Did You Know?

9/29/2024 (Permalink)

Did you know that there are 3 categories of water damage? When water damage takes place it is important  to be able to differentiate between them because depending on the type; each can contain different amounts of bacteria and if not tended too quickly the damage can accelerate and become hazardous. The 3 categories you should be aware of are

Category 1;  known as “Clean Water”

This is the most common type of water damage. The water is mostly clear and comes from a sanitary source such as a sink or overflow.  Being around it does not usually pose a threat. However, if you leave the water lingering things like your floor, walls, cabinets and any of the wet areas can still be damaged considerably. 

Category 2; known as “Gray Water”

This type of water is contaminated with a good amount of bacteria. Exposure to this can potentially cause sickness. It has a dirty grayish color and should not be left lingering in your home too long otherwise it can turn into a category 3 within 24 to 48 hours. Gray water may originate from sources such as washing machines or a toilet overflow with urine.

Category 3; known as “Black Water”

This type of water should be tended to quickly as it is the worst possible type to have in your business or home. It is highly contaminated and can lead to severe illness as it contains harsh chemicals and bacteria. You may even be able to spot the toxins with your eye. Black water can originate from sources such as the sewage system or an ill-maintained toilet. When you see black water it should be tended to immediately.

Regardless of the category, water damage should always be taken seriously and one should be attentive towards it. SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park specializes in dealing with water damage. We have the equipment and certified professionals to arrive and begin the restoration process. Their goal is to get your life back to normal. We can be reached (626) 852-9922. We are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year so don't hesitate to contact us. 

Noticing Water Damage?

8/29/2024 (Permalink)

The damage of a water leak or large spill can be overlooked as soon as the water is dried and not visible. You may think to yourself that the issue is resolved. However, there is a chance the water damage is substantial but you just can’t notice it. Many times the water damage is hidden or the effects have not taken place yet. Some signs of extensive water damage include:

• Increased humidity levels or an unpleasant musty odor in the affected area
• Mold begins to grow
• The wall paint begins peeling or bubbling
• Cracks begin forming in your wall
• Your flooring begins to warp, lift, or deform
• There are stains, dark spots, or discoloration on your walls or floor
• If you hear a dripping sound or running water behind your walls, this may possibly mean the leak source has not been fixed yet and it's still causing water damage

When water damage takes place timing is important. Remember to inspect the area carefully. The faster you take action the more damage you can prevent. SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park specializes in water damage mitigation and mold removal. We respond quickly and we have experts that are always willing to help out. You can contact us  at (626) 852-9922. We are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year so don’t hesitate to reach out to us in an emergency.

A Peaceful Vacation

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Vacations Are Much Needed

Whether you are leaving town for a few days or a few weeks, make sure to have a plan in place to keep your home safe. Vacationing can be fun, but coming home to a house in one piece is even better. There is always a possibility of flooding and water damage in your home when you are away.

A Reliable Neighbor

Considering having someone available to check on your home while you are away. A good rule of thumb would be to have a family member, close friend, or trusted neighbor check on your home every other day. They are able to check on your major appliances associated with water, such as the dishwasher, washing machine, and water heater.

Conserving Water

If you are out of town for more than a week, it might be a good idea to turn off your sprinkler system. The person you have asked to check in on your house can hand water your plants and lawn in the meantime. A broken sprinkler head while you are away, has the potential to cause a lot of water damage, if it is in close proximity to your home. 

Another option is to set up a low-cost security camera in a few main rooms of your house to check for water damage while you are away. Having one in the kitchen and one set up to view your water heater is a great way to give yourself peace of mind while you are gone. Security cameras for outside and inside the home are very popular today, so it should be easy to find one at an affordable cost.

Here For You

In the event you do return home to any type of flooding or water damage, call SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park. SERVPRO is available for water restoration and mold remediation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Plumbing Failure Risks

8/30/2023 (Permalink)

As your home ages, your plumbing system is more at risk for experiencing issues. Plumbing problems are the cause of most water damage claims. Even the tiniest cracks in water pipes have the potential to leak gallons of water into your home in minutes. If the crack goes unseen or overlooked for an extended period, your possessions along with the structural components of your home most likely will experience a significant degree of damage. Anytime you detect your plumbing system is experiencing issues, call in a professional water damage restoration company such as SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park.

When the belongings in your Irwindale Home experience water damage, they have the potential of losing their structural integrity and break down. Water can flow into the small crevices of your home and damage items that are not visible. Also, the vapor inside the air can tarnish things such as your drywall or acoustic ceiling tiles.

Our SERVPRO technicians form a remarkably trained team. Our crew members are IICRC certified and are taught to handle a variety of different “loss” scenarios such as: fire, water, mold, storm. The certification program teaches our technicians several industry-approved methods to remove moisture from every material inside your home. Our training also equips us with a trained eye that can spot problems that might not stand out. We also learn mitigation methods that follow all the rules, regulations, and EPA standards.
 
Once our technicians determine what items experienced water damage in your house, our technicians will construct the best method to quickly remove the moisture. Before finalizing any project, our technicians will use our specialized moisture testing instruments to ensure that moisture levels have returned to preloss conditions. Our SERVPRO team will be ready whenever you need our services, call SERVPRO of Irwindale / Baldwin Park at (626) 337-3374 to receive fast, 24/7 service.

HVAC Leak In The Attic

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

The hole that was left after the ceiling collapsed.

We are in the middle of summer and many people have their air conditioning systems running consistently to stay cool. However, as comfortable as it may be you should always do some preventative maintenance as there is always a chance they can leak water. We recently received a job where the air conditioning unit in a bedroom ceiling was leaking consistently. The insulation in the attic was absorbing the water while at the same time the water was weakening the ceiling. Eventually the weight was enough to cause it to collapse and for some water to spill throughout the home. The leak ended up affecting the tenants bedroom walls, floors and the closet. It also affected the hallway walls and ceilings along with the living room walls. It also left a large whole in the ceiling in the room it originated. The client reached out to SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park for assistance and we were able to arrive within a day to begin the restoration process.

Air conditioning units create a comfortable setting in one's home. However, this comfort may cause one to overlook a malfunction in their unit. Signs of a defective unit include hearing or seeing unusual water dripping, or if you notice a puddle of water around your HVAC unit.  An above average electric bill is also a common sign.  A damaged unit will require more effort to run effectively thus a higher electricity bill. If you notice its not cooling as it is supposed to then that can also be a sign of a potential problem. If you haven't inspected your unit in at least 1 year it is suggested to give it a quick observation. If you do notice any signs of a malfunctioning unit it is key to take action as resolving the issue early on can save you from dealing with future complications. If you do happen to experience water damage from an HVAC leak then you can reach out to SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park. We specialize in water damage mitigation and are always willing to help. We can be reached at (626) 852-9922. We are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

A Water Leak in the Middle of the Home

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

The water leak affected the ceiling right below it.

