A wet carpet can lead to unpleasant odors and secondary damage.
Unpleasant Odors After A Flood
According to FEMA, 99% of counties in the U.S. suffered some impact from flooding between 1996 and 2019. Regardless of whether it comes from a malfunctioning toilet or a leaky roof, a flood has the potential to cause issues like mold growth and water damage. Cleaning up flood water can involve a great deal of time whether you do it yourself or employ the services of a professional cleanup service in Pleasanton, CA, so it can be annoying to observe a lingering odor even after the process.
There are three potential culprits for a smell that refuses to leave in the wake of an unexpected surge of water.
1. Mold and Mildew
FEMA states that mildew colonies (generally used to refer to a certain kind of flat mold growth) may begin to cling to and spread across damp surfaces within only 24 to 48 hours. The fungus produces chemical compounds while propagating that release an earthy, musty scent.
2. Bacteria Flood water is separated into three categories for recovery and restoration purposes:
Clean water (Category 1) Gray water (Category 2) Black water (Category 3)
The latter two may carry substances like chemicals. Among their contents, bacteria often reside. These may emit bad odors like the rotten egg one commonly associated with sulfur or others or their breakdown of particles may lead to them. Even after all standing water is removed and everything dried, porous materials like carpeting may retain some of the microorganisms if not properly cleaned, causing the smell to permeate the room.
3. Sewage
Burst pipes are one of the most common reasons for flooding in a structure, and they often contain wastewater. Even if water comes from outside, it may have mixed with sewage loss from storm drains and garbage from the streets, particularly if it is overflow from a nearby body of water.
The best way to avoid unpleasant odors from mold growth and other things in floodwater is to disinfect all affected areas and surfaces thoroughly as soon as possible. Consulting a professional may also help.
How To Save On Maintenance Without Cutting Corners
Pool house with standing water in Pleasanton, CA residential caused by a storm.
What Can Property Managers Do in the Event of a Hurricane?
It is possible for a property owner to control maintenance costs and preserve and improve the condition of a residential building. These facility management tips can reduce the overall cost of maintaining an apartment, condominium, or other multifamily residences in Pleasanton, CA.
Prevention Versus Emergency Fixes
Preventative maintenance tends to be much more affordable than an emergency fix. There are several costs that may be avoided:
• Fast response premiums from appliance specialists, plumbers, or roofers • Cleanup costs • Damage restoration expenses
The maintenance cost associated with prevention will be considerably less than if damage has already occurred. It may also be possible to avoid irreparable damage to building materials or contents.
Fix Damage As Soon As Possible
Repairs tend to become more costly the longer damage lingers. This is particularly the case for primary damage that is prone to result in secondary damage, such as the following scenarios:
• Damaged windows or doors • Roof damage • Roof or pipe leaks
Fixing damage quickly may prevent secondary damage, such as mold. A timely response can also lead to lower mitigation or restoration costs or allow for maintenance measures that might otherwise not be taken until severe problems develop.
Take Measures To Increase Efficiency
Some maintenance measures are made even more cost-effective by increasing efficiency. Switching out older appliances for efficient models may avoid damage resulting from leaks or malfunctions and improve overall efficiency. Replacing or installing treatments or weather-stripping on windows or exterior door sweeps can lower heating bills and prevent storm damage.
All of these measures are practical ways to minimize the maintenance cost of a residential building. It is crucial to quickly mitigate and restore any damage caused by a storm, water backup or leak to prevent costs from spiraling. A property owner or facility manager should rely on a professional service that specializes in residential and commercial restoration in Pleasanton, CA.
What Can Property Managers Do To Prepare For a Hurricane?
Areas prone to hurricanes may want to install storm shutters.
What Can Property Managers Do in the Event of a Hurricane?
Hurricanes can cause severe damage wherever they strike. Property managers may be able to take a few measures to limit the amount of hurricane damage sustained by a residential building in Dublin, CA. Here are three measures building owners or managers should take before a hurricane is expected to strike.
1. Install Storm Shutters or Board Up Windows
Owners of properties in areas prone to hurricanes may want to install storm shutters. There are several styles of shutters that make it possible to find the right hurricane preparedness equipment for any type of building. These solutions can range in cost from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the number of windows that require protection. Boarding up windows can also be an effective short-term solution.
2. Check Insurance Coverage
If a property is located in an area prone to hurricanes, the owner or property manager should make sure that the current level and types of insurance coverage are sufficient. Most standard residential and commercial property insurance policies do not cover hurricane damage. It may be necessary to add a policy to cover damage caused by these severe weather events. Some policies also only cover damage resulting from certain categories of hurricanes. Separate flood insurance coverage may also be necessary.
3. Take an Inventory
A property manager should have an up-to-date inventory of all of the contents and equipment in the common areas of a structure. Managers may also want to encourage tenants to take out rental insurance policies and make sure that these policies cover contents damaged by hurricanes. Managers should document damage after a hurricane and prepare to make an insurance claim.
These measures can limit damage and make it easier to file an insurance claim for hurricane damage. If a building sustains major damage, property management should arrange for professional mitigation and restoration services as quickly as possible.
A severe storm can damage your roof and also your damage your solar panels.
Can Solar Panels Be Damaged by Severe Storms?
Most solar panels are designed for durability and can withstand hail or wind speeds as high as 140 miles per hour. A severe storm that damages a roof or is accompanied by flying debris may also damage panels. Find out more about the most common forms of panel damage and how to plan ahead and protect these components.
The Effects of Adverse Weather
Roof-mounted panels may succumb to general roof damage. This includes several incidents:
• Broken panels • Damage due to flying debris • Dislodged panels
Panels that are less expensive and well-made may be more likely to break. Most high-quality panels are certified to withstand hail with a one-inch diameter falling at 50 miles per hour and high wind speeds. Roof-mounted panels are also typically secured to roof beams with lag bolts.
How To Prevent Panel Damage
Homeowners can take several measures to prevent panels from becoming damaged. These considerations start during the panel selection process and continue throughout installation:
• Invest in high-quality panels • Check panel design damage ratings • Anchor panels to roof beams with lag bolts • Ask installers about common causes of damage
All of these measures can reduce the likelihood that solar panels will sustain damage even during the most severe storms. Lag-bolted panels are positioned within a few inches of a roof surface and should be capable of withstanding intense uplift force. Installation professionals can also provide insight into some of the most common causes of damage in a particular region and install panels in ways that may prevent damage from occurring.
Most industry-leading solar panel designs combine durable aluminum with glass casings to protect solar cells and prevent panel damage. These panels should be capable of standing up to adverse weather conditions. If roof damage results in leaks or damages the interior of a residence, homeowners should rely on a mitigation and restoration service in Pleasanton, CA.
