Our Commercial Property Experience by Paul Padilla, Operations Manager

6/10/2022 (Permalink)

Hotel Fire Sprinkler Water Damage Remediation

Commercial properties make up a large majority of people's everyday lives, from malls and office buildings to warehouses and schools. Commercial buildings have the public moving in and out of the doors day in and day out. Whether it is a flood, fire or other disastrous event that can happen, it affects large amounts of people. Having the right team to keep everything running smoothly means everything to our successful remediation and re-build of a commercial property.

At SERVPRO of Fountain Valley, our team of remediation and construction experts have many years of experience in the remediation and construction industries. We know what needs to be done and how to do it. We can help guide a client through the most challenging projects with confidence and knowledge. Our services range from performing emergency remediation services including water extraction, drying, demolition, sewage, mold, disinfection and fire damage clean up to board ups, temporary power, temporary fencing and full reconstruction services.

We have resources and expertise to set up temporary power and can keep an office running throughout the process. We can also pack out  and store items from offices, buildings, schools, stores and other commercial properties when necessary. At SERVPRO of Fountain Valley we can remediate and restore any type or size of loss including water, flood, storm, fire, wind, mold, fire, smoke, smokers, trauma or biohazard damage from start to finish. We are fully capable and have done the impossible time and time again. We have remediated hotels, retail stores, movie theaters, car dealer ships, churches, temples, summer camps and numerous warehouses and offices. We do jobs for numerous large companies including Ayres Hotels, Hilton Hotels, Radisson Inns, Edwards Cinemas, Fletcher Jones Mercedes, Yakult, Mathnasium, Penny Saver, Albertsons, Vons, Pavilions, the Allstate Corporate Office and more. We have also done work for the cities of Newport Beach, Fountain Valley and Diamond Bar. 

We at SERVPRO of Fountain Valley are an honest, reliable company having proven ourselves over the last 18 years to be the "go to" company for Remediation and Construction throughout our region.

Understanding Water Damage Categories

6/10/2022 (Permalink)

It can be stressful to experience a water loss in your home, from a broken pipe to a toilet back up. Did you know there are categories of water? Water coming from different sources can come with some risks.  

Clean water or Category 1 comes from just that; a “clean” water source from an incoming water supply line, or various incoming water pipes running through the walls going to bathrooms, kitchen, laundry room or anywhere water is used. This is fresh water and generally not dangerous.

Gray water or Category 2 comes from a dishwasher or washing machine. It’s a little dirty before it reaches the drain line. It’s a little less dangerous. This water is not drinkable and can harbor soaps, pathogens or other materials that are not healthy to drink.

Black water or Category 3 comes from a sewer drain, toilet drain back up or outside ground water. Outside ground water could be from a broken sprinkler that has flooded the yard or planters and has come into the home or it could be flood water from a storm. It has a high risk of disease-causing pathogens, bacteria. 

In any instance it is important to mitigate or remove the water it right away to prevent ongoing and secondary damages. Remove any standing water, clear the area of furniture if possible and call SERVPRO of Fountain Valley. We can insure your home is mitigated properly based on the category of water. It could be as simple as drying the affected materials in place, or as complex as removing the affected materials and applying an antimicrobial treatment to leave you with a properly dried disinfected, safe home.

How to Detect Water Leaks

6/10/2022 (Permalink)

Here in California, we should always be on the lookout for ways to save water. This includes checking your home and property for leaks. Leaks can increase your water bill and also lead to costly damage to your home. You can start by checking your water bill. If you notice a sudden increase, you may have a hidden leak somewhere. Here are a few tips to keep your home safe and your water bill down.

Check your water supply lines from sinks, toilets and appliances for cracks and damage. Replace them if you suspect damage. If the faucet is leaking, it might just be that the handle needs to be tightened.  Don’t forget your refrigerator water supply line. This is a very common leak and can cause extensive damage to the walls, floors, and kitchen cabinets.

Check the yard and planters for overly wet areas or puddles. This could indicate an irrigation line leak.  Check sprinklers periodically while they are running to make sure they are directed at the garden, not the street or sidewalk and that they are free from leaks. Overly wet planters can cause water to seep into the home, damaging your visible walls, inner walls, flooring, sub floors and furniture. 

Hose spigot (faucet) leaks can be fixed by simply tightening the connection fitting or when at times when needed by adding or changing a worn gasket. 

