Dangers of Water Damage

 

Water damage is a serious problem that can cause significant and costly damage to your home if not addressed quickly. Not only can water damage result in physical damage to your property, but it can also lead to health risks for you and your family. This blog post will discuss the dangers of water damage and what you can do to protect your home from this potential threat.

 

What Causes Water Damage?

There are many possible sources of water damage in a home, including plumbing failures, natural disasters such as flooding or heavy rains, appliance leaks, foundation cracks, roof leaks, and more. Any of these issues can result in water seeping into walls or floors, leading to serious structural damage. It is important to address any source of water as soon as possible to minimize the risk of further harm.

 

Health Risks Associated with Water Damage

Water damage can also create health risks for you and your family by providing an environment where mold and mildew can grow. Both mold and mildew are allergens that can be extremely harmful when inhaled or come into contact with skin; they have been known to cause respiratory problems, allergic reactions, asthma attacks, headaches, dizziness, nausea, and other unpleasant symptoms.

In addition, standing water presents its own risks; it is a breeding ground for bacteria that can spread diseases such as E. coli or salmonella if it comes into contact with humans or pets.

Preventative Measures You Can Take

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of water damage in your home:

• Regularly inspect all plumbing fixtures for signs of leaks or deterioration that could lead to flooding.
• Ensure gutters are clean so they do not overflow during heavy rains.
• Check roofs regularly for any missing shingles or signs of deterioration.
• Inspect appliances like washing machines and dishwashers regularly for any leaking hoses.
• Maintain basements free from moisture buildup with proper drainage solutions.
• Check foundations regularly for any cracks that could let water enter the house.
• Install sump pumps if necessary.
• Be aware of the weather forecast so you know when storms may be coming that could bring flooding or high winds capable of damaging roofs.
• Keep an eye out for any leaking faucets inside the house too!

Water Damage Evaluation in Suffolk County

Water damage can be a nightmare for any homeowner. But with the help of a professional water remediation company like Greenpro Cleaning & Restoration, you can rest assured that we will restore your home to its pre-damaged state in no time. Contact us today to learn more about our services!

Home Water Damage Signs

 

Unfortunately, water damage can happen to anyone anywhere. Whether it's due to extreme weather conditions or a leak in your pipes, it's a huge hazard! Leaving you with a mess, it's essential to tackle any signs of water damage before structural damage occurs in your house. But spotting signs of water damage isn't always easily apparent.

That's why our professional cleaning team is here to provide a list of common signs to keep an eye out for — so that you can protect yourself and your home ASAP!

 

Wet or Dark Spots

Are you noticing any discoloration around your ceiling or walls? Find yourself almost slipping in wet spots near various appliances? These issues are quite a telling sign that you've got water damage in your home. And these areas are where you'll need to focus on while fixing the problem.

 

Damp, Musty Smell

A strange, moldy smell coming from different parts of your humble abode is also a clear indicator that water has managed to get into spots it's not supposed to. It's dangerous to breathe in damp or odorous air — potential health effects and symptoms associated with water damage exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints.

 

Sounds of Running Water

Water damage isn't always visually obvious! If you start to notice the sound of dripping or rushing water, you've got an issue on your hands. It can be hard to differentiate ominous noises from the everyday inner workings of your home, so listen for sounds that you don't recognize.

 

Cracking or Bubbling

Water damage becomes very obvious sometimes within your drywall or paint. When you notice bubbling or cracking on your walls or ceilings, it's time to take action. It might not be long until those water bubbles travel to the structure of your house!

 

Water Damage Evaluation in Suffolk County

At GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration, we will test for water damage to ensure you and your family are safe after a rainstorm. If you suspect that there may be a problem in the home or building, call us to schedule your indoor evaluation at 631-940-8100.

Potential Health Effects Associated With Water Damage

 

Whether from a plumbing leak or a large-scale natural disaster, getting water damage in your home is dangerous and exhausting. While it has the potential to destroy parts of your house, such as its structure, water damage also poses a threat to your health. Any inhabitants living in your humble abode could be exposed to a high-risk environment!