As water and flood damage specialists, SERVPRO is prepared and ready to serve you at a moment's notice in your home. Call us!
Keeping Safe After A Flood In Your Home
No homeowner wants to come home to a flooded basement or property. The first response when seeing property damage is often to run into your home and salvage what you can, but that is not always the appropriate response. According to flood restoration services in Dublin, CA, flood safety is about remaining calm and following several basic safety tips.
1. Stay Out of the Water
It is best to stay out of floodwater. You never know if the water contains dangerous chemicals or contaminants. Additionally, the flood might be covering electrical receptacles, which can result in electrocution. The best thing to do if your basement or property is flooded is to seek shelter elsewhere and contact emergency services.
2. Turn Off Power, If Possible
If the flood is not drowning electrical outlets, turning off your electricity at the fusebox might be safe. However, if you must walk through water of any depth, it is best to avoid anything electrical and wait for safety personnel to arrive.
3. Wait for Flood Safety Help
Because of the various categories of water, it is best to wait for professionals before doing anything. The pros can help you understand whether you are dealing with clean, gray, or black water. When a flood results from a storm, the water is likely gray or black, which is not safe to enter without appropriate PPE.
4. Focus on Safety
Safety is paramount. You want to ensure your family, including pets, are safe. If the flood is in a basement, close any doors or access points, locking them if possible. If there is no way to seal the affected space, consider taking your family and pets to a friend or family member's home.
Flood safety is about avoiding the potential dangers of floodwater. It is typically best to avoid contact with the water and wait for help to arrive.
3 Tips To Help You Develop a Comprehensive Continuity Plan and Keep Your Business Going After a Disaster
It is vital to be prepared for potentially harmful eventualities. It helps minimize impacts like storm damage.
3 Ways To Create A Comprehensive Continuity Plan And Keep Your Business Running After A Disaster
In the wake of a catastrophe like a hurricane or flooding, operations can stall or even grind to a halt as you try to deal with contacting insurers, a professional cleanup and restoration service in Pleasanton, CA, and other key personnel, filling out the appropriate paperwork and completing other urgent tasks. Having an in-depth business continuity plan in place ahead of disasters can help prevent this and ensure your business continues to run or returns to functioning in as speedy a manner as possible.
1. Create a Thorough Contact List
A key component of any continuity plan is a list detailing how to reach important people in the wake of a crisis:
Insurance agents
Backup site providers
Contractors
Emergency responders
Plan administrators
You should also have a communications plan so you can prioritize who to reach out to. The faster you can get in touch with those you need to, the faster you can set the wheels in motion to begin mitigating setbacks.
2. Include an IT Disaster Recovery Plan
With the importance of digital tools and applications, the value of having a strategy for quickly getting online tasks back up again after a disruption cannot be overstated. This includes having data backups in a secure and accessible location, manual workarounds, an avenue to recover files from a separate site in case the primary one shuts down completely and digitized copies of hard documents with security controls in place.
3. Perform a Proper Evaluation
Going over your plan and testing the main parts of it will help you identify and correct any kinks or holes. You want to make sure your teams are ready to implement it and that it works. It is also crucial to continuously evaluate the plan regularly so you can incorporate new improvements.
It is vital to be prepared for potentially harmful eventualities. It helps minimize impacts like storm damage. Constructing and assessing a business continuity plan ahead of time can aid you in bouncing back from a major blow and save you a lot of hassle.
When your business requires flood damage repair and restoration, our crew is here to help! We're standing by 24/7 to respond to your emergency.
Cleaning Your Flooded Contents
After the water is gone and sometimes after the property has been repaired, flood damage can leave one hard to handle effect in the form of a stale, musty odor. The remaining musty smell is unsavory to deal with, but it could also be a bad sign that your flood cleanup efforts aren’t quite done. Such smells often indicate subtle remaining moisture from black water or even sewage loss that can lead to mold growth. If you are dealing with the aftermath of flood water damage in Pleasanton, CA here are a few tips to get rid of musty smells.
Get Rid of the Moisture
Getting rid of a mildew smell in your carpet often comes down to simply ensuring the source of the water damage smell has been fully removed. Mold remediation experts can help by inspecting for lingering leaks and mold issues. Once you ensure everything is dry and water damaged carpeting is removed, you’re ready to move to the next steps.
Drying and Treating
Once the immediate water damage and mold issues are addressed, you’ll want to:
Treat the carpet with a cleaning solution. A homemade one involves mixing a cup of vinegar and two cups of warm water in a spray bottle. Spray it onto the carpet lightly, being sure not to oversaturate and trigger mold growth.
Pour baking soda over the treated areas. Baking soda is known for absorbing odors. Let it sit on the area overnight then vacuum it up.
Clean the air. Your circulating air can be cleaned just like a saturated item. Try some homemade deodorization by placing bowls of white vinegar or clean cat litter around the effected space. Both are known for lifting odors.
If you’ve tried it all and find mold growth and smells still lingering, it may be time to call in the experts at your local flood remediation company to help you get the fresh, clean-smelling space you had before.
This office fell victim to a water intrusion that came from the double doors.
What Is Covered by a Commercial Flood Insurance Policy?
There is no guarantee that land that is meant to be dry will stay dry. When flooding occurs in West Salem, WI, your commercial insurance package can cover the costs of repairing or replacing your business’s building and property within it. Under FEMA, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) recommends both property and personal policies to make sure that damages caused by flooding are covered.
Property Policy
A good property policy insures the building itself. It is not limited to the basic structure but also many elements built into the structure, such as the following items:
Central air conditioning and heating systems
Installed carpeting
Built-in furniture, such as cabinetry
Fire system and any related apparatus
Commercial insurance can help you replace any aspect of the building itself that is damaged by flooding. This not only includes floors and basements but also awnings and any structures attached to the building.
Personal Policy
Another good flood policy to have is a personal policy that can be used to reimburse you for the actual cash value of items in your building that are damaged. These items include but are not limited to the following examples:
Furniture and equipment
Free-standing machinery or appliances
Uninstalled carpet or rugs
Inventoried stock
Non-licensed vehicles used primarily on property
Because your business often relies on the use of these items, a personal policy is just as important for business continuity as a property policy.
Commercial insurance covers damage caused directly by flooding. If a sewage system backs up, for example, the damage it causes is only covered by a flood policy if there is a flood in the area that initiated the backup. Any damage that results from the neglect of property owner, such as subsequent mold or contamination that occurs because the flooding was not dealt with quickly, is also not covered. If handled in a timely manner, however, your property and personal flood policies should make recovering from flooding in West Salem, WI, more affordable.
