Six Dangers of Standing Water

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

Standing water in your home after a flood is a water damage disaster waiting to happen. In fact, one of the absolute worst things you can do is wait around before taking steps to ensure the quick removal of the standing floodwater. There are many reasons why this is the case and the damage can pile up quickly as standing is left in your home. 

Bacteria

Floodwater is often originally contaminated with bacteria and other contaminants. When there is sewage in the water, specific types of bacteria that are common are E. coli and Salmonella. Even in floodwater that was clean to begin with, however, bacteria will begin to grow in the floodwater given enough time. You should be very cautious about coming into contact with floodwater that contains bacteria so you don’t get yourself sick.

Mold 

One of the problems that become most apparent as standing water remains after a flood is mold. In just a short amount of time, mold can go from beginning to grow to becoming a pervasive problem spreading throughout your home. The health problems stemming from mold are usually minor symptoms such as a cough, sore throat, sneezing, irritated skin, red/itchy eyes. In more serious cases mold has been linked to asthma and (somewhat controversially) lung disease. However, contrary to what some people think, mold does NOT cause cancer.

Viruses

Stagnant water will allow viruses to breed including the Norwalk virus and rotaviruses. Insects and mosquitoes may also carry other viruses. In essence, viruses are a serious concern from stagnant floodwater that should not be taken lightly.

Parasites

The most common parasites in standing water are Entamoeba, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium. These may grow in clean water but are much more common in gray water and sewage.

Structural Damage

Standing water poses a serious hazard to the structure of your home. The exposure to the water can ruin drywall, cause wood to swell, and possibly even ruin certain portions of your home so they need to be replaced completely.

Pests And Rodents

Stagnant water can also attract insects and rodents. Mosquitoes may carry malaria, West Nile virus, and Zika fever. Rats, mice, and other small rodents can carry a variety of bacteria and diseases. Not to mention, these pests and rodents are just plain gross and the last thing anyone wants to deal with in their home on top of water damage.

Bathroom Leaks and Water Damage: A Guide to Prevention and Restoration

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

Bathroom leaks can cause significant issues if left unaddressed, leading to water damage, mold growth, and potential structural damage. Recognizing the signs of bathroom leaks and taking immediate action can save you from costly repairs and ensure a safe and healthy living environment.

1. Causes of Bathroom Leaks:

a. Faulty Plumbing: Plumbing issues such as damaged pipes, loose connections, or worn-out seals can result in water leaks. Pay attention to any unusual sounds, dripping faucets, or slow-draining sinks.

b. Damaged Fixtures: Old or improperly installed fixtures, such as toilets, showers, or sinks, can develop leaks over time. Check for any signs of water around the base of these fixtures or water stains on walls or floors.

c. Cracked Tiles and Grout: Cracked or missing tiles and deteriorated grout can allow water to seep into the walls or floors, causing hidden water damage. Regularly inspect the condition of tiles and grout in your bathroom.

2. Signs of Water Damage:

a. Stains and Discoloration: Yellowish or brownish stains on walls, ceilings, or floors are indicative of water damage. Pay attention to any changes in paint or wallpaper, as they can start peeling or bubbling due to moisture.

b. Musty Odor: A persistent musty smell in the bathroom may indicate mold growth, a common consequence of water damage. Mold thrives in moist environments, so take immediate action if you notice this odor.

c. Sagging or Warped Surfaces: Waterlogged drywall or wooden surfaces may start to sag or warp. These changes in texture are a clear sign of water damage and require prompt attention.

3. Preventing Bathroom Leaks:

a. Regular Maintenance: Perform routine inspections of your bathroom for any signs of leaks or damage. Check for loose fittings, drips, or cracks and address them promptly.

b. Caulking and Sealing: Properly seal joints, corners, and edges in the bathroom with high-quality caulk or sealant to prevent water from seeping into vulnerable areas.

c. Proper Ventilation: Adequate ventilation can help reduce moisture levels in the bathroom. Use exhaust fans or open windows after hot showers to allow steam to escape.

