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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Water Damage Blog Posts

Water damage near me, Water damage in Durango Colorado, Water damage restoration companies near me,

7/4/2022 (Permalink)

water damage in basement water damage in basement

Residential Water damage and Commercial Water Damage Restoration, and Flood Damage, can occur at Any time. 

Our SERVPRO of Durango, Colorado Team, can Solve this Problem for You. 

In attached Picture, Water damage occurred. These incidents can lead to Mold Remediation, if not Inspected Properly and/or Dried out Properly. 

***For an Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-259-6184

Our Services include Fire Water Mold Biohazard Termite Remediation and Reconstruction   

If you suffer a disaster from Fire Damage, Smoke Damage, Soot Damage, Water Damage, Mold Remediation, and Moisture Damage/Dehumidification, call us right away at 970-259-6184

We are available 24/7, 365 days a year!

For more detailed information about our services, you can visit us on our Website: 

https://www.SERVPROdurango.com/

Check out our many 5 Star Google Reviews:

https://g.co/kgs/PYvdfc

Certifications

  • AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • CMT - Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician
  • CRT - Color Repair Technician
  • ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
  • FCT - Floor Care (Hard Surfaces) Technician
  • FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST - Health and safety Technician
  • IICRC Certified Firm
  • LCT - Leather Cleaning Technician
  • MSI - Marble and Stone Inspector
  • OCT - Odor Control Technician
  • OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
  • OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
  • OSHA - Other Training
  • RCT - Rug Cleaning Technician
  • RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
  • RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
  • SMT - Stone, Masonry and Ceramic Tile Cleaning Technician
  • UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
  • WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

Affiliations

  • American Red Cross Disaster Responder program
  • Eco Friendly
  • FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
  • IICRC
  • Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration
  • Restoration Industry Association

Awards

  • Certified Graduate Builder (CGB) Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) Graduate Master Builder (GMB)
  • FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
  • IICRC Applied Structural Drying

SERVPRO of Durango, Colorado


***For an Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-259-6184

Serving Durango, Colorado and Surrounding areas.

Restoration Begins With Water Damage Assessment in DURANGO

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

a person with black shoes standing on a water soaked carpet It's important to do water damage assessments fast

From its start as a mining community to the present day, where it has become the most populous municipality in La Plata County, Durango has always been a thriving center of activity.

The historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway once brought people and supplies to the area and now serves as a historic landmark and tourist attraction.

Visitors and businesses have found this a great place to settle and with all of the natural beauty it’s easy to see why.

Unfortunately, it can also sometimes be vulnerable to water emergencies, from storm flooding to broken appliances or burst pipes. At times like these, you need to have a water damage assessment Durango can trust and that’s where SERVPRO can make a real difference.

We have the professional training and equipment necessary to handle any water related emergency and we’re ready to respond faster to any disaster.

What Does Water Damage Assessment Entail?

Any recovery process begins with a thorough assessment of the damage. Assessing simply means looking over the situation, identifying any immediate issues and determining what steps will be necessary to achieve complete recovery and restoration. It may seem like a very straightforward step, but it can be the most crucial when you’re dealing with an emergency.

The first step in assessment is identifying the source of the water and taking immediate steps to stop it

The sooner you can stop the flow, the better your chances of preventing serious damage to the affected room and any adjacent areas.

It’s also critical to check the water and determine its level of contamination because that can dictate the specific approach necessary during cleanup.

Water can have several categories of contamination based on the level of severity, ranging from category 1, which is considered “clean” water to category 3, which may contain serious biohazards like bacteria. Providing water damage assessment Durango can rely on, SERVPRO technicians are trained to identify the level of severity and follow the industry standards for safety.

Once we’ve determined the category, we’ll know exactly what kind of equipment the cleanup and restoration require.

Finally, we’ll survey the extent of the damage and look for any other safety hazards, including the presence of asbestos or lead and we’ll move any furniture or other items to protect them from harm and block carpeting and floors from rust or staining.

Trust The Pros of SERVPRO

A water related emergency can leave you feeling overwhelmed, but there’s no reason for you to go it alone. Call SERVPRO and you can rest easy knowing we’ll be on the job as fast as possible and won’t sign off until we know you’re satisfied. 

