How To Fix a Leaky Faucet

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

A leaky faucet can lead to a number of unwanted consequences.

While a leaky faucet might seem like a small nuisance, leaving it unfixed can lead to a number of unwanted consequences. Some of the more serious reasons you should take care of this issue are because a leaking faucet can

• Waste hundreds of gallons of water each year
• Increase the cost of your water bill
• Cause structural damage as severe wood damage or mold.
  
  

The DIY Guide to Fixing Your Leaking Faucet

Are you ready to take on the task yourself? Fixing a dripping faucet isn’t usually too complicated of a job. Follow our easy instructions and you should get your tap dry in no time.

1. Prepare Your Sink for Fixing

Before you fiddle with your faucet, look under your sink for a handle along the pipes leading up to the tap. Turn it clockwise to stop the water. Then plug your drain before you take apart your faucet, so you don’t lose any small screws or washers.

2. Determine Your Faucet Type

There are four different commonly found faucet types. A tap with separate temperature handles is called a compression faucet, while a tap with one handle can either be a ceramic-disk faucet (contains a ceramic cylinder), a ball faucet (contains a ball bearing) or a cartridge faucet (contains a cartridge).

3. Find Your Replacement Parts

Take your tap apart to check for broken parts (such the rubber washers on compression faucets) and give it a deep cleaning by soaking it in white vinegar. Take the stem and inner parts to a hardware store to find an exact replacement. Reassemble your new faucet and you should be good to go.

Assessing the Damage

If you’ve had a leaking faucet for a while, it’s good to get your sink area assessed for further damage. Find a restoration specialist in San Jose, CA to check that your house is mold-free and not at risk for any structural damage. They can also make sure that your fixed leak isn’t going to come back anytime soon — a comfort to any homeowner.

4 Advantages of Having a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile

7/29/2022 (Permalink)

An easy way to plan ahead is to create a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile.

Benefits of Having a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile

A commercial water disaster can strike at any minute. No matter if there is a plumbing issue that floods a building, a leaky roof that spills water through the ceiling or a major storm that produces flooding, it's important to be prepared for anything that may bring losses to your Lexington Hills, CA, business. An easy way to plan ahead is to create a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile. Here are four benefits it provides. 

1. Minimal Business Interruptions
Getting your emergency profile set up ahead of time provides an action plan for professional water cleanup and building restoration. This preparation is crucial for limiting business interruptions and setting you up for success quickly after experiencing water damage.  

2. Easy Access to the ERP App
Disaster help is at your fingertips with a mobile app that not only allows you to input information about your property but allows you to submit a claim, prompting an immediate response. If you own multiple properties, the app lets you create profiles and track claims for each of them.

3. It Determines a Local Team to Work With
Completing SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Profile will establish a local team of water damage mitigation professionals that will assist you in any disaster. Save the time comparing nearby companies and get the peace of mind that industry leaders will support your building's needs. 

4. It Provides Important Building and Contact Information
An emergency profile will detail where useful items are in the building, such as water shutoff valves, to help you mitigate any issues before help arrives. It also lists your priority contacts to get the right people on the job quickly. 
Preparation is key, and establishing an emergency profile can put your business in the best position to survive a water damage disaster. Doing so can help minimize business interruption, put help at your fingertips with a mobile app, designate a local team to support your needs plus provide priority contacts and facility information. 

How To Restore a Basement or Crawlspace After Flooding

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Flood damage to a home in Cambrian Park, CA.

The Aftermath of Flooding

In the aftermath of flooding in Cambrian Park, CA, the basements or crawlspaces of homes may be filled with standing water. Allowing this water to stand will increase the risk of mold growth and may result in structural damage. Homeowners can rent home flood relief equipment or rely on the expertise and equipment of a restoration company.

Extract Water

It is important to eliminate any water remaining under a home after a flood or other storm damage. Several types of equipment work well for this purpose:

• Pumps
  
• Wet vacs
  
• Push brooms
  
  

It may be difficult to reach some portions of a crawlspace. A push broom with an extended handle can be used to move water to places where it can be vacuumed. A portable, submersible sump pump is useful for removing standing water from crawlspaces.

Dry the Area

A home flood can cause extensive primary damage, but excessive moisture in any portion of a residence may lead to mold growth. It is important to completely dry out a basement or crawlspace. Specialized equipment is also useful during this stage of restoration:

• Air movers
  
• Fans
  
• Dehumidifiers
  
  

It may take several days for an area exposed to flood water to dry completely. It is important not to rush restoration, as replacing building materials or performing repairs in a damp environment may elevate the risk of structural damage or mold

Prevent Future Floods

If flooding is common in an area, a homeowner should have a working sump pump in the basement or crawlspace of his or her home. Other plumbing equipment such as a backflow valve, floor drain plug, standpipe or overhead sewer may also be helpful for avoiding a sewage backup.

These measures may reduce the risk of damage resulting from a home flood. If flooding occurs frequently in Cambrian Park, CA, homeowners should take preventative measures to keep water from accumulating under houses.

The Qualifications Top Building Restoration Experts Need

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

We will respond quickly and restore your property to pre-damage condition. We are highly skilled, and IICRC certified.

Top Standards for Trained Mitigation Professionals

In the event that your property is damaged by fire, water, or another untimely disaster, only cleaning and restoration professionals can step in to repair the damage. You want to trust those with the most knowledge and experience in their field, so which qualifications should they have? Here is a look at the top standards for trained mitigation professionals. 

1. Completion of IICRC Training
When you choose a team of restoration pros to fix your Monte Sereno, CA, space, you want to ensure they have completed training from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification. This third-party agency offers comprehensive course training in all facets of the industry and crews that received a mitigation certificate from them are highly qualified.
No matter what issue lies within your building, the IICRC has certifications available for any major problem. Specialty certifications include Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Technician, Odor Control Technician, Health and Safety Technician, Commercial Drying Specialist and Water Damage Restoration Technician. 

2. Thorough Corporate Training
While the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification is a great source of training, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals also undergo extensive corporate training. These crews not only receive extensive training on the local franchise level but on the national corporate level as well. This involves coursework followed by an exam to ensure that crews called in to help with any disaster always know the proper protocol. 

3. Continued Education Opportunities
Going above and beyond their third-party training and corporate training, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the opportunity to advance their expertise even further. Credit and non-credit courses are available for restoration crews, as well as the insurance and real estate professionals they collaborate with. 
When you need a building restoration team to tackle your damaged property, seek out the most qualified. Look for a company whose workers have IICRC certification, have completed corporate training protocols, and have taken additional courses related to the field.

What Are the Most Common Water Business Losses?

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

By insulating your pipes you can prevent ruptures

The Most Common Water Damage Incidents

Your Los Gatos, CA, business can be vulnerable to water damage caused by various incidents. From damaged pipes to natural disasters, the excess humidity can distort and destroy everything inside your building. Some of these scenarios are more frequent and more preventable than others. Protect your establishment by learning about the most common water damage incidents so you can avert or resolve them effectively. 

Severe Weather Conditions
Some water-related incidents are difficult or outright impossible to avoid. Severe weather events such as heavy rain and snowstorms can compromise the building and allow water to enter. A tornado could also tear apart the area and impact the plumbing system or the water used to extinguish a fire can leave behind excessive amounts of water. You can reduce damage by maintaining the drainage system and keeping a list of useful contacts such as emergency lines, your insurance agency and water remediation specialists at hand. 

Burst or Leaking Pipes
Another problem that continues to plague multiple business owners is damaged pipes. There are various factors that can affect your piping such as: 

• Metal corrosion 
  
• Aged and worn out materials
  
• Improper assemblage
  
• Physical impact
  
• Freezing temperatures 
  
  

Each potential problem has a solution. For instance, proper insulation can stop cold temperatures from raising the pressure inside the pipes and a timely replacement of old pipework can prevent ruptures. Look for signs of leaks such as discoloration, mold and puddles, especially before the situation escalates into flooding. 

Malfunctioning Appliances
Your business will likely use water appliances such as dehumidifiers, washing machines, water heaters and refrigerators. When issues such as faulty hoses and connections occur, water can spill and damage your floors, ceilings or other belongings. Follow their respective instruction manuals to ensure they operate properly. Conduct necessary inspections to detect any signs of malfunction or old age.  
There are several risk factors that can lead to massive water damage. Identifying problems such as damaged pipes or leaky dryers quickly can significantly reduce any potential business loss. 

4 Unique Challenges With a Community Disaster

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Our equipment

Four Unique Challenges With a Community Disaster

Sometimes disasters strike only a specific company, such as a fire that breaks out in a business in Saratoga, CA. Other times a catastrophic loss happens across an entire community, complicating the availability of services for multiple properties at one time. Examples of this include the high waters due to a breached dam in Midland, Michigan, in May of 2020, and the storm cleanup in the southeast in 2016. When this happens, responders must solve several challenges.

1. The Need for Equipment
If high waters impact numerous properties, the vacuums and pumps needed to remove the water might be in short supply. A local restoration franchise such as SERVPRO can call in additional resources to facilitate cleanup, whether the facility suffers from fire or storm damage. The company known for being Faster to Any Size Disaster will bring in equipment from other franchises throughout a regional area.

2. The Need for Qualified Workers
A widespread catastrophic loss requires the help of workers who know how to remediate water damage and remove smoke and soot. Many actions require technical knowledge that is beyond the scope of general cleanup. Industry certifications from professional organizations such as the IICRC show that workers have the necessary skills to tackle complex restoration jobs.

3. The Ability To Deal With Flooding
A flood poses many difficult challenges. There are extensive safety issues. These include a heightened risk of electrical shock. There are also concerns about secondary damage such as mold growth due to increased moisture. When a community must deal with extensive water damage, additional resources must be brought in to save lives and property.

4. The Knowledge To Handle Insurance Issues
The ability to deal with insurance matters also helps a company in need. Working with a preferred vendor of insurance companies ensures proper documentation and timely communication during the chaos of a community catastrophic loss. 

3 Types of Damage that Occur During a Fire

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a home in Campbell, CA.

Three Different Types of Fire Damage

A fire in your Campbell, CA, home can be devastating. Fire damage can affect your belongings as well as the structure of the building. On top of this, you may be dealing with secondary forms of damage as well. The following are some ways that various elements may affect your home and how you can address it.

1. Fire
The damage caused by flames is likely the first to cross your mind when you think of a fire in your home. Fire damage can be incredibly destructive, leading to missing sections of the building and ruined property. Luckily, a clean-up and restoration company can make repairs and rebuild your home. They can also salvage many damaged items.

2. Water
You may not usually consider water damage as a consequence of a fire, but depending on the size and severity of the blaze, firefighters will need to use a fire hose to put out the flames. This can result in flooding inside the building. It is important to have this water removed as soon as possible to prevent additional problems such as mold. A dehumidifier and open windows can help the building dry more quickly.

3. Smoke
Smoke travels further than flames, so it often affects a larger area of your house and can leave a film of soot on walls, floors and objects. This can be corrosive to certain materials and should be removed right away. For hard surfaces, soap and water are usually enough but fabrics may need to be dry cleaned or put in the wash. Using an air purifier can help remove smoke odors from the environment.
If you have experienced a fire in your home, it’s important to begin work on fire damage and any other issues as soon as possible. This will prevent the damage from worsening and will allow you to have your home back to normal more quickly. Any needed cleanup and repairs can be done by a professional service to ensure the building is safe.

Take These 3 Steps To Determine Whether Your Homeowners Insurance Covers Your Broken Pipes

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

More water damage is caused by broken pipes.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Broken Pipes

If a flood has occurred in your San Jose, CA, home, you may be wondering how you'll find the money to cover that damage. The good news is your homeowner's insurance may pay for the repairs.
Before you do anything else, however, you need to get the water out of your home and the damage repaired right away. Contact specialists in water damage restoration to make everything as good as new. Then look at the following factors to determine if your policy will cover the damage costs.

1. Read Your Policy To Determine Your Insurance Coverage
The first place to start is by looking at your insurance policy to determine what kind of damage is covered. Most policies will pay for harm that incurs from a sudden flood as well as the costs to fix broken pipes and other repairs. If you're uncertain, consult with your insurance agent.

2. Look at the Type of Damage
If the damage is the result of a slow leak, that's generally not covered by your policy. You are the homeowner and are responsible for all maintenance and repairs, and if you don't repair leaks when you discover them, you can't expect insurance to cover damage caused by your negligence.
Damage from a burst or broken pipe, on the other hand, causing a sudden flood is covered by most insurance policies.

3. Document Everything
It's important to document everything and keep all receipts, not only of the repairs after a pipe burst but also all maintenance you've done on your home over the years. That way, you can prove that you were diligent in caring for your home.
A pipe bursting in your home can be a pain, but with the right help and by documenting everything both before and after the damage occurs, you'll restore your home in no time.

3 Unique Features of a Partial Loss Fire

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Even a partial loss fire is a traumatic event.

Partial Loss Fire

A business fire no matter how minor is still a significant event. While you may have been spared from seeing your entire facility in Lexington Hills, CA, lying in ruins, you still have to walk through your company and observe soot-covered walls and smell smoke odors. Depending on the situation, the partial fire loss could include scorched furniture and blackened personal items. The next few days or weeks will present several unique challenges.

1. Insurance Issues
If you hadn't already, you will probably learn a lot about your insurance policy and your insurance carrier. Make sure you stand firm and get the benefits of your policy. This typically includes a provision that repairs are of high quality and they return your facility to a uniform and consistent appearance.

2. Smoke Damage
The remaining structures and items in your building are likely tainted with pervasive damage from smoke. Eradication of smoke odors will almost certainly require the services of a fire mitigation team that has the tools and equipment to remove odors from walls and other items. General cleaning methods are likely only to mask the smell and in a few days, the odors could return. After a partial loss fire, insist that special techniques are used according to best practices from the cleaning industry.

3. Fire Restoration
Many items in your facility might be able to be cleaned and restored. Experienced technicians have a variety of sanitizing techniques to clean ceramics, hard surfaces, tiles and other materials. Porous materials such as clothes, fabrics and furniture could benefit from other cleaning methods. Some burned items cannot be restored and will need to be replaced. The restoration process could also involve the rebuilding of walls and other structures depending upon the fire's severity.
Any fire, even a partial loss fire, is a traumatic event. It requires precise techniques to get the best results.

How Business Interruption Insurance Differs From Other Insurance

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

Interruption insurance usually starts when a business is closed due to a covered event.

For your company to remain strong in difficult times, it will need a good insurance plan. The complete mix of insurance products will depend upon many things, but your company will require a comprehensive policy that protects against property damage and liability concerns. A complete or partial rebuild could cost many thousands of dollars. A major disaster could also cause your building in Cambrian Park, CA, to shut down for days or even weeks. In these situations, your company could face a significant loss of business income, resulting in the inability to pay creditors, vendors and employees. Fortunately, there is insurance available for a business shutdown.

The Basics of Business Interruption Insurance

This type of insurance is typically added to your primary policy, which pays for such things as storm damage, fire damage, a rebuild or other covered perils. Interruption insurance usually starts when a business is closed due to a covered event. It typically helps with the following operational costs:

• Loan payments
  
• Loss of business income
  
• Expenses as a result of the closed business
  
• Employee payroll
  
• Taxes
  
• Rent or lease payments
  
  

Once your company is able to operate again, this type of insurance is no longer in effect. In some cases, depending upon your policy, you could get reimbursed for efforts to set up a temporary place of business.

The Basics of Successful Remediation

No matter what type of disaster your company faces, it might need the services of a professional storm remediation franchise. This highly-trained team can remove standing water from your facility caused by storms or floods. An assortment of technicians can remove excess moisture, clean and sanitize the building and restore damaged materials. They can return your building to its original condition.
If a rebuild is necessary, experienced professionals can complete the work efficiently. This allows your company to get back to work again in a timely manner.

3 Steps to Prevent Mold Growth

4/16/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can lead to mold growth.

Mold Prevention

You might think that mold growth only appears in the wake of severe water damage, such as the damage inflicted by a flood or broken pipe. In reality, however, such seemingly inescapable factors as high humidity or nearby plumbing fixtures such as sinks and showers can lead to mold contamination. Luckily, there are three simple mold prevention steps you can take to protect your business' building:

• Install an air filter and dehumidifier
  
• Install a humidity meter
  
• Fully treat any moisture problems right away
  
  

Air Filters and Dehumidifiers

Air filters and dehumidifiers are available for purchase at any home goods store and are both worthy investments. Air filters comb through your building's air and trap the mold spores that exist in almost every environment, and dehumidifiers help make your building inhospitable to potential mold growths.

Humidity Meters

Working in conjunction with dehumidifiers or on their own, humidity meters will also help you manage the humidity levels in your building by alerting you if they reach a certain threshold that is inviting mold growth. Knowing there's a problem is always the first step toward fixing it, and this device will give you peace of mind that your building is not at high risk.

Water Damage Remediation

Mold spores are incredibly fast-acting and can start to spread on a surface with a moisture problem within 24-48 hours. If you have a broken or leaky pipe, don't wait to call the plumber and clean up the mess, and if a flood strikes, make sure to remove all wet materials and set up a dehumidifier immediately.
Mold prevention might feel like a lot of trouble, but you'll be glad you did it in the long run. Mold remediation can be a lengthy and intensive process and requires the assistance of your local mold cleanup specialists. In the event that you suffer water damage and notice a mold growth in your building, however, don't worry too much — SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno, will make it seem "Like it Never Even Happened."

Are You Likely To Experience a Rate Hike When You Seek Insurance Assistance?

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in Monte Sereno, CA.

Are You Likely To Experience a Rate Hike When You Seek Insurance Assistance?

Homeowners in Monte Sereno, CA, pay monthly premiums to insurers to have assistance in times of trouble. Filing an insurance claim is a lifesaver for many, avoiding significant costs at one time; however, does this action mean residents will pay more in future premiums? The answer to that question isn't simple or easily discerned. It depends on multiple factors. Here are three factors that influence an agency's rate adjustment.

What Caused the Water Damage?

While requesting compensation, the agent is likely to ask about when the harm began, how it happened and if immediate action was taken to mitigate the destruction. If owners caused the issue or allowed it to fester, insurers get concerned. Paying for them might happen, but it could mean that you'll pay for your actions in the premiums.
If the fault doesn't fall on the owner but on nature or someone else, the insurer may not place blame, forgiving the event and leaving the monthly cost alone. Without a doubt, prioritize cleanup to show good faith. Agents are likely to appreciate a swift response from a water restoration company.

Where Do You Live?

Some locations are likely to see more people filing insurance claims. Residents living along the coast may have hurricanes blow through more often, causing harm to roofs. The same is true of homeowners living in flood zones, tornado alleys and heavy snowfalls. Agencies are likely to evaluate how much they could payout over time, using this probability to calculate monthly fees.

How Often Are You Making Requests?

Insurance companies are a business. While they offer monetary assistance, they must weigh the risk of putting out too much. The business considers how frequently owners ask for coverage. Filing for a home flood is one thing. If the owners also ask for roof and foundation repair, that could be too much for the establishment to sustain within a short window of time.
File an insurance claim when the money is needed. Be aware that the insurer has the right to evaluate the risk of the payment in the future, adjusting bills to assist in future demands.

3 Ways Water Can Damage Your Home After a Fire

3/31/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a home in Monte Sereno, CA.

Three Ways Water Can Cause Damage To Your Home After a Fire

A fire can wreak havoc on your home, but the flames aren’t the only things that can cause destruction to your property. Often times, water can cause as many or, in some cases, more problems as the fire damage itself. If you own a home in Los Gatos, CA, then you should be aware of the ways that water can cause further devastation after a fire.

1. Ruptured Pipes

During a fire, temperatures in your home can become extreme, and the intense heat can cause burst pipes and plumbing malfunctions. Falling debris can also lead to warped or broken pipes. Even if parts of your home are spared from burning, flooding can cause water damage throughout your residence, especially to walls and flooring.

2. Storm Damage

Fire damage often includes structural problems to the roof and windows. This can mean that water will be able to enter the home during any inclement weather that occurs before repairs can be completed. Placing tarps on the roof and boarding any broken windows can help mitigate these potential problems.

3. Water From Fire Hoses

When firefighters go to work to extinguish a burning house, their biggest ally is water. While absolutely necessary, the thousands of gallons that can come from a fire hose can leave behind a great deal of residual water that will need to be cleaned and removed. The longer this water sits stagnant, the greater the potential for incurring more damage and costly repairs. Fire extinguishers used by emergency responders can also contain compressed water, which can also leave behind destruction.

If you are dealing with the heartbreak of a fire in your dwelling, you are probably preparing to combat the fire damage you have suffered. However, you should also make a plan to deal with the destruction that water may have caused to your property, as well. Contact an emergency restoration specialist for more information to help you restore your home to the safe haven you deserve.

3 Tips for Preventing Post Flood Mold

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Dry the area that has been affected by water to avoid mold growth.

3 Ways to Avoid Mold After a Flood

If your Saratoga, CA, has experienced flooding after a storm, then you may be worried about the possibility of mold growth. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to help mitigate this potential problem. Many mold remediation professionals recommend the following

1. Thoroughly Dry the Area

The first step to take care of in the event you may have mold damage is to completely dry any area affected by water. In many cases, a professional restoration company may use a dehumidifier. Getting rid of the water can help make the area inhospitable to mold spores.

2. Have an Expert Test for Mold

On some occasions, the potential mold growth may not yet be visible. If you believe you may have mold in your home, even after drying and sanitizing the flooded area, then a professional may be able to perform a test. Testing can include taking air samples, pulling a sample from an at-risk material, or taking a surface sample. If mold has been found, then your mold remediation professional can formulate a plan for mold removal.

3. Clean Any Water Damaged Items

Another common tip for complete mold removal includes thoroughly cleaning any items that may have been affected by the storm damage. Mold spores can grow on any organic material that contains moisture. This can include carpeting, wood, upholstery, and even drywall. Fortunately, there are a number of methods to properly clean and sanitize these items.

Because mold growth usually occurs in damp areas, thoroughly drying any flooded areas can help prevent this type of problem. If you believe mold has already set in you can have a professional test for spores. It is also a good idea to properly clean any items affected by the water damage as well. If you have any questions a professional may be able to help.

5 Cleaning Methods for Smoke Damage

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

If your electronics have suffered from fire damage have a professional check on them.

What Is The Best Way To Clean Contents After Fire Damage

If your company in Campbell, CA, has suffered from smoke damage, Then you may be wondering what the best way to clean and restore your office items are. According to many fire damage restoration professionals, there are several methods, from dry-cleaning to immersion, and each one is designed for a different purpose. Here are a few cleaning processes that may be recommended.

1. Wet Cleaning

Wet cleaning is perhaps what is most commonly thought of when it comes to washing away smoke damage. It involves using a liquid cleaner on heavier damaged areas.

2. Spray and Wipe

In many cases, the content cleaning of solid materials, such as desks or filing cabinets, can be done with the spray and wipe method. It's usually done using a spray cleaner and wiping it off with a rag. After cleaning you may want to move items to content storage until repairs can be completed.

3. Dry-cleaning

Using this method is primarily for items that need to be pre-treated, those sensitive to wet cleaners, or items that need only a light bit of cleaning. The process may involve a spray cleaner or powder depending on the item and damage type.

4. Immersion Cleaning

In some cases smoke damaged items will need to be immersed in a cleaner. Depending on the damage level the item may either be left to soak or simply dipped so it can be completely submerged in the cleaner before being washed off.

5. Foam Cleaning

This method is usually used when dealing with upholstery is that might react poorly to liquid cleaners. A special foam is used to avoid soaking the fabric and can effectively remove any smoke odor the fire may have left behind.
The cleaning style your restoration professional uses to restore your office items may depend on the item type and the degree of damage. Light damage may be removed with the dry-cleaning process, while some items made need to be immersed in the cleaner for a time to properly rid of any smoke or soot damage. Others can be simply sprayed with the solution and wiped off.

What a Disaster Recovery Team Can Do

2/26/2022 (Permalink)

Water restoration services in San Jose, CA.

What a Disaster Recovery Team Can Do

When a large storm hits, your clients may be in need of a local disaster recovery team in their San Jose, CA, area. A professional restoration service, such as SERVPRO, may be able to help. A recovery team has the ability to do a few things that may be just what your clients need. They include the ability to

1. Respond to Larger Than Normal Damages

Sometimes storm damage may be larger than predicted. When this happens, you may want a team of restoration professionals who can respond to your client's needs quickly. Fortunately, SERVPRO is a locally owned and operated franchise capable of working together with other SERVPRO teams to get the job done. However, as they are a franchise, they can call on corporate for additional resources as needed.

2. Provide a Quick Response Time

When it comes to disaster recovery, you may want to know that you can get a quick storm response team to your clients. The faster damage can be protected and then repaired, the less likely additional damage may occur. The ability to get a team to the site in a timely manner may save time and money in the long run. SERVPRO has local offices around the country allowing them have professionals available at most locations.

3. Provide the Tools Necessary for Large Repair Jobs

In the event of a large disaster, it may be determined at large equipment is required to perform the job efficiently. A restoration team such as SERVPRO has access to the tools of the trade. This means that even in the case of a severe storm or major flooding, they can still begin restoration quickly.

A professional restoration service may be able to with any disaster recovery needs your clients may have. They usually have the ability to mobilize several teams for larger than normal damages. This may also include a faster response time. A professional team also has the resources, including tools and equipment, necessary to deal with large jobs.

What To Do When Filing a Fire Insurance Claim

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Lexington Hills, CA.

Steps To Take After Fire In Your Home

A fire can cause a lot of damage to your Lexington Hills, CA home, and fire restoration can include a lot of cleanup and repairs. Fires are usually included in your homeowner's insurance, so any damage to your house and property should be covered if you file a claim. Here are the steps you should take after you have experienced a fire in your home.

1. Call Your Insurance Agent

The first thing that you should do if your home has been damaged is call your agent to file a fire insurance claim. The sooner you do this, the better. It can take a while for your claim to be completed, so you don’t want to wait too long to begin. Depending on your policy, you may be required to submit your claim within a certain time period of the incident which is another reason that you should do so as soon as possible.

2. Document the Damage

In order for the insurance company to compensate you for anything that will need to be repaired during fire restoration, it is important that they know exactly what was damaged in the fire. Consider keeping a list of affected items and be sure not to throw anything away as it will serve as proof of the damage. Taking pictures of areas that need smoke cleaning might be helpful as well.

3. Take Steps To Prevent Further Damage

If you do not take proper care of your property and further damage occurs, the insurance company may not cover this. Calling a fire restoration company to help mitigate the property is a good idea. They can board up any damaged walls and windows as well as place tarps on missing roof areas.
In order to get the most from your fire insurance claim, you should be sure to file it as soon as possible after a fire has occurred. Keep track of lost and damaged items and do what you can to prevent more damage to make the process go more smoothly.

3 Tips for Finding and Fixing a Roof Leak

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Storm damage in Cambrian Park, CA.

Three Ways to Find and Repair a Roof Leak

If your business is facing a roof leak in Cambrian Park, CA, you may be wondering what to do about it. Fortunately, there are a few tips that many experts recommend keep your roof in top shape. Here are a few things you might want to consider.

1. Inspect the Roof

If you believe there may be a leak an inspection may be desired. Indications of damage could include missing shingles, wind-worn areas, or damp areas. Depending on the type of damage you may need to take different repair steps. Many experts recommend looking over the roof bi-annually. If you’ve been through a particularly bad storm, you may want to check for damage then as well.

2. Fix Problem Areas Quickly

When fixing a roof leak or other parts of a damaged roof, it's important to conduct the repairs as quickly as possible. This can help prevent further damage to the area. In some cases, you may want to board over the space in order to prevent the elements from causing further issues.

3. Thoroughly Check Over the Area

It's also important to thoroughly check over your roof in order to ensure that no other areas have been damaged. A professional restoration team may be able to help if you have a large area to fix or are worried about the interior of your roof suffering from water damage. If you're uncomfortable conducting the repairs yourself, or unsure what type of repairs may be necessary contacting a professional is recommended.

When dealing with a roof leak it's important to fix any damage as quickly as possible. One way to find damage before it gets worse is to conduct regular inspections of the roof. It's also important to thoroughly check over the area to ensure that there is no damage and any nearby locations. If you have any questions a professional may be able to help.

How to Deal With Water Damage After a Fire at Your Business

1/30/2022 (Permalink)

Your Monte Sereno, CA, business may suffer from more than fire damage.

How to Handle Water Damage in a Business After a Fire

After a fire occurs at your Monte Sereno, CA, business, you may find that the destruction is not limited to smoke or flame damage. While these will probably be present, you may also have to deal with flooding from the firefighting hoses, as they use a great deal of pressure. You may be unsure how to proceed with such issues after a fire; however, there are a few steps you can take to get your business up and running again as soon as possible.

Ensure the Building Is Safe to Enter

Before you can properly assess water damage to your business, it is important that you speak with firefighters first to ensure it is safe to enter the building. Water and fire can weaken a variety of structures, so you may want to ask the firefighters about the soundness of areas such as:

• Walls
  
• Floors, especially on upper levels
  
• The roof
  
  

Protecting yourself and anyone else who enters a building after a fire can reduce the risk of serious injury.

Take Photos

Since physical evidence of fire damage can be important to any insurance claim you file, you might want to take as many photos as possible. While your insurance agent does not have to be present for this, having him or her there may be helpful for answering any questions you have about your claim. Try to take photos from different angles to get the most detailed evidence possible.

Call In a Fire Restoration Specialist

Hiring a fire restoration company can help with cleaning up both fire and water damage. Water that comes from a fire hose sprays with a huge amount of pressure, which can flood entire rooms. A fire restoration company can assess the damage, advise you on cleanup details and restore your building so you can resume operations.

Your Monte Sereno, CA, business may suffer from more than fire damage after a blaze. Water and smoke can also affect the building, but the sooner you understand how to proceed with cleanup efforts, the sooner you can make repairs and return to work.

What To Know About Secondary Damage

1/30/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can lead to mold growth.

Secondary Damage: What You Should Know

There are a number of damages associated with flooding in Cambrian Park, CA. While many of them are caused by direct contact with the flood water, that isn’t always the case. In fact, secondary damage can still occur after the water has been extracted.

Knowing the Signs

Before you dive into what secondary water damage is, it can help to know what signs to look for. After a flood, these are a few of the most common signs that your residence is being damaged by indirect exposure:

• Bowed wood floors
  
• Rotten wood
  
• Black mold
  
• Fungal growth
  
  

Any of these signs could indicate that your property is being damaged indirectly rather than directly.

Understanding Indirect Exposure

The simplest way to explain secondary damage is by referring to it as indirect exposure. This is damage that is done after the initial flood and without contact with the original flood waters. The way that this happens is that moisture can evaporate and contamination from the original intrusion of water can remain in the residence. The high humidity that this causes can lead to a spread of black mold growth that can be damaging to your property.

Preventing Damage

The best way to prevent indirect exposure is to act quickly when there is a flood. If you take a prolonged amount of time to clean up the water, it may lead to more contaminants and more places for those contaminants to hide. When dealing with a flood, utilize the help of a professional remediation service, which will be able to help you prevent further problems.

Secondary damage, or indirect exposure to contaminants and water, can lead to problems such as black mold, warped floors and even rot. This is why it’s so important to take care of a flood as soon as it happens. The problems that come later can be expensive and inconvenient.

What You Need To Know About the Mold in Your Home

1/30/2022 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a home in Lexington Hills, CA.

What You Should Know About Mold in Your Residence

Unless you have been living under a rock in recent years, you know how fast black mold can destroy a house in Lexington Hills, CA. After all, not only does mold destroy the appearance of a home, but it also can scare potential buyers away. Whether you plan to keep your home for years or sell it tomorrow, you should know a few things about mold cleanup.

Mold Can Be Virtually Anywhere

If you notice mold in one part of your home, you likely have mold spores in other parts. When examining your house for signs of mold growth, be sure you look in places where mold loves to live. That is, examine moist places for any unwanted growth. Specifically, check out the following areas:

• Basements
  
• Crawlspaces
  
• Laundry rooms
  
• Bathrooms
  
• Kitchens
  
• Attics
  
  

Cleanup Requires Special Equipment

As you probably know, many homeowners worry about the consequences of living with black mold. Because mold reproduces through microscopic spores that are easy to breathe in, you should be certain to wear the right protective gear when trying to remove mold. Alternatively, you may choose to leave your home’s mold cleanup to the experts. When you work with a reputable mold remediation service, you know technicians have the skills and equipment to deal with your mold problem.

Mold May Stick Around

Removing mold can be a challenging endeavor. In fact, you may think mold is gone only to have it reappear after a day or two. Because mold is resilient, you must understand how mold grows and spreads to develop a strategy for containing it in your home.

Like all homeowners, you want a comfortable, safe and attractive space to raise your family. If you notice black mold in your house, you must work diligently to address it. Fortunately, with a bit of effort and the right team, you can likely effectively eradicate mold from your living space.

Properly Caring for Your Furnace to Reduce Fire Hazards

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

Inspect and change your furnace filter regularly.

Properly Caring for Your Furnace

Your furnace has gotten you through some pretty tough winters in Los Gatos, CA, and continues to help make your home a comfortable, great place to live for you and your family. Unfortunately, no furnace is a self-sustaining system, and you’ll need to maintain yours to avoid a number of serious issues, such as:

• Smoke damage to your home and belongings
  
• Blockage of the vent, which can lead to a buildup of unsafe air in your home
  
• House fires
  
  

Luckily, maintaining your furnace correctly is a fairly simple task when approached properly, and costs much less in the long run than paying for professional fire cleaning or smoke cleaning services when things go wrong.

Filtration

The easiest thing you can do to prevent the need for fire cleaning in your home is to inspect and change your furnace filter regularly. Your filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the furnace. An extreme buildup on these filters can lead to furnace malfunction, which may, in turn, lead to a house fire.

Clean Your Vents

If your exit vents become clogged with dirt and dust, the hot air your furnace creates will have nowhere to go. The buildup of heat in your ducts can not only damage the furnace and its channels but can very well lead to more serious issues down the road. Cleaning your vents is a quick, easy way to reduce strain on your furnace.

Inspect the Fan

Your furnace fan is, of course, the component that gets warm air moving throughout the vents to warm your home. If the fan is malfunctioning, hot air will simply stay in place and may cause overheating of various furnace components. Having a professional check out your fan or ensuring it’s working correctly yourself is always advisable when maintaining your furnace.

Following these steps helps to reduce the likelihood of furnace-related fire and smoke damages occurring. At the end of the day, spending a little more time on maintenance is much better than spending your hard-earned cash on fire cleaning services.

