How To Get Rid Of Mold and Mildew Smells From Your Carpet

How To Get Rid Of Mold and Mildew Smells From Your Carpet

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Carpets are a relatively good kind of flooring. It can give your home an elegant and luxurious look. But when your carpet gives off that musty smell, it can make your home unpleasant. Not only that, but your musty smells from the carpet can also be dangerous if it contains mold or mildew, which can pose health risks to everyone inside your property. So, it is important to remove this unpleasant smell as soon as possible.

 

Fortunately, unless your carpet has not suffered from flooding, or has not been soaked with water for a long time, there are products around your home that can be used to resolve your problem with moldy-smelling carpet. These easy steps can give you a fresh-smelling home within just 24 hours.

 

Steps in Removing Musty Smell From Your Carpet

 

Step 1: Dry The Area

Mold and musty smell on your carpet is the result of excess moisture. It simply indicates that your carpet has been wet for some time and has become musty. If you are dealing with water damage, find and fix the source of the problem and dry out the area. You may set up fans and dehumidifiers around the area if needed, or open windows and doors. If your home has suffered from flooding, contact a water damage restoration professional to know whether your carpet can be saved or not.

 

Step 2: Vacuum The Area

Once the carpet and the affected areas are completely dry, vacuum the remaining debris and dust to help eliminate the odor. Use a large vacuum to remove more debris.

 

Step 3: Apply Water And Vinegar Mixture On Your Carpet.

Vinegar is an efficient home remedy in eliminating persistent odor. In a spray bottle, add two cups of water and a cup of vinegar and mix the liquid thoroughly. Then, spray the mixture to mist the musty-smelling areas. Just remember not to drench the area too much as this can cause more mold and mildew growth.

 

Step 4: Pour A Lot Of Baking Soda

Baking soda is one of the best odor neutralizers. So, once the carpet is slightly wet, pour in an ample amount of baking soda over your carpet. Don’t worry about using baking soda. It is eco-friendly and is not dangerous to people or pets and even to your carpet.

 

Step 5: Give It Some Time

Give the baking soda and the vinegar mixture some time to take effect. The more you let these natural deodorizers to sit on your carpet, the better the results will be. Allow it to sit for a few hours or overnight.

 

Alternative 1: Using Hydrogen peroxide to get rid of the musty smell. 

Sometimes, you may need to use a stronger remedy. So, if the odor persists, consider using hydrogen peroxide. Mix 1 part of hydrogen peroxide with 5 parts of water. Add this mixture in a spray bottle and then apply it to the affected area. If the carpet is not attached to the subflooring, lift it and spray the bottom part. Leave the solution for a few hours to help remove the unpleasant odor.

 

Alternative 2: Use a foam carpet shampoo

This is another good remedy in removing the musty smell from your carpet. Apply a good amount of carpet shampoo but, again, be careful not to over saturate your carpet. Allow it to dry and vacuum your carpet to remove the remaining debris.

 

How To Prevent A musty-smelling Carpet

Cleaning up your carpet may require some of your time and effort. But there are also some ways you can do to prevent having to deal with a musty-smelling carpet.

 

 

1. Provide proper ventilation

 

Having proper ventilation in your carpeted room can prevent musty odor from settling into the carpet. Open windows and doors to allow fresh air in. It can also help reduce the humidity level of your home which can prevent mold and mildew to thrive in your home.

 

2. Clean Your House Regularly

 

Cleaning your carpet and the whole house regularly can keep odors from lingering inside your home. Vacuum your carpet at least once a week to remove dirt and dust. Or, as you use your vacuum, you can add some laundry crystals on its bag. This will help spread fresh smell on your carpet.

 

3. Dry It Immediately

 

When water damage happens and your carpet has been affected, make sure to dry it immediately. Use fans and dehumidifiers to help dry your carpet as quickly as it can be.

 

Professional Restoration Company

If the musty odor from your carpet continues to linger even after doing the steps above, contact a professional restoration company, like Superior Restoration. We use advanced technology and state-of-the-art products that thoroughly remove mold and mildew smell, and any traces of mold growth.

For odor removal, carpet cleaning, complete remediation, and water damage restoration, contact our local office, Water Damage Rancho Cucamonga. We assure you that we will bring your back to its fresh and clean condition.

COVID-19 Professional Cleanup Services in Rancho Cucamong

COVID-19: Professional Cleanup Services in Rancho Cucamonga

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As the coronavirus outbreak continues to spread and the people and the community wrestle with its significant impact, taking proper precautionary measures is necessary to yourself protected. One of the best ways to slow down its progress is to perform a deep cleaning of all high touch surfaces and objects using EPA-registered disinfectant. Our professional cleanup services technicians in Rancho Cucamonga use this method of cleaning both in commercial and residential properties.

