Common Causes of House Fires and How to Prevent Them

10/28/2024 (Permalink)

House on fire being put out by firefighters

House fires are a severe risk that can cause devastating damage to property and pose significant threats to your family's safety. At SERVPRO® of Central Buffalo, we're committed to helping you understand the common causes of house fires and how to prevent them, ensuring your home remains safe and secure. If you have already experienced a house fire in Buffalo, NY, contact SERVPRO of Central Buffalo for a house fire repair consultation and cleaning services.

What Causes House Fires?

Throughout the colder months, your chances of experiencing a house fire rise. While escaping the colder temperatures with family and friends, we gather indoors and forget about various home hazards. The activities and environment surrounding this time of year are related to the number of accidental fires starting in homes. Today, we'll review the most common causes of house fires and how to prevent them.

Cooking Accidents

One of the leading causes of house fires is cooking accidents. Unattended cooking, grease fires, and flammable items near the stove can all ignite a fire. To prevent cooking-related fires, always stay in the kitchen while cooking, keep flammable items away from heat sources, and use a timer to remind you of cooking tasks. Most importantly, be proactive and keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen in an easy-to-reach place.

Heating Equipment

Throughout the cold months, most homeowners rely on heating equipment, such as space heaters and fireplaces, to keep their homes warm. However, heating equipment can lead to house fires if it is improperly used. To prevent a firey accident in your Buffalo home this winter, ensure space heaters are at least three feet away from anything that can burn, and do not leave them unattended. Lastly, you should regularly clean and inspect your fireplace to ensure it is in good working order. Always use a screen to prevent sparks from escaping and keep flammable materials away from the fireplace.

Appliances

Another cause of household fires is appliances such as dryers, ovens, and washing machines. These appliances can cause fires if they malfunction or are improperly maintained. To prevent these types of fires, follow these steps: Clean the lint filter in your dryer regularly and ensure the vent is clear of obstructions. Unplug appliances when not in use and have them serviced regularly to ensure they are in good working order. After cleaning these appliances, you are one step closer to preventing a house fire.

Contact SERVPRO for Fire Damage Restoration

House fires can have devastating consequences, but homeowners can prevent many causes with proper precautions and awareness. By understanding the common causes of house fires and taking proactive steps to address them, you can significantly reduce the fire risk in your home. At SERVPRO of Central Buffalo, we're dedicated to helping you keep your home safe. If you experience a fire at your home in Buffalo, NY, our expert team is here to assist with comprehensive fire damage restoration services. Contact us today at (716) 412-6800 to learn more about our services and how we can help you protect your home and family.

Immediate Steps to Take After Water Damage in Your Home

9/25/2024 (Permalink)

This flooded kitchen was caused by a leak under the sink.

Water damage in your home can be distressing and overwhelming. The aftermath can be devastating, whether caused by a burst pipe, a leaking roof, or a natural disaster. Acting quickly and efficiently is crucial to minimize damage and restore your home to its preloss condition. If you are experiencing a water damage emergency at your home in Central Buffalo, NY, contact SERVPRO of Central Buffalo for 24-hour emergency water damage restoration services!

Protect Yourself & Your Family

After a water damage emergency, the first thing to do is to ensure you and your family are safe. This includes turning off your home's power supply and unplugging all damaged electrical appliances to prevent electric shock or fire risks. If the water damage is extensive, it might be best to evacuate the premises until it is safe to return.

Identify the Source of Water Damage

After ensuring the safety of your loved ones, your top priority should be to identify the source of the water damage and stop the leak. The most common residential water damage is caused by plumbing issues such as burst pipes, leaky faucets, and faulty water heaters; natural disasters causing floods, heavy rain, and storms; or an appliance malfunction, a leaky roof, or a construction defect. You can stop the water flow with a shut-off valve for broken pipes, sprinkler heads, or domestic water issues. Know where your building's shut-off valves are located to be prepared for a water damage emergency.

Document the Damage & Contact Your Insurance Company

After pinpointing the source of the leak, it's essential to take photographs to track the progression of the damage. If you have photos of the affected area before the water damage occurred, be sure to keep those as well. If you cannot find the source of the leak, it's crucial to contact a professional remediation company to find the leak and reduce additional damage to your home.

