Archived Water Damage Blog Posts
Water Damage Tips
9/26/2022 (Permalink)
Protect your belongings from water damage.
Like in any emergency, safety should be your priority. In the case of flooding or any other instance of water damage, there are a few things you should and should not do while waiting for help.
What to Do:
- Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
- Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
- Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
- Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in the summer.
- Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
- Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
- Gather loose items from floors.
What Not to Do:
- Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
- Don't leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet floors.
- Don't use your household vacuum, to remove water.
- Don't use television or other household appliances
- Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet; keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.
Remember to perform these tasks if it is safe to do so. SERVPRO will arrive promptly to help get your property back to its pre-damage condition.
Ceiling Bulging? Better Call SERVPRO
6/21/2022 (Permalink)
Don't act like you aren't snickering at me!
Picture this: it is Thursday night and you have just arrived home from work. Your wife is upstairs, getting the kids in the bath and ready for bed. You decide to pop into the kitchen and make yourself something to eat. On the way there, you notice a small puddle on the tile floor. You look for evidence of a spilled glass of water, but see nothing. You look up to see a sizable bulge in the paint on the ceiling above you. How you hadn't noticed this before is nothing short of crazy but its the truth, all the same. Maybe its time you give SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights / Rowland Heights a call.
These situations happen, and they happen all of the time. Older homes from the early 90's and late 80's are at the approximate age to begin showing these types of growing pains. Water splashes out of bathtubs and shower stalls, seals and caulking break down and begin to fail, and the next thing you know, there is a giant dark spot or bulge in the ceiling. Water has done what water does best: found its way into a place that is going to cause damage and cost someone a lot of money.
While this is annoying, it is not the end of the world. It isn't even a huge deal, really. SERVPRO of Rowland Heights / Hacienda Heights deals with these exact issues all of the time. If you experience this, give us a call today. We can help make it "Like it never even happened."
Pipe Bombs
6/20/2022 (Permalink)
Well isn't that just great...
When was the last time you considered the pipes in the walls of your home? At very best, it's been a while, but it's more likely that the answer to that question is "never". Like many things in life, we tend to take these types of things for granted. Why not? Contemplating the life and inner workings of a pipe is not the most exciting way to spend an afternoon. The only time they start to take up real estate in your conscious mind is when they begin to fail.
Let's talk corrosion. Most metal corrodes over time, and this process is only sped up when water is introduced into the equation. After 25 or 30 years, it would be a modern miracle of science and technology to experience no wear and tear on your piping. Most homeowners that own their home for this length of time will, at some point, have to deal with this reality.
What happens when a pipe reaches critical mass? Easy: it either bursts or springs leaks. Considering that most of the southland doesn't reach temperatures cold enough to cause pipe bursts, the common issue we see is leaks. When a pipe leaks, water is allowed to flow unchecked, filling rooms and damaging property.
If this happens to you, don't sweat it. Your friends at SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights / Rowland Heights are here to help make it "Like it never even happened."
Water: Frenemy of the People
6/20/2022 (Permalink)
Hey, I think I can see my house!
Water is pretty awesome. It has a lot of uses. For instance, it keeps us alive, makes up the majority of our bodies, and more than half of the planet's wildlife (some still undiscovered and purely theoretical) live in the oceans that make up the majority of the planet. Yes, we are essentially a few giant islands rooted in one gargantuan ocean.
Water can also be a bit of a nuisance. Ask any cat. Better yet, ask someone who has experienced a residential or commercial flood. They happen fairly often and without much warning a lot of the time. To add insult to injury, if flood damage is left unattended to for long, it has a very real chance of developing into mold. Mold is a topic for another conversation but I can say with full confidence that you don't want mold.
So what happens when your kitchen sink floods because Bobby kept calling your attention away? What do you do when, while at work, your washer machine springs a leak mid-cycle? These questions are layered and have many answers, but the one I want to share with you is simple: call SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights / Rowland Heights. With over ten years of water damage restoration experience on our side and the products and know-how to quickly restore your property, we are your best choice for making it "Like it never even happened."
Clean It Up
6/17/2022 (Permalink)
Trust me, we have it easy.
Modern sanitation is not only awesome, it serves a greater purpose. In the times before sanitation was a widely accepted and practiced concept, people got sick by many preventable diseases and illnesses that were spread through human waste.
When hand washing became accepted as a scientifically-backed way to combat illness, many lives were potentially saved. Between toilets, sinks, dishwashers, and washing machines, we are much better equipped to deal with the threat that is poor hygiene.
Keeping the positive attributes of sanitation in mind, there is a bit of a trade-off: these things all require water and heat to be effective. This is normally just an afterthought, maybe not even a thought at all. Of course you need water, who cares? Nobody does, until a leak occurs.
While most people will likely go there entire lives without ever experiencing a catastrophic house or business flood, some people will not be so lucky. When a flood occurs, most of the time there is nobody around to mitigate damage or shorten the amount of time the water has to spread.
Washers can have a small leak that goes undetected for months, seemingly biding their time until the most inopportune moment to rupture, sending deluges of water through your home. When this happens, call SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights / Rowland Heights. With over a decade of experience in water damage restoration, we can help return your property to preloss conditions.
Modern Loves
6/2/2022 (Permalink)
Enter: the enemy
Modern technology has truly come a long way, especially in the last thirty or so years. Between the advent of smart technology like phones and GPS and creature comforts like automated thermostats and food delivery services on every smart phone's app store, we truly are living in a renaissance period.
That being said, some things never change. For instance, washing machines still leak. Apparently, water missed the memo when it comes to updating.