4. Restoring Water-Damaged Bathrooms:

a. Safety First: Prioritize safety when dealing with water damage. Turn off the water supply to prevent further leaks, and ensure the electrical system is safe before entering the affected area.

b. Remove Standing Water: Use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum to remove any standing water. Dispose of saturated materials that cannot be salvaged.

c. Dry and Dehumidify: Thoroughly dry the affected areas using fans, dehumidifiers, and proper air circulation. This step helps prevent mold growth and further damage.

d. Repair and Restoration: Fix any damaged pipes, fixtures, or structural elements. Replace water-damaged materials such as drywall, flooring, or insulation to restore the bathroom to its pre-damage condition.

Conclusion:

Bathroom leaks and water damage are common issues that can lead to significant problems if not addressed promptly. By understanding the causes, recognizing the signs of water damage, and taking preventive measures, you can protect your bathroom from leaks and the resulting damage. Remember, early detection and swift action are crucial in minimizing the impact of bathroom leaks and ensuring a safe and healthy living space.

If you suspect or encounter bathroom leaks or water damage, don't hesitate to seek professional assistance to mitigate the problem effectively. Call SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz 323-667-3100

Water Damage From Dishwashers

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

How long before dishwasher water damage occurs?

Dishwasher water damage can occur within just a couple of hours. You get home, turn on the dishwasher, walk away and watch TV for a while, or run a few errands, only to come home and find a pool of water on the kitchen floor. The first reaction should be to soak up as much of the water as you can, because the longer it sits there, the more likely it will cause permanent damage.

Some flooring materials are more susceptible to dishwasher water damage than others, such as wood or bamboo. Wood will absorb water quickly, causing your flooring to warp and crack. Make sure to effectively dry out the area ASAP so you can avoid as much damage as possible.

Dishwasher water damage and what to expect

If you’ve never experienced dishwasher leaks or water damage before, you might not even know what you’re in for. Here’s what to expect when you’re dealing with water damage from dishwashers, including the common causes of leaks as well as what elements of your kitchen are most vulnerable after a leak.

What would cause a dishwasher to leak?

Common causes of dishwasher leaks include:

• Worn gaskets
• Dishwasher not level
• Wrong dishwashing soap used
• Broken door
• Defective dishwasher tub

Your dishwasher leak can cause water damage in a variety of ways to a variety of different elements of your kitchen. The below are all susceptible to damage after a dishwasher leak:

• Tile flooring
• Wood flooring
• Laminate flooring
• Electrical wiring
• Drywall
• Wallpaper
• Paint

Leakproof Your Home

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

Now that fall is officially here, it is time to prepare your home and/or business for cold and rainy weather. But keeping water out of your property can be quite complicated. For example; plumbing issues can cause moisture and even light rain can cause leaks through the roof, walls, foundation etc. When this occurs the moisture eventually reaches the porous materials in your home, which may then lead to structural damage and other humidity concerns. It is important to note that if left untreated you also run the risk of mold growth. For these reasons it is highly recommended that you take proper care of any and all potential areas prone to leaks such as the following;

• Inspection of the plumbing pipe(s) system
• Inspection of the roof/chimney
• Inspection of the water heater
• Check attic insulation
• Clean the gutters
• Repair any cracks
• Seal proof doors and windows
• Check exterior faucets and irrigation system

After all, “An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure”. However, in the event that you encounter any leaks or flooding occurs, please contact SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills. We specialize in helping property owners recover from water damage and make it "Like it never even happened."