After a storm damage, SERVPRO is your best option for restoration your business
When It Comes To Storm Damage Cleanup, There Are A Few Things To Keep In Mind.
Sometimes Mother Nature gets the best of you no matter how much you prepare. If your business property in Dublin, CA, was hit with water damage due to flooding, you need to clean up quickly so that you can get back to work. Use this guide as a walkthrough from the tear out process to opening your doors again after storm restoration.
Remove the Water
The first thing you need to do when dealing with water damage is to remove the excess water. This is possible in one of two ways.
- You can do it yourself if you have the right equipment and it's a small amount of water. - You should call a professional company if you don't have the equipment or the water is very high.
Remove the Wet Materials
Once the excess water has been removed, you must tear out or remove wet materials such as furniture, inventory and carpeting. While some items, such as some types of furniture, might be salvageable, it is usually best to claim any inventory or larger items as a loss with your insurance company. Anything you do try to save will need to dry thoroughly before you can take it back inside.
Dry the Rest of the Property
Walls, floors and other hard structures are likely to retain some moisture due to humidity. Open windows, turn on fans and bring in dehumidifiers. Run them as long as you need to until the inside of your property is dry again.
Restore the Property
Once everything is dry, you can begin to restore your business to its former glory. Lay down new carpet, bring in new furniture and inventory and get ready for your grand reopening.
When working with a storm restoration company, remember to research thoroughly. Look for one that is licensed, insured and well-respected in the community. Using a lesser company to remove water and tear out carpet may just leave you with more mess to clean up.
SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin recommends cleaning your storm and roof gutters often.
What Are the Benefits of Cleaning Your Gutters?
SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin recommends cleaning your storm and roof gutters often. We know it can take a bit of work especially if they’re filled with random debris and objects that have been blown into it. As a result, you might be wondering what the advantage is for all the hard work involved in gutter cleaning.
Foundation Damage: The foundation is the most important part of any home as it serves as the base on which it is built. Should the foundation be damaged or compromised, your entire home is at risk. When your drainage system isn’t working correctly, water can flow in places where it is not intended to, such as down the siding of your home and could potentially cause sustained damage to your foundation.
Helps Your Roof Last Longer: A roof can last well over three decades if cared for properly, but water damage from a clogged gutter will drastically reduce its lifespan every time it rains. By cleaning your storm and roof gutter drains, you prevent this risk from happening.
Protect Your Garden: If you’ve invested a lot of time in improving your garden through landscaping and new plants, then you risk ruining that work by not keeping your storm and roof gutters clean. This is because the water can potentially run down the siding of your home or overflow out the pipes instead of through the drainage system, eventually flooding your backyard and causing major water damage to your garden.
Prevent Leaks in Your Roof: When you have a clogged storm drain, water will back up and sit on your roof with nowhere else to go but into your home. It will be forced into your roof shingles and eventually leak into your home’s structure. With a cleaned drainage system, the water won’t affect your home and will simply drain out the pipes through the gutter.
Prevent Mold Growth: Water can breed mold-related issues and it can start to grow on your roof and all around your drainage system if you leave this issue for too long. Proper cleaning of your stormwater drain will mean that you don’t need to worry about mold damage on your property and also save you the hefty bill of cleaning mold-related damage.
As long as you take proper care of your storm and roof gutter drains, you won’t experience any of these issues. Roof drain gutter cleaning can be a time-consuming task, but there are a couple of simple ways to ensure that your gutter drains are kept in perfect condition.
SERVPRO is a specialist in restore storm damages in homes.
Rainy Season Suggestions
Storm Cleanup Tips
One of the great things about Pleasanton, CA is the beautiful weather. Despite all those nice sunny days, are storms which are still a concern. When stormy season rips through the state, they can do significant damage. For HOAs and condo boards, knowing where to start the cleanup process isn’t always easy. Here are a few simple tips to help you tackle the storm cleanup process in your community.
Deal with Water Damage
Flooding is a huge concern during major storms. If a home or condominium floods, the resulting water damage can be devastating. Even a minor flood can facilitate the growth of mold and mildew, so it is important to dry up any water as quickly as possible. Once the water has receded, set up industrial fans to eliminate water fast. Unfortunately, carpet, drywall and other materials that absorb moisture may need to be replaced to prevent mold.
Clean Up Debris
When runaway trash cans, lawn furniture, toys, fallen branches and other debris find their way to the streets, they become hazards. They can cause accidents or damage to vehicles, and the mess can be dangerous. Set out to clean up debris as soon as possible following a major storm.
Look for Landscaping Damage
Trees with seriously damaged trunks need to be removed right away. Injured trees are less stable, and they become serious risks. While the tree may not have fallen during the most recent storm, a future gust of wind could cause it to fall on someone’s home or vehicle. If you aren’t sure whether a tree is damaged enough to need removed, consult with a professional.
Storms during the rainy season can take a serious toll on your community. Working with SERVPRO helps ensure that your community will be able to recover and be back to normal again as quickly as possible.
Wind damage from a storm in Pleasanton, CA can blow roof tiles, leaving weaknesses for water to get into your home. When you can see signs of roof damage from a recent storm, it is time to have a full inspection to find additional damage. Roof repair will be critical to prevent interior and structural damages from water that can get in through the damaged areas in the roof.
Outside Wind Damage Clues
You probably suspect that roof damage has allowed water into your home. You may see signs of storm damage on the outside of your home, such as:
Bent, broken or discolored shingles
Rusting, sagging, or buckling gutters
If you see signs like these, it's time to call an experienced roof contractor to do a full inspection of your roof and begin repairs as quickly as possible to prevent future water problems.
Inside Water Damage
While the roof repair is underway, you may want to look for water damage inside. Where should you look?
• Check interior areas around clogged gutters. They are heavy and pull on fasteners, where water can get in. Clogs also cause pooling around your roof. • Look for stains on the ceilings. Stay out of rooms until repairs are made, if the ceiling is bulging. • Get in the attic. Look for damaged wood or drywall, and check for wet or moldy insulation.
If you have wet areas in the attic or home, you must repair and dry the areas as quickly as you can. Mold can develop very fast in moist areas and where water damage has occurred. Once the roof repair is complete, the leak is stopped and you can focus on interior cleanup. Mold cleanup should be handled very carefully to prevent further spread of mold spores in your home. A professional restoration company knows how to set up containment areas while they work to clean mold and water-damaged areas.
Humankind has been facing the devastating impacts of high water for centuries. If you own or run a business in Dublin, CA, you know it is at risk from storms and floods. In recent decades, as society has improved its engineering and technological capabilities, countries have sometimes developed impressive structures to stop flooding. While these enormous projects are beyond the scope of a single company, they do provide insight into the extraordinary efforts needed to stop rising water. Floods come from many sources, from torrential rains to rising seawater to malfunctioning levees and dams.
