New Roof in a San Jose,Ca

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage inside home due to affected roof.

With all the rain we've been experiencing in the  Bay Area it's no wonder the number of roof leak calls into our office has been skyrocketing.  Water damage can affect all family members, human or not. 

The roof in question was only a few years old, but the wind of the last storm was too much.  If you experience a roof leak, here are some suggestions about how to go about fixing it:

Step 1:  Stop the water.  Hire a roofing company to either fix the leak or to install a temporary roof tarp to keep more water from entering the structure.  If you suspect the water intrusion is gutter related, contact a gutter cleaning company.

Step 2:  Perform water remediation:  Open affected areas to perform drying and to prevent mold.  Install drying equipment and apply anti-microbial to discourage mold growth.  Caution:  If you are unsure about your property's lead paint or asbestos status, test first before any demolition.

Step 3:  Perform repairs to affected areas.  Always research your contractors make sure they hold valid licensing.

Rain affected ceiling in San Jose, Ca

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

bathroom ceiling affected

We at SERVPRO of SW San Jose are here to help the South Bay with cleanup from this week's storms.  Whether you suffer from a small roof leak to a complete house flood, we can help you.

Should you suffer water intrusion into your home, here are some important does and don't (apply for clean water situations such as rain intrusion)

1.  Catch water intrusion if possible in item such as a bucket.

2.  Remove excess water by mopping & blotting

3.  Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for drying

4.  Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.

5.  Hang  furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

6.  Remove Oriental or colored rugs from wet carpeting

7.  Do NOT use a regular vacuum to remove water.

8.  Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of wet areas where ceilings are sogging from retained water.

9.  Do not leave books, magazines, or colored items on wet carpeting.

Rain in the Bay Area!!

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

New roof after a storm.

With all the rain we've been experiencing in the  Bay Area it's no wonder the number of roof leak calls into our office has been skyrocketing.  Water damage can affect all family members, human or not. 

The roof in question was only a few years old, but the wind of the last storm was too much.  If you experience a roof leak, here are some suggestions about how to go about fixing it:

Step 1:  Stop the water.  Hire a roofing company to either fix the leak or to install a temporary roof tarp to keep more water from entering the structure.  If you suspect the water intrusion is gutter related, contact a gutter cleaning company.

Step 2:  Perform water remediation:  Open affected areas to perform drying and to prevent mold.  Install drying equipment and apply anti-microbial to discourage mold growth.  Caution:  If you are unsure about your property's lead paint or asbestos status, test first before any demolition.

Step 3:  Perform repairs to affected areas.  Always research your contractors make sure they hold valid licensing.

Getting ready for the winter rain.

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Various water alarm sensors

Water sensors are small devices that can alert you whenever water is present around the refrigerator, the washing machine, sinks, and toilets—even in the basement. If you've got a leaky basement or appliances of a certain age, a smart water sensor makes for a strategic addition to your home.

Some smart water sensors work alone via Wi-Fi, and others connect to a smart-home hub; when wetness occurs, both can send a message to your phone so you can respond with a towel or a plumber. The units we're talking about here can't actually shut off the water; they simply alert you to the danger so you can respond quickly.

Though you can get a leak sensor that will set off an eardrum-piercing tone for as little as $10, if you want to get alerts and remote access, be prepared to pay a bit more. But the money is well worth it - an average water damage claim can easily cost $2500.

After a storm clean up.

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

Your house ceiling is the first to go if you have water damage.

We at SERVPRO of SW San Jose are here to help the South Bay with cleanup from this week's storms.  Whether you suffer from a small roof leak to a complete house flood, we can help you.

Should you suffer water intrusion into your home, here are some important does and don't (apply for clean water situations such as rain intrusion)

1.  Catch water intrusion if possible in item such as a bucket.

2.  Remove excess water by mopping & blotting

3.  Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for drying

4.  Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.

