Recent Storm Damage Posts

Why SERVPRO is the Trusted Choice for Fire Damage Restoration

8/22/2022 (Permalink)

Full-Service Fire Damage Mitigation and Cleanup in PISMO BEACH/ ARROYO GRANDE Are Why SERVPRO Must Be Your Call

The aftermath of a fire is a cleaning and deodorizing challenge like none other in Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande. Fortunately, most homeowners never are forced to rise to the test, but if you and your family find yourselves facing the smoke, soot, odor, and debris, professional help is available. Fire results in incredibly toxic, corrosive, and it is challenging to remove soiling and highly pungent odors, why we invest in comprehensive training in the restoration industry best practices for our technicians. 

Containment to Preserve Air Quality 

One strategy we use to attack the many ways fire damage affects your Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande home is to contain the affected area. Preventing drift of the smoke and soot is crucial. Otherwise, every surface and space in your home can attract soot and smells. Using 6 mil polyethylene barriers and sealing the perimeter of the fire damage abatement workspace not only keeps residues in check, but it is also a practical step to control odors. Forcing contaminants through HEPA filters and venting to the outdoors is also useful and why we use negative pressure air scrubbers. 

Matching Cleaners and Techniques to Particular Soils 

Three principle types of soot present in household fires -- dry and ashy, thick and wet, and protein-based. Each has preferred methods for removal, based on research and success in the field. If the evaluation of the residues in your home is incomplete or erroneous, efforts taken to clean soot away can instead cause smearing or staining. This concern is why SERVPRO ensures our assessors are up to date on their Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training. 

Employing Innovative Technology to Fire Damage-Based Odor 

If thorough cleaning of the air and surfaces does not result in the elimination of smoky odors, we consider other options. The tiny particles of soot that carry the smells can hide in crevices and even in HVAC systems. Using masking agents is an option, but is not acceptable as a long term option. This struggle is why SERVPRO explores other options like thermal fogging, ozone machines, or hydroxyl generators for odor removal. Alterations in the chemical composition of the odor-bearing soot neutralize the smell.  

World-class training and investment in advanced equipment are why SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande responds to fire damage with assurance and delivers fast and successful results. Call round the clock at 805-473-0772 for a rapid assessment and restoration plan based on best practices.

Extent of Water Damage

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

When a homeowner deals with a water loss, its often a surprise to the customer the extent of damage that is caused. SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande will come to the home, evaluate the damage, and begin the dry out process and repairs. Our crews often must remove dry wall due to damaged installation, we might have to remove flooring, furniture, essentially anything that is affect by the water. 

It’s important to have SERVPRO to come out to evaluate the home to find how much the water spread, and what needs to be done to properly get your home back to normal! Our production leaders have top of the line equipment, to test areas that are wet, and they can see what has been affected. Our SERVPRO crews are educated and trained to know how to handle each home depending on the job.

Don't Let Water Ruin Your Summer Fun!

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

With the temperatures quickly rising and the hot summer season headed straight towards us, our
the natural inclination is to turn up the A/C indoors!

However, the risk of water damage still poses
a threat even during the summer months.

The extended use of air conditioning units, if not properly maintained, can cause drainage issues. To avoid this, make sure to change your air filter regularly. Regular inspections and cleanings are also important to prevent and stop any issues in your unit from worsening. One thing to keep an eye on is the drainage pan. Check to make sure water isn’t leaking and accumulating in the pan. Especially in the hotter weather; mold, mildew, and fungus can easily grow and spread.

Another thing that keeps in mind is the potential for pipes to burst. Although burst pipes are more
common during the colder months, hot summer weather can still cause this headache for a home
or property owner. A good rule of thumb is to notice whenever there is a change in your water pressure. While it could be simply just an irritation, it could also be a sign that something bigger is on the verge of happening. This could be a result of corrosion build-up which leads to leaks and eventually, water getting into your home or office.

The risk for pipes bursting doesn’t stop there. If you notice cracks appearing on the walls, especially around the corner, it’d be safe to assume there have been changes in your foundation. An easy solution, however, is to consistently water the soil and even place plants around the perimeter of the foundation. The plants help moderate the temperature of the soil and can also serve to hold the ground together with their roots.