No matter how, when, or where, leaks happen. It is as predictable as the sunrise. These types of calls are by and large still the most common that we receive. Whether its a chip malfunction or a hose line, washer floods are always a topic of conversation in our morning meetings.
Toilets are much the same way. In spite of science being able to formulate rocket ships and miracle medicines, toilets still clog and spill water all over the place.
It seems as though some things are destined to remain the same forever.
Modern life is pretty sweet, but some annoyances and grievances will always remain. If you are unlucky enough to have to deal with such a grievance, give SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights / Roland Heights a call. We are here to help and can restore your home or business to preloss conditions, no next-gen technology needed.
Wet and Wild: How to recover from water damage
9/27/2021 (Permalink)
Anyone up for pumpkin spice cheeseburgers? Just me?
It's difficult to imagine that there are people in the world that don't like autumn. Between the smells of dry leaves and rain, the sight of Halloween decorations going up, and everything becoming pumpkin spice flavored, there's so much to love about fall in California.
Like all good things, unfortunately, there is always a price to pay. In the case of the third and fourth quarter of the year, that price is flooding and unpredictable weather. While it is true that southern California doesn't often experience more than a few inches of rainfall per year, there are always exceptions to the rule. Hurricane Ida showed the world it's raw and destructive power at the end of August, proving that there is no set guidelines or limitations when it comes to extreme weather. That's why SERVPRO is such a valuable resource.
SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights / Rowland Heights knows water damage. From typical toilet leaks to major storm events like Hurricane Ida, we are well-versed in the ways of water mitigation. Our top priority is to make your water damage "Like it never even happened."
Autumn is great, there's no doubt about that. As long as you remember to keep in mind that the weather isn't beholden to any type of rules and that it can be truly destructive at times, and that SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights / Rowland Heights can help make it "Like it never even happened," you should be just fine.
Moisture Levels Affect Water Recovery In Your Home
6/18/2021 (Permalink)
Call us today for a free inspection!
Whenever excessive moisture gets inside a home or commercial building, the problems it causes are broken down into two categories. When water leaks from a pipe or an appliance, it can contact contents and building materials. Anything that happens due to direct contact with liquid water, such as the carpet's delamination, is considered primary damage. Once water gets inside a structure, it naturally raises humidity levels indoors when moisture from wet materials evaporates into the air. Elevated humidity levels can also cause building materials issues as water transfers from the air to not wet materials to reach equilibrium. When water vapor is the primary cause of the structural problems, they get classified as secondary damage.
Extraction procedures help reduce primary issues, and structural drying helps mitigate both types of problems. When our SERVPRO technicians deal with any water damage situation near Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights area, we monitor relative and specific humidity. Controlling humidity levels in a structure help speed up structural drying times. Wet materials dry out faster if the humidity inside a building is kept as low as possible using air movers and "dehus" dehumidifiers. Monitoring and strategic placement of these devices optimize drying times. When we keep humidity levels low, we also reduce water vapor in the air, causing fewer secondary issues.
The temperature has such a significant effect on relative humidity; it's not always a good gauge of how much water exists in the air. Specific humidity is the actual amount of moisture in the air. When our SERVPRO techs measure specific humidity, they count the actual grains of moisture in each pound of air. To find specific humidity, we measure relative humidity levels and the room's temperature. We then put these numbers in a psychrometric chart that gives us the grains per pound number.
How a flood affects your home
6/9/2021 (Permalink)
This infrared cameras helps our technicians see the areas that have been damaged by water
If you are a homeowner in the City of Walnut area and facing flood damage, SERVPRO is your first line of defense. Relying on our field expertise and academic training is a smart move when you want the restoration process to be correct and efficient. Like you, we want to mitigate your losses and return your home to normal as soon as possible. Because time is of the essence when water invades your home, our crew is available 24/7.
A trained water restoration technician knows that floodwaters are not the same as water leaked by a clothes washer or burst pipe. Water that comes from the outside carries with it bacteria that can multiply and spread if we do not eradicate it quickly. Our SERVPRO technicians have the knowledge and tools to implement a restoration plan that thwarts the spread of microorganisms and the ensuing consequences. If you are wondering how a piece of equipment makes the difference, you can take infrared technology as an example.
When you apply infrared cameras and thermography principles to the restoration of your home, you can identify where moisture levels are out of balance without drilling holes into your walls or tearing up your floors. Our SERVPRO team can access hard-to-reach crevices with less damage and quicker than if you did not have infrared technology available. As a homeowner, this translates into a more efficient (and possibly less costly) restoration so that you can return to regular life as soon as possible.
SERVPRO of Walnut is here to help. A call to (909) 598-8400 is not only about reacting to flood damage, but it is also about protecting your home and family.
Why is drywall removed
6/9/2021 (Permalink)
Drywall was removed due to Water Damage
Why does drywall need to be removed and not dried during water restoration?
In most cases, drywall can be dried within 3 to 5 days when drying equipment is placed by a professional restoration company. However, in some cases the drywall will require removal due to certain circumstances during water damage.
If drywall is affected by dirty water that carries contaminates- The drywall will have to be removed and replaced.
If drywall has wet insulation in the wall cavities- The drywall and insulation will have to be removed and replaced.
If drywall has double layers- The Drywall's layers will have to be removed and replaced.
If drywall was not professionally dried and secondary damages occurred- The drywall will have to be removed and replaced.
if your home has suffered from water damage call us today and see how we can help!
Water Damage
6/8/2021 (Permalink)
High moisture levels tells us the water leak is still active
Water damages can be sudden.
