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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Water Damage Blog Posts

What our customers are saying about our Flood Clean up service.

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Thank you SERVPRO San Gabriel! After a pipe burst in my kitchen I called several places for a quote and sadly, so many places kept up selling me to come out. I spoke to Derrick and he was really knowledgeable asking me things I didn't know, but he said he would come out for no cost to narrow down the issue. He arrived in less than an hour and he was the nicest person! He was detailed and things I couldn't find he advised and even saved me money. He was genuine and I never felt like he was trying to "squeeze" money out of me. His team came out a couple days and everything was squared away less than 2 weeks later. Thank you SERVPRO!

Call us today 626-478-0286

Sewage clean up in San Gabriel CA

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Sewage clean up in San Gabriel Valley,

Broken pipes are one of the leading causes of water destruction in homes, and nearly every homeowner will experience a pipe burst or leak at some point.

Every home contains numerous pipes that can burst or break, including sewage pipes and sinks’ pipes, which can be located in the basement, interior or exterior walls, underground or ceilings. Regardless of where the pipe is found, it’s crucial to fix broken pipes quickly to prevent water damage and mildew or mold growth.

Broken or damaged pipes aren’t always obvious. Most pipes burst or leak without warning, and it can be days, weeks or even months before you notice the signs of a damaged pipe. However, once you do spot a leaking or broken pipe, it’s critical to act fast.

A broken pipe that isn’t immediately repaired can become a disastrous problem. Leaking water may damage your property and belongings, and your furniture, appliances, carpets, rugs and even clothes can be ruined in a broken pipe accident. Water seepage that’s left attended can also promote the growth of  bacteria and mold in these damp environments.

Call us at 626-478-0286

Flooding in the Kitchen

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of San Gabriel, we can respond 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 626-478-0286

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 San Gabriel 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 San Gabriel

We specialize 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.

Call us today! Let us help you 626-478-0286

Massive Flood at Dave and Busters

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of San Gabriel, we can respond 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 626-478-0286

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 San Gabriel 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 San Gabriel

We specialize 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.

Call us today! Let us help you 626-478-0286

Flooding in the Kitchen

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of San Gabriel, we can respond 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 626-478-0286

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 San Gabriel 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:

  1. Your name and contact information Your insurance information (if applicable)
  2. The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  3. When did the flooding or water damage occur? What caused the water damage (if known)?
  4. Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of San Gabriel We specialize 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.

Call us today! Let us help you 626-478-0286

Water damage in my home

12/21/2021 (Permalink)

Severe weather is usually one of the first things that comes to mind when many think of water damage.

Yes, storms and flooding can cause catastrophic water damage, but they are often not the main culprits. Various items in your home can also be responsible for creating many situations that result in water damage.

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Water damage was the third most common reason for a homeowners insurance claim between 2011 and 2015, and is something many homeowners will face with an average payout per claim of $8,861.

However, there are a differences between water damage and gradual water damage, which can impact insurance claims. Examples of gradual damage are situations where something has been happening over time, such as plumbing issues in the walls causing damage to walls, ceilings or floors, or water damage caused by cracks in the foundation. Unfortunately, most gradual water damage claims are not usually covered by homeowners insurance, while storm-related water damage usually is.

According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), the leading causes of water damage are:

  • Plumbing supply system failures. This would involve frozen pipes that can burst due to a buildup in water pressure caused by freezing water or when the supply system building materials fail, resulting in a leaking or burst pipe. Per IBHS, plumbing supply system failures lead the pack for residential water damage losses, and an average claim will cost approximately $5,092 per incident after the deductible. It was also found that homes in the 16 to 40 years of age range made up a larger group of supply system material failure claims.

  • Plumbing drain system failures. This type of occurrence happens when a sewer drain backs up and overflows into a home or from the integrity of the materials used in the system. In their study, IBHS found that 52% of drain system failures were caused by sewer backups and 37% were related to material performance issues. It is interesting to note that they also found that the average drain system failure had higher loss claim dollar amounts in southern states than in northern states.

