How Storm Water Mitigation Services Benefit Your Los Angeles Property

4/2/2023 (Permalink)

Storm cleanup is the best solution after a water intrusion into your home. Contact SERVPRO for water removal and drying services. We are available.

SERVPRO Offers Immediate Storm Cleanup Services in Los Angeles

Storm water mitigation services provide solutions to damage that your property may suffer in the event of serious winds or severe storms. Water from on-ground flooding or a storm-damaged roof can affect your property, so you need professional help. These professionals are well-trained and have appropriate restoration equipment to do the job right.

Before performing storm water cleanup procedures on your Los Angeles property, the SERVPRO team ensures the building is safe. For instance, we check for any missing roofing shingles and have them fixed by experienced professionals. The team might provide temporary solutions to stop the water until a permanent fix is implemented.

The following after some of the precautions that we observe when restoring your water-damaged property:

• Switch off electrical power - Turning off electricity prevents the possibility of electrocution since standing water may still be in the building.
• Protecting your items - We can lift your furniture and insert tin foil to protect your carpets and other rugs from developing stains.
• Using protective gear - SERVPRO technicians wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, rubber boots, and helmets to stay protected from possible injuries.

After using specialized equipment such as water extractors, squeegees, pumps, and wet or dry vacuums to remove standing water, we use dehumidifiers and air movers to dry your property. We also investigate whether there's hidden moisture behind wallboards, cabinets, and other hard-to-access areas. Failure to address the hidden moisture problem may lead to mold growth.

If building materials such as carpets, drywall, and carpet padding come into contact with on-ground flooding water, removing and disposing them may be necessary. Documentation is required before throwing out any materials.

Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 for efficient storm water damage restoration services. Work with certified technicians with several years of experience restoring commercial and residential properties. Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."

ilver Lake Mold Damage Mitigation by SERVPRO

2/21/2023 (Permalink)

Discovering mold at your Silver Lake property can certainly raise an alarm. Call our SERVPRO team for mold removal services right away. We are here 24

SERVPRO Mold Inspection and Remediation Can Lower Silver Lake Home Repair and Replacement Costs

Mold growth can prove more damaging to Silver Lake homes than termites or structure fires, partially because microbes can feed on wood and other organic materials essential for maintaining structural integrity. Mold can even proliferate on nonporous surfaces in the proper environment, provided there is at least some sustenance available for these microbes. Surface-level mold damage on drywall and surfaces can indicate a more severe contamination issue inside wall cavities or even HVAC systems.

Silver Lake SERVPRO mold remediation technicians are available around the clock to render restoration services. This team does not provide total mold removal, which is not possible. Instead, it focuses on drastically reducing populations to average levels for clean, dry residential spaces.

How Mold Damage Can Spread Throughout Silver Lake Homes

While all indoor and outdoor spaces contain some amount of mold traveling through the air, microbial growth relies on many factors to spread. Microbes can proliferate in as little as 24 to 72 hours after settling in a suitable space. The ideal conditions for mold growth are room-temperature areas with elevated humidity and limited air circulation.

On top of that, mold spores can form colonies less than two weeks after initial growth. The more spores there are, the more quickly these microbes can deteriorate drywall, wood, and other porous materials. Home disasters like water damage can exacerbate microbial growth, which can continue even after water cleanup has been successfully performed. Mold inspection and remediation from certified technicians can determine microbes' location for more comprehensive mitigation.

SERVPRO Mold Damage Mitigation Includes Thorough Sanitation of Structures and Contents

SERVPRO's mold remediation crew tackles mold with a focus on making the environment inhospitable for microbial growth. This process entails demolition and removing unsalvageable debris and mold spore clusters, sanitation with EPA-registered biocides, and drying procedures that reduce air and surface moisture. Combined with commercial-grade personal protective equipment (PPE) and stringent containment procedures, these tactics prevent mold damage from spreading and maximize the number of spores removed from the property.

Sanitation and odor control tactics that aid in mold damage mitigation include:

• Manual cleaning of mold-prone areas
• Injection systems for spot removal of stains and odors in carpet and pad
• Pump and trigger sprays on walls or flooring with OSHA-approved biocide solutions
• Disposal of solid spore clusters and mold damage debris in heavy-duty sealed plastic bags
• Collection of spores and debris during cleaning with HEPA-filter vacuums

SERVPRO technicians can implement rebuilding services to restore the affected property should surfaces like drywall require demolition after suffering mold damage. These services can include installing new drywall, repairing and re-seaming carpet, and HVAC cleaning.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is ready to restore properties throughout the day or night. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster and only a phone call away at (213) 628-2000.

Pressure Washing is Key to Successful Fire Damage Restoration in Los Angeles

2/20/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can pressure spray smoke and soot damaged properties in Los Angeles as part of a fire damage restoration service.

SERVPRO Professionally Cleans Fire-Damaged Properties in Los Angeles

Cleaning surfaces is crucial during fire damage restoration since it helps prevent additional damage, removes toxic substances, and helps return your property to its preloss condition. Smoke deposits typically settle on ceilings, walls, pavements, and other surfaces. It is recommended to work with professional restoration experts to ensure the restoration process is a success,

For a successful fire damage cleanup process in Los Angeles, our SERVPRO technicians use several methods. Since we have been in the industry for a long time, we understand the cleaning complications that arise from such incidents, and as a result, we know the right equipment and procedures to do the job right. The goal is to let the property owner understand that the property is being restored efficiently and safely.

Sometimes our team may use pressure washing to remove heavy smoke and soot particles from concrete and brick surfaces. In the processes, we use water under high pressure and appropriate cleaning solutions to remove the contaminants. We follow the following steps for a successful cleaning process:

• · Our SERVPRO experts cover surrounding surfaces to protect them from possible water damage
• · We then prepare the surface through the removal of loose residues
• · We ensure the pressure is set to a level appropriate to our cleaning surface.
• · We start cleaning the surface from the highest point downwards in a back-and-forth motion.
• · We repeat the procedure severally until the surface is free of smoke particles.
• · We then rinse the area to remove any remaining residues.

After successful cleaning, we use dehumidifiers, fans, and other equipment to dry the fire-damaged areas. We also perform smoke odor removal procedures to neutralize unpleasant smells. We may repaint or do the necessary refinishing work when discoloration happens after exposure to the soot and smoke particles.

Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park today at (213) 628-2000 when you experience any fire, mold, or water damage crisis. Our technicians follow our tagline--We're Faster to Any Size Disaster and will offer you the professional help you need to restore your property.

Specialized Commercial Water Mitigation Services in Los Angeles

1/29/2023 (Permalink)

When water damage affects your business, time is of the essence. Contact SERVPRO for both experienced personnel and the equipment needed for the job.

SERVPRO Can Provide Water Mitigation Services in Los Angeles During Non-Business Hours

In Los Angeles commercial businesses, water leaks and spills seldom occur during regular working hours. But when they do, business operations are brought to a standstill. Clients and employees may need to leave the premises with the commercial business closing. Completing repairs, cleaning contents, drying, and restoring damaged structures must be completed before everyone can return.

Fast response by SERVPRO technicians utilizing water mitigation techniques in Los Angeles commercial buildings can limit the damage and reduce the time your business is offline. 

We are available 24/7 and can be onsite within four hours of your call, including weeknights and weekends.

Every water event presents unique challenges for commercial businesses, employees, and customers. A hotel's entire floor may need to be closed until water cleanup and repairs are completed. Closing showrooms or office areas, while water recovery and drying are underway is often required. Employees in business offices may need to work from home while we remove carpets and renovate offices after a water event.

SERVPRO technicians utilize the appropriate equipment to extract excess water, air movers, and dehumidifiers to dry the commercial space before additional damage is caused. Mitigating water damage involves fast response and immediate action to protect the contents and structure from the effects of water on porous materials.

Water mitigation efforts and fast-applied action by SERVPRO can limit the total damage caused by a water leak. For example:

• Water Damage Demolition of drywall and flooring structures
• Reduction in the damage to paint and wallpaper
• Damage to showroom contents, furniture, or office items

Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park for commercial water mitigation services. We provide service to Los Angeles and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (213) 628-2000.

What Mold Remediation in Los Angeles Properties Involves

12/23/2022 (Permalink)

Visible Mold removal is a step in SERVPRO's remediation for Los Angeles area homes and buildings.

SERVPRO Offers Broad Mold Restoration Services in Los Angeles

Discovering mold on your property is not something pleasing, so you may want to take immediate action to arrest the situation. However, before embarking on mold remediation, you must evaluate the case to determine what needs addressing exactly.

Every incident might present different dynamics based on your structure type and the infestation source point. Therefore, mold remediation at your Los Angeles property should start with an elaborate inspection process. SERVPRO crew chiefs prioritize such evaluation to reveal the extent of the problem.

Some Things to Know When You See Mold

• There are unresolved moisture problems
• Materials are rapidly deteriorating
• You must deal with contamination
• Surface finishes are likely to deteriorate

Mold requires a combination of factors to thrive. Sufficient moisture is one of the main triggers since it helps spores propagate. Other factors, such as organic food sources, are easier to satisfy because of the wooden structural materials and contents. Therefore, identifying and resolving moisture issues is as essential as any other remediation step. If moisture is not readily visible, our SERVPRO technicians can use specialized tools such as thermal cameras to identify hidden leaks.

Contamination Levels

Mold development is a microbial process that contaminates properties with its colonies which are a biohazard that requires careful handling. Necessary precautions depend on the contamination extent or affected area. For example, cleaning a small, contaminated area may only require gloves and an N95 mask, but a full bodysuit and full-face respirators may be necessary for extensive contamination.

You may know the signs of mold, such as dark patches and surface discoloration. However, you may fail to realize what goes on beneath the surface where materials deteriorate rapidly. If left unaddressed, wooden structures can develop rot-like disintegration. Evaluation helps determine whether surface cleaning is sufficient or if demolition is necessary.

Other Effects of Mold

• Flaking paint
• Fabric stains
• Musty odor

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park performs standard mold remediation to resolve issues, whether deeply embedded or relegated to the surfaces. Call us at (213) 628-2000. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Understanding Moisture Movement for Los Angeles Water Restoration

11/27/2022 (Permalink)

Dealing with water damage that has affected your home can be exhausting. Partner with SERVPRO during this time for effective water removal services.

Drying Principles for Water Restoration in Homes

Our SERVPRO professionals are well-educated in psychometry or the behavior of water. As certified WRT specialists through the IICRC, we have become educated and experienced with how water reacts in specific situations and what to expect when the drying process begins. Tenets of psychometry include:

• Wet to Dry
• Hot to Cold
• High Pressure to Low Pressure

Wet to Dry

One vital component of efficient water restoration in Los Angeles homes is knowing that wet conditions seek out dry conditions. This constant natural process to seek equilibrium forces moisture through permeable surfaces to spread water as far out from the source as possible. Drying efforts must establish a perimeter to avoid this known phenomenon.

Hot to Cold

Warmer temperatures always seek out colder temperatures, so you can expect this same factor to exist with the movement and migration of water in your residence. This can apply greatly to measures needed to get implemented when the drying process begins, as it is customary to warm up the area and increase the air pressure of the drying zone. Containment measures help to keep this warmer condition from finding paths to other, cooler regions of the house.

High to Low Pressures

A good way to think of the movement of high pressure to low pressure is a force pushing against a surface where there is no competing pressure on the other side. The result is a siphoning of moisture from the damaged portion of your home to an area otherwise unaffected by the leak. Understanding the capacity of water to migrate this way can help SERVPRO better contain damaged areas.

Knowing how to handle water restoration in Los Angeles begins with appreciating how moisture moves in a household. We have experienced professionals educated through the IICRC in psychometry to provide the best restoration services for your home. Call our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team today at (213) 628-2000.

Early Actions Reduce Flood Damage in Los Angeles Homes

9/26/2022 (Permalink)

Rainwater from a storm can severely damage Los Angeles attics, ceilings, and fixtures. Be safe, and call SERVPRO for help.

Los Angeles properties damaged by flooding require fast mitigation solutions

Homes can be quickly and wholly damaged by flood penetration and the spread of this water damage. Fast mitigative solutions can help reduce restoration costs and the length of recovery efforts set to begin. We are ready 24/7 to help with trained WRT-certified professionals.

Sealing Up Structural Vulnerabilities

Early actions to slow flood damage in Los Angeles homes start with a full structural damage assessment. Little can be done to complete the drying and cleanup of flood-damaged homes or businesses if the penetration points are not sealed up and stopped. With a contractor license, our SERVPRO team can complete temporary repairs to prevent water intrusions first.

Clearing Out Standing Water

The pooling of floodwater in areas of your home can be a considerable obstacle for even experienced restoration professionals. Not only must we provide extraction devices capable of managing deep surface water concerns, but we must also have water removal tools able to manage smaller solids and debris as well. Some of the extractors used for post-flood recovery include:

• Trash pumps
• Wet vacuums
• Truck-mount extractors

Muck-Out Cleaning and Debris Removal

With the standing water resolved, we can also focus on the cleaning and debris removal needed to protect the property. Contamination is a considerable concern after these loss effects, including every material directly exposed to migrating water. . Our muck-out cleaning process removes mud, silt, decaying organic matter, and bulk materials from the property, allowing drying to begin unhindered.

Mitigating flood damage losses begins with the first steps professionals like ours take when arriving after a disaster. There is an urgency to flood recovery with so much of the property at stake for extreme damage, so our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team works fast to mobilize with cleanup and restoration tools. Give us a call now at (213) 628-2000. 

Los Angeles Homeowners Trust SERVPRO with Fire Damage Restoration

8/28/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning up fire damage in your home is a daunting task. Contact SERVPRO for certified professionals who are ready to help you 24/7.

Does fire damage restoration in Los Angeles by SERVPRO include deodorization?

Controlling the odors after fire damage to your Los Angeles property can be challenging. SERVPRO techs employ a systematic approach toward odor elimination that starts with identifying the source. 

Rather than relying on a single method of odor elimination, SERVPRO techs usually employ multiple procedures after fire damage to your Los Angeles home. While some ways, such as wet fogging and thermal fogging, are great if the damage is heavy, they are not ideal for tackling localized odor issues confined to relatively smaller areas. 

How do SERVPRO techs manage localized odor problems during fire restoration in Los Angeles?

SERVPRO IICRC-certified techs use the following two methods to control localized and minor odor issues during the house fire cleanup of your Los Angeles home. 

• Injection Devices: Techs use a syringe and a needle to inject a relatively small amount of deodorant into confined spots on carpets and upholstery. The method is effective if the techs cannot lift the carpet to get to the padding or backing material and if the affected area is small.  
• Vaportek Units: It is a deodorizing system that contains a compound of natural oils sealed into a membrane. SERVPRO techs use these systems to distribute the deodorizing volatile oils to neutralize the odor molecules. 

Why do techs sometimes use sealers during house fire cleanup? 

If the odors remain even after all other deodorization methods have been performed, techs sometimes use sealants to seal the odor molecules. Most sealants are alcohol-based shellac or acrylic polymers that lock in the odor-causing molecules in the pores and crevices of the surface. Applying a sealant is usually considered after every other method has been tried.

Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 to discuss your restoration needs after fire damage.

If Your Los Angeles Supplies Showroom Experiences A Water Damage Disaster Call Our Experts

8/28/2022 (Permalink)

If water damage strikes your showroom, you need to get it back up and running quickly. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for certified technicians and equipment.

Unique Aspects Of Commercial Water Cleanup In Your Los Angeles Supplies Showroom

A typical day at a supplies showroom involves a considerable level of cleaning to keep the items on display in top condition for the clients who might visit. A water spill can ruin all the effort you put in cleaning and polishing the items every day. It might also damage some of the items, particularly if you deal with furniture or electronics. Apart from your efforts, you can involve a professional to clean up the mess.

Each case of commercial water cleanup in affected Los Angeles showrooms is different because it depends on how the spilled water soils various contents and parts of the structure. If the source of the leak is at a high point such as a burst pipe in the ceiling, the water might spray dust and other loose debris to contents in the room. If it takes long before you notice the water spill, stains from dissolving dyes or resins in furniture, upholstery or other items in your showroom can complicate the cleanup process. Our SERVPRO team has members certified in different Fields including WRT, Water Damage Restoration Technicians, and RRRP, Lead-Based Paint Activities, and Renovation experts who can deal with various situations that arise after a water loss.

Water spills create various hazards for members of your staff and clients that visit your showroom during the incident. If your showroom has one of those highly polished floors, people can easily slip and fall when water pools around. Water splashing on items that you are displaying in the showroom might also damage them. Our SERVPRO technicians observe high safety standards when cleaning up your water-damaged showroom. We set wet floor signs and other warnings to help people avoid slippery surfaces. We also evaluate the soiled areas to determine where to use cleaning equipment such as pressure washers and where to clean by hand to avoid damaging your valuable items.

Removing standing water and drying any wet materials helps finish the cleanup process after a spill. Our SERVPRO technicians use wet-vacs or track-mounted water extractors in case of significant spills. We also have a variety of drying equipment, including LGR dehumidifiers and high-speed air movers to finish the job.

To restore your showroom to its preloss state after a water spill, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park to help. You can reach us anytime at (213) 628-2000. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Professional Tips for Commercial Mold Remediation in Los Angeles

8/28/2022 (Permalink)

Finding mold in your hotel can cause a multitude of problems. Contact SERVPRO and our technicians will make it “Like it never even happened.”

How to Remediate Commercial Mold Damage in Your Los Angeles Hotel

Most travelers peruse popular hotel reviews and booking websites before they make their lodging reservations. Unfortunately, if your Los Angeles hotel has hundreds of positive reviews and a few negative ones, the potential guests can concentrate on the few poor testimonials. Your hotel may get negative reviews on account of visible signs of mold or smelly rooms.

Commercial mold damage in your Los Angeles hotel is a serious issue that you must deal with to avoid complaints or even claims from guests. Mold can put the well-being of staff and guests at risk because it causes health effects. To handle mold problems, you can take the following steps:

• Have a competent industrial hygienist complete a mold test to determine the affected areas and the toxicity level of the mold.
• Do not touch the mold without appropriate safety equipment. Besides, do not disturb the mold because this could cause mold spores to spread to other areas of your hotel.
• When you receive the test results, call a professional mold remediation firm such as SERVPRO to remove the mold safely and completely.

Once you contact us, our team can conduct a moisture and mold assessment quickly and efficiently. We can provide you with expert recommendations for a complete restoration, eliminate all surface and airborne mold, and put several measures in place to prevent further recurrence of the problem.

Our restorers, trained in specialized mold detection methods, know where molds can hide. Molds can grow in locations where moisture, the right temperature, and a food source are present. They thrive in moist environments created by slow leaks, floods, broken pipes, or high humidity. Molds feed on organic materials in a building like drywall, wood, natural fibers, and insulation. In hotel rooms, molds can grow in the following locations:

• Inside gypsum wall cavities in the ensuite
• Plasterboards
• Ceiling tiles
• Wallpaper
• Mattresses
• Tiles Grout

Our SERVPRO crew has mold remediation strained and detailed instruction in the right procedure for handling mold claims. After identifying the affected surfaces, we can use several containment procedures to prevent the mold from spreading into uncontaminated areas, protect the occupants and staff at your hotel from being exposed to contaminants and manage airflow from clean to contaminated areas.

Our technicians can use antimicrobial and antifungal treatments to eliminate mold colonies and prevent new ones from forming. We can also remove contaminated porous materials if necessary. Our team can also clean and sanitize restorable items that mold has affected. If there is a moldy scent, we can use fogging equipment to remove it. After completing the mold remediation process, your hotel and its contents can return to their preloss condition so you can continue enjoying high occupancy rates and five-star reviews on hotel booking sites.

Hotels are supposed to maintain high standards of safety and hygiene to remain in business. If mold is present in your hotel, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park for thorough mold remediation. You can reach us at (213) 628-2000.

Can You Use Bleach for Mold Removal in Los Angeles?

7/31/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of the color of the mold, team SERVPRO can help with remediation and then offer suggestions to prevent a recurrence. Call us right away.

Better leave mold cleanup to Los Angeles experts

If you have fungal growth in your home, it is natural to want to deal with it right away.

It is best to get help with Los Angeles mold removal sooner rather than later. The fungus can cause all kinds of damage, including:

• Structural damage to wooden floors or beams.
• Breaking down of drywall and insulation.
• Peeling paint or wallpaper.
• Damage to upholstery, textiles, and paper items.

Bleach is a popular remedy for mold, and many websites will tell you to use it. However, applying bleach is not a good idea and can even make the problem worse.

Bleach can hide the discoloration caused by mold, but it does not tackle its root cause. Many commercial bleach cleaners have high water content and can even provide the moisture mold needs to thrive. If you notice signs of decay in your home, it is better to call SERVPRO right away. We have the tools and techniques required to remediate mold without causing further damage.

For efficient mold removal, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park on (213) 628-2000.

Address Los Angeles Flood Damage to Remedy Storm Fallout

7/31/2022 (Permalink)

Whether flooding stems from an external or internal source, the end result is the same. Call our technicians to arrive on the scene, ready to help.

Call SERVPRO to Help with Flood Damage After Los Angeles Storms

If you experience flooding in any area of your Los Angeles home, you may think it is contained, and you can remove the water with a rented pump or shop vacuum. However, the only way to ensure safe, efficient water removal is to call in the help of skilled technicians. SERVPRO knows how to identify all issues, from minor to major, to ensure your home and family are back to normal fast. We work on extractions, structural problems, drying, and reconstruction to make it “Like it never even happened.”

When it comes to storm flood damage in Los Angeles, know there will be visible damage while some remains hidden from the naked eye. This involves hidden moisture from water that seeped into cracks and crevices and bacteria from contaminated water. The longer you wait to have proper cleanup and disinfection, the more of a hazard it becomes to anyone in your home.

SERVPRO professional inspection and assessment

We inspect all aspects of your storm damage and flooding, including:

• Board up and tarping services to address roof damage, broken windows, and more.
• Any areas where water may have migrated, under flooring tiles, carpet padding, baseboards, cabinetry, and behind walls.
• The level of contamination; we treat standing water by spraying antimicrobials to keep hazards to a minimum.

In many situations where floodwater occurs during a storm, your drywall wicks up water and makes it unsalvageable. If the water only goes up to a certain height, we can use controlled demolition to make flood cuts just a few inches above the water line. We then dry the space behind the wall, replace the missing drywall with new materials, and finish it to look as if it pre-flood.

We are the team you want on your side if you have flood damage from a storm. Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake/Echo Park or request help online. We are available 24/7 for emergency water removal services and restoration.

Where Can I Find Los Angeles Area House Fire Clean Up?

7/31/2022 (Permalink)

Facing fire damage? Team SERVPRO has the expertise to remediate and also deal with the residues and odors. Call right away for best results.

SERVPRO Provides Los Angeles Properties with Excellent Fire Damage Restoration.

As most Angelenos know, our area is especially prone to wildfires and their damaging effects. Therefore, local homeowners should always remain mindful of this potential threat and know whom to call when disaster strikes.

SERVPRO, a company specializing in water & fire damage restorations in Los Angeles, is a good service to call when your home is impacted by a fire. We are skilled at all aspects of fire restoration, including smoke damage remediation and house fire cleanup. Some of the innovative methods our trained experts employ are:

• Neutralizing smelly smoke particles with ozone machines and air scrubbers
• Eliminating odors and sanitizing ductwork with HVAC cleaning systems
• Wiping heavy soiling from fragile surfaces with the peroxide active cleaning technique
• Removing hard residues from surfaces via abrasive methods
• Cleaning up non-greasy residues with dry cleaning sponges
• Using wet cleaning methods to remove oily residues from metal, wood, and paint

So, remember, if you ever need fire damage restoration, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake/Echo Park at (213) 628-2000.

Drying Factors Determine Water Damage Repair Speed in Los Angeles

7/3/2022 (Permalink)

If water damage occurs in your home, be quick to contact SERVPRO. We’re available 24/7 with professional remediation and mitigation services.

SERVPRO’s Swift Los Angeles Water Damage Repair

When busy Los Angeles homeowners experience a water leak, they want the resulting damage fixed as quickly as possible. Fulfilling this desire takes a remediation firm knowledgeable in effectively managing the key drying factors. Such services benefit clients by mitigating potential water-related problems and resolving those that do develop faster than other companies can.

SERVPRO’s water damage repair specialists in Los Angeles are trained to control the environmental elements governing drying speeds efficiently. As a result, our company routinely outperforms other professional restorers when it comes to emergency water damage services like cleaning up the effects of ceiling leaks, burst pipes, and basement flooding. SERVPRO technicians accomplish all of these fantastic feats by:

• Rapidly removing as much water as possible from impacted rooms and materials with industrial-grade wet vacs and extractors 
• Increasing interior temperatures to between seventy and eighty degrees Fahrenheit to raise the air’s moisture-holding capacity and promote increased evaporation
• Always keeping relative humidity inside affected homes under 60% (and below 40% following the first day of drying) with dehumidifiers so that moisture evaporation can continue
• Maintaining good air movement with high-velocity box fans, air movers, and Injectidry systems so that cool, wet air can be continually replaced by warmer dry air that is going to promote speedier drying

When all of these steps are taken, residences are usually dried more thoroughly and swiftly. In the end, this results in better mitigation of potential damages and greater time and money savings for homeowners.

Keeping all of this in mind, if you are ever unfortunate enough to require residential water damage repair services, be confident that SERVPRO of Silver Lake/Echo Park can help. We are always here and ready to assist our neighbors whenever they need us. So, contact us anytime at (213) 628-2000.

Even Small Water Damage Situations Can Use a Professional Touch in Your Los Angeles Residence

7/3/2022 (Permalink)

No leak is too small or too large for us. Contact SERVPRO for effective water damage clean up and remediation services. Our team is standing by 24/7.

SERVPRO Can Help Cleanup Water Damages Big and Small

You might not realize it, but several different sources could allow for minor to substantial water losses in your Los Angeles home. While you assuredly work to keep everything in your home running smoothly, there are unavoidable instances or accidents which can result in the same type of disaster.

For example, a pipe beneath the sink which supplies water to the faucet could rupture under the right conditions, even with the appropriate maintenance. Fortunately, these types of incidents can get stopped rather quickly when you familiarize yourself with the location of shut off valves in your home. Even with a fast reaction to the break, your Los Angeles home is likely to experience localized water damages.

Instead of believing that these situations can quickly get remedied with a little bit of elbow grease and some towels, you should consider subbing out the work with licensed, professional restoration specialists like what you find at SERVPRO. Our team has the experience and equipment to make short work of water damage like this often and can ensure that the job gets done thoroughly enough to prevent further damages or incidents.

While these situations offer a clear point of origin for the damage, it is often unclear the full extent of how far it has spread until specific equipment gets used. Our SERVPRO technicians get to work on sopping up the water and drying out the visible moisture and dampness in the area, but also rely on thermal imagery and infrared technology to penetrate through surfaces that cannot get seen with the naked eye. This process prevents dampness getting overlooked, and further damage from ensuing.

Much of the drying process gets completed via dehumidification equipment and air movers, sometimes specialized tools are a requirement for deeper penetration into problem areas.

Every type of water emergency in your home might not present severe damages to overcome. To prevent structural concerns or compounding damages (such a mold growth), getting the damage cleaned up by professionals is highly advisable. Our experienced technicians at SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park are available 24/7 by calling (213) 628-2000.

All You Need to Know about Deodorization during Fire Damage in Echo Park

7/3/2022 (Permalink)

Remediating fire damage means also dealing with the smoke that is left behind. Contact SERVPRO for certified technicians and equipment for the job.

SERVPRO Provides Echo Park Residences with Realistic Solutions to Odor Control after House Fires

When fire damage incidents occur, there are chances of unpleasant odors developing in the structure. The odors might be coming from the soot particles or the smoke that penetrates into cracks and other hard to access areas. Deodorization is necessary to control such issues. This article looks at the two primary forms of large scale-deodorization - ozone and thermal fogging - that we do when performing restoration work in Echo Park. 

Our SERVPRO technicians undergo training to carry out thermal fogging as a way of neutralizing the unpleasant smells after fire damage incidents in Echo Park. During this process, a fogging device dispenses solvent-based deodorants which are then broken down by heat to form small particles. Some of the deodorants are flammable, and we take precautions when working with them. We extinguish pilot lights from fireplaces, water heaters, furnaces, gas logs and wood stoves. Also, not all structural areas are candidates since the products can degrade certain plastics and rubberized materials.

After performing thermal fogging, there is a specific time limit that people should observe before reentering the treated building. We put in place warning signs indicating that deodorization is underway since there are chances of people thinking that the fog is smoke from a fire, and raising a false alarm. Some of the deodorants can irritate, so we remove all pets and people from the site. Our SERVPRO technicians wear respirators fitted with vapor cartridges, chemical resistant gloves, and goggles.

In most cases, the fog can make the floor slippery. We avoid such hazards by progressing out of the structure as we are treating the area. It is also the work of our SERVPRO technicians to ventilate the area before people can reoccupy. We can do that by setting up high-velocity air movers and exhaust fans. When we are using ozone, we follow the OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations since it is a toxic gas. The O3 interacts with odors and effectively neutralizes them. Another topic can cover the use of hydroxyl generators that are also commonly used for odor removal. 

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park has a proven record in fire, storm, mold, and water damage restoration. To work with a dedicated and trusted leader in the industry, call (213) 628-2000 at any time of the day and learn more about the available options.

A Quick Way to Prevent Water Damage in Your Los Angeles Kitchen

5/29/2022 (Permalink)

When your fridge or dishwasher leaks, the excess water can overwhelm your home. Contact SERVPRO immediately for water removal/remediation services.

Less Water Damage Happens with Level Appliances

Save money in Los Angeles by preventing water damage under kitchen appliances with a simple tool. Using a level helps ensure proper drainage. Re-establishing levelness can also help machines work more easily, need fewer repairs, and extend their life spans.

In Los Angeles, water damage can become a costly nightmare for homeowners and renters alike. When it is your own home involved, water-damaged flooring increases maintenance costs. Renters can lose their deposit when someone from property management discovers the costly (and preventable) damage.

Homes can continually settle, sometimes for years, leaving heavy appliances like dishwashers, refrigerators, and washing machines unbalanced. It only takes a few minutes to remedy this and return everything to how it should stand.

How to get the most out of your bubble or spirit level:

• Choose one small enough for appliances,
• Level refrigerators slightly higher in front than in the back, and
• Check for level conditions going side-to-side, as well.

There are a few other ways to stop water damage related to appliances in your home. Check the seal around the door on refrigerators, freezers, and front-loading washing machines. Replace loose, sagging, or broken seals with a new seal. Use water with mild detergent to clean seals in good shape but with mildew signs.

Inspecting the refrigerator’s drip pan lets you know if there are a couple of problems with the refrigerator. The pan should be slightly damp – overflowing or dry pans often indicate clogged drains inside the refrigerator. Be careful while cleaning out the trough and the drainage tube.

You can also inspect the feed lines to ice makers and water dispensers around connection sites and where pinching of tubing might occur. You should not feel any moisture on the outside of any feed lines.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is ready to help. Call us at (213) 628-2000 for prompt and professional service.

SERVPRO Says Inspect and Maintain Your Los Angeles Home Appliances to Prevent Water Problems

5/29/2022 (Permalink)

Leaking water heaters can totally surprise you. Contact our team to assess the situation and remediate the water damage. SERVPRO is here for you 24/7.

How to Handle Water Damage in Your Los Angeles Home Caused by a Leaking Water Heater

Water heaters are useful appliances in homes for they provide hot water for various uses. However, these appliances can leak due to condensation, or from a faulty drain valve or water outlet. Poorly maintained heaters could also rust, leading to leakage. If not handled promptly, water damage can occur to your flooring, walls, and contents. You must contend with replacing or fixing the unit, and cleaning up the mess, more challenging if tucked away in the basement or even worse, in the attic.

When your Los Angeles home sustains water damage from a leaking water heater, you should hire professionals to dry out the affected areas. SERVPRO technicians can help you to remediate the damage. We start the remediation process by inspecting a home and evaluating the damage. We use detection devices to identify where the water has intruded into the structure. Our technicians can poke the instruments on top of affected surfaces like ceilings, baseboards, and floors to get an accurate reading. Based on the moisture content readings and following IICRC protocols, we can set up the drying equipment to expedite the treatment.

If there is standing water, SERVPRO technicians use portable pumps or wet/dry vacuums to remove it. We may simply need a mop and bucket to remove the visible water. We then begin the drying process. Air movement is vital for drying. The damp and humid air in a water-damaged room slows evaporation. A room dries faster when wet air is blown out, and warm, dry air is brought in. We position air movers in a room to create airflow across pads, carpets, walls, and furniture to hasten the evaporation of moisture. We change the location of air movers continually to promote thorough, even drying of surfaces.

 We also use dehumidifiers to eliminate the moisture retained by building materials to prevent secondary water damage like warping or swelling of flooring, furniture, and walls.

After our technicians restore a home, the damage disappears, “Like it never even happened.” Once the restoration process is complete, we remove the drying equipment.

If your home has sustained water damage, SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park can assist you. We offer our services round the clock in Boyle Heights and Echo Park. Call us at (213) 628-2000 to restore your property quickly.

Some Tips to Help Recover Your Los Angeles Home From Flooding

5/29/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of the room that flooding affects, team SERVPRO can help with certified technicians and effective water removal equipment. Call us 24/7.

Flood Removal and the Importance of Removing Debris Professionally in Los Angeles

Flash flooding can be devastating to your home or personal possessions. Not only do they live behind standing water, but they can also damage the structural integrity of your home. Water that comes from road overflows or heavy rainfall can drag debris along with it and into your home. Some of this debris may even be considered harmful, like animal carcasses or herbicides, sewage, and trash. A professional service can help you to clear away debris in line with EPA, federal and state laws.

When you need flood removal in Los Angeles, you need two things. A local service, which can reduce call out times, and a professional with the right qualifications. SERVPRO uses technicians local to the area who have experience in dealing with the type of damages you face. We also train our technicians and encourage them to gain IICRC certificates for home restoration services including applied structural drying for property owners suffering from flood water in the home.

An aggressive case of water damage can result in areas of the home being damaged. Windows, for example, can be cracked or broken. At SERVPRO, our rapid response team runs an emergency board service using tarpaulin or wood panels to ensure your home is patched up immediately. Taking a step like this can be invaluable in mitigating against further damages that could occur from exposure.

Debris left behind can often be toxic or contain harmful pathogens. Any debris that is left behind could be dangerous to your health. SERVPRO can mobilize the proper equipment to remove these issues safely. That could include a hazmat suit alongside high pressure jet washing systems to blast away damages and debris.

We are capable of both removing the primary and secondary damages associated with flooding in the home. We also have truck-mounted water extractors, submersible gas pumps and rapid air movers to help dry your property and prevent the risk of mold or mildew buildup.

For a comprehensive solution, contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 today.

24/7 Availability Helps Los Angeles Residential Mold Remediation

4/30/2022 (Permalink)

Team SERVPRO has the certifications and the equipment to tackle the mold damage situation in your home. Contact our team day or night for help.

SERVPRO Mold Removal Lowers Microbes to Safe Levels

Mold damage can prove distressing and unsafe for Los Angeles homeowners to tackle without professional assistance. Homeowners may consider attempting DIY cleanup, but mold mitigation without proper protection and containment can unintentionally spread spores, putting occupants at risk of potential health effects.

SERVPRO cannot guarantee total mold removal for Los Angeles properties due to the nature of microbes. However, they can reduce spore populations to safe, pre-disaster levels that restore indoor air quality and salvage structural integrity and belongings.

SERVPRO availability is essential for mold mitigation

24-hour service is a must for keeping mold damage and other disasters to a minimum. With this in mind, SERVPRO's solution is to be constantly available for mitigation and typically ready to meet with clients within hours of initial contact about their mold problems.

In as little as a week, mold spores can:

• Start growing or accelerate growth within 24 to 48 hours of increased moisture with adequate temperatures and  limited ventilation
• Eat away at adhesives, wood, drywall, and other structural materials and porous organic materials by digesting them and reproducing spores
• Spread through HVAC ducts without proper sealing of vents and air pressure control to prevent this
• Render upholstery, mattresses, and contaminated carpeting potentially unsalvageable
• Become a biohazard issue that exacerbates water damage, flooding, or fire damage concerns greatly 

SERVPRO remediates mold with procedures like containment with polyethylene sheeting, duct sealing, sanitation with EPA-registered biocides, and structural drying with air movers and dehumidifiers. Sanitation, drying, and careful cleaning and disposal of dormant spores can ensure that spore populations stay at a minimum so that homeowners can enjoy their property once more.

When homeowners need remediation, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster. Call (213) 628-2000 for 24/7 mitigation from SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park.

Aging Kitchens often Indicate Ongoing Water Damage in Silver Lake

4/30/2022 (Permalink)

When your kitchen is facing water damage, the professionals at SERVPRO can help. Call SERVPRO 24 hours a day - 365 days a year - for water removal.

SERVPRO Technicians Investigate the Cause of Damage Before Starting the Remediation Process

Attempts at gaining better organization in the home often center around the busiest part of a house in Silver Lake – the kitchen. Clutter, like in other areas of the home, can detract from aesthetic beauty, as well as hide problem areas. In the kitchen, water damage can make areas look gray and dull, especially around the sink.

Cleaning up to improve a kitchen's appearance can reveal water damage in Silver Lake. This kind of harm can pose more problems than simply ugliness. When water damage forms, it often creates small areas that are rife with microbial activity. Cleaning an area does not always eliminate these pathogens. The space needs restoration, instead.

The employees at SERVPRO hold Applied Structural Drying (ASD) certificates from the IICRC, ensuring that they know the best practice methods for performing restoration work in all areas of a home. We also realize that sometimes water damage remains hidden until remodeling work happens, at which point the project stalls until after correction of the situation. Our intensive training prepares us well, so we handle each job skillfully. We know you want to live in a beautiful home that is also healthy, stable, and secure.

Water damage can prevent you from attaining your goals regarding your home's state. All life requires water, but your home is not alive and needs to remain dry, instead of wet. The growth of microbes, the decay of materials, ugly staining of walls and ceilings, and a musty odor can all trace their origins back to water damage. Our Odor Control Technician (OCT) knows the best ways to eliminate odors water damage causes.

Fire might damage a home in a short time and produce immediately visible damage, as can flooding, but water damage sneaks up slowly in many cases, sometimes going for years without anyone noticing. Water spreads easily, so we use moisture detectors to track water down and locate other areas that can harbor water-related problems.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park's technicians live in our community and remain dedicated to helping homeowners enjoy their homes to the fullest. By performing mitigation services that effectively remove all types of damage and restore a home's beauty and integrity, we help homeowners protect their investment. Call us for any degree of water damage, 24/7, at (213) 628-2000.

Flood Damage from Sudden Storms Leaves Residents in Los Angeles with a Complex Situation

4/30/2022 (Permalink)

It is better to play it safe where flooding is concerned. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 to assess the situation in your home.

SERVPRO Offers High-Quality Storm Damage Restoration and Clean Up

Storms that douse the Los Angeles area with huge quantities of water can flood an area rapidly. After levees break or partially fail, homes in the once-protected areas can find themselves swallowed up by the water flowing where dry land used to exist.

Los Angeles residential neighborhoods can suffer extreme flood damage because many of them lack the preparation to stop the movement of the water coming toward them. SERVPRO professionals hold the certificates showing they have the knowledge necessary to restore homes after flooding and related catastrophes. Experienced with the complexities inherent in the entire restoration process, we can answer your questions, so you better understand the scope of the work involved.

From removal of soil and mud covering your floors to silt and organic debris inside your cabinetry to repainting walls and reinstalling wall trim and moldings, the IICRC-certified technicians at SERVPRO can make everything “Like it never even happened” once again. This makes it much easier to put the memory and trauma of flooding behind you and your family, so you can all move forward.

Using highly advanced equipment, we clean and sanitize everything that came into contact with floodwaters. Our Esporta washing system helps ensure that your belongings are once again usable, without fear that microbes still linger. We can save clothing, most items made from leather, and other belongings that the cleaning industry would not consider salvageable years ago. A considerable percentage of a family's losses after a flood are classified as soft goods or personal belongings. Saving these items reduces the financial burden your family faces, which is crucial for helping recover after any flooding event. This cleaning also saves precious personal possessions.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park employs understanding and professional restoration experts who want to help you and your family quickly recover after flood damage affects your home. Our local number, (213) 628-2000, is answered 24/7, 365 days a year. Call us so we can help you when you need us most.

Rapid Mold Remediation from Los Angeles Shops

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Does your business have mold damage? Call SERVPRO!

Specific Mold Remediation Solutions Suit Los Angeles Boutiques

Because mold can be an underappreciated danger to your home or business, it is essential to appreciate how destructive these microbial threats can be. Developing colonies feed on organic matter, degrading hosting materials and causing a need for widespread build-back and recovery services. Our remediation solution involves a range of actions, including:

• Moisture control
• Cleaning
• Odor removal
• Mold remediation

Where is the Mold Damage? 

Before mold remediation in Los Angeles shops can begin and be successful, an inspection must occur to determine where the mold damage exists and the best removal solution to overcome these present organisms. Where the organisms live can directly impact how aggressive remediation measures can be and if your business can remain open in some capacity. At the same time, cleanup and mold removal tactics get underway in a designated area.

Is Mold on Wares and Products? 

A thorough inspection of the property can help determine what wares and inventory within your shop have become damaged or affected by mold colonies in the vicinity. Even if these items have not become hosts for the spreading organism, secondary effects like harsh malodors can damage elements like clothing or soft materials.

Are Materials Unsalvageable?

It is essential to determine whether or not affected hosting materials can be protected and salvaged before introducing significant measures to overcome present mold damage. In some instances, removing and discarding hosting materials impacted by aggressive mold colonies is more cost-effective than attempting to remediate these organisms.

When you believe mold threatens your boutique, you need to act quickly to resolve active colonies and prevent more significant harm to your inventory and structure. Our remediation specialists are available to help anytime. You can reach our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park technicians 24/7 at (213) 628-2000.  

Los Angeles Property Owners Ask SERVPRO to Help with Woolsey Wildfire Recovery and Clean Up

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Our area is prone to wildfires. SERVPRO is always on call!

Cleanup and Restoration for Wildfire Damage in Los Angeles Homes

The greater Los Angeles area has gotten ravaged by the destructive Woolsey Wildfire, and this destructive force continues to threaten homes and businesses throughout our service area. This wildfire destroyed hundreds of property structures have gotten destroyed, and this assessment is limited to only 15% of reports. Even with some homes experiencing destruction, other properties only contend with some of the wildfire effects. 

Recovering from a disaster like this is what many Los Angeles homeowners currently face or expect to face in the immediate future. Our SERVPRO rapid response team can help with the crisis by offering rapid assessments of the damage to your property. You can then provide the appropriate information that your insurance company requires to file a claim for restoration work to begin. 

From the moment that our professionals arrive at your home, we can begin work on our effective mitigation strategies to preserve structural elements and the contents of your house. Many homes that are not directly in the line of damage from this wildfire can still expect to experience smoke and soot effects throughout their property. Our SERVPRO professionals have the industry-leading equipment to make short work of these effects within your home, including deodorization tools like thermal foggers and environment cleaning machines like our air scrubbers. 

For those homes with some degree of structural damage, our franchise can offer you controlled demolition solutions to prepare your home for the reconstruction or rebuilding required to return to normal. This approach can make the transition between our mitigation practice and the licensed contractor seamless to reduce the length of time you get kept out of your house. 

While you cannot anticipate the effect of the wildfire on your property, and with more properties getting affected every day, having the right restoration team to help you recover is critical. You can always depend on the fast response, expertise, and industry-leading equipment of our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park fire restoration technicians. Let us help you through this disaster by calling (323) 255-1000.

SERVPRO, the Hero for Los Angeles Water Damage Restoration

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Los Angeles Homeowner Has a Water Loss Problem--Call SERVPRO-We're Faster To Any Size Disaster

Outsource Water Damage Cleanup in Los Angeles to SERVPRO

When SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park gets the call to clean up water damage in a Los Angeles home or business, we know it is an overwhelming and stressful time for the property owner. During the initial phone call, our technicians got detailed information about the water in the property, so we brought the equipment needed to mitigate water loss as much as possible.

What Type of Water Loss Does SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park Handle?

There is no one set way that water loss occurs in a property. A slow leak from a pipe may have spent months building up moisture and increasing our technicians' likelihood of finding mold colonies behind a wall or under flooring. A hot water tank or washing machine can dump tens of gallons of water into the home or business. Whether it is a problem that has just been discovered or a sudden water spill in the home or business, SERVPRO has the equipment and expertise to locate and mitigate water loss for both structures and contents.

Standard Methods for Diagnosing and Remediating Water Damage

The longer the structure and possessions have been exposed to water, the more potential for unrecoverable damage and mold colonies. The less time the moisture has had to reside in building materials and objects, the more chance for saving through restoration efforts. Our goal is always to restore and not replace.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park technicians arrive on-site within hours after your initial phone call. While one or more technicians work to extract any standing water from the Los Angeles property, other technicians precisely locate the size and scope of the water damage. When needed, these techs use moisture meters, digital probes on soft objects such as carpeting, and thermal imagery. The obvious visible signs of soaking and seepage can be grappled with immediately.

Once the moisture areas have been identified, a plan for proper drying of the structure and contents is formulated. The setup for drying the property sometimes takes longer than the actual drying process. Our technicians are IICRC certified in the science of psychometry, or the study of air and moisture and know that airflow is crucial to parts of the home or business retaining moisture. Weep holes may be drilled to facilitate air circulation and drywall that has been too saturation and beyond recovery may be cut away. Baseboards are sometimes removed to allow forced air to vent behind walls and into the cavities.

SERVPRO technicians aim to disrupt the home or business as little as possible during remediation. When appropriate, we put furnishings up on blocks and wrap the legs. Whenever we cannot dry items on-site or they require proprietary methods for restoration that cannot be performed at the location, we can pack up and move objects to our facility with the property owner's and adjuster's permission. All such transported contents are boxed and cataloged, often with scanning.