World-Famous Efforts for Flood Prevention Some localities face massive challenges from flooding due to their locations. These are usually low-lying areas close to the ocean or a major body of water. A country might put billions of dollars into these major projects, but this is better than allowing cities and valuable farmland from becoming useless. These four projects are among the most famous in the world for holding back high water:
The Hagestein Weir in the Netherlands
The Maeslant Storm Surge Barrier in the Netherlands
The water gates in Japan
The Thames Barrier in England
Depending upon the situation, a major effort is sometimes required to prevent waters from inundating a place. It requires large expenditures, modern engineering, advanced materials and extensive labor.
World-Class Services for Storm Mitigation Your company could face the impacts of large storms or overflowing storm surges. If this unfolds, the services of a professional restoration team will be useful in many ways. Trained technicians can arrive quickly and remove the water from your building. They can also make sure the building and its contents are cleaned and sanitized according to the highest standards of the cleaning industry. The impacts of high water on your company can be minimized with professional help. A trained crew will use specialized equipment and proven techniques to restore your facility after storm damage.
The rainy season is a great time for gardens and lawns, but in this season your property requires extra care. Your negligence can result in serious damage or loss, which may cost you expensive roof repairs or installation. Penetrating rain water or moisture in building structure or wall can have a negative effect on you and your family’s health, however it can be prevented by taking few necessary steps.
Exterior Protection:
Check for Damaged Shingles:
The roof is the first step of protection against heavy rains and you must look-over it before peak season. Heavy rains mean the high probability of water leaking. Go up on your roof for a closer inspection and search for aging spots, losing shingles and places that are sagging. You can easily repair the leaking roof but if you find large portions damaged then it’s time for a roof replacement.
Clean Your Gutters:
Gutters play an essential role in keeping water away from your property. In case of improper drainage, there are higher chances of water getting build up around the foundation which can cause various problems such as mold and erosion. Make sure that the gutter is not leaking or broken and clear of all debris or leaves collected in it to avoid any blockages. For future gutter repairs or maintenance in Perth consider installing wire mesh to the gutters to avoid branches and leaves from blocking the waterway.
Barbecue covers:
If you have kept your barbecue outside on the terrace, consider storing it in a safe place such as in a garage or store room to keep it safe free from rust.
Paint the exterior walls:
If your exterior walls look dull and pale, repaint the walls with quality waterproof paint. In order to create the more protective layer on the walls, you can paint the walls by treating them through water sealant. This will not only give you great looking walls but also make them stronger to easily bear the effect of rain.
Internal Protection:
After securing your home from outside, it’s time to focus on the interior of the house. If you feel that this will cost you unnecessary and your problems will increase? Then, let us inform you that the suggestions mentioned below are very simple, which can be followed easily:
Check for Indoor Leaks:
Make sure you inspect the interior of your home for signs of leaks. Check the ceilings and walls and look for water rings, mold and discoloration. These are the signs of a leaky roof that needs immediate attention.
Secure Doors and Windows:
It is also essential to maintain the doors and windows of your home so that they can work smoothly during all the seasons of the year, particularly during monsoon. If necessary, repaint the window and metal frames. This would keep your doors and windows damage-free and long-lasting. Hire a professional carpenter to get this job done effectively, efficiently and timely.After taking all the preventative measures listed above your home may still succumb to water damage. If it does, call SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin. Our highly trained technicians are available when you need them to restore peace of mind to you and your family.
In states that experience heavy rains, storms, and flooding, water damage can easily occur. Without immediate attention, water damage can cause larger structural concerns and ruin your home, business, or belongings. Although water damage may seem minimal, it’s important to get it checked out immediately to avoid costly repairs down the road. Take a look at the top three reasons to immediately repair water damage.
Structural concerns. If left untreated, water damage can cause serious structural concerns due to warped or rotted wood and disintegrating drywall. In order to preserve the integrity of your home or business, repair water damage immediately.
Allergens. When water damage is left untreated, the moisture collects and creates an ideal environment for mold, mildew, and other allergens to thrive. Letting this go for too long may turn your home or business into an uninhabitable space.
Save money. Ignoring water damage will lead to expensive and complex repairs. Save money in the long run by having any water-damaged area immediately inspected and repaired.
Do you have water damage in your home or building? Call SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin at 925-426-232.
A roof that leaks is a problem in any weather, but a roof that suddenly begins to leak during a heavy rainstorm can quickly turn into an emergency. With heavy runoff, water may start seeping through a hole that has been there for a while and drip onto the ceiling. By the time you notice water dripping in the house, the drywall has likely been saturated. If you don't do something right away, it could crumble. Finding a leak can take time. You need to staunch the dripping and make an emergency repair as quickly as possible.
Emergency Roof Patching
Go into the attic, if you have access, and clear insulation off the wet ceiling drywall. Sponge off any standing water. Lay a piece of plywood across the joists and put a bucket on the plywood to catch the water. Don't put the bucket directly on the drywall -- it may fall through when it fills with water.
Follow the leak back to the point at which it enters the roof. This could be far from the point where it's dripping onto the ceiling. You can typically trace the path along a rafter, but water sometimes follows the underside of the roof deck.
Make a temporary patch with roofing tar and a piece of shingle or plywood. Trowel the roofing tar into the leak on the underside of the roof deck, using a putty knife. Push the shingle or plywood into the tar and trowel more roofing tar around the edges of the patch.
Measure the distance of the leak from the gable and from the ridge, while you're in the attic, using a tape measure. Wait for the rain to let up before you attempt to go on the roof. Put on rubber-soled shoes, go on the roof and measure the same dimensions on the roof. Fortify the undersides of the shingles in the vicinity of the leak with more roofing tar. Don't attempt to access the roof without taking adequate safety precautions.
Emergency Roof Covering
Prepare a plastic roof cover if you can't get in the attic and have no way of determining the exact location of the leak. Use a 4-foot roll of 6-mil polyethylene plastic.
Unroll the plastic but don't unfold it. Measure enough to cover a section of the roof from the eave to the ridge, add an extra 4 feet, and cut it from the roll with a utility knife. Unfold the plastic just one fold to make a strip 8 feet wide.
Roll one end of the plastic around an 8-foot two-by-four and staple the plastic to the wood. Cut another 8-foot two-by-four and nail it to the first, with the plastic sandwiched between the two pieces of wood.
Go on the roof and place the wood along the eaves. Stretch the plastic over the ridge, covering the approximate location of the leak. Staple the other end to another two-by-four and nail a fourth two-by-four to that one. Allow that pair of two-by-fours to hang down on the opposite side of the ridge.
