3 Types of Damage To Expect From A Winter Storm

8/29/2022 (Permalink)

We’re equipped with the training and experience to handle whatever storm damage that nature may unexpectedly bring your way.

3 Types of Damage To Expect From A Winter Storm

When it comes to the snowy winter months, there is no doubt that storm damage repair services are in high demand. However, homeowners need to be aware of the damage a winter storm can cause. 

What Types Of Damage Can I Expect in the Way of Damage?

Roof Leaks

Snow and winter storms may have a broad range of effects on your home. For example, if you have ice dams on your roof, water may flow through and into your walls, causing structural damage to your property. Also, the roofs may collapse due to excessive accumulation on them.

So, the roof can be damaged by excessive temperatures and freezing water's impact. If there are any gaps, they may quickly turn into a much more significant issue. In many cases, the weight of snow might be too great for a roof to bear, causing it to collapse.

Frozen Pipes.

It's possible that your plumbing might freeze if the weather drops below freezing. If water freezes and stretches, it may cause frozen pipes to explode. As the pipe freezes, the burst will emit water at high pressure from where it occurred. However, it's considerably more dangerous inside the house because it may not be located easily. 

Fire

Winter storms aren't the only thing that may endanger people's lives; many more factors are at play. The winter months see the greatest energy usage overall since several home appliances, including heaters, are utilized often and for longer periods during this season. Leaving heat sources unattended increases the risk of fire in your house.

Are You Struggling To Recover From A Winter Storm? We've Got Your Back!

When you lose your assets and properties during a winter storm, we at SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos realize how tough it is for you to recover. Immediately contact us so that you may get back on your feet. We have years of experience in dealing with storm damage restoration. So, we can vouch for high-quality service. Give us a call today at (650) 591-4137!

Emergency Storm Restoration: 3 Things To Do.

7/16/2022 (Permalink)

We’re equipped with the training and experience to handle whatever storm damage that nature may unexpectedly bring your way.

Emergency Storm Restoration: 3 Things To Do. 

Storm damage is a problem that affects people throughout the globe daily. As a result, whether you've ever experienced a hurricane or will in the future, you must have a recovery strategy in place. Here are three things to do if you've been affected by storm damage

Know The Extent Of The Damage.

Taking a few measures before you begin the restoration procedure is vital, so you don't waste time and money. So, having a qualified restoration specialist evaluate the problem may help you choose the best line of action. Also, make sure you document the damage as soon as possible to show your insurer what occurred.

Get In Touch With Your Insurance Company.

You should contact your insurance carrier once you get a damage assessment to file a claim. When describing the weather-related damage to your house or company, you should be as specific as possible. Your insurance company should tell you what to do next and put you in contact with a few emergency restoration providers.

Collaborate With A Restoration Team Expert.

It's critical to conduct your homework before picking a restoration service. No one who intends to cut shortcuts or ignore the minor details should be working on your house or company. So, lookout for a professional storm restoration service near you.

Your Trusted Storm Restoration Company.

If you've suffered storm damage, SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos is here to help you figure out what to do next. In the event of a storm damage assessment, contact us at (650) 591-4137 and begin the process of rebuilding your home.

3 Things To Look For In A Professional Storm Damage Service

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

We have the experience and the equipment needed to cleanup and restore your home and help get life back to normal following storm damage.

3 Things To Look For In A Professional Storm Damage Service

If severe weather, such as a storm, tornado, or hurricane, causes damage to your property, you should first make arrangements for a trained storm damage expert to inspect the damage. But what are things to look for in a professional storm damage service?

What Are Things To Look For?

Watch out for positive reviews.

If you want to know how valuable a storm damage restoration expert will be, you should look at other people's prior experiences with them, just as with anything else. Do not employ someone with poor online evaluations. In contrast, don't allow a few unfavorable reviews to keep you from hiring someone who has had an overall positive experience with most clients. Sometimes, a customer's perception of the restoration expert's integrity and expertise is more important than how the insurer processed the claim.

Affordable Prices

Given that you will be paying for someone's services, it is reasonable to assume that you would be seeking a storm restoration expert who can provide their services at an affordable cost. Even though you will be responsible for the expense of hiring a restoration expert, your insurance company may reimburse you.

Look Out For Ones That Work With Insurance

Professional storm damage experts that deal with insurance companies may help you submit claims more swiftly and efficiently. Depending on how many other people were influenced by the storm, it may take some time to get in touch with your insurance company, so having a professional on your side can be beneficial.

Are you searching for a trusted storm restoration expert near you? Trust the SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos team to restore your home or business to its existing shape. Give us a call at (650) 591-4137.

What Is the Best Approach to Storm Damage Restoration?

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Whether you have minor storm damage or something larger to deal with, we have the experience and the equipment needed to cleanup and restore your home

What Is the Best Approach to Storm Damage Restoration?

Immediately after a large storm, you must take action to limit the damage to your property. Luckily, you may be left with minor damages from the storms, which must be dealt promptly to protect your safety and valuables. Initially, assessing the damage might be intimidating, but you can be proactive in handling your storm cleaning by following these steps.

Priority should be given to health and safety issues.

Always put off the electricity when managing water damage from a storm. Stormwater may have penetrated your walls and electrical wires, which can lead to fire incidents. Also, switch off the water supply to your home, and avoid the sewage system if the pipes look clogged.

Take Pictures of the Storm Damage.

Please take pictures of the damage to your home as soon as it is safe. This will help provide documentation for your insurance provider. Follow your insurance policy to guarantee that you speak with the right specialists for any mandatory inspections. Ensure to conduct an inventory of both the inside and outside of the property.

Fix the roof.

The roofs of buildings take the brunt of storm damage. When the roof is gone, water damage soon accumulates. To ensure that the remainder of your home is safe from future storms, get your roof examined and fixed as quickly as possible when the cleanup is complete.

Consult Professionals About Water Damage Restoration

Professional flood cleanup is required to ensure that every square inch of a flooded home is completely dry. While you can help remove damaged items, it's better to leave the rest in the hands of a professional.

Contact SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos immediately if you need storm damage restoration services today at (650) 591-4137.

What To Expect From Storm Damage Restoration Experts

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

Whether you have minor storm damage or something larger to deal with, we have the experience and the equipment needed to cleanup and restore your home

What To Expect From Storm Damage Restoration Experts

A storm is not a friendly scenario because it can cause a lot of harm to both structures and plants. Also, the building is at risk if the roof is compromised by wind damage. This can allow rain and snow to penetrate the roof's protective covering, causing the wood to expand and eventually degrade and mold. As a result, there will be a drooping ceiling and further issues. And because of the dangers of wind, rain, hail, and lightning, a storm damage restoration service is an excellent alternative for dealing with this emergency. Professionals in storm damage restoration services will likely engage in the following actions.

Complete Inspection

You can count on our professional restoration team to visit your home and do a complete inspection of the inside and outside of your building. This will assist them in determining the extent of the damage to discuss our plan to help return your property back to preloss condition. We’ll then work to remove the water that shouldn’t be there using pumps and water extracting equipment. In most circumstances, the restoration team will meet with you and your insurance company to discuss the remodeling ideas.

Use Of Professional Tools

Every detail must be agreed upon before work can begin. Depending on the nature of the storm damage, the restoration experts will utilize various tools. Professionals will use tools such as pumps and extractors to remove water from the impacted section of the building in the event of floods.

No chances For Mold and Mildew Growth

Mold and mildew won't have a chance to spread since generators will power their dehumidifiers and other specialized drying equipment. After disinfecting hard surfaces and shampooing salvageable carpets with specific cleansers, the professionals will also use deodorant to fight smells.

A Thorough Roof Evaluation

A storm damage restoration company can save your building by evaluating the roof and restoring the damaged portions if they are called promptly. In addition to sealing and restoring the roof, they also help with the ceiling.

As you can see, the storm damage restoration procedure must be handled by professionals when dealing with natural calamities. SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos can help you if you've recently suffered storm damage and need storm damage repair or water damage cleanup services. Call us at (650) 591-4137.

What Is the Best Approach to Storm Damage Restoration?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Without warning, nature can take a violent turn: floods, wildfires, tornadoes, hurricanes, blizzards.

What Is the Best Approach to Storm Damage Restoration?

Immediately after a large storm, you must take action to limit the damage to your property. Luckily, you may be left with minor damages from the storms, which must be dealt promptly to protect your safety and valuables. Initially, assessing the damage might be intimidating, but you can be proactive in handling your storm cleaning by following these steps.

Priority should be given to health and safety issues.

Always put off the electricity when managing water damage from a storm. Stormwater may have penetrated your walls and electrical wires, which can lead to fire incidents. Also, switch off the water supply to your home, and avoid the sewage system if the pipes look clogged.

Take Pictures of the Storm Damage.

Please take pictures of the damage to your home as soon as it is safe. This will help provide documentation for your insurance provider. Follow your insurance policy to guarantee that you speak with the right specialists for any mandatory inspections. Ensure to conduct an inventory of both the inside and outside of the property.

Fix the roof.