5.  Hang  furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

6.  Remove Oriental or colored rugs from wet carpeting

7.  Do NOT use a regular vacuum to remove water.

8.  Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of wet areas where ceilings are sogging from retained water.

9.  Do not leave books, magazines, or colored items on wet carpeting.

When there is a storm in the area.

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

What to do when you have ceiling damage.

Here in the Bay area it seems the rains have arrived early this year!  While that is good news for the drought, it can mean bad news for property owners.  Just over the past weekend we received 6 calls for roof leak related water damage alone. 

In this example, flashing on the roof has failed causing water to leak into the ceiling cavity above the foyer.  When we performed a moisture inspection and found visible and hidden water damage in the foyer ceiling.  We recommend damage be handled in four steps:

1. Apply a roof tarp to prevent water intrusion until roof repairs can be made
2. Open affected ceiling and initiate drying
3. Perform roof repairs and test repairs with foyer ceiling still open
4. Close and repair foyer ceiling

If you should be so unlucky to have water intrusion this winter, we are here to help!  Give us a call to schedule your estimate.

New Roof after a raining week in San Jose, Ca

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage inside home due to affected roof.

With all the rain we've been experiencing in the  Bay Area it's no wonder the number of roof leak calls into our office has been skyrocketing.  Water damage can affect all family members, human or not. 

The roof in question was only a few years old, but the wind of the last storm was too much.  If you experience a roof leak, here are some suggestions about how to go about fixing it:

Step 1:  Stop the water.  Hire a roofing company to either fix the leak or to install a temporary roof tarp to keep more water from entering the structure.  If you suspect the water intrusion is gutter related, contact a gutter cleaning company.

Step 2:  Perform water remediation:  Open affected areas to perform drying and to prevent mold.  Install drying equipment and apply anti-microbial to discourage mold growth.  Caution:  If you are unsure about your property's lead paint or asbestos status, test first before any demolition.

Step 3:  Perform repairs to affected areas.  Always research your contractors make sure they hold valid licensing.

Rain affected ceiling in San Jose, Ca

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

bathroom ceiling affected

We at SERVPRO of SW San Jose are here to help the South Bay with cleanup from this week's storms.  Whether you suffer from a small roof leak to a complete house flood, we can help you.

Should you suffer water intrusion into your home, here are some important does and don't (apply for clean water situations such as rain intrusion)

1.  Catch water intrusion if possible in item such as a bucket.

2.  Remove excess water by mopping & blotting

3.  Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for drying

4.  Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.

5.  Hang  furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

6.  Remove Oriental or colored rugs from wet carpeting

7.  Do NOT use a regular vacuum to remove water.

8.  Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of wet areas where ceilings are sogging from retained water.

9.  Do not leave books, magazines, or colored items on wet carpeting.

Cleaning up after a storm.

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

storm in a house

We at SERVPRO of SW San Jose are here to help the South Bay with cleanup from this week's storms.  Whether you suffer from a small roof leak to a complete house flood, we can help you.

Should you suffer water intrusion into your home, here are some important does and don't (apply for clean water situations such as rain intrusion)

1.  Catch water intrusion if possible in item such as a bucket.

2.  Remove excess water by mopping & blotting

3.  Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for drying

4.  Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.

5.  Hang  furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

6.  Remove Oriental or colored rugs from wet carpeting

7.  Do NOT use a regular vacuum to remove water.

8.  Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of wet areas where ceilings are sogging from retained water.

9.  Do not leave books, magazines, or colored items on wet carpeting.

Storm season this here.

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

take care of your house.

Here in the Bay area it seems the rains have arrived early this year!  While that is good news for the drought, it can mean bad news for property owners.  Just over the past weekend we received 6 calls for roof leak related water damage alone. 