Different Approaches for Different Types of Flooring

Fast extraction of water and removal of residual moisture under the flooring is essential for avoiding loss of adhesion in tile flooring and secondary issues such as mold. Carpet can pose a problem because the padding is very absorbent and can pull water into other areas under the carpeting, resulting in foul odors and mold if not adequately dried. Our technicians carefully map the moisture readings on the floor and subfloor to determine precisely where the moisture levels rise and where they fall, so no damaged areas are missed. Our technicians do not decide to remove flooring such as an adhesive-based vinyl tile floor that has been saturated for too long to save through restoration without communication with the property owner and adjuster with restoration probabilities. 

Porous flooring materials such as concrete and wood have special needs for cleanup. Our technicians dry concrete thoroughly and use an EPA-registered disinfectant to inhibit mold growth. These pads absorb water slowly to prevent the degradation of the concrete. Wood flooring is handled on a case-by-case basis. The type of wood flooring determines the outcome in many water loss situations. Boards made from composite or engineered wood tend to lose their structural integrity when saturated, and chances of a complete restoration are low. Solid hardwood boards absorb water, but since they are solid wood, our technicians have the expertise and specialized equipment to dry them if the process starts quickly enough after the initial water introduction. A known reason for employing SERVPRO as your water restoration company is our ability to salvage hardwood planks and save our clients a lot of money. Again, we strive to restore and not to replace.

Thorough Drying Methods

Once the setup for drying is completed, SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park water damage technicians again measure moisture in the area and determine drying goals. There is always some residual humidity in the air, and it is never zero percent indoors. Normal interior RH levels are from 55-65%. Our technicians use a scale for optimum levels based on the readings for unaffected areas of the property, so normal moisture levels are achieved through drying. Final results are documented to assist our customers with their insurance claims. Many agencies work with SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park in the Los Angeles area because of the close cooperation from the initial visit to the final walk-through. We can maintain budgetary guidelines set up by the carrier.

Powerful air movers and dehumidifiers are used as the centerpiece of the drying process, causing water vapor to rise and be captured. This cycle repeats over and over, removing moisture from the area. The unique configurations for forced air behind walls, ceilings, or tenting over hardwood floors are performed simultaneously to remove water vapor.

Moisture detection is used during and after drying to determine if drying goals are met. Once they are, our technicians work on hand cleaning the area using fast evaporating antifungal and antibacterial cleaners to inhibit the growth of mold and mildew. Our odor control technicians have multiple methods to remove any residual odors left behind by the water damage. Once our emergency response teams have completed the restoration efforts, the property owner and adjuster are walked through and shown all aspects of our work to ensure complete satisfaction. "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is proud to serve Los Angeles, California, including areas in and around the 90012, 90026, and 90029 with our emergency response teams to mitigate water damage to both property and furnishings with our knowledge and equipment. We know home disasters never take a holiday, and neither do we, call us, and our technicians arrive on-site within hours after your initial call.

Count on SERVPRO for Water Damage Restoration in Los Angeles Commercial Properties

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

Bet on SERVPRO to limit the risk of water damage in Los Angeles casinos and hotels, and other commercial properties, "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO's Speedy Response Minimizes Hotel Closures from Water Damage

Los Angeles is known for its beautiful resorts, and keeping tourists from worldwide is not an easy task. Hotels and casinos employ thousands of people to keep operations running smoothly. Water damage in any commercial setting can throw everything off balance, but in a hotel or casino setting, a less-than-happy clientele can create a profit loss that continues for months.

The fun might happen in Los Angeles, but when commercial water damage is the root of tourists' negative reviews on social media, it can take months of positive feedback to undo the damage. It is better to avoid negative reviews in the first place. SERVPRO can help quickly restore areas of a hotel that have been damaged by water. Bookings can be switched to fill other areas of your hotel that are undamaged while we work and the affected area cordoned off. We know how to work around our customers' clients so that they only have a positive experience while visiting your hotel or casino.

Other ways by which water damage can affect profits are through the rusting of machinery in games. When these fail to function properly, authorities can not only pull them from the floor, but they can also confiscate these expensive pieces of equipment. Regular maintenance might not be sufficient to completely restore all of your equipment to the standards imposed by regulations. We can remove any rust that is creating a problem and smooth out any warped wooden areas.

People from all over the world come to you for a quality vacation or spectacular celebration of a life event. SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park can assist you in creating the memories your guests desire by removing water damaged areas of your hotel and restoring affected machinery to working condition again. Give us a call at (323) 255-1000 when you need us, and we can begin working within the hour.

Facing Fire Damage in Lincoln Heights

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO for fire damage restoration in your Lincoln Park condo

Historic Neighborhoods Need Certified Professionals to Deal with Fire Damage

Suppose you are confronted with fire damage affecting your home in the Los Angeles area's vibrant and historic neighborhood. In that case, you need the expertise of SERVPRO's highly trained technicians, ready to pitch in and restore your dwelling and your and your family's peace of mind. Experiencing a fire in your own house is a terrifying event, and as you try to react, the work ahead of you may seem overwhelming. Our mission is to restore your premises quickly and with as little disruption to your happy family life as possible. We can offer assistance both with the actual fire damage suffered to your structure as well as the collateral water and chemical issues you may be dealing with after the firefighters have left.

Because your home has personal meaning to you and is part of an exciting and unique neighborhood with a history that stretches back to the 1830s, fire damage in Lincoln Heights poses unique challenges to fire restoration specialists. Surviving a fire is always traumatic but when the structure involved is more than 100 years old, an emphasis on restoration rather than tearing down and rebuilding is key. Our staff is trained in effective restoration techniques for building structures, structural components, and fixtures. We realize just how precious these historic buildings are to you and the community and are committed to working toward leaving your fire damaged home in this famous district just "Like it never even happened."

Know that at SERVPRO, we leave nothing to chance and can restore fire, smoke, and soot damage in your historic home from the hardwood flooring to the antique crystal chandelier. Before you attempt any cleaning on your own, please consult with our technicians as your well-meaning efforts may actually make things worse. We can provide you with a list of things you can do to protect your possession yet not interfere with the methods we need to use to bring your home back to its former glory. Our staff will also consult with you as we move through the house and through our tasks so that you and your family are safe, even if we have to use chemicals to deal with odors or to contain soot and smoke staining on walls or in the ductwork.

Trust in the trained staff at SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park to restore your fire damaged historic home back to preloss condition. Call us at (323) 255-1000 as soon as possible after the fire is under control so we can get to the work of bringing your home back to you and your family.

Calls for Los Angeles Warehouse Flood Damage

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

Rely on SERVPRO to respond to your storm damaged warehouse in Los Angeles to rescue the inventory, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

SERVPRO’s Commercial Flood Damage Helps Los Angeles Business Owners

Warehouses, by nature, are mammoth structures made to hold copious amounts of inventory and products. For many items stored, the value may be astronomical. However, there might be a time when you have some flooding situation that causes significant upheaval in your daily processes. Having SERVPRO there as water mitigation specialists will help you to ensure you lessen the fallout at your Los Angeles warehouse.

The unfortunate truth about commercial flood damage in a Los Angeles warehouse is that some cases make it where the leak or water intrusion goes undetected for a long time. Without full-time staff or regular inspections, you could leave yourself vulnerable to water damage, mold growth, and loss of inventory.

How Flooding Impacts Your Warehouse

The structure of your warehouse may be affected in many ways. For example:

• You could have a leaking roof from storms that could lead to a partial or total collapse if not addressed.
• Standing water left to fester can lead to structural damage that compromises safety.
• When moisture is on the rise within the building, there is the chance that mildew and black mold could develop.
• Floodwater may also impact your HVAC or electrical wiring systems, adding to cost and overall dangers for your staff.

Whether your business encounters a tropical storm or interior flood damage, SERVPRO is there for water removal services, drying, and controlled demolition. We also consider your warehouse inventory as a way to salvage whatever is possible. Depending on your needs, we also set up exterior staging areas to evaluate contents, take inventory of everything, and either store at our facility or set items up for detailed cleaning.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake/Echo Park is there when you require commercial flood damage assistance at your warehouse. Give us a call at (213) 628-2000 any time of the day, and we can mobilize a team to your door to begin evaluations.

What Can Ensure Faster Storm Damage Cleanup in Boyle Heights Homes?

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is the team to call for your storm damage needs.

SERVPRO Starts Cleanup by Establishing All Issues That Might Interfere With a Speedy Conclusion

A storm creates many problems in properties. One way to resolve the problems affecting your Boyle Heights home is by cleaning up. That helps resolve several issues like removing stagnant water and cleansing soiled surfaces. One thing you might not anticipate is the slow pace cleaning might take.

If the pace of storm damage cleanup at your Boyle Heights home is not right, unnecessary challenges can arise. For instance, if the moisture absorbed by materials remains unaddressed, they might deteriorate beyond repair, or microbial growth can take root. When you call a professional restorer like SERVPRO, the first order of business is to establish any factors that might interfere with the cleaning process, slowing it down.

Typical issues that can slow down cleaning of your flooded property include:

• Structural breaches which allow in weather elements or vandals 
• Deterioration of structural materials
• Heavy or a wide variety of soiling 

Repeating cleaning processes can waste a lot of your time unnecessarily. If you embark on cleaning without taking care of openings on the roof or walls after a storm breaches your property, you are likely to repeat some of the cleanup work. Our SERVPRO crews forestall this by installing roof tarps and boarding up wall openings. In some cases, we also set up barriers inside the house, separating different areas, thus ensuring no interference once cleaning starts.

Deterioration of structural materials such as drywall, insulation, and ceiling panels is common after flooding. Such materials must be torn down and replaced during restoration. Safely removing these materials takes the right skills to avoid damaging trim, frames, and other surrounding materials. The removal also needs to be orderly to avoid spreading trash throughout the property. Our SERVPRO technicians perform controlled demolition, which is faster.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is a good team to call when you need storm damage cleanup. You can reach us at (213) 628-2000.

What Happens if Flood Damage in Los Angeles Properties Remains Unaddressed?

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park knows long term flooding is serious and we are here to help you.

SERVPRO Expedites Flood Restoration to Minimize Unnecessary Damages and Hazards

Flooding creates many inconveniences, including pushing you temporarily out of your property. Therefore, you have sufficient motivation to find ways to resolve the situation quickly. However, extraneous issues can keep you from resolving flood damage fast enough.

One of the reasons for involving a professional when dealing with flood damage at your Los Angeles home is to ease the challenging issues. SERVPRO can help you speed up the process, thus avoiding unnecessary problems and risks.

Some problems that develop from unresolved flooding include:

• Corrosion of metallic materials
• Damage to utilities
• Breakdown of structural materials
• Severe contamination

Metallic items in your house can range from furniture items to pipes running through the structure. Corrosion can be mild, ruining the surfaces, or severe enough to destroy the material. 

After flooding, utilities like electrical and HVAC systems may be turned off until the property is cleaned up and restored. However, flooding can cause permanent damage to these systems when moisture or contaminants affect electrical outlets, air ducts, and other parts of the utilities.

Water exposure tends to accelerate the physical breakdown of organic materials. Furniture, fabrics, and structural materials are all at risk. Time creates an opportunity for moisture migration beyond the area originally affected by flooding. 

Moisture from flooding spreads through materials by:

• Wicking through materials
• Hygroscopic abroad
• Condensation of evaporated moisture

As moisture interacts with the materials, it causes swelling, warping, rotting, or physical disintegration since many organic materials are weaker when wet. SERVPRO helps address these issues by fast-tracking water extraction where possible or removing materials to limit exposure. Contents are physically moved to a different property section or an off-site facility. For structural materials, containment with physical barriers helps. 

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park has a deep understanding of the effects of long-term flooding exposure and therefore works with you to expedite restoration. You can reach us at (213) 628-2000. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What Makes Mold Remediation in Los Angeles Homes Costly?

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park evaluate your mold issues.

After Evaluating the Situation, SERVPRO Can Find Ways to Alleviate Mold Related Costs

Mold development in a property is a great inconvenience since it leaves surfaces stained, a musty odor in the air, and other problems. Therefore prioritizing restoration is essential, although you might hesitate if you are unsure of the costs involved.

Instead of holding off mold remediation for your Los Angeles home because of apprehension about cost, you can rely on a few simple metrics to estimate the cost. Alternatively, if you involve a professional like SERVPRO, you can ask for cost estimates before taking any step.

The main factors influencing mold remediation costs include:

• The total property area affected
• The infestation extent in the affected areas
• The methods used for remediation

Like other forms of damage such as soiling, a larger surface area leads to higher restoration costs since it takes extra cleaning effort or might require the replacement of more materials. If the infestation affects a larger area, it might involve more than one room, which introduces unique challenges like complicating containment processes. 

Mold usually starts developing on the surface of drywall panels, ceiling tiles, or wall frames. Over time, the infestation embeds itself deeper in the materials as its hyphae extract nutrients. When mold is only on the surface, the physical deterioration of materials is minimal. So, remediation only requires damp wiping, vacuuming, or other mild cleaning methods and thus may not cost that much. However, deeply embedded mold requires teardown to remove porous or deteriorated materials, so you can expect higher costs.

The remediation methods chosen also affect the cost. For instance, if a cleaning method is not that effective, you might keep repeating the process, thus incurring unnecessary costs. One way SERVPRO technicians avoid repetition is by avoiding adding moisture to affected areas during remediation. Methods such as blast cleaning with soda or dry ice are highly effective and do not involve moisture.

With assistance from SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park, you do not have to fear mold remediation because of costs since every aspect is clearly explained and cost-saving measures implemented to address the situation “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (213) 628-2000.

Our Fire Damage Experts Discuss If DIY Recovery Is Dangerous In Los Angeles

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage remediation after an event needs to happen right away. Contact Team SERVPRO to assess the situation and formulate a plan. Call 24/7.

Is DIY Fire Recovery Dangerous for Los Angeles Properties?

Once a fire has occurred in a Los Angeles home, it can feel like a substantial amount of effort is necessary to make the property feel like home again. As challenging as this process might appear, many property owners still seek to do much of the work themselves despite a lack of training or understanding of all of the needs of a house after these disasters. While some have succeeded in restoring more minor fire damages, more have noticed too late that the situation was more severe than they realized.

Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration and Cleanup

One of the hazards of DIY recovery of fire damage in Los Angeles residences begins with an inadequate assessment of the damage and underselling of the present threats circulating in the structure. Homeowners often cannot determine underlying concerns they cannot immediately see, so the repairs and restoration following a fire damage incident often are exclusively superficial. Structural concerns, embedded odors, and even air quality concerns go unaddressed and presumed to go away on their own in time.

There are inherent risks with choosing to restore fire damages on your own without the appropriate training and education that our SERVPRO team has. Because safety is such a vital element to the work that we do, our team members arrive with the right personal protective equipment, including respirators, disposable coveralls, and more. These tools help us to navigate profoundly hazardous circumstances that could exist in the most concentrated areas of fire damage in your home.

Soot can be one of the most hazardous presences in your house following a damage incident. Our SERVPRO professionals address these concerns carefully as well. From HEPA-filtering air scrubbers to trap soot particles circulating in the environment to carefully cleaning surfaces to prevent these same particles from aerosolizing, inadequate addressing of this threat can be a costly mistake for the contents and occupants of your house.

DIY fire damage recovery is not impossible. However, it does come with challenges when property owners do not have the education and available equipment that our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team does. Give us a call at (213) 628-2000.

Commercial Water Cleanup In Los Angeles

12/6/2021 (Permalink)

Pipe breaks on your commercial property need to be mitigated urgently. Contact SERVPRO for water removal and cleanup. We are here 24/7 - 365 days.

Commercial Water Cleanup In Los Angeles Often Requires Using A Rusticide Product

If a pipe inside the restroom of your office complex in Los Angeles breaks, it could cause hundreds of gallons of water to pour into the interior of your building. Once your contents and building materials located inside your office start to get wet, it is wise to have commercial water cleanup conducted by a professional restoration company such as SERVPRO. Our skilled specialists are available 24/7, and We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Water Removal Services

Our team at SERVPRO knows that a significant part of any commercial water cleanup project in Los Angeles is restoring wet carpets. As soon as water leaks out of a pipe, it follows gravity and heads straight to your office's floors. Moisture can cause the paper backing to separate from your carpet's fiber and ruin the flooring material. Carpets and other floor coverings can also trap moisture inside your office complex's subfloor, which can help mold grow on your wooden subfloor and the paper backing on your carpet. Moisture can also cause carpets to stain by rust, and the fibers can hold in mildew-like odors.

When dealing with wet carpets at your place of business, our SERVPRO crew always conducts a standard set of procedures. If we think the carpet can be saved, we start by extracting as much water as possible while it is still a liquid using a heavy-duty extractor. We then set up drying equipment such as air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out your wet carpet and other building materials. Lastly, we can clean all of your carpets using an industrial carpet cleaner to help eliminate staining and foul odors.

If any of your metal desks or chairs caused rust staining on your carpets, we could deal with these stains during the carpet cleaning process. We can eliminate many rust stains by using a chemical product called pesticide. Rusticide is an oxalic-phosphoric acid solution that removes rust stains from fabrics, synthetic fibers, and carpets. Rusticide is a very strong acid solution and has a pH of 1.8-2.2.

To use rusticide, we apply it to the stains before carpet cleaning takes place. We apply the product to the affected spots and then agitate the areas with a bone scraper. Scrubbing the stain can make the rust quickly fade away. After the spot has been pre-treated with the rusticide solution, we clean and rinse the carpets.

If you ever have an unexpected water leak at your office complex, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 24/7.

What Are the Primary Mold Removal Tactics Used in Los Angeles Homes?

11/28/2021 (Permalink)

Discovering mold on your property can certainly raise an alarm. Call our SERVPRO team for mold removal services right away. We are here 24/7.

Experienced remediators lean on several removal options when Los Angeles homes suffer mold damage.

When mold damage threatens the property, we have a finite timeline to provide suitable remediation solutions before the spores spread further or the hosting materials become too severely deteriorated to preserve. We respond fast to mold damage threats with effective restoration solutions.

Surface Cleaning Options

One of the first attempted remediation methods our mold removal companies in Los Angeles use is surface cleaning. With light damages that have yet to become destructive to the hosting elements, varying surface cleaning might be possible to overcome developing mold damage. Biocides and sporicidal products are ideal in these situations, as they also inhibit further mold growth.

Aggressive Cleaning Tactics

Surface cleaning is not always effective, however. In some cases, more aggressive tactics are necessary to eliminate organisms that have moved beyond the surface layer to impact the host deeply. Techniques to address these greater damages include:

• Sanding
• Media Blasting
• Abrasive Wet Cleaning

Controlled Demolition for Harsh Damages

One of the final measures that our professionals consider when restoring a home after mold damage is eliminating compromised structural elements. Prolonged exposures of sensitive materials like drywall can deteriorate these hosting elements to the point that removal is the only suitable solution.

Mold removal can be an intricate process. When active organisms threaten your home or business, SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is an experienced and trusted choice to help. We have several mold remediation tactics to choose from based on a range of variables, allowing us to better protect your property and its contents after damage. Give us a call today at (213) 628-2000.

An Intense Storm Broke Windows and Left Flood Damage in a Property. Who Should Be Called For Assistance?

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

After your home suffers storm damage, you need a team of professionals to assist you with cleanup. Call SERVPRO right away! We are always available.

Contact SERVPRO Technicians to Handle the Flood Damage in a Los Angeles Residence.  

When flooding occurs in your property after a storm, there is no time to waste. Act fast by contacting SERVPRO technicians in Los Angeles to mitigate the damage and prevent costly damages. We can get your property to its pre-incident state as soon as possible.

What If a Confined Space Is Flooded?

To deal with the flood damage in your Los Angeles residence, our technicians can inspect the area using our advanced equipment to determine how severe it is. Our technicians can use inspection cameras and borescopes to check for visible contamination. The equipment records still images and takes videos that help us determine the best restoration techniques to use.

What Are The Effects of Flood Damage?

The common effects of flood damage include:

• Chipping of wallpaper and paint
• A decrease in property value
• Warping wood floors
• Destroyed carpeting
• Mold growth in hidden areas

You can minimize the above effects if you take immediate action. We respond fast to emergency calls to minimize and stop further damage. We can also rebuild the affected areas after restoration. Our general contractor’s license number is 999460.

How Long Does Drying Take in an Affected Property?

The contents of your property are made of different materials. The amount of moisture and the time the material has been exposed to moisture determines how long the drying process can take. Other factors are the drying techniques and equipment used. We can use dehumidification and other proven techniques to dry your home and its contents.   

Where Is The Odor Coming From?

Manufacturers design building materials to absorb some degree of moisture. However, when moisture levels exceed the limit, the materials start to corrode and release small organic compounds into the air. Decay is an ongoing process that continues until the moisture is removed. That means that odor can linger for an extended period if the drying process is not done correctly.

After drying the affected area, our SERVPRO technicians can use advanced equipment to combat the odors. We can use air scrubbers that pull air in the affected property through charcoal filters to capture odors and recirculate the fresh air back into the indoor environment. 

If your property suffered flood damage, contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 to ask about our restoration services or to schedule a visit. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How Do I Clean My Walls After Fire Damage?

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Our certified technicians are available 24/7 to help you get your property back in order after fire damage.

SERVPRO Uses Various Techniques and Products to Clean Your Los Angeles Home

After a fire in your Los Angeles house, the two most significant issues you face are cleaning and deodorization. Cleaning each item and surface within your home presents a unique challenge depending on its composition and the type of fire, and the kind of residue coating each surface. Most homes have different surfaces as wall coverings, such as wallpaper and tile in the bathroom and kitchen. Our trained restoration specialists assess the damage to your walls and design a plan to clean your walls properly. 

Can I Save My Wallpaper?

SERVPRO Uses Dry Cleaning Methods to Clean Wallpaper

It may be possible to clean fire-damaged walls depending on the type of fire, residue, and kind of wallpaper. If your Los Angeles fire damage produced dry residue instead of greasy, our trained professionals could use a dry-cleaning sponge to remove residue from your wallpaper. Paper wallpaper tends to absorb cleaning agents due to its porous nature. Vinyl wallpaper has a protective layer, allowing technicians to use water mixed with our Wall and Surface Cleaner and rinse with our specially formulated Wall Rinse. 

How Do Technicians Clean Tiles?

• They take into consideration the type of tile, ceramic, plastic, or painted.

• Ceramic tiles tend to be easier to clean since they are less porous.
• Plastic tiles often attract and absorb excessive residue.
• Technicians carefully scrub painted tiles so they do not ruin their texture.

• They inspect to see if cracks or porous grout absorbed additional residues.
• Technicians use a strong acidic cleaner such as a Tile and Grout Cleaner or bleach to attack grout stains.

For assistance cleaning your home after a fire, contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000. We make it "Like it never even happened."

Restoring Desired Moisture Levels in Flood-Damaged Los Angeles Homes

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

When a storm hits home, call the professionals at SERVPRO. Our IICRC certified techs are ready for any size storm damaged job.

Flooding Can Leave Many Structural Elements in Los Angeles Properties Saturated and in Need of Moisture Removal. 

Flooding can be more common to Los Angeles homes and businesses than you might think. With many exposed contents and structural elements, many look to the professionals of our SERVPRO team to help. Effective drying of flooded spaces involves restoring desired moisture levels within flood-damaged properties, including specific relative humidity percentages required for individual building materials.

Moisture Detection Devices 

Visual inspection is only part of the process for identifying flood damage to Los Angeles properties. Technicians rely on moisture detection devices to gain perspective on the depth of the damage and how the migration of water extends beyond the surface layer. Likewise, an initial moisture inspection determines affected assemblies and the edge of the water-damaged area.

Determining the Desired Moisture Levels

All drying efforts are designed around the nature of water damage to seek equilibrium. When met with the ideal relative humidity and temperature, materials can reach a point in which they do not intake nor expel moisture. Achieving this balance is critical for the restoration of specific materials and zones, including:

• Wood flooring
• Carpets
• Drywall
• Environmental humidity

Preventing Mold and Microbial Growth

Flood damage can be even more alarming when you consider the possibilities of mold and microbial growth. The potential contaminants present in natural flooding can act as an amplifier for microbial development in moist environments. Preventing growth involves the application of mold inhibitors and biocide products.

Flood damage can develop rapidly and overwhelm Los Angeles County homes. Our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team seeks out the desired moisture content in building materials to efficiently manage flood losses and the damage they can do. Give us a call at (213) 628-2000.

Keeping Your Los Angeles Building Secure During Commercial Wildfire Damage Cleanup

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial wildfire damage can shut your business down. SERVPRO stands ready to handle your fire damage restoration needs.

Let us Help you Get Your Los Angeles Building Secure After a Fire

Wildfires are an unfortunate event that happens across California, causing property owners billions in claimed damages. It is tough to turn around the damage, but with professional help, you can get the best possible outcome in this type of adverse situation.

In Los Angeles, commercial wildfire damage requires fast action. With the recent El Sereno fires, residents got a slight reprieve in that the winds did not pick up, and the fire did not spread as fast as many wildfires have in the past. However, evacuations happened, and that leaves properties unattended.

Security Fences

As soon as it is safe to do so, SERVPRO technicians put up protective barriers around the property to halt unauthorized persons from entering the premises. It is a sad fact that there are individuals who risk their safety to take advantage of unoccupied structures during fire evacuations, and a secured perimeter is an excellent first line of defense.

Cleanup is the First Step

Wildfire is a high heat blaze and moves slowly, leaving destruction in its wake. SERVPRO technicians carefully inspect both the structure and contents to determine if their equipment and cleaning methods can return the fire damaged items to their pre-damage condition. Technicians utilize containment on-site to limit cross-contamination and remove valuable and restorable items to a secure location for storage and cleaning in some cases.

Odor Control Applications

Before any reconstruction occurs, the property must be odor-free. This may involve actions such as using sealants on salvageable walls to stop pungent odors from embedded soot or the use of equipment such as air scrubbers or hydroxyl generators to capture and neutralize airborne particulates. If the ductwork remains intact, it may require cleaning before reuse.

Quick Rebuilding is Crucial

The building must be safe to reopen for business. Repairs and reconstructions are a standard part of fire damage cleanup. Charred and smoke-damaged building materials require removal. SERVPRO has a general contractor license #999460 and handles not only the cleanup and restoration but any needed rebuilding necessary for the organization to resume business as usual.

Commercial wildfire damage can shut your business down. Contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 for fire damage cleanup and restoration. The certified technicians work hard to return your property to its pre-fire condition, "Like it never even happened."

Our Professionals Discuss Carpet Spot Removal Procedures in Los Angeles

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

Water loss events easily damage and stain carpet. SERVPRO has the drying tools and cleaners to restore your carpet.

Commercial Water Cleanup Technicians in Los Angeles Discuss Carpet Spot Removal Procedures

If any type of water pipe ever breaks inside your Los Angeles sales office, the moisture can cause many problems with your carpet. Any time we conduct commercial water cleanup, our SERVPRO crew starts by inspecting your carpet for damage. Depending on how long moisture has been leaking, a large area of your carpets could get saturated. When carpet gets wet, its fibers can pull away from its paper backing, ruining its structural integrity.

Water Cleanup

In most situations, the pad underneath your carpet must be removed. However, if it is possible during your commercial water cleanup project in Los Angeles, we save your carpet and pad. If the problem is noticed soon enough, we can sometimes remove all moisture from your carpets using extraction and drying procedures. During the extraction phase, we use heavy-duty extractors and specialized tools to compress your carpet and pad to remove as much moisture as possible. Then, we can "float" your carpets by putting an air mover underneath them to create airflow on your carpet's backside and your subflooring material.

In many situations, even if the source of the leak inside your sales headquarters is a clean water pipe, your carpet can get stained after it is dried out. After our SERVPRO team removes all of the moisture from your carpet and puts it back together, we conduct cleaning procedures. To help remove dark stains, we often conduct spot removal procedures as a part of the fabric cleansing process.

The first step to spot removal is to remove as much of the material that caused the stain as possible. Next, we figure out what type of substance caused the stain. Sometimes other stains from other substances besides water could be present.

Once we know what caused the stain, we then figure out what type of fibers make up your office carpet. The type of stain and fibers dictate which kind of spot remover we decide to use on your tough stains. Once we pick the best option at our disposal, our SERVPRO technicians apply the remover and let it set. If it is required, we can agitate the stain while the spot remover is soaking into the carpet. Lastly, we steam clean and rinse your carpets once the spot remover has had time to soak into your carpet fibers.

If your sales office in Chinatown, Elysian Park, Boyle Heights, or Silver Lake ever suffers from a pipe break, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 because We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Repairing and Restoring Los Angeles Homes After a Wildfire

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

Wildfires are common in California. SERVPRO can make your home "Like it never even happened."

There are Many Steps to Making a Fire-Damaged Los Angeles House Feel Like Home Again

Over the years, Los Angeles County homes have experienced many disasters from mud damages, flooding, and wildfires. Having qualified professionals available 24/7 to help when disasters strike can be critical to getting mitigation started as soon as we first arrive.

Assessment When It Is Safe to Inspect

It is not often immediately safe to begin fire restoration in Los Angeles homes after wildfire damage. Once the environment is deemed safe enough to form a damage assessment, this vital effort can catalog damages and impacted contents/exterior building materials. This inspection finds:

• Exterior damage
• Soot soiling
• Air quality threats
• Structural weaknesses

Surface Cleaning and Soot Removal

After wildfire damage, we clean the structure with wet and dry cleaning approaches to remove soot and smoke soils from building materials. Where these solids might have infiltrated a residence through openings or outside intakes for the HVAC system, cleaning is necessary for the house's interior and exterior.

Reconstruction and Building Envelope Repairs 

Rebuilding after wildfires often means addressing the concerns on the house's exterior, such as damaged siding, roofs, or other pieces of a structure's envelope. With a general contractor license and years of experience working in one of the largest counties in the country, this build-back can occur seamlessly after restoration and cleanup.

Because wildfires can be a significant issue for area homes and businesses, our local restoration team must prepare for these possibilities with fast mitigation solutions. Our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park professionals provides water cleanup, surface cleaning, repairs, and odor removal to make it "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (213) 628-2000.

Why Does SERVPRO Use Chemicals for Water Damaged Houses in Los Angeles?

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage appears in your home. SERVPRO water damage restoration techs are true to their work. Call now!

Homes Needing Restoration Often Face Hazards at the Microscopic Level

When flooding happens, or a toilet or sink overflows, water carries contaminants into your home’s living area. Drying a home in Los Angeles with water damage is not enough in these situations. We also need to destroy as much of the microbial population as possible that is now existing in your residence. We often use spraying and fogging to ensure an even application, and the fine mist can penetrate tiny areas.

Which Kind of Spray Might My Home Need?

SERVPRO’s water damage technicians (WRT) might use more than one type of chemical inside your Los Angeles home. Dirty water often contains contaminants that can cause harmful effects. Because of the more direct air currents, we might not need to spray an antifungal to prevent mold on your kitchen floor, while we recommend the same treatment for the area below your home. Some of the sprays that we use include

• EPA-registered disinfectant sprays (which kill pathogens on contact or shortly thereafter)
• antifungal sprays (that shrink around microbes like mold and its spores, leaving them encapsulated)
• cleaning agents that help loosen soil and debris
• deodorizing agents (that combat odor by binding with odor-producing substances at the molecular level.)

Do I Have Options Regarding the Sprays Used Inside My House?

Yes! We use several different types of chemicals, including those for families with sensitive individuals or those who want a greener experience. Just ask about this, and we can provide you with technical information sheets on each (MSDS) and the benefits and downside of each option you are interested in us using.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park wants to be your go-to restoration team for water damage, as well as other disasters that happen unexpectedly. Call us at (213) 628-2000 for certified professionals who can make your home “Like it never even happened.”

Will SERVPRO Help When It Comes To Dealing With Odors After Fire Damage In My Los Angeles Home?

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration services by SERVPRO are second to none. Call now for fast and immediate services.

The Tools For Odor Removal After Los Angeles House Fires

Finding the right professionals to help overcome fire effects in your Los Angeles home after a disaster can feel like an overwhelming task. While there might be many options that you can choose from, you want to make sure to focus your efforts on the team that can arrive quickly and who has the right tools and expertise to make a difference for your property. Our professionals have a 24 hour response time every day of the year and come equipped with industry-leading equipment designed to make restoration as efficient and effective as possible.

While fire damage in your Los Angeles residence can appear in many ways, often one of the most challenging aspects to returning to normal life is a lingering and persistent harsh odor. With the widespread nature of this effect, traditional fragrance sprays and cleansers cannot remove the odor, but will only mask it for a short time. Our SERVPRO technicians are IICRC-certified in fire restoration and recovery and arrive with equipment and tools that can quickly neutralize foul scents from your property.

Our hydroxyl generators are among the most commonly used machines in our arsenal to overcome harsh odors throughout your home. During mitigation work, these units get set up to begin filtering out dust, debris, smoke particulates, soot, and ash from the environment while debris removal and pack-outs are underway. The onboard HEPA filter can also help noticeably reduce smoke odor throughout the affected areas.

Ozone generators and chambers are two pieces of the same technology. The generators are mobile, meaning that we can bring them into your home, while the chambers are an area of our facility designed to deodorize contents, furniture, and other affected items. These machines cannot get used around humans and pets, which can limit their use in specific scenarios.

While there are many tools and machines instrumental in restoring your home after fire odors, a couple get used often to do this task efficiently. 

How We Help Homeowners by Giving Initial Estimates of Fire Damage in Los Angeles

After experiencing a fire in your home, the chaos seems to become overwhelming. SERVPRO professionals understand that this period in your life can become stressful even on good days, and we are here to help make sense of things. Our estimator begins by explaining how to work with your insurance company to help smooth the rest of the obstacles you are most likely to encounter.

Once a home in Los Angeles sustains fire damage, the homeowner needs to send the insurance adjuster lists of damaged items claimed as destroyed beyond repair for compensation. The SERVPRO estimator explains before you compile these lists how to do so quickly while still retaining the accuracy your adjuster requires. Our Contents Claim Inventory Service helps you easily accomplish this goal.

While we always try to clean items on-site instead of moving them out, sometimes we need the extra space. However, items that you need to claim on your insurance forms do not get moved to our facility. Your adjuster might want to inspect the items to satisfy the agency's documentation requirements. In situations where we have enough space to work inside your residence without performing a move-out, we separate damaged items from others that we need to clean and restore.

Your insurance pays for many services in addition to replacing belongings and restoring your home to preloss condition. Many of your home's furnishings also require cleaning and minor repairs to restore them. Moving them to our facility or storage while we work incurs fees, as does moving these items back to your home. Your insurance adjuster takes all of these costs into consideration. We help you by giving them estimates of these costs, keeping the amounts as accurate as possible.

Working with you and your insurance company's adjuster can help make everything go as smoothly as possible, easing you and your family through this hectic and stressful time. We want to help our customers as much as possible and in a variety of ways. Our expertise in these situations helps make sense of tragedy when it affects your family.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park helps residents in Lincoln Heights and Chinatown maneuver the complexities brought on by fire damage. Call us at (213) 628-2000 to start the process of restoring your home and your life, so everything can once again be "Like it never even happened."

What Damage Can Flash Flooding Cause Los Angeles Homes?

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

When flood damage strikes your home, SERVPRO should be the first call. We will be on-site within 4 hours of the initial call.

With Fast-Occurring Disasters Like Flooding, Los Angeles Homes Can be Heavily Damaged. 

While flooding is not an everyday occurrence in the city, when flash flooding and natural disasters happen, our SERVPRO team is fast to respond. We can reach damaged homes quickly with our pre-stocked Green Fleet of service vehicles and production trailers ready to mobilize as emergencies occur to area residences. 

Structural Damages and Penetration Points

Flash flood damage for Los Angeles homes can be overwhelming when penetration points and vulnerabilities that provide access to the house exist. With a general contractor license, we can track the property's vulnerabilities and provide the needed repairs beginning with board-up and tarping. 

Removing Standing Floodwater from the Property

Flood removal is not a process suitable for all of the extraction devices in our inventory. Natural flooding can often bring in solids and debris, much of which cannot pass through electric submersible pumps with a one or two-inch intake and discharge. Instead, a combination of our most powerful extractors is necessary, beginning with: 

• Truck-mount pumps
• Trash pumps
• Wet vacuums

Thorough Cleaning After Flash Flood Damage

Disinfection and surface cleaning is a critical post-flood cleanup process for Los Angeles properties. From the installed building materials to the contents throughout the house, our cleaning technicians can evaluate the grounds and these items on a case-by-case basis for on-site or off-site restoration and recovery. Powerful sporicidal and disinfection cleaning processes can prevent excessive tear-out and reconstruction. 

Flash flooding moves in quickly and can overwhelm a structure with almost no warning. Considering the devastating nature of these events, our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team is standing by to help when homes and businesses experience the ruinous impact of floods. Our team is standing by 24/7 when you call (213) 628-2000.

Four Steps to Take After a Burst Pipe Causes Water Damage to Your Los Angeles Home

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

Quick action is necessary after a burst pipe or a pipe break. Contact Team SERVPRO to arrive quickly on the scene and remediate the water damage.

Steps to Take Following a Burst Pipe

Swift action is necessary after a burst pipe causes water damage in your Los Angeles home. Acting quickly minimizes the possible damage and makes it easier to get your attic dried out. SERVPRO recommends taking the following four steps.

Shut Off The Water 

Locate your water valve and switch it off. Shutting off the water is important as it stops more water from entering the plumbing system, getting out through the broken pipe, and making the water damage in your Los Angeles home much worse. Even if you do not know for sure if a pipe has burst or where the accident has happened in your home, shut off the water straight away.

Move Important Items Out Of The Way  

Act quickly and remove important items from your flooded home if it is safe to do so. However, do not touch or move any electrical items that might have been affected. Remove items so they are not subject to further water damage, making the drying process more manageable.

Call A Plumber 

You need a professional plumber to assess damage to the broken pipe and the surrounding area. Contact a plumber as soon as you can so they can take a look at your home and the pipe and get to work mending it straight away.

Call SERVPRO for Water Damage Restoration

Our IICRC-certified professionals are on hand to dry your home as quickly as possible. Professional drying gives you a much faster and more consistent result than trying to dry the area yourself.

First, we extract water from the flooded area using free-standing and truck-mounted pumps as needed, along with extraction tools. Next, we assess the damage to your floor, walls, the adjacent rooms, and the carpet. We direct air movers across the floor, and if necessary, we position air movers to blow across the ceiling of the space below. In some cases, we need to drill holes in wall baseboards to better dry inside water damaged walls. Our fully trained technicians take great care when ventilating or removing baseboards, and we restore your home when drying is complete.

Do not panic if a burst pipe causes water damage in your home. Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 for help.

Contact A Professional Restoration Company For Water Removal In Your Los Angeles Home

8/4/2021 (Permalink)

Has your family home been affected by recent flooding? Team SERVPRO can help with water removal equipment and certified technicians.

Water Removal After an Appliance Malfunction

A flooded home here in California usually results from failing appliances or a damaged water line. Often, many people try to remove it with a Wet-Vac from their garage and then let everything dry by opening all the windows and putting wet furniture and other property outside in the sun. Doing this is never a good idea and leads to additional problems with water or even mold.

Water removal in Los Angeles can mean pumping out a flooded basement in a home with ruptured plumbing or extracting water from the carpets after the dishwasher failed to drain correctly. SERVPRO has the experience and training to handle these situations and hundreds more.

Water Removal Services

When there is standing water deeper than two inches, our technicians start with commercial-grade pumps. If the power is out, we maintain a set of generators and generator trucks to ensure continuous electrical support. Once the water is brought down, or if the amount is less than two inches, we bring in smaller water extractors to draw out the water trapped between floorboards or in carpets and carpet pads.

Next, we use moisture meters to determine if water has penetrated the drywall or other structural property. We establish air movers to blow warm air across the surface to force out the moisture. To complement the air movers, technicians also set up dehumidifiers in every room where the surrounding air has tested high. These devices draw moisture directly from the air at a rate of over 20 gallons per day, depending on the humidity and size of the dehumidifier.

As the air is drying out, technicians examine the carpets and floors for remaining water. We remove the carpet pads and dispose of them, then use the water extraction wands to remove any remaining moisture underneath. Once completed, we set up more air movers to dry out the surface before laying down a new pad and stretching the carpet back in place.

One of the most essential factors in removing water from your home is speed. At SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park, we maintain a 24-hour response team to ensure we arrive and begin working as quickly as possible. If you need our services, call us today at (213) 628-2000 to start.

Can Fire Damage Impact a HVAC System?

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

Making sure that your HVAC is inspected after a fire is critical when dealing with fire damage. Contact Team SERVPRO and we can help you.

Fire Damage Inspections and Evaluations Determine the Extent of the Damage to Los Angeles Properties

Fire damage might be an unexpected and high-tension event, but our SERVPRO professionals can help. We can clean up debris and sooty surfaces, as well as clear buildup and debris caught in the HVAC system.

Inspecting the HVAC System After a Fire

Because fire damage restoration for Los Angeles homes can impact many rooms of the house and contents, it is logical to assume that a running HVAC unit has been compromised to some extent as well. This evaluation of duct and equipment conditions can showcase where glaring issues in the residence exist after a fire. Some of the focal points of this inspection include:

• Structural weaknesses
• Fire debris
• Strong odors
• Soot and soil deposits

Air Duct Cleaning and Air Quality Improvement

Once tools like the borescope get used to inspect the ductwork, we can begin the necessary steps to clear debris and deposits in this network. We position our leading equipment like our Dri-Eaz HEPA 500 unit where circulation occurs most to trap particles and spores before greater harm results.

Fire damage can be a violent and dangerous situation for homeowners and families. Getting the building cleaned and cleared falls to the capable hands of our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team. We can help with everything from mitigation to air duct cleaning when you call (213) 628-2000.

The Dangers of a Sink Overflow in Your Boyle Heights Home

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's technicians have what your home needs after a water incident. Call us right away.

SERVPRO Technicians Thoroughly Assess the Scene Before Beginning the Water Damage Remediation Process

Sometimes, a sink can overflow. Usually, this happens from a clogged drain, leaving the water nowhere else to go but over the lip of your sink. Even with the vent of the sink open, it might not contain the water that is backing up. 

An overflowing sink is one danger that can occur in your home that probably does not concern you regularly. It is a race to grab towels to soak up the water when the sink overflows, but there is additional water damage in your Boyle Heights home that is going on under the floor, which towels cannot reach. You need a professional water damage restoration company in this case who can find the hidden damage and restore your home to its proper condition. SERVPRO has the training and experience to help you. 

Weakening Floor Joists 

Water from an overflowing sink can weaken the integrity of floor joists. Once water gets under the floor covering, it sits on the joists and subfloor. It does not evaporate since there is nowhere for the vapor to go, so the wood continues to rot. 

Mold and Mildew Growth 

Perhaps the most significant danger of a sink overflow is mold and mildew growth. With the right environment, mold can grow quickly. Mold is a dangerous fungus that can cause adverse health effects. Once it starts to grow, mold can spread fast if not stopped. 

Ceiling Leaks in Rooms Below 

Another danger is damage done to rooms underneath the overflow. If the problem starts in a second-floor bathroom and your kitchen is under it, the problem is doubled. You wind up with ceiling damage in your kitchen, plus various bacteria and germs have access to your kitchen. 

Repairing the Hidden Dangers 

Since there are so many possible dangers from an overflowing sink, you must call SERVPRO right away. Our technicians have the tools to find hidden water damage and mold growth. We can also repair the damage, so your home is back to its previous condition. 

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is always ready to help you in an emergency such as a sink overflow. You can reach them quickly anytime, day or night, by calling (213) 628-2000.

Flood Damage and Worse can be Caused by Water in Your Los Angeles Home's Basement

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Los Angeles homeowners know to call SERVPRO for flood damage mitigation and rescue of possessions.

SERVPRO is Here to Help with Flood Damage Restoration

Flooding in your basement might not seem like it can affect your entire home, but it can cause problems even in your attic space. Humidity that starts with a flooded basement can be carried through the air and also through the very fibers of your home's structures. Gravity isn't enough to keep water down below when it can find its way upwards by wicking through microscopic channels in drywall, wood, and concrete. 

Basement Flooding Cleanup

For homes with standing water in the basement, the first step in warding off flood damage in Los Angeles and subsequent secondary water damage is to have the water pumped out. After the standing water has been eliminated, we can begin to work on the drying process. Returning your home to a dry state is vital to ensuring that all repairs can be long-lasting. It also helps ensure that mold and secondary water damage won't be a problem later on. 

In addition to secondary water damage, the possibility of mold growths taking over your home remains higher than usual as long as humidity levels are allowed to be raised. There is also the possibility of higher than normal levels of bacterial and pathogenic activity where mold exists. With sewer backups and flooded basements, this is especially true. This can lead to dangerous contamination in your home, but we're trained to combat this type of problem. At SERVPRO, we know what to do when things go awry in your home. 

From repairing walls, floors, and ceilings, and everything in between, we also know how to get things returned to a sanitary state. While we're drying out your home, we also disinfect it. Some of these methods, such as using ozone machines, not only remove airborne pathogens but can also deodorize your home. 

When you've found your home flooded, even if it's not in the basement, call us. The professionals at SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 are available 24/7 to get your home back to normal fast.

Does SERVPRO Offer Water Mitigation Service in Los Angeles?

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the tools and reliability you need after a water incident in your Los Angeles home.

Need Water Removal Service in Los Angeles – Call SERVPRO

Many residents in Los Angeles are unaware of the amount of processed wood used in the construction of their homes. Plywood used as subfloors and roof supports, particleboard used in cupboards, and OSB(Oriented Strand Board) is held together with water-soluble glues. Exposure to water during a pipe break or water leak can cause swelling, warping, and buckling. When this occurs, structural strength is lost, and these areas must be replaced.

SERVPRO provides complete water mitigation services to Los Angeles homeowners. We respond in less than four hours which can significantly reduce the damage. Limiting the exposure of wood products to water reduces the absorption and the associated damage it can cause.