Unexpected Storms Causing Water Damage

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

In areas that storms don't occur often, an unexpected storm can do more damage than expected. In Southern CA storms are not common place, meaning the population is often not prepared for that type of disaster. While CA building codes are prepared to handle disasters such as earthquakes, storms and flooding are not considered as much meaning damage that comes from flooding and high winds can be much more disastrous. SERVPRO helps by helping our clients create a storm readiness program free of charge for those who wish to be prepared for anything. Realize that almost anything can happen anywhere, so essentially being safe is better than being sorry. If you don't know how to prepare for disaster, contact SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills and we would be happy to help!

Water acts as a universal solvent

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can come in many forms, some varying from minor leaks to major flooding and mold as result. Not  only does the moisture from water cause issues like mold, but water is known for having properties that can dissolve most materials over time. This means that if you have water damage in your property it can damage the materials surrounding the leak or flood. One of the most common examples of this is drywall or plaster which is used as the walls and ceilings of most homes and buildings when exposed to water can absorb water causing it to break down and deteriorate, becoming soft and moist creating a breeding ground for mold and bacteria that can spread quickly throughout a property. Make sure to keep these facts in mind when dealing with water damage.

Water Category

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

There are 3 different types of water damage designated by the IICRC (the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification). There’s clean water damage, grey water damage, and black water damage. 

• Category 1: The least severe of the three which includes water damage from broken pipes, water supply lines, sinks, bathtubs and other appliance related issues. This is less severe because the water is clean and doesn’t have sewage. Most Category 1 incidents can be dried very easily.
• Category 2: This water damage includes grey water. This can come from toilets, washing machines, and sump pump backups. This grey water may or may not be harmful to humans so it is very important to clean and disinfect the area.
• Category 3: This is the worst type of water damage and is also called black water. Black water includes sewage and sea water and requires swift action.

The SERVPRO way

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO we are all about protecting our clients' homes and businesses. We have compiled a list of tips to prevent water damage from ever even occurring. Make sure to clean all gutters and downspouts. Install water detection devices near water heaters, sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers and toilets to prevent extensive damage and mold growth. Check your water bill to see if there might be a leak making your bill more expensive. If you do have a leak make sure you act fast because you could end up experiencing mold, mildew, dry rot or even structural damage. At that point make sure to call SERVPRO for your restoration needs.  Our services are available 24 hours 7 days a week just give us a call.

The Speed of Water

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to water damage, time is your worst enemy. Within a matter of minutes water spreads and furniture finishes can deteriorate, while the wet carpets the furniture is on begins to stain. Within a matter of hours dyes on fabrics may begin to bleed their color, furniture directly affected by the water begins to swell, and a number of different odors will become apparent in your home. Within days and weeks Paint blisters, wallpaper peels, wood will warp and swell and fungi will begin to appear. You can always count on SERVPRO to get to the job, assess the situation, prevent the spread and fix the damage. Here at SERVPRO we are here to make sure your precious home is returned to its original form.

The Complexity of Water

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

Water is an interesting substance, as it is vital to life on earth and important to almost every living organism on our planet, and on the other hand it can be one of the most terrifying forces in the form of torrential downpours and tsunamis. Water is a force of nature and it can damage, that’s why SERVPRO is always at the ready in any case of emergency to help you and your property, whatever the scenario may be. Water damage is complex; even a small drip left for a time inside the walls of a building could soak all the surrounding walls, causing direct damage to the material and acting as a catalyst to mold growth throughout the whole building. SERVPRO is constantly at the ready to help anyone we can with these types of issues, this is why we serve 24/7, 365 days a year. 

Protect Your Roof

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

This is a friendly reminder to make sure you don’t have a leaky roof! Remember, a small leak in the roof of your building can lead to huge problems for your whole building. The tiny amounts of water that seep through a roof can do many things such as rot wood, destroy drywall, and flood your home or property. There are many measures you can take to ensure that a leaky roof is not the downfall of your property. The first is quite simple, just make sure that your roof is not damaged and keep it well maintained. The second is a more extreme measure but there are many materials that you can lay the roof of your home or property with that will waterproof and weatherproof your roof. If all else fails, SERVPRO is always ready to help with any type of water problems that come your way. Just give us a call!