Here are some of the potential dangers long-term water damage can bring to your health and how to clean up your home after a disaster:

Mold and Mildew Growth

Mold and mildew are notoriously known to grow in areas with flood water or water damage. Areas trapped by moisture are their favorite places to hide, but you’ll know if you have an invasion on your hands if you see mold spores, smell damp or odorous air, or have increased asthma and allergy issues.

Short-term exposure is most likely to cause occupants with allergies or asthma to feel symptoms more. Mold and mildew also cause sinus congestion, eye irritations, and nose and throat inflammation. Long-term exposure can often lead to shortness of breath and fevers — so needless to say, it should be dealt with right away!

Poor Indoor Air Quality

Allergy and asthma sufferers, as well as young children and the elderly, are more likely to be susceptible to the types of poor indoor air quality water damage can cause. While this is partially due to mold or mildew growth, it could also be the result of water contamination or damage to your HVAC system. If sick symptoms continue even after mold and mildew have been cleared out of your home, it may be time for an air duct cleaning.

 

Toxic Mold Growth

Mold can grow fast, and in spots we least expect. Often, toxic mold occurs when a flood-damaged area in your home has not been cleaned and disinfected properly. This type of mold is more cause for concern for your health, as it’s known to cause more serious respiratory issues, as well as insomnia, memory loss, inability to concentrate, and confusion.

Water Damage Evaluation in Suffolk County

At GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration, we will test for water damage to ensure you and your family are safe after a rainstorm. If you suspect that there may be a problem in the home or building, call us to schedule your indoor evaluation at 631-940-8100.

How To Prepare Your Home For Hurricane Season

 

Hurricane season is officially here, running from June 1st and ending November 30th. Are you prepared? Sometimes, you can never know when a hurricane will hit exactly, but you can take some steps to make sure your home is ready. It's important that you get started on these steps now. Here are some important home safety factors to consider and prepare for before these large storms begin to form and come towards Long Island:

Important Inventory Gathering

Do an inventory of all important documents that you may need in case of evacuation. These include insurance papers, passports, birth certificates, social security cards, etc. Make sure these are easily accessible if needed during an emergency situation.

Create Your Emergency Kit

If you have not done so already, an emergency kit is essential for successfully getting through hurricane season. While Long Island isn't prone to terrible hurricanes, they've happened before and can happen again. Having an emergency kit that includes water, food, flashlights, battery-operated radio, extra batteries, and other necessary items like medicine is the best way to ensure you'll have what you need, no matter how bad the storm is.

Take Precautions

Long Island is surrounded by water, so find out if you live in a high-risk area and see what storm surge could do. If so, find out where your nearest shelter is located. Pack what's essential and needed, and fill your car with gas well beforehand!

 

Secure and Seal Your Home

When was the last time you upgraded your home's sealing? If you get wind that a hurricane is on its way, take action. Ensure all windows are securely closed with screens on them so they can't fly open during high winds. Make sure also that your attic and crawl space are sealed well against rain leaks, as water damage can quickly ruin furniture or carpeting if it gets into your home.

 

Water Damage Evaluation in Suffolk County

At GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration, we will come test for water damage to ensure you and your family are safe after a rainstorm. If you suspect that there may be a problem in the home or building, call us to schedule your indoor evaluation at 631-940-8100.

Where to Expect Water Damage in Your Home

 

You may not be aware of this, but water damage can happen in your home in various places. A common misconception is that only areas like the basement or bathroom are at risk for water damage. However, there are many other places in your home where water can find its way and cause a lot of damage. Here’s a list of spots you should keep your eye on this spring and summer:

 

The Kitchen

The kitchen has many opportunities for accidental water spills that lead to significant amounts of liquid. Not to mention the many appliances that could have a malfunction or leak and cause some damage to your home. Consider checking under your kitchen sink and dishwasher for any water pooling — this is a clear sign that you may be dealing with water damage.

 

Around Appliances

It’s not just your dishwasher you need to keep an eye out for! Washing machines, refrigerators, and more are always exposed to the possibility of water leakage because they use water so often.

 

Basements

Unfortunately, water damage can happen very easily in your basement. Homeowners often see flooding or leaks here. This may not seem like an issue at first, but it can cause problems such as mold and mildew, which are no fun for anyone living in the house.