The roofs of buildings take the brunt of storm damage. When the roof is gone, water damage soon accumulates. To ensure that the remainder of your home is safe from future storms, get your roof examined and fixed as quickly as possible when the cleanup is complete.

Consult Professionals About Water Damage Restoration

Professional flood cleanup is required to ensure that every square inch of a flooded home is completely dry. While you can help remove damaged items, it's better to leave the rest in the hands of a professional.

Contact SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos immediately if you need storm damage restoration services today.  Call us at (650) 591-4137.

How You Can Prevent Water Damage from Plumbing, Storm, or Flood Issues

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage and Home Safety

Water Damage and Home Safety

When you suffer from water damage in a home, it's important to note the steps that could have led to its prevention. Plumbing, storm, or flood issues are extremely costly and typically require immediate action to remediate.

Leaking Supply Line

Washing machines tend to be fed by supply lines that face constant pressure. In the event that your water lines are composed of braided stainless steel, you often do not need to be concerned. The problem lies in whether or not the washing machine contains supply lines composed of PVC or rubber. These can easily rupture and wear out, which results in an entire laundry room flooding in the span of a handful of minutes if you fail to shut off the source of water in time. In short, use the right material for all lines.

Air Conditioning Condensation

AC units are designed to produce condensation in which moisture drips from the evaporator coil into a pan and is ejected from a property via a drain line. This system works until damage is taken by the pan or the drain line becomes clogged with dirt or dust. When water cannot escape, it will leak out from your AC straight into the house. All that unwanted water can damage the walls and floor, weakening the insulation.

Blocked Drains

Any drain, regardless of whether it is a kitchen sink, bathtub, or bathroom floor, can clog for a variety of reasons. Grease buildup, dirt, hair, toiletries, and other foreign objects have the potential to obstruct the pipe and prevent proper drainage. After a storm occurs drains can easily become filled with miscellaneous debris. When not taken care of on a routine basis, they can easily back up, resulting in water damage and flooding. 

Our team at SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos have elite large-loss specialists that are pre-qualified and ready to help you. Give us a call at (650) 591-4137.

Redwood City Flooded Homes Need the TLC of SERVPRO to Mitigate the Damages

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

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

Issues You May Deal With After Flood Damage in Your Redwood City Home

Flooding can happen following a hurricane, a tornado, or a flash flood, and even a well-prepared Redwood City homeowner can be caught up in flood damage. Having flood water in your home can be dangerous and inconvenient.

In the aftermath of flooding in your Redwood City residence, you need to handle several issues. It is beneficial to hire a certified company to help you manage the destruction. SERVPRO can help you deal with issues such as:

Storm Damaged Floors

During groundwater intrusion, mud and debris can cover wood flooring. Our staff can dry your floors by using pumps or wet/dry vacuums to remove the water and using air movers and dehumidifiers to dry them. Shovels and squeegees may be the first tools used to clear away the murky deposits. If the flood damage is severe, we can tear out the non-salvageable boards and dry the underpinnings or concrete pad.

Ruined Appliances

Electric appliances that get submerged in water can stop functioning. We can assess your electronic equipment to determine the severity of the damage. If they can be salvaged, we can wipe water and debris from their surfaces and contact an electronics restorer to repair them.

Adverse Effects of Flood Damage 

Regrettably, flood damage can impact your home negatively. Floodwater carries debris and silt of every kind. It can contain chemical contaminants and disease-causing organisms. If your carpeting and other porous material are contaminated, we recommend replacing them. Restoring porous materials like drywall and soft materials like carpets after Black Water absorption is not a wise decision. Though we strive to restore and not replace flood-damaged materials, safety comes first.

Mold

Mold grows in moist areas, and a flooded house is perfect for mold to breed. Mold can lurk under wooden floors, on the ceilings, or walls. Mold spreads fast, and it needs a trained eye and advanced tools to locate hidden mold in your home. Our team can identify the areas where mold is present and physically remove contaminated porous materials. We can also dry the affected surfaces thoroughly. Our team can also use quaternary compounds and chlorine bleach solutions to inhibit mold.

Foul odors

Foul odors are linked with flood damage because of the dirty water and possible mold infestation, which leaves a stench. Your upholstered furniture and draperies can have unpleasant smells. Our SERVPRO team can remove the foul odors using thermal fogging equipment and air scrubbers to leave your indoor air fresher and healthier.

After experiencing flood damage in Redwood City, San Carlos, Foster City, or Belmont, you need fast, professional help. SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos can help you remove the water and clean up your home. Call us at (650) 591-4137 for efficient restoration.

Discover Redwood City Water Removal Secrets

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Storm and flood damage is no DIY project. Call SERVPRO and we will be onsite within 4 hours of the initial call.

Remediating Flood Damage in Redwood City Homes

Despite our reputation for fog, Redwood City residents enjoy over 250 sunny days every year. We only get around 24 inches of rain over 12 months, far below the national average of 39 inches per year. Flooding is not high on the list of concerns for most people. 

When flood damage happens in Redwood City, it usually happens quickly and is over just as fast. The effects, however, can last for days and weeks unless the homeowner brings in a professional agency immediately after the disaster. Our SERVPRO technicians can quickly remove water and reduce or eliminate the signs of damage in every home. 

Equipment for Water Damage Restoration

Our teams begin with pumps and extraction wands, depending on the level of water in the home. For levels ankle-high or higher, the pumps can draw out water from most homes in just a day or two. Once the water is only an inch or two, specialists switch to the extractors. 

These devices efficiently remove water off floors. The models we use have an adjustable heating element, so our personnel can begin drying wood floors to reduce the risk of the floorboards cracking or splitting from exposure to excess water. We dispose of soaked carpets since flood water from outside the home often contains soil, animal wastes, and other contaminants. 

Drying Water Damage

Next, SERVPRO restoration teams begin drying the personal and structural property in each home. For large items like sofas, team members remove them outside the home and place them on blocks to allow for draining water. Once in place, they set up fans to increase air circulation and speed up the drying process. Our teams can dry most property except for paper which begins to deteriorate quickly after exposure. 

Inside the home, technicians set up fans to increase circulation and install dehumidifiers to draw moisture from the air. The lower humidity allows evaporation to occur faster in building materials like drywall and floor trim. That reduces the amount of material our teams have to remove and dispose of in each home. 

These first steps we take at SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos can reduce the labor and material costs of restoration. If you have a question about our methods or want to schedule a visit from one of our teams, call us today at (650) 591-4137. We are here for you. 

SERVPRO's Guide To Comprehensive Flood Damage Mitigation Services In Redwood City

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding can bring in many other particles and contaminants into your home. Stay safe and contact SERVPRO to mitigate the situation.

When Flood Damage Ruins Your Redwood City Home, You Need Comprehensive Mitigation Services

Flooding from severe weather pushes more than water into your home. Mud, garbage, sand, chemicals, and worse all get washed in with the water when areas in Redwood City become flooded. Responding afterward to the mess and getting it cleaned up can protect your home from continued damages.

We help homeowners in Redwood City cope with the aftermath of flood damage. Flooding is only one of many disasters that can affect families and businesses. While being prepared cannot prevent all tragedies from happening, the safety tips learned can help reduce any harm your family suffers.

Recovering after a flooding event takes time, but SERVPRO works as quickly as possible to mitigate the damage and leave your residence "Like it never even happened." We also protect against related problems. Instead of merely exchanging wet drywall and other materials for new, we air the interior of your property out until it reaches normal moisture content levels again. Only then do we bring new materials into your home. We use moisture meters to determine when we reach our goal in this and other aspects of your home's restoration.

The floor under your carpet can harbor many various types of debris. Food particles, other organic matter, soil from outside, and much more filter through the carpeting and cracks in the flooring. Before installing new carpeting, we remove this debris. Without it, any microbes have less to consume. Removing the debris also removes any traces of moisture that it may have absorbed. Floors that have concrete underneath might require removing some wooden pieces to dry out the concrete beneath and prevent buckling due to a lack of space caused by swelling.

Cleaning and sanitizing your belongings that either fell to the floor or were below the flood lines helps restore the majority of belongings affected. SERVPRO looks to you as a partner in the restoration of your home. We discuss such issues with you before disposing of anything found in your home. It is imperative that you are satisfied with our work and how your house's mitigation and restoration turns out. We're here to listen to all your concerns and help guide you in any way possible.

SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos wants to help families get back to normal after flood damage. Call us at our 24-hour emergency services line, (650) 591-4137, so we can begin helping you make your home safe, dry, and beautiful again.

Whom Do Redwood City Homeowners Call for Flood Restoration?

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Storms are a part of life. And when storm damage occurs, SERVPRO is ready and equipped to restore your home.

SERVPRO Answers the Call When Redwood City Residents Need Flood Damage Help

Storms and flooding are a rising concern in California and its coastal towns. Cities further inward are affected as the torrential rains move into their path. All of this can lead to extreme flood damage and the need for water damage remediation.

What Are Some Issues That Happen with Flooding?