Following the subsidence of water, it is imperative to promptly engage your homeowners' insurance provider. The extent of water damage coverage is contingent upon your policy's specifics. The insurance company will coordinate the dispatch of an adjuster to assess the damage and confirm eligibility for coverage. At SERVPRO®, we understand water damage can cause immense stress, which is why our team is prepared to manage the insurance paperwork and process to provide you with a stress-free claims process!

Remove Standing Water

Removing standing water and eliminating moisture in your home are crucial steps in water damage remediation, so it's best to do these as soon as possible. Initiating the drying process within the first 24 hours and drying a property completely within four days helps prevent risks of microbial growth and further issues. If you can't wait until our SERVPRO team arrives to begin water extraction, we suggest you start the extraction by using buckets or rent a shop vac from your local home improvement center to remove the water from your house.

Check for Early Signs of Mold

After water damage, it's essential to check for early signs of mold to prevent any potential health hazards. Within the first 24-72 hours after your water damage, mold can grow within your home. The first step is to thoroughly inspect areas prone to moisture or affected by your flood, such as basements, crawl spaces, and plumbing fixtures. Look for visible signs of mold, such as discoloration or black spots on walls, ceilings, or floors. Musty odors can also indicate the presence of mold.

Additionally, watch for any signs of water damage, such as water stains, peeling paint, or warping wood, as these can indicate mold growth. If any early signs of mold are found, it's crucial to address them promptly to prevent further spread and potential health issues. At SERVPRO of Central Buffalo, we offer professional mold remediation services to eliminate any mold from your home and ensure your family and pets are not exposed to the severe health risks mold possesses.

Contact the Water Damage Restoration Experts in Central Buffalo, NY

Dealing with water damage can be a daunting task, but you don't have to face it alone. SERVPRO of Central Buffalo is here to help. Our highly trained professionals are available 24/7 to respond to your emergency. We use advanced equipment and techniques to quickly remove water, dry your property, and restore your home to its original state. Contact us today to get the expert help you need and ensure your home is safe and dry. Call SERVPRO of Central Buffalo at (716)412-6800 or visit our website for more information.

How Partnering with SERVPRO of Central Buffalo Helps You Restore and Rebuild After a Disaster

2/9/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central Buffalo specializes on Construction Services

When disaster strikes, the path to recovery can seem daunting. That's where SERVPRO® of Central Buffalo comes in, guiding you through the restoration and rebuilding process with expertise and compassion. Our all-encompassing approach ensures that from the moment disaster is assessed to the final touches of reconstruction, every step is handled with precision and care. This introduction sets the stage for understanding how SERVPRO's seamless integration of services not only restores your property but rebuilds your peace of mind.

Restoration and Clean-Up

At SERVPRO of Central Buffalo, we understand the importance of a thorough and efficient cleanup process following any disaster. Our team is equipped to handle a wide range of cleaning needs, from water and fire damage to mold remediation and even biohazard situations. We utilize state-of-the-art techniques and equipment to ensure your property is cleaned, sanitized, and deodorized to meet the highest standards. This foundational step is crucial in mitigating further damage and setting the stage for the rebuilding phase, ensuring a smooth transition from restoration to reconstruction. 

The Reconstruction Process

After cleanup, the reconstruction process is integral to our commitment to fully restoring your property post-disaster. This service encompasses everything from minor repairs to comprehensive rebuilding efforts, ensuring your premises are restored, making the damage "Like It Never Even Happened." The professionals at SERVPRO of Central Buffalo are equipped to handle the reconstruction phase in full, helping alleviate the stress that comes with rebuilding after a disaster.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

When it comes to restoration after a disaster, SERVPRO of Central Buffalo is your single point of contact when it comes to cleaning and reconstruction. By allowing SERVCPRO to be your advocate for reconstruction, you don't need to worry about managing multiple repair teams. SERVPRO of Central Buffalo has you covered. On top of a single point of contact, SERVPRO also helps you in navigating the insurance claims process and assists in coordinating the necessary paperwork, giving you a quicker and easier experience.