 

Attics and Crawl Spaces

There are many sources of moisture that can affect your attic or crawlspace. Open vents, lack of a vapor barrier, un-vented appliances, and foundation sidewall penetration can all allow enough moisture to keep the humidity levels excessively high. This, in turn, causes water damage, which odors, bugs, and critters that like damp environments will want to come and invade your space.

If you suspect you have water damage in your home:

• Do not touch wet or damaged items with bare hands
• Do not breathe in damp or odorous air
• Contact a certified water damage repair expert if you suspect a problem

Water Damage Evaluation in Suffolk County

At GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration, we will come test for water damage to ensure you and your family are safe after a rainstorm. If you suspect that there may be a problem in the home or building, call us to schedule your indoor evaluation at 631-940-8100.

Four Things You Should Know About Water Damage

 

Water damage is a serious issue that can lead to mold and mildew growth. And unfortunately, water damage is an issue that can happen during any season throughout the year. It's important to take precautions when dealing with water-related pains to avoid any more problems down the line. Here are four things you should know about water damage:

 

1. Water Spreads Quickly

Water can spread rapidly in a home, even if it is just a small leak. And one of the most unlucky factors is that water damage isn't just limited to flooding; often, even high humidity can cause enough moisture in your home to lead to water-related problems spreading throughout your home.

 

2. Electric Shock Possible

First and foremost, do not touch anything wet or with standing water on it. You can get electric shocks if you come in contact with any electrical sources like outlets, lights, etc., and the materials that have become wet near or touching an electrical source. You should always shut off your electricity before coming into contact with anything wet to avoid electrical shock.

 

3. Water Damages What it Touches

Water damages nearly everything it touches, so dry out your home as quickly as possible. Remove any wet items from the house as soon as possible, but be careful not to spread the moisture by stepping on carpeting or rugs while they are wet.

 

4. A Professional Should Be Contacted Immediately

The second you suspect you are dealing with water damage in your home, it's time to take action. The restoration process takes time and expertise to ensure it's done right, so don't wait too long before hiring a professional! It may seem daunting, but water can do a lot of damage quickly and lead to mold if not dealt with properly. So make sure you reach out for help as soon as possible.

 

Water Damage Evaluation in Suffolk County

At GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration, we will come test for water damage to ensure you and your family are safe after a rainstorm. If you suspect that there may be a problem in the home or building, call us to schedule your indoor evaluation at 631-940-8100.

Our Visual Survey For Water Damage

 

Water damage can happen for a variety of reasons. It may be the result of an overflowing sink, toilet, or dishwasher; it could also be due to plumbing issues in your home's walls or flooring. Or, it could be due to intense weather conditions such as rainstorms or a blizzard. If you suspect that you have water damage, it is important to act quickly and call for professional help.

Here at Greenpro, we have a full-service visual survey for water damage that will help determine where the issue is and how it can be fixed. For more details about this process, read on!

 

What Is a Visual Survey?

A visual survey is a way to assess the damage and find out if we can do anything for you. Our inspectors use this information to determine what repairs need to be made, how long they will take, and what kind of help we can offer with the cost.

 

Our Visual Survey Process

We perform visual surveys in the home or building to check the fungal ecology or problems in a specific area as directed.

• The survey takes about 30-45 minutes and includes the following:
• Walking around the suspected problem area(s).
• Walking through and to the areas of concern.
• Viewing the area with a flashlight to highlight the alleged water-damaged area.
• Taking moisture readings of the structure such as walls, floors, and/or ceiling surfaces to detect moisture intrusion.
• Taking temperature and relative humidity readings to determine if they fall within ASHRAE recommendations.
• Providing an estimate for remediation by industry standards [S-520].

Protect Your Home

On top of these steps, we also visually survey and test for water damage at a reasonable rate. Remember that the young and elderly are more susceptible to water damage and indoor pollutants. If you suspect that there may be a problem in the home or building, call us for an indoor evaluation.

Contact Us For All Your Water Damage Removal Needs!

Cleaning and taking care of your home after a water damage mishap can be difficult to deal with, and it is often best to bring in some professionals to help. Contact GreenPro Cleaning and Restoration to take care of your ducts, attics, crawl spaces, and water damage needs.