When flood damage happens in Redwood City, your home is impacted in several ways. Immediate water damage restoration is needed to prevent secondary damage. Calling SERVPRO right away can make all the difference. Here are some things that can occur with flooding:

• Contaminated water impacting your home’s content
• Ceilings, floors, walls, and cavities get flooded
• Plumbing and electrical systems are damaged
• Secondary damage such as mold
• Water migration
• Structural elements impacted

SERVPRO’s IICRC technicians can be there within hours of your call. We provide:

• Water Clean Up
• Water Removal Services
• Food Restoration
• Basement Flooding Cleanup

We use moisture meters, probes, and sensors to find hidden moisture. We restore as much as we can. Specialty cleaning options clean and restores structural elements and more. Antifungals and antimicrobials are applied to all affected surfaces. For professional flood damage services, contact SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos at (650) 591-4137.

Flood Damage from Storms in Foster City

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage? Call SERVPRO! We are always on call.

Containing contaminated materials after flood damage in Foster City

Flooding can cause catastrophic damage, carrying debris, chemicals, and biohazards damaging buildings and contents. These elements can be dangerous to human health. We take appropriate precautions to protect everyone, including employees and our teams.

SERVPRO provides flood damage cleanup in Foster City using the appropriate PPE levels and containment necessary for the conditions present. We dispose of all debris and damaged contents. They are bagged and carefully removed from the site. We clean the remaining contents and structures, handling them carefully to avoid further exposure.

We utilize a variety of processes and equipment to protect everyone from further danger. For example:

• Manage the flow of air from clean to contaminated areas
• Our team utilize PPE
• Your family or employees are asked to avoid the area
• We protect uncontaminated areas

We employ various levels of containment depending on the situation:

• Source containment – wrap in 6 mil plastic and remove
• Local or mini containment – set up a mini enclosure wrapped in 6 mill plastic
• Full-scale containment – work area is contained, or a separate decontamination area is maintained

Contact SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos for flood damage services in Foster City and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (650) 591-4137.

Redwood City’s Children’s Winter Book Club

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Some after effects of storms are flooding issues. If this occurs to your home, call the professionals at SERVPRO for the water mitigation services.

Kids Can Enjoy Great Books & Fun Activities via Redwood City Public Libraries

If your children like to read, or you want to foster good reading skills, the Redwood City Public Library has some fantastic children’s book clubs. Right now, the meetings are virtual, but the fun continues. The library provides the books, and you pick them up once you are registered. Several book clubs are available, but the library asks that participants only choose one because of high demand. You can choose from the following clubs:

•    Awesome Readers – Grades 2 – 3. Group 1 - Tuesday 4 – 5 PM. Group 2- Tuesday 5 – 6 PM.

•    Page Turners – Grades 4 -5. Group 1 – Monday 4 -5 PM. Group 2 – 5 – 6 PM.

•    Club de Lectura – Grades 3 -5 (Spanish) – Tues 5:15 – 6:15 PM

Join in the weekly chat and book discussion. There will be fun activities kids can do at home as well. Contact the library at bookclub@redwoodcity.org for more information.

SERVPRO Provides Flood Damage Services in Redwood City

If you experience flood damage, contact SERVPRO of Belmont/San Carlos at (650) 591-4137. We can clean, repair, and restore your home. Our professional technicians can mitigate floodwater damage safely and efficiently. 

Where to start with storm losses in my San Francisco home?

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

Assessing a property after a storm loss event is essential to ensuring a time-efficient restoration.

Storms Can Lead to Flood Damage in your San Francisco Home. SERVPRO is a Responsible Restoration Service for Local Residents.

How are estimates produced for flood losses?
A powerful storm can cause a tremendous amount of damage to a San Francisco property. Often, flash flooding can occur as a direct result of storms, causing severe harm to a property. Naturally, a homeowner wants flood losses to be fixed as soon as possible. To do that, SERVPRO uses advanced measuring equipment to produce an estimate of the costs associated with recovery. We work closely with insurance adjusters to ensure that your home is restored within the limits of your flood policy. By measuring accurately, we can avoid hidden costs or secondary damages that could occur through residual moisture.

What knowledge is needed for calculating flood restoration equipment?
    •    It is essential to know the correct equipment for each restoration task within the property.
    •    How to operate the equipment efficiently and avoid potential power outages or inefficient deployment.
    •    How to maximize the drying power of equipment through the careful setup and staging process

Do walls and ceilings need removal to produce an accurate estimate?
When you suffer flood damage in your San Francisco property, technicians need to understand the amount of harm. Water migrates quickly through buildings and, without proper intervention, can seep into crawl spaces or subfloors. To avoid unnecessary demolition of a building's structure, SERVPRO technicians can use thermal imaging cameras. Thermal imaging cameras detect temperature behind walls, floors, or ceilings, which can be used to calculate the extent of water migration. Equally, this equipment can be used to monitor the effectiveness of cavity drying without causing undue damage to the internal structure of your home.

What are thermal imaging cameras capable of?
    •    Thermal cameras display infrared images which can be used to estimate the extent of water migration in a property.
    •    This equipment does not see behind or inside walls but displays a temperature differential, which indicates hidden moisture pockets.
    •    Cameras can be used to measure thermal capacitance, which shows when the air warms up or cools down. These measurements are affected by moisture.

Assessing a property after a storm loss event is essential to ensuring a time-efficient restoration. Contact SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos at (650) 591-4137.

My San Francisco Area Is Prone To Coastal Flooding – How Can I Better Prepare?

9/12/2020 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos at (650) 591-4137 for expert flood damage service.

Preparation Can Lessen the Impact of Flooding in San Francisco

San Francisco is a lovely coastal town and is home to historical buildings, trolley cars, and diverse cultures. Because it is a coastal town, this leaves it open to severe flooding. It averages 25” of rain yearly, but that can increase with little notice. If you are a homeowner in San Francisco, being prepared for storm possibilities is the smart thing to do.

Why Worry About Coastal Flooding?
Over the past 100 years, San Francisco has experienced an 8” rise in sea levels. A local tide station has reported 474 days of exceeded flood levels. This has happened since 1950 and was compared against National Weather Service flood thresholds, according to RiskFinder.org. The flood level looked at is a 3’ flood. All the data points to a raised starting point for both high tides and storm surges. This can mean coastal flooding that happens more often and is more severe. It all points to the possibility of increased flood damage in San Francisco.

My Home is Low Level – Am I at a Higher Risk?
Many homes are below the 3’ flood level. This puts your home at higher risk if you fall into that category. Many folks believe it can not happen to them because it has not happened so far. Storms can appear out of nowhere, dumping massive amounts of water on the city. More than rainfall can increase the risk of flooding in your area, including:
• Tidal surge data
• Topography changes
• New construction
• Flood control measures

If you live in a high-risk area, you need to make sure you have the right kind of flood insurance. Flood hazard maps can help you determine the coverage that is best for your home.

What if My Home Experiences Storm Damage & Flooding?
The important thing in any potential flooding situation is to listen to local weather news and obey the warnings. If you are told to evacuate, do not stay in place. Your family’s well-being is not worth whatever possessions you own. Floodwaters bring a plethora of hazards with them, so do not enter your home until you are 100% sure it is safe. Calling SERVPRO is the next step once you have assured your family is safe.

The longer the water sits, the higher the possibility of secondary damage such as mold. In a residence that has experienced water damage from something like a burst pipe, a scope would get done first. This determines the needs of the home and allows a detailed plan to be crafted. But with floodwaters, there is often a need for emergency water mitigation. This can include roof tarping, checking for electrical issues, and making sure the structure is sound.

SERVPRO Technicians Provide Fast Intervention
Once any needed emergency procedures are put in place, our Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certified staff gets busy. Floodwater is what is known as black water and is highly contaminated. Removing that water is the main focus. It requires the right PPE, equipment, and experience. SERVPRO IICRC techs meet all of those qualifications. The process typically involves:
• Using an EPA registered disinfectant spray on all impacted areas.
• Preventing the contaminants from spreading to unaffected places.
• Debris and silt get removed using rakes and shovels.
• Proper disposal of the debris.
• Water extraction using trash pumps.
• Extracting water from the flooring.
• Structural assessment to determine what gets saved.
• Content management.
• Clean and dry the home with air movers and dehumidifiers.
• Repeat disinfecting surfaces as needed.

In a floodwater scenario, there are items that cannot be salvaged due to the contaminated water. This can include carpet, padding, and upholstered furniture. We work with you to decide what to dispose of and what can be salvaged. We use controlled demolition to repair and replace structural elements, ceilings, and walls. We do everything possible to save as much as we can without putting your family at risk.

Be Prepared – Be Safe
Everyone should have an emergency disaster plan in place. Having the proper insurance is necessary, but your family needs to know what to do if a flood occurs. Make sure everyone knows:
• Where to meet
• Who is responsible for the children
• What to do if family members are not home

Make sure you have emergency supplies ready to go with you if you need to evacuate. A communication plan is vital.

Our SERVPRO team lives in the San Francisco area. We understand the risks of coastal flooding. We have families and homes in the area as well. That is why we are committed to making sure your home is cleaned and restored right in the event flooding occurs. Our company is licensed and bonded. Contact SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos at (650) 591-4137 for expert flood damage service. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Who Can Help with My Flooded San Francisco Garden Level Living and Storage Areas?