3 Things You Need To Do After Water Damage To Avoid Bigger Problems

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage in a Cambrian Park, CA.

3 Things You Need To Do After Water Damage

A broken pipe can leave your Cambrian Park, CA, home full of water. With this unexpected deluge, you may not know how your home is ever going to go back to normal. If you want to bounce back from the water damage quickly, you need to make sure to take the right steps as quickly as possible.

1. Start the Cleanup Right Away

Waiting around to get quotes from various cleanup specialists can leave you with a bigger problem than when you started. Water in the home can get contaminated, which means you have to worry about disinfecting your water-logged items as well as drying them out. If you start the cleanup as soon as possible, you give the water less time to start causing secondary damage.

2. Let Professionals Do the Work

As a savvy homeowner, you may want to take on the cleanup process on your own. After all, how hard can it be to remove water and make a few repairs? The fact is if you don't do everything correctly, the flooding may end up leading to mold growth and other long-term problems. You should turn to a residential water remediation group rather than try to do the restoration on your own.

3. Get Your House Totally Dry Before Starting Repairs

You want to get back into your house as quickly as possible. No one can really blame you for that. However, you need to take the proper time after a broken pipe to make sure everything is in its place. If you start moving furniture back into your home before it is completely dried out, you may exacerbate humidity problems and take your repair back a couple of steps. Let everything get totally dried out before you start bringing in furnishings or making repairs.

Knowing what to do after water damage affects your home can help you get everything back to normal much quicker. If a broken pipe leaves part of your house soaked, you need to avoid secondary problems by making smart choices right away.

How To Recognize Secondary Damage and Why You Should Avoid It

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage in Lexington Hills, CA.

If your business in Lexington Hills, CA, has experienced primary water damage, then you may relate to how time-consuming it can be to repair your building. However, business owners should also be aware of secondary damage, as it can lead to problems such as black mold and cracked walls.

Types of Water Damage

There are two types of water damage. Both present different challenges and should be fixed as soon as possible.

• Primary water damage: This is easily noticed through wet flooring, walls and furniture.
• Secondary water damage: When primary damage is left alone or not completely resolved, it may lead to structural issues such as black mold and warped flooring.

When water issues are not taken care of immediately, it can lead to costly and harmful consequences. That’s why it’s important to recognize the signs of secondary water damage and have a plan ready if it does happen.

Signs of Secondary Water Damage

It may take weeks or even months to notice any signs, but if there are indications of secondary damage, you should call a commercial building restoration service to take care of the problem right away.

Signs include black mold, warped flooring, cracked walls and a distinctive odor. When moisture is trapped inside your building, it can contribute to high humidity levels, which can make doors, door casings and baseboards swell too.

Why Avoiding Secondary Damage Is Beneficial

Secondary water damage can lead to many additional issues, which is why it’s best to avoid it by calling professional technicians when you notice the first warning signs. These experts should be able to perform tests for hidden moisture and humidity levels, complete professional extraction and drying, and implement other types of restoration where needed. This should stop any further damage from happening.

Although maintenance and prevention are your best defenses against water damage, there’s no need to worry if it does occur. With an excellent plan and a team of experts, your business can be restored to its original condition.

How To Distinguish Between Commercial Flood, Storm and Water Damage

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage in Saratoga, CA.

How to Tell the Difference Between a Commercial Flood, a Storm, and Water Damage

As a business owner, you must think about potential hazards to your organization. When water accumulates inside our outside your building, business operations may be affected. To mitigate risk, you may choose to purchase flood or water-damage insurance. When shopping for coverage, you need to know the difference between flood damage and other types of damage.

Business Damage Due to Flooding
For both insurance and other purposes, flood-related damage refers to damage caused by a specific type of event. If your business has sustained damage due to the following, the damage may constitute flood-related damage:

• Water covers a large area of typically dry land
• Water overflows due to a unforeseen circumstances
• Water breaches a containment area, such as a reservoir or lake

By contrast, water that falls from the sky usually does not, by itself, cause flood-related damage. This type of weather event may, however, result in storm-related damage.

Business Damage Caused by Storms
Storm damage occurs when your business sustains damage during severe weather. Some common types of storm-related damage come from the following weather events:

• Wind
• Rain
• Blizzards
• Ice
• Tornadoes

While water may accumulate during severe weather, storm-related damage is different from flood damage in a significant way. That is, with storm-related damage, water does not breach a container. Instead, it accumulates in an area as a result of severe weather.

Business Damage Related to Water
Additionally, water damage is different from both flooding and storm-related damage. With water damage, a system inside our outside your building fails. Broken or leaky pipes are commonly to blame, but they are not the only source of water damage in Saratoga, CA, businesses. On the contrary, clogged gutters or ice dams may also cause your building to sustain water-related damage.
For insurance and other purposes, you likely need to know the difference between water, storm, and flood damage. If your business has been damaged, a restoration service can likely help you return it to its pre-damage condition.

3 Steps for Restoring Your Home to Its Pre-Fire Condition

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Los Gatos, CA fire damage.

Restoring Your Home to Its Pre-Fire Condition

No homeowner wants to watch his or her Los Gatos, CA, home go up in flames. Whether your house has survived a minor, moderate or severe fire, you likely want to begin cleanup as soon as possible. As part of a complete cleaning process, restoring your home involves dealing with fire, soot and smoke damage.

1. Overall Structure
Fires often weaken studs and floor joists. They may also ruin drywall and tile. The first step in any fire-cleanup process is to evaluate the safety and habitability of the home. Once a professional deems the house is safe to occupy, cleanup can begin. Technicians have the skill, equipment and knowledge to remove fire marks and other remnants from surfaces throughout the home.

2. Accumulated Soot
Soot can be as bad or worse than fire or smoke damage. Not only does accumulated suit discolor walls and carpeting, but it can also ruin furniture and personal keepsakes. Unfortunately, you may have to throw away uncleanable items. Some, however, are probably salvageable. Since you are not an expert, you likely can’t know which items to preserve and which ones to toss. As part of the cleaning process, restoration technicians do the analysis for you.

3. Smoke Infiltration
As you probably know, smoke can work its way into small places throughout your home. Even if you haven’t sustained much fire damage, you may have a tremendous amount of smoke infiltration. To effectively remove smoke, professional restorers use a variety of smoke-cleaning techniques. In addition to replacing HVAC filters and scrubbing walls, technicians often rely on ozone machines to remove smoke odors.
Fire damage, soot damage, and smoke damage can destroy the comfort, value, and appearance of any home in Los Gatos, CA. Fortunately, you don’t have to deal with the negative effects of fires. By working with the right restoration service, you can likely return your home to its pre-value condition.

Why Basements Flood

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Basement flood in Campbell, CA.

Storms and flooding in Campbell, CA, can lead to water buildup in the basement. As a homeowner, it’s important to understand what to do in these situations, how water gets down there in the first place, and ways to help prevent lasting damage.

How Water Gets Into the Basement

The first reaction for many when looking at a basement flood is to wonder how the water got there in the first place. There are several factors that may come into play.

• An improperly functioning sump pump
  
• Poor drainage around basement walls
  
• Cracks or holes in the walls water can leak through
  
• Issues with basement plumbing, such as a water heater
  
• Heavy storm rains
  
  

Water buildup in the basement can cause further problems for your home. As water tends to flow in the least resistant path, it will find holes and cracks to flow through and continue to puddle at the lowest point unless otherwise prevented.

How To Take Care of Water in the Basement

If you find flooding in your basement, it’s best to contact a professional as soon as possible. He can assist with pipe repair, if needed, take care of the water removal, and assess your basement for the source of the problem. Many services also offer help with the drying and sanitation of the affected areas, as well as repair and mold remediation.

How To Prevent Floods

In some cases, there may be ways you can help prevent damage from a basement flood. These can include installing a sump pump if you do not currently have one, regularly checking to make sure plumbing is intact, and sloping your yard and landscaping away from your home. A professional may have further ideas on ways to help prevent water damage.

Understanding the how and why of basement flooding can help you contact the team you need for repairs and restoration. Knowing these things can also help you take the steps necessary to help protect your home.

5 Steps To Prepare Your Home for a Fire

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

Plan an evacuation route.

5 Steps to Fire-Proofing Your Home

Most people take active measures to prevent house fires, but not many people have implemented fire preparation techniques. Yet, fire prep is just as important as fire prevention, and in fact may be more so when it comes to protecting your home and loved ones. If you have yet to implement fire safety procedures, it’s time to do so. Below are five things you can do to get started:

• Test your smoke alarms.
  
• Plan an evacuation route.
  
• Teach your children what to do in the event of a home fire.
  
• Devise a communication strategy.
  
• Practice.
  
  

Test Your Alarms

Though your smoke alarms should inform you when they’re low on batteries, it doesn’t hurt to check them periodically. Test them once a month, and to err on the side of caution, replace their batteries at least once a year.

Plan an Evacuation Route

This should be at the top of your fire preparation list. Identify all possible exits for each room in the home and make sure that each family member is aware of where those exits are. Designate a family meeting spot outside.

Teach Your Children

If you have young children, show them what the fire alarm sounds like and advise them on what to do if they hear one. Inform them of evacuation routes as well.

Plan a Way To Communicate

Put together an emergency contact list and make sure that all family members know who to contact if they cannot find one another. Have your young children memorize important phone numbers, beginning with 911.

Practice

The best way to ensure that all family members know what to do in the event of an emergency is to practice. Host a fire drill every couple of months and devise different scenarios. In doing so, you can increase the odds that everyone knows what to do and how to escape in a real emergency.

Your San Jose, CA, fire remediation team or local fire department can review your fire preparation plan and provide additional tips for how to improve it. Don’t cut corners when it comes to fire safety and start planning today.

Figuring Out If Theres Mold in Your Home

10/24/2021 (Permalink)

A mold infestation can cause major damage to your home

Determining the Presence of Mold in Your Home

Did you recently buy a house in Lexington Hills, CA? If so, you may want to make sure there is not any mold currently in the home. Working with a residential mold remediation team and an indoor environmental specialist can help you determine if this fungus is currently calling your house home. Whether you recently bought the house or have been living there for years, you can use these tips to figure out if mold is already present.

• Use Your Nose: Mold growth often lets of a musty smell. Even if you can't see the fungus, you may be able to sniff it out.

• Look Around: Some signs of mold are visible to the eye. If you notice patches of growth on your bathroom wall, around your vents or in your crawlspace, you can have a pretty good idea that there is mold in your house.

• Do a Test: You can do a mold test to determine if this fungus is growing in your home. While there are some do-it-yourself tests available, it is often best to hire an indoor environmental specialist to run the test for you. The DIY tests may pick up the spores that exist in the air and be unable to differentiate these spores from actual growth. A specialist, on the other hand, will know how to better perform and read the test.

• Get an Inspection: While your nose and eyes may be able to detect some mold growth, chances are a professional will be better equipped to determine if there is fungus in your house. You can hire a remediation team to come to check out your living space. Be aware that they may suggest hiring an indoor environmental specialist to double-check their findings.

Mold does not always show noticeable signs of growth. You can have a professional perform a mold test to determine if you are sharing your space with this fungus growth.

Contact Our Crew After A Flood To Avoid Potential Dangers In Your Cambrian Park Home

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

The aftermath of flooding in a Cambrian Park, CA home

Major Hazards Arise From Flood Damage In Cambrian Park

While all-natural disasters can carry safety hazards and become a serious risk for any homes and homeowners caught up in them, flood damage in communities like Cambrian Park can catch many people by surprise. Many of the most severe safety hazards associated with the average flood remain unseen while representing a constant or growing threat, but with advance knowledge of what to look out for, you can avoid most or all of the potential health effects of a flood.

Illness
Both during and after most flood damage in Cambrian Park, anyone without sufficient personal protective equipment may be at a very high risk of illness or infection. Storm floods give microscopic organisms an excellent chance to grow and multiply at unprecedented rates. Mold, bacteria, and other bacteria can cause health effects when exposed to open wounds, and with a high risk of being scratched or cut in a flood-damaged environment, these risks pose such a significant threat that we recommend you never enter a wet area without the permission and guidance of an on-site SERVPRO employee.

Electrocution
Electrocution hazards may be ubiquitous in the aftermath of a flood. Electrical outlets and electronic devices can both send strong electrical currents through anything in contact with a wet area, and in some cases, loose wires may pose additional problems after they are severed by debris carried by flood waters. Particularly strong storms may also knock over power lines, potentially creating a fire and electrocution hazard throughout the entire home. Once again, stay away from wet areas and avoid electronic devices to protect yourself from these threats.

Other Hazards
Floods can cause many more safety complications to arise. Fire hazards can present themselves, gas leaks can create additional threats, and many more unfortunate situations can pose a threat to your health. The best way to safeguard yourself from the unexpected is to wait for a SERVPRO inspector to arrive and evaluate the situation before entering the flood-damaged building.

How To Address a Broken Pipe

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Cleaning up your office space after bursting pipes can be a daunting project.

The issue of bursting pipes can cause significant water damage inside any San Jose, CA, business. Knowing how to efficiently address the situation is key to preventing additional destruction.

1. Turn Off the Water

Your first step is to shut off the water supply to the affected pipe. To accomplish this, you may need to access the building’s water main and turn off the water to the entire building. You may also need to shut down the water heater as well as electrical flow to the affected area to prevent electrical shock.

2. Drain Water From the Pipe

Before you fix the broken pipe, you may need to drain any remaining water. To help empty pipes, flush nearby toilets and allow faucets to run until dry.

3. Assess and Repair the Damaged Pipe

Once the pipe is drained, maintenance personnel or a licensed plumber can properly assess the damaged pipe, commence repairs, and restore water flow.

4. Clean and Dry the Saturated Area

Bursting pipes can release significant amounts of water. If you do not quickly dry the saturated area, your business may suffer mold damage. For this reason, you should work diligently to dry the water-damaged space while the maintenance team is working to fix the broken pipe.

The cleanup process involves several important steps:

• Drain standing water with a sump pump
• Remove all wet items including furniture, office equipment, and carpets
• Make a flood cut to discard saturated drywall and insulation
• Use fans and dehumidifiers to expedite the drying process

5. Replace and Restore

Before you can return to normal business operations, you must complete repairs and determine the salvageability of computers and other office equipment. It’s important to ensure that the affected area is completely dry before you replace drywall and flooring. Completing repairs while the space is still damp makes you susceptible to mold contamination.

Professional Assistance

Cleaning up your office space after bursting pipes can be a daunting project. A professional cleanup and restoration team can assist you throughout the process and ensure that your building is successfully restored as soon as possible.

3 Key Differences Between Mold and Mildew

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

If you have mold damage in your home or you are concerned about potential mold growth, speaking with a mold professional may be an option to consider.

Mold and mildew are types of fungi, but not the kind anyone in Los Gatos, CA, wants to find in their residence. Mold damage can be a problem for homeowners, and finding mildew growth can be equally worrying, especially when it can be difficult to tell the two apart. However, these fungi have some differences, and the treatment procedures used by many professionals will depend on the fungi type. There are three key differences that may help you differentiate between the two.

1. Appearance

In many cases, mold growth is determined by its greenish color and fuzzy appearance. It may also be brownish or black, and in some cases, it can look slimy. Mildew usually looks like a grey or white patch, but it may also be orange in color. It tends to have a flatter growth pattern, and it may look more powdery.

2. Growth Type

Both types of fungi grow in wet areas and like warmer conditions, but that’s where the similarity ends. As is often noted in situations where mold damage is found, mold can grow into and inside areas such as walls. Mildew, however, stays on the surface and prefers more organic substances such as cloth, paper, or plants.

3. Growth Area

The growth-covered area can also be an indicator of the type of fungi. Mold has a tendency to grow and spread quickly until it becomes an infestation. Mildew growth is often slower, and it can usually be caught before it spreads too far.

If you have mold damage in your home or you are concerned about potential mildew or mold growth in Los Gatos, CA, then speaking with a mold professional may be an option to consider. Remember, that while both fungi like warm and wet environments, they have some key differences in appearance, growth type, and area. They can also require different treatment methods.

4 Flood Safety Tips Everyone Should Remember

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

Remember that flood safety comes before anything else after a severe Saratoga, CA, storm.

If you are a homeowner in Saratoga, CA, you likely have either experienced household flooding in the past or will have to be prepared for it in the future. Clean up and restoration are important steps to take after a flood, but the security of you and your loved ones comes first. Here are four important tips for flood safety that you and your family should keep in mind year-round.

1. Listen to Authorities

This is one of the most critical safety tips. If the coast has not been cleared for you to return to your property, do not even think about attempting to do so. Trust the judgment of law enforcement and stay put; your well-being is more important than your house.

2. Wear Protection

After a flood, wild animals may go indoors to seek refuge. If you are doing any light cleanup before professional help has arrived, or you are simply trying to survey the damage, make sure to wear gloves, boots, and other equipment for flood safety at all times in case dangerous wildlife are inside your home.

3. Beware of Shock

If you can safely do so, turn off your electricity before touching electrical appliances in your home. If you cannot shut off your power, do not touch these devices at all to avoid electrocution.

4. Avoid Floodwater

Floodwater can be dangerous for many reasons. If you are stuck in a building with high levels of water, your best bet for safety will be to seek the highest level of ground possible. This may mean climbing onto the roof in some cases.

Remember that flood safety comes before anything else after a severe Saratoga, CA, storm. If something feels unsafe to you, it probably is. Homeowners often get wrapped up in worry over their home’s safety, but buildings and objects can be replaced; your health and welfare are much more important.

Top Purifiers That Remove Mold Spores

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

Air filtration is a critical component of keeping your home clean.

Top Mold Spore Removal Purifiers

Mold is always a part of your Los Gatos, CA, home. Mold spores are naturally found in the air both indoors and outdoors. This means you have mold in your home even if you don't have any active growth. Many homeowners want an air filtration system that can help them remove the spores. Not all of the air purifiers on the market are up to the job. However, many do use HEPA air filters. These pleated filters trap particles that are 0.3 microns or larger to help keep the air in your home clear of bacteria, pollen and mold.

Here is a quick list of some of the best purifiers that use HEPA filters:

• BlueAir 450E: Uses an air ionizer and a HEPA-like filter to remove particles from the air

• Oransi Max: A quiet HEPA air purifier that has a pre-filter as well as the v-HEPA filter

• Oransi OV200: Has a pre-filter, HEPA filter and carbon filter to remove particles and odors from your home's air

• Austin Air Healthmate: Combines a washable pre-filter, HEPA filter and carbon filter to remove particles from your air

Because this isn't an exhaustive list, you may want to learn more about the various air filtration systems available on your own.

Reading the Filter Ratings

Many air purifiers that use filters include a filter rating. The rating is often on the MERV scale, which ranges from one to 18. The lower the number is, the larger the particles have to be to get trapped in the system. If you want to remove mold spores from your home, you need to use an air purifier that can contain a filter with a MERV rating of 13 or higher. A filter with a 13 rating is approximately 75 percent effective at removing spores. A HEPA filter comes in at a 17 rating and is approximately 99.97 percent effective at mold removal.

Air filtration is an important part of keeping your home clean. You can get more advice about the purifier you should buy by talking with a mold remediation specialist.

The Three Ds of Flood Cleaning

8/4/2021 (Permalink)

Carpet damaged by storm waters in Saratoga, CA.

What Are The Cleaning Requirements After a Flood?

You hear that flood water is contaminated, full of pathogens that are harmful to your family. How do you know what you must throw away and what you can sanitize? Look to the three D's of flood cleaning: dispose, disinfect and dry. Here is a brief guide for each.

Dispose

Follow local guidelines in Saratoga, CA for waste disposal. If garbage service is not yet running, you can bury contaminated food about four feet deep to keep the odor away. You should dispose of the following items:

• Throw away any food, even canned or sealed, that has been in contact with flood water.
• Throw away food from your fridge if power has been off for more than 2 hours.
• Don't use any garden produce that remains after a flood.
• Discard dishes with cracks, as well as any plastic or wooden kitchen items.
• Submerged drywall may need to be replaced.
• Dispose of carpet padding.
  
  

Disinfect

Cleaning requirements to properly disinfect your personal items vary depending on what materials are being cleaned. For most disinfecting, use one cup of bleach to one gallon of water to make items from the flood clean again.

• Use bleach mixture to spray structural materials and personal items that were contaminated, rinse with clean water and dry.
• Disinfect kitchenware and appliances by using hot soapy water, scrubbing to remove solids, then rinsing with disinfected water. Make sure appliances are unplugged and taken apart.

Dry

A flood disinfectant effort isn't complete without proper drying. Professional flood remediators have powerful equipment to help accelerate the drying process and ensure that it is thorough. You should start the drying process right away to help prevent permanent damage or the development of mold.

• If power is back on, turn on fans and air conditioner to assist with drying until help arrives.
• Hang rugs and remove cushions to put them in a better area for drying.
• Remove carpet and dry outside after cleaning.

Trained restoration professionals can recognize what can be saved and what must be disposed of. They are trained in the proper cleaning requirements for each kind of material.

Four Fast Steps To Speeding Up Mold Remediation

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth damage.

Four Quick Steps to Getting Mold Remediation Done Faster

Black mold can be disastrous for a business or property owner. The effects of this kind of mold can last long after the moisture problem has been contained; the mold must also be removed entirely from the space to avoid recurrence. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to limit the amount of mold cleanup you’ll have to do.

1. Locate and remove the source of the moisture causing the problem. Water travels quickly, and into the smallest of spaces. Every moment that additional water floods into your home is additional mold remediation that may have to be done. Finding and eliminating the source is vital to a quick cleanup.

2. Contain the area as quickly as possible to avoid further contamination of the property. By shutting off the air conditioning system, putting plastic over doorways, and ridding the building of all standing water, you’ll quickly and decisively minimize the square footage of space you’ll have to decontaminate. That can save you both time and money.

3. Dehumidifying is important to stifling the growth of black mold. You can undertake that yourself, or contact a qualified contractor in Campbell, CA, to handle it for you. If you opt to manage it on your own, be sure that you leave the dehumidifier in place for the proper amount of time to attain the full benefit. Too much drying out can lead to damage to the constituent materials, but too little can lead to mold.

4. Dry out, repair, and replace the damaged items as required. While some portions of your property and some belongings can be easily dried out and reused, others will require replacement. Knowing ahead of time what can be saved and what cannot may keep you from wasting time on things that will need to be thrown out.

Cleaning up and repairing your property after a flood can be a costly, time-consuming process. However, a few small steps can make a big difference in the time and money you spend to right your space and eliminate black mold.

Tips for Removing Cigarette Smoke Odor From Your Home

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

However, if your home smells of cigarettes, your first priority will likely be home deodorization.

How To Get Rid Of Cigarette Smoke Odor In Your Home

As a new homeowner in San Jose, CA there may be a few things about your new house that you want to upgrade. Some people start thinking about remodeling and renovation. However, if your home smells of cigarettes, your first priority will likely be home deodorization. Working with a smoke and odor removal company can help you have a fresher smelling space. You can also keep these tips in mind as you go through this vigorous cleaning process.

• Wash Fabrics: Any curtains, rugs and carpets left behind need to be thoroughly washed. Fabrics can soak up particles from cigarette smoke. These particles make the odor linger longer. The type of fabric will dictate whether you use a dry-clean or wet method.
• Store Content: Once your belongings have been cleaned, you need to make sure they remain odor free. Putting your clothing, furniture, curtains and other cleaned items into a storage unit can help you ensure they do not get smelly again.
• Clean Walls: Even the walls and ceiling in your new home need to be properly cleaned for a thorough home deodorization. If these surfaces are left untreated, you may notice that the aroma still permeates your house. The professional cleaning crew will likely use a special solvent and equipment to clean the permanent fixtures in your house.
• Incorporate Filters: Commercial-grade air filters can help remove odor particles from your space. While air filtration may not remove the odor on its own, it is an important part of the overall cleaning process.
• Use Machines: Another machine commonly used to help remove cigarette smoke odor is an ozone machine. This device emits ozone molecules that act similarly to the smoke molecules. The new particles attach themselves to the surfaces in your home to start the deodorization process.

Home deodorization may not happen overnight. Sometimes it takes trial and error to fully remove bad smells from your house. Cleaning every surface and item in the building helps make sure you completely remove the foul aroma.

Clearing Away the Smell of Smoke

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a home in Lexington Hills, CA.

How To Remove Smoke Smell From a Home

A house fire has the potential to cause many different types of damage. The fire itself can damage the structure of a home as well as the following items:

• Furniture
  
• Clothing
  
• Electronics
  
• Home décor
  
• Other important home goods
  
  

However, homeowners in Lexington Hills, CA, who have experienced a house fire may be unprepared for the task of cleaning smoke damage. This is typically an unexpected part of the problems caused by a fire, but it can be considerable. The smoke odor can linger for days or even weeks following a fire, and can frustrate the abilities of a homeowner to clean it on his or her own. For this reason, smoke cleaning and professional odor remediation may be required.

Experience Makes a Difference

Homeowners in Lexington Hills, CA, are generally entirely willing to try to handle smoke cleaning on their own. However, the extent to which smoke spreads can make the task all but impossible to take care of individually. Many surfaces could have been affected by the smoke. Everything from curtains and drapery to furniture and bedding may need to be treated. This is where the experience and tools of experts really can come in handy.

The Right Equipment Can Be Key

Expert smoke cleaners can bring a range of specialized equipment to each job. This is just part of the reason why working with them can be so valuable. Thermal foggers, ozone machines, and special air filtration devices are typically available to be used to eradicate the smell of smoke from a home and a family’s belongings. These devices are usually applied strategically to maximize their benefit; the results help make a home livable again.

Fixing damage from smoke may only compound the devastation from a house fire. However, it is often possible to save items with professional smoke cleaning that are both important, such as children’s stuffed animals and baby clothes, and practical, such as couches, clothing, and rugs.

3 Facts About Business Interruption Insurance

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Business interruption insurance is designed to help you recover quickly from a major disaster.

What Does Business Interruption Include

There are many ways you can protect your San Jose, CA, business, from installing fire sprinklers to investing in a top-notch security package, However, if your building should suffer serious destruction as the result of storm damage and you must rebuild, this could cost you thousands of dollars in downtime. Business interruption insurance can prevent this type of loss, but before you sign off on a policy, it is wise to understand how this type of coverage protects you, your employees and your business.

1. It Differs From Property Coverage

Insurance that covers an interruption in business is not the same as a policy you might buy to protect your property. Instead, this coverage protects you against monetary loss in case of a closure. Depending on the type of policy you buy, you will be compensated for the money you would have made and utility expenses for your closed business as repairs begin.

2. It Does Not Cover All Repair Expenses

Business interruption insurance is designed to help you recover quickly from a major disaster. However, it is important for you to understand that it may not cover all your expenses. For example, if you need to call in a storm damage and restoration company as a part of your recovery, this type of insurance will probably not cover the cost of their services. It is wise to review your policy before you sign it so you have a comprehensive understanding of your coverage.

3. There May Be a Waiting Period

If your business has suffered the kind of damage that requires you to rebuild, you may have to wait several days for your new insurance to kick in. This usually takes no more than 48 hours; however, every case is different, so you may want to contact your provider right away to inquire about how long you have to wait for coverage to begin.

When your San Jose, CA, business suffers severe damage and you need to rebuild, business interruption insurance can help you recover quickly. Learning as much as you can about this type of coverage before you need to use it may allow you to use it to its fullest potential.

How Does My Fire Sprinkler System Work?

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

A fire sprinkler system is required for many commercial properties.

How Does My Fire Sprinkler System Work?

A fire sprinkler system is required for many commercial properties in Los Gatos, CA, that are over 5,000 square feet, but that is not the only reason property owners should install one. An important part of owning a commercial building is establishing emergency procedures. This includes:

• Having a fire evacuation plan in place and communicating it to the people who enter your property
• Installing property safety features
• Knowing where the closest emergency response team is in your area
  

A sprinkler system for fires will aid in fire suppression, saving you money on costly repairs. Here are the things that make your system work so effectively.

Heat Detection
Contrary to popular belief, a fire sprinkler system does not activate by smoke detection. Instead, it relies on glass bulbs filled with glycerin that activate by bursting when they reach temperatures above 135 degrees Fahrenheit. This prevents the system from wrongly activating due to burnt toast or other small, smoke-producing accidents.

Water Tank
Wet sprinkler systems will draw water from a tank during a fire emergency. When the sensor detects heat it will activate the system dousing the fire before it spreads. This will prevent injury, loss and protect your building from a larger fire.

Individual Activation
To prevent massive water damages from activation, each sprinkler contains a sensor. When there is a fire, one sprinkler will go off at a time until it douses the fire, preventing other sensors from activating. This keeps loss due to water damage at a minimum. In case of activation, know of the fire damage restoration services in your area to help with fire sprinkler cleanup.
A fire sprinkler system is more complex and was invented to keep your property safe from fire damages without causing extra harm. Commercial property owners that invest in a sprinkler system will benefit from the added safety it provides for a building.

3 Key Things Your Business Needs Before a Storm Arrives

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

Keep computer files backed up on an external hard drive or cloud.

If your company in Monte Sereno, CA is heading into a stormy season, now is the time to prepare for potential impacts to your business. Don't wait until your local forecast includes rain, damaging winds, or even a more serious weather event. Start developing corporate emergency plans now that address your assets as well as property and flood insurance policies.

Create a Disaster Plan

Every business, no matter how big or small, needs a disaster plan to ensure it minimizes downtime and losses in the event of an emergency situation. Plans should be reviewed every year to update for changes in management and staffing, office locations, individual and commercial insurance carriers, and local or regional government issues.
Your plan should include the following:

• Primary and alternate work locations for all departments
  
• Backup and recovery of data and systems
  
• Vehicle and asset lists for all your locations
  
• Employee contact information
  
  

Anticipate Damage
If a weather event is forecast and your office is located in an area under a state of emergency, planning for potential damage is essential to successfully minimizing the impact to your business. Develop a list of construction companies, storm damage restoration services, and other contractors to help with cleanup and rebuilding after the storm. Review the list annually to ensure you have up-to-date contact information.

Get Covered Early
Most carriers require a 30-day wait period before a newly purchased policy goes into effect. Some insurance companies also stop issuing new policies in regions under threat of adverse weather events. To ensure your company is covered well in advance of a natural disaster, compare quotes for property and flood insurance policies long before you may actually need them, and select the best coverage early.
Identify what you have, who will fix it, and where to get property and flood insurance. Planning is the key to successfully surviving a season of storms.

SERVPRO Offers Water Removal Services to Los Gatos Homeowners

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

You might not be able to avoid water incidents, but SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno is there to help if they occur.

Does SERVPRO Provide Emergency Services Water Clean Up and Repair to Los Gatos Homeowners?

Water leaking from a burst pipe or an overflowing sink must be removed quickly to avoid permanent damage to porous materials. These materials absorb water easily. The good news is that these same materials release moisture quickly and avoid permanent damage if action is taken immediately to remove the moisture.

SERVPRO offers 24/7 service and responds to Los Gatos water damage incidents in less than four hours from your call. We can deploy water extractors to remove water from carpets and other highly porous materials. 

Air movers push dry air across damp materials and absorb moisture. Our high-capacity dehumidifiers then dehumidify moist air.

We help our clients avoid permanent damage to contents and flooring materials – carpet, underpad, and hardwood flooring by reacting quickly. We also assist clients in preventing mold and mildew infestations which can begin less than 48 hours after the initial water leak.

SERVPRO provides:

• Water Clean Up 
• Water Damage Restoration
• Water Removal Services
• Water Damage Repairs

Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno for water damage restoration services in Los Gatos and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (408) 600-2020

SERVPRO Offers Monte Sereno Homeowners Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

The situation can feel quite overwhelming when your home is affected by fire damage. Contact SERVPRO for effective remediation services.

Why is Fire Damage Restoration Needed in Monte Sereno?

Many consumers may not realize that fire in homes produces various smoke residues that travel throughout the house and are deposited on walls, furniture, and the contents in the house. Kitchen fires, especially grease fires on a stovetop, produce an oily residue that is difficult to remove unless the appropriate cleaner is used.

One of the first steps taken by SERVPRO when they enter your Monte Sereno home to begin fire damage restoration is to assess the type of fire, the amount of damage, and the smoke residue on walls, floors, furniture, and contents.

Once our experts know what type of fire they are dealing with, they will utilize the appropriate cleaning agents. Clients who try to complete cleaning on their own tend to smear the oily residue over the surface, making it more difficult to clean. Our experts may use detergents or solvents to remove the oily residues. SERVPRO will look after all aspects of:

• Water & fire damage restorations
• Smoke damage removal
• House fire clean up

Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno for fire damage restoration services in Monte Sereno and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (408) 600-2020

Does SERVPRO Provide Flood Water Clean-Up in Los Gatos?

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

When water takes over your home, call in our IICRC certified technicians for water removal services.

SERVPRO Offers Flood Damage Restoration Services in Los Gatos

Los Gatos is part of what is known as Silicon Valley, with several hi-tech companies located in the valley. It is incorporated and part of Santa Clara County, in the southwest corner of San Jose. The population of Los Gatos is approximately 30,000 people. Los Gatos is named after the cougars and bobcats that roamed in the foothills around the town.

Los Gatos began in the 1860s and incorporated in 1887. Evolving from a mill and logging town to an agricultural and an arts colony with musicians, painters, writers, and actors, it is a vibrant city with the addition of the hi-tech industry in later years.

There are many activities for visitors and residents to consider in and around Los Gatos. The following are several of these activities many people enjoy:

• Los Gatos Creek Trail
• Vasona Lake County Park
• Castle Rock State Park
• Vineyards

• Testarossa
• Byington Vineyard and Winery
• Loma Prieta Winery
• Silver Mountain Vineyards
• MJA Vineyards
• David Bruce winery
• Regale Winery & Vineyards
• Left Bend Winery
• Burell School Vineyards & Winery
• Wrights Station Vineyard and Winery
• Villa del Monte Winery

• Castle Rock Falls
• Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad
• Limekiln Trail
• New Museum of Los Gatos

Los Gatos Creek Trail 

The Los Gatos Creek Trail runs for 10 miles beginning in Campbell and winding its way through San Jose to Los Gatos. There is a dog park, and many people enjoy the trail by walking, cycling, jogging, and skateboarding. There are many flat stretches as well as hilly terrain along the route.

Explore Downtown Los Gatos

Visit North Santa Cruz Avenue and explore the stores, eateries, salons, and stores. Enjoy the architecture of the older sections of the street.

