High Humidity and Structural Impact

9/6/2023 (Permalink)

Plenum inspection in office building.

High humidity is a concern no matter where you're located, and it's not just about the muggy outdoor air. It's essential to consider indoor humidity levels in your business space to prevent potential water damage, and that's where professional remediation services come into play.

Humidity is all about the moisture present in the air, measured as relative humidity (RH). This measurement tells us the percentage of water vapor in the air compared to the maximum it can hold at a given temperature. Typically, indoor comfort levels fall between 30% and 50% RH. But when this balance is disrupted, and humidity climbs above 50%, it can lead to significant issues.

One of the primary concerns is structural damage. A business with persistently high humidity levels is at risk. Excess moisture can penetrate walls, ceilings, and floors, providing a breeding ground for mold and mildew. These unwelcome guests gradually compromise the integrity of building materials, potentially causing rot, warping, or even structural failure. Moreover, high humidity can harm wooden furniture, musical instruments, and other delicate items, resulting in expensive repairs or replacements. When signs of structural damage become apparent, it's crucial to turn to remediation professionals for water damage restoration services.

By addressing high humidity issues promptly, businesses can protect their investments and maintain a safe and healthy indoor environment. Professional remediation experts like SERVPRO® are equipped with the knowledge and tools to mitigate these problems effectively.

Have Water Damage? Here's What to Do.

8/12/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Culver City / Baldwin Hills knows the safe and best way to remove excess water and minimize the chance of mold growth.

Oh no! You notice a leaking pipe or a plumbing issue in your home or business. Don’t fret, SERVPRO® of Culver City / Baldwin Hills is here for you. Before we arrive, however, here are some tips to safely take care of water damage. Keep in mind, these tips apply to clean water only. Sewage water causes different kinds of damage, and it is contaminated, so SERVPRO® treats that damage differently. SERVPRO® of Culver City / Baldwin Hills is the perfect call to begin the water removal process, as our professional team will quickly and properly dry out your home or business from any water damage.

• When you notice damage occurring, immediately shut off the water source and turn off the power.
• If safe, remove as much water as possible with a mop and towels to soak up water.
• Place aluminum foil between wood furniture legs and carpet. Do not keep rugs and furniture upholstery wet against each other, as more damage will occur.

Safety is number one priority, so these steps are only recommended if they are safe to do so. Do not enter a room with standing water, as there could be a risk of an electrical shock. Ensure all power is disconnected as soon as flooding occurs. Do not use an ordinary household vacuum to try and remove water. SERVPRO® of Culver City / Baldwin Hills knows the safe and best way to remove excess water and minimize the chance of mold growth. Call us at (310) 558-9422 to assist you today, we are 24/7/365.

Call SERVPRO® After Your Interior Flood

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® is the best choice for restoration after water damage.

Even the slightest amount of flooding or leaking pipe can cause an unimaginable amount of damage. Water can begin damaging floors and furniture as soon as it hits them, so fast action is required to protect your home or business. At SERVPRO® of Culver City / Baldwin Hills, our rapid action and trained staff will achieve the best results in making your hardwood floors like new again. SERVPRO® is the best choice for restoration after water damage.

Potential Damage to Hardwood Floors

• Crowning: The planks arc upward due to excessive moisture
• Cupping: The planks bend downward and curve due to excessive moisture
• Buckling: Planks lift from place in the floor

To avoid this damage, SERVPRO® responds as quickly as possible to begin water cleanup and removal. Our team at SERVPRO® of Culver City / Baldwin Hills is given industry leading training to handle the extraction, drying and replacement of flooring that has been damaged thus far. We use controlled methods to remove specific flooring safely. Additionally, our team will contain the water to further control contamination of unaffected areas. Following our restoration and treatment of the damaged area, we sanitize the home to ensure it’s “Like it never even happened.” Call SERVPRO® of Culver City / Baldwin Hills at (310) 558-9422. We are the best water restoration team, ready 24/7/365!

What to do After a Flood

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

If you experience a flood on your property, let our experienced team of franchise professionals assess the flooding for any potential water damage.

Even while in a drought, Southern California is an area of high flood risk. Floods, when not treated properly, can potentially result in hundreds of thousands in damages. Heavy rain is just one potential cause of flooding. In reality, there are a variety of ways that your property could flood.