Conclusion

SERVPRO of Central Buffalo exemplifies resilience and expertise in the face of disaster, offering a comprehensive range of services from initial cleanup to complete reconstruction. With our approach and focus on quality, efficiency, and customer care, SERVPRO of Central Buffalo not only restores properties but also peace of mind, making disasters "Like It Never Even Happened." This dedication to excellence and comprehensive support underscores why SERVPRO of Central Buffalo is the preferred choice for disaster recovery and reconstruction. Contact us today!

Understanding Black Mold

1/23/2024 (Permalink)

Black mold growing on ceiling, potentially compromising the integrity of the building

What is Black Mold, and Why is it a Concern?

Black mold, scientifically termed Stachybotrys chartarum, is a toxic mold variant that thrives in damp, humid conditions. Often characterized by its dark coloration, this mold is not just an aesthetic concern but poses significant health and structural risks. Its spores, when airborne, can exacerbate respiratory problems, allergies, and even lead to more severe health issues, particularly in those with compromised immune systems. Beyond health risks, black mold can also undermine the structural integrity of buildings, leading to costly repairs and devaluation of property. It is crucial for home and business owners to understand the gravity of black mold infestations and take proactive measures to mitigate its growth and spread.

Primary Causes of Black Mold Growth in Buildings

Understanding the root causes of black mold growth is essential for effective prevention and treatment. Primarily, black mold thrives in environments that provide moisture, organic material, and adequate temperatures.

1. Moisture: The predominant factor for black mold growth is excess moisture, which can originate from several sources such as leaking pipes, roof leaks, condensation, or high indoor humidity. Buildings with poor drainage systems or those that have experienced flooding are particularly susceptible.
2. Poor Ventilation: Inadequate ventilation in buildings leads to moisture accumulation, especially in high-humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens. This lack of airflow not only supports mold growth but also prevents the drying out of damp areas, further exacerbating the problem.
3. Building Materials: Black mold feeds on organic materials found in many building components like wood, drywall, and insulation. These materials, when exposed to moisture, provide the perfect breeding ground for mold.
4. Temperature: Mold thrives in warm temperatures, typically found indoors. Buildings with inconsistent temperature regulation or poor insulation can have pockets of warmth that encourage mold growth.

Addressing these key factors is crucial in preventing and managing black mold in any building. By controlling moisture levels, ensuring proper ventilation, and using mold-resistant building materials, the risks associated with black mold can be significantly mitigated.

Identifying Early Signs of Black Mold

Early detection of black mold is crucial in preventing its spread and mitigating potential health risks. Being vigilant about the signs can help in taking timely action. Here are key indicators to watch for:

1. Visible Growth: The most obvious sign is the appearance of dark, often black or greenish-black, splotches on surfaces, particularly in moist areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
2. Musty Odors: A persistent musty, earthy smell is a strong indicator of mold presence, even if it's not immediately visible. This odor can be particularly noticeable in closed spaces or upon entering a room.
3. Water Damage: Signs of water damage such as water stains, discoloration, or peeling wallpaper/paint can indicate potential mold growth areas, especially if the area remains damp.
4. Health Symptoms: Unexplained allergic reactions like sneezing, sore eyes, nasal congestion, or skin irritation when at home may suggest mold presence. People with asthma or respiratory conditions may notice worsening symptoms.
5. Humidity and Condensation: Humidity and condensation on windows, pipes, or walls create ideal conditions for mold growth. Regular monitoring of these areas can help in early detection.

Regular inspections, particularly in prone areas, are essential in catching mold growth early. If any signs are detected, it’s advisable to seek professional assessment to determine the extent and necessary remediation steps.

Effective Strategies for Preventing Black Mold Growth

Preventing black mold growth is more manageable than dealing with its aftermath. Implementing effective strategies can significantly reduce the risk of mold infestation in any building. Here are some key preventive measures:

1. Control Humidity Levels: Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50% using dehumidifiers and air conditioners. This range hinders mold growth.
2. Enhance Ventilation: Increase airflow in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens by using exhaust fans and keeping windows open when possible.
3. Immediate Water Damage Response: Address water leaks and spills promptly. The faster you dry the area, the lesser the chance for mold to grow.
4. Regular Maintenance Checks: Conduct routine inspections for leaks in roofs, pipes, and walls. Early detection and repair of these issues can prevent mold proliferation.
5. Use Mold-Resistant Products: When building or renovating, consider using mold-resistant drywall, paints, and building materials, especially in moisture-prone areas.
6. Keep Spaces Clean and Dry: Regular cleaning and vacuuming with HEPA filters can reduce mold spores in the home. Ensure that areas like bathrooms and basements are well-ventilated and dry.
7. Proper Insulation: Ensure your home is properly insulated, including windows, doors, and pipes, to reduce the chances of condensation which can lead to mold growth.