It always happens when you least expect it. When you find that a water loss occurs in your property it is important that you find the source of the leak to mitigate the damages.
The key is to stop the water from creating further damage. Depending on where the leak originated from, this can be as easy as finding the shut off valve to cut off the source of water. However, there are safety concerns you must be aware of before investigating any further.
Electricity and water do not mix. In fact, it could be fatal.
If you are unable to find the source or have questions in regards to next steps, SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights is here to help!
Trust our highly trained and professional technicians to help get your home back to normal.
Our trained staff will:
1) Find the extent of the damage.
2) Stop the source from causing further issues.
3) Utilize best-in-class equipment and training to properly mitigate the water from spreading in the property.
4) Repair your property to “Like it never even happened.”
Give us a call today at 626-964-7700, if you have any questions regarding Water Damage in your home.
Home Water Damage: 10 Steps to take right away
6/1/2021 (Permalink)
When water damage occurs in a bathroom with tile, we do our best to dry in place.
If you’re suddenly dealing with water damage in your home, knowing what to do makes a big difference. Follow these 10 steps for recovering your home and belongings as quickly as possible.
1. IDENTIFY AND FIX THE PROBLEM
Power Tip: If you can’t pinpoint the problem, turn off your home’s main water supply, and call a licensed plumber.
2. CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY 3. DOCUMENT THE WATER DAMAGE 4. SORT AND ASSESS 5. GET OFF TO A SAFE START 6. REMOVE ALL WATER
Power Tip: Know when the vacuum canister is almost full by listening for sound changes in its motor.
7. START THE DRYING PROCESS 8. CLEAN, REPAIR AND RESTORE 9. BE AWARE OF MOLD HAZARDS 10. KNOW WHEN TO CALL THE PROS
We are available 24/7 for Emergency Services (626) 964-7700.
Can SERVPRO return my home back to it's pre-water loss condition?
5/7/2021 (Permalink)
No matter how big or small the water damage to your home is, we at SERVPRO are here to help.
Water damage in your Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights neighborhood home can be mitigated by our great SERVPRO team. Homeowners, renters and property managers can rest assured, our team will be able to quickly fix and correct any water damage. The results? Your home will be as good as new! Like our moto we will leave your home "Like it never even happened." Call us today for any water damage questions (626) 964-7700 we are available 24/7 for your Emergency Service Needs
Water damage & clean up
5/7/2021 (Permalink)
Water Damage???
Water damage can occur at any time. Faulty appliances, broken pipes, equipment failure, storms and floods are some of the things that can cause water damage. It is important to take care of water emergencies quickly as the longer the water sits, the higher the cost will be to repair the damage. SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights wants commercial and residential property owners of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights to know that we can respond quickly to any water damage. Using advanced inspection techniques and cutting-edge extraction equipment, we can find and resolve any kind of water damage to pre-damage condition. Here are some tips from the American Red Cross for steps you can take until help arrives:
- Keep the windows open and run fans to pull moisture out of wood floors and subfloors, beams, doors, etc.
- Bring all soft items outside if possible as sunlight and wind will help them dry faster
- Throw out items that have absorbed water and cannot be cleaned or disinfected
If you find yourself dealing with water damage, SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/ Rowland Heights wants to help. We are available 24 hours a day and our highly trained technicians have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore water damage for the city of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights residents and business owners. Call us today at (626) 964-7700 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your water damage “Like it never even happened.”
Faster to Any Water Disaster
7/24/2020 (Permalink)
Water Damage
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 626-964-7700
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes
- Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
- Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
- Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
- Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
- Drywall begins to swell and break down.
- Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
- Furniture begins to swell and crack.
- Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
- A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
- Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
- Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
- Metal begins to rust and corrode.
- Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
- Paint begins to blister.
- Wood flooring swells and warps.
- Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
- Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
- Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
About SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights
SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights 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.
Water Damage in Your Home
7/24/2020 (Permalink)
Water Damage
When you think of water damages, you first think of a flooded basement, with a couple of inches to maybe a foot (or more) of sewage. And, we get those types of calls. But water damage can occur from many other sources:
- Accident (an aquarium tipped over)
SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights has the tools necessary to pinpoint the damaged areas, assess the damages, and come up with a plan to get you back to a normal life as soon as possible!
From thermal cameras to non-penetrating and penetrating meters, we can find exactly where the water traveled. No need to make guesses and inspection holes in your walls.
We can extract the standing water, and remove as much as possible from carpet and pad, if necessary.
Fans are then placed, to get the air moving, throwing the moisture up in the air to be captured by large dehumidifiers. Air movement also helps prevent mold from colonizing.
Once dry, a mold inhibitor is sprayed as an extra defense against any possible mold growth.
So, if you have suffered water invading your home or business, relax. A call to SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights at 626-964-7700 will make it “Like it never even happened.”
Tips for Preventing Water Damage in the Home
6/22/2020 (Permalink)
Water Damage? Give us a call!
With the weather changing faster than you can say “Wicked”, it can be hard to tell what season is coming next! Though through all of this, one thing remains constant here at SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights. The bulk of losses we cover are caused by some form of water damage. So, how can we as homeowners prevent this? Take a look at the list we’ve pulled together below for some helpful tips on making sure your home is prepared when disaster strikes.
- Inspect your Roof & Gutters
Inspect your roof by walking around the outside perimeter of your home to look for signs of sagging, aging and damage such as buckled or missing shingles.