Things You Will Need
Sponge
Plywood
Bucket
Roofing tar
Shingle
Putty knife
Tape measure
Rain gear
Rubber-soled shoes
6-mil polyethylene sheeting
4 two-by-fours, 4 feet long
Staple gun and staples
Nails
Hammer
Warning
Wear old clothes and gloves when using roofing tar. It is difficult to get it off skin and nearly impossible to remove it from fabric.
Exercise extreme caution when going on the roof. Wear rubber-soled shoes and secure the ladder to the siding or the fascia with ropes to prevent it from being blown by wind.
Things Needed
Sponge
Plywood
Bucket
Roofing tar
Shingle
Putty knife
Tape measure
Rain gear
Rubber-soled shoes
6-mil polyethylene sheeting
4 two-by-fours, 4 feet long
Staple gun and staples
Nails
Hammer
Warnings
Wear old clothes and gloves when using roofing tar. It is difficult to get it off skin and nearly impossible to remove it from fabric.
Exercise extreme caution when going on the roof. Wear rubber-soled shoes and secure the ladder to the siding or the fascia with ropes to prevent it from being blown by wind.
Keep leaves, debris, snow and ice from blocking drains. Clear your drain only if it is safe. Stand on the sidewalk or parking strip (not in the road!) and use tools (not your hands). Place materials in yard waste or garbage as appropriate. Learn more about leaf raking and free, extra yard waste pick-up in November.
In fall, keep leaves and debris out of drains: You can prevent flooding by adopting your local storm drains to help keep in working conditions.
Rake fallen leaves and sticks in your yard BEFORE the reach the storm drain.
Rake or sweep leaves and debris from the tops of storm drains.
Submit a clogged drain report or call our problem hotline at (206) 386-1800 if you can't clear a storm drain.
In winter, keep snow and ice from blocking drains: After snowfall, melting snow and rain can block storm drain inlets and cause localized flooding.
Remove snow and ice from your local storm drain with a snow shovel, garden shovel, rake or other strong tool. to prevent flooding or ponding in your neighborhood.
Clear a channel for runoff if an inlet or street drain appears to be blocked by snow or debris.
Submit a clogged drain report or call our problem hotline at (206) 386-1800 if you can't clear a storm drain.
Maintain Your Drainage System
Maintaining your property's drainage system is your responsibility.
Inspect regularly. This is especially important on commercial properties that have catch basins or other drainage systems.
Ask a professional to "video inspect" your underground drainage system.
Clear drains in and near your property. If you have sloped driveway, clear the drain at the bottom of the slope.
If you live at the base of a hill or on a bluff, check that drainage and retaining walls are properly functioning.
Water causes unstable slopes, mudslides and erosion. Check your property for signs of earth movement, such as leaning trees, or cracks in the soil or sidewalks. If you have a problem, contact a soils engineer (search the Web for "Engineers Geotechnical Soils") to evaluate the situation.
Gutters and downspouts:
Inspect regularly for leaks or damage.
Clean at least twice a year.
Direct downspout flows at least 5 feet away from your foundation, without sending flows to adjacent properties.
Direct downspout flows away from your foundation without discharging flows to adjacent properties.
Never discharge water over the edge of a steep hill.
Coordinate with the Seattle Department of Planning and Development for approved points to discharge water.
Grading, sandbags, and plantings:
Create “flow paths” on your property where water can flow during a storm without damaging your neighbors’ properties or valuable gardens.
Plantings can reduce the chance of a mudslide or flooding. However, avoid planting over side sewers that could create problems from plant roots in the future. Read advice on choosing the right plants.
Assess Your Property's Flood Risk
Talk to longtime residents in your neighbor about history of flooding or landslides of where you live. Find your property on the Federal Emergency Management flood risk website. If you think your property may experience flooding, prepare for storm season.
Prepare and/or retrofit your house:
Elevate large items: Elevate your furnace, water heater, washer/dryer, and electric panel if they are susceptible to flooding. Use masonry blocks, concrete, or pressure-treated lumber so that they are at least 12” above the projected flood level.
Retrofit your house: If your house might flood, you can make changes that will improve its ability to withstand water. See FEMA’s Homeowner's Guide to Retrofitting: Six Ways to Protect Your House from Flooding. Contact the Seattle Department of Planning and Development regarding requirements for discharging water from your basement, permits, and solutions for side sewer problems.
Use sandbags to create a temporary flood barrier. Beginning October 15 of each year, free, filled sandbags (up to 25 per household or business) are available for pickup at four Seattle locations. Learn more and see a list of sandbag pick-up locations.
Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) offers this limited number of sandbags to households or business owners in flood-prone areas during autumn and winter. If you've had or almost had flooding in the past, consider using sandbags.
Sandbags don't seal out water but can help redirect the flow of water and protect property from debris. Sandbags must be used with caution because it is illegal to divert water to your neighboring properties.
Sandbag Tips
Buy sandbags at local hardware stores. They are often pre-filled and weigh at least 70 pounds. Do not use garbage bags, as they are too slick to stack.
You can fill and stack your own sandbags. Filling sandbags is a two-person operation. Properly filled and placed sandbags can act as a barrier to divert moving water around, instead of through, buildings. Learn how to fill sandbags (pdf) and place, stack and dispose of sandbags (pdf) from the Army Corps of Engineers.
Don't place your sandbags too early. Sandbags fall apart when exposed to continued wetting and drying for several months. If bags are placed too early, they may not be effective when needed.
Properly dispose of sandbags. Dispose of the sandbags properly. Do not throw away the contents in the street, down a drain, or in water bodies. A small amount of uncontaminated sand can be placed in your garbage container each collection period. Sandbags contaminated by flood water (generally considered polluted) should not be reused-please take them to the North Transfer Station or South Transfer Station. Regular garbage rates apply.
Reuse Your Sandbags
Sandbags that are wet from rain, but have not come into contact with floodwater, are safe to reuse, let them dry out in the sun, then:
Give them to someone who would use them.
Add a moderate amount to your garden as a soil amendment. Sand is useful to "break up" clay soil, making it less likely to hold too much water and allowing more air to reach plant roots. It can be added to any garden soil, if spread in moderate amounts, up to one inch spread over the surface and dug into the soil. Avoid adding sand if your garden soil is already sandy.
After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for several days. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.
Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with the items on the checklist below. Most of the items are inexpensive and easy to find and any one of them could save your life. Headed to the store? Download a printable version to take with you. Once you take a look at the basic items consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets or seniors.
Basic Disaster Supplies Kit
To assemble your kit store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.