Can Flooding Happen in the Winter?

 

When you picture flooding, you often imagine this dangerous dilemma happening in either spring or summer. However, that’s not always the case. Just because winter brings freezing and dry conditions doesn’t mean your home or business isn’t at risk of water damage! The threat of flooding continues well into the winter months due to many colder conditions. Here are just a few to keep in mind as we move through the season.

 

Ice Dams

Most of the time, ice dams will form on your roof. It is a ridge of ice that builds on the lower, uneven slope of your roof, which eventually prevents melting water or precipitation from draining off your house or building. When the water becomes backed up, it can often leak into structures such as your walls, foundation, or insulation. You can find your attic flooded because of this!

 

Melting Snow

After a snowstorm, those beautiful white blankets can’t last forever. However, sometimes the snow melts faster than it should, making it hard for the water to soak into outside soil easily. Because of this, surrounding areas may be subject to flooding due to improper drainage. If water pools enough around your home or commercial building, it could eventually cause a flood indoors.

 

Storms

Sure, rain or thunderstorms are rare during the winter months, but this season can still bring some intense storm damage. From hail to blizzards to strong winds and freezing temperatures, flooding often results in areas that experience these conditions the worst. Whether it’s because of increased dangerous circumstances along the shoreline or any of the issues stated above, you’re not out of the woods yet when it comes to avoiding flooding in winter!

 

Contact Us For All Your Water Damage Removal Needs!

Cleaning and taking care of your home after a water damage mishap can be difficult to deal with, and it is often best to bring in some professionals to help. Contact GreenPro Cleaning and Restoration to take care of your ducts, attics, crawl spaces, and water damage needs.

Cold Weather Issues That Lead to Water Damage

 

When people think of water damage, usually their minds are immediately taken to the harsh rain we get in spring and summer. Truthfully, many water damage issues are caused by the external forces of those seasons! However, that doesn’t mean that other seasons won’t cause problems as well. Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean it’s impossible to have water damage in your home, and here are the red flags you need to look out for:

 

Frozen Pipes

In the wintertime, frozen pipes are one of the most common sources of water damage. And, from here, the pipes can burst and cause water to sneak in through your walls or floors. The best way to prevent this is by properly insulating your home and sealing any cracks or holes in your foundation or outside walls — especially the areas near your pipes!

 

Melting Snow

After a good snowstorm, your home can be covered head to toe with this icy white blanket that’s just waiting to give you issues. As the days go on, all that snow is bound to melt. And, as the snow melts, it can seep into your house’s foundation and get in through your roof or siding. Check your basement and attic often during the winter to ensure no water is getting in.

 

Ice Dams

With the curve of your roof, snow or water tends to always build up around one area (usually right at the edge). With the heat of your home warming the snow above and this snow blocking the border, it causes water back up. This, of course, leads to water pooling or leaking in spots it’s not supposed to.

To prevent trouble this season, ensure that your gutters and downspouts are properly maintained and cleaned. Not only that, but it’s essential that you insulate your attic — since the heat from your home really shouldn’t be reaching up there. Your attic should be airtight, with no possible openings to cause the snow to melt even faster!

 

Contact Us For All Your Water Damage Removal Needs!

Cleaning and taking care of your home after a water damage mishap can be difficult to deal with, and it is often best to bring in some professionals to help. Contact GreenPro Cleaning and Restoration to take care of your ducts, attics, crawl spaces, and water damage needs.

How To Tell If Water Damage is Old or New

 

Water damage can happen to anyone. A leaky pipe, your water heater bursting, or even your sprinkler system could be the culprit. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to tell how long you have been dealing with this type of issue. But, we have some helpful tips to help you determine just how long you have had this problem on your hands!

Standing Water

Many signs can help you figure out whether water has been leaking for a long time or just recently began to leak. Notice standing water on the floor around any of your appliances such as an oven, dishwasher, washing machine, or dryer? This could be an indication that there was previous damage here before.

 

Foul Odor

If you notice any foul odors coming from your basement or other areas where there might be water leaks, you probably have a water damage problem on your hands. Not only that but if it has had time to sit and permeate enough to cause a stench, then it’s been there for quite some time.