  • Toilet failures. Toilets are the second highest source of residential water damage loss after plumbing supply system failures, and this type of damage can be the result of faulty fill valves or clogged drain lines. Toilet failures on the first floor of a home had more severe homeowners insurance claims than those in basements or upper floors, according the study conducted by IBHS.

  • Water heater failures. If your water heater has reached its life expectancy, rust and corrosion will start to deteriorate the tank, which can create leaking or bursting issues. IBHS noted that 69% of all water heater failures resulted from a slow leak or sudden burst of water lines and, on average, cost $4,444 per incident following the deductible.

  • Washing machine failures. As a general rule, washing machine failures can be caused by supply hose failures, machines overflowing and drain line failures. Washing machines are one of the top 10 sources of residential water losses, and per IBHS, supply hose failures accounted for over half of all washing machine-related losses.

If your home has experienced any water damage, the team at SERVPRO of San Gabriel is always available 247 to help with cleanup and restoration and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Restaurant Flooding

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of San Gabriel responds to water damage emergencies throughout the year.  Recently during the labor day weekend, Dave and Busters of  arcadia experienced massive flooding in their kitchen. As you can imagine this was a very busy time for them and they could not afford to have any down time in service. We were able to respond during the holiday and get them back on line and working!  

You never know when a broken or burst pipe will wreak havoc on your commercial business or home. Our restoration technicians have the advanced training, and are experience to mitigate any size water loss in the San Gabriel, CA area quickly and efficiently and with minimal disruption.

Help minimize the damage from a flood to your  businesses or home:

  • Provide a reliable backup power source to ensure continuous power to the building
  • Install an automatic excess flow switch on the main incoming domestic water line to monitor and provide early detection of a broken pipe or valve. Use wireless sensors near water sources.
  • Monitor sprinkler systems using a central station to provide early detection of a pipe failure and heat unheated sprinkler control rooms

Water damage can happen anytime and can become a costly repair if not mitigated quickly. Our highly trained technicians are on-call 24-hours a day and can typically arrive within four hours of your call.

Call Us!

626-478-0286

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Understanding Basement Flooding

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

What to do when your basement floods?


While instincts tell you to panic at the sight of pooled water inside your home, try to keep calm.

The most important thing to remember is to never enter a flooded area when the power is on.

Start with these steps:
1.Shut off electricity and gas to the area. If you’re not sure how, call an electrician or SERVPRO, who can get someone out to you right away.
2.Try to determine the source of the water. Excessive rainfall or a burst pipe are two top reasons why your basement may flood.
3.If safe to proceed, and while wearing protective gear like boots, gloves and a mask, enter the water to investigate the source further. If your basement has a drain and you can safely navigate to it, check to see if it is clogged.
4.Time to get that water out of there. Depending on the amount of water, this may be as simple as using towels, a mop, or a wet vacuum. If the flooding is more extensive, a sump pump is necessary. Once the bulk of the water has been removed, soak up all remaining moisture with towels.
5.Assess damage. Remove any items, like furniture, that appear damaged by the water and move them to a space where they can dry. If the drying process on items is taking longer than a couple days, unfortunately, they may not be able to be salvaged. Any items that were within boxes should be removed to air out, and all items should be monitored for mildew growth.
6.Get the air moving in the basement to dry it out. Open windows and doors, and use fans placed around the space to inspire quick drying of the flooded area. If you have a dehumidifier, move it to the basement to aid the drying process.

How to prevent your basement from flooding?


It’s easy to look back at the cause of a flooded basement and see where things went wrong, but what about preventing flooding before it occurs? There are some measures you can take today to help waterproof your basement and safeguard it against a catastrophic flooding episode.

-Keep your rain gutters clean, and make sure they’re pointed away from the foundation of your home.
-During the next heavy rain, check around your yard to see where water is pooling and being diverted to. If it’s going toward the foundation of your home, contact an expert to grade your yard so it’s able to properly handle the water it receives during storms.
-If you have a basement window, make sure it’s protected with a window well cover.
-A sump pump can be your basement’s savior. An automatic sump pump set to trigger on when it senses water in your basement space offers a layer of protection for your home, even when you’re not there. Homeowners in particularly flood-prone areas should have a backup sump pump, and check to see if flood insurance is available for purchase.