We recently received a call from a tenant that experienced water damage. The home was a multi- unit three story condo where the toilet had overflowed on the second floor. Because it took place in the middle of the building the water was able to spread into the lower level as well. By the time the tenant took action, the damage had become extensive.

It affected the restroom's tile floor and vanities and the flooring in two nearby closets. It had also reached the living room and kitchen areas where the laminate flooring and lower walls were damaged. On the lower level it reached the entrance of the home and the garage; the ceiling in between the floors ended up being damaged as well. The tenants insurance reached out to us about the situation and we were happy to help. When we arrived we set up drying equipment  and packed the necessary materials. We drilled wall cavities to allow the air flow to be more effective and speeden up the drying process. We removed some of the laminate flooring that was not salvageable and set up a containment in the affected areas so that possible contamination did not spread. We kept in contact with the insurance on behalf of the property owner the entire time and our Project Manager regularly monitored the restoration process. The tenant was impressed on how rapidly we proceeded, how we were handling the situation and with the convenience of the process.

SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park specializes in dealing with water damage. We will aim to arrive quickly to assist and try to make the entire process as easy as possible. If you need our help just reach out to us at (626)852-9922 we always want to help. We are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year. 

We Arrived Quick!!

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

We received a call from an apartment complex where water damage took place. The property manager said that they found us online and read our positive reviews, so they decided to contact us for assistance. We aimed not to disappoint and to live up to our reputation.

The damage had taken place in the kitchen area on the second floor so it was key to mitigate the damage before it affected the tenants on the first floor. While our office staff was already in contact with their insurance, one of our project managers arrived the same day and began inspecting the situation and consulting the tenant. Shortly after, our technician crew arrived and began setting up the appropriate equipment to begin the restoration process. They sealed up the area and began the removal of the surface water. They placed air movers and dehumidifiers in areas that had high moisture levels.  In some areas of the walls they cut wall cavities to speed up the drying process. By mitigating the damage they were able to decrease demolition and were able to salvage most of their material. Since we arrived quickly we were able to finish the job in a well timed manner, leaving the tenant surprised on how fast we were able to complete the entire process.

SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park understands the importance of arriving quickly when water damage takes place. Not doing so can result in the damage spreading.  We know how complicated the situation can become, but we are here to help you with everything from cleanup to dealing with your insurance company. You can contact us at (626) 852-9922. We are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Check Those Lawn Sprinklers!

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

It is Springtime and Summer is right around the corner! The weather is heating up for the next couple of months. This means that it is time for homeowners to begin watering their grass. The maintenance of the lawn is important for a homeowners house presentation. Not watering your grass for even a few days in hot weather can result in it drying and turning brown. Thus, giving your home an unappealing look. Sprinklers are one of the most convenient ways to water and keep your lawn looking great. However, the sprinklers you use for convenience can also be the cause of water damage to your home.

A malfunctioning sprinkler can become problematic. It can burst and cause a flood which can damage the foundation of your home or it can spray water in the wrong direction. When the water begins impacting your walls it can cause them to decay and make your home look ill-favored. The decayed wall will weaken and allow water to seep inside. Resulting in the lumber and insulation in between the walls getting damaged. If the situation is not attended to then the water will eventually make its way inside of your home. This could potentially damage your floors, cabinets, furniture, interior walls, and any valuable item. Also, keep in mind wherever the water lands there is potential for mold to begin growing. You may notice it or you may not but regardless it will begin spreading. You may then have a musty smell in your living quarters and even potential health hazards.

So remember to check your sprinkler system for any irregularities and to keep them well maintained. Not doing so can become more problematic than you think. If you do happen to receive any water damage then no worries, SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park can assist you. We specialize in water damage mitigation. Just give us a call at (626) 852-9922. We are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year!

Mold Can Grow Fast!

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

Mold that was found after removing drywall.

Did you know that mold can grow in as little as 24-48 hours after water damage occurs if the water is not dried up or handled properly? Mold can grow almost anywhere that contains moisture. For example, it can grow on wet floors, drywall, cabinets, insulation and even inside your toothbrush holder. Mold can make many items inaccessible and can cause health effects. As you can see there are several areas and products that can certainly be affected in your quarters. It's advised that if you notice mold to take action right away. How does this begin? It begins by simply overlooking something as simple as a small leak in your sink which goes on to cause large amounts of water damage. Thus, resulting in stressful situations due to the sudden urge to get rid of it. It’s always better to be proactive vs. reactive

SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park specializes in mold removal and water damage. If you have concerns regarding a water loss, SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park is here to help. We can be reached at (626) 852-9922. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Always remember, we are here to help and restore your property back to preloss conditions. 

Inspect Your Restroom

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

One of the most common areas where water damage occurs in a household is in the restroom. Due to the repetitive usage of showers, faucets, and toilets in such concised areas, there is a high amount of stress placed on the plumbing pipes. This stress creates a higher chance of water leaking through any of these sources. The steam that comes from showers also causes issues all around. It's always a good idea to inspect your restroom before severe water damage occurs.

Identifying plumbing issues can be tricky because they are under and behind walls, so if something were to happen it can be easily missed. Listening for drips or unusual pipe noises can help one identify potential problems.

The bathroom sink and toilet are used so frequently that one might overlook a simple spill of water that happens often. However, spilling water over and over is causing damage to the cabinets, walls, and floors. So it is important to dry up spills quickly and tune up any leaks you locate in the area.

When you shower and leave a room full of steam it may not seem like much, but that steam is damaging tiles, walls, ceilings, paint and possibly products in the room. If not handled properly this can also lead to mold problems. Installing a ventilation fan in your restroom will help control the humidity. If you're not able to install a fan you can simply crack open the window or door to allow the humidity to escape. 

If you have any questions or concerns you can contact SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park at (626) 852-9922.  We have a plethora of experience working with water damage and will aid you with your concerns. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year!

Don't Let Water Damage Ruin Your Day

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

Stairs affected by water

Don't let water damage ruin your home and your day. Typically when it rains, homeowners suddenly notice they have leaks in their roof. Water can enter through doors and windows, groundwater seepage, faulty sewage pipes, failed appliances and several other water sources that become problematic. When concerns like these arise, for your own benefit you don't want to wait too long to take action.

