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Staying Prepared for Any Storm | SERVPRO of Levittown, Bethpage

2/20/2024 (Permalink)

Storm damage roof Has a disastrous storm hit your home? At SERVPRO of Levittown, Bethpage, we're Here to Help®. Call us today!

Do you love or hate storms? For some, hearing the sounds of rolling thunder and rhythmic rain can be very relaxing, but relaxed or not, storms are something we should always be prepared for. 

When you stay prepared ahead of severe weather, you can lower the possibility of enduring major losses. You will also know how to take quick action in order to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. 

Stay prepared so that you can get back to enjoying the sound of thunder—from your safe space, of course. 

Prepare for Safety

Safety should always be your top priority when it comes to weathering any kind of storm. You and anyone else in your household will need to know how to quickly respond when things outside are getting intense. 

Make a plan with your loved ones so that everyone will know what to do with little direction. Practice going to your safe space, somewhere low in your home with as few windows as possible. 

Assign family members to help young ones or grab pets as they go. Create an emergency supply kit, and store it somewhere near your safe space. Check it periodically to make sure there are enough supplies and everything is in-date. 

Always have two ways to receive weather alerts as well. One of those should be something that does not require external power, like a battery-operated weather radio. That can ensure that you always know what is going on even if the power has been out for a while. 

Prepare to Prevent Damage

Just as keeping your family ready to respond when the weather gets wild is crucial, so, too, is preparing your home. With some regular maintenance, you can mitigate potential damage even when severe weather rolls in unexpectedly. 

Keep your yard well cared for, including picking up loose limbs and other debris that could become projectiles during a high-wind event. Large trees should be trimmed regularly, especially if they are leaning toward your home or other structures. 

Secure any outside furniture that can be quickly moved into an interior space, and make a plan for anything that can. Don’t forget to grab the trash can! 

Make sure your gutters and downspouts stay clear, and always repair roof or siding damage as soon as possible. If you see any puddling of water in your yard when it rains, add more sloping or absorbent materials to keep things flowing well. 

We may not be able to stop the storms from coming, but we can take steps to stay safe when they do. Prepare your family and prepare your home so you can ride out anything that comes your way. 

Do you have storm damage to your home? Call us to get things restored quickly. 

What the Polar Vortex Means for Your Pipes

1/15/2024 (Permalink)

Water on the floor of a tiled kitchen 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 Levittown and Bethpage 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 Levittown and Bethpage, and we'll make it "Like It Never Even Happened!"

Bracing for Coastal Flooding: Preparation Tips and Early Warning Signs from SERVPRO of Levittown & Bethpage

1/9/2024 (Permalink)

Water on the floor of a tiled kitchen The Aftermath of Water Inundation

The National Weather Service has recently declared a Coastal Flood Warning for Long Island. Members of Long Island communities could experience road closures, tidal surges, inland flooding, and more. To help our valued communities stay safe and protected during the duration of this Coastal Flood Warning, SERVPRO of Levittown and Bethpage has compiled a comprehensive guide on how to prepare for coastal flooding, including early warning signs and preparation tips.

Early Warning Signs

  • Monitor Weather Updates: Stay informed about weather conditions through reliable sources. Pay attention to warnings and advisories issued by local authorities.
  • Tidal Predictions: Keep an eye on tidal predictions, especially during high tide cycles. The National Weather Service provides vital information on expected inundation levels, along with local news sources.
  • Wind and Wave Conditions: Large breaking waves of 15 to 20 feet along the oceanfront, along with west-to-southwest gale winds, can contribute to coastal flooding. Regularly check wind and wave forecasts for your area.

Preparation Tips

  1. Evacuation Plan: Develop a clear evacuation plan, including the nearest shelters and evacuation routes. Familiarize yourself with community evacuation procedures, and communicate the plan with your family.
  2. Secure Valuables: Move valuable belongings to higher ground, especially in basements and low-lying areas. Consider using waterproof containers for essential documents, ensuring they remain protected in the event of flooding.
  3. Emergency Kit: Assemble a comprehensive emergency kit with essential supplies. Include non-perishable food, an ample supply of water, medications, a flashlight, extra batteries, and a well-stocked first aid kit.
  4. Property Protection: Take proactive measures to safeguard your property. Install flood barriers or sandbags around your premises, particularly if you reside in vulnerable areas. Elevate electrical appliances and furniture to minimize potential damage.
  5. Vehicle Safety: Be cautious about where you park your vehicles. Avoid low-lying or vulnerable areas near the waterfront, and move your vehicles to higher ground to prevent flood damage.
  6. Communication Plan: Establish a communication plan with family members and neighbors. Ensure everyone is aware of emergency contact information, evacuation plans, and meeting points.
  7. Stay Informed: Stay up-to-date on the latest developments by continuously monitoring weather updates through official channels. Be prepared to adapt your plans based on the evolving situation and any additional advisories.
  8. Clearing Drainage: Ensure that drains and gutters around your property are clear of debris. This helps prevent water buildup and facilitates proper drainage during heavy rainfall, reducing the risk of localized flooding.

SERVPRO of of Levittown and Bethpage's Water and Storm Damage Restoration Expertise

In the aftermath of coastal flooding, SERVPRO of of Levittown and Bethpage stands ready to provide swift and efficient water and storm damage restoration services. Our highly skilled restoration team is equipped to handle the aftermath of flooding, offering comprehensive solutions to mitigate damages, restore affected areas, and make it "Like It Never Even Happened". SERVPRO of of Levittown and Bethpage brings trusted expertise to Long Island, aiding residents in the restoration process and offering peace of mind during challenging times.

Conclusion

While the Coastal Flood Warning remains active, it is important that Long Island Residents such as yourself stay safe and prepared. Implementing preparation tips such as creating a clear evacuation plan, securing valuables, and maintaining a comprehensive emergency kit demonstrates proactive readiness and helps avoid disaster. Property protection measures, thoughtful parking choices, and clearing drainage contribute to minimizing potential damage. Clear communication with family and neighbors, coupled with continuous monitoring of weather updates, enhances community resilience.

Should you incur any water and storm damage during the Coastal Flood Warning, feel free to contact SERVPRO of of Levittown and Bethpage, and we'll make it "Like It Never Even Happened!"

What to Expect When You Need to Rebuild | SERVPRO of Levittown, Bethpage

11/20/2023 (Permalink)

Kitchen demolished down to the studs prior to remodeling Are you needing to have your home rebuilt after a disaster hit? Call SERVPRO of Levittown, Bethpage today. We'll take care of it.

None of us like to imagine losing our home, or even part of our home. However, with natural disasters consistently on the rise in both numbers and strength, this is a very real possibility that any of us could face. 

There is a lot you can do to prepare your home and your family for disasters, both natural and manmade. Preparations go a long way in keeping your loved ones safe and mitigating total damage, but sometimes even the most prepared home could be left damaged enough that remodeling or construction will be required to get everything back to normal. 

Make sure you know what to expect when you need to rebuild. 

After a Disaster

The most important thing to do after a disaster of any kind strikes is to remain as calm as possible. Safety should be your priority, regardless of what has happened. If you cannot safely get around your home or you left and cannot safely get back in, wait until the authorities have arrived to help. 

Call your loved ones and check on your neighbors, and make sure you call SERVPRO®.  If you can safely move around, take some photos of the damage. The more you are able to document what has happened, the easier your process will be. 

Once our team arrives at your property, we will begin securing your home from the elements and drying out any water that has entered. We work directly with your insurance company and any other contractors your restoration will require, so with one call to our team, you have started your whole recovery. 

When You Need to Rebuild

Once our professionals have done everything they can to secure your home, they will complete a full assessment. During the assessment, it may be discovered that your damages are extensive enough to require rebuilding or remodeling. 

Depending on how your home was damaged, it may not be revealed that construction will be required until well into renovations. Either way, we will make sure to walk you through exactly what to expect. 

Our SERVPRO is locally owned and operated, which means we have a good understanding of what permits and regulations are. While we begin to secure the necessary paperwork, it may be ideal for you and your family to find an alternate place to stay. We will make sure you have a flexible timeline to work with so you always have an idea of when you can get back home. 

Along with ensuring we are meeting required codes, we will follow your guidelines for putting everything back together exactly as you want it. It is always our goal to preserve as much of your belongings as possible. Whatever can safely be restored will so that your home feels as close to normal as possible. 

Dealing with an extreme loss, regardless of the cause, is a traumatic event to live through. With SERVPRO, you get a local crew that understands the importance of getting things back to normal as fast as possible—and we will do everything we can so you are back home before you know it. 

Has your home been damaged beyond repairs? Contact us to get things taken care of fast. 

Heavy rain created flooding in basements

10/6/2023 (Permalink)

Team Luzzi working around the clock Man near equipment

Our Crew Chief Bill representing his Breast Cancer Awareness shirt, and showing off our equipment picked up from one house after the flood damage last weekend in a customers basement.#teamluzzi #flooddamage #breastcancerawareness #SERVPRO

TEAM LUZZI Helping Local Church Ministry

9/5/2023 (Permalink)

Charity Loading the car up with the donations.

Our Team worked hard collecting donations for our local church pantry, which was in desperate need. Avery is on his way to deliver the donations to the ministry.
Our community means a lot to us. We are there to always lend a hand.
#teamluzzi #donate #localchurch #community #foodpantry

Flooded storage facility over the weekend

7/11/2023 (Permalink)

Team Luzzi arrived at a water loss over the weekend at a local storage facility. Crews dried up water and set up equipment quickly, making sure facility operations were not impacted.

SERVPRO Summer 2023 Tips & Tricks for Mold

7/6/2023 (Permalink)

If your house is feeling extra sticky this time of year, it can be a breeding ground for harmful microbial growth. Use these tips to help prevent growth in your home.

  1. Manage Indoor Temps-Mold thrives at temperatures of about 77 F, use Ac to keep your house cool. 
  2. Keep Moisture Out-Ensure doors and windows are sealed, especially when it rains. Use bathroom fans and avoid large spills or standing water. 
  3. Dehumidifiers are key-Use a dehumidifier in places that are prone to being humid, like your basement. 
  4. Monitor Humidity Levels-Use a hygrometer to measure the relative humidity to ensure your home's humidity level is below 50%

Stay cool, folks! For questions about mold, give us a call.