Flood Facts

11/12/2019 (Permalink)

Beware flash floods and always be prepared!

A flood is one of the most devastating natural disasters that can occur, here are some interesting facts about floods and how much damage they can cause.

• Flash floods can occur in any area in the US, all 50 states are venerable. 
• Flash floods can create enormous walls of water up to 20 ft high.
• Cars can be swept away by floods with water only two feet deep.
• Aside from wildfire, floods are the most common type of natural disaster.
• Based on an average 2000 square foot home, a foot of water can cause up to $50 k in damages.

These facts show that floods are catastrophic even if they are minor and can occur at any time. SERVPRO is always ready to help you prepare for any type of disaster including floods. 

Water is a Universal Solvent

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

Paper being instantly dissolved in water.

Water is a universal solvent, but what does that mean? This means water can dissolve nearly anything given time. Think of the Grand Canyon, massive amounts of stone carved into a canyon after millions of years, just imagine comparing that to a flood in your home or business property. Water damage in properties nearly never occurs for long enough to erode things like stone but can easily erode and dissolve things such as drywall, plaster, wood, and any paint or varnish that may be covering it. This process happens when materials are exposed to certain amounts of water for a long period of time and the molecular bonds of the material begin to weaken and deteriorate, and in some materials cases completely dissipating and becoming a mush.

Water Damage from Dishwashers: Causes & Solutions

8/23/2019 (Permalink)

Let the experts at SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz assist you with your water damage!

How long before dishwasher water damage occurs?

Dishwasher water damage can occur within just a couple of hours. You get home, turn on the dishwasher, walk away and watch TV for a while, or run a few errands, only to come home and find a pool of water on the kitchen floor. The first reaction should be to soak up as much of the water as you can, because the longer it sits there, the more likely it will cause permanent damage.

Some flooring materials are more susceptible to dishwasher water damage than others, such as wood or bamboo. Wood will absorb water quickly, causing your flooring to warp and crack. Make sure to effectively dry out the area ASAP so you can avoid as much damage as possible.

Dishwasher water damage and what to expect

If you’ve never experienced dishwasher leaks or water damage before, you might not even know what you’re in for. Here’s what to expect when you’re dealing with water damage from dishwashers, including the common causes of leaks as well as what elements of your kitchen are most vulnerable after a leak.

What would cause a dishwasher to leak?

Common causes of dishwasher leaks include:

• Worn gaskets
• Dishwasher not level
• Wrong dishwashing soap used
• Broken door
• Defective dishwasher tub

Your dishwasher leak can cause water damage in a variety of ways to a variety of different elements of your kitchen. The below are all susceptible to damage after a dishwasher leak:

• Tile flooring
• Wood flooring
• Laminate flooring
• Electrical wiring
• Drywall
• Wallpaper
• Paint

Negligence on Repairs can Cause Serious Damage!

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage in a damaged roof from light rains.

If your roof is damaged on in a storm, neglecting to do repairs can result in serious damage (such as shown in the photo). In this specific case, the property had a dilapidated and old roof that blew apart from winds, then was flooded by rains.  The fault lies with failing to keep old buildings up to modern standards with repair and renovation. Mold can also develop in the affected home due to moisture, making restoration even more difficult and causing a potential living hazard. For these reasons as a property owner you must-

1. Upkeep and renovate your property as to avoid such issues.
2. Call for help immediately as the longer you wait, the worse the issue will get.

Whenever you suspect your roof is damaged or that you may have water damage from recent rains, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz at (323) 667-3100.

Discovering Sources of Water Damage

11/8/2018 (Permalink)

To schedule a free water damage inspection today, give us a call at 323-667-3100

If you discover a water leak in your home, the first few minutes are critical.  The top priority is to avoid panic and focus on getting the source of the water stopped.  The most common water leaks in a home can be traced to the kitchen or a bathroom. 