You may think to yourself that it's just water, but if the damage is not assessed properly it can eventually lead to mold and that is something you do not want to happen. Mold is a fungus that if not handled properly will begin to spread around your house. It will begin to decompose materials, it can lead to health issues, and cause a bad odor. It's also something you do not want visitors seeing when you plan to host events in your household.

Again don't let water damage ruin your home! We want you to feel comfortable and content in your own living quarters. If you ever have any concerns about water damage, SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park has a great reputation in dealing with water damage. We can be reached at (626) 852-9922. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We are always here to help with any of your water damage needs!

How Did That Mold Get There?

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that mold growth occurs after there has been water damage? The excess water that is not cleaned up or dried up is where the mold thrives. Moisture can be found in wood, drywall, insulation, and other materials that mold will use as food to grow and spread. Did you know it can take as little as 24 to 48 hours for mold to start to form and grow? That is extremely fast which means that it will spread quickly. It is crucial that once you spot it on any surfaces that you notify SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park so that we can take care of it properly before it has a chance to become a health threat to those with respiratory conditions or age related sensitivity.

If you think you could have a mold problem after experiencing flooding from a broken pipe or a storm, the sooner you call 626-852-9922 the better your chances we can eliminate the mold and reduce the chances of a bigger problem. We service customers throughout the Southern California region including Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino counties.  

If you’re concerned about Mold in your property, SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park has you covered.

Oh No! I Have a Burst Pipe!

7/24/2021 (Permalink)

Team working on removing affected area.

When the unexpected happens, it can be really stressful and upsetting. However, SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park has a team of certified professionals that have the knowledge to address and resolve these unwanted accidents. Our team is great at their jobs, but to help make sure that everything is done as swiftly as possible, here are some Do’s and Don’ts that you should follow.

Do’s 

• Immediately, turn off the source of water
• Try to mop up all excess water as much as possible
• Open all the windows to dry out the rooms affected to shorten the amount of time with the dehumidifiers or fans
• Call SERVPRO Joe at 626-852-9922 and explain everything that has happened so our team can find the best solution for your unique situation.

Don’ts

• Do not try to remove any carpets on your own
• Do not apply any heat to the affected areas as it could results in more damage
• Do not put any products on the affected area

These are just a few Do’s and Don’ts of what you should do until help arrives. SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park services all throughout the Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino Counties. Do not hesitate to call. We want to make sure you get the help you need when an emergency strikes.

Why timely restoration following a water loss is important….

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

When a customer or an insurance carrier reports a water loss to SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin, a person to person response can be expected within one hour.  This is the start of our priority service that may result in the immediate dispatch of a crew and equipment in an emergency, or scheduling of the property for inspection prior to restoration.  

However, the complexity and cost of restoration generally increases with the amount of time that passes before the start of the job.  So a timely request for help by the affected customer is essential.

In a flooded structure, if water is allowed to pool up, wood and other building materials in contact with the water will absorb it increasing the drying time, potentially increasing the amount of work to assure proper drying, and increased costs to reconstruct the property after drying is complete.  Also, after the first 48 hours the chances of mold growth increases rapidly.

SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park has a standard for responding to a call in a timely manner to help keep the cost and time to recover from water damage to the absolute minimum.  This rapid reaction helps both the property owner and the insurance carrier to control for avoidable expenses and inconvenience.

SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park is a building and property restoration business here to help home and business owners recover from disasters that have impacted their lives.  Over the years, we’ve assisted thousands of people confronting personal calamities that require a helping hand.  We pride ourselves on making the recovery from property losses a little easier by providing quality restoration services and giving back control to those affected by disaster.  We provide services all over the Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Orange County areas.

The Most Common Causes of Water Damage to Your Property

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

Action shot of our technician restoring water damage.

Water damage is costly and stressful to you and your property. Property owners should be aware the most common water losses are preventable.

Listed below are some of the most common causes and preventative measures for dealing with water damage.

• Refrigerator Ice Maker Water Line: This occurs most often  when the water line that goes from the valve on the wall to the back of the refrigerator begins to leak from improper installation, accidental damage, or age. To prevent water damage inspect the condition of the water line periodically to assure there are no slow leaking connections that could turn into a flood. Sometimes the shut off value at the wall is the source of water leakage. Also, wireless WiFi enabled flood alarms are available to help detect water leaks under sinks, behind appliances and locations vulnerable to flooding.
• Leaky Toilets: Check the supply line that goes from the wall to the bottom of the toilet tank in all bathrooms. Make sure that it is securely in place and check for any water dripping from around the connections on either end. If you do detect water leaking from around the connections you will need to retighten or replace the line. Sometimes the shut off value at the wall is the source of water leakage. Another thing to look for is the condition of the fill valve and seal between the toilet tank and the toilet bowl. If there are cracks in the toilet tank or bowl, you may need to replace the toilet.
• Water Heaters: These tanks are what hold the hot water that supplies all the sinks, showers, and the washing machine in the property.  Because they are a large water container, when they’re full they have a lot of pressure inside. Also, because the tanks are usually made from metal, over time oxidation will corrode the tank and create small leaks that can grow larger in time. Periodically checking the floor around the hot water heater for moisture and checking the connecting lines at the top of the tank for leaking joints is a good practice. A pan is available to place under the water heater so that any small amount of water that may be leaking is contained in the pan giving the property owner a chance to correct the problem before a disaster occurs.
• Washing Machine Backups: It is important to recognize if water is not draining properly during the operation of the washing cycle. If the pipe on the wall is clogged the wastewater will back up in the standing pipe and overflow into the property. Cleaning the drain pipe will be required to allow normal operation.

Don’t Wait if Emergency Strikes

Water damage Incidents can happen even if you do your best to prevent them. If you do experience some kind of flooding in your property, you can count on SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park to provide expert advice and service all of your needs. We work with property owners throughout the Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino Counties. You can schedule an appointment by calling us at 626-852-9922.

Tools You Will See Us Use

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Photograph of some of our air movers.

Air Movers 

Air movers, which are also known as floor drying fans, are used in construction and water restoration

projects. The main use is to increase air circulation, which decreases the time spent to 

remove water in the building materials, shortening the drying time. Air movers are a vital tool when our services are needed due to water damage.

