Overcoming Flood Damage in Brookline Properties

5/18/2023 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline rapid response team is available 24/7!

Flood Cleanup Services Start with Effective Mitigation

This Norfolk County community has been home to families for generations, dating back to its first recorded settlement in 1638. As part of the Greater Boston area, Brookline has connections to the historical significance of the metropolitan area through events like The American Revolution. Brookline is most known for being the birthplace of John F. Kennedy and even has a location for those to visit that has been protected as an entry with the National Register of Historic Places. Similarly, the community is home to other culturally and historically significant locations like the two stops of the Underground Railroad at 9 Toxteth Street and 182 Walnut Street.

When disasters strike, flood damage to Brookline properties can be substantial. This water surge can be irreparably destructive to cultural centers throughout the municipality, like the Larz Anderson Auto Museum, the Longyear Museum, or the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum. However, even shops and storefronts benefit from the swift response of SERVPRO professionals after these emergencies, such as the dozens of boutiques and retail locations within The Shops of Putterham or The Shops of Chestnut Hill.

Removing Water After Flooding

Flood damage can be devastating, especially when its presence can impact hundreds. Locations like the Pine Manor College or the Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology house thousands of students throughout a semester, so it is essential for responding professionals to address standing water and contaminant concerns fast with our tools like:

• Vacuums
• Weighted Extractors
• Dehumidifiers
• Pumps
• Air Movers

Flooding is more common than many homeowners and property managers might think. When severe weather events occur, lower-lying portions of Brookline become susceptible to the rising water of creeks and streams to impact structures. Contact SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline for fast mitigation and restoration solutions at (617) 903-5055.

Needed Water Damage Repair for Flooded Brookline Attics 

4/3/2023 (Permalink)

Storm damage repair in Brookline--SERVPRO can do it! "Like it never even happened."

Storms Can Require Water Damage Repair

Storms are a likely scenario for Brookline homes and businesses. While buildings get constructed to withstand the severe weather the area experiences, sometimes damages place your attic at risk of flood damage and structural weakening. Our fast response can put experienced SERVPRO professionals at your doorstep to begin the property assessment and the earliest mitigation solutions.

Board Up Services 

One of the first steps of water damage repair for your Brookline attic is sealing vulnerabilities the storm created. We are experts with board-up and tarping services, preventing further water from getting into the attic and protecting the structural assembly of the roof from continued exposure to moisture. Sealing and tarping can also allow drying and restoration to begin despite the repairs not being fully complete. 

Securing the Structural Integrity 

We assess the condition of the attic and its structural integrity. Board-up services and tarping might keep the water out, but a roof that could collapse after substantial storm damage needs more than a tarp to cover penetration points. We install structural supports and shoring to stabilize the work area until full repairs get completed.

Repairing the Roof 

The needed roof repairs will vary based on the storm's impact. High winds can remove shingles or drop trees on the roof, making larger repair areas. The roof components must be evaluated individually for their salvageability and need for replacement. This structural assembly can get divided into three main categories:

• Trusses
• Underlayment Materials
• Building Envelope

After a storm, your home can benefit from several water damage repairs. We prioritize securing and stabilizing threatened spaces in the house, like the attic, to keep further water and flood damage from destroying more. When a storm damages your home, SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline can help when you call (617) 903-5055.

Restoring Flood Damage in Brookline Basements

11/2/2022 (Permalink)

Don’t let your property be a victim of flood damage, SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline is only a call away.

Brookline Flood Damage Cleanup Services

Storms can cause many problems for your home, from damaging the shingles on the roof to removing siding. One of the greatest threats to homes is flood losses, where penetrating water makes its way into areas like the basement of your house. 

Where Did Floodwater Enter Your Home?

Flood damage for Brookline properties, especially in the basement, must be carefully evaluated and inspected. Knowing where the water entered this lower level of your household can show where actions will be needed to repair the foundation or seal up vulnerabilities. 

Effective Floodwater Extraction

Standing water is one of the greatest obstacles in professional cleaning and restoration of these disasters. Because of the potential for debris and solids in the water, not all of the extraction tools in our inventory are capable of helping the situation. Larger discharge options like the trash pumps and truck-mount extractors provide consistent pull of standing water without being significantly slowed by floating debris concerns.

Starting Muck-Out Cleaning

Cleaning after a flood is a much-needed action for our team to take. Natural flooding introduces contaminants and debris into the structure, which can become plastered to vertical surfaces, float in standing water, or cake to the flooring as water recedes. Muck-out cleaning involves shovels, wet vacuums, and other tools from our inventory to collect and safely dispose of:

• Organic Matter
• Debris
• Bugs
• Solids
• Contaminants

Complete Drying Solutions

Drying involves numerous strategies. The full scope is to remove water damage from building materials, surfaces, and the environment. Achieving this is a product of combining tools like air movers and dehumidifiers to promote efficient evaporation solutions. Air movers are placed at a 45-degree angle to offer continuous moisture removal across a broad surface area.

Flood damage can be a compromising situation for your home. You must work on overcoming these conditions as soon as possible, and our SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline team is ready to respond with storm damage relief and cleanup. Call us at (617) 903-5055.

The Demolition Necessary after Flood Damage in Allston Homes

7/10/2022 (Permalink)

If flood damage occurs in your home, you need to bring in the professionals. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for professional advice and remediation services.