In this example, flashing on the roof has failed causing water to leak into the ceiling cavity above the foyer.  When we performed a moisture inspection and found visible and hidden water damage in the foyer ceiling.  We recommend damage be handled in four steps:

1. Apply a roof tarp to prevent water intrusion until roof repairs can be made
2. Open affected ceiling and initiate drying
3. Perform roof repairs and test repairs with foyer ceiling still open
4. Close and repair foyer ceiling

If you should be so unlucky to have water intrusion this winter, we are here to help!  Give us a call to schedule your estimate.

Bay Area Storm Damage

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Storm damaged can affect anything that gets in its way.

Here in the Bay area it seems the rains have arrived  this year!   It can mean bad news for property owners.  In the last week we received  calls for roof leak related water damage alone. 

In this example, flashing on the roof has failed causing water to leak into the ceiling cavity above the foyer.  When we performed a moisture inspection and found visible and hidden water damage in the foyer ceiling.  We recommend damage be handled in four steps:

1. Apply a roof tarp to prevent water intrusion until roof repairs can be made
2. Open affected ceiling and initiate drying
3. Perform roof repairs and test repairs with foyer ceiling still open
4. Close and repair foyer ceiling

If you should be so unlucky to have water intrusion this winter, we are here to help!  Give us a call to schedule your estimate.

Helping out on Rainy days

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Roof affceted by the rain.

We at SERVPRO of SW San Jose are here to help the South Bay with cleanup from this week's storms.  Whether you suffer from a small roof leak to a complete house flood, we can help you.

Should you suffer water intrusion into your home, here are some important does and don't (apply for clean water situations such as rain intrusion)

1.  Catch water intrusion if possible in item such as a bucket.

2.  Remove excess water by mopping & blotting

3.  Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for drying

4.  Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.

5.  Hang  furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

6.  Remove Oriental or colored rugs from wet carpeting

7.  Do NOT use a regular vacuum to remove water.

8.  Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of wet areas where ceilings are slogging from retained water.

9.  Do not leave books, magazines, or colored items on wet carpeting.

Water damage due to rain.

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

We at SERVPRO of SW San Jose are here to help the South Bay with cleanup from this week's storms.  Whether you suffer from a small roof leak to a complete house flood, we can help you.

Should you suffer water intrusion into your home, here are some important does and don't (apply for clean water situations such as rain intrusion)

1.  Catch water intrusion if possible in item such as a bucket.

2.  Remove excess water by mopping & blotting

3.  Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for drying

4.  Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.

5.  Hang  furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

6.  Remove Oriental or colored rugs from wet carpeting

7.  Do NOT use a regular vacuum to remove water.

8.  Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of wet areas where ceilings are sogging from retained water.

9.  Do not leave books, magazines, or colored items on wet carpeting.

Roof damage after the rain in San Jose, Ca

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

With all the rain we've been experiencing in the  Bay Area it's no wonder the number of roof leak calls into our office has been skyrocketing.  Water damage can affect all family members, human or not. 

The roof in question was only a few years old, but the wind of the last storm was too much.  If you experience a roof leak, here are some suggestions about how to go about fixing it:

Step 1:  Stop the water.  Hire a roofing company to either fix the leak or to install a temporary roof tarp to keep more water from entering the structure.  If you suspect the water intrusion is gutter related, contact a gutter cleaning company.

Step 2:  Perform water remediation:  Open affected areas to perform drying and to prevent mold.  Install drying equipment and apply anti-microbial to discourage mold growth.  Caution:  If you are unsure about your property's lead paint or asbestos status, test first before any demolition.

Step 3:  Perform repairs to affected areas.  Always research your contractors make sure they hold valid licensing.

Winter is here in the Bay Area

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

Water sensors are small devices that can alert you whenever water is present around the refrigerator, the washing machine, sinks, and toilets—even in the basement. If you've got a leaky basement or appliances of a certain age, a smart water sensor makes for a strategic addition to your home.

Some smart water sensors work alone via Wi-Fi, and others connect to a smart-home hub; when wetness occurs, both can send a message to your phone so you can respond with a towel or a plumber. The units we're talking about here can't actually shut off the water; they simply alert you to the danger so you can respond quickly.

