Prepare Your Home and Family for Winter Weather

12/20/2022 (Permalink)

This home experienced a fire loss that began in their chimney. SERVPRO of Levittown was called in to clean up the damage!

Protect your family, home and business from this Winter's harsh weather with the below tips!

• Plan ahead! Create a communication and disaster plan for your family before Winter weather is expected to hit your area. 
• Repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on your home or other structure during a storm.
• Have your chimney or flue inspected every year to avoid fires!
• Install a smoke detector and a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector in your home and office.
• Create an emergency car kit with essential items like phone chargers, booster cables, flashlights, windshield scrapers and items to stay warm.
• Keep emergency food and water supplies stocked!
• Save SERVPRO of Levittown's phone number in case our emergency water or fire services are needed! Office #: 215-785-1777

Fire Prevention Tips for the Winter Season

10/25/2022 (Permalink)

The winter season is a time when many people like to cozy up by the fire. While this can be a very enjoyable pastime, it's important to remember that fires can also occur during this time of year. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, December, January and February are the three months with the highest number of home fires. That's why it's crucial to take some preventative steps to keep your family safe from fires during the winter season. In this blog post, we will provide you with some tips on how to do just that!

First and foremost, it's important to have a working smoke alarm in your home. This is the best way to ensure that you and your family will be alerted in the event of a fire. Be sure to test your smoke alarm regularly and change the batteries if necessary.

Another key step in preventing fires is to create a fire escape plan. This plan should include two ways to exit every room in your home and a designated meeting place outside. Everyone in your household should be familiar with the escape plan and practice it regularly.

When using a fireplace, always use a screen to catch any flying sparks. Make sure that the area around the fireplace is clear of anything flammable, such as newspapers, carpets or furniture. And never leave a fire unattended - be sure to extinguish it completely before leaving the house or going to bed.

Finally, one of the best ways to prevent a fire is to simply stay alert. If you're cooking on the stovetop, don't leave the area unattended. And if you're using any type of space heater, keep an eye on it at all times. NEVER overload an electric outlet, especially with home space heaters.

By following these simple tips, you can help to prevent a fire in your home this winter. However, if a fire does occur, be sure to call SERVPRO of Levittown immediately. We are always here to help!

SERVPRO's Top Tips for Preparing Your Home for Summer Storms

9/7/2022 (Permalink)

Summer storms can be a real pain. They can knock out power, damage homes, and even cause injuries. That's why it's important to be prepared for them! SERVPRO is the nation's leading disaster restoration company, and we want to help you prepare your home for summer storms. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips that will help you stay safe during a storm and minimize the damage to your home. 

Have a Plan 

First, it's important to have a plan. Know what you will do if the power goes out or if your home sustains damage. 

Have an Emergency Kit 

Second, make sure you have an emergency kit prepared. This kit should include things like food, water, and first aid supplies. 

Have a Safe Room 

Third, keep your family safe by having a designated safe room in your home. This room should be away from windows and doors, and it should have sturdy walls and a ceiling. 

Have Emergency Supplies 

Fourth, make sure you have emergency supplies on hand, including a flashlight, batteries, and medicine. 

Clean your Gutters 

Fifth, keep your gutters and downspouts clean so that they can properly drain water away from your home. 

Secure your Belongings 

Sixth, if a storm is coming, secure any loose items outside so they don't become projectiles. 

Contact SERVPRO of Levittown 

Seventh, if you do sustain damage from a storm, be sure to contact SERVPRO of Levittown for all your restoration needs! 

Following these tips will help you stay safe during a storm and minimize the damage to your home. We're always here to help, 24/7.

Mold 101: What You Need to Know About Mold and How SERVPRO Can Help

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can be a serious issue. If you think you may have mold in your home, it is important to take action right away. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of mold, what to do if you find mold in your home, and how SERVPRO Levittown can help. We hope this information helps keep you and your family safe and healthy!

Mold can come in many different shapes, sizes, and colors. Some mold is even invisible to the naked eye. Mold loves damp and humid environments, so it is often found in basements, crawl spaces, bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and anywhere else that might be wet or damp. Mold can cause a variety of health issues, including respiratory problems, headaches, fatigue, skin irritation, and more. If you think you may have mold in your home, it is important to take action right away.