SERVPRO Controls Flood Restoration Demolition in Allston

With the widespread damage that flooding unleashes in Allston homes, you may have no choice but to demolish your home to pave the way for full restoration. Demolition does not necessarily mean taking a wrecking ball and flattening the structure. In most flood damage cases, demolition is a surgical process that removes only the unsalvageable materials and leaves the structure standing.

Depending on the level of flood damage experienced in Allston properties, demolition can be limited or a “full gut.” Substantial evaluation is necessary to determine the required type of action. Otherwise, you might leave some damaged materials or waste money tearing down salvageable ones. Our SERVPRO crew chiefs can evaluate your property and rely on their skills or special equipment to determine what goes and what should stay.

Critical considerations for demolition

• Moisture absorption level
• Physical deterioration extent
• Contamination

Demolition skills

Whatever the reason for demolition, including facilitating material disposal, the right skills are necessary when doing it to achieve positive outcomes. Appropriate skills can be the ability to remove materials without damaging the surroundings or utilities. It can also mean creating manageable debris. These might sound like simple goals, but in a flooded property, slick floors, weak ceilings that can collapse anytime, and other challenges make it harder to carry out simple tasks. Our SERVPRO teams are well prepared with PPE such as rubber boots, heavy-duty gloves, and hard hats for safety when handling materials. We also have other useful resources like large trash cans for holding the debris removed from the structure.

Typical controlled demolition tasks 

• Disassembling countertops
• Making wall flood cuts
• Drilling ceiling weep-holes

Controlled demolition is a planned process that starts with removing materials attached to walls such as cabinets before removing wall panels. In the next stage, we remove ceiling fixtures and then the boards. Any demolition involving the floor is done last.

SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline takes the necessary action to address flood damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (617) 903-5055.

Storm Flood Damage Cleanup in Brookline Requires Professional Help

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline at (617) 903-5055 for fast and efficient service.

SERVPRO Performs Storm Flood Damage Cleanup in Brookline

Few things can make property owners feel as helpless as the feeling induced by flood damage after a storm has hit. Storm flood damage can leave debris like broken tree branches, leaves, silt, and mud. 

Taking swift action and hiring professionals is the only way to minimize the damage and ensure that the house gets back to its former condition. SERVPRO can perform storm flood damage cleanup in your Brookline residence efficiently and cost-effectively. 

Floodwater causes blackwater damage because the water is highly unsanitary; contaminated by harmful chemicals, sewage, or other agents. It is more challenging to clean up a flood-damaged home than to remediate different types of water damage. We make sure that microbes do not get the chance to grow and multiply because this can lower your house's structural and aesthetic appeal. Our flood cleanup process involves several steps, including:

• Assessment
• Water removal
• Cleaning and sanitizing
• Drying 
• Deodorization
• Reconstruction

The flood cleanup process requires treatment with the most excellent care. Our SERVPRO technicians have undergone rigorous training. We can use moisture meters to determine the extent of water penetration in flooring, ceilings, walls, and carpets. 

We can use self-priming trash pumps to remove the water. These pumps enable restorers to access the pump body if it gets clogged. Our team can check walls and floors below the damaged area and crawl spaces for stagnant water and pump it out as necessary. 

Mold can grow in open and hidden places after flood damage and ruin affected building materials. Our SERVPRO team can locate the colonies and remove them safely using special chemicals to kill the mold and its spores or remove the moldy materials.

The flood cleanup process also involves deodorizing the building to eliminate unpleasant odors. Our SERVPRO technicians can use ultra-low volume (ULV) foggers to dispense solvent-based and water-based deodorants into your home. The foggers generate small deodorants or particles, which penetrate most areas containing odor particles. 

Letting flood water remain in your Brookline house can cause the damage to worsen. Contact SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline at (617) 903-5055 for effective restoration. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Allston Storms Can Bring Various Flood Damage Hazards

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

We're Faster To Any Size Disaster. Call SERVPRO to rescue your flood damaged Allston home

SERVPRO Acts Fast to Help with Flood Damage for Allston Residents

Allston residents could be subjected to storms that bring on flooding and water damage regardless of the season. If you have flood water coming into your property, you must be cautious when navigating any standing water. Not only that but having a skilled team of water restoration technicians (WRT) available to handle extractions and cleanup will get you the best results. SERVPRO is available around the clock for rapid flood water removal services and storm cleanup – We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

When it comes to all flood damage in Allston, there is a genuine concern about contamination. SERVPRO handles safety concerns from contamination within saturated materials to possible structural damage. Our team also takes added precautions to ensure contaminants do not turn into an issue throughout areas unaffected by the floodwater.

It is important to note that protection is vital for storm flooding anywhere in your home. Exposure to floodwater could mean possible chemicals, feces, vermin, etc. Should you have any contact with water entering your home, you can:

• Wash hands/body parts with clean water and soap as soon as possible. If clean water is not available, hand sanitizer or alcohol wipes make suitable substitutes.
• Clean any clothing containing flood water or sewage using hot water and detergent before wearing it again.
• Any wounds that possibly come into contact with floodwater should get looked at and cleaned/appropriately dressed.

SERVPRO enters all flooded properties with the utmost caution while wearing personal protective equipment (PPE). We set up containment barriers, place drying equipment, and utilize pumps and truck-mounted extractors to pull up all standing water. Flood situations also call for water pre-treatment with antimicrobials before water removal services begin.

Flood damage gets handled quickly and effectively by our team at SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline. Contact our team at (617) 903-5055 if you require assistance.