Top 3 Common Causes of Floods

1. Poor drainage
2. Broken pipes
3. Damaged foundations

Floodwater often becomes contaminated with sewage and chemicals, and it is unsafe to live in these conditions. It’s important to keep pipes in good condition as water damage is costly to repair.

If you experience flooding in your home perform the below actions to help keep damage down, but only when it is safe to do so:

• Stop the flooding from its source
• Turn off electricity (take extra care to avoid any moisture or collected water)
• Safely evacuate the structure affected by flooding

Once in a dry, safe location:

• Contact your insurance company
• Document the flooding (Take note of what was damaged by the water)

If you experience a flood on your property, let our experienced team of franchise professionals assess the flooding for any potential water damage. We will get your home back to pre-flood condition. Contact SERVPRO® of Culver City / Baldwin Hills at (310) 558-9422 to begin the flood restoration, we are 24/7/365.

What to Do When Your Toilet Overflows at Work

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO®, a water damage restoration company specializing in commercial sewage backup cleanup services.

Toilet overflow at a business is a Category 3 water loss, with damage sometimes reaching beyond the scope of the bathroom. This water is known as black water damage and is filled with contaminants from urine and fecal matter. It is vital to block off the area until it is cleaned professionally. Review the below steps to help reduce the time and money it will take to return your property to its pre loss condition. More damage will occur the longer that water is left sitting.

1. Stop flushing, use a plunger.

If pipes are clogged, flushing again will increase issues and not alleviate them. Be aware of your surroundings and perform this in the safest manner possible.

2. Turn off the water.

If water is overflowing already, spreading all over the floor, turn off the water to the toilet. The shut off valve is usually located on the wall near the base of the toilet, below the tank.

3. Inspect the water damaged area.

Water travels, and depending on the extent of the leak, damage may not be isolated to the bathroom. Water travels farther than you think. You will need to call in a professional to ascertain the extent of damages.

4. Close the Bathroom with Safety Signs.

Being safe is the most important. Safety signs hung up around the affected areas are a good way to notify others the bathroom is off limits. Provide signs to guide people to an alternate restroom until the issue at hand is resolved.

5. Call your insurance company.

Reach out to your insurance agent about what options are available to you. Sometimes damage will go beyond the bathroom. Your insurance will assist greatly with the appropriate next steps.

6. Call a water damage restoration company specializing in sewage backup cleanup services.

Hire a professional, certified remediation company to safely return your home to its preloss condition. Black water contains numerous pathogens which can carry bacteria, parasites, and viruses. Most of what is touched by this water remains unsalvageable. Cleanup doesn’t stop at waste and water; a professional restoration company will sanitize the area before conducting repairs. SERVPRO® of Culver City / Baldwin Hills is here 24/7 - (310) 558-9422.

You Can Control Mold

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

Increase the circulation and raise the temperature of cold surfaces where moisture condenses.

There are many ways to control the internal moisture of your business or home to help with mold prevention. Review below for a comprehensive list of actions that can be taken to help prevent mold growth.

• Fix any leaks and / or seepage. If water is entering your business from outside, remediation efforts can range from simple landscaping to extensive excavation and waterproofing. Water collecting in your basement could be a result from a lack of gutters or water flowing toward the house. Water leaks from pipes or around tubs and sinks are a perfect breeding ground for microbial growth.
• Use plastic coverings over dirt in crawlspaces to prevent moisture from coming up from the ground. Make sure crawlspaces are well-ventilated.

• Exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens help to relocate moisture to the outside.
• Increase the circulation and raise the temperature of cold surfaces where moisture condenses. To increase air circulation, keep doors open between rooms, use fans to increase circulatory air, and place furniture away from corners. This promotes better air and heat circulation and carries heat to cold surfaces.

Moisture problems and their solutions vary from place to place. While the Southwest is hot and dry, the Northeast is cold and wet, the South is hot and wet, and the Western states are cold and dry. All these regions have different and complex moisture problems. The area you live will directly affect the remediation process.

What is Gray Water?

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Burst pipe in wall and deteriorating drywall.

Water Damage is extremely difficult to deal with. Responding in a timely manner is important but take it a step further and prepare yourself in case something should happen to your property. Knowing how to respond is as equally important to responding quickly, prevent further problems from developing by creating an emergency plan. See below for more about where Category 2 and 3 water damage comes from and what you can do to keep your property and family safe with the following information.

How We Determine Next Steps

One of the most critical steps to recovering from water damage is determining what kind of contamination you're dealing with. There are three different types of contaminated water according to The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) which are based on:

• The source of the water damage
• The length of exposure to the structure
• The likelihood of harmful chemicals or contaminants that may be present

What is Category 2 Water?

