.  NO matter where you live on Long Island you should always be prepared for an emergency storm situation.  SERVPRO of Farmingdale/Massapequa wants to help you, not only after disaster strikes but also to prepare for these unprecedented situations.

You can create a disaster kit at home with items you already posses, that will ease your stress during a storm. You can use a waterproof back pack or an old gym bag. 

Things you will need:

  • A roll of toilet paper
  • Water 
  • Ponchos
  • Extra cotton T shirts (can be used to cover your mouth and help filter the air)
  • glow sticks
  • spare house keys
  • box cutter / Swiss army knife
  • flash light and extra batteries
  • non-perishable food bars
  • duct tape 
  • first aid kit (keep prescription medication in easy to access spot)

Not all Storm Damage Is The Same

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

Storm Damage is a very broad category. There are many different types of storms that cause very different damages.

 Here are a Few examples:

  • Water Damage: Rain storm damage can effect your entire home. Heavy rains and flash flooding can cause basement flooding due to seepage  or sump pump malfunction. A leaking roof could cause severe interior damage.
  • Wind Damage: Heavy winds could cause damage to roofing, siding, fencing, and other areas of your property. Wind could also cause flying debris resulting in more damage.
  • Hail Damage: Although hail is more common in certain parts of the country it could happen anywhere. Hail effects roofs, siding, fencing, cars, and many other things. Large hail can break windows and skylights in homes and buildings.     

These are just a few examples of Storm damages. No Matter what the damage  SERVPRO is Always here to help our fellow Long Islanders recover and get things back to normal.

Storm Damage Restoration

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Large storms can occur at the most unexpected times.  When storm damage catches you off guard, look to SERVPRO of Farmingdale/ Massapequa to provide all the storm damage repair services you need. 

SERVPRO of Farmingdale/ Massapequa has decades of experience restoring homes affected by storms and flooding.  We respond immediately with highly trained technicians and specialized equipment in order to return your home or business back to normal throughout Long Island. 

When a storm affects your home or business, you need service immediately and our SERVPRO team provides the quickest response on the Island and will return your property to pre storm conditions in no time!  Give us a call after any size disaster and watch your problems fade away. 

Faster to Any Disaster - call our team 24/7 , (516) 221- 3666

Call SERVPRO of FARMINGDALE/MASSAPEQUA for Water Damages caused by Storms!

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

If your home or business gets affected by a storm don't wait--call in the professionals. We specialize in damage caused by Heavy Rains and Flooding. The longer you wait to start the Drying Process the more severe damages can get and the more expensive it can get.

Call SERVPRO of FARMINGDALE/MASSAPEQUA. We specialize in all types of Water Damage, dry outs and cleanups. We can help get your Home or Business back to normal. Don't wait for Mold to grow, call us!

We have over 40 years of hands-on experience in the water damage industry. All of our employees are IICRC certified water technicians and know how to get the job done right. So if Storm damage affects your Home or Business don't hesitate to call us!

Keep Your Rain Gutters Clean

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

The gutter will become heavier from the excess debris and water, potentially causing it to break. If your gutter breaks away from the house, you’ll have to cover the costs of a new gutter, as well as any damages done to your siding and/or windows. If the gutter is barely hanging to your roof and there is resting water, it can lead to the risk of rusting. Excess water in the rain gutter can lead to spilling over onto the house’s siding, and flooding in the basement etc.  These complications and costs of repair can be avoided by keeping your rain gutters clean.

 Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Call SERVPRO of Farmingdale / Massapqua at (516) 221-3666

Many Types Of Storms Leave Damage In Their Path

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

Storm cleanup can be stressful without the certified technicians of SERVPRO leading the way.

Storm damage can lead to a catastrophic aftermath and destruction of property.  The sooner our experts at SERVPRO execute the rapid storm response to your area, the quicker we can preform an initial assessment of the damage and develop a plan of action to clean up the storm damage.  Extensive property damage can occur leading to expensive repairs and unknown down time.  Your team at SERVPRO values your time and understands that any delays in storm damage assessment will affect your bottom line.  Dealing with storm cleanup can be an emotionally taxing situation.  Our goal at SERVPRO is to perform a prompt restoration to get you back to normal in the shortest amount of time possible.