Though you can get a leak sensor that will set off an eardrum-piercing tone for as little as $10, if you want to get alerts and remote access, be prepared to pay a bit more. But the money is well worth it - an average water damage claim can easily cost $2500.

Raining days!!

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

We at SERVPRO of SW San Jose are here to help the South Bay with cleanup from this week's storms.  Whether you suffer from a small roof leak to a complete house flood, we can help you.

Should you suffer water intrusion into your home, here are some important does and don't (apply for clean water situations such as rain intrusion)

1.  Catch water intrusion if possible in item such as a bucket.

2.  Remove excess water by mopping & blotting

3.  Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for drying

4.  Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.

5.  Hang  furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

6.  Remove Oriental or colored rugs from wet carpeting

7.  Do NOT use a regular vacuum to remove water.

8.  Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of wet areas where ceilings are slogging from retained water.

9.  Do not leave books, magazines, or colored items on wet carpeting.

Raining days in the Bay!

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

water damaged

Here in the Bay area it seems the rains have arrived  this year!   It can mean bad news for property owners.  In the last week we received  calls for roof leak related water damage alone. 

In this example, flashing on the roof has failed causing water to leak into the ceiling cavity above the foyer.  When we performed a moisture inspection and found visible and hidden water damage in the foyer ceiling.  We recommend damage be handled in four steps:

1. Apply a roof tarp to prevent water intrusion until roof repairs can be made
2. Open affected ceiling and initiate drying
3. Perform roof repairs and test repairs with foyer ceiling still open
4. Close and repair foyer ceiling

If you should be so unlucky to have water intrusion this winter, we are here to help!  Give us a call to schedule your estimate.

Here comes the Rain!!

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

rood leak due to the rain.

We at SERVPRO of SW San Jose are here to help the South Bay with cleanup from this week's storms.  Whether you suffer from a small roof leak to a complete house flood, we can help you.

Should you suffer water intrusion into your home, here are some important do's and don'ts (apply for clean water situations such as rain intrusion)

1.  Catch water intrusion if possible in an item such as a bucket.

2.  Remove excess water by mopping & blotting.

3.  Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for drying.

4.  Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.

5.  Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

6.  Remove Oriental or colored rugs from wet carpeting.

7.  Do NOT use a regular vacuum to remove water.

8.  Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of wet areas where ceilings are sogging from retained water.

9.  Do not leave books, magazines, or colored items on wet carpeting.

Storm and Rain in San Jose, ca

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

We at SERVPRO of SW San Jose are here to help the South Bay with cleanup from this week's storms.  Whether you suffer from a small roof leak to a complete house flood, we can help you.

Should you suffer water intrusion into your home, here are some important does and don't (apply for clean water situations such as rain intrusion)

1.  Catch water intrusion if possible in item such as a bucket.

2.  Remove excess water by mopping & blotting

3.  Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for drying

4.  Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.

5.  Hang  furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

6.  Remove Oriental or colored rugs from wet carpeting

7.  Do NOT use a regular vacuum to remove water.

8.  Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of wet areas where ceilings are sogging from retained water.

9.  Do not leave books, magazines, or colored items on wet carpeting.

Winter storm is here Bay Area.

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

We have clean up after the storm.

We at SERVPRO of SW San Jose are here to help the South Bay with cleanup from this week's storms.  Whether you suffer from a small roof leak to a complete house flood, we can help you.

Should you suffer water intrusion into your home, here are some important does and don't (apply for clean water situations such as rain intrusion)

1.  Catch water intrusion if possible in item such as a bucket.

2.  Remove excess water by mopping & blotting

3.  Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for drying

4.  Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.

5.  Hang  furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

6.  Remove Oriental or colored rugs from wet carpeting

7.  Do NOT use a regular vacuum to remove water.

8.  Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of wet areas where ceilings are sogging from retained water.

9.  Do not leave books, magazines, or colored items on wet carpeting.

Rain is coming Bay Area.