Most all common water supplies in a residence have a cut-off valve nearby and all valves can be turned off with a clockwise turn.  If the source of the leak is your washing machine, the valves to turn off the flow are located behind the machine.  Do not disconnect the hoses.  Instead, turn off the water flow where the hoses are connected in the wall. 

In the kitchen, you will find shut-off values for the faucet under the sink.  This is also where you will most likely find the shut-off valve for an ice maker, if your freezer is equipped with one.  The valve that controls your sink is usually the same valve that provides flow to your dishwasher.  In a bathroom, cutoff valves are below the sink and may be within a sink cabinet if you have one.  The supply line for the toilet is commonly located under and behind the seat. 

A water heater can also be the source of your leak.  If it is a gas tank, turn off the gas supply first then turn off the water.  The water supply valve is usually located near or above the top of the tank.

Stopping the leak at its source as quickly as possible will minimize damage to cabinets, floors, walls and contents.  Within a single minute, several gallons of water can flow into your home and saturate anything in its path, including adjacent rooms. 

Some leaks cannot be stopped with an inside valve so the water supply to your house has to be turned off.  Lines carrying water into your home come from a main line outside that can usually be found close to the street where your water meter is located. 

At SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz, we are experts at mitigating water damages. Our skilled technicians work quickly and efficiently to extract the water, assess the damage, install drying equipment and dry your property to its preloss condition.

Prevent Water Damage from Water Heaters

4/5/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los at 323-667-3100 for a free water damage inspection!

Water heater failure is a common issue. But you can help prevent hot water heater problems, including a leaking water heater, with these 4 steps for water heater maintenance.

Avoid Water Heater Failure With These 4 Steps

• Check your water heater’s age. If your water heater reaches its life expectancy, the risk of a slow leak or sudden burst increases. Consequently, your efforts to inspect and maintain the water heater should increase.
• What is an anode rod and why should you care?  A “sacrificial” anode rod is installed in water heaters to avoid corrosion of the tank. To determine if your anode rod needs to be replaced, it should be inspected once every two years and at least annually once the warranty has expired.
• Clean out your water heater regularly. Regular water heater maintenance should include removing sediment by flushing the tank every six months. Water heaters can be flushed by attaching a garden hose to the valve at the base of the water heater. Note: Turn off the power and run hot water until it cools before you try to flush the tank since the heated water may be 130 to 140 degrees or more.
• Get an inspection annually.  Don’t forget to have a plumbing professional inspect your water heater’s shut-off valve and all piping annually. Signs of broken valves and loose or wet joints and rust are a signal that more severe damage is coming.

Water heater failure is one of the top five sources of residential water damage, according to an IBHS study. In fact, water heater failures cost an average of $4,444 per incident after the deductible was paid. If you think your water heater is not in risk, keep in mind that 69 percent of all water heater failures result from a slow leak or sudden burst. Don’t get stuck with cold showers and costly water damage repairs due to water heater failure. Reduce your risk with these steps for avoiding water heater failure.

How to Claim Insurance for Water Damage

2/26/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz at 323-667-3100, a restoration company you can trust!

Flooding and water damage are not things that most home owners ever expect to face. However, when it happens, you will probably be at a loss for how to deal with it, especially when it comes to insurance.

Should the unthinkable happen, the following will help walk you through to file a claim:

• Review Your Coverage
  Review all of your insurance documentation. Locate the contact number for your insurance company’s claims office. If you cannot find it on the paperwork, then it should be on their website. When you call, have your policy in front of you for reference.

• Be Calm
  Make sure you are not emotional before you call. You need to be able to talk to the adjuster (the insurance representative who will discuss the details with you) in a way that is clear and concise. You won’t be able to do that if you are obviously upset.