A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:
Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
Since Spring of 2020, the CDC has recommended people include additional items in their kits to help prevent the spread of coronavirus or other viruses and the flu.
Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:
Cloth face coverings (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
Pet food and extra water for your pet
Cash or traveler's checks
Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
Fire extinguisher
Matches in a waterproof container
Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
Paper and pencil
Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
Maintaining Your Kit
After assembling your kit remember to maintain it so it’s ready when needed:
Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers.
Replace expired items as needed.
Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.
Kit Storage Locations
Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work and cars.
Home: Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.
Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water and other necessities like medicines, as well as comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case.
Car: In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car.
Lightning and thunder has wreaked havoc all over California. The lightning has caused many fires and a lot of people fleeing their homes.
We want you to know that there are many places that offer assistance for displacement due to the current state of emergency and we want to share this info. Click this link Fire Displacement Assistance for more information and services offered in this time of need.
Know that SERVPRO is Here to Help with our Hepa Air Filters to assist with air quality and odor removal caused by smoke.
HAIL: Loss of granule layers on the shingle will cause the organic base center of the shingle to be exposed to the sun's U.V. rays. This will cause deterioration of the shingle and reduce the life of the shingle by as much as 40%, which will eventually result in leaks.
HIGH WINDS: Winds over 50 mph will lift the shingle, causing the seal to break, never to reseal itself. The shingle will eventually blow off to expose your roof. This will eventually result in leaks.
IMPROPER VENTILIATION: Improper ventilation in your attic will cause the shingles to scorch and bubble up, causing a serious problem. This is more common on older homes. Have your roof inspected for proper ventilation if you feel this might be a problem for you.
Undetected Damage
It is possible that you will have roof damage and not even know. Although you may have no apparent leaks leaving stains on your ceilings, your roof may be leaking in your attic. In some cases, a leak may be detected by a mildew smell caused by wet insulation in your attic. Such leaks may not show up visibly for some time. It is best to have your roof inspected just for peace of mind.
Roof storm damage due to harsh weather is something that troubles a homeowner. Many times, you aren’t sure where to start or who to call. One of the best things that you can do is to call your local SERVPRO and roofer to asses the damage. Be wary of any fly-by-night roofing companies that always pop up any time there is a large storm or natural disaster. This will ensure that you get the highest quality service, and results that are in your best interest.
Often roof storm damage is not visible to the naked eye and partnering with a reputable company such as SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin who understands the issues is a benefit. If you do find storm damage, let SERVPRO help set you in the right direction. We will tarp your roof to prevent further water damage inside your home. We will then help you come up with a game plan to get your home better than it was before!
There are several possible causes of water damage. Leaky dishwashers, refrigerator leaks, clogged toilets, broken pipes, broken dishwasher hoses, overflowing washing machines, leaky roofs, plumbing leaks, and foundation cracks are just some of the possible causes of water damage in homes and businesses. Floods and heavy rain are other possible causes of this type of damage and can lead to having water in basements and/or garages. Too much water can lead to minor problems such as water in basement areas, or it can lead to the destruction of homes and businesses. Once a home or business sustains water damage, it is important to start the water damage cleanup immediately. Starting water damage cleanup as soon as possible increases the likelihood of saving water-soaked furniture, drywall, hardwood floors, carpets, rugs, clothing, and other items. Other benefit of starting water remediation is that it minimizes the chance of secondary damages.
For more details call SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin at 925-426-2302
When Storms or Floods hit, SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin is ready!
SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit Pleasanton/Dublin, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today at 925-426-2302
I have previously written about the importance of dehumidification in water damage mitigation/structural drying. Dehumidifiers lower humidity in a wet environment by removing excess moisture from the air. They can also impact the temperature in a wet area and this blog will briefly discuss the relationship between temperature and humidity and how they can influence structural drying. The amount of water vapor in the air, also known as the “Specific Humidity”, is measured using a Thermo-Hygrometer. This instrument displays the air temperature as well as a percentage number between zero and 100. The displayed percentage is called the “Relative Humidity”, which indicates how much water vapor is in the air as a percentage of how much the air can hold at that temperature. It tells us how much of the air’s water vapor capacity has been reached, as well as how much is still available. It is very important to monitor air temperature because the higher the temperature the more water vapor the air can hold. More importantly, if the air temperature drops when Relative Humidity is already at a high percentage, the air will soon reach saturation or “Dew Point”. When this happens water vapor will begin to be released. When it is raining outdoors the relative humidity has reached 100% and the air is releasing the water vapor it can no longer hold. In a water damaged structure dehumidification is installed to remove water vapor from the air to increase its capacity. As the humidity decreases the air’s “vapor pressure” also decreases. Wet building materials have a high moisture content and high vapor pressure so the lower the vapor pressure in the air the more water vapor is attracted to the air. Water molecules will always migrate from wet/high vapor pressure to dry/lower vapor pressure so the dryer the air the more readily materials will dry. This has been a basic explanation of how temperature and relative humidity can influence drying strategies. Mold growth and other secondary damages can be minimized and often avoided with humidity reduction and temperature control. Just remember, the more moisture we can remove from the air the more actively wet materials will be in releasing their moisture into it! Barry Rutherford, Owner, IICRC WRT, ASD, AMRT, SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin
Talk with your family about what to do if a winter storm watch or warning is issued. Discussing winter storms ahead of time helps reduce fear, particularly for young children.
Have your vehicle winterized before the winter storm season to decrease your chance of being stranded in cold weather.
Have a mechanic check your battery, antifreeze, wipers and windshield washer fluid, ignition system, thermostat, lights, flashing hazard lights, exhaust system, heater, brakes, defroster, and oil.
Install good winter tires with adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate but some jurisdictions require vehicles to be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs.
Keep in your vehicle: - A windshield scraper and small broom - A small sack of sand for generating traction under wheels and a set of tire chains or traction mats - Matches in a waterproof container - A brightly colored (preferably red) cloth to tie to the antenna - An emergency supply kit, including warm clothing.
Keep your vehicle’s gas tank full so you can leave right away in an emergency and to keep the fuel line from freezing.
Keep a supply of non-clumping kitty litter to make walkways and steps less slippery.
Service snow removal equipment before the winter storm season and maintain it in good working order.
Keep handy a warm coat, gloves or mittens, hat, water-resistant boots, and extra blankets and warm clothing for each member of the household.
What sort of damage can a storm do to my business?
Storm damage to property is common and can happen for a wide variety of reasons, including:
Buildings or goods damaged or destroyed by falling trees
Roof tiles displaced by high winds
Roofs or walls damaged by build-up of snow
Walls being blown over
Leaks caused by heavy rain
Windows being broken by flying debris
In extreme cases, roofs being blown off or whole buildings falling down in high winds
There are also many ways that storms can harm your profits or result in additional running costs, including:
Storm-related power or communication cuts
Access issues resulting from storm damage. For example, if weather conditions or a clean-up operation prevents customers or staff getting to or entering your premises
Late or missed deliveries as a result of weather conditions
How do I know if I'm insured against storm damage?
