What to Do After a Storm: Clearing Fallen Trees and Debris in Costa Mesa, CA

9/13/2023 (Permalink)

Efficient and safe debris removal is essential for restoring normalcy to your Costa Mesa property.

When nature's fury strikes, dealing with fallen trees and debris can be daunting. Join us as we explore practical steps to safely and efficiently manage the aftermath and restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

1. Safety First: Assessing Hazards

After a storm, prioritize safety above all else. Survey your property for downed power lines, unstable trees, and other hazards. Keep a safe distance and contact the appropriate authorities if you encounter any life-threatening situations.

2. Document the Damage: Before Clearing Begins

Before you start clearing fallen trees and debris, document the damage. Take photos and videos to create a visual record for insurance purposes. This documentation will be crucial when filing claims and working with professionals.

3. Clear Pathways: Opening Access

Begin by clearing pathways to ensure safe movement around your property. Remove smaller debris like branches and twigs to create clear access points and assess the extent of the damage.

4. Assess Tree Damage: Safety and Restoration

Evaluate trees that have fallen or are damaged. If a fallen tree has caused structural damage or poses a risk, seek professional assistance. An arborist can assess the tree's condition and recommend safe removal or restoration.

5. Proper Tree Removal: Expertise Matters

Removing fallen trees requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Consult with professional tree removal services to ensure safe and efficient removal without causing additional damage.

6. Sort and Dispose: Organized Cleanup

Sort debris into categories like organic, recyclable, and non-recyclable materials. This organized approach makes disposal more manageable and environmentally friendly. Check with local disposal centers for guidelines.

7. Assess Property Damage: Restoration Steps

Inspect your property for damage caused by fallen trees and debris. Address roof damage, broken windows, and structural issues promptly to prevent further complications.

8. Professional Restoration: Expert Assistance

Engage professional restoration services like SERVPRO to assess and restore your property. Storm damage can lead to hidden issues like water intrusion and mold growth, which experts can address comprehensively.

9. Prevent Future Issues: Landscape Planning

Consider the storm's impact on your landscaping and plan for future resilience. Consult with landscaping professionals to choose tree species that are less susceptible to storm damage and strategically position them.

Restoring Tranquility in Costa Mesa

By following these steps, you're taking proactive measures to handle fallen trees and debris after a storm. Efficient and safe debris removal is essential for restoring normalcy to your Costa Mesa property. If storm-related damage occurs, SERVPRO of Costa Mesa is here to assist in the restoration process, helping you recover quickly and efficiently.

Navigating the Fire Claim Process: A Guide for Home and Property Owners

8/21/2023 (Permalink)

Filing a fire claim can be a daunting task, especially in the aftermath of a fire.

Experiencing a fire in your home or business can be a devastating and overwhelming event. Apart from the emotional toll, you may also face significant financial loss. Making a fire claim is an essential step towards recovering and rebuilding your life after such a tragic incident. In this blog, we will guide you through the process of making a fire claim, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.

1. Contact Your Insurance Company Immediately

After a fire, it is crucial to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Check your insurance policy for the contact information of your insurance provider or agent. Inform them about the fire and provide them with all the necessary details. Remember to document the date and time of your conversation, as well as the name of the representative you spoke to.

2. Document the Damage

To strengthen your fire claim, it is essential to document the damage caused by the fire. Take photographs and videos of the affected areas, including both the interior and exterior of your property. Make a detailed inventory of damaged possessions, including their estimated value and purchase receipts, if available. This documentation will serve as evidence when filing your claim.

3. Gather Relevant Documents

To ensure a smooth claims process, gather all the relevant documents related to your property and insurance coverage. This may include your insurance policy, personal identification, fire department reports, witness statements, and any receipts or invoices related to repairs or temporary accommodations.

4. Mitigate Further Damage

After the fire, it is important to take immediate steps to prevent further damage. If it is safe to do so, take necessary measures such as boarding up broken windows, covering exposed areas, and securing the premises. Keep records of any expenses incurred in the process, as you may be reimbursed for these costs.

5. Work with Professionals

Engaging the services of professionals can greatly assist you in making a fire claim. Consult a reputable fire restoration company, such as our SERVPRO of Costa Mesa team, to assess and document the extent of the damage. Insurance adjusters or public adjusters can also be valuable resources in navigating the claims process and ensuring that you receive fair compensation for your losses.

6. Temporary Accommodations and Additional Living Expenses

If your property is uninhabitable due to fire damage, your insurance policy may cover the cost of temporary accommodations. Keep receipts for any hotel stays, meals, and other living expenses incurred while you are displaced from your home or business. These costs can often be included in your fire claim.

7. Cooperate with the Claims Process

Throughout the fire claim process, it is important to cooperate fully with the insurance company and any professionals involved. Respond promptly to their requests for information, documents, or interviews. Keep detailed records of all communication, including dates, times, and the name of the person you spoke with.

Filing a fire claim can be a daunting task, especially in the aftermath of a devastating fire. However, by following these steps, you can navigate the process with confidence and increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. Remember to stay organized, document everything, and seek support from professionals when needed. With patience and persistence, you can restore your home or business and move forward after this challenging experience.

5 Common Earthquake Myths

6/15/2023 (Permalink)

Earthquakes are powerful natural events that can cause significant damage to both life and property. Unfortunately, misconceptions and myths often circulate about earthquakes, leading to confusion and potential risks. In this blog, we will debunk some of the most common earthquake myths and provide you with valuable insights into earthquake safety.

Myth #1: Earthquakes Only Occur in Certain Regions

Fact: While it's true that certain regions are more prone to earthquakes, seismic activity can happen anywhere in the world. Earthquakes occur due to the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth's surface, and these plates are present across the globe. Although some areas may experience earthquakes more frequently or with higher magnitudes, it's essential to be prepared regardless of your location.

Myth #2: Earthquakes Can Be Predicted with Precision

Fact: Despite significant advancements in seismology, accurately predicting earthquakes remains an ongoing challenge. While scientists can estimate the likelihood of seismic activity in certain areas, the exact timing, magnitude, and location of an earthquake are still unpredictable. Instead of relying on predictions, it is crucial to focus on earthquake preparedness and building resilience.

Myth #3: Doorways are the Safest Place During an Earthquake

Fact: Contrary to popular belief, standing in a doorway during an earthquake is not necessarily the safest option. In modern buildings, doorways are no stronger than any other part of the structure. Instead, the "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" technique is recommended. Drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops. If no furniture is available, protect your head and neck by covering them with your arms.

Myth #4: Earthquakes Only Happen During Daytime

Fact: Earthquakes have no specific time schedule and can occur at any time, day or night. The notion that earthquakes predominantly happen during the day is a myth. Being prepared at all times, regardless of the hour, is crucial for your safety and that of your loved ones. Develop an emergency plan, secure heavy objects, and educate your family on earthquake safety measures.

Myth #5: Small Earthquakes Relieve Pressure and Reduce the Risk of Large Ones

Fact: Although small earthquakes can release some accumulated stress along fault lines, they do not necessarily reduce the risk of larger, more damaging earthquakes. In fact, a series of small earthquakes, known as foreshocks, can sometimes precede a more significant seismic event. It's essential to remain vigilant and prepared, regardless of the earthquake's magnitude.

Understanding the reality behind earthquake myths is vital for promoting safety and preparedness. By debunking these misconceptions, we hope to equip you with accurate information and empower you to take proactive measures in earthquake-prone areas. Remember, being prepared, having an emergency plan, and staying informed are essential steps toward minimizing the risks associated with earthquakes. For expert guidance on restoration and recovery after an earthquake, reach out to our team, who are here to assist you in the event of any disaster. Stay safe and be earthquake-ready!

Black Mold 101: Understanding its Appearance, Growth, and Prevention

5/17/2023 (Permalink)

Black mold is a type of fungus that can grow in damp, humid, and poorly ventilated areas.

Black mold is a type of fungus that can grow in areas that are damp, humid, and poorly ventilated. It is often found in homes and buildings with water damage or leaks, and it can cause structural damage if left unchecked.

The Appearance of Black Mold

Black mold has a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other types of mold. It is usually black or dark green in color and has a slimy texture. It can grow in clusters that can be seen with the naked eye, and it can also produce spores that can spread to other areas of the building.

The Growth of Black Mold

Black mold can grow in a variety of environments, but it thrives in damp and humid conditions. It often grows in areas with water damage, such as basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms. It can also grow on materials that retain moisture, such as drywall, carpeting, and ceiling tiles.

The Dangers of Black Mold

While black mold is not inherently dangerous, it can cause structural damage if left unchecked. It can weaken and break down materials such as wood and drywall, leading to costly repairs. Additionally, black mold can be a sign of underlying moisture problems in the building, which can lead to further damage and mold growth.

Preventing Black Mold

Preventing black mold is important in order to avoid the potential costs and dangers associated with its growth. Here are some tips for preventing black mold:

Fix leaks promptly: Any leaks in the building should be fixed as soon as possible to prevent water damage and mold growth.

Maintain proper ventilation: Ensuring that there is adequate ventilation in the building can help to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.

Keep humidity levels low: Humidity levels should be kept below 60% to prevent mold growth.

Use mold-resistant materials: When renovating or building, it is important to use mold-resistant materials such as mold-resistant drywall and paint.

Regular cleaning: Regular cleaning can help to prevent mold growth by removing any moisture and keeping surfaces dry.

Black mold is a type of fungus that can grow in damp, humid, and poorly ventilated areas. While it is not inherently dangerous, it can cause structural damage if left unchecked. Preventing black mold is important in order to avoid potential costs and dangers associated with its growth. By fixing leaks promptly, maintaining proper ventilation, keeping humidity levels low, using mold-resistant materials, and regularly cleaning, you can help prevent black mold from growing in your home or building.

Reviving Your Devices: A Guide to Cleaning Electronics After Fire Damage

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

Cleaning electronics affected by fire damage requires caution and attention to detail.

A fire in your home or office can be a devastating event, leaving you with the task of cleaning up the aftermath. Electronics are often among the items affected by fire damage, and it's important to take the necessary precautions when attempting to clean them. In this blog, we'll cover how to clean electronics affected by fire damage.

Step 1: Assess the damage

Before attempting to clean any electronics affected by fire damage, it's important to assess the extent of the damage. This includes checking for smoke residue, soot, and water damage. If the damage is severe or there is any risk of electrical shock, do not attempt to clean the electronics yourself. Instead, seek the assistance of a professional.

Step 2: Disconnect and unplug the electronics

Before cleaning any electronics, it's important to disconnect and unplug them from their power source. This reduces the risk of electrical shock and protects the electronics from further damage.

Step 3: Remove any loose debris

If there is any loose debris or ash on the surface of the electronics, carefully remove it using a soft-bristled brush or compressed air. Avoid using a vacuum cleaner, as the static electricity can damage the electronics.

Step 4: Clean the surface

Next, use a microfiber cloth or a soft, non-abrasive sponge to gently clean the surface of the electronics. You can use a mixture of water and mild dish soap, or a specialized electronics cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the electronics.

Step 5: Dry the electronics

After cleaning the electronics, it's important to dry them thoroughly before reconnecting or using them. Use a soft, dry cloth or allow the electronics to air dry completely.

Step 6: Test the electronics

Once the electronics are clean and dry, test them to ensure they are functioning properly. If there are any issues, do not attempt to repair the electronics yourself. Seek the assistance of a professional.

It's important to note that not all electronics can be salvaged after fire damage. If the damage is severe or the electronics have been exposed to water, it may be necessary to replace them.

In conclusion, cleaning electronics affected by fire damage requires caution and attention to detail. Assess the damage, disconnect and unplug the electronics, remove any loose debris, clean the surface with a gentle solution, dry the electronics thoroughly, and test them to ensure they are functioning properly. If the damage is severe or there is any risk of electrical shock, seek the assistance of a professional. With the proper care and attention, you can salvage electronics affected by fire damage and restore them to working condition.

4 Easy Ways To Prevent Plumbing Issues

3/6/2023 (Permalink)

How do you avoid plumbing issues in the first place? Here are four simple ways to keep your pipes healthy.

We all know that plumbing problems can be a huge headache. They can also be costly, and it’s often best to avoid them altogether. So how do you avoid plumbing issues in the first place? Here are four simple ways to keep your pipes healthy:

Clean Your Pipes Consistently

If you're looking for a way to prevent plumbing issues, then the best thing you can do is clean your pipes regularly. This can be done by using a drain snake or non-corrosive drain cleaner once every month or two. You could also try using a baking soda and vinegar solution to clear out any gunk that might be clogging up your drains.

If you want to make sure that these methods work well for you and prevent future problems with plumbing issues, then it's important that you clean out all of the pipes in your house.

Don’t Pour Grease Down the Drain

You may be tempted to pour grease down your kitchen drain, but this is a huge mistake. Grease is extremely hard to get rid of and can cause serious plumbing problems.

If you do have some leftover grease in your pan or pot, make sure that you dispose of it properly by putting it into an airtight container before throwing it away in the trash. You can also put used cooking oil into an old coffee can with a lid and store it outside until trash day arrives so that no animals or children get their hands on it!

Be Careful What You Flush Down the Toilet

Avoid flushing paper towels, cotton balls, and feminine hygiene products down the toilet. These are some of the most common items people flush down the toilet that can cause a clog. If you do flush these items down your toilet, don't use them until it has been fixed by a professional plumber.

So why do these things clog toilets? It's simple, they're too big for the pipes to handle. When the water flows through them, it creates blockages that prevent any more waste from passing through.

Routine Maintenance With A Reliable Plumber

Routine maintenance is important. If you have a home or business, regular routine maintenance with a reliable plumber is the best way to prevent plumbing issues. Plumbers are trained professionals who can do routine maintenance for you at a reasonable price. Pick one that has been in business for many years and has an excellent reputation for reliability and quality workmanship, then call them once or twice a year to take care of any minor problems before they turn into major ones!

As you can see, there are many ways to prevent plumbing issues. This article has covered some of the most important ones, but it's always a good idea to be proactive about your pipes so you don't have any problems in the future.

What are Burn Bans?

2/8/2023 (Permalink)

It's important that you check with your local fire department or government agency before burning anything outside.

A burn ban is a local order that prohibits outdoor burning. The purpose of a burn ban is to protect people, property, and the environment from wildfire. Fire bans are issued when conditions are so dry that fires can start easily and spread quickly. We hope this article gives you more insight into burn bans.

Burn bans are just that: bans on outdoor burning.

A burn ban is a restriction on the use of outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, and uncertified open-flame devices. Burn bans are issued by state agencies to prevent wildfires during periods of high fire danger. In some cases, counties may also issue their own burn bans.

Issued when unusually hot, dry, and windy conditions.

When unusually hot, dry, and windy conditions increase the risk of wildfires, the local or state government can issue a burn ban. The department monitors weather conditions closely to determine when these factors pose an increased risk for fires. If winds are strong enough to make it difficult for firefighters to contain an existing blaze or start new ones nearby, then authorities will issue a statewide ban on outdoor burning. 

Outdoor burning is a major cause of wildfires.

Outdoor burning is a major cause of wildfires in the spring and early summer. The United States Forest Service estimates that more than 90 percent of wildfires are caused by humans, making prevention an important part of wildfire management.

Burn bans are issued by state and local governments when conditions are dangerous for outdoor burning due to high winds, low humidity, and/or warm temperatures. Violators may be fined or face other penalties depending on their jurisdiction. 

The length of burn bans varies.

The length of burn bans varies from days to weeks depending on weather conditions. Each county has its own regulations regarding burn bans, but the most common time for a burn ban is during the summer months. The duration of a burn ban may be anywhere from one to fourteen (14) days. 

What types of burn bans are there?

There are two types of burn bans: county-issued and governor-issued.

• County-issued burn bans are put in place by local authorities, such as fire departments or city governments. Local authorities may issue these bans if they believe that the current weather conditions could cause fires to spread faster than normal, with greater intensity than usual.
• Governor-issued burn bans are issued by the state government when it feels that there is a high risk of wildfires due to drought conditions or other natural factors. These types of burns can also occur during periods of extreme heat and windy weather conditions where fires would be more difficult for firefighters to control. 

Check your local burn ban regulations.

The best way to check what your local burn ban regulations are is to call your local fire service and ask. You should always check the weather forecast before you do any burning of vegetation on your land. You need to be aware of the wind direction, how hot it is going to be, how dry it is, and whether there might be a fire risk or if there is already an active fire ban in place for your area. In addition, if there are any other factors that may affect whether or not you can burn safely (such as having neighbors close by), you should consider these too before starting any fires outside.

The main thing to remember is that burn bans can vary significantly from state to state and even county to county. It's important that you check with your local fire department or government agency before burning anything outside. If you are unsure of what constitutes a burn ban, please call your local fire department.

Can I Do my Own Home Water Damage Restoration?

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

If you have water damage in your Anaheim, CA home call SERVPRO of Costa Mesa.

Can I Do my Own Home Water Damage Restoration?

Water damage is a serious problem that can have long-lasting effects on your Anaheim, CA home. If you don't properly clean up the water and dry out your possessions, mold and mildew can start growing. Not only does this make the house smell bad, but it also increases the risk of serious property damage.

The Water Damage Restoration Process

The water damage restoration process is a lot more complicated than you think. However, this doesn't mean that you can't do your own home water damage restoration. 

First, you need to make sure that the area is safe for yourself and others in your house. If there's any chance of electrocution or toxic fumes, it's best not to attempt it yourself.

Once this has been decided on, start removing all of the furniture from the room that has been damaged by water. Next up is drying out the area so it won't be damaged further by mold or mildew growths or wood rot caused by excess moisture buildup (which could lead to structural problems later on).

When choosing between professional help vs DIY solutions for repairs and cleanup after flooding events at home--do your research! There are pros & cons-but most importantly remember: safety first!!

Step 1: Assess Safety

Before you begin, it is important to assess the safety of the area. Make sure that there are no electrical hazards, gas leaks or structural damage in your home. If mold has started growing on any surfaces, you will want to wear protective gear and use fans to blow air out of your house as much as possible until a professional water damage restoration company can come in and help get rid of it.

Step 2: Remove any Standing Water

Now that you’ve removed any visible water, it’s time to get a little more serious. If your home was flooded by an overflowing toilet, sink or tub, use a wet vacuum (or rent one) to suck up the standing water where it has pooled. If the source of the flood is not obvious—perhaps there was a pipe leak behind walls or under floors—use a mop or sponge to soak up as much water as possible from carpets and furniture before going further with this next step. For any area where standing water still remains after soaking for several minutes with towels or rags, choose another towel or rag and wring some more out until most of the excess moisture has been wrung out of it. Repeat this process until only dry towels remain. Only when both rooms are completely dry should you proceed to Step 3.

Step 3: Protect your possessions

• Dehumidifiers and moisture control. These are two of the most important things you can do to protect your possessions from water damage. A dehumidifier will remove any excess moisture from the air, preventing it from settling on your furniture and household items. The ideal humidity level for a room is 50 percent, which is especially important during winter months when heating systems dry out homes that are already low in moisture.
• Air conditioning and ventilation. Your air conditioner should be set at 78 degrees Fahrenheit with 50% relative humidity to prevent mold growth or further water damage behind walls and ceilings. If there's no AC system in place already, consider installing one before disaster strikes!
• Water damage restoration services (if needed). Homeowners often try home remedies like sponging up spills with paper towels or mopping them away with soap-and-water mixtures—but these aren't always effective ways of dealing with larger amounts of water than just a few drops here or there on hardwood floors or carpets; they also risk spreading bacteria throughout other areas of your house rather than containing it within one localized area so that professionals can clean up properly afterward without worrying about cross-contamination between rooms/floors etc.

Step 4: Dry the Affected Areas

Once all the water has been removed, it's important to dry out all affected areas. 

• Use fans to help remove moisture from the air and circulate air in your Anaheim, CA home.
• Use dehumidifiers or a wet vac to remove excess water from hard surfaces and carpets.
• If you have central air conditioning or heating systems, turn them on for a few hours each day until all areas are completely dry.

DIY Water Damage Restoration

Water damage repair is a dangerous process and can be time-consuming. However, it's also important to recognize that some homeowners have the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully complete their own home water damage restoration without professional assistance.

If you have the experience and training required for successful DIY water damage repair, we highly recommend reading through our guide on how to do it yourself!

Don't be afraid to ask for help if you're not sure how to handle a water damage emergency. Water damage repair can be complicated, and it's best to leave the job to professionals who have experience with the process. If you are overwhelmed by the amount of work that needs done after a flood or other emergency like pipe bursting, then contact us today! We will assess your situation and give you an estimate within 24 hours.

How Do I Get Rid of Mold Damage?

12/5/2022 (Permalink)

Mold inside of your walls will cause many issues

How Do I Get Rid of Mold Damage?

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in warm, damp environments. If you see mold or suspect it's present in your home or workplace, you should take action to get rid of it. This article explains how to assess and remove mold safely.

Choose a remediation contractor.

Once you've identified the extent of your mold damage, you'll need to choose a contractor to remove it. If possible, hire someone who has been in business for several years and can provide references from customers they've worked with. Ask these references about their experience and whether they would hire this company again. Also ask if the company owner was present during all stages of the job, as well as if they have certification in environmental science or other areas related to mold remediation (such as building construction). It's also wise to get proof that your chosen company has insurance coverage in case anything goes wrong during their work on your property. 

Remediation work plan.

A remediation work plan describes the work to be done, the equipment and materials to be used, and procedures to be followed. It should include:

• A detailed description of the problem area(s)
• Steps for containing the mold
• Steps for removing mold from building materials and furnishings (if applicable)
• Procedures for cleaning up after removing mold (e.g., disposing of waste materials).

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

The use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required when dealing with mold. PPE for individuals includes a respirator, gloves, and goggles. A respirator can be useful when handling moldy materials, but it is not required by OSHA now. Gloves should be worn any time that you are handling contaminated materials because even healthy people can become ill from exposure to molds. Goggles or glasses should always be worn when working with moldy materials as they will protect your eyes from any airborne spores that may be released into the air during cleaning and removal.

Containment

Containment is a crucial step in the mold removal process. If you don't contain the mold, then it can easily spread to other areas of your home and cause more damage than necessary. Containing the mold means keeping it from spreading while you work on removing it. You can use barriers (like plastic sheeting) to keep the mold confined to one area, or you can remove items that have been affected by moisture and put them into another room until they are cleaned and disinfected.

If you decide to use plastic sheeting for containment purposes, make sure that there are no holes in between pieces of plastic so that air doesn't get through them as well! Cover all surfaces affected by moisture with heavy-duty plastic sheeting.

Mold removal

Mold removal is a multi-step process, but it doesn't have to be overly complicated. For example, if you find mold growing in your bathroom, you should use a HEPA vacuum to remove as much of the mold spores as possible. Next, scrub the affected area with a brush dipped in soap and water. Use an all-purpose cleaner if you want to make sure that no mold remains after scrubbing. You can also use a commercial product designed specifically for removing mold from surfaces like drywall and cement board - these products are available at hardware stores or online retailers such as Amazon.