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Storm damage in your San Francisco home? Don’t let moisture take over, call SERVPRO right away.

Fast Water Removal and Structural Drying Are SERVPRO Specialties, Responsive to Flood Damage in Residential Walk-Out Lower Levels

Housing in San Francisco often features walkouts to backyard gardens or front door courtyards. We make the most of the footprint of our homes, building up while also inviting the outdoors inside on the street-level. This construction style can protect upper levels from storm-related flooding but exposes utility and storage areas, family rooms, and additional sleeping areas to storm damage risks.

What Should I Do While Waiting for Help?

When heavy rains cause water to rise inside your San Francisco home, flood damage causes safety risks as well as damage to structures. Appliances located on the lowest level can short out electronics and rust their metal components. You must shut down circuit breakers in flooded areas. Check storage, including tuck-under garages, to raise boxes, tools, and more above the flood line. Keep refrigerators or freezers closed until help arrives to seal out water and avoid spoilage. Remove piles of laundry and throw rugs.

What Are the Work Crew’s Focuses?

When the SERVPRO team arrives, we have three primary concerns. Our crew chief first inspects your space to manage safety issues and then devise a plan. As soon as the area is determined safe to enter, our employees follow up with the final two broad goals:

Aggressive Water Extraction and Disposal

• Placement of submersible pumps for water deeper than two inches
• Employment of truck-mounted extractors for the bulk of the remaining standing water
• Use of portable extractors for confined spaces holding water
• Containment of the water extracted and disposal according to local regulation

Structural Drying

• Moisture detection and metering to gather baseline data for drying goals (including measurement of moisture levels in “dry” areas of the home for comparison)
• Calculation of the positioning and number needed of drying equipment for efficacious drying based on flood damage restoration best practices
• Drying structural components and fixtures, with periodic monitoring, using:
• Air movers
• Heaters
• Dehumidifiers

 The fast response and professionalism of SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos deliver successful flood damage restoration results. Call us at (650) 591-4137 to schedule a speedy assessment and implementation of a workable recovery plan.

Want to see more about San Francisco?

Who Can I Call to Help with Flooding in My San Francisco Home?

6/14/2020 (Permalink)

Regardless whether flooding started inside or outside of your home, team SERVPRO can help. Contact us 24/7 365 days a year.

SERVPRO Expertly Addresses Flood Damage from a Storm to Restore your San Francisco Home to Pre-Loss Condition

Whenever rainy, stormy weather makes its way throughout the San Francisco area, it can leave a certain level of damage behind. If your home is in a zone prone to flooding, you need to have a plan of action for cleanup should an emergency develop. SERVPRO is available whenever you need us to restore your home to preloss condition, which includes making sure that your structure is sound. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster and have crews standing by for 24/7 emergency service.

Why Choose SERVPRO Over Another Restoration Company?

There are several reasons why we believe it is better to call on us for flood damage in San Francisco. This includes:

•   We work diligently to complete your San Francisco flood damage project. Most of our crew members are certified in safety and health as well as applied structural drying, odor control, water damage restoration, and applied microbial remediation.
•   SERVPRO technicians have received certification through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), so you can count on us to complete the job correctly the first time, every time.
•   We have a disaster recovery team available to address a significant flood loss event on your property.
•   Our Green Fleet comes with vehicles equipped with the latest technology and equipment to handle any size job.
•   A sampling of the tools that we bring to each flood damage project includes wet vacuums, submersible pumps, extractors, thermos hygrometers, moisture sensors, and moisture meters. We have a variety of dehumidifiers, centrifugal air movers, high-tech foggers, disinfectants, powerful fungicides, and more.

Our talented workforce and access to the best industry equipment make us the number one choice when a storm leaves you with flooding. The quick and precise way we respond to a flood loss situation can save you both time and money.

What Happens Once I Call SERVPRO for Flood Restoration?

We have a proven process involving several steps to address flood loss. Once we arrive on the scene, we inspect the loss zone to assess the damage and formulate a plan of action. This allows the team to select the right equipment and how many units we need to perform the most efficient water removal and drying endeavors. Our crew chief also inspects your building to ensure your structure is sound and pinpoints any areas where water may have migrated. We are experts in the field of water disposal, home interior drying, microorganism elimination, and sanitation. The steps generally followed when handling flood loss includes:

•   Determination of the level of water damage in your home
•   If necessary, securing your home to prevent further damage or intrusion from trespassers
•   Removal of all standing floodwater
•   Careful removal of debris, fallen trees, and any hazardous waste the storm left behind on your property
•   Dry the interior of your home until it reaches our drying standards
•   Utilization of EPA-registered fungicides and disinfectants that inhibit microorganism growth
•   Full disinfection and sanitation, which helps to remove any unwanted foul odors from floodwaters

All of these actions help to restore your interior to preloss condition so that it is “Like it never even happened.”

Is Safety an Issue During Restoration?

Floodwaters often bring contamination, so we have a list of safety measures, including:

•   Our team wears personal protection equipment (PPE)
•   We ensure electricity gets shut off to any affected areas of your home
•   Our crew ensures that the flood zone is closed off from the remainder of your home
•   We remain mindful of any potential hazards, including damaged structural elements
•   Repair of any penetration points to help lessen water migration

How Do You Handle Saturated Areas of My Home?

Flooding is a severe issue if not addressed promptly, so our team has access to a broad range of water extraction equipment. We get to work using high-powered pumps and truck-mounted extractors that not only pull up hundreds to thousands of gallons of water but also floodwater containing debris.

What Happens if I Wait Too Long to Call for Restoration Help?

The longer that you wait once water infiltrates your home, the more damage takes hold. Some common issues homeowners see after a flood loss event include:

•   The loss of carpeting and carpet padding below due to full saturation with contaminated flood water
•   Sheetrock that is damaged from water wicking, calling for controlled demolition with flood cuts or complete replacement
•   Tile flooring can fully delaminate in the water loss zone
•   Hardwood flooring that buckles and warps

With any flood damage project, sanitation and deodorization are critical. You can count on SERVPRO of Belmont/San Carlos to ensure your interior is clean and safe from contaminants. Call us 24/7 for emergency service at (650) 591-4137, and we deploy a crew as quickly as possible.

What is the Fastest, Most Effective Way to Remediate Flood Damage in Redwood City?

5/24/2020 (Permalink)

“Like it never even happened.”

The Best Means of Handling Flood Damage, if You Are Unable to Prevent It, is to Enlist the Aid of Good Remediation Experts.

Although Redwood City is sunnier than many other American cities, it does experience a distinct rainy season. This season generally occurs over the winter months, between December and March, and is the time when flooding becomes much more likely. It is crucial to properly prepare for and quickly address any flood damage when it occurs because, not only does this often make dealing with the issue much easier, it generally reduces overall repair costs. Limiting repair expenses is essential in our area since material and service costs are usually well above national averages here. Instead of simply replacing everything, companies like SERVPRO first attempt to restore existing materials.  This policy helps them quickly restore flood damage while limiting expenses.

What Makes SERVPRO One of the Best Flood Damage Mitigation and Restoration Companies in Redwood City?

Finding the best mitigation and remediation company to deal with your flood damage in Redwood City is essential. There are several reasons why SERVPRO is one of the most effective of these services in our region. Some of these reasons are:

    •    Our company is expertly managed by a CEO with over twenty years of industry experience and more than ten master certifications by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).
    •    This franchise has operated for well over ten years, is one of the largest in the U.S., is IICRC-certified, and has received numerous glowing testimonials from pleased customers.
    •    We are one of a limited number of certified biohazard cleanup companies in California.
    •    Company technicians are specifically certified in water damage restoration and applied structural drying.
    •    Our large cleaning facility is centrally-located, allowing us to more quickly service both the San Francisco Peninsula and East Bay area.
    •    We have state-of-the-art equipment, like truck-mounted extractors, moisture sensors/meters, infrared cameras, thermohygrometers, dehumidifiers, injectidry systems, and advanced foggers, that can effectively remedy even the worst damage.

SERVPRO, with all of its extensive resources, is often the local service best able to successfully handle your flood damage.  Moreover, we do our work efficiently, with minimal waste.

How Does SERVPRO Remediate My Flood Damage in Redwood City?

Our technicians are local to the Redwood City area and are available to help you twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Often, within four hours of your call, we are on-site and ready to get to work. Once at your home, our experts:

    •    Evaluate your home’s flood damage
    •    Establish drying goals
    •    Extract floodwaters using pumps and extractors
    •    Eliminate harmful bacteria and fungi with professional-grade disinfectants and fungicides
    •    Scientifically dry your residence’s interiors until the drying goal is achieved
    •    Thoroughly deodorize your home with deodorants

Once our work is complete, your home often looks like it never even experienced flood damage.  Additionally, because of our expert work, it is unlikely to be affected by future issues related to the flooding.

Is There a Way to Avoid Flood Damage in the Future?