3 Different Air Moving Units: 

The type of air blower affects the speed and direction of airflow and the amount of space that can be covered by the air mover. There are three major types of air blower units used in most commercial dry out scenarios:

1. Axial: Axial blowers will be used to move large amounts of air across a bigger and wider space. They are larger air movers that produce high airflow that only move air horizontally. They are great for drying walls or top-down drying treatments on carpets.

3. Centrifugal: They are used for spot treatments and can direct airflow from several directions to a specific spot. They are commonly used in restoration work to dry hard to reach areas like under cabinets and in crawl spaces and closets.
4. Compact: Compact air movers are versatile enough to be used for both large floor areas and small spot drying. Using 1/4 horsepower motors, they have the ability to quietly and quickly and effectively dry areas. Small and lightweight, compact air movers are the perfect solution for drying small, hard-to-reach spaces such as closets, corners or under counters.

When Disaster Strikes, Call SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park 

We at SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park will always assess each water damage situation independently to best determine which air mover and how many to use for your specific situation. We have all the resources and knowledge to make sure that we leave your place "Like it never even happened."®

SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park performs restoration services all over Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino counties. Call now to schedule an appointment with one of our highly experienced and trained team members at 626-852-9922.  

Spring Has Sprung!

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

The McCann's getting ready for Spring!

Hello Spring!

Beautiful Southern California weather is back again! The beautiful foothills of the San Gabriel Valley are green and the California Mustard flowers are blooming! Getting out of town soon? Make sure you are prepared! 

Before Leaving Town: 

It is always a good idea to reach out to a family member, friend, or neighbor that you trust to let them know you will be leaving. They can help keep an eye out on your house: mail, pets, and most importantly: water damage. A broken pipe or leaky water heater does not care if you are vacationing in Hawaii. The sooner water damage is detected, the sooner the damage can be reversed. 

Call SERVPRO: 

Joe McCann and his team at SERVPRO Irwindale / Baldwin are available for emergency water damage services 24/7! Joe has over 16 years of restoration experience, his team is friendly, knowledgeable, and reliable. No residential or commercial job is too small or too big!

What To Do Until Help Arrives

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Moisture Reader Checking for Moisture

If you find yourself in a situation where water is suddenly onboarding in your residence, immediately call SERVPRO of Irwindale and Baldwin Park. They are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

What To Do

Until the water restoration professionals are SERVPRO arrive, there are a few things you can do to help with damage to your home. 

Move anything of value out of the affected room that you are able to: photos, important documents, artwork, etc. Take old books, or pieces of scrap wood and use them to elevate your furniture. Place wood, books, or even brinks underneath the feet of your furniture to raise them above the waterline. This will help prevent any fabric or wood damage to your couches, chairs, tables, and other furniture of value. 

If you own a Shock Vac, or have a neighbor to borrow one from, use it to help remove water that has puddle in your home and help prevent further damage to your carpet or hardwood flooring. Open windows in your home, and turn on any ceiling fans. This will help start the drying process. 

It is crucial to take pictures of all the damaged areas. This includes walls, baseboards, carpets, hardwood flooring, and all valuables. This will be important to turn into your insurance company when you file your claim. 

Here For All Your Water Damage Restoration Needs

Always remember that SERVPRO has a staff of qualified professionals to answer any and all of your questions. Not only will they help you with your water damage, but they are also qualified to help with mold prevention and remediation.

Home Flood From Rainstorm

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Drying Floor Affected By Flood

Flooding in your home from stormwater can feel overwhelming and frustrating. Having a plan in place in case of flooding can help prepare you.

FEMA Flood Map

To see how likely you are to suffer from a flood you can look up the FEMA Flood Map; it shows general flood risk by region. All you have to do is enter your address in the search bar on the website to see your area's flood zones.

Take note the next you have a rainstorm - does the water run towards or away from your home? Does it puddle around any doors? Any basement windows?

Floodproofing

Floodproofing renovations are helpful if you plan on building a home in a heavily flooded area. Or if your existing home is in a heavily flooded area, but was not built with flooding in mind. Installing Foundation vents is a form of "wet flood-proofing," which allows water to flow through your home, as opposed to water being trapped around it. This both provides an outlet for flood water to escape your home. Having a Sump pump on hand with a battery back up is a great tool for removing water from basements. 

Make sure all gutter runoffs are pointed away from your home. All pipes entering your home should have check valves to prevent sewage flooding from back up into your home. Coating and sealants are also great to help flood-proof your home. They can be applied around your foundation, windows, and door frames.

A Plan

If flooding in your home has already started, or if a storm is on its way, use these tips to help minimize the damage:

• Clear out gutters and drains so that water can flow freely
• Use sandbags to block any gaps that will lead to flooding
• Move rugs, furniture, electronics, and other valuables to prevent damage
• If it's not raining, open windows to allow airflow through your home
• Use a shop vacuum or sump pump to remove water quickly
• Document flooding with pictures or videos to defend your insurance claim

Here For You

Additionally, always know that SERVPRO Glendora & San Dimas is here for all of your water damage needs. The San Gabriel Valley Foothills are notorious for flooding. Wildfires in the surrounding mountains change the composition of the soil; leading to the more dramatic water runoff during the rainy season. SERVPRO Glendora & San Dimas is able to provide you flood restoration services, sanitation contaminated water, drying services for both commercial and residential properties.

Flash Flood Warning -- Prepare Now!

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO team of Irwindale/Baldwin Park is committed to providing safety tips to its community to ensure safety and readiness when disaster strikes.

After a season of dryness, a rapid overflow of water can cause flash floods. In the United States, flash floods are the single most common natural disaster. Below are a few tips on how to be prepared before a flash flood warning is issued:

• Be sure you’re signed up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio provide emergency alerts
• Create an emergency supply kit in case you have to leave immediately or if services are cut off.
• Purchase or renew a flood insurance policy. Homeowner’s policies typically do not cover flooding. Keep in mind it typically takes up to 30 days for a policy to go into effect so the time to buy is well before a disaster strikes.
• Learn and practice evacuation routes with those living in your household & other family members/friends.
• Keep important documents in a waterproof container, and create digital copies of other essential files.
• Declutter drains and gutters.
• Keep valuables at a higher level in your house/business.

If you experience any type of flooding or residential disaster in your home, trust SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park to make it “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call to learn more about our drying process or for additional flooding tips anytime at (626) 337-3374. Our experts are available 24/7 and are happy to help you in any way they can.

For more information on how to prepare and survive a sudden flash flood, visit https://www.ready.gov/floods 

These tips are reprinted by SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park as a part of our commitment to the community and the environment. 