- Examine the inside of your Home; like Leaky Windows & Doors
Keep an eye on windows and doors during heavy rain fall to make sure no water is seeping in. If you do come to find that water is making its way into your home, try resealing around the frame with caulking. If the water persists, contact a local professional to have your siding inspected.
- Test that your Sump Pump is in good working condition
This can be performed by simply unplugging and plugging the pump back in. If the pump does not immediately turn back on, it is in need of repair.
Another way of testing your sump pump’s ability is by running water through it. You will only need enough water to lift the float until the pump kicks on. The pump kicking on will confirm that the pump is working properly.
- Check for any leaks coming from your Hot Water Heater
Inspect the area around your hot water heater to make sure no puddles have formed. Water around your heater typically indicates the temperature and pressure release valve have failed. This can lead to major water damage.
- Know the location of your Main Water Shut Off Valve
Out of all of these guidelines, this one may be the most important. You should know where your main water shut off valve is located in the event that water flow to your home be immediately terminated. It is important to note that as long as the water is coming from your homes water supply, you can shut it down quickly.
If you are experiencing water damage in your Home or Business call us today! 626-964-7700
Water Damage Prevention
6/8/2020 (Permalink)
Water Damage to an Office Building in Hacienda Heights, Ca.
Know where your emergency water shut-off valves are located, and have a contingency plan in place in case you are not available. Create an emergency plan with directions for what to do in an emergency as well as a list of phone numbers of approved companies to call in an emergency situation. Make sure someone you can trust has the authorization to make decisions if you are unavailable. Ask us about our FREE "ERP's" Emergency Ready Profiles.
Commercial Water Damage Prevention
Flooding may affect your commercial property by way of pipe bursts, rising river beds, tropical storms, heavy surface rainfall, or excessive rainfall in a short period of time, to name a few. As a property owner or manager, your disaster preparedness plan should address flood concerns. While you may not be able to stop the rain from falling, you can take efforts to keep your commercial buildings safe from impending damage, by conducting regular inspections of the building.
About SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights
SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a 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.
Don't hesitate calling our office, we are available 24/7 for your Commercial Building Emergency Services (626) 964-7700
Water Damage Tips
6/3/2020 (Permalink)
Water Damage
Professional water damage experts, SERVPRO, this week outline five measures homeowners can take to prevent injury or further damage once a water damage incident has occurred.
The cleanup and restoration specialists at SERVPRO have released a recent report detailing five ways to salvage flooring, appliances, and fixtures once water damage has occurred. Homeowners can prevent excessive damage to their flooring and appliances by following these five simple tips.
5 Things Homeowners Should Avoid if Flooding Occurs
Water damage can have a lasting effect on one’s home, though there are ways to avoid further damage and injury.
Don’t leave wet clothing or fabrics on the ground
Make sure to pick up anything which has been soaked with water and hang items to dry as soon as possible. If soaking wet clothing is left on flooring it can encourage mold the growth of mold and excess water can damage hardwood floors.
Don’t leave printed materials on wet carpet or flooring
Anything which contains ink will bleed onto other surfaces and can permanently stain flooring and carpets. This includes magazines, books, newspapers and colored fabrics. Discard any materials which have been completely damaged.
Don’t use a household vacuum cleaner to remove water
A household vacuum is meant to remove dry debris, not water or wet items. Water can damage a vacuum cleaner rendering it unusable for future use. Additionally, using a household vacuum cleaner to remove water is dangerous as electrocution may occur. It is best to let a professional, like SERVPRO, handle water damage cleanup.
Don’t use household appliances
If the water damage is so extensive that it has reached the cables and outlets of appliances, avoid using these appliances. Electrocution is possible if water damage is present in any situation. Appliances include televisions, computers, and portable electric heaters. It’s best to wait for a professional to give the go-ahead before continuing use of appliances in the area.
Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if water damage has affected the ceiling
If the ceiling has been damaged by water, avoid turning on any appliances which are attached to it. Ceiling fixtures include lighting fixtures and ceiling fans. If water has come into contact with wiring or the fixture itself there is a possibility of further damage to the home and possible electrocution.
Following these suggestions can mean the difference between safety and danger, as well as complete loss of the water damaged area. The professionals at SERVPRO regularly repair and restore water damages and are available 24/7 to lend a helping hand.
For emergency services, contact SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights at (626) 964-7700
Drying and Dehumidification
5/7/2020 (Permalink)
Drying equipment for water damage
After the water removal step, your floors and walls may look dry at first glance, but they are still wet to the touch. Most building materials, like drywall and wood, are porous and will retain significant water. The retained water will cause these materials to warp, swell, or break down and can also cause mold damage.
Drying / Dehumidification
SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will manipulate temperature and relative humidity to remove the remaining moisture. They use specialized equipment, including industrial air movers and dehumidifiers, to remove water retained by building materials and other hard-to-access moisture. They’ll carefully monitor the progress using moisture meters until the materials return to acceptable drying goals.
- Use Dehumidification Equipment
- Use Monitoring Equipment to Track Progress
Monitor Floor and Walls
They check the moisture levels to monitor the drying process.
- Monitor Floors
- Monitor Walls
Drying Equipment
- Industrial-grade dehumidifiers help prevent secondary water damage like swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.
- High-speed air movers create airflow across walls, carpets, pads, and furniture, which accelerates the evaporation of moisture.
Hot Water Heater Maintenance
5/5/2020 (Permalink)
Hot Water Heater
Your water heater may remain unseen, hidden in a utility closet or sitting alone in a basement, but keep in mind that it needs regular maintenance for safety reasons. Make sure yours is safe, by getting to know its parts and learning some important facts.