There are a few proven ways you can limit your flood risks. Although nothing is 100% effective, or even close to it, these are some simple steps you can take to reduce your chances of being impacted by floods:

    •    Before leaving home, turn off your electric, gas, and water
    •    Trim or cut any tree limbs that could fall on your roof
    •    Repair any roof leaks
    •    Ensure your roof drainage system is clean and in good condition
    •    Seal any leaks in your foundation
    •    Cover all windows with plywood

If you follow these steps, your home is better protected against flood damage, and any incurred should be less severe.

Of course, like any other act of nature, floods can be quite unpredictable.  Many factors determine when and where they occur and how severe they are. Sometimes they are triggered by heavy storm rains, while other times heavy rains only produce limited or no flooding. Other causes of flooding are high temperatures leading to rapid snowmelt, distant oceanic storms, earthquakes, and tsunamis.  While it is certainly not possible to safeguard against all of these potential threats, you can protect your home from flooding related to seasonal changes and forecasted storms. If you take the suggested precautions, you better your odds of either avoiding flood damage entirely or at least escaping the worst of it.

With all that said, you cannot always escape the wrath of nature. So, if you are ever impacted by flooding, remember that there are companies that can help you overcome the associated setbacks.  Research Redwood City area remediation companies, and if you ever need assistance, contact SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos at (650) 591-4137.

The Key to Successful Flood Damage Remediation in San Francisco

12/29/2019 (Permalink)

Whether the flooding in your home is due to a storm or an appliance malfunction, contact SERVPRO for remediation services.

Anticipating Drying Issues within Flooded San Francisco Homes

Storm-related flooding in your San Francisco homes can be destructive to exposed construction materials and structural elements. Beyond the vulnerabilities created and areas in need of repairs, our SERVPRO team must anticipate drying issues with mechanical systems and utilities within the damaged structure. With numerous mechanisms and appliances within the house, our team must utilize the appropriate equipment to dry these areas in the most efficient manner possible.

Drying flood damage in San Francisco that has breached one of these systems begins with determining the extent and severity of these conditions. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning are among the most commonly damaged appliances and circulation systems in the house. Determining the flow of air through these devices and areas can help to regulate the positioning of containment barriers and also assess the required drying approach to overcome potential obstacles to the HVAC system, fireplace, exhaust devices, or central vacuum systems.

Positive Pressure Systems 

These are appliances or mechanisms that push air. These units, like the HVAC system, force conditioned air from an origin point through the vents and registers of the house. Running these machines after flooding can circulate contaminants in the air, but also affect more areas with the higher humidity levels typical to these recovery zones.

Negative Pressure Systems 

Much like positive pressure systems force air onto a damaged space, the negative air options are vital to remove air from points in your home. Running exhaust fans in a flooded bathroom area could be a deterrent to drying, as it might remove drier air in place of moist air within the house. Our SERVPRO professionals can ensure airflow gets consistently monitored in the drying zones, and the appropriate tools and approaches counteract these obstacles for moisture removal.

Our SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos team has unique training and experience in thermodynamics and psychrometry. With the drying hurdles that can exist in homes and businesses, we have a full-service team of professionals that can help with controlled demolition, cleaning, and recovery to make losses “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call anytime at (650) 591-4137.

Click here for more information about San Francisco.

Proven Tips to Remediating Flood Damage in San Francisco

11/15/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding can happen quickly and leave you needing mitigating circumstances. Contact SERVPRO immediately.

Get Fast Flood Damage Restoration Results In San Francisco

Storms can bring on significant water damage when you least expect it. Such damage can turn into a severe issue if you are unable to get to work as soon as possible. In the majority of cases, contacting the professionals to help you with flood damage restoration is the fastest way to get the results that you need. 

Even the smallest amount of water can result in serious repercussions, including the loss of structural integrity as well as potential mold growth that can get out of control. Whether you are facing flood damage in San Francisco in your home or business, calling a premier cleanup and restoration company like SERVPRO ensures that you get the results you need quickly and efficiently. 

The Restoration and Mitigation Process

Our trained technicians at SERVPRO use proven methods for helping clients with flood damage restoration and mitigation. We often follow a five-step protocol to tackle the onset of water damage after a natural disaster so that we leave no stone unturned. If we can get in and get to work within the first four to five hours after damage occurs, there is a much higher property restoration success rate. Waiting longer than 24 hours increases the chances of permanent structural damage and the development of hazardous mold.

SERVPRO can come to your property to assess the water damage using advanced detection technology. We look to see where water and moisture may have seeped into hidden spaces and make sure that there are no active leaks. 

Next, we remove water using specialized vacuums and high-powered pumps. The drying process begins shortly after that using air movers and industrial dryers. We also have potent dehumidifiers that help to remove moisture from the atmosphere inside the building.

After the drying is complete, any items removed from the property are cleaned thoroughly using techniques similar to that of dry cleaning. SERVPRO technicians also use sanitization methods to rid your belongings of mold or mildew growth along with any lingering, unpleasant odors.

Call us right away at SERVPRO of Belmont/San Carlos at (650) 591-4137 so that we can deploy a team of trained technicians to your property!

Click here for more information about the city of San Francisco.

Flood Damage San Francisco – Difficult to Clean Items

9/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO wants to be there for every part of your San Francisco flood damage, even the most difficult situations.

We handle it all when it comes to your San Francisco flood damage.

Flash floods can wreak havoc in minutes and cause thousands of dollars in damage. Whether it is from a broken water line or storms passing through, floods leave many homes and businesses with contaminated contents and damaged premises. Cleaning small intricate items and removing potentially contaminated material is efficient with our state-of-the-art ultrasonic cleaner.

SERVPRO responds to flood damage events in San Francisco as soon as a client calls for help. We begin an initial assessment over the phone to deploy the equipment and resources needed to meet the challenge. Once on-site, our crew chief can decide the specific steps required to return your home or business to its original condition.

Floods leave debris inside and outside the premises. We initially focus on removing the debris and then get to work, removing contents for cleaning or disposal as needed. We remove flooring, inspect walls, and inspect the structure before cleaning, dehumidification, and drying begins.

Cleaning Small Difficult to Clean Items

Many small intricate pieces are challenging to clean and until recently may have been disposed of or could not be properly cleaned. Our SERVPRO franchise owns an ultrasonic cleaning machine. These machines are used to clean mold and contamination from relatively small items with many hard to access crevices.

Ultrasonic machines create millions of microscopic bubbles in a cleaning solution using mechanical vibration. These bubbles remove any contamination that may be on the surface of an item. Also in crevices or from porous items. The machine can clean these items, “Like it never even happened.”

Restoration of your Home or Office

Our SERVPRO office has the equipment required to restore your home or office from flood damage. We are licensed (General Contractor License #: 937457) to provide restoration services for full structural damage repair and rebuild, as well as providing restoration of small difficult to clean pieces. Whether it is jewelry, family heirlooms, or industrial parts, we can clean them all.

Call SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos at (650) 591-4137 for 24/7 servesus. We serve the towns of Laconia, Belmont, Tilton, and surrounding areas. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

If you would like to learn more about San Francisco, click here.

We Will Save Your Flood Damaged Home In San Francisco

8/13/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos at (650) 591-4137 for 24/7 service.

Atmospheric River Floods Home In San Francisco

An atmospheric flood hit the area with widespread flooding to homes and streets. Our clients home basically had a river running through it at one point until the rains subsided. Atmospheric floods occur when warm water evaporates from the ocean and concentrates into narrow fast-moving air currents that dump heavy rains on inland areas. Storm drains cannot handle the volume and floods inundate streets and homes.

The client called SERVPRO about the flood damage in her San Francisco home as soon as she was able to gain access to her home. She was forced to wait until she could navigate flooded streets and traffic was allowed. The bottom floor of her home was severely damaged. Doors were forced open by the water, and many of her belongings washed away. Any remaining furniture was discarded due to the substantial damage.

Our SERVPRO team began by removing all of the mud and debris in the home, including furniture that remained. Tiled areas could be washed and dried. Hardwood floors were removed, including the subfloor due to the damage and high moisture levels. We removed the lower three feet of drywall for the same reason. Next came new doors and windows. Our team focused on drying the house and reducing the moisture levels with dehumidifiers.

Full reconstruction and restoration (in a General Contractor roll) of the home involved verifying all electrical circuits and laying new subfloor. Next, came new drywall and insulation, and of course, new hardwood floors. SERVPRO provided regular status updates on progress to the homeowner, which was passed along to their insurance company. The homeowner also had pictures of the original pre-flood condition of the home, which helped immensely with restoration and insurance claims.

The main focus was on the inside of the home. The owners wanted to move back into their home as soon as possible. Outside, landscapers were also making repairs. The team washed the outside walls, and the debris left by the flood was removed. Next, we restored the gardens and entertainment areas.

Call SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos at (650) 591-4137 for 24/7 service. We serve Redwood City, Foster City, Inner Mission, Nob Hill, and surrounding areas. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

For more about San Francisco click here.

Let Our Specialists Repair And Restore Your Flood Damaged San Francisco Home

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Our restoration professionals can take the right steps to restore your home to its normal condition.

