Water Restoration Los Angeles is returning your home to a safe and livable condition after a disaster. The process involves removing standing water, drying the property using dehumidifiers and air movers, and sanitizing any remaining bacteria or bad odors.
This will include repairing any areas affected by the leak and eliminating any mold or mildew that has already appeared. It is crucial to start this process as quickly as possible.
If you’re dealing with a property damage emergency, you want to know that the professionals who are responding are qualified and experienced. You want to be sure that they’re following industry best practices and using advanced equipment and techniques to restore your home or business. That’s why it’s important to choose IICRC-Certified experts.
IICRC is a non-profit organization that sets the standards for inspection, cleaning and restoration. Their certification programs require technicians to complete extensive training and pass a rigorous exam. They also have to attend continuing education classes to maintain their credentials.
The IICRC’s protocols and methodologies are based on scientific research, and they’re accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). That means that you can trust their work to be consistent and effective.
Many insurance companies recognize and prefer IICRC-certified professionals for restoration projects. This may help expedite the claims process and ensure that your restoration is completed according to insurance requirements.
Professionals who earn their IICRC certification have a solid understanding of the science behind restoration work, and they’re committed to using best practices and advanced technology to restore homes and businesses. They’re dedicated to helping their customers feel confident in their services, and they’re committed to delivering quality results every time.
Whether you’re new to the restoration industry or an established veteran, IICRC certification is well worth your investment. IICRC certification gives you the knowledge and skills to perform restoration work in a variety of environments, in accordance with globally recognized standards. It’s also an excellent way to differentiate yourself from your competition.
The IICRC offers a number of courses that cover the major categories of restoration work, such as water damage, fire and smoke, mold and asbestos. PCCS is an IICRC training center and can provide you with the expert instruction, hands-on experience and state-of-the-art facilities needed to prepare you for the IICRC exam. WRT and ASD are the two most popular classes, but we also offer a combined WRT/ASD class that can be completed in less than three days. The IICRC certification is good for four years, and you’ll need to pay an annual renewal fee and earn 14 Continuing Education Credits each year to maintain your certification.
Removing Standing Water
Standing water isn’t just an eyesore; it poses a health hazard for homeowners and their family members. In a matter of hours, bacteria and pathogens can grow in the water and cause severe respiratory illnesses. This is why a home must be inspected and the water extracted as quickly as possible after a flood or other problem.
Standing water usually causes serious damage to a home, especially the foundation. The water seeps into cracks in the foundation and creates pressure on it. This can cause the foundation to shift, leading to a cracked and sinking home.
A water restoration company will remove the standing water with commercial-grade water extractors and pumping equipment. They will also use air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the area. Drying can be a lengthy process, depending on how much moisture is in the structure of the building and how long it was exposed to the water. In some cases, building materials such as drywall down to the studs, carpeting, and carpet padding may need to be removed and replaced.
Another way to prevent the accumulation of water is to clean gutter downspouts, which can be clogged by leaves and other debris. The downspouts should extend at least 4 feet away from the home to prevent excess water pooling around the foundation. A french drain system can also be installed to redirect the flow of water away from a home.
It’s a good idea to invest in a sump pump for your home, especially if you live in an area that gets a lot of rain. A sump pump can soak up the extra water from a basement or crawl space, and it’s activated when the water reaches a preset level. This can be a useful tool in dealing with flooding from heavy rain or even snowmelt. These pumps can be installed in your yard or in a pit under your crawl space. They can be activated by a float activator or a pressure sensor. In addition to removing the extra water, the pump can also be used to prevent soil erosion and washouts from flooding a home’s driveway or sidewalk.
Preventing Mold Growth
Molds are natural organisms that play an important role in the environment by helping to break down organic material. They reproduce through tiny spores that are invisible to the naked eye and float in outdoor and indoor air. When these spores land on a damp surface, they can begin to grow. Although some molds are beneficial, others can cause health problems. Molds and mildew can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, and may exacerbate respiratory conditions. They also leave musty odors and discolor fabrics, wallpaper, and leather. They can even rot wood and cause structural damage.
If you are not dealing with significant water damage, preventative measures can help keep mold away. Check frequently for areas that collect moisture, such as refrigerators, water tanks, windows, crawl spaces, and household plants. These areas should be properly ventilated, and any leaks or condensation should be fixed immediately.
The easiest way to prevent molds from growing is by eliminating the source of moisture. Keep a close eye on your home’s humidity level and make sure to vent your appliances that produce moisture, such as clothing dryers and stoves, to the outside. Keeping humidity levels below 50 percent will also help to prevent molds from growing.
It is also a good idea to use dehumidifiers or air conditioning in humid climates, and to run them periodically. Make sure to clean and replace the filter regularly to keep them operating at their best.
Once you have removed the excess moisture, you can begin restoring the damaged areas to their pre-damaged condition. Depending on the extent of the damage, this may involve replacing flooring and wall coverings, as well as structural elements like support beams and subflooring. This is the longest part of the restoration process, and can sometimes take weeks to complete.
It is a good idea to hire an IICRC-certified company for restoration and mold removal services, as they will be able to handle both tasks with ease. They will follow strict protocols and use the best technology available to ensure that your property is safe and healthy.
Getting a Free Quote
If you are a homeowner dealing with water damage, you will probably have to file an insurance claim. This will help you get your belongings back and also reduce repair costs. But you should make sure that the company you hire is reputable. You can find out by asking for references from previous clients or reading reviews.
When you contact a restoration company, they will need to inspect your property before providing you with an estimate. This will determine the cost of the work and the time it will take to complete the project. The type and class of the water damage will also impact the price. For instance, black water is considered the most serious and requires a much longer drying period than clean or gray water.
A good restoration company will have specialized tools and equipment for removing the water and drying your home or business. They will use special blowers that can force the water to evaporate faster. This will reduce the chances of bacterial growth and mold. They will also have dehumidifiers that can lower the humidity levels in your home to prevent further damage.
You should also check how long the restoration company has been in the industry and what their experience is. The more experienced they are, the better their services will be. The company should also have a reputation for honesty and fair pricing.
Before the restoration process begins, personal items will need to be temporarily relocated. This is called a Pack Out and is usually covered by the personal property section of your homeowners policy. These items can include clothing, furniture and other household goods.
The cost of the restoration will depend on how bad the water damage is and what materials need to be repaired or replaced. The cost of the repair will also be affected by whether your insurance company will cover the costs. You can ask your insurance agent for an estimate before hiring a restoration company.