Implementing these strategies creates an environment that is not conducive to mold growth, thus safeguarding the structural integrity of the building and the health of its occupants.

Conclusion

Combatting black mold effectively hinges on awareness and proactive prevention. Recognizing the early signs and understanding the causes is vital for maintaining a healthy environment in our homes and businesses. Simple measures like controlling humidity, ensuring good ventilation, and addressing water-related issues promptly can significantly deter mold growth. Regular maintenance and vigilance are key. 

Need Expert Mold Remediation? Contact SERVPRO® Today

If you're facing mold challenges in your home or business, don't wait for the problem to escalate. SERVPRO of Central Buffalo's professional mold remediation services are your solution. Our team of experts is equipped with the knowledge, tools, and experience to efficiently identify, address, and prevent mold issues, ensuring your environment is healthy and safe. Trust SERVPRO of Central Buffalo to provide effective, thorough, and timely mold remediation services. Read more about our mold remediation services or give us a call today!

What the Polar Vortex Means for Your Pipes

1/15/2024 (Permalink)

Polar Vortexes bring exceedingly cold temperatures

As the winter weather continues, "Polar Vortexes" become far more likely, signaling plummeting temperatures and severe weather conditions. This meteorological term, often associated with bone-chilling cold, can have a profound impact on daily life, particularly for homeowners and business owners. In addition to several drops in temperature to worry about, polar vortexes also heavily affect plumbing systems. As temperatures dive, the risk of pipes freezing and subsequently bursting increases, potentially leading to severely damaging water floods. Understanding the polar vortex, how it affects plumbing piping, and the necessary preventive measures are essential for bracing for the winter months. SERVPRO of Central Buffalo has crafted some preventive measures you can utilize to ensure your plumbing stays safe during the ongoing polar vortex.

Understanding the Polar Vortex and Its Impact

A polar vortex is essentially a vast expanse of swirling cold air that typically envelopes the polar regions. However, during the winter, the vortex at the North Pole often expands, pushing frigid air toward the equator and affecting much of the Northern Hemisphere. This shift can result in a sudden and steep drop in temperatures, often catching businesses and residences off-guard.

The critical issue with these plummeting temperatures is their effect on water pipes. Water expands when it freezes, and this expansion can exert extraordinary pressure on pipes, regardless of whether they are made of metal or plastic. When the pressure becomes too great, pipes can burst, leading to water damage, the potential for mold growth, and the need for repairs on top of restoration and cleaning services.

Prevention and Protection

To mitigate the risks of a polar vortex freezing your pipes, consider the following preventive steps:

1. Insulate Pipes: Wrapping exposed pipes in foam insulation, particularly those in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages, can significantly reduce the risk of freezing.
2. Maintain Consistent Indoor Temperature: Keeping your home heated consistently, even when you're away, helps keep the internal temperature of pipes above freezing.
3. Allow Faucets to Drip: Allowing a slight drip in faucets can prevent pressure buildup within pipes, reducing the risk of freezing and bursting.
4. Drain Water from Pools and Sprinklers: Drain water from the swimming pool and sprinkler supply lines following the manufacturer's instructions.
5. Close Inside Valves Supplying Outdoor Hose Bibs: After removing and draining outdoor hoses, close the inside valves that supply these bibs but leave the outside valve open.
6. Insulate Vulnerable Spaces: Increase insulation in areas like attics, basements, and crawl spaces to maintain higher temperatures.
7. Open Cabinet Doors: Allow warmer air to circulate around plumbing by opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors.

The polar vortex, while a natural weather phenomenon, poses a significant challenge to plumbing, particularly regarding the risk of frozen and bursting pipes. By understanding this meteorological event and taking proactive, preventative measures, you can safeguard your home against the potentially devastating and costly consequences. Prevention actions are far more effective and less costly than repair. Stay warm, stay informed, and prepare your home for whatever the winter brings. 