 

Noticeable Dips Throughout Your Home

A noticeable dip in your flooring or ceiling is a clear sign of water damage— and one that has had plenty of time to do tons of damage. This dip may seem like it would be obvious, but it’s pretty easy for spots like this to go unnoticed. Keep an eye out for these bubbles after big rainstorms or near appliances.

 

Fading Water Spots

Sometimes you notice problem areas when it’s too late! For example, if you see water spots in different places around your home that seem to be fading, then the damage came and left a mark that is now in the process of dissolving— but it’s long from being over.

 

Get in Touch With Us For All Your Water Damage Needs

At GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration, we will test for water damage to ensure you and your family are safe after severe weather. If you suspect that there may be a problem in the home or building, call us to schedule your indoor evaluation at 631-940-8100.

3 Reasons Why Your Allergies Are Getting Worse

 

No matter the season, we are prone to allergies and allergy symptoms. Mother nature works wonders, many wonders being the main cause for your stuffy nose or congestion! Despite all this, there are seasons when these symptoms shouldn’t be as bad— however, homeowners still find themselves having to keep tissues close by all day long.

There are many reasons why, even when you’re indoors, your allergies are kicking up. And we here at Greenpro Cleaning and Restoration are here to break down the most common reasons.

 

Dust

Dust at home is perfectly normal and unavoidable. Now that temperatures are getting cooler and we’re keeping windows closed more often, it’s easy to trap yourself indoors with this allergen. If you notice some of your symptoms getting worse, it could just mean your home is due for a deep clean!

 

Mold

If you notice your allergy symptoms remain the same even after a good clean, it could mean you have mold growing somewhere secret. This could include areas such as under the sink, around appliances, and on the ceiling or walls. If you suspect you have mold growth or water damage anywhere in your home, don’t hesitate to contact professionals immediately!

 

Air Ducts

Over time, your home’s air ducts can fill with dust, debris, and creepy crawlers. If you’re having a hard time breathing normally at home, it could be because these contaminants are residing within your ducts. When was the last time you got your air ducts cleaned? If the answer to this question escapes you, you are most likely due for a scheduled cleaning.

And you can trust the professionals here at Greenpro Cleaning and Restoration to handle all your water damage and air duct cleaning needs!

 

Professional Cleaning and Restoration in Suffolk County

Cleaning and taking care of your home can be challenging to deal with, and it is often best to bring in some professionals to help. Contact GreenPro Cleaning and Restoration to take care of your ducts, attics, crawl spaces, and water damage needs.

Autumn Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Needs To Complete This Season

 

Summer is coming to an end, and as the leaves start to change colors and the cool winds rush in, homeowners know to start preparing for the fall season. And some chores are essential this season— especially if you want to enter it without any issues! So we have the perfect list for you to start before the official change in season.

 

Clean Your Gutters

Most homeowners are probably tired of hearing this, but it’s essential to give your gutters a good clean this fall season! When leaves and debris pile up in your systems, it can cause water to pool and fall in areas around your roof and siding, which could lead to water damage. This puts both your interior and exterior in danger of water damage!

 

Check Roof

Homeowners need to make sure they check their roof for any leaks or cracks, as fall can bring in some rainy days. Hurricane season doesn’t end until late November, so the longer you go without checking up on your roof, the more at risk your home is to water damage.

 

Get Your Air Ducts Cleaned

You have been using your air conditioning all summer long, so your system has been working hard. But is it entirely clean? Over time, your ducts can pile up with dust and debris. Now is the time to get an air duct cleaning so you can start breathing easy all fall long!

Get In Touch With Us For All Your Cleaning and Restoration Needs

Cleaning and taking care of your home can be challenging to deal with, and it is often best to bring in some professionals to help. Contact GreenPro Cleaning and Restoration to take care of your ducts, attics, crawl spaces, and water damage needs.

Water Damage Facts and Myths

 

The question is not if your home will ever experience water damage, but when. Water damage is one of the most common home disasters, but some homeowners don't know what to do when it happens. Many myths surround this type of home damage, but many are not true.

We have some of the top myths and facts about water damage so that you can enter the rest of this hurricane season prepared!

 

Preventative Measures

Myth: All types of water damage are preventable.