Plumbing Trouble

7/24/2020 (Permalink)

We want your home to be protected just as much as you do.

If you’ve experienced flooding in your residence or business from faulty plumbing, call SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park today!

Our team of experts has been serving the community for over 15 years, and are familiar with all sorts of plumbing related issues. We understand how stressful instances like this can be, and we want to reassure and inform you of the entire process. 

Plumbing failures can be easily avoided if checked regularly. We want your home to be protected just as much as you do. Most of these inspections can be without the help of a certified professional, but our lines are open 24/7 if you ever have a question or concern - we’re here for you!

Ice Maker - Keep an eye out for water by the valve behind the fridge, or along the plastic line behind your freezer

Toilet Tank - Check the water line that connects to the valve on the wall or the base of your tank

Water Heater - Signs of drippage surrounding the base or top of the heater

Underneath Sinks - Inspect connections at the wall, faucets, and dishwashers

Remember to always be on the lookout for wet flooring and moisture where the water lines connect to your appliances. In our experience, even a minor leak could quickly turn into a flood if left unchecked. If you see mold forming, call SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park right away!

Stress Free Family Weekend Getaway

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

A secluded weekend getaway with your family may be tempting after being in quarantine for the past four months. Before you head out, it’s essential that you check all faucets and appliances to avoid coming home to an unfortunate surprise. There’s nothing worse than escaping stress for a few days, just to come home to a flooded bathroom or a leaking ceiling. Water damage can spread vast and quickly become costly if left unattended for several days. A few common things that can go undetected include dripping water heaters, clogged pipes with built up pressure, leaking faucets or appliances, etc. SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park offers the Vincent community four tips for you in case you need to travel out of town for a few days.

• Switch Off The Water 

Shutting off your water main can help avert water pressure build up in your pipelines. Doing this lessens the chance of leaks because leaks normally occur when a stoppage develops.

• Inspect Your Appliances

Devices such as dishwashers, washers, fridges, and dryers tend to leak from time to time. Occasionally inspecting these appliances and replacing broken parts can reduce the cost and risk of a major emergency later on. 

• Clear Up Your Rain Gutters

Rain often finds its way into homes through clogged rain gutters. Clearing away debris within them can help prohibit built up blockage.

• Neighborly Check In

Having a trusted friend or neighbor check in on your home while you’re away can help detect leaks early. While they may not be able to stop water damage from occurring, they can inform you or perhaps call SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park so the leak doesn’t get worse. Having someone trustworthy watching your house can contribute to the much needed peace of mind hardworking individuals need.

SERVPRO wishes the Irwindale, Baldwin Park, Vincent and surrounding communities safety and security during unprecedented times. We are here for all your water, fire, storm, and commercial needs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you have any questions do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park at (626) 337-3374.

7 Tips On How To Conserve Water

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

Joe McCann & Family, Owner of SERVPRO Irwindale/Baldwin Park

Contrary to popular belief, many parts of California are still experiencing a drought. There are various ways to conserve water, while also saving money and helping the environment. Teaching children the importance of water conservation from a young age will help them develop water saving habits through adolescence and adulthood. SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park provides you with seven easy ways for your family to preserve water in your home:

1. Turning off the faucet when brushing your teeth
2. Ensuring that all valves and hoses are turned off completely
3. Shutting off shower while shampooing and conditioning
4. Encouraging family members to take shorter showers
5. Never letting the water run while you wash dishes
6. Purchasing a smaller dishwater
7. Sprinkling unused water onto plants

For more information on how to teach your children about water conservation, visit https://www.epa.gov/watersense/watersense-kids 

These tips are reprinted by SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park as a part of our commitment to community and the environment. Assuring quality of life for generations to come is something we all must be working on together. Thank you!

Water Damage Experts - Impact and Restoration

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Result of water damage to hardwood floors and carpet

Next to fire, water has proven itself to be one of the worst sources of damage a business can endure. So when an unexpected event interrupts your peaceful morning, rest assured that Joe McCann is here to help! Our team here at SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park is professionally trained to assess the impact of water damage. Drywall, plaster, and other building materials are famously known for their ability to absorb water, even if it’s a small amount from a leaky pipe. Examples of water damage include: bursting pipes, sewer backup, rain damage, ice maker leakage, and water heater failures. 

We use  specialized equipment for drying out and  removing water rapidly, and keep in close contact with you afterwards to closely monitor the drying process and ensure the work is done properly. We understand that water damage can be alarming, which is why it is our main goal at SERVPRO to “make it like it never happened”.  Our team is available for emergency services 24 hours a day with our commitment to your family or company that we are here to support you when the need arises. Our main priority is restoring your property, and we know you need someone you can trust. Our skilled crew use proven techniques, equipment and materials when performing the work.

The owner and staff of SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park are here to serve you. 

The Difference Between Mitigating and Remediating Water Damage in Vincent

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

Plumbing Leaks in Vincent Causing Water Damage? Contact SERVPRO to Restore Your Home--"Like it never even happened."

When researching how to manage the harm a water loss causes to your Vincent home, you frequently see the words mitigation and remediation. These two terms, plus the additional mention of “restoration” can cause some confusion if used interchangeably. Understanding the concepts behind the vocabulary helps you feel more in control and part of the solution when a water disaster requires you to seek out professional assistance.

If water damage strikes in your Vincent home, it is usually because of a plumbing leak or an appliance malfunction. The water spreads from the original leak, overflow, or breakage, causing additional harm to structures or contents nearby. When the event occurs, call for professional help because water quickly destroys building materials and personal possessions. As you wait for our signature green service vehicles, you can take some steps to address the potential damage.

Mitigation can refer to actions you or SERVPRO technicians take to reduce, lessen, or decrease the damage. Your quick thinking in picking up clothing, books, and toys before the water flows to saturate them is an example of mitigation. Placing blocks or foil under furniture legs on wet carpeting is another fix a homeowner can do to minimize staining from paint or other finishes until the professionals arrive.

When the SERVPRO team arrives, we work fast to mitigate the impact of excess water in a wide range of ways. Partially saturated carpeting retain dry sections when we use wanded extractors to reduce the moisture level on the leading edge. Pack-outs of contents halt water intrusion into storage boxes and reduces humidity levels in the affected structural spaces, which has the effect of reducing drying times.

Remediation refers to efforts made to remove the disaster-causing water or other agents with pumps and truck-mounted extractors. Drying with air movers and dehumidifiers is another example. Remediation improves the circumstances so that the damage done can be corrected. 