Water heater parts
Most residential tanks hold 40 to 60 gallons and need to withstand the pressure of a residential water system (typically 50 to 100 psi.) Steel tanks are tested to handle 300 psi and have a bonded glass liner to keep rust out of the water, as well as insulation surrounding the tank. Other water heater parts include:
- A dip tube to let cold water into the tank
- A pipe to let hot water out of the tank
- A thermostat to control the temperature of the water inside the tank
- Heating elements similar to those inside an electric oven
- A drain valve that allows you to drain the tank to replace the elements, or to move the tank
- A temperature or pressure relief valve that keeps the tank from exploding
- A sacrificial anode rod to help keep the steel tank from corroding
Temperature or pressure relief valve
Temperature or pressure relief valves help prevent tanks from exploding if temperature or pressure exceeds safe limits. Unfortunately, residential valves can be prone to failure, so test this valve yearly by:
- Pulling up on the handle to make sure water flows freely out, and stops when you let go of the handle. If it does nothing or runs or drips, then the valve should be replaced.
- Flushing the hot water heater through the drain valve to remove sediment buildup. You should have a drain line, either plumbed outside or within about 6 inches of the floor to prevent you from being scalded if the valve opens while you’re next to it.
Temperature control
On residential tanks, the settings are normally warm, hot, very hot or something similar. There is so much variation on what these settings mean, but the right temperature is at least 120 degrees at the tap, which you can test with a meat or candy thermometer.
It is important to keep the temperature close to 120 degrees to kill germs and prevent children from being scaled. Compared to adults, babies and children have thinner skin that burns faster and at lower temperatures. It's a good idea to check the water temperature using your wrist or elbow every time you bathe a baby, toddler or young child.
When leaving for vacation, set the hot water heater temperature to its lowest setting. This saves money and reduces the risk of problems while you are away.
Vents
A poor draft can cause fumes and carbon monoxide to reenter the room instead of going outside. To maintain good ventilation make sure that:
- The vent is the same diameter as the tank's draft diverter
- The vent goes straight up and out, without any dips
- Where it passes through walls or roofs, it is double-walled. Single-walled vent sections should be screwed with 3 screws per section, especially in earthquake zones.
Earthquake straps
Strapping your water heater is a good idea, even if you live outside an earthquake zone. This is particularly important for maintaining gas water heater safety. If your water heater were to fall over, it could sever the gas line and cause an explosion.
Additional water heater safety tips
Keep safe by following these water heater recommendations:
- Remove paper, dust or other combustibles from the heater enclosure.
- Extinguish the pilot light before using flammable liquids or setting off aerosol bug bombs.
- If the device is in the garage, raise it so the pilot light is 18 inches above the floor. This helps prevent ignition of gasoline vapors that collect near the floor.
- Consider installing an automatic gas-shutoff valve to stop the flow of gas if the ground moves or if gas flow increases dramatically. The valve prevents fires when a gas line breaks due to flood, earthquake or other disaster.
- You may want to insulate the first six feet of the hot water pipe and the first three feet of the cold water pipe that extends from your hot water tank. Insulation reduces heat loss on the hot water pipe and "sweating” on the cold water pipe.
- Do not use pipe wrap or any other insulation within six inches of the draft hood or flue exhaust vent at the top of the natural gas water heater.
When It Rains, It Pours
3/6/2020 (Permalink)
Always trust in SERVPRO to restore your damage done by water.
When It Rains, It Pours… Water Damage Restoration
Damage to a commercial building from water can come in many forms. From sprinkler malfunction to a rainstorm, water damage can damage and destroy a building and its contents. Can a commercial building ever return to normal? Are any of the contents salvageable?
Water is extremely damaging to most common materials like wood, paper, building materials, and electronics. If you remove items from having contact with water, damage might be reduced. If items are left in standing water, they will continue to deteriorate even after surface water is removed. Flood waters are often mixed with sewage, animal waste, and industrial water. When working in a flood, workers should consider the water bio hazards. Also, mold and mildew can cause irreparable damage to building materials and building contents even after the standing water is gone.
Restoration to flood damaged buildings and its contents, including paper documents is possible. By removing excess water, and reducing the moisture content of the building with dehumidification and decontamination of contents and the building materials. A building can return to operations and minimize losses following water damage.
It is important to have a plan for a disaster. It is highly recommended that you set up a working relationship with a restoration company like SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/ Rowland Heights before a loss occurs. This will help with an expedite response and help have a plan for any future Emergency Service needs.
A Good Look at Water
3/6/2020 (Permalink)
It's best to locate a possible leak before it does visible damage.
It’s always important to save water the best we can. Whether that means turning off our faucets when washing dishes, brushing our teeth, or maintaining a yard that doesn’t require much water, we can all do our part to save water.
However, did you know that even tiny leaks can waste so much water? “The average household’s lakes can account for nearly 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year and ten percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day”. It’s important to know that these leaks are easy to fix, yet if not fixed, can caused extreme damage to your home and wallet.
About 1 Trillion gallons of water each year are wasted from household leaks in the U.S. That’s as much water as water use for 11 Million+ homes in America.
How can you find these leaks? Take a look at what EPA recommends:
- Take a look at your water usage during a colder month, such as January or February. If a family of four exceeds 12,000 gallons per month, there are serious leaks.
- Check your water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter changes at all, you probably have a leak.
- Identify toilet leaks by placing a drop of food coloring in the toilet tank. If any color shows up in the bowl after 10 minutes, you have a leak. (Be sure to flush immediately after the experiment to avoid staining the tank.)