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

We can help!!

Here in the Bay area it seems the rains have arrived early this year!  While that is good news for the drought, it can mean bad news for property owners.  Just over the past weekend we received 6 calls for roof leak related water damage alone. 

In this example, flashing on the roof has failed causing water to leak into the ceiling cavity above the foyer.  When we performed a moisture inspection and found visible and hidden water damage in the foyer ceiling.  We recommend damage be handled in four steps:

1. Apply a roof tarp to prevent water intrusion until roof repairs can be made
2. Open affected ceiling and initiate drying
3. Perform roof repairs and test repairs with foyer ceiling still open
4. Close and repair foyer ceiling

If you should be so unlucky to have water intrusion this winter, we are here to help!  Give us a call to schedule your estimate.

Raining = Roof damaged!! In San Jose, Ca

12/21/2018 (Permalink)

We will take care of it all..

With all the rain we've been experiencing in the San Francisco Bay Area it's no wonder the number of roof leak calls into our office has been skyrocketing.  Water damage can affect all family members, human or not. 

The roof in question was only a few years old, but the wind of the last storm was too much.  If you experience a roof leak, here are some suggestions about how to go about fixing it:

Step 1:  Stop the water.  Hire a roofing company to either fix the leak or to install a temporary roof tarp to keep more water from entering the structure.  If you suspect the water intrusion is gutter related, contact a gutter cleaning company.

Step 2:  Perform water remediation:  Open affected areas to perform drying and to prevent mold.  Install drying equipment and apply anti-microbial to discourage mold growth.  Caution:  If you are unsure about your property's lead paint or asbestos status, test first before any demolition.

Step 3:  Perform repairs to affected areas.  Always research your contractors make sure they hold valid licensing.

Winter is here!!

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

water came in from the light.

Here in the Bay area it seems the rains have arrived early this year!  While that is good news for the drought, it can mean bad news for property owners.  Just over the past weekend we received 6 calls for roof leak related water damage alone. 

In this example, flashing on the roof has failed causing water to leak into the ceiling cavity above the foyer.  When we performed a moisture inspection and found visible and hidden water damage in the foyer ceiling.  We recommend damage be handled in four steps:

1. Apply a roof tarp to prevent water intrusion until roof repairs can be made
2. Open affected ceiling and initiate drying
3. Perform roof repairs and test repairs with foyer ceiling still open
4. Close and repair foyer ceiling

If you should be so unlucky to have water intrusion this winter, we are here to help!  Give us a call to schedule your estimate.

Rain=Roof leaks

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

Check your roof before the rain starts. Rain is here let us help you.

With all the rain we've been experiencing in the San Francisco Bay Area it's no wonder the number of roof leak calls into our office has been skyrocketing.  Water damage can affect all family members, human or not. 

The roof in question was only a few years old, but the wind of the last storm was too much.  If you experience a roof leak, here are some suggestions about how to go about fixing it:

Step 1:  Stop the water.  Hire a roofing company to either fix the leak or to install a temporary roof tarp to keep more water from entering the structure.  If you suspect the water intrusion is gutter related, contact a gutter cleaning company.

Step 2:  Perform water remediation:  Open affected areas to perform drying and to prevent mold.  Install drying equipment and apply anti-microbial to discourage mold growth.  Caution:  If you are unsure about your property's lead paint or asbestos status, test first before any demolition.

Step 3:  Perform repairs to affected areas.  Always research your contractors make sure they hold valid licensing.

Storm in the Bay Area.

1/12/2018 (Permalink)

A ceiling collapses from rainwater in San Jose, CA

We at SERVPRO of SW San Jose are here to help the South Bay with cleanup from this week's storms.  Whether you suffer from a small roof leak to a complete house flood, we can help you.

Should you suffer water intrusion into your home, here are some important does and don't (apply for clean water situations such as rain intrusion)

1.  Catch water intrusion if possible in item such as a bucket.

2.  Remove excess water by mopping & blotting

3.  Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for drying

4.  Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.