• Keep Your Details Short
  Just give the adjuster the facts. Unless they ask for details, keep it as short as possible, giving them only the information they need to properly understand the situation. There are rules and regulations that govern insurance coverage, so you don’t need to try to persuade the adjuster over the phone.

• Have Proof
  Pictures of your dishwasher overflowing or flooding around a door are definitely proof that can be used to help make your case. Receipt from a plumber or information from the city or county about the cause of the damage will also be very helpful in getting the claim processed.
• Mitigation
  If you need to mitigate the damage (stop it from getting worse), the insurance company may make a recommendation for a company. It is ONLY a recommendation, so you can contact another restoration company if you prefer. 

Water Damage Care Tips

2/26/2018 (Permalink)

Professionals at SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz can help you with your water damage. Call us today! 323-667-3100

Before entering the affected area:

• Turn off the power
• Attempt to locate the source of water and shut it off, if possible.
• Use caution when walking on the wet floors

Once the area has been secured:

• Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe furnishing dry.
• Block furnishings with pieces of wood on styrofoam. Be careful not to place anything with dye or color against damp surfaces as they may bleed.
• Lift any Window treatments off carpet, loop through a non-metal coat hanger and hang on drapery rod.
• Remove wet area rugs on other floor coverings
• Move photos, paintings and art to a safe, dry area
• Open furniture drawers, closet doors and luggage to enhance drying.
• Remove damp books from shelves and spread out to dry

Call a Professional Restoration Company 

• To ensure proper drying 
• To prevent possible mold growth 
• To ensure proper clean-up 
• To restore your property back to its normal state

Water Damage is NOT a DIY Job

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage? Call SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz to get the job done right

Despite the magazines, television shows, and Internet articles that may have you thinking otherwise, water damage restoration is a job that should only be performed by certified professionals. SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz technicians not only have the know-how to get the job done right, but they also have the specialized tools needed to thoroughly dry your home, preventing further damage and even mold.

Additional benefits of hiring a professional water damage restoration company:

1. Health Hazards: Depending on the source of the water damage, safety can become a concern. There are three varying degrees of water damage, ranging from clean water to black water, each more hazardous than the next. Black water, the most dangerous of the three, is water that has come into contact with fecal matter, a haven for harmful bacteria and disease-causing pathogens.
2. Hidden Damage: Water damage is not always obvious. Sometimes it is found inside walls and under flooring. If you attempt a DIY restoration and fail to diagnose hidden damage, the resulting issues could be extreme…and expensive.
3. Peace of Mind: Hiring a professional restoration company gives you the peace of mind knowing you have done everything in your power to rectify the situation.

Water Damage & Restoration

11/10/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz extracting water in a commercial building in Hollywood, CA.

Water damage is a common occurrence for homeowners and business owners alike. SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz is available around the clock to respond to any water damage emergency. We will work to ensure that the area is dried completely and the threat of mold and pathogen growth is eliminated. SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz uses proper procedures, techniques, products and equipment to help restore the property to its pre-Ioss condition as safely and as rapidly as possible.

In addition to removing the water, SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz will go on with the contents pack out/pack back. Any items that can be moved out of immediate danger will be moved first. After that, belongings will be listed in an inventory and removed entirely from the home. If there are any items you would not like removed but returned to you immediately, simply let our team know. From there, a process of damage inspection and drying will begin. You will receive photos to go with your inventory so you know the condition of any items removed from the building.

SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz has access to an expert team of water damage restoration experts with industrial-level equipment that dries, sanitizes, and restores the building to the condition it was in prior to the emergency. Your building and possessions will be back in the state you want them. Most importantly, you’ll be kept updated every step of the way. Every item removed, every piece of damage recorded, every estimate and every course of action will be presented to you giving you the information you need to make the right choice.

Safety Precautions Following Residential Water Loss

4/7/2017 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz!

When disaster strikes in your home, it is essential to be safe when dealing with damaged items in your household. 