When to call for help with basement flooding:


Calling a professional for help with a flooded basement is always a good idea, especially if the amount of water is more than a foot deep, many items have become wet, or mildew is beginning to take hold. Quickly removing the water and beginning the drying process is essential to lessen the possibility for mold to form, which can greatly increase the damage and cost involved.

We have the experience, qualifications and knowledge needed to help you quickly deal with a flooded basement cleanup, because we handle these types of jobs all the time. Let us deal with the stress and get your basement back in working order.

Give us a call 1-800-SERVPRO or locate an office near you to get help with your water cleanup. We’ll take the worry for you.

Waterproof your Home! Know the Types of Water Leaks San Gabriel, CA Homeowners Experience?

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians Deal with All Types of Water Leaks

Leaks are one of the most expensive types of damage that can happen to a home, but also one of the least detected. Leaks can weaken structures, waste water, dissolve building materials, create dangerous compounds, and foster mold growth. These are some of the most common leaks we encounter
 
Pipe Leaks 
 
Pipe leaks, in cabinets, behind walls, or anywhere else, are one of the most common sources of SERVPRO San Gabriel. Pipes are often deliberately placed out of view of occupants, so when one develops a leak, it can be a very long time before anyone notices.
 
Sink, Shower, and Tub Leaks 
 
These leaks are often much more sudden and much more noticeable than a pipe leak because they are usually caused by the resident . As such, they have less potential for long-term water damage.


Water Tanks and Heaters 
 
When water heaters or tanks leak, the damage is fortunately usually contained mostly to the container itself rather than immediate surroundings. However, large volumes of water are contained in them regardless, and if the entire contents leak out in an area, they may cause severe damage to surrounding objects and materials. 
 
Technicians from SERVPRO of San Gabriel are trained extensively in water damage restoration of all kinds, and we feel confident we can handle any water disaster you have. Call us 24/7 at (626)478-0286 for emergency services or a quote.

What Can You Do To Protect Your Office Electronics From Water Damage?

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

San Gabriel Valley Business Owners Are Keen To Keep Water Damage Away From Their Electronics

Anybody who runs a business San Gabriel, CA knows how necessary electronic equipment is. Whether your company uses computers, a till, a customer database, phones, and tablets, or a combination of the above, electrical equipment is part of any business.

In the event of water damage, San Gabriel business owners are often worried about their electronics. After all, electrical equipment is costly to replace. If you need to substitute a critical device, that can delay you from getting your business back on track.

What to do to keep electronics safe from water damage?

Here are  few simple steps to keep your electronics safe:

  1.     Always elevate electronics – equipment left on the floor is more at risk of damage
  2.     Keep electronics and sources of water separate – do not keep electronics near faucets or dishwashers
  3.     Install moisture meters to warn you of impending problems

We also recommend you back up all vital information to the cloud regularly. That way, even if something happens to your equipment, you will not lose critical data.

Why should I call SERVPRO in the event of a water loss?

Facing water damage in your office or warehouse is daunting. You are not trained or equipped to deal with such a disaster, which is why it is crucial to call us. Our technicians:

  1.     Are prepared to assess the situation quickly and draw up the best plan
  2.     Have a range of extractors and drying equipment on hand to get your business looking “Like it never even happened.”
  3.     Can help you move your equipment out and then back again if needed

For help with water damage, call SERVPRO of San Gabriel at (626) 478-0286.

When a Pipe Burst – What you need to know.

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

After experiencing any type of flood damage, you need a team of professionals to assist you. Call SERVPRO right away! We are always available.

SERVPRO's San Gabriel's team are ready to Provide Emergency Mitigation for Water Removal with the Right Equipment to Get the Job Done right! 

In any water event, immediate water extraction is the first priority. We assess the situation and determine a course of action. 

What type of water extraction equipment gets used?

Stopping the spread/possibility of  odors, deterioration of building materials or mold growth is crucial. 

  • Floor Damage – Is your floor hardwood, carpet, or linoleum?
  • Water your don't see – water can hide in interstitial spaces, crawl spaces, stairwells, ETC.
  • Ceiling Damage – Does your kitchen have a level below it that could cause damage to the ceiling?
  • Walls or Drywall – Was the water loss severe enough to affect those areas?