5.  Hang  furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

6.  Remove Oriental or colored rugs from wet carpeting

7.  Do NOT use a regular vacuum to remove water.

8.  Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of wet areas where ceilings are sogging from retained water.

9.  Do not leave books, magazines, or colored items on wet carpeting.

Winter = Roof Leak Season

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

Here in the Bay area it seems the rains have arrived early this year!  While that is good news for the drought, it can mean bad news for property owners.  Just over the past weekend we received 6 calls for roof leak related water damage alone. 

In this example, flashing on the roof has failed causing water to leak into the ceiling cavity above the foyer.  When we performed a moisture inspection and found visible and hidden water damage in the foyer ceiling.  We recommend damage be handled in four steps:

1. Apply a roof tarp to prevent water intrusion until roof repairs can be made
2. Open affected ceiling and initiate drying
3. Perform roof repairs and test repairs with foyer ceiling still open
4. Close and repair foyer ceiling

If you should be so unlucky to have water intrusion this winter, we are here to help!  Give us a call to schedule your estimate.

Winter = Roof Leak Season

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

Water runs along a seam in the foyer ceiling drywall

Here in the Bay area it seems the rains have arrived early this year!  While that is good news for the drought, it can mean bad news for property owners.  Just over the past weekend we received 6 calls for roof leak related water damage alone. 

In this example, flashing on the roof has failed causing water to leak into the ceiling cavity above the foyer.  When we performed a moisture inspection and found visible and hidden water damage in the foyer ceiling.  We recommend damage be handled in four steps:

1. Apply a roof tarp to prevent water intrusion until roof repairs can be made
2. Open affected ceiling and initiate drying
3. Perform roof repairs and test repairs with foyer ceiling still open
4. Close and repair foyer ceiling

If you should be so unlucky to have water intrusion this winter, we are here to help!  Give us a call to schedule your estimate.

Lightning Strikes

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

All that remains of the tree!!

SAN MATEO, Calif. - A San Mateo homeowner had a close call Monday morning after lightning struck a large tree in her backyard, blasting it to smithereens.

Massive chunks of a 100-year-old tree -- believed to be a redwood -- were scattered everywhere. Debris even landing on the roof. Homeowner Simone Nguyen said it's all because of the lightning strike.


Nguyen said just before just before 8 a.m., her dog Coco woke her up early to go to the bathroom outside. When she was in the backyard, in the corner of her eye, she saw lightning and then heard an explosion.

She escaped inside and saw a big piece of the tree went through her bedroom window landing right on her bed, sending shattered glass everywhere. It's estimated the tree stood more than 100 feet tall. The impact was so strong the wood pierced the lawn.  She had been sleeping in bed just a few minutes before.

The debris wasn't confined to her own backyard. Pieces of the tree can be found throughout the neighborhood including across the street.


By David Louie from abc 7 now new

http://abc7news.com/weather/lightning-almost-kills-san-mateo-woman-and-her-dog/1076717/

Rain= Roof Leak!!

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

Replace your roof!!

With all the rain we've been experiencing in the San Francisco Bay Area it's no wonder the number of roof leak calls into our office has been skyrocketing.  Water damage can affect all family members, human or not. 

The roof in question was only a few years old, but the wind of the last storm was too much.  If you experience a roof leak, here are some suggestions about how to go about fixing it:

Step 1:  Stop the water.  Hire a roofing company to either fix the leak or to install a temporary roof tarp to keep more water from entering the structure.  If you suspect the water intrusion is gutter related, contact a gutter cleaning company.

Step 2:  Perform water remediation:  Open affected areas to perform drying and to prevent mold.  Install drying equipment and apply anti-microbial to discourage mold growth.  Caution:  If you are unsure about your property's lead paint or asbestos status, test first before any demolition.

Step 3:  Perform repairs to affected areas.  Always research your contractors make sure they hold valid licensing.