Mold Type 1: Allergenic Mold

Allergenic mold is the most common type of mold. It can cause a variety of respiratory problems, as well as headaches, fatigue, and skin irritation. If you are allergic to mold, you may experience sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and difficulty breathing. Allergenic mold is not usually harmful to healthy people, but it can be dangerous for those with respiratory problems, such as asthma or allergies.

Mold Type II: Pathogenic Mold

Pathogenic mold is a type of mold that can cause serious health problems. It is often found in damp, humid environments, such as basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms. Pathogenic mold can cause respiratory problems, as well as headaches, fatigue, and skin irritation. If you are exposed to pathogenic mold, you may experience difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. Pathogenic mold is particularly dangerous for those with respiratory problems, such as asthma or allergies.

Mold Type III: Toxigenic Mold

Toxigenic mold is a type of mold that can produce toxins. It is often found in damp, humid environments, such as basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms. Toxigenic mold can cause respiratory problems, as well as headaches, fatigue, and skin irritation. If you are exposed to toxigenic mold, you may experience difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. Toxigenic mold is particularly dangerous for those with respiratory problems, such as asthma or allergies.

If you think you may have mold in your home, it is important to take action right away. Mold can cause a variety of health issues, so it is important to get rid of it as soon as possible. SERVPRO is the nation's leading restoration company and the Levittown team is standing by. We have the training, experience, and equipment to handle any mold situation. We will work quickly and efficiently to get your home back to normal.

How to Prepare for a Storm: What You Need to Know

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

When a storm hits, it can cause a lot of damage to your home. If you are not prepared, you could be in for a long and costly recovery process. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips on how to prepare for a storm, so that you can minimize the damage done to your property. We will also talk about what to do if you experience storm damage, and how to contact SERVPRO Levittown if you need help.

The first step in preparing for a storm is to know what kind of storms are common in your area. Some of the common storms in Pennsylvania include thunderstorms, coastal hurricanes, and even the occasional tornado. Each of these storms can cause different types of damage, so it is important to be aware of the risks. Once you know what kind of storms are common in your area, you can take steps to protect your property.

One way to protect your property from storm damage is to have a plan in place. This plan should include an evacuation route, a list of emergency contacts, and a place to stay if you need to leave your home. It is also important to have insurance that covers storm damage. If you do not have insurance, you may want to consider getting it before a storm hits.

Another way to prepare for a storm is to make sure that your home is in good condition. This means that you should repair any damage that has already been done, and take steps to prevent further damage. For example, you should trim trees and bushes away from your house, and secure loose items around your property. By taking these steps, you can help to minimize the amount of damage done to your home during a storm.

If you do experience storm damage, the first thing you should do is contact SERVPRO Levittown. We are a professional storm damage restoration company, and we can help you to repair the damage done to your home. We will work with your insurance company to ensure that all of the repairs are covered, and we will help you to get your home back to normal as quickly as possible.

If you have any questions about storm damage or how to prepare for a storm, please contact SERVPRO Levittown. We are always here to help, and we can make sure that your home is in good condition before a storm hits.

Why SERVPRO: Strength in Numbers

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

If you are looking for a local restoration company, you may be wondering if SERVPRO Levittown is the right choice. After all, they are a national company with franchises all over the country. Why would you choose a company like that when there are so many smaller businesses to choose from?

The answer is simple: strength in numbers.

Nationally Recognized, locally owned.

SERVPRO Levittown has been serving lower Bucks County for several years for disasters of all sizes. We are proud to say that no disaster is too large because we have a tight knit family that can come and help if needed.

SERVPRO is the largest restoration company in the country for a reason. They have the resources to handle any size disaster, no matter how big or small. They also have a vast network of franchises, so you can be sure that your job can be handled.

What does this mean for you? It means that you can rest assured knowing that SERVPRO will be there to help when you need it most. When disaster strikes, they will be able to respond quickly and get the job done right. So if you are ever in need of restoration services, remember that SERVPRO Levittown is always here to help.

If you’re looking for a reliable and experienced restoration company, SERVPRO is the way to go. With over 2,000 franchises across the country, they have the resources and experience to handle any size disaster.

So if you ever find yourself in need of their services, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We will be there to help you through whatever situation you may find yourself in.

Check your homeowners insurance policy for these potential gaps today.