Also known as gray water or sullage, Category 2 water damage can harbor some amount of contamination that would be harmful to humans and animals. The sources most common to Category 2 water damage are toilet bowls containing urine, dishwasher or washing machine water, and sump pump failure resulting in flood damage.

What is Category 3 Water?

Category 3 is the most extreme and should be handled by the professionals. Also referred as blackwater, this category includes sewage, rising flood waters, seawater, as well as river and ground water. When category 3 water damage occurs, often many items and materials will need to be removed from your property, then after drying has occurred your home will need to undergo significant disinfecting.

Call the Professionals

Our franchise professionals at SERVPRO® here in the Culver City / Baldwin Hills area are familiar with the risks associated with water damage to your home. As a leader in the water damage disaster industry, we use proven systems to address water damage when calls come in. There may not be a single source of water damage, so using specific procedures to minimize loss is essential.

Mold Can Grow Anywhere

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Thermal imaging of water loss.

Mold can grow on any surface. It is most seen in places of high moisture or lower lighting such as kitchens, bathrooms, basements, cabinets, and near pipes or ducting. Behind drywall is one of the most regular placements to find mold as wood and drywall are excellent potential sources for growth. Ceilings with a lack of ventilation will accumulate moisture over time and can become an additional location for mold to grow. If the temperature is correct, and there are adequate amounts of moisture and oxygen, mold can grow.

Below are some typical ways mold can infiltrate your home or business.

1. Constant Humidity – ensure to ventilate your home properly, especially during warmer months.
2. Leaking Pipes in the Home – Mold behind drywall can also signify a faulty or broken pipe.
3. Poorly Ventilated Homes – A dehumidifier will help humidity stay below a certain range.
4. Leaking AC Unit – leaks anywhere on an AC unit can cause moisture to form and prevent the AC working correctly.

Conclusion

Make sure you have proper ventilation and low moisture content to limit the potential that mold will develop. Mold is a common issue, and many businesses and homeowners have to deal with it. It is important to get the source inspected by professionals and a professional remediation company to perform the remediation work. Call SERVPRO of Culver City / Baldwin Hills once you need remediation work performed.

Steps To Minimize Water Damage

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage

1. Call a professional immediately. They can coordinate your next steps best and get you scheduled for assistance. A professional will give you advice that you can trust. In addition, remember to turn off your water and power to the affected areas. 
2. Take safety precautions. Even if you are aware of the source of water it still may contaminated. Water can be clear and still contain harmful bacteria and other contaminants.
3. Protect your belongings. If you have things that have objective or sentimental value to you or your family, scoop these things up and store them away in a safe place so that they won’t be exposed to water. It can be helpful to put a dry layer (some plywood, plastic, etc.) between legs of furniture and wet ground to prevent water seeping into the legs and deforming it. 
4. Begin water removal. Follow any specific instructions that were given when you were on the phone when you called for help. Don’t do anything potentially dangerous.

SERVPRO of Culver City / Baldwin Hills has 24-hour emergency services, so don’t hesitate to contact us. Almost everyone experiences a flood in their home at some point make sure you have a plan to address.

5 Warning Signs of a Burst Pipe

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Burst pipe and water damage.

Not all broken pipes cause immediate water damage. It can sometimes be a slow leak that eventually causes water damage to your home or business. Be alert to the warning signs of a broken pipe.

1. Fluctuating Water Pressure:

Don’t immediately blame the city. It may be a busted pipe. Pressure changes are hard on plumbing system and can damage pipe fittings.

2. Water discoloration and or smell:

The water has taken on a brownish or “rust” colored feature and or smells of rotten eggs. Fun fact, that rotten egg smell is hydrogen sulfide, a naturally occurring gas that can also form in sewer lines. Make sure to call in a certified technician to handle this type of issue.

3. Recurring sink puddles:

You try to stop any leaks under sinks to no avail. Inspect your home or business carefully just above pipe cover plates, additionally look for damp spots.

4. Noisy pipes/water movement sounds within walls:

If no water is running in your home, you should not be able to hear water. A single broken pipe can influence the water pressure of an entire structure.

5. Rising water bill cost:

Small drips can add up. Make sure to regular check your water bill and plumbing fixtures for leaks to lessen the chance a pipe burst will occur.

How We Dry Your Home After Water Damage!