The 4 Things That Often Cause Flooding | SERVPRO® of Allston, Brighton & Brookline

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline has the team to help you recover from any disastrous event.

Natural disasters of any type can be devastating. Whether you are dealing with tornadoes, hurricanes, severe thunderstorms or something else, they can all be quite dangerous. However, most people are surprised to learn that flooding is the most common and the most deadly type of natural disaster within the United States.

There can be a lot of variation in the damage that flooding causes, but the types of flooding and the things that make it occur are often the same—and that is what we will be examining today.

What SERVPRO Means by “Full Service” | SERVPRO® of Allston, Brighton & Brookline

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline to get the job done.

If you drive by a neighbor’s home and see carpets on the side of the house along with a green SERVPRO truck sitting in the driveway, it’s safe to assume that they had some kind of disaster happen to them.

We are well-known as being a cleaning company, but what we want people to understand is that we are actually a full-service company! So if you need cleaning, restoration or even reconstruction, you can rest assured that we will see you through all of it.

Let’s take a deeper look into what SERVPRO provides for home and business owners:

Water damage recovery. If you suffer from some type of water damage, you can bet that we will be there to help in no time. Water damage requires a quick cleanup, and we are available ²⁴⁄₇ so that we can provide that for you.

Fire damage recovery. There is a fire reported every 23 seconds here in the United States. As we’ve seen for ourselves, fires can do a lot of damage to a home or business, but that’s why we know to bring in big help!

Mold removal. Mold damage can creep up on you in no time, and sometimes without you even noticing! It can threaten the structure of your home, and it spreads quickly. That’s why you should leave that cleanup to the professionals.

Storm recovery. Whether you’ve been hit by a tornado or high winds, the damage weather can do to a home or business can be quite catastrophic! We are here and ready to help restore or even reconstruct your home or business following storm damage.

Commercial needs. While we are best known for residential services, we provide the same services (plus a few more) to business owners, too. We work to give your business a shiny look so that your customers and employees see that you care about them.

General cleaning. Sometimes, life can be hectic, and general cleaning can be difficult to keep up with. That’s why we provide these services, along with carpet, curtain and upholstery cleaning.

Specialty cleaning. Businesses sometimes need specialized services for things like biohazard cleanup or document restoration. No matter what it is, we know that if it can get dirty, we can get it clean.

Construction. There are times that a home or business is past the restoration process, and the only option left is reconstruction. And while we understand that is stressful, we will provide you with services to help you get through it, and make your home or business look just as good as before.

Add 24-hour service and an easy insurance process to all this, and the picture becomes clear—when you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO to get the job done.

Ice Storms - Be Prepared

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Make sure you are surveying your property year room for potential damages. As always call us when you need us!

Blizzards and freezing rain are a pain not only for commuting but also for your property. Winter storms and freezing rain can cause ice dams here in Boston, MA and surrounding areas of New England.

Water dams can trap water and freeze pipes. The frozen water causes expansion which is common to burst or leak once the ice melts causing damage throughout your home or business. You should also be aware that mold can grow after frozen water is melted and mixed with humidity.

Mold is a living organism that spread pores throughout the area causing more damage. Mold can cause health effects. The best thing you can do for your home or business is to constantly monitor your property before and after a storm. If you discover damage you need to act fast to prevent further damage. Having emergency contacts (ie. roofer, emergency clean up, GE) is recommended so you can get the issue resolved as soon as possible.  

Check out our emergency ready plan if you are looking for a place to store emergency information (click here)

Give SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline if you experience water damage after a storm 617-903-5055

Be Aware of Storms | SERVPRO® of Allston, Brighton & Brookline

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline is on the line, ready to make things right

Stay Alert

Storms may be more common in summer but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take them less seriously. Storm alerts are issued for a reason so take notice.

Consider canceling or postponing outdoor events if bad weather is in the forecast.

Local meteorologists try to provide the most accurate forecasts possible. Get yourself an NOAA Weather radio if you think a power outage could happen.

Plan to stay home and off the roads if storms are in the forecast.

Consider tree maintenance to remove dead or low hanging limbs that could be susceptible to strong winds. Also, store outdoor lawn furniture in a secure location.

Unfortunately, with all of these precautions, people still die each year from storm-related weather. Don’t take storms for granted.

If lightning accompanies the rain, stay indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last thunder you hear. Lightning can strike 10 miles away from the storm.

Stay away from windows, and don’t shower or bathe during a thunderstorm. Consider unplugging sensitive electronics.

Make sure you have an emergency kit prepared, and know the evacuation route for your area.

If flooding materializes, stay on high ground and avoid flood water if possible.

Don’t attempt to drive or walk through moving water, as it can easily knock a person off their feet. Flood waters can also conceal hidden road damage, and that could be catastrophic for you and people in your car.

There are any number of dangers that can come into play in a thunderstorm, and it’s always best to be cautious and put things on hold until storms safely pass. If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO is on the line, ready to make things right again.

We Help With Storm Damage

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

We are always here when you need us 24/7 365

Severe weather is a powerful thing, and it can cause significant damage to homes, property and businesses. In recent years, the cost of treating storm damage has continued to rise nationwide, but not treating it can lead to much larger problems with your structures later on.

Choosing the right restoration company is one of the most important things you can do if you have sustained storm damage. They will be responsible for taking care of your building and belongings, as well as making sure that every aspect of the damage is thoroughly handled.

Picking the right company for the job will provide you with great peace of mind and ensure that any damage is properly addressed.