Disinfectants and antimicrobials

Disinfectants and antimicrobials are often used to kill mold and mildew. However, they are not effective against mold spores. Therefore, it is important for you to use these treatments properly to avoid any potential health hazards that could be caused by their misuse.

The main difference between disinfectants and antimicrobials is how long they remain active after being applied. Disinfectants kill most microorganisms within a short period of time (usually 30 minutes), while antimicrobials only slow down growth of some types of molds (such as Aspergillus) but not all types—particularly those that produce black colony growth.

Be sure you hire reputable professionals, take precautions, and follow your remediation plan.

Mold removal can be an intimidating process. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to do it alone.

We recommend hiring a professional with experience in mold remediation and EPA approval, but there are other important things to look for as well:

• The contractor should have experience in the area where you live (for example, if you live on the coast, your contractor should be familiar with flooding).
• If possible, work with someone who has experience in your type of building (for instance if you live in an old house or trailer).

Mold is a natural part of the world around us. It’s important to know that you can protect yourself from mold and mold damage. If you do find mold in your home, be sure to contact a professional for help in removing it. The EPA has put together some great resources on how to remove mold from your home safely, but if you still have concerns about what to do next then please contact us today! We will answer any questions or concerns that may arise during this process and make sure everything goes smoothly!

Everything You Need to Know About Sewage Damage

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

If you have sewage damage contact SERVPRO of Costa Mesa.

Everything You Need to Know About Sewage Damage

When you have sewage damage, it's important to take the proper steps to clean up and repair it. If you don't know what you're doing, you could end up making the problem worse or exposing yourself and others to harmful bacteria. This guide will walk you through everything from setting up a containment area to hiring a professional service.

Safety Precautions You Should Consider

Sewage is a dirty business. As such, it's important to take precautions and follow safety procedures when cleaning up sewage damage in your Costa Mesa, CA home. 

We highly recommend wearing protective gear: gloves, eye protection, and clothes that cover as much of your body as possible. It's also important to avoid eating or drinking anything in the area where you're working (especially if it's been contaminated by sewage), smoking, or doing any other activity that could make you sick if there were residual bacteria on surfaces.

Remove Standing Water and Debris

To remove standing water, you will want to use a wet vac to remove any remaining standing water and debris. If you don’t have a wet vac, use a shop vacuum instead.

To remove debris, you will want to use a broom or shovel to brush off any large pieces of dirt or mud from the affected area and dispose of them as you would any other trash (in an outdoor garbage can). Be sure that there are no sharp objects such as rocks left over in your home after removing them with your broom or shovel. They may cause additional damage if they get left behind on your floorboards.

Dry Out Wet Areas

Use fans, dehumidifiers, and air movers to dry out the wet area and contents. A wet vac can be useful for removing water from the carpeting as well. A heat gun can also come in handy for drying out harder surfaces like countertops and floors.

Disinfect and Deodorize

If the area is only wet and not damaged, you can use disinfectant to clean the affected area. But if there is any damage, use deodorizer instead. If your home smells like sewage, fans are the best tool for drying out your property since they can circulate air throughout a room quickly and efficiently. If necessary, use a dehumidifier to get rid of any excess moisture in the air and prevent mold growth on walls or furniture surfaces in your home.

Sewage and Your Health

Sewage damage can make you very ill. Sewage contains bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause illness. It also contains chemicals, such as pesticides, which are harmful to your health.

In addition to the immediate damage caused by sewage backups, there is a greater threat to your health in the long run.

If you have sewage damage, you should immediately contact a professional like SERVPRO of Costa Mesa. Don't hesitate on calling us, we can help. Our experts have years of experience dealing with this kind of situation and will be able to get your Costa Mesa, CA home back in shape quickly. This way, you don’t have to worry about it, and you can focus on getting back to normal.