Getting the Job Done with The Right Equipment

SERVPRO has the water extraction tools required for your specific situation. Depending on the extensiveness and the location of the water damage, the following may be used:

  • Portable Pumps – A portable extraction system often works best in single room flooding.
  • Truck Mounted Pumps – Rooms holding high amounts of water can require heavy duty pump systems.

The job doesn't end with just the right water extraction tools. We also use air movers, dehumidifiers, and monitoring tools to make sure your kitchen cleanup is "Like it never even happened."

Team SERVPRO San Gabriel are here ready to help you!  

Call us at 626-478-0286

Water Damage in San Gabriel

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

A severe case of water damage occurred in San Gabriel, California. A home that was brought to the attention of SERVPRO San Gabriel. Burst pipe in shared wall between bathroom and hallway had been left unattended for months before getting in contact with SERVPRO San Gabriel. The home owner had reached out to local plumber and had the pipe patched up but never correctly repaired.  The unresolved damage resulted into hot water sitting in the floor and the walls which resulted into mold growth. The amount of mold and fungus that had grown in the home was ecessive. There was a handful of mold spores and the home smelled as if it was filled of mold the day of initial inspection. When SERVPRO of San Gabriel technicians arrived they discovered mushrooms growing from bathroom baseboards. The amount of fungus that had accumulated in the home was disgusting. Luckily SERVPRO of San Gabriel technicians are extremely experienced and trained on the cleaning and removal and how to treat these affected areas. The homeowner and his wife explained that they travel a lot and when returning home from a recent trip they smelled the mold and saw the wet areas that would not dry. "Thank you SERVPRO, for cleaning and removing all the mold and water damage from our home. Thank you so much!"

Water damage affected living room ceiling

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Fire sprinkler burst A fire sprinkler burst causing the ceiling to tear open and water leaking all over the living room.

A living room fire sprinkler caused this water damage in the living room. This before picture shows the damage done to the living room ceiling that resulted into water getting all over the living room floor and furniture. SERVPRO of San Gabriel was called in to clean up and treat the affected area. The owner is a returning customer, we have handled two of his other previous claims. After calling in SERVPRO of San Gabriel technicians arrived to the property ready to remove all of our customers belongings so we can dry the affected area as well as cutting out the damaged portion of the ceiling. The customer was ecstatic with how quickly the living room ceiling was repaired as well as how efficient our technicians at SERVPRO San Gabriel are. 

Excessive water damage from burst pipe in Pasadena home

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

After tear out of damaged floor and drywall SERVPRO of San Gabriel technicians tore out water damaged floor and drywall

Old plumbing and leaky appliances around the house aren’t out to get you, but sometimes it seems that way. The weather plays a part too with winter freezes that burst pipes and spring rains that flood basements.

SERVPRO of San Gabriel cleanup and restoration teams have seen it all here in San Gabriel valley and the surrounding cities. his water emergency is confined to cold months, but you have to be prepared. In this Pasadena home a pipe burst causing flooding to the throughout the house.  Pipes can freeze and rupture in just a few hours, and the flooding can soak the house from ceiling to basement. 

In most cases, the damage caused by a water pipe burst will make it easy to locate the section that needs repairs. However, it can be difficult to access the burst pipe if it’s in a wall or ceiling.

The section of the water pipe that bursts will need to cut out and replaced. Make sure that the new water pipe is properly in place and not leaking before proceeding with your restoration efforts.

While you can technically repair a burst water pipe at any stage of the water restoration process, it’s easiest to do once you have cleaned up the majority of the damage.

The Basics of Mold Remediation | SERVPRO® of San Gabriel

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

If water damage occurs in a home or commercial property, there is a good chance that mold growth is likely to follow. In fact, mold begins growing within 48 hours of exposure to moisture.

Knowing your next steps when faced with a mold issue is very important, which is why we’re discussing mold remediation in this blog.

Why Mold Remediation?

You’ve probably seen ads for mold remediation and ads that promise mold removal, but mold removal is a fallacy. Removing all mold from a home or business is simply impossible. A qualified restoration company will focus on mold remediation, setting a goal for bringing mold levels back to a normal and natural range.