For water damage assessment Durango expects the best and that means trusting the pros of SERVPRO. We’re ready to take your call 24/7 and we’ll treat your property as if it was our own so you can put the disaster behind you and get back to enjoying everything Durango has to offer.

Water Damage Cleanup Durango Can Count On

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

3 green air movers on a carpet in a closet Special equipment is needed to get the job done right

Water can be far more destructive than most people realize. Everything from storm related flooding to a burst pipe can leave your property vulnerable and you feeling stressed.

At times like these you need the kind of water damage cleanup Durango has been counting on for years and that means turning to the professionals of SERVPRO.

There is so much to love about Durango and the surrounding area, from the quaint historic district of Main Avenue to the many shops and gourmet restaurants.

This has long been a mecca for foodies, a haven for historians and a great place to settle down and start a business. Unfortunately, though, even the incredible natural beauty of our surroundings doesn’t always protect Durango’s residents from the threat of water related emergencies.

SERVPRO has been a member of this community for many years and we know how devastating water damage can be

That’s why we’re ready to respond faster to any disaster, with someone waiting to take your call 24/7.  It’s also why we undergo cutting edge training and employ the latest techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to tackle any job, large or small.

The Professional Approach That Makes A Difference

We understand how important your recovery is and we take great care to ensure that your property looks “like it never even happened”.  Our carefully structured process begins with your initial call and continues with a technician arriving at your location within four hours to thoroughly assess the damage and formulate a plan to address it.

We’ll use industrial grade equipment, including submersible pumps, wet/dry vacuums, moisture detectors and hygrometers to ensure that every bit of water is removed from both surfaces and the air. 

Dehumidifiers and air movers help to thoroughly dry everything from floors to walls to furniture and air scrubbers and foggers will be used to help clean and sanitize since water can often carry hazardous contaminants.

Of course, part of what helps us provide the water damage cleanup Durango trusts is that we don’t stop until we know you’re satisfied. That can mean providing repair and reconstruction such as drywall removal and installation, hardwood or tile floor repair, painting or carpet repair and installation.

We’ll even help you take a full inventory to expedite filing your insurance claim so you can get the compensation you deserve.

Restoring Your Peace Of Mind

At SERVPRO we don’t just restore your property; we also take pride in restoring your peace of mind. We know how devastating this process can be and that’s why we treat every property as if it were our own. Being a good neighbor is important to us, so we will stick with you every step of the way so that you don’t have to go through it alone.

That’s the kind of water damage cleanup Durango needs and it is something only SERVPRO can provide.

So when water damage strikes your property, call SERVPRO and we’ll help you start healing right away

Causes of a basement flooding in your Cortez Home

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

flooded basement flooded basement

If you have a frequently flooding basement, it's not just water damage you need to worry about—basement flooding can cause mold, mildew, and other health hazards. Identifying the causes of flooding can help you prevent water damage, save your property, eliminate the risk, and keep your basement dry.

Sump Pump Failure

A sump pump is installed in a basement or crawlspace in a sump pit to keep the area dry and prevent floods under the building. 

A torrential downpour or a power outage can lead to a sump pump failure and cause groundwater to flood the basement through the sump pit. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure your sump pump maintenance regularly.

Another explanation is tree roots breaking into your mainline (sewer line) and causing a backup. In this case, you might need to have your sewer line jetted. This highly effective method thoroughly cleans your sewer line and keeps roots growing back for up to 7 years. Here's everything you need to know about hydro jetting.

Location of Your Home

If your yard or the land around your home does not slope away from your home, you may be more likely to have a flooded basement. Your home benefits from being in an area where no excess water from storms, melting snow, or other natural weather patterns will cause water damage. If you notice any depressions around your property where water may pool, fill them in with clay-type soil. To level the lower areas around your home and may help direct water away from your home.

Poor Weatherproofing

During a home's construction, walls, floors, and foundations must be waterproofed with a sealant to avoid water leakage and flooding. But over time, sealants deteriorate, and leaks can sneak through the cracks. If your basement floods during most rainstorms, this might be a good time for a waterproofing upgrade.

Water Pooling

Water pooling around the foundation can cause significant damage. Gravity will pull water down, and it will find a way into your basement. A lack of adequate grading, or clogged gutters and downspouts, can lead to water running down the walls of your home and property to gather at your foundation.