Castle Rock State Park

The Castle Rock State Park is a huge park with over 5000 acres of wild, natural state forests of redwoods, Douglas fir, and madrone forests. There are roughly 32 miles of hiking trails that link up with a host of other trails along the Pacific Coast. There are also two walk-in campgrounds for visitors to complete overnight backpacking. Visitors also use the trails for jogging and mountain biking. Don’t forget to visit Goat Rock to enjoy fantastic views.

Vineyards 

There are many vineyards in the Los Gatos area to visit. The warm climate and mountain climates enable multiple vineyards to thrive in the area. Enjoy the history of each vineyard and the breathtaking views offered from their tasting rooms. Most tasting rooms are open daily with opportunities to try their wines and purchase their products.

Does SERVPRO Disinfect Structures After Flood Damage in Los Gatos?

Floodwaters in Los Gatos can carry a large amount of dirt, silt, debris, and also biohazards collected from various sources as the water rages through a neighborhood. 

As the stormwater subsides, all of this material is left on your property. It is quite frequently inside your home as well.

SERVPRO provides water damage restoration after a storm, including biohazard remediation. We remove the debris and any water left in your house, along with the silt and dirt that has been washed into the home. We also thoroughly clean everything and apply disinfectant to remove all disease-carrying viruses and bacteria. Our services include:

• Biohazard remediation
• Mold Inspection and removal
• Flood restoration
• Water Damage Repairs

Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno for flood damage clean-up services in Los Gatos and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (408) 600-2020

Monte Sereno Homes with Fire and Smoke Damage Call on SERVPRO

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

The situation can feel quite overwhelming when your home is affected by fire damage. Contact SERVPRO for effective remediation services.

SERVPRO mitigates smoke damage in Monte Sereno homes quickly and efficiently

Every fire scene has safety hazards present. When SERVPRO provides fire restoration, we take safety concerns seriously. Our technicians address any safety issues immediately before beginning emergency services and clean up. Maintaining a safe job site is vital to everyone involved.

Safety First

When we begin fire and smoke cleanup in Monte Sereno, we discuss securing the site before we begin. A safety evaluation is the next step, and this can include:

• Asking the homeowner of known safety hazards
• Identifying safety risks
• Define procedures to minimize risk
• Communicate safety procedures to every at the job site
• Use warning signs and barrier signs to identify dangerous areas

Organized Work Sites are Safe Sites

When the worksite is organized, the fire and smoke damage restoration and cleanup are much easier. We set up work areas and staging spots for equipment and supplies. To ensure safety while working, we also:

• Follow local and state regulations
• Adhere to OSHA guidelines
• Adhere to IICRC guidelines
• Wear the proper PPE

For professional fire restoration, contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Water Damage Remediation to Cinder Block in Los Gatos Homes

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

You can rely upon the professionals of SERVPRO completely during a flooding disaster cleanup.

Los Gatos residents can depend on SERVPRO for professional water removal services

When in-home flooding occurs, especially in the basement, cinder block and exterior walls can be impacted. One of the most significant factors in drying a block building or basement that has experienced basement flooding is the content of the open cells. Cinder blocks can hold a certain amount of moisture if they have equalized with the surrounding environment. Water damage repair is necessary at this point.

Water Clean Up for Cinder Blocks 

When your Los Gatos home suffers water damage, you need water damage remediation fast. When dealing with cinder block, one of the first things we check is to see if paint has been applied. Paint acts as a vapor barrier and can limit the amount of moisture absorbed. If necessary, we:

• Drill holes near the bottom of the wall in a mortar joint to allow water to drain
• Drill larger holes in the blocks to permit air circulation
• Use non penetrating moisture meters to determine when drying is complete
• Follow all state and local guidelines for working on structural elements

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno has expert technicians that understand the drying techniques needed when dealing with unique situations such as wet cinder block. Contact us at (408) 600-2020 for water removal services.

When Fire Strikes - Fire Damage Restoration Services in Los Gatos

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Fires can happen without warning and you are going to need a company to come in and take care of the damage. Call SERVPRO for fire damage remediation.

SERVPRO provides fire restoration to Los Gatos homes impacted by fire 

Los Gatos is a city in California that is home to many high-tech companies, one of the main ones being Netflix. The old blends with the new in many communities. There is plenty to see and do in Los Gato, with restaurants, parks, and local events taking place each week.

Los Gatos Library

You cannot go wrong spending the afternoon at the library. Adults and kids alike will find a fantastic selection of reading material at the Los Gatos Library. Right now, they are doing patio pickup of books but there is so much more to take advantage of:

•   Nature stories read online
•   Take-home kits that include puzzles, STEM, and other activities
•   E-books available
•   Suggested reading lists for all ages
•   K-12 digital homework eResources

Visit them on Villa Avenue or go to their website for details. 

Head to Vasona Lake

Everyone should get outdoors whenever possible, and Vasona Park is an excellent way to do that. Vasona Lake County Park is 152 acres of beautiful landscapes and lots of things to see and do. This will be their 17th year of bringing folks free concerts in June and July. It is a nine-week joint event with South Bay and the Santa Clara County Parks and takes place each Saturday. Local artists perform a variety of genres, from big band to contemporary folk music. Food vendors are on-site; all you need to do is bring a blanket and a chair. Other activities in the park include:

•   Boating
•   Fishing
•   Ball playing areas
•   Picnic areas
•   Youth Science Center
•   Hiking
•   Running

Los Gatos Café

This little café is only open until 3 PM, mainly for breakfast and lunch. It is highly rated and serves up so delicious, home-cooked food. One of their specialties is a souffle omelet, which is totally unique and scrumptious. They also have gluten-free options. You will find lots of unique menu choices such as:

•   Crab & avocado omelets
•   Massive cinnamon rolls
•   Crab & shrimp benedict
•   Steak fajita omelet
•   Gorgonzola scramble

You have to bring cash or a check; they do not take credit cards. 

NUMU – New Museum Los Gatos

Local artists and an abundance of exhibits are what you will find here. During the current restrictions, you can schedule a tour. You can enjoy a virtual tour of what the museum has to offer. Current and upcoming exhibits include Art in the Time of Corona, In The Artist’s Studio, ArtNow 2021. 

This is a sampling of all the things you can enjoy in Los Gatos. No matter what you enjoy, concerts, sports, or nature, there is a way to do it in the city.

House Fire Clean Up

SERVPRO returns homes to preloss condition whenever possible.

If your residence has been damaged by fire, SERVPRO has professional technicians with the experience needed to mitigate the situation. We offer:

•   Smoke Damage Clean Up for Los Gatos
•   Fire Restoration 
•   Smoke Remediation 
•   Odor Removal 
•   Water Damage Remediation

We apply the basic principles of cleaning to any fire damage situation, big or small. We proceed to:

• Trace the spread of the smoke in your home
• Determine the actions needed
• Begin cleanup and restoration

We leave your home, “Like it never even happened,” whenever possible.  For more information on how we can help contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020. 

Why Is Mold Remediation Needed for Monte Sereno Homes?

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

Count on SERVPRO for Great Mold Remediation in Your Monte Sereno Home--including Windows

Mold Can Ruin the Appearance and Structural Integrity of Area Residences

In many homes, mold starts as a small stain under a sink. Homeowners wipe it off with bleach, but that does not stop the source of the mold, embedded hyphae, or prevent more mold spores from growing and spreading.

Stopping the spread of mold damage in Monte Sereno may require a mold inspection followed by a plan to eliminate the active mold. While mold may cause health effects in some people, the threat is primarily to the home itself.

What Actions Does SERVPRO Take to Eliminate the Cross-Contamination of Mold?

Technicians establish containment to stop the mold from spreading to other parts of the home following IICRC guidelines:

• We block airflow to eliminate air duct contamination during remediation
• Physical containment includes sealing off contaminated rooms with plastic sheeting
• Establish “clean rooms” to store equipment, suits, and materials needed to remove mold

After establishing containment, technicians then wipe down all surfaces with antifungal cleaners to neutralize the mold. We usually set up an air scrubbers to capture any airborne particles. Other mold remediation techs find and dry the source of water to halt any further growth.

Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 for a professional mold inspection.

Can Fire Odors Be Eliminated from a Commercial Facility?

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

Fire and Smoke Damage Cleanup of Debris and Smoke Odors in a Los Gatos Facility Means a Call to SERVPRO

Thorough Cleaning of a Los Gatos Business Needs SERVPRO

Smells left after a fire are malodors and can range from irritating to pungent. Eliminating them requires specialized training and equipment.

Commercial fire restoration in Los Gatos means eliminating the malodor particles left by the fire. Returning the workplace or shop to preloss condition is done with minimal disruptions. SERVPRO technicians can also neutralize them by using counter-agents to mask the malodors. Our technicians use masking during the cleanup and restoration to make the working environment a bit more comfortable by improving the IAQ indoor air quality.

What Steps Are Used to Restore a Business?

• First, technicians remove the source of the malodors. They quickly gather the fire-damaged debris and dispose of it outside the home.
• Second, they clean undamaged surfaces of all soot Technicians use sponges and cloths to remove most particles and use cleaners depending on how thick and sticky the layers are after the fire cools. Typically, vacuuming is the initial step in cleaning.
• Third, technicians recreate the odor-causing conditions. They use specialized equipment to apply counter-agents to bind with the bad odors which neutralizes or changes the particles, eliminating them, improving air quality.
• Finally, they seal surfaces that cannot be cleaned, or have been cleaned. Technicians use chemical sealants or special primer paints to trap malodors and block their release into the air.

Contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 for professional fire restoration to your facility.

When is Cleanup Needed in Los Gatos?

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has advanced equipment manned by skilled technicians to restore Los Gatos area water-damaged homes

Choose SERVPRO for All Types of Water Damage to Your Los Gatos Home

Los Gatos is a beautiful community tucked away in Santa Clara County. An integral part of Silicon Valley, today’s forward-thinking residents reflect the diversity of its founding and early history.

Name Changes in the Early Days

The area was part of the original, 1839, Alta California land grant named La Rinconada de Los Gatos or “Cat’s Corner”. When the community was founded in the 1850s, however, it was named Forbes Mill, after the flour mill James Forbes built along Los Gatos Creek. The name was changed to Los Gatos or “The Cats” a few years later to reflect its Spanish origin, but the stone storage annex of the mill was preserved and now resides in a museum located a bit off Main Street. The town’s name refers to the bobcats and cougars native to the surrounding foothills.

Local Industrial History

Los Gatos was incorporated in 1887 when logging was the major industry in the nearby Santa Cruz Mountains and remained an important town for the business until it slowly came to an end at the turn of the century. The town and surrounding area soon became a thriving part of local agriculture, with prunes, grapes, and apricots making up a huge part of the local economy. This continues through today.

An Art Colony and Eventual Suburbs

In the 1920s, Los Gatos was attracting a wide variety of artists, including actors, musicians, painters, and writers. John Steinbeck wrote The Grapes of Wrath here and the community nurtured sister actresses Olivia de Havilland and Joan Fontaine and renowned violinist Yehudi Menuhin called Los Gatos home when he was a boy. Neal Cassidy, a leader in the Beat Movement, lived here in the 1950s.

It was in the 1950s that San Jose began to grow significantly and many workers commuted there from Los Gatos. Housing expanded significantly and the town grew out to its current boundaries before the end of the 1980s.

Old and New Standing Side-by-Side

Today, high-tech companies have their headquarters next to the Victorian-era commercial buildings and homes that the city council and residents have carefully preserved. Other buildings preserved include:

• The original Los Gatos High School attended by de Havilland and Fontaine
• The Old Town Shopping Center
• Dozens of downtown, brick commercial buildings built over the last century that was damaged in the Loma Prieta earthquake of 1989 and are now fully restored

Water Damage and Cleanup in Today’s Los Gatos

While Los Gatos Creek can occasionally rise over its banks and flood the town causing water damage, most water intrusions are the result of failed dishwashers or a water heater cut-off valve that no longer functions. When that happens, SERVPRO specialists take these steps to quickly remove water and mitigate the effects.

• Protect the Contents
• Extract Excess Water
• Extract Carpets, Pads, and Hardwood Flooring using advanced equipment
• Extract Sub-Flooring, perhaps with drying mats
• Provide Humidity Control, monitor dehumidifiers during work

Why SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno for water clean-up in your home? One call to (408) 600-2020 gets a rapid, professional response to any situation.

How Long Does it Take for Burnt Odors to Leave a Home?

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Facing fire damage? SERVPRO is prepared with restoration equipment and experienced technicians. Call us today!

SERVPRO Fire Damage Specialists Can Fumigate and Restore Home's in Monte Sereno

Fire odors are volatile particles that can embed into surfaces, making them tough to remove. The volatile nature of these particles means that odors eventually dissipate. However, during a house fire, high pressure may cause odors to become trapped or make a property unlivable for a period. 

Removing the odor is an essential part of fire damage restoration for Monte Sereno homeowners. These unpleasant smells rarely have a single source, which means odor control is most effective using a multi-tiered approach. SERVPRO technicians employ a variety of techniques, methods, and equipment to combat odors. The first step is to remove any odor-causing materials and to clean soot or smoke from surfaces. If the smell persists, we can use a combination of masking agents, pairing agents, and filtration devices to tackle the problem. 

• Air filtration devices can remove fire odors from a property by passing indoor air through a range of filters. 
• SERVPRO uses high-efficiency particulate air filters to remove particles as small as 0.3 microns. 
• Restoring indoor air quality can also prevent inhalation or ingestion of microscopic soot and dust particles created by a fire. 

A house fire can severely impact the indoor air quality in your home. Contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno for fire damage restoration at (408) 600-2020.

How Quickly Can Businesses Recover from Premises Damage?

1/31/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno today at (408) 600-2020 if you need help with commercial water damage restoration.

SERVPRO is a Commercial Water Damage Restoration Service for Los Gatos Businesses

Los Gatos is a Californian town in the San Francisco Bay Area. The township comprises 30,222 residents. The excellent climate has contributed to the area's history, which primarily existed as a mill town and agricultural farming center on the West Coast. The mid-nineteenth century township remained a farming community until the 1950s when urban redevelopment of the bay area saw an increase in the local population and transformed the town into a suburb and commuter belt for those working in San Francisco. Famous residents of the area include John Steinbeck, who wrote The Grapes of Wrath while staying in the area, and the celebrated beat-poet Neal Cassady. The modern township of Los Gatos is considered a part of Silicon Valley, America's thriving tech hub with numerous multi-million dollar tech giants setting up shop in Los Gatos. Among these is the global streaming platform Netflix which has its headquarters in downtown Los Gatos. 

The San Francisco Bay Area is mountainous with lots of outdoor areas for enthusiasts to explore. Chief among them is the Castle Rock State Park, which runs along the Santa Cruz mountains. The state park expanse covers a region of 5,242 acres and is famous for its unique rock formations and climbing opportunities. As of 2021, there are 32 miles of hiking trails, which vary from beginner to expert difficulty levels. Among the most traversed routes is the Skyline-to-the-Sea, which expands over 30 miles starting at the Saratoga Gap and finishing at the Waddell Beach. Along the stretch are two overnight camping areas for those hiking on the trails. Due to its mountainous geography, Los Gatos is a famous region for wine-making, with several wineries in the area producing globally distributed New World Wines. These vineyards are open to the public for tours and tasting sessions throughout the season. 

• The Vasona Lake County Park offers seasonal light displays and a vast freshwater lake with fishing and an information center. 
• Testarossa tasting rooms are a members-only club that hosts wine and cheese events. The local vineyards and on-site tasting rooms are perfect for experiencing New World Wines.
• The Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad runs through Oak Meadow parks and is suitable for families and young children. 

SERVPRO Can Help Los Gatos Businesses Overcome Water Intrusion at their Premises

A water intrusion event can occur at business premises and affect productivity levels or create an unsanitary work environment. Our commercial services are designed to find a prompt response to your business emergency using local, qualified technicians.

The key to mitigating losses with commercial water damage in Los Gatos is to dry the area quickly. SERVPRO technicians use psychrometric science to maximize drying efficiency. Using dehumidifiers, or DX generators for larger commercial spaces, we can control the indoor atmosphere. Creating a dry indoor atmosphere can speed up the evaporation process while technicians can return daily to monitor the progress or make adjustments to the system. 

• Technicians carry appropriate licenses and legal documentation for commercial restoration.
• Desiccant and refrigerant dehumidifiers help to speed up drying times.
• Monitoring devices allow us to measure progress in real-time. 

If your business faces temporary closure as a result of water intrusion, call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno for expert commercial water damage restoration at (408) 600-2020.

Los Gatos Residents, Get a Jump-Start on your New Year’s Resolution

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Take some time to give back to the community by helping with clean up. Let's keep Hayward clean.

Not Far from Los Gatos, preserve our Environment by Joining a Clean-up Day.

Young and old in Los Gatos are invited to start 2021 with a fun cleanup activity hosted by the city of Hayward. On Saturday, January 23rd, 2021, grab a friend and join new friends in making a difference in the community. Consider the following as you schedule the time for this activity-

• Bring gloves, masks, and other pertinent personal protection equipment.
• This event is part of the ongoing Keep Hayward Clean and Green Task Force efforts.
• Participants have a chance to win a $25 gift certificate to Buffalo Bills Hayward.
• The meeting place is Mount Eden Park, and the event kicks off at 8:00 a.m.

Keeping the environment safe is essential to our SERVPRO team as well. Our expert crew helps homeowners by remediating mold damage and offering ancillary restoration services. If air quality is important to you, call our team and let us become an ally in your quest for a cleaner environment.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno is your partner in keeping our area beautiful and clean. Call us at (408) 600-2020 as soon as you suspect mold or deterioration, and let us jump into action. Only our professional knowledge and experience can leave your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Monte Sereno Residents can Support Local Artists from their Own Home.

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Music lovers in Monte Sereno are in for a treat. Get your very own pop up concert when you support local artists.

Let Music Visit your Monte Sereno Home and Kick-off 2021 in Style

Artists, performers, and musicians surround Monte Sereno residents. There is no shortage of concerts or plays for us to choose from on any given weekend under normal circumstances. As we kick-off 2021 with hopes for a new normal, it may still be a few weeks before concert venues renew their offerings. However, the Opera San Jose is preparing for the 2021 season and offering its patrons a pop-up concert in their driveway or home.

• Pop-up concerts are available to patrons making a donation of at least $1,000 in support of the Opera San Jose
• Safety guidelines are followed by performers and attendees alike
• The donation can be made easily through their online platform

SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno is also ready for a safe and wonderful 2021. Whenever fire restoration services are required, our staff is prepared to go to your home with all the necessary safety precautions. Our team strives to minimize the disruption to your daily life while cleaning any residual soot and smoke damage. Give us a call at (408) 600-2020 and let us leave your home, “Like it never even happened.”

The Beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains is Part of Life in Los Gatos

12/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the skilled technicians your property needs for thorough and effective water damage remediation. Call the experts today at (408) 600-2020.

Los Gatos Welcomes you with its Natural Beauty and Access to Bay Area Attractions.

Some may be surprised to know that Los Gatos is considered one of the wealthiest cities in the United States. Once you consider that it is in the San Francisco Bay Area near the Santa Cruz Mountains and San Jose, the distinction becomes clear. Its part in Silicon Valley and its technology firms make it relevant and crucial for Santa Clara County.

Among the most recognizable headquarters in Los Gatos, you will find Netflix, the popular content and film platform that gained increased popularity in 2020. Although the company has offices throughout the world, its headquarters employ those focusing on the data and analytics part of the business and product design. Other tech companies in Los Gatos include Infogain, Buongiorno, and Cryptic Studios. Once you include tech firms based in nearby San Jose, it is clear that Los Gatos is closely tied to the culture of Silicon Valley, its needs, and progress.

Los Gatos is Spanish for “the cats,” and the area’s name comes from La Rinconada de Los Gatos, but not because of house cats. Instead, it’s in recognition of the bobcats and cougars that inhabit the foothills in Los Gatos. It was founded in the mid-1850s following the creation of Forbes Mill by James Alexander Forbes. The mill's construction goes hand-in-hand with the California Gold Rush and the influx of people who traveled searching for riches. There were no flour mills in California, and Los Gatos Creek provided sufficient water power to make the production cost-effective. It is said to have kicked-off its operations in late 1855.

In 1887 Los Gatos was incorporated, and logging was one of the leading industries. Some years later, still in the early part of the 20th century, its agricultural offerings became emblematic of the town. Grapes, prunes, and apricots were grown in the area to the delight of its residents. Over time, it attracted a bohemian lifestyle, and important names made their life in Los Gatos, including Olivia de Havilland and John Steinbeck.

Milestones in the history of Los Gatos

• The Railroad- Even though rail transportation from Los Gatos is not part of daily life today, it played a pivotal role in its history. In the early and mid-1900s, the rail station in Los Gatos was visited by travelers from Alameda to Santa Cruz on the South Pacific Coast Railroad. Similarly, commuter trains into nearby San Francisco were a way of life until the 1960s.

• Oil- For about thirty years in the late 1800s and into the early 1900s, Los Gatos witnessed growth in the Santa Cruz Mountains oil-drilling industry. Despite a thorough search for oil, it proved to be less than anticipated, and eventually, all efforts to kick-off commercial oil production were abandoned.

• 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake- California is notorious for its earthquakes, particularly along the San Andreas Fault. The Loma Prieta Earthquake owes its name to the Loma Prieta Peak, located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, not far from Los Gatos. Even though the area recovered quickly, it still affected many businesses and residents.

• The Tech Industry- Like the rest of the region, the tech industry has become entrenched in the economy of the Bay Area, including Los Gatos. The growth of companies like Netflix has changed the employment landscape locally and the changes caused by tech companies in nearby cities.

Recreation in Los Gatos

The San Francisco Bay Area celebrates California’s beauty and majestic hikes, and outdoor activities are available to all residents, including those who live in Los Gatos. Whether you love to mountain bike, hike, cycle, or kayak, you are bound to find a place to enjoy your favorite activity virtually year-round. Los Gatos Creek and Vasona Lake County Park have several access points for people to hop onto a trail or wander to an outdoor concert or other activity.

For train lovers, you may want to take an afternoon to visit The Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad and support its carousel and steam engine. As it takes you through Oak Meadow and Vasona Parks, you can experience what it was like more than 100 years ago, and the price of admission is dedicated to preserving the equipment. Seasonally, you may enjoy the Pumpkin Train or the Holiday Train, which brings added excitement to the field trip.

Most people may not realize that vineyards abound around Los Gatos and that you don’t need to drive to Napa for award-winning local wines. Among the most famous wineries, you’ll find Testarossa Winery & Tasting Room, the fourth oldest continuously operating winery in California. Testarossa wines have been recognized, and it is available for tours and tastings. 

Byington Vineyard & Winery and David Bruce Winery are also great options to explore the flavors of the area.

Home Water and Fire Restoration in Los Gatos

Time and time again, Mother Nature has proven to be a strong force threatening California households. Wind, fire, and storms can all cause grave damage to structures regardless of their age. To come back from the devastation, certified water and fire damage restoration companies are your best resource.

SERVPRO is ready to act as soon as you call our 24/7 hotline, and it is safe to enter your home. However, water cleanup for Los Gatos homeowners may come as the result of less dramatic events. If a bathroom leaks or an appliance breaks, you may need help controlling humidity levels and restoring structural elements. When leaks happen, SERVPRO applies the industry's best practices to extract water, disinfect, and sanitize your home. Our expert staff is trained to address each material's specific needs in your home – wood, laminate, carpet, and tile require differentiated cleaning methods, and we have access to all of them.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno is at your service to protect your home. Call us at (408) 600-2020 as soon as you detect the problem and let us do what we do best. When we leave your home, it will feel, “Like it never even happened.”

Los Gatos Residents – Don’t Miss the Two Mr. Ps End of Term Christmas Extravaganza Virtual Event

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO worry about fire damage, so you can laugh your cares away at the End of Term Christmas Extravaganza.

The End of Term Christmas Extravaganza Live Episode is Available Online for Los Gatos, CA, Residents 

Staying home during social distancing does not mean that you have to miss out on significant events. You have the chance to join the Two Mr. Ps from the comfort of your Los Gatos home as they livestream a special Christmas podcast episode. This after-hours episode is not just for school staff and teachers, but for anyone who wants to experience giggles and entertainment. This episode is more than a regular podcast, and it is loaded with a broad range of yuletide festivities. Do not miss out on this one-of-a-kind online event. 

• Date: Friday, December 18th, 2020
• Time: 12 pm to 5 pm
• Location: Online via live stream 

Staying safe with social distancing is something we are passionate about at SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno. Why should you call in the help of skilled technicians after a fire in your home? We have all of the equipment, training, and methods necessary to make your fire damage cleanup smooth and as stress-free as possible. With one phone call to us at (408) 600-2020, we will send out a crew to get started as soon as first responders deem your home safe for entry.

Taking in the Sights with Los Gatos Carriage Rides 2020

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

Entrust your commercial water removal services to SERVPRO so that you can enjoy the everything Los Gatos has to offer.

Los Gatos Residents and Visitors Can Enjoy Carriage Rides Throughout the City 

A carriage ride is a unique experience, but it is even better when you have the beautiful backdrop that Los Gatos offers. Throughout December, on certain days, you have the opportunity to enjoy a horse-drawn carriage throughout the historic downtown area throughout the streets of Los Gatos, California. Take this opportunity to reserve a time for your carriage ride so that you can soak up all of the sounds, lights, and sights across this whimsical small town. All rides begin at the Town Plaza, and you can book your reservation through the Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce website. 

• Date: Friday, December 4, 2020 (and multiple days after that)
• Time: 5 pm to 9 pm by reservation only
• Cost: $110 for regular carriages, $130 for large carriages

Taking part in local events and memorable activities like historical carriage rides is something we fully support at SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno. Business owners in the area, if you require help with water removal at your commercial location, we are here to help! Once you call us at (408) 600-2020, we will dispatch our Green Fleet as soon as possible to start in with extraction and drying efforts.

Monte Sereno Residents Deserve Reliable Flood Damage Restoration from Skilled Professionals

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Our Green Fleet is ready to go to handle any flooding in Monte Sereno.

When You Require Help with Flooding After a Storm, SERVPRO is There to Address the Damage to Your Monte Sereno, CA, Home 

If you search for serenity and picturesque views, you will find it in Monte Sereno, CA. This town is situated on the western side of Santa Clara County along the stunning Santa Cruz Mountains base. Just minutes from San Jose, this is a town brimming with semi-rural flair and excellent community involvement. Even though it is one of the smaller populations within the County, Monte Sereno has roughly 4,000 residents that live within the 1.6 square miles. 

While there are no businesses located within the town, the region blends to bring you plenty of things to see and do within a very short driving distance. The landscape is made up of green views along the coast as well as lovely rolling hills. One of the most intriguing places to explore is an open space preserve in El Sereno, which includes 7.4 miles of trails that meander over 1,415 acres. 

Due to the makeup of the town of Monte Sereno, they share various elements with Los Gatos – including the police department, library, schools, and parks. The Santa Clara Valley region was settled around the start of the 1770s by non-natives, with this town being part of an 1839 land grant given to gentlemen known as Hernandez and Peralta. These two men have been said to have founded Los Gatos. 

One of the most famous past residents known to Monte Sereno is John Steinbeck, the author of the world-famous book entitled Of Mice and Men. In the middle of the 1950s, the region began to encounter tremendous growth, which some say seemed too rapid. To halt the expansion, Monte Sereno became fully incorporated in 1957, so it did not get annexed to a large city or neighboring Los Gatos. 

Exploring All That Monte Sereno, CA, Has to Offer

Nothing lacks in terms of sights to see or experience while in the Monte Sereno area. Whether you are an avid nature buff or you like to sample fine food and drink, you will know that you can fill your days and nights with plenty of chances to make memories. 

When it comes to local sights and museums, some of the best stops to make while in the area include: 

• Lexington Reservoir County Park –This park spans 950 acres and rests just minutes from the populated areas within Santa Clara County. Here, you will find a human-made reservoir that offers 338 acres for shoreline fishing, as well as plenty of stunning landscapes to view and wildlife for which to look out. Visitors will also find picnic tables, a boat launch, and portable restroom facilities.
• Whitney Modern –When you want to take in some fine art, Whitney Modern is a premier gallery located within Silicon Valley. This space often houses a broad range of exhibitions and art consultations, tours, and staging services available for new and established collectors and the promotion of fine art.
• The CATS –If you want a unique stop, don't miss out on The CATS, which is an old-school venue that features old-school décor and two stone cats that grace the front entrance. Many people stop here for the chance to snap a picture or two, but there are also BBQ meat offerings as well as many live bands and other entertainment to be had at any given time. 

Dining and Beverages 

• Philz Coffee is located on Blossom Hill Road, and it is the ultimate place to go for coffee, specialty brew, or a cup of tea. Grab a bite to eat and drink and relax in this quaint coffee shop or order snacks to take with you on the road.
• Plumed Horse can be found on Big Basin Way and a great stop when you want to sample an eclectic menu of delicious eats. There is also an extensive wine menu to choose from and hand-crafted chocolates, and other specialties in the world-famous, on-site chocolaterie.
• Billy's Boston Chowder House proves that you can have the taste of New England while visiting the sunny West Coast. Situated on East Main Street, this chowder house boasts menu items like New England "chowda," hot buttered "lobsta" rolls, and crispy English fish n' chips. 

The Way That You Handle Flood Damage After a Storm Determines the Amount of Loss Your Monte Sereno Home encounters 

Storms often happen without warning, leaving immense devastation in their wake. Rather than trying to take the burden on yourself with DIY methods, you can look to our skilled crew at SERVPRO to restore your Monte Sereno property to preloss condition. Whenever you have flooding after a storm, we arrive fast to help with board-up services, water extraction, and controlled demolition to get the build-back process going. We are Faster to Any Size Disaster, which gives you the peace of mind in knowing that you will be back to your routine as quickly as possible. 

Flood damage in Monte Sereno may come on after significant rainfall, including wind and debris issues. SERVPRO has the skills to tackle any flooding you are dealing with, including careful processes for handling water with potential contaminants such as: 

• Herbicides
• Pesticides
• Microbial bacteria
• Viruses
• Chemicals
• Silt and debris
• Fecal matter
• Vermin, and more 

We come in to perform an assessment that tells us the best way to proceed. Our crew handles each situation with detailed precision, making sure to wear all appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to keep our team safe. Everything is cleaned and sanitized before we finish the project to ensure your family's safety and any pets living within the home. 

Flood damage is nothing that any homeowner should take lightly, which is where we come in at SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno. We have crews on standby to give you the confidence that skilled technicians will be available 24 hours to handle any emergency that you encounter. You can reach us by calling (408) 600-2020, and we will send out our Green Fleet to your property to begin the assessment.

Find Awe, Inspiration, and Expression in Los Gatos

11/14/2020 (Permalink)

Get "fired up" to visit the exhibits at the New Museum in Los Gatos--a friendly tip from SERVPRO

Residents of Los Gatos get into NUMU Free of Charge

NUMU, the nickname of the New Museum in Los Gatos, offers residents the mesmerizing opportunity to view local artists’ varied creations. While at NUMU, you are welcome to browse different exhibits. Other activities are also available to the public, many requiring only a small fee. You can call 408-354-2646 to find out more about NUMU’s upcoming events and exhibitions. Don't miss out on these very interesting creations.

In addition to browsing the galleries, NUMU invites patrons to take part in different activities.

• Explorers’ Weekend, including private group sessions,
• Merit badge activities for both Boy and Girl Scouts, and
• MakerSpace workshops and classes.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno uses specialized methods to restore fire-damaged belongings, including fine art, ceramics, and other creative displays. Call (408) 600-2020 for professionals who care about making things “Like it never even happened,” for you.

Holiday Carriage Rides in Los Gatos

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is looking forward to participating in local holiday celebrations.

Los Gatos Residences Enjoy a Romantic Way to Celebrate the Holidays 

The holidays are here, and even though activities are limited, some things still make the days special. An annual Los Gatos tradition is the Holiday Carriage Rides. It is a romantic event and like stepping back into time. An elegant horse-drawn carriage carries you through the town. Enjoy the sight of some of the most beautiful homes decorated for Christmas as you sit back and relax. 

Rides are available:

• December 4 – 6, 2020 from 5:00 – 9:00 PM
• December 10 – 13 from 5:00 – 9:00 PM
• December 17 – 23 from 5:00 – 9:00 PM 

Your carriage ride starts in the Town Plaza. You can purchase your ride ahead of time and include hot chocolate and a cookie.  

Masks are required. The carriage holds up to six people from the same household and the cost is:

• Adults (9 & up) - $30
• Children (3-8) $10
• Toddlers (2 & under) free 

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno is proud to offer water damage restoration services. Contact us at (408) 600-2020 for more information. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What Do Los Gatos Businesses Need to Do to Recover From Fire Damages?

10/31/2020 (Permalink)

To recover your business quickly with a minimum loss of revenue after a fire, contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration Can Recover Losses in your Los Gatos Business. SERVPRO Can Send Professionally Trained and Certified Technicians to your Premises.

How are the damages in a fire loss site calculated?
As a premises manager of your Los Gatos business, you may be anxious to uncover the actual expense of a property fire. These losses can differ dramatically depending on the type of fire, the material inside the premises, and the length of time the building was burning. Smoke travels through a structure quickly, leaving behind unpleasant, and sometimes odorous, soot deposits. Extensive soot on walls, ceilings, surfaces, and inside desk drawers can lead to your business's temporary closure. SERVPRO offers a callout within four hours of your notification of loss to ensure restoration begins right away, and you can resume business with minimal interruption. A qualified commercial restoration service has both the experience and the resources to perform a thorough scoping of the property to calculate potential losses.

What is the scoping of a fire loss site?
A scoping procedure is the first step in commercial fire damage restoration of your Los Gatos business. This process helps us understand the extent of harm in the premises, how cleanable contents or structure is, and which materials must be discarded. Generally, we operate with at least a crew chief and a production technician to scope the property. In larger commercial properties, we may increase the workforce necessary to provide a time-efficient solution to your business interruption. Setting up a loss site for restoration and calculating the exact equipment, resources and time-frame are valuable for business owners who can then begin planning re-opening or inform staff of the issue. If you have any questions, our crew chiefs are more than happy to communicate with you throughout the restoration process.

What tasks are being carried out during the scoping procedure?
    •    Taking measurements of room sizes and areas of damage to enable correct calculation of equipment needs and resources.
    •    Testing surfaces for smoke residues can sometimes be tough to spot and measure the amount of smoke penetration.
    •    Using a dry cleaning sponge to pre-test surfaces for cleanability and assessing residues types- either dry or wet.