Fact: The truth is that some water damage incidents are unavoidable. Flooding, for example, has many causes, including natural disasters like storms or accidents like broken pipes. Be sure to keep an eye out in vulnerable areas such as under your sink or near appliances so you know when an issue has occurred.

 

Standing Water

Myth: Many believe it's not too bad if you have standing water in your basement or crawlspace.

Fact: Standing water is dangerous because mold spores may grow on the walls, flooring, ceiling tiles, and insulation. The moisture content can also cause these materials to rot, which could cause issues with your home's foundation.

 

Isolated Water Issues

Myth: The flood only happened in one room, so it's just an isolated incident.

Fact: Just because the flood was isolated, it does not mean that the water damage stayed only in that room. Water is sneaky! It can seep into other parts of your home undetected for hours before it's noticed, which makes water damage very hard to detect and easy to forget.

Waiting Period

Myth: You can wait before hiring a restoration company after flooding or other incidents.

Fact: Waiting could cause more problems, like mold growth and additional structural damages. If there is any visible standing water in your home, you should call for help right away so that professional cleanup services can come to solve the problem before it builds and gets even worse.

 

Get in Touch With Us For All Your Water Damage Needs

At GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration, we will test for water damage to ensure you and your family are safe after severe weather. If you suspect that there may be a problem in the home or building, call us to schedule your indoor evaluation at 631-940-8100.

Secret Spots Water Gets In From

 

When it rains, it pours! And when it pours, not every home is fully prepared to take on that amount of water. Many people are unaware of the different areas in their homes where water can get in. Heavy rain or simply a buildup of condensation on the windows and walls can lead to fast-growing issues for you and your house. These areas can be hard to locate, but it's essential to check these spots for potential leaks with all the recent rain.

The Wall Under Your Window

When it comes to the worst areas for water leaks, windows take the cake. Not only that, but the rain can seep in through the cracks between your window and framing studs, allowing water to flood into the wall under your window. Ever notice weird bubbles popping up in your wallpaper after heavy rains here too? That's not a good sign!

 

Under Your Siding

The exterior of your home can also be affected by heavy rains— it's not just your interior that you need to worry about water damage for! Any unsealed gaps or cracked areas in your siding allow rain to sneak in underneath, leading to long-term rotting and deterioration.

 

Around Your Chimney

There are many vulnerable areas on the exterior of your home, such as your chimney, that, if not properly sealed, can lead to roof or structural damage. And it's not just to prevent water damage that this area should be checked; it's so that when you begin to use your fireplace again, you can ensure it's safe to use— with proper ventilation and more.

 

Behind Drywall

If you have experienced any flooding in your home where water levels rise above the floor level, many issues could ensue after. But, worst of all, any drywall along the lower half of your wall will need to be replaced due to water exposure. Most likely, mold has already started growing behind these areas.

 

Get in Touch With Us For All Your Water Damage Needs

At GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration, we will come test for water damage to ensure you and your family are safe after severe weather. If you suspect that there may be a problem in the home or building, call us to schedule your indoor evaluation at 631-940-8100.

What You Need To Know About Water Damage

 

The rain has been coming down heavily already this summer! With Long Island seeing multiple flash flood warnings in effect already, you should plan before the next big storm hits. Because, let's face it, if your home isn't prepared, heavy rains can do a lot more damage than you may realize.

 

Heavy Rain is The Most Common Culprit

Water damage can happen from other causes, such as burst pipes or plumbing leaks, but heavy rain can often cause rapid and sudden damage. It washes away loose dirt on roofs or ground surfaces, sending it cascading into gutters or downspouts where it enters a building through open windows or doors.

What To Do if Water Gets in

If water seeps into your home or floods the basement, it's essential that you stop the flow as soon as possible. To do this, open doors and windows to allow air circulation to help dry out any wet areas quickly. And as soon as you notice the first sign of an issue, be sure to contact professional water damage cleaners.

 

How To Prevent Issues in The Future

It's important to plan ahead, especially during the summer season! Some tips for this include:

• Check the gutters on your home at least twice a year.
• Repair any leaks in pipes or appliances.
• Store important documents (such as birth certificates) off-site so you can access them if necessary.
• Make sure you have an emergency kit with everything you’ll need during an emergency.
• Stay in contact with the professionals here at Greenpro to help protect your home in the future!