Improper Drainage System

The drain tile is a draining pipe used for underground water collection. It's built under the basement floor level around the building to ensure water moves away and doesn't seep into your home.

If weeping tile fails or degrades over time, the basement may experience flooding, especially without proper waterproofing.

When your basement floods or you need help with any water damage emergency, SERVPRO of Durango has a team of restoration technicians on call 24/7. Call us today at 970-259-6184. We'll make it look "Like it never even happened."

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR BASEMENT FLOODS

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

a guy standing in a Flooded Basement a guy standing in a Flooded Basement

Basements are vulnerable to flooding because they're built partially, if not entirely below ground. For this reason, basement floods can occur outside of rainy seasons and rapid snowmelts at any time of year, even when the weather conditions are dry.  Here are some tips on how to proceed.

  • Shut off any power around the area, including electricity and gas. Never enter a flooded area while the power is on. Call an electrician before entering the room if you aren't sure how to shut these areas off. 
  • Try to determine the source of the water. For example, if it is a burst pipe, make sure the water main is off. It can also be excessive rainfall since those are two top reasons your basement may flood. 
  • Call your home insurance company and report the flood if you have flood insurance. Confirm your coverage limits, deductible amount, and claim procedures. 
  • If your basement has a floor drain, check that it didn't become clogged during the flood. Keeping it open and functioning will help drain the water. 
  • Find a way to remove or pump water out of the basement before the water comes up through the ground and enters the home, causing flooding in the basement and other parts of the house.  
  • Remove any items, like furniture, that appear damaged by the water and move them to a space where they can dry. If the drying process on items takes longer than a couple of days, unfortunately, they may not be salvaged. All things should be monitored for mildew growth.
  • Get the air moving in the basement to dry it out. Open windows and doors to get as much ventilation as possible, and place fans around the room for air circulation and speed drying time.

Our SERVPRO team of Durango are Professionals in water damage restoration. We are your best option to efficiently and thoroughly inspect your home of standing water and get it cleaned up quickly. Several potential problems could arise from waiting to address standing water in your house.

Give our SERVPRO of Durango a call today at 970-259-6184. We'll make it look "Like it never even happened. "

Flooding and Sewage Back-up Prevention

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

If your home or business is located in an area subject to periodic flooding or where sewage backups have occurred it’s important to implement preventive or proactive measures to prevent and/or minimize the nature and extent of flooding and back-up damage.

Preventive Actions:

  1. Waterproofing the building foundation and/or sealing cracks in foundation floor or walls
  2. Installation of a check valve or shut-off valve on the building sewer close to where it enters the structure.
    **Make sure you check with the proper sewer authority prior to taking this action!
  3. Raising or removing any sink, toilet, washing machine, etc. in the basement that may be subject to backups when the sewer system surcharges.

Proactive Actions:

  1. Purchasing or installing a sump pump to pump out water that collects in the low point of the basement
  2. Ensure that building gutter downspouts and drains are directed away from the foundation and toward low points away from the structure
  3. Try to keep furniture and valuables above flood levels where flooding has previously occurred
  4. If minor flooding occurs, follow the water to its point-of-entry and seal cracks or defects to the extent possible.

Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure.

Please remember flood insurance is also vitally important where properties are known to be in floodplains or flood prone areas.

More information on prevention and flood insurance is available on the FEMA website.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Countiesr specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water & flood damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

6 Tips To Prevent Kitchen Water Damage

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

Many people can agree that the kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the house. When this room is out of commission, it can be a pain for everyone living in the house. Taking simple preventative measures can go a long way to avoid water damage to your kitchen.

Here are 6 tips for preventing water damage in your kitchen:

1.) Avoid putting any fats, oils and grease down your drain.

You should never allow fats, oils or grease go down your drain. This is a common cause of sewer backups, which can lead to contaminated water damage. In order to prevent this from happening, you can collect any fats, oils or grease in a jar and put it directly in the trash. 

2.) Make sure the caulk around your sink is in good condition.

Water can seep under the sink if caulk is worn, which has the risk of damaging the counter and cabinet. If you see that the caulk is wearing away on your sink, you should remove it and re-seal it with fresh caulk. 

3.) If possible, periodically check for leaks under your stove.

If you're able to move your stove, you should periodically be checking it to ensure there aren't any unknown leaks. You should also inspect for any signs of mold. 