How do commercial restoration services reduce fire losses?
The value of hiring commercial restoration technicians for your business lies in the ability to mitigate secondary losses after a fire. Sometimes soot deposits may be highly acidic. Without timely intervention, these deposits can corrode the surfaces of non-porous materials like metals. These can be particularly expensive to replace and could include complex appliances, tools, or frameworks. Our technicians actively guard against corrosive smoke residues during the scoping of your business property by applying lubricants or wet cleaning detergents directly onto the material. Stainless steel cleaner can be a useful cleaning agent for controlling losses that affect appliances, ductwork, or framing in your business. These cleaning agents can also be used on faucets or trim work on the premises to protect them from secondary damages.

How are different smoke types assessed with a dry cleaning sponge?
    •    Light grey and black soils or residues could indicate dry smoke that can be vacuumed from the surface or removed using the dry cleaning sponge.
    •    Smoke residues that smear when wiping should be treated with caution as these indicate wet smokes that spread around with dry cleaning methods.
    •    Heavy oils or grease can often be detected by a dry-cleaning sponge and show where technicians need to apply oil-based solvents.

Do restoration services include content restoration?
SERVPRO technicians endeavor to restore both the structure and contents of your business. Similar to structural cleaning, contents technicians are looking for contrasts between affected and unaffected contents on your premises. These could include cosmetic issues to appliances, surfaces, cabinets, and desktops. Pre-testing can be valuable to the efficiency of restoration by allowing technicians to determine cleanable and non-cleanable items. Wiping away contrasts or outlines indicates that these items are restorable. When the object does not respond to pre-test cleaning, we may need to dispose of it and fit a replacement. The cost of replacement far exceeds the price of restoration. We operate with a restore over replace mentality to get your business back “Like it never even happened.”

What methods of contents restoration are useful for businesses?
    •    Semi-refinishing is a practical method of restoring hardwood surfaces or appliances but can be a time-consuming process.
    •    Polishing using furniture polish or creme can help with any wooden contents in your business. A compound cleaner can be useful for metals.
    •    Wet cleaning is an aggressive form of restoration that uses hot water combined with a detergent or cleaning agent to remove soils and grime.

To recover your business quickly with a minimum loss of revenue after a fire, contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020.

Does Mold Destroy Floors and Carpets?

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

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

SERVPRO is a Los Gatos Mold Remediation Company that Can Rescue your Home from Microbial Infestation. 

Why does mold appear on carpets?

A moldy carpet or musty aroma in rooms of your Los Gatos home are indicators of microbial infestation. These tiny organisms can crop up from time to time in your home or during specific periods of the year. When microbial growth gets out of control, and you notice persistent odors or soiling, it may be necessary to bring in professional remediation. Moldy carpets can occur due to a moisture problem in the property, delamination of the carpet backing, a damp carpet pad,  an insulation issue, or a mold infestation in your building's assembly. SERVPRO technicians can deconstruct parts of your floor to assess and remediate potential mold growth issues.

What are the causes of concern with mold growth?

Mold can breakdown organic matter, which could lead to the deterioration of carpets or other materials in the home.

Microbial organisms reproduce and can spread from one area to another leading to a significant issue over time. 

Molds produce unpleasant soiling and noticeable odors that can affect your home's indoor air quality or condition.

Are moldy carpets repairable?

A mold remediation team can rescue your Los Gatos home and contents from further damage. Our first objective is to detach the carpet to inspect the floor assembly below and find the microbial growth issue's root cause. Floors typically contain a carpet, carpet pad, and a subfloor. The microbial growth issue could be coming from any one of these areas. Whether carpets are repairable depends on the length of exposure and the material of the carpet. Long-term exposure typically requires replacement of the pad and carpet. The primary method of preventing further cost is by correcting the home's moisture problem, which could be through drying or installing a vapor barrier in the subfloor. 

Does mold washout?

Early signs of mold can sometimes be removed from fabric using anti-microbial chemicals alongside a rotary machine to withdraw from the carpet.

Mechanical suspension washing afforded by Esporta washing machines can address light mold contamination.

Vinegar can be an effective deterrent against mold growth that helps to break down microbial stages of growth.

If you spot microbial growth in your home, do not hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600 2020.

Can Floods Cause Structural Damage To Your Los Gatos Home?

10/18/2020 (Permalink)

Each property is unique, which is why professional knowledge is necessary for efficient restoration.

Flood Damage Can be Devastatingly Destructive to your Los Gatos Home. SERVPRO is a Professional Restoration Service that Can Return it to Pre-flood Conditions.

Do building materials affect flood losses?
The construction of your Los Gatos home may contain some standard and some unique building materials. These materials can be adversely affected by sudden water exposure. Building and material sciences are developing fields that professional restoration technicians can reduce and recover losses after flooding. Our technicians can help avoid unwanted surprises during restoration by working from a robust base-line knowledge of how materials are affected by water. Our ability to identify assembly and materials helps to place a strategic demo and drying strategy to recover your home after flooding.

Can a building affect the drying of a property?
    •    Tight building envelopes allow technicians greater control over drying conditions.
    •    A moderate envelope has some influence from outdoors, which can affect drying.
    •    Loose envelopes are tough to dry due to an inability to control conditions.

What are building envelopes, and how do they affect drying?
The type of building envelope can affect the extent of flood damage in your Los Gatos home. Building envelopes are what separates indoors from outdoors. These may include roofs, ceilings, doors, foundations, floors, and exterior walls. Water migration is a real factor in flood losses, with looser envelopes allowing for more significant migration and an increased chance of condensation damages. Buildings with good insulation and tight structural design are generally quicker to dry because equipment like furnaces and dehumidifiers are more effective. SERVPRO can address looser structural design by creating smaller drying chambers in the property.

What other aspects of a home can affect drying?
    •    Fireplaces as well as exhaust vents that may be found in kitchens or bathrooms
    •    Plumbing and heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems
    •    Air exchange systems and gas appliances

Each property is unique, which is why professional knowledge is necessary for efficient restoration. Contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020.

Can Homeowners Prevent a Leaky Skylight?

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

Skylights in Monte Sereno Roofs Often Leak. What to Do? Call SERVPRO for Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration. "Like it never even happened."

Monte Sereno Residents Can Prevent Skylight Leaks with a Few Simple Precautions

Monte Sereno is a unique city with just over 3,000 residents. It has no commercial zoning and is primarily single-family dwellings. Like many Californians, the residents are sun lovers. Skylights allow sunshine into homes but can also have a problem with leaking.

How Difficult is it to Repair a Skylight Leak?

Skylights are a beautiful part of many homes. They can increase the value of the home while letting light shine throughout the house. But if they are not sealed properly, they can become a homeowner’s nightmare. Skylights can sometimes be challenging to repair when there is moisture seepage. The older the skylight, the more likely it is to have problems. Newer built products are less likely to leak, but it can still occur. This can lead to the need for professional water mitigation services in Monte Sereno. Signs you may have water damage can include:

• Dripping from the skylight
• Discoloration of the drywall around it
• Water stains on the ceiling or walls
• Nearby ceiling tiles crumbling
• Musty smell or physical signs of mold in the area

Finding the source of water is vital. There can be many reasons for a leaking skylight.

Check the Roof

It is possible that the skylight might not be the problem; it could be your roof. The moisture caused by the weather could be infiltrating damaged roof tiles. Having your roof inspected annually for loose or damaged shingles can help prevent this problem.

Improper Sealing May Be the Issue

This is one of the typical reasons for skylight leaks. Anytime a skylight is not sealed correctly, you are going to end up with problems. Re-caulking can prevent water intrusion. Flashing prevents water from seeping in, and leaks can result when it needs replacing.

Cracks in the Skylight

Anything wears with age, and a skylight is no different. Age can cause cracking, which leads to water damage. Falling debris can also impact the glass. When this happens, the window needs to be replaced.

Indoor Condensation

Many times, skylights get placed in bathrooms. Showers can cause warm, damp air to rise and come in contact with the cool skylight. The result is moisture droplets form and drips back down into the room. You can prevent this problem by:

• Turning on a bathroom fan when showering
• Cracking a window if no fan is available
• Use a dehumidifier in the home
• Check for improper installation
• Improve the insulation around the skylight

Understanding Water Damage

If your skylight allows moisture to come into your home, it can cost quite a bit to mitigate the damage. Household items could be ruined, and you may end up needing professional water restoration. Your ceiling and walls can be affected by the leak. If the moisture gets behind the walls, hidden water damage such as mold can occur.

Can SERVPRO Restore My Ceiling & Walls?

Our technicians handle ceiling and wall water damage regularly. They assess each situation and apply the needed techniques to repair and restore the impacted areas.  If your ceiling has tiles, it is often more cost-effective to replace the tiles than to restore them. Moisture can cause them to bow and have stains even if dried. The tiles may need to be removed even if not affected so that air can circulate and help with drying.

If the walls contain several layers of sheetrock, it may need extended drying times. If the sheetrock is saturated, it can take 5 – 7 days to dry. Several layers can take longer. But if the damage is minimal controlled demolition can replace the areas where the water has done the most damage.  While working, SERVPRO techs use penetrating moisture probes to ensure all layers are dry, not just the surface.

Can You Clean My Carpets While Here?

SERVRPRO offers routine carpet cleaning and maintenance. We have several options for carpet cleaning. They include:

Bonnet Cleaning – The least aggressive cleaning method and is used for light soiling. It’s a quick-drying method that works well on a low cut pile or low-level loop carpets.

Shampoo Method – Shampooing is a very good maintenance cleaning technique. It works well on light to moderate soiling and low cut pile carpets.

Hot Water Extraction – This is a deep cleaning process typically involved in restorative cleaning. The cleaning solution is heated and pumped through a portable extractor or a truck-mounted one.

Deluxe Preconditioner and Rinse – This cleans more thoroughly than hot water extraction alone. For moderate to heavy soiling when restoring carpets.

Showcase Cleaning – This is the most effective carpet cleaning process used by professionals. It can clean the heaviest soiling. It involves using a cleaning process on the carpet twice.

If you find yourself needing professional water mitigation due to a leaky skylight or some other problem, we have the experience, expertise, and equipment to restore your home to preloss condition.

Contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 quality water mitigation service. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How Long Does Restoration of a Business Premises Take after Water Intrusion?

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

Rely on SERVPRO to Mitigate Water Damage to Your Los Gatos Modern Office with Rapid Extraction and Drying

SERVPRO can Mobilize Commercial Water Restoration Technicians for Los Gatos Businesses to Provide Expert Assistance after a Water Emergency.

Is restoration the same as mitigation?

Mitigation focuses on establishing emergency controls at your Los Gatos business to prevent further losses. A water leak could cause significant damage to the decor and fittings present in the company in a busy restaurant. SERVPRO can contain losses by setting up a swift drying protocol for the property. This drying procedure may prevent further migration of moisture into the subfloor or avoid water stagnation from causing a microbial growth concern. Mitigation controls potential losses, while the restoration is the process of reversing the existing damage. That same water leak may soak carpets or spread grime. We can dry the carpet, extract moisture, and clean it to a preloss condition.

What is commercial restoration?

• Returning a business to its normal, preloss condition "Like it never even happened."
• Reinstalling carpets or cleaning contents
• Performing repairs on structural elements like subfloors that may suffer damage

What items are repairable or restorable in a Los Gatos business premises?

Carrying out commercial water restoration in your Los Gatos business relies on strong knowledge of what is possible to restore. While a wet carpet may seem beyond repair, with careful detaching, drying, and conditioning, it may have a strong chance of returning to a preloss condition. An insurance adjuster can make decisions regarding which items need replacing. It can often be more time and cost-efficient to carry out repairs rather than resorting to replacements.

How do you return the business premises to a normal condition?

• By repairing structure and contents
• Removing any equipment and returning contents
• Final cleaning and inspection of the loss site with a crew chief

Re-opening your business is essential to controlling revenue losses. Contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020.

Why Is Safety So Important During Flood Water Removal in Los Gatos?

9/6/2020 (Permalink)

Ensuring your house is clear of water after a flood is a hard job. Contact SERVPRO for professional remediation and mitigation services for your home.

How Los Gatos Residents Can Avoid Health Hazards During Flood Water Removal

No one in Los Gatos wants to think about a natural disaster overcoming their home. Unfortunately, natural disasters are a fact of life, and you cannot always avoid them. Thankfully SERVPRO is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to help when something goes wrong.

Flood water removal in Los Gatos is a job for the professionals. Health and safety is a primary concern when removing flood water from a property.

Why is safety essential during water removal?

Flooding brings about many hazards:

• Water can soak into plaster and drywall and make a building unsafe
• Tiles might become loose, or windows might break
• Floodwater can contain nasties such as bacteria, viruses, and even sewage
• Moisture means a risk of mold growth shortly

What does SERVPRO do to stay safe?

Our extensive training program includes safety awareness to ensure our technicians know how to handle any situation. Securing your property is vital, which is why we:

• Carry out a thorough assessment
• Board up doors and windows if needed
• Bring in safe emergency electricity supplies if we require power
• Remove hanging or buckling plaster and drywall

We also outfit our teams with plenty of personal protective equipment.

How can I protect my family during flood water removal?

The best advice is to get your family to a place of shelter. Do not attempt to carry out repairs or cleanup yourself – it is better to rely on the professionals. 

Our teams will advise you about safety and what steps we plan to take when we arrive. Please listen carefully to our advice, and ask any questions you may have. We are always here for you.

Can you help with structural damage?

Yes, we can. If your home needs structural repair such as replacing drywall, roof repairs, or replacement windows, we can help. Depending on the situation at hand, we will either carry out repairs or bring in outside contractors. We train and supervise outside workers to ensure their work is of the high standard we demand from our employees.

For help with flood water removal, call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020.

Click here for more information about Los Gatos.

How Should I Schedule The Cleanup Of Items Affected By Water Exposure?

8/29/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 to help schedule and run the cleanup process appropriately for the best outcome.

SERVPRO Has Sufficient Experience Handling Water Cleanup Exercises in Los Gatos Homes Making It Easier to Identify Priority Items

Water intrusion into your Los Gatos home can affect contents in different ways, including staining, soiling, or exposure to undesirable substances, thus necessitating cleaning. Since household items made from a wide range of materials and finishes, the outcomes from moisture exposure and soiling vary. The response you choose after discovering the situation is the only variable determinant of the outcome. Confusion on what items to clean first is common in such situations.

Which procedures are necessary for content cleanup?
Water cleanup involving contents in Los Gatos homes can require a wide range of techniques depending on the level of soiling, the materials composition of items, and the urgency involved. SERVPRO is well versed in general as well as advanced cleaning techniques.  We use various approaches to deal with any soiling, staining or contamination, “Like it never even happened,” including:

    •    Hot water extraction
    •    Shampooing
    •    Damp wiping
    •    Spray and wipe
    •    Immersion techniques

Cleanup also involves moisture management since extended exposure to water can cause various forms of deterioration. We use techniques such as air-drying or dehumidification to remove wetness from materials faster compared to letting them dry on their own.

What aspects play a big role in setting up a cleanup schedule?
    •    Rush items
    •    Vulnerability to moisture
    •    The expected level of deterioration
    •    Specialty items

Rush items is a general category encompassing items that you need to use urgently. They can be personal items such as clothes or utility items such as furniture. When you notify our SERVPRO crew chief of your desire to access specific items, we evaluate them to ascertain the best mitigation procedure, whether it is washing, rinsing, or expediting drying so that they can be ready for use in the desired time.

Although various materials are vulnerable to extended moisture exposure, the speed or levels of resulting damages vary. For instance, mold can develop on the surfaces of wooden items, but it can take days for significant damage from such growth to take root. On the other hand, dyes on fabrics such as upholstery covers can run and cause severe damage within minutes or hours. When our technicians evaluate your items, we prioritize the cleanup of items likely to develop severe damage if left unaddressed over more extended periods.

Which items require specialty cleaning?
    •    Artworks such as canvas paintings
    •    Musical instruments such as pianos
    •    Electronics or other appliances

Although cleaning helps reverse or reduce damages, it can have the opposite effect on some items. Such items require specialized cleaning procedures more than a speedy response to guarantee a positive outcome. Setting such items aside until the necessary resources are available is the best approach.

If you own some musical instruments, then you are aware that they are made up of a wide range of small parts, including strings, valves, and keys, so it is easy for something to go wrong in the process of cleaning the item. Paintings, on the other hand, can flake or develop other imperfections. Our technicians can take protective actions, including storing some items in freezing conditions or temperatures above the dew point, thus providing an opportunity to delay the cleaning until an expert is available or allowing safe transfer of the items.

What determines whether contents require onsite or off-site cleaning?
    •    The level of water damage at the property
    •    The size of the items
    •    Storage area available at the loss site

If the intruding water covers a vast portion of your property, it might be difficult to clean or store items within the same property. Our SERVPRO crews can evacuate the contents to an off-site facility for storage as we remove the water in your property. We can also perform cleaning and other restoration procedures at the off-site facility.

Item size can pose some obstacles to the cleaning processes. It is easy to misplace small items during cleaning or movement. On the other hand, bulky items such as furniture or musical items such as pianos require significant moving logistics for convenience and prevention of damages. Our technicians evaluate the item sizes and level of damage before deciding whether to move or clean them at the loss site.

Cleaning your Monte Sereno, Cambrian Park, or Lexington Hills home after water damage incidents is a delicate process since some of your actions can worsen the damage. Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 to help schedule and run the cleanup process appropriately for the best outcome. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.   

Why Do I Need to Worry About a Little Bit of Mold?

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

This is Why SERVPRO Is a Premier Mold Remediation Company in the Los Gatos Area! Inspection, Controlled Demolition, and Eventual Build Back!

SERVPRO Ensures Your Los Gatos Home Is Properly Remediated When Mold Damage Is Suspected

Maybe you notice a few spots on your bathroom ceiling that look like mold. You may start to detect a musty odor when your HVAC system kicks on. No matter what causes you to suspect mold, make sure that your Los Gatos home gets inspected soon. SERVPRO has trained mold remediation professionals on staff to take a look and devise a cleanup plan as quickly as possible.

Why Can’t I Clean the Mold on My Own? Why Call SERVPRO?

You should never disturb mold if you see any visible spots. This can cause the mold to begin spreading to more locations throughout the home. Mold damage in Los Gatos is best left to trained technicians who know how to handle these microscopic spores.

There are important facts that everyone should know about mold and mold damage in Los Gatos. For example:

• Mold spores are everywhere; however, moist conditions create the perfect atmosphere for mold to grow and multiply.
• While mold cannot get eliminated entirely, SERVPRO addresses colonized mold to control growth and limit the damage.
• The onset of mold within the home can cause health effects.

When it comes to mold cleanup and detailed restoration efforts, SERVPRO is at the top of the game. We have a crew that is highly-trained to handle remediation to ensure you get prompt results. Our AMRT applied microbial remediation technicians are accredited from the IICRC--the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, the gold standard for our industry. From start to finish, you can count on us to leave no stone unturned. Everything is thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and sanitized. We will not finish the project until we know that the air quality and surface areas throughout the loss zone are safe for you and your family.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno can be there whenever you need help with mold damage. We have emergency services available to customers 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call (408) 600-2020 to have a crew deployed to your property.

How Costly is it to Hire a Water Restoration Company?

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can shudder your business indefinitely. SERVPRO has the know how to make it, "Like it never even happened."

An Efficient Restoration Process to your Los Gatos Business Saves Time and Money in the Long Run

Your business in Los Gatos may represent your livelihood as well as the primary income for your employees. The cost of restoration includes fees to a reputable company, but it also consists of the loss due to days closed and client erosion. Rather than considering a water technician as a cost, consider him a worthy investment necessary to protect your commercial interests. 

Business owners in Los Gatos who face water damage should call SERVPRO to their side. Our certified team members are ready to answer your call around the clock, and our Green Fleet jumps into action as soon as you need us. When you choose to trust our knowledge, you can traverse all aspects of returning your business to regular operations with the peace of mind that comes with being in the hands of experts. Whether you are planning for inventory or filing your insurance claim, you can trust that our team will provide a knowledgeable assessment of the situation to plan accordingly.

Why should I hire a water restoration company?

When you face the water damage in your business, you may consider do-it-yourself solutions to extract water and get the situation back on track. However, you run the risk of leaving issues unattended, causing problems in the future, such as mold or compromised structural elements. Our SERVPRO team helps you hedge your risks by using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to spot underlying issues that could come to light. For example, to prevent mold, we focus on the following-

• Monitoring Humidity- the goal is to achieve an average moisture level for your business. We track it with advanced technology, including infra-red moisture sensors which point us to hidden water accumulations
• Drying - aside from air circulators, pumps and dehumidifiers we use techniques such as injecti-dry and drying mats to address each surface in need of drying
• Disinfecting- we eliminate excess bacteria with EPA approved antimicrobial solutions and foggers that allow us to reach all corners of your business

SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno is your partner in times of emergency. Contact us at (408) 600-2020 and let us be an active part of getting your business back online. Our goal is to leave it "Like it never even happened."

More about Los Gatos.

What Challenges Exist in Drying Flood Damage in Los Gatos Homes?

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

This is just some of the equipment at our disposal to restore your home. We are prepared to handle any of your water damage restoration needs.

With Humid Conditions and Other Obstacles Existing After a Flood, Drying Efforts can Become a Challenge 

As the standard of a request as drying and water recovery might be for Los Gatos homes after a water loss or flood, many challenges and obstacles can prevent this from being successful. Flooding can be among the more destructive disasters to impact properties, especially with many homes in the area being ranch-style properties. Split-level homes with partial subterranean construction can be directly affected by natural flooding spreading throughout your community.

As much as flood damage in Los Gatos homes can vary, specific elements are fundamental and universal to each recovery job. Water removal and drying are needed actions taken to reduce the damage that flooding can do in a property and get you back to your routine as soon as possible. To accomplish this in the efficient timeline that we seek to provide, our SERVPRO team relies on a crafted blend of industry-leading equipment, experienced water restoration personnel, and fast response to the emergency. Initial actions taken immediately can help slow the progression of migrating water throughout the property, allowing us to focus on the structure's drying needs.  

What Are the Principles of Drying?  

Drying balances specific elements working together to eliminate moisture both in the environment and trapped in porous materials or contents. Each of these elements impacts the others, meaning that less of one means another factor must increase to compensate. The appropriate blend of these drying principles can change from one location to the next and often plays on the atmospheric conditions and readings conducted during the job scoping phase. This evaluation helps to determine the current conditions and how to best approach moisture removal and restoration for these readings after a flood. These disasters can also introduce other obstacles that could impact the pace of drying, such as debris, silt, and solids. At its base levels, moisture removal can break down into three elements: 

Temperature – Heat quickens the movement of molecules and can improve the chemical reactions necessary to facilitate evaporation. Lower temperatures can slow the progression of drying.

• Airflow – The air movement can be vital to the drying process, but it can also hinder it. When vapor pressure brings higher humidity into drier spaces to even out, the higher moisture content can be an additional challenge for drying efforts.  

• Humidity – Higher moisture conditions that exist for prolonged periods can provide ideal conditions for mold growth. However, moisture content knowledge can also ensure the right dehumidification tools get used to regulating these conditions for rapid drying. 

Should Repairs Happen First?  

Repairs are a necessary part of flood recovery in your home, especially with natural flood scenarios. Controlled demolition is one of the critical elements of managing contamination, as affected materials and contents can get removed and discarded before further migration of these effects can occur. With a group of in-house contractors available to respond with our SERVPRO technicians, we can provide efficient reconstruction solutions and temporary repairs to allow for mitigation to be a more practical approach. Initial repairs for your flooded structure might target:

• Roof Damages
• Structural Openings
• Penetration Points  

How Does Water Migration Occur?  

The movement of water also plays a vital role in recovering the property after a flood loss in Los Gatos. Intruding water can move fast through single-story structures, allowing surface exposure to be a considerable concern and other factors that can contribute to more widespread migration of moisture, contaminants, and water. There are several methods of moving water throughout the property after a flood, but often these fall into a few primary categories: 

• Vapor Pressure – High and low-pressure vapor areas exist between the environment outside of the house, areas in structural cavities, and the central atmosphere in the affected areas. The environment is always seeking to establish a balance of these conditions, allowing for water vapor to migrate from one area of the property to another. 

• Liquid Migration – The literal traveling of water from its penetration points throughout the structure is the most direct and visible damage path in flooding conditions. These threats require extraction and water removal equipment to address.

• Saturation – Standing water can present exposure concerns for porous materials like wood plank flooring, drywall, carpeting, and other sensitive surfaces. The absorption of water can allow migration to continue into structural cavities and be a more significant obstacle for restorers. 

As challenging as flood losses might be, you can count on the experience and equipment of our SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno team to make it "Like it never even happened." Contact us today at (408) 600-2020. 

How Long Does It Take To Clear Out My Los Gatos Home After A Water Spill?

7/18/2020 (Permalink)

We are here for you!

For A Thorough and Professional Response, Have SERVPRO Restore Your Los Gatos Home

What Can I Expect From A SERVPRO Response?

To ameliorate the effects of water damage in a Los Gatos home, each SERVPRO Response Team uses a four-part restoration process:
    •    Initiation – This part is the first contact with each customer. It is where we collect the information on the disaster and schedule a service visit. It also includes our arrival on-site, the walk-through, and initial consultation with the customer. If an agreement is reached, then the team begins initial services such as lowering the interior humidity and moving property out of the way for other tasks.
    •    Plan – Now, we collect data to determine exactly what it takes to fully restore each home. Technicians use moisture meters and other detection equipment to check all property touched by the water. The information allows us to figure out what has to be thrown out or can be restored.

Those First Two Parts Seem Like a Lot of Planning and Not Much Else, What’s Next?

The Initiation and Planning can be accomplished in a day or less, and the first tasks support everything else we accomplish:
    •    Execution – This is where we complete the water removal and humidity reduction in your Los Gatos home. Technicians also perform any disposal operations and use drying equipment to draw water out of personal and structural property like recliners and drywall.
    •    Close-Out – This final stage is where the team leader ensures each task is completed and then performs a walk-through with the homeowner to ensure their satisfaction.

Is That Everything?

Yes, unless our SERVPRO team leader and the customer find something on the walk-through. If that happens, our team repeats step three and four until everything is finished.

To learn more about what SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno can do for your home, call us at (408) 600-2020 today. We are here for you.

I Need to Handle the Fire Damage in My Property After a Kitchen Fire. Where Do I Begin?

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning after kitchen fires is challending. SERVPRO has the know how and experience to restore your home.

Start by Contacting SERVPRO Professionals to Perform Fire Damage Restoration in Your Los Gatos Residence

A fire can leave you wondering how to begin restoring your Los Gatos residence. Thankfully, the restoration professionals from SERVPRO can help you get your property to its pre-emergency state. During the years we have been in business, we have restored thousands of homes to their former glory.

What’s the benefit of hiring professionals?

Professionals are certified, insured, and have proper skills to perform fire damage restoration in your Los Gatos home. We also have access to world-class fire restoration equipment and products. Our devoted team aims to serve our customers to meet or exceed their expectations. Immediately after we receive an emergency call, we respond fast to prevent secondary damage.

Why is the odor unbearable, especially in my kitchen?

People store foodstuffs that contain oils and greases such as meat in the kitchen. The fats fuel a fire, creating an oily mist that settles on different surfaces. The extreme temperatures melt the oil and grease, creating an unpleasant smell that hides in appliances, wall cavities, ceilings, and cabinets. Our technicians can use enzyme digesters to remove the protein odors from your kitchen. The enzymes break down insoluble protein molecules into simple substances that bacteria can absorb and digest.

Can your technicians clean the heavy grease in my kitchen?

It isn’t easy to clean grease on the affected surfaces, especially if you do not have the right products. Therefore, it is essential to involve experts to clean such surfaces. We have a wide range of approved products that help us clean and restore various surfaces. We can use an industrial cleaner mixed with warm water to clean multiple surfaces in your kitchen, including:

• Metal air filters
• Range hoods
• Grease traps

How do you clean a ruined ceiling?

The ceiling is the most affected surface during a fire. Smoke and soot settle on the ceiling surface, and when the flames are severe, the ceiling might be damaged extremely. The soot creates a significant dark map that is challenging to clean. Our SERVPRO technicians can use a peroxide active ceiling cleaning product to remove the soot and smoke residues on the surface. We can also use the product on porous surfaces that can withstand cleaning with water-based solutions.

For effective fire damage restoration, call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020. We have the skill and resources to restore your property to its pre-misfortunate state within a brief period. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

More about Los Gatos.

What Are the Main Objectives of Professional Flood Recovery?

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

We know the steps to get your Los Gatos home back from Flood damage. Give us a call today, We are always available.

When flooding occurs in your Los Gatos home, we can employ several tasks and equipment to make it "Like it never even happened."

Flooding can become one of the most challenging disasters for property owners to address in their Los Gatos homes. While it might be desirable to overcome these conditions on your own, this is not always possible without the direct intervention and actions of our SERVPRO professionals. With emergencies like penetrating water, there are multiple strategies for minimizing the ultimate damage through mitigation solutions such as water removal, cleaning, and content recovery.

Because flood damage in Los Gatos homes could mean multiple conditions, the restoration and recovery of these disasters must begin immediately. We have a substantial roster of water restoration technicians accredited through standard-setting firms like the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and the American Bio Recovery Association (ABRA). With this extensive training and experience in the field, we can overcome many of the initial hurdles that threaten area houses from the onset of floodwater penetration.The main objectives of responding technicians include:

• Extraction – This specific effort focuses on removing surface water pooling throughout the property, trapped water in porous materials, or the standing water that can be as deep as several feet in specific flooding occurrences. 
• Cleaning – Flooding can leave your home in desperate need of thorough cleaning, even when contaminants are not a concern. We have experienced cleaning technicians ready to respond, from residues and debris removal to help your home through each of these phases. 
• Content Management – In many ways, the items and personal belongings in your house can be as valuable and meaningful as the structure itself. We have several methods of protecting your possessions. 
• Drying – As with all water loss scenarios, even various flooding conditions, drying is the backbone of returning the property to its preloss state. 

What Is the Most Efficient Extraction Approach? 

Water removal is an evolving situation, so the tools that get used to address this condition must meet the current threat. While we have many extraction tools in our extensive recovery inventory, choosing the right one of these options makes mitigation and, ultimately, restoration more efficient and cost-effective for the customer. We have a wide range of capabilities, from handheld units that can move from one damaged area to another to outdoor machines running off a truck engine that can pull water from a property at a forceful 300 psi. Some of the typical options we choose among for extraction include:

• Truck-Mount Pumps
• Submersible Pumps
• Trash Pumps
• Wet Vacuums
• Carpet Wands

What Areas Need to be Cleaned?

Cleaning is an essential step after a flood loss. Natural flooding amplifies this need, as there is an added threat of contaminations like bacteria, sewage, or viral pathogens that could have entered in with the rising waters. When contamination is not a threat, there are still many areas that need to get thoroughly cleaned throughout the property, including spaces where controlled demolition was necessary, carpets held water, residues were left behind on surfaces and other situations.

What Happens to My Belongings? 

Content management is one of the most critical services that our SERVPRO team offers after any loss incident, as all disasters that impact your home could have a detrimental effect on your possessions. In the case of flooding, several unique threats could destroy your belongings, including foul odors, water damage, and surface staining. Based on the severity of the damage and what our initial inspection and scoping of the property determines, we have several potential approaches to help us determine what is best for exposed contents. We offer solutions for:

• On-Site Relocation
• On-Site Cleaning and Recovery
• Off-Site Cleaning, Recovery, and Storage

How Can My Home Get Dry After Widespread Flood Loss? 

Drying your property is not a one-size-fits-all solution after a widespread water loss emergency. Even with the bulk of the water damage resolved through effective extraction and content management steps, improper drying can allow for secondary harmful effects like mold colonies to develop. We utilize many tools and are careful about their placement to maximize their output and performance in the drying zones. This continual monitoring shows when these units should get moved or positioned in more damaged areas of the structure.

Flooding can be a challenging obstacle for even our certified and experienced SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno team. We have a fast response and extensive inventory of recovery tools to help your property however it needs after a flood loss. We are ready to respond 24/7 when you call (408) 600-2020.

Can I Call the Pros at Any Time for Fire Damage Help in Los Gatos?

6/22/2020 (Permalink)

We are available 24/7 for emergency cleanup and restoration.

The SERVPRO Fire Damage Crew is Available 24/7 to Come to Your Los Gatos Home

It often feels overwhelming and hopeless when your Los Gatos home is involved in a fire. Whether you had a small kitchen fire or something on a larger scale, it is nice to know that you have help when you need it. SERVPRO wants you to know that we have technicians ready to go 24/7, and we can have a crew at your property in as little as four hours or less. Our professional advice and restoration techniques prevent damage and bring your home back to preloss conditions faster.

Is There Anything I Can Do Until the Fire Restoration Crew Arrives?

Until SERVPRO arrives to help with your fire damage in Los Gatos, it is vital that you do not enter your home until the first responders deem the structure safe. If you are able to enter before our arrival and you are advised it is okay to do so, getting the air moving with open windows and ceiling fans is an excellent way to start. Rest assured that once we arrive, our team works fast to quickly assess the damage to your home so that we may put the best plan into action. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, and you can count on us to follow all the steps for proper mitigation and restoration efforts.

Won’t Grime and Soot Get Tracked Throughout My Interior?

Something our technicians are diligent about is ensuring that we limit the potential for tracking from the fire loss zones into other areas of the house. Soot particles and residue stain household textiles and carpets quickly because of the nature of the oily base. We take a variety of measures to limit the loss and potential damage from debris moving throughout the interior, including:

• All technicians wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) as well as foot coverings to inhibit tracking.
• Total removal of soot and debris before any cleaning or deodorizing takes place.
• The use of dry sponges as well as industrial-strength vacuums with specialized attachments that facilitate easy removal of soot particles rather than embedding them further into fabrics.

What Can Be Done About Odors from Fire Damage?

Odors linger after a fire, which can be stronger depending on the types of materials involved. If burnt drywall, plastics, electrical components, and other materials send particles throughout your ventilation system, the odors are tough to tackle. However, we have IICRC-certified technicians ready to eliminate odors and keep particles from spreading into other areas of your home. We have a variety of deodorizing solutions we can add to any fire damage restoration project, including:

• Air scrubbers with powerful HEPA filtration
• Anti-microbials registered by the EPA
• Odor counteractant beads
• Ultra-low volume (ULV) and thermal fogging systems

Our crew formulates a plan using a combination of these methods and high-powered fans to facilitate odor removal while also drastically improving the air quality within the home.

Will All the Items Touched by Smoke and Soot Need to be Thrown Away?

The skilled technicians on your fire restoration job understand just how fast a home’s contents can become damaged to the point that they are no longer salvageable. To keep this from happening, we earmark items for removal or pack-out to be transported to our nearby facility where they are protected during the cleaning process. The crew carefully packs each item and safely boxes them up, cataloging everything to keep a record.

While at our facility, we have a broad range of specialty cleaning methods that allow us to remove belongings damaged by soot and smoke. The ultrasonic cleaning tank allows for items to be submerged where vibrations create thousands of tiny bubbles to gently jostle the soot particles lose. Items that respond well to ultrasonic cleaning methods include:

• Glass
• Silver
• Porcelain
• A variety of other hard materials

We always scrutinize each item before any cleaning methods to ensure they can handle the process. After everything has been cleaned up and dried, they are stored in our warehouse with a climate-controlled interior. Everything is logged with a QR code to make it easy to access by our technicians or our customers.

Once your fire restoration project comes to an end, everything is thoroughly cleaned and deodorized to ensure no foul odors linger. We also use specialized moisture detection tools to ensure that no moisture lingers from the water used to extinguish the flames. Should soot and smoke have traveled through your HVAC system, our crew has unique methods for sealing that keep the particles from leaving any trace of the fire. Everything gets done so that your home is just “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno is here when you need us for prompt, reliable fire damage services. Call (408) 600-2020 to have a crew deployed to your location in as little as four hours or less. We are available 24/7 for emergency cleanup and restoration.

My Kitchen Was Flooded When a Pipe Burst – What Happens Next?

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

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

SERVPRO's Los Gatos Team of Experts Provide Emergency Mitigation for Water Removal with the Right Equipment to Get the Job Done Quickly and Professionally 

In any flooding crisis, immediate water extraction is the main focus. First, our water damage technicians assess the situation and determine a course of action. Then they will bring in the proper equipment needed to deal with the water loss in your Los Gatos home. 

 What type of water extraction equipment gets used?

Fast mitigation to avoid things such as foul odors, deterioration of building materials or mold growth is crucial. The type of equipment used to handle water removal in your Los Gatos kitchen will depend on the extensiveness of the flooding. Some of the things we will look for are:

• Floor Damage – Is your floor hardwood, carpet, or linoleum? Is the substrate damaged? 
• Hidden Water – water can hide in interstitial spaces, crawl spaces, stairwells, and HVAC systems
• Ceiling Damage – Does your kitchen have a level below it that could cause damage to the ceiling?
• Walls or Drywall – Was the water loss severe enough to affect those areas?

Getting the Job Done with The Right Equipment

SERVPRO has the water extraction tools required for your specific situation. Depending on the extensiveness and the location of the water damage, the following may be used:

• Portable Pumps – A portable extraction system often works best in single room flooding.
• Truck Mounted Pumps – Rooms holding high amounts of water can require heavy duty pump systems.
• Portable Submersible Pumps – Often used when water is over 2" and the water is clean. 
• Rover – A highly maneuverable water extraction system that uses the technician's body weight to "push" the water out.
• Squeegee – Used on hard flooring with either a truck-mounted or portable pump.
• Carpet Wand – Used on carpeting with either a truck-mounted or portable pump.

The job doesn't end with just the right water extraction tools. We also use air movers, dehumidifiers, and monitoring tools to make sure your kitchen cleanup is "Like it never even happened."

If you have a flooding problem, call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600 – 2020. We are Faster To Any Size Disaster.

See more about Los Gatos

Should I Wet or Dry Clean My Walls After a Fire in My Los Gatos Home?

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Says Protect your Los Gatos Home from fires by installing smoke detectors--or call us for cleanup and restoration

SERVPRO Fire Restoration Specialists Assess the Conditions of Your Home to Determine the Appropriate Cleaning Method

Even the smallest fire in Los Gatos can cause significant damage to your walls and ceilings. Before you immediately start washing your walls, it is vital to determine the best cleaning method for your particular situation. If your fire consisted mostly of natural materials like paper or wood, the smoke residue is generally dry, while synthetic materials produce wet residue, requiring a different cleaning technique. It is also entirely possible that the fire may consist of more than one type of residue.

What is the Difference Between Wet and Dry Cleaning Methods?

SERVPRO Technicians Use Both Methods to Remove Smoke Residue

You may encounter both wet and dry smoke residues when dealing with fire damage in your Los Gatos home. Just as the names indicate, wet cleaning requires the use of liquid to remove the residue, and dry cleaning implements the use of vacuums and sometimes dry sponges on porous surfaces.

What Does the Dry-Cleaning Method Entail?

• Dry smoke often does not stain as deeply as wet smoke, but it can cause more damage because dry smoke fires are usually hotter.
• Dry cleaning uses less aggressive methods, such as vacuuming.
• Technicians use dry sponges to remove residue from porous surfaces.

Wet Should I Know About Wet Cleaning?

• Wet cleaning has three steps: wash, rinse, dry.
• It is essential to test a small spot on the wall to make sure you are choosing the right type of cleaning solution and technique.
• Technicians should use a towel to apply the cleaning solution, moving in one direction only.

With both types of cleaning, it is important to protect your furniture by covering it. It is also critical to clean the ceilings first to avoid having to clean the walls twice. Sometimes, when the residue causes deep stains, technicians may choose to restore the walls by painting them.

For assistance after a fire, contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020.

Help! Who Can Perform Water Removal for My Los Gatos Office Space?

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

When your office refrigerator is leaking, water damage can quickly escalate. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for your emergency.

SERVPRO Specialists Handle Commercial Water Removal for Los Gatos Businesses

A pipe leak, sprinkler malfunction, or refrigerator leak are all it takes to saturate commercial spaces and render them unusable. Without fast action, Los Gatos business owners can lose both time and money on costly repairs and lost revenue.

When you need fast-acting commercial water removal for Los Gatos businesses, SERVPRO technicians are ready to provide water damage extraction, sanitation, drying, and deodorization 24/7. This Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-certified franchise is prepared to help you get back to business quickly and safely.

What to Avoid When Confronted With Commercial Water Damage

• If electrical outlets or wiring have been affected by water, avoid power sources, and consult with a professional about turning off your power. If you are leasing your office space, contact the property owner immediately.
• Rudimentary drying with fans may help a little with drying, but the moist air circulated by fans can potentially create secondary damages in your space. SERVPRO’s drying equipment both pulls moisture out of surfaces and removes it from the air.
• Do not delay in dealing with water damage, as it can lead to mold growth and structural concerns in as little as 48 hours. Faster mitigation means fewer losses and costly repairs.

SERVPRO Restores Your Office Space

Vinyl flooring in an office break room can delaminate after water exposure from a refrigerator leak. While these tiles may require removal, SERVPRO techs can often salvage drywall that has been saturated by a leaky supply line. If more thorough structural repairs are needed after mitigation, technicians can address this for you by hanging new drywall, repainting, and installing new flooring.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno provides emergency-response mitigation service that is Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call (408) 600-2020 to start the cleanup process 24/7, including weekends and holidays.

Click here for more information about Los Gatos.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

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

Let us help you get back to business

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

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

Extensive training and specialized products

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

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

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

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

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

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

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

Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno today at (408) 600-2020 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

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

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

Silicon Valley is Impacted by the Pandemic

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians wear different kinds of gloves depending on the type of biohazardous cleaning and disinfection required.

Specialty, Preventative Cleaning is Offered by SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno

Most of our clients and residents in Los Gatos and surrounding areas are increasingly concerned about the spread of the virus. Practicing social distancing and sheltering at home certainly helps to flatten the curve. So does frequent cleaning of touchpoints and surfaces. As good as these actions are, have you considered hiring professional assistance for cleaning?

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno has years of experience dealing with bio-hazard situations caused by flooding and mold contamination. We routinely remediate sewage spills, crime scenes, locations sites of abandoned death. We know how to perform advanced environmental cleaning in Silicon Valley. We use the latest Environmental Protection Agency approved disinfectant and cleaning agents.

    •    Trained and certified technicians
    •    Experienced Crews. Our experts have done this sort of work before with SARS
    •    Exceeds CDC guidelines and OSHA safety standards
    •    Professional Equipment not available to the public
    •    Access to commercial-grade cleaning products
    •    Flexible workhours - 24/7

Stop the spread of pathogens, protect family, friends, and associates by using professional cleaning for your home or business (opened or closed). We have the capacity to help you immediately. We would be pleased to discuss your needs and concerns. We offer one-time and routine cleaning service to help prevent infection from this virus.

Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno for help to clean your home or business at (408) 600-2020 Los Gatos.

For more about Silicon Valley click here.

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

Can I Clean My Kitchen Surfaces After a Fire in my Los Gatos home?

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

We make it, “Like it never even happened.”

The Professionals at SERVPRO Assess The Damage and Restorability of Items in Your Los Gatos Home

Before experiencing a fire first hand, you probably did not consider how fire in Los Gatos impacts your home and everything within it. The extent of the damage often depends on what caused the fire and what items burnt.

Does Everything Have to Be Thrown Away?

SERVPRO Restoration Specialist Work to Restore Salvageable Items
The impact of fire damage in your home can be far-reaching. A relatively straightforward kitchen fire in Los Gatos can produce lingering smoke smells that last for weeks or even months if not addressed right away. It is preferable and typically less costly to attempt to clean and restore rather than replace items.

What Are Some Factors That Impact Whether an Item is Cleanable or Not?
    •    Type and age of surface: The more porous the surface, the more difficult it is to clean. The older the surface, the harder it is to clean because it becomes more porous with age.
    •    Amount of heat: The hotter the fire, the more difficult it is to clean.
    •    Moisture levels: Higher moisture levels cause more staining, especially in cases where firefighters extinguished the fire with water or a sprinkler system went off.
    •    Type of material: Synthetic items such as plastic create thick liquid residues that are very difficult to remove.

These are just some factors that impact whether or not your kitchen surfaces are cleanable. Changes in air movement and density can affect the density of the residues as well. Our professionals come equipped with extensive fire knowledge, the right cleaning techniques, and appropriate products. Our goal is to restore over replace items whenever possible.

Contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 for 24/7 assistance. We make it, “Like it never even happened.”

For more about Los Gatos click here.

Will the Walls and Floors with Floodwater Dry on Their Own?

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

Do you have storm damage in your Los Gatos home? Call SERVPRO to mitigate the flood issues that containmentated your house.

SERVPRO Has the Advanced Equipment to Make Water Damage a Thing of the Past in Your Los Gatos Home

When floodwater enters your Los Gatos home, the timer starts ticking on the loss. Even an inch of water can wind up behind the baseboards, within the sheetrock and seep into the flooring. It is crucial to get the water extracted and the property dried as soon as possible after the water loss event to limit the damage to the structure and contents.

What Are Some of the Dangers of Floodwater in a Home?

Even brief exposure to flood damage can leave a Los Gatos home with a host of restoration challenges. When entering the loss area, be aware of the following scenarios:

• Warped floorboards
• Delaminated resilient tiles can cause slip and fall accidents
• Floor outlets in contact with the water can cause shock
• Possible contaminants make the water dangerous to handle
• If you remove anything from the water, wear gloves and other needed PPE personal protective equipment. Leave other items in location for SERVPRO techs to inspect and clean

Testing the Water Before Cleanup is Vital

When floodwater enters your home, it picks up anything on the way there. If it flows through mud, chemicals, or a backed-up drain containing sewage, all of it has the potential to contaminate your house. There are different types of water testing that SERVPRO technicians have access to. They can tell if any harmful bacteria or pathogens are present in the water and treat it proactively before handling it during mitigation efforts.

Can I Use a Wet/Dry Vac to Remove Floodwater?

Household shop vacuums are great for removing small amounts of liquids from surfaces; however, they lack the pulling power needed to extract embedded moisture from within flooring and wall cavities. The portable pumps brought on-site by SERVPRO can remove more water at an expedited pace, and ready the loss area for drying much faster.

Particular Actions Needed for Flood Loss Affecting Walls

Water wicks rapidly into building materials when it enters the home. This extent of the damage may not be readily evident through visual inspection. When scoping a room for the migration paths of water, it can wind up in surprising areas, far away from the origination point of the loss. The techs use different types of detection equipment to "see" behind walls and under most flooring types to detect elevated areas of moisture, so they know where to focus their efforts. The sheetrock continues to wick moisture, and it can travel several inches upward. The techs measure over the highest watermark on the wall referred to as a "waterline" and cut the sheetrock off several inches above that point. This halts any further loss and makes repairs easy after the mitigation efforts complete.

Flooring Needs Fast Action for Floodwater Removal

SERVPRO technicians get to work on arrival and begin extraction efforts and moving items out of the flood loss area. The type of flooring and water depth dictates the kind of water extraction equipment needed. When water is greater than two inches deep, submersible and truck-mounted pumps, get used until the water is low enough to bring in other forms of extraction equipment. Portable pumps are ideal for allowing the techs to move quickly around a loss area and pull up the water. Squeegees and other manual tools such as mops get used on slab substrate to ready it for drying.

Laminate vinyl tile flooring often has seepage issues into the subfloor and may lose adhesion. Hardwood floorboards get inspected on a case by case basis for restoration through the advanced drying and cleaning applications. Composite flooring tends to react poorly to water exposure and many times is a loss. Ceramic tile frequently holds up against even extensive floodwater when the seal on the grout remains intact.

Items That May Have No Recovery Potential After a Home Flood

Although the advanced cleaning and restoration methods go a long way towards helping property owners lessen loss after a flood in their home, some things may not be recoverable. Groundwater carries a rating as a class three biohazard for a good reason; there are often numerous harmful elements present. For that reason the following items usually have no restoration potential after exposure to floodwater:

• Saturated carpet and padding
• Sofas and loveseat with warped or cracked frames from swelling
• Pillows and fabric items
• Food items compromised by the water needs disposal
• Electronics need to get inspected by an industry professional to see if they require repair and are safe for use
• Composite flooring fares poorly against water absorption

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 has certified technicians available 24/7 to handle any size flood damage cleanup and restoration in your home, call today.

What Steps Should be Taken for Commercial Water Removal in Los Gatos

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Even in sunny California, water damage happens. SERVPRO is available to restore your business. Call us today!

Essential Precautions during Water Removal in Los Gatos to Help Keep You in Business

Water spills in Los Gatos can lead to significant inconvenience, including the disruption of regular business operations. However, the circumstances can worsen if the spilled water intrudes on other areas within your business premises or nearby businesses. Involving a professional like SERVPRO can help contain the problem through expedited removal and other steps.

Stopping the source is a crucial step before starting the industrial water removal process from your Los Gatos business premises. Stopping the source can involve steps such as turning off the mains if there is a burst pipe or installing roof tarps in case there is a leak in the roof. Our SERVPRO support staff can guide you on locating and shutting off mains, or dispatch technicians immediately to install tarps protecting the interior of the business premises from further losses.

Fast extraction is another crucial step, mainly when a significant volume of water spills since gravity aided flow and other actions can spread faster, reaching unwanted areas. Our SERVPRO technicians use multiple units of high capacity pumps to extract standing water from your premises, thus halting the spread of water, especially to adjacent businesses.

Once water spills, evaporation also starts immediately, leading to high humidity inside your business premises. Such high levels of humidity can cause many secondary problems, including moisture migration to areas unaffected by the main water spill. Such moisture can damage various contents, including electronics whose internal components can rust. Although it is not possible to prevent evaporation, our SERVPRO technicians can take alternative steps to prevent secondary damage. By setting up dehumidifiers around the loss site immediately after arrival, we can extract excess humidity from the air. We also regulate temperature using the heating system at your premises or using portable heaters, thus preventing condensation, which also leads to secondary damages.

A water loss incident can push you out of business if not correctly addressed. Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 to help take steps to manage an incident, "Like it never even happened."

More about Los Gatos.

Is There Someone Who Can Perform Water Removal For My Los Gatos Laundry Room On Weekends?

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Incidents involving water damage can quickly happen. Respond just as fast with a call to Team SERVPRO for effective services.

SERVPRO Techs Provide Water Removal for Los Gatos Homes

Whether the damage comes from an overfilled washing machine spilling water everywhere or a damaged water supply line, it can be stressful for homeowners to deal with when these failures happen. However, there is a team that is always available to assist you. 

SERVPRO technicians can come to your home within hours of your initial contact to perform water removal for your Los Gatos home's laundry room. 

Why Is It Important to Perform Water Removal Quickly?

Water damage acts more quickly than you might think, which can end up costing you even more in repairs in the long run.

• Water saturates surfaces within minutes of contact.
• Within the first 24 hours, drywall can begin to break down. Metals can tarnish and finishes from nearby furniture may bleed and stain flooring.
• In the first 48 hours, mold can begin to grow. You may start noticing a musty odor. Paint on waterlogged walls may begin to blister.  
• In the first week, water damage can significantly affect your home's drywall, flooring, and subflooring, as well as potentially corrode metal surfaces in your laundry room. Electrical systems might be vulnerable due to moisture exposure.
• After more than a week, professional mitigation is a must for restoring your home. Demolition of some structural materials may be necessary to return it to a safe condition. 

How Does SERVPRO Dry My Kitchen After Water Damage?

If your laundry room area is small, SERVPRO techs can focus on moving affected furniture, like chairs and tables, to a different area of the home for cleaning with EPA-registered antimicrobial solutions and drying with air movers and dehumidifiers. Weep holes may be drilled to address moisture accumulation in and behind your walls, and exterior walls may need insulation temporarily removed. Porous insulation solutions like cellulose or cotton may need to be disposed of entirely to prevent the risk of mold proliferation in your home. 

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno aids homeowners with service that makes their properties look, "Like it never even happened." You can call (408) 600-2020 at any time of the day or night to begin cleanup.

Click here for more information about Los Gatos.

How SERVPRO Remediates Smoke Damage in Los Gatos

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

We are equipped and always on call to remediate your fire damage emergency.

The Biggest Problem in This Los Gatos Home Was Not Fire Damage 

Sometimes the most significant challenge after a fire damage event in a home is not the charring but the smoke residues left behind. Unless they get cleaned properly, the potential spread or ruin structure or contents remains.  

When working on fire damage in a Los Gatos home, SERVPRO techs pay special attention to the scope of the loss, including where the residues and soot landed.  

Testing and Cleaning 

After a fire loss in a home, the techs remove items too charred for restoration. This assists in limiting the spread of soot and lowering the odors in the house. The techs test the smoke residues and choose cleaning agents contingent on the types of smoke and surfaces getting cleaned, which ensures that additional damage from incorrect cleaning methods does not occur.  

Typical Residue Cleaning Situations

There are two primary types of smoke damage left behind after a fire. The first is dry smoke, and it requires careful cleaning. Any wet cleaning product can drive this type of residue deeper into surfaces, so special care gets taken to lift it using dry cleaning sponges before the surfaces undergo further measures. Wet smoke tends to have a grip on whatever it is on and often requires the use of a solvent-based cleaner to lift it away. During the previously done testing, the techs choose the appropriate methods so the residues get lifted away without any marring of surfaces. 

Residues on Contents

Smoke residues on contents in the fire loss area get handled on a case by case basis. Several different methods are depending on the construction materials of the object. Non-porous items routinely get cleaned using the immersion method. This application immerses the item in a cleaning solution to remove the smoke and restore it to its pre-fire condition. Upholstery and fabric items such as window treatments get addressed on an individual basis due to the diversity of fabric types and dye methods. 

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 brings professionalism, knowledge, and experience to local properties with fire damage. Using their advanced restoration methods, they make the fire loss, "Like it never even happened." 

More about Los Gatos.

Water Removal Los Gatos – Avoid Damage to Structures

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

There are solutions to your Los Gatos water damage, call SERVPRO today.

Water damage to your Los Gatos home has more to it than you realize.

Clients occasionally try to avoid removing moisture from their homes. Perhaps the household is too busy to deal with the disruption. Many are not aware of the potential damage that can be caused by water and moisture if the source is not removed and the structure dried. Some are concerned about the cost of having their home checked for moisture and the subsequent work needed to dry the home and make repairs.

SERVPRO provides water removal, moisture mitigation, and restoration services in Los Gatos and the surrounding areas. Our service people live in the community and follow IICRC standards for water removal and restoration. We work closely with your insurance company adjuster and can help with much of the administrative work associated with a claim. Our trucks, equipment, and technicians are available 24 / 7, and in most situations, we are on-site in less than 4 hours from the time of your call.

Long Term Exposure Can Cause Damage

Structural portions of your home exposed to water and moisture for an extended period may become infested with mold, the structure may lose support capabilities, and your family may experience health-related issues from mold even if it is inside walls. Mold begins multiplying after 48 hours. Why take a chance, call SERVPRO for professional help and avoid more expensive solutions later?

Address water leaks inside your home immediately. Repair the leak and begin efforts to remove pooled water. Mops and pails can help to remove much of the water, but clients should consider professional help, once moisture migrates into carpeting, underpadding, and inside walls.

SERVPRO can utilize weighted extractors to remove water from carpets and underpadding. Directed air movers can force air inside walls through small holes. We cut these small holes to force air into the wall or cavity to dry the area. We utilize moisture meters and infrared cameras to detect moisture inside walls and hard to reach crevices. We can dry your floor materials, walls, and structure quickly to avoid long term issues.

Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve Lexington Hills, San Jose, and surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

To find out more about Los Gatos, click here.

What to do About Water Damage in Your Los Gatos Home

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has teams ready to help you 24/7. Give Us a call today!

SERVPRO Knows all the Steps to Repair Water Damage After your Property Suffers a Water Incident

Water streaming down walls and on to the floor from a leaky pipe in your bathroom wall is not the sight that most homeowners want to see when they wake up in the morning. As humans in a busy go-go-go world, we have routines engraved into us, and when they become disrupted, many people have a tough time adjusting. In these cases, professional assistance to deal with the damages can ease the impact on your routine. 

If you have water damage in your Los Gatos home, SERVPRO can assist you in the restoration process. We are available 24/7 and have an emergency response team that can assess the situation right away. The sooner you stop the leak and begin the cleaning and restoration process with professional assistance, the sooner you are back to your routine. 

SERVPRO professional restorers understand the importance of mitigating damages right away. The more prolonged moisture sits behind walls and on floors, the more likely it is to have secondary damages such as mold infestations and warped flooring that can cost both you and your insurance company as well as prolong the restoration process. 

Technicians have extensive training on restoration equipment ranging from luminometers to centrifugal air movers and when and how to use them. For instance, a luminometer (ATP) is for testing surfaces and water for organic contamination and is useful for bathroom leaks when the homeowner is unsure if the water is contaminated. If it is contaminated, technicians take more precautious and extensive measures to ensure the home is cleaned correctly. A centrifugal air mover helps direct air to a specific place within the home when drying wet surfaces. They also are knowledgeable about the appropriate use of chemical cleaning products such as mildew stats and biocides. 

SERVPRO is a premier home restoration company, priding ourselves in excellent results and extensive knowledge in the industry. We are also available to help at any time we are needed. For assistance, any time of day, any day of the year, contact the restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020. We make it, "Like it never even happened."

Learn more about Los Gatos.

Some Warning Signs of Commercial Flood Damage Remediation Problems in Los Gatos

2/29/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure that your patrons don't find a new place for their celebrations. Contact SERVPRO for flood damage remediation efforts.

Don’t Let Commercial Flood Damage in Your Restaurant in Los Gatos Become a Nightmare

When you run a restaurant, the last thing you want to face is any disaster or flooding. You have hungry patrons counting on you as well as employees that need to work to support themselves. The faster that you get back up and running after commercial flood damage, the better. This is where our team of skilled technicians at SERVPRO can help to make sure that food preparation and customer traffic can resume as promptly as possible. 

Commercial flood damage in your Los Gatos restaurant can move quickly, migrating throughout the entire main level of the property. The main objective of mitigating a flood loss event is to limit migration and protect as many areas as possible. Be proactive by calling SERVPRO to the scene so that we can start with an immediate assessment followed by a plan of action.

Substantial risks come along with natural flooding, which calls for the help of trained professionals to ensure smooth mitigation. With gray water (category 2) and black water (category 3), each type of water poses significant threats in the form of bacteria and contamination. In order to limit risk in your building, we utilize controlled demolition and specialized reconstruction efforts to address exposed porous materials. Such materials we remove include wooden furniture and fixtures, drywall, and carpeted areas to ensure contamination does not spread.

Our restoration specialists work closely with SERVPRO in-house commercial contractors to deploy our trusted water loss mitigation efforts. We take the time to pack out and clean items like tables, chairs, booths, and other furnishings so that the demolition and reconstruction go off without a hitch. 

It is our primary goal to get your restaurant back up and running, so we move quickly to remove water with high-powered pumps and vacuums. We also use industrial-strength drying equipment like air movers and dehumidifiers to ensure all moisture is removed from the property. Thermal imaging tools help us determine any areas of lingering moisture before we wrap up the restoration with a thorough cleaning and disinfecting. All of this is done to give your restaurant a clean bill of health so that you can resume daily business.

When you need help with commercial flood damage, our team at SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno is ready to get to work. Call us when you need us at (408) 600-2020, and we can get to work as soon as possible!

Click here for more information about Los Gatos.

Flood Damage Los Gatos – Entire Bottom Floor

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

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

Some of SERVPRO’s Flood Damage Mitigators Steps to Restoring Your Home After Flood Damage

Torrential downpours can cause a great deal of flash flooding. Storm drains, and channels cannot handle the massive amounts of water that cascades down streets and often into homes. Depending on the elevation, the entire bottom story of a home may flood with water. Two-story homes at least have some space for homeowners to place themselves out of harm's way.

SERVPRO has provided flood damage restoration services in Los Gatos and surrounding areas for many years. We are available on a 24 / 7 basis to respond to our client's needs and help recover from devastating disasters. We have the equipment and trained team members to remove the water, dry, and clean your home.

Flood Cuts and Carpet Removal

Floodwaters contain many hazards; some are biohazards, while others may be chemical. These hazards can be dangerous to human health, and we urge clients to protect themselves in flooded areas. SERVPRO initially makes an assessment and prepares a plan to deal with the damage from the floodwaters.

We remove the water and any debris carried into the home. Next, we remove all carpeting and items damaged beyond repair. We make flood cuts several inches above the high water mark on your walls. The damaged drywall is removed, and any water and moisture that penetrated the wall are removed.

Tiled floors and all other hard surface items are cleaned and decontaminated. Spaces under the floor and inside cupboards, as well as crevices, are checked for moisture and contamination. If water is detected, SERVPRO can drill holes to access the area. We pump the water out, and we use specialized vacuums and drying equipment to dry these hard to reach spaces completely.

We aim to clean, dry, and restore your home to its preloss conditions, "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos /Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve Cambrian Park, Lexington Hills, and surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

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We Can Help You with Kitchen Disasters by Eliminating the Effects Fire Damage Makes in Your Los Gatos Apartments Kitchen

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Your homes fire damage needs SERVPRO's tools and reliability. Call us anytime at (408) 600-2020.

Fire Damage In Your Los Gatos Home Requires Professional Assistance For a Successful Restoration

No matter what kind of cuisine is your family’s favorite, accidents can happen when cooking a meal in Los Gatos. When such accidents involve food that caught on fire, more than dinner ends up ruined. The pot or skillet might never come clean enough to use again, the walls and ceiling now have thick, black, greasy soot coating them, and the acrid, clinging scent of burnt food starts to invade the rest of your home.

We can take the current state of your home in Los Gatos, mitigate the fire damage, and restore everything, so you feel, “Like it never even happened.” Starting with cleaning soot from walls, blinds, windows, ceilings, floors, and countertops, we remove a large portion of what causes burnt smells. 

Many materials in modern houses burn quickly, catching fire easily, and helping spread the flames. Because of this, oftentimes, a great deal of structural damage occurs. We can replace such materials, but this portion of the restoration work must wait until cleanup, drying out of firefighters’ water, and deodorization takes place. We take measurements of the materials as we remove them to help keep costs as low as possible while still ensuring that all necessary building materials are ready when needed.

With fire damage, the smoke damage that occurs can range from soft and flaky, which is fairly easy to remove, to greasy, and more difficult to clean away from surfaces. Smoke from cooking is more often oily and sticks to surfaces, requiring us to use solvents and other cleaning agents to reveal surfaces below. During this time, we also check for damage from the heat, which can cause blistering on painted surfaces.

When firefighters use water to put out a fire, a lot of the water ends up in the air, first starting out as steam and then condensing farther away, on cooler surfaces. We use different measures to remove this moisture and dry the interior of your residence, making the rest of the repairs possible. 

Deodorizing your kitchen alone may not suffice. Smoke particles travel throughout your property, just as the steam did. Even if you extinguished the fire yourself before it grew too large and required the fire department, both smoke and water could spread farther than you might realize. We use different deodorizing methods to ensure that the entire odor problem is under control.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno is near Cambrian Park, serving Lexington Hills and San Jose. When fire damage ruins any part of your residence, call us at (408) 600-2020, year-round, 24/7.

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Los Gatos Water Loss Recovery from Scoping to Completion--Count on SERVPRO

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage Cleanup, Drying, and Restoration--from the Basement to the Second-Floor in a Los Gatos Home--SERVPRO Answers the Call

Water Damage Restoration in Los Gatos

Water restoration can either be easy and straightforward or involve rebuilding certain sections or your Los Gatos home. The process of restoring your house into its pre-damaged condition entails water removal, decontamination, and drying. These processes should be handled by trained, skilled, and experienced water damage professionals. In the case of water damage in Los Gatos, it is important to act fast to reduce losses and associated health risks. For instance, moisture and standing water facilitate the growth of bacteria and mold, while prolonged exposure to these conditions can cause health effects.

SERVPRO is a reputable water damage restoration company in Los Gatos. We have been offering cleanup and recovery services to residential and commercial property owners at affordable costs for many years. The process of restoring a water-damaged home to its pre-damaged condition starts with thorough research followed by the replacement of the floor, walls, and ceilings if needed. The extent of damage can determine the cost of restoration and the amount of time needed. Our professionals are highly trained, experienced, fully insured, and have met the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards. As a trustworthy restoration company, we have an A+ Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings and positive reviews from our previous clients.

The Steps We Follow in the Restoration Process

Step 1: Inspection – knowledgeable SERVPRO personnel, a project manager or a crew leader, inspect your home to determine the class and category of the water damage.

Step 2: Water removal – to remove water, we use high tech pumps and vacuums. The type of equipment we use depends on the water damage extent and size of your home.

Step 3: Drying – drying and dehumidification follows after absorbent surfaces and standing water have been carefully vacuumed. Drying removes any remaining moisture, and it can take from a day to a week or more.

Step 4: Cleaning – We clean and sanitize personal items to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. Soft items like draperies, clothing, and carpeting washed using high-grade, formulated products.

Step 5: Restoration – finally, the restoration process involves replacing materials or restoring them to preloss condition, "Like it never even happened."

Our investment in top-notch equipment and training professionals is why SERVPRO of Los Gatos is a leading restoration company in the area. Contact us at (919) 790-1222 for 24/7 service.

Tackling the Water Damage in Your Los Gatos Commercial Space

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

Your Los Gatos water damage can take a toll on your business, let us remove the stress off your plate.

Let SERVPRO help you through your Los Gatos commercial water loss, we will show you the way.

You already have a lot on your plate when running your business, so the last thing you need is to think about delegating tasks when faced with water damage. Because an unexpected disaster can happen at any time, you will find that keeping SERVPRO’s contact information handy ensures that you get the timely results you need. 

Commercial water damage in Los Gatos is one of the most common disasters that impacts local businesses. SERVPRO utilizes an Emergency READY Profile Plan--ERP-- to help you speed up the restoration process. Once this Plan is put into place, we have an open line of communication so that we can serve your business best throughout the crisis.

It is vital to spring into action to begin drying after a flood or water leak in your commercial space. Damp conditions eventually destroy building materials that could have otherwise been salvaged if addressed sooner. SERVPRO technicians remove any standing water after your commercial space suffers water loss. 

If you had a leak with your plumbing, we refer to the ERP to determine the best openings and entryways for using extraction equipment, dehumidifiers, and air movers. Proper placement enhances performance levels, helping SERVPRO technicians ensure that the air, structural materials, and all contents are dried adequately.

In addition to extraction equipment and water removal tools, our technicians use a variety of devices to detect, measure, and remove moisture throughout your commercial space. No moisture must be left behind, as it can create the perfect climate for dangerous mold and mildew growth. Along with moisture detection and restoration, we leave no stone unturned and make sure that all surfaces are thoroughly disinfected after the drying process is complete.

Do you need to make sure that your commercial space gets back to normal quickly after getting hit with water damage? There is no task that is too big or too small for our trained experts at SERVPRO of Los Gatos. Once you call us for emergency service at (408) 600-2020, we send out a team as quickly as possible to start the assessment and restoration process.  

To see more about Los Gatos, click here.

How to Handle Water Damage Challenges in Los Gatos With Ease

1/5/2020 (Permalink)

Regardless of the type of flooring that sustained the water damage, contact team SERVPRO for effective remediation services right away.

Better Handling of Unexpected Water Damage Incidents in Los Gatos  

Water spills are expected to cause damage if materials in the affected area are porous or susceptible to water damage in other ways. Water loss incidents readily damage carpets, wood, and composite materials, but vinyl and ceramic or stone tiles can withstand the effects of such incidents. However, damages can affect the resilient materials too.

Damage to Vinyl Floors

You might not feel worried about water damage in your Los Gatos home if you have a vinyl floor because the moisture does not affect the material. However, depending on how the Vinyl Composite Tiles are installed, problems may develop. The two standard installation methods are gluing-down or snapping them together. Moisture can affect the adhesives holding down the tiles damaging the floor. Our SERVPRO technicians use non-penetrative moisture meters to check for the presence of moisture below the surface. We also check whether the glues holding the tiles may contain asbestos.

Signs of Trouble

Damages to such floors manifest in different ways. For example, when water migrates through vinyl tiles installed over concrete, it comes up with a chalky residue. For tiles installed over particleboard, plywood, or Celotex underlayment, you might notice an increased occurrence of squeaking because of warping or other imperfections on the subfloor. In most cases, our SERVPRO technicians have to replace the tiles in the affected areas and dry the subfloor.

Damage to Stone and Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tiles are made from a wide range of materials, including stone, glass, or ceramic. There are other varieties like quarry tiles and Terra Cotta. Damage to such floors depends on the underlying subfloor. If there is moisture intrusion, there might be a need to remove the tiles to take care of the subfloor. Alternatively, our SERVPRO technicians use specialized drying procedures, which rely on high temperatures and low humidity. We can use a negative pressure system or drying mats.

Water can damage the unexpected in your Monte Sereno, Cambrian, or ParkLexington Hills home. Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 to help manage such an incident, "Like it never even happened."

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Residential Flood Damage in Los Gatos

12/29/2019 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020.

Using Quiet Electric Submersible Pumps for Residential Flood Damage in Los Gatos

Flooding can have a debilitating effect on your everyday life. In the worst-case scenarios, you may even have to temporarily relocate during restoration if the structure of your home becomes unsafe or is at risk of further flooding. However, it is often possible to stay in your home while recovery takes place. Staying in the property can pose its problems as water removal equipment, and drying procedures can be noisy. It can stretch beyond a month to get your home back to the way it was before the flood.

Most homeowners seek out professional flood damage restoration services here in Los Gatos. Local providers have an advantage as they can arrive at the property quickly and return regularly to measure the effectiveness of the drying procedure. One drawback of using regional companies is that they may lack the resources, equipment, or expertise to perform their role to your standards. At SERVPRO, we use local technicians with the backing of national resources. By doing so, we can provide qualified technicians with state-of-the-art equipment to this community.

Pumping standing water out of your home is an essential mitigation task. Water migrates, it is heavy, and it can absorb into materials or degrade with long-term exposure. All of these factors can lead to permanent losses in your home. However, there is a litany of different pumping equipment, with each one having its benefits and drawbacks. Being able to choose the correct equipment for the right job can speed up a restoration service. SERVPRO technicians stock self-priming trash pumps, high-pressure pumps, and electric submersible pumps.

In flooding scenarios, the most common pump we use is the electric submersible pump. Electric submersible pumps are useful because they do not suffer from suction lift limitations. These pumps are waterproof and adaptable, coming in either portable or truck-mount. For a homeowner, electric submersible pumps are the least invasive. Electric motors are significantly quieter than petrol motors; however, if there are solids, we may need to use trash pumps to get the job done.

We aim to get your property back to its best with minimum inconvenience to you. Contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020.

For more about Los Gatos click here.

We Are Available 24/7 To Restore Your Los Gatos Home After A Water Damage Disaster

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

Air movers working on drying a damaging water mishap in this home. We act fast to prevent further damage and make your home safe to live in again.

Small Leak, Big Problem

Sometimes a leak seems insignificant and easy to resolve. Something as simple as a bathroom with older plumbing with a small but continuous leak can be enough to invite a more significant issue into your home. The gradual saturation of your walls and floors may seem inconsequential, but in reality, it carries an enormous threat. Repairing the actual pipe may not be enough to protect your home from water damage, which is why reaching out to a professional service specialized in water restoration jobs is the smart thing to do.

If you are unsure of the extent of water damage to your home in Los Gatos, reach out to SERVPRO for our expert opinion. Our specialized team is available 24/7 to respond to your emergency. By calling, you gain access to our certified training and expertise, all devoted to restoring your home as soon as possible. Reach out to us before the damage escalates and causes further loss of time and money.

An important consideration when dealing with water damage is the nature of the water itself. The best scenario occurs when the leak is clean water because it is the least contaminated and the lesser threat to your health. However, even clean water can become a breeding ground for microbes, which is why it is so important to clean it up quickly. When gray water is the culprit (for example, water from bathtubs, toilets, or sinks), fungi may grow exponentially and trigger allergies or other reactions. In most extreme cases, black water can carry debris, human waste, and even chemicals, and this poses the most significant threat to your well-being. The common thread through these types of water is that bacteria are always present and needs elimination. Our SERVPRO crew is an expert in identifying the type of water and applying cleaning methods to resolve the situation.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno is an expert in water cleanup and restoration. With our help, water damage becomes a thing of the past. Call us at (408) 600-2020 and invite us into your home. Together, we can leave your house, “Like it never even happened.”

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Is Water Damage Clipping into Profits in Your Los Gatos Salon?

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can quickly remove standing water so that you can keep you salon open and styling hair.

When a Hose Springs a Leak, Your Los Gatos Salon Needs Commercial Water Removal from SERVPRO 

When your patrons visit your Los Gatos salon for a nail or hair appointment, they expect an immaculately clean environment. There are many warnings online about the health effects experienced by substandard hygiene in such settings, and many people fear contracting something from one of your earlier clients. Cleaning individual stations is not enough when a water leak affects the entire salon. 

What your now-soaked salon in Los Gatos needs are commercial water removal specialists. SERVPRO is always ready to get things cleaned up and looking their best again. Our Green Fleet arrives at your salon, packed with the equipment we need to get the water extracted, and the interior and contents dry. 

Immediately after a mishap with a water line occurs, calling SERVPRO for mitigation reduces associated problems significantly. You decrease the risk of loss to your product inventory, your equipment, and your store, eliminate slip and fall hazards, and might stay open instead of temporarily closing. We understand you need to minimize disruptions for as many clients as possible and assure your stylists and nail technicians about the situation's future. 

We design everything we do after removing standing water to remove any moisture absorbed into or trapped within the grout of your tiled floor, undersides of counters, and inside any upholstery or metal tubing of your stations' chairs. Drying these thoroughly and deodorizing, as well as applying protective emollients or oils where needed, restores everything “Like it never even happened.” 

Any openings around the base of chairs and other fixed equipment let water seep underneath. Although you cannot view this moisture, we need to get it removed, so damage to the area does not worsen and cause structural problems. Weak floors can pose a danger to your clients, provide habitable conditions for mold, or damage the surface of your tile floor. 

Losing the products sold to clients can hurt your profits, and replacing them causes your capital to dwindle. Barcode scanners make inventory tasks faster and more accurate. Cleaning up product samples and small items packaged wholly in plastic or metal containers can reduce further losses. 

We strive to meet your needs and exceed your expectations when providing you with commercial water removal services. Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 right after an emergency in Monte Sereno, Cambrian Park, and Lexington Hills. 

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How Flood Damage Leads to Mold Damage in Los Gatos

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage, left unattended, can cause mold growth. Don’t let this happen to your home! We can remediate the water and mold damage.

Flood and Mold Go Hand in Hand in Los Gatos

The unpredictability of the weather has become commonplace in California. It seems like we can be fighting floods at the same time fires are raging nearby. Whether it is fire or flood damage, homeowners must be alert and ready to act as soon as disaster strikes. Understanding the path to home restoration and the role a professional crew plays is key to mitigating both emotional and material losses. Knowing whom to approach in case of emergency is the responsibility of the property owner and essential in protecting your home.

Flood damage in Los Gatos is well within the scope of what we do at SERVPRO. Our technicians train with industry experts to anticipate the cumulative deterioration a flood can cause, and we turn our expertise into an action plan for your home. Understanding the principles behind water extraction and drying techniques allow us to be effective in restoring your home. Our staff is available around the clock.  As soon as it is safe to deploy, all you need to do is call us.

An essential consequence of flooding is the presence of mold. Increased humidity makes a friendly environment for mold to multiply, which is why our SERVPRO team attempts to manage moisture levels as soon as possible. Many ignore the temperature and the presence of organic materials. Both contribute to the proliferation of mold and need attention. A mere 12 hours is enough time for mold spores to multiply, and colonies can form in as little as 24 hours. Every minute that water is left standing is another minute for bacteria to grow and compromise the structure of your home and your possessions. To avoid health repercussions, all humans dwelling in your home should wear personal protective equipment, so microbes do not enter the body.

There are real repercussions to flood damage, and sometimes it is invisible to the average homeowner. Our staff at SERVPRO of Los Gatos/ Monte Sereno is an expert at addressing your restoration needs after an unfortunate event. All you need to do is call us at (408) 600-2020 and let us dispatch a crew to your home. Together, we can make it look, “Like it never even happened.”

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Water damage to your Los Gatos home.

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Water can spread to many unexpected areas of your Los Gatos residence. Let SERVPRO help you.

Removing Water from Unexpected Places in your Los Gatos home. 

When a water line breaks, or a pipe bursts, you are often left with removing water from your home. It seems easy enough to get rid of excess water, but moisture has a way of hiding throughout your home in unexpected places. Excess water can hide behind baseboards, in cabinets, and even under flooring. Excess moisture hanging in the air of your home can also lead to secondary damage.

Water removal in your Los Gatos home won't be as complicated if you use a professional service. SERVPRO technicians are experts in removing water and moisture from any home and are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Disasters don't always happen during business hours, and time is of the essence when you are removing water in your home. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

While you wait for the professionals at SERVPRO to arrive, you can try to remove as much water as possible from the spill site. Blotting with old towels or rags can remove some of the water to help reduce the risk of additional damage. If you have air conditioning, turn it on to keep air circulating through the home. You can also move any valuables or electrical cords off the floor to prevent more damage. While doing this, be sure to wear gloves. Even if the water looks clean, it could have contamination with bacteria or dangerous sludge. 

When the SERVPRO technicians arrive, they begin to extract the water by making as many passes over the impacted area as it takes to dry out the flooring in your home. After they remove the maximum amount of water, they use air movers to direct air toward places where water could hide. The air moves at such a high velocity that it enhances quick evaporation. At the same time, the technicians set up industrial-strength dehumidifiers to take away excess moisture. 

With the combined effort of the air movers and dehumidifiers, air circulates throughout the room and decreases the humidity levels. The humidity levels need to be below 50% to ensure there are no issues after the cleanup, such as mold infestations or foul odors. 

If your home needs water removal in Los Gatos, contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno for prompt help at (408) 600-2020. We make it, "Like it never even happened."

To find out more about Los Gatos, click here. 

Give Us A Call Anytime You Need Restoration Services In Los Gatos

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

We have experience, and state-of-the-art equipment to restore your home to pre-damage condition. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Scoping Los Gatos Water Loss Incidents for Efficient Recovery

Our involvement in water loss incidents that threaten Los Gatos homes can help to save customers time and money, primarily because of the effective tactics we utilize. Among the first steps that we take is to identify the full measure of the damage and what can be done to correct it, and this involves a blend of information provided by the job site, the property owner, and sophisticated tools our technicians can use. 

The initial assessment of water damage in Los Gatos homes is a thorough representation of the full migration of water and saturation. We seek to identify precise outer edges of the spread of these effects throughout your household, and by doing so, can better work to reduce moisture content and protect installed construction materials from requiring removal. 

To successfully learn the full scope of the water damage to your residence, our SERVPRO team arrives with advanced technology and discovery devices. Depending on the situation and the severity of the present loss incident, we can utilize multiple tools to identify the reach of the moisture and the ideal approach to restore and dry up these effects. 

• Moisture Sensors – These are primarily used for carpet and padding moisture, as it uses probes that can determine the migration of saturation and whether the subflooring material has become compromised. These units can detect where moisture exists, but cannot measure the concentration. 

• Thermal Imaging Cameras (Infrared Imagery) – These are portable detection devices that can quickly evaluate the extent of present moisture in building materials. They are ideal for identifying moisture you might otherwise never see and can help to double-check the success of drying efforts.

• Moisture Meters – Available in penetrating and non-penetrating models, moisture meters are available in various types and functions. We can utilize devices calibrated for specific affected materials that can quickly identify the moisture content of these materials. 

Identifying the extent of damage with these sophisticated tools can allow our SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno team to utilize the right drying methods quickly to protect your property. Give us a call anytime you need us at (408) 600-2020.

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Winning Tactics for Commercial Damage Remediation in Los Gatos

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage in a bar or restaurant is always a possibility. Have SERVPRO on speed dial for emergencies.

Call SERVPRO When Your Los Gatos Bar Suffers Water Damage 

Having your business interrupted by water damage is nothing any entrepreneur wants to suffer. However, developing a plan of action, in case of an emergency, is a wise choice for any business owner. Imagine a scenario where a pipe bursts on your property. What do you do? Whom do you call? Thinking ahead and making sure you have a general idea of what to do is the best thing that you can do for your property. 

Picture that the water supply line to one of the sinks, inside your bar, breaks and causes water damage to your Los Gatos property. Water spills out onto the floor and soaks the tile. The wall behind the sink becomes adequately soaked as well. In this situation, the best thing you can do to get your business back open as soon as possible is to call for professional help. 

Here at SERVPRO, we understand how vital your foot traffic is to you. A day closed is a day of revenue lost. For this reason, no matter what time the damage inside of your bar happens, we're open and ready to help you. Our schedule is your schedule. 

Our SERVPRO techs are highly trained and certified with the Institution of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC.) When you call us, we can rush to your location and get to work right away, using advanced equipment to help make our work go even faster. We can begin by removing any standing water using extractors and wet/dry vacuums. From there, we can help you take inventory of everything in the bar and then help you reach out to an electrician who can check to make sure the electronics behind your bar have not been damaged. 

From there, SERVPRO can bring in drying equipment, such as heaters, dehumidifiers, and axial fans, and set them up around the area. We use these tools to ensure that the moisture levels are returned to an adequate level. Once our work is done, we can return your bar to you, hopefully as if the damage never happened in the first place. 

If your business suffers sudden water damage, never wait. Communicate with SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno by dialing (408) 600-2020. No matter when you call, our techs are ready to help you. 

Click here for more information about the city of Los Gatos.

Proper Drying Is Crucial After A Flood In Your Los Gatos Home

10/26/2019 (Permalink)

Drying a property fully helps eliminate many problems, including microbial growth.

Steps That Ensure Proper Drying After Flood Damage Affects Your Los Gatos Property

If your property floods, you can expect a myriad of issues. However, wet materials and contents are likely the most significant challenges you might face. Ensuring your property dries fully is, therefore, an essential step in the restoration of flood damage. You must perform several steps to achieve the intended outcome, which is why it is crucial to involve a professional restorer like SERVPRO.

Thorough Water Extraction
Standing water causes a significant percentage of the flood damage affecting your Los Gatos property. Faster removal paves the way for other drying processes and also limits the extent of secondary damages that occur. Extracting water requires the right equipment. Our SERVPRO crews carry a wide range of water removal pumps, including self-priming trash pumps that remove water mixed debris. We also remove carpets and other porous materials covering surfaces to minimize the amount of moisture left over after the extraction process.

Ventilating the Property
For contents and building materials to dry, the moisture they absorb from floodwaters must evaporate into the air. Ventilating the property helps improve the drying process by ensuring the humidity levels in the air do not reach saturation levels. Our SERVPRO technicians use different approaches to help ensure this. For example, instead of opening windows and doors in the name of ventilating the home, we prefer a closed system whereby we use air movers to boost evaporation and dehumidifiers to regulate the humidity levels. We also create drying chambers for areas such as hardwood floors, which might require special attention.

Managing the Level of Wetness in Materials
It is possible to leave the drying process halfway done unintentionally, which can have grave consequences later on.  Some materials might be dry on the surface while moisture is still trapped deep inside.  Instead of casual observation, our SERVPRO technicians use various moisture detection equipment, including moisture meters with probes, to verify that all materials are dry to average moisture levels. For example, we check whether the moisture level in wood drops to around 10%, which is standard dryness.

Drying a property fully helps eliminate many problems, including microbial growth. Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 to help deal with the moisture issues from flooding, “Like it never even happened.”

For more about Los Gatos click here.

Call Us For Expert Water Removal Services In Los Gatos

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Air movers expedite the drying process and LGR dehumidifiers capture the airborne water vapor to help prevent more damage.

Can Los Gatos Water Removal Services Save Your Carpet After Emergency Water Damage?

The last thing anybody wants to come home to is a water-damaged house. Whether the damage comes from a leaky appliance or a hidden plumbing issue, water can spread quickly throughout your home, damaging the floors and carpets. SERVPRO responds to areas of carpet damage immediately, because without fast action it is less likely to be salvageable.

Carpet With No Pads

Also known as glue-down carpet, carpet with no pads is all surface and no depth. Our water removal services in Los Gatos address carpet damage with the use of specialized equipment. Light wands extract water from the surface, getting rid of pooled or residual moisture. Without a pad, the carpet is not as susceptible to sustaining permanent damage. In most cases, light wands are used with portable extraction units to make sure the water is removed efficiently.

Carpet With Pads

Professional-grade carpets need additional attention. SERVPRO technicians must pull up the carpeting and padding to see how deeply it has been affected by water. Moisture easily seeps down to the lowest levels of the carpet, causing damage over time. Light wands are not enough to extract water from a pad; instead, vacuum systems and deep extraction tools are employed, using motors and pumps to effectively remove what has deeply penetrated the material.

Types of Water

The potential to save your carpet relies heavily on the type of water that damaged it. There are three major categories of water damage: White Water, Gray Water, and Black Water. White Water is clean and uncontaminated, and can be removed from carpets safely. Gray Water is likely to be contaminated with elements such as dirt or urine. This can be effectively removed from carpets, but additional steps might need to be taken to sanitize the area before it is safe to be a part of the home again. Black Water is completely contaminated by fecal matter and hazardous materials. Carpet that has been damaged by Black Water must be removed completely and cannot be salvaged.

Do not let your carpet stay wet for too long. Depending on the type of water, our technicians can employ various techniques to restore your carpet back to its pre-damaged state. Contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 for expert water removal and restoration services.

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After A Water Damage Disaster In Your Los Gatos Home Call Our Professionals

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Call (408) 600-2020 to have a solution to your commercial or residential needs.

WHY SERVPRO Should Be Your First Choice After A Water Damage Event In Los Gatos

Probably you might have asked yourself WHY SERVPRO is highly rated when it comes to performing water damage restoration. Having the necessary logistics in place to attend to every situation with the urgency it deserves is the main secret behind our success is. We understand how crucial it is to respond immediately, even to a simple water spill. As a result, we have a standby emergency call-line that residents of Los Gatos can use to get in touch at any time of the day.

The use of advanced procedures and equipment during water damage restoration in Los Gatos explains WHY SERVPRO is a top choice. For instance, we can determine the presence of hidden moisture thought the use of moisture detectors. By using portable water extractors, we can quickly extract standing water from your property and prepare it for thorough drying and cleaning. We can also use appropriate sanitizing agents and deodorizing techniques to guarantee the safety and comfort of the home.

Having sophisticated and modern-day equipment is not enough to guarantee and successful restoration process. It explains why our SERVPRO technicians undergo advanced training that gives them substantial hand-on-experience. From the acquired experience, we can return your property to its preloss state using the shortest time possible. Remember, we have encountered such incidents before, and such expertise gives us an upper hand when dealing with similar events.

There is no better thing like being served by a service provider who understands the location so well. As a strategically positioned Franchise, we know the area so well - something that enables to be Faster to Any Size Disaster. Since we understand every failure is unique, we have to document everything as we analyze every situation to come up with the best restoration solution possible. We have the experience to work with the various insurance providers, which means the claims process cannot be stressful for you. We go as far as managing the insurance process and the related paperwork.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno is a locally owned business that works around the clock to serve all local communities. Call (408) 600-2020 to have a solution to your commercial or residential needs.

For more about Los Gatos click here.

How SERVPRO Removes Water from Hidden Cavities Inside Your Los Gatos Home

9/30/2019 (Permalink)

We drilled holes into the baseboard and used our InjectiDry System to remove water collecting inside the wall cavity.

Why SERVPRO Tops the List for Water Removal in Los Gatos 

One of the most common reasons a Los Gatos homeowner calls us for assistance is an appliance malfunction or a supply line break. Seemingly simple, these routine mishaps can change from an inconvenience to a disaster if not mitigated and remediated immediately and professionally. If the leak occurs while you are away at work or overnight hundreds of gallons of water can flow across your floors and seep into building cavities and down steps and walls. 

Water Location and Moisture Levels Are Key 

Ironically the original site of the incursion might need little in the way of water removal. Your Los Gatos home has many recesses where water migrates. Our team needs to employ sensitive moisture meters and infrared imaging technology to locate hidden caches of standing water and elevated levels of moisture in structural components. We also test the moisture levels of unaffected building materials in other spaces in your home to help establish drying goals. Proficiency in these procedures is why homeowners reach out to our professionals. 

Residential Properties Trap Moisture in Many Places 

When our crews discover water migrated into cabinets, behind walls, under floors, or in ceilings, we know we cannot wait for the moisture to drain or dry on its own. Water is corrosive, progressively damaging to most building materials. Moisture that lingers more than 24 to 48 hours also exposes a structure to a significant risk of mold growth and damage.

Controlled Demolition Assists Mitigation

Creating access for water extraction and efficient structural drying can require removal or modification of some building materials. Terms like flood cuts and weep holes describe ways our crew members open areas and devise strategies to release water and permit warm air to promote drying. SERVPRO technicians have the training and experience to cut away sections of drywall and drill holes in bulging ceiling tiles, paint or wallpaper, or mortar joints. These expertly performed tasks cause minimal damage that is straightforward for us to help you arrange to restore after water removal and drying completes. 

Training and experience are why SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno delivers successful and consistent water removal and drying services. Call (408) 600-2020 for a reliable response.

More about Los Gatos. 

We Make Your Los Gatos Home Safe To Live In Again After A Fire

9/30/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage in this home’s kitchen started as a grease fire on the stovetop. We had the right equipment for the cleanup and repair of the kitchen.

What Makes Soot a Hazard to Los Gatos Homes?

Soot is a nuisance after a fire in your Los Gatos home. As troublesome as it can be to remove it altogether, there are also ways that its presence can be a hazard to the health and wellbeing of those exposed. With how fine of matter soot is in the environment, one of the most significant risks it presents is to those breathing in these particulates. While the residue is primarily carbon produced when combustion does not complete, it can also be rife with acids, chemicals, and other potentially toxic substances.

As leading recovery specialists in the area, we know how to address all types of fire damage in Los Gatos properties. We have a roster of trained professionals accredited through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in many areas. We have Fire & Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT), Odor Control Technicians (OCT), Carpet Cleaning Technicians (CCT), and Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technicians (UFT.) Each of these niches of fire recovery plays a role in removing soot and smoke effects permanently.

Our SERVPRO team has specific training in addressing present soot conditions and removing this residue from surfaces and contents throughout the home. While many of your belongings can get focused treatment and cleaning with our content management team off-site, we do have strategies to help clean surfaces like countertops, walls, and other installed fixtures. The faster we can address these conditions, the less the acidic nature of soot residue can damage the substrate of hosting materials.

Chemical sponges and HEPA-filtered vacuums are vital elements to our battle with soot. Many homeowners have discovered how easily this residue can smear, staining the surface beneath and making it impossible to restore fully. To prevent unnecessary tear-out and reconstruction of affected materials and surfaces, trust in the fire recovery specialists we dispatch to your address.

No matter how a fire starts or spreads throughout your property, you need to know how to get your home back to preloss condition. Our SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno team has the experience and equipment to make all fire loss effects “Like it never even happened.” From soot removal to deodorization, we are here to help however you need by calling (408) 600-2020.

See more about Los Gatos.

Take The Stress Out Of Storm Damage Remediation In Los Gatos

9/30/2019 (Permalink)

When flooding and flood damage happens in your home, seek higher ground. Then contact SERVPRO for water removal and remediation services.

Why Wait for Professionals after Flood Damage in Your Los Gatos Home Yet Time is Critical

Flooding incidents can happen when least expected. Even when anticipated, the scope of damage can devastate you. Time is a critical factor during flood damage events because the longer a property remains submerged, the more damages occur. Although you might feel pressed to take actions to save your property, there are reasons why you might want to wait for professional help.

Incidents like flood damage affecting your Los Gatos home not only ruin your home but also lead to third party damages. These might include issues like vandalism and damage by weather elements from openings created during the main event leading to flooding. Instead of burdening yourself with intricate tasks such as cleanup, securing your property is one task you can focus on as you wait and make a difference. You can turn off power mains and seal any openings you find which might allow small animals or even people into your house. Taking such actions prevents unnecessary third party damages.

You might want to venture into your stricken house to save valuable contents or even check the extent of damages. However, entering a house after flooding is dangerous for several reasons including compromised structural integrity, presence of contaminants, and even small but dangerous animals seeking shelter in your property.  Professionals can assess the situation before entering the house to determine how safe it is. Our SERVPRO technicians also have various PPE, Personal Protective Equipment, including rubber boots, hard hats, rubber gloves, and other gear. They can, therefore, enter the flooded property with minimal risk.

Most of the tasks needed to restore the property to its preloss state require sufficient resources to carry out properly. For example, the contamination and soiling of surfaces might not go away easily. Our SERVPRO technicians rely on equipment such as pressure washers to remove sludge and mud. We also perform controlled demolition to removed contaminated materials such as drywall panels and carpets to ensure no traces of contamination remain.

A bungled restoration process after flooding can have long-term implications. Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno after an incident at (408) 600-2020 to help clean up and rebuild, "Like it never even happened."

Click here to learn more about Los Gatos.

SERVPRO Uses Advanced Equipment to Fight Water Damage in Your Los Gatos Home

8/23/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can inundate your entire home if not treated properly. Call the professionals at SERVPRO for remediation assistance.

Residential Water Damage Restoration In Los Gatos

Life along the Lexington Hills and the Sierra Azul is pretty nice for Los Gatos residents. The weather is a little cooler than much of the surrounding area, and the cost of living is still fairly reasonable. Even disasters are fairly rare, compared to the rest of the state, with water intrusions usually happening thanks to a broken pipe or an old appliance finally giving up. 

Thanks to such mundane sources, Los Gatos water damage is ‘clean’ or uncontaminated by dirt or other particles. That means SERVPRO response teams can restore the home to its original condition without concern over a possible health risk to team members and residents. 

Team specialists begin with removing standing water to stop property, absorbing any more moisture, which slows and stops further damage. Removal also exposes surfaces underwater to the air, which starts the normal evaporation process of drying them. Specialists can augment this process by increasing air circulation in the home using a series of fans at entrances and exits.

Evaporation takes too long for carpets, so SERVPRO team members use extraction wands to dry them. If there is a pad underneath, specialists lift the carpet after extraction, roll it out of the way, and dispose of it. Pads disintegrate quickly after getting wet and are far cheaper to replace than to attempt to dry them. If the floors remain damp, specialists dry it with fans and air movers 

Before laying in a new pad and stretching the carpet back in place, specialists examine the baseboards and walls to see if they absorbed water. If it looks probable, they remove the floor trim and drill a small hole into each affected wall panel. If this does not dry the wall and the space behind it quickly enough, team members use other devices in our equipment inventory to speed up the process to avoid demolition, disposal, and replacement of the soaked and crumbling panels. 

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno. If you need help removing water from and restoring your home here or in Cambrian Park, Lexington Hills, and San Jose, call our office anytime and any day, at (408) 600-2020 to begin the process of restoring your home.

Click here to learn more about Los Gatos. 

We Have State Of The Art Equipment To Restore Your Los Gatos Home After A Fire

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

We are prepared to assist you 24/7. Our highly skilled and IICRC certified crew is the best in the industry and can restore your fire damaged home.

Necessary Cleaning Actions after Wild Fire Damage in Your Los Gatos Home

Wildfires like the ones experienced in Northern California during the 2018 season are very destructive and usually raze homes in their path to the ground. If your home is not in the direct path, but in the vicinity, you still have to contend with secondary damages because such fires produce thick smoke spread widely by strong winds. The restoration process from such incidents mostly involves cleanup. Our professional restoration services can help. 

The intensity of the wildfires means it reduces most materials it affects to ash. Restoring forest fire damage in your Los Gatos home, therefore, means you have to deal with soot as well as ash. While most of these residues are deposited on surfaces, some remain suspended in the air where they can cause respiratory problems or settle on cleaned surfaces. Our SERVPRO technicians run Air Scrubbers with HEPA filters at the loss site to capture any particulate matter suspended in the air.  

Different materials in your house are wooden, and due to its porous nature, wood readily absorbs soot. Some of the wooden materials such as joists and other structural supports are unfinished which complicates the cleanup process further. Pressure washing can help deal with the residues deposited on such surfaces, although there is a risk of water damage if the excess moisture is not addressed. Our SERVPRO crews carry out steps to dry the affected areas after the cleaning. We might also encapsulate the unfinished wood by painting or applying varnish to counter any effects of soot remnants after fire damage. 

Upholstery items and carpets tend to collect soot and other residues easily. Failure to clean them properly can lead to staining, and the smoky odor in the house can linger over extended periods. HEPA vacuuming such materials helps remove most of the loose residues. Shampooing and drying synthetic carpets might be necessary to remove oily soot in case it has a chance to set in. Our SERVPRO technicians also use specialized upholstery cleaning machines which apply water-based solutions for wet cleaning or solvents for dry cleaning. 

If secondary damage from smoke makes your Monte Sereno, Cambrian Park or Lexington Hills home uninhabitable, SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno can help. Call us any time at (408) 600-2020. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

See more about Los Gatos.

Repair or Replace Fire Damaged Possessions- SERVPRO of Los Gatos can Help You Make Those Decisions

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

Even heavy duty metal tools can become damaged beyond repair in a fire. SERVPRO can help you determine which items to repair or replace.

Not Everything is Repairable After Fire Damage in Los Gatos

Not everything in your home needs replacing after fire damage strikes. Depending on the severity of the situation, you may be able to restore or refurbish almost everything in the affected area. However, some belongings may be too far gone to repair, even with the help of a professional damage restoration company like SERVPRO. Take a close look at your belongings to determine whether or not it is worth repairing over replacing them.

Tools, Metal, and Mechanical Parts

Fire damage in Los Gatos can reach any part of your home, including the garage, tool shed, or other storage areas. When metal parts and tools get touched by flames, they usually come out all right. Applying some non-water-based cleaning products and polishes to metallic objects can remove most damage residues.  The cleaning also helps to identify areas that may be permanently damaged rather than temporarily dirtied. However, if you notice any warping, shrinkage, or cracks in the metal, that may be a sign to throw out the part and find a replacement. Metal that has expanded or melted under high temperatures is non-repairable, and if these contortions impede the functionality of the item, they are non-salvageable.

Electronics

Most fire-damaged electronic items are non-repairable without spending significant amounts of money. Fire damage to circuit boards and sensitive components require care from specialists who may charge substantial fees.  At this point, it is more cost-effective to replace the item. However, often painting surface-level damages or adding replacement part from the manufacturer can repair the item and mask damages. If you're unsure about whether or not the electronic items in your home are repairable, try calling in a SERVPRO inspector.

Fabrics

Restoration of many types of fire damaged fabrics and clothing occurs through power washing in high-end washing machines. Make sure to set the cycle on the most intense settings possible and use scented detergent products to eliminate as much of the smoke odor as possible. Some items may need to be hand-washed, so be sure to read the washing instructions on each article of clothing before throwing them into a machine.

If you want to bring in a professional company to handle fire damage mitigation and restoration for you, call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020. We stay ready 24/7 to respond to local emergency calls for help.

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If Your Monte Sereno Pool And Spa Experiences Water And Fire Damage, Call Our Technicians!

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

We are available 24/7 at (408) 600-2020, and since we are local, We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

More Water Than Fire Damage In Monte Sereno Pool And Spa Store Blaze

Fire damage is traumatic enough without adding severe water damage into the mix. Because soot is caustic, it corrodes surfaces after a short time. When combined with water, not only does it stain and smear, it also creates more damage from the excessive moisture.

SERVPRO mitigated commercial fire damage in a Monte Sereno spa and pool store. An electrical fire began in the ceiling, and the sprinkler system failed to start. The fire caused burning ceiling tiles to fall around a demo hot tub model that was filled with water and running. Once the floor caught on fire, it then melted one side of the demo model, and the water rushed out onto the floor. This helped stop the fire from spreading on the floor but left a large amount of water to clean up.

Because of the propensity of water to migrate, we scoped the property with our moisture detection equipment, including:
    •    probes
    •    thermal imaging
    •    hygrometers

We moved out the undamaged hot tub units and items on shelves in the damaged area for cleaning outside the store, so they were not affected by the moisture or soot during mitigation. We immediately extracted the excess moisture with portable pumps to lessen the drying time. The ceiling tiles received damage from the fire, and we removed the charred debris. Because of the fire in the electrical system, we used our own generators to power our equipment rather than delay restoration services until the property owner had the electrical panel repairs completed.

SERVPRO team members know it is hard for a business to remain closed during mitigation from any type of damage and our goal is to disrupt operations as minutely as possible to get things back to normal with zero reminders of the loss. Even with the scale of the water spill, due to bringing in cleanup services so quickly minimized the loss to the store.

After water extraction and drying along with cleaning away the smoke residues, we then turned our attention to the residual odors left behind. As certified Odor Control Technicians, we have the expertise and specialized equipment to neutralize any level of scent in a property. After verifying the space met drying goals and a final wipe down with our antimicrobial solutions to inhibit mold growth, we gave the property owner a list of the needed repairs to bring the store back to its preloss condition so the store could reopen as soon as possible.

Get your commercial fire damage professionally and quickly mitigated with SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno. We are available 24/7 at (408) 600-2020, and since we are local, We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

For more about Monte Sereno click here.

Our Technicians Explain The Damage Caused By Soot In Your Campbell Home

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

No matter how soot and smoke damage affect your home, our SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno team can help you make it “Like it never even happened.”

How Bad Is Soot After Fire Damage To Campbell Homes?

You might not always know what to expect after fire loss incidents affect your Campbell home. As much as you might work to try and get things back to normal as promptly as possible, there are often multiple layers of effects that must get overcome to do this successfully. Understanding fire damage in each of these layers can help homeowners to provide the best possible care for their property immediately following a loss incident, and through the needed professional restoration and recovery efforts to come after.

Smoke residues and soot are two fire damage effects Campbell homeowners can struggle the most with overcoming. Even with experienced individuals capable of handling many potential problems, their residence can experience, soot and wet smoke damage recovery require advanced equipment, products, and tools that our SERVPRO team has to remove entirely. There are two main risks with attempting to remove soot from surfaces and contents of the property without the appropriate approach and equipment:

    •    Improper cleaning techniques can lead to smearing of the residue, which can transfer to new surfaces, areas, and contents of the damaged home.
    •    Without the appropriate products and tools, surfaces and items can become stained during the cleaning process.

Smearing is a substantial issue because it can put previously unaffected and undamaged surfaces and materials in the house at risk. Preliminary approaches to alleviate the bulk of this buildup of soot particulates or thick wet smoke residue involves the use of high-powered HEPA vacuums. These tools not only remove the bulk of this sediment but also reduce these same particulates recirculating through the area.

Staining is another concern that can come from inexperienced soot and smoke recovery approaches. The risk here is that many instances of staining do not appear until days after the “cleaning” occurs. By this point, the damage has already happened, and the only recovery possible is tear out and reconstruction by our SERVPRO professionals.