Restoration can include repairs, rebuilding, and refinishing in addition to the mitigation and remediation tasks that come before. Returning the water damaged spaces in your home need 
a combination of mitigation and remediation approaches plus needed restoration for the SERVPRO crew to make good on our commitment to leave your home, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Irwindale / Baldwin Park can manage your water loss through all the stages from mitigation and remediation through restoration. Call our emergency number, (626) 337-3374 day or night. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

https://goo.gl/maps/aoUeutM1vP7ZyZye6

Contractor Licenses:
General: 944464
CSLB: 944464
Biohazard: TSW 530

The Secrets to Water Damage Remediation Are Here for Your Irwindale Home

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can accumulate quickly. Call the remediation specialists at SERVPRO today.

Efficient Drying for Your Irwindale Water Damaged Home Can Prevent Further Destruction

Your house can sustain water damage because of leaks from a faulty appliance like a washing machine, water heater or dishwater or from an overflowing bathtub. When a water loss incident happens in your home, it is crucial to extract the water and begin the remediation process within 48 hours. By reacting swiftly, you can prevent the formation of mold and rust in your property.  

When there is water damage in your Irwindale residence, you can take a few steps to prevent the situation from worsening. One step is opening windows and doors to get the air moving naturally, allowing for enhanced air circulation. Furthermore, open cabinet and closet doors to help with drying. You can also increase air circulation by using high-speed fans. Another vital part of the drying process is using a shop vac to remove standing water. Some shop vacs can remove water effectively from rugs and carpets. If items like furniture and rugs are damp, you can remove and place them in the sun to eliminate the moisture.  

You may also use desiccant materials like calcium oxide, silica gel, and clay to absorb moisture from damp items. Place the items along with desiccant materials in airtight containers and close them. Another critical step for dealing with water loss is dehumidifying because it removes water vapor from the air. You can rent a dehumidifier and place it in the affected areas.  

Calling a professional restoration firm like SERVPRO to dry your house is also essential because its services can avert excessive destruction and minimize the risks of fungus and bacteria multiplying in your property. We have the expertise and proper equipment, including pumps, air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out your house quickly and effectively to prevent secondary damage. Our technicians also use moisture meters to measure the moisture content in wood floors, carpets, tile floors, drywall, and painted surfaces. 

 Moisture meters play a vital role throughout the water damage restoration process. All homes have a dry standard, which means the normal amount of moisture present in a surface is considered being dry. During the drying process, our Applied Structural Drying Technicians (ASDs) dry every damp surface to ensure that it has the same moisture content as the same surface in a dry area of your property. To achieve this, we use moisture meters to determine if our drying efforts are productive and to know when we have attained our drying goals. To dry a house and its contents thoroughly, our technicians control four key factors, which are: 

• Extraction 
• Humidity
• Temperature 
• Air movement 

Our SERVPRO crew can dry most of your belongings on-site with minimal disruption to your home. If there are items that we cannot restore on-site, our crew can move them to our facilities for restoration. 

 After a water loss incident in your house, call SERVPRO of Irwindale / Baldwin Park at (626) 337-3374 for cleanup and drying services. We can restore your property to its preloss condition fast. 

Click here to see more about Irwindale. 

Contact Our Experts If Your Irwindale Home Experiences A Water Damage Incident

7/6/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Irwindale / Baldwin Park at (626) 337-3374 for 24/7 service.

Water Damage And Insurance Claims In Irwindale

When water inundates your home from a leaking pipe or some other water event, your focus is on recovering your possessions. Can these items be saved and restored or do you need to dispose of them due to contamination or damaged beyond repair? Can your documents and photos be recovered or are the memories they represent gone forever?

SERVPRO can help with all these questions. When you need water removal in Irwindale after a significant leak in your home, we can assess the situation and then focus on removing the water and recovering your content. Restoration plans depend on the extent of the damage and contamination.

Insurance claims are much easier when you use our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS). CCIS can simplify the process of making a claim and reduce the anxiety you may be experiencing during this stressful time. Our technicians can develop a complete list of all of the contents affected by the damage. Each room is inventoried, including digital photos, to assist in the process.

With a preloss list, consumers can establish the value of their contents. Insurance companies can settle claims quickly when your insurance company is dealing with accurate and up to date information. In many cases, digital photos can establish and confirm your claim. SERVPRO takes an inventory before removing items from your home for restoration or disposal.

SERVPRO aims to restore your home to its original condition and provide peace of mind to claimants. Personal items such as documents and photos can also be restored in many cases depending on the amount of damage. Techniques we use to restore your photos and documents include: Air drying, dehumidification, freeze drying, vacuum freeze drying and vacuum thermal drying.

Call SERVPRO of Irwindale / Baldwin Park at (626) 337-3374 for 24/7 service. We serve Vincent and local communities in the area. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster in your area.

For more about Irwindale click here.

Our Certified Professionals Have The Expertise To Handle Water Damage In Vincent

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

We have the necessary equipment to restore your home and prevent further damage. We are available 24/7, please do not hesitate and call us right away.

SERVPRO - Restoring Water Damaged Homes In Vincent

As part of the Central Valley, Vincent is a great community outside much of the traffic congestion but still able to enjoy everything Southern California can offer. Although residents avoid the flooding that occasionally happens to other parts of the county, they still have to deal with water issues from split lines on a washing machine or another failed appliance.

Even what seems to be a small amount of water can damage a Vincent home to the cost of hundreds or even thousands of dollars. SERVPRO technicians train to meet the requirements of the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) for restoring area homes to their original, dry condition.

Since floors and carpets take the brunt of the damage after a large spill, the effects on walls and floor trim often get overlooked. Painted drywall panels make up most residential interior walls, or else they might have wood paneling mounted over them. The material performs well until it starts to absorb water. In a short amount of time, drywall panels start to crumble in place, and the thin pieces of wood that make up the floor trim begin to crack and split, making them useless.

To prevent this, SERVPRO technicians quickly remove any standing water. Eliminating the visible water is simple with a pump, but getting the water out of the panels and behind them takes a different set of tools as recommended by the IICRC. To draw out the rest of it, personnel remove the floor trim and drill holes in every affected panel. That allows water trapped behind the panels to drain and also increases the natural evaporation of water out of the panels and trim.

If the wall cavity is very humid, technicians insert a hose through the hole connected to an air mover. This device directs warm, dry air into space, further speeding up evaporation. They place one or more air movers next to the outside of the panels and trim, and direct the airflow carefully over the surfaces to dry them without further damage.