How do I know if I'm insured against storm damage?
Each of the negative impacts listed below is covered by a different type of insurance – so it’s important to check whether your policy or policies include the right elements.
Building damage
If your business premises are damaged, this will be covered by your buildings insurance policy.
If you rent the property your business operates in, this is your landlord’s responsibility.But, if you own the premises, you’ll need to take out a buildings insurance policy to be covered against storm damage.
Damage to equipment or stock
Anything contained in your business premises, but which are not part of the structure or permanent fixtures of the building, are covered separately by your contents insurance policy.
This covers your stock and any equipment you might have on the premises, including things like fridges, washing machines computers or IT servers.
As a general rule, any fixtures that you have fitted and paid for are your responsibility to insure or replace, whether you own or rent the premises.
This is one of the main ways in which storms can impact your business. You can cover yourself against this risk by taking out business interruption insurance.It is often offered as an extra when you buy buildings or contents insurance and it covers lost earnings and increased running costs suffered as a result of the event
Monitor weather reports and consider your safety risk when a weather advisory is issued.
Be prepared to leave before roads, creeks and waterways are flowing, or go to a neighbor on high ground or shelter in-place.
Know all your local access roads and understand that some may be blocked by debris. Have an alternate plan or route. Mudslides can occur even days after a storm when the ground is saturated.
NEVER drive or walk into floodwaters or go around barricades. It is impossible to know how deep the water is just by looking at it.
Consider installing sandbags, straw wattles (rolled erosion control netting filled with straw), and other methods to divert water and reduce erosion on your property. Santa Barbara County Public Works offers sandbags. For locations and information, call County Flood Control at (805) 568-3440 or go to www.countyofsb.org/pwd/sandbag.sbc.
Flood Insurance: Most homeowners insurance does not cover floods from natural disasters. Make sure your home is protected. Refer to Flood After Fire ( español).
Have an Emergency Plan and a Disaster Kit ready to go. For more information, read the additional resources here as the Debris Flow Survival Guide ( español).
In today’s economy, commercial property vacancies continue to rise, creating special mitigation challenges for business owners and landlords. Office exposures are the hardest hit by the economic climate at the moment with retail, industrial, multi-family residential, and farms not far behind. While each of these occupancy categories has its own unique risks, many IBHS members have asked for general tips to help policyholders take measures to reduce the hazards posed by vacant property, and to make sure that proper physical and financial protection is in place.
Advise public sector emergency response organizations (fire, police, etc.) that your building is unoccupied, and provide them with your keys and contact information in the event of an emergency.
Leave essential utilities turned on (see notations below in the maintenance section for determination as to whether you may want to leave on or shut off all or some of the utilities), and advise utility companies of the vacancy. Ask to be notified in the event of high usage or an emergency.
Advise your premises alarm company of the vacancy, create new codes and update contact information. Consider hiring a patrol service or have someone inspect the premises at different times of the day every day to note any changes.
Install exterior and interior motion or timed lighting, to diffuse potential animal infestation and criminal activity, and to give the appearance of occupancy.
Change the locks and/or install new tapered deadbolts since copies of the existing keys may have been given to prior tenants or others. Tapered deadbolts make it almost impossible to use a wrench to twist the lock open.
Consider allowing an organization (public, private or nonprofit) to occupy your property at no charge, if they are willing to maintain the property and provide appropriate insurance coverage for you as the building owner, naming you as an additional insured in the event of a loss.
Talk with other building owners and rental agents to determine successful approaches to find good tenants.
Take steps to make the property appear occupied to reduce the risks of vandalism and other crimes occurring there. Maintain the exterior by mowing lawns, taking care of shrubbery, removing leaves or snow, clearing driveways and walkways.
Suspend mail and delivery services to the building –notify postal delivery companies and the U.S. Post Office that nothing should be delivered to the property.
Remove hazardous materials from the property, such as pollutants, chemicals or combustible materials to prevent explosion, leaks, seepage or contamination.
Weather
Adjust the Thermostat.
In colder climates, adjust the temperature to 55 degrees. This will keep the pipes from freezing.
In warmer climates, adjust the air conditioning to 85 degrees to protect against humidity and potential mold exposure.
Plan for Rain, Hail and High Winds.
Trim dead vegetation around the building.
Bring inside any exterior furniture or fixtures indoors.
Close and lock all doors, windows, skylights and vents to keep out wind and wind driven rain.
If appropriate, install storm windows, doors or hurricane shutters.
Maintenance
Protect Plumbing
Unless the building has a fire protection sprinkler system, shut off the water and drain the water lines.
Shut off the gas to the water heater, or turn the temperature control to a very low or “vacation” setting.
If the building has a water softener, shut off the supply line. Unplug or turn off any non-essential appliances, boilers or machinery.
Protect Active Water
If you choose not to shut off the water, inspect for leaks and turn off the water supply to individual fixtures.
Unplug appliances and ensure any sump pumps are working properly.
Insulate pipes in colder climates.
Consider installation of an electronic leak detection system, either local or monitored.
Prevent Leaks
Check the roof for loose or missing shingles or needed repairs.
Make sure gutters are cleaned out, downspouts extend away from the foundation, and splash blocks slope away from the building.
Caulk seams and cracks
around all pipes where they exit roofs and exterior walls,
flashing seams between the roof and siding,
door and window frames, and
any vents or antennae.
Vacant commercial buildings may cost more to insure than occupied commercial buildings because they often have more exposure to losses.
If your building is in a flood plain or located on the coast, a flood insurance policy may be needed. If you live in an earthquake-prone area, a separate policy would also be required.
Check with your insurance agent or company to determine how vacancy in your commercial building will affect your property policy.
While the commercial real estate market is expected to begin recovering next year, occupancy increases will vary by the type of building and location. The relative lack of new construction means there is little new commercial inventory coming on line, which may make it easier to rent existing properties. In the interim, it is prudent to protect your current investment by identifying and addressing the hazards resulting from commercial vacancy.
Rain Leaked through Sunlight Tube After Rain Storm
Mold as a result of long term leak from sunlight tube in home
Storms can have a devastating effect on home and commercial buildings. The extent of the damage can be hard to detect when there isn't standing water on your floors. Mold growth can be lingering behind drywall and on framing, under carpet, etc. It is important to call a professional when experiencing water damage due to a storm otherwise this can be missed.
SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin has the expertise and state of the art remediation techniques to ensure your home or office building is back in working order. We do our due diligence when it comes to storm damage because we know what the results may be if something is over looked or forgotten.
If you or anyone you know has had damage to their home or place of work call SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin at 925-426-2302.
Living in California we are fortunate enough to have fantastic weather and lots of it. On the rare occasion that we encounter storms it can be catastrophic to deal with. When heavy rains come down and potential flash flooding occurs it may be too late to ensure there are no leaks in our homes. The best practice to do is to test for leaks in windows, roofs, doors, etc. This may not completely keep storms out but can drastically reduce the damage it causes.
While the storms are rare it is always best to be prepared. If you would like to obtain information on storm preparedness or to learn about our Emergency Ready Profiles, call us today at 925-426-2302. Act now and ensure you are well prepared for whatever mother nature throws our way.
Excess damaged belongings from storms in the rainy season
As a business owner or a homeowner the last thing you would want to wake up to or come home to after a trip is sever storm damage. Unfortunately this is a problem that happens often depending on where you live. In Northern California this situation may not happen often but when it does it can leave you saying "what do I do?" or, "what's next?". This is where SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin comes in.
SERVPRO has full time staff and technicians that have the know how and training to take care of you and your home or building as it is being worked on and dried out.
We hope that no one ever has to go through any storm related issues but if they do arise, please call us day or night at 925-426-2302 and we will take care of you from start to finish.
Storms come in all shapes and sizes and vary depending on location. One this that can cause damage behind the walls in your home or commercial building is water. While a storm is going on you may not notice any damage or water but the after effects can have signs of damage.
Signs of Damage:
must odor
discoloration of walls/peeling
wet carpets
warped baseboard and casing
wet crawlspace
These are a few of the most common signs you might find after the water has been sitting for a while. When you come across these signs, it is best to call in SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin to dry out and remove and affected materials. Our goal is to quickly get you back in your residence and assure you that the problems have been taken care of.
If you would like to hear about the process, give us a call at 925-426-2302.
When storms roll through Northern California, no matter how big or how small it is always best to be prepared. Fortunately we have nice weather majority of the year but that doesn't mean we are not susceptible to inclement weather. When storms are happening you might not notice any water damage to you home immediately but the following days you might see some signs.
These signs include but are not limited to:
wet carpet
ceiling or walls bubbling
peeling paint
faint musty odor
trim pulling away from walls
If you notice any or all of these signs it may be time to call SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin. Our technicians are trained with state of the art equipment to clean and treat you damage and make it "Like it never even happened." Give us a call at 925-426-2302 for more information.
Contents damaged due to leak in an attic caused by heavy rains.
Storms can happen any time in any place. While they don't happen often in Pleasanton/Dublin it is always best to be prepared in the event there is a large storm. To be prepared there are a few things you can do to make sure your home or office building are ready to withstand strong winds and torrential rain.
Things to do to maintain a building
Check windows for a strong seal and no leaks
Routinely have your chimney inspected if you have one
inspect attic space for leaks in the roofing material
Have proper drainage away from the foundation of your home
Have a list of emergency services, SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin being your go to for fire, water, mold restoration.
It is always a great idea to be prepared for emergency situations so that when one does arise, you are well prepared. If you find yourself needing services, contact SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin 24-hours a day at 925-426-2302.
Mold growth after months of rain leaking through a sun tunnel
Storms can have a devastating effect on home and commercial buildings. The extent of the damage can be hard to detect when there isn't standing water on your floors. Mold growth can be lingering behind drywall and on framing, under carpet, etc. It is important to call a professional when experiencing water damage due to a storm otherwise this can be missed.
SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin has the expertise and state of the art remediation techniques to ensure your home or office building is back in working order. We do our due diligence when it comes to storm damage because we know what the results may be if something is over looked or forgotten.
If you or anyone you know has had damage to their home or place of work call SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin at 925-426-2302.
In the recent months, we have received a great number of calls from homeowners in Pleasanton, Dublin, San Ramon, and Danville; who have had trees falling on their homes and destroying the roof or the exterior of the property.
Of course your first call you make is going to be a tree removal company however, your second call should be to us.
Some homeowners may think that they just need the roof or the walls to be repaired.
With the constant winds and rains, water damage is defiantly going to happen.
In most cases, an inspection should be conducted by a professional restoration company who can ensure there is no water lurking in the walls or ceiling. This is process is performed with state of art moisture reading equipment.
It is very important to address this and should be dried completely so there is no opportunity for mold to grow.
Who are you going to call for flood damage? SERVPRO of Pleasanton/Dublin, of course!
Flood Damage - How to Deal With It?
Floods tend to soak and douse everything they come in contact with, and cleaning up the excess water can be a complicated and lengthy process. Even if water has not reached to a significant depth, the remnants of water in a home are often too much for a homeowner to handle. Even for SERVPRO's trained technicians, flood damage restoration is often a lengthy and intensive process, even with industrial-grade tools and machines. Furthermore, many floodwaters are heavily contaminated, further complicating the matter. Here are some of the ways we deal with tough flood damage cases.
Drying
Drying out rooms quickly and without hassle after flood damage in Dublin is critical in halting mold growth and the development of dangerous bacteria, in addition to preventing further water damage exposure. We use a combination of industrial air movers and dehumidification devices to thoroughly dry rooms on an industrial scale. The air movers create powerful currents to pick up water droplets from surfaces and materials, and dehumidifiers remove that water from the air via refrigeration or chemical reaction. This process fully dries out a room, and with proper treatments, helps to prevent mold growth in the area.
Cleaning and Sanitizing
The water from flood stains and infects many floors in a home, and thorough cleaning and sanitization are essential for any room touched by its waters, as otherwise mold may still grow and dangerous diseases may breed on surfaces. Even after an area has been scrubbed and sanitized, it may require additional work to remove stains and visual destruction. We have expert technicians for this as well as experienced contractors, and we make sure to respond appropriately and thoroughly to any flood damage restoration with full cleanup crews.
Replacing Furniture and Floors
Many types of flooring and furniture will need replacing following a flood, and SERVPRO will help you to do that, while also working with your insurance provider. We make sure never to throw out or replace something without your permission, so you'll have close oversight over this process. Luckily, our advanced techniques and trained technicians are knowledgeable in many types of advanced floor restoration, and can sometimes salvage even the most damaged floors after a flood.
Locally Owned Company with National Resources
A local resource for flood and other disaster restoration efforts, SERVPRO of Pleasanton / Dublin is prepared to take on any flood cleanup or restoration project in your home. Just call us 24/7 at (925) 426-2302.
24/7 Emergency Service
A wet carpet can lead to unpleasant odors and secondary damage.