4.) Never leave the dishwasher running when nobody is home.

You should never leave the dishwasher running if you're going to leave the house. This way if the dishwasher malfunctions and causes flooding, you will be able to stop it before the damage becomes extensive. 

5.) Check your refrigerator for leaks and have it at least three inches from the wall. 

Like your stove, you should periodically check underneath your refrigerator for any signs of leaking. Additionally, make sure there is a minimum of three inches between your fridge and the wall to prevent kinking the supply line.

6.) Rinse plates and silverware before loading them into the dishwasher.

Rinsing your plates and silverware off before loading them in the dishwasher will help preserve your dishwasher's filter and aid in preventing any leaking. 

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Removing wet carpet?

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

When a pipe in your home breaks, water can get literally everywhere. SERVPRO often shows up to jobs where the homeowners carpet needs to be removed because of water damage. If the carpet has been wet for longer than 48-72 hours it is a good time to consider replacing the carpet and padding.. Mold takes no longer than 72 hours to form and spread making it difficult to clean thoroughly after that time. If mold begins to spread, then you will be in for a lot of other issues.

However, there are steps you can take to hopefully avoid removing the carpet.

  1. Remove water as quickly as possible
  2. Use fans to speed up carpet drying process
  3. Use a dehumidifier to dry out the room
  4. Steam clean carpet and flooring

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Can SERVPRO help with water damage from an open window in your Pagosa Springs home?

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help with your open window water damage.

We have all done this some time in our lives. It's cloudy when we leave the house, and the weatherman said there was only a 10% chance of rain, so no need to close the windows. And yet, that 10% number changed to 100% in your area, and the wind blew the rain horizontally right into your open window, saturating your home with water. The furniture near the window and the hardwood floors are soaked.

SERVPRO provides water restoration service throughout Southwestern Colorado. We are certified in many areas by the IICRC. Certification includes Structural drying, Microbial Remediation, Floor Care, Upholstery / Fabric Cleaning, Water Damage Restoration, and many more areas. Our teams are available 24 hours a day and seven days a week. We can meet you at your home, usually within a few hours, for all emergencies.

Removing Water from Furniture and Floors

If the water is not removed quickly, permanent damage to your floors and furniture can occur. The frame of the furniture may swell and crack, causing the frame to lose structural strength. Colors in the fabric may run, staining the fabric. Colors may bleed from pillows and throw rugs onto the floor, and mildew can also begin to grow, leading to mold infestations.

Homeowners should use mops to remove all excess water from hardwood floors. SERVPRO uses drying mats to remove all of the water between the boards and away from the subfloor. Water left to dry naturally may be absorbed by the hardwood or the subfloor, causing cupping, crowning, and even cracking of the hardwood.

Once we remove all excess water, SERVPRO deploys air movers to blow dry air into the area to absorb moisture. We also use dehumidifiers to reduce humidity levels to normal ranges. Fast response by SERVPRO can save your flooring and reduce the cost and disruption to your home significantly.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Hidden Leaks Cause Costly Damage

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

When's the last time you checked on your appliances?

We fill a glass with water from the refrigerator, unload the dishwasher or start loads of laundry in our washing machines - all daily tasks that we complete without much thought. Unlike our vehicles that are designed to indicate when something is wrong or at the end of its life span, our appliances have no blinking lights or error messages when it comes to leaks. Appliances that utilize water are connected to a supply source by hoses and pipes that are prone to leaks, breakage and cracks. Water damage caused by appliances can go unnoticed for months, even years before a homeowner sees the signs. By that point it’s too late to simply absorb the water with a towel – the water that has been sitting has likely seeped into the floor, walls or baseboards. Regular inspections are simple and critical to prevent your home from costly water damage.