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Disasters can happen at any time, and they are never convenient. If you are a homeowner, it is important to make sure that your homeowners insurance policy covers all of the potential disasters that could occur in your area. SERVPRO is here to help you with disaster restoration services, but it is important to know what your policy covers before you need it. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common gaps in homeowners insurance policies. Make sure to check your policy today to see if you are protected!

One of the most common gaps in homeowners insurance policies is flood coverage. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, it is important to make sure that your policy covers this type of damage. SERVPRO can help you with flood restoration services, but you will need to make sure that your policy covers the cost of these services.

Another common gap in homeowners insurance policies is mold coverage. We live in an area that is prone to mold growth, so it is important to make sure that your policy covers this type of damage. SERVPRO can help you with mold remediation services, but you will need to make sure that your policy covers the cost of these services.

Finally, it is important to make sure your coverage is adequate for your replacement value.  If your home is destroyed, you will need to have enough coverage to rebuild it. Make sure to check your policy today and make sure you are adequately covered!

If you have any questions about your homeowners insurance policy, or if you need help with disaster restoration services, SERVPRO of Levittown is here to help. Give us a call today at 215-785-1777.

Your Basement is doomed in a Flood: Tips for Water Damage Prevention

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Your Basement is doomed in a Flood: Tips for Water Damage Prevention

It's no secret that flooding is one of the most devastating and widespread natural disasters. Every year, we see houses and communities take a beating from floods all over the world. If you live near water or in an area prone to flooding, you know how important it is to be prepared for when disaster strikes. In this article, we will give you some tips on how to prepare your basement for flood damages!

Block Your Basements Entrance

If your basement is not waterproof, then the best thing to do is block off its entrance. The best way to accomplish this is by adding a waterproof door. This will ensure that water doesn't enter your basement, even if it's raining heavily outside! This might not stop the water from getting in if the flood is really severe however this is a step that you should always take as it may end up saving your basement.

Check for Cracks near The Basement

Cracks in the structure of your house near the basement may act as entry points for the flood water so it is important to cover those cracks. You can use either filling concrete or epoxy to seal the cracks.

Get the Carpet Off

If there is a basement in your carpet then you need to get it off ASAP. Wet carpets can leave a bad smell which would be very difficult to get rid of especially if your carpet is in the basement. Not to mention the hard work and time it will take to dry the carpet.

Make sure there are No Electronics in the Basement

Electronic are very sensitive to water so it's best if you don't have them in the basement. So if your basement is like your man cave where you play video games all day long, it’s time to shift your PlayStation to the first floor. Make sure there is nothing valuable in the basement as it may be the most effected by flooding.

Prepare Everything for When the Flood Is Over

Keep the bucket and suction pumps ready for when the flood is over. You have to then remove the water as soon as possible otherwise it can not only damage the foundations of your house but may also stimulate growth of mold in the house which will eventually lower the value of your house.

Use Fans and Dehumidifiers to Dry Out Your Basement

After you remove all the water from your basement, it is important to dry out the area with a dehumidifier and fans. This will help in removing any residual moisture that may be left behind after the flood. It's also very important to keep checking on this part of recovery as if there is still some water or humidity in your house it can lead to mold growth which we've already mentioned is not good for health nor does it smell nice!

Get SERVPRO to Help With Water Damage Restoration

If you're not the do it yourself type and don't want to deal with all this mess, SERVPRO is there for you. We will be your best bet when it comes to water damage restoration as we have dealt with everything from floods to broken pipes!

Identifying Causes of Water Damage Is Important

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Identifying Causes of Water Damage Is Important

Water damage is one of the most common home disasters to occur. It can be caused by a number of factors, but often times it is due to improper maintenance or installation of plumbing fixtures. Preventing water damage begins with identifying the causes and implementing strategies that will help you avoid it in the future.

Leaking Roof

One of the most common causes of water damage is a leaking roof.

This can be caused by loose or missing shingles, worn out caulk around chimneys and skylights, or broken flashing where roofs meet walls. Whatever the cause might be you should always try to identify it as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage from happening. This includes taking note of how much time has passed since there was last heavy rainfall so that you have an idea about what kind of repairs need to happen during drier weather when trees lose their leaves and your house is less likely to get damaged again due to foliage contact with your home's exterior. Once any leaks are repaired immediately look for other potential areas where water may seep through the roof and check them as well.