Winter Season!

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

Various water alarm sensors

Water sensors are small devices that can alert you whenever water is present around the refrigerator, the washing machine, sinks, and toilets—even in the basement. If you've got a leaky basement or appliances of a certain age, a smart water sensor makes for a strategic addition to your home.

Some smart water sensors work alone via Wi-Fi, and others connect to a smart-home hub; when wetness occurs, both can send a message to your phone so you can respond with a towel or a plumber. The units we're talking about here can't actually shut off the water; they simply alert you to the danger so you can respond quickly.

Though you can get a leak sensor that will set off an eardrum-piercing tone for as little as $10, if you want to get alerts and remote access, be prepared to pay a bit more. But the money is well worth it - an average water damage claim can easily cost $2500.

Winter Storm January 2017

1/11/2017 (Permalink)

A ceiling collapses from rainwater in San Jose, CA

We at SERVPRO of SW San Jose are here to help the South Bay with cleanup from this week's storms.  Whether you suffer from a small roof leak to a complete house flood, we can help you.

Should you suffer water intrusion into your home, here are some important does and don't (apply for clean water situations such as rain intrusion)

1.  Catch water intrusion if possible in item such as a bucket.

2.  Remove excess water by mopping & blotting

3.  Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for drying

4.  Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.

5.  Hang  furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

6.  Remove Oriental or colored rugs from wet carpeting

7.  Do NOT use a regular vacuum to remove water.

8.  Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of wet areas where ceilings are sogging from retained water.

9.  Do not leave books, magazines, or colored items on wet carpeting.

Property Owners Brace for Worst with El Nino

12/29/2015 (Permalink)

December 2014 flood along El Camino Real in Redwood City, CA

SAN JOSE, Calif. (KTVU) - People across the Bay Area are already preparing for the possibility of a very wet winter with the forecast of a powerful El Niño. Rain was sparse in 2015 from January through October. In fact, we experienced more record heat than days of rain. Now with a powerful El Niño in the forecast this winter, many Northern Californians are hoping for some relief.

Homeowners are hiring roofers, fencers, and repairmen to shore up their homes in case El Niño delivers some powerful storms. Some contractors say they are already booked solid.

"This year has been more than the last 10 years," said Frank Chavez, the owner of Skyview Tree Service. "People worry about trees falling into their houses."

Property owners prepare for the worst to brace for powerful El Niño

Chavez says his phone has been ringing non-stop with customers looking to get limbs trimmed and trees pruned before the next storm hits.

“Anything can happen with El Niño," Chavez said.

Some contractors are so busy preparing homes and yards for El Niño-powered storms that they can't accept every job.

"The issue is, during the El Niño when the heavy weather is here and it's very wet, we can't do work those days. So we have so much work packed into the days its clear and pushes it even further and further back," said Justin Lena with A&J Fencing.

Lena says homeowners need to plan ahead before the wet weather arrives. Nothing is guaranteed with Mother Nature, but the early November rains have already prompted some homeowners to take precautions.

PG&E has been preparing for potential flooding, and downed trees and power lines for months. They've already held disaster preparedness exercises in anticipation of power outages and mudslides from winter storms. 

"I can say we're more honestly prepared for this El Niño than we have been for any El Niño in our past history," said Kevin Clifford, senior meteorologist with PG&E.

PG&E is predicting a higher frequency of storm activity in the southern part of their service territory. 

Normal rainfall for San Francisco averages about 23.5 inches. But the last two very strong El Niño years had nearly double that amount. In 1982-83 more than 46 inches fell. And in 1997 San Francisco saw more than 47 inches of rainfall.

There are several things you can do to prepare your home for the possibility of heavy rains. For starters, clean out your gutters, fix leaky roofs, and repair your windows and decks. You may also want to think about investing in a sump pump for basements and garages, or a generator if your neighborhood is susceptible to power outages. Also, don't forget about your car—replace wiper blades and give your tires a check-up.