The last thing any home or property owner wants to deal with is water damage, no matter the
weather!

Where Is Your Emergency Storm Kit?

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

Do you know where your emergency storm kit is?

If a community is not prepared for a severe storm, the results can be devastating. Since the Birmingham Area is no stranger to severe storms, SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande wants to share some of the following tips to keep in mind while putting together an emergency kit in the event of a severe storm approaching. FEMA has stated that emergency kits should include some of the following:

  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • First aid kit
  • Any medicine currently being taken
  • Emergency food and water
  • Extra change of clothes and shoes
  • Pet supplies if you are taking care of an animal

These are just a few examples of what an emergency kit should contain. Residents can add whatever else they may need. There should be an emergency kit in every residential building as well as all commercial buildings if possible. Aside from having an emergency kit ready, a plan should also be in place. If there is a designated storm area inside the home or office, occupants should head there with the emergency kits. Severe storms cannot be avoided, but with the right tools and resources they can be easier to deal with.

Power Outage Preparation

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

The conditions created by thunderstorms or hurricanes, such as damaging winds or flooding, can result in loss of power for your home or business.  Preparing for the possibility of a power outage before it occurs can help ensure safety for both you and your property.  Ready.gov suggests the following preparation strategies:

  • Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity.
  • Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.
  • Plan for batteries and other alternatives to meet your needs when the power goes out.
  • Be sure to read and follow all manufacturer directions if using a generator for electricity.
  • Sign up for local alerts and warning systems. Monitor weather reports.
  • Install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home.
  • Review the supplies that are available in case of a power outage. Have flashlights with extra batteries for every household member. Have enough nonperishable food and water.
  • Use a thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer so that you can know the temperature when the power is restored. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.

As with hurricane or flood preparation, power outage preparation is essential to take care of your home, business, and loved ones in the event of an emergency.   If recent storms have caused damage to your home or business, the professionals at SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande are Here to Help.  Give us a call at 805-473-0772, We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

As leaders in the storm and water damage industry, SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande has advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to pre-storm condition.

From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

  • IICRC Training
  • Employee Certification Training
  • Initial Franchise Training
  • e-Learnings
  • Continuing Education Classes

Restoring storm- and flood-damaged properties is the cornerstone of our business. Our highly trained professionals use specialized equipment and advanced training to quickly restore your Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande property to pre-storm condition. We’re dedicated to responding immediately, which helps to minimize secondary damage.

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande is close by and ready to respond to your flood or storm damage emergency. We are proud to be an active member of the Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be.

Storm outside? Here's what to do!

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

First and foremost, if you ever find yourself outside during a storm, it is in your best interest to get inside to ensure your safety! One thing you can always remember to help you out with this effort: When thunder roars, go indoors!

When there, though, the path to safety has only just begun! You are going to want to avoid a ton of problem areas to avoid injury, like windows, doors, porches, and gazebos.

You should also refrain from using the plumbing too much; showering, washing dishes, or doing the laundry should be considered a no-no during these times.

Another less-known tip is to avoid corded phones, electrical cords or equipment, or any device connected to an outlet.

And never, EVER hold metal objects while outside during a storm — if the movies ever taught you anything, its to definitely not do that!

Call SERVPRO for all of your storm damage needs; we got you covered!

Severe Weather Information

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

The following is an important message that was adapted from SERVPRO Corporate:

Severe weather can happen any time, anywhere. Each year, Americans cope with an average of the following intense storms:

- 10,000 severe thunderstorms

- 5,000 floods or flash floods

- 1,300 tornadoes

- 2 landfalling deadly hurricanes.

Approximately 98% of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 650 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage.

Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action, and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

For more information, contact your local SERVPRO professional today! We will be able to assist you and answer all of your questions as best we can!

Encapsulation: Your Solution to Crawlspace Humidity

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Is there a crawlspace under your home? Whether it's full of random storage items or left empty during the year, it's also part of your home that plays an important role in supporting the structure of your home. Sadly, crawlspace humidity is a common problem that exposes the foundation to mold and rot unless you take preventative measures.