SERVPRO is well aware of the strength of extreme storms including tornadoes, hurricanes, tropical storms, and gale force winds.  These severe storms may cause free standing structures such as sheds and tress to be uplifted.  Large objects and trees have the potential to become airborne and be pummeled into houses.  Large scale Farmingdale / Massapequa storm damage can occur leading to down power lines, broken windows, crushed rooftops, and damage to cars nearby.  Wind lifted debris and rubble can become projectiles and airborne leading to unprecedented damage and emergencies.  Homeowners should realize the emergent nature of storms and remain sheltered until it is safe to come out.  Storm rooms are becoming increasingly popular as a safe haven to seek shelter during a severe storm.

Once the storm is over, our highly skilled storm cleanup experts will assess the damage from the storm and develop a plan of action for recovery efforts.  Some storms produce enough rain that flooding conditions may be favorable in low-lying areas.  SERVPRO of Farmingdale / Massapequa will step immediately to begin the water extraction process.

Never walk into standing water because experts need to determine if there are an downed power lines supplying and electric current tot he free standing water.  Our team of professionals also cautions you not to move furniture or other material objects saturated with water.  These objects will be heavier than you may expect due to water situation. 

Homeowners and residents should have an escape plan to leave the basement of their home if flooding occurs in the lowest area of the house.  Sometimes high winds have destroyed portions of the roof leaving the dwelling susceptible to water damage if it begins raining after the storm.  In the unfortunate event that a severe storm leaves you with storm damage, contact SERVPRO of Farmingdale / Massapequa to begin your storm restoration at (516) 221-3666

Preparing For A Thunderstorm

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can be more dangerous than you think!  They happen often and can cause a lot of damage to your home.  Of course, there are ways to help prevent this.  To prepare for a Thunderstorm, you should do the following:

  • You should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
  • Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage.
  • Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
  • Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible).
  • Shutter windows and secure outside doors.  If shutter are not available, close windows blinds, shades or curtains.
  • Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.

Here are some facts about Thunderstorms!

-They may occur singly, in clusters or in lines.

-Some of the most severe occur when a single Thunderstorm affects one location for an extended time.

-Warm, humid conditions are highly favorable for Thunderstorm development.

When Storms hit SERVPRO of Farmingdale / Massapequa is Ready!

What To Do After A Fire

1/17/2020 (Permalink)

Floods happen so quickly that many are caught unprepared, and while floods often can’t be prevented, what you do after a flood can save you thousands of dollars on flood remediation and water damage repair costs.  Here are some tips to take after you notice flood damage.

  1. Stay Safe

Flood waters can be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals so do not go into the water without protection even if it is clear. If there is possibility of downed or live wires don’t risk it, wait for a professional. If it is safe to go into the water wear waders, hip- or waist-high waterproof boots. In addition, wear rubber gloves to remove water- damaged possessions and to avoid contaminants. Hiring a professional to do flood clean-up is the best way to ensure your safety and the safety of your possessions. Any food that came into contact with the flood waters should be thrown away. Boil all of your water until authorities declare the water supply is safe.

    2. Take Pictures

Before you remove any water or make any repairs, fully document the damage to send to your insurance company by taking photos or video. If you start removing water or making repairs before you photograph the damage, you run the risk of decreasing the extent of your coverage.

    3. Call Your Insurance Company

After you have ensured your family is safe, the first person you contact should be your insurance agent. If the floods have affected an entire region note that your agent might be dealing with their own flooding emergency and may not be available. If that is the case, contact your insurance company’s headquarters as they should be able to direct you to the right information.

Let your insurance company know the extent of the damages to your home and any repairs you intend to do immediately. Be sure to follow the insurance company’s direction about whether or not to wait for an adjuster to inspect the property before making repairs. Document the damage and conversations at every stage of the process.

    4. Call SERVPRO of Farmingdale / Massapequa

Our expert flood damage remediation specialists can help you recover from water damage. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete.

Call SERVPRO of Farmingdale / Massapqua at (516) 221-3666 

Steps to Take Immediately After a Storm Damage

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

Storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home. Heavy rains can cause flooding and powerful winds can cause roof damage and downed trees on your property. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards as well, so having a strategy to deal with damage will help you to be ready to take steps immediately after the storm.

Take Safety Precautions

Heavy winds and rain can create physical hazards such as collapsed roofing materials, window damage, collapsed walls or standing water in the basement or home interior. In addition, moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials making the perfect environment for mold growth that can cause health issues. Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. Contact a reputable property restoration company to help do basic tasks to secure your property and make it safe to use. If necessary, arrange for an alternative place for you and your family to live while your property is being restored to safe living condition.

Photograph the Damage

If it is safe to move around your property, use your cellphone or a camera to photograph the damage so that you will have a record for your insurance company. This action will ensure that you are fully compensated.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. The company will send out an adjustor to determine the extent of the damage so that payment for repairs can be made.