Our fast response team can begin extracting water before it has time to penetrate wood floors, drywall materials, and other wood products. Once the water is removed, air movers and dehumidifiers are deployed to reduce moisture and humidity further.

Our SERVPRO general contractor license ensures that we can provide complete service to our customers. Our full-service contracting division can manage all of your repairs. We offer a one-stop service for recovery and restoration in emergencies.

Our water mitigation services include:

• Emergency services water damage recovery
• Water clean up
• Water damage restoration

Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park for water mitigation in Los Angeles and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (213) 628-2000.

From Water Extraction to Full Restoration, SERVPRO Provides Solutions to Flooding in LA

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

Contamined flood water wicked into the walls of this Los Angeles bathroom. SERVPRO provides a controlled demolition for storm damage mitigation

Flood Damage Situations in Los Angele

Removing the standing water alone is not enough to prevent further problems. To restore the effects of flood damage to your Los Angeles home, it needs to be adequately dried. SERVPRO maintains an extensive inventory of equipment designed to do just that and a trained, 24-hour response team to ensure the job is done correctly.

One of the key items used during flood damage in Los Angeles is an air mover. These are not fans but machines that push a concentrated mass of air across the wet surface of a wall, ceiling, or carpet. The concentrated air forces moisture out of the structural property. To maximize the effect in drywall or other wall paneling, technicians place air movers at a 45-degree angle to the surface. This positioning removes the most moisture possible, replacing it with drier air.

Drying out walls is further complicated by the presence of baseboards. Since the moisture trapped in them is typically wicked up from the floor, baseboards seal off the very part that needs drying the most. Our technicians carefully remove baseboards using a claw hammer or small crowbar and a small piece of paneling or plywood. This technique ensures we cause as little damage as possible to the affected area. If necessary, they also drill holes in the wall to increase airflow and accelerate drying. Our SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians could also rig shrouds and tubes to channel directional air movement and dehumidifier actions to dry out wetted cavities further.

To dry out ceilings, we place air movers against the wall with the vent pointed up. Besides its directed air, the air mover also circulates the warm air next to the ceiling to further speed up the drying process. If it has removable panels or tiles, several are removed at crucial points to dry out the surrounding air above it.

Carpets quickly begin to degrade in a day or two if not adequately dried. Technicians measure the size of the carpet to determine where to place the air mover(s) vent underneath it and where to carefully pull up a section of the carpet to ensure airflow properly without stretching or tearing it. The industry term is "floating" the carpet. There are instances where the soaked carpeting is contaminated and must be discarded.

Drying out your home and restoring it from the other effects of flooding is not a simple process. SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is here to help you through every step and place you back into your home as quickly as we can. Call us today at (213) 628-2000 to get started.

Any Size Leak Can Necessitate Water Removal in Los Angeles

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides drying equipment to mitigate water damage in Los Angeles properties

Quick Action after Water Damage Can Help to Prevent any Secondary Damage

It doesn't need to be a gushing line break that floods part of your home. It can be a small drip that is the source of accumulation in your living room ceiling that suddenly breaks open from above. When a small leak goes unnoticed, the water must go somewhere or build up. Because water is heavy, and it's also able to soak into your semi-porous living room ceiling, it can give way when you least expect it.

Los Angeles homes with standing water or other water damage problems need water removal experts to begin the work necessary to fix the issues causing the leak or other situation. Not all water problems are from leaks and can be from sump pump failures, overflowing bathtubs and sinks, malfunctioning dishwashers, water heaters that have rusted, and many other sources. SERVPRO has professionals who can stop the flow of water, remove the standing water, assess the damage, and begin the drying process.

If your home is experiencing problems with standing water of any depth, we can use submersible water pumps that remove the water to an outdoor location so it can drain safely away. Having a home full of what might have started as clean water has now mixed with sewage because the sump pump burnt out from a short can create a bio-hazard mess throughout your home. In situations like this, water removal is only the first step. Cleaning and decontaminating are both essential.

In typical situations, excluding those with bio-hazard issues, water removal is followed by water extraction from saturated materials. This is then followed by restoration, from repainting to the removal of damaged materials. When we're finished, it'll be "Like it never even happened."

If you've found a watery situation in your home, you need to call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 fast. We can be there as quickly as possible to begin working on getting the situation under control.

Hire Expert Restorers for a Stress-Free Flood Damage Restoration Los Angeles

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Why do homeowners in need of storm damage recovery in Los Angeles rely on SERVPRO? We have the skills and the equipment--fast and complete.

Professionals Like SERVPRO Offer Fast and Efficient Flood Damage Restoration in Los Angeles

When your home suffers flood damage, it is important to clean up the excess water as soon as possible to avoid more damage and higher costs. Involve IICRC-certified restorers like SERVPRO for fast and successful restoration.

How SERVPRO technicians handle restoration

When handling flood damage restoration in your Los Angeles home, we use innovative skills and advanced equipment and tools for a fast and effective process. We have a team of repair professionals with specialized expertise and access to the equipment needed to clear contaminated floodwater. We are available 24/7 to respond to any size of flood damage emergency on our customers' property.

SERVPRO flood damage restoration involves:

• Detailed property inspection using state-of-the-art equipment. We can use penetrating moisture meters to inspect porous materials such as carpeting and furniture.
• Our restorers can use a self-priming trash pump to drain excess floodwater from your basement.
• Clean furnishings and various affected surfaces using proprietary but approved products
• Drying the area, including hard-to-reach places using air movers, injecti-dry systems, and dehumidifiers.

Problems caused by flood damage

Flooding can cause more problems than just water damage. If ignored for more than 24 hours, it can cause mold growth, odors, and rust on metallic surfaces. However, if you contact us on time, our experts are thorough and complete and can mitigate the storm damage.

The longer you take to seek assistance, the greater the risk of severe damage. Contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park today at (213) 628-2000 for excellent restoration “Like it has never even happened.”

How SERVPRO Helps Los Angeles Businesses in Water Damage Repair

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

When the water comes inside, we have the equipment to take it out. Call us today!

Los Angeles Businesses Count on SERVPRO for Water Removal and Restoration

A quick and efficient water damage restoration of your Los Angeles business can save you time as well as money. Professional water damage remediation experts of SERVPRO have years of experience, training, and the right tools to expedite the process. 

Water cleanup, whether due to ceiling leaks, burst pipes, or any other reason, requires meticulous planning to execute. SERVPRO water restoration experts of Los Angeles focus on drying the affected areas as quickly and efficiently to prevent any secondary damage. We use a combination of equipment such as air movers and dehumidifiers to accomplish this goal. 

Why SERVPRO Techs use Air Movers During Water Cleanup in Los Angeles businesses? 

Residual moisture can be tricky to eliminate during the water damage remediation process. Air moving equipment can enhance the rate of evaporation and reduce the drying time significantly. Some of the most common types of air moving equipment that SERVPRO techs use in Los Angeles establishments include the following:

• Centrifugal Air Movers: These work best if air needs to be directed at a specific point. SERVPRO techs use these to introduce dry air into wall cavities and under kitchen cabinets. 
• Axial Air Movers: These work best when a wider area needs drying after water cleanup

We use positive and negative pressure systems to dry cavities within walls and other hard-to-reach places. 

Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 for a 24/7 service. 

Need Fire Damage Restoration of Your Los Angeles Home? Call SERVPRO

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire in your property, you will need a team of experts by your side for the build back. Call SERVPRO for assistance.

How SERVPRO Eliminates Odors After Fire and Smoke Damage?

Fire damage restoration of your Los Angeles property is a complex task. The removal of lingering odors from fire-damaged homes can be especially challenging. SERVPRO technicians undergo extensive training to understand how odor molecules permeate various structures and utilize multiple methods to eliminate them. 

Odors in a fire-damaged Los Angeles home can be one of the following two types:

• Real Odors: Caused by smoke and soot residue that interacts with olfactory sensors of the nose
• Imaginary/Psychological odors: Circumstances, such as smoke damage, dictate the sensation of these odors though non-existent. Phantosmia is the clinical term.

SERVPRO technicians of Los Angeles address both these odors for an efficient restoration during a house fire cleanup. The first with our advanced equipment and protocols, the second with a simple explanation that there are no odors. (We may still do a light spray or set up another unit for a short time.)

What Types of Deodorants do SERVPRO Techs use During House Fire Cleanup in Los Angeles?

Different types of odors due to smoke damage require a different kind of deodorizing action. SERVPRO restorers in Los Angeles use some of the following deodorants to combat odors after a fire and smoke damage:

• Masking Agents: Used to combat odors in fire-damaged homes, especially during the project of cleanup and odor removal
• Pairing Agents: Combine with odor particles, physically or chemically, and render them odorless. They work either by changing chemical property or precipitating the odor particles 
• Enzyme Digesters: Used to combat odors arising from organic or protein material. The enzymes break down the molecules into odorless fragments.

For 24/7 assistance with fire and smoke damage restoration, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000. 

SERVPRO Remains the First Choice Amongst Los Angeles Residents for Water Damage Mitigation of Their Homes

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Water is no match for SERVPRO. We are equipped and ready at a moment's notice to restore your home.

Local Los Angeles Residents Look to SERVPRO for Water Cleanup and Restoration

Los Angeles is perhaps the most well-known city in the world, let alone the United States. Often dubbed as the 'Creative Capital of the World', it is estimated that one in every six residents of the city is employed in the creative industry. The performing arts have a special place in the cultural history of the city. The Los Angeles Music Center attracts more than 1.3 million patrons every year. The Hollywood neighborhood of Los Angeles is the epicenter of the motion picture and television industry. Most renowned film studios and record labels call the city their home. 

Museums and art galleries are also a part of the city's cultural identity. The city holds the record of having the highest number of museums per capita than any other US city. The Getty Center, Natural History Museum, and the Museum of Contemporary Art are famous worldwide. 

Professional Sports in Los Angeles

As many as 11 professional sports teams use Los Angeles in their name. The city has a team in all major professional sporting events, including baseball (MLB), football (NFL), basketball (NBA and WNBA), soccer (MLS), and hockey (NHL). Los Angeles is all set to host the 2028 summer Olympics as well. The city also has some of the most iconic sports venues, including:

• The Dodger Stadium: Home of the MLB's LA Dodgers; it is the world's largest baseball stadium by capacity and can accommodate as many as 56,000 fans. 
• The Staples Center: A multipurpose sporting arena, it is home to the LA Kings of the NHL and LA Lakers and LA Clippers of the NBA. The arena seats about 20,000 people each for hockey and basketball games. 
• Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum: A multipurpose outdoor stadium and home to the University of Southern California (USC) and Trojans Football team (Pac-12 conference). It has a seating capacity of 77,000 people. Before its renovation began in 2018, it had the distinction of being the largest football stadium by capacity in NFL history. 

Why do SERVPRO's Water Cleanup Experts in Los Angeles use Dehumidifiers? 

Water damage at your Los Angeles home can occur due to many reasons, including:

• Burst pipes
• Ceiling leaks
• Basement flooding

Whatever the cause, restoring the moisture level to preloss condition is the top priority during water damage restoration. The lingering moisture can lead to serious secondary issues if the restorers don't remove it efficiently. SERVPRO experts use dehumidifiers to remove this excess moisture during the water cleanup process. The three types of dehumidifiers we use include the following:

• Conventional Refrigerant Dehumidifiers: Work similar to an air conditioner. A refrigerant cools the dehumidifier's coils, and as the moist air moves over these coils, the moisture condenses, and liquid water is collected in a tank and pumped out of the building. 
• Low Grain Refrigerant (LGR) Dehumidifiers: Can dry a place to a lower humidity ratio as it contains a pre-cooling component. The LGR units are also more energy-efficient compared to the conventional units. 
• Desiccant Dehumidifiers: Use chemicals (Desiccants) that can absorb moisture from the air. Desiccant dehumidifiers are more efficient than refrigerant dehumidifiers. 

Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 for water damage mitigation in your Los Angeles home. 

Mold Removal for a Los Angeles Eatery

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

If your business is overtaken by mold you need to call the professionals. Call SERVPRO today for remediation assistance.

SERVPRO Keeps Los Angeles Restaurants Running During Mold Remediation

Recently, the owners of a local Los Angeles restaurant noticed the telltale signs of black mold and sought assistance remediating it. This was when they enlisted the help of SERVPRO, a company skilled at black mold damage repairs. 

Upon encountering foul odors and discolored drywall and ceiling panels, the restaurateurs realized that their Los Angeles establishment had mold damage. SERVPRO, once contacted, quickly arrived on the scene and determined that the fungal issue was the result of a roof leak. In performing their work, our skilled technicians:

• Performed a complete mold inspection on the business using visual methods, moisture sensors/meters, and infrared cameras
• Completed mold removal, including attic mold removal, services by disposing of severely impacted materials, treating other affected surfaces with antimicrobials, and drying interior air with air movers, dehumidifiers, and Injectidry systems
• Deodorized the restaurant with high-tech foggers that use EPA-approved deodorants 

With all that said, if you think your business has suffered mold damage, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake/Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 for an inspection or remediation services.

What Company Provides Emergency Water Damage Services in Los Angeles?

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

Day or Night, SERVPRO Can Arrive for Water Damage Emergencies in your area. Just call (213) 628-2000 for Assistance.

SERVPRO Offers Los Angeles Commercial Properties Water Damage Remediation. 

Water-related issues have often impacted Los Angeles businesses without much or any warning at all. These have been caused by a wide array of unfortunate circumstances and have sometimes resulted from one of California’s infamous earthquakes. Simple everyday leaks to appliance or container failures are common culprits of local commercial water damage. However, on numerous occasions, earthquakes have either caused or exacerbated water-related problems and damage. With that said, there are some key ways area business owners can protect themselves from these destructive threats.

Common Causes of Water Damage

In order to better address their predicament, local business operators must know the source of their problem. Recently, more often than not, it has been found that Los Angeles commercial water damage has been caused by one or more of the following issues:

• Pipe leaks or ruptures, sometimes resulting from or worsened by seismic activity
• Malfunctioning commercial appliances that produce water leaks and standing water
• Accidentally activated sprinkler or fire prevention systems that spray water everywhere
• Corroded water containers or those overturned by earthquakes

These unfortunate occurrences have spelled disaster for several area businesses that have not properly addressed them in a timely manner.

Ways Local Business Owners Have Attempted to Avoid Suffering Waterborne Issues

Fortunately, many Los Angeles area businesses have learned how to avoid or, at least, lessen their odds of suffering the worse water-related damage. Some of the many things they have tried include:

• Retrofitting their facilities and appliances with mechanisms to make them more resistant to the effects of earthquakes
• Performing routine maintenance on their buildings and equipment to counteract the effects of wear and tear
• Having their businesses and appliances periodically inspected by professionals so that potential issues can be prevented
• Turning off their water utility during periods of seismic activity
• Using mold-resistance building materials and furnishings 

These efforts have saved these owners both time and money, enabling them to avoid time-consuming and costly repairs. At the same time, they have helped keep businesses open even in the aftermath of locally devastating earthquakes, which has been extremely beneficial for owners and area residents. 

While no amount of preparation is going to protect you from all potential water damage, your neighborhood SERVPRO of Silver Lake/Echo Park is a water damage restoration company that can handle these problems. Call us anytime at (213) 628-2000 for assistance.

Los Angeles Water Damage Restoration Companies Like SERVPRO Are Full-Service.

As experienced industry professionals, SERVPRO offers and is highly experienced in performing a wide range of water damage-related services. The following are just some of the services we offer to our commercial customers:

• Professional inspections to locate potential issues before they become major problems
• Water removal services
• Basement flooding cleanup
• Water damage repairs
• Antimicrobial and deodorizing fogging that eliminates harmful microbes and unpleasant smells

Unlike other water damage restoration companies, your local SERVPRO of Silver Lake/Echo Park can expertly perform all the services necessary to return your home to its pre-water event condition in record time. With this in mind, call us at (213) 628-2000 whenever you need help.

What Type of Cleaning Products Are Used After a Fire?

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

This fire was confined to the kitchen,but smoke and soot traveled through out the home. SERVPRO is ready to come to the rescue!

SERVPRO Uses Professional Cleaning Product to Mitigate Fire Dame in Boyle Heights

A fire can be intense and destroy the entire home, or it can be quickly contained but still cause problems. Smoke and soot travel rapidly through the building, settling in the tiniest of cracks. Many people are surprised at what can be restored, as they think it is automatically a loss if it is damaged.

Fire Cleanup Experts

When a residence suffers fire damage in Boyle Heights, our technicians first perform a scope of the home to determine the best mitigation options. Water extraction is primary, as is the removal of unsalvageable items. Then the cleaning and restoration begin. We use these products to clean and restore everything possible:

• Dry Cleaning Solvents– We use this in our Ultimate Dry Cleaning Machine for dry cleaning of drapes and fabrics with light soiling.
• Volatile Dry Solvents- This evaporates fast and leaves no residue. It is used as a spotting agent but also as a lubricant to remove soot and smoke residue.
• Wood Oil Soaps– Mild detergents used to clean cabinets, wood, floors, and paneling. Excellent for walls, leather, vinyl, and ceramics too.
• Furniture Polishes – Used on everything from furniture to appliances to clean and restore.
• Carpet and Upholstery Cleaners– We use various pre-treatments and shampoos, depending on the situation. 

For fire damage services in Boyle Heights, contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000.  

Is Floodwater a Biohazard?

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

Storms do happen in Southern California. SERVPRO is available 24/7 to remediate any damage that happens to your home.

Flood damage in Los Angeles can Bring Contaminated Waters into a Home, but SERVPRO can Mitigate the Problem Safely

Coastal cities such as Los Angeles can experience flooding any time of the year. With the sea rise level increasing annually, storms and flooding occur more often and are more intense. Floodwaters create a biohazardous situation that requires professional intervention. 

What Creates A Biohazard Incidence?

When a home experiences flood damage in Los Angeles, it brings contaminated water into the building. These waters are teeming with microbes, and it is vital to understand the dangers. Microbes are living organisms that can pollute our air and water. SERVPRO deals with three main types:

• Fungi – Multicell organism that digests materials to get the nutrients they need. Mold is a type of fungi.
• Bacteria– Like fungi, bacteria absorb surrounding material to get nutrients but are single-cell organisms.
• Viruses– Simple microbes that grow, multiply, and cause disease in living things.

While microbes are vital to the ecosystem, they can become a threat under certain conditions. Floodwaters are the perfect environment for a biohazard threat involving microbes. Homeowners should never attempt to clean up contaminated water on their own. 

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park has trained, certified biohazard technicians who have the experience and the proper equipment to mitigate flood damage in Los Angeles. Call us today at (213) 628-2000 for more information.

Homeowners Depend on SERVPRO for Water Damage Restoration

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage? It's no problem for SERVPRO!

SERVPRO’s Water Restoration Companies are Committed to Serving the Los Angeles Area

Los Angeles is a sprawling city that has grown over the years as smaller cities and towns have merged with it. It is a city full of history, dating back to the 1500s when Juan Rodrigues Cabrillo explored the area on behalf of Spain. Native Americans were dwelling in the area at that time. Today, visitors to the City of Angels can enjoy exploring the many landmarks throughout the city.

The Hollywood Sign

One of the most famous landmarks is the Hollywood sign. While today, it is a cultural icon, it was initially an advertisement for a local real estate agency and was only meant to be temporary. The letters are 45 feet tall and are 350 feet long. The sign said “Hollywoodland” to begin with, and it is located in Griffith Park. Sightseers can hike up and get a closer look at this iconic symbol. 

Griffith Observatory

If you visit the famous Hollywood sign, you might want to stop in and check out the Griffith Observatory. The view is stunning from this location. You can see downtown Los Angeles, Hollywood, and the Pacific Ocean depending on the direction you are looking. Admission is free to this space and science-dedicated museum. The 12-inch Zeiss refracting telescope has had more people look through it than any other telescope in the world.

USS Iowa – BB-61

For those curious about military history, the USS Iowa is a great place to spend an afternoon. Here are some facts about this magnificent ship:

• 4th ship to be named after the state of Iowa
• Last lead ship of any class of US battleships
• Only vessel in her class, during World War II, that served in the Atlantic
• She took part in the Korean War
• Decommissioned in 1990 following 19 years of active service 

The Getty Villa

This museum is dedicated to the ancient cultures of:

• Greece
• Rome
• Etruria

It is one of two locations owned by the J. Paul Getty Museum. It is a fascinating place to visit with 44,00 ancient artifacts dating back to 6,500 BC. The villa in Los Angeles was inspired by the Villa of the Papyri and is stunning. There are four gardens at the Getty Villa, which have plants grown by the ancient Romans. Each plot has a different theme, including an herb garden. The Getty Villa is something that should be on everyone’s sightseeing list when in Los Angeles.

Lots to See and Do in Los Angeles

Whether you are visiting for the first time or living in Los Angeles, there is so much to do. There are historical landmarks, parks, and cultural exhibits, and the variety of restaurants is endless. 

SERVPRO Serves the Los Angeles Area

Water restoration companies are nothing new in California. But when you need water damage mitigation, you do not want just any company. You want one who knows their job and will treat your home like it was their own. That is where SERVPRO comes into the picture. We have satisfied customers to prove it. Our clients know:

• They can depend on us to respond rapidly to any crisis.
• We can handle any size water damage cleanup.
• We know what it is like to be a homeowner.
• We have the experience and equipment to get the job done right.
• We leave their home, “Like it never even happened.”

If you want professionals who go above and beyond when you need help with a water intrusion, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000.

How Does ULV Fogging Help Fire Damage Cleanup for Businesses?

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

Remaining odors after a fire? Contact SERVPRO at (213) 628-2000 today to remediate fire damage issues.

SERVPRO uses ULV misters to make a business smell fresh

One of the most unpleasant after-effects of a fire at your business premises is the smell. Combustion of materials during a blaze causes a buildup of soot and some nasty smoke odors.

SERVPRO has many ways to tackle odors after fire damage to your Los Angeles business. One of the most cost-effective choices is Ultra Low Volume, or ULV, fogging. Foggers can be used to spread cleaning products or disinfectants and are also useful for deodorizing. ULV equipment consists of:

• A battery or engine to drive the machine.
• A tank to hold the deodorizing formula.
• A blower to direct the mist.

The fogging machine turns the liquid in its tank into a fine mist that is easy to direct. ULV is especially good at getting stubborn smells out of furniture and upholstery, leaving your business premises “Like it never even happened.”

Our technicians might combine fogging with a range of other tools such as deodorizing pellets, air scrubbers, and spot cleaners, depending on your business's needs.

If you need help cleaning up fire damage in your business, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park on (213) 628-2000.

SERVPRO Takes Care of Water Damage Repair in Los Angeles

1/31/2021 (Permalink)

Is your home or business affected by excess water? Call SERVPRO for water removal and remediation services today.

Los Angeles’ Climate is Not Always Dry

When many people think of Los Angeles, they imagine hot beaches and nearby deserts. However, Los Angeles is a lush city filled with gardens, parks, and a wide variety of flora growing wild. From the green oak savannah to the mountain chaparral's thick shrubs, you can see all kinds of things in and around the city.

Step outside your home or holiday rental, and you could find yourself picking a fresh orange or avocado or walking under the beautiful jacaranda blooms.

If you want to enjoy even more local color, you can visit one of the many city gardens, such as:

• James Irvine Japanese Garden is a stunning traditional Japanese garden built in the style of the famous Zen gardens of Kyoto. You can find the park at the sub level of the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center in Little Tokyo. It is a true urban oasis.
• Virginia Robinson Garden is six acres of stunning tropical gardens in the heart of Beverly Hills. The Robinson mansion was one of the first homes built in the hills in 1911. The gardens are open to visitors, but you need an appointment.
• Self Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine is ideal if you want some peace. The garden honors the five major world religions in a peaceful, idyllic space with perfectly manicured gardens and quiet spots to sit and meditate.
• Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden shows the beauty of native plants and offers advice to anyone wanting to grow their own California garden. As well as 86 acres of native plants and wildlife haven, the gardens also have regular art shows and community events.

Water is good for plants but can cause untold damage to homes

Despite its Mediterranean climate, Los Angeles is no stranger to flooding. In 1938 two Pacific storms hit the city and caused a year's worth of rain in just a few days. The results were catastrophic:

• $78 million of damage.
• 115 lives lost.
• Hundreds of people stranded, and entire communities decimated.

The massive cleanup operation took weeks. The floods also pushed authorities to move forward with a project to encase Los Angeles rivers in concrete, letting flood waters move faster to the sea. The project received emergency federal funding and took several years to complete. As a result, 278 miles of Los Angeles rivers were banked by concrete, reducing the risk of flood damage. Unfortunately, water damage still happens sometimes, and floods do not always cause it. Plumbing problems, leaky roofs or gutters, and broken appliances can cause water damage.

SERVPRO technicians know how to handle water damage

Excellent training is at the heart of the SERVPRO service. We understand that the better informed our technicians are, the more they can help you. To that end:

• Each Franchise owner undertakes our 15-day training course.
• All staff members have access to online training in every aspect of remediation.
• We provide ongoing training to keep our staff up to date.

We carry out all our training to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards. The IICRC is the national standard in remediation and restorations practices.

Talk to trained water damage repair teams today - call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park on (213) 628-2000.

Virtual Interpretive Training in Boyle Heights

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Avoid Stormy Weather at Your Boyle Heights Business and Call SERVPRO

Increase Personal and Business Skills in Boyle Heights

On Thursday, January 21^st, the National Association for Interpretation (NAI) in partnership with the L.A. Zoo and the Community Nature Connection, begins an online Certified Interpretive Guide Training Course. It is designed for individuals with public contact at interpretive sites (i.e., the L.A. Zoo) or delivers interpretive programs on video or for streaming services. The online course includes all of the material available through the face-to-face classroom setting.

Training Options for Boyle Heights Participants

Participants may take the course without obtaining the certificate as a Certified Interpretive Guide or CIG. This option costs $235 and includes all course material, but not the Core Literature Review exam necessary to become a CIG.

The second option includes the exam and costs an additional $150. CIG Certification is for four years and includes a paid, one-year membership in the NAI. For participants who are already NAI members, it will be implemented at the end of their current membership.

Storm season is here, so floodwater removal for Boyle Heights homes may soon be necessary. To schedule a service visit, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake /Echo Park today at (213) 628-2000.

Flags and Magic in Los Angeles Is on Fire

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

If a fire-damaging event lights up your Los Angeles home call SERVPRO. Enjoy the Six Flags/Magic Mountain Light Show!

Come See the Biggest Neighborhood Light Show in Los Angeles

Six Flags / Magic Mountain has taken the idea of a drive-thru business to the next level. On January 11th, and thru-out December and January, the theme park has converted its entire operation into what may be the biggest commercial light show in Los Angeles.

Music, Ornaments, Santa, and Muscle Cars – Only in Los Angeles

Included in this holiday experience are dancing lights timed to the music participants hear over the park’s sound system. Rides and support structures are now 30-foot-tall ornaments, and everything that doesn’t move has a layer of fake snow covering it, making Magic Mountain look more like the Sierras. Children can wave to Santa and Mrs. Claus, while Moms and Dads get to enjoy the classic cars on display thanks to West Coast Customs.

Tickets run from $20 to $25 per person, and every car entering must have at least two people. Arrive early for the show and avoid the rush!

If your Los Angeles home needs fire damage repair, contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake /Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 today. Especially in today’s environment, we are here for you.

Assisting Los Angeles Businesses with Local Disaster Relief Teams

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

The Local Los Angeles CIty Council even Relies Upon SERVPRO for water damage mitigation

SERVPRO Provides Rapid Support to Los Angeles Commercial Operations

The Los Angeles City Council meets every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday at 10:00 am in City Hall’s John Ferraro Council Chamber (Room 340), on 200 N. Spring St. On the first Friday of every other month, however, the City Council gathers at the Van Nuys Civic Center.

The Council is made up of single members elected from every district. The 15 members each serve a four-year term. The President and President Pro Tempore of the Council are elected at the first regular meeting of each term. Each Councilmember serves on several Committees, and all matters are referred between the Council and Council Committees based on the adopted Council Committee Structure Resolution.

All meetings for both the Council and Committees are open to the public, except for a few "closed sessions" on sensitive issues. The public may interact and comment on agenda items at both Council and Committee meetings. If a public comment on any item is not heard in Committee, an opportunity for public comment can occur in the next Council meeting.

Los Angeles City Council Agendas and Transparency

The City Council is committed to being a transparent part of the city. To further access to the Council and understanding of the city’s issues, they have developed these methods:

• The Council & Council Committee Meetings Calendar provides the agendas released for upcoming Council and Committee meetings. The Council Recess Schedule identifies the special days and events when the Council does not meet.
• The Council Administration office provides Meeting Agendas, Audio and Video recordings, Journals/minutes for all City Council meetings going back to 2008, and Computer-Aided Real-Time (CART) Transcripts to 2016.
• All public members with a valid email address can subscribe to Meeting Agendas, Hot Sheets, Journals, and Motions. The "Hot Sheet" Referral Memorandum (detailing where Council items are referred) when they are published, Motions the day they're introduced, and Council journals/minutes. The Hot Sheets are also posted on CFMS's Referral/Journal page.
• The Council Vote Verification System (CVVS) shows how the City Council voted on each issue. The public can also track Council meeting votes live during streamed Council meetings held at the Los Angeles and Van Nuys City Halls.
• The Council Meeting Attendance Log is published monthly and provides the attendance record of each councilmember. While not an official record, it provides a summary of every meeting attended, regardless of the member sat in for the full session or a shorter time.
• The public can also access a copy of the Council Rules, which apply to both Council and Committee meetings. The Council regularly amends its procedures to ensure city business conduct complies with local, county, and state law.
• Translation Services: The City Clerk's Office provides translation services for Council and Council Committee meetings only. Any member of the public requiring translation services should contact the Council and Public Services Division's Translation Services coordinator at least 72 hours before the meeting they need to attend and specify the language service required.

Los Angeles City Archives and Records Center

The City Clerk's Records Management Division is comprised of the City Archives and the Records Center. Its assigned duty, under the City Clerk’s Charter, is to serve as the custodian of the City Records. Included among them are Planning, Historical, and Departmental Records.

Members of the public wanting to review City Planning Records must first call the Planning Department's Automated Records Unit to obtain the box numbers for the files related to their property of interest. Once they have the box numbers, members of the public next contact the City Clerk’s Office to schedule a visit.

By appointment, historical city records are available to all.  City Council Records from 1940 - 1979 are indexed online at Council Files (1940 - 1979), and Records from 1980 to today are indexed online at Council Files (CFMS). All files identified in the CFMS may be reviewed at the City Archives. Records maintained include the following:

• Council Minutes
• Archived Digital Vault
• Council Minutes from 1850 to 1979
• Indexes to Council Minutes from 1940 to 1979
• City Council Indexes from 1940-1979
• Images
• Videos

Departmental Records can be reviewed by City employees of their department. Before scheduling a visit with the City Clerk’s Office, employees must get the box numbers for the files they want to review from their department’s Records Coordinator.

The Records Management Division is also responsible for the disposition of Obsolete City Records. Obsolete Records prepared for disposal are posted for the public’s review on the City Clerk’s webpage under Records Disposition Reports for 60 days. Members of the public can request to be placed on an e-mail notification list of Obsolete Records pending destruction activities by contacting the Records Management Division.

SERVPRO Supports Los Angeles City Council and Business Operations

The City of Los Angeles has worked diligently to eliminate paper records. The effort to move to digital protects the integrity of stored records for not just the City but also businesses trying to serve their clients and meet the needs of digital record keeping.

Even with paper eliminated, carpets, furniture, and interior walls are still at risk from water that pool in a storage closet or spread across floors. At SERVPRO, our goal is to eliminate or reduce these risks and return each facility to its original, dry state.

Our first step is to quickly remove excess water using extraction devices on floors, carpets, and out of items like upholstered furniture. Next, our response teams dry every affected item using a combination of fans and air movers to draw out the damp air and replace it with a flow of warm air across the affected property. Where needed, team members hand dry items to prevent the destruction of varnish and other finishes. Our team can utilize special drying chambers to mitigate water damage to stored documents and other paper items.

SERVPRO is proud to support L.A. businesses, especially at this time. If your commercial operation needs water removal after a burst pipe or flood, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake /Echo Park today at (213) 628-2000.

Drive Through Wonderland and Enjoy the Los Angeles Festivities from Your Car

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Whether snow or rain storms, SERVPRO can take the worry about of emergency restoration so that you can enjoy the holidays.

This Massive Holiday Themed Event is Something Los Angeles Residents of All Ages Will Love 

Snow may not often happen in Los Angeles, but that does not stop Santa or the holidays. This year enjoy a drive through North Pole experience at Wonderland. This Christmas event includes: 

• Christmas light tunnels
• Festive tree forest
• Holiday lights synchronized to music
• Elves
• Santa & Mrs. Claus
• Holidays around the world display
• Candy canes  

It is a fantastic family event. Tickets are per car, up to 8 people, and are $70. Early bird specials are $60. Have more than eight people? No problem. Vehicles with nine or more are $80 per vehicle.  

This event runs from November 30th to December 23rd. Wonderland is not open on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. It all reopens on December 26th and can be enjoyed through December 30th. Order your tickets online and then head for 6100 Topanga Canyon Blvd. 

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park provides flood water removal services in Los Angeles. If we can help with any flooding, contact us at (213) 628-2000. We wish all our customers a very happy holiday. Stay healthy and safe.

Boyle Heights Can Kick Off the Holiday with Miracle on Ocean Ave

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to make sure that the only soot that you see during the holidays is on Santa's Suit!

Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel Invites Boyle Heights Residents to Join in the Fun 

Just because it is a bit warmer in California and beaches abound does not mean Santa isn’t on his way. The Loews Beach Hotel is excited to bring back the Miracle on Ocean Ave event. The fun is not just for hotel visitors. It is for the public as well and is brimming with holiday delights.  

Whimsical Wonderland Escape 

When you make your way into the hotel, you are entering a seasonal wonderland that includes: 

• An upside-down forest
• Santa letter writing station
• A private igloo for dining in the restaurant
• Dog friendly “yappy hours” Dec 4 & Dec 18
• Holiday cocktails 
• Themed activations 

The event goes through January 3rd with lots of special weekend activities. 

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park provides professional fire smoke removal in Boyle Heights and surrounding areas. Let us put your house back to normal after a fire. You can contact us at (213) 628-2000 for more information. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Relax, Renew, and Heal with Meditation in Los Angeles

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Don’t let mold damage stress you out, call SERVPRO to remediate the damage.

Enjoy Harmonizing Music in the Los Angeles Area

After Thanksgiving, many Angelinos need to eliminate holiday stress. Mystic Journey Crystals specializes in hosting events that use sound to relax its attendees' spirit and return them to a sense of balance often in jeopardy during the holidays. 

Many Blessings, Jenny & Seth The Dynasty Electrik Crystal Sound Bath

This team of musical healers carefully participates in a healing journey using chimes, crystal singing bowls, and a gong. They combine these instruments with nature sounds, soundscapes, and vocals to also help listeners discover a new dimension of their inner being. 

The technique clears discordant energies in the body. This then helps healers re-harmonize the body's energy, which returns attendees to a proper equilibrium state.  

So why call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park? We cannot help with holiday stress, but if you have mold damage in your Los Angeles home, call us at (213) 628-2000 to schedule an inspection and return your home to a clean state in time for the New Year. 

Los Angeles Homes Hit by Fire Can Depend on SERVPRO to Help

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Los Angeles has lots to offer, including Exposition Park.

Fire Restoration is Our Specialty – Let Us Help You Get Your Home Back to Normal 

Los Angeles is an ultra-modern city that is packed with history. From Spain and Mexico claiming it and onwards to it becoming one of the United States, it has had a colorful past. Over the years, landmarks have developed that are worth the trip. Thousands of visitors each year visit these attractions – some are historical, some are modern, but they all represent some aspect of Los Angeles. 

An Iconic Sign Everyone Recognizes 

Towering above Los Angeles is the Hollywood Sign with lettering that is 45 feet tall and 350 long. It began life as a Hollywoodland and was an advertisement for a new housing development. Over time it would be repaired and shortened to the current sign. Although it no longer serves its first purpose, a local real estate advertisement, the area of Santa Monica Hills wouldn't be the same without it. Visitors from around the world hike to see this sign each year. 

Venice Canal Historic District 

This residential suburb of Venice is home to this historic district. It was created to have the appearance and ambiance of Venice, Italy. Abbot Kinney began these man-made wetlands canal in 1905. It was complete with arched bridges and gondoliers and trips through the lit canal. It was designed to draw buyers for residential lots. Interesting facts about the Venice Canal District include: 

• It was 3 to 4 times bigger than today before 1929
• The canals were reduced down to 6 from the original 13
• The seven canals that were destroyed became roads
• Many attempts were made to restore and repair the canals over the years
• Changes were made for improvement in the 1980s 

Walt Disney Concert Hall 

The Walt Disney Concert Hall doors opened on October 24, 2003. It is the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and can seat over 2,000 people. The Los Angeles Master Chorale is also based out of the concert hall. The venue was a gift to Los Angeles by Lillian Disney as a tribute to Walt Disney. It is a impressive work of architecture and has a concert organ that is second to none. 

USS Iowa Battleship 

A retired battleship, the Iowa is the last lead ship of battleships of any kind. In her vessel class, she was the only one who saw duty in the Atlantic Ocean during World War II. President Franklin D. Roosevelt traveled on her when he crossed the Atlantic headed toward Algeria. The president was meeting with Churchill and Stalin to discuss important issues of the day.  

In 1944 the Iowa was moved to the Pacific Fleet, where she was active in the war measures. She was flying Admiral William F. Halsey's flag as the Third Fleet flagship during the Japanese surrender in Tokyo bay. She took part in the Korean War and was later decommissioned to the Navy reserve fleets. In 1982 she was reactivated only to be permanently decommissioned in 1990. Today visitors can tour the battleship for a glimpse back into time. 

Grauman's Chinese Theatre 

In 1922 Grauman's Egyptian Theatre was opened and successful enough to open the Grauman's Chinese Theatre. Its branded title is TCL Chinese Theatre, and it is located on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. It is a movie palace that opened on May 18, 1927, where the King of King's of Cecil B. DeMille fame debuted. Since then, it has seen many premiers of blockbuster movies, including Star Wars. Another main attraction is the handprints, footprints, and signatures in the concrete blocks in the forecourt. Today it is also an IMAX theater. 

Olvera Street in Downtown Los Angeles 

El Pueblo de Los Angeles Monument includes Olvera Street. It has been the main square of LA since the 1820s when the city still belonged to Mexico. The street has had several names over time and became Olvera Street in 1877. One of the Plaza Districts' historic buildings, the Avila Adobe, is on the street. It dates back to 1818, along with Pelanconi Street established in 1857 and Sepulveda House in 1887. Today restaurants, craft stores, and troubadours line the street. It was designated as a "Top Five" street by the "Great Streets of America." 

Sightseers Dream Spot 

There is so much to experience in the City of Angels. The above does not begin to put a dent in the landmarks in LA. Some other well-known ones include: 

• Capital Records Building
• Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels
• Angel Flight
• Dolby Theatre
• Griffith Observatory
• Getty Center
• Getty Villa
• Stahl House
• Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
• LA Live
• Los Angeles County Museum of Art
• Bradbury Building
• S. Bank Tower
• Hollywood Boulevard
• Watts Towers
• Dodger Stadium 

SERVPRO Restores Homes with Fire Damage 

Homes and businesses alike in Los Angeles can be subject to fires at any time. When disaster strikes, SERVPRO is there to provide emergency mitigation. Even small fires can do extensive damage as smoke residue and soot move throughout the home. Our technicians know how to intercede and deliver fire restoration in Los Angeles.  

Professional Technicians Get the Job Done 

When your home experiences a fire, the extent of the fire determines the steps that are taken. There are specific actions that are basic to even small fires. These can include: 

• Doing a scope of the area
• Removing charred remains if needed
• Determining the type of soot present
• Using the appropriate cleaning methods
• Water extraction if required
• Deodorization
• Restoration of home and content 

When we leave your home, SERVPRO wants you to feel, "Like it never even happened." We encourage homeowners to let our professionals handle the job as attempting to clean on your own can worsen the situation.  

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park prides itself on providing quality fire restoration services to LA. You can contact us at (213) 628-2000 and talk to our friendly staff. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

Spend Time Watching Animals in Los Angeles at the Zoo

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

Animals are the best, go out and safely support your local zoo.

Visit the Los Angeles Zoo by Making a Reservation Today

The Los Angeles Zoo is open and ready to take individual ticket reservations.  Each time slot has maximum capacity limits for safety measures. Keeping this in mind, it is important to plan ahead since time slots often sell out.  The zoo closed first due to the virus and then because of poor air quality during the local Bobcat and El Dorado wildfires. Although the zoo suspended their in-person talks to limit gathering in crowds, guests are still free to enjoy the zoo animals. 

Here's What You Should Know About Zoo Visits

• Reservations are required for all visits.
• The zoo reserves the right to close certain attractions to allow for appropriate social distancing. 
• While eating and drinking without a mask, stay stationary to limit possible exposure. 
• High-touch areas and equipment such as drinking fountains are closed for safety. 
• Tickets range from $17 to $22. 

If you need water removal in the greater Los Angeles area, contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park for 24/7 Emergency Service at (213) 628-2000.

Can You Prepare Kids for a Flood Damage Event in Boyle Heights?

10/31/2020 (Permalink)

For flood damage remediation, you can call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000.

Boyle Heights Residents Concerned about Family Safety after Flood Damage?

Boyle Heights is a diverse and vibrant community situated close to the Los Angeles River. These days the river flows through concrete channels built after catastrophic floods in the early 20th Century. Unfortunately, that does not mean residents are entirely safe from floods, as California still suffers from storms and flooding.

It is better to be prepared for possible flooding to your Boyle Heights home. Then if disaster does occur, it will not take you by surprise. One way to prepare is talking to your kids about flooding and what to do if it happens.

How can you prepare your kids for flooding?
The best way to prepare your kids for potential flood damage in Boyle Heights is to talk to them about it:
    •    Bring up the subject in a way that allows space for questions
    •    Talk in terms of how to stay calm and safe, so it is less frightening
    •    If you do not know the answer to a question, look it up together

You can also involve children (and the rest of your family) in flood preparedness activities such as:
    •    Having a grab and go bag ready for if you need it
    •    Storing valuable papers away from the floor and in watertight boxes
    •    Making sure you have pet medicine, food, toys, and carry cases ready to grab in an emergency
    •    Ensuring you have a stock of any regular medicines stored in watertight containers

What about protecting your home?
You cannot prevent a storm, but you can take steps to protect your home from the effects of one.

Make sure your home is structurally sound. If you have leaky windows or doors or a missing roof tile, take care of it now, before disaster strikes. You should also check your gutters and downpipes and make sure they are clear.

If you have a sump pump, ensure it is functioning correctly and have backup power. You should also check your yard – in the event of a flood, would the water run away from your house or toward? You can employ a landscape gardener to direct water away from your home.

Consider adding flood barrier seals or storm doors if storms are a particular concern. You might also make sandbags to protect your home in an emergency.

What should you do with flood-contaminated materials?
Flood water from storms is sometimes classified as blackwater, meaning it could contain dangerous contaminants, raw sewage, or dead animals or fish. That is why SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park recommends calling us immediately after a flood. Do not try to handle flood-damaged materials yourself.

There may be some cases where you can safely manage materials if you are confident the water is from heavy rain, not a flooded river. In that case, you can:

    •    Remove colored items such as books or magazines from rugs and carpets
    •    Remove sofa cushions and tent them to encourage drying
    •    Pick up bulky items like rugs, furs, sheepskin rugs, or leather clothes, and hang them to dry
    •    Blot water from surfaces using a mop and wipe down furniture with an absorbent cloth

It is essential to keep your kids away from flood-damaged areas and not let them play with flood-damaged toys. Our team will assess what is safe to keep, what is not safe, and what we can clean.

How can SERVPRO help?
We train our technicians to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards, so they are up to date on the latest and best flood remediation techniques.

We assess your home and contents to ascertain what is salvageable and to draw up a drying plan. Our assessment includes moisture level and humidity monitoring, which we continue to do throughout the remediation process.

Can SERVPRO clean your kids' favorite belongings?
Depending on the category of water and contamination level, it is possible to clean many kinds of belongings. We can wipe down plastic toys and furniture. We can use ultrasonic cleaning machines for many toys, soft toys, and textiles, or we can send them to our facility where we have Esporta hydraulic washing systems. We can also send clothes and shoes to our Esporta washers for a thorough but gentle cleaning process.

We can apply microbial treatments where needed to make items sanitary again.

When we have finished cleaning your home and belongings, we will deodorize to leave them fresh, “Like it never even happened.”

We understand that you are concerned about your family and their belongings. That is why we treat your loved ones and your possessions with the same care we treat our own.

For flood damage remediation, you can trust call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000.

Where Do Homeowners Go to Restore Their Residences After a Water Intrusion?

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Los Angeles is ready to tackle your water restoration needs.

For the Best Choice in Restoration After Flooding, Los Angeles Residents, Call SERVPRO.

Is a Professional Response Always Necessary?

Yes. Every Los Angeles home needs a professional agency like SERVPRO to not only remove water but to also eliminate moisture trapped in the floors, walls, and other parts of the structure. 

Why Should Homeowners Choose SERVPRO Over Other Companies?

Other water restoration companies simply do not have an extensive equipment inventory compared to what we have available at SERVPRO. With over 700 items ready to go, our teams are trained and prepared with everything from air movers to water extractors to restore local homes from nearly any type of water intrusion. 

Extractors – Our team specialists use a variety of devices. They have small extractors, designed to wear as a backpack for tight spaces such as closets. For larger parts of a home, specialists use pumps that range in size from models used in apartments to truck-mounted pumps with extensive hoses that have attached generators or can be run directly off the truck’s engine. 

Air Movers and Fans – After removing the standing water and any trapped in carpets or flooring, specialists install these devices to force moisture out of structural properties like drywall and other paneling, then draw it out of the interior to disperse outside. Where needed, they also use Dehumidifiers to augment the actions of the other devices. 