Encapsulation

What Benefits To Expect

Encapsulation is an effective method of protecting the open area below your home. Crawlspace humidity creates an inviting environment for mold but sealing the space or installing a vapor barrier of polyethylene keeps moisture out. While many Pismo Beach, homeowners still haven't heard of this protective step, there are several benefits:

  • This airtight barrier is also resistant to insect infestations and other pest-related problems.
  • Encapsulation may reduce the amount of energy by almost 20 percent.
  • The sealed space improves your ability to maintain temperatures in your home, effectively reducing your utility bills.
  • Your property value may increase.
  • Combine this step with a dehumidifier and the right amount of ventilation to avoid expensive repairs related to moisture and mildew.


With the heavy-duty barrier in place, you can feel confident that your home is protected against expensive water damage.

How To Tell You Need Services

How do you know if your Pismo Beach, home needs this type of protection? There are several signs that the empty space below your home is causing trouble:

  • Musty smells from the empty space
  • Floors that feel squishy underfoot
  • Constant pest problems you can't control
  • High utility costs in spite of home improvements
  • Visible evidence of moisture around windows or on ductwork


As humidity builds up below your home, the effects are easily recognized. It's best to take action before you need to call in water damage repair experts.

When To Get Started

Crawlspace humidity is a significant cause of home damage. Adding a polyethylene barrier prevents damage to the foundation and the rest of the home. If you haven't considered this solution, now is the time to give it some thought.

Be Ready With the Emergency Ready Profile

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

Preparation is key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small leak, pipe break or an area flood. The best time to plan for such water events is not when it happens, but before it happens. Facility owners and maintenance staff never plan on a disaster, but now you can plan for it by calling SERVPRO  we can ensure you and your business are "Ready for whatever happens", with our Emergency Ready Profile (ERP).

The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including:

  1. Emergency Contact Information
  2. Shut-off Valve locations 
  3. Priority Areas
  4. Building layout

The ERP is also accessible online using your computer, tablet or smartphone.

Commercial Building Storm Damage

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

When preparing for an upcoming spring storm, protecting your home is the priority and something you should take seriously. As a business owner, you have to do double duty because it is crucial to ensure that your business is as secure as your home.

Here are a few ways to help you avoid storm damage to your commercial property:

1. Watch, Listen, or Read

By watching the local news channel, listening to the radio throughout your commute, or reading a weather app on your phone, you will know exactly what is coming your way as well as how to prepare for it. 

2. Protect the Property

Be knowledgeable about where your pipes are located. With a quick visit to the hardware store, you can gather insulation supplies for the pipes that are easy to reach. Hate the drip, drip, drip from a leaky faucet? In the event of a cold front that brings freezing weather, turning the faucet on to a drip can help you avoid a potential serious and costly pipe break. This is because the drip keeps the water moving in the pipe and does not allow it to sit and freeze. When left alone, the water can freeze and expand, and this pressure is what will break a pipe.

3. Ask for Help

Utilize others’ knowledge on how to keep your business safe. Know who you can call to help prevent damage or to fix an already broken pipe. Save the phone number of a cleanup and restoration company in your phone contacts for quick reference in case of an emergency.

No one wants to deal with the headache of storm damage or a pipe break. By being prepared and creating a plan for your business, you can ease the burden of an upcoming winter storm. Your business storm strategy can also be easily applied to your home so that you won’t have to worry if a storm hits while you’re at work.

We will walk you through every step for your Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande flood damage.

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding creates a frustrating situation for property owners. Fortunately, by taking the right steps, it is not hard to restore your Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande property after flood damage. If it is safe to enter your home, you can start the flood cleanup process by doing the following things: 

  • Wear protective attire like watertight boots, rubber gloves, and safety glasses or goggles.
  • Discard porous materials such as foam rubber and padded furniture.
  • Throw out exposed food, medicine, and drinks.
  • Document the damage by taking photos or videos.
  • Wipe down wooden items.
  • Clean hard surfaces with a solution of hot water and soap.