Inspect These Appliances Often

  • Refrigerator
    • We rarely move our refrigerators, they’re heavy and cumbersome. The water lines that supply our refrigerator are usually made of soft plastic materials that fail easily. Checking for leaks beneath and behind the refrigerator as a part of your yearly home maintenance can help you detect an issue more quickly.
  • Dishwasher
    • A dishwasher’s supply lines are as leak prone as those used in a refrigerator, but they supply a larger amount of water and are generally hidden. Most insurance policies do not cover damage caused by older models, checking regularly could spare you a costly repair.
  • Hot Water Heater
    • An appliance that is typically hidden in a closet or garage, we often forget about this one! They hold anywhere from 20 to over 80 gallons of water at a time, and last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. Their seals and pipes are certainly capable of failure before the end of the life span and should be checked for accumulations of moisture after and during their use.
  • Washing Machine
    • One of the most common calls we get involves the pesky supply or drain hose on washing machines. They’re flimsy, and usually attached with simple hardware that can come loose, crack or disintegrate. You should check the connection and overall condition of these hoses monthly and replace them every few years.
  • Air Conditioner
    • Each unit should have a drain as well as a safety switch that causes the unit to shut off when excess moisture pools in the drain pan. If this drain were to malfunction, you’re going to see water appear in places you wish it hadn’t. Each unit and manufacturer are different so we recommend referring to the manual for service and inspection scheduling. A professional HVAC Technician will know what to look for and how it can be repaired.
  • Wine Chillers & Mini-Refrigerators
    • Much like dishwashers these appliances are generally hidden beneath a countertop or cabinet. Their supply lines are not visible and often isolated. Even though you cannot see them, it’s still important to check them as you would a larger refrigerator or kegerator.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Steps for Replacing a Leaking Toilet in Bayfield, CO

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

A leaky toilet base can cause severe water damage over time

How to Replace a Leaking Toilet

While most household commodes last for decades, they do need to be updated every now and then. If you have a leaking toilet in your home in Bayfield,CO or Durango, CO  it might be time to replace it. Here are the steps to take to make this process as easy as possible.

First Disconnect the Water Supply

Whether you are doing a toilet repair or installing a new one, never try to do work on a leaking toilet without first closing the water supply valve and then disconnecting the water supply line. This can lead to a large amount of standing water in your bathroom. In order to disconnect the water-supply tube you must loosen the compression nut on the shutoff valve.

Remove the Old Toilet

Depending on how long the old toilet has been in place, it may be stuck to the flooring. In order to remove it, you will need to unscrew any bolts and then gently rock it back and forth until it comes off the floor. Typically, there is a wax seal holding it in place, so you will need to “break” this wax seal before the toilet will come off completely. If you are having trouble removing it yourself, you may want to call a professional to come help.

Install the New Toilet

Before you install the new toilet, you will need to get the area cleaned up, and remove any excess wax from the gasket. When you put the new wax gasket in place, make sure it is properly aligned. You can then secure the toilet with the bolts. Some people choose to use caulk around the base to protect against mold growth. You should check with your building department to see if this is required in your area.

If you feel uncomfortable replacing the leaking toilet yourself, you should consider calling a water damage restoration company in Durango, CO, to help you. They may also be able to work with you on the cleanup and check the extent of the damage. This may prevent larger or future issues from occurring.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Clean, Gray & Black Water

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage is always inconvenient, no matter the type of water causing it; however, understand which type of water you're dealing with can be crucial to minimize destruction until our professionals arrive.

Clean water can be from a broken pipe/water source, or even rainwater. 

Clean water becomes gray water after it has been left untreated. Untreated water allows for bacteria and fungi to grow and the water then becomes contaminated. This water can become hazardous. 

Black water is typically caused by sewage damage or natural disaster flooding. Black water should ALWAYS be handled by professionals. 

How do you minimize the damage from these water types?

For clean water:

If you can, shut off the water source.

Turn off any circuit breakers to affected areas. This protects from any potential electrical shock. Do not enter any rooms with standing water because unknown shock risks could be hiding. 

Mop, blot, or wipe down any excess water.

To start drying any damage or soaked upholstery, remove and prop them up to start the drying process.

Move valuables to a safe place

Remove colored items that might bleed or run, causing stains.

Never use a vacuum to remove water. Shock risk is high!

If your ceiling is wet, don't turn on any ceiling fixtures. Don't enter the room is the ceiling is sagging from retained water.

For contaminated water:

Avoid all contact with sewage. Wash yourself thoroughly if you come into contact with contaminated items.

Do not walk through affected areas.

Do not turn on your HVAC system as it could spread contaminated air.

Do not use fans. Air flow could spread contaminants.

If food or personal hygiene products are exposed to contaminated area, discard them.

Water damage can be traumatic, but the cleanup and restoration process doesn't need to be.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Fast Response to Water Damage Events in Durango, Colorado

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Specialized equipment and techniques are required to properly dry out your structure after a water damage event.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Counties provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Counties arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

  • Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
  • Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
  • Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
  • Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

  • Drywall begins to swell and break down.
  • Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
  • Furniture begins to swell and crack.
  • Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
  • A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

  • Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
  • Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
  • Metal begins to rust and corrode.
  • Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
  • Paint begins to blister.
  • Wood flooring swells and warps.
  • Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

  • Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
  • Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Counties 

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Counties specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (970) 259-6184

Three Causes of a Leaking Toilet

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

A leaking toilet is a nuisance, especially when the problem only occurs after flushing. Running toilets are usually easy to fix because the issue likely happens in the tank. Therefore, to fix a running toilet, you replace the flapper or flush valve. Unfortunately, a toilet that leaks only after flushing can have numerous causes and solutions. However, there are three most likely causes.


1. Wax Ring

A bathroom leak stemming from a flushing toilet may be caused by a dry wax ring or the improper installation of it. This ring sits between the floor and toilet drains, and when the toilet is snugged up to the floor, the ring is supposed to create an airtight seal. However, if the seal dries out or has been installed incorrectly, then the wax ring acts more like a channel or a lever, allowing water to escape after every flush.

2. Flange

The flange is the pipe fitting that is inserted into the waste pipe below the toilet. The wax ring sits on top of the flange. A cracked or broken flange can cause a leaking toilet. Essentially, the flange is below the wax ring, meaning a crack in the flange will eliminate the airtight seal between the toilet and the drain, causing water to escape.

3. Untightened Tank

The main idea is that the toilet rests on a wax ring that is meant to create a tight seal between the toilet drain and the waste pipe. If the seal is compromised in any way, you may experience a leak. Therefore, if the tank is not tightened completely to the floor, then a leak may occur, even if the wax ring and flange are OK and installed correctly.

4. Other

Sometimes, the common causes are not, in fact, the cause of your toilet leak. When that occurs, you may want to call a plumbing specialist in your area to evaluate your toilet and plumbing system, ensuring that all is well.

A leaking toilet is often an easy fix stemming from three potential problem areas. However, when the problem is more significant than expected, you may want to call in the professionals.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any wire damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Tips For Better Water Cleanup In Pagosa Springs

9/13/2018 (Permalink)

Whether it's a burst pipe or a broken appliance that floods your property, it is important to do thorough cleanup to restore your home.

Tips For Better Water Cleanup

Whether it's a burst pipe or a broken appliance that floods your Pagosa Springs property, it is important to do thorough cleanup to restore the property to its preloss condition. Luckily, this is a case of clean water, which has minimal contaminants compared to cases with grey water, so the cleaning process is simpler. The only exception is if the spillage happens when no one is home because even clean water can cause other problems like mold and bad odor if left standing for too long.

Perhaps the best strategy regarding water cleanup in Pagosa Springs is taking every step possible to prevent spillage. In this national preparedness month of September, you should familiarize yourself with ways that help prevent spillage. Check for signs of leakage in hotspots such as the area under sinks, near the water heater and along the plumbing lines especially where there is a connector or any other fitting. Turning off the main water supply is a good idea especially if you plan to be away from the property for a long period. In case you have water-leak detection devices, you should replace the batteries. These measures prevent spillage or limit the time water pools around the property.

If prevention fails, it is essential to take proper remedial action. Having the emergency number of a restoration company like SERVPRO is also important because we have the capacity to start the necessary remedial action as soon as you notify us. Like with any other water emergencies, the speed of water extraction from the property makes a difference to how successful the remedial process is.

Stains can be a major headache if not addressed properly. Most of the stains occur due to transfers from one material to another. For example, books and other materials lying on the floor can transfer stains to the carpet. Metal items can also cause rust stains on carpets or upholstery items, which are close. Our SERVPRO team helps move items before they cause stains. In case we find any stains, we clean them off while the affected materials are still wet because it is more effective this way.

Call SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties for advice and assistance when dealing with water cleanup. You can reach us at (970) 259-6184 any time of the day.