Local restoration companies, like Superior Restoration Rancho Cucamonga, react proactively to help protect our customers from getting infected with the virus. As the information about the novel coronavirus continues to evolve, we continuously develop, adjust and expand our cleaning services that follow the protocols set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We make sure that our resources and procedures help provide comfort and peace to our customers during this trying time.

 

Coronavirus Deep Mitigation Procedures

We adhere to the regulations set by OSHA and CDC. We are certified by IICRC and follow unique and advanced cleaning procedures to thoroughly disinfect and mitigate the spread of the virus. This is how we respond and protect our customers in this challenging time.

  1. We thoroughly clean and disinfect all contaminated materials and surfaces using CDC-approved and EPA-registered disinfectants with claims against the same pathogens as the coronavirus.
  2. Our company performs emergency disinfection and contamination of properties.  We utilize hospital-grade disinfectant and industrial-grade tools like foggers.
  3.  Our cleanup technicians wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and a full-face respirator mask to guard them against splashes that can come in contact with the mucus membrane of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
  4. We continuously monitor and keep updated the novel coronavirus guidance recommended by CDC or the local officials and health organizations.
  5. Our team properly collect and dispose of all materials used in mitigating the virus.  Moreover, we clean and sanitize thoroughly all the tools and PPEs used during the cleanup procedure.

 

How To Stay Protected Against Coronavirus

While cities and states are taking drastic ways to stop the severity of this global pandemic, like closing malls, restaurants, and other public venues, and/or issuing community quarantine order to constrain people to stay in their homes, there are more ways you can do protect yourself and minimize your risk from exposure to coronavirus;

Practice Basic Cleanliness

  • Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizers.
  • Avoid touching your face including eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Clean and disinfect high-touched surfaces and objects like doorknobs, light switches, counter tables, remote control, cellphones, and others.
  • Ensure proper ventilation of your property
  • Cover sneezes and coughs.

 

When At Work

  • Avoid shaking hands when greeting another person. Instead, use other kinds of noncontact methods.
  • Regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces, like keyboard, light-switches, desks, telephones, and doorknobs.
  • Do video conferencing for meetings if possible. If not, hold a meeting in an open, well-ventilated area.
  • Avoid holding large meetings or gatherings.

 

Stay At Home;

  • If you are feeling sick or suspect that you may have exposed to the virus
  • If you have a family member who is sick or infected

 

Practice Social Distancing

In the outbreak of coronavirus, social distancing is an important precautionary measure everyone should take. This includes preventing close contact with other people especially if the person is sick or may have been infected. Avoid shaking hands and keep the six feet distance. Stay home when you are feeling unwell or if you have been diagnosed with coronavirus to help prevent the spread of the virus.

Finally, along with those preventative measures, it is also important to keep yourself educated. Also, make sure to keep up with the latest updates in regards to the development of the virus to keep yourself and your family protected.

 

Professional Cleaning Service by Superior Restoration

The coronavirus pandemic is an extremely serious situation. Therefore we encourage all our customers to take proper precautionary measures and to stay as healthy and safe as possible. We understand how this global outbreak can cause an alarm for the safety of your family or employees. If you suspect your home or office has been infected with coronavirus, don’t take any chances. Call us right away to start the disinfection procedure. Our professional cleanup services technicians in Rancho Cucamonga are ready to help you.

To know more about our cleanup procedures, you may contact us today. To learn the current update of the coronavirus, you may follow this link, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

 

Disclaimer: Though we adhere to the protocols set by the CDC, please be informed that deep cleaning mitigation procedure does not guarantee the complete elimination of the virus. These procedures are efforts to contain and slow down the spread of the virus.

Benefits of Professional Carpet Cleaning

The Benefits Of Professional Carpet Cleaning

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Carpet has become the most well-known flooring in modern homes. Not only it provides comfort due to its soft surface, but it also improves the interior appearance of a home. However, a carpet requires proper care, cleaning, and regular maintenance to keep it look new and increase its life span. Together with spot cleaning and regular maintenance, it is also necessary to have professional carpet cleaning.

Professional carpet cleaning does not only help extend the longevity of your carpet, but there are also another handful of benefits you can expect from your carpet having professionally cleaned.

 

Benefits of Professional Carpet Cleaning

 

1. Improves Healthier Environment

 

Your carpet is notorious for becoming a perfect home for bacteria, dusts particles and allergen to set in. The airborne particles in the carpet can find its way to the breathing air and can lead to or increase breathing problems like asthma or allergies to those who have a history of breathing problems. These contaminants that are trapped in your carpeting can cause several health issues, especially to younger people and the elderly. Regular vacuuming can help remove bacteria, dust, and other pollutants, but this cannot completely remove them all. With enough time, they can get accumulated and potentially increase the risk of health issues.