If There Is Damage, You Cannot Restore, What Happens Next?

Our restoration teams also have construction experienced technicians. Except for major repairs that require a licensed contractor, team members can accomplish the tasks needed to return each residence to its pre-intrusion condition, ready for occupation once more. 

To schedule a visit from one of our response teams or to learn more about what we can do for your home here or in Boyle Heights, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park today at (213) 628-2000. We are here for you. 

How Do Wildfires Damage Nearby Homes?

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

Los Angeles Homeowners are concerned about wildfires close to Los Angeles. SERVPRO Offers fire damage cleanup and restoration.

Los Angeles and California contends with wildfires that can stretch for miles and impact thousands of homes in varying ways.

As devastating as wildfires can be to Los Angeles area homes in the path of this moving natural disaster, households in the vicinity can also be impacted in other ways. Odors, soot, and embers can all have overwhelming effects on your property's look and function. Contending with these conditions often requires professional restoration technicians like our SERVPRO team. We have experience in fire recovery, as well as potent cleaning products and efficient tools to get your property back to preloss condition.

What Are the Most Common Threats to a House During a Wildfire?

Wildfires feed most on structures and forestry, making fire restoration for Los Angeles homes impacted a challenge. Soot is one of the most substantial obstacles, and it is generated by the incomplete combustion of fuels like wood. Creosote concerns can also be a concern from this burned material, much like the hazards from allowing this substance to build up in chimney flues. While your home might not always be in the direct line of a spreading wildfire approaching the city, there are several ways it could require professional cleaning and recovery, such as:

• HVAC Damage – The intake of your air conditioning that often runs most days throughout the year can quickly pull in contaminated air from the outside and potentially spread soot particles, ash, and smoke throughout the house. 
• Exterior Soot Damage – Siding and brickwork on the outside of your home has a textured surface, allowing soot particles to collect quickly. The thicker these coatings, the more challenging they can be to remove before staining and marring occur.
• Structural Compromise – While ash and soot particles can travel for miles on the air surrounding a wildfire, direct structural damage in the moving fire's path must also get addressed. We have contractors to help in these situations where demolition and reconstruction are necessary.

As unfortunate as wildfires can be for thousands affected, our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team can help you manage the emergency with a fast, knowledgeable response. Give us a call at (213) 628-2000.

How Many Budgets Does a Homeowner Need for Water Restoration in Los Angeles?

9/27/2020 (Permalink)

Regardless of how the excess water gained entry into your home, our technicians can help. We are standing by 24/7 for your emergency call.

SERVPRO Provides Water Mitigation Services to Los Angeles Residents That Help to Keep Expenses Under Control.

What is the most expensive part of flood restoration?

Protecting your Los Angeles home from water intrusion requires a budget. The most expensive aspect of any restoration project is the cost of labor. Water mitigation may require significant amounts of work. These may include demolition of certain building materials, transporting non-salvageable materials out of the property, and into skips, or reconstruction of certain parts of the home. All of these duties require human resources. Keeping the expense of restoration down focuses on having expertly trained staff capable of handling large amounts of responsibility within the project. SERVPRO employees undergo hundreds of training hours to become production technicians, while crew chiefs have many years of experience in restoring water loss sites.

What ways can I increase efficiency at a restoration site?

Preparation is essential to efficient water mitigation in your Los Angeles home. Mitigation is a time-specific task that focuses on preventing further harm. These techniques can manifest as removing contents from the affected area, setting up a drying procedure to guard against mold, or pumping water out of the property. To complete any of these duties requires efficient planning. Our crew chiefs review the scope of the project with managers before arriving on-site. Reviews can be time-efficient by ensuring that the necessary services are met, that the correct equipment is loaded onto the van. That water restoration technicians (WRT) can be briefed on the requirements of the job.

How can I speed up water restoration in my home?

• Staging areas can increase efficiency by avoiding long trips to get equipment supplies
• Using highly trained technicians 
• Perform inspections at the end of each day to stay ahead of potential changes or improvements

How should I handle water removal equipment?

Most Los Angeles water mitigation relies upon equipment. These machineries are typically complex with many moving parts. Production tools should be handled with the utmost care. Unloading equipment could potentially damage a device. That damage, in turn, can make drying times less efficient, or you may need to spend time replacing the tool. Most equipment runs on electrical power, which may sometimes be sourced from a portable generator. These generators run on fuel, and steps should be taken to ensure that they are not left on beyond their necessary usage. If you are attempting to perform home restoration, keeping an eye on equipment and energy usage can help keep your expenses under control.

How can I protect my possessions from water damage?

Possessions, or contents, can often be cleaned and dried in the property. Techniques like covering or blocking furniture can reduce the amount of water exposure that occurs to larger pieces of furniture. SERVPRO technicians may also deem it necessary to take items from the affected area and remove them from an unaffected site. We take extra care when moving possessions to ensure that no further damage occurs. Equally, we photograph the possessions before transferring them to provide transparency and a record of item condition. Moving contents out of harm's way can be an effective solution to potential water damage. Any clean rooms are prepared by placing polyethylene sheets directly onto the floors to avoid cross-contamination.

What are the additional services available during water mitigation?

• Reconstruction of parts of the property
• Packing out contents to a safe storage warehouse
• Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) inspection and cleaning

Are there additional costs in water restoration?

In the immediate aftermath of a water emergency, it can be tough to calculate costs accurately. There are many factors to consider before a workable estimate is produced, and it is not uncommon for restoration technicians to begin work before an assessment. Los Angeles homeowners may be able to benefit from additional services that SERVPRO provides during water restoration. Carrying out lead-based paint activities and renovation (RRRP), for example, may help to ensure that your property is safe and inhabitable after a water emergency. We can provide these services with qualified technicians ready to help abate and renovate properties that may use lead-based paint. A crew chief can recommend special services during the restoration that could help to return your home to a better than preloss condition.

What steps are necessary for water mitigation?

• Cleaning and decontaminating salvageable material
• Transporting and disposing of waste safely 
• Cleaning equipment and workers to avoid cross-contamination in the home

Preparing and executing water restoration can be tricky, but it is essential to keeping your expenses under control. Contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 for assistance.

How Can I Remove Unpleasant Water Odors From my Home?

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Our water damage experts are trained in a wide variety of restoration needs, even upholstery and fabric cleaning and odor control. Call us today.

SERVPRO Can Perform Deodorization at your Los Angeles Property as Part of our Water Damage Restoration Service.

Why do water odors occur?

Odors can come from multiple sources. When there is a water leak or intrusion at your Los Angeles home, microbes present in water can begin to proliferate, causing degradation and unpleasant odors. Water intrusion may also dislodge pre-existing grime, dust, or bacteria in the home, releasing odor. Finally, our perception of smells is heightened when there is proximity to moisture or at high levels of humidity. Our urgent priority is to clean and dry your home, thereby removing microbes or other odor-causing bacterias altogether. In some cases, drying and cleaning the property is the only odor-control method needed.

What should I do if odors remain after cleaning and drying?

Stubborn odors can undermine the water damage restoration in your Los Angeles home. It may be necessary to employ more aggressive odor control methods to return your home to its preloss condition. These methods use powerful equipment to disperse liquid or gas deodorants into the affected area. These deodorants can chemically bind with tiny odor particles and neutralize them. Using a gaseous deodorant can help us reach small areas like jointing cracks, light fittings, or venting ducts that may otherwise be inaccessible. When using an ultra-low volume fogger, it is essential to switch off pilot lights or other open ignition and inform the fire department ahead of time- many deodorant solvents can trigger fire alarms. 

What are other pieces of equipment and methods useful for odor control?

- Textiles and upholstery can often respond well to deodorant injections

- Hand-spraying liquid deodorant droplets directly onto fabrics like draperies or surfaces

- Venting Box Fans that can exchange indoor air rapidly

Effective odor control is essential to returning a home to its preloss condition. Contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000.

 Learn more about Los Angeles.

How Does Moisture in Materials Get Resolved for Flooded Los Angeles Homes?

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Can Offer Storm Damaged Los Angeles Properties Water Extraction, Drying, Controlled Demolition, and Build Back--Just Call Us!

After a flood, water removal techniques can be vital to protect more of the damaged areas of your residence.

Flooding can present some immediate concerns for Los Angeles homes. When natural flooding is happening, these concerns often gravitate towards contaminants and cleaning, though with clean water events, this emergency can have disastrous impacts on a property. The fast movement of standing water and water flow from structural breaches can be the worst for the most sensitive materials installed in your house. Elements like drywall and carpeting, for as common as these are, can be among the hardest hit by flood conditions.

Removing water and other flood mitigation for Los Angeles homes and businesses does not exclusively refer to pooling on the property's floors. While standing water must get addressed with the appropriate mitigation equipment, trapped moisture can be just as destructive and detrimental to the house. Careful considerations must get made about the affected materials and the best approaches to remove moisture and trapped water. From concrete masonry units in the foundation or surrounding the crawlspace to gypsum and carpeting, our strategies vary based on the severity of the exposure.

Do Emergency Services Help?

The general contractors and qualified flood restoration technicians of our SERVPRO team can ensure that the right measures are taken immediately to protect your property best. Often this process involves several direct actions getting taken as soon as our professionals first arrive. Reducing the continued flooding of the property and the migration of floodwater is a focal point of any successful flood restoration strategy. The elements of these plans often include:

• Board Up – Structural concerns are not uncommon with flooding, especially when these conditions follow severe weather in the area that could break windows, remove siding, and leave other vulnerabilities. This phase of repair ensures that these damage points do not allow for further flood damage. 
• Tarping – Much like board-up services, tarping focuses on breaches to the roof, which can almost be expected when monsoon season damages the Greater Los Angeles area.
• Content Relocation – To many homeowners, personal belongings mean as much as the structure. Getting these items to a safe location during early flood mitigation can ensure that avoidable irreparable damage does not occur. 
• Controlled Demolition – General contractors from our roster can inspect the property for weaknesses and structural concerns that must get replaced. 

What Is the Difference Between Permeability and Porosity?

Regarding the drying and water removal efforts necessary to recover damaged contents and structural elements in a flood-damaged house, understanding specific terminology can help. Permeability and porosity both involve the movement of water through materials. Permeability is water's ability to move through a material, and certain elements vary in degrees of this permeance. Likewise, porosity gauges the composition of materials to determine the likelihood of absorption when exposed to water. There are three main degrees of porosity ratings for materials and contents:

• Porous – Materials like carpet and drywall allow the fast absorption of water when exposure occurs. These materials are also quickly irreparably damaged by oversaturation.
• Semi-Porous – Some materials can absorb water to the point of damage, but this does not happen immediately, such as exposed hardwood flooring.
• Non-Porous – Glass, tile, and similar materials are often impermeable for water. These materials cannot become damaged by absorbing water. 

What Are the Obstacles of Hygroscopic Materials?

Hygroscopic materials refer to a select grouping of structural elements that are highly permeable and porous, making them fast targets for floodwater exposure. Because of how quickly these surfaces and items can become damaged, a swift reaction from responding technicians can prevent the need for tear-out and reconstruction or replacement. While the finite timeline can be a substantial obstacle, these materials can often dry quickly with the right approaches, such as centrifugal air movers, dehumidifiers, and other equipment.

• Insulation
• Carpet
• Upholstery
• Fabrics

When Does Reconstruction Happen?

Reconstruction is often an inevitable outcome when restoring flood damages and effects on a house. Whether it is repairing the damage to a roof after torrential rainfall and compromising winds, or it is removing interior drywall and framing to replace it when these elements become oversaturated. With contractors (General Contractor License #: 999460)
California State License Board (CSLB) #: 999460) on our roster, we have building trade professionals that can begin these repairs and reconstruction needs when mitigation and restoration complete.

As challenging as water removal can be, understanding elements like porosity and permeability can ensure that the right equipment and strategies get implemented to restore the property as much as possible. Give our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team a call today at (213) 628-2000.

Is It Faster to Clean Up Water Damage in Your Los Angeles Home on Your Own?

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides various types of moisture meters to find those hidden pockets of dampness in your Los Angeles home. "Like it never even happened."

In a city that never slows down, water damage emergencies can be an inevitable situation for many homeowners to face.

There are situations where cleaning your Los Angeles home on your own might be more cost-effective and efficient. Regarding water disasters that can spread quickly through the property, DIY approaches rarely have the widespread impact necessary to successfully remove moisture concerns and dry exposed materials and contents.

Being among the leading water restoration companies for Los Angeles, our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team has helped hundreds of homes and businesses through water disasters. With so many potential causes for these emergencies, this has become the most persistent and anticipated restoration need for Los Angeles County homes and businesses alike. Our fast response can often slow the spread and severity of water emergencies through containment and the use of air movers and dehumidifiers.

How Can Moisture Pockets Get Identified Beyond the Surface Materials?

One of the risks of DIY restoration and drying after a water disaster is the inadequate removal of moisture concerns. Exposed materials might show the worst signs of damage on the surface where contact was made, but there are often damp areas and moisture pockets that must also get addressed by evaporative drying techniques. Failure to find and dry out these wet areas can lead to worsening conditions like structural deterioration or the development of microbial threats. Locating these problem areas often falls to advanced technologies in our inventory, such as:

• Moisture Meters
• Hygrometers
• Probing Detection Tools
• Thermal Imagery

While you might find that there are situations where cleaning and restoring your home on your own seems beneficial, this is rarely the case with water damage to properties. Our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park technicians are standing by 24/7 to help at (213) 628-2000.

What Services Do Restoration Companies in Los Angeles Provide?

8/16/2020 (Permalink)

Fires and leaks can happen in your home without warning. Call SERVPRO for water and fire remediation services.

If You Live in Los Angeles and Need Fire or Water Damage Restoration SERVPRO Can Provide That and More

Every day in Los Angeles, fires break out, homes experience burst pipes, and mold is a problem somewhere. You do not have to contact different companies for each situation. SERVPRO can handle it all.

Do Restoration Companies Only Deal with Big Issues?

While restoration companies in Los Angeles, such as SERVPRO, do deal with serious problems such as house fires and commercial flooding, a good bit of our business centers on more minor matters like toilet overflows, carpet cleaning, and mold mitigation. But even the smaller incidents can cause significant disruption in our customer's lives. We take any size problem seriously.

Is There Special Training for Your Technicians?

Our technicians undergo intense training to prepare them for professional fire and water restoration. They undergo specific training for things such as content cleaning. Their education includes:

• Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) – This sets the industry standards. Our techs learn how to best deal with everything, from general water and fire restoration to mold remediation.
• Employee Certification Training Program (ECTP) – Technicians learn in-depth ways to perform water damage restoration, carpet cleaning, and upholstery cleaning.
• Initial Franchise Training – Hands-on training that provides the needed knowledge to tackle the restoration customers need.
• Continuing Education & E-Learning – Ongoing training keeps the staff updated on cutting-edge technology and new cleaning and restoration methods.

Besides providing professional fire and water damage restoration, SERVPRO also offers carpet and upholstery, HVAC cleaning, and anti-viral disinfectant applications. We are licensed and bonded. You can trust your home and possessions to our professional technicians.

Contractor Licenses: 

• General: 999460
• CSLB: 999460

 Contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628 – 2000 for all your restoration and cleaning needs.

Click here for more information about Los Angeles.

What Damage Can Result from a Broken Sink Fixture in Your Los Angeles Cafe?

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO knows how serious a bathroom leak can take over your Los Angeles Cafe. Call us today, we can have you back up and running in no time.

Our SERVPRO team can respond quickly to water losses, helping to begin repairs, restoration, and recovery efforts as soon as possible. 

With a steady flow of patrons coming into your Los Angeles cafe every day, unexpected loss incidents like a broken fixture in one bathroom can be destructive. Not only can shutting your doors harm your reputation, but it can also make it more challenging to open them again after restoration and recovery. Choosing a team like SERVPRO is choosing a fast and reliable response to these water emergencies to ensure that the appropriate steps get taken immediately to recover the damage. 

Because the bathrooms are directly connected to your building's main floor where customers gather and enjoy their coffee, water restoration in your Los Angeles cafe must begin immediately. You cannot stall the progress of migrating water without the appropriate equipment and expertise, and that is why securing our professionals right away can help. In many situations, we can offer thorough drying and recovery solutions in contained areas to allow you to continue operating at a limited capacity while restoration continues.

Should Repairs Happen Right Away? 

There is no mistaking the damage that migrating water can do, especially to the structural elements immediately surrounding a water loss' origin point. Fortunately, with a team of in-house contractors at our command, we can offer restoration and repair solutions for properties. The assessment of your property can happen alongside mitigation and the installation of containment barriers, allowing you to continue serving your customers throughout even the earliest stages of restoration. Our contractors can help in several ways after a water loss beginning in the bathroom, including:

• Replace broken plumbing
• Repair damaged fixtures
• Begin controlled demolition

What Is Troublesome About Standing Water? 

Substantial water loss incidents can be made even worse by the presence of standing water. This pooling on the surface can spread quickly into neighboring spaces like the main floor of your cafe. Migrating loss effects can be threatening to your customers, making it vital to address these situations before they infiltrate communal areas where your patrons gather. There are multiple concerns with standing water and its effect on the exposed materials around it. Some of these include:

• Saturation – The absorption of water into specific sensitive materials such as carpeted floors, wood plank flooring, or furniture and cabinetry around preparation areas in your cafe can have permanently damaging effects.

• Migration – The spread and severity of water loss effects vary from one location to the next, but failure to address standing water from the bathroom can lead to these same issues and more heavily trafficked areas of your business.

• Structural Deterioration – The presence of water trapped in specific materials like drywall and wood flooring can lead to deterioration and degradation. There is a finite timeline to address these concerns with the appropriate drying tools.

Can Water Move to Inaccessible Areas? 

Knowing where water migration has occurred, and the path that it continues to take throughout the property can allow our technicians to get ahead of this evolving threat. When the water reaches inaccessible areas, we must utilize specialty drying tools to promote evaporation once extraction efforts become more challenging. Water trapped within flooring systems can often get overlooked without the appropriate technologies to determine where migration has happened. We can breakdown the recovery of engineered wood flooring and hardwoods into three phases: 

• Surface Moisture Meter - We utilize moisture meters to identify moisture pockets and dampness within structural elements like flooring and subflooring materials.

• Floor Mat Drying Systems - When water gets located within these materials, it is possible to remove this moisture with our floor drying mats positioned appropriately throughout the structure.

• Controlled Demolition - When physical damage exists in the flooring after prolonged exposure to moisture, the only solution is controlled demolition. We can perform this within our containment area to reduce cross-contamination and any other detrimental effect on your customers.

What Materials and Fixtures Require Replacement? 

Many structural elements and fixtures exist within the bathrooms of your cafe. As you look to upkeep the appearance and aesthetic qualities of these necessary facilities, you can recognize how quickly elements like vanities and flooring might become too compromised to preserve. Many of the vanities used in even commercial applications are a particleboard construct, which can be overly sensitive to water absorption. In many situations, it is more cost-effective to remove it and replace this structural fixture rather than to attempt to dry it.

Water loss incidents can happen without notice and spread rapidly through your business. Our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team can help with the fast response featuring experienced professionals and efficient recovery tools. Give us a call today at (213) 628-2000.

Where Can I Find Professional Water Extraction Services in Los Angeles?

7/12/2020 (Permalink)

“Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Specializes in the Latest Technologies for Water Extraction Standing in Los Angeles

In the Greater Los Angeles area, many homes can suffer from structural problems. Whether a condo or a large house, water can cause issues for property owners.

Water damage in your home is one of the most frustrating and destructive problems that you can face as a homeowner. Responding quickly to solve this problem is a critical step in preventing permanent structural and component damage. SERVPRO provides industry-leading water extraction services in Los Angeles.

My Sewer Backed Up, Will That Smell Ever Leave My House?

Sewer Water Contains Hydrogen Sulfide
When sewer water is present, it is crucial to extract the sewer water as soon as possible by pumping, draining, and even mopping it out of your house. You may also need to remove all of the grime and debris from all contact surfaces and wash everything down with hot water and detergent. The process is often quite invasive and too repulsive for most homeowners; therefore, they opt for professional services such as SERVPRO that specialize in biohazard cleanup. Remember: Certified SERVPRO Cleaned for a safe and secure result.

What Are Some Other Things I Should Consider After The Job is Done?

    •    Structural Damage: Anytime standing water is present regardless of time, it poses a risk to structural members of your house. Framing and bottom sill plates should be inspected for damage to ensure the wood is still structurally sound after a large amount of water has wicked into the materials.
    •    Component Damage: Residential housing components that should be inspected and serviced include boilers, HVAC systems, heaters (electrical, natural gas, and fuel oil), fireplaces, insulation, drywall, trim, plumbing, and electrical systems.
    •    Removing Damaged Items: If your home has been subjected to standing water of any nature, removing damaged items such as carpets, drywall, insulation, and damaged framing members is the recommended approach to guarantee your family’s health and ensure the structural integrity of your home. SERVPRO strives to restore and not replace water damaged elements whenever possible.

If you need immediate assistance for this vital and sensitive situation, contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 today and get your standing water problems solved by a professional and 5-star service you can trust to do the job right the first time.

How Can I Quickly Remove Water Damage from My Los Angeles Hotel?

6/28/2020 (Permalink)

A water loss to your Los Angeles business can be rough, let SERVPRO assist your business.

When plumbing breaks occur within between the ceiling and floor of the above level, the result can be substantial water damage that must be addressed immediately. 

Plumbing tucked between the floor of an upper level and the ceiling of the main story in your Los Angeles hotel might be aesthetically pleasing, but can also lead to some widespread loss effects should a plumbing break occur. Addressing these concerns as quickly as possible can help both of the building's affected stories get better protected from the spreading damage. Our fast-responding SERVPRO technicians can help. 

Our professionals can work fast to begin water cleanup in Los Angeleshotels like yours, thanks to our experience with commercial losses to our extensive inventory of extractors, drying units, and cleaning products. As you might expect, little of the restoration can begin in your lobby or guest rooms until our professionals recognize what all materials have become affected by this plumbing breach and determine where this break in the utilities has occurred. 

How Bad is the Damage? 

Job scoping is a vital process for our responding SERVPRO technicians, as it showcases much of the current situation and details the necessary tools and personnel required to restore it. We have many sophisticated tools and technologies developed exclusively to help evaluate moisture damage and dampness pockets beyond the surface to reduce the need for unnecessary controlled demolition and later reconstruction. Some of the information that we can catalog from thorough job scoping include:

• Water migration - An objective of thoroughly evaluating moisture content beyond the surface materials is to show where water migration occurs and what structural elements might have become impacted without yet showing signs of damage. 

• Affected materials - Probing meters and surface moisture sensors can indicate where moisture exists and which materials are most impacted. Higher concentrations narrow the search field for the plumbing break, and it can show where controlled demolition might be necessary. 

• Irreparable damage - An inspection of the area can identify sagging materials, bloating of ceiling tiles, and other clear indications of water damage. These materials must often get discarded and later replaced. 

Can Affected Materials Get Protected? 

Just because structural materials like the ceiling in your hotel lobby get damaged by the water does not mean that they are beyond restoration. It is always the priority of our responding technicians to restore before replacement when it is cost-effective and possible to do this. With that in mind, specific tools can help to manage these pressing loss concerns to prevent unnecessary controlled demolition and repairs. Some of these include:

• Injecti-Dry System - A positive pressure system that used multiple small hoses to inject heated air into structural cavities like the ceiling system. Without excessive water, this Inject-Dry approach can significantly increase evaporative rates. 

• Air Movers - Where portions of the ceiling area have become exposed, centrifugal air movers can get positioned on saturated materials to evaporate surface moisture and trapped water. 

• Dehumidifiers - Evaporation can cause a rise in the humidity of the hotel, making desiccant and low-grain refrigerant (LGR) dehumidifiers a valuable addition to the drying process.

What Can Effective Containment Do for Your Hotel? 

Physical barriers help to isolate areas in need of drying. With a wooden framework and poly sheeting, we can prevent the continued spread of loss effects, including migrating water, microbial concerns, and even residues that must get cleaned. Containment strategies are also vital for your business model during this time of restoration. Some of the ways that quickly establishing containment barriers in the hotel can help include:

• Keep your doors open
• Prevent traffic in the work area
• Allow our technicians to work around the clock to solve the issue

What if Demolition is Necessary? 

We have an in-house team of qualified commercial contractors that can help with even substantial loss incidents. We can work quickly to establish the appropriate controlled demolition to limit discarded materials and make build back more efficient and cost-effective. From insulation vacuums to remove these wet materials to discarding sagging drywall on the ceiling, we can work to rebuild these areas "Like it never even happened."

When plumbing breaches occur between the floors of your hotel, many of your guests and communal areas can become affected. Our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park professionals can respond quickly to these emergencies with the tools and experience to help. Give us a call anytime that you need us at (213) 628-2000.

Is My Fire Los Angeles Damage Considered Major or Minor?

6/21/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage can seem quite overwhelming. Contact our SERVPRO team for effective fire damage remediation services.

SERVPRO Understands Your Los Angeles Home is Important and Handles All Types of Damage by Fire

Any fire is devastating to the family involved, but some determinations classify the damage done to the structure. Different methods for cleaning and restoration depend upon how extensive the fire was in Los Angeles.

What are the three levels of fire damage?

If you need fire damage restoration in Los Angeles, SERVPRO's fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) provide emergency mitigation fast. The level of damage done dictates the type of cleaning and restoration that will be utilized in your home to leave it "Like it never even happened."

• Minor Fire Damage – Smoke residue is contained in smaller areas and leaves a light to a moderate residue. Walls and ceilings need repainting, but only minor items need replacing.
• Medium Fire Damage – More extensive smoke damage through the house. The residue is worse. Items like furniture may need replacing. Wood surfaces require refinishing. Odors linger and are more potent.
• Major Fire Damage- Damage is extensive, and interior walls, support beams, and ceilings need replacing. Smoke residue is widespread, and odors are overwhelming. The home is boarded up, and contents removed to our cleaning facilities. 

Giving You Back Your Home

With our extensive fire damage restoration methods, we return your home to you. FSRT teams apply the cleaning methods that will work best for your level of loss.

• Wet & Dry Cleaning – all levels of fire damage and includes cleaning personal belongings, furniture, and structure. Dry cleaning gets used for porous, non-washable surfaces. It's the primary method for minor damage.
• Airborne Scrubbers– used to remove air particulates.
• Immersion Cleaning – cleans smoked damaged non-porous items 
• Thermal Foggers – neutralizes odors and works on porous items
• Specialty Restoration – includes documentation restoration, electronic repair, and other types of unique situations.
• Water Extraction – water damage is a problem when there is a fire, so steps to remove are implemented.

Contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 for fire and smoke restoration. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Click here for more information about Los Angeles.

I Need Help in Restoring My Los Angeles Office Building After a Fire. Who Do I Call?

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

When your office building has fire damage, you can trust SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park to clean it up and restore it effectively.

Contact SERVPRO to Perform Commercial Fire Damage Restoration in Your Los Angeles Office Building

Fires are as likely to happen in commercial buildings as in homes, and they can be devastating. An office building fire can be particularly dangerous because of the furniture like chairs and desks closely packed in working areas ad the many employees present. After a fire loss incident in your office building in Los Angeles, you can hire SERVPRO to restore the property so that normal business operations can resume.

What steps can you take to restore my property?

Our restoration experts are there to assist you to recover from the fire loss. To handle the commercial fire damage in your Los Angeles office building, we can take several steps based on the extent of the fire. Here are some steps we can take:

    •    Safety assessment – We can assess building safety by looking out for structural issues and other dangers like chemicals and asbestos that could harm individuals entering the building.
    •    Securing the building – A fire can leave some parts of your office building exposed and open. We can secure the property by boarding up the openings with exterior grade plywood, polythene sheeting, or roofing tarpaulins.
    •    Containment – If only a part of the office building is affected, we can seal off the affected area and request people in the building to reduce movement to those areas.

What does cleanup work involve?

Fire damage increases quickly with time, and that’s why we begin the clean-up process as soon as it is safe to do so. This process can start with removing debris from the premises. We can remove materials like charred carpets, furnishings and ceiling tiles, and dispose of them appropriately.

Addressing the chemical or water damage from firefighting efforts is also vital. We can use portable pumps to extract the water and then dry the building using air movers and dehumidifiers.

Another issue we deal with it smoke damage. Apart from walls and floors, smoke can ruin many items in your office building. Businesses usually contain electronics, décor, and furniture, among other items. Smoke damage can affect specific spaces that are seemingly enclosed, like closets and desk drawers. Our team can use structure cleaning solutions and cleaning agents to salvage furniture, flooring, office equipment, and other items.

What about the odor. Can you remove it?

Our SERVPRO team can take measures to eliminate the persistent smoke odors using deodorization products like water-based odor counteractants, sealers, and odor counteracting beads. Deodorization is an essential step in the fire recovery process since odors can have a negative impact on customers and people who work in the building.

When your office building has fire damage, you can trust SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park to clean it up and restore it effectively. Contact us today at (213) 628-2000.

What is the Best Way to Get Flood Water Out of My Los Angeles Home?

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

We are available 24/7 for emergency service, and we send out a team in as little as four hours when you give us a call.

SERVPRO is Available in Los Angeles for Expert Flood Damage Restoration!

Flooding is rarely a situation that you can prepare for, especially when a storm comes in quickly and leaves your Los Angeles home with a copious amount of standing water. Any water loss situation brings a good deal of stress and chaos to your home, which is why contacting water restoration technicians (WRT) is usually the best option. SERVPRO can come to your home 24/7 to help ensure that your interior gets restored quickly to preloss condition, and you can get back to life as usual.

How Long Will Water Extraction Take?

When you call us for service, our team comes out to assess your flood damage in Los Angeles so that we can formulate an efficient plan for extraction and restoration. The length of time the project takes from start to finish depends significantly on the amount of water and the level of damage. We use IICRC-certified techniques that allow us to manage flood loss events of all types. Our crew chiefs are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In many cases, we can have a team on-site and ready to start work in as little as four hours or less.

What Tools Do You Bring to the Job?

Our Green Fleet is loaded with advanced tools, equipment, and cleaning agents that allow us to expedite each flood loss project. Some of the tools that we use most in jobs include:

    •    Extraction Equipment: Submersible pumps are helpful when we need to remove water from targeted areas within your home. Truck-mounted water extraction tools are perfect when dealing with a situation that calls for hundreds of gallons of water to be removed.
    •    Air Moving Equipment: Air-moving technology like industrial-strength fans and air movers are critical on each water loss job. This equipment helps to ensure air flows over your furniture and flooring to speed up water evaporation. Our team repositions our air mover tools as needed throughout the project to ensure maximum efficiency.
    •    Dehumidification Equipment: A series of dehumidifiers of industrial-grade help to pull up excess moisture from the air in your home, which helps to lower humidity levels. The dehumidifiers work in unison with air movers and fans to keep secondary damage from happening to your floors, furniture, and walls.

What is a Controlled Demolition?

There are times with a flood damage project when controlled demolition is necessary. This process allows us to not only remove damaged building materials, but it also helps us to locate hidden pockets of pooled water or moisture. Water from a flood often becomes absorbed and encapsulated in woodwork, flooring, and walls. Instead of leaving it to chance and allowing it to dry over time, we have a range of strategies to get to the heart of the matter:

    •    Flood cuts can be made several inches over the waterline when you have saturated drywall
    •    Holes can be drilled in masonry mortar joints
    •    Baseboards can be removed, and holes may be drilled into the bottom of walls, which allows us to force air in for expedient drying
    •    Strips of hardwood floors or wood panels can be loosened to enhance drying

We Carefully Follow Water Migration

Something many homeowners are unaware of is that water often migrates into other areas than the flood loss zone. For us to execute a flawless project, our skilled technicians take the time to follow the path of potential water migration. This helps us to ensure that no further damage takes place with your building materials and that we inhibit dangerous mold and mildew growth.

    •    Water never remains static once it enters into your home
    •    Water begins seeping, percolating, and flowing throughout building materials and cavities

Why Can’t I Perform Flood Water Removal On My Own?

Whenever your Los Angeles home takes on floodwater, various elements like solid waste, mud, silt, and other debris is often present. Our trained water restoration technicians (WRT) have rakes and other hand tools that allow us to remove solids found in the water quickly. The powerful truck-mounted extractor tool is also helpful for removing water that is mixed with debris. Trash pumps can quickly pull out both water and solids rapidly, while submersible pumps help wrap up the rest of the water removal if the level is higher than two inches in depth.

To ensure safety, our skilled technicians always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) while removing and cleaning up floodwater. Treatment of the water with a disinfectant prior to removal is also common practice to further increase protection from various biological agents.

Remember that flood damage does not have to be stressful, which is why it is best to contact our team at SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park when you need help. We are available 24/7 for emergency service, and we send out a team in as little as four hours when you give us a call at (213) 628-2000.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open in Los Angeles, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned,but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park today at (213) 628-2000 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Los Angeles Commercial Properties that Will be Reopening Must Earn Consumer Confidence

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can Prepare your commercial site for reopening with advanced cleaning services that include disinfecant applications.

When the public returns to businesses and especially restaurants that have been closed, they will have concerns about the establishments’ cleanliness. Cleanliness is associated with good health, and soil and grime are related to poor health. A business that is reopening must look, smell, and be clean.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park helps Businesses Re-Earn the Los Angeles Public Trust

We have been in the cleaning and property damage restoration business for a long time. Our team of expert specialty cleaning technicians has worked on sewage spill remediation, mold and microbial removal, and biohazard crime & trauma scene cleaning. Having this experience makes our team more than qualified to perform virus cleanup. Because we offer core services such as carpet cleaning, HVAC cleaning, power-washing, and others, we are able to make a building sparkle. And, the sparkle is what will convey to consumers that you are concerned about protecting their health.

Currently, our cleaning teams are helping businesses and others with preventative cleaning measures. Once again, when the public sees professionals working at a location that is open, they have a better impression of that company.

Please contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake and Echo Park to discuss your current or future cleaning needs. We offer flexible hours of service with specific plans for different types of business and all for a reasonable cost.  We are also continuing to perform mold, fire, and water damage cleanup 24/7 for our clients that have those emergency needs. We are pleased to speak with you about ways we may be of assistance at SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000

Disclaimer: Advice from the medical and scientific community regarding how to deal with the coronavirus is based on present knowledge, which is subject to change as the situation continues to develop. There can be no assurance that disinfectants alone will be adequate to fully eliminate the virus. We are not physicians or infectious disease professionals. Consult your medical professionals for individual medical advice.

Can SERVPRO Tell Me Why Ceiling Water Stains in My Los Angeles Home Need Immediate Attention?

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Stains on the ceiling can indicate water damage.

Why SERVPRO is the Best Choice for Water Damage Restoration in Your Los Angeles Home.

If you believe you see signs of water damage to the ceiling of your Los Angeles home, the source of the water needs determining before restoration begins. A major mistake that people make is attempting to patch it themselves without solving the root of the problem first. A professional remediation company needs to be called in to check the situation out. 

As a property owner, it is essential that you can identify water damage in your Los Angeles home since signs can sometimes be neglected or unnoticed. Don't underestimate the water's ability to create significant damage to your structure. The SERVPRO Brand has the professionally trained staff and tools you need to fix an issue like this in your home, which is why SERVPRO Franchise professionals are the right choice to restore your home. 

One of the most visible signs of a ceiling which is water damaged are water stains. These usually look brownish or rusty in color and can suggest a previous or ongoing leak. It is always best, either way, it is always the best decision to have SERVPRO Franchise professionals look and help you find the source while repairing any damage. We have moisture meters which can find any hidden moisture that is creating the staining to resolve the issue, and the damage stopped. 

Another indication of a water damaged ceiling is bubbling or swelling. If your ceiling appears to be bulging out, it means there is an accumulation of moisture in the drywall and wood. It can at times be dangerous because as the water continues to collect, it can cause the ceiling to collapse. We can alleviate the situation before it becomes dangerous. 

Sometimes, a water damaged ceiling looks like it is sweating, with the discoloration looking a bit darker than the paint and showing up at the start of a water leak. The excess humidity or moisture creeps into walls and the ceiling and turns in bubbling or stains. It is a clear sign you need to act before the problem worsens immediately. 

Mold is another clear indicator there is water damage, and it needs to be handled right away since mold can cause health effects. Mold can start growing in as little as 48 hours and continually spreads until cleaning occurs. SERVPRO Franchise professionals are equipped to handle mold as well if it has begun to grow in your home due to a water leak. 

SERVPRO of Silver Lake/Echo Park is trained and experienced to handle ceiling water damage in your home in Silver Lake, Chinatown, or Elysian Park. As soon as you realize there is an issue, reach out to us by dialing (213) 628-2000, so we can stop the leak and restore your home. 

Read more about Los Angeles here.

How Do I Deal with Unexpected Water Cleanup in My Los Angeles Hotel?

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Often historic buildings have aging plumbing systems. SERVPRO is ready to restore your hotel to its preloss condition.

Don't Let Water Damage Cause Your Los Angeles Hotel to Appear Inhospitable

Los Angeles is renowned for its thriving tourist economy. People flock from all over the world to visit Beverly Hills, Long Beach, and the iconic Hollywood Boulevard. As a hotel owner, you need to be ready to serve throughout the year and, like any hospitality business, temporary closure or poor reviews can be a disaster for your revenues. We offer the hospitality industry a prompt, professional and expert service when unexpected damages go beyond the remit of your housekeeping team. 

Many of this city's hotels were built in the 20th century and can house aging plumbing infrastructure. If a pipe splits or bursts getting emergency water removal in Los Angeles is a necessity to get back to business as soon as possible. SERVPRO offers our hospitality community a 24 hour emergency call-line and an immediate call out on notification of loss. We do this because we recognize how vital availability and efficiency are to your business. 

We are ready to dispatch a team of highly trained technicians led by an experienced project manager. We walk you through the service every step of the way and can act on your behalf when dealing with your insurance adjuster. Our company has experience dealing with commercial insurance providers and can act in your best interest. Keeping you in the loop is as essential to us as it is to you, especially when dealing with an older building which may have unique architecture and infrastructure. 

Standing water is a health and safety issue, but it can also cause permanent damage to your subfloor. SERVPRO has IICRC certificate holders in applied structural drying and carpet cleaning. We use submersible gas-powered pumps to remove water quickly before going in with water extractors to remove any residual moisture. In larger spaces, we can deploy rapid air movers alongside dehumidifiers to control humidity levels and prevent mold growth. 

When your business needs professional assistance to get back to its best, contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000.

Hollywood was established in 1853. Click here for more information on Los Angeles.

Can SERVPRO Help Us Prepare Our Los Angeles Warehouse for a Flood?

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to assess your company's flood risk or to remediate flood damage.

Helpful Steps to Take to Minimize Damage From a Storm

Your warehouse and your stock are very valuable, so every effort needs to be made to protect it against all kinds of threats and hazards, including water damage from flooding. You can learn how to best protect your business from being put out of commission from such an event, but not everything can be avoided at all times, and you will want a professional company such as SERVPRO to come help you out in the event of such an emergency.

In the meantime, it is essential to take steps for protection against commercial water damage from flooding in your Los Angeles warehouse. Flood protection is not a legal requirement. However, many times floods come with a weather warning so you should have time to prepare.

Areas Which are at Risk

If your business operates in an area which is known to be at risk of flooding, there are steps you should take to limit water damage from the flood waters.

You should first sign up to get any flood warnings using the National Weather Service. You can also raise sockets, electrical installations, wiring and fuse boxes from ground level to help prevent water from getting into your electrical systems. Investing in guards which can be fitted to outside doors and covers which can be fitted to ventilation bricks can help stop water from seeping through.

You can also install non-return valves to drainage pipes to prevent water from backing up into your premises. Raising damp-proof courses and sealing floors can also help prevent water damage. Heavy duty high-rise racking can be installed, too, so the heavy stock can even be stored at a higher height when a flood threatens your business. Paper records should also be stored on upper levels or in filing cabinets which are sealed.

Flood Plan

You will want to draw up a flood plan as well and put it up where all employees can see it. This should include an evacuation route, plus contact information for a remediation company such as SERVPRO to help you after the flood to clean up the water damage as soon as possible. Make sure to call our professionals as soon as possible after the damage occurs to prevent further damages and reduce any health risks from things such as mold.

When Your Building Suffers Water Damage

Your municipal building in Los Angeles is one of the staples of the community, and therefore, it cannot afford to have to get shut down for any length of time due to unexpected incidents. The community that you serve expects your branch or division to adhere to your operating hours, regardless of unexpected water emergencies that could have occurred inside.

When you are a representative of the city or even of the state of California, running this business of sorts requires a lot of moving parts and each staff member doing their job. When your plumbing breaks free, or sprinkler systems degrade and malfunction, your Los Angeles facility can find itself combatting a modest amount of water damage.

Our SERVPRO team can appreciate the time-sensitive situation when you contend with water damage in your building. Not only could this pose a hazard to the high traffic of those coming into the facility, but it also poses a persistent threat to your staff and the structural strength of the material as well.

Many times smaller-scale incidents only require some concentrated mopping and light extraction followed by drying efforts, this is also something that your maintenance department might not have the resources to accomplish promptly. Ultimately, choosing SERVPRO professional restoration services can help you to get the job done efficiently and correctly.

Quality of the work is another thing that you and those responsible for maintenance of the building should consider when a water incident occurs. Failure to adequately clean and dry the mess can lead to compounding damages like mold and mildew growth, which potentially pose health hazards to those exposed to it.

There is nothing that can prepare you or your staff for even a smaller-scale water incident in your building. With the high demand of your municipal structure for the community and area you serve, you need to act quickly to keep things running smoothly and prevent your doors getting closed unnecessarily. Choose our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park restoration specialists for our fast response times and high caliber execution. Give us a call today at (213) 628-2000.

Click here for more about Los Angeles.

Can SERVPRO Evaluate My Silver Lake Home's Risk Of Flood Damage?

4/25/2020 (Permalink)

Every home has different risks and damage hotspots in a major storm.

SERVPRO Can Help With Your Homes Risks. 

Every home has different risks and damage hotspots in a major storm. Your home is likely very different from that of your neighbor, even if they share the same floor plan. Perhaps the most pronounced differences in Silver Lake often come in the form of flood damage, as homes in very close proximity to each other can have vastly different levels of flood risk and potential for damage. To determine if your home is at high risk for flooding you likely need to contact an expert like SERVPRO, but for a quick evaluation, check for these potential indicators.

Low Relative Elevation

The largest deciding factor in whether or not your Silver Lake home is at risk for flood damage in a storm is its elevation relative to surrounding homes. Is your home at a somewhat lower elevation than most of the neighborhood? Even if it is on higher ground, you may also be placed at risk by proximity to dips and potential waterways in a major rainstorm. Ideally, your home should be on high ground or the slope of a hill to be at the lowest possible flood damage risk.

Construction Quality And Materials

Not all homes are built alike. If your home was built of quality materials and solid construction, it is likely to weather a flood much better than a home of somewhat shoddier build quality. Be honest with yourself and with any appraiser, as any attempt to make your home out as anything other than what it truly is could give you a false sense of security and complacency.

Natural And Artificial Barriers

Strong barriers around your home can significantly reduce the chance of floodwaters reaching your doorstep. Even if your home does get flooded, barriers can help to interrupt the flow of water and decrease the severity of flooding in your home. Look around your home for potential barriers, and use your judgment to determine if they actually may stop a flood.

When things go south, SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is ready to respond within hours of your first call. Contact us 24/7 at (213) 628-2000.

Click here for more about the city of Silver Lake.

Will Flooding Cause Secondary Damages To My Los Angeles Property?

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

In the event that your home is affected by flooding, contact SERVPRO to efficiently dry out your property.

How to Fight Against Flood Damage in Los Angeles

Floods that are out of your control can wreak havoc on your possessions and property. Unfortunately, cleaning up the mess is your responsibility. Whether it is an overflowing road, a result of heavy rainfall or a natural disaster the harm caused to your home can be hard to fix yourself.

We serve hundreds of homeowners suffering from flood damage in Los Angeles and the surrounding area. Using up to the minute techniques and over thirty years of experience means we can get your home back to how it was with minimum fuss. "Like it never even happened."

The first step on the road to recovery is removing any excess water. We can do this using a portable extractor for smaller affected areas and truck-mounted pumps for larger jobs. When flooding occurs, the water itself can become contaminated by raw sewage, pesticides or any other toxins that come into contact with it.

Water that has become contaminated is referred to as black water and requires a sustained sanitization effort to ensure comprehensive restoration. The reason black water is so severe is that any remnants left behind can become breeding grounds for bacteria, produce unpleasant odors or encourage mold growth.

We have the expertise and equipment to remove areas of drywall, clear contamination as well as deep cleaning your contents at a specialized facility. In situations where a pack-out is the only way to restore your possessions to their pre loss conditions, we utilize Esporta washing machines that are capable of restoring items you may have thought were beyond repair.

After flood damage, the last thing you want is secondary damages. These can occur by leaving behind moisture or overlooking areas where contaminated water may reside after extraction. To ensure a thorough cleaning procedure, we use wet/dry vacuums and cleaning wands for targeted drying and sanitization. We can restore your indoor air quality by using ozone generators or chemical foggers to remove, neutralize and clear odors away.

Get a professional cleanup service today by calling SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park 24 hours a day at (213) 628-2000.

Click here for more information on the city of Los Angeles.

What Are A Few Shortcuts to Fire Damage Remediation That SERVPRO Uses For Success in Los Angeles?

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Regardless of the extent of the fire damage in your home, contact SERVPRO right away for effective remediation efforts.

Fast Claims Approval for Fire Damage in Your Los Angeles House

Of all the potential headaches that can come from a disaster impacting your Los Angeles residence, most homeowners might agree that meeting the demands of their insurance provider to file a claim is among the top items on the list. Insurance coverage can often take care of much of the expense regarding fires occurring in your house, but these providers require documentation, proof, and legitimate damage estimations before approving a claim.

While you might look at the fire damages to your Los Angeles home and understand that it is more than an average homeowner could repair or clean on their own, filing a claim might not always be in your best interest. By calling our SERVPRO team first, we can dispatch the necessary personnel to help assess the full scope of the damage and begin compiling the necessary information and documentation that your insurance company requires to approve a filed claim.