If a panel or section of trim is too damaged for restoration, other team members can quickly demolish and remove them without causing additional damage to the rest of the home. They can replace the panels in an average-sized room, and paint or panel over it, so the room looks as it did before the water issue.

For SERVPRO of Irwindale / Baldwin Park, our task is to put the owner and other residents back inside their clean, dry home. If you have had any water spill in your home, call us at (626) 337-3374 today to schedule a visit and start the restoration process.

See more about Vincent.

Irwindale Properties, SERVPRO Equipment, and Skills Mitigate the Water Damage

5/16/2019 (Permalink)

Irwindale Homeowners Rest Easy Knowing SERVPRO Has Arrived to Mitigate the Water Damage

Water Removal Equipment and Tools Used to Mitigate Your Irwindale House

When an emergency happens at home involving water, structural elements in your Irwindale property can experience problems. SERVPRO's professionals can help mitigate the situation using equipment matched to the various aspects of the work required.

Because water emergencies like this may involve only a small portion of your Irwindale home or the entire structure, SERVPRO's Green Fleet comes filled with equipment suitable for all sized jobs. Many items make use of our large pump, mounted on one of our trucks, providing us with continuous and variable strength when extracting water and moisture from your residence.

The high-tech items that we carry do not do away with the need for buckets, mops, squeegees, and other hand tools. Our Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training teaches our technicians how to use each of these efficiently and when doing so provides the optimal outcome for the customer. Removing water and moisture from your home's interior means the risks of damage decrease, making it easier to restore things, so your home is once more “Like it never even happened.”

Pumps are only one type of equipment used by SERVPRO crews to remove water from homes and businesses. Heated mats that pull water out of floors through heat also use pumps that extract moisture. Other types use air currents to remove moisture from surfaces. Because water and moisture travel from saturated to unsaturated areas, we use this to continually pull wetness out of materials by continuously removing the water vapor from the air. To do this, we rely on desiccant machines, dehumidifiers, and air movers.

When pools of water also contain sediment from disintegrated materials, we use buckets and shovels. In some areas, we might use hoses to flush the area of debris and clear floors so we can check for any damage. Getting things cleaned up thoroughly and as efficiently as possible means your home gets back to normal soon after our arrival. No job is ever too complicated or messy for SERVPRO's specialists.

If your home suffers standing water or long-term drips, you need the water removal experts at SERVPRO of Irwindale / Baldwin Park. Contact us at (626) 337-3374 so we can start the process of restoring your home. We are always here, day and night, year-round, to answer your questions and set up an appointment at your earliest convenience.

Here is your town.

SERVPRO Can Detect The Cause Of Water Damage In Your Irwindale Home

1/10/2019 (Permalink)

When you experience water damage call the experts at SERVPRO to put you at ease.

Water Damage Technicians In Irwindale Talk About The Importance Of Good Training

The older your Irwindale home gets, the more likely your plumbing system will fail. Plumbing problems are the cause of most water damage claims. Even tiny cracks inside water pipes can spill several gallons of water into your home in a short amount of time. If the crack goes unnoticed and unrepaired for a long time, then many of your contents and structural components can get negatively affected. Anytime you notice that your plumbing system has failed it is wise to call in a professional water damage restoration company such as SERVPRO.
 
When items inside a Irwindale Home experience water damage, they can lose their structural integrity and fall apart. If organic materials stay wet after a water damage problem in Irwindale, it is possible that mold growth will take place. Water can flow into tight areas and get items that are not visible to the eye wet. The vapor inside the air can also ruin things like your drywall or acoustic ceiling tiles. After water enters your home, there are many problems that may exist that you may not be able to notice.
 
Our SERVPRO technicians make up a very highly trained team. Our crew members are IICRC certified and are taught to handle several different scenarios. The certification program teaches our technicians several industry-approved methods to remove moisture from every material inside your home. Our training also gives us an experienced eye that can notice problems that might not stand out. We also learn mitigation methods that follow all rules, regulations, and EPA standards.
 
Once we determine what got wet inside your house, we figure out the best methods to quickly remove the moisture so that microbes cannot activate and form into a mold. We use a combination of our training, experience, and advanced technology to handle each unique situation. Before finalizing any project, we use specialized moisture testing instruments to make sure that moisture levels have returned to preloss conditions. If you ever notice that your plumbing system has failed, call SERVPRO of Irwindale / Baldwin Park at (626) 337-3374 to receive fast, 24/7 service.

Get ready for the Irwindale pool to reopen click here for more information.

Conserving Water in Baldwin Park

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

What is something we ALL love, especially in the summer time? Water. That's right, some would even say water makes the world go round. However, California has recently been experiencing some heat waves, meaning that we all have a part to play in helping save some WATER. Here are a few ways you can help out our state & planet by saving water! 

Step 1: Change your diet 

It takes water – a lot of it – to grow, process and transport your food. When you eat lower on the food chain, eat more whole foods and waste less food, you also save water.

Step 2: Cut indoor water use 

Every day, you rely on water for a wide variety of uses around the house. There are lots of opportunities to cut back on water use in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry room and even by fixing leaks.

Step 3: Use less water outdoors 

Of all the residential water we use in the US, on average we use about a quarter outdoors. In some western states it’s half to three-quarters, primarily for lawns and gardens. A few simple steps can reduce your outdoor water consumption, so tighten those taps, eliminate those leaks and use water wisely.

Step 4: Change buying habits 

Practically everything you buy, use and consume has a water footprint because it took water to process and transport it. Being thoughtful about purchases, reusing where you can and recycling can reduce your water footprint.

Try to remember these few things this summer (and beyond) to reduce your ecological footprint and be a part of lasting change! 

Preventing Water Damage in Your Monrovia Home

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

Most Homeowners insurance policies cover basic water damage claims up to the purchased limit.

But you know what’s a lot easier than going through the claims process? Preventing the water damage in the first place!

Check out these 5 suggestions for preventing water damage:

1. Be careful where you plant

Some plants and trees, like weeping willows, have pretty invasive roots. If you’re not careful, they’ll grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage field, pipes, and septic tanks. Plan before you plant to keep roots away from any water lines.

2. Clean out roof gutters

You know it’s on your to-do list anyway, so if you can, take a safe climb up to your roof next Sunday and check out your gutters. If you’re seeing lots of leaves, birds’ nests, sticks, and whatnot up there, your gutters may not be doing the job you hired them for. And on a rainy day, a clogged gutter can send water spilling into your home’s foundation, through the roof, or down to your basement. That could cause some serious water damage! So next time you’re doing some seasonal cleaning, make sure those gutters are clean. And if your gutters are too high, be safe and get a professional to check them.