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

First a detailed assessment must be performed onsite to confirm the extent of water damage which has occurred. Depending on the building materials that are affected our team will provide a detailed scope of work and dry out/mitigation scope of work for your review and that of your insurance adjuster.

Sometimes, the damage is minimal and the dry out plan can happen very quickly with minimal cost. If this is the case an insurance claim may not be required as it the cost of mitigation will be less than your deductible amount possibly. In other instances where the damage is more significant, we are able to communicate all aspects of the scope and cost in a timely fashion. We divide the process into (3) phases. Phase (1) initial moisture mapping, and or fire mapping, stabilization through the use of engineering controls and equipment. Phase (2) is to assess our client’s contents such as furniture, artwork, clothing. Phase (3) is a detailed reconstruction estimate itemizing the building repair scope of work and cost to be performed.  

There are many different types of equipment that can be needed for a significant loss. Some of this equipment includes:

• Dehumidifiers
• Air movers
• Water extraction vacuums
• HEPA vacuum, both backpack and canister type
• Submersible pumps
• Moisture detectors
• Hygrometers
• Infrared
• Floor mat drying system
• Desiccants

Water Damage Knowledge

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

A pipe burst just happened in your California home and you might be wondering what to do next to avoid water damage. Here are five things you should know to prevent long term problems after flooding:

1. Damage Can Happen Numerous Ways

A waterline may break, a storm could lead to flooding, or you might have a leaky seal around a window. No matter what type of water damage you could be worried about, a SERVPRO professional should still be able to help. Give us a call! 

2. Repairs Should Be Taken Care of Quickly Once Discovered

Any time you have any water damage, whether, from a pipe burst or roof leak, it’s important to make repairs as quickly as possible. A quick cleanup may help save your home from more costly problems long term.

3. Untreated Damage Can Cause Long Term Problems

Fix all the damaged areas as soon as possible. Putting off repairs can lead to additional issues like warped wood or mold growth.

4. Affected Areas Can Be Restored

No matter how bad the damage may appear at first, a restoration company like SERVPRO can conduct cleanup and repairs. With little time and work, we can soon have the space looking “Like it never even happened.”

5. A Professional Can Help

Anytime you think you may have flood water issues of any kind, call SERVPRO for details. We are here to help!

Quickly Repair and Restore a Water Damaged Home with SERVPRO

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Proper structural drying and dehumidification is very necessary to prevent warping or rotting of dry walls and flooring in your home after a water damage. If moisture levels are not properly regulated by trained technicians, you will start to have a foul smell and mold will quickly grow in less than 24-48 hours.

Water quickly absorbs into the interior sheet rock, wall insulation and then into wooden studs of building. If interior studs or surfaces are left moist, water and mold can jeopardize the building structure integrity or cause foundational issues.

Fortunately, most water damage is caught in time with proper water extraction cleanup, dehumidify and a minor repair that prevents future structural problems. For water damage related to flooding in your home call SERVPRO of Culver City/Baldwin Hills.

Small Leaks Aren't Always Small Problems

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

Even though your home might suffer a small leak this does not always mean it's only a small damage. While you cannot always prevent water damage due to sudden, unexpected events, there are some ways you can prepare your home in advance. By practicing regular maintenance, such as checking your roof and your pipes for leaks, you can possibly prevent a significant water event. The longer a home stays wet or moist after a water event, the more likely the overall structural integrity will be compromised.

The technicians at SERVPRO of Culver City/Baldwin Hills are professionals when it comes to water damage in residential homes, we understand the headache that water damage can cause. Therefore we always put our best foot forward and offer the best services in the most stressful of times. Always call SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."

Signs to Spot Water Damage in Your Home

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Quick signs that could lead to possible water damage in your home. 

1. Check your floors.

No matter what kind of flooring you have, it will manifest signs of water damage.

2. Look for stains.

Unusual stains could indicate there is a leaky pipe or drain inside the wall. Cracks in the drywall or areas that appear swollen and are soft to touch also may signify trouble. Peeling paint is another sign of loose water within wall spaces. As the drywall gets saturated, paint can lose adhesion.

3. Inspect the outside.

What you want to look for are pools of standing water that can indicate poor drainage in the yard, gutter spouts that aren’t transporting water far enough from the house or leaky rain gutters.

4. Watch for rust and mold.

Inspect your water heater and check for rust on the tank or damp spots on the floor.