Since you have a deductible to cover out of your pocket for most home insurance policies, smaller incidents are not always advisable to file a claim. Every paid service that your insurance company covers, the rates for your insurance rise as well. Understanding the estimated cost of the work to be done can help you to determine whether the filing is worth it or not.

Our SERVPRO estimator on site can begin compiling photographic evidence and a catalog of the damaged materials and contents. Along with the estimated cost of repair and a timeline for completing the work, these assessment reports are a requirement to approve a claim to cover the bulk of restoration costs.

While you might not be ready for fire damages to affect your home, you should know what steps to take whenever it does. By calling our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team first, you can have all of the necessary details to make an informed decision about whether to file a claim and also have the appropriate documentation prepared in advance to expedite this process. Give our emergency response team a call anytime disaster strikes at (213) 628-2000.

To find out more about Los Angeles, click here.

We Put The Flames Of Worry Out In Los Angeles After A Fire

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

The fire damage in this home created these spider web like residues. If you encounter this type of fire damage, call our professionals right away.

How Can I Repair Fire Damage Caused By Smoke In My Home?

SERVPRO Can Help You Remove Soot Residues And Foul Odors Caused By Smoke In Your Los Angeles Home

After a fire gets extinguished, some of the issues created like burnt or heavily charred contents will be easily noticeable. However, smoke consists of small partially combusted particles, and they can produce less obvious problems far away from the source of the blaze.

How Do You Find Where The Smoke Travelled?

As soon as we arrive at your fire damage incident in Los Angeles, our SERVPRO technicians start by inspecting your entire structure. To find out all of the places the smoke went, we start at the source and then follow any signs of soot residues outward to other sections of your building.

Do I Have To Discard Everything In My House That Got Covered In Soot Residues?

Demolition and fire damage removal: If the soot adheres well, it might be necessary to remove and replace some affected items.
Refinishing/resurfacing: In some cases, your contents and building materials can get sanded down and refinished if the soot will not come off with cleaning methods.
Cleaning soot residues: We can often save some of your affected items by using specialized chemicals and techniques to clean and remove the soot from affected surfaces in your home.

What Can I Do If There Are Still Burnt Smells After All Soot Has Been Cleaned And Removed?

Sprayable deodorants: Some chemicals can be mixed with water and sprayed onto affected items with a pump sprayer.
ULV/thermal fogger: These foggers break down deodorant chemicals into tiny particles so that they can penetrate items the same way the smoke did.
Ozone generator: These machines generate ozone (O3) which is an unstable molecule that oxides and neutralize malodor particles.

After a fire, you may notice that smoke found its way to every room inside your house. When this occurs to your home in Chinatown or Elysian Park, it is wise to call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (518) 885-2620 24 hours a day.

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Why Do SERVPRO Technicians Act Quickly to Restore My Property After Water Damage?

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

A trained water damage remediation team can save your carpet if the pad is removed and carpet dried out quickly. Contact SERVPRO after damage.

Water Removal Includes Reduction of Elevated Humidity That Can Damage Los Angeles Homes and Apartments

Los Angeles property can sustain different kinds of damage. Professional water restorers and mitigation experts help owners get their properties back to normal. Water can invade any property from the least expected sources. Too much rain, a broken valve in a water line, quakes, overflowing tubs, and water from the fire department can cause you problems with water inside your home.

If a property in Los Angeles needs water removal services, hiring a professional company can prevent continued and extensive problems. Every minute that water remains in your home, damage continues. Because evaporation begins as soon as water intrudes, no matter the source, SERVPRO does more than just remove the water you see. We also use equipment that collects the moisture that seeped into other areas of your home.

We must work quickly because as materials and belongings absorb water, they rapidly 

• become stained from colors bleeding and transferring
• contaminated with microbes and pathogens
• swell, warp, and distort
• begin to produce bad smells

Our methods can help prevent these from happening in your home when we begin soon after the event initially took place. Pumps mounted on large trucks pull the standing water out of your home, but we also must continue the process with other equipment. Desiccant machines and air movers work together to rid your property of the extra humidity in the air, keeping further condensation to a minimum. As the interior dries, we also use air scrubbers to minimize the spreading of airborne pathogens.

We can save saturated walls at times, but most often we need to remove the lower section of a wall. When water comes from overhead, ceilings can trap it and hold it overhead. To counteract this, we drill small weep holes into overhead panels of drywall to permit any trapped water to drain into buckets underneath. So air can circulate above the ceiling, we place an air mover, so air forces its way into the space above the ceiling. To fully ensure dryness, we test with moisture meters before, during, and after the job. When readings confirm that we have eliminated all moisture, we do a final walk-through with the customer.

Hiring SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park to perform the water removal work your home or apartment needs helps ensure that complete dryness once again protects your home and belongings from ongoing damage. Our number is local and is always answered to meet the needs of those in our community better. Call us 365 days a year at (213) 628-2000, so we can help protect your property.

For more information regarding Los Angeles, click here.

How Does SERVPRO Remove and Mitigate Mold Damage in My Los Angeles Home?

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

It is tempting to want to paint over mold, but doing this can cause the paint to peel. Let SERVPRO eliminate the mold before repainting.

Practical Ways to Attend To Mold Damaged Walls in your Los Angeles Home 

To safely remediate your business or home after a mold damage event, you need to work with professionals who understand everything about mold. After arriving at your property, we look at the affected materials and surfaces before coming up with appropriate cleanup methods. One method cannot solve all mold issues, which is why we use several techniques when we are remediating your Los Angeles property. 

In your Los Angeles home, mold damage can affect both porous and nonporous materials. If the interior walls of your home have mold, the surface appears unpleasant, and the problem can lead to possible health effects. If you fail to address the problem during its initial stages, it can spread to other areas and make the remediation process challenging. Never make a mistake of painting moldy surfaces, our SERVPRO technicians can clean and dry such surfaces before repainting can take place. 

Assessing the condition of the walls is the first step that our SERVPRO technicians perform. If we notice some black splotches or bowing and crumbling or the drywall, then replacing it is necessary. If the walls are in a stable condition, then we can scrub and use a disinfectant to clean the contamination. The cleaning agents have antibacterial properties that deactivate the mold to lower chances of future growth. 

There are chances of the cleaning agents spilling to surrounding areas such as floors. We have to protect such surfaces using plastic drop covering before the cleaning process starts. Our SERVPRO technicians also observe safety precautions when working on your property to limit exposure to the molds. We wear chemical resistant gloves, safety boots, and appropriate respirators. It is essential to set up decontamination areas with negative pressure so that we can use such locations to clean our tools and safety gear.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park helps you out in your time of need by offering industry proven cleaning and restoration services. All you need is to call (323) 255-1000 for our highly trained technicians to attend to your urgent needs.

Click here for more information on Los Angeles.

Flood Damage in Los Angeles

4/10/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park for assistance after a flood.

Who Makes Repairs from Flood Damage in Los Angeles

Floodwaters washing through a home can do a tremendous amount of damage in a manner of minutes. Floors and walls are coated with mud and debris, the furniture is ruined, and even the heating system is contaminated. The home must be cleaned and repaired, requiring many different skill sets and tradespeople.

SERVPRO has many years of experience providing flood damage services in Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Many of our clients are overwhelmed at the damage and wonder how can their families ever recover. Not only does the home have to be cleaned, de-sanitized, it also must be repaired. We provide a one-stop shop for disaster recovery. This includes:

    •    Debris removal
    •    Cleaning, sanitization and applying EPA approved disinfectants
    •    HVAC cleaning and repair or replacement
    •    Electrical system verification and repair
    •    Damaged structure repairs such as walls, windows, and doors
    •    Drywall installation and painting
    •    Flooring replacement – tile, hardwood, carpeting

SERVPRO possesses general contractor licenses: 999460, CSLB: 999460. Our team is a one-stop-shop that can complete and coordinate all of the work needed to restore your home to its original condition, “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park for assistance after a flood. Call us at (213) 628-2000. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

For more about Los Angeles click here.

How Will SERVPRO Help When It Comes To My Water Clean Up Properly In Los Angeles?

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Water can seep through the carpets and cause offensive odors and growth of bacteria, mold, mildew, and fungi.

How To Do Water Clean Up Properly

Water damage from a flood is a painful experience, but water cleanup can also be as painful as well. Water can seep through the carpets and cause offensive odors and growth of bacteria, mold, mildew, and fungi. If you ignore these problems, it can destroy the foundation and structural integrity of the house. That means, your real estate can lose significant value. With all these problems, we often panic and strive to clean up the damage on our own.

Water cleanup in Los Angeles can be very tricky. This process is not an easy DIY type of job. It requires extraordinary skills and expertise to properly remove the water from your residential area and restore your house. You might have to purchase expensive tools and gadgets to help you with the process. Plus, the whole repair process can be hazardous. If you are not careful, you can easily receive a shock or worse from wet appliances.

Fortunately, with SERVPRO, we can send our skilled technicians to your residential area. Our techs can use state-of-the-art equipment to get rid of the water, detect moisture content, and deodorize your home. They often start with the mitigation process to clear out excess water to minimize additional property damages. Then they can use tools like the moisture sensor to detect water in carpets and walls. The thermo-hygrometer measures temperature and humidity to create an optimum drying condition.

After these processes, the technicians can use an extractor to help clean the carpet and remove excess water from the floor. The air movers can enhance evaporation to reduce the drying time. After that, the skilled technicians can use an Ultra Low Volume (ULV) Fogger to penetrate odor causing residues that have accumulated from the water damage. We also have a thermal fogger to emit tiny particles to neutralize the scent left behind from the water damage. That way, your home can be smelling fresh again. After completing the whole restoration process, our techs can have a complete final walk-through with you to ensure that you are satisfied with the results.

SERVPRO Cleans up the Kitchen After Water Damage

Water puddling on the floor near your kitchen sink demands quick action. An online check for “water removal near me” reveals that SERVPRO can be at your home fast, finding the source and offering a plan to get rid of the water and restore your kitchen fixtures to their pre-leak condition.

The tangle of pipes under your kitchen sink seemed to be doing their jobs until you stepped into that puddle. Reaching out to our team allows professional water damage experts to isolate the problem. Our staff checks for leaks and evaluates the pipes for cracks and unstable connections. Any evidence of blow-back of food debris from the garbage disposal into the cabinet is cause for treating the water removal in your Los Angeles home as gray or black water contamination. The presence of rotting food increases the chance of mold or other microbial growth. Tainted water may be trapped under the cabinet, soaking the subflooring. Deterioration of the floor and any ceilings or walls below the kitchen is possible. Our staff investigates for evident and hidden damage, offering you proven restoration options to return the structure to pre loss condition.

Water removal proceeds swiftly with SERVPRO’s state of the art equipment. Powerful extractors vacuum water from the kitchen floor and the inside of the cabinet. The trim below the base of the enclosure is removable in most cases, and checking there for water accumulation allows for thorough moisture abatement and an inspection for mold or rotting wood. We follow EPA protocol to contain and remove mold colonies safely. Once standing water and any hazardous waste is gone our technicians arrange air movers to continue the drying process. Measurements of humidity levels guide our staff, indicating when the under-sink area and flooring are ready for additional restorative treatments.

Final steps for our crew include cleaning and disinfecting the space under the sink after the plumbing repairs and the water removal. Our staff fixes areas weakened by the water damage with new materials. Flooring damaged is reset or sanded and refinished, depending on type. Wet walls or ceilings under the sink are cleaned, dried, disinfected, and touched up to match surrounding unaffected areas. We strive to leave your home looking as though it has experienced no water damage.

Let SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park answer your water removal needs after a garbage disposal plumbing failure. Operators await your call to schedule a consultation at (213) 628-2000.

To learn more about Los Angeles, click here.

How SERVPRO Cleans Fire Damaged Personal Belongings in Los Angeles

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

Many times, not everything is a loss after a fire. Call SERVPRO for fast and effective fire damage support.

When Can Fire Damaged Surfaces Get Cleaned in Los Angeles Homes? 

Much like water losses that can also be a standard callout for our SERVPRO professionals to Los Angeles homes, fire disasters involve careful considerations and decision making to determine the most cost-effective path to restore the property. The choice between cleaning and tear-out and reconstruction is not always as straightforward and direct as many property owners might believe. Choosing wrong in this stage could lead to longer restoration times and added costs, so the job scoping phase is critical for our crew chief and project manager. 

Determining the salvageability of surfaces and contents after fire damage in Los Angeles homes involves several inspection points. While our professionals can remove harsh odors from fabric, we cannot repair singeing that might occur along seams when drapes were too close to the fire, for example. Each item must get inspected and categorized into three main sections: 

• Unsalvageable (Controlled demolition, discarding)
• Salvageable On-Site (Able to get cleaned/restored in the house)
• Salvageable Off-Site (Must get restored, deodorized, and cleaned in our nearby facility) 

Unsalvageable  

Some many surfaces and contents cannot get restored or repaired after a fire, and these become part of the total loss catalog that our project manager creates during the thorough inspection and scoping of the property. These items and materials get discarded and later replaced by our SERVPRO in-house contractors. 

Salvageable  

Outer-lying areas beyond the concentration of the fire loss are where many of the salvageable and cleanable items get found. We have strategies for cleaning many of these materials and items on-site, but when this is not possible, we can use pack-out processes to transport contents to our warehouse. There, these items can get soot cleaning with immersion tanks, abrasive cleaning of residues, deodorization with ozone chambers, and other intricate restoration actions. 

Fires can be an overwhelming experience, especially when you do not know what in your home can get restored and what must get replaced. Our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team can help you through this phase and the restoration to come by calling (213) 628-2000. 

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Recovering From Flash Flood Damage In Los Angeles

3/21/2020 (Permalink)

No matter how we can help, give our emergency response team a call 24/7 at (213) 628-2000.

Recovering Flash Flood Damage to Your Los Angeles Home

Fierce storms that hit the Los Angeles area can quickly deposit an inch or more of rain over a matter of hours. That level of rainfall on the otherwise dry ground can be ideal conditions for flash flooding, as the earth does not have the time and opportunity to absorb the precipitation before it becomes a hazard to homes and businesses in its migration path. Flash floods can damage residences throughout the area severely, but our SERVPRO team can help with a fast and confident response.

Knowing how to help recover flood damage to Los Angeles homes is vital to restoring area properties after natural disasters. Restoration companies pop up around every corner when the city gets hit with widespread flooding concerns, but restoring and recovering your home or apartment after a flood involves more than some extractors and drying tools. Our professionals have extensive hands-on experience and continual education in water restoration and structural drying to provide skilled labor amid an emergency.

Muck-Out Cleaning
Even without standing water concerns, flash flooding can leave debris and mud throughout the lowest level of your property. Shoveling out heaps of this muck and debris can allow our teams to better clean exposed surfaces and improve the efficiency of later drying efforts. Much like fire debris removal, muck-outs can reduce the severity and concentration of airborne contaminants and threats as well.

Controlled Demolition
With multiple drying decisions that must happen as soon as our SERVPRO team arrives at your home, choices most likely get made regarding controlled demolition as well. With exposed drywall and other porous materials, it can often be more cost-effective to remove and replace rather than waste time drying.

Drying your home after a flood cannot happen without the emergency services provided by our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team. We have many technicians and tools that can help to make flood losses “Like it never even happened.” No matter how we can help, give our emergency response team a call 24/7 at (213) 628-2000.

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Learn How to Deal with Water Damage in Your Los Angeles Residence

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is quick to get your water damage under control.

Let us take over the worry of water damage in your Los Angeles home

Water damage can occur because of burst or leaking pipes. Blockages in pipes can cause excessive pressure, which can make them rupture or leak. Water can also ruin wiring in appliances. The presence of moisture can increase the current in the circuits found in modern appliances rapidly, causing a short circuit as the fuse is blown. If a fuse is absent, the wires can heat up, and a fire may start.

Water spreads quickly and can lead to overwhelming destruction to your possessions and the structure of your house. Addressing water damage in your Los Angeles home speedily can prevent additional destruction like mold growth. Mold infestation occurs within 24 to 48 hours after a water intrusion incident. Excessive moisture in your house can cause other issues like wood rot and rust of metallic products. You can do several things to prevent water loss incidents from getting worse. They include:

• Remove as much water as you can using a shop vac or mop.
• Remove damp area rugs and other removable floor coverings.
• Prop up wet furniture cushions and wipe furniture.
• Lift draperies off the floor.
• Move paintings, photographs, and artwork to a dry, safe location.
• Pack the books that may be on shelves tightly so that their pages do not warp.
• Open drawers and cabinets and closet doors to enhance drying.

Water may also cause damage worth thousands of dollars if it ruins electronics, furniture, and appliances. You can prevent these issues by working with SERVPRO franchise professionals. Our Water Damage Restoration Technicians (WRT) can facilitate a fast and easy cleanup process because we have expertise in dealing with water intrusion incidents. We offer the following during restoration jobs:

Advanced equipment

We use verified procedures and advanced equipment to extract water and dry a building and its contents. Our technicians use extractors with a pump, heater, and vacuum system to clean carpets and upholstery and to remove water from floors after a water loss incident. We also have effective drying equipment like air movers and refrigerant or desiccant dehumidifiers.

Quick restoration

Our SERVPRO crew can get to your home within an hour of receiving your call. We can then assess the damage and complete the cleanup, drying, and sanitizing process within a short time.

 Full detection

We use moisture detection equipment like thermo-hygrometers, infrared cameras, penetrating and non-penetrating moisture meters and moisture sensors to check for hidden moisture. We follow the water from the source to all the areas it flowed to make sure that they are dry.

Reduced costs

Hiring us reduces the total cost of water cleanup. Our goal is to restore your property efficiently and quickly to minimize claims loss expenses.

When you need water damage cleanup services for your residential property, contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000. Our technicians can dry your house quickly and restore it to its preloss condition.

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SERVPRO Removes the Flood and Replaces the Water Heater for Boyle Heights Customer

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides the Experienced Technicians, Using Advanced Equipment, to Mitigate Water Damage in Boyle Heights Homes

Water Damage in a Boyle Heights Basement Caused by a Water Tank

Imagine waking up in the morning only to discover that your water heater that is in your Boyle Heights finished basement is leaking! Contacting a professional water restoration service should be your first step to help minimize water damage. A reputable restoration company makes all the difference by reducing the exposure time for your furniture and floor.

When you are in Boyle Heights and suffer water damage, SERVPRO is your source of comfort. If the tank rusted and leaked, you should consider hiring experienced professionals instead of a handyman or doing it yourself (DIY). When we arrive at your home, we start by turning off the valve to prevent continued flooding. Then we embark on water removal. You can expect to receive professional advice on whether to repair or replace the tank depending on its condition. Our
General Contractor License #: 999460 and California State License Board (CSLB) #: 999460 indicate our qualifications to complete the job, leaving you with hot water again.  Our SERVPRO professionals can assess the damage to the trim work and the type of flooring in your rec room basement. For instance, if you have installed vinyl tiles, fast action is needed to prevent the individual tiles from losing adhesion to the concrete slab.

SERVPRO WRT water damage restoration technicians can address water situations of different sizes and scopes. We are always ready to take action in restoring your home. Our techs may use squeegees, mops, and buckets to remove excess water. For larger spillage, we can work with portable pumps or wet/vacs for extraction. Our SERVPRO staff can recommend in-place drying depending on the situation at hand. The use of an LGR (Low Grain Refrigerant) dehumidifiers to capture water vapor and reduce the interior humidity are vital to returning the water damaged area into its preloss condition. We use air movers to create air currents that sweep moisture off of surfaces to be readily condensed by the dehumidifiers. Air movers improve air circulation to speed up evaporation and thus reduce drying times. Our vast experience and knowledge of water removal help us develop a clear action plan for your basement.

Place your trust in SERVPRO of Silver Lake/Echo Park for your water damage needs.  Call us at (213) 628-2000 now for 24/7 service. We proudly serve Los Angeles, Elysian Park, and nearby areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Risks After Flood Damage to Your Los Angeles Home

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is quick to get your flood damage under control in Los Angeles.

Safety is Priority After Floods Occur In Los Angeles

Los Angeles, because of its unique location in between the Pacific Ocean and the San Gabriel Mountains, is prone to flash floods caused by storms coming off of the Pacific Ocean hitting the mountains. After the floodwater recedes, homeowners have the business of cleaning up as fast as possible to make sure there is no secondary damage like warped walls, flooring, or dangerous mold infestations. 

Flood damage in your Los Angeles home requires special clean-up and care to ensure full restoration to preflood conditions. There are also health and safety concerns that you need to take into consideration as floodwater is classified as black water, or category three, contaminated water, requiring special handling. 

SERVPRO flood restoration specialists (General Contractor #999460) complete a hazard assessment to identify the safety risks and to implement controls of said risks. Some potential hazards after a flood include; overhead threats like ceilings that could collapse, the potential for electrical shock, slip and fall, contaminated water, and, most importantly, occupant safety. Some of these risks, such as slip and fall, are easier to mitigate than others, but all require serious attention.

There is a hierarchy of control for hazards. Most effectively, the hazard is eliminated, or a safer method works in substitution. For example, disabling electricity in a structure eliminates electrical hazards and creates a safer work environment. Another control is to design or engineer the work environment to avoid the hazard. In the case of a slip and fall hazard, an engineering control might be the use of walk-off mats; a simple, yet effective, solution. 

There are ways to administratively avoid hazards like completing second-floor work before first-floor work if there is an overhead hazard. The last control available is personal protective equipment (PPE); this means workers may wear a barrier to limit exposure to a hazard. PPE includes gloves, protective clothing, and masks worn to prevent skin exposure to contaminants such as black water or harsh cleaning solutions containing bleach and other chemicals. 

Hazard assessment and risk mitigation is just one of the first steps to restoration after a flood. Cleaning, drying, and repairing structural damage are also vital steps in the process. The SERVPRO goal is to make it "Like it never even happened." 

Contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 for 24/7 assistance. 

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The Best Advice You Could Ever Get About Water Removal in Los Angeles

2/16/2020 (Permalink)

In some areas, you may need detection equipment while in others, the water damage is plainly visible. Contact SERVPRO to effectively remediate.

Moisture Meters Show Where Damage Exists in Los Angeles Homes

Detection equipment can be a staple of adequate drying and loss recovery for Los Angeles homes. As challenging as reaching the various layers of flooring, drywall, and roofing might be, penetrating and non-penetrating DEVICES can help to give credible information to our restoration professionals to make informed drying decisions. While there is a degree of potential false readings that could result from use on non-wood materials, this is

Meters are often the best indicator of the presence of excessive moisture that might require water removal for Los Angeles properties. While there are dozens of detection devices that our SERVPRO professionals use on water restoration projects, meters are versatile with penetrating and non-penetrating designs. These two types benefit different structural elements and can help to get accurate readings and data from various layers beneath the surface of damaged material. The more accurate the information, the better suited the drying decisions become to restore a property efficiently.

Interpreting data and applying it to the situation is a valuable part of the training and education of our water restoration professionals. Tools with these functions are most often calibrated to register the moisture content of wood materials. These surfaces might include framework, wood plank flooring, cabinets, and other natural wood materials. They can also help to determine a relative scale of moisture content and damage in a point value rather than a percentage.

Drywall can often get measured for moisture content and exposure using these tools, and our SERVPRO professionals must be able to determine the rate of saturation damage on a point value scale rather than the primary percentage scale. These initial readings can get inputted into the DryBook software as a comparative starting point for the drying work to follow to gauge successes. The science of psychrometry eliminates the guess-work as our highly trained technicians carefully monitor the drying process throughout to ensure a dry structure.

Before much of the drying and recovery work can begin in your home after a loss incident, our professionals must determine the extent of the damage. To do this, our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team relies on exceptional tools like penetrating and non-penetrating moisture meters. Give us a call to help you make water losses “Like it never even happened,” at (213) 628-2000.

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Need Some Help? Contact SERVPRO for Your Los Angeles Water Damage Remediation Issues

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage, regardless of the source, is always unwelcome. Contact our experienced team should water damage ever affect your home.

What to Do If You Find Water Damage in Your Los Angeles House 

Finding water damage inside of your home is something that no homeowner wants to face if they can help it. Water damage can lead to all kinds of complications if left unchecked, such as mold, rot, and physical damage to the structure of your home. For this reason, it is essential to get help immediately if you were to find your home suffering from it. 

Many things inside your Los Angeles home could cause water damage. Ranging from faulty appliances to leaking pipes, there are countless ways you could suddenly find a pool of mysterious water in your home. However, the way you handle the situation matters more than how the water got there in the first place. If you call for help as soon as possible and address the problem shortly after it happened, there is a significant chance you could prevent further damage from occurring. 

Here at SERVPRO, our goal is always to provide you with fast, effective, and friendly services. Our water damage remediation technicians have gone through advanced training so that they are always prepared for whatever they find while on the job. As soon as we get your initial call, our techs are assembling and getting ready to aid you, as fast as we can. We understand how pressing, and worrisome, finding water damage in your home can be, which is why We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.  

Imagine a scenario where your kitchen suffered water damage, due to a dishwasher malfunctioning and leaking all over your tile floor. If left unchecked, that tile could split and crack as the water slipped between the crevices and engorged the base underneath it. Furthermore, if left to its devices, excess moisture can lead to mold damage. 

Our SERVPRO techs have advanced equipment that is designed to help them find every pocket of hidden water in your kitchen. From thermal imaging cameras to moisture meters, we have your back. And, once we have remediated the damages, using devices like dehumidifiers and air movers, our SERVPRO techs can leave your home confident that it feels, "Like it never even happened." 

If water damage strikes your home, act fast. Get in touch with SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park by dialing (213) 628-2000. We're always available to help you, 24/7. 

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How SERVPRO Restores Water Damaged Homes in Los Angeles

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

A plumbing failure caused a water loss event in this home. We were able to quickly dry and restore the home quickly.

Water Damage Los Angeles – Full-Service Provider

Leaky plumbing, overflowing sinks, and toilets can cause a great deal of damage and often occur at the worst time. Is there a good time? Probably not, but some are worse than others. A leak, while you are on vacation or away for a few days, can let thousands of gallons of water soak everything in your home.

SERVPRO provides full-service water damage restoration and repair in Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Our team of professionals can remove the water and moisture, dry your home, and fully repair or replace damaged walls and flooring. We dry and restore where possible instead of replacing everything. It is much less time consuming and less costly to restore items vs. replace damaged contents.

Water Mitigation and Reconstruction

Many water damage events involve extracting water from carpets and floors, installing air movers to blow dry air into the room, and dehumidifiers to reduce the humidity to normal levels. Our team also checks for moisture inside walls and cavities that are difficult to reach. We aim to remove all moisture pockets to avoid the growth of mold and mildew infestations.

More extensive damage may require removing flooring materials, drywall, and even kitchen or bathroom cupboards. A leak in an upstairs bathroom can cause water to spread over the upstairs floors, inside walls, and down to the lower level.

Our SERVPRO franchise is thoroughly trained and licensed to deal with this type of water damage. We can remove all damaged materials, dry the structure entirely, and also complete all repair and reconstruction of your home. We have CSLB and general contractor licenses which allows our team to provide complete end to end rebuild service to our customers. Our objective is to reconstruct your home, "Like it never even happened."

Contractor Licenses: General: 999460, California State License Board (CSLB): 999460

Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve Elysian Park, Boyle Heights, and surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

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Top Tips for Dealing With Los Angeles Fire Damage 

12/29/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage in your home can happen without warning. Be vigilant and call SERVPRO should your home be affected.

Recovering from Fire Damage in Los Angeles

Fire damage can have a significant impact on your home, no matter the size and location of the fire. Smoke residue and odor can permeate throughout the home in places you may not consider. It can be challenging to find the source of the offensive odors if you are not sure where to look. One small oversight while cleaning up damage could have detrimental effects on your house.

If you have fire damage in your Los Angeles home, the SERVPRO fire restoration team can assist you in inspecting every area of your home and creating a cleaning and restoration plan. We understand the importance of dealing with fire damage right away to ensure less long-term damage. Our IICRC-Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification-crew take pride in offering top-notch service. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

SERVPRO technicians grapple with lingering smoke odors by attacking through thermal fogging using chemical deodorizers. The fog replicates smoke and can permeate into those same small spaces. Fogging requires safety precautions such as wearing protective gear and having residents and pets leave their home. Ventilation after fogging is crucial to ensure breathable, clean-smelling air. 

Moderate to substantial smoke damages may even include smoke making its way into the ductwork in the HVAC system (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning.) Even if the HVAC system was off at the time of the fire, SERVPRO technicians inspect it carefully. If left contaminated, when the homeowner operates the HVAC system again, the ducts can redistribute smoke particles back into a restored structure requiring further restoration. 

HVAC systems require special care and consideration which may include duct sealing and the use of a ULV fogger to deodorize the ducting. Air filters throughout the home must also be replaced to ensure safe air quality.

Our goal as general contractors (License #999460) is to restore as much of your home as possible through specialized cleaning techniques and creating an individualized plan for your structure, including everything from your HVAC system to your air filters. We make it, "Like it never even happened." 

Contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 for assistance anytime, every day of the year, 24/7.

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How SERVPRO Restores Flood Damaged Homes in Los Angeles

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

Did the recent storms cause water to enter your home? SERVPRO to the rescue! We have what it takes to restore your home.

Measuring Success in Storm Flood Damage Restoration for Los Angeles Residents

Responding in the right way to a property emergency can make all the difference when it comes to avoiding permanent losses. Violent weather can threaten your home in several ways by causing physical damage to doors or windows, overloading drainage systems, or flooding the lower levels of your home. These damages can feel overwhelming, and failure to address invisible as well as visible issues could result in secondary damages. SERVPRO designs our teams to respond quickly during an emergency to counter unexpected situations with calm, methodical restoration.

The impact of storm flood damage in Los Angeles may affect your property or your entire street. Depending on the type of emergency, our team can re-secure your home or work with construction teams to rebuild it after severe harm. One essential part of a restorer's role is to keep secondary losses to a minimum.

Knowing the extent of floodwater migration and the moisture content of your possessions is crucial to performing a restoration. Moisture sensors are useful in detecting the moisture content of wet fabrics. Using the sharp prongs of a moisture sensor, SERVPRO technicians can gain an accurate picture of water migration and knowing whether the subfloor pad is affected, or the subfloor underneath has a seismic impact on restoration. Failure to address a sodden infrastructure could cause a wealth of secondary issues to occur, like mold growth or rot.

For hardwood flooring as well as contents, our team uses a different piece of equipment. Moisture meters are like sensors but use probes or measure conductivity to access moisture content inside materials accurately. We may use these on walls, crawlspaces, or to assess floorboard conditions. To get a general picture of how effective the drying program is, SERVPRO can measure humidity levels in the property using a thermal hygrometer.

Consistently measuring the impact and moisture levels of your property is key to a successful restoration. Contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000.

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Our Technicians Are The Best To Handle Your Los Angeles Flood Damage Restoration

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

We have extensive experience in water damage restoration and the equipment to handle any size job. Call us right away to prevent further damage.

Our Professionals Have The Proper Techniques In Los Angeles After A Flood

Waking up to find that your dishwasher leaked all over the kitchen floor is not the best way to begin any morning. After you sop up as much excess water as possible with old towels and rags, it is time to survey the water damage. Hopefully, the tile floors are well-sealed and bonded, creating an effective vapor barrier so that the water was unable to seep underneath the kitchen flooring. However, the spillage may have reached the baseboards and the lower-level kitchen cabinets.

Dealing with water damage in your Los Angeles kitchen requires professional assistance. Since baseboards and cabinets are a hygroscopic material that soaks in more water than tile, it is necessary to draw some of the moisture out of the wood to prevent mold growth and other secondary damage such as warping of the wood. Moisture can also impact the relative humidity in the room, which may lead to water vapors getting into electronics, appliances, and textiles, causing further damage.

SERVPRO technicians determine the moisture levels in wall cavities using a moisture meter. The meter has Teflon-coated, penetrating probes that the technicians use to read the wettest area of the Sheetrock. When the wettest area of the wall void dries after water damage, the rest of the area is also dry. The moisture meter reads in percentages for wood surfaces such as cabinets and baseboards. For precision, our technicians take readings around the home, in dry areas, so we have a baseline for comparison.

In addition to the use of a moisture meter, thermo-hygrometers measure both temperature and relative humidity in the room to determine the specific humidity. The relative humidity needs to be lowered to dry the structure and all the contents. SERVPRO technicians use dehumidifiers to pull water vapor from the air, and simultaneously employ air movers to direct airflow directly into wall cavities to replace moist air with dry air.

After technicians stabilize the relative humidity in the room and dry the wall cavities, our team of contractors (license numbers: General: 999460 and CSLB: 999460) determines a restoration plan for the kitchen. In some cases, the baseboards may be replaced, although restoration is our goal. We make it, "Like it never even happened."

Contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 for assistance. We are available 24/7.

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Why Professional Fire Damage Remediation is Necessary in Los Angeles

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Fires are devastating for everyone involved. Let SERVPRO’S professionally trained team restore your home.

Remove Fire Damage In Your Los Angeles Home Using A Full-Service Cleaning Solution 

There are two reasons why restoration experts in Los Angeles separate structure from contents after a fire. First, your insurance policy typically distinguishes between the two, asking for detailed information about services rendered on a per-item basis. Second, it helps us provide better results, on both your structure and any contents, when we can move contents to a clean, controlled area. 

A fire damage restorer, working in your Los Angeles area home, is much like a carpet cleaner, janitor, cleaner, handy-man, laborer, and often, contractor. As you can see, a restorer’s task is slightly more involved than any of these individual trades. We face unique situations, using various methods to return your home to the way it was before, “Like it never even happened.” 

At SERVPRO, cleaning to a preloss condition means removing any fire damage left behind by a fire. Our technicians can remove smoke residues from any interior and exterior surfaces of your building. These residues give off smoke odors, as the restorer, it is our job to address these malodors. 

The fire also likely damaged other parts of your structure, leaving them beyond restoration. We remove and dispose of these blistered, charred, structural materials according to local, state, and federal guidelines, as provided by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 

SERVPRO Fire & Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) use a unique form of cleaning, intending to return items to a quality preloss condition. We estimate the odds of restoring items that may have questionable results and identify those that may have had damage before the fire occurred. Your restoration technicians cannot repair pre-existing damage or conditions. 

Before cleaning the structure of your home, SERVPRO technicians determine the appropriate cleaning method for each surface. Here, appropriate means, using a method that effectively removes residues from the surface or material, without damaging the surface or material. Technicians often categorize materials as either washable or non-washable, as a starting point. 

• Washable – These materials are those that can be wet-cleaned using a water-based cleaning product without taking damage.
• Non-washable – These materials are those that require the use of a dry-cleaning method to help protect the surface from further damage. 

Those of us at SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park stand ready to assist the moment we receive your call. Get 24/7 emergency services for all of your cleanup and restoration needs. (213) 628-2000 

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We Will Restore Your Fire Damaged Los Angeles Eatery

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

A local restaurant or cafe can easily fall victim to a kitchen fire.

Los Angeles Eateries get back to Business Faster with Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

A local restaurant or cafe can easily fall victim to a kitchen fire. The root causes of these property emergencies can come from several different areas. Chimneys, as well as other kitchen ventilation, can become built up with grease or animal fats. These buildups of grease and grime can quickly ignite when subjected to the high temperatures of a busy service. The temporary closure is usually a must until the toxins present in fire disperse.

What is left behind is any combination appliance, ventilation, structural and content fire damage in your Los Angeles eatery. SERVPRO is a local company equipped to deal with unforeseen emergencies that occur in commercial properties. A team of understanding fire restoration technicians can be with you shortly after receiving a notification of loss. They bring with them fully-stocked restoration trucks with a range of deodorizers, chemical cleaning agents, and machinery to help you get back to business as usual.

If a fire marshall has cleared your property for safe entry, you can begin the process of fire restoration while SERVPRO is on the route. Use table clothes or other large pieces of material to cover furnishings, appliances, and remove hanging art to an unaffected area or cover. When smoke residues cool, they tend to drop from ceilings or walls unto furnishings below. By covering your furnishings quickly, you can reduce the expense of your claim. If you remain on-site, opening windows and doors to allow airflow, as well as light vacuuming, can be beneficial in removing surface soots.

On arrival, a pro-active team of SERVPRO fire restoration technicians can begin pre-testing fabrics, furnishings, appliances, and structure. By pre-testing these specific areas, we can gain a better picture of the type of smoke we are dealing with, either wet or dry. Each type has its own set of cleaning methods and responds to different types of solvent, which is why the pre-testing procedure is an essential part of the restoration.

Often, high-temperature fires can result in bubbling, melting, or staining of finishes on appliances. Our team can carefully remove the finish without damaging the material underneath. Once the smoke residues are cleaned away, we can refinish the appliances to a preloss condition. Thorough deodorization of both the kitchen and, where necessary, the structure is included within the restoration service.

Get back to business as usual, contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000.

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Our Experts Provide Water Cleanup For Your Los Angeles Home

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Why SERVPRO Can Offer Effective Water Cleanup in Your Los Angeles Home

Although water damage is a relatively common issue in homes, no one likes to deal with it. Whether the water comes from a leaking pipe, an overflowing bathtub, or a faulty washing machine, it can cause significant destruction to both furnishings and building materials. The water can continue causing havoc until you remove it. It's advisable to leave this job to SERVPRO for the following reasons.

Quick response
To ensure sufficient water cleanup in your Los Angeles residence, you need to act fast to prevent further damage. Spending too much time waiting for restoration professionals can give mold and rot more time to ruin building materials and furnishings. We provide emergency services around the clock and can get to your home within a short time after you call us.

Finding the leak source and hidden water damage
At times, finding the source of the leak is tough. For instance, it is easy to overlook a broken pipe in a wall. Such a leak can cause water to get into places you would not even think to look and cause severe destruction. Our restorers know where to check for sources of leaks and water damage. We can use thermal imaging cameras to determine where the water traveled in your home.

State-of-the-art water removal equipment
Our certified technicians can use advanced equipment to remove water from affected areas and dry your home thoroughly. Water extraction equipment like electric submersible pumps can remove large amounts of standing water. These pumps have various capacities. Small portable units can move from 100 to 18,000 gallons per hour through a ¾″ to 4″ hose. We can also use different air movers, such as axial and centrifugal air movers, to increase the rate of evaporation. We also use dehumidifiers with low grain refrigerant (LGR) technology to remove water vapor from the air. The devices expedite the drying process as humidity in the affected area drops. They can dry your carpet, padding, walls, wall cavities, and hardwood floors effectively.

Reducing expenses and insurance assistance
Our services can enable you to save money in the long run. You do not have to take time off work to do the cleanup. Besides, restoring ruined structures is more cost-effective than replacing them. Our technicians can perform a comprehensive restoration the first time and also offer build back and reconstruction services. Our SERVPRO team can also help you file a claim with your insurance company. Since we work with insurance adjusters often, we know the paperwork you need and the proper way to file a claim.

When dealing with water loss, SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park can help you remove the water and dry your property.  Contact us anytime at (213) 628-2000 for water cleanup services in Boyle Heights, Echo Park, and Lincoln Heights.

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Why Rely on SERVPRO's Abundant Resources after Flood Damage in Your Los Angeles Home

9/29/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will be there for your family and Los Angeles home when water tries to take over.

We can show you why we are the best bet to assist your Los Angeles flood damage.

Flooding affecting our Los Angeles home can be a significant setback, especially if mistakes or oversights happen when handling the incident. Since flood damage is not an everyday event, you are likely not to know the best procedures to follow in cleaning up and restoring your property. A professional firm like SERVPRO, on the other hand, deals with flooding incidents regularly. Such exposure leads to accumulation of skills, equipment, and other resources that should help save your home.

Equipment Variety

Most of the tasks performed during the restoration of flood damage in affected Los Angeles homes require equipment to accomplish. The equipment can range from sophisticated machinery such as upholstery washing machines to basic tools like carpet awls without which tasks can prove difficult to accomplish or take too long. Our SERVPRO teams bring a wide variety of equipment in our green trucks including

• Cleaning Equipment
• Drying Equipment
• Controlled Demolition Equipment
• Deodorization Equipment

Following Proper Procedures 

Restoring property ravaged by flooding involves several interrelated activities. Performing these activities correctly and at the right time has a significant impact on the outcome. Our SERVPRO technicians scope the loss site to determine all essential steps. We might establish the need for controlled demolition, which would necessitate a content move out. When moving items out, we create groups based on size or type and use storage pods to minimize the chances of further damage.

Completing the Job

The final steps during the restoration of flood damage include drying wet materials and odor control. They might not seem as significant as cleaning up and rebuilding the house, but if not done correctly, they can lead to severe problems such as mold development, which can ruin your property or diminish its value. Our SERVPRO teams use a variety of equipment to ensure proper finishing of a job. We have ULV foggers deliver deodorants, refrigerant, and desiccant dehumidifiers as well as air movers.

Dealing with flood damage incidents requires the right resources. Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000. We have the means to fix flood damage in Boyle Heights, Echo Park, and Lincoln Heights, "Like it never even happened."

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A Simple Spark Can Lead to Significant Fire Damage in Your Los Angeles Home

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

Don’t let your fire damage in Los Angeles take over your home life, let us help.

SERVPRO will be there every step of the way for your fire damage in Los Angeles.

The risk of fire damage in a home is always high, considering the spark that ignites the blaze can originate almost anywhere. A trashcan is one common source of fires because people throw in all sorts of spent items including lit matches or even burning incense without thinking about what might happen next.

How a Small Spark Builds a Big Fire

Apart from carelessness, other factors play a role in accelerating fire damage in affected Los Angeles homes. For trash can fires, the proximity to walls, whether interior or exterior is what amplifies the initial mistake of throwing a burning item into the can. As the other waste materials catch fire, the flames leap into the air and ignite wall materials then spread to the rest of the structure. The materials in walls and ceiling panels quickly spread fire, so despite the original spark being minor, the resulting fire can be severe. Only quick action from the emergency crews can help save your property.

Heavy Restoration Work

The problems rarely end with the extinguishing of flames because that only signifies the start of cleaning, teardown, refinishing and other steps necessary to restore the home to its preloss state. Various systems within the house may require a rebuild depending on the areas the fire affects most. For example, a fire affecting the roof system consumes ductwork, electrical systems, and plumbing. Our SERVPRO technicians tear down any remaining materials to assess the full damage extent before deciding the response.

Saving Structural Elements

Structural elements such as trusses and frames might only have slight charring, so replacement is not necessary. Cleaning is, however, necessary to get rid of the charred layers. Our SERVPRO technicians use different approaches, including mechanical abrasion or specialized techniques such as soda blasting to clean the charred areas. Soda blasting plays an additional role in deodorizing the affected material. We can also apply a sealing agent to manage odor.

Whether the fire source is major or not, the restoration process involved can be tedious. Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (213) 628-2000 to assist. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

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We Discuss How To Remediate Water Damage In Your Los Angeles Laundry Room

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

“Like it never even happened.”

How To Remediate Water Damage Created By Faulty Plumbing In Your Los Angeles Laundry Room

Plumping can weaken over time and, if something fails, weakened pipes can cause water damage to your Los Angeles home. In your home, your crawl space is connected to your laundry room. When you entered the room with a load of laundry to wash, you noticed the floor felt suspiciously wet.

After some investigation, you found that the water damage in your Los Angeles laundry room was coming from a pipe in the crawl space with a pin-prick sized hole in it. Sometime after the last load of clothes, the pipe had managed to spray enough water into your laundry room to make it feel as if you were walking on the wet floor next to a pool. Naturally, you called for a plumber right away and shut the water off.

However, what can you do in the meantime to help your home?

Here at SERVPRO, we strongly advise for you to reach out for the help of professional water damage restoration services. However, someone on a tight budget might not be able to afford both plumbing and remediation services in one night. Because our experts understand how stressful these situations can be, SERVPRO can help instruct those who would like to take on the task of remediation by themselves. Fortunately, you may only need a few tools, and many households have at least one or two.

To start, SERVPRO recommends for you to remove the pooled water from the room as swiftly as possible. One of the best devices you could use to remove the water from your home swiftly is a wet/dry vacuum. However, it is not always practical to own one.

Instead, you can use a combination of many towels and a mop to soak up the excess as swiftly as possible. Once finished, you can bring a space heater to the room. If you have a dehumidifier, set it up to work in conjunction to help draw excess moisture out of the floor. As the next few days go by, if you notice any splitting in the floor, call for professional help immediately. It could mean the water damage was not adequately addressed.

If you need professional water damage remediation in your home, never hesitate to get help. Get in contact with SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park by phoning (213) 628-2000. Day or night, we're open to aid you.

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Los Angeles Properties Suffer Flooding! SERVPRO Has the Solutions for Restoration

8/21/2019 (Permalink)

Storms and Flood Cuts during SERVPRO's Cleanup and Restoration Service in Los Angeles

Extreme Flood Damage to Los Angeles Home

Sometimes the amount of water is not the most damaging element in a flood damage situation. There are three main types of water gauged by the amount of contamination, and the more extended period clean water sits, the more contaminated it becomes, which increases the amount of loss to the home. After 48 hours, water carries a rating as black water, a category three biohazard.

SERVPRO worked on flood damage to a Los Angeles home caused by intense storms. The roof on the home received damage from both wind and hail, and rainwater poured into the attic. Much of the affected areas and objects would have been restorable except for one thing: the homeowner was on vacation when it happened and arrived home to a huge, smelly mess.

After consulting with her adjuster, the homeowner contacted our SERVPRO location, and we were on-site within an hour to begin water extraction and cleanup efforts. Our technicians tarped over the areas of the roof, so no further water entered the property. Due to the amount of time the water sat in the attic, the cleaning and reuse of the fiberglass insulation was not a possibility in this case.

Water migrated from the attic through the floor joists and into the ceiling of the floor below. We performed the following actions to prep the affected rooms for drying and in some areas, reconstruction.
?    Our Water Restoration Technicians drilled weep holes in the ceiling to allow for both drainage and airflow during drying.
?    Numerous areas of the ceiling sheetrock required removal due to buckling and warping from the excessive moisture.
?    We used air movers to lower the humidity in the damaged areas quickly

After drying and disinfecting the property, SERVPRO technicians compiled a report for the homeowner of the actions taken during cleanup and restoration. We also made a list of the necessary repairs needed to return the home to its preloss condition. As we hold a contractor's license #999460, we can offer homeowners assistance with reconstruction to make the restoration process seamless and less stressful.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park helps local property owners with flood damage whenever you need us, day or night. Call us at (213) 628-2000, and we arrive on-site within an hour because We're Faster to Any Size Disaster.

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We Have The State Of The Art Equipment To Restore Your Los Angeles Home

8/11/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage in this home was the result of a water line feed to the hot water heater springing a considerable leak.

The Challenges of Water Damage in Los Angeles Homes 

Understanding the steps that you can take to immediately reduce the severity and ultimate cost of recovering water loss incidents in your Los Angeles home is critical. Every homeowner should have an idea of how their actions can affect the successes of restoration, whether you pursue DIY cleaning and drying for your property or seek the professional approach by reaching out to professionals like our SERVPRO team. 

Without appropriate knowledge of how devastating water damage in Los Angeles homes can become, many property owners overlook these situations and only partially correct them. Regardless of the initial severity of these circumstances, water loss incidents can continue to spread and deteriorate construction materials and structural elements in the affected area. 

One of the first challenges that homeowners ultimately face when contending with water loss effects in their home is the finite amount of time to recover these symptoms before irreparable damage occurs. Protecting these construction materials, for instance, requires top-tier extraction and drying equipment that can remove all saturation concerns and leave only an acceptable humidity baseline throughout the environment and the surfaces affected. This response to the emergency must happen immediately, as prolonged waiting can lead to a compromise in structural integrity and the composition of saturated elements. 

Another challenge property owners contend with is a lack of knowledge of full recovery solutions, leading to missteps and inadequate drying and cleaning. Our SERVPRO team of technicians gets unique training and endorsements through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in both water restoration and structural drying, making us ideally qualified to help with water loss incidents of all sizes. 

Water loss incidents present a substantial risk to area homes, and that is why many have continued to trust our qualified and growing SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team to help. We have both the skills and the efficient equipment to make water emergencies that threaten your residence “Like it never even happened.” You can give us a call anytime that you need us at (213) 628-2000.

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Stop Stressing About Fire Damage Remediation in Los Angeles

7/31/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage can happen quickly but cause a large mess. Call the professionals at SERVPRO for remediation assistance.

Removing Smoke Odors from Soft Materials in Los Angeles Homes

Odor control is a problematic situation for Los Angeles homes after fire loss incidents occur. While many of the fire damages can compound and become substantial issues more suited to the talents, equipment, and training of professional restoration professionals, there are ways that you can help your home to overcome specific symptoms to keep the situations from getting completely out of control. Soft materials in your residence are the most susceptible for absorbing harsh smoke odors, and protecting the contents of your home is not as insurmountable as it might seem. 

Fighting fire damage in Los Angeles homes is often a situation best handled by experienced and well-trained restoration professionals like our SERVPRO team. We a have a deep inventory of recovery tools and mitigation equipment that can help to overcome widespread damages like odors, soot, and smoke shortly after we first arrive at the property. Considering that you can buy more limited versions of the equipment our professionals use to overcome smoke odors, or rent them from nearby home improvement locations, here are some of the options that can help you to address embedded odors in your property and its contents: 

• UV Fogger 
• Thermal Fogger 
• Hydroxyl Generator
• Ozone Machine (Not safe for use around humans and pets) 

Each of these options, along with an array of high-grade cleaning agents approved by OSHA and SERVPRO, are what our technicians would deploy on job sites to overcome lingering odors. Soft materials can absorb these scents and require specialized equipment from the list above to overcome – but portable options like our thermal and UV foggers are often the ideal choice for these situations. For widespread issues damaging multiple items, units designed to impact a larger area, like the hydroxyl and ozone machines are better choices. 

Clearing out odors after fire loss incidents can be a steep challenge for even the experienced DIY enthusiast. If the situation gets to be too much for you, or you do not know where to begin in restoring your home after an emergency, give our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team a call at (213) 628-2000.

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Cracking the Remediation Code With SERVPRO

7/21/2019 (Permalink)

You want to make your restoration process after disaster as painless as possible. You can recover quickly and efficiency with SERVPRO.

A Look at the Restoration Services SERVPRO Provides Los Angeles

Thousands upon thousands of people live in Los Angeles and its surrounding developments and cities. With a high volume of residents, disasters from water, fire, mold, and severe weather events provide a constant threat to the communities we serve. We strive to combat this possibility with a growing roster of qualified personnel accredited in every facet of the restoration industry through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and our consistent investment in the leading equipment and products necessary to get jobs done quickly and professionally. 

Water Damage

While homes are getting constructed throughout the area all the time, often the ones at the most considerable risk for water damage in Los Angeles are those that have stood for decades or more. Aging components and faulty designs can allow for water loss incidents from fixtures, plumbing, and many other areas. We offer a comprehensive approach to water loss restoration, helping our customers to worry less about acquiring a new contractor for every phase of recovery. 

Part of our success in responding quickly and effectively to water damage that impacts homes through the Greater Los Angeles area is our high volume of recovery tools and equipment. Just in water restoration niches alone, our inventory exceeds 400 air movers and 300 dehumidification units. This considerable depth in equipment can help our team to handle recovery tasks of every size and severity without compromising on work happening in other areas of the city. 

Water damage can spread quickly throughout Los Angeles homes and businesses, so our SERVPRO team arrives with the tools necessary for mitigation and rapid drying. The faster compromised areas of the home can get thoroughly dried, the less of these construction materials that must get removed. While we have in house contractors, we adhere to a “restore before replacement” mentality.  This approach can save our customers time and money on water loss recovery efforts happening in their house. 

Mold Damage 

Though we have one of the most accomplished water recovery teams in the area, many still contend with mold damage in Los Angeles properties throughout the year when moist and damp conditions go unchecked. With how quickly these situations can become hazardous to those exposed, it is vital to address these damages immediately with competent professionals like our SERVPRO team. We have extensive training in mitigation and containment practices to prevent colonization from getting worse, and our accreditations as Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians (AMRT) through the IICRC helps us to approach even widespread situations confidently. 

Often mold occurs in areas of your Los Angeles home that you cannot easily see. Homeowners must rely on their other senses to identify the presence of a hazardous colony, which can often get identified by a harsh musty odor and heightened environmental irritants. While we have sophisticated equipment that can help to identify the presence of mold damage on your property with certainty, these other indicators can often be enough. We work to quickly implement containment strategies as soon as colonization gets confirmed to prevent further spread of the colonies throughout your home. 

We know how detrimental colonization can be to hosting materials, and to preserve these structural elements as much as possible, our SERVPRO team must implement effective mold removal strategies. From sanding and media blasting through the application of preventative paints and antimicrobial sprays, we can help your Los Angeles home after widespread mold damage effects. 

Fire Damage 

Fire damage to Los Angeles homes often comes with a heavy emotional toll for our customers as well. We know the importance of a fast response to both the pressing physical conditions impacting the property as well as helping our customers through this traumatic experience in whatever manner they need. We have a team of professionals with IICRC certifications in multiple fire recovery facets of the industry, as well as others with certifications in cleaning strategies for carpets, upholstery, fabrics, and textiles. 

Not only is structure fire damage in Los Angeles a consistent threat, but residents must also remain aware of the possibility of natural disasters like wildfires. Even those out of the direct path of this spreading disaster contend with smoke and soot effects, so our SERVPRO team must have technicians ready to mobilize any time. Regardless of the cause of fire loss in your property, we have the experienced team to help you get back to preloss condition. 

Much of our successes in the fire recovery niche of our restoration services correlates to our substantial investments in mitigation and cleaning equipment. These machines can help to reduce the time for our customers to help them get back into their Los Angeles properties quickly. 

Storm Damage

Part of what makes our SERVPRO team so valuable for storm damage in Los Angeles is our ability to offer full-spectrum recovery. Properties often cannot afford to wait for hours – let alone days – to secure the right professionals in various industry niches needed for a full restoration and reconstruction of your house. We have a contacting team in-house that can help with emergency construction solutions like board-ups, tarping, controlled demolition, and tree removal. 

This division of our company gets guided by our owner Bert Gabledon, who has more than 35 years of experience in the building trades and oversees the work that our contractors do for Los Angeles properties. Storm damage can have a dramatic and destructive effect on houses and businesses, and the faster a confident response occurs, the more of the installed components and construction materials that can get protected and preserved. 

We also have effective solutions for when flood damage has already begun in Los Angeles properties. From our powerful extraction tools to our extensive inventory featuring hundreds of air movers and dehumidification units, we can work to limit the spread of flood effects quickly and make these situations “Like it never even happened.” 

You might have many options when it comes to restoration companies throughout our area, but our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team can help you through every phase of restoration and recovery quickly and efficiently. Give us a call whenever disaster strikes at (213) 628-2000.

Click here to see more about Los Angeles. 

We Are The Experts You Need When Your Home In Los Angeles Experiences A Water Damage Incident

6/26/2019 (Permalink)

If you find yourself facing significant water removal issues on your property, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park.

Water Removal And Damage Mitigation For Los Angeles Residents

Having water invade your Los Angeles area home can leave you standing in several feet of water. In many cases, a wet-dry vacuum and towels, do not achieve the best results. Luckily, there is a local water removal expert available with trained professionals available to help you get the water out of your home the right way.

The first method professionals use for water removal on your Los Angeles property is extraction. Various types of extraction equipment make it easier to remove water from carpet and other flooring options that might be present in your home. A trained professional can mitigate damage to carpet, upholstery, wood, vinyl, concrete, and even brick by using the proper extraction equipment to remove water fast.

SERVPRO uses extractors of all shapes and sizes to remove water from carpet, upholstery, and drapes. Extractors are also the best option available for removing large amounts of standing water. Most extractors have three components, the heater, pump, and vacuum system. When cleaning carpets or upholstery, all three components come into play. However, in water damage mitigation, the vacuum is the only component needed to remove water.

SERVPRO technicians train with both portable and truck-mounted water extractors. Portable extractors are small enough to be taken into a structure, making it possible to reach smaller areas where water often hides. Truck-mounted extractors have the same components as their smaller counterparts. However, these units are more powerful, making them essential for both water removal and restorative cleaning.

SERVPRO technicians understand that carpet fibers are 50% weaker when wet, which makes choosing the correct extractor for the job crucial. Choosing the wrong equipment can lead to significant damage. However, choosing the right tools can drastically reduce the time it takes to extract and dry larger areas impacted by water in your home. Thorough extraction is 100-times more efficient than even the highest quality dehumidification equipment, making expert use of extractors key to any water removal process.

If you find yourself facing significant water removal issues on your property, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park. We can provide you with any personnel, equipment, and resources needed for professional water removal throughout Boyle Heights, Lincoln Heights, and Chinatown, call today (213) 628-2000.

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Commercial Water Damage in Los Angeles Can Be Fixed Quickly and Efficiently

6/15/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage to your movie theater can be a handful to deal with alone. Contact the professionals at SERVPRO today for help.

Commercial Water Damage in a Los Angeles Theater Needs Teamwork and the Right Equipment

Matinees and full features attract a variety of individuals, groups, and others to your theater in Los Angeles. A small fire can cause sprinkler systems to release water into different areas, soaking both seating and carpeting. Patrons expect clean seating, and damp chairs might leave stains on expensive dresses or rented attire. Wet carpeting might become moldy and also stretches. Accidents, especially when the theater lights go off, and dark portions of a film keep things dim, can increase.

Entertainment venues in Los Angeles must provide safe conditions for their patrons, and commercial water damage makes ensuring this problematic. Signs indicating wet floors might suffice in better-lit areas, but instead of warning people to watch their step in darker places, they can add to the problem, instead.

Getting the upholstery dried out and clean again, so seats do not leave anyone with unwanted surprises takes more than a few fans placed inside the enclosed areas where you show movies. Wet carpeting needs significant increases in air flow to dry out. SERVPRO brings the equipment to your door to stop damage from worsening.

The number of microbes can become a severe problem when moisture gets introduced to the area. Drying thwarts the ability of microbes to multiply and spread but does not remove any of them from the air. Air scrubbers do this for us, instead. We place these so that the air currents our fans create also push the air toward the nearest air scrubber.

These enormously powerful fans can move between 3,000 and 5,000 cubic feet of air per minute (CFU). This moisture must go somewhere. Moreover, increasing amounts in the air can slow the evaporation rate. While raising the heat inside the theater can make the air capable of retaining additional amounts, we instead rely on desiccant machines that pull water vapor from the air and keep it trapped. We dispose of this water as needed to maintain a continuous drying process.

To do all of this as efficiently as possible, SERVPRO specialists learn from intensive in-house training to work in teams. This provides several pluses to any job, for both our customers and for ourselves. It reduces the costs to you, the risks to our mitigation team members, and also the time required to complete the job.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park also covers Angelino Park, Lincoln Heights, and Chinatown. Call us when your theater or other entertainment venue needs commercial water removal to stay open and keep your patrons happy. You can reach us at (213) 628-2000, with no exceptions, 24/7, year-round.

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We Respond Fast to Fire Damage Restoration In Los Angeles

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

We have the equipment, training, and experience to restore your home to pre-damage condition quickly and efficiently.

SERVPRO - Eliminating Fire Damage Residues In Los Angeles

Despite the better weather this year, many Los Angeles residents remember last year’s fires across several square miles when anyone even says house fire. That season was unusual for the entire county, let alone the city.

Regardless of the size, though, remediating fire damage to Los Angeles homes depends on certain factors. To determine the best cleaning methods, SERVPRO restoration specialists analyze how fast the fire burned and items consumed. Fast-burning fires are oxygen-rich and usually produce a dry smoke while slow-burning, or smoldering, fires are oxygen-poor and produce smoke with more moisture trapped in it.

If the majority of the materials burned were natural, the residue is normally dry and powdery. Natural materials include cork, cotton, paper, wool, and dry wood. If the materials were synthetic, such as foam rubber, plastics, and other polymers, the residue is considered wet, meaning it contains a much higher amount of moisture.

With less moisture and fewer aerosols, Dry Smoke residues leave small, dry particles and require less aggressive methods of cleaning like wiping down surfaces with a dry sponge. For thicker layers, SERVPRO specialists can also use a spray bottle with water or a mild cleaner to break them up. Team specialists also have the option to use a vacuum if needed.

Wet Smoke residues contain more aerosols, often from furniture varnishes, kitchen or garage solvents, and other liquids. In a slow-burning fire, these residues do not travel as far, so the residues are thicker over a smaller area. Cleaning them from tables, countertops, and other surfaces often require a very strong cleaning agent and a scrub brush or other agitation device to penetrate and break them up for easier removal. Odors from wet residues are usually stronger than odors from dry residues.

If the fire started in the kitchen, there are also Protein residues from burning meat, fish, and poultry. While they are visually unimpressive, these are greasy, exceptionally pungent, and difficult to remove without a powerful cleaning agent and at least a scrub brush.

If you have had fire damage in your kitchen or anywhere else, contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park today at (213) 628-2000. We are here to help you return your home to a clean, odor-free condition as quickly as possible.

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It's Raining, It's Pouring....In My Silver Lake Living Room...

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let water damage cause stress. Call SERVPRO for fast remediation.

Get Fast Flood Damage Restoration for Your Silver Lake Home to Prevent Further Destruction

Flooding is frequent and occurs because of several reasons like storm surges, broken reservoirs, and heavy rains. Flood water is dirty and can bring several hazardous contaminants into your home like toxic waste, sewage, chemical pollutants, and infectious bacteria or fungi. All these pollutants can pose health risks.  

After the flood water enters your home, another risk you may face is mold growth in your drywall, wooden beams, and any other place with adequate moisture. If your Silver Lake home has flood damage, you need to act fast by calling SERVPRO franchise professionals. Our restoration service can recover your property through applied structural drying (ASD). We use flood damage restoration techniques that extend beyond getting the water out of a home.  

When a home has flooded, our priority is removing water from it using powerful extraction equipment like pumps. Our technicians extract as much water as possible to speed up the drying process. Water damaged homes require a higher rate of continuous and fresh air flow. A majority of home ventilation systems do not move the volume of air needed to support the drying process and prevent the further migration of moisture. That’s the reason why we use air movers to circulate air all over a home.  

Removing humidity from the air inside a water-damaged home is as crucial as extracting standing water. High humidity can infiltrate your entire home, causing secondary damage like mold growth. Using refrigerant based dehumidifiers to condense water vapor or silica gel desiccants to absorb it eliminates damaging indoor humidity. The temperatures should not be too high or too low to dry a home effectively. Our SERVPRO technicians maintain an indoor temperature between 70 and 90 degrees since this is the optimal range for using water extraction and humidity reduction technology effectively. ASD accomplishes the goal of restoring a home to its preloss condition quickly while preserving the integrity of vital building materials.  

If your home has flood damage, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park immediately at (213) 628-2000. Our technicians can arrive at your home soon after receiving your call and work quickly to prevent further damage. We’re available 24/7/365 and can restore your home to its preloss condition fast.

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Our Quick Response Will Save Your Fire Damaged Home In Boyle Heights

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

You can call our team of professionals at (213) 628-2000 for prompt cleanup, repairs, and restoration.

Why You Need Fast Fire Damage Restoration For Your Boyle Heights Home

Fire is an awful ordeal for any homeowner, yet it can occur because of simple and avoidable reasons. A fire can start due to leaving the kitchen unattended, splattering oil, and placing combustible items close to heat sources. In just a few minutes, fire can burn through walls in hidden areas.

Fire can compromise the structural integrity of your home and leave residues like debris, smoke, and soot. When there is fire damage in your Boyle Heights home, seeking restoration services promptly is critical. You can enlist the services of a fire and smoke damage technician (FST) from SERVPRO to avoid missing any areas or having a mishap when trying to perform the cleanup.

Our restoration experts can arrive at your home within an hour of receiving your call, assess the damage, and start the cleanup and repairs. We try to save as many items as possible. Our technicians can salvage items damaged by soot and smoke using special cleaning methods and products. We choose the appropriate cleaning product based on the action desired like emulsifying, dissolving, bleaching, digesting, changing PH, or oxidizing.

Our restorers respond to the various challenges created when smoke odors and residues affect different materials and structures. We adapt basic concepts of cleaning to every situation. We can use multiple products to produce chemical reactions, agitate surfaces in different ways and use multiple cleaning procedures to remove residues. We use multiple restoration procedures before declaring the items a fire has ruined as unrestorable.

We can also remove contents like fabrics from a home and take them to a nearby restoration facility for a thorough inspection, cleaning, and restoration. We bring back the items after completing this process. Our SERVPRO technicians can also assist you in filing your insurance claims. To file a legitimate fire damage claim, you have to follow several critical steps. Our restoration specialists know what needs to be done when filing insurance claims, including providing the adjuster with proper documentation of the damage with photos, videos, and lists.

When dealing with fire damage, SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park can help you to restore your home to its original condition. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster. You can call our team of professionals at (213) 628-2000 for prompt cleanup, repairs, and restoration.

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Silver Lake Flooding and Rebuilding Needs? Try SERVPRO for Complete Recovery

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding Disaster at Your Silver Lake Home? SERVPRO Does It All--Cleanup to Reconstruction-"Like it never even happened."

Flood Damage and How it Can Affect a House in Silver Lake

Because water can permeate almost anything with even the smallest sized pores, any amount of intrusive water can cause harm to a house in Silver Lake beyond the areas that initially became saturated. Moisture can end up through an entire home, including on higher levels when water vapor leaves condensation on objects and surfaces.

When SERVPRO mitigates a property in Silver Lake of flood damage, we include all of the aspects that affect that property. Because electrical systems can become dangerous to use after a flood, we can bring our power supply. We also partner with certified electricians to ensure that your power works safely and correctly before we finish the work and you return home.

Other areas of your home that can sustain damage include the structure and framework. We check to determine the degree of structural damage and discuss with you any additional work that your house might require. Some structural shifting that occurs can continue to increase while other changes might only affect a home temporarily or revert back to normal within a short time. Such changes can affect any newly installed drywall and cause gaps and breaks in the interior of a newly restored home.

Beams can also warp and twist when wet, which makes it crucial that we use the right equipment to dry these out thoroughly. However, this starts with buckets to carry out any mud and other solid or semi-solid debris that covers your house's floors. Then we begin pulling out flooring and affected walls. Furniture that the flood destroyed also gets moved out of your home. Then we can bring in the big air movers and the desiccant machines.

One the interior structure becomes dry, and no more shifting seems likely, we can install new drywall and flooring, making your home that much closer to how we want it before your family moves back in. We finish with painting and deodorization, and a final walk-through with you.

After flood damage affects your home in Chinatown, Lincoln Heights, or Elysian Park, partner with SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park to restore your home and make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (213) 628-2000, our 24/7 service line to get things started.

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Los Angeles Property Owners Know SERVPRO Offers Fast Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration

4/23/2019 (Permalink)

No, Not a House in Los Angeles after Flood Restoration from SERVPRO--But Just as Dry!

From Drought to Flood Damage in a Los Angeles Home

After suffering a long period of drought that is finally ending, this area of California is especially vulnerable to flood damage. When heavy rains or the Fox River crests, the ground is hard and does not absorb water as quickly which leads to flash flooding in the area.

SERVPRO was contacted one evening to mitigate flood damage in a Los Angeles home. After a severe thunderstorm had caused a patio umbrella that had been inadvertently left open caught a gust of wind and wound up crashing through a patio door while the homeowner was at work. When the homeowner entered his house, he saw the rain had come in a section of the living room, saturating the carpet.

We are based locally and were able to be on site quickly to start the cleanup. First, we applied a tarp over the broken patio door so no further rain would penetrate the home until the homeowner could schedule the repair to be done.
When carpet suffers a water intrusion, the amount of moisture it retains can be deceptive. Carpet padding is notorious for wicking moisture and unless property dried, can be a source of both mold and foul odors. We use soft probes to determine how far into the padding the moisture has penetrated. We also use common sense and experience.

We used weighted extractors to push as much water as possible out of the carpet, and we often do several passes to ensure we have removed all we can before drying. We were using air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the area quickly. Particular attention was given to the carpet, and the edges were loosened and an air mover directed under the carpet and over the padding to pull any remaining moisture out for thorough drying. This skill is known as "floating a carpet," and dries the floor covering in place. Once dry, all surfaces were cleaned and deodorized to remove any residual odors.

When flood damage threatens your home, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park any time of the day or night at (213) 628-2000. Our local technicians arrive "Faster To Any Size Disaster to restore your home to its preloss condition.

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Los Angeles Properties Benefit with SERVPRO Fast Water Removal

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Tries to Salvage Wood Flooring After a Water Mishap in Los Angeles--No Matter the Size, We Have the Skills

Professional Water Damage Assistance for Los Angeles Residents

After every natural disaster or appliance breakdown that causes water damage, it is always a race against time as homeowners and businesses work to rebuild their lives and homes. What you do after the flooding of clean water, is what determines how well you can manage the restoration process. In most cases, more damage occurs without prompt water extraction. It is with that in mind that we advise Los Angeles residents to contact us for a professional water damage control.

Many homes and offices that suffer water damage in Los Angeles have some kind of wooden flooring that need special care when drying it. The typical moisture content of flooring materials is about 6% to 12%. After a spillage of significant volume, the moisture levels may rise to 40% or more. Drying the wooden flooring too fast or too slow may damage the wood and cause it to warp, splinter, or shrink. Our SERVPRO technicians are equipped with LGR dehumidifiers that can gradually lower the moisture levels of different materials to their natural levels.

SERVPRO technicians use the two main types of dehumidifiers that are designed for indoor use. These are the Low Grain Refrigerant (LGR) Dehumidifiers and Conventional Dehumidifiers that use a chemical desiccant like silica. They use the LGR dehumidifiers to dry materials with less than 55 grains per pound (GPP) moisture. The LGR dehumidifiers are not only heavy duty, but they are also efficient. When the moisture content is about 55 GPP, they use Conventional dehumidifiers. The Conventional dehumidifiers are standalone and will maintain constant humidity for prolonged periods. They use them to restore your premises after large volumes of water have been removed.

In cases where there are materials or fabrics in your home whose design limits air circulation, SERVPRO technicians can physically place desiccant gels such as silica gel. It can take as much as 40% of its weight when the humidity is at 100%. These are useful in walk-in closets, pantries, and small confined spaces.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is well equipped and trained to handle all types of water damage. We clean, dry, and sanitize your home to make it safe for your family and friends. Call us at (323) 667-3100 to get immediate assistance. 

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How SERVPRO Extracts Water From Your Boyle Heights Home

3/25/2019 (Permalink)

What do you do when a pipe bursts in your home? Call SERVPRO. We are ready to restore your water damaged home.

Effective Mitigation for Burst Pipes in Your Boyle Heights Home

When a pipe bursts in your Boyle Heights home, the resulting water loss incident can be catastrophic without an immediate response from competent and skilled professionals. While you might work to get the supply of the water shut down quickly, the spread of this high volume of water can be too much for you to resolve on your own. Our professionals have a 24/7 response to water loss emergencies, bringing the full measure of extraction and drying equipment to protect your property from unnecessary damages.

While there are many steps to recover damages from a burst pipe in your Boyle Heights home, water removal is where restoration must begin. Removing the standing water in areas of your house can help to reduce further absorption and saturation of construction materials and structural elements. Our SERVPRO professionals have a wide range of extraction equipment that we can begin using immediately when we first arrive at your damaged home. Our first step upon arrival is the assessment of the severity of this pooling water to determine which of these machines is necessary.

We have a wide range of extraction tools from truck-mounted pumps down to portable sump pumps and extraction wands. Our technicians work to remove the excess water as promptly as possible so that we can get drying started immediately. The faster that drying can begin in your water-damaged home, the better able we are to prevent widespread tear out and reconstruction.

Another phase of our effective mitigation is removing at-risk items from your property to keep them safe from the lingering moisture and damp conditions. Our contents department can offer focused drying, deodorization, and antimicrobial solutions to prevent mold growth. Once drying has proven successful in your home, these items can get returned to their original positions.

Effective mitigation can save you time and money on the necessary processes to return your water-damaged home to preloss condition. You can count on our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park rapid response team to showcase the full measure of our mitigation equipment and strategies for any emergency that threatens your home by calling (213) 628-2000.

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A Flood Damage Plan in Los Angeles

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

Heavy rains can quickly bring large amounts of water into your home. Develop a pre-emptive ERP plan with SERVPRO to help remediate any damage.

SERVPRO Technicians Arrive Ready and Equipped to Remediate Your Home After Flooding

After years of drought, the Los Angeles area and the rest of the state experienced what meteorologists call “atmospheric rivers.” Over 30 of these Pacific-based storms occurred during the winter of 2016-2017. Many hundreds of miles wide and carrying as much water as the delta of the Mississippi River, these storms cause flash flooding. If you are in their path this year, we can help with the aftermath. 
 
Heavy rains directly overhead and in the canyons surrounding Los Angeles spell flood damage for homeowners. It is difficult to do much to avoid the massive runoff other than being aware of its possibility and partnering with our highly qualified team of flood damage remediation experts. Consider working with us ahead of this season’s potential devastation to develop an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) to minimize the effect of flooding on your home’s structure and contents. 
 
An experienced SERVPRO crew member walks through your property looking for areas of your home and foundation that are likely to suffer the most flood damage if heavy rains revisit. The assessment aids you in making commonsense adaptations to ensure that you are as ready as possible for flooding. For example, items stored in areas of your home that are most vulnerable to damage from standing water should be relocated. Other suggestions such as clearing gutters and downspouts and making sure that the ground immediately around your foundation slopes away also help limit water incursion during rains and flooding. 
 
You fill out an Emergency Ready Profile, so SERVPRO is familiar with your priorities if flooding occurs. Share information about utility shut-offs, the names of contractors familiar with your HVAC and other systems, and nominate trusted family members or friends to act on your behalf in the event you are out of town when a flooding event happens. 
 
If your home experiences flood damage because of a future atmospheric river storm system, developing an ERP gives you a firm grasp of what to expect when SERVPRO arrives. Our crews pump out water, extract moisture from porous materials like carpeting, and then use air movers, heat, and powerful commercial-strength dehumidifiers to reduce ambient humidity and pull residual water out of flooring, wallboard, and other structures, fixtures, and decor in your home. Throughout the process, we measure and monitor moisture levels and search for pockets of hidden water with sophisticated technology. Our team members have professional training and experience second to none in the flood damage industry. 
 
Reach out to SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park to develop an Emergency Ready Plan and Profile that helps us assist you with potential flooding and other issues. Our phones at (323) 255-1000 are answered day or night. 

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Water Can Cause Significant Damage To Your Boyle Heights Pizzeria

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

The main concern regarding water removal in your Boyle Heights pizzeria is the effect that it would have on your ability to serve customers.

Fast Water Extraction In Your Boyle Heights Pizzeria

You might have some competition as a pizzeria in Boyle Heights, between the numerous franchises and small business owners pushing their take on the traditional Italian dish, you cannot afford even a minor incident that could threaten your production. Water loss incidents can occur without warning from faulty fixtures and appliances to burst pipes in the plumbing network, and you have to respond quickly to the situation to get the right professional restoration team there and working to return the property to preloss condition.

The first main concern about your need for water removal in your Boyle Heights pizzeria is the effect that it would have on your ability to continue serving customers. While this might pause your production, our SERVPRO team can respond quickly with the effective extraction equipment to get you back in business fast. When we first arrive at your building, we can quickly assess the situation and get our equipment set up to remove the standing water.

Depending on the severity of the situation, we have many levels of extraction equipment. For substantial loss incidents, we utilize the extractor truck that arrived with our SERVPRO Green Fleet of service vehicles. This impressive machine can pull water from the affected areas of your pizzeria at 300psi, preparing the area quickly for efficient drying efforts to follow.

We understand that your electronics and electric appliances in the restaurant can become severely damaged by lingering moisture, so we get our drying equipment such as air movers, dehumidifiers, and specialized tools like our injectidry system and large drying mats installed quickly. With the right response to the situation, these drying efforts can restore the damage from the water loss incident without the need for demolition and reconstruction.

From the time that you first call our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park professionals, we prioritize getting the water cleaned up and getting your business back up and running. No matter the severity of the damage to your building, you can count on our technicians to get it back to the way it should be. Give us a call anytime at (213) 628-2000.

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Does Your LA Property Need Help with Water Removal and Drying? Easy Solution--Call SERVPRO

2/24/2019 (Permalink)

Pressurized Water Leaks, Los Angeles Homeowners, and SERVPRO to the Rescue

SERVPRO Helps Protect Homes with Water Extraction Techniques that Get Los Angeles Properties Dry Fast

When your bathroom or kitchen in your Los Angeles-area house sustains a broken pipe, that small break can put hundreds of gallons of water into your home. You need a company who is not only Faster To Any Size Disaster, but who also knows how to get every trace of the crisis back under control.
 
Protecting your home in Los Angeles means water extraction in a situation like this, including water vapor that can lead to damage weeks or months later, unless removed. SERVPRO technicians, working in teams, remove liquid water wetting your floors, and water vapor from the air. We also use techniques that extract water from the materials in your home, like walls, floors, and where possible, carpeting. Other furnishings, like nearby furniture and personal belongings, can also become saturated when a pipe breaks.
 
When this happens upstairs, anything in the vicinity over the leak downstairs can also become ruined if left as it is and not given the required attention. We use infrared imaging cameras that reveal where water has traveled via gravity and building materials. We can trace it to enclosed areas, also, and get trapped water released and then extracted.
 
Our specialists use methods recommended by the IICRC that restore dry conditions quickly and thoroughly. Allowing damp areas to remain can lead to problems with microbial growth, deterioration of materials, and uncomfortable breathing conditions. While some moisture in the air does make a home's environment more hospitable, too much can have the opposite effect. Our moisture meters help us determine when we have achieved optimal conditions in regards to humidity and keeps us from over-drying your home. Our drying goal is typically 35-60% depending on the interior and exterior conditions.
 
When a pipe snaps and spews water into your home's living area, or a sink overflows, SERVPRO technicians take the time to answer your questions while still working as quickly as possible. Making sure you get the answers to your questions means you understand the work we carry out inside your home, helping you feel more in control of the situation from start to finish. Your satisfaction is crucial to us, so please never hesitate to ask us about the work we do or the equipment we use. We strive to make you feel "Like it never even happened."
 
SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is always here, 24/7, year-round, to help ensure your home stays protected from spills, overflows, and broken water lines. If your Elysian Park, Chinatown, or Angelino Heights property sustains one of these situations, call us at (213) 628-2000.

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What Everyone Ought to Know About Mold Damage Remediation in Los Angeles

2/17/2019 (Permalink)

When you see visible signs of or smell mold in your home, contact team SERVPRO to investigate and then remediate the damage.

Mold Damage Remediation for Your Los Angeles Home

Mold is a kind of fungus which can grow in your Los Angeles home from spores. It is essential for the breaking down of animal and plant matter outside. Inside, it can commonly be found growing in bathrooms and showers, crawl spaces, basements, attics, and laundry rooms. Active mold growth is fuzzy or slimy and generally is black, green, purple, or orange. Mold which is inactive is usually white and dry and powdery.

When you suspect mold and mold damage in your Los Angeles home, you should contact our professionals at SERVPRO. We have the experience and training needed to clean your home from a mold infestation so that it does not keep spreading to clean areas of your home. Since mold can cause health effects and grows quickly, it is essential to let us know of the issue as soon as you find it.

Once we assess the damage, we need to contain the mold contamination to make sure it won’t spread to any areas of your home that are uncontaminated. We are careful not to introduce airflow to mold spores which haven’t been contained, so we avoid spreading the contamination to clean areas. SERVPRO technicians install plastic sheeting for containment barriers and establish negative air pressure in the affected area. We also seal HVAC vents to stop the duct system from being contaminated.

The method of cleaning up the mold depends on the surface it is on. Non-porous materials can usually be cleaned, but porous materials many times must be removed and discarded. Porous materials which are extensively contaminated are removed. The active mold growth on materials like drywall, fabrics, insulation, and carpeting is removed by getting rid of the actual material. Non-porous materials like metals, glass, and plastics can be HEPA vacuumed if the surface is dry or we damp wipe them using a detergent solution. If mold has been present for a long time, wood with mold growth might have to be removed if the structural integrity has been weakened by rot.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake/Echo Park can clean your home in Elysian Park, Echo Park, or Boyle Heights when you find mold and mold damage. It is essential that you call us at (213) 628-2000 as soon as you recognize there is an issue, as the mold continues to grow and cause more damage until we get it cleaned up.

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Some Simple Steps to an Effective Commercial Water Removal Strategy in Los Angeles

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

Water line problems require a quick shut off and water removal. Remediation is also key to preventing mold. Call SERVPRO immediately.

Commercial Water Removal Solves Flooding from a Broken Water Line in Los Angeles

Water lines often receive very little maintenance compared to other components in a Los Angeles business. Daily maintenance activities in a hotel suite typically include necessary cleaning, vacuuming, and dusting, but ignore checking for structural or equipment deficits. The pressure in a water line leading to washroom facilities or drinking fountains can break open along the line at any joint or at its attachment.
 
Water use remains regulated, making it crucial to repair even small leaks immediately as soon as you know about the situation by calling for commercial water removal services in Los Angeles. At SERVPRO, we diligently train our employees in understanding the most effective methods in mitigating situations involving lost water and how to get buildings experiencing crises under control again. Incidents involving multiple levels, as in a hotel, become increasingly devastating the longer the situation remains.
 
We often use open windows for the reclamation of water saturating carpets on a hotel's upper floor, with attached extraction units cleaning up peripheral areas. Once we eliminate the bulk of this water from each floor, we can put our efforts into completely drying the carpets in hallways, common areas, and any affected suites or rooms. We also address the more humid air that occurs with highly effective desiccant machines. These rapidly remove water vapor and help our air movers work more efficiently in pulling moisture out of materials throughout the affected area.
 
We continually monitor the area to ensure that our equipment recaptures all lost water and leaves your hotel dry, “Like it never even happened.” As we work in your hotel, we understand that guests' needs often require a quiet environment, so we use a muffler-like set-up on our louder equipment. This dramatically reduces the noise inside the hallways that might carry into rooms and suites and affect your guests. Affected rooms require our attention simultaneously, so we discuss with you the best approach to guests and help you make any changes in room assignments, so we impose as little inconvenience as possible.
 
SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park works with local businesses in Chinatown, Lincoln Heights, and Silver Lake, including hotels, to mitigate damages caused by water losses and other disasters. Many of these require the fast removal of lost water and the drying out of structures to protect the building from secondary damages. We have the skills and equipment you need during a crisis. Faster To Any Size Disaster, we are always ready to take your call at (323) 255-1000, 24/7, 365 days a year.

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Why Ceiling Water Stains in Your Los Angeles Home Need Immediate Attention

2/12/2019 (Permalink)

Stains on the ceiling can indicate water damage.

Why SERVPRO is the Best Choice for Water Damage Restoration in Your Los Angeles Home

If you believe you see signs of water damage to the ceiling of your Los Angeles home, the source of the water needs determining before restoration begins. A major mistake that people make is attempting to patch it themselves without solving the root of the problem first. A professional remediation company needs to be called in to check the situation out. 

As a property owner, it is essential that you can identify water damage in your Los Angeles home since signs can sometimes be neglected or unnoticed. Don't underestimate the water's ability to create significant damage to your structure. SERVPRO Brand has the professionally trained staff and tools you need to fix an issue like this in your home, which is why SERVPRO Franchise professionals are the right choice to restore your home. 

One of the most visible signs of a ceiling which is water damaged are water stains. These usually look brownish or rusty in color and can suggest a previous or ongoing leak. It is always best, either way, it is always the best decision to have SERVPRO Franchise professionals look and help you find the source while repairing any damage. We have moisture meters which can find any hidden moisture that is creating the staining to resolve the issue, and the damage stopped. 

Another indication of a water damaged ceiling is bubbling or swelling. If your ceiling appears to be bulging out, it means there is an accumulation of moisture in the drywall and wood. It can at times be dangerous because as the water continues to collect, it can cause the ceiling to collapse. We can alleviate the situation before it becomes dangerous. 

Sometimes, a water damaged ceiling looks like it is sweating, with the discoloration looking a bit darker than the paint and showing up at the start of a water leak. The excess humidity or moisture creeps into walls and the ceiling and turns in bubbling or stains. It is a clear sign you need to act before the problem worsens immediately. 

Mold is another clear indicator there is water damage, and it needs to be handled right away since mold can cause health effects. Mold can start growing in as little as 48 hours and continually spreads until it cleaning occurs. SERVPRO Franchise professionals are equipped to handle mold as well if it has begun to grow in your home due to a water leak. 

SERVPRO of Silver Lake/Echo Park is trained and experienced to handle ceiling water damage in your home in Silver Lake, Chinatown, or Elysian Park. As soon as you realize there is an issue, reach out to us by dialing (323) 255-1000, so we can stop the leak and restore your home. 

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Los Angeles Fire Damage, the Nuances of Smoke, and SERVPRO Cleanup

1/8/2019 (Permalink)

When the Red Fire Trucks Leave, the SERVPRO Green Fleet Arrives--Ready for Fire Loss Cleanup in Los Angeles

Some Fire Damage is Caused by Firefighters when Saving a Home in Los Angeles

When a fire happens in Los Angeles, temperatures soar inside a home's enclosed space. Smoke grows thick and prevents firefighters from seeing any more than a foot or two directly in front of them. Even during the day, this can make things nearly pitch black.
 
When firefighters respond to a call in Los Angeles, they often make ventilation holes in the exterior to help control the amount of fire damage to interior structures. These holes in the roof and exterior walls help reduce the temperature inside the home. Quite often, firefighters decide to break windows instead of making holes in the structure, as this can happen faster and with less permanent damage to the home.
 
Ventilation holes also allow smoke to exit the home so firefighters can see more easily to contain the flames and rescue anyone trapped inside. During a fire, it is very common for residents who know their home well to become disoriented and confused about the layout of the house. Firefighters do not have prior knowledge of the home and clearing smoke from the house helps them do their work in less hazardous conditions.
 
After the firefighters leave, these holes in your home remain. SERVPRO can get these covered with heavy-duty tarps or plywood boards protecting the interior of your home from invasive pests and rain. The glass from broken windows also remains. We get these hazards cleaned up, as well as the debris that making the holes created. Broken glass and splintered wood pieces can cover your belongings, as well, so we mark these items accordingly. This information helps protect the next SERVPRO technician who handles or cleans any of the affected items.
 
Just as firefighters follow a set of protocols that help all of them know what others are doing and how their actions affect the home, SERVPRO technicians receive training that allows them to work effectively and efficiently as team members. Teamwork significantly reduces the amount of time involved in mitigating fire damage caused by both the firefighters and the fire itself, and gets your family back home, “Like it never even happened.”
 
SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park knows emergencies happen at all hours of the day and night, so we offer those in and around Lincoln Heights and Elysian Park emergency mitigation services for fire damage and other disasters. Call us at (323) 255-1000, 365 days a year, whenever you need help making your home safe again.

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Don't Put Mold Into Your Own Hands Call The Professionals

12/21/2018 (Permalink)

Mold needs to be treated by the professionals.

Why Disinfectants are a Secondary Solution in Mold Remediation of Los Angeles Homes

Controlling the growth of microbial fungi is primarily about drying structures. Although a chemical cleansing agent may seem like a quick fix, professional services with qualified technicians can pay dividends in the long run. Mold has a nasty habit of returning particularly during wet or humid times of the year. By investing in a professional service now, you could save yourself several unpleasant situations over the year.

Working on mold remediation in Los Angeles properties is something we have done time and time again. It begins with a simple phone call to our 24-hour emergency line. From there, we can arrange a service within an hour of notification of loss. SERVPRO uses technicians with qualifications in both mold assessment and mold remediation from the IICRC. We all live and work here in this community which reduces our call-out times significantly. We can promise to arrive on-site within four hours of notification of loss.

The presence of moisture is the reason mold prospers which is why professional products should never be used as the primary method for removal. SERVPRO uses a two-step solution which is efficient and straightforward. The first step is to remove contaminated materials from the affected area. The second step is to dry the affected area using fast-drying methods.

Removal of contaminated materials requires a designated clean area. In large scale jobs, we may decide to use a clean room off-site. It is cost efficient to use a clean room on site so, where possible, we opt for this method. The fast-drying procedure involves deploying advanced equipment like rapid air-movers, desiccant dehumidifiers or water extraction units with heated wands that remove residual moisture fast.

Once a SERVPRO technician achieves both these steps, they use professional cleaning products. We use EPA-registered broad spectrum disinfectant to soak the affected area. In some cases, we may control the temperature and PH levels to ensure maximum effectiveness. Disinfectants do show some success in removing and preventing mold growth but, their impact is questionable, which is why removal and fast-drying is our priority.

Hiring a professional is the most critical step in remediation, Contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (323) 255-1000 today.

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How Does Soda Blasting Remove Mold From Your Los Angeles Home?

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Soda blasting and dry ice pellets are two of the methods that we use to remove mold from areas where scraping would mar the surface.

Scraping and Removal of Materials:  Two Parts of Mold Damage Remediation in Los Angeles

Microbial activity never stops completely. The absence of water significantly slows things down, and the majority of microbes become dormant. Dormant microbes do very little damage to homes in Los Angeles. However, it only takes a little bit of moisture to reactivate dormant mold and mildew.

The continued presence of moisture significantly increases microbial activity and can lead to large areas of your home succumbing to mold damage in your Los Angeles residence. When we find a home with mold damage, we first locate the place where the microbes are finding moisture, which requires the use of infrared thermal imaging cameras.  Materials that retain moisture show up as being cooler than surrounding materials that do not contain any moisture.  

The location of moisture-laden materials often reveals other areas containing mold, as well. We advise the property owner about the location of these additional areas as we find them. Different materials require different techniques to rid your home of mold damage and excessive spores.  

Many times, we find drywall to contain such extensive damage that we must cut the affected areas away from the wall, place the cut-up pieces in double bags, seal them, and then dispose of them safely. We cut away as little as possible to reduce the amount of waste, but often find mold growing on the inside of the wall, which requires that we remove additional drywall that may seem unaffected by mold on the exterior of the wall.  

Scraping materials to remove mold growing on the very top-most surface can succeed if we begin soon after the mold colony forms. Once hyphae penetrate the surface of a wall, ceiling, or other structure, more aggressive scraping might suffice, however, much depends on the texture of the surface. Textured materials or those with finishes like stained wood, painted walls, and paneling can become visibly marred by scraping techniques, even when mold growth remains very slight.  

When these two methods would produce unwanted results, SERVPRO technicians rely on blasting techniques. Dry ice pellets and soda blasting remove very little of the surface of the materials where mold grows while still removing the microbial population effectively. These two methods also work well to remove odors caused by mold.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is ready to send out a mold damage remediation team to your Chinatown, Elysian Park, or Boyle Heights residence. We are always here to take your call, answer questions, and provide you with knowledgeable guidance. Call us at (323) 255-1000, day or night, any day of the year.

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Some of the Worst Flood Damage Remediation Mistakes in Los Angeles and What They Will Cost You

12/16/2018 (Permalink)

Having a blueprint or layout to your home can help with floodwater removal and restoration. Contact SERVPRO for remediation services.

Two Important Factors That Can Change How SERVPRO Approaches Flood Removal in Los Angeles

Flood removal from a Los Angeles home should be fast and thorough. The longer you allow water to remain in your home, the more damage it can cause later on. SERVPRO stands ready around the clock to send out teams of trained mitigation professionals to local homeowners in need. Once at your home, our crews immediately set to work evaluating the problem and removing as much water as they can within the first few hours of work. Many factors exist that go into our water extraction work, but a few constant factors can be relied on to determine our response to the problem.