3.  Keep an eye on your water bill

With so many water pipes hidden behind walls and in the floors in your house, you might not know there’s a leak until the damage is done. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on your monthly water bill. If you see it starting to creep up, or get one that’s uncommonly high, it’s a pretty good sign that you may have a leak somewhere.

4. Use a drain snake instead of unclogging chemicals

No matter how crazy clean you are, from your shower to your kitchen sink, clogs are going to happen. And chances are at some point in your life you’ve used one of those powerful chemical drain cleaners to get things moving again. But as convenient as they may be, most folks don’t realize those caustic chemicals are also eating away at their pipes (and they might not be too good for you either). If you rely on them a lot, you could be setting yourself up for leaks. That’s why owning a drain snake is a good solution to clear away clogs. They’re pretty inexpensive, you can get them at your local hardware store, and they can cut through most any clog you’ll have without damaging pipes or making your eyes red and teary.

5. Never pour grease down your sink

You’ve probably heard this before, but you should definitely avoid pouring grease down your kitchen sink. It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water. It can still congeal and cling to your pipes, and could still cause some serious damage and blockage.

Some people use detergent to break up grease before pouring it down the drain…and that may help sometimes. But there’s no guarantee that it’ll keep the grease from sticking to your pipes, so why take the risk?

The safest thing to do is just to pour your grease in an empty can, and either let it sit or put it in the refrigerator. Once it hardens you can toss it in the trash and get rid of it. Done and done.

We hope these few tips will help prevent water damage in your home! 

https://www.farmers.com/inner-circle/home-tool-kit/5-ways-to-prevent-water-damage/

Flood Waters Rising

8/7/2018 (Permalink)

Every year flooding damages residential and commercial properties in every community across the nation.  Natural and manmade events including, broken plumbing, storms, and leaking appliances will account for thousands of flooded properties and tens of millions of dollars in insurance claims and costs to property owners.

When flood water begins saturating building materials, damages can be temporary, requiring only drying out or permanent, requiring replacement.  Drying out floors, walls, and cabinetry as quickly as possible following a flood can help control for damage that comes from mold growth and structural damages.

The cost to recover from a flood is obviously associated with the size of the affected property, the type of building materials involved, the nature of the water (clean or contaminated), and the speed to begin cleanup operations.  

SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park has been in business for many years and is expert at drying out and reconstructing properties damaged by water from any source.  Also SERVPRO can represent a property owner to an insurance carrier to get the very best solution in place, returning the property back to pre-flood condition as quickly as possible.

Let SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park send an expert to your property for a free estimate to remedy a recent disaster, or one that may need our experience and recommendations.

What is An Air Mover?

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

What’s an Air Mover?

Air movers (aka “industrial air blowers”, “commercial blower fans” or “floor drying fans”) are used in construction and water restoration projects, having a wide variety of industrial applications. Their primary use is to increase air circulation, which speeds up water evaporation and reduces drying time. Compressed air is also used to maximize airflow in a blower fan or air mover.

Air movers are an essential tool when mitigation services are needed due to water damage or restoring flood or disaster damage. Some advantages of drying a building with the use of air movers are:

• Low power draw
• High velocity, making them ideal for cooling and ventilation purposes
• Reduces water damage dry out time to carpets and floors, as well as wall cavities behind drywall
• Dries concrete and paint
• Removing fumes or gases from a workspace

TYPES OF AIR MOVER UNITS

The type of air blower affects the speed and direction of airflow and the amount of space that can be covered by the air mover. There are three major types of air blower units used in most commercial dry out scenarios:

1. Axial: Axial blowers are designed to move large amounts of air across a wide space. These tend to be larger air movers that produce high airflow. Unlike centrifugal air movers, which can direct air in several directions, axial air movers only move air horizontally. They’re ideal for drying walls or top-down drying treatments on carpets. They’re sometimes used for ventilation and equipment cooling.
2. Centrifugal: This type offers a more compact air mover designed for spot treatments. Centrifugal air movers draw air from several sources and direct it to a particular spot. They are often used in restoration work to dry hard to reach areas like under cabinets and in crawl spaces and closets. Most centrifugal air movers can be adjusted to provide airflow at a few different angles. Centrifugal blowers are heavy-duty air movers that produce lower CFM than axial air movers.
3. Compact: Compact air movers are versatile enough to be used for both large floor areas and small spot drying. With 1/4 horsepower motors, they still have the power to quickly and effectively dry areas, while also being quieter than centrifugal air movers and taking up less space. Small and lightweight, compact air movers are the perfect solution for drying small, hard-to-reach spaces such as closets, corners or under counters.

We at SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park will always assess each water damage situation independently and if our highly trained IICRC certified technicians determine that air movers are a necessary step to speed up the drying process, we have all the resources needed to help make it “Like it never even happened®.”

We hope these unfortunate situations never happen, but if they do we are standing by 24/7 and can be reached at 626.337.3374.

What is Efflorescence?

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

Efflorescence is a crystalline deposit of salts that can form when water is present in or on brick, concrete, stone, stucco or other building surfaces. It has a white or greyish tint and consists of salt deposits left behind when water evaporates. In addition, efflorescence can appear as a powdery substance on floors and walls and requires special care to treat.

What Causes Efflorescence?

Three conditions must exist for efflorescence to occur:

• Water-soluble salts must be present.
• Moisture must be available to transform salts into a soluble solution.
• Salts must be able to move through a material to its surface. The moisture will then evaporate and cause the salts to crystallize, resulting in efflorescence.

Water, rain and snow are the primary sources of moisture and may impact the degree of efflorescence. Condensation, groundwater wicking and interior activities also may affect the degree of moisture generation.

Efflorescence can occur in natural as well as developed environments. The effect often looks cosmetic but what it’s communicating is that water intrusion has/is occurring and needs to be addressed. It is important to note that over time this process can weaken structures and also lead to additional damage if not taken care of properly. Efflorescence can be removed with the application of various phosphoric acids, followed by a thorough rinsing of water. However, if the source of the water penetration is not taken care of, efflorescence may continue to occur. Contact your local contractor to help seal and strengthen your structure by creating vapor-permeable barriers to your porous materials - often attained through applying hydro-phobic sealers to keep the water out of your porous materials

Hopefully, next time you spot efflorescence coming out of your home or office - you can help diagnose the problem and prevent further damage.