Water Damage Evaluation in Suffolk County

At GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration, we will come test for water damage to ensure you and your family are safe after a rainstorm. If you suspect that there may be a problem in the home or building, call us to schedule your indoor evaluation at 631-940-8100.

How To Prepare For Hurricane Season on Long Island

 

This year, hurricane season has already begun with a few named storms hitting land on the east coast. The National Hurricane Center predicts an above-average storm season this year, and we want to make sure you’re fully prepared until November. So, here are a few ways to start prepping for the big storms that may potentially hit us here on Long Island.

Create an Emergency Preparedness Kit

The best way to prepare for hurricane season is by having an emergency preparedness kit in your home and readily available. You should include food, water, medications, flashlights with extra batteries, first aid supplies, blankets or sleeping bags (depending on how long power will be out), pet care items such as leashes, and carriers if needed in your kit.

Pay Attention to Evacuation Orders

Long Island is surrounded by water, so many towns are in danger of some bad flooding throughout the island. If you’re in an area like this, pay attention to evacuation orders and be sure to leave if you’re told to do so. This is for your safety! Follow your local evacuation routes and rules.

 

Prevent Water Damage

Check your home to make sure it is well-sealed against water damage and debris. It could help if you update old roofing materials or trim trees that might fall onto power lines or houses during a storm. However, sometimes even with preventative measures, water damage can happen. If this does occur, know that you’ve got a reliable team here to help!

Contact us For All Your Water Damage Cleaning Needs

At GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration, we will test for water damage to ensure you and your family are safe after a rainstorm. If you suspect that there may be a problem in the home or building, call us to schedule your indoor evaluation at 631-940-8100.

What Kind of Rainy Season Can Long Island Expect This Year?

 

Long Island is a popular destination for many tourists and residents alike. From the beach to the lighthouse, there's something about Long Island that draws people in from all over. But what are you really in store for this rainy season? There's no denying that every rainy season is different. We're here to break down precisely what you might be able to expect from the rainy season on Long Island this year so you can have an idea of what you should prepare for before it hits!

What To Expect

It's predicted we'll have a slightly warmer May this year, making for more rain than average. With warmer temperatures and increased precipitation, we're sure to see plenty of standing water in low-lying areas around Long Island and New York City. We'll need to keep an eye out for the possibility of more severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall, frequent lightning strikes, strong winds, or even hail storms earlier in the season.

So, what does this mean for your home?

Issues For Your Home

Every year, when the rainy season arrives, homeowners are faced with several potential issues. For some homeowners, water damage is an issue. Others may experience problems in their attic or crawl space due to flooding. Regardless of the particular concern for your home, if you have not yet taken steps to prepare for this time of year and plan accordingly, now is the time to do so. All it takes is one large storm and standing water on your property to create some big problems for you and your family.

Whether you are preparing for the rainy season or require emergency services due to flooding and water damage, the team here at Greenpro Cleaning and Restoration is here to help! For both residential and commercial services, we're the experts in water damage repair.

Water Damage Evaluation in Suffolk County

At GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration, we will test for water damage to ensure you and your family are safe after a rainstorm. If you suspect that there may be a problem in the home or building, call us to schedule your indoor evaluation at 631-940-8100.

4 Ways that Excess Moisture Can Damage Your Chimney

When it comes to home maintenance, it can be easy to overlook your chimney. Damage from excess moisture in this location can be a significant problem that you may face as a homeowner. Have your chimney inspected once a year to prevent the damage described below.

Rusting

Rain and snow are a threat to the metal components in and around your chimney. The damper or firebox in your chimney can rust if water seeps in. Rust deteriorates the integrity of the metal and creates a severe hazard in your fireplace. Also, a rusted damper will not create a proper seal, and the conditioned air in your home can leak out through the chimney. A properly installed chimney cap prevents moisture from entering.

Spalling

Bricks are made of a porous material that allows them to absorb moisture. Trapped moisture inside them expands and contracts as the temperature drops and rises. The process that causes the surface of the brick to break off is called spalling. Spalling compromises the structural integrity of your chimney. A professional can apply a treatment to reduce the risk of spalling in your chimney.