How To Get Flood Damage Repair For Your San Francisco Home

Flooding is a problem that many homeowners deal with, and in areas close to oceans, high tides combined with strong storms often cause flood damage. When floodwaters enter your home, you need to stay safe by avoiding contact with the water, since it may contain hazardous microorganisms and insects.

You should also avoid using electrical or gas appliances that have been flooded. If your San Francisco home has flood damage, it is also essential to hire professionals who can handle the cleanup process. The remediation specialists at SERVPRO have years of experience and sophisticated equipment that can extract the water and dry your property to return it to its preloss condition quickly. We work on a 24-hour basis, and you can trust us to assist you any time you need us.

After water intrusion, the cleanup and drying process should begin quickly for the longer the water sits, the worse the destruction gets. Stagnant water and moisture create the ideal environment for mold growth. The repairs can be more expensive and difficult if you do not take action quickly. When we arrive at a water-damaged property, we inspect the affected areas, define the class and category of water damage, and outline the most appropriate means of restoring the home.

Our SERVPRO crew uses pumps and wet/dry vacuums to remove most of the water from a home to prevent bacteria and mold growth. Once we remove the standing water and vacuum the absorbent surfaces, we start the drying and dehumidification process. This step clears any remaining moisture after water extraction. It can take several days to dry saturated materials. We monitor the drying process using moisture sensors and moisture meters.

We also clean and use antimicrobial products to sanitize belongings like clothing and drapery to prevent mold and bacterial growth. Our technicians can also use air scrubbers to eliminate odors from your homes. The other step is the restoration process, which involves replacing damaged materials like insulation, carpeting, floors, drywall, or entire walls in serious cases.

If flood waters have pooled in your home, contact SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos for help. You can reach us through our helpline at (650) 591-4137. Our restoration professionals can take the right steps to restore your home to its normal condition. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Click here for more about San Francisco.

Call SERVPRO To Avoid Issues After Flood Damage In San Fransisco

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

This torn roof allowed a strong wind to dislodge a water supply line in the wall of this house and we had the equipment needed to restore the home.

Managing Secondary Problems Likely to Occur After Flood Damage in San Francisco

A flooding incident in your property can leave you grappling with enormous financial and sentimental losses as the water soaks into items or deposits soils in different sections of your property. Avoidable problems can also develop if there is a failure during the restoration processes. Hiring a professional flood damage restorer can help prevent undesired outcomes by following the right procedures.

Most incidents of flood damage in San Fransisco only harm the structure and contents. However, it can affect occupants who try to save items without observing safety procedures. Floods mostly involve black water especially if it is a case of rising waters. Such water contains chemicals and biohazard wastes such as raw sewage so it can transmit disease-causing microorganisms when people wade in without proper protective gear. Flooding also increases the risk of electrocution if there are downed power lines or the water level reaches electrical outlets in the house. Our SERVPRO technicians use a variety of protective gear to avoid such risks. We have rubber boots that protect our crews from electrical shock and contact with harmful substances in the water. We also have full body suits, electrical testers, and other safety equipment.

Because floodwaters reach many concealed areas including subfloors, cabinets and wall cavities, there is a need to remove it properly. Leaving traces of water in such areas leads to many secondary problems including mold development and rotting or warping of wooden materials. Our SERVPRO technicians use different approaches to prevent such problems. We use thermal cameras to check for wetness in concealed sections then make flood cuts or drill vent holes to remove water. We can also use specialized equipment such as the injecti-dry system and drying mats.

Drying excess moisture from flood-damaged properties is part of the restoration process. The process mostly involves evaporation of the water that soaks into materials. Failure to manage the drying process can lead to other problems such as condensation or transfer of moisture to unaffected areas. Our SERVPRO technicians calculate the right combination of air movers and dehumidifiers for balanced drying.

To avoid recurring issues after flood damage, call SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos to help restore your property to its preloss state. You can reach us at (650) 591-4137 any time. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Click here for all you need to know about visiting the Golden Gate Bridge

Some Tips To Help Your Home Recover From Redwood City Flooding

2/17/2019 (Permalink)

Whether flooding in your home is due to internal or external causes, the need to contact team SERVPRO still exists. Contact us for water removal.

Act Quickly When There is Flood Damage to Your Home in Redwood City

Living in Redwood City is ideal by most standards. Its proximity to San Francisco and the growth of technology makes it a lovely place to set up home. However, it can also fall victim to the effects of mother nature, and homeowners need to prepare. As implausible as it may seem, a torrential downpour can quickly escalate, causing floods and leaving significant damage in its wake. When water enters your home, it is best to call a professional team to your aid.

If you encounter flood damage to your home in Redwood City, SERVPRO is ready to become your most invaluable resource. Time is of the essence when reacting to a flood in your home, but so is a targeted approach. Our team is trained and specialized in assessing the extent of the damage, including the anticipation of collateral effects left by the entry of water into your home. Mold, for example, may eventually appear if the remediation process is not done correctly, which is why the help of our professional team makes a difference.

Upon arrival, our Green Fleet ensures that all work areas are safe. With precautions in place, we proceed to extract water remains from your home. We have at our disposal an array of tools and technology to achieve ideal moisture levels in your home, ranging from submersible water pumps to wet/dry vacuums. As we extract water, we collect information on the air quality of your home and continue to act accordingly. Once our sensors and monitors verify that we have achieved industry-defined optimal water levels, it is time for us to deodorize and disinfect your home.

The process may sound simple, but our SERVPRO team has carefully studied the principles of psychrometry to inform us of our progress. We also train on the use of techniques, such as drilling small holes on your baseboards, focused on promoting the air flow through your home and walls. This thorough approach far exceeds what the average homeowner can achieve with household-grade equipment. It is important to remember that any water excess can become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, which may be a hazard to your health.

At SERVPRO of Belmont/San Carlos, we put our best foot forward to protect your home from long-lasting flood damage. All you need to do is call us at (650) 591-4137 where our team is ready to respond to your emergency 24/7 should you ever need our expert advice.

Click here for more about Redwood City.

Foster City Property Can Suffer Flood Damaging Events from Many Causes

1/14/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding in Foster City--Call the SERVPRO Green Fleet For Cleanup and Restoration

Types of Floods and Flood Damage Restoration for Your Foster City Home

No matter where you reside, you can be a victim of flooding. Your home in Foster City is no different. There are various ways in which a flood can occur. The most common occurs when the ground cannot absorb all the melting snow or rain, a waterway is blocked by debris or ice, strong winds push seawater inland during a storm, or when a structure which is human-made fails, such as a sewer or dam.
 
If your home in Foster City has suffered flood damage for any reason, you need help from a professional remediation company. SERVPRO is standing by at all times to help you with a water damage emergency like this, no matter how big or small. The quicker we can get the water out of your home, the better, so we can try and avoid additional damage being done. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.
 
The first type of flood that can occur is inland floods, which usually happen during periods of extended rainfall, or when levees or dams fail. The ground is not able to absorb the water quick enough, which results in water levels that are higher than usual. When the waters have invaded your home, our SERVPRO techs use industrial pumps to get all the standing water out as fast as possible, and then we use industrial fans and dehumidifiers to finish drying your home back out.

 
The most dangerous kind of floods, flash flooding, can happen without any warning at all. They are the most significant cause of deaths related to weather. They happen when water fills streams or rover beds that are usually dry or when storm drains are overwhelmed.
 
River flooding generally follows extended periods of rainfall which is heavy, creating water levels to rise over the edge of the river bank. Severe tropical storms can create the waters of the river to rise in a rather short amount of time. Melting ice and snow can also increase the chances of a river flood. Coastal flooding is caused by a mixture of a storm surge and heavy rainfall. If they are combined with a high tide, the water levels can get very high.
 
SERVPRO of Belmont/San Carlos does not waste time getting to your property in Belmont, Redwood City, or Foster City after there has been flooding of any kind from storms. As soon as the storm has subsided, call us at (650) 591-4137 so we can assist you in during your home out as soon as possible.

More about this Bay City by clicking here

Flood damage specialists are ready to help

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Be Prepared for Flooding Events in San Francisco--Contact SERVPRO to Reduce Water Damage and Disruptions

Flooding of Crawl Spaces and Structures Require Prompt Water Removal to Mitigate Damage

Any time a storm comes into town, high-speed winds and copious amounts of rain likely occur. When a storm hits your neighborhood, many different types of elements possibly harm your San Francisco residence. Rain sometimes creates flooding conditions, which often causes moisture to get inside your house. Other times, wind breaks windows and rain pours directly into your structure.

Unwanted moisture inside your home can cause many problems. It is sensible to seek out the help of SERVPRO's flood damage experts in San Francisco any time you notice water coming into your dwelling after a storm. It is possible that moisture ruins your contents and building materials. If high levels of humidity go unattended, then mold growth occurs and can flourish creating significant secondary storm damage.
 