It is true that mold spores are a natural occurrence everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. They only create a problem when a minor mold issue is left untreated and then it turns into a major mold infestation.

During a mold remediation, the professional technicians isolate all contaminated areas, either by closing all doors and windows or completely and effectively sealing off all doorways and openings with a polyethylene sheeting, dependent on the level of remediation. Dust in the contaminated areas is then suppressed through misting.

Plastic bags are used to remove and discard wet and mold-damaged materials. All areas exposed to and affected by the mold are then thoroughly cleaned and dried. Sometimes, a HEPA vacuum will be used to help remove contamination and debris.

The mold area will then be treated with a biocide, and the technicians will leave it to sit overnight to allow it sufficient time to kill the mold spores. The following day, the mold remediation crew will return to encapsulate the affected area and beyond.

What to Do If You Suspect a Mold Issue

If you suspect your home or business may have a mold problem, you’ll want to act quickly. It is time to contact the professionals if, upon evaluation of the size of the problem, it is found that the mold has affected more than 10 square feet.

It is important that any professional company you hire be highly trained and certified in areas like:

  • Applied microbial remediation
  • Water damage restoration
  • Applied structural drying

Many home and business owners have successfully resolved some minor mold issues on their own, but the safest way is to always use a professional mold remediation company to get the quickest resolution to the problem.

At SERVPRO® of San Gabriel, our mold damage specialists are trained and certified experts in mold remediation. If your home or business is experiencing a mold issue, contact us to begin the mold remediation process.

Severe water damage in West Covina, CA

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

A severe case of water damage occurred in West Covina, California home that was brought to the attention of SERVPRO San Gabriel. Burst pipe in kitchen had been left unattended for months before getting in contact with SERVPRO San Gabriel. The home owner had reached out to local plummer and had the pipe patched up but never correctly repaired.  The unresolved damage resulted into hot water sitting in the floor and the walls which resulted into mold growth. The amount of fungus that had grown in the home was ridiculous. There was a handful of mold spores and the home reaked of mold the day of initial inspection. When SERVPRO of San Gabriel technicians arrived they discovered mushrooms growing from kitchen baseboards. The amount of fungus that had accumulated in the home was disgusting. Luckily SERVPRO of San Gabriel technicians are extremely experienced and trained on the cleaning and removal and how to treat these affected areas. The homeowner and his wife explained that they travel a lot and when returning home from a recent trip they smelled the mold and saw the wet areas that would not dry. "Thank you SERVPRO, for cleaning and removing all the mold and water damage from our home. Thank you so much!"

Ideas for Protecting Your Home From Water Damage | SERVPRO® of San Gabriel

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage from a pipe bursting, a malfunctioning appliance or even storm damage is one of the most common and costliest disasters a homeowner can face.

But while water damage is common, it’s also preventable in many cases. Let’s take a look at some ways to safeguard your home:

Ways to Protect Your Home

Not only is water damage a hassle to deal with, but it can have a long-term impact on your home further down the road. Mold is one of the most common side effects of water damage, as mold can begin to grow and flourish within 48 hours of exposure to moisture.

When thinking about ways to protect your home, try to break it down by areas of impact. Those areas could include basements, kitchens, bathrooms, flooring and ceilings to start out.

Basement water damage is often cause by water seepage. You can help prevent that happening by resealing areas in the basement where water could sneak in, making sure water drains away from your home and installing a backwater valve.

Your kitchen and bathrooms can experience water damage because of plumbing issues and appliance failures.

To protect your home against that, be sure you:

  • Inspect all appliances regularly, watching for issues with hoses and faucets
  • Check the seal and caulking around your showers and tubs to make sure they are watertight
  • Know where the main shut-off valve is in your home
  • Don’t leave the house while the washer or dishwasher is running

As much as you would like to protect your possessions in your home from water damage, it is not always possible, but there are ways you can at least decrease the amount of damage and loss. Using waterproof bins to store items is recommended, as is keeping items stored on shelving off of the floor—which is advisable when using your basement for storage.