By following these tips and being aware as a homeowner you can possibly catch water damage early on and save yourself a headache in the future. 

Here Are 10 Tips To Avoid Water Damage To Your Home

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

In Southern California, there are ways to protect yourself against costly water losses and claims. Follow these 10 easy tips to keep your home safe and well-maintained:

On The Outside:

1. Maintain Trees and Vegetation

Thriving shrubs can be a beautiful thing – except when their roots wrap around your pipes and break them.  That’s why it’s important to minimize landscaping near utility pipes or, if necessary, remove trees and shrubs that have become too big.

2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Clean your gutters at least twice a year to avoid blockage and ice dams. Standing water can cause damage to your gutters and roof, and unmanaged overflow may create puddles that could damage your foundation. Don’t forget to clean downspouts to ensure water can flow through, and secure downspouts so that they point away from the home.

3. Disconnect Hoses

Standing water in a hose may freeze back into the pipe and create an ice block that may bust your pipes and create damage to walls, floor, and foundation.

On the Inside:

4. Know your Water Main

Know the location of your water main and shut it off if you leave for an extended amount of time.  If no water goes into the house, chances are no faucet drips can wreak havoc on your home.

5. Check Appliances Regularly

Check and maintain your appliances regularly for leaks according to the manufacturer’s directions.

6. Investigate Leaks Right Away and Fix Promptly

If you opt to ignore moisture damage or postpone making the necessary repairs be prepared to experience mold, mildew, dry rot, or even structural damage to your home.  Keep in mind that homeowner’s insurance provides coverage for damage that is sudden and accidental.  Damage that results from a lack of maintenance is not covered on a standard homeowner’s insurance policy.

7. Upgrade Washing Machine Hoses

Old, brittle, or leaky washing machine hoses are among the most frequent causes of water loss for homeowners.  Replace yours regularly to avoid a mighty mess and expensive damage.

8. Install Water Detection Devices

A water detector is a small electronic device that sounds an alarm when its sensor is in contact with moisture.  Its main benefit is that it detects low moisture levels or slow leaks that often go unnoticed.  Install it near water heaters, sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers, and toilets to prevent extensive damage and mold growth.

9. Check Your Water Pressure

If the water pressure to your home is set too high, pipes and hoses may fail under the pressure. Buy a water pressure gauge at a local hardware store, attach it to an outside faucet, and turn the faucet to full force. The gauge will give you a reading of the home’s water pressure. Typical residential water systems are designed for water pressure of 40 – 70 psi. If your home’s water pressure exceeds 100psi, install a pressure regulator (which is available at hardware stores as well.)

10. Do Monitor Your Water Bill

Sometimes, the only way you know that water is leaking is by taking a closer look at your water bill.  If your usage jumps significantly from one month to the next without explanation, put your “water detective’s hat” on.  Is there a leak in your crawlspace? Or, is it a pipe in your front yard? Don’t leave mystery leaks unattended!  

Call us if you have any questions!  We are here to help!

It's Not Always Obvious

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Even if you haven't had an obvious leak, water damage could indicate that a hidden pipe or joint is leaking. It could be behind a wall or under your floor. If you ignore it, not only is it doing more damage, but you'll also be paying higher utility bills for the water that is being wasted.

You should never ignore water damage, even when the cause has been eliminated. You may think that the moisture will dry out, but it can cause serious underlying problems for not only the structure of your home but also you and your loved one's health. 

If you experience water damage in your home, immediately call the professionals at SERVPRO. Never take any chances with water damage in your home. 

Restoration VS. Replacement

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

Packing items away that have been saved from a water loss.

After a water and/or fire loss replacement may seem like the easiest and quickest option. We are a business of restoration rather than replacement. Some of the pros to restoration include: being more cost efficient, helping our carbon footprint by limiting what we put in landfills, and saving many items with sentiment cannot be replaced. SERVPRO of Culver City/Baldwin Hills works seamlessly with insurance companies nationwide, providing them with restoration budgets that not only meet their stringent guidelines, but provide the homeowner with the best possible outcome.  After the classification, cost effective remediation methods are tailored to the expected condition of the items in each conditional area. The professionals at SERVPRO of Culver City/Baldwin Hills will always do their best to act quickly and restore what they can.

Flood Insurance 101: What Homeowners Need To Know

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

This Baldwin Hills home had about 3 inches of flooding from their washing machine not being connected properly.