- Examine faucet gaskets and pipe fittings for any water on the outside of the pipe to check for surface leaks.
If you detect possible water damage in your home, call us at SERVPRO of Walnut as soon as possible. We will restore the damage brought to your home or business back to the way it was before.
Knowing the Difference between a flood and a flash flood
7/22/2019 (Permalink)
Know how to determine the difference between a flash flood and a flood in this post.
Red Cross states that, “Floods are among the most frequent and costly natural disasters. Flooding often occurs following a hurricane, thawing snow, or several days of sustained rain. Flash floods occur suddenly, due to rapidly rising water along a stream or low-lying area. Learn what to do to keep your loved ones safe!”
It’s important to know the difference between a flood and a flash flood! A flood can be caused by something blocking the drains, overflow of rain, or others. However, a flash flood appears out of nowhere. It may even look like no flood is coming at all. Flash floods may not last as long as traditional floods. Local news may send flash flood warnings to your phone so make sure to be on the lookout!
How to Recover after a Flood
7/21/2019 (Permalink)
Take these helpful steps after a flood.
After a flood, returning home may be scary seeing the amount of damage done to your home. Things necessary for you such as power, water, gas, etc may not be working. Here are some tips on how to recover;
- It may be beneficial for you, friends, neighbors, and/or family to talk about their experience.
- You can rely on information from your local authorities.
- Welfare agencies may be available for you to seek support to.
- Before cleaning up, make sure that all electricity and gas is shut off.
- Get all of the electrical appliances checked by an electrician before use.
- Dfes Gov states the following, “If you are insured, it is important to contact your insurer, request an assessment and specific advice relating to your policy before discarding, authorizing repairs or cleaning any damaged or flood affected property. It is best to take photographs, video footage and make an inventory of your property and contents to assist with the claims process
Water Can Dry up Drywall!
6/28/2019 (Permalink)
After a slab leak in this home in Walnut two weeks ago water wicked up drywall 2-3ft!
When water damage occurs in your home or business sometimes it is difficult to recognize where the water has traveled to.
Have you seen those paper towel commercials on television that show how much liquid it can soak up?
- Drywall is similar to paper towels. It may not soak up moisture as quickly as paper towels do, but over a period of time you will notice that water can wick up the drywall fairly high after water has touched the bottom of the drywall.
- SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights & Rowland Heights has the equipment to detect where the moisture has traveled that you may not be able to see or feel after water damage. For example walls, Floors, cabinetry. It is critical to accurately find where water has traveled to avoid any secondary damages such as mold.
If you have Water Damage concerns, Contact SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights & Rowland Heights to schedule your free moisture inspection! (626) 964-7700.
Is Your Water Heater about to Fail?
6/24/2019 (Permalink)
Prevent Your Water Heater from damaging your property with these helpful tips.
It is common for some to be unaware if there water heater is about to fail. Here are four things you should check.
1. How old is your Water Heater?
-Water heaters typically have a lifetime of about 8-10 years. Locate the serial number to determine how old yours is. The serial number will have a date code such as "F051052638". The letter F would be for the month and since F is the sixth letter in the alphabet it would represent June. The first two digits of the serial number are 05, which represents 2005. So, in this case it was made in June 2005.Each manufacturing has similar date code.
2. Is there Rusty Water?
-If you notice the hot water is coming out brown, it may be a sign that the Water Heater is beginning to rust out.\
3. Is there a Rumbling and Noise?
-When a Water Heater ages, sediment will build up on the bottom of the tank. As the sediment is Heated and reheated, it eventually will harden. When this happens, you can often hear rumbling or banging sounds coming from the water as it heats up. This is a sign that the water heater is at the end of it's useful life.
4. Is there Water around the Water Heater?
-If you notice moisture around your water heater, you may have a small leak or a fracture in the tank. As the metal heats, it expands and if there are sight fractures, water may leak from the tank. When this happens it is best to get it repaired before more damage occurs.
Hacienda Heights/ Rowland Heights 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service
3/4/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/ Rowland Heights provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration services.
SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/ Rowland Heights 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.
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 626-964-7700
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 Hacienda Heights/ Rowland Heights 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 Hacienda Heights/ Rowland Heights
SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights 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
Faster to your Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights Water Damage Event
3/4/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration services.
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 626-964-7700
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes
- Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
- Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
- Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
- Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp
Hours 1 - 24:
- Drywall begins to swell and break down.
- Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
- Furniture begins to swell and crack.
- Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
- A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
- Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
- Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
- Metal begins to rust and corrode.
- Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
- Paint begins to blister.
- Wood flooring swells and warps.
- Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
- Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
- Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
Water Damage in Commercial Insurance Agency (La Puente, CA)
6/15/2018 (Permalink)
Do you have an emergency plan in place for your business in case disaster strikes?
SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights & Rowland Heights was called out to an insurance agency in the city if La Puente, CA to assist with a water main break that flooded all of their offices and damaged many of their files.
Did you know about 50% of businesses never open after a disaster? Having back-up storage for important documents is a great way to prepare your business or incidents like this.
Another way to prepare is to have an Emergency Profile put together for your business with photos, insurance information, emergency contact information, shut-off locations, etc. Don't have the time or money to put one together? No problem! SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights & Rowland Heights can provide you with one for your business for free! Just contact (626) 964-7700
Water can travel UP drywall!
6/15/2018 (Permalink)
After a slab leak in this home in Walnut two weeks ago water wicked up drywall 2-3ft!
When water damage occurs in your home or business sometimes it is difficult to recognize where the water has traveled to.
Have you seen those paper towel commercials on television that show how much liquid it can soak up?
- Drywall is similar to paper towels. It may not soak up moisture as quickly as paper towels do, but over a period of time you will notice that water can wick up the drywall fairly high after water has touched the bottom of the drywall.
- SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights & Rowland Heights has the equipment to detect where the moisture has traveled that you may not be able to see or feel after water damage. For example walls, Floors, cabinetry. It is critical to accurately find where water has traveled to avoid any secondary damages such as mold.
If you have Water Damage concerns, Contact SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights & Rowland Heights to schedule your free moisture inspection! (626) 964-7700.
The Do's and Don’ts after a Flooding occurs
6/15/2018 (Permalink)
In the Occurrence of a Flood:
- Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
- Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
- Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
- Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
The Don'ts:
- Do not leave wet fabrics in place, Hang furs and leather goods.
- Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
- Do not use your house hold vacuum to remove water.
- Do not use the television or other household appliances.
- Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.
For more information visit: http://www.SERVPROhaciendaheightsrowlandheights.com/
The Unnoticed Water
6/15/2018 (Permalink)
The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights & Rowland Heights has the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights & Rowland Heights will answer your call with rapid action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. Here are a few of the tools we use.
- Moisture Sensors: are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls.
- Moisture Meters: are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO of Walnut to monitor the drying process.
- Thermo Hygrometers: measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, we can calculate and create an environment most conductive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized.
- Ultra Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers: will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate.
- Thermal Foggers: dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor-causing particles.
Did You Know Water Damage Has a Timeline!
2/2/2018 (Permalink)
Flooding and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights and Rowland Heights provides cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (Including all holidays).
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights and Rowland Heights arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Need Emergency Service? Call us 24/7 SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights and Rowland Heights 626-964-7700.
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes:
- Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
- Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery and belongings.
- Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
- Photographs, books and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1-24:
- Drywall begins to swell and break down.
- Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
- Furniture begins to swell and crack.
- Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
- A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
- Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
- Doors, windows and studs swell and warp.
- Metal begins to blister.
- Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
- Paint begins to blister.
- Wood flooring swells and warps.
- Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Thank 1 Week:
- Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
- Structural safety, mold growth and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
Are you prepared for a Landslide?
1/18/2018 (Permalink)
Landslides have occurred in almost every state and can cause significant damage. Due to the recent catastrophic mudslides/ Landslides. Having some knowledge on what to do before or during can help your family greatly. The American Red Cross offers great steps you can take. Here are a few.
Before:
What should I do if I live in an area at risk from landslides?
- Learn about local emergency response and evacuation plans.
- Talk to everyone in your household about what to do if a landslide occurs.
- Create and practice an evacuation plan for your family and your business.
- Assemble and maintain an emergency preparedness kit.
- Become familiar with the land around where you live and work so that you understand your risk in different situations.
- Watch the patterns of a storm water drainage on slopes near your home, especially where runoff water converges.
During:
What should I do if a landslide is occurring or likely to occur?
- If you suspect immediate danger, evacuate immediately. Inform affected neighbors if you can, and contact your public works, fire or police department.
- Listen for unusual sounds that might indicate moving debris, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together.
- If you are near a stream or channel, be alert for any sudden increase or decrease in water flow and notice whether the water changes from clear to muddy. Such changes may mean there is debris flow activity upstream so be prepared to move quickly.
- Be especially alert when driving- watch for collapsed pavement, mud, fallen rocks and other indications of possible debris flow.
- If you are ordered or decide to evacuate, take your animals with you.
After:
What should I do after a landslide?
- Stay away from the slide area. There may be danger of additional slides.
- Check for injured and trapped persons near the slide, without entering the direct slide areas. Direct rescuers to their locations.
- Help a neighbor who may require special assistance-infants, elderly people, and people with disabilities. Elderly people and people with disabilities may require additional assistance. People who care for them or who have large families may need additional assistance in emergency situations.
- Listen to local radio or television stations for the latest emergency information.
- Watch for flooding, which may occur after a landslide or debris flow. Floods sometimes follow landslides and debris flows because they may both be started by the same event.
- Look for and report broken utility lines to appropriate authorities. Reporting potential hazards will get the utilities turned off as quickly as possible, preventing further hazard and injury.
Are You Ready for The Rain?
1/18/2018 (Permalink)
When it rains in California, it falls. Knowing what to watch out for or avoid during the rains is a great asset to have. The LA County Website has some tips on what to avoid whether outside or in.
When Outside
- Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding. If you are caught outdoors during a heavy rain and flood climb to high ground and stay there.
- Stay back from rushing water, as during flash floods water can increase suddenly.
- If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, STOP! Turn around and go another way.
- Don't walk through flooded areas, as little as six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.
- Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires. Electric current passes easily through water.
In Your Home
- If power is out, use flashlights and battery lanterns (Do not use flammable or gas lanterns).
- Check for gas leaks- If you smell gas or hear blowing or hissing noise, open a window and quickly leave the building. Turn off the gas at the outside main valve if you can and call the gas company from a neighbor’s home. If you turn off the gas for any reason, it must be turned back on by a professional.
- Look for electrical system damage- If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If your power is off, keep it off, until an electrician has inspected your system for safety.
- Floodwaters pick up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms and factories. If your home has been flooded, protect your family's health by cleaning up your house right away. Throw out foods and medicines that may have met floodwater.
What is involved in a Water Damage Inspection?
6/29/2017 (Permalink)
- What is Involved in a Water Damage Inspection?