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Water Damaged Carpet Restoration In Durango

7/24/2018 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Green Fleet Cleans Up and Restores Carpeting in Durango Properties

SERVPRO Skilled Technicians and Equipment Can Save Wet Carpeting and Money for the Homeowner

Many homes in Durango feature expanses of wall-to-wall carpeting. When a water disaster strikes, your investment in floor covering can be at risk. The water flows naturally into the fibers and padding and must be removed to avoid progressive deterioration and secondary damage such as mold growth. Under optimal circumstances, in-place drying strategy can be successful. Our water damage crew have the training and the experience to get the job done.

The water heater in your home rusted through even as the supply line burst and the water damage to your Durango family room carpeting currently involves about half the space. When we arrive, our crew chief evaluates the quality of the water to determine whether in place drying appears possible. Often we decide to remove and discard the padding. One reason is the significant increase in the speed the carpet dries when a layer of wet material is removed. Another is the relatively low cost of replacing the pad, giving the much more expensive carpeting a clean and dry foundation after the moisture levels are brought to normal levels.
 
SERVPRO technicians assigned to your carpet project train extensively through IICRC developed classes in the safe and efficient use of our commercial grade weighted and wanded water extractors. The equipment adds heat as needed to create the correct drying equilibrium. Our employees plot a course, section by section, to extract the water entirely without tearing or stretching the carpeting. We take great care to be thorough but not aggressive with our drying passes to avoid delamination, a type of damage where the secondary backing separates from the primary backing. Delamination destabilizes the fibers of the carpeting, usually resulting in wrinkling and pulling away from the tack strips. Replacement rather than restoration might become necessary when delamination occurs.
 
After extraction of as much water as possible, SERVPRO positions air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to achieve the final drying goal. Throughout the process, we maintain the dryness of the portion of carpeting initially unaffected as much as possible. To speed evaporation we may float the carpeting with strategically position air movers, directing the flow beneath as well as above the carpeting. This can also protect the subfloors in certain instances.
 
Call SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties at (970) 259-6184 to schedule an assessment and plan for in-place drying of your carpeting. Water damage restoration can be successful given properly trained employees and proper equipment.

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7 Tips to Prevent Spring Flooding

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

A little preparation goes a long way to help prevent flood damage to your home.

Gutters

Clean your gutters and downspouts annually and inspect them for any leaks. Make sure downspouts are positioned away from the foundation. The goal should be to drain the water at least three feet away, using extension pieces or troughs if necessary.

Landscaping

Inspect the grading around your house. If possible, walk around the house during a heavy rainstorm to ensure that water is not pooling at or near the foundation.

Windows and Doors

Remove debris from window wells, and consider clear acrylic covers that will allow light to enter while keeping debris, water, and pests out.

Septic Tank/Sewer Lines

Spring is a good time to have your septic tank cleaned or your sewer line inspected. Heavy rain can overflow sewers and septic systems, causing a back-up into your house.

Sump Pump

Consider getting a back-up in case of power failure, either a generator or a battery-operated back-up pump. A water alarm will alert you when water is accumulating in your basement.

Foundation

Inspect the exterior foundation, as well as the floors and walls in your basement, for cracks. Depending on the size of the cracks, they may be easily repaired with masonry sealer or caulk. Larger cracks may require professional help. Keep all exterior walls of your home well painted and sealed.

Insurance

Review your property insurance policy and consider additional coverage, especially if you have a finished basement. Usually homeowners’ insurance does not cover flooding or sewer backups unless additional coverage is written into the policy.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any flood damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184.

Durango, Colorado 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

We are here to help 24/7/365

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service throughout Southwest Colorado.

SERVPRO of ALMS is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. Our team of field technicians has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties

SERVPRO of ALMS specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

How Do Professionals Combat Odors After a Water Damage Incident to Your Durango Area Home?

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

If you are facing water damage in your home, contact SERVPRO for remediation and restoration services right away.

SERVPRO Technicians Provide Many Options to Combat Odors After Water Damage in Your Home

An incident of water damage can leave your home with a lingering smell that is quite difficult to eliminate. Thankfully, professional restoration experts have the tools, the technology and the knowledge that enables them to combat these smells with ease.

SERVPRO professionals will use some of the latest, state-of-the-art equipment to eliminate odors after a water damage incident in your home. Our IICRC certified professionals use a multi-faceted approach to eliminate both real and imaginary odors as soon as they can. Here are a few commonly used techniques that professionals use to combat smells after water damage incident.

Injection method
Small amounts of highly potent deodorant are injected directly into carpets and upholstery using a syringe and a needle. This method is especially useful if it is not possible to remove the carpet or upholstery. The method is also ideal to eliminate pet odors as well.

Direct spraying
SERVPRO technicians can use this technique to apply a spray of a deodorant solution directly onto the affected area. It can also be used to spray disinfectants in case of water damage due to backed up sewer lines as well. 

Wet fogging
Ultra-Low Volume (ULV) foggers are instruments that can create tiny particles of a deodorant dissolved in water or a solvent by a process called nebulization. The method generates a very fine deodorant mist that can neutralize even the strongest odors after water damage. The deodorant is in the form of a wet mist, and as a result, the process is often called wet fogging.

Dry fogging
The process of dry fogging is similar to wet fogging with a small difference. Heat is used in dry fogging to generate a fine mist of deodorant particles. As there is no solvent or water involved, the process is often called dry fogging. The method creates microscopic particles of deodorant that can neutralize the odor-causing particles no matter where they are located.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Protect Your Investment by Inspecting Your Crawlspace

10/20/2017 (Permalink)

Over time crawlspaces need maintenance.

Crawl Spaces in the Durango and Pagosa Springs area

Many homes in southwest Colorado are built on crawlspaces.  The unique topography of these mountains can create issues for our homes.  Snow load, water runoff, and rising water tables need to be dealt with to maintain your property.

If maintained properly, crawlspaces have advantages over other types of construction.

  • It gets the house above the ground, an important point in damp areas.
  • It is less expensive than a basement, and comparable to the price of a slab foundation.
  • Duct work, plumbing, and electrical can run in the crawl space, which makes them easier to service, and move if necessary.

Proper crawl space maintenance begins outside your home

  • Adequate drainage on your property, keeps water away from your foundation.
    • Re-evaluate your landscaping to keep heavy snows from forcing water under your home
    • Rising water tables could necessitate a sump pump system to divert water from your crawlspace.
  • Building codes typically require a minimum of 6" fall in ground level; over a distance of 10 feet from the perimeter of the building. Depending on the topography of your property in this area, this may not be adequate.
    • In addition, inspect for the following:
      • Depressions that collect ground water near the house.
      • Off-site surface water that flows onto the property.
      • Inadequate building offset from adjacent steep slopes, which generate increased surface water run-off.
      • Malfunctioning downspouts or improper downspout installation.

Crawlspaces can be either ventilated or unventilated

  • Ventilated crawlspaces should have:
    • A minimum of 1 square foot of venting for every 150 square feet of crawlspace area.
    • Plastic sheeting covering the entire crawlspace, with proper overlap, for effectively controlling ground moisture.
  • Unventilated crawlspaces require:
    • Seals to prevent air leakage between outdoor air and the crawlspace.
    • Damp-proofed and insulated perimeter walls.
    • Plastic sheeting covering the entire crawlspace, with proper overlap, for effectively controlling ground moisture.

Periodic inspections of your crawlspace are recommended. 

Items to inspect for are:

  • Standing water on top of vapor barrier.
  • Condensation or leaks on water pipes or ductwork.
  • Muddy soil.
  • Staining on walls from water or efflorescence.
  • Sagging or missing insulation.
  • Plumbing leaks.
  • Musty/moldy or foul odors.
  • Deteriorated vapor barrier.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties is here to help you 27/7/365 with any water or mold issues in your crawlspace.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service for Durango and Surrounding Areas

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

Drying equipment in place after water loss. Water came from above and flooring had to be removed.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (970) 259-6184

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

  • CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • CDS - Commercial Drying Specialist
  • SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • OCT - Odor Control Technician
  • ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CBI - Certified Colorado Asbestos Building Inspector
  • ACF - Asbestos Consulting Firm

Faster to your Four Corners Water Damage Event

5/26/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in the Four Corners area

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (970) 259-6184

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

  • Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
  • Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
  • Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
  • Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

  • Drywall begins to swell and break down.
  • Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
  • Furniture begins to swell and crack.
  • Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
  • A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

  • Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
  • Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
  • Metal begins to rust and corrode.
  • Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
  • Paint begins to blister.
  • Wood flooring swells and warps.
  • Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

  • Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
  • Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's 

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.