Volume of Water
Regardless of how much water entered your home in Los Angeles, we need to remove the flood waters within a few hours of your call to prevent further damage. For smaller homes dealing with less water, a single crew with standard portable extraction equipment may be appropriate. However, as the job scales upwards, we are required to bring in more and more machinery and manpower to pump out all the water in time. In extreme cases, as with a large mansion or apartment complex, we may need to use multiple truck-mounted pumps to remove the water. Try to let us know over the phone how big the problem is so we can arrive with the appropriate equipment in tow.

Building Layout
Everything about your property can help or harm the restoration process in different ways. If your home has a basement or sizable low-lying area, this can collect water quickly and make water extraction more difficult. If the damage is centered in a room behind many hallways and doors, this can add another layer of complexity to our work. If possible, provide our technicians with blueprints, plans, and other documents related to your home so that they can not only extract water faster, but also locate critical features such as water mains, electrical breakers, and valves.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is there to help with flood damage in your home. Call us at (323) 255-1000 to request or learn more about our services.

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When a Broken Water Pipe Becomes the Main Event in Your Los Angeles Property

11/15/2018 (Permalink)

Do you know if the pipes bringing water into your house are in good working order? When the water main breaks, call SERVPRO!

Water Main Breaks Can Flood Multiple Los Angeles Properties

There are enough natural disasters that occur in and around Los Angeles to keep homeowners on the defensive to prevent unnecessary damages to their property. Even without the potential possibilities for wildfires or damaging wind storms, chance events like water main breaks on supply lines feeding neighborhoods can pose a threat all on their own. As the composition of the ground around the lines changes over time, strains begin to emerge and eventually rupture the main line, which can cause water to flow freely up and out of the ground with significant pressure.

Any homes that find themselves in the path of this emerging water is likely to experience some flood damages throughout their Los Angeles property. Even before the city officials can get there to shut down the valves and begin the necessary steps to repair this broken water main line, you can reach out to dedicated professionals that can arrive quickly to help you begin the mitigation process and protect your property from continued damages.

Something that sets our SERVPRO franchise apart from some of the competition that we have throughout the region is our ability to remain available to our customers 24-hours a day, even on weekends and holidays. We cannot tell you when disaster could affect your home, so we want to make sure that you have the full volume of our resources available to you at any time of the day. Within a short period, water damage can saturate into the materials it becomes exposed to, adversely affecting them and causing them to bloat, distort, and eventually fail.

With your home falling into a timeline of degradation and a potential hazard in hours to days following a significant water loss incident like this, our SERVPRO team can offer our industry-leading equipment and experienced technicians to overcome the damages promptly.

While you cannot account or prepare for water main breaks throughout your neighborhood that could adversely affect your property, you should now have an idea of whom to call if it does happen. Give our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park a call anytime that you need us at (323) 255-1000.

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SERVPRO Can Mitigate Water Damage--Call Us Fast

10/29/2018 (Permalink)

Avoid Severe Water Damage at Your Los Angeles Property--Call SERVPRO Fast!

Water Removal in Los Angeles – Steps To Take Before the Arrival of SERVPRO

Arriving at your Los Angeles home and finding out that your expensive carpet and hardwood flooring are soaking in water is not a pleasant experience. In such a case, the first thing that comes to mind is how did this happen? Within a few seconds, your mind switches to the problem. As a result, you rush from the front door to the kitchen and even the bathroom looking for the source of the problem. It could be a faulty dishwasher, pipe burst or someone left one of the taps running. Either way, this is not the time for you to panic. You must take these few but equally important steps to prevent further damage before SERVPRO water removal experts arrive.

By now you have discovered the source of your problem. Before water removal specialists arrive in your Los Angeles home, shut off the source of water. If the water originated from a faulty appliance or pipe burst, shut off the water from the mains. In case someone left one of the taps in the bathroom or kitchen open, shut it off too. Don’t forget to shut off your electricity. This is very important especially if you have appliances placed on your carpets. However, never attempt this while standing in water, or the circuit panel is wet.

As SERVPRO water damage restoration experts, we recommend you remove area rugs not attached to the floor only if they are not too heavy. Water-logged furnishings and carpets may cause injury while attempting to relocate them away from wet areas. Start mopping and blotting the water as quickly as possible. Doing this may help your hardwood flooring from suffering further damage.

If your drapes are touching the floor, remove them immediately and place them outside to dry. Alternatively, use a coat hanger to loop your drapes. This stops additional contact with the water on your floor.

When it comes to your furniture, blot as much water as you can. Use clean towels to do so. Afterward, place aluminum foil under the legs. This prevents the furniture stain from bleeding on your carpet. For books, photos, art, and other valuables, move them to a dry location, but if wet, no not box them. Circulation may help mitigate water damage. Now, if you immediately called SERVPRO, we are probably already relieving you of these stressful, and potentially injurious tasks. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Remember, do not enter any room with standing water before switching off electricity. Crucial to your personal safety.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park water removal technicians use top quality drying equipment. By doing so, we prevent further damage to your home and mold growth. To save your home and your valuables, call our 24/7 emergency line at (323) 255-1000.

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How SERVPRO Removes Mitigates Mold Damage in Your Los Angeles Home

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

It is tempting to want to paint over mold, but doing this can cause the paint to peel. Let SERVPRO eliminate the mold before repainting.

Practical Ways to Attend To Mold Damaged Walls in your Los Angeles Home 

To safely remediate your business or home after a mold damage event, you need to work with professionals who understand everything about mold. After arriving at your property, we look at the affected materials and surfaces before coming up with appropriate cleanup methods. One method cannot solve all mold issues, which is why we use several techniques when we are remediating your Los Angeles property. 

In your Los Angeles home, mold damage can affect both porous and nonporous materials. If the interior walls of your home have mold, the surface appears unpleasant, and the problem can lead to possible health effects. If you fail to address the problem during its initial stages, it can spread to other areas and make the remediation process challenging. Never make a mistake of painting moldy surfaces, our SERVPRO technicians can clean and dry such surfaces before repainting can take place. 

Assessing the condition of the walls is the first step that our SERVPRO technicians perform. If we notice some black splotches or bowing and crumbling or the drywall, then replacing it is necessary. If the walls are in a stable condition, then we can scrub and use a disinfectant to clean the contamination. The cleaning agents have anti-bacterial properties that deactivate the mold to lower chances of future growth. 

There are chances of the cleaning agents spilling to surrounding areas such as floors. We have to protect such surfaces using plastic drop covering before the cleaning process starts. Our SERVPRO technicians also observe safety precautions when working on your property to limit exposure to the molds. We wear chemical resistant gloves, safety boots, and appropriate respirators. It is essential to set up decontamination areas with negative pressure so that we can use such locations to clean our tools and safety gear.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park helps you out in your time of need by offering industry proven cleaning and restoration services. All you need is to call (323) 255-1000 for our highly trained technicians to attend to your urgent needs.

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The Benefits Of Hiring A IICRC Certified Restoration Company For Commercial Water Damage Clean Up In Los Angeles

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

Water infiltration as a result of a roof leak, faulty plumbing or faulty appliance can lead to mold growth.

Saving Your Los Angeles Business: Why Hiring IICRC Certified Commercial Water Clean Up Experts Matters

What if water infiltrates your Los Angeles business? Well, the first step most business owners take is to try and clean the mess with the help of the employees. It makes sense that a business owner resorts to DIY in an attempt to save his or her business. Problem is such measures may result in extensive damage and complete loss. To save your business and provide a safe environment for your customers, choose IICRC certified commercial water cleanup technicians. Here are the reasons why.

Quick Response
When water damage affects your business, time is of the essence. To prevent extensive damage, commercial water cleanup in your Los Angeles property is necessary. At SERVPRO, we respond fast to your water emergency. By doing so, we help to prevent further damage to your business. Also, it helps to save you money.

Prevent Mold Growth
Water infiltration as a result of a roof leak, faulty plumbing or faulty appliance can lead to mold growth. Actually, it takes 72 hours for mold to start growing on affected surfaces. This can create health effects for you, your employees and customers. You do not want your restaurant or café to be shut down because of a health violation. To prevent mold growth, our experts use advanced equipment to dry and restore your business.

Fast Track Your Insurance Claim
SERVPRO commercial water cleanup technicians track and document the whole process. Not only do we note the damage done to your belongings and home but we compile a damage assessment report. Also, we provide all the details needed by your insurance adjuster. By doing so, we fast-track the insurance claims process for you.

Work With Professionals
Whether you need a water damage restoration expert or an applied structural drying technician, we are here to help. We also have the training and experience to handle any commercial water cleanup emergency.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is a trusted leader in commercial water damage and restoration. As IICRC certified professionals, we use advanced restoration and cleaning equipment to prevent further damage to your business. For immediate assistance, call our 24/7 emergency line at (323) 255-1000.

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Cleaning Up Mold Damage In Your Los Angeles Residence

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Any color of mold can create substantial damage to materials.

Cleaning Up Mold Damage

Many people have heard about black mold and how much harm it can cause. One thing that this seems to downplay is that any overgrowth of mold in your home in Los Angeles can cause damage to your residence's interior regardless of the visible color.

When your home in Los Angeles sustains mold damage, a color other than black does not mean it is okay to ignore its growth. Any color of mold can create substantial damage to materials. Mold colonies give off spores to reproduce, and these can cause your home to smell musty and unpleasant. This process can also cause health effects in people.

Mold spores can travel anywhere in your home that contains air. Furnaces, air vents, heating and cooling ducts, crawlspaces, attics, and even the interior of walls can hold spores and mold colonies. One thing to know about where mold can grow is that this microorganism requires water. SERVPRO technicians use this requirement to find locations in your home that are the most likely to harbor mold and mildew.

Moisture detectors help us locate damp areas. We use these small but powerful tools to help us determine which areas hold mold damage as well as damage from water. Locating the source of this water can also help you find slow leaks from pipes or drains or breaks in your home's roof or other exterior locations.

Remediating the mold damage and leaving your home with a fresh start can make things feel cleaner, as well. Mold spores often feel dusty and cover everything when a heavy infestation occurs. We carry out the proper set-up and then quickly take care of the messy work. Our specialists are certified by the IICRC and stay up-to-date on recent developments and the newest techniques. We want to serve our customers to the best of our ability and provide them with the most value possible.

Residents of Chinatown, Echo Park, and Silver Lake can call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (323) 255-1000, 24/7, every day of the year for assistance with mold damage and its related problems.

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Water Cleanup To Your LA Office When The Plumbing Bursts

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

Many Los Angeles Offices Rely on SERVPRO for Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration

Water Loss in Your Office? Contact SERVPRO for a Swift Recovery in the Los Angeles Area

Some offices in Los Angeles might pose a unique set of stresses concerning water problems. While you keep pace with the demand of your clients and customers, many business owners fail to see the legitimate threat of aging components of their building that could put them at risk for damages without any warning. A great example of this is the plumbing network throughout the facility.

One of the gravest concerns for significant water loss situations in your Los Angeles office building is cleaning up the mess. With so many sensitive documents and records kept as hard copies throughout storage areas of your facility, getting to the water mitigation as quickly as possible is of critical importance. That is where you can forgo the custodial staff of your building and trust in the fast response of our SERVPRO professionals. We can do the heavy lifting.

Cleaning up the mess is rarely as simple as mopping up the water and drying the area. Most of the time, we have first to isolate the source of the problem. Our professionals have specific equipment to help them pinpoint water breaks in the plumbing system within the walls. Thermal imaging with infrared cameras and moisture meters are several of these devices. This accurate assessment reduces the need for extensive material removal and replacement but helps the technicians to access the source and repair it as an initial step to restoring the damage.

Our SERVPRO professionals also look to preserve and protect the contents of your facility from further damage through our pack-out process. This service removes at-risk contents in the building to a safe location nearby, or to our facility for cleaning and drying. Saturated documents can get recovered when possible through freeze-drying applications off-site, and all of the items get returned upon the completion of the cleanup services.

In the realm of being available to your clients and customers, our team of professional restoration technicians can help you to keep your doors open and restore the damage that the defective plumbing may have caused. You can reach our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park professionals 24/7 by calling (323) 255-1000.

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Removing Mold Damage in Los Angeles

8/9/2018 (Permalink)

Finding mold lurking in any part of your home can be disconcerting. Contact SERVPRO to locate the source and remediate the damage.

SERVPRO Technicians Follow a Proven Process When Remediating Mold Damage in Your Home

For Los Angeles residents and homeowners, mold is the quiet problem. It does not get underfoot like water or announce itself like a fire, but mold still causes millions of dollars in damage and restoration costs each year.
 
Many owners first notice mold damage in their Los Angeles home by the ‘musty’ odor. It is a good indicator, but not every mold has it. Since mold can rapidly grow before anyone sees it, SERVPRO restoration teams try to clean, dry and remove mold from each home quickly and thoroughly to prevent additional damage to each home.
 
They start by determining the origin point and extent of the infestation. Teams use air content meters as they perform visual inspections in each room, the garage, and attic. By using both, technicians can quickly find the origin point and trace the mold colony as it expanded through the home.
 
Next, SERVPRO teams isolate the infested areas. They seal off doors, windows, and air conditioning vents with plastic sheeting. If needed, technicians also create a separate area for tools and to change into protective clothing. They do this to prevent accidentally spreading mold spores to unaffected parts of the home during cleaning and removal operations.
 
Our teams start by wiping down every surface with dry sponges and cleaning cloths. This action removes most mold spores. Once completed, technicians vacuum all spores using special HEPA filters designed to catch and trap even a single spore. With the majority of the spores now removed, team members remove the cleaned property from the contaminated area to an unaffected part of the home.
 
After allowing any spores stirred by cleaning operations to settle, technicians repeat the process until testing with an air content meter shows mold levels at a safe level. They use a different meter to examine carpets for mold content and clean it with an anti-fungal agent mixed into a shampoo solution. If the mold penetrated most of the carpet surface, the team leader also gives the homeowner the option of removing the carpet for disposal.
 
The goal for SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is to return every home to a clean condition without the threat of further mold growth. If you need our services, contact us today at (323) 255-1000 with any questions or to schedule a visit. We are here for you.

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Tiny Amounts Of Moisture Can Create Water Damage In Silver Lake Properties

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

If you are concerned about your Silver Lake home suffering from the effects of water damage, contact the team at SERVPRO.

Tiny Amounts Of Moisture Can Create Water Damage

Moisture in the air varies greatly, but you can control the amount found in your Silver Lake residence by controlling other aspects. One way to reduce the amount of moisture within your home is to just keep the air at a colder temperature. Using a dehumidifier can also keep things drier in your residence.

If you are concerned about your Silver Lake home suffering from the effects of water damage, our technicians can help you determine the most effective techniques to protect your residence during an inspection. When our team arrives at your home to inspect for signs of water damage, we use infrared thermographic devices. These show fluctuations in temperature caused by the presence of moisture. We use these readings to pinpoint the locations of moisture in your residence's structure.

SERVPRO technicians also use these readings to locate the sources of unwanted water and moisture. Preventing water damage is usually much less expensive than what it costs homeowners to repair and restore their homes once it occurs. Minor leaks can quickly create significant damage, especially if a leaky pipe breaks.

Also, tiny leaks can allow water damage to slowly but steadily develop, making the damage less noticeable while it steadily worsens. Either variety makes your house suffer in ways it should not, and we can help you prevent this damage from happening. If discovered during our inspection, we can remediate any water damage we uncover.

When we perform mitigation services, SERVPRO technicians ensure that the work we perform addresses all areas affected by water damage. When water and moisture create secondary damage such as mold or mildew infestations, we discuss the situation with the homeowners regarding the options available to them. Then, and at any point in our interactions with customers, we are always available to answer questions regarding our services and how they benefit the property.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park helps homeowners around Angelino Heights, Chinatown, and Elysian Park by both preventing and mitigating water damage in homes and businesses. Call us at (323) 255-1000 for all your needs in protecting your home. We answer our emergency services line 24/7 to better serve those in our community.

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Understanding The Real Risks of Flood Damage To Your Los Angeles Home

6/28/2018 (Permalink)

Los Angeles Property Owners Rely on SERVPRO for Stormwater Removal and Cleanup

Water Damage Does Happen in Los Angeles Properties After Storms

Among all of the natural disasters that tend to pose risks for Los Angeles homeowners, flooding is often not considered among the top of this list. What you might get surprised to learn is that it can and does happen often enough to make it something you should try to prevent in your house if possible. Many times, the construction of your home has included provisions to prevent the intrusion of water from the outside both in the blockwork of your foundation and it exterior area. However, these defenses wear and degrade over time.

Many homeowners are not aware that their house is at risk for possible flooding until the water is pouring into cracks and gaps in the foundation and filling up the lower levels of their home. Flood damages to your Los Angeles home require immediate attention and are rarely something that you can contend with on your own. The best choice to make is to seek out professional restoration services to help you stop the flooding, mitigate potential secondary water damage, and restore the harm that it has caused.

Our SERVPRO professionals work to quickly stop the flow of water through the blockwork in your home by applying hydraulic cement to these compromised areas. This process stops the leakage and can allow our technicians to get to work on extracting the present pooling water.

Depending on the severity of the volume of water, our professionals can utilize portable sump pumps or wet-vacs with extraction wands, but more severe damage requires a pump truck from our SERVPRO fleet. Once the water has gotten removed, and this could be in a matter of hours or days, the team can focus their efforts on the best approach to dry the area and prepare it for the remaining stages of restoration.

While flooding is something that you might not actively prepare for around where you live, it just might surprise you how often it can occur. Have a plan in place to get the damage restored quickly. If you already are experiencing flood or water damages, trust our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park to help you clean up the mess efficiently. Give us a call today at (323) 255-1000.

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Fire Damage Experts In Echo Park Explain The Cleaning And Deodorization Of Contents

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park can restore your contents from soot and smoke damage.

Learn About SERVPRO's Cleaning And Deodorization Of Contents Process

If a fire ever starts on your property in Echo Park, various types of problems are likely to occur. The heat coming from the flames can burn building materials to the point where reconstruction is necessary. Smoke coming from a blaze can also spread through your house and cause damage.

Partially combusted particles in the form of smoke can travel throughout the building leaving behind foul odors and soot residue. When mitigating fire damage in Echo Park, dealing with contents is essential to get rid of unpleasant aromas. Malodor particles can penetrate deep into porous materials and be difficult to remove.

In many cases, our SERVPRO technicians move out damaged contents so that they can get treated for smoke damage in a clean and disinfected environment. Before anything gets moved out of your home, we make an inventory list of all of your possessions we displace. The list specifies what was moved out of the house, which location it went to and how severe the item is damaged. After creating the list and sorting the items they all get gently packed into labeled boxes for relocation.

Contents that are made from porous materials such as fabric, can be cleaned in a washing machine using specialized detergents. When handling non-porous items, our SERVPRO technicians remove soot one item at a time. After each of your possessions is individually cleaned with specialized chemicals designed for smoke removal, they are marked as clean on the inventory list and stored in a storage location that has been previously cleaned and disinfected.

In some cases, pungent fragrances still exist after all soot is removed from the contents. When odors remain after the cleaning process, further deodorization steps can be taken. The best way to eliminate malodorous particles is to use chemicals and procedures to neutralize the smell.

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Ultra low volume foggers can be implemented to recreate how smoke traveled through the building and into your possessions. Ozone generators can also be used to cause a chemical reaction with the odor-causing substances and neutralize them. If you ever need help with possessions that got affected by soot residues, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (323) 255-1000 any day of the week.

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Seaside City Homes Have a Greater Chance for Flood Damage Due to Seasonal Storms

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

Los Angeles Residents Get the Red Carpet Treatment from SERVPRO Regarding Flood Damage Cleanup and Restoration

Reduce Flooding Effects by Calling SERVPRO for Fast Extraction and Drying

The action of founding a city on the coast automatically causes the risk of flood damage resulting from intense storms to rise. California is no stranger to intense storms from the Pacific Ocean. However, this does not mean that you should sell your home and move inland to avoid any possible home-damage. Doing what you can to prevent damage to your home is one of the soundest things you can do in the beginning; for example, if you know your roof has a spot that is getting weaker as it ages, having it fixed as soon as possible is a helpful way to prevent further loss during a storm.
 
Being smart about preventative measures is not the only thing you can do for the benefit of your Los Angeles home when something like flood damage occurs. A severe storm can roll in from the ocean, and the intense winds can cause debris to break a window, allowing water to seep into your home. Despite your best efforts, there are things you cannot prevent and the best way to ensure the longevity of your home is to call for help as soon as possible.
 
Once you call, our top priority at SERVPRO is to get a team of our IICRC-certified technicians to your home. The first thing we can do upon arriving is investigated the water and let you know if it is safe to be around. Sometimes storms can cause chemicals and harmful bacteria to leach into the water. When this occurs, the water is not safe for human contact.
 
SERVPRO starts the remediation of the flood damage in your home by removing the excess water with tools like extractors and portable pumps. After the water is gone, we can do general cleanup and throw away any carpets that have been contaminated by black water, as their safety cannot be guaranteed. After cleaning, SERVPRO can bring more trade tools in to dry out any excessively moist areas of your home, so further damage to your home is blocked.
 
Do not stop to consider your options when your home suffers flood damage. Reach out to SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park by phoning (323) 255-1000. We strive to get the water out fast and return your home to its pre-flood state.

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Why You Should Call For Professionals Immediately After Your Los Angeles Home Suffers Flood Damage

5/31/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding can affect any part of your home. Contact SERVPRO immediately for great service and best results.

SERVPRO Quickly Remediates Flooding in Your Home

When a storm hits your home and causes flood damage the night before you are due to return from a work-related trip, it can leave you in a panic. Finding your bedroom, bathroom, and hallway flooded with inches of water is never a good thing. The harsh winds of a storm can easily blow a window open and leave your home susceptible to damage.
 
When you find your Los Angeles home suffering from flood damage, it is imperative for you to reach out for help immediately. As the water has already been sitting for a night, the damage has had plenty of time to grow worse; leaving it any longer is inviting unwanted additional damage, such as mold. The structure of your home can grow weaker over time, and the carpet can become ultra-soaked, leaving the floor underneath constantly exposed to moisture. Not only is the structure of your home in danger, but your belongings too.
 
When you call SERVPRO, we make it our goal to arrive at your residence as soon as possible. Our skilled techs can bring trade tools with them that help accelerate the process of the water removal. Equipment like extractors, portable submersible pumps, and wet/dry vacuums were all designed to draw water out as quickly as possible. Depending on the volume of water that SERVPRO needs to remove from your home, some of our tools can even be truck mounted and operated.
 
After removing the water, our next goal is to deal with the excessive moisture the flood damage left behind. We can set up more equipment to dry out the floors and your belongings, including dehumidifiers and ventilation box fans. Because the water sat for a night, we can even spray disinfectant and antifungal agents to help prevent mold growth.
 
If water has invaded your home during a storm and caused flood damage, do not consider your options. Dial (323) 255-1000 to contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park. Time is everything in these situations.

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Overflows and Pool Malfunctions Could Mean Water Removal Action For Your Los Angeles Residence

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to Extract the Pool Water from Your Los Angeles Residence

SERVPRO Extracts Water and Mitigates Damage to Structures and Belongings

There are many features of your Los Angeles home that work to make your life a little bit better, but also indirectly pose a threat to your home at the same time. An excellent example of this would be an inground or above ground pool very close to your house. With a bout of severe weather or some other significant damage to the structure of the pool itself, you could be dealing with a substantial amount of water pouring into your home in a brief period.

While you cannot always foresee the precautionary measures you could take to protect your house from an instance like this, often these occurrences happen with next to no warning. Now you find yourself in need of water removal services for your Los Angeles house, and a way that you can restore the damages that it has caused once the water gets extracted.

Our SERVPRO professionals work quickly in extracting the water throughout the entire affected area of your home. Once this water has gotten removed, a better assessment can get conducted determining the full extent of the damage that your home has experienced and what has to happen to restore it back to its original conditions.

While many homeowners would assume that these instances would get considered a loss for both the property and the contents of your home, our SERVPRO technicians can work quickly to pack out the house and remove these items to our nearby facility for item-specific cleaning and drying. All items are tagged for inventory control and insurance purposes. Once these items are safe from the dangers of the water and present moisture, concentrated efforts can begin to dry your home.

There is no telling what kind of damage that substantial volumes of water can do to your home, but our technicians can help you address them all. From extraction and drying to preparing for remodeling and rebuilding, our SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park team is ready to help you. Contact us anytime at (323) 255-1000.

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Commercial Water Damage can Cut Your Barbeque Business Sales in Los Angeles

4/20/2018 (Permalink)

Food trucks are not immune to water damage simply because they are mobile. Contact SERVPRO for remediation should your truck suffer water damage.

Team SERVPRO Deals With Water Damage in Buildings Large and Small

Serving real food to hungry patrons at various sports games and other large events in Los Angeles can provide a family business with substantial income. However, even though your business might rotate its location, there remain risks that can still affect you.
 
Barbeque businesses and other mobile prepared food ventures can end up facing commercial water damage in Los Angeles. Made of metal structures, rusted grills and other components of a restaurant-on-the-go can create risks for employees and patrons equally. At your site where food preparation happens, water damage can also cause problems. Health violations involving water damage can also lead to other citations involving microbial growth. Even with metal structures, water problems can lead to other problems like mold.
 
SERVPRO helps all businesses, of all types and sizes, including those on wheels. Refurbishing your stand's interior can go a long way in making your business look and feel clean, professional, and healthy. Public perception can significantly affect overall profits, and social media can further increase how your future customers perceive you. We can help you make a better impression wherever you go by working with you to creatively solve any problems water damage from either rainfall or broken water lines caused.
 
Our professionals hold certificates from the IICRC in restoring all types of structures with water damage and other severe deterioration. If your barbeque business needs repairs to waterlines, we can help you. If your roof seems leaky during the slightest rain shower, we can help by fixing it and making it weather-ready again. The interior work might also include reinforcing the flooring and installing new flooring. Small details like this can make everything look and feel new, and affordably, as well. Fortunately, such improvements often increase profits and satisfied customers.
 
Call us for information on how we can help restore your barbeque stand to its former glory. SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park enjoys being a part of our community, and we want to help you share in your role. Our number is (323) 255-1000, and we answer 24/7, every day of the year.

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The Measures To Fully Restore Your Silver Lake Home After Fire Damages

4/13/2018 (Permalink)

House Fires from a Spark Can Damage Your Home in Silver Lake

SERVPRO Tip--Be Diligent in Preventing House Fires

Those who own homes in Silver Lake are often acutely aware of the dry heat that can be attributed to areas all throughout the state. However, what you do not often think of, is the toll that this dry heat can take on the materials of your home. When the slightest of unfortunate events occur which could ignite a spark, these overly dry materials and the environment where they are found work together to amplify the speed and destructive power of the fire.

While there might not be any way that you can completely safeguard your Silver Lake home from fire damages, there are preventative measures that you can take to prevent the fire from ever starting. Many structure fires result from negligence and forgetfulness, so being more aware of things happening in your house can help you to stop a fire before it ever actually starts.
 
Unfortunately, this revelation is often an afterthought once a disaster has already struck your home. SERVPRO professionals get uniquely trained to handle both the restoration of your house following a fire of any magnitude, but also the subtle aspects of working with your insurance company to get your claim through and the work started as quickly as possible.
 
This process begins with our SERVPRO technicians going through your home and getting a full scope of the damage that it has sustained throughout the fire before it could get extinguished. Once our professionals have an idea of all of the damages that they face from a restoration standpoint, this information can be passed along to the assessor for the insurance company to help expedite the process of filing the claim to bring your home back to preloss conditions.
 
No instance of a fire in your home is easy to deal with or manage. You often get left with an overwhelming set of effects and symptoms and no real method of cleaning up the mess on your own. Fortunately, you can trust SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park to help you through every step of this process to bring your home back to the way it used to be. Give us a call anytime you need us at (323) 255-1000.

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What To Expect During The Mold Damage Restoration Process In Your Los Angeles Home?

4/3/2018 (Permalink)

Mold damage restoration is a job for the experts.

The Mold Damage Restoration Process

Mold damage restoration is a job for the experts. The damage can quickly spread to the uncontaminated area and mold can cause health effects as well. Restoration experts have the necessary safety equipment, training, and technical know-how to remedy the situation.

The remediation process for mold damage restoration to your Los Angeles home can be time-consuming. It can help if you know what to expect when the SERVPRO technicians arrive at your premises. Here is an overview of the remediation process that can help you prepare.

Establishing Containment
One of the first steps in mold damage remediation process is establishing a containment zone. The spores can become airborne during the cleaning process and can find their way to the uncontaminated parts of your home if the area is not properly sealed off. SERVPRO Professionals can install plastic sheets to create a containment zone before they begin cleaning. Negative air pressure is often used as well to keep the spores from going out of the containment zone. The professionals can also seal off your HVAC vents and can also establish areas for storage of equipment.

Removing The Contamination  
Once the damage is contained, the next step is to eliminate the contamination itself. The restorability of an item is determined by the extent of contamination and the type of surface. If the surface is porous and it is impossible to clean the damage within the pores, the item often needs to be eliminated. Drywall, fabric, and upholstery can be a few examples of porous surfaces that might need elimination. The non-porous and semi-porous surfaces are cleaned using a detergent solution and HEPA vacuuming. SERVPRO professionals can use a variety of cleaning agents to eliminate the mold as entirely as possible.

Cleaning The Settled Spores
It is also crucial to clean the settled spores once the cleaning has been finished. The airborne spores can quickly settle in favorable areas if not eliminated and start the damage again. SERVPRO professionals use HEPA filtration to eliminate these settled spores. The process is often repeated multiple times to ensure that there is the as complete elimination of the settled spores as possible.

Call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (323) 255-1000 today to learn more about the restoration process from our experts.

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Flood Damage Issues In Los Angeles

3/29/2018 (Permalink)

When the Storm Clouds Leave Unwanted Water in Your Los Angeles Property--Call SERVPRO

Water Extraction, Decontamination, Drying, and Deodorizing Are Offered by SERVPRO'S Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration

Whenever horrible weather comes into the area, there are many ways that your Los Angeles condominium gets damaged. Sometimes excessive rains flood the area causing water to enter the ground level floor through bottom door seals. Other times high-speed winds cause rocks, branches, or other objects to break holes in windows or exterior walls that allow water to enter a structure.
 
Rainwater coming in from the outside may have a high contamination level. SERVPRO's flood damage technicians in Los Angeles test the water to see if it is contaminated or not. If the water has a high contamination level, then most porous materials get replaced. If the contamination level is low, then sometimes the problem gets mitigated through drying and deodorization.
 
After all of the water gets extracted using specialized equipment, the drying procedure begins. Using structural drying equipment helps us create the ideal environment for water evaporation and drying. Air movers get set up inside the affected area and push air in a circular motion that replaces moist air with dry air. The air movers speed up the process of water evaporating from inside materials and contents by pushing the moisture into the air.
 
Meanwhile, a dehumidification system gets set up to pull water out of the air lowering the room's relative humidity. If a building has an indoor relative humidity of 60% or higher, then dehumidifiers get used to lower the humidity percentage. Different types of dehumidifiers get used in various situations.
 
Refrigerant dehumidifiers lower humidity by pushing air through a set of refrigerated coils. As the moist air inside the machine cools, water condenses and drops out of the air. A desiccant dehumidifier pushes air over unique materials such as silica gel. The gel attracts and captures water molecules pulling them from the air.
 
Refrigerant dehumidifiers dispose of water by dropping it into a collection tray that sits below the refrigerated coils. The liquid then gets drained or pumped out of the dehumidifier's collection tray and gets disposed of in a sewer drain. Desiccant dehumidifiers use heat to evaporate water out of the silica gel. The moist air is then vented and pumped outside of the building.
 
Desiccant systems can drop humidity levels to much lower grains per pound values than refrigerant systems do. However, sometimes desiccant dehumidifiers drop the relative humidity level too much causing wood inside the home to crack. Dehumidification is an exacting technique that our technicians are well-versed in for attaining positive results.

For professional help with damage created by a flood or severe rainstorm call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (323) 255-1000 any time of the day, any day of the week.

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Common Causes of Water Damage Los Angeles Residents Should Watch Out For

3/23/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's expert team can dry out your property quickly to prevent further damage and mold growth.

SERVPRO Can Help Assess Damage and Restore Your Property

One of the most damaging situations your property can ever experience is water damage. Water is corrosive by nature, and that means prolonged exposure can have a negative impact on your home's structural integrity. With that in mind, you can prevent your Los Angeles property from such incidents by discovering signs of household leaks beforehand and acting fast whenever you face related challenges.

Whether the cause of water damage in your Los Angeles home is storm flooding or a broken pipe, our SERVPRO technicians can help you restore your contents to their preloss state. The moment we arrive at your property, we assess the level of damage and then define the scope of the restoration work. That may include performing water extraction, controlling odors, air quality, bacteria contamination, as well as drying surfaces and contents.

Let us begin by looking at the leading causes of water intrusion and the best ways to prevent them. First, plumbing pipes which are usually located directly below the sink can cause hidden plumbing challenges. They in most cases lead to a piping network, which runs around the structure and passes through ceilings, floors, and walls. Our SERVPRO technicians can identify lead problems if they notice a stain starting to establish itself on the wall. Such situations need water damage repair, and delaying can be costly.

Another pointer to look out for is the development of mysterious roof leaks. If your roof has clogged gutters, broken flashing, and missing shingles, there is a possibility of a water pathway developing. Our SERVPRO technicians can help you fix the leaks as soon as they appear to prevent possible mold and mildew growth. If left unattended to, the moisture can steadily eat away the entire roof and cause substantial losses and probable accidents.

Once our SERVPRO team extracts water from the area using wet-dry vacuums and pumps, it is time to dry your property. We can use fans together with dehumidifiers to increase the rate of drying. While fans make surfaces lose water to the surrounding air, the dehumidifiers absorb the excess moisture from the air.

At SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster whether it happened on your residential or commercial property. Call us at (323) 255-1000 and be served by an industry leader.  

Click here for more information on the city of Los Angeles.

Skilled Mold Damage Technicians in Los Angeles

3/14/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can spread quickly and needs to be removed following industry standards. Contact SERVPRO for questions and remediation services.

SERVPRO Technicians Follow the Highest Standards When it Comes to Mold Remediation

Anytime water gets inside a building; mold growth becomes a possibility. If water spills into your Los Angeles home and it does not get dried out quick enough, fungi growth is inevitable. Sometimes a fungus develops due to a slow water leak that goes unnoticed for a long time.
 
Whenever mold is present in your dwelling, it is crucial to get the issue mitigated because it sometimes causes health effects. SERVPRO's team of mold damage experts in Los Angeles are IICRC certified and have experience in fungi remediation procedures. Our crews always follow strict industry guidelines and standards when dealing with mold inside a structure.
 
As soon as our technicians arrive at your house, we develop a work plan based on industry mold remediation guidelines and standards. All SERVPRO technicians use resources that come from the EPA and IICRC. The two resources put out by these organizations relating to fungi are the EPA Mold Remediation Guidelines and the IICRC S520 Mold Remediation Standard.
 
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has guidelines set for mold remediation projects in schools and commercial buildings. The guidelines used for these properties also get followed by restoration crews working on residential buildings. The EPA's guidelines provide a flowchart with critical steps to remediating mold that our specialists follow during any project.
 
The EPA suggests three main steps when dealing with fungi-infected areas. First off, we clean and dry any moldy materials present. We use anti-microbial chemicals that get rid of a fungus and the spores it creates to prevent future growth. Then we discard any mold-infested items that cannot get clean. Lastly, we dry out any materials that are wet but not affected by mold within 48 hours.
 
The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) came out with the first standard for mold remediation. The IICRC published the S520 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Mold Remediation that guides restoration professionals in both large and small projects. The IICRC standard provides detailed principles for our experts to follow when restoring mold-contaminated structures.
 
Anytime a fungus develops inside; it is essential that the restoration process gets completed correctly. To ensure the remediation of your mold problem is completed by the book, contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (323) 255-1000 for assistance 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.

Click here for more information about the city of Los Angeles.

Commercial Fire Damage and Your Echo Park Hotel

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will restore your fire damaged hotel so that is safe and suitable for your guests.

SERVPRO Has the Training and Expertise to Thoroughly Restore Your Hotel with Little Disturbance

Guests coming to Echo Park expect a certain ambiance in their surroundings, and we know you strive to deliver the best our community offers. Accidents can happen in almost any area of a hotel, leading to fire damage or other problems. The fire department may order part or all of your hotel closed to the public in such an event, but we can help minimize the amount involved in such a closure.

Hotels with fire damage need several services before they can function normally. Before this, the number of risks to the public remains exceptionally high. At SERVPRO, we receive intensive training on how to minimize these risks and eliminate them from your building. Individual guestrooms receive the attention needed, so they become suitable and safe for guests once again.

Other areas, such as kitchens, lobbies, and dining facilities require specialized care after a fire. Carpeting may hold copious amounts of water from firefighting efforts, while charred materials, including furniture and free-standing counters, may need sections removed. At times, entire pieces of equipment and other items sustain too much damage for successful restoration.

Our technicians can expertly handle any size fire damage in your hotel and of any type. Greasy fires from cooking or cigarette burns in carpeting from unruly guests can make the next guests' experience less than thrilling. We aim to ensure that this does not happen and that all of your guests enjoy their stay.

When parts of your hotel may remain open, per the fire department, we understand the need to minimize our impact on your guests. Our technical training also includes such issues and how to not only perform our work as unobtrusively as possible but to also work alongside your employees when necessary. Our goal is always to do the work needed to make everything "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park serves the local area, including Angelino Heights and Elysian Park. Contact us for fire damage mitigation of any size at (323) 255-1000, 24/7, 365 days a year.

Click here for more information on Echo Park.

Cleaning and Removing Fire Damage in Los Angeles Homes

3/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians are able to identify the different types of residue smoke leaves behind and clean your items properly.

SERVPRO Technicians are Trained and Experienced in Fire Damage Restoration

Most Los Angeles house fires do not cause major damage in terms of burned or scorched material. The bulk of the restoration work and cost comes from the smoke and soot residues generated by the heat and burned property.

Restoring the effects of fire damage in Los Angeles homes demands a company that understands the basic principles of cleaning to return a home to its original condition. SERVPRO trains its restoration teams to ensure the best possible outcome when applying them to each home.

Our principles center around location, identification, capture, and disposal. We begin an exhaustive inspection to determine both the original location or source of the fire and how far the smoke and soot residues have expanded into the home.

Once we do that, our task is to identify the types of residues and the surfaces on which they settled. Doing this helps us select the best cleaning method to use that does not harm the property item, be it a wall, piece of furniture, or even clothing.

As an example, a metal, kitchen countertop is a non-porous surface on which our teams can use every cleaning agent in our inventory. A living room sofa is very porous, however, and at risk for secondary damage to the leather or upholstery if we use too strong cleaners.

Now, we capture and remove the residues. Speed is important since smoke residues bond quickly with many surfaces, so if simply wiping down the surfaces fails to clean them, we use a cleaner to loosen the residues. Next, we use commercial vacuums to remove the residues if wiping down the surface still does not completely clean the surface.

Finally, we dispose of them. SERVPRO specialists carefully bag captured smoke and soot residues and get rid of them according to EPA and state regulations.

Understanding each of these principles allows SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park to quickly determine what we need to restore your home to its pre-fire state. If your home has suffered from any type of fire damage, call our offices today at (323) 255-1000 for more information or to schedule a visit.

More on Los Angeles here.

Answers to Flood Damage on Your Los Angeles Area Property

3/2/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's IICRC certified technicians can perform a full inspection of the flood damage in your home and advise you in the right direction.

SERVPRO Can Safely and Thoroughly Remediate Flood Damage

Naturally, as soon as water, storm, or flood damage occurs on your Los Angeles area property, you want to take immediate action to rectify the situation. However, you might not understand that while your initial choices might give you a first-hand view of the condition of your home, walking on, touching, or moving items can lead to additional damage or even injury.

After experiencing flood damage in your Los Angeles home, it is imperative for you to contact your insurance agent and call for help before re-entering your home. Next, make sure to call an IICRC-industry certified restoration company that can provide you with the personnel, equipment, and resources necessary to address a variety of situations that may exist in your home.

SERVPRO’s expertly trained technicians can perform a full inspection of your property and help you avoid taking unnecessary risks. We help you make intelligent, informed decisions regarding the direction you should take to protect your home correctly and perform flood damage mitigation services that help make your house a home again.

SERVPRO technicians ensure the safety of your property, helping you avoid common hazards or contaminants that often accompany flood water in your home. We wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, boots, eyewear, and respirators, use high-performance water extractors, hygrometers, dehumidifiers, advanced drying techniques, along with cleaning and fogging equipment.

SERVPRO puts customer satisfaction first, providing professional cleaning and restoration services you can trust. Whether a flood affects a single room or your entire structure, we can return your home to a quality preloss condition you and your family can enjoy. Our entire team takes pride in providing you with the answers and services necessary to get you back on track after an emergency strikes.

Visit SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park for full-service solutions throughout Elysian Park, Boyle Heights, and Chinatown. We serve everyone in our local community, proudly providing emergency response services 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. Call today for an answer to all of your cleaning and restoration needs. (323) 255-1000

Click here for more information regarding the city of Los Angeles.

Water Damage Restoration Services For Electronics Used to Operate Your Los Angeles Business

2/4/2018 (Permalink)

Electronics and water are not a good mix. Should your office space suffer a water damage event, contact SERVPRO for a fast response.

Team SERVPRO Helps Your Business to Quickly Recover After Damage

As many of you already know, water and electronics just do not respond to one another well. Whether you have experienced this problem first-hand by spilling coffee onto a laptop or having desktops ruined by water intrusions at your Los Angeles office, we can all agree that water is not so good for electronics.

Explaining how commercial water damage in Los Angeles can affect the electronics provided to employees in your office is somewhat complicated. There are several different ways water can damage your electronic devices; some reactions are instant while others take much longer to take effect.

Direct contact with any water can short-circuit a variety of devices. Since water conducts electricity, water can create new pathways, causing electricity to flow where it does not belong, leading to damage to your device along the way. When this happens, regardless of your desired outcome, restoration is nearly impossible, as restoration services required to repair the device usually cost more than replacement.

While SERVPRO technicians can dry exterior cases of electronics and relocate them to a dryer environment to help with their recovery, we also partner with a company that can do specialized restoration work on all of your electronics. A full inspection can help prevent corrosion, and other damages from setting in that could drastically reduce the life of your devices. Any electronics caught in a water incident requires the attention of a trained restoration expert to recover correctly.

SERVPRO gives you access to IICRC-industry certified professionals, advanced equipment, and vast resources 24-hours a day. Our entire team works hard to help you recover quickly, should a water incident occur on your property that affects the productivity of your employees. We use a variety of water extraction equipment, water detectors, and hygrometers to return water levels to normal on your property as quickly and efficiently as possible.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park works with fellow members of our local community to help keep businesses running, regardless of the size of the incident you currently face. Call for immediate help, today. (323) 255-1000

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Preventing Small Mold Damage In Los Angeles From Spreading Further

1/30/2018 (Permalink)

One of the first tasks we undertake in most mold damage restorations in Los Angeles is to sanitize the area and kill off any living spores.

Preventing Mold Damage

While all mold damage in Los Angeles has the potential to cause permanent and costly damage to your home, larger and more mature colonies typically pose a far more significant threat than younger ones. Calling SERVPRO helps to ensure that a fledgling infestation never gets the chance to bloom into a much larger problem. We institute a rigorous set of treatments, machines, and safeguards to protect your mold from present and future mold growth.

Sanitization
One of the first tasks we undertake in most mold damage restorations in Los Angeles is to sanitize the area and kill off any living spores. We stock an extensive array of tools for this purpose that allows us to sanitize infestations large and small in short order. For more extensive patches of growth, we use ultraviolet light generators to fry the fungus off without the use of chemicals or other cost-intensive options. For smaller spot colonies where large UV arrays would be inefficient, we can use chemicals and other sanitization options in limited amounts.

Air Filtration
While sanitization prevents a colony from producing additional spores or spreading across a single surface, it can still grow around the home unless existing spores are filtered from the air. We use advanced air filtration technology to catch mold spores of all common sizes and species, simultaneously improving air quality within your house and eliminating any additional risk of mold spreading out.

Preventative Measures
We can also help you to implement some preventative measures around your home to ensure that no further damage occurs in the near future. We offer mold-resistant paints and finishes that can help to protect many materials from mold growth on their surfaces. Also, we repair and improve any lagging water lines and systems in your home to reduce excess moisture in the area and stop further mold colonies from appearing.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park provides expert care for local homes afflicted with mold damage. Call us 24/7 at (323) 255-1000.

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Choosing The Right Restoration Company For Fire Damage In Los Angeles

1/16/2018 (Permalink)

Our experienced SERVPRO restoration specialists have the tools and the expertise to successfully assess all damage to the entire property.

Choosing The Right Restoration Company

One of the most troubling things about a fire in your Los Angeles home is assessing the damage for yourself once it has gotten successfully extinguished. You look through the affected areas of your home and see the destruction, but might not understand how to begin with putting the pieces back together. Choosing restoration services to come and assist you in the cleanup efforts and restoring your home to preloss condition should be a consideration that you make, and there are several reasons for this.

Following fire damage to your Los Angeles home, you start to notice compromised areas that you just do not know how to overcome or repair on your own. Our experienced SERVPRO restoration specialists have the tools and the expertise to successfully assess all damage to the entire property and work out a plan to restore it entirely. This process is one that might take some time but gets primarily created based on your priorities for what must get repaired right away for you to live in your home comfortably.

Our SERVPRO team works closely with your insurance claim specialists to keep you from incurring out of pocket expenses while your home gets restored. This direct communication helps you to worry less about the work that is getting done to your home and what it might cost you, and more about handling the stresses and trauma associated with a significant fire in your home and the toll it has taken on your family.

To successfully restore your home to preloss conditions our experienced SERVPRO staff utilize some state of the art tools and equipment. Dry and wet scrubbing equipment removes smoke and soot damage while simultaneously preventing this debris from circulating in the air with the use of attached HEPA filters. Ozone machines and foggers can eliminate the noxious odor that smoke damage leaves behind in the affected areas. Handheld steam cleaning tools can restore damaged furniture, drapes, and upholstery.