Cleaning up and drying a flood-damaged property is challenging. You may need special tools like air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the affected surfaces. Some parts of your home may also need to be rebuilt, or soaked materials like carpeting and drywall may need to be removed, discarded and replaced. The other items you may need to replace include drapery, clothing, and ductwork. Therefore, it is advisable to hire a flood damage restoration company like SERVPRO to assist you with the remediation process.

When we get to your residence, we can conduct a detailed inspection using devices like moisture meters, infrared cameras, and moisture sensors. These devices enable us to track moisture within a building. After assessing the destruction, we can come up with the appropriate restoration plan. Floodwater can bring all kinds of solids in your property. We can use a self-priming trash pump to extract the water mixed with solids. We can also use power washers to remove muck or mud on the exterior parts of your home.

After extracting the water, your walls and floors may look dry, but they are still wet. Porous building materials can hold moisture that can make them swell or warp. Our SERVPRO technicians can manipulate temperature and humidity using dehumidifiers and air movers so that drying occurs much faster.

Cleaning floors, walls, and other affected surfaces is also essential. During a flood, sewer lines can leak wastes that may end up in your property, threatening your health. Our team can clean your home using disinfectants that destroy 99 percent of microorganisms.

When you need flood cleanup services in Santa Maria call for help. Our 24-hour emergency helpline is (805) 473-0772. We can make the loss appear “Like it never even happened.”

When is a Flood Cut Needed?

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

When your home in Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande has water damage, the cleanup process is typically fairly easy. If the damage was caused by flooding, it unfortunately brings a few extra woes. As opposed to a pipe leak with clean water, flood waters can easily pick up extra bacteria and contaminants along its path.

Purpose of a Flood Cut

Since water wicks its way up, the visible damage seen at a few inches could actually have traveled a few feet up a wall. A flood cut allows for the assessment of damage further up the wall. Typically 12 to 18 inches above the visible damage, this cut can help determine how far the water has moved up as well as any other damage.

Are Flood Cuts Always Necessary?

Most professional mediation experts try to tear out as little drywall as possible. For clean water leaks, only the visibly damaged area may need to be removed to prevent further moisture damage. Unfortunately, flood waters require extra care, which will likely mean a flood cut for three main reasons:

After flooding, there is a good chance of contamination. Sewage, chemicals and other bacteria can easily picked up in the flowing waters.
The excess water that has likely worked its way up the walls can create a welcoming environment for mold growth. Even though it may not be visible, the moisture and organic materials in drywall and other materials create the nourishment the fungus needs to flourish.
Behind the drywall in many homes is insulation, which can’t be properly dried. If left as is, it will no longer provide its designated insulated properties.

If your home is damaged by flooding, the best bet is to use a flood cut. This will help you determine how much of the material needs to be removed, as well as will help the area dry out better. Luckily, helps is available that is faster to any size disaster to resolve the residual flood issues.

How to Minimize Flood Damage to your Business

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

Prepare Your Business From A Flood Damage

There is never a good time to deal with flood damage in Pismo Beach & Arroyo Grande. Different types of flooding include burst pipes, flash floods, and sewage backup. They can be hard to prepare for and even harder to predict. Here are a few tips to ensure that you are doing the most you can to protect your property from disaster.

Act Now

Sometimes you won't have time to prepare your business before a storm hits. If your property experiences flooding, remember not to panic. You can avoid most of the damage with these steps.

  • Stop the flow of water and turn off circuit breakers to reduce risk of injury.
  • Call your storm damage restoration company immediately.
  • Remove small furniture items, books, papers, and breakables to a higher floor or a dry room.
  • Put cinder wood blocks under the legs of furniture to raise them above water level.
  • Lift all cushions, rugs, drapes and other fabric items away from water, and set them outside to dry if needed.
  • Place sandbags around doors and windows to divert running water and soak up standing water.

Prepare for the Worst

While the forecast can be erratic, one of the best ways to avoid heavy damage is to be prepared before a storm descends. Perform routine maintenance on the building to prevent water from pooling in areas. Make sure to clean out storm drains and patch holes in parking lots. Regularly inspect doors, windows and drains, and bring them up to code.