The effects of water damage in a residential home can both be controlled OR worsened depending on the actions taken. Here are a few tips on how to safely control the situation before help arrives:

DO

• Remove any undamaged items away from the contaminated area
• Prop up any upholstery items to avoid further damage
• Place aluminum foil or blocks of wood under wood furniture to prevent damage to personal items
• Stay out of rooms that have sagging and wet walls

DON'T

• Attempt to remove water using personal vacuum or hepa-vac
• Leave any paper items on wet surfaces such as books or magazines
• use any electrical outlets or appliances In the affected water area
• Leave standing water alone for an extended period of time as it could cause mold to grow

Protect Your Home and Valuables from Water Damage

4/7/2017 (Permalink)

Look out for signs of water damage to your home & protect your valuables!

Whether you are purchasing a home or renting it, there are numerous things that people should pay close attention to, especially if they want to protect its value. Though there are many different types of problems that can compromise its overall structure, one of the most expensive and horrific is water damage. Because water damage can occur in a wide variety of ways, it is essential for everyone to be familiar with what the symptoms are as early as possible, to minimize all of the damages. To that end, here are a few common symptoms that the owners and those that rent should recognize as early as possible.

Leaks in the Roof

As mentioned, there are many different signs of water damage in and surrounding a home. One of the most notable involves leaks in the roof. Initially, these leaks may start off small but can also become vast as time passes. These water leaks can also lead to brown spotted discoloring on the roof as well as holes that people can see through. Therefore, it is essential for the individual to review the roofing as soon as possible for a professional to examine and repair before further damage occurs. In some cases, the water damage can be so severe that it can impact the structure of the home.

Bubbles in the Walls

Other signs of water damage are also visible to the naked eye. Because water damage can be found in the walls of a home and in the floor boards, it is not uncommon for the walls to reflect a certain amount of damage too. For those who have an opportunity to see water damage spread, they should be able to recall seeing the walls of the home puckering up with defects like bubbles that can be seen on top of its surface.

Wet Carpeting

Leaks in the roof and bubbles in the wall may appear because of storm damage. However, water damage in a home is not limited to thunderstorms and rain but may also include flooding on the property too. So when the water rises too high, people may see wet carpeting that can eventually lead to mold damage if the water is not quickly extracted.

SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz is a leader in the water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to pre-water damage condition. 

Your HVAC System & Water Damage

2/27/2017 (Permalink)

With frequent use of our heating and air conditioning systems, they should be monitored for any potential damage that can lead to future problems.

In the Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz area, we are approaching season changes from summer to fall, then winter. Our present use of an HVAC system is to keep us cool until we switch over to our heating environment. With the constant use of our heating and air conditioning systems, they should be monitored for any potential damage that can lead to significant problems.

For instance, a clogged condensate drain pipe can make an HVAC system drain pan to overflow. The drain pipe is one of the most frequent causes of water removal repairs in Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz. Drain pipe fittings can become disconnected from the unit and allow the condensate to drain through the ceiling to the floor. A malfunctioning or dirty pump can also cause extensive water leakage.

When the drain pipe becomes clogged, the water will quickly back up the line and then into the drain pan. The water fills up the pan until it overflows. A malfunctioning condensate pump can cause water leakage from heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, flooding the basement or attic. Due to the continuous presence of water, mold can grow inside the unit, causing it to become clogged.

Additional damages caused by heating and air conditioning units, involves wet soggy carpets, ceiling collapse or drywall damage. Other issues that can create water damage from an HVAC system includes low refrigerant, no-trap and air vent in the drain line and condensate buildup in a ductwork system that is not properly insulated. In the event you suffer water damage give SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz a call at 323-667-3100.

When properly maintained, your HVAC system provides a comfortable indoor environment year-round. Our professional technicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Water Damage Restoration by SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz

2/27/2017 (Permalink)

Keep Calm & Call SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz for all of your water damage needs.