Why We Have Become Leaders in Storm Restoration

Our reputation has been earned over time. We are proud to be not only a member of the local community but also to be considered a leader in the restoration industry as a whole. We have worked hard to earn our reputation, and we are proud of it. After disasters, there are many scams afoot that take advantage of those who are vulnerable, but when you trust us, you can be certain you are getting the best in the business.

Our resources allow us to take on more jobs. If there is a large area that is impacted by a storm, you do not want a company that is struggling to keep up with demand to be in charge of your restoration. Thanks to our national partners, we can handle disasters that are any size with the same service and expertise we always do. When there is a large storm, we can call for backup in the way of extra resources and workforce to handle the issues.

Our emergency response is truly ²⁴⁄₇. Severe weather never takes a day off, so we won’t either. You can call us 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to report your damage and receive exceptional service, so as soon as you discover you need us, we can be there. No matter what time you discover you have received damage, you can call us and be certain you will receive a rapid response from our expert technicians.

When you have damage from a storm to your home or commercial building, you can always depend on us to handle it. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.

Storms - Be prepared

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Storms can catch you off guard. Knowing what to do is important.

When the sky is clear and the weather is warm, it seems silly to think about thunderstorms ruining the fun—but unfortunately, this happens quite often on hot, humid days, as that creates the ideal condition for a sudden storm to form.

When storms catch people off-guard, they are often extra dangerous because people are not sure of what to do. With these tips, you can make sure you are prepared for a storm anywhere.

Make Sure You Are Prepared for a Storm Anywhere

Know your options for shelter. When you hear that a storm is a possibility and you are somewhere you can wait out the threat, this would be the ideal thing to do. That being said, when storms come up suddenly, this will not always be an option. You can set up shelter in your vehicle with the proper guidelines in mind, enabling you to wait out the storm anywhere you are.

Practice electrical safety. Claps of thunder are caused by lightning strikes, so any thunderstorm has the potential to cause lightning damage. If you are sheltering in a building, unplugging your electronics can help prevent damage from a power surge in case lightning strikes the building. Surge protectors are also a smart thing to invest in, both for your home and your office, in case you are not around when a storm starts.

Avoid direct contact with concrete. While concrete structures do have sturdiness going for them, they also pose risks when it comes to lightning strikes due to their metal framework. When lightning strikes a concrete building, the electricity can transfer from the metal and through the concrete, so be careful to not sit or lean against any concrete surfaces during a storm.

Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes. If you are interrupted by a thunderstorm, you will likely want to get back to your summer fun as soon as you can, but it is important to give yourself ample time in your shelter spot. Lightning can travel nearly 30 miles from the center of a storm cell, so experts recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before heading back outside.

If your home sustains damage due to a storm, you can count on us to help. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our storm restoration process.617-903-5055

A Look at the Types of Damage Associated With Thunderstorms | SERVPRO® of Allston, Brighton & Brookline

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can pop up at any moment. Contact SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline if you experience any damage.

Thunderstorms are quite a dangerous weather event, and though they occur frequently, it is important to not become immune to the threats that they pose. Every thunderstorm brings the potential for injury and damage along with it, and between hail, high winds, heavy rains and flooding potential, there are lots of issues that can be present each time a storm happens.

Every storm that contains thunder and lightning has the potential to be dangerous, as lightning strikes and heavy rain are major hazards. Additionally, a thunderstorm can become severe when winds over 58 miles per hour and hail over one inch are present, posing even more possible hazards to those in the path of the storm.

Various Ways That Thunderstorms Can Cause Damage

Damage and injury from lightning strikes. Every thunderstorm will also contain lightning, as thunder and lightning always go hand in hand. Lightning strikes are responsible for over 300 injuries each year, which does not include how often they cause structural fires or fell trees that cause additional damage.

Property damage due to hail. Though hail may seem like a minor occurrence compared to something like lightning, its damages can be quite far reaching. People without adequate shelter can receive injuries from hail, and it can also dent cars, cause damage to homes that lead to water entry and lead to leaking roofs. Large hail is extremely dangerous because of the sheer speed with which it can fall.

Harm from flash flooding. Though most people consider flooding something that is only likely to happen around bodies of water, with flash flooding, it can be a threat nearly anywhere. Flash flooding is often caused when rainfall is heavy and drainage systems or ditches get backed up, which can quickly lead to standing or flowing water. Flash floods are particularly dangerous because of their force, which can knock people over and carry cars away in its tide.

Thunderstorms are dangerous and can cause significant damage to homes or commercial spaces. If you have damage due to a thunderstorm, you can count on us to help. Contact us ²⁴⁄₇  617-903-5055 for more information about our storm restoration practices.

Weight of Snow Can Affect Your Roof

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Regular roof maintenance is important all year round especially during winter.

In New England we often experience snow storms in the winter. Heavy snow storms are not only an issue for the pavement and the public roadways. Snow can also affect your roof by adding more weight to your roof, which can over time weaken your roof.

After the snow storm passes the accumulation of the snow can also cause damage to your roof. This is because of the moisture penetration when the snow or ice begins to melt then gets frozen again. Depending on the type of roof you have, the moisture in the roof can expand and ultimately cause your roof to wear out more quickly. A damaged roof can affect your entire home!

It is important that before the cold weather arrives that you have an idea of the current condition of your roof. If you have an attic you should inspect it as often as possible especially after severe weather to ensure there are not any leaks or staining on the ceiling. This can be a telling sign that there is a roof issue that will need immediate attention.

At SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline we can help remove snow from your roof and repair walls and ceilings affected by water damage. Call us today for more information 617-903-5055!

Winter Weather - Be Advised

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Winters in Mass can cause damage to your property. Be one step ahead!

Blizzards and freezing rain are a pain not only for commuting but also for your property. Winter storms and freezing rain can cause ice dams here in Boston, MA and surrounding areas of New England.

Water dams can trap water and freeze pipes. The frozen water causes expansion which is common to burst or leak once the ice melts causing damage throughout your home or business. You should also be aware that mold can grow after frozen water is melted and mixed with humidity.

Mold is a living organism that spread pores throughout the area causing more damage. It is also known to affect your health. The best thing you can do for your home or business is to constantly monitor your property before and after a storm. If you discover damage you need to act fast to prevent further damage. Having emergency contacts (ie. roofer, emergency clean up, GE) is recommended so you can get the issue resolved as soon as possible.  

Check out our emergency ready plan if you are looking for a place to store emergency information (click here)

Give SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline if you experience water damage after a storm 617-903-5055

Why Our “Restore First” Mentality Is Best for Customers | SERVPRO® of Allston, Brighton & Brookline

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

Have you sustained property damage and feeling overwhelmed? We are here to help, contact SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline.

If your home sustains damage for any reason, it can be a frustrating and fraught time for your entire family. There are many emotions that people will cycle through after a fire or other disaster, and having to go through the process of handling the damage can further complicate the recovery process.

While there are always difficulties to consider throughout the recovery period, having a good restoration company on your side can truly make all the difference.

We will work with you and your insurance company to make the entire procedure as seamless as possible, and with our restoration-first mentality, we will do our best to preserve your belongings so you do not have to replace them.

How Our Restoration-First Mentality Helps Our Clients

We can help you save money on your insurance. Homeowners insurance is designed to help you cover the cost of losses in case of many types of damage, but filing a claim can also raise your premium tremendously. In the event of water damage, for example, the average claim is over $10,000. We can help lower the cost you have to claim with insurance by restoring objects where possible.

We can protect your sentimental items. We have invested in some of the most advanced restoration equipment available to us, which is what enables us to save items that may seem like a lost cause. In the past, we have been able to restore irreplaceable objects such as family photos, documents and art, as well as valuables such as electronics. Some things can’t be replicated, which is why we do our best to keep these sentimental objects intact.

We make sure your home feels like home again. As we have helped many people in the community with losses and damage, we understand all the complex emotions involved. To help make the return home easier, we focus primarily on restoring your house to its pre-damaged state and placing your belongings just how they were before the damage occurred. This will help your house feel like home again so your family can focus on healing.

If you have damages and are feeling overwhelmed, we are here to help. You can call us as soon as you need to in order to begin the restoration process. Contact us today 617-903-5055 to learn more.

What Sets Our Storm Restoration Methods Apart? | SERVPRO® of Allston, Brighton & Brookline

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Choosing the right restoration company is crucial to getting things back to normal. Call us today 617-903-5055

Severe weather is a powerful thing, and it can cause significant damage to homes, property and businesses. In recent years, the cost of treating storm damage has continued to rise nationwide, but not treating it can lead to much larger problems with your structures later on.

Choosing the right restoration company is one of the most important things you can do if you have sustained storm damage. They will be responsible for taking care of your building and belongings, as well as making sure that every aspect of the damage is thoroughly handled.

Picking the right company for the job will provide you with great peace of mind and ensure that any damage is properly addressed.

Why We Have Become Leaders in Storm Restoration

Our reputation has been earned over time. We are proud to be not only a member of the local community but also to be considered a leader in the restoration industry as a whole. We have worked hard to earn our reputation, and we are proud of it. After disasters, there are many scams afoot that take advantage of those who are vulnerable, but when you trust us, you can be certain you are getting the best in the business.

Our resources allow us to take on more jobs. If there is a large area that is impacted by a storm, you do not want a company that is struggling to keep up with demand to be in charge of your restoration. Thanks to our national partners, we can handle disasters that are any size with the same service and expertise we always do. When there is a large storm, we can call for backup in the way of extra resources and workforce to handle the issues.

Our emergency response is truly ²⁴⁄₇. Severe weather never takes a day off, so we won’t either. You can call us 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to report your damage and receive exceptional service, so as soon as you discover you need us, we can be there. No matter what time you discover you have received damage, you can call us and be certain you will receive a rapid response from our expert technicians.

When you have damage from a storm to your home or commercial building, you can always depend on us to handle it. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.

Heavy Rain & Back Ups

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

City Sewage System Diagram

The heavy rains that occurred in the Boston area caused not only flooding but also many sewage back- ups. The town & cities sewage system gets overwhelmed causing the sewage to flow into basements through toilets and sinks. When a storm drain suffers a partial or complete blockage, rain water gets trapped in the pipes and must go somewhere. Unfortunately, the only exit point is the pipe servicing your home that connects to the sewer line. With nowhere left to go it goes up through your pipe, pushing whatever refuse and filth it’s carrying into your basement and other areas of your home. Contact your local plumber to install a backwater valve to prevent this from happening to you! If your basement gets flooded or has sewage issues, please call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline (617) 903-5055 to assist you.

Did you know that SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline also helps Commercial and Industrial customers?

Water Damage - 24 Hour Emergency Service

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

We are always here to help!

SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

Call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline Today - (617) 903-5055

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

Your name and contact information

Your insurance information (if applicable)

The street address of the water-damaged home or business

When did the flooding or water damage occur?

What caused the water damage (if known)?

Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline

SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Know What to Do No Matter Where a Storm Catches You | SERVPRO® of Allston, Brighton & Brookline

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

Stay safe in the event of a storm

When the sky is clear and the weather is warm, it seems silly to think about thunderstorms ruining the fun—but unfortunately, this happens quite often on hot, humid days, as that creates the ideal condition for a sudden storm to form.

When storms catch people off-guard, they are often extra dangerous because people are not sure of what to do. With these tips, you can make sure you are prepared for a storm anywhere.

Make Sure You Are Prepared for a Storm Anywhere

Know your options for shelter. When you hear that a storm is a possibility and you are somewhere you can wait out the threat, this would be the ideal thing to do. That being said, when storms come up suddenly, this will not always be an option. You can set up shelter in your vehicle with the proper guidelines in mind, enabling you to wait out the storm anywhere you are.

Practice electrical safety. Claps of thunder are caused by lightning strikes, so any thunderstorm has the potential to cause lightning damage. If you are sheltering in a building, unplugging your electronics can help prevent damage from a power surge in case lightning strikes the building. Surge protectors are also a smart thing to invest in, both for your home and your office, in case you are not around when a storm starts.

Avoid direct contact with concrete. While concrete structures do have sturdiness going for them, they also pose risks when it comes to lightning strikes due to their metal framework. When lightning strikes a concrete building, the electricity can transfer from the metal and through the concrete, so be careful to not sit or lean against any concrete surfaces during a storm.

Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes. If you are interrupted by a thunderstorm, you will likely want to get back to your summer fun as soon as you can, but it is important to give yourself ample time in your shelter spot. Lightning can travel nearly 30 miles from the center of a storm cell, so experts recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before heading back outside.

If your home sustains damage due to a storm, you can count on us to help. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our storm restoration process.617-903-5055

Summer Time & Storms

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

Hurricanes in the Summer

If you are a Boston resident you may have been looking forward to the arrival of warm weather given some of the cold days we experienced this past winter. Long behold summer is finally here! It’s a great time to visit the beaches and the beautiful towns of Boston. Just keep in mind, the summer weather also brings an increase in thunderstorm activity.

July is typically one of the hottest months of the summer in Boston with temperatures averaging over 80 degrees.  We also see the most thunderstorms in July than any other month. According to weather experts there is a higher chance of a tropical storm coming within 100 miles of Boston during the month of July.

What does this means for you as a home or business owner? It means you need to ensure your home and/or business is properly protected to prevent damage due to storm. One of the most common losses caused by storm is water seeping into the property causing a flood and damaging personal belongings. In addition, if moister is left then coupled with warm temperature it creates a breeding ground for mold. Fire’s can also start as a result of a storm. In the summer months it’s common for lightning to strike and cause a fire. Prepare yourself and business for anything that can happen this summer – good and bad.

In June our office answered to multiple water damage calls after rain fall. So far we have had more than 3 major rain fall this summer – each resulting in a few claims that our office attended to in the Allston, Brighton & Brookline area. We were happy to be called but at least four of the losses could have been prevented had the business properly closed a window or checked if the sump pump was functioning properly. None the less, our team was available to help. We were able to address the cause of the damage, dry the area, then restore/replace the area “Like it never even happened.”

Summer time is for your enjoyment here at SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline we want to make sure you can get back to your summer time fun after a storm without a hitch. Call us in your time of need or if you want to be proactive and set up an Emergency Ready Profile call us today 617-903-5055.

Are you Prepared for a Natural Disaster?

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

Floods are more common than you may think

When natural disasters occur most times we have little time to prepare. A common natural disaster that not only affects coastal property is a flood. Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States.

A flood can be a result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, and overflows of dams and other water systems. They can develop slowly or quickly – Flash floods can come with no warning. When there is a flash flood there is typically no warning or very little time between when the warning is given and the onset of the flood. Floods have been known to cause electrical outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings, and create landslides.

It is very important if you have been warned of a potential flood that you do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. It is very easy to drown during a flood - Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. Be safe by evacuating if you are told to do so or moving to higher ground and/or level where possible. It is also recommended that you stay off of bridges over fast-moving water.

The best thing you can do is prepare yourself well in advance. Gather and store supplies in a safe place in case you have to leave immediately, or if services are cut off. Keep in mind each family members specific needs, including medication. Don’t forget the needs of pets either. Keep extra batteries and charging devices for phones and other critical equipment so they are functioning during the time of need.

Once the warning is over and the storm has passed assess any damages to your home or business. Your top priority is still safety! Call your insurance provider if there were any damages – for a flood it would typically be a specialized flood policy. Call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton, & Brookline for the remediation and reconstruction of your property – 617-903-5055.

Storm Causes Power Outage

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

Be prepared in the event of an outage

Storms can cause power outages that can span a couple of hours or even days. In addition, if multiple locations are affected the company may not be able to make it to your home due to being backed up. In the event your town or neighborhood is affected by a power outage here are a few tips to stay safe!

Before the storm:

• Purchase a flash light that runs on batteries
• have extra batteries available
• Invest in a generator if possible or rent one if you know a major storm is coming.
• Keep mobile phones and other electrical devices charged
• Keep your vehicle gas tank full just in case!
• Place a thermometer in your fridge and freezer so you can monitor the temperature during the storm
• Buy food supplies that do not require refrigeration
• Have a plan of where to go if the storm lasts more than 4 days. Community Centers are usually good places to go.