The fact is, any property can flood.  Your home doesn’t have to be under five feet of water from hurricane flood surges to suffer flood damage. Normal amounts of rainwater can drain under your home, and flood your basement or the lowest floor level, causing flood damage. This kind of flooding can cause mold, increase the risk of termites and cause electrical problems.  But the good news is that SERVPRO of Culver City/Baldwin Hills is able to take care of all your flooding problems with our prompt response and quick timing. 

SERVPRO of Culver City/Baldwin Hills works closely with insurance companies to ensure that your home and your insurance are both taken care of correctly. We are on multiple preferred vendors list as a corporation with insurance companies such as State Farm and Farmers insurance all over Southern California. 

Winter Water Damage in Culver City, CA

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

Water can enter from anywhere and flood your space.

While Southern California does not have as a harsh of winters as the rest of the nation, your home or business is still at risk for water damage during the winter months.  In extreme cases, water pipes can freeze and burst.  Especially, in homes with poor ventilation and/or unresolved water leaks could even develop mold.  Most home or business owners do not think to have their roofs checked before storm season, which leads to many leaks that could have been prevented. SERVPRO of Culver City/Baldwin Hills is your water restoration industry professional.  Our technicians are trained and prepared for weather related water incidents.  Always call SERVPRO of Culver City/Baldwin Hills for any of your water restoration needs.  We operate 24 hours a day.  Call us anytime!  (310) 558-9422

Water Damage from Appliances and Plumbing in Culver City, CA

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage from appliance and plumbing leaks can cause your laminate floors to buckle or warp.

Water damage from appliance and plumbing leaks, like water heaters, dishwashers, ice makers and washing machines in your home can cause your laminate floors to buckle or warp.  Many times, these leaks are quite slow and often go unnoticed in your home or business in Culver City or even in surrounding cities like Baldwin Hills, Century City to Bel Air.  Slow leaks are not easy to identify since they are underneath the laminate where they penetrate the core material. While you might not be able to see the leak, one of our SERVPRO technicians will be able to find excess moisture by using a moisture meter. We arrive ready to protect your home with all proper equipment to do that. It is common to use dehumidifiers and air movers to help dry all affected areas. However, if it is not caught in time, your laminate floors will have to be removed because the moisture gets trapped underneath the laminate. 

Water Damage from Concrete in Culver City, CA

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know? Moisture can enter through the stucco of your home where the concrete meets the home.

Residents living in Culver City to Marina Del Rey, Santa Monica, Playa Del Rey and even towards West LA would never think that water pooling in your backyard on concrete could create such damage. Moisture can enter through the stucco of your home where the concrete meets the home. Not to mention when your house sits on a slab of concrete, a whole floor can cup from the concrete being too wet. This can happen even when a vapor barrier is used under the laminate floor.

Every concrete floor should be tested for moisture before laminate floor covering is installed. Concrete that is newly poured needs to be allowed to cure for sixty days or more before the laminate is installed. There are several ways to test for moisture.

These procedures should be performed by professionals like our highly trained technicians at SERVPRO of Culver City/Baldwin Hills, such as electronic testing and calcium chloride testing. We have the proper equipment and training to do the job correctly and in a timely manner.

What Should I Do When My Water Heater Leaks?

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

There are a few reasons a water heater would leak. Here are five things to look for when finding the source of a leak:

1. Leak at The Water Supply Lines.

It’s always important to check above the water heater first because you want to check the plumbing pipes.  A drip from the top can easily leak down making it look like it’s coming from inside the tank.

1. Leak at The Water Heater Nipples.

These are located at the top of the water heater.  The water heater nipples connect the water heater to the cold water inlet pipe and the hot water exit pipe.  This is another common area to find a leakage.

1. Leak at The Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve.

It is more serious when there is a leak coming from the T&P valve because it can be a few causes in itself to figure out.  For example, the leaking t & p may point out the overall water pressure in your home is too high, and that the pressure regulator is not working properly.

1. Leak at The Drain Line.

This is located a the bottom of the water heater and it is common for the drain valve to fail to close completely after draining or flushing.

1. Leak in The Tank.

If you’re unable to find the leak from any of the four above, it is likely the tank inside the water heater has gone bad and will need to be replaced. 

A leak will not fix itself. If you do not feel comfortable fixing it yourself, the best thing to do is to not wait for it to get worse. Call SERVPRO of Culver City/Baldwin Hills here in Southern California to find and fix the source of your leak, so you can avoid dangerous damages and expensive repairs.