Our objective as your restoration company is offering you peace of mind in a trying time. Our experienced staff at SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park are available whenever the need arises at (323) 255-1000.

Visit https://www.lacity.org/ for more about the city of Los Angeles.

Removing Mold Damage In Echo Park

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Echo Park is not possible unless spores come into contact with enough moisture to allow them to expand and become active.

Removing Mold

Almost every structure in Echo Park contains mold. It is almost as common as dust and just about as harmful when its spores are in their inert state.

Mold damage in Echo Park is not possible unless spores come into contact with enough moisture to allow them to expand and become active. The spores then extend hyphae, which resemble root structures that seek out more moisture and a food source to increase the size of the mold colony. SERVPRO technicians are trained to trace the source of a mold growth and take steps to stop it and prevent more.

Most spores grow in a range from 68 to 86 degrees. Since this is the range for nearly every home in Illinois, stopping mold by raising or lowering temperature is just not possible. Spores feed on common building material, so it also not possible to remove all drywall, ceiling tiles, wood trim, or insulation from the home. The best way to stop mold is to concentrate on removing the source of water which forces the spores back into an inert state.

SERVPRO inspectors use visual inspections and air content meters to find mold concentrations. The highest levels are usually the beginning point of the growth, which means the source of moisture is nearby as well. In most cases, the source is a minor leak from a pipe. We have also found pools of water under a pipe that was improperly insulated, and changes in the outside temperature resulted in condensation which dripped down from the attic into the home. We can usually dry up any standing water and fix the water source in a single morning or afternoon.

If the mold we find is on the surface, our restoration specialists clean and remove it using dry cloths and sponges. If the layer is fairly thick, we use an anti-fungal cleaner to break it up and then wipe it off. For thicker amounts, we deploy commercial vacuums with HEPA filters. These filters are specially designed to capture and trap even a single spore, which by itself is too small to be seen unaided.

If the hyphae penetrated the surface of the building material to use a food source, the only option is to remove it. Drywall and other building materials are cheaper to replace than it is to attempt to clean them or cut out the affected sections.

If you suspect mold in your home, you need to have a professional service examine your home. For any questions about what SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park can do for you and your home, call us today at (323) 255-1000. We are here to help.

Click here for more about Echo Park.

Why You Need to Be Ready for Water Damage to Your Echo Park Business

12/4/2017 (Permalink)

It is important to keep commercial dishwashers and refrigerators in good working condition and clean them regularly to prevent water damage.

How to Best Prepare for a Water Damage Emergency

Water damage is something no business owner wants to face. However, it is far better to be prepared than to run the risk of being caught unprepared. Water from a leaking pipe, broken appliance, or even an ill-fitting door or broken gutter, has the potential to cause much damage. That is why SERVPRO recommends entrepreneurs in Echo Park prepare now and do not leave anything to chance.

We understand that Echo Park businesses want to avoid water damage if at all possible. After all, a leak can quickly lead to problems including waterlogged carpets or rugs, damaged soft furnishings, unusable electronics, or even mold in cases where the problem is not treated quickly enough. Thankfully there are many things you can do now to prepare.

Keep an eye on potential water sources. That means making sure all appliances such as dishwashers or refrigerators are kept in good working order and cleaned regularly. Check hoses and pipes to be sure there are no leaks. It is also a good idea to keep an eye on windows, doors, gutters, and damp areas such as basements. If you spot a problem, call a professional and get it dealt with straight away.

Know what to do in the event of water damage. For example, restaurants might plan to move foodstuffs to a sister location. Libraries need an action plan for protecting as many books as possible. Salons might think about moving furniture out of harm’s way. It is also essential to decide whom to call should the need arise. We certainly recommend getting in touch with SERVPRO at the first sign of problems.

SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Plan is a helpful tool for any size business to use. Download our free app and use it to create an emergency profile for your organization, including lists of phone numbers, actions to take in an emergency, and more. Encourage all staff to become familiar with the plan, so they know what to do when disaster strikes.

For help with water damage remediation in Boyle Heights, Lincoln Heights, Chinatown, and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (323) 255-1000 for assistance.

Click here to learn more about Echo Park.

Water Removal From Water Damaged Furniture In Los Angeles

11/14/2017 (Permalink)

In every home water damage situation, SERVPRO professionals begin by identifying the risk factors present in the water.

Water Damaged Furniture

Most homeowners in Los Angeles are usually careful about using coasters, but sometimes a glass or dish that is accidentally placed on a wooden table may collect water and create an unsightly stain. Removing this stain is challenging and can be disastrous if not done well. You may even have to dispose of the furniture altogether.

If your furniture has sustained any form of water damage, SERVPRO can help restore it to its original state. Our water damage restoration experts are available in Los Angeles 24/7, every day of the year. We follow IICRC guidelines in every project to ensure that our methods are up to scratch with industry standards. Our aim is to return all water-damaged items to preloss conditions as quickly as possible, "Like it never even happened."

In every home water damage situation, SERVPRO professionals begin by identifying the risk factors present in the water. This refers to the level of pathogens in the water as well as the risk level of contracting a disease from the water contamination. From this end, there are three main types of water damage: clean, gray, and black water damage (from least dangerous to most dangerous respectively).

Upholstered couches and chairs are particularly tricky to clean and dry. In most cases, SERVPRO technicians may have to use a pressure treatment to the pieces using extremely high-temperature water, subsequently killing any pathogens present. After eliminating the disease-causing agents, we proceed to dry the furniture properly. This involves placing them in a room that is fitted with a dehumidifier and air movers.

The air movers should be placed strategically to pass dry (hot) air over the furniture. This causes the moisture to dissipate into the air, where it is captured by the dehumidifier and released outside the house. Certain circumstances may require us to remove the upholstery entirely to ease the process of cleaning, treating and drying.

Wood furniture is similarly hard to clean. Often, the glue or bindings holding most wood furniture together succumb too easily to water damage. SERVPRO technicians can remove those pieces and then clean and dry them before putting them back together. This includes stripping, cleaning, and drying out the finish, and then reapplying it on the furniture. If the piece stays in the water for too long, it may sustain permanent water damage and force you to throw it out.

The best way to deal with water-damaged furniture is contacting an experienced water damage restoration expert. SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park has a wide range of experience in restoring different types of furniture, and we have the resources to return your piece to its original condition quickly and efficiently. Call us today at (323) 255-1000.

If you are interested in learning more about the city of Los Angeles visit https://www.lacity.org/.

What Can Hurt Me in a Fire Damaged Home in Los Angeles?

11/1/2017 (Permalink)

The structural walls and framing of your home could be weakened by a house fire.

The Dangers of Fire Damage in Your Home

The inside of a burned building can be a very dangerous place after medium to large fires have swept through the area. Failing structures, exposed hazards, and dangerous substances are all common sights in recently fire damaged Los Angeles homes. Exercise extreme caution around a burned home site, and if emergency responders or SERVPRO technicians do not advise you to go in, try to avoid entering at all costs. Otherwise, these hazards could cause health effects.

Structural Collapse

One of the most disastrous effects of fire damage in Los Angeles homes is structural weakening and collapse. Fires can torch walls, floors, supports, and virtually anything else in an average American home, and more substantial fires may engulf the entire building in flames at once. Once the flames have died down, a considerable risk factor likely remains in the form of weakened structural components. Some key indicators such as bowed door frames or open holes may signal at weak points in the structure, but others may be completely invisible. Avoid entering heavily-burned areas without heavy precautionary measures.

Exposed Hazards

Fires may sometimes strip away materials covering up hazards around the home. Some examples of this effect include rubber melting off of electrical wires, wood panels burning away to expose sharp objects behind them, and metal warping into sharp and troublesome shapes.

Harmful Substances

Burn sites commonly carry multiple dangerous and harmful substances, ranging from simple air quality reducers such as dust and light smoke to carcinogenic compounds and chemicals. You should never be near the site of a fire without a protective filter or mask on. Also, you may also want to consider safety options such as safety goggles, gloves, long sleeves, hoods, and readily-available disinfectant to ensure that no harm befalls you in your home.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is a local damage mitigation and restoration company that brings high-quality solutions to homeowners in need. Call us 24/7 at (323) 255-1000.  

Click here for more information regarding the city of Los Angeles.

Removing Mold Damage in Los Angeles

10/25/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians follow procedures to thoroughly remediate mold damage found in your home.

Four Steps of Mold Remediation

Every Los Angeles home has mold. Spores are in the air and on nearly every surface from attic crawlspaces to garage floors. Mold only becomes a growing problem when the right mixture of food, moisture, and temperature occurs.

When mold damage in a Los Angeles home goes undetected for an extended period, then it becomes a threat. To stop this threat and remove the effects, SERVPRO has developed some procedures over the last thirty years which return a family to its residence while keeping the cost as affordable as possible.

First, we contain it. The goal is to prevent mold spreading to areas of the home still mold-free. Technicians seal in the mold to the affected areas using plastic sheets across doors and windows. We also cover the HVAC vents to prevent mold from getting in or if mold is found in them, to prevent accidental transfer to a clean area of the home.

Next, we remove it. While we try to clean everything on site, some items are often heavily infested and require a larger area to clean them without spreading the mold or accidentally causing secondary damage to the home with our equipment. Depending on the weather, we might relocate the sofa or another large piece to the backyard for cleaning and restoration. If the weather is poor or the item needs a unique cleaning device, SERVPRO restoration specialists transport it to our offices.

Third, we clean it. Moving property around disturbs spores, so we wait until they have settled out of the air onto the now clean counters and other surfaces. Technicians wipe everything down and repeat the process until our air content meters show levels are back to normal.

Finally, we dry everything. To prevent mold returning, we measure the moisture content in the surrounding air. If it is too high, we use dehumidifiers to remove up to 25 gallons of water daily. For a damp property like kitchen or bathroom cabinets, we use air movers to blow warm, dry air carefully across surfaces without damaging them.

Returning a home to normal and removing mold means getting a professional. At SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park, we have been helping our Los Angeles neighbors get their homes and lives back in balance for over two decades. If you suspect a problem or have questions, call us at (323) 255-1000 today.

Visit https://www.lacity.org/ for more information regarding the city of Los Angeles.

Plan Ahead to Reduce the Risk of Fire Damage on Your Los Angeles Construction Site

10/9/2017 (Permalink)

You can prepare for a fire disaster on your construction site by taking advantage of SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Plan app.

Ways to Prevent Fire Damage on Your Construction Site

Anyone in the construction industry in Los Angeles knows that a blaze can easily get out of control and put both their staff and the project itself at risk. Managers in building offices cannot always be on site to supervise, and there are many variables on any building site that make it harder to predict risk. That is why SERVPRO recommends planning to reduce the possibility of fire damage on any commercial site and keep staff and visitors alike safe from harm.

There are many ways fire damage gets started on Los Angeles construction sites. Anything from a broken gas line to an accidental spark might set a blaze that quickly burns out of control. The risks are even greater when renovating existing older properties that do not have the same fire safety measures built in as their newer counterparts.

Flammable waste such as wood or paper provides fodder for flames. Make sure all staff members regularly remove and safely store or dispose of waste before it becomes a hazard.

Some building sites have flammable liquids or highly combustible materials in storage. Make sure that all dangerous or hazardous materials are stored safely and in such a way that a blaze cannot easily spread.

Always have appropriate fire extinguishers on hand. Make sure there are extinguishers available that cover all the potential types of a blaze, from wood or paper to electrical or gas.

All construction firms in America must comply with the U.S Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) guidelines and standards. Double check your familiarity with OSHA guidelines and make sure they are strictly adhered to on all sites and by all staff.

Do not wait until a fire erupts to take action. Make sure all employees know what the fire protocols are, how to safely use extinguishers, how to evacuate the site in the event of a blaze, what to do, and whom to call. Take advantage of SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Plan, a free app that helps you assess your business and plan what to do in the event of a blaze.

Our IICRC-certified technicians are fully equipped to deal with fire aftermath and are on hand to help secure your site and clean it up.

For help with fire damage in Angelino Heights, Boyle Heights, Elysian Park, Chinatown and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (323) 255-1000 today.

To learn more about the Los Angeles Fire Department, click here.

Poor Installation of Equipment on the Roof can cause Mold Damage in Your Los Angeles Residence

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

If amenities are incorrectly installed on your roof, mold damage can develop and easily spread to other parts of your home.

Mold Remediation Services for Improper Installations on Your Roof

Modern living calls for the amenities available to most of us. Television programming is available from around the world if only a satellite existed on your roof. Additional power is easily generated in sunny climates like Los Angeles when you equip your home with solar panels. Other amenities that require installation on the uppermost parts of your residence increase both the worth and the risks placed on your home.

When installing equipment on roofs in Los Angeles, mold damage can develop if the installer performed the job poorly. Rainfall does not need to occur in copious amounts to seep into openings in a roof caused by poor installation work, and mold can begin to grow when only a minuscule amount of water enters any given area.

Hiring a professional and experienced installer to perform the work you need around your home can prevent such a problem from developing in your attic, which can then spread easily to the rest of your home. However, even the best installation professionals can make mistakes when drilling holes in your roof.

SERVPRO technicians can remediate any mold damage that your home sustains. The fact that mold already exists everywhere is behind both why complete and total elimination of mold cannot occur and why mold multiplies whenever water enters an area. Understanding these two principles and many others helps our technicians perform mold damage remediation that restores your home to its previous state.

Removing damaged material happens only when necessary. It is always less expensive to restore than it is to replace those same items. SERVPRO employees understand that while each job should follow basic protocols, creativity and ingenuity can also help resolve many issues. Sealing your attic with Concrobium, an antimicrobial agent, can help keep any future growth from occurring. It can also kill any remaining mold that escaped because it remained hidden in cracks or grooves within the attic's materials.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park trains our employees, resulting in certificates from the IICRC. Mold damage can affect every area of your home after mold spores spread out from one focal point. Contact us today at (323) 255-1000 to help regain control of microbes in your home before they can cause more damage.

For more information about Los Angeles, click here.

Mitigating Water Damage in Your Los Angeles Bathroom Can Protect the Rest of Your Residence

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

If you experience water damage in your bathroom, call SERVPRO to fix the problem and prevent future damage.

Hiring Professional Water Damage Specialists Can Prevent Future Problems

Water damage in bathrooms is a common feature of many homes in Los Angeles. Often, homeowners try to cover it up to avoid embarrassment when guests visit. Some of the methods used, though, can make matters worse over time instead of fixing the problem.

Sealing up the seams in your bathroom in Los Angeles to prevent additional water damage can backfire. Instead of preventing the problem, water already present behind the shower doors cannot escape. As it evaporates through any available opening or seeps into other places in your home's structure, this moisture is free to cause damage wherever it travels.

Professional water damage restorers can help remedy the problem, eliminating both current challenges and future ones that can develop elsewhere in your home. Water and moisture do not disappear. It evaporates and then condenses in other areas when environmental changes happen. The moisture behind the walls in your shower can eventually make its way into your attic, crawl spaces, or other locations and the make a mess of things there.

Applied heating to the entire surface of your shower walls, in conjunction with an extraction unit designed to remove any evaporated moisture, thoroughly dries the interior wall space around your bathroom. After completely dried on the interior, then it is safe to apply new sealants and keep future showering activities from creating additional damage.

Without correct mitigation of a situation involving water damage, problems can spread to areas that seem unrelated and unconnected to the source. Many believe that water only flows downhill, so only areas below might suffer problems. However, with evaporation and condensation actively occurring in an ongoing manner, water can travel upwards to higher levels or areas of any home.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park wants to help ensure that water damage does not have a chance to spread inside your home. Contact us today at (323) 255-1000 to rid your bathrooms of unsightly problems. We are always available to answer your call and to perform any needed work.

Visit https://www.lacity.org/ for more information about Los Angeles. 

Why Water Damage Is Dangerous For Los Angeles Electronics Stores

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

Our quick response to water damage at your store can help to minimize cost. Contact SERVPRO right after water damage for best results.

SERVPRO Arrives Quickly to Remediate Water Damage at Your Store

No business wants to suffer water damage, but the problem is even bigger for electronics stores. If you sell computers, TVs, cameras, phones, or any other appliances, you know that getting your wares wet is a sure route to costly replacements. It is a fact that water and the electronics in your Los Angeles store simply do not mix, but have you ever wondered why?
 
It does not take much for your retailer to suffer commercial water damage in Los Angeles. A faulty appliance can do it, or a leaking pipe, broken faucet, or even inclement weather. Anyone who has spilled coffee on their keyboard or dropped their iPhone in the sink knows that dampness and electrical items are a recipe for disaster.
 
Water kills electronics in one of two ways: Short-circuiting, or corrosion.
 
A short circuit is what happens when an appliance gets wet and immediately stops working. Water short-circuits the delicate hardware inside the appliance by causing it to overload. The components cannot handle the amount of current passing through them and subsequently blow.
 
SERPVRO knows that sometimes it takes longer for damage to become apparent. At first, you rescue an appliance from water, and it seems to be working ok. Then, over the course of a day or two, it simply ceases to work. If an appliance appears ok and then subsequently breaks, it is because water caused corrosion inside it. Corrosion is a chemical reaction, often with water and oxygen, that damages the parts inside the appliance. For example, the rust you see on old vehicles is a type of corrosion.
 
How long a device lasts after damage depends on how wet it got, how long it was wet for, the humidity of the surrounding environment and the components inside it. One thing is certain though – it is not usually possible to repair a phone, TV, or computer after water damage.
 
Because it is usually impossible to rescue water damaged electronics, SERVPRO recommends you plan. For example, check pipes and faucets in your facility regularly, do not let your staff have drinks near items in your store, and put your stock on shelves so if the floor gets wet, it is protected.
 
Our IICRC-certified technicians are on hand to help with cleanup and drying operations. We also recommend SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Plan, a free app that helps you create a plan of action in the case of water damage. Start using it today and help protect your store from stock and profit loss.
 
For help with water extraction in Los Angeles, Chinatown, Angelino Heights and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (323) 255-1000 today.

For more information regarding Los Angeles, click here

How Well Seasoned Wood Prevents Fire Damage In Los Angeles Wood Burning Stoves

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

Wood burning stoves can add a warm look and a great amount of heat to your home. But there are some cautions with them as well.

Preparation and Prevention can Help Avert Fire Damage in Your Home

Wood burning stoves are popular with many Los Angeles homeowners. A traditional stove looks beautiful and provides a lovely, cozy ambiance in your home. However, because flames are burning in the appliance, there is always a risk of fire damage. SERVPRO recommends all homeowners who have a wood stove be aware of the risks of a blaze and take steps to prevent an incident.
 
One way homeowners can prevent fire damage in Los Angeles is by always choosing well-seasoned wood for their fireplace or stove. Also, the choice of timber is also important. For example, red oak, apple, beech, hickory, ash, and ironwood are all hard enough to burn well. It is important to choose hardwoods because softwoods do not burn as well.
 
SERVPRO warns customers against using green wood. Recently cut branches and trunks are “green,” that is to say they have not had sufficient time to dry out. Damp timber does not burn well, and even worse than that, it contributes far more to creosote build-up than properly dry wood.
 
Greenwood does not burn well because it is still damp. Incomplete combustion causes the formation of creosote, a sticky, oily substance that builds up inside the chimney and stove pipe, and can even drip down the outside of the burner. Creosote is highly flammable, and one spark can ignite a dangerous blaze that puts a home at risk.
 
Well-seasoned means that wood is properly dry. Choose timber that was cut and split (splitting helps it dry faster) at least a year ago. Proper storage is also important – a shed or even a tarp provide cover and help with the drying process. Properly seasoned wood has cracks at the end.
 
Choosing the right fuel for your fire keeps you safe, and also gives you a cleaner and more efficient burn.
 
If a fire gets out of control, SERVPRO is on hand to help with cleanup. We scrub and clean away soot and residue and take care of deodorization to leave your home feeling like your own again.
 
For help with fire cleanup in Los Angeles, Chinatown, Elysian Park and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park at (323) 255-1000 today.

For more information regarding Los Angeles, click here

Hurricane Harvey--Storm Damage Help from SERVPRO

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

Hurricane Harvey Water Removal and Restoration by SERVPRO

Storm Water Removal and Restoration Testimonial After Texas Hurricane

Hurricane Harvey left many homeowners in the Southeast area of Texas with flooded properties, destroyed belongings and no power. Our SERVPRO team answered the call for help and drove out 22 hours straight from Southern California to assist our distant neighbors. We are proud to be part of SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team and travel far and wide to natural disasters. Below is a verbatim testimonial that illustrates the value of helping others in their time of need.

Testimonial of David Holloman 9/26/17

Describe your experience during Hurricane Harvey.

My family and I moved to Texas about three years ago. We lived in the Carolinas before for about 15 years. We heard about the storm coming and how flooding occurred in our areas. I felt alright for having insurance. That night was something else though. We lived in a one-floor house when the water started to drift inside. Our neighbor fled his home because he had two young children, but left us his key. The water really started to rise to our knees, and so we went to his house on the 2nd floor.  I have never experienced a flood before, and I hope I never will again.

How did you hear about our company?
I heard about the Company SERVPRO from an adjuster I was working with. I called corporation to find a franchise to work on my property.

What was the reason that you chose us?
I received a call from the owner Bert of this SERVPRO, and I decided to hire his team. He was very welcoming when he answered the phone call. I was dealing with a tough time, so it was nice to hear some positive attitude.

Tell me what your experience has been with our products/services?  
The whole experience was very depressing. My family and I have been going through a hard time losing most of our things. On the brighter side, we have new drywall up, and we are expected to move back in the next 6-8 weeks. The crew was very considerate and passionate of our situation. I felt very comfortable with the crew chief Jake. He answered all my questions to the best knowledge he could.

Can you think of a word or phrase that best describes your relationship with us?  HELPFUL.

Why that particular word or phrase? These workers drove out 22 hours to help a state in need. I'm very grateful for their service.

Would you recommend us to someone else?
Absolutely.

If someone called you and said "Why should I do business with SERVPRO," what would you tell them?
The company works right with your insurance which takes a lot of pressure off of the customer. No one can plan a disaster such as a flood, so it's nice to know that there are companies to help like SERVPRO.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park not only restores storm-damaged homes in our local area of Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Los Angeles, but we range far afield to help others in need. Just contact us 24/7/365 to hear a friendly voice and positive action. (323) 255-1000

Fire Damage in Your Echo Park Bathroom can be Eliminated Easily and Correctly

9/18/2017 (Permalink)

If your relaxing bath turns to disaster, call SERVPRO to remediate the damage.

The Importance of Restoration Services for Any Size Disaster

Taking time to pamper yourself after working on your latest project is one way to keep yourself well-cared for and healthy. Many decide a relaxing bath with a few spa treatments fit the bill perfectly and proceed to fill their Echo Park bathroom with candles, incense, and a bubble bath. Loose candle holders can let lighted candles slip out, which can quickly start a fire.

When your Echo Park apartment's bathroom suffers fire damage, the smaller size of the room can make the catastrophe seem extremely severe. A bathroom's enclosed area often holds many personal things as well as installed cabinetry. Even if these items never burn, the smoke damage can still ruin them. While you might be tempted to clean them yourself, doing so can spread the soot instead of removing it from wherever you try to clean. SERVPRO technicians can clean the soot away while other employees examine the fire damage.

Having earned certificates from the IICRC in Fire and Smoke Restoration (FSRT), our staff skillfully removes all of the damage, preventing it from progressing. Damaged areas can disintegrate and only become worse. It cannot resolve itself, and most fire damage situations, even ones that seem straightforward and uncomplicated, can hold hidden problems. Professional mitigation can make everything “Like it never even happened” quickly and keep it that way.

Any water you used to extinguish the fire can also cause damage, but we have training in this, as well. No job is ever too large for us, nor too small. Your home is important to you, and we treat it like we would treat our own. Attention to the details and thoroughness in completing each step remain aspects of our work in every job we perform.

When a small token of self-care turns out badly, call SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park, at (323) 255-1000. We can help make sure that your bathroom is once again a haven of peace and tranquility for you by erasing any degree of fire damage.

Click here for more information about Echo Park.

Plumbing Problems Create Commercial Water Damage In Silver Lake

8/10/2017 (Permalink)

Plumbing problems at your deli can delay or halt operations altogether.

Plumbing Problems Create Commercial Water Damage

Plumbing problems at your deli can delay or halt operations altogether. These issues can be frustrating. They can also make your business unsafe for your employees and customers. As a well-trained and experienced restoration company, our experts at SERVPRO understand this well.

One way to prevent costly repairs from commercial water damage in your Silver Lake deli is by having a regular schedule for maintenance. Since many issues with pipes sneak up on you, having a thorough inspection done is the key to finding small problems before they grow. Leaks in drains which are hidden or water under heaters are more than just an annoyance. Over time, they create structural damage. Water seeps into plaster or sheetrock, contributing to mold growth. Porous wood flooring or tile can warp and discolor when wet.

Common Plumbing Problems
Dripping Faucet
Just one faucet which is dripping can send many thousands of gallons of water down your drain a drop at a time each year, driving your water bill higher. Water entering your business is under pressure to move through your pipes. When the tap is off, rubber or silicone washers form a seal which is water-tight and stop additional water from pushing through the pipes and out your faucet.

These washers can become torn, stiff, or dislodged over time, letting a tiny trickle of water through, making that annoying drip. It may take the work of a professional plumber to help you repair the drip, rather than doing it yourself. SERVPRO can help when your deli has sustained water damage from the drip. We have the industrial equipment needed to get the standing water out, and then the air movers and dehumidifiers required to get your business thoroughly dry again.

Leaky Pipes
Leaks happen at the joints of your piping. You may find a puddle under a pipe, and these leaks can be a costly nuisance. When the water is spraying from your pipe, you are dealing with more substantial water damage which needs to be handled by our technicians at SERVPRO.

Other problems include clogged or slow drains, low water pressure, and running toilets. If you notice any of these early enough, get them checked out by a professional plumber before they cause damage.

When water damage from plumbing occurs in your business, it is essential that you contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake/Echo Park right away. The longer any standing water sits, the greater the chance is for more damage, including mold growth. Therefore, don't hesitate to contact us at (323) 255-1000 when you have a problem.

Visit https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silver_Lake,_Los_Angeles for more about the city of Silver Lake.

SERVPRO - Los Angeles Fire Damage

7/23/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke odors are minor and fairly easily cleaned.

Call SERVPRO to Restore Your Home in Los Angeles 

Fire is the most frightening disaster that can happen to a home. Even when the structure is left standing, the blackened walls, soot covered property, and melted plastics leave many homeowners at a complete loss on what to do next. It is why a professional restoration company is needed.

Before we can begin to restore a home to its original condition, SERVPRO technicians must determine the level of the damage. Since fire does not burn evenly, each one generates smoke, heat, and flame which can leave a bedroom nearly untouched while consuming the bathroom next to it. To put Los Angeles homes back together from fire damage, we have established three categories to determine our response and efforts.

Minor Damage – This level includes smoke and soot residues. At this category, the damage is not structure-wide but limited to two or three rooms usually. The residues are light to moderate so that we can restrict our restoration efforts dry and wet cleaning (primarily by hand) of the affected property and structure (walls and ceilings). The need to repaint is limited, and only minor items such as books and small lamps may require replacement.

Smoke odors are minor and fairly easily cleaned.
Medium Damage – In this category, the residues affect more of the home, possibly the entire structure. The thickness is more pronounced which means that dry cleaning may no longer be an option. It is still possible to clean all or most of the affected property at home. The amount of assets which need replacing is higher and may now include large pieces like chairs and mattresses. Smoke odors are stronger and may require multiple methods of cleaning to remove them. This category is also where technicians find the first instances of heat damage. Wood floors and kitchen cabinets need refinishing as will other items.

Major Damage – This is the category of actual fire (flame) damage. At this level, structural supports must be replaced to prevent collapse and further damage. The entire structure must be cleaned and deodorized. The amount of property requiring replacement is much higher, and everything inside can be written off as a total loss by most insurance companies. Our SERVPRO efforts include our entire inventory of cleaning and deodorization products as well as every piece of construction equipment and skill we have. It may even be necessary to hire a general contractor to complete some repairs.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Restoring a home after even a minor fire takes time, patience and a professional service. SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park is here to assist you to put your house back in order. If you need our services and want to schedule an inspection, call us today at (323) 255-1000.

For more information regarding the city of Los Angeles, click here.

Know How Mold Grows To Help Reduce Mold Damage In Your Los Angeles Home

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

Mold is a type of fungus, and like most things that grow, it requires water and a food source to thrive.

Let SERVPRO Tackle The Mold Damage For You

Mold is one of those things you read about everywhere online. There are lots of scare stories about fungus and plenty of tips for how to deal with it. Mold looks unsightly, frequently smells musty and unpleasant, and has the potential to cause damage to your walls or furnishings and even cause health effects. It is easy to see why homeowners want that fungus gone and why they call on SERVPRO for help.

The unfortunate truth is that you cannot completely eradicate mold from your home because it is present in many environments and so even if you clean it thoroughly there is a good chance of it coming back. The good news, however, is that by understanding how mold grows, you can reduce the number of potential breeding grounds in your house and decrease the risk of mold damage in your Los Angeles home.

Mold is a type of fungus, and like most things that grow, it requires water and a food source to thrive. There are many potential food sources in your home – organic materials on the buffet include carpets, drywall, clothes, drapes, wood, and even the food in your kitchen.

It is not possible to remove all food sources from your home. However, it is possible to cut down on the other thing fungi needs for growth: Moisture. There are many sources of moisture in any home, including leaking faucets, condensation, leaky pipes, and poor ventilation. Cut down the moisture sources, and you give mold less chance to grow. It is important to get those leaks fixed, get rid of that condensation, and get better ventilation if possible. Consider investing in a dehumidifier to bring down the humidity of rooms, especially damp areas such as laundry rooms, bathrooms, and even kitchens.

It is helpful to be aware that visible mold is not the end of the story. Damp patches on walls, or under or inside carpets are hidden places where fungus can grow. That is why we recommend you get in touch with SERVPRO. Our mold remediation experts have hi-tech testing equipment on hand to assess the moisture levels in your home and give you advice on what to do. We handle mold infestations on your behalf with careful cleaning and powerful antibacterial agents, and we reduce the humidity and dry out any wet areas or furnishings.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

For help with fungal growth in your house, give SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park a call at (323) 255-1000 today.

For more information regarding the city of Los Angeles, click here: https://www.lacity.org

SERVPRO Of Silver Lake/Echo Park Is A Commercial Large Loss Response Franchise!

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

Don't let disaster keep you and your business from opening it's doors. The team at SERVPRO of Silver Lake/Echo Park understand your frustrations at this time and are here to provide you with solutions.

We offer a fully trained and knowledgeable staff, along with all of the necessary equipment to rectify the situation. Allow us to show you why we are one of the top recommended and trusted companies for water, fire and mold restoration.

Give us a call today at (323) 255-1000 and we will get you back open for business "Like it never even happened."

Fast Fire Damage Recovery For Music Venues in Silver Lake

5/10/2017 (Permalink)

Your patrons don't want to miss a show. Call SERVPRO to remediate your club after fire damage.

SERVPRO Technicians Create an Effective Plan to Remediate Your Commercial Fire Damage

Closing for even a handful of days devastates any business. Your audience has opportunities to move on to other clubs when you shutter the doors for the restoration of damage done after a fire. Work with SERVPRO during the recovery phases to minimize the downtime for your live music venue and keep your customers happy.
 
The tangle of wires on and behind the stage caused an electrical fire, damaging your Silver Lake indie performance destination. You need a swift response, and we deliver a team of commercial fire damage specialists well trained and rehearsed in all tasks necessary to return your dance club to the popular and lively neighborhood location you worked hard to create.
 
Our project manager arrives to inspect and design a plan that transforms your soot covered entertainment site back to preloss condition. SERVPRO has the capability to handle all aspects of the fire damage, from the removal of debris to deep cleaning to the replacement of charred structures to the elimination of smoky odors. The fire damage restoration blueprint crafted by our supervisory staff lists all tasks necessary in the order needed for appropriate completion. Technicians begin work immediately after a determination that it is safe to work within the burned structure.
 
The plan includes designation of the proper types of cleaning approaches to differing types of fire damage. Ashes and friable soot sweeps or vacuums up well, safe methods particularly if our staff uses the HEPA-filtered equipment. Sticky, greasy coatings need solvents for removal, and our employees hold certifications in their professional use from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC). These international standards ensure efficient and safe methodologies govern our efforts and we require our employees to maintain current in best fire restoration practices.
 
The skill and experience of SERVPRO technicians support cleanup procedures that are swift and complete, preparing your business for reopening sooner than later. Walls, floors, tables, chairs, and the stage area quickly go from dirty to clean and ready for the show when our staff is on the job. If heat or residue damaged electronics, we work with other contractors and your insurance company to arrange for the replacement or repair the components of your sound systems.
 
The efforts of our fire damage experts extend to the issues of persistent odors post-fire. No music fans or artists want to experience the harsh, unpleasant smells of smoke, burned wiring, and other odors traceable to the fire. We use state of the art deodorization techniques matched to the way the odors were originally generated. We use a multi-step procedure to stop odors from emanating, counteracting odor vapors already in the air, and thermal fogging that permanently changes the chemical components of odors. Covering up the odors is an inadequate response. Professional odor defusing is a SERVPRO specialty.
 
Make sure the show goes on after fire damage by partnering with SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park. Call our dispatcher any time of the day or night at (323) 255-1000 to schedule a consultation.

Mold Damage In Echo Park

4/27/2017 (Permalink)

Mold growth is not as obvious as fire or water damage.

Professional Mold Remediation And Restoration

Mold growth is not as obvious as fire or water damage. Unless you smell that telltale ‘musty’ odor or see a line of black splotches in the bathroom or laundry room, you will not even know it is there until it has spread throughout your home.

Why does SERVPRO care so much about preventing and stopping mold damage in Echo Park? Three major reasons make getting into your home quickly so important. First, mold slows down restoration work. Second, it raises the cost to you and your insurance company. Finally, mold can have adverse health effects on you, your family, and our technicians.

If our inspectors find mold using an air content meter, see it, or smell it, everything else stops. Our technicians now check for the extent of the growth. Water restoration tasks, such as pumping out water from a living room or basement, now only happen to determine if there is mold behind a wall or underneath a carpet. Carpets, floors, walls and other property with mold require additional cleaning and perhaps even removal. Dry spores can be wiped off surfaces with a relatively small, increased amount of labor. If the mold is wet, a chemical cleaner must be used to ensure removing all of it. If it has grown into drywall, ceiling tiles, or other structural property, then the replacement costs can grow as well into a bill for an entire room instead of just the bottom rows that were absorbing standing water. If the mold growth went unnoticed for a long time, then the sheer amount of spores in the air requires our team to wear breathing gear and our inspector may determine it is unsafe for anyone to be in the structure.

The faster SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park can get into your home and get to work, the sooner we can get you and your home back to normal. As a locally owned franchise, this is our community, and we take great pride as Californians to help our neighbors. If you need our help, or maybe just suspect mold from the previous flooding, call us today at (323) 255-1000.

The Purpose of Primers and Sealers after Fire Damage in Silver Lake Homes

4/11/2017 (Permalink)

Every fire is different. So every fire damage restoration plan should be customized by the technicians to restore the damage that is left.

Fire Damage Restoration Needs to be Customized to the Kind of Damage in Your Home

In recent years, fire damage repair teams have started to use primers and sealers more frequently. They provide an effective form of ‘contamination isolation’ for stubborn stains and lingering odors. While they are not suitable for use in lieu of other, more powerful restoration techniques (like deodorization and surface cleaning), they can be very valuable when used in combination with a full repair program.

Primers and sealers repair fire damage in Silver Lake homes by trapping smoke residues and stains beneath an impervious coating. They are particularly useful for surfaces which are damaged far beyond routine cleaning. For instance, if left to burn long enough, house fires produce soot which blackens walls and ceilings. When these residues are too deeply embedded to remove with pressurized water, the only option is for SERVPRO is to seal them.

The Difference Between Primers and Sealers

While primers and sealers do a similar job, they are different. Paint primers are designed to stick to a substrate and provide a smooth surface for an overlying topcoat. Sealers, on the other hand, are used before the primer. In some cases, SERVPRO may apply them as a substitute for primers.

Sealers are an effective way to close off surface porosity and trap stains beneath an impenetrable finish so that they do not bleed through a new coating of paint. As soot has the potential to be a very oily, greasy substance, standard paint on its own is not sufficient.

These formulations are used increasingly for the purposes of odor control after a fire. Once applied to a damaged surface, they isolate, and bond settled combustion particles, stop smoky odors from emanating, and conceal discoloration. Sometimes, sealers contain a white pigment which helps to amplify its stain-concealing properties.

The Limitations of Primers and Sealers

SERVPRO often turns to primers and sealers in situations where full removal of the stains, odors, and residues is not possible. They do have limitations, however, so we try a range of restoration techniques before deciding to seal areas of fire damage. As the dimensional stability of materials like wood changes over time, reapplication may be necessary.

SERVPRO of Silver Lake/Echo Park is always ready to assist homeowners with professional, dependable fire damage repairs. We have the expertise you need to rid your property of stains, residues, odors, and damaged materials. Call us 24/7 at (323) 255-1000.

Mold Damage In Your Los Angeles Residence

3/3/2017 (Permalink)

Mold damage to a home only begins when three conditions are right for growth; temperature, an available food source, and moisture.

Mold Damage And Your Home

There are two major mistaken beliefs when it comes to mold. Any mold is dangerous, and only people who keep a dirty home (e.g. Hoarders) have a mold infestation. Both are completely false. Mold spores are everywhere, outside and inside most homes and other buildings. Mold damage to a Los Angeles home only begins when three conditions are right for growth; temperature, an available food source, and moisture. SERVPRO has decades of experience in changing those circumstances to stop further loss of property.

Most molds grow between 68 and 86 degrees and temperatures above or below those numbers are uncomfortable for most people. Adjusting past that range is only temporary at best and does not stop put a permanent stop to the problem. Raising the temperature is most useful in conjunction with lowering moisture levels.

The organic materials in building materials are excellent food sources for molds. The cellulose in carpet fibers is easily fed upon as are the wood pieces in wall frames and floors. The paper material that makes much of drywall is exceptionally vulnerable. After only a few days of hosting an infestation, affected panels begin to break down.

When the mold growth is this bad, our technicians may remove and dispose of the materials. Particular care is taken with drywall panels as they sometimes disintegrate in the hands of the removal crew. Removing all affected material is expensive and time-consuming, however.

The best, permanent option to halt mold growth is to eliminate the source of moisture and lower the humidity level. Our technicians accomplish this using pumps, extractors, heaters and dehumidifiers. First, we remove standing water. Our technicians can pump out most homes in less than a day and then extract remaining moisture from floors and carpets in another day or two. Next, we use air moisture meters to determine where to set up dehumidifiers and space heaters to dry the surrounding air and structure. Drying is of particular importance to stop mold growth in drywall. Lowering moisture levels below 40 percent returns mold to a dormant state and prevents the need to remove and replace drywall or other building materials.

The sooner we can get into a house or apartment means the sooner SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park can remediate the effects of mold and put you safely back in your home. As a locally owned franchise, each residence is not just a job; it means helping our neighbors. Call us at (323) 255-1000 to get started.

SERVPRO Fire Damage in Los Angeles

2/28/2017 (Permalink)

Don't let the odor after a fire linger in your home. Call SERVPRO today to come out and assess the damage.

The Three Phases of Odor Control After a Fire

The damaging effects of a fire can range from total structure loss to simple smoke and soot contamination. In fact, most of the destruction to home and property comes from the effects of smoke and soot; in particular, odors.

Fire damage, especially from odors, to a Los Angeles home, is not quickly restored. At SERVPRO, we understand that setting up a couple of fans and wiping down the walls is not going to cut it. Odors left from smoke damage require the right cleaners and equipment as well a professional knowledge of multiple techniques in deodorizing any house, condo, or apartment. We use these techniques in three phases.

Chemical Containment - The goal of this first phase is to stop odor molecules from evaporating into the air. Technicians accomplish this by spraying a chemical deodorizer directly on property and building materials using a pump-up sprayer. It forms a barrier which slows or stops evaporation.

Vapor Control - The goal of the second phase is to deodorize particles that escaped into the air before containment spraying began. Technicians release deodorant vapors into the air to counteract smoke odor particles. The granular pellets we use in this phase block most remaining odors before they can be detected by your nose.

Thermal Fogging - The goal in this final phase is to pursue odor particles into the smallest possible space they have gotten into and neutralize them. Technicians dispense solvent-based deodorant chemicals through a heating element and out into the air as a fog. This combustion process breaks down the chemicals into a size of about one-half of a micron. The deodorant is now the same size as an odor particle and as a fog, can go anywhere that an odor particle has settled, pair with it and neutralize it by changing its chemical composition.

Dry fogs penetrate quickly, deodorize rapidly, evaporate within a few hours, and the process does not leave moisture stains on surfaces unless it is used in a small, confined space.  Removing odors after a fire is a complicated, multi-phase process. Not every procedure may be required depending on the extent of the contamination, but SERVPRO of Silver Lake / Echo Park has the experience and trained personnel to ensure every phase needed is accomplished. Call us at (323) 255-1000 today for an inspection and to get started.

An Education In Mycotoxins Created By Mold Damage Found In Los Angeles

1/20/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Driveway in LA Needs a Pressure Washing and Topical Spray

Remediate the Mold and Reduce the Effects of Mycotoxins

Mold or Microfungi produce secondary metabolites called Mycotoxins. Some of these toxins become airborne and have a chance to affect the health of loved ones. Among them, Aflatoxin, Citrinin, Ergot, Fumonisin B1, and Ochratoxin A, are known to exist. Unless you have experience dealing with these types of fungi specifically, you should get professional help.

We have many technicians who specialize in mold damage remediation living near your home in Los Angeles. We are a single phone call away, easily arriving at your property within four hours of your initial call. We can go to work immediately providing you the services to help provide a safe, healthy environment for you and your family. We can inspect, test, use negative pressure equipment, air scrubbers, and a product specific inventory to combat mold proliferation in your home or place of business.
 
Aflatoxin - A chemical produced by certain molds that grow in soils, decaying vegetation, hay, and grains such as chili peppers, corn, peanuts, rice, sesame and sunflower seeds, tree nuts, and wheat, along with a variety of spices.
 
Citrinin - A secondary metabolite often produced by fungi that develop in long-stored foods, generally grain, and grain-based products. However, it can grow in fruits and other plant products as well.
 
Ergot - A fungus that grows on rye and rye-related products. Various versions of this fungi develop in different land grasses such as moist forests, marsh grasses, and mountain habitats.
 
Fumonisin B1 - A toxin produced by mold found in maize (corn), wheat and cereal products. Slowly affecting areas where corn products are a dietary staple.
 
Ochratoxin A - One of the most abundant food-contaminating mycotoxins in existence. Frequently found in water-damage houses and heating ducts, normally affecting grain and pork products, as well as, coffee and grapes.
 
SERVPRO technicians share this information with you to help educate you on the seriousness of properly handling a mold infestation found in your home. While these microscopic spores may play a significant role in our environment, they have no place in our living spaces, and any growth found, no matter how large, should be handled immediately.
 
The primary purpose of SERVPRO's mold remediation or cleaning services when dealing with mold damage is to remove the conditions that exist in your home that is allowing the infestation to spread. We can help you learn how to prevent these types of events from happening at all.
 
Contact SERVPRO of Silver Lake - Echo Park today, for more information. (323) 255-1000

Mold Damage in Echo Park

11/26/2016 (Permalink)

Moisture Leads to a Problem in this Echo Park Home with Mold Growth

Your Home or Property Gets Remediated from SERVPRO When Mold Shows Up

An element of the natural environment, mold, when outdoors plays an important part in nature by breaking down any dead, organic material like trees and fallen leaves. Indoors, however, you will want to avoid mold growth. Mold expands by means of tiny spores which are invisible to the naked eye and float through the air. When spores land on surfaces which are moist, mold can start growing indoors.

Since common building materials are capable of sustaining the growth of mold and mold spores, leaky roofs, flooding and general maintenance or problems with indoor plumbing can lead to mold damage in Echo Park. Mold can be virtually extant anywhere, and it can grow on just about any surface where there is moisture present. Many times, mold growth can go unseen, so if you suspect you have a problem, contacting our professional staff at SERVPRO is a must. Water vapor condenses on surfaces which are cooler than the air, letting mold grow. This moisture vapor will pass through walls and ceilings, condensing as temperatures fluctuate. With our special equipment, moisture sensors, infrared cameras, and traps we can find the mold so that we may begin remediation of affected zones.
 
Mold growth that is significant will require food and moisture sources and a substrate to sustain growth. Building materials that are common like drywall, plywood, furring strips, carpet padding, and carpets give food to mold. With carpeting, invisible dust and cellulose are also sources of food.

Hidden Mold
Our technicians at SERVPRO can help you find this hidden mold behind paneling or wallpaper, inside ceiling tiles, the back of drywall or underneath carpeting. Plumbing lines in walls could also be a source of moisture since they could leak.

Three things are needed for mold spores to grow and proliferate:  
Nutrients – a common food source for indoor spores is cellulose.
Moisture – this starts the decaying process caused by mold.
Time – mold growth starts between twenty-four hours to ten days after the right growth conditions are present. These fungi also prefer secreted areas away from direct sunlight.

Assessment
Our first step in assessing your mold damage is to non-intrusively determine if you have mold present in your home by examining the building visually. Mold patches can readily be treated. Sometimes, intrusive observation will be needed to assess the level of mold. This can include raising or removing carpeting, shifting furniture, checking behind paneling or wallpaper, inspecting ductwork and opening wall cavities. A detailed visual inspection will be used to find any problems and efforts will be focused on areas where any signs of water vapor or moisture are present.
 
If you suspect you have mold damage in your home, you should contact us right away at SERVPRO of Silver Lake/Echo Park. Dialing (323) 255-1000 will get you a quick response and visit to your property.