Should you incur any water or storm damage during the Polar Vortex, feel free to contact SERVPRO of Central Buffalo, and we'll make it "Like It Never Even Happened!"

Preparing for Summer Storms in the Buffalo Area | SERVPRO of Central Buffalo

8/2/2023 (Permalink)

Has your Western NY home or business been hit by a recent storm? Call SERVPRO of Central Buffalo to restore your space to preloss condition.

The summer season is always eventful here in our area, and we certainly have seen our fair share of storms, wind and rain already this year. While some storms may be welcome if they bring in a cold front and soft, gentle rain, others can blow in fiercely and cause serious damage in a short amount of time.

Damage can occur in the blink of an eye and is usually caused by high winds or heavy rain. By understanding each threat and what it means for your house, you can take steps to avoid more serious damage when the next storm rolls into town. 

When the Wind Blows

Wind is something we all know and love/hate around here. Wind whips easily across the lake and can really pick up speed when it is accompanied by a thunderstorm. Regular thunderstorms can bring winds around 40 miles per hour, but stronger storms can easily cause straight-line winds up to 100 miles per hour.

These winds don’t have any rotation in them, so they can create a strong downburst that will take down trees, topple power lines and throw around yard debris with ease. 

If the next storm is predicted to have high winds, take the time around your home to pick up any yard debris and tie down lawn furniture and equipment. Bring anything inside the house or garage that you can to reduce your risk of impact damages when the wind picks up. 

When the Rain Comes Pouring In 

Another threat in our area is heavy rain. Thunderstorms can dump a lot of rain onto our area in mere minutes, which can easily overwhelm your gutters and low-lying areas around your home. Water has the innate ability to get into the tiniest of cracks and gaps in your home, and it can leak down your walls and under your floors without much warning. 

In order to reduce this risk, take the time to clear your gutters regularly so the rain has a place to go when it starts to fall, and be sure to point your downspouts away from your foundation. You should also get up on your roof to check for any signs of damage after every storm. If you overlook a broken or missing shingle now, you will suffer the consequences when rain starts pouring into your attic during the next storm. 

How We Can Help

Even if you do everything right and are prepared for the weather, storm damage can still surprise you and occur without much warning. That’s where we come in! 

We can be at your home right away, and we will start by securing your space with tarps and boards to protect the rest of your belongings while we work. We will fix any leaks and dry out your home with ease and confidence.

If the wind or water left your home with any sort of damage, we can handle the entire reconstruction process from start to finish. Impact damages like a fallen tree on your roof or a shattered window may seem overwhelming to you, but we have the tools and experience to help you overcome this sort of damage right away. 

Don’t let storm damage keep you down. Call SERVPRO® of Central Buffalo for immediate assistance.

Top Tips for Handling a Water Leak | SERVPRO of Central Buffalo

8/2/2023 (Permalink)

Have you been affected by a recent water leak? Call SERVPRO of Central Buffalo to help restore your place to preloss condition.

We all can appreciate the easy access to water in our homes. After all, we use it every day to wash our hands, prepare our meals and even give the family dog a bath at the end of the day. However, this easy access also means that water is flowing behind our walls in our pipes and appliances every day, which can lead to disaster if a single accident or malfunction occurs.

Recognizing an emerging water issue right away can help reduce your risk of serious damage, but you have to know where to look and what to do! Our team explains some easy steps to follow to contain a water leak and what to do afterwards below. 

Locating the Water Source

If you come home and notice a puddle of water where it shouldn’t be or you have standing water in your basement, stay calm and track down the source. If something is actively leaking, it can be easy to pinpoint, but it also might take some investigative work! 

Once you find it, find the appropriate water valve and shut it off, and turn off the electricity if it was caused by an appliance to make sure it can’t turn on again.

Once the source of water is contained, take a step back and assess the damage. Avoid walking through any standing water, and take some pictures of whatever damage you see. Fresh images will help make your insurance claim process easier for everyone involved. Then pick up the phone and call SERVPRO® of Central Buffalo!

Our Water Damage Restoration Process

We are trained to handle every sort of water damage situation imaginable, so don’t hesitate to call us whenever you discover water issues in your home. We will jump into action after our first phone call and arrive at your doorstep quickly. 