One common place that water gets into during a storm or flood is the crawl space. When water builds up outside your home the first area that likely gets damaged is the crawl space under the building. Some crawl spaces are small and difficult to access. If water ever fills up your crawl space, our team at SERVPRO starts mitigating the problem by making sure there are no hazards in the area. Once the space is safe, we remove any standing water that is present. Often, this water is "black" contaminated muddy water. Pesticides, fertilizers, sewage, chemicals, and even animal carcasses can add to the filth and pathogenic organisms found in flood waters. Our technicians use submersible pumps to extract all of the water possible. 
 
Next our restoration crew figures out the best way to dry the crawl space and flooring materials. If it is possible, air movers and dehumidifiers get set up inside the area. If there is not enough room to get equipment into the tight space, other measures get taken. Sometimes, part of the floor gets removed, so the area dries. Other times we run a warm air hose off of a dehumidifier into the crawl space. Conduits connected to large LGR dehumidifiers often do the trick of restoring normal RH levels after some days.
 
Any time a storm comes into town and harms your residence, it is best to consult industry professionals. To get your water damage problem mitigated as efficiently as possible call SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos at (650) 591-4137 for 24/7 assistance.

More about this Bayside city in CA by clicking here.

Board up Services

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Board up is a basic and necessary service.

There are so many ways that a structure can be damaged and could require emergency board up services of windows and doors, or large gaps in walls... Wind damage, falling trees and falling tree limbs, vehicles crashing into buildings are common causes. Vandalism and robbery accounts for many window board up jobs too.

The heat from fires can blow out window glass, and in some situations, fire fighters may intentionally break out specific windows to pump water into a structure to extinguish the fire.

At SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos, we have performed emergency board up services for each of the potential sources discussed. Our trained and experienced technicians stand ready, with an inventory of board-up supplies to respond when and where we are needed. This is just another way we help our community.

Always Ready to Roll

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

53 Foot "Kentucky style" Trailer, ready to roll.

SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos is a SERVPRO certified STORM TEAM company. Our technicians have traveled to various locations that have experienced storm events around California and the United States.  

We are also experienced in large loss mitigation projects.

You can imagine that it often requires a great deal of restorative drying equipment to accomplish this work.

Our company owns and operates a fleet of cargo vans, pickup trucks, box trucks , a 24 foot trailer and we have use of a large, 53 foot "Kentucky style" trailer.

The 53 foot trailer is packed with hundreds of pieces of drying equipment, and supplies including cleaning materials. It becomes a staging point, sort of a warehouse on wheels, from which our technicians are able to work. You can count on SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos to be there and ready to help when you need us.

When there is flood damage, Who will you call?

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

Flood damage can happen in Foster City.

SERVPRO Restores Flood Damaged Properties in Foster City

In Foster City flood damage needs to be taken care of immediately. Ignoring flood damage should not occur. For one thing, water is a double edged sword. On one hand, it could clean and purify. However, water in the wrong places could cause damage and contamination. For one thing, it does bring down the value of the property. It will get to the point where water damage will always be visible unless you can get a professional company like SERVPRO to do the water extraction, drying, cleaning, and restoration work necessary to bring the property value back up. Among the sections of the home that are usually vulnerable to water damage are drywall and other building materials. 
 
For a house of frame construction, water is easily absorbed. Wood is like a sponge for water. It could not only get into the timber, but it could make its way to the walls. Once in the walls, it could bring water damage to other areas of the property. Another thing that water could do to the wood is cause warping as well as cupping in wood flooring. The water can also lift the laminate of manufactured wood. Wood will also become moldy. This will result in mold covering the floors as well as walls. Particularly in the case of warmer temperatures with hidden moisture or standing water. 

Foster City flooding could cause damages to the plumbing and electrical systems. Even the ceiling can be vulnerable to damages caused by water. For homes that have faced the effects of flooding, it is important to call a professional from SERVPRO to come by and inspect every piece of the home including the plumbing and the electrical systems. If there is any issue caused by water, and there always is after groundwater intrudes on your property, then he has to remove the unsalvageable materials and possessions of the home. Contaminated Black Water from this type of flooding must quickly be extracted from the home and after drying out, sanitized and deodorized. Also, it is important to make sure that every leak is found and repaired if pipes ruptured due to the storm flooding. SERVPRO has the trained, certified IICRC technicians to tackle all flood problems and restore your home to its preloss condition "Like it never even happened."  They are very experienced and willing to provide 24/7 services to your home. To get an appointment, give them a call at (650) 591-4137.

Hail Storms

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Hail damage can be intense.

As climate continues to change, hail storms could happen in California. After all, there have been water spouts and tornadoes in recent years. Perhaps we will never see hail storms of the magnitude that are experienced in Oklahoma or Texas. When regions of the country experience weather anomalies, the storms can cause significant damage, even if they are less intense by scale. The reason for this is that the plants and trees and the geography have not adapted for unusual weather. A simple freeze in Wisconsin does little damage. The same freeze in Florida would ruin millions of dollars in crops.

A significant hail storm in California would damage delicate plants and trees not to mention roofs that are not designed with hail storms in mind.  As climate continues to change the chances of being impacted by unusual weather also increase. SERVPRO is ready to mitigate property damage no matter the source.

Hail, Storms, & Damages

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Heavy hail aftermath

As climate continues to change, hail storms could happen in California. After all, there have been water spouts and tornadoes in recent years. Perhaps we will never see hail storms of the magnitude that are experienced in Oklahoma or Texas. When regions of the country experience weather anomalies, the storms can cause significant damage, even if they are less intense by scale. The reason for this is that the plants and trees and the geography have not adapted for unusual weather. A simple freeze in Wisconsin does little damage. The same freeze in Florida would ruin millions of dollars in crops.

A significant hail storm in California would damage delicate plants and trees not to mention roofs that are not designed with hail storms in mind.  As climate continues to change the chances of being impacted by unusual weather also increase. SERVPRO is ready to mitigate property damage no matter the source.

SERVPRO's Professional Flood Damage Services

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding is always what you think, damages can vary in severity.

Contact Us When You Need Flood Damage Restoration

The aftereffects of flood damage in Foster City or other cities within our service area can be as costly and potentially deadly as the flood itself. If your home or business has been hit by local flash flooding following heavy rain  or has experienced burst water pipes or a sewage system backup, you know what an ugly, inconvenient mess it can be. If it's not addressed correctly and promptly, it can lead to your building being judged unsafe, and it could be condemned. To avoid the loss of property and the inconvenience this will cause, it's an excellent idea to contact a local cleanup and restoration service who can help you fix the situation.

We Can Address All Types of Flooding Damage
No matter what caused the flooding to your home or business, we are equipped to fix it. Our team of friendly, knowledgeable service technicians has been fully trained to identify and correct all known types of flooding damage. Our service team members have all of the necessary training and certifications to qualify them for the task of flood damage cleanup and restoration. Let us know the nature of the problem, and we will respond to your call immediately. We are available to help at anytime of the day or night.

If the flood damage occurred to your home, you and your family are likewise experiencing the discomfort and expense of having to stay elsewhere. For these reasons, it's best to immediately call a local cleanup service that can restore your property back to its original condition.

What to Expect from an Initial Analysis of Flooding Damage
When you contact us regarding your flood damage emergency, we will respond to your call by performing a complete analysis of your property. We will go over every corner of the building to make sure that water is not pooling in nooks and crannies, leading to structural instability and mold growth. The most important part of any major cleanup and restoration project is to ensure that the potential for further damage down the line is completely avoided. To do this, we will give you a complete diagnosis of the damage, followed by an estimate of the cost involved to address it.

Restoring the Effects of Flood Damage in Foster City
When it comes to addressing the harmful effects of flood damage in Foster City, it will require the urgent attention of a properly qualified and experienced cleanup and restoration team. SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos is a locally owned and operated service that can do the job for you promptly. We can also serve citizens in nearby areas including Redwood Shores, Half Moon Bay, Pacifica, and Burlingame. Call us at (650) 591-4137.

Water Damage works like a Snake

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

During periods of heavy rain in Belmont the ground water was replenished, causing underground streams and springs to flow again. (Many underground water sources dried up during the recent draught.)

One particular client of ours owns and manages a commercial property in which a small channel of water flows through their crawlspace. Engineers determined that the flow of moisture does not pose a treat to the foundation of the structure. Our company was hired to install a moisture barrier in the crawlspace. A plastic barrier was installed above the ground surface, which prevents humidity and odor from the ground water in the damp soil from affecting the crawlspace.

During heavy rains the water flows through the crawlspace at an increased rate, but the plastic barrier keeps the moisture contained. No bad odors or excess moisture affects the building above the plastic.

SERVPRO of Belmont /San Carlos provides moisture barrier installation to protect residential, commercial and industrial properties. We also perform HVAC cleaning and other environmental specialty services to protect your indoor air quality.

More Storms Ahead, AGAIN?!

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

Climate change is happening and is in full force. 2016 was an El Nino year. In Northern California we had increased rain that ended our five-year draught. In many ways we were lucky because, other than a few isolated locations, our region escaped the mega damage we might have experienced. (It was worrisome when we came close to a major dam failure that would have impacted hundreds of thousands of people.)