What to Do if Water Damage Happens

In the unfortunate event your home does experience a water damage situation, you can stand a good chance of salvaging items that can be dried out within 48 hours.

Contact your insurance company immediately, evaluate the extent of the water damage to your home and identify the type of water that is involved.

Here are the types of water involved in a water damage situation:

  1. “Clean” water. This could be from rain, condensation, leaky pipes, etc.

  2. “Gray” water. This is slightly dirty water from dishwashers, washing machines, clean toilets, etc.

  3. “Black” water. This is water from sewage or serious flooding from nearby rivers, etc. This water can cause serious health problems.

Following a water damage disaster, you should remove wet objects, dehumidify and dry your home out quickly, and be sure to disinfect remaining materials.

Pro tip: By freezing your wet books, photos and papers in a frost-free freezer, you will allow yourself some extra time to take care of them. This prevents mold and mildew from developing and causing more deterioration. Once able, you can remove them from the freezer and air-dry or fan-dry the pages.

Protecting Your Home From Water Damage | SERVPRO® of San Gabriel

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

Your kitchen and bathrooms can experience water damage because of plumbing issues and appliance failures.

To protect your home against that, be sure you:

  • Inspect all appliances regularly, watching for issues with hoses and faucets
  • Check the seal and caulking around your showers and tubs to make sure they are watertight
  • Know where the main shut-off valve is in your home
  • Don’t leave the house while the washer or dishwasher is running

As much as you would like to protect your possessions in your home from water damage, it is not always possible, but there are ways you can at least decrease the amount of damage and loss. Using waterproof bins to store items is recommended, as is keeping items stored on shelving off of the floor—which is advisable when using your basement for storage.

Contact your insurance company immediately, evaluate the extent of the water damage to your home and identify the type of water that is involved.

Flood Damage Precautions for Your Home | SERVPRO® of San Gabriel

7/5/2019 (Permalink)

Think flooding is unlikely to damage your home? You may want to think again.

In 90% of natural disasters some form of flooding is involved. Therefore, it is important for homeowners to stay knowledgeable about what their risks are and how they should prepare for them.

Precautions Against Flood Damage to Your Household

For homeowners, limiting the damage a flood can cause is possible with some advanced precautions around the house:

Get an accurate representation of risk. Use the FEMA Flood Map Tool or call the local branch of your emergency management office to better understand your risk and the precautions to take.

Have a chat about actions in case of emergency. Make sure your entire family is aware of the procedure by discussing a disaster plan and evacuation route with everyone. Show all adults and older children where to turn off the electricity and gas mains in the house—and keep emergency supplies handy.

Elevate chemicals away from water. Chemicals that you keep around your house are fine in bottles, but pose an extreme risk when mixed with floodwaters. Antifreeze, oils and bleaches should be elevated out of the water’s way.

Ensure tanks of propane and fuel are secured. A tipped fuel tank is a recipe for disaster, and even a full one can be moved when floodwaters are rushing. Anchor them securely to avoid this risk.

Cut electricity to any affected rooms. Even if you feel it’s unlikely that the waters would reach electrical appliances or outlets, having live electricity near floodwaters can still be dangerous. Shut off the electrical breaker to any rooms that are at-risk for a flood.

Store valuables in a safe space. Items considered irreplaceable, such as family memorabilia, tax records and household documents, should be digitized and the physical copies kept off-site or in a waterproof safe.

Keeping your family and your home out of harm’s way is of chief concern in the event of a flood that is imminent. Homeowners can take steps like these to lessen their risk and protect their belongings and their loved ones in the event of a disaster.

If you’ve experienced flood damage or water damage from other causes, SERVPRO® of San Gabriel is here to help. Our technicians are fully trained in water remediation, and our 247 Emergency Line means we’ll be there for you when you call.

Understanding the 3 Water Classifications

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Water that is involved with water damage is classified into three different categories: clean, gray and black, so it is not safe to think that all water is the same. Gaining a better understanding of the differences in these types of water can also help you understand how to better handle a water damage situation.

Whatever the type of water that is involved in water damage, there will most assuredly be a cleanup and restoration process to follow. To begin the process, the most important thing to do is remove all of the moisture and damp items quickly, so that mold will not begin to flourish in its ideal environment.