Check your water heater, or tankless water heater system. Even a continuous small drip can lead to water damage or microbial growth as well as increase your water bill. 

Check out your attic and crawlspaces. These hidden areas may have leaks that take longer to appear or remain hidden for indefinite amounts of time. Insulation in the attic may soak up the water before it is noticeable. This can lead to microbial growth. Damp or wet soil under the home can damage the understructure and also cause microbial growth like mold. Over time, damages can advance to the collapse of supporting structures.

Sometimes a water leak can be a quick simple fix, or it may need a professional to give you a hand. If you have an active leak or suspect a leak, give SERVPRO of Fountain Valley a call. We are always happy to come by and check for moisture.

What To Do Until We Arrive When There Are Water Leaks by Paul Padilla, Operations Manager

6/10/2022 (Permalink)

Leaking Pipe Water Damage

We regularly get asked what a home owner should do when they experience water damage in their home or office and what steps they can take to eliminate further damages until SERVPRO of Fountain Valley arrives. Here are 5 important tips on what you should do as soon as you hear, feel or see water coming into your home or place of business.

1. Stop the water: When a water leak occurs the first priority is to immediately stop the water or shut off the supply of water as best you can. Whether the leak is from a copper pipe, plastic Pex line or a supply line, it needs to be shut off ASAP. If a supply line burst, it can be as easy as shutting the Angle Stop Valve off to stop the water from going past the valve. If it is a copper or plastic main line then the entire system will need to be shut off at the Main Water Shut Off Valve until the leak can be isolated and/or repaired. An example of that would be when a plumber caps off the leaking section of pipe to allow the rest of the plumbing to function as normal until the full repair can be made.

2. Stay Safe: Make sure all electrical devices and power bars are elevated out of the water. Turn off power if needed to then move electrical devices out of water. Electrical can be turned back on once the area is considered safe.

3. Use barriers to stop the water: Stop the flow of the water with towels or sand bags if possible. Stopping the migration of the water will help stop the water from traveling into rooms that would otherwise be unaffected. This will reduce the damage and cost.

4. Protect furniture and objects: Get contents and furniture out water and off floor. Remove boxes and loose items from floor that can be damaged by water. Put aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to eliminate damage to furniture. 

5. Remove water: Remove excess water with wet shop vacuum where and when possible. Removing the standing  water will cut down on the time the water will have to absorb into the building materials.

Call SERVPRO of Fountain Valley ASAP!

When water leaks occur it is a very confusing and stressful time. At SERVPRO of Fountain Valley we understand most people have never dealt with this before. This is why we are here to help guide you through this very hectic time. With these 5 recommendations a homeowner can minimize  the amount of damage that occurs before SERVPRO of Fountain Valley can arrive and mitigate effectively.

Keeping Your Break Room Fridge Mold-Free

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Fridge mold in Gothard, CA.

Four Steps That Can Be Taken To Prevent Fridge Mold

The moisture inside your break room’s refrigerator and the presence of spoiling foods are ideal conditions for mold growth. Since you don’t have much control over the fridge’s condensation, you need to address the expired foods. Taking preventative measures beforehand decreases chances of facing bigger problems later. 

1. Be Accountable

Everyone who uses the communal refrigerator should keep track of what they put in, when they put it in, and when it needs discarding. If employees have difficulty remembering, they can put date labels on each item. By following this simple suggestion, mold growth may be discouraged.

2. Perform a Weekly Purge

Choose one day each week to examine the contents of the fridge and get rid of anything that doesn’t pass inspection. Make sure to sanitize afterward, as disinfecting the fridge is important for avoiding mold growth. Schedule this housekeeping every Friday so nothing goes bad over the weekend. No one wants to return to work on Monday and deal with fridge mold.

3. Pay for Sterilization

If employees feel that cleaning out the fridge isn’t included in their job description, consider hiring a cleaning service to tackle the task. It may be a costly expense, but it will be worth it. Footing the bill for routine cleanings is better than having a mold outbreak.

4. Know Who To Contact

If the mold prevention measures you took didn’t work, make sure to contact your mold removal specialists in Gothard, CA. They have the expertise and state-of-the-art equipment to quickly remove mold as well as other hidden sources that may be mold-infested.

Getting a whiff of that dreaded mold smell and later discovering fridge mold can be overwhelming and scary for employers. Follow the above steps to be proactive in your fight against mold rather than simply reactive after its formation.

To Effectively Eliminate Mold, Do These Three Things

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

Black mold damage in Gothard, CA.