No matter how soot and smoke damage affect your home, our SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno team can help you make it “Like it never even happened.” No matter when disasters strike, give us a call at (408) 600-2020.

For more about Campbell click here.

Cracking the Code to Commercial Water Damage Remediation in Your Los Gatos Business

6/22/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can accumulate quickly. Contact SERVPRO at the first signs to investigate the cause and remediate any associated damage.

Plan for a Commercial Water Damage Crisis You Hope Never to Experience in Los Gatos

Successful businesses in Los Gatos always have contingency plans to respond to a broad range of issues and disasters. Usually developed for scenarios concerning the day to day operations of your business, disaster planning should also include what your response should be when a water loss or other crisis endangers your commercial building and its contents. We look forward to working with as you craft this plan.

Like businesses throughout the rest of the country, companies significantly increase their risk of permanent closure if water damage in Los Gatos causes an even short term period of unavailability to customers and the general public. We live in a world where consumers often have many options for goods and services. Make sure you put safeguards in place to protect your business from the reality that nearly 50 percent of commercial endeavors shutter forever after a severe disaster.

SERVPRO has an alternative for our commercial clients. The Emergency Ready Plan and Profile (ERP) is a free, no-obligation service we developed to allow potential disaster recovery customers to work with us to draft a personalized and effective blueprint we use if a crisis occurs.

The process could not be more straightforward. Call for an appointment to consult our experienced management team. After a walkthrough of your commercial building and a discussion to clarify how you do business, we design a water damage remediation plan. While inside your business property, SERVPRO looks for weaknesses and vulnerability concerning how a disaster is likely to affect your operations.

To give us even more details, we encourage commercial customers to use our mobile app, permitting you to share information that could help us react and respond. SERVPRO then merges our assessment with your profile to complete a digital plan accessible 24/7 from any device. Give us the contact information for vendors and contractors who developed your systems. Name trusted employees or family who can act for you if you are unavailable to respond so precious time is not wasted. The faster we take on water damage, the more successful our efforts.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno is ready to meet with you to develop an ERP that ensures nearly uninterrupted business operations even after a water loss. Call us at (408) 600-2020 to schedule an appointment today.

Click here for more information about the city of Los Gatos.

Look Here for Property Cleanup and Restoration in Los Gatos!

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Los Gatos Restoration Services Are Underway with SERVPRO to the Rescue

Why Property Owners in Los Gatos Trust SERVPRO for Restoration Services

You can plan for accidents and take preventative measures to protect your Los Gatos property from water, fire, mold, storm, or other damage. However, the best-laid plans have a way of getting derailed by the unexpected. When disasters happen whether the cause was from a busted pipe under the bathroom sink, flash fire in the kitchen from an overheated pan or lack of ventilation in an attic bringing mold into your residential or commercial property, you need restoration services that handle any type of loss.

Water damage to a Los Gatos property needs to be addressed as quickly as possible to avoid costly future issues such as mold.  The longer building materials and home contents remain exposed to excessive moisture before water removal from a Los Gatos home, the more potential for loss.  Mopping and blotting with towels works to remove water from the surface, but once it has migrated behind areas in a room such as baseboards or subflooring, the situation needs professional water cleanup in your Los Gatos home. 

SERVPRO employees hold certifications (WRT) in several areas of the restoration sciences, including Water Removal Technicians, which gives them working knowledge of water extraction techniques for deeply embedded moisture. We use powerful air movers that do not merely blow air on wet areas in a property. The high-velocity airflow works to pull the absorbed moisture to the surface where our dehumidification equipment captures and ports it away. This deep-drying of both structure and contents inhibits the potential for mold or foul odors to become a problem later.

When fire damage hits a Los Gatos property, it leaves different levels of challenges for our technicians to address. Charred building materials and contents contribute nothing but odor, so SERVPRO technicians perform fire debris removal in Los Gatos homes using controlled demolition techniques to leave as much of the property intact as possible for reconstruction after the completion of restoration services. 

Smoke damage in a Los Gatos residence is both unpleasant and unhealthy to live around, our proprietary methods for smoke damage and soot removal return the home into a clean place where it is safe to live.

Even a small fire in a Los Gatos kitchen often requires fire odor removal applications. SERVPRO technicians receive certifications in Odor Control (OCT) and learn how to neutralize odor-causing molecules, not only cover them. When hot air expands during a fire, it drives soot into porous objects resulting in the need for odor neutralization techniques such as thermal fogging to eradicate foul odors. 

Mold spores exist indoors and outdoors, and therefore mold removal for a Los Gatos commercial or residential property is a misstatement. Our team can reduce the effects down to near-zero. The problem occurs when mold spores find an area of excessive moisture, ambient temperatures, and food such as the wood framework in your attic leads to the establishment of colonies which then spread until remediated.

The first sign that leads many Los Gatos homeowners to mold damage discovery comes from a musty smell that will not dissipate. Professional mold remediation is crucial as improper cleaning and removal techniques quickly spread mold spores. Our technicians are experienced and certified from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in the remediation of mold (AMRT) and containment methods to inhibit the spread of airborne spores to other areas of the property currently unaffected.  The specialized training SERVPRO technicians receive includes methods of mold colony abatement such as soda blasting which removes dried mold colonies with little surface abrasion.

For Los Gatos property owners, storm damage is the root cause of many secondary damages to both residential and commercial properties. Inadequate flood water removal or drying of an affected property leaves it open for mold growth and weakening of building materials. SERVPRO has portable pumps to quickly extracted small water intrusion as well as truck-mounted dehumidifiers and pumps to handle large-scale water loss. When our technicians arrive onsite, we take preventative measures such as tarping a damaged roof or packing out possessions to our facility for safe storage or restoration as needed. 

Why SERVPRO? We know you have choices when it comes to restoration services in Los Gatos. SERVPRO technicians hold many certifications earned through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC.) This organization is widely regarded as the gold standard for best practices and techniques in the cleaning and restoration industry. Because our technicians are local, we are members of the same community as you, and we know unique nuances that apply to Los Gatos such as humidity levels when calculating drying goals during water damage cleanup or mold remediation and restoration services needed after an earthquake or another natural disaster.

In some cases, the damage to the residential or commercial property is so severe the best outcome is to get it ready for reconstruction. Our technicians perform a thorough cleanup of debris and damaged building materials and ensure the structure is clean, disinfected, and odor-free for when the rebuilding starts.

Dealing with insurance after a home disaster can feel overwhelming. When you bring SERVPRO on to mitigate any type of home or commercial property disaster, we can collaborate with both property owners and insurance adjusters during every step of remediation. Part of our standard service includes a detailing listing of ever action taking during the mitigation process and we take photographs of both the structure and contents before and after for expedited processing of insurance claims. We provide our unique CCIS Contents Claim Inventory System to catalog and document the restoration service.

SERVPRO technicians keep up on the latest developments in the restoration sciences. In doing so, we can assist property owners with lessening loss from home disaster events. For example, we utilize the same techniques as the Library of Congress for restoration and cleaning of fire and water damaged books. Thus saving important documents and reading material from being included as a loss and the burden of the cost of replacing items of the property owner.

The SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno team is ready to assist you 24/7 with any restoration services caused by water, fire, mold, or storm. Because we are locally based, We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. Just call (408) 600-2020. 

Learn more about Los Gatos. https://www.losgatosca.gov/

Our Trained Technicians Are Available 24/7 To Restore Your Los Gatos Home After A Flood Disaster

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

When their is a power outage we bring our own source of power to operate the necessary water damage restoration equipment.

Flood Damage Incidents Should Not Bring Your Los Gatos Property to a Halt

Severe weather conditions such as thunderstorms may lead to flood damage. Though most of us understand the need to take steps to prevent basement flooding, some situations may be overwhelming and demand professional help. For instance, weak areas or cracks within the foundation may allow flood water to seep into the basement. When that happens, we end up with damp carpets, and there is a need to pump out the water as well as remove the debris that the water carries into your Los Gatos property.

When our SERVPRO technicians arrive at your home to perform flood damage restoration in Los Gatos we start by inspecting the property. During this step, we determine whether it is safe to enter the site. There are several dangers to expect when you visit flooded properties, and some of them are gas leaks, foundation cracks, chemical spills, and the danger of electrocution. You now understand why we turn off the electricity and seek alternative sources of electricity whenever we are working for you.

Our SERVPRO technicians wear protective equipment when dealing with flood water since it may be comprised of black water, which is highly contaminated. Using the right protective gear during the restoration process prevents possible health effects. If the water is still flowing into the site, it is our work to prevent the flow and put in place procedures of drying the affected items.

To hasten the drying process, we may remove the water soaked items from the site. In some cases, we may enhance the circulation of air within the area by using air movers and fans to speed up the drying process. As wet items lose water, it settles in the surrounding air, and with time, it may condense and cause further flood damage. To prevent such an eventuality, we set up dehumidifiers to absorb the excess moisture. We usually advise the property owner to discard carpets that have been contaminated by flood water.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno has highly trained restoration technicians who work 24/7 to make your property appear “Like it never even happened.” Call (408) 600-2020 and get a chance of working with a reliable industry leader.

See more about Los Gatos.

Why We Are The Leader In Fire Damage Restoration In Los Gatos

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

The cleanup and repair of the fire and smoke damage can seem overwhelming to homeowners. We are here to help 24/7 so call us right away.

Trained Technicians and Appropriate Equipment Are Why SERVPRO Delivers Successful Fire Damage Remediation in Los Gatos

Cleanup after a fire crisis in Los Gatos can prove overwhelming. The tasks required to bring a sooty mess back to preloss condition are many and complex. Ordinary cleaning approaches often make things worse, much to your frustration as a homeowner trying diligently to bring order out of chaos. Our focus on research-based strategies that deliver successful results is why our team is uniquely qualified to offer fire remediation to our community here in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

The rigorous training our technicians master during the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) coursework is why our team is the leader in fire damage remediation in Los Gatos. Certification in multiple remediation specializations is the norm for our crews, streamlining response to complex fire restoration scenarios.  

Frequently firefighting efforts leave large quantities of water and chemicals in your home. Removing the moisture and drying out the structure is essential before soot and smoke cleanup can begin. The familiarity our IICRC-trained technicians have with water damage remediation is another reason why SERVPRO is well-positioned to address all aspects of your fire disaster.

Our service vehicles contain the equipment needed to pump out or extract the firefighting water as well as the air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers necessary to return moisture levels to normal readings. We also stock a range of tools and products to remove the toxic and corrosive residues deposited after a fire. Flexibility and anticipation of the many ways a fire damages your property are why SERVPRO has your back during this stressful time.

Matching cleaning products and techniques to the fire residues remaining after extinguishing the flames is the key to the most favorable outcome, why SERVPRO provides results that meet or exceed your expectations. Dry, ashy soot vacuums or dry sponges away, while thick, sticky soot needs a cleaner with surfactants and wetting agents that loosen the coating. Protein-based soot often requires a solvent and abrasive tools to dislodge. Our technicians are expert at soot assessment and removal.

Professionalism and attention to superlative customer service are why SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno earns your business for fire damage remediation. Call us at (408) 600-2020 to set up an assessment as soon as possible after the firefighters give the go-ahead.

See more about Los Gatos.

The Quickest and Easiest Way to Fire Damage Remediation in Your Los Gatos Home

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Fire can quickly affect your home causing widespread damage. This can create a difficult clean up alone. Contact SERVPRO for remediation assistance.

Deodorization of Fire Damaged Items in Los Gatos Homes

With sophisticated equipment designed to reduce the time it takes to restore and recover fire losses in Los Gatos homes, many homeowners see the advantage of trusting our team to help them through every phase of bringing their property back to preloss condition. With odors being a common, widespread symptom for homeowners to contend with after a fire, addressing these concerns must happen swiftly and thoroughly. Even the contents in affected areas of the house can become a magnet for this harsh odor, so these items must get treated as well.

With the arrival of our professionals, we can get to work quickly on addressing these widespread fire damage effects throughout your Los Gatos home with modern practices and advanced tools. We have an array of deodorization products, cleaning agents, and air purification machines that can work to eliminate the presence of foul odors after a fire incident in both the open areas of the property and in the individual affected items.

Our SERVPRO Contents Department can assess the full scope of the damage to your belongings, furniture, and keepsakes in exposed areas of the house. While many of these items might require on-site attention and cleaning with the Esporta Washing system, we also have the tools to begin effective odor removal for these items too. In many cases, thermal and UV foggers can provide enough direct exposure to remove even set-in smells like smoke and charring.

For more complex and embedded scents that can linger after a fire loss incident, our SERVPRO professionals can utilize both our ozone machines for on-site work and our ozone chamber in our facility for the deodorization of multiple items simultaneously. While these approaches are unsafe for humans and pets to get directly exposed to, it is an efficient and effective manner to remove odors from removed contents of your home.

We understand how quickly effects like odors and soot can spread throughout a fire-damaged home, so our SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno team responds fast to get containment established. Whenever disaster strikes, you can count on us to make fire effects “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call at (408) 600-2020.

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Carpets Require Special Care after Water Damage happens in Your Home in Los Gatos

5/13/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage in your home can leave your family in devastation. No worries SERVPRO has you covered.

Let SERVPRO save your home from water damage. 

When a pipe bursts in your Los Gatos home while you are away at work, thousands of gallons of water can end up all over the place, affecting flooring of all types. Carpeting poses special issues because of the size and weight involved. Different flooring materials, like tile, quickly break down into smaller pieces when saturated.

When your home's pipe break and flood your Los Gatos house, water damage begins ruining things immediately. Some items, like concrete and denser woods, can sustain more prolonged periods of contact with water than others before showing signs of destruction and other changes. SERVPRO's professionals can discuss these factors with you and help you decide which options seem best-suited for your particular situation.

SERVPRO sends out employees certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to stop the damage from becoming more widespread and affecting other areas of your property. Our employees arrive ready to do this and also to repair and restore affected areas, making your home “Like it never even happened” quickly and efficiently.

Thinner carpets dry faster and often do not require elevating or 'floating' to allow for our specialists to dry the sub-floor. The density, thickness, and composition of the pad can affect the rate at which the floor below can dry out, however, making the floating of some thinner carpets a necessity. Raising the carpet allows our air movers to push air into the area and circulate dry air into the damp cavity formed between the carpet and the floor.

When water remains on a floor for a day or two, this can cause our categorization of otherwise clean water to shift towards gray water. When this happens, we need to remove the padding and install new materials for you. Doing so prevents microbial growth, and in many cases, can provide you with significant savings.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno has qualified professionals and specialists ready, 24/7, every day of the year, to serve our communities in Lexington Hills, San Jose, and Campbell. To stop water damage and protect your carpets and other floorings, call us at (408) 600-2020.

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We Can Resolve Any Mold Issue That May Occur In Your Los Gatos Home

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Call us at (408) 600-2020, and we can provide you with additional information and set up a convenient time to begin making your home feel clean again.

Why Families Rely On SERVPRO To Resolve Mold Damage Problems In Los Gatos

Mold can happen to any home. The cleanest house in your Los Gatos neighborhood contains spores that only require a scant amount of moisture to begin growing. When darkened areas, such as those behind large pieces of furniture, receive little airflow, microbes can begin to grow at a prolific speed.

This is why it is essential to know that SERVPRO is Faster to Any Size Disaster involving a home in Los Gatos, especially mold damage. We want to remediate such invasive microbes and reduce their numbers back to normal. The sooner we can begin the work, the sooner we can consider your home free of a microbial infestation.

Mold damage can affect more than walls behind furniture, however. It can also find its way under appliances, particularly those that use water or produce condensation. Our team of specialist use IICRC approved measures that work in controlling the spread of microbes while we work, protecting your house from further contamination. We also implement microbial-killing sprays that seal any existing spores while making the area treated hostile to newly-settled spores.

Remediation needs these methods to protect your home during the removal of mold from surfaces. Spores are microscopic and travel freely on air currents once the mold releases them into the interior of your home. Containing them helps us trap them and eliminate them from your home from the beginning of our remediation work.

Because containing these microbes remains a crucial aspect of any remediation work, we also use containment apparatus during the cleaning of personal items and household furnishings. Chambers made of clear plastic sheeting provides the necessary enclosure while we clean and remove mold from your belongings.

No matter how extensive your mold damage problem seems, SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno can scale our equipment and team's size to fit your needs. Call us at (408) 600-2020, and we can provide you with additional information and set up a convenient time to begin making your home feel clean again.

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Here is What You Should do for Your Commercial Water Damage Situation in Los Gatos

4/21/2019 (Permalink)

If your deli or commercial kitchen suffers from a water damage situation, your reaction and quick call to SERVPRO is key to effective remediation.

Commercial Water Removal Keeps Your Deli Open and Serving Los Gatos Residents Delicious Food

Kitchens often become the location of accidents due to spilled water. Floors covered in slick spots of water can come from broken pipes or leaky drains, melting ice in a malfunctioning freezer, or overhead from a leaky roof. SERVPRO specialists help businesses in Los Gatos recover after disasters involving lost and intrusive water from various sources.

Having misplaced water on your deli's floors can harm your business in several ways, so SERVPRO acts fast in providing you with commercial water removal services in Los Gatos. We are always Faster To Any Size Disaster because we are locally owned and operated. We also know how important each business is to our economy and we want you to thrive. Helping you remain open and in business is very important to us.

One of the most critical aspects of water located in areas where electrical appliances come into use, such as in a kitchen, centers on safety. Because of the dangerous mix between electricity and water, we often partner with licensed electricians who can quickly assess the situation and ensure that we can safely work within the area.

The first part of removing water from your deli involves making sure surfaces become dry again. Once we complete this aspect, we can begin working on testing for saturation levels in materials near the area in question. We use drying equipment designed to remove moisture from porous materials and the air rapidly. These machines work quickly, but this efficiency requires a trade-off in noise volume.

While we can make a muffler-like adaptation on some pieces of machinery, this does not hold for all of them. If your deli remains open during this time, we may need to discuss hearing protection for your employees who intend on occupying the area where our louder machines need to operate. This inconvenience should only require a couple of days, but the long-term benefits mean your deli recovers more fully that much more quickly.

When your deli or other Lexington Hills or Campbell business needs SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno for water removal and drying services, call us at (408) 600-2020. We are happy to help neighboring businesses succeed in spite of disasters and other emergencies.

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We Can Restore Your Damaged Home In Los Gatos

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

You can reach us at (408) 600-2020. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Saving Contents From Severe Flood Damage In Los Gatos

If a flood hits your home, you have to deal with the adverse effects on both the structure and the contents it holds. While many of the effects, such as soiling and pile up of debris like silt happen immediately the floodwaters start flowing into the house, others happen gradually. Fast action can help save contents especially from the damages that take time. One of the advantages of hiring a professional team to mitigate the effects of flooding in Los Gatos is a fast response.

One of the main ways to save contents in homes affected by flood damage in Los Gatos is moving them from the property or the affected areas to areas untouched by the floodwaters such as rooms in higher floors. To complete such moves quickly, you need resources such as people or lifting equipment, especially when dealing with heavy items such as furniture. Our SERVPRO technicians work in teams making it easier to move items. We also arrange move outs to offsite climate-controlled warehouses.

Floodwaters are classified as black because of contamination with chemicals and disease-causing microorganisms. Therefore, replacement is the only solution for any predominantly porous contents affected by floodwaters including carpets, pad, and upholstery. However, it is possible to save a highly valued area rugs through cleaning. Our SERVPRO technicians clean such rugs, immerse them in a biocide and re-clean them before drying. Such thorough cleaning helps eliminate any traces of contamination left by floodwaters.

Flooding also soils non-porous contents such as wooden furniture, cabinets and other fixtures. Washing such items thoroughly and drying them helps restore their preloss state. Our SERVPRO technicians use pressure washers and professional cleaning agents to disinfect and sanitize the items. Our crew will then use air movers and dehumidifiers to dry them. We can also create drying chambers with plastic sheets to improve the drying rate.

You can save more contents in your flooded home with help from SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno. You can reach us at (408) 600-2020. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

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Call Our Certified Technicians For All Your Los Gatos Fire Damage Restoration Needs

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

We make sure to keep equipment clean, well-maintained and ready to service your home. We are available 247 so call us right away.

Los Gatos Home Needs Professional Fire Damage Restoration

Very often homeowners do not realize just how devastating fire damage can be to their home. What may start as a small kitchen fire can leave a trail of problems behind if not addressed promptly. The trick to avoiding widespread damage is enlisting the help of a professional team to carefully examine your home after the fire and make recommendations on the restoration process. The visible residue of soot and smoke is only a visual manifestation of other ailments hiding within your home.

Luckily, our SERVPRO team can help return your home in Los Gatos recover from fire damage. The sheer impact a fire big or small can have on the air quality of your home is enough to warrant the expertise and technical knowledge our team delivers. Our IICRC- certified technicians use industry-specific tools such as hygrometers and thermal imaging to evaluate the air in your home and plan for next steps. As tempting as it may be to air out your home and apply store-bought air purifiers, you are better off calling a professional team to eliminate any remaining odors permanently, rather than masking the smell.

Our SERVPRO team has at its disposal several methods to purify the air in your home, and they apply them based on the extent and path of the fire and smoke itself. In some cases, we use charcoal activated filters to purify the HVAC system, whereas in others we bring in an ozone generator to break down the smell molecules and neutralize them. In some cases, we apply thermal fog to your home with the goal of reaching all corners and surfaces of your home, including structural elements. Our technical knowledge and on-the-field experience allow us to determine the best course of action for your home to succeed.

Do not hesitate to reach out to us at SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno for your needs after a fire. Our number, (408) 600-2020 is available 24/7 for your convenience. Even if your fire damage seems small, let us leave your home “Like it never even happened.”

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Attention Los Gatos Homeowners--SERVPRO Says to Check Your Appliances to Prevent Water Damage

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Uses Advanced Technology to Grapple with Water Losses in Los Gatos

Broken Seals Allow Water Loss Incidents in Los Gatos Homes

Many appliances are water-fed throughout your Los Gatos home. From the water heater to the dishwasher in the kitchen, these convenience elements are essential to comfortable living. Without the proper upkeep and maintenance, however, they can also be the source of substantial water loss incidents. Something as simple as a damaged or compromised seal intended to prevent water leaking can allow water to flow out unabated until the supply to the appliance gets shut off.

As dire as this situation might be, this water damage for your Los Gatos home is something that requires professional restoration technicians. Many homeowners mistakenly believe that by sopping up the water that they can see that the primary problem has gotten resolved, but water damage often spreads too quickly for conventional cleanup methods to be effective. A wise choice is our SERVPRO professionals, as we can arrive quickly with extraction and drying equipment to help protect your structural elements like flooring and wall materials.

While our team cannot repair the damage to the appliance itself, we can help to clean up and dry out the affected surfaces and materials throughout this area of your property. We have effective extraction equipment that can quickly remove standing water on the flooring. Our moisture detection and thermal imagery cameras can determine the spread of moisture throughout this region of your home to determine the best locations to set up our efficient drying tools.

Drying is a critical element to water damage recovery from larger loss incidents like this. We can set up more than one air mover and a dehumidifier if necessary to double the effectiveness of removing lingering moisture from walls, flooring, and the environment. If the flooring has suffered water penetration and saturation as well, we can install our injecti-dry system to begin removing dampness at a controlled pace.

You cannot predict when appliances might suffer damages to seals and degradation, which can lead to substantial water loss incidents. Our SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno rapid response team can arrive quickly with the expertise and equipment to make a difference fast. Give us a call anytime at (408) 600-2020. "Like it never even happened."

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Mold Damage Keeps Customers away from Los Gatos Malls

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage will turn away mall customers. SERVPRO Franchise professionals can quickly remediate the mold.

Prevention of Commercial Mold Damage in the Common Areas in Shopping Malls in Los Gatos

Daily cleaning and regular maintenance tasks keep most buildings' maintenance problems from becoming significant hazards. One area that cleaning crews rarely clean include the ceilings of Los Gatos businesses. While bathrooms and walls in common areas stay well-maintained, the uppermost regions can slowly develop darkened areas and patches.  

People visiting malls hope to find great deals on merchandise and expect to do this in a clean environment, free of mold damage in any part of the commercial settings in Los Gatos where they venture. SERVPRO professionals can help with regular maintenance that prevents mold from taking hold and dirtying up any area in your mall.  

Cleaning up mold patches on smooth surfaces, and cleaning the air of spores can help you maintain control over the microbial population in any setting, including retail outlets. Strip malls with areas regularly enduring exposure to the outdoor elements can also become covered in pollution from local industries, traffic, and dust carried on the wind. That same wind can carry spores, allowing them to settle on walls and ceilings, windowsills, and any other surface.  

Our mold remediation specialists remove excess mold, mildew, and other substances that detract from the aesthetics of your property and provide a better shopping experience for your tenants' customers. We are ready to help you with either the preparation process for the application of new paint, or to maintain the common areas, both indoors and on the exterior. Our goal is to prevent mold from damaging structures and to remediate it with as little loss as possible when damage already exists.  

The use of our air scrubbers in interior environments drastically cuts the number of spores as our machines use HEPA filters. Able to grab and contain 99.97% of particles 3 microns or larger floating in the air removes dust and allergens, making the air cleaner and less likely to cause health effects.  

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno is always ready to help and answers our 24-hour service line, (408) 600-2020, every day of the year. No job is too large or small, and we help maintain and protect businesses of all sizes and kinds in the San Jose, Saratoga, and Cambrian Park areas.

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Los Gatos Property Owners Love How SERVPRO Removes Unwanted Water

2/25/2019 (Permalink)

Why Choose SERVPRO for Los Gatos Water Damage Cleanup? When Completed--this carpet will look "Like it never even happened."

Why SERVPRO Specialists Use Different Attachments When a Home Needs Water Cleanup in Los Gatos

Water that finds its way into a home can create damaged areas and let infestations of mold ruin clothing and other possessions. When an incident happens that places water on your carpeting and rugs, you want someone who can address not only the removal of the water but also any stains that develop because of its presence.
 
The different capabilities of our attachments help us in restoring a water damaged home in Los Gatos, which is why SERVPRO uses several for the most effective water cleanup experience. Our truck-mounted pumps pull large amounts of water from wherever we place our equipment because of the lengths of the tubing we use. The different attachments, some connected to powered, portable wands help us extract water and moisture from varying materials from soft fabrics to hardwood flooring.
 
When invasive water causes light-colored carpeting to become stained from either soaked furniture legs or other non-colorfast items that cause slight or significant discoloration to the carpeting, our IICRC certified techs can use a highly specialized attachment that provides excellent results. This attachment, called the claw, concentrates the suction from our pump into a very small area. We treat stains with a unique formula that releases it from the fibers and then extract the liquid with the claw. We then flush the area out again to ensure all traces of both the stain-removing formula and the substances that caused the stain no longer remain. There are circumstances where some staining can be permanent, but we do our best to make it "Like it never even happened."
 
Other equipment helps us dry wood floors and extract water from below cabinetry. Drying mats and injecti-dry devices are stored on our Green Fleet ready to be deployed for rapid and safe water removal. Wherever water flows, it requires removal and drying equipment to get the area mitigated of current damage and prevent future damage from affecting your home. You can trust SERVPRO to deliver results because we know which methods work in a multitude of situations that might occur in your home.
 
Contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at our 24-hour service line, (408) 600-2020 when you need professionals with IICRC certification to perform water cleanup services. We also offer our mitigation services for homeowners in Saratoga, Campbell, and Lexington Hills.

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Don't Let Your Cambrian Park Hardwood Floors Get Damaged By Water, Call In The Experts At SERVPRO!

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

When water loss incidents occur, protect your investment in this flooring by calling our SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno experts.

Water Cleanup For Hardwood Floors In Cambrian Park Homes

Renovations and remodeling throughout the Cambrian Park area have seen many homeowners hanging up their insistence on plush carpeting for the sleek and modern look of hardwood flooring. Many DIY enthusiasts have also taken to some of the vinyl and laminate options that look like the graining or texture of hardwood, but are available at a lower cost and with tongue and groove easy installation. Water incidents that occur over this kind of material can begin to affect it quickly, so getting the right professional assistance is vital as promptly as you can.

Of all the troublesome situations that can occur that require water cleanup for your Cambrian Park home, water penetration and absorption into hardwood or laminates can be destructive. Water can find a way to seep into the cracks, crevices, and connection points of plank flooring to reach the subflooring underneath. Even with waterproof flooring options, like what you might install in a bathroom or kitchen, only repel the moisture and dampness for so long before imperfections in the installation allow for penetration and damage to occur.

Our SERVPRO professionals can respond quickly to water loss incidents, as water damage can spread quickly throughout a property. Within hours of exposure, water can breech waterproofed materials and begin to saturate subflooring and soak into the flooring material itself. Without a proper cleanup and drying plan at this point, warping and distortion of the wood can begin within a few days of the initial incident.

Even more pressing than this timeline for water damages that our SERVPRO professionals have to endure, is the tear out and replacement required when our team gets notified of damages too late to salvage the materials.

Hardwood flooring is becoming more and more common in modern construction for its ease of cleaning and sleek appearance. When water loss incidents occur, protect your investment in this flooring by calling our SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno experts. We can respond quickly with the equipment and expertise to clean up the mess and dry out the damage. Call us today at (408) 600-2020.

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Our Experts Explain An Important Step In Our Commercial Fire Damage Restoration Process In Monte Sereno

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

If you ever have a problem with fire or smoke inside your clothing store, call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno any day of the week.

Commercial Fire Damage Technicians In Monte Sereno Talk About Move Outs

If a fire ever starts inside your Monte Sereno clothing store, or in a retail unit in the same building, it is possible your business could get damaged. Even smoke coming from a burn next door could create a situation that could require you to call in a professional commercial fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO. Smoke can penetrate through building materials and still negatively affect the items for sale in your store. Since clothes are made out of fabric which is a very porous material, smoke particles can penetrate deep into them and cause burnt aromas to prevail. One major part of commercial fire damage mitigation is often eliminating odors from contents inside your business.

To do the most efficient job of removing foul aromas from both your building materials and contents, our SERVPRO technicians sometimes complete the deodorization of your building materials and store products in separate locations. Our goal when mitigating any commercial fire damage project in Monte Sereno is to return your building to the way it was before the fire burned "Like it never even happened." To accomplish this task, we first inspect the situation and mitigate any potential safety hazards. If there are items that could fall we remove them, so they are not a threat. If there are any dangers such as electrical shorts, then we call in a certified contractor to repair the issue.

If we decide to move your contents out of your company's building, then we begin the move out process before any other work commences. To start, we begin packing up your dirty items and putting them in labeled boxes. We then construct an inventory system that keeps track of what is in each box and where the item was originally placed.

Next, we move your items to a clean and disinfected location to conduct the soot removal. After all of the items are cleaned, we move them back to your place of business and put them in the exact location that they were originally located. If you ever have a problem with fire or smoke inside your clothing store, call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 any day of the week.

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What Few People Know About Flood Damage Remediation in Los Gatos

1/20/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding can happen very quickly and affect many rooms in your home. Contact SERVPRO for water removal and remediation options.

Sooner or Later Los Gatos Residents Must Gear Up for Flood Damage

Changing weather patterns in Los Gatos and elsewhere make one thing certain -- a homeowner can never be sure when to expect flood waters. Taking the time to evaluate your storage decisions and the vulnerabilities of your electronics, utilities, and other systems is a wise idea in any season, but in anticipation of a flooding scenario is crucial. Rely on the training and expertise we hold to help you make sensible and practical decisions to avoid significant damage during flooding.

Flood damage in Los Gatos is an event with which no homeowner can prepare adequately. There are, however, many proactive tasks that can help a property withstand flooding more productively. You need a professional evaluation of any effects on your home if flood waters do intrude but can rest more assured that your valuable and treasured possessions fare better if you anticipate what might happen.

Flooding can occur inside your home due to appliance malfunction or plumbing fails. Take stock of the condition of pipes, hoses, and connections, including the sewer line, and arrange for repairs and replacements if necessary. Consider installing a sump pump to evacuate water quickly and reliably from lower levels if overland flooding or a backup occurs. Even if these measures handle the majority of any flood water remember moisture can remain in porous building materials or hidden recesses. SERVPRO crews use moisture meters and thermal scanners to locate residual water. We also set drying goals and deploy the air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to achieve those marks.

Clear debris from gutters and downspouts, making sure those configurations are appropriately installed and repaired if needed. Reconsider storing articles in the lower levels of your home, taking the opportunity to move items to areas in your home unlikely to suffer from the effects of flood waters. Although SERVPRO does have methods to dry and preserve wet papers, critical documents should find a home in a safe deposit box, and other items that tax your ability to store can be transferred to an offsite storage locker.

Review the specifications of appliances and systems installed in your potential flood area. Discuss ways to protect this essential equipment with the vendors who sold them to you, previous owners, or the builders of your home. Elevating washers, dryers, water heaters, and other machinery can save them from permanent damage if you endure a flood.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno pledges to be there to help members of our communities if flooding is an issue. Contact us for an assessment and plan of action at (408) 600-2020.
 
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Broken Pipes Can Cause Major Damage To Your Cambrian Park Home

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

You can reach out to our crew at any time, and we can restore your home promptly so you can get back to life as usual.

Water Removal Services For Your Cambrian Park Home

Burst or broken pipes can be the worst nightmare for you as a homeowner in Cambrian Park. The drywall, flooring, structure, and insulation can all be at risk of costly repairs, especially when fast action is not taken.

Many times, when a pipe bursts or breaks, it happens inside the wall. It is usually very evident that this has happened. You need immediate water cleanup services for your Cambrian Park home at this point from a professional remediation company. SERVPRO can come to your rescue, no matter how extensive the damage is. With a small leak, it may not be evident that something is wrong for days or even weeks. Damage like this that grows over time can also create a mold infestation or even structural damage.

No matter how it happens, when you first notice an issue, turn the water supply off. It is usually found near an outside meter, in a utility room, or the basement. Taking action immediately lowers the volume of water and potential damage.

If possible, find the source of the problem where the fractured or broken pipe is. Doing so helps the SERVPRO technicians address the damage when they arrive at your home. You also need to take precautions if there are large amounts of water pooling and flowing into your home. Just the slightest bit of contact with an outlet, light switch, or electronic equipment can cause you to be electrocuted or shocked. If you cannot safely turn off the water supply, make sure to move your family, yourself, and your pets to safety.