Clean Water

“Clean” water is free of contaminants and is not the type to pose an immediate threat to your health, much like its name infers. This water can come from:

  • Broken water lines
  • Malfunctioning appliances
  • Toilet holding tanks
  • Snow melt and rainwater

Cleanup will be the easiest for damage from this type of water damage since there are fewer microbes living in the water. But after a 48-hour period and contact with the surfaces of buildings, clean water can change to category two, which is gray water.

Gray Water

“Gray” water is where water damage cleanup and restoration can become a bit more complicated. It may pose a health risk due to chemical or biological contamination. That slight contamination in gray water means that it will have to be properly and thoroughly treated before safe consumption.

Gray water is a product of dishwashers, aquariums, showers, etc. Also, the 48-hour exposure time applies here as well, with gray water turning into black water if not treated.

Black Water

“Black” water presents a hazard and is the most serious of the three classifications because it is considered highly contaminated by harmful chemicals and biological matter. This includes floodwaters containing soil and all sewage waters.

Sewage carries with it contamination caused by microbes, including bacteria, protozoans, molds, fungi and more—many of these can be harmful to humans.

Diseases that can be transmitted by black water are:

  • Cholera
  • Typhoid
  • Hepatitis
  • Gastroenteritis-type illnesses

For your safety, assume that all floodwaters are black water since it will pick up contaminants as it makes its way along its path.

All floodwater classifications are recognized by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Remediation Certification (IICRC), which is an organization that certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our technicians all study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration and are available to help determine the steps to take to get your home back to normal.

It doesn’t matter what type of water has caused damage to your home or business, SERVPRO® of San Gabrielis here to help get the situation under control and make it "Like it never even happened." Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you need emergency cleanup and restoration services!

Water Damage Could be Caused by These Plumbing Issues

1/25/2019 (Permalink)

Severe weather is usually one of the first things that comes to mind when many think of water damage.

Yes, storms and flooding can cause catastrophic water damage, but they are often not the main culprits. Various items in your home can also be responsible for creating many situations that result in water damage.

<h4damage-is-a-common-homeowners-insurance-claim:58a1bc41e6cb8546d7fc3be59ee7afd5">Water Damage Is a Common Homeowners Insurance Claim

Water damage was the third most common reason for a homeowners insurance claim between 2011 and 2015, and is something many homeowners will face with an average payout per claim of $8,861.

However, there are a differences between water damage and gradual water damage, which can impact insurance claims. Examples of gradual damage are situations where something has been happening over time, such as plumbing issues in the walls causing damage to walls, ceilings or floors, or water damage caused by cracks in the foundation. Unfortunately, most gradual water damage claims are not usually covered by homeowners insurance, while storm-related water damage usually is.

<h4damage-culprits-in-your-home:58a1bc41e6cb8546d7fc3be59ee7afd5">Water Damage Culprits in Your Home

According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), the leading causes of water damage are:

  • Plumbing supply system failures. This would involve frozen pipes that can burst due to a buildup in water pressure caused by freezing water or when the supply system building materials fail, resulting in a leaking or burst pipe. Per IBHS, plumbing supply system failures lead the pack for residential water damage losses, and an average claim will cost approximately $5,092 per incident after the deductible. It was also found that homes in the 16 to 40 years of age range made up a larger group of supply system material failure claims.

  • Plumbing drain system failures. This type of occurrence happens when a sewer drain backs up and overflows into a home or from the integrity of the materials used in the system. In their study, IBHS found that 52% of drain system failures were caused by sewer backups and 37% were related to material performance issues. It is interesting to note that they also found that the average drain system failure had higher loss claim dollar amounts in southern states than in northern states.

  • Toilet failures. Toilets are the second highest source of residential water damage loss after plumbing supply system failures, and this type of damage can be the result of faulty fill valves or clogged drain lines. Toilet failures on the first floor of a home had more severe homeowners insurance claims than those in basements or upper floors, according the study conducted by IBHS.