Faulty Plumbing Fixtures

Another common cause of water damage is faulty plumbing fixtures like sinks, tubs, or toilets that are not properly installed. These can lead to water leakage behind walls which may result in rotting wooden studs , mildew underneath flooring materials, warped sub-floors , peeling paint on interior surfaces etc. If you suspect any issues with your home's plumbing be sure to have it inspected by a licensed plumber so they can repair it before mold sets in.

Outdoor Water Damage - Poor Drainage Systems

Leaks from outdoor faucets often go unnoticed for extended periods because people don't normally spend much time outside during rainstorms. The best way to prevent damage from occurring is by installing a water sensor in your garden or lawn. This will activate an automated sprinkler system that can help you extinguish any potential fires before they get out of control.

Appliances That Use Water

Another major cause of water damage is leaking appliances that use water like dishwashers, washing machines, or refrigerators.

If you suspect any issues with your appliances be sure to have them inspected by a licensed plumber so they can fix the issue before mold sets in. If you are not able to afford repairs on these things right away look for cheap alternatives online without sacrificing quality and effectiveness. For example, some people even find success using dryer sheets instead of laundry detergent when doing their clothes!

Rain and Floods

Another cause of water damage is rain and flooding. If your home happens to get flooded you should not try to clean it yourself. Instead, contact professional flood remediation services in order to prevent mold growth inside the house which can be extremely hazardous for both humans and pets alike. If there are no signs of mold than simply airing out any rooms that have been affected by flooding will suffice until repairs begin. It's important that you do not use space heaters or other electrical sources when doing this because they could create a fire hazard.

When it comes down to preventing water damage in your home, identifying the causes of water damage is half the battle. The other half involves taking steps towards resolving those problems as soon as possible so they do not become an even bigger issue than they already are.

Ways to Diagnose Water Damage in a Property

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Ways to Diagnose Water Damage in a Property

Water damage is a collective term that is coined to refer multiple impairments that have occurred due to persistent water attacks on a system thus destroying the material through various destructive processes, for instance, decaying of wood, corrosion of steel, mold or bacterial growth and so forth. Thus water damage can be problematic if not diagnosed immediately in its early destructive stages but property owners usually tend to neglect the issue as they reckon it as a consequence of either defective plumbing or may be due to structural defects.

Water damage that we notice is nothing as compared to the internal damage that it has caused the foundations of your property since most water damage begins deep in the walls leading to structural loss hence this can only be repaired by the aid of a trained professional who will not only analyze the issue but will also repair it.

So, here is how we can diagnose if the property has been damaged by water or not:

Dark or Wet Water Blotches:

The first and foremost sign that you should be looking while detecting the water damage is the wet stains of water that are usually found on the walls or ceilings. These yellowish water circlets are very easy to identify as they are quite obvious.

Inflated Drywalls:

At times the dry walls of the house, building or any other property tend to absorb moisture that is present within the walls, due to which they get swollen or simply puff out, therefore, it is imperative to check every wall to inspect for the inflated walls. These inflated walls are another sign indicating severe water damage.

Crumbling Wooden Items:

The most vulnerable material to water damage is wood as the wood fibres tend to swell and shrink. They shrink when discharge water and swell when absorb it. Swollen wood is more liable to crack and crumble down if not fixed instantly, so if you are suddenly observing your wooden furniture or any other wood-based item fractured and swollen thus you need to get it fixed promptly before this water leakage is successful in dilapidating it.

Tattered Walls:

Tattered or run-down walls are another clue for water damage. Excessive moisture within the walls makes the paint clammy and damp thus slowly and gradually, the paint starts peeling off or in some areas, it bubbles out. So if you notice patched walls or discoloured and bumping paint do not hesitate in calling water damage control department.

Mold and Bacterial Growth:

One major signal that screams "water damage" is the growth of molds, bacteria and other minute viable organisms on your property. Apart from damaging your stuff, they are also a threat to your life since they may pose some fatal health issues. Mold and bacterial growth simply tell you that the water damage is severe and needs to be examined properly.

Some numerous signs and indications may signal for water damage, some can be easily identified like the dampness of the walls, fractured ceilings while some require a professional's expertise to resolve the matter for instance terrible exterior etc. whatever the cause is, water damage is an alarming issue that must not be left unnoticed.