During the storm:

• Disconnect appliances, equipment or electronics
• Use a generator where possible to avoid the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning from running the oven for heat or electrical stove.
• Keep freezer and refrigerators closed. Food will stay cold for about 3 days.
• Stay connected with family or local news so you are up to date on the status of the storm. This will also let you know if evacuation is necessary.

After the storm if you notice damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline 617-903-5055 so we can help get you back to pre loss conditions.

Its Lightening Season

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Roaring Lightening in the night

Lightning is an electrical discharge caused by imbalances between storm clouds and the ground, or within the clouds themselves. Most lightning occurs within the clouds.

"Sheet lightning" describes a distant bolt that lights up an entire cloud base. Other visible bolts may appear as bead, ribbon, or rocket lightning. During a storm, colliding particles of rain, ice, or snow inside storm clouds increase the imbalance between storm clouds and the ground, and often negatively charge the lower reaches of storm clouds. Objects on the ground, like steeples, trees, and the Earth itself, become positively charged—creating an imbalance that nature seeks to remedy by passing current between the two charges.

Lightning is extremely hot—a flash can heat the air around it to temperatures five times hotter than the sun’s surface. This heat causes surrounding air to rapidly expand and vibrate, which creates the pealing thunder we hear a short time after seeing a lightning flash.

Types of Lightning

Cloud-to-ground lightning bolts are a common phenomenon—about 100 strike Earth’s surface every single second—yet their power is extraordinary. Each bolt can contain up to one billion volts of electricity.

A typical cloud-to-ground lightning bolt begins when a step-like series of negative charges, called a stepped leader, races downward from the bottom of a storm cloud toward the Earth along a channel at about 200,000 mph (300,000 kph). Each of these segments is about 150 feet (46 meters) long.

When the lowermost step comes within 150 feet (46 meters) of a positively charged object, it is met by a climbing surge of positive electricity, called a streamer, which can rise up through a building, a tree, or even a person.

When the two connect, electrical current flows as negative charges fly down the channel towards earth and a visible flash of lightning streaks upward at some 200,000,000 mph (300,000,000 kph), transferring electricity as lightning in the process.

Some types of lightning, including the most common types, never leave the clouds but travel between differently charged areas within or between clouds. Other rare forms can be sparked by extreme forest fires, volcanic eruptions, and snowstorms. Ball lightning, a small, charged sphere that floats, glows, and bounces along oblivious to the laws of gravity or physics, still puzzles scientists.

About one to 20 cloud-to-ground lightning bolts is "positive lightning," a type that originates in the positively charged tops of storm clouds. These strikes reverse the charge flow of typical lightning bolts and are far stronger and more destructive. Positive lightning can stretch across the sky and strike "out of the blue" more than 10 miles from the storm cloud where it was born.

 If you have had damage from a lightning strike, please call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline (617) 903-5055

Heavy Snow No Good For Your Roof

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

Snow accumulation on roof of Boston, Ma home

In New England we often experience snow storms in the winter. Heavy snow storms are not only an issue for the pavement and the public roadways. Snow can also affect your roof by adding more weight to your roof, which can over time weaken your roof. After the snow storm passes the accumulation of the snow can also cause damage to your roof. This is because of the moisture penetration when the snow or ice begins to melt then gets frozen again. Depending on the type of roof you have, the moisture in the roof can expand and ultimately cause your roof to wear out more quickly. A damaged roof can affect your entire home! It is important that before the cold weather arrives that you have an idea of the current condition of your roof. If you have an attic you should inspect it as often as possible especially after severe weather to ensure there are not any leaks or staining on the ceiling. This can be a telling sign that there is a roof issue that will need immediate attention. At SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline we can help remove snow from your roof and repair walls and ceilings affected by water damage. Call us today for more information 617-903-5055!

Blizzards and Freezing Rain

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

Active blizzard on Beacon Street, a well known street in Boston

Blizzards and freezing rain are a pain not only for commuting but also for your property. Winter storms and freezing rain can cause ice dams here in Boston, MA and surrounding areas of New England. Water dams can trap water and freeze pipes. The frozen water causes expansion which is common to burst or leak once the ice melts causing damage throughout your home or business. You should also be aware that mold can grow after frozen water is melted and mixed with humidity. Mold is a living organism that spread pores throughout the area causing more damage. It is also known to affect your health. The best thing you can do for your home or business is to constantly monitor your property before and after a storm. If you discover damage you need to act fast to prevent further damage. Having emergency contacts (ie. roofer, emergency clean up, GE) is recommended so you can get the issue resolved as soon as possible.  Check out our emergency ready plan if you are looking for a place to store emergency information (click here)

Give SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline if you experience water damage after a storm 617-903-5055

Power Outage Due to Storm

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

Know what to do in the event of a power outage.

Storms can cause power outages that can span a couple of hours or even days. In addition, if multiple locations are affected the company may not be able to make it to your home due to being backed up. In the event your town or neighborhood is affected by a power outage here are a few tips to stay safe!

Before the storm:

• Purchase a flash light that runs on batteries
• have extra batteries available
• Invest in a generator if possible or rent one if you know a major storm is coming.
• Keep mobile phones and other electrical devices charged
• Keep your vehicle gas tank full just in case!
• Place a thermometer in your fridge and freezer so you can monitor the temperature during the storm
• Buy food supplies that do not require refrigeration
• Have a plan of where to go if the storm lasts more than 4 days. Community Centers are usually good places to go.