Get in touch with our specialists right away, any time of day or night. We won’t hesitate to get to your property to help you out and return your home to its previous safe, dry condition. If you can safely do so, move any valuable items in the path of the water to a dry place. Drying and sanitizing damaged items is an essential aspect of our restoration process, so if you can prevent contact with water, it is very beneficial.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno can help you dry your home in Campbell, Saratoga, or Los Gatos back out after a water damage emergency. You can reach out to our crew at any time by dialing (408) 600-2020, and we can restore your home promptly so you can get back to life as usual.

Click here for more about Cambrian Park.

How Our Specialized Equipment Can Save Your Fire Damaged Home In Los Gatos

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

During most fire damage situations, smoke can also cause many problems.

Fire Damage Technicians In Los Gatos Talk About The Tools Used During Mitigation

Whenever something burns inside your Los Gatos apartment complex, several units could find that issues exist. During the blaze, several conditions created can cause different types of fire damage to occur. The heat and flames can use your contents and building materials as fuel and destroy the items. Sometimes the heat can partially char objects and only ruin the surface. During most fire damage situations, smoke can also cause many problems.

Smoke can adhere to surfaces of your contents and structural components in the form of soils and soot residues. Smoke can also cause burnt aromas to exist, forcing our SERVPRO technicians to include deodorization as a part of fire damage restoration in Los Gatos. These partially combusted particles can travel throughout your home and sometimes the problems they cause are not visible right away. Smoke can also penetrate porous materials and cause foul odors to exist even if residues are not seen on the item's surface. To mitigate all of the issues related to smoke, our restoration crews use the industry's most advanced technology.

Our SERVPRO team contains members that are IICRC certified and have experience in handling various fire-related situations. Our highly trained team knows about all of the industry's most useful tactics and procedures to eliminate smoke and heat-related damage. We have at our disposal specialized equipment that helps us return your property to preloss conditions.

During an emergency call, our SERVPRO technicians respond quickly as we provide fast 24/7 service. As soon as our professionals arrive at your residence, we begin calculating an initial estimate and assessment. We use specialized equipment from the initial testing phase to the final cleanup stage. We utilize the industry's best chemicals and techniques when cleaning soot residues from surfaces inside your home. If unpleasant aromas still exist after burnt items and soot residues get cleaned and removed, then we can utilize specialized deodorization technology such as ULV foggers and ozone machines.

If you ever notice burnt smells existing inside your apartment, call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 as soon as you see an issue.

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Dangers Of Mold In Your Los Gatos Home

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

Mold like this needs immediate attention, call SERVPRO today if you see mold like this in your home.

How Important is Fast Mold Removal in Your Los Gatos Home?

When you discover fungal growth in your Los Gatos home, many homeowners do not entirely know what the next step to take is, or whom to call to assist with a situation like this. Moreover, fewer understand the severity of the situation and how allowing it to persist can cause significant damage to their house and even cause health effects for the family. 

Without understanding the severity of mold damage in your Los Gatos home, many homeowners do not react as quickly as they should to the situation. The longer that mold continues to spread and thrive in the affected areas of your home, the more damage it can potentially cause structurally. Depending on the type of mold growth, you could also be releasing mild toxins into the environment which can agitate respiratory conditions in the occupants of the house or cause irritations. Ultimately, it is critical to get professional assistance as quickly as possible when you discover mold growth in your house.

Our SERVPRO professionals can help by arriving quickly and establishing a containment protocol to keep the organism from spreading further by establishing both physical barriers and running equipment like our negative air chambers to catch mold spores circulating in the environment. Once the situation has gotten contained, it is critical for our technicians to work fast to preserve structural elements that can get preserved. Often materials like carpeting and drywall must get removed and replaced, but construction components like framing and flooring bases can often get preserved with the right approach like soda blasting and sanding.

We can even protect further damage within this area by spraying the antimicrobial solution on unaffected materials and surfaces to prevent fungal growth. Taking care of mold growth in your home must happen quickly, as the longer the problem persists the more issues that it can cause.

You can trust that our SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno applied microbial remediation technicians can arrive quickly with the resources to remove active colonies and restore your home. Give us a call today at (408) 600-2020. 

To learn the history of Los Gatos click here.  

What Few People Know About Commercial Fire Damage Remediation in Los Gatos

12/5/2018 (Permalink)

If your popular restaurant suffers from fire damage, your best recourse is to contact SERVPRO for efficient fire damage remediation services.

Kitchen Fire Damage in your Los Gatos Restaurant? SERVPRO has you Covered

A restaurant manager has 101 things to keep an eye on and something as devastating as a kitchen-fire can often be too much to deal with by yourself. Kitchens deal with naked flames on a daily basis, so it is not uncommon for accidents to happen. The damages caused by smoke though can travel far beyond the kitchen, into ventilation chimneys or worse the dining room. You need a professional service to restore the property and minimize the loss of revenue. We provide this service using locally based technicians that hold IICRC certificates in restoration of properties after damage.

As an area famed for fine dining, commercial fire damage in Los Gatos can send your loyal customers to the competition if you do not resolve it quickly. SERVPRO is a local restoration service with a team of highly trained technicians at our disposal. On receiving your call, we can immediately send them to your location. Each team is led by a dedicated project manager who can communicate with you every step of the way.

The damages associated with kitchen fires are rarely confined to the kitchen. Smoke travels into clean air pockets and can spread rapidly around your commercial property. Depending on the types of material burning and the temperatures involved soot deposits could be relatively easy to clean or extremely difficult. Thankfully, SERVPRO technicians have training in remediating both wet and dry smoke.

By using a multi-tier approach, we can help to remove smoke from your walls and ceilings as well as restoring your furnishings, tables, and seating. We achieve this using a variety of cleaning products including foam cleaning, to lift soot that absorbs into fabrics to abrasive cleaning methods to remove charring from the structure. Where there are valuable materials, we can utilize soda or ice blasting to cause minimal damage to the surface.

Getting you back to business is our number one concern. Contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020 to begin.

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San Jose Weathers Another Storm-Induced Setback by Calling SERVPRO for Cleanup

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Saves Storm and Flood Damaged Homes in San Jose

Can Unexpected Flood Damage Affect San Jose Again?

Residents remember the fear and damage of the Coyote Creek flooding in San Jose within the last couple of years. The chances are good that our community may suffer a similar disaster, or that individuals might find their homes swimming in water because of interior plumbing or appliance fails. No matter how your home becomes a flood target, we have the technicians and equipment to return your dwelling to preloss condition.

San Jose flood damage demands the professionalism and resources of our team of IICRC-trained technicians and experienced project managers. Flood damage can be severe, but when well-prepared crew uses research-based strategies and innovative equipment and products the outcome of remediation can be successful. Our focus is always to restore rather than demolish and rebuild, the goal making if “Like it never even happened.”

One thing to avoid when dealing with flood damage is a wait-and-see attitude. The SERVPRO team has the best results when homeowners invite us to assess the situation, devise a plan, and move toward implementation within hours of the crisis. The longer water remains undisturbed in various spaces of your home, the more likely that building materials disintegrate, mold growth threatens, and odors proliferate.

Flood waters from weather systems or overflowing waterways pose significant contamination issues. Fast action is necessary to contain and remove this type of moisture as it exposes the inhabitants of your home to the risk of pathogens. When SERVPRO removes the water with our commercial pumps and extractors, we might need to contain and dispose of it following local hazardous water disposal rules.

Even relatively clean water that fills you home after a water heater rupture or supply line leak can transform to gray or black water within a day or two. The debris loosened by the water, spores always on surfaces or airborne, and the passage of time encourages microbial growth. SERVPRO recommends standing water removal as soon as possible, supported by the pumps and extractors we carry on every service vehicle.

After the flood waters exit the scene, SERVPRO crews work on structural drying and sanitization to return your premises to preloss condition. We use EPA registered antimicrobials, and the skills learned in IICRC courses to achieve these goals, measuring the moisture content of structure during drying and repositioning air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to create the most efficient balance, so excess water in all its forms is collected and discarded.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno is ready to assist if floods damage your home. Call our office at (408) 600-2020 to set up an assessment without delay.

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SERVPRO, Water Leaks in Bathrooms, and Happy Homeowners in San Jose

11/15/2018 (Permalink)

Ignore Water Leak Clean Up and Restoration and this Is What Can Happen! SERVPRO Says Call Us in San Jose for Help

A Leak in Your San Jose Bathroom Can Cause Water Damage to the Floor and More

It is never a pleasant experience to find water damage inside your home. Water loss can be costly to fix, but the problem only becomes more expensive as you let it progress. When the piping responsible for bringing water into your bathroom begins to leak, it can cause damage to the floor inside of the room. The quicker that you address this problem and fix the leak, the faster you can call for assistance with the water damage inside your bathroom.
 
It is imperative to have the water damage inside your San Jose bathroom remediated as soon as possible so it cannot become the breeding ground of microbial growth. Mold can begin to grow where extra moisture is present in just three day's time. The faster that you get professionals in your home to remediate the damage, the less likely this is for mold to grow and the more likely it is that a smooth remediation can take place.
 
When you get in contact with SERVPRO, we make it a priority to arrive at the job site as quickly as we can. We know your time is valuable and how swiftly damage can escalate. Once we arrive, our Estimator can go over the damage with you and your insurance adjuster, if one is applicable and answer any questions that you have.
 
After the initial investigation, our SERVPRO techs can begin to set up an environment that is ideal for drying out your bathroom with the help of advanced equipment. We can use desiccant dehumidifiers, axial fans, and air movers in combination to draw the moisture out of your floorboards and to create an environment that encourages evaporation. Rapid removal can prevent the seepage of water to other levels and causing secondary damage.
 
Furthermore, SERVPRO can use thermal imaging technology to look for any pockets of moisture in your floorboards where water could have collected, and then remove it. Once the drying process has been finished, our technicians can use moisture meters to ensure that the levels in your bathroom have returned to an acceptable rate.
 
Found water damage inside of your home? Reach out for restoration services immediately. Get in touch with SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno by dialing (408) 600-2020.

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Let SERVPRO do the Heavy Lifting After a Fire in Your Los Gatos Home

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

Fires start small and grow unless extinguished. Call SERVPRO's highly trained technicians to restore your home to its preloss condition.

Heavy Equipment Helps SERVPRO Take Down Fire Damage in Los Gatos

Reversing fire damage in a Los Gatos home can be a daunting task even for those familiar with the correct steps and processes without the equipment necessary to handle the job. SERVPRO's ability to tap into a national network of resources, education, and specialty equipment allow us to handle fire damages on a large scale. Other companies sometimes shy away from or fail to adequately restore damage caused by more significant fires because they lack the sort of heavy-duty tools and equipment we use, as well as the training necessary to operate them with maximum efficiency.

The SERVPRO Arsenal

We never show up to a fire damaged home in Los Gatos without adequate equipment and preparation. Depending on the path the fire takes, we may need to bring in any number of specialized machines and cleaning techniques. Water damage from sprinklers and hoses can compound problems in burned regions, but our fast-drying air movers and dehumidifiers can remove moisture before mold damage, and other complications can arise. We stock a variety of mops, brooms, brushes, and other tools specifically designed to pick up ash and other fire residues without causing damage to the materials lying underneath the damage. On top of that, we use innovative cleaning chemicals to remove even the smallest traces of fire damage still present in your home.

The Workforce Powering the Tools

In years past, fire restoration professionals could be given only a few hours worth of training before being sent out to help repair damage to people's homes. Today, however, our technicians receive weeks of training before ever being allowed to help out on a restoration project. SERVPRO's expert crews are trained and educated on every aspect of their equipment and know the in's and out's of everything they might use. We spare no expense in getting the right person on the right tool to help restore your home to the same way it was before the fire.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno is one of the most well-stocked and heavily-manned damage mitigation and restoration companies in the state. Call us at (408) 600-2020.

Los Gatos was originally named La Rinconada de Los Gatos which means Cat’s Corner, because of numerous mountain lions. Click here for more information about this town.

What Few People Know About How Floodwaters in Cambrian Park Affect the Structure of Your Home

10/28/2018 (Permalink)

Regardless of the source of the flooding in your home, contact SERVPRO to remove the water and remediate any remaining damage.

The Dangers of Floodwaters in Your Cambrian Park Home

While the primary effects of disasters affecting your Cambrian Park home might seem substantial enough, these are rarely the only things that a homeowner has to worry about when working towards recovery of the damage. As our technicians have seen through flooding situations that have affected the area, floodwaters often pose risks stretching well beyond the high volume of water inside your residence.

Flood damages to your Cambrian Park home are often difficult to determine at first. While the primary effect is evident, there are secondary effects and impacts to the structural integrity of your home and its contents that have yet to get accurately assessed. Once our SERVPRO team arrives, we can get to work on the extraction of the pooled water through truck-mounted pumps that pull water from the affected areas fast. Once the bulk of the excess water has gotten removed, our technicians can assess the full scope of the damage to your home.

While the water effects prove the most problematic, requiring many pieces of equipment to reach wall cavities and inaccessible areas to ensure moisture levels return to acceptable parameters, drying is only part of the remaining problem to face. Floodwaters often carry debris, dirt, and mud into your home along with the rushing water, soiling surfaces, flooring, and carpets. Our SERVPRO technicians have deep cleaning equipment to help overcome these effects and clean up the mess that the flood has left behind.

Structural concerns also get assessed once the drying process is underway. While our focus is preservation over demolition, overly saturated walls weaken quickly. Even with the advanced equipment at our disposal, reconstruction is often part of the flood recovery process for many homes.

As much as you might want to overcome the effects of a flood in your home immediately, restoration is an involved process that requires precision and expertise. Our SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno rapid response team can help to mitigate your loss in these situations and work efficiently to ensure that restoration does not take a second longer than necessary. Give our team a call anytime that you need us at (408) 600-2020.

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How Our Experts Handle Water Damage To Your Los Gatos Home

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Many different household crises can cause water damage in Los Gatos.

Professional Water Cleanup In Los Gatos

Many different household crises can cause water damage in Los Gatos. Most are related to leaks in plumbing or malfunctions of the appliances that every home has to make life easier - dishwashers, water heaters, laundry equipment, and the like. Arranging for professional assistance to help with cleanup and drying out is wise. We can help.

Although the reasons necessitating water cleanup of your home in Los Gatos often relate to ordinary wear and tear, trying to manage the process as of DIY project is not recommended. Water is notoriously difficult to eliminate without specialized equipment and training. Any moisture that remains exposes your home to progressive deterioration of building materials and the risk of secondary damage like mold growth. Our crews and commercial grade water mitigation tools lead to successful outcomes.

When SERVPRO arrives, our crew chief assesses the situation and designs a plan according to your particular circumstances. Swiftly our employees implement the plan, pumps, extractors, and drying equipment always available on our service vehicles. Water is evacuated as completely as possible, including hidden water trapped behind walls or under cabinets. We use advanced technology like infrared scanners to locate the water trapped in the many recesses every house features.

Our team is well-qualified to measure moisture levels in porous materials as well, which helps as our crew lead determines drying targets. Once the majority of the water exits via pumps and extractors SERVPRO turns to air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to reduce moisture remaining in your home to normal levels. We learn how to achieve the proper balance of air movement, temperature, and air moisture through rigorous coursework mastered at IICRC training, the industry standard.

A speedy and comprehensive water cleanup approach is needed as mold can begin growing after only 24 to 48 hours. SERVPRO crews reliably remove the water and dry out the premises fast, a result that is impossible to achieve without the experience, training, and equipment our team brings. We also work with your insurance, lessening that stress and strain on the homeowner.

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno has the trained crews, hands-on experience, and equipment to clean up water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (408) 600-2020 without delay when you suffer a water loss.

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Some Warning Signs of Smoke Damage After a Los Gatos Fire

9/23/2018 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke can affect many materials in your home. Contact SERVPRO to mitigate the situation after a fire.

Aspects Overlooked When Restoring Fire Damage in Los Gatos

Fire damages structures and contents in different ways. Most people only think of damage as charred remains or ashes. Other forms of damage such as smoke particles settling or adhering to surfaces do occur. In most cases, such smoke damage is more extensive than the damage from flames. The probability of restoring items affected by smoke in your Los Gatos property is much higher if the right approach is taken.
 
How stubborn smoke residue is, in a case of fire damage in Los Gatos, can be traced back to the intensity of the fire. High temperatures open up pores in the materials where the smoke residue is deposited. This expansion allows aerosols and other residues to penetrate deeper. Cleaning such sections requires extra effort. Our SERVPRO technicians use high-pressure washers and cleaning agents to remove any baked-on smoke residues from the affected areas.
 
HVAC systems in your premises can spread residues all over a structure by distributing the smoke-filled air. Some components of the system such as mixing boxes, turning vanes, dampers and cooling coils might also be damaged necessitating replacement. While our SERVPRO technicians might not repair such systems, we do a thorough inspection to establish the level of damage. In most cases, only the ducts require cleaning and our technicians do this by vacuuming and washing the interiors.
 
Bad odor is also common after a fire. Even though it is invisible, the discomfort it causes can render your property uninhabitable. Most odors disappear once you clean residues left in the affected areas. However, some require specific deodorization efforts. For the best outcome, deodorization should recreate the same procedures the odor-causing particles penetrate the surface. Since smoke is the primary source of odors in cases of fire damage, our SERVPRO technicians use foggers to deliver the deodorizer effectively. We can also use Ozone machines or hydroxyl generators depending on the situation.
 
For complete restoration after a fire, call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno. You can reach us at  (408) 600-2020 any time.

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Be Prepared with an Emergency READY Profile

8/31/2018 (Permalink)

Will you be ready when disaster strikes? The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) will help ensure you and your business are “Ready for whatever happens.”

In the event of an emergency, the SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contact information, shut-off valve locations, and priority areas. The ERP is also accessible online using your computer or tablet; download SERVPRO’s free Ready Plan app to access this information at any time using your smartphone or tablet.

The ERP establishes SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to 50 years experience and a system more than 1,700 Franchises strong. Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is key to quick response and timely mitigation. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time to plan for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever expects a disaster, but now is the time to plan for it.

In review, the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile is:

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save a lot of time in the future. Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno at 408-371-4001 to start your Emergency READY Profile today.

How to Prevent Fires in the Office

8/31/2018 (Permalink)

Have you reviewed your office’s fire prevention and safety procedures recently? Office fires lead to millions of dollars of property damage every year as well as employee injuries and deaths. Simple changes in your office can both prevent fires and prepare your employees for emergencies.

Avoid Overloading Circuits

Outlets were only designed to handle so much. You may be tempted to use power strips to plug in as many devices into each outlet as possible, but overloading your circuits can lead to fires.

Talk to your electrician to set rules for the outlets in your building, and communicate these rules to each of your employees.

Clear the Clutter

It’s easy to let paper, boxes, and the like clutter desks and other work areas. However, clutter provides easy fuel for fires to grow and spread faster. Boxes of papers near a stairwell or door can easily catch fire and block potential exits during an emergency.

Most accidental office fires start in the kitchen. It’s important to keep flammable materials away from kitchen equipment such as coffee machines and hot plates. Clean these appliances regularly so they can function properly.

Make sure all heat-producing equipment has room for air to circulate around it, especially copy machines, computers, space heaters, and coffee machines.

Shut Down Appliances & Equipment

While most office fires happen during the day, the most damaging fires happen while everyone is gone for the night. Choose a designated person to sweep through the office and turn off electrical appliances at the end of each work day.

Examine all electrical equipment employees bring in, such as space heaters and lamps, to make sure they are in good condition. Require employees to unplug these devices when they leave as well.

Establish a No-Flame Rule

Don’t allow employees to use lighted birthday candles or burn scented candles at their desk or in break rooms. Remember, accidents with small flames can lead to big problems.

Watch the Wiring

If any of your office’s electrical cords show signs of damage such as fraying or tears in the plastic covering, replace them immediately. Encourage your employees to report any defective wiring as well. Exposed wiring can encounter moisture, which may cause short circuiting and fires.

Don’t run cords across the floor where people may step on them or roll over them with carts or chairs. This leads to damaged cords, which can, in turn, lead to a fire hazard.

Secure the Building

Arson accounts for a significant portion of office fires. Lock up your building securely every night. Make sure any parking lots or alleyways near your building are well lit. You may want to invest in a security system as well.

Create and Implement an Office Evacuation Plan

Consider talking with your local fire department to create an office fire safety and evacuation plan. Identify all possible exits in your office, and establish an evacuation protocol including office safety officers and meeting places. Print out copies of the plan that highlight exits, escape routes, and meeting places.

Display your office evacuation plan in high employee traffic areas, like break rooms. Go over the plan with all new employees, and schedule fire drills every few months to practice.

Equip your office with fire safety items such as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. Your fire department should know the exact requirements for your building.

At SERVPRO® of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno, we can create an Emergency READY Profile for your business. When disaster strikes, you don’t want to spend time trying to figure out who to contact for what. Our ERPs include a detailed assessment of your facility along with a profile document and guide to getting you back to business faster after an incident. We even offer a mobile app for convenience.

Even small fires can leave significant property damage; smoke can enter your ventilation system and spread soot and debris throughout your building. We can accurately assess fire and smoke damage and help make your office “Like it never even happened.”

If you’ve had a fire in your office, or if you want to set up an Emergency READY Profile, call us today at 408-371-4001

Smoke and Soot

8/31/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Los Gatos/ Monte Sereno will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

What You Can Do When Your Toilet Leaks

8/31/2018 (Permalink)

If you are like most people, you probably worry about keeping your bathrooms clean and as sanitary as possible. You may even purchase special in-bowl-chemicals for toilets, cleaners for counters, and sprays for mirrors. So, when a pool of water appears at the base of your toilet, it is reasonable to be concerned about the source of the water and the consequences of the pooling liquid. The problem may be a leaking toilet, a broken tank, or a damaged supply line.

What Can You Do?

Depending on the size of the water puddle, there are several ways you can address the situation.

• Try fixing the bathroom leak on your own.
• Call an experienced team of water damage professionals to assess the situation and restore the property.
• Call friends and ask them to come help repair your bathroom.

No matter which of the above repair methods you choose, the first step to take is to make the area safe by removing the puddling water around the leaking toilet.

How Can You Find the Problem?

If you are a DYI type of individual the next step in fixing your bathroom water problem is locating the leak. The toilet may have a crack, so check the sides of the bowl below the seat for flaws in the ceramic material. You may also want to examine the tank to see if it is leaking between the toilet base unit and the upper tank unit. The water could also be leaking near the floor around the wax ring inside the toilet base. Another possible scenario is a leak from the supply lines at the back of the toilet.

What Do You Do Next?

No matter which type of leak you find, the next step is to turn the water supply line off at the wall to prevent additional water damage. The valve is usually located behind the toilet. From there, the choice of what to do about the leaking toilet is all yours because the repair can differ greatly depending on what is causing the toilet leak. SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno is here to help 408-371-4001 

Specialized Cleaning for Contents

7/27/2018 (Permalink)

Restoring Smoke, Water and Mold damaged property is faster, easier and more effective with Ultrasonics than with any other process.

Contents Restoration is an important business. It not only helps to restore damaged property, it helps restore people’s lives and livelihoods. While property damage can take many forms, what’s important to the owners is that their lives are returned to normal, and that they get their property back, as fast as possible.

Of course, when property can be returned depends on the type and severity of the damage. Certainly not every item, such as those actually burnt or melted in fires, can be restored, but a great number of items that would have traditionally been determined to be unrecoverable can now be quickly restored and returned to the owner with Morantz Ultrasonics.

Benefits of Ultrasonics for Contents Restoration 

The benefits of restoring property with Ultrasonics are two-fold:

1. For Insurance Companies:The cost of restoring an item versus reimbursing the owner for the item’s full value is dramatically diminished. Example: a $1500 television can typically be cleaned and returned to the owner within days. The cost of cleaning that $1500 television for the Insurance could be only $300 (or whatever the restoration company decides to charge for their service). This represents a significant savings.
2. For Property Owners: They get their original property back quickly. Whereas traditional cleaning methods can take weeks and cause additional property damage, with Ultrasonics most items can be cleaned in as little as 30 seconds to 2 minutes). As a result, it’s no surprise that most people are happy simply getting their property back, especially if it means getting their lives back to normal as quickly as possible and even more so if the items have sentimental value.

Types of Contents Restoration

The damage that occurs to property during fires, floods, accidents and other disasters is often much more severe than it first appears. To be sure, fire itself is destructive and an item that is physically burned or melted cannot be restored. However, property that has been engulfed in smoke, covered in soot, stained or discolored by water or contaminated by chemicals or molds can usually be restored to functional (or even good-as-new) condition with Morantz Ultrasonics.

How Common Damage Occurs

Damage to property and personal possessions can occur in many different ways. While damage as described above is common, fires are particularly troublesome as they can often result in multiple forms of damage. For example:

• During a Fire: Fires can produce vast amounts of smoke that leave soot deposits on property. Depending on what has burned and the temperature of the fire, the soot produced by the fire may not only be mixed with a variety of chemicals and toxins. Additionally, physical properties of the soot can range from a fine powder to a thick sludge. Furthermore, because the particulate matter that makes up soot (and the chemical residue) is microscopic, it can not only penetrate deep into tiny crevices on the surface of an item, but it can also “sink” deep into the item itself. This is especially true of electronics which can actually attract soot and dirt because they can generate magnetic fields or become charged with static electricity.
• Immediately After a Fire: The water that was used to extinguish the flames can discolor the surfaces of many types of items. Additionally, water can cause severe physical damage since the materials from which many items are made can actually absorb surprising amounts of water.
• Long After a Fire: Many types of materials and even the items themselves can retain significant levels of moisture. Moisture absorbed by an item that has not been properly dried, or that remains on or near the surface, may quickly become a breeding ground for molds and bacteria or other potentially hazardous residues (again, depending on what has burned).

Sewer Backup Dangers

7/27/2018 (Permalink)

Don’t treat a sewer backup lightly. Sewer backups are emergencies. They are health hazards. Sewer water often holds bacteria, viruses, and other microbes that can lead to serious illnesses. If your sewer backs up in your home or building or on your property, know what type of sewer water you’re dealing with: 

Clean Water
Some water backups are clean. Examples include a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If you don’t treat it quickly this type of water backup can get more serious. Without attention and clean up, any water can become gray water (category 2) or black water (category 3).

Gray Water
Gray water is water from a sewer line backup that’s contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. You have gray water (category 2) if the water’s from a washing machine overflow; a toilet overflow with some urine (no feces); or a dishwasher overflow. This type of sewer water backup can quickly degrade into black water (category 3) if not treated. Again, quick clean up is important.

Black Water
 Pros use this term to describe grossly contaminated water. Sewer drain backups like this could cause severe illness or death if ingested. Avoid all contact with black water. You have black water when you have flooding from rivers or streams; water from beyond the toilet trap; water from the toilet bowl with feces; or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno whenever you have sewer backup problems.

At SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno we’re trained in the safest, most advanced, and quickest ways to eliminate all sewer backups. 

Dangers of Hoarding

7/27/2018 (Permalink)

We have heard of those crazy shows about individuals hoarding stuff and not wanting to part ways of all the things they have collected over the years. At SERVPRO of Los Gatos/Monte Sereno we want to keep families safe and give them tips in keeping a safe and healthy home. Hoarding is something hazardous when it comes to fire safety for anyone with this problem. The risks of one hoarding can crowd stoves and ovens making very unsafe to cook because of the possibility of something falling into those appliances and starting a fire. Another risk has items to close and crowed near heating equipment like a fireplace or a furnace which is very dangerous if the items were to fall into these kinds of equipment causing it to damage and start a fire. The hoarding of items is a very serious dangerous even when it comes to saving your own life. Firefighters will have a hard time trying to get in your home to rescue you or your loved ones in case of a fire. With stuff being everywhere like in any hoarding situation can make it difficult for a firefighter to navigate in the home. It is important to remember that if you have lots of items in or around your home to keep them at least 3 feet away from cooking appliance like a stove(s) or oven(s) and as well as any heating equipment like furnaces, boilers or fireplace.

What A Home or Business Owner Can Expect From Fire Restoration

7/27/2018 (Permalink)

What A Home or Business Owner Can Expect From Fire Restoration

Fire damage restoration, whether it is for a large business structure or a small residence, is a vital step in getting things back to normal. Fire damage can lead to structural problems, soot damage, an unpleasant smoke smell and other types of long-term issues that must be cleaned up before the structure can be restored to service. Most importantly, fire damage restoration is not something that can be put off, as problems such as smoke damage will only get worse as time goes by. For this reason, securing the services of a skilled restoration company can help avoid the costs associated with long-term home or commercial fire damage.

The First Steps


An effective fire damage restoration process will begin as soon as the firefighters leave the building. The fire damage cleanup process will involve surveying the structure to determine what type of damage has been done, removing water from the premises, and ensuring that the electricity and water are turned off until the fire damage restoration service can be certain that they have not been damaged.

In addition, the company will board up any access points in order to prevent the possibility of theft or vandalism. In many regions, it will also be necessary to board up the structure to avoid further weather damage. When evaluating commercial fire damage, the restoration company will also work to determine what damage has been done to the company’s inventory.

Restoring the Structure


The restoration process will include examining the structure for smoke damage. In many cases, smoke and soot damage can permeate the structure, leaving a smoke smell even after the fire has been extinguished. The restoration company may be able to paint over some interior furnishings, while in other cases, wood and carpets may have to be replaced. In addition, soot damage to HVAC systems may require the cleaning, repair or replacement of ducting in order to eliminate the smoke smell.

Electrical Components


A fire in a home or business can often do serious damage to the electrical systems. This is especially important when looking at commercial fire damage, as many commercial buildings have extensive electrical systems. Direct fire damage can result in the electrical wiring being rendered unsafe, while soot damage can cause sensitive electronic systems to malfunction. In addition, a fire in a business or home that has burned electronic or plastic items may have left toxic chemicals behind in addition to unpleasant smoke smell. In such a case, the fire cleanup process will involve removing any such dangerous chemicals from the building. Fortunately, fire restoration companies are trained in how to handle and dispose of such hazardous materials.

Windows and Doors


In many cases, windows and doors will have to be replaced. Fire damage can destroy them, while firefighters often break down windows or doors in order to gain access to a fire in a home or business. Although these openings will have to be boarded up, the fire cleanup process will involve them being completely removed so that new doors and windows can be installed. Some restoration companies will be able to direct the owner to a contractor who can quickly replace these windows.

Commercial Fire Cleanup Vs. Home Cleanup


A fire in a business is far different from a fire in a home, and a skilled remediation service will understand this. For commercial fire damage, getting the business back up and running can be vital, while fire damage in a home may require a softer touch, so as to ensure that none of the home’s remaining family items are damaged during the process.

More importantly, many businesses, even while soot and smoke damage is being repaired, will be functioning. The restoration service may be required to board up windows and doors while working around employees and customers. A fire in a home, unlike a fire in a business, may allow the restoration service to work while the homeowner remains at alternate accommodations.

Ultimately, securing the service of a restoration company can help victims of a fire in a business or home quickly recover from their misfortune. Whether only a quick fire cleanup is needed, or extensive smoke damage has rendered the structure nearly uninhabitable, the best answer to the owner’s woes is a skilled and experienced fire cleanup service.

Contact SERVPRO Los Gatos/Monte Sereno for more information on fire damage

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

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SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help - Call Today - Los Gatos / Monte Sereno (408) 600-2020

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Faster to you Los Gatos / Monte Sereno Water Damage Event

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Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Santa Barbara provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (408) 600-2020

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Does Your Los Gatos / Monte Sereno Home Have A Mold Problem?

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Photo Caption: In Los Gatos / Monte Sereno, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

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Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – Los Gatos / Monte Sereno at (408) 600-2020

Los Gatos / Monte Sereno Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

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Photo Caption: Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.

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If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (408)600-2020

When Storms of Floods hit Los Gatos / Monte Sereno is ready!

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Photo Caption: Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Los Gatos / Monte Sereno.

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SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Los Gatos / Monte Sereno, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today at (408)600-2020!

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Los Gatos / Monte Sereno Home

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SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

For Immediate Service in Los Gatos / Monte Sereno, Call SERVPRO

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SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Los Gatos / Monte Sereno. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (408)600-2020.

Residential Services

Whether your Los Gatos / Monte Sereno home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Los Gatos / Monte Sereno commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: 

http://www.SERVPROlosgatosmontesereno.com/commercial-restoration-cleaning

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Los Gatos / Monte Sereno Smoke and Soot Cleanup

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Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (408) 600-2020

Restoring Your Los Gatos / Monte Sereno Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

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Flooding and water damage events at Los Gatos / Monte Sereno commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno

SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Helpful tips if your personal belongings have been damaged by water

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One of the most common topics after a client suffers water damage, is how and what they can save from water damage.  Unfortunately, there is no clear cut answer to this question. Every water damage is unique in some sense, so what can be saved is really on a case by case basis. However, here are some guidelines that you can use to make the best decision possible.

Type of Water Damage

Determining whether the water that damaged your personal belongings is clean or contaminated will be a big factor in whether or not it can be salvaged. If you are dealing with clean water, the chances of you being able to save some of your belongings is higher.  Even though it may be possible to restore something that is damaged by contaminated water, it is more than likely not worth the health risk that it may bring.

Porous vs Non-Porous Materials

Porous materials such as fabrics, wood, and paper are very good at retaining water. This also means it increases the chance of other dangers like mold growth, and damage beyond repair. This is not always the case and if handled quickly and properly, many times these items can be saved as well. On the other hand, porous materials like marble, metal, and porcelain - among others - usually have no problem being restored. Since there is really nothing for bacteria and mold to root itself in, a simple cleaning is usually no problem.

Amount of Time water saturated the items

Another factor that will come into the equation of determining what can and cannot be saved is how long the materials have been wet for. The longer an item sits in water, the deeper it can penetrate. As you can imagine, this makes it increasingly more difficult to bring it back to its normal state. The perfect example of this is wooden furniture. It takes quite a bit of time for it to really absorb and become completely water logged. If you get personal belongings out of the standing water and begin the drying process right away, you have a good chance of being able to save them.

Factor in the Replacement Cost

Water damage restoration of personal belongings is no different than any other type of repair. You will always want to evaluate how much it is going to cost to repair something versus simply replacing it. Is the item you want to save really worth paying a professional to do work on it? Sometimes it is, sometimes it is not.

You should also take into account that paying for restoration does not guarantee your item will be returned to its original state. If that’s the case, you’ll have to replace the item anyways.

If you are unsure about whether or not one of your items could be salvaged, it is best that you get it analyzed by a professional. If you hire a water damage restoration company to handle a dry out of your property, they will be able to assist you in assessing damage to your personal belongings as well. To speak to a professional water restoration representative at SERVPRO, contact us today at (408)600-2020!