Water damage can happen under many different circumstances, but the worst ones are those that occur because of harm to the exterior of the home during a storm. Trees and even downed power line poles can cause extreme damage to your home, and allow water to enter. This water can create hazards immediately. Even after the danger has passed from electric shock, water can seep throughout your home, creating the right conditions for future damage to develop.

Unresolved Water from Storms can Create Future Problems through Water Damage 
When water damage affects your home water damage may appear slowly. While you may have noticed the water on the exterior surfaces on the interior of your home, as on walls and floors, water may have settled on the interiors of these structures. Walls made of drywall can crumble after being saturated with water and allowed to dry naturally. Water left on drywall weakens it considerably, even if the damage is not visible. Hardwood floors and stairwells made of wood can buckle, causing carpeting to become rumpled and hazardous. 

In addition to these issues, mold can also begin to grow within 48 hours, only two days, from the time the water was deposited by the storm. We can pack up your belongings for removal to a dry location so we can clean and sort through them. Sorting involves categorizing salvageable and non-salvageable items, with unsalvageable ones being listed (CCIS) on an inventory sheet for your insurance needs. 

We Know How to Prevent Future Problems in Your Home's Structure 
In addition to cleaning your belongings and restoring those we can to their original state, we can also set up equipment that is designed to prevent mold from getting a foothold in your home. Water extraction to dry those structures that have become saturated by storm and rain water, in addition to drying heaters and high-powered air circulation fans will stop mold from growing. If water were allowed to stand for extended periods of time, as is common when there are major storm cells passing through an area, we would use additional types of equipment. These can include air scrubbers that will remove any mold (spores) that has already begun to spread throughout your home. If your heating or air conditioning unit ran during this time, we highly recommend that we scrape the interior of your ducts and then vacuum the debris away with our HEPA vacuums. We want to get your home back to pre-damage condition, “Like it Never Even Happened” so you and your family can get back to your normal routines. 

If you own a home that has been damaged by storms or suffered other types of water damage, please call SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz at (323) 667-3100. We are available 24/7 to assist you. We respond quickly and can answer any questions you have about your particular situation.

Emergency Water Damage Process Overview*

2/9/2017 (Permalink)

Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened"

ONE HOUR: 

Within one hour from a notice of loss, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will contact you to arrange for service. You'll know help is on the way!

FOUR HOURS:

Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage. 

DETAILED EXPLANATION:

A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO Franchise Professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome. 

PRETESTING:

A SERVPRO Franchise Professional will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward. 

EIGHT HOURS:

Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.

CLEANING & RESTORATION:

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the- art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time.

FINAL WALK-THROUGH:

After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction. 

*Exceptions may apply under certain conditions, such as a local catastrophic event or storm situation. 

Leak Proof your Home/Business to Prevent Water Damage

11/3/2016 (Permalink)

This property suffered water damage due to a water heater leak located on the ceiling.

Now that fall is officially here, it is time to prepare your home and/or business for cold and rainy weather. But keeping water out of your property can be quite complicated. For example; plumbing issues can cause moisture and even light rain can cause leaks through the roof, walls, foundation etc. When this occurs the moisture eventually reaches the porous materials in your home, which may then lead to structural damage and other humidity concerns. It is important to note that if left untreated you also run the risk of mold growth. For these reasons it is highly recommended that you take proper care of any and all potential areas prone to leaks such as the following;

• Inspection of the plumbing pipe(s) system
• Inspection of the roof/chimney
• Inspection of the water heater
• Check attic insulation
• Clean the gutters
• Repair any cracks
• Seal proof doors and windows
• Check exterior faucets and irrigation system

After all, “An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure”. However, in the event that you encounter any leaks or flooding occurs, please contact SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills 323-667-3100 or visit our website, http://www.SERVPROhollywoodhillslosfeliz.com/. We specialize in helping property owners recover from water damage and make it like it never even happened!