Keep an Updated Flood Action Plan

Having a flood action plan can help you get your business running right after a disaster. Keep yourself and your employees updated on weather forecasts and storm warnings. Have the numbers of insurance providers and emergency services in one place. Make an evacuation plan and perform drills regularly. Know how to locate all utility taps and circuit breakers and how to safely shut them off in case of a flood.

When you have a well-constructed plan, you will feel much better about handling a disaster such as flooding. Just because the weather can be unpredictable doesn't mean you shouldn't be prepared.

What to do after Flooding if you don't have flood Insurance.

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

No Flood Insurance?

Homeowners insurance policies typically exclude damage caused by flooding. Residents of flood-prone areas should obtain a separate flood insurance policy, otherwise they will have to pay for damage restoration out of pocket or obtain relief through a federal program. Here are four types of assistance that may be available through the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

1. Transitional Sheltering and Temporary Housing

After the president declares a federal disaster area, Transitional Sheltering Assistance can lower the cost of staying in a hotel during the days or weeks immediately following a disaster. Homeowners can also seek Temporary Housing Assistance for a period of one month up to 18 months.

2. Grants for Cleanup and Restoration

A homeowner may want to apply for a grant to fund the restoration of a residence located on a flood plane. Grants can be used for repairing structural damage or replacing other losses.

3. Repair and Replacement Assistance

If the location of your home is declared a federal disaster area, you may be eligible for a one-time payment for Repair and Replacement Assistance. This option will not cover the costs of flood damage, and is intended to supplement a flood insurance policy.

4. Low-Interest Loans

It may be possible to obtain loans that have low-interest rates to finance residential flood damage repairs. These loans are usually capped at $200,000 for a primary residence and $40,000 for property including renters' losses. Annual interest rates may be as low as 1.75 percent for a 30-year period.

After a federal declaration of emergency, homeowners may benefit from these and other services administered by FEMA. If you obtain flood insurance, you should seek an estimate from storm and water damage restoration experts and make a claim. Professional cleanup and rebuilding services can reduce the likelihood that secondary damage will result from primary flood damage at a residence in Pismo Beach & Arroyo Grande, CA. 

When Storm Hits, SERVPRO is read!

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande 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 Pismo Beach & Arroyo Grande, 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 https://www.SERVPRO.com/disaster-recovery that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 805-473-0772

Preparing for Flood Damage

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

How To Prepare for Flood Damage

Flooding can happen throughout the year and can be devastating to a commercial building, leaving damage that takes a significant amount of time and expense to undo. There are several steps you can take to prepare your Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande, California building to survive and recover from storm damage. Preventative measures can reduce the amount of flood damage and make it easier to restore your building to operational use as soon as possible. 

1. Clean the Gutters

Flooding doesn’t always mean there are several feet of water in a building. Even a few inches of water inside a commercial building can cause substantial damage. Floodwaters can build slowly over several days or may rise extremely quickly in the event of a flash flood. 

No matter how much rain is falling, well-maintained gutter systems have a much better chance of diverting that water to proper drainage areas. If the gutters are clogged with leaves, dirt, and other debris, the water can overflow the sides and saturate the ground around the foundation, increasing the risk for damage. Make sure to check and clean the gutters on a regular schedule to ensure they work properly during a flood.

2. Maintain the Storm Drains

Like gutters, storm drains are designed to move water away from streets and buildings. While the local government or county is usually responsible for storm drain maintenance, you may be required to report issues with the drains on or near your property. If you see something amiss with a storm drain, report it to the authorities immediately.

3. Have a Response Plan

Make sure you’re ready to react quickly in the event of flooding. During a flood watch or warning, follow basic safety guidelines:

Listen to the TV or radio for weather updates
Gather an emergency preparedness kit
Move to higher ground
Avoid walking or driving through flood waters

Keep the number for restoration professionals handy so you can call them if your building sustains storm damage. You will want to do this as soon as possible to begin cleanup and repairs. Responding quickly to flood damage can help get your building back to normal operations. Visit http://www.SERVPROpismobeacharroyogrande.com for more information on flood damage.