Look Into Federal Disaster Assistance

The federal government may have declared the area affected by the storm as a disaster area that is eligible for low-cost loans to help restore your property to normal. You will be required to file documents to receive these loans.

When a storm-related disaster strikes, it may seem overwhelming, but these steps can help you to begin the process of restoring your home, and your life, to normal. At SERVPRO Farmingdale / Massapequa, we provide 24-hour emergency disaster service. We specialize in the stabilization and restoration of homes and businesses that have suffered small or large loss from water, flood, wind, storm, fire damage, and smoke disaster. Call SERVPRO Farmingdale / Massapequa at 516-221-3666 for your disaster service.

Keep Your Rain Gutters Clean

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

The gutter will become heavier from the excess debris and water, potentially causing it to break. If your gutter breaks away from the house, you’ll have to cover the costs of a new gutter, as well as any damages done to your siding and/or windows. If the gutter is barely hanging to your roof and there is resting water, it can lead to the risk of rusting. Excess water in the rain gutter can lead to spilling over onto the house’s siding, and flooding in the basement etc.  These complications and costs of repair can be avoided by keeping your rain gutters clean.

 Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Call SERVPRO of Farmingdale / Massapqua at (516) 221-3666

Dangers from Hurricanes, Tropical Storms and Downpours.

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and Storms Happen in Farmingdale / Massapequa, Call SERVPRO for Cleanup and Restoration

From time to time, Mother Nature takes its toll on the New York area. Hurricanes, torrential downpours, tornadoes, and other significant weather events can cause significant water damage in Farmingdale / Massapequa and surrounding communities

While it may be tempting to jump start the restoration process, here are 6 risks you must be aware of:

  1. Injury.  Flood waters in our area carry bacteria and significant amounts of debris. Prior to starting the cleanup process, proper protective clothing, eye wear, and a tetanus shot are highly recommended. Exposed skin that comes in contact with flood waters can cause infections and illness. If the electricity has not been turned off by the utilities company, you are at risk of electrocution. In addition, if natural gas has not been turned off, dangerous fumes may be emitting from dryers, kitchen ranges, space heaters and water heaters. Proceed with extreme caution before entering your home.
  2. Wildlife Injuries. Wildlife gets caught up in the flood too, and waters often carry poisonous snakes, insects, and rodents. When the flood waters begin to recede, it is important to do a thorough investigation into closets, corners, behind furniture, duct work, attics, and crawl spaces where wildlife may be hiding. Bites from wild animals can lead to serious injuries.
  3. Asbestos Dangers. Removal of items with asbestos must be removed and disposed of properly. This is not something that should be attempted by homeowners. A professional flood damage restoration team in Farmingdale / Massapequa and the surrounding areas is highly recommended. Asbestos is commonly found in homes with vinyl or linoleum floors and in some pre-1990 homes in drywall, duct work, and insulation. If you have an older home, proceed with extreme caution.
  4. Bacteria. After a flood, every surface and item in the home must be properly disinfected. As mentioned above, flood waters carry harmful levels of bacteria. Without thorough disinfecting, items in your home may remain hazardous.
  5. Mold. Often, construction after a flood begins too soon. If the humidity levels in the home are not brought down to safe levels, and drywall or other structural elements are not thoroughly dried prior to restoration, mold will develop. The best course of action for mold prevention in Farmingdale is proper dehumidification with advanced drying equipment.
    1. Severe Stress. Not to be overlooked is the time, money, and stress of attempting water damage restoration yourself. Your locally owned SERVPRO of Farmingdale / Massapequa has undergone extensive training, and we have the experience, and tools necessary to bring your home back to pre-storm damage condition. We work directly with insurance companies to ease the process, and we stand at the ready to help our neighbors, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
    In Farmingdale and Massapequa, water damage, storm damage, sewage backups, fires, and mold remediation can all be handled by SERVPRO of Farmingdale / Massapequa. When a disaster strikes, call us immediately at 516-221-3666. Our process begins the moment you call. Our team will them come and inspect and assess the property for damage, and begin the water removal, and drying and dehumidification process. Then, we move forward with the cleaning and repair, and lastly, we begin the restoration process when appropriate.

    About The Farmingdale / Massapequa SERVPRO

    SERVPRO of Farmingdale / Massapequa is Faster to Any Size Disaster, helping residential and commercial property owners when natural disasters, water damage, sewage backups, floods, fires, mold infestations, and other events happen. Call us at 516-221-3666