We will locate the source of the leak, repair pipes, cracks or gaps to fix the problem, and then turn our attention to drying out your home.

Water has the ability to cause widespread damage in minutes because it will leak and seep into every available crack and gap. We will use our thermal imaging cameras to detect hidden moisture, and we will use our air movers and blowers to make sure every drop is removed. After that, we can repair warped walls or floors and even replace ruined carpet. 

We are here for whatever you need! Call SERVPRO of Central Buffalo whenever you discover water damage in your home.

What Does ‘Pre-Loss Condition’ Mean? | SERVPRO of Central Buffalo

7/26/2023 (Permalink)

Has your Western NY house been damaged in a recent storm? Call SERVPRO of Central Buffalo to get your home back in shape.

If you’ve ever seen a SERVPRO® ad or visited our website, you’ve probably seen us talk about restoring a home or business to “preloss condition.” But what exactly does that mean?

Sometimes we have to hit pause and remember that those who don’t have their hands in restoration and construction work every day may not be familiar with the jargon we use. Honestly, though, this term is a pretty simple one!

When we talk about doing work on your home that returns it to preloss condition, we literally mean what your house was like before it was impacted by damage. That means the way it looked and felt before your water heater started leaking or a kitchen fire took out a wall of cabinets.

That’s true for both our restoration work, where we mitigate the damage you’ve experienced, and our construction work, where we reconstruct after mitigating damage.

What Makes SERVPRO Different
Wondering why you should choose SERVPRO when you need construction services? There are many reasons! 

We are your neighbors. We’re locally owned and operated, meaning we know the ins and outs of our Buffalo community. We know how to navigate regulations and how to obtain the necessary permitting to complete construction projects.

We have a “restore vs. replace” mentality. When a disaster like water damage impacts your home, the costs can quickly add up. One of our first priorities when starting on a project is to save as much as we can. That helps limit costs and it also helps to preserve as many of your precious belongings as possible.

We handle the whole process from start to finish. There’s no need to work with multiple vendors when SERVPRO can handle it all! When you call us, we’ll take it from there, handling everything from an initial inspection and estimate to mitigation, restoration and construction. That ensures we have our eyes on all the details, all the time.

We recreate the home you love so much. When we provide restoration and construction services, our focus is on making your house “Like it never even happened.” That’s more than a simple catchphrase to us—it means that we will use similar products and processes to those used in the initial construction of your home, restoring it back to preloss condition.

Ready to start on a construction project? Reach out to us today to get started!

Fire Safety Inside and Out | SERVPRO of Central Buffalo

6/16/2023 (Permalink)

Have you experienced a fire in your home or business recently? Call SERVPRO of Central Buffalo to restore your space to preloss condition.

Your home should be your sanctuary—a place of comfort and peace, but also a place of joy and entertainment. The place where you watch your kids grow and chase your four-legged friends around the yard.

When something means so much to you, safety has to be one of your top priorities. We don’t want to anticipate disasters, but we have to consider the possibilities so we can prepare for them.

Fire disasters at home can be completely devastating. Even a small fire can cause widespread smoke damage, leaving behind stains and odors in rooms that weren’t even near the flames.

The good news is that most house fires are preventable. When you make fire safety a priority in your home, you can stay prepared and never lose a minute of joy.

Contents Restoration After A Fire

8/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is available 24/7 when fire has damaged your property.

Our team was recently called into a fire damaged property in which several apartments were in the building were affected. The electrical fire started in the basement on the 3 family home but smoke odors and soot could be found on every floor. When our project manager arrived on the scene she immediately took notice of several personal items that were covered in soot but not damaged. Our team recognized these items could be saved and took them into storage for cleaning and restoration.

We are able to restore several items that many people would not expect salvageable after fire damage. Items such as textiles, like blankets, curtains and clothing, electronics like computers and TVs and furniture can all be cleaned and restored if these items were not directly affected by heat and fire.

This is why SERVPRO is recognized as the #1 Restoration Company to call when your commercial or residential property is affected by fire, smoke or soot. Our team of technicians, and highly trained construction and project managers allow us to work more efficiently to move your project from restoration to reconstruction to completion.