Storms and the Challenges of Water Damage

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

Flood waters affecting a home

Storms bring badly needed water to the California, but they can also bring all kinds of damage. Heavy rain, winds and flooding create traffic hazards making getting to and from work, school, and necessary errands challenging and sometimes unsafe. Potential damage from floods and slides can run into hundreds of thousands for individual home and business owners and into the billions when a region is hit very hard.

The SERVPRO of Avila beach water damage professionals are the experts to call when the storm is over and it is time to assess and repair residential and commercial water damage.

Water damage from storms can be complicated depending on the force of the storm. The damage can range between standing water in crawl spaces, flooded basements, broken windows and damaged roofs letting water into the home or business, all the way up to water contaminated with sewage and other biohazards.

Storms in California, especially on the Central Coast, usually arrive with plenty of warning. The best way to prevent or minimize water and storm damage is to take precautions before the storm. Late spring and early summer is a good time to inspect buildings for and repair problems that could lead to leaks, standing water, and storm water getting in to the house.

When a storm is coming, known problems like cracked or broken windows, leaky roofs, wood rot, leaking pipes, and hills and slopes that allow water to run under buildings can be protected if there is not enough time to repair them. Securely fit tarps over leaking roofs, reinforce windows, and use erosion control measures to divert water runoff away from structures.

The Avila Beach water damage specialists from SERVPRO are trained to remove rainwater, storm water, water contaminated by biohazards, and to clean and sanitize the water soaked structures and personal property.

Removing storm water and restoring the property that has been damaged requires specialized equipment and cleaning products, protective safety gear, and specialized training to restore homes and businesses to a condition “like it never happened.”

Decontaminating a home or business due to a crime, sewage backups, chemical spills or other biohazards, or even hoarding, can be dangerous to someone without the appropriate training. The Avila Beach SERVPRO professionals work closely with insurance companies to make sure all repairs are made in the most effective manner so that claims are settled as trouble-free as possible.

For the best remediation and repairs to homes and businesses that have received storm damage, call SERVPRO of Avila beach. The company has a 24-hour emergency line and is available around the clock to assist with emergencies.

How To Remove Large Amounts of Water From a Basement

1/11/2018 (Permalink)

storm damage pismo beach

Whether you live in an area that commonly receives flooding, or you’ve been the unlucky victim of a burst pipe, a large amount of water in your basement probably feels overwhelming. However, with the right equipment, you may be able to clean it up much easier than you think.

What You’ll Need

While small amounts of water are usually easier to clean with a wet vacuum or even mops, deeper water requires specialized equipment. Chances are you don't already own a sump pump, which means you'll need to rent one from a local business. These pumps have a waterproof outer layer that protects their electrical components while they remove the water from your basement. If possible, attach it to a larger hose that will remove the water more quickly. You will also need:

• Extension cord
• Rubber boots
• Nylon rope
• Access to a truck or storm drain

What To Do Before

Before using your rented trash pump — another name for the same items — you’ll need to wait until exterior floodwaters recede. Once your yard is no longer flooded, shut off your home's electricity and keep pets and children away from the basement. Before lowering the pump into the basement, plug it into an extension cord and ensure the connection won't become submerged in water by looping it around a heavy object, such as a ceiling joist. Attach the hose you'll use and tie a nylon rope to the top of the pump. Finally, ensure the hose is pointed away from your home and into a gutter, storm drain or pump truck.

Pumping the Water

After setting up, use the rope to slowly lower the pump into the basement. When you have it where you need it, start the generator and plug the other end of the extension cord into it. When the water is only a few inches deep, you can move the pump to the lowest level to complete the process.

Remember, working with electric-powered equipment near water is a dangerous task. If you feel uncomfortable doing it, consider hiring a professional in Pismo Beach, CA to help you instead.
Visit http://www.SERVPROpismobeacharroyogrande.com for more information on storm damage.

We are located at: 

1423 Raspberry AveArroyo Grande, CA 93420United States

When Storms or Floods hit Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande SERVPRO is ready!

12/14/2017 (Permalink)

Residence that was deeply affected during Hurricane Harvey.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Five Cities 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 Pismo Beach/Five Cities, 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 805-922-5457

We are located at: 

1423 Raspberry AveArroyo Grande, CA 93420United States