Mortar Damage

The same cycle that causes spalling causes damage to the mortar between the bricks. Also, the exposure to water on the exterior of the chimney can cause the mortar to deteriorate. Damaged mortar results in damage to the bricks, and it also compromises the structural integrity of your chimney. Tuckpointing is a process done by professionals that involves repairing the damage.

Linear Deterioration

The lining of the chimney protects the walls from exposure to intense heat and harsh by-products. Cracks and holes in the lining are a result of excess moisture. When the liner becomes damaged, it exposes the chimney walls to extreme conditions as the heat and by-products rise out of your chimney. This also compromises your chimney's structural integrity and can damage the walls and ceiling in your home. A chimney cap can help to prevent this issue.

Need assistance with water damage? Contact GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration.

How to Prevent and Deal with Ice Dams

Many people think that the icy wall slowly forming along the edge of their roofline during winter is harmless and picturesque. What you might not know is that these formations, called ice dams, can collect water that backs up underneath shingles and seeps into homes. By the time you notice the damage, you'll need extensive repair work at the worst possible time of year, at a cost that may bust your budget.

When you learn how to prevent and deal with ice dams correctly, you can erase your worries about this common source of winter water damage. 

How to Prevent Ice Dams from Forming on Your Home

1. Make sure you have adequate attic insulation.

Check to be sure that your attic insulation provides the minimum R-value your local building codes require. Make sure the insulation forms a complete blanket across your attic floor, without gaps.

2. Close up areas of heat exchange from the main floor.

Heat loss from your living space rises into your attic, which triggers ice dam formation.

Seal any air leaks from gaps in drywall, light fixtures, plumbing, electrical wiring, chimneys, and even the attic access door. Exhaust fans must vent to the home's exterior and not into the attic space.

3. Unblock or add attic and roof vents.

If your attic feels warm, you must increase airflow between the outside and your attic.

Add more vents to the roof and eaves if necessary. Ensure storage containers or leaf debris never block vents.

How to Deal with Ice Dams that Form on Your Home

Getting rid of ice dams after they establish can be tricky business. Working in cold weather with ladders, rakes, de-icers, or heat cabling can be dangerous. If possible, hire a company that specializes in ice dam removal. Call a professional remediation service to deal with any water leak damage, and provide ways to stop future ice dams from forming before they ruin your holiday season.

Need assistance with water damage? Contact GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration.

Tips for Preventing Winter Water Damage

If sudden snow or freezing temperatures catch you off guard, you can end up with a lot of costly water damage in your home. If temperatures drop too low, your pipes can freeze and burst, leading to leaks where you can't always see them right away. Melting snowfall can also wreak havoc the exterior and interior of your home, particularly when it seeps in through your roof.

To prevent costly repairs from winter water damage, check out our tips below!

Keep Your Pipes Insulated

Protecting your pipes should be your first course of action when it comes to preventing water damage. You can find insulation explicitly made for pipes at relatively low costs in just about any hardware store.

You can keep inaccessible pipes warm by setting your home's thermostat to 55 degrees Fahrenheit and leaving your kitchen and bathroom cupboards open. This allows the warm air from your home to warm pipes that you can't physically reach.

Clear Out the Gutters

Clogged gutters are one of the most common causes of water damage during winter. They tend to become clogged during the fall, but many homeowners don't realize this until it's too late. Before your gutters end up destroying your home, make sure to check and clean them routinely. Remove any rocks, leaves, nests, and debris that have accumulated to prevent them from clogging and overflowing.

Invest in Coverage

When we talk about investing in coverage, we’re not talking about your homeowners insurance. There are other forms of coverage that can keep your house safe such as sewage-backup coverage. The storm drains might become overwhelmed due to all the water coming from the rain and snow.

This can actually cause sewage and water to flood your home. If you can catch it before it does anything harmful, then you won’t have to worry about much. But if things take a turn for the worst, the insurance can help pay for any damages.

Regardless of the season, no homeowner wants to deal with water damage. However, if you suspect that water damage has taken place in your home, don’t wait to take care of the problem! The first step toward fixing it is getting the damaged area inspected by a professional.

For quality water damage inspections, contact GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration.