Recent Storm Damage Posts

East Lyme Storm Damage Relief

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

mud and sludge on deck after flooding Contaminated sludge and mud is best lest to SERVPRO for safe removal. We make your flooded home in East Lyme appear "Like it never even happened."

No Stone Left Unturned After an East Lyme Storm Surge

The areas along the east Coast of Connecticut are no strangers to storm fronts coming through across the North Atlantic Ocean. Surges can morph into destructive and potentially dangerous flooding, calling for professional restoration intervention to return your home to pre-damage condition. SERVPRO® was recently onsite at an East Lyme property, taking care of every facet of storm surge cleanup for a residence.

At this house along the coast hit by storm surge damage in East Lyme, the storm front brought the ocean to the property’s door. Our SERVPRO of New London technicians arrived on the scene to assess all the damage, considering all the sand left behind around the exterior of the home.

  • Using power wash equipment and industry-proven cleanup measures, our skilled team efficiently blasted away all the sand from the stone patio to leave it looking as before the storm rolled through.

Contact SERVPRO of New London at (860) 443-2222 or request help online for all your storm surge cleanup needs. We are the restoration team you need for all storm, water, fire, and mold-related emergencies, making it “Like it never even happened.”

New London Storms Often Necessitate Water Damage Repair Work

2/3/2023 (Permalink)

Water Caused Mold In Wall For any type of water damage in your property you can count on SERVPRO to help.

SERVPRO Does Water Damage Repair in New London 

Whenever storm waters flood New London homes, they are fouled by harmful, odor-causing microbes. These troublesome bacteria and fungi usually cause persistent, unpleasant smells throughout your residence, mold, mildew growths, and even structural deterioration. Together, such threats could ultimately reduce your home’s overall livability.

Fortunately, SERVPRO knows all about flood-borne microorganisms and is equipped to eradicate them and mask any flood-related odors during water damage repair on your New London home. As a top biohazard cleaning company, our firm performs everything from basic water removal services and water damage repairs to major basement flooding recovery, sewage cleanup, and restoration projects. Some of the resources our skilled technicians use in these efforts are:

  • Powered or manual sprayers that directly apply powerful disinfectants to floodwater-impacted, colorfast surfaces
  • Ultra-low volume foggers that deodorize even the most difficult-to-access areas by dispensing water and solvent-based deodorants in tiny particles
  • High-velocity box fans to fully ventilate interiors before and after deodorization
  • State-of-the-art air scrubbers cleanse the air by filtering out foul smells, chemicals, and airborne particles.

A few of the chemical agents we employ to eliminate microbes and undesirable odors include:

  • SERVPROxide is an agent that kills bacteria on all types of surfaces, eliminates fungal growth, and prevents mold and mildew from growing up to four weeks.
  • Sporicidin (#154) is an all-purpose antimicrobial and odor-neutralizer that has low toxicity and can keep flood-related smells away for up to six months
  • Vanquish (#175) is a powerful, EPA-registered disinfectant and deodorant that kills a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses
  • Wall and All Surface Cleaner (#351), a detergent-based cleaner that is safe for all washable, painted surfaces


With all of this in mind, the next time you need water damage repair work done, contact your helpful neighbors at SERVPRO of New London. Call us anytime at (860) 443-2222 for fast assistance.

Contact Professionals to Take Care of Storm Flood Damage in New London

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

Chair Float In House Flood Flood damage? SERVPRO is prepared with restoration equipment and experienced technicians.

Storm Flood Damage in New London Requires SERVPRO’s Help

Few things can match the damage that comes after a flood. When your house is affected by a flood, taking quick action to contact professional flood damage restorers is vital if you want to save it from more damage and make sure it is safe for you to live in it again.

If your New London home has storm flood damage, SERVPRO is the solution to your problems. We are a team of highly-trained professional restorers armed with advanced technology to deal with any situation in your house. Some of the ways how flooding can affect your home are:

  • It can cause emotional hardship in dealing with situations that might come from anxiety, grief, anger, fear, sadness, and frustration.
  • Damage to your property, of which 99% results from water damage, can happen to your equipment, belongings, vehicle, and other possessions.
  • An economic downturn might happen if your insurance policy does not cover damage due to flooding.

SERVPRO has self-priming trash pumps that help us extract all the standing water and slurry in your house so that we can begin the process of drying and restoration. This helps prevent the damage from spreading over your home to unaffected areas.

To dry all materials to normal conditions, our SERVPRO team can use a range of air movers to blow in blasts of warm air into the affected area to evaporate the water still embedded in the structures of your building and the materials affected. Our main goal here is to get them back to normal levels.

 To ensure no moisture remains in the areas hidden from the site, SERVPRO has structural cavity drying equipment that allows our restorers to direct airflow into wall cavities. The equipment replaces moist, cool air with drier, warmer air, which increases the temperature of the surfaces, lowers the vapor pressure, and increases the evaporation rate. 

To prevent your house from losing its value after flood damage, contact SERVPRO of New London at (860) 443-2222 for fast and efficient restoration services. We can make the storm flood damage seem “Like it never even happened.”

Replacing Materials in West Mystic Homes After Flood Damage

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

Man in yellow boots standing in flood Flood damage restoration for your Mystic home should be handled by SERVPRO. Our technicians have the training and experience needed for every phase.

Does Flood Damage Require Reconstruction?

Flooding is a devastating threat to area homes. From infiltrating water in the basement to severe storms that allow flooding from the roof, there are many ways that your property could be impacted. Our fast response helps evaluate the need for reconstruction and repairs after flood infiltration.

Assessing the Threat and Reach of Flooding

Flood damage in West Mystic homes can spread rapidly and impact dozens, or even hundreds, of surfaces. It is up to our responding SERVPRO team to evaluate the risk of exposure and catalog loss. When contamination is a concern, directly impacted materials must be considered for removal and replacement.

Controlled Damage Where Necessary

Flooring, wall systems, ceiling assemblies, and other materials exposed to potential contaminants of intruding floodwater should be removed. This is especially true for those porous by composition, so they absorb the water rapidly like drywall and carpeting.

Salvageability of Non-Porous Materials

Non-porous materials can be cleaned, even when exposed to potential contaminants from groundwater infiltration. Our inventory has multiple disinfectants, sanitizing compounds, and agents to overcome bacterial pathogens and other threats. Cleanable surfaces can be plentiful, but common home construction materials include:

  • Tile
  • Concrete
  • Ceramic
  • Glass

Full-Service Professionals to Help

In addition to our experience and training with the repairs and reconstruction needed in your home, we have the same professionals ready and able to get mitigation and restoration started as necessary. We work fast to secure the structure and provide needed cleaning and disinfection processes.

Flooding in your home can directly impact and ruin building materials and contents. Swift action is critical to prevent more of your home from suffering the same fate. As leading restoration professionals, we are ready 24/7 to help when disasters strike. Give our SERVPRO of New London team a call as soon as possible at (860) 443-2222.

How to Resolve Roof Damage After Storms in New London

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

storm damaged home Storm and flood damage services by SERVPRO are second to none. Call now for fast and immediate service for your home.

Roof vulnerabilities can result in flood damage and continued degradation of New London properties.

From harsh winds and torrential rainfall to significant weather events during the winter months, there are several threats a property might experience that could compromise or cripple exterior defenses like the roof. We have fast repair and flood cleanup solutions to help.

Temporary Construction Solutions

Flood damage in New London homes entering the attic space requires certain types of reconstruction and repair services to resolve. First, vulnerabilities where water can penetrate, must be fixed and sealed using temporary construction solutions like board-up and tarping. Our contractor license gives us the expertise to evaluate the condition of properties and where this type of repair and emergency services might be needed.

Clearing Water Damage from Attics

Standing water in the attic or excess moisture can be destructive to the property in several ways. Damp materials can sag and collapse in the living space beneath the attic while standing water or humid conditions can facilitate mold growth if water damage is not quickly resolved. The water removal services and drying needed to help after penetration requires a combination of extractors and evaporative drying equipment like:

  • High-pressure pumps
  • Wet vacuums
  • Axial air movers
  • Desiccant dehumidifiers

Repairing the Roof When the Storm Passes

With the damage mostly resolved inside the house, we can turn attention to the repairs and reconstruction needs of the property. Our SERVPRO team can resolve threats to roof building materials impacted by severe weather events. We have a contractor license that allows us to complete build-back services where needed, including the full reconstruction of collapsed roofs.

Choosing SERVPRO of New London for post-storm cleanup and recovery means having a team equipped for restoration and reconstruction often needed after flood damages. When your roof suffers vulnerabilities that allow for water penetration, our fast mitigation actions can help. Call today at (860) 443-2222.

The Likelihood of Flooding in New London

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

Call now! Flood damage restoration is no DIY project. SERVPRO crews have the manpower and equipment for every phase needed for your home.

Understanding the damage flooding can cause New London homes shows how restorers are needed.

While the efforts of city officials and area experts to revamp and redesign the storm sewer system and outflow concerns for the municipality have helped with the frequent flooding of areas like Broad Street, New London is still affected by surges and flash flooding that requires the experience and fast response of SERVPRO professionals to restore.

Are Certain Areas More Prone to Flooding?

Flood damage in New London used to be a much more widespread and threatening aspect during severe weather events, though the impact of storms as recent as Tropical Storm Henri saw a much smaller section of the city impacted by surging waters and rising water bodies. Lower-lying areas of New London County typically experience the worst potential flooding.

What Portions of a Home Are Likely to Be Affected?

Basements are among the most heavily impacted and destroyed by intruding floodwater. As fiercely as this flooding can apply hydrostatic pressure against foundational walls, immediate repairs and mitigation are beneficial. Other areas also commonly impacted by severe weather include:

  • Attic
  • Crawlspace
  • Garage

How Can SERVPRO Help?

Over the years, many in New London County have come to depend on the fast response of our SERVPRO team when disasters strike. We have been there for the past emergencies and continue to be a trusted name for mitigation, cleaning, and restoration after flooding. Our professionals stay ready 24/7 to help with industry-leading extraction and drying tools.

Understanding how likely flooding is to the area and what portions of your home are likely to experience violent battering from water is important in doing the utmost to protect the property. Our SERVPRO of New London team is quick to help with powerful mitigative solutions when you call (860) 443-2222.  

When You Need Assistance with Storm Flood Damage, Call SERVPRO to Your West Mystic Home

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

a fallen over tree on top of a house After a recent storm caused damage to your home, contact SERVPRO to prevent any additional flood damage being caused to your property. Call 24/7.

SERVPRO is Available for Flood Damage Restoration After a West Mystic Storm, 24/7!

Stormy weather can lead to various damage for homes in West Mystic, including damaged windows and doors, roof damage, and basement flooding. With heavy rain, your ground level or basement could also take on a lot of contaminated debris in the floodwater. Rather than chancing exposure to contamination and toxic elements, SERVPRO is available for flood cleanup and restoration you can trust. Additionally, we ensure all surfaces get sanitized to keep mold, mildew, and musty odors from developing.

When you require assistance, our SERVPRO crew is ready 24/7 for flood damage restoration in West Mystic. We respond within hours of your call and offer tarping and board-up services for your roof and windows, as well as any punctures caused by flying debris penetration. Our Green Fleet also comes equipped with water extraction tools and dehumidifiers to help remove water and restore relative humidity (RH).

For the contents and furnishings in your home, it is essential to remember:

  • Non-porous contents can undergo cleaning and sanitizing.
  • Some items may be cleaned and removed with our pack-out services to store them off-site until the restoration gets completed.
  • Porous materials that have taken on contaminated wastewater get carefully assessed to determine salvageability.
  • Controlled demolition might be necessary for flooring or interior walls that have absorbed water.

Our job is never complete until we are confident no moisture gets left behind. We utilize moisture meters, moisture sensors, thermal imaging cameras, and thermo-hygrometers to locate and eliminate hidden moisture pockets. Before we sign off on the project, all surfaces get thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and deodorized to make your interior “Like it never even happened.”

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster at SERVPRO of New London, so call us first when you are dealing with flood damage after recent storms. Contact us by calling (860) 443-2222, and we will send a team out as soon as possible.

Don’t Let Frozen Pipes and Ice Damming Damage Put a Damper on Your New London Holiday Season

12/5/2021 (Permalink)

a frozen copper pipe with icicles on one side and water leaking from the other Contact SERVPRO when facing frozen pipes or water damming. Our certified SERVPRO technicians will take care of the problem and help you.

Remaining Proactive About Ice Damming and Frozen Pipes Keep Damage at Bay – But, SERVPRO Can Help When Emergencies Happen!

Nor’easters, ice storms, high winds, and dropping temperatures are all elements of mother nature we are familiar with in the Northeast. Rather than waiting until there is an issue with ice dams or frozen pipes when you are mid-storm in the winter, there are several steps you can take to remain proactive. SERVPRO wants all New London area residents and business owners to know that we are available 24/7 as your light during the storm should you have a restoration emergency!

Preventative Maintenance Works

Damage from ice dams and frozen pipes is never what New London property owners want to deal with. Water expands when it freezes, so it can put a great deal of pressure on whatever contains it, including your water lines, gutter system, and more. Protect your pipes from freezing by:

  • Adding insulation to your crawlspace, basement, or attic. The boost in insulation maintains higher temperatures in these zones.
  • Check areas of the home with little or no heat to ensure both hot and cold water lines are insulated – this includes the basement, garage, and under your kitchen and bathroom cabinets.
  • Look into specific products for insulating pipes, such as UL-listed heat tape, heat cables, pipe sleeves, and even newspaper to provide protection when winter storms arrive.

If you notice icicles or gutter damage developing around the outside of your home, know that ice dams could become an issue. Should the water become trapped, it can lead to hidden water damage or mold growth. SERVPRO can come to your property to locate problem areas, implement moisture detection, cavity drying, and mold remediation.  

Winter storms do not have to bring ice damming and frozen/burst pipe damage. However, SERVPRO of New London is the team to call should you require restoration and cleanup! Contact us 24/7 by calling (860) 443-2222 or requesting help online so we can send out our crew as soon as possible.

How Can SERVPRO Help New London Homeowners After Flood Damage?

10/24/2021 (Permalink)

Rain pouring on a man in the kitchen in from hole in roof Storm damage restoration is no easy task. Call the professionals of SERVPRO for fast and immediate service.

Fast and Reliable Flood Damage Restoration Makes SERVPRO the First Choice of New London Property Owners

It can be overwhelming to tackle the aftermath of flood damage to your New London Home. Not only are you concerned regarding the safety of your loved ones, but you are also worried about the damage caused to your property. Professional restorers from SERVPRO can help you restore your property and minimize the damage after a flooding incident.  

The goal of SERVPRO techs during the restoration of flood damage to your New London home is to remove the water and dry the structure as soon as possible. Restorers control airflow, humidity, and temperature to create ideal drying conditions. We use several pieces of equipment such as dehumidifiers and air movers to control these factors. However, in some cases, the efficiency can be increased if drying zones are established. 

How Setting up of Drying Zones Help in Water Damage Restoration of Your New London Home? 

Drying zones are created in your flood-damaged New London home during restoration to increase the efficiency of the drying process. Such zones also prevent the contaminants from migrating from the affected area to the rest of the structure. SERVPRO techs often use plastic barriers to seal off the drying zone from the rest of the building. 

Establishing drying zones during water damage restoration serves two purposes-

  • Allows the restorers to focus the dry air on wet structures and materials. If the air in the drying zone is not diluted with moist air coming from the rest of the building, restorers can significantly increase the drying rate.
  • It also allows location for the contents to dry. SERVPRO techs place water-damaged contents in drying zones to speed their drying as well. 

Call SERVPRO of New London at (860) 443-2222; we can answer your questions 24/7. 

Addressing Moisture and Odors in New London After Storm Flood Damage

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

Boots in flood water Storms can bring flooding and water damage. The professionals at SERVPRO are always on call to handle your water damage restoration needs.

New London Homeowners Look to SERVPRO for Prompt Flood Damage Restoration and Cleaning

You may not think that your New London home is in danger of flooding after a storm. However, even homes not within a flood zone could take on basement flooding or other issues after a heavy storm front comes through. Even if you prepare for a potential flood, there are many moving parts that only skilled water restoration technicians (WRT) should handle. SERVPRO is available 24/7 to act as your ally for all water damage repairs, including a leaking roof from storms and more.

When it comes to moisture mitigation and assistance with flood damage in New London after a storm, nobody beats the services SERVPRO offers. We feature IICRC-certified technicians ready to deal with water extraction, drying, and odor control. 

Why Is Odor Control Important After Flooding?

Not only can standing moisture lead to mildew and mold growth, but musty odors also become an issue. Our technicians use HEPA-filter vacuums and EPA-registered antimicrobials and biocides that assist with our odor control efforts. We also have a variety of equipment and deodorization units made for handling floodwater malodors throughout your property. With the help of ultra-low volume foggers (ULV), we can work to tackle stubborn flood-related odors:

  • Foggers for dispersing microscopic deodorant particles generated from solvent or water-based agents
  • Once dispersed, these deodorant particles bond with odorous particulates on surfaces

In any flood restoration situation, our SERVPRO technicians create containment barriers to keep contamination from moving into areas of your home not impacted by floodwater. We also take care to protect furniture with drop cloths during the fogging process.

Storms are unpredictable, but the flood damage assistance that SERVPRO of New London offers is tried and true. Call us whenever you need us at (860) 443-2222. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

How Can Ice Dams Damage Your Home?

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

The above demonstrates how ice dams form and how they allow water into your home.

Ice dams form when the warmth of your roof causes snow to melt, refreeze, and forms a large block of ice at the edge of your roof. This cycle continues until the ice dam melts away in warmer weather - but we wouldn’t recommend waiting for that. Ice dams can cause major damage to your home when they aren’t prevented or removed. 

How Ice Dams Cause Damage To Your Home

  • Roof Damage - The weight of a mass of ice on your roof can be enough to cause it to slag or slope over time. This may be especially true if your home experiences ice dams every winter
  • Roof Leaks - As snow melts, it makes its way between the shingles of your roof and then refreezes and expands. This causes the shingles to lift and loosen. This exposes the roof felt of your home and allows water to freely flow into the interior of the roof and into the attic. 
  • Ceiling Water Damage - As roof leaks become worse over time from your ice dams, water will eventually make its way through the floor of your attic and through the ceiling of your living space. This may be gradual, with you only noticing when the water leak has begun to produce water stains or spots on ceilings. 
  • Bubbling or Peeling Paint - Water seeping down through the walls from the attic can cause paint to bubble or peel. This is usually a major indication of a water leak somewhere in your home. 
  • Buckling Ceilings or Floors - As water penetrates your home, it may compromise its structural integrity. When moisture reaches the subfloors in your home, it causes them to buckle, sag, or sink as the water causes the building materials to soften. 
  • Warped Walls - When drywall or sheetrock absorbs moisture from a water leak, walls may begin to visible bend or buckle. When pressing on the affected walls, they may feel soft, spongey, or bendy. 
  • Mold Growth - Excessive moisture creates the perfect breeding ground for mold in your home. Constant or unaddressed leaks from ice dams provide the environment mold needs to grow. 

How Do You Get Rid of Ice Dams?

There are many DIY recommendations for removing ice dams across the web - but we wouldn’t recommend most of them. Many of these tactics can damage your roof even further or are not safe to do yourself (such as getting up on an icy roof and picking the ice off). So what should you do?

Look for a professional for proper ice dam removal.

When you use a company that specializes in removing ice dams, you can expect them to get the job done without doing any damage to your roof or even getting on it. Most of these companies use steam machines that are high temperature and low pressure to melt ice off your roof without impact. This will help save your shingles and ensure no roof leaks. 

What Happens If Your Neighbor’s Tree Falls On Your House?

9/30/2020 (Permalink)

Fallen trees can cause a headache - from figuring out who's responsible for the damages to repairing your home.

If you’re ever in the unfortunate situation of having your neighbor’s tree fall on your house, you may not be sure who is responsible to cover the damages. Who files an insurance claim? Who would pay? Here, we will run through the different scenarios of what happens if a tree falls on your house or your neighbor’s.

Who Covers the Damages From A Fallen Tree?

Scenario 1: Neighbor's tree (or your own) falls on your house

When a tree falls on your home, regardless of where it came from, you are responsible for filing an insurance claim or paying for any tree removal. The only thing that matters when dealing with the damage from a fallen tree is where it fell and why. 

Scenario 2: Your tree falls on your neighbor's house

If a tree on your property falls on to your neighbors home, you can consider yourself 'lucky' because it will be up to your neighbor's homeowner insurance to cover the damages, just as if their tree came down on to your home. 

Scenario 3: A neighbor's tree damages your house, but you suspect it was because it was old, damaged, or weak.

In these cases, insurance does not want to cover any damages or tree removal because there was a form of negligence or a maintenance related issue. If you feel like your neighbor has a tree that could damage your home, take steps to try and get them to remove the tree and document it. Then, if the dying tree does fall on your home, you can try and argue to have it covered by insurance due to your neighbors negligence.

Fallen trees are commonly only covered when caused by a 'named peril', such as high winds, lightning, vandalism, or a car crash.

Common Questions:

What if the tree doesn't damage your home?

According to Allstate, if a tree falls on your house and causes no damages, insurance will not cover the cost of removing the tree (and in these cases it may not be worth it to file the claim anyways depending on your deductible).

What does tree removal cost without insurance?

The cost of tree removal is on average $500-$1,200, making it less than many homeowner's deductibles. If the tree that fell (and didn't damage your home) was your neighbors, you can always try and seek reimbursement afterwards, though this may put a strain your neighborly relationship.

How much do fallen tree insurance claims usually cost?

According to Consumer Reports, the average amount paid by insurance companies for fallen tree claims was $4,110, and was only 7 percent of all settled claims.

What if a neighbor's tree just falls in my yard, not even on my house?

As mentioned earlier, when a tree falls and causes no damages it will not be covered by your homeowner's policy. You will be responsible for all debris cleanup and removal yourself.

Need Help With Fallen Tree Damage & Cleanup? Call SERVPRO - 860-443-2222

Winter Storm Readiness in New London

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

Stay safe and prepared in New London this winter from storm damage.

Winter storms can cause just as much damage to your home as a summer storm. Snow storms can bring freezing temperatures, feet of snow and ice, and high winds. Power can go out and roads may become hazardous. Preparing for a storm is the best way to keep your family and home safe!

Winter Storm Preparations

  • Weatherproof / Winterize your home.
    • Add extra insulation in your attic, insulate doors & windows, and insulate any water lines along exterior walls so they are less likely to freeze. 
    • This also helps prevent ice dams!
  • Keep as much heat as possible in your home during a storm.
    • Avoid unnecessary opening of doors or windows, close off unneeded rooms, and close curtains on windows at night.
    • You don't want your pipes to freeze and burst!
  • Organize a back-up heating source if the power goes out.
    • Gas or log fireplaces, portable heaters.
  • Make sure you have flashlights and batteries handy. You never know when the power may go out - and flashlights are safer than candles!
  • Leave all water taps slightly on so they drip continuously.
    • This helps prevent frozen pipes or burst pipes.

Call SERVPRO of New London if your home sustains any storm damage this winter. We are available 24/7 for emergency services, and work with your insurance company!

800-734-3213

Source: prep4agthreats.org

A Mellow Hurricane Season in New London

10/16/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane season began on June 1st, but luckily for the New London community, we’ve barely seen any signs of storms so far this year. Last year’s storm season was much more active than normal but it looks like this year we’ve had the opposite experience. Weather experts note that the storms are lessened this year due to the impact of El Nino. El Nino creates higher than normal winds in the Atlantic which helps to reduce storm development over the ocean waters.

If storm season does pick up, know that SERVPRO of New London is here for the New London community. We mitigate damages and restore commercial and residential properties from storm related events. If you need restoration after a storm, give SERVPRO of New London a call.

Storm Damage? Get a free estimate

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Free Damage inspection, a detailed damage report.

When it comes to storm damage, there are several types of damage for each area of your home. It is recommended that you act quickly and have a SERVPRO New London experienced Storm Damage Specialist begin remediation services immediately. SERVPRO of New London will perform a full home damage inspection to include moisture readings onsite. Many times, a homeowner is not aware of the affected areas, especially roof damage.

You will learn a great deal about your home's condition, repair options, and even how we work with your insurance company to provide the highest quality of repairs by professional contractors and installers.

Contact SERVPRO of  New London today to schedule and learn more about our Professional Storm Damage Cleaning, Drying and Remodeling!

Remembering Hurricane Sandy in New London, CT

10/13/2019 (Permalink)

Osprey Beach Bathhouse Remains in New London, CT

Though it seems like just yesterday, the 7th anniversary of Hurricane Sandy falls at the end of this October. Like our team at SERVPRO of New London, many New London residents clearly remember the catastrophic effects of the storm on the coastline.

At Osprey Beach, a bathhouse was swept away by high storm winds. Debris and trees were scattered about the New London shoreline. Mott Avenue was completely covered in a layer of mud. These were just a few examples of the havoc that Hurricane Sandy wreaked on the New London coast.

So far, we’ve had a mellow hurricane season for 2019. Though we’ve had no major storms this year, as we remember Hurricane Sandy, we also think of the possibility of another catastrophic storm hitting. Remember, if a hurricane hits, SERVPRO of New London will be standing by for the community, ready to help out.

Source: https://patch.com/connecticut/newlondon/hurricane-sandy-leaves-new-london-shore-pummeled

Climate Change in New London, CT

10/12/2019 (Permalink)

The impacts of climate change in Connecticut

We all hear about climate change on the news and think it’s a distant fear – unfortunately, this is wrong. Climate change is happening now, and it’s happening here in New London, CT.

Connecticut is warming. Water temperatures and the overall climate of the Long Island Sound have been recorded warmer and warmer with each year. According to NBC CT, “research is showing that water temperatures closest to the northeast coast are warming faster than 99 percent of global oceans.” This is no small deal.  

Warming water and climate bring an increased risk of storms and flooding. NBC CT notes that by 2050, floods that happen “once in a lifetime” will be happening 4 times more frequently.

At SERVPRO of New London, we urge you to be conscious of your environmental footprint. While we may be here to clean up after storm disasters, we hate to see the damage occur. Take care of our New London community, there are a number of very simple things you can do to help reduce your footprint.

  • Walk or bike rather than drive
  • Take shorter showers
  • Stop using single-use plastics (bags, straws, plastic-ware)
  • Eat less meat
  • Help out – pick up some litter

SERVPRO of New London will be there for you when a flood or storm hits, but let’s try and put an end to needless climate disasters – reduce your environmental footprint today!

Source: https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/An-Introduction-to-Climate-Change-in-Connecticut-509546581.html

Storm Damage - What to Do New London

9/30/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home. Heavy rains can cause flooding, powerful winds can cause roof damage, and there are a number of other damages that can occur on your property. Having a strategy to deal with damage will help you to be ready immediately after the storm.

Take Safety Precautions

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

Photograph the Damage

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

Contact Your Insurance Company

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

Look Into Federal Disaster Assistance

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

When a storm-related disaster strikes, it may seem overwhelming, but these steps can help you to begin the process of restoring your home, and your life, back to normal. Call SERVPRO of New London to help you get back on your feet.

A Year After the Connecticut Tornadoes - New London

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Photo from Cathy Finlayson, a Marketing Rep at SERVPRO of New London

On May 15th, 2018 Connecticut residents experienced some of the worst weather since 1989.

As many as 4 tornadoes touched down, winds picked up to 110 miles per hour at their peak, and hail the size of tennis balls rained down throughout New Haven county.


For Connecticut residents, this was an unusual and catastrophic event.

Trees fell, homes flooded, and wind and hail did major structural damage. Luckily, SERVPRO was there to help make it "Like it never even happened."

We helped countless Connecticut residents recover from the damage that ensued following these storms - including pulling trees out of houses!

You can’t predict the weather and you surely can't predict when a tornado will strike in Connecticut but what you can do when disaster strikes - CALL SERVPRO.

Give us a call and we’ll make your emergency "Like it never even happened."

What Should I Do After My House Is Damaged by a Storm? 

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

What Should I Do After My House Is Damaged by a Storm? 

The damage a storm causes to a home can leave your life suddenly upended. In the first days after a storm, you might be overwhelmed with the damage, with everything you have to do and with concerns about getting your life back together. But careful planning can help you return to normalcy as quickly as possible.

Safety First

Whether your house flooded, sustained wind damage or was struck by lightning, the aftermath of a storm can pose serious dangers. Live power lines, mold and open areas of your house can all put you at risk. It's wise to leave your house until you're able to evaluate the damage. Consider going to an emergency shelter, staying with friends and family or staying at a hotel until you're able to get an inspector to your home. Take a few day's worth of clothing and supplies if possible, but prioritize safety above collecting your possessions. Your insurance company might provide someone to inspect your home for safety hazards, or you may need to hire someone, but in either case, you should have your home checked for hazards before you return.

SERVPRO of New London CT responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your Old Saybrook home or business back to pre-storm condition.

Have Storm Damage in New London, CT? Contact us today. 800-734-3213

Storm Damage Repair in New London CT

5/17/2018 (Permalink)

Storm Damage Repair in New London CT

There are a number of things that you can do to make sure you and your property stay safe during storms. Remember, for storm emergency assistance from the SES call 132 500. For life-threatening emergencies call triple-zero (000).

What to do before the storm

Ensure you do the following before a severe storm arrives:

  • Check that loose items such as outdoor settings, umbrellas and trampolines are safely secured.
  • If it is safe to do so, check gutters, downpipes and drains are not blocked.
  • Park your car undercover and away from trees.

What to do during the storm

Ensure you do the following during a severe storm:

  • Stay indoors and away from windows.
  • If outdoors, shelter away from drains, gutters, creeks and waterways.
  • Be prepared for power outages.
  • Floodwater is dangerous – never drive, walk or ride through floodwater.
  • Floodwater is toxic – never play or swim in floodwater.

What to do after the storm

Ensure you do the following after a severe storm:

  • Check your home and property for damage.
  • Keep clear of damaged buildings, powerlines and trees.
  • Be aware of road hazards such as floodwater, debris and damaged roads or bridges.
  • Do not drive through affected areas unless it is necessary.

Looking for Storm Damage Repair in New London? Contact SERVPRO of new London today.

What Does Hail Damage to Your Roof Look Like?

5/14/2018 (Permalink)

What Does Hail Damage to Your Roof Look Like?

What Does Hail Damage to Your Roof Look Like?

Shingles can react differently when struck by hail. As an example, hail damage to asphalt and composition shingles can look very different than hail damage to wood shingles. It is important to know the different effects of the damage to properly identify whether or not you have roof damage from hail.

Asphalt and Composition Shingles Hail Damage

  • Random damage with no discernable pattern.
  • Hail hits that are black in color.
  • Loss of granules, which may expose the roof felt.
  • Asphalt and/or mat that appears shiny.
  • Hail hits that are soft to the touch, like the bruise on an apple.

Wood Shingles Hail Damage

  • Random damage with no discernable pattern.
  • A split in the shingle that is brown/orange in color.
  • A split in the shingle that has sharp corners and edges.
  • A split in the shingle that has little to no deterioration at the edges.
  • Impact marks or dents along the splits.

There are many other types of damage to shingles that can be mistaken for hail damage. For example, exposure to inclement weather and sunlight makes shingles brittle and gives them an aged appearance. This type of damage is normal wear and tear of shingles, which is sometimes misidentified as hail damage. Other types of normal wear and tear may include blistering, cracking, granule loss, flaking and algae. Manufacturing defects and mechanical imperfections in shingles can also be mistaken for hail damage.

If you believe your home has sustained damage from hail, call your agent or insurance representative to discuss possible next steps.

What is Storm Surge?

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

What is Storm Surge?

Along the coast, storm surge is often the greatest threat to life and property from a tropical or extratropical storm. (A tropical storm forms over warm waters and is driven by heat transfer from the higher temperatures of the ocean to the lower temperatures at higher altitudes. Extratropical storms result from the temperature contrast between warm and cold air masses as they move against each other horizontally. Tropical storms can become extratropical if they lose tropical characteristics.)

Floods are frequent, costly, and deadly hazards for coastal communities. To prevent disaster, avoid the water and waves; when local authorities instruct you to evacuate, do it quickly!

Storm surge is an abnormal rise in water level, over and above the regular astronomical tide, caused by forces generated from a severe storm's wind, waves, and low atmospheric pressure. Storm surges are extremely dangerous, because they are capable of flooding large coastal areas.

Depth of a Storm Surge

In order to clearly describe flood impacts, storm surge inundation is described in terms of height above ground level. National Weather Service (NWS) storm surge forecasts and statements reference storm surge in this way. This means when NWS forecasts storm surge of 20 feet above ground level for a particular area, 20 feet of water will cover that area. The depth of the flooding above ground level will gradually decrease as it moves further inland. However, some coastal regions have vast areas of low-lying land, so know your local conditions and how far inland local authorities consider vulnerable. Pay attention to evacuation warnings to avoid severe damage.

Need Storm or Flood Cleanup Services?
Call Us Today

Source :

http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/

Hurricane Risks

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

Hurricane Risks

Hurricanes are the most dramatic weather events that strike U.S. coastal states. The primary sources of damage during a hurricane are high winds, flying debris, flooding and downed power lines. Cars, buildings, businesses and homes can all sustain serious damage by hurricanes.

The best measure to reduce the annual cost associated with the damage and devastation caused by hurricanes is to be prepared. There are many construction measures that can be taken to reduce the effects of hurricanes, such as storm shutters covering exposed glass and hurricane roof straps. Also, taking measures to be prepared for severe flooding can help to reduce the damage and costs associated with hurricane damage.

Typical hurricane seasons in the U.S. begin June 1st and end on November 30th. High risk areas include the Atlantic and Eastern Pacific coasts – this also includes Gulf States

SERVPRO of New London is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a flooding or storm emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the New London community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be. 

What to do in a storm ?

6/5/2017 (Permalink)

What to do in a storm ?

Storms, a natural phenomenon caused by violent atmospheric disturbances occurring over land and water, represent a major potential threat to the entire population of the earth because of their prevalence, the size of areas devastated and the scale of the resulting damage.
 

- Keep calm and avoid panic.
- Assist neighbours and persons in difficulty, such as the wounded, children, handicapped and the elderly.
- Assemble everyone in the emergency shelter specially equipped for this situation, and keep a supply of drinking water.
- Listen to the radio but do not use the telephone without good reason, as this overloads the system.
- Do not leave the building, keep away from windows and display cases. Do not use a vehicle without permission from the rescue squads.
- Follow the instructions given by the authorities and by the intervening bodies, especially as regards the evacuation of people and livestock. If it is necessary to evacuate, cut off the gas, water and electricity supplies.
- Lock the door.
- If caught by the storm whilst outside or in a vehicle, leave the vehicle and seek refuge in the nearest building. If this is not possible, lie down in a ground hollow, a cave, or behind a solid mass of rock and protect your head from objects blown away by the wind. Cling onto the ground.
- During a thunderstorm protect yourself from lightning by keeping away from metal objects, switching off the electricity supply, telephone and television. Avoid standing up in an elevated area or sheltering under a tree. Stay in your car.

Do You Have Flood or Storm Damage?
Call Us Today (203) 625-1363

Source : http://www.icdo.org

What to do after a storm?

6/5/2017 (Permalink)

What to do after a storm?

- Keep calm and do not panic.
- Stay at home or inside the building in which you have sheltered. Do not use vehicles because of traffic problems and danger from damaged buildings and roads.
- Listen to the radio and follow the authorities' instructions. Only use the telephone in an emergency.
- Check to see if there are people nearby which are wounded or in difficulty and assist them.
- Do not go near, touch or use damaged electrical installations, cables and wires and alert the
relevant authorities to the damage. The same applies to ruptured water or gas mains,
sewers, hydrocarbon pipelines and reservoirs holding chemical substances.
- Drink water only after having boiled it or used chlorine tablets to purify it.
In case of long electricity cuts regularly check the contents of refrigerating units and dispose of ruined foodstuffs.
- Collaborate, if required, with the rescue and assistance services and help with vital priority repairs and rehabilitation work.

Do You Have Flood or Storm Damage?
Call Us Today (203) 625-1363

Source : http://www.icdo.org

Storm Damage in New London, CT

5/25/2017 (Permalink)

Storm Damage in New London, CT

Storm Damage in New London, CT

Storms and inclement weather can bring wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding that can devastate any business in a matter of minutes. There’s never a convenient time for flooding or water damage to strike, and storms don’t just strike during regular business hours; that’s why SERVPRO of New London, CT offers 24 hour emergency service 365 days per year because we know that every hour you spend cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned to handle any size disaster.

Also, the SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether you're dealing with a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood. The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you. Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, SERVPRO professionals are prepared for the unpredictable.

At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and highly trained crews. Get the professionals, call SERVPRO of New London, CT.

Storm or Flood Damage? Call us today!