  • Water heater failures. If your water heater has reached its life expectancy, rust and corrosion will start to deteriorate the tank, which can create leaking or bursting issues. IBHS noted that 69% of all water heater failures resulted from a slow leak or sudden burst of water lines and, on average, cost $4,444 per incident following the deductible.

  • Washing machine failures. As a general rule, washing machine failures can be caused by supply hose failures, machines overflowing and drain line failures. Washing machines are one of the top 10 sources of residential water losses, and per IBHS, supply hose failures accounted for over half of all washing machine-related losses.

If your home has experienced any water damage, the team at SERVPRO of San Gabriel is always available 247 to help with cleanup and restoration and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Water/Fire Restoration

8/31/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of San Gabriel specializes in Water/Fire damage restoration in LA, Orange, and San Bernardino County. Our Franchise is fully licensed to perform any restoration/ build-back work after a water or fire loss. In case of a water/ fire damage, please notify SERVPRO of  San Gabriel as soon as possible, so we may initiate the mitigation process as soon as possible. Mitigation work is just as important as the restoration work. We must be vigilant as homeowners and vigilant to any household damage. Our goal as a restoration service is to make sure we restore your home to its original conditions. Though we have many different approaches for different situations. SERVPRO of San Gabriel will always prioritize customer's expectation and preferences. If requested, we may even remodel your home to your specific needs. SERVPRO of San Gabriel is a professional Water/Fire Mitigation and Restoration company. Your satisfaction is gauranteed. https://www.SERVPRO.com/?kmca=Residential_Brand_Exact&s_kwcid=AL!4318!3!&kmmt=Exact&kmkw=Brand_Generic&_vsrefdom=272792805&mchxkw=c:272792805,k:SERVPRO,m:e,p:1t2,d:c,ai:16407370365,ad:164939526468,s:g

Water Restoration

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of San Gabriel specializes in Water/Fire Restoration in LA county. Our Franchise is fully Licensed to do any restoration/remodeling work after any mitigation or damage has been done. If a strange smell in your home just won't go away , consider calling a water damage specialist to assess your property so we may: Detect Mold issuses, Water Removal, Mechanical drying, Deodorize, Sanitize property/ building material, as well as, Asses Damage and restore your property to original condition. Water damage specialists can also handle septic systems, broken dishwashers, or other plumbing or water utility devices. At SERVPRO of San Gabriel , we have the expertise to fix minor plumbing issues, there is no reason not to call SERVPRO of San Gariel to get your free quote/ free estimate today. Moreover, Leaving a mold problem untreated can result in structural damage to your home and possible thousands in repairs. Water Damage can be scary for homeowners, but with every mortgage also comes with an insurance plan. Our experts at SERVPRO of San Gabriel have an tremendous amount of experience in this field: in hopes of achieving maximum coverage for our customers; thus choose SERVPRO of San Gabriel for your water restoration company.

http://www.waterdamageinformation.com/water-damage-information-articles/

Water Damage

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of San Gabriel Specializes in Water restoration and Water damage mitigation. Water intrusions can be costly for homeowners. It is imperative that homeowners fully understand the different ways of managing water damages. First, contact your local SERVPRO, so we may start the mitigation process as soon as possible. The longer we wait the more pollutant will form. Mold can begin to form within 24-48 hours. If you are filing an insurance claim, it is also very important that you contact them to file a claim ASAP. Most cases of water damage may be covered by insurance if you contact them right away. More over homeowners should understand the different categories of water damage as defined by IICRC.Category 1: Water from a clean water source, like a fresh water line for a dishwasher. This water will not cause illness or any ill effects. Category 2: Water that may cause illness through contact. It may have bacteria in it. Category 3: Water that is highly contaminated. Contact can cause severe illness or death. Think sewage backup, an overflowing toilet, or storm waters. When your property has been water damaged, you don’t have the luxury of waiting around for a convenient time to start the cleanup. Secondary damage from mold growth can present serious health risks associated with mold in the living environment.

Source: https://www.iii.org/article/how-protect-your-home-water-damage

San Gabriel 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

5/24/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of San Gabriel provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in the San Gabriel Valley.

SERVPRO of San Gabriel 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) 341-3392

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 San Gabriel 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 San Gabriel

SERVPRO of San Gabriel 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.