During the storm:

• Disconnect appliances, equipment or electronics
• Use a generator where possible to avoid the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning from running the oven for heat or electrical stove.
• Keep freezer and refrigerators closed. Food will stay cold for about 3 days.
• Stay connected with family or local news so you are up to date on the status of the storm. This will also let you know if evacuation is necessary.

After the storm if you notice damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline 617-903-5055 so we can help get you back to pre loss conditions.

Flooding is more common than you think

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

A flood can be a result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, and overflows of dams and other water systems.

When natural disasters occur most times we have little time to prepare. A common natural disaster that not only affects coastal property is a flood. Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States.

A flood can be a result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, and overflows of dams and other water systems. They can develop slowly or quickly – Flash floods can come with no warning. When there is a flash flood there is typically no warning or very little time between when the warning is given and the onset of the flood. Floods have been known to cause electrical outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings, and create landslides.

It is very important if you have been warned of a potential flood that you do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. It is very easy to drown during a flood - Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. Be safe by evacuating if you are told to do so or moving to higher ground and/or level where possible. It is also recommended that you stay off of bridges over fast-moving water.

The best thing you can do is prepare yourself well in advance. Gather and store supplies in a safe place in case you have to leave immediately, or if services are cut off. Keep in mind each family members specific needs, including medication. Don’t forget the needs of pets either. Keep extra batteries and charging devices for phones and other critical equipment so they are functioning during the time of need.

Once the warning is over and the storm has passed assess any damages to your home or business. Your top priority is still safety! Call your insurance provider if there were any damages – for a flood it would typically be a specialized flood policy. Call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton, & Brookline for the remediation and reconstruction of your property – 617-903-5055.

Storms in the Summer Time

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

July 5th, 2019 thunder storm depiction in Boston, MA.

If you are a Boston resident you may have been looking forward to the arrival of warm weather given some of the cold days we experienced this past winter. Long behold summer is finally here! It’s a great time to visit the beaches and the beautiful towns of Boston. Just keep in mind, the summer weather also brings an increase in thunderstorm activity.

July is typically one of the hottest months of the summer in Boston with temperatures averaging over 80 degrees.  We also see the most thunderstorms in July than any other month. According to weather experts there is a higher chance of a tropical storm coming within 100 miles of Boston during the month of July.

What does this means for you as a home or business owner? It means you need to ensure your home and/or business is properly protected to prevent damage due to storm. One of the most common losses caused by storm is water seeping into the property causing a flood and damaging personal belongings. In addition, if moister is left then coupled with warm temperature it creates a breeding ground for mold. Fire’s can also start as a result of a storm. In the summer months it’s common for lightning to strike and cause a fire. Prepare yourself and business for anything that can happen this summer – good and bad.

In June our office answered to multiple water damage calls after rain fall. So far we have had more than 3 major rain fall this summer – each resulting in a few claims that our office attended to in the Allston, Brighton & Brookline area. We were happy to be called but at least four of the losses could have been prevented had the business properly closed a window or checked if the sump pump was functioning properly. None the less, our team was available to help. We were able to address the cause of the damage, dry the area, then restore/replace the area “Like it never even happened.”

Summer time is for your enjoyment here at SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline we want to make sure you can get back to your summer time fun after a storm without a hitch. Call us in your time of need or if you want to be proactive and set up an Emergency Ready Profile call us today 617-903-5055.

#SERVPRO #Allston #Brighton #Brookline #summertime #rain #fire #waterdamage #remediation #reconstruction

Lightning Causes Fires Too!

7/5/2019 (Permalink)

Lightning bolt hitting home https://county17.com/2018/06/26/lightning-strike-to-blame-for-small-house-fire/

Lightning peaks during the summer months around June – August here in Massachusetts. Lightning – related fires typically happen during the late afternoon and evening.

A simple Google search returns numerous counts of lightning fires that have occurred in our state in the recent years. One of the highest profiles was in 2018 where a 150 year old church in Wakefield, Ma went up n flames after being struck by lightning.

Lightening is normally accompanied by a storm which turns the day into darkness and at times is followed by rumbles in the air. To some it’s a scary experience. What is most important and the purpose of this post is that you know what to do in the event you find yourself near or in a property that is in flames due to being struck by lightning.

How do you know if your home was struck by lightning – one insurance company states: Expect to hear an explosive sound so loud and powerful that everything inside your house shakes.

Because lightning storms are so common, many newly constructed homes have been designed to withstand lightening strikes. Most homes are also equipped with some sort of surge protection. It is still recommended that you are still extra cautious with these simple steps:

1. Protect electrical equipment by unplugging them when you know a thunderstorm has surfaced.
2. If you have to talk on the phone during a lightning storm its best to use your cell phone
3. Stay away from windows and doors
4. Stay away from water until the storm has passed

In the event you believe your home was struck most times a fire will follow. Call 911 if you suspect there is a fire in your home and get to a safe location.

After the storm assess the damages (if any) to determine if you need to put in a claim with your property insurance carrier. Once complete begin the remediation process by reaching out to a professional like us 617-903-5055! Although we cannot get what was lost back - Our job is to make it look like the fire never happened.

#lighteningstrike #fires #SERVPRO #remediation #reconstruction #homefire #Allston #Brighton #Brookline