In the aftermath of a flood or a house fire, it is important to have a water damage inspection conducted, so that the extent of water damage to the home and your possessions can be determined. You will need to do this, as it will provide you with a good idea of what needs to be replaced in your home, as well as providing your insurance adjuster with what they need in order to adjust your claim for damage with speed and efficiency. You can hire professional water damage inspectors, who frequently tend to by employed by water damage restoration companies. Water damage inspections entail a great deal, and it can really be to your benefit to be knowledgeable about the process.
- Inspection for Potential Structural Damage
In the course of a water damage inspection, the professional who comes to your home will usually begin outside and proceed inside the house. If your water damage is severe, it would be advisable to keep a record like videos or photos of the damaged areas so that you can get the payment you need from your insurance company.
- Water Damage Inspection on the Inside
When the inspectors get to the interior of your home during a water damage inspection, they will typically begin at the top of the house and work downwards. They will start with the attic, checking for cracked floors and joists, wet ceilings, insulation with excess water, and duct-work that is bent or distorted. When they get to the rooms within the other parts of your home, they will look for damaged ceilings and drywall, wood that is stained or warped, windows that are cracked, and doors that are unable to properly close. Once they are in the kitchen and the bathroom, they will look at the ceramic fixtures, such as toilets, bathtubs, sinks, and carpets, cracked floors and walls. They will also look at personal possessions that may be damaged by water, such as clothes, furniture, appliances, and electronics.
- Why it is Important to hire a Professional to Perform a Water Damage Inspection
Professional water damage inspectors are qualified to inspect your home, as they have the extensive training, experience, and specialized equipment to make sure that they are able to correctly and effectively find any water damage that is present in your home. They have moisture sensor probes, which can detect the amount of moisture in your carpets and walls. Additionally, they use infrared thermograph devices so that they can check the parts of your home that are not visible.
Three Categories of Water Damage
6/8/2017 (Permalink)
A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage in an affected area. According to IICRC Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration, there are three categories of water that cause damage in buildings. They are summarized as Follows:
- Category 1 Water: That which is clean at the releasing source and does not pose a hazard if consumed by humans. Category 1 Water may become progressively contaminated as it mixes with soils on or within floor coverings or building assemblies (walls, decking, and sub-flooring). Time and temperature, which promote the growth and amplification of microorganisms in water, can cause category 1 water to degrade. Some examples are burst water pipes, failed supply lines on appliances, vertically falling rainwater.
- Category 2 Water: That which begins with some degree of contamination and could cause sickness or discomfort if consumed by humans. As with category 1 water, time and temperature can cause category 2 water to become progressively more contaminated.
- Category 3 Water: That which is highly contaminated and could cause death or serious illness if consumed by humans. Examples: Sewage, rising flood water from rivers and streams, ground surface water flowing horizontally into homes. There are two ways in which water enters a building as a result of wind storm damage.
Wet insulation is One Hidden Hazard
6/6/2017 (Permalink)
Insulation can become wet in a variety of ways. A pipe could burst, a seam could have been improperly welded or there could be a puncture somewhere on your roofing system, along with a wide variety of other possibilities. However, just fixing the leak is not enough; the wet insulation must be removed.
Here are 3 points that explain the ramifications of not tearing out wet insulation.
- Structural Stability: As discussed, wet insulation can negatively impact your entire building. The trapped moisture can begin to degrade your roofing system starting with the deck and working its way out. Rotting can occur and lead to collapses throughout the structure. There is also the overall weight burden to consider. As the insulation collects moisture, it gets increasingly heavier. The pressure can be catastrophic to the building and lead to complete system collapse.
- Energy Efficiency Compromised: The occupation of wet insulation in your roof will generally negate the energy efficiency benefits of your roofing system. This is due to the fact that the moisture is acting as a conductor of energy rather than repelling it as it is designed. Your building will now require more heat in the winter and air conditioning in the summer, resulting in higher utility bills. Moisture can cause your insulation to lose as much as 40% of its thermal residence capabilities.
- Indoor Air Quality: It is highly likely that your building is being occupied for a good portion of the day and/or night depending on what industry you are in. As a result, air quality is incredibly important. If your insulation in your roof is wet, mold and bacteria can grow. Not a good sign for healthy air or happy occupants. The longer you leave the wet insulation untreated, the greater the potential danger to your occupants.
SERVPRO of Walnut 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service
2/26/2017 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Walnut is available 24 hours day or 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.
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today (909) 598-8400.
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 Walnut has the specific water damage raining and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration.
What to Expect
-When you call, we ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how man trained SERVPRO professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO of Walnut Representatives will ask a few 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)
Understanding Different types of Water
1/3/2017 (Permalink)
When your home or business suffers a water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensuring proper cleanup. There are three types of water. Clean water is water from a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean. The term grey water is used to classify slightly contaminated water. Clean water becomes gray water when it is left untreated allowing bacteria and other contaminants to begin growing, making the water hazardous. Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals and more. Black water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster. Black water should always be handled by trained professionals. When you have a water damage. don't leave your property to chance, Call SERVPRO of Walnut (909) 598-8400. Consider taking the following precautions to help minimize damage or prevent further damage while waiting for help to arrive.
Damage from clean Water:
- Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.
- Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the billing if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock. Do not enter rooms with standing water, as electrical shock hazards may exist.
- Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
- Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions to allow more even drying.
- Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture to a safe place.
- Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining.
- Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water as there is potential for electrical shock or causing damage to the vacuum cleaner.
- Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet; do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
Damage from Contaminated Water:
- Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated items. Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.
- Do not turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
- Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminates.
- Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.
24/7 Emergency Service