This year has all the indicators of being another El Nino year. It is also is shaping up to be a heavy hurricane season as well. Both events don’t usually happen in the same year. If we have hurricanes, the Eastern seaboard and Gulf on Mexico could be impacted. To be classified as a hurricane, a tropical cyclone must have maximum sustained winds of at least 74 mph (Category 1). The highest classification in the scale, Category 5, is reserved for storms with winds exceeding 156 mph. It is possible that the west coast could be pounded by El Nino storms while the East and South are experiencing Hurricane damage.

SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos is prepared to help any property owner who experiences storm damage here in Northern California, and we are ready to travel to other parts of the country to help with their local storm damage too. In the past we have performed Hurricane cleanup on the east coast and are prepared to do so again this year if need be. SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos is an experienced property damage restoration provider.

SERVPRO's Grade +A Services

5/14/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is always ready to help NO matter the circumstances.

Belmont/San Carlos will host educational preparedness events for property owners and facilities managers.

And, our company will be there for our community to provide water and flood damage cleanup as we have done in the past. 

Our franchise is experienced in storm cleanup such as: mudslides, ground flooding, wildfires, earthquake damage and falling tree cleanup.

Our advertising slogan is: "Like it never even happened." We always do our best to deliver that quality of service. When you need solutions call: 650-591-4137.

Winter Weather Tips

1/30/2018 (Permalink)

Keeping you home safe and warm from winter weather is important.

Wintry weather is great at turning up problems you didn’t even know you had. Like that first really cold night in front of your fireplace that you thought was pure bliss — until you noticed a leak in the ceiling corner, which apparently was caused by a lack of insulation. How were you supposed to know that?

Many homeowners don’t realize they’re making critical missteps that can cost a ton when winter sets in. Here are seven wintertime mistakes homeowners often make (and what they could cost you!):

1. Not Buying a $2 Protector for Your Outdoor Faucet

What It’ll Cost You: Up to $15,000 and a whole lot of grief

It’s amazing what a little frozen water can do damage-wise. An inch of water in your basement can cost up to $15,000 to pump out and dry out. And, yet, it’s so easy to prevent, especially with outdoor faucets, which are the most susceptible to freezing temps.

The simplest thing to do is to remove your garden hose from your outdoor faucet and drain it. Then add a faucet protector to keep cold air from getting into your pipes. They’re really cheap (some are under $2; the more expensive ones are still less than $10). “Get these now! “When the weatherman says we’ve got cold coming, they’ll sell out in minutes.”

While you’re at it, make sure any exposed pipes in an unheated basement or garage are insulated, too, or you’ll face the same pricey problem.

Wrap pipes with foam plumbing insulation — before the weather drops. It’s cheap, too, just like the faucet cover (only $1 for six feet of polyethylene insulation). And it’s an easy DIY project, as long as you can reach the pipes.

2. Instagramming Your Icicles Instead of Preventing Them

What It’ll Cost You: $500 — if you’re lucky; a lot more if you’re not

Those icicles make your mountain homes look so picturesque, you just gotta take a few pics. But you better make them quick. Those icicles can literally be a dam problem. (Yes, dam — not the curse word that sounds the same. )

Icicles are a clear sign that you’ve got an ice dam, which is exactly what it sounds like: a buildup of ice on your gutter or roof that prevents melting snow and ice from flowing through your gutters. That’s really bad news because these icy blocks can lead to expensive roofing repairs.

Depending on where you live, expect to pay at least $500 for each ice dam to be steamed off. Leave the ice and you risk long-term damage, which could ultimately cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars to your roof, depending on what type of shingles you have and the size of the damaged area.

How to prevent them? Insulation. “Ice dams, icicles, and ice buildup on the gutters is a symptom of not enough insulation in the attic.

And “you need to have at least 14 inches of insulation in your attic, no matter where you live. If you live in a colder climate, you’ll need more.

If you don’t have the cash to insulate, heated gutter cables, which run between $50 and $150 each, can be a less expensive alternative when temporarily affixed to areas prone to ice damming.

3. Going Lazy on Your Gutters

What It’ll Cost You: You really don’t want to be in a position to find out

It can be so tempting to skip gutter cleanups as winter nears. It seems like as soon as you clear your gutters, they clog right back up again. So what’s the point?

Well, if it looks like you’re living inside a waterfall when it rains, water is missing your gutter system completely. It’s being directed to your foundation instead. And a water-damaged foundation is never, ever cheap to fix.

A contractor can plug foundation cracks for $1,500 to $3,000, says David Verbofsky, director of training for exterior home products manufacturer Ply Gem. But a worse problem, one that requires a foundation excavation or rebuild, can set you back (gulp) $30,000 or more.

Suddenly, cleaning your gutters a few times each fall doesn’t seem so bad. A pro can do the work for anywhere between $70 and $250, depending on the size of your gutter system.

4. Giving Cold Air a Chance to Sneak In

What It’ll Cost You: Nights where you never feel warm, despite sky-high heating bills

“If it were possible to take every crack on the outside of a typical home and drag them together, you’d have the equivalent of a three-by-three window open all the time,” says Lipford. Yikes.

Yet cracks can be easily and inexpensively sealed with a simple tube of caulk, and it’s available in hundreds of colors to match your window panes, outside siding, and even brick. Not sure where to caulk? Look for visible cracks around:

Window sills

Baseboards

Fireplace or dryer vents

Anywhere something inside pokes a hole to the outside

5. Not Getting Personal with Your Thermostat

What It’ll Cost You: Money you could spend on something else besides heating

We all know we should, but we seem to have some mental block when it comes to programming our thermostats to align with our schedules. It’s not that hard, and sometimes all it takes is buying a new one that suits you. (Like maybe a Wi-Fi one that’ll give you a little money-saving thrill each time you swipe your app.)

“From a cost-savings perspective, a programmable thermostat is a great investment, as much as 10% off your energy bill, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

6. Skipping Furnace Tune-Ups

What It’ll Cost You: A furnace that’ll die years before it should — and higher energy bills.

Forget to service your furnace and you could easily cut five years off the life of your system, five years is a full third of the typical unit’s life span. New units can cost around $4,000 installed, making the $125 annual maintenance charge a no-brainer.

While you’re at it, don’t forget to replace the furnace filter, which cleans the air in your home, and also keeps your furnace coils cleaner, which can shave up to 15% off your energy bill. We suggest at least every three months, but possibly as often as monthly if you have allergies, pets, or smoke cigarettes at home.

7. Foregoing a Fireplace Inspection

What It’ll Cost You: Possibly your life — and your home

A cozy fire is great, but if you don’t maintain your chimney, a fire can cost you thousands of dollars, not to mention the risk to you and your family.

Schedule your maintenance appointment as early as you can.If you wait until the busy season, you’ll have a hard time getting them out there, you’ll pay more, and you’ll get a lower quality job.

El Nino is still with us...

9/8/2017 (Permalink)

El Nino is hanging around.

El Nino's Affects Ocean Currents

The news was filled with stories about this being an El Nino year in 2016.  Yes, it is was a declared and official El Nino year. While the weather news is all about Hurricanes, recently meteorologists have extended their forecasts to say that the El Nino event could effect us in the fall of 2017 and winter of 2018.

That news means rain, right?  Not necessarily. El Nino is a current of warm water in the Pacific Ocean near the Equator. The current often causes warm waters to flow along the South American coast and northward to Central America, Mexico and California. El Nino events can be dry or wet depending on other circumstances involving air currents and areas of high and low pressure systems. Even with today’s advanced science long rang forecasting is tricky.

In the past 14 declared El Nino events only three have brought heavy rains. For many of us who lived in Belmont, San Carlos, Redwood City or Foster City in 1997 we remember that was the year when a Strong El Nino season brought a deluge of rain and flooding to our area.  Waves battered the coast in Half Moon Bay and Pacifica. Small mudslides happened in various places in the Peninsula hills and lowlands flooded when a record high tide and rain occurred at the same time.

There are similarities to this year’s El Nino in what took place in the time leading up to the heavy winds, tidal flooding and rain storms that caused so much damage to the Peninsula, East Bay and most of Northern California.

In 1997, just like this year, a warm current caused crabs and other sea life to wash up onto California beaches. A huge algae bloom grew in the ocean from Mexico all the way to Alaska. These things have happened again in 2015. One other indicator of potential heavy rains is what happens with the Monsoon season in Arizona. Big Monsoon rains in that region happened in 1997 and they are happening again this year! 

Perhaps the most significant indictor concerning potential heavy rains from this year’s El Nino is the fact that several years of drought preceded all three El Nino rain years in the past. In fact, each of these three former El Nino rain events brought droughts to an end.  We have a drought now and we need it to end.

In 1997 I remember seeing flooding in Hillsborough along Crystal Springs Creek.  I saw people in kayaks playing in flooded parking lots along El Camino Real in Belmont. My water damage cleanup company responded to flooding in buildings along the Bay Shore in Redwood City and elsewhere. We also cleaned up after fallen trees in San Mateo and Atherton.

We never really know if this will be a heavy rain year until it happens. But, I invite you to be prepared in case it does.  Blog written by Clayton Barry. For more information or to register for our class, call 650-591-4137. We will be ready for our clients.