Three Things To Do To Get Rid Of Mold

Black mold thrives in damp, dark areas, using humidity to reproduce. Residents may think that with the water source eliminated, fungus spores are likely to die independently. Removing that moisture, however, isn't enough to solve your problems. If those spores remain, mold is still in the home; therefore, homeowners in Gothard, CA, should understand the full extent of cleaning procedures. To get rid of mold, do the following three things.

1. Dry Out Space
Removing wetness is vital to mold cleanup because it mitigates the spread. Without the water, the spores are less likely to multiply, meaning residents have less infestation to deal with. Cutting off this supply, though, only hinders additional reproduction. It doesn't kill the organisms. It doesn't make them disappear.

2. Remove Structures
Take out the polluted materials. Doing so is the best method to ensuring organisms do not regrow or remain. Black mold is microscopically tiny, penetrating deep within porous materials. That means your house has possible trouble with any of the following:

• Upholstery
  
• Wood
  
• Paper
  
• Ceiling tiles
  
• Flooring
  
• Drywall
  
  

If any of these are contaminated, work with a water restoration company to determine whether pieces should be torn out or sanitized with high-tech content cleaning equipment. If in doubt, remember that tear-outs are simply a means of protection

3. Scrub Thoroughly
With the moisture problem under control, turn your attention to nonporous pieces that could have spores on the outside. For instance, the air conditioner unit should be meticulously scrubbed. Wash walls and furniture with warm water and soap. Apply an antimicrobial spray to surfaces. These processes reduce the likelihood of future concerns.
Don't expect black mold to vanish on its own. It's there until you take it off of your land. Therefore, while water reduction is vital to limiting obstacles, it's not a complete solution. It would be best if you also prioritized removing polluted materials and scrubbing the area thoroughly.

How To Avoid Space Heater Fires

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

Keep your space heater clean to minimize fire risk.

A space heater can provide extra warmth. It can also save on heating bills by allowing you to set the thermostat in your home in Beach Boulevard, CA, on low while still heating the specific rooms you are using to a comfortable temperature. A burned space heater doesn't help you, though. To avoid space heater fires, you need to follow a few simple tips.

Give It Space

The heating elements on a space heater give off an impressive amount of heat, but they can turn into a fire hazard quickly if they are crowded. There are several guidelines to make sure you have enough space around your heater:

• Maintain radius of three feet from flammable objects
  
• Don't use near combustible substances, such as gasoline
  
• Keep children and pets away from heater
  
• Set it on a level surface so it doesn't topple over
  
  

Turn It Off

To avoid having a burned space heater when you leave the room, remember to turn it off. Space heaters should never be left unattended while they are on, especially if you leave the house altogether. In fact, it's a good idea to unplug the heater when you are not at home. Keep an eye out for a frayed or otherwise damaged cord.

Keep It Clean

Keep your space heater clean to minimize fire risk. Dust and other debris can turn a functioning space heater into an electric fireplace in a hurry. Replace filters regularly according to the manufacturer's recommendation so that dirt does not infiltrate the heating mechanism. Follow maintenance instructions so that it not only lasts a long time but also does not become a safety issue.

A burned space heater can turn convenience into a nightmare. By following these simple guidelines, you can increase your creature comforts while still keeping you and your family safe. To avoid having to call for fire cleanup with a restoration company, choose a space heater that is safe and use it safely.

Fixing Your Leaky Toilet

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

Leaking toilet in Fountain Valley, CA.

Fixing Your Leaky Toilet

Suddenly discovering a puddle of water in the bathroom can be concerning. In most cases, the cause of a bathroom leak is the toilet. While a leaking toilet is a problem you’ll want to address as quickly as possible, it isn’t as daunting as it might seem. Here are steps you can take to stop the leak and minimize the impact of water damage to your home.

1. Find the Leak

The first visible indication that your toilet has a leak is the presence of water on your bathroom floor. However, sometimes, you won’t see any water at all. That’s because leaking water can get trapped between your flooring and underlayment. If you suspect a leak, probe the floor for spots that feel soft or spongy. If the toilet is on the upper floor, water can leak down the flange and stain the ceiling below. You can’t miss the unmistakable odor of sewer gas when a toilet isn’t seated properly.

2. Tighten the Bolts

Once you’ve determined the toilet is the culprit, inspect its fit. Is it stable, or does it rock? If the anchor bolts on either side are loose, tighten them down. Alternate when tightening to ensure you don’t overdo it. Too tight, and you could break the flange.

3. Replace the Wax Ring

If the leak persists after tightening the bolts, you’ll have to replace the wax ring that sits between the toilet and the flange. Over time, this ring can dry out and break the seal, resulting in a leaking toilet. You’ll need to uninstall the unit, remove the old ring and install a replacement.

4. Beware of Hidden Damage

Hopefully, you’ve caught the leak early enough. If the toilet leak has exposed your subfloor and structural supports to water, however, there may be larger issues you need to consider. If there’s any question whether the leak has caused rot or damage, contact a restoration specialist in Fountain Valley, CA, who can assess the situation and suggest the proper repairs.

If you find you have a leaking toilet, address the issue as quickly as possible. If necessary, call in a professional for expert help.

How To Avoid a Candle Fire

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Wax warmers are good ways to infuse your home with a pleasing fragrance.

A candle fire at your Beach Boulevard, CA, home is a frightening thought, but many people enjoy candles enough to brave the risk. Fortunately, there are many candle alternatives available, and proper safety measures minimize the possibility of a fire for those who choose to enjoy traditional candles.

Alternatives to Candles

There are a variety of alternatives that can be used in place of traditional wick candles. The following are some of the most popular:

• Battery-operated candles
  
• Reed diffusers
  
• Wax warmers
  
• Plug-in air fresheners
  

Flameless candles are good for those who like the visual effect of a traditional candle but want to minimize fire risk. There are flameless alternatives, such as battery-operated Hanukkah menorahs, available for religious purposes. For those who are more interested in the aromatic experience of candles, air fresheners, reed diffusers, and wax warmers are good ways to infuse your home with a pleasing fragrance. Remember to keep oils and wax away from children and pets to prevent burns and accidental ingestion.

Safety Measures

Although there are a variety of candle alternatives available, sometimes homeowners want to burn traditional candles. Fortunately, wick candles can be enjoyed safely if adequate precautions are taken. Be sure not to leave the candle unattended or in reach of pets or children. Do not burn the candle near fabrics or anything else that can catch fire. Keep candles a minimum of three inches apart. Have a fire extinguisher and fire blanket nearby, and test your smoke detectors regularly.

Whether you choose to use one of the many candle alternatives on the market today or practice extra caution using wick candles, it is possible to enjoy the ambiance created by candlelight while avoiding a house fire. If your home does suffer damage from a candle fire, an experienced restoration service can provide the tools and expertise needed to get your home back to normal.

How To Prepare Your Office for a Severe Storm

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage to a building in Fountain Valley, CA.

Prepare For Severe Weather At Work

Thunderstorms threaten both residential homes and commercial business buildings every year. Severe storms can produce high winds, hail, and lightning, all of which can wreak havoc on structures and cause harm to their occupants. If you are a building manager looking to equip your business with the proper safety features to withstand a thunderstorm, read below to learn how to best prepare for severe weather at work.

Plan in Advance
A severe rainstorm can appear seemingly out of nowhere. Therefore, be sure your office is ready for an emergency by organizing proper first aid equipment if or when it is needed. Conventional emergency kits often include:

• Water
  
• Batteries
  
• Nonperishable food
  
• Blankets
  
• First-aid supplies
  
• Medicine
  
  

Additionally, ensure your office has an evacuation plan in place, and conduct practice storm drills regularly. Don't forget to post relevant contact numbers near the first aid supplies in the event an employee needs to place an emergency call.

Take Proper Emergency Precautions
If a severe rainstorm in Fountain Valley, CA, is imminent, ensure you and your employees follow proper office protocol. Track local news channels, and listen for forecasts and updates regarding the storm's severity.
Encourage employees to remain inside by canceling any planned outdoor functions or gatherings. Further, recommend they steer clear of the windows as they can potentially shatter in the high winds of a violent thunderstorm.
Finally, in anticipation of a power outage, charge all mobile devices and tablets so that they will be usable during the storm.

Recover Appropriately
Even when a rainstorm subsides, you must continue to take proper precautions to ensure employee safety. First, steer clear of any storm-damaged structures until professionals conduct a storm damage assessment. Continue listening to local news coverage, which will indicate road closures, traffic jams, and flooded streets. Lastly, always avoid fallen power lines, and report them to the fire department immediately.
An extreme thunderstorm can present many dangers to an office environment. Proper preparation and awareness can keep your employees safe and out of harm's way.