Carpet cleaning professionals use the steam cleaning method which requires high-temperature water to kill off these allergens and leave your carpet fully sanitized and not a health threat to you and your family.

 

 

2. Improves Indoor Airflow

 

It may sound absurd, but dirty carpeting can hinder the proper airflow of your home. Once the carpet is clogged with dirt, dust, and debris, it can compromise the airflow inside your home, particularly in places where there is no window.

Furthermore, clogged carpet can create unpleasant odors that can trigger breathing problems for those who have asthma and allergies. Over time, debris and dust particles can cause wear and tear on the fibers, and quickly deteriorating.

While a regular vacuuming it easier to do, it cannot completely remove all the debris embedded in the carpet. That is why professional carpet cleaning is necessary.

 

 

3. Extends The Life Of Your Carpet

 

Extending the life of your carpet is one of the most major benefits of professional carpet cleaning. Over time, the accumulated dust, dirt, allergens, and other debris can lodge into the fibers and cause them to wear and deteriorate. Removing dust and other debris from your carpet can extend its life because dirt and dust are more attracted to dirty carpets than clean ones.

Carpet cleaning professionals use a cleaning method that includes hot water extraction. This method can effectively remove dirt and other debris from within your carpet and leave it fully sanitized.

 

 

4. Removes Tough Stains

 

Another key benefit of a professional carpet cleaning service is the efficient removal of tough stains. Stains from coffee spills, ink, dirt and mud, pet stains, and red wine can all be removed using the hot water extraction method.

With this method, you don’t have to worry about your carpet looking ugly with those stains.

 

 

5. Prevents Mold Growth After Water Damage

 

A carpet that has experienced water damage or has been exposed to a high level of humidity can be a perfect breeding ground for mold. Mold, as a common allergen, is the main cause of health issues like asthma and respiratory problems in homes. Mold can generate mold spores and eventually become airborne causing allergic reactions when inhaled.

A professional carpet cleaner used a high-grade drying method to completely dry out your water damaged carpet and prevent mold growth.

 

 

6. Removes Traffic Lanes

 

Hallways, kitchen, living rooms are just some of the areas of your carpeting that receive considerable foot traffic. Because of the constant tracking of dirt in those areas, they will deteriorate faster than those under your couch or bed. Furthermore, these areas have become darker than others.

Carpet cleaning removes all this dirt and reduces “traffic lanes” effects. It can also repair the dark areas on your carpet and restore it to a like-new condition.

 

 

7. Improves The Overall Appearance Of Your Room

 

Though the carpeting is the largest furnishing in your home and often the most used, many homeowners do not give much thought to how dirty their carpet is. When someone visits your home, your carpet is the first one to receive attention. The carpet’s condition can give your room a dirty and outdated look.

Carpet cleaning can improve the overall appearance of your room. It can completely remove all the dirt and stains giving the fibers in your carpet a brand new and brighter look. Further carpet cleaning can increase the aesthetic of your home.

 

Need Professional Help?

With regular maintenance and annual professional carpet cleaning, you can improve the longevity and appearance of your carpet. At the same time, carpet cleaning can maintain the healthy environment of your home.

Now is the perfect time to have your carpets professionally cleaned. Contact Water Damage Cucamonga today to schedule an appointment. We strive to provide the best carpet cleaning service in town. Let our professionals help you have a fresh, bright and allergen-free home.

Is Air Duct Cleaning Worth The Money?

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Your home can experience a lot of issues, like water damage, mold infestation, and others. Today, we recognized another problem — indoor air pollution. This problem can become alarming especially to people with respiratory problems or elderly and children. This is the reason why a lot of companies are now offering products and services that can help improve the indoor air quality of homes. Keeping the air you breathe in your home clean is vital and one of the best things you can do is to have your air ducts cleaned professionally.

But the bigger question here is, is it worth the money? Let us try to have a deeper understanding of air duct cleaning and know why it is really worth the money?

 

What Is Air Duct Cleaning

Air duct cleaning is the process of cleaning different kinds of cooling and heating system components of forced air. The process includes cleaning registers, heating, and cooling coils, diffusers and grilles, fan motor and housing, and the unit housing itself. This seems a lot, but in this article, we will let you understand why air duct cleaning is worth it.

 

Air ducts Get Dirty

Airborne pollutants like smoke dust, pollen, pet hair, debris, and others can cause your air ducts to become dirty. All these can get accumulated to your air duct when in operation or idle and can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system. For this reason alone, air duct cleaning is really necessary.

 

Is Air Duct Cleaning Worth The Money

In a recent study, there is no specific evidence that having air duct cleaning can improve the indoor air quality of your home. But according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), accumulated pollutants can cause the components of your air duct contaminated, which tends to get distributed inside your home. Also, research showed evidence when coils, handling units, and motors get dirty, and clogged can reduce the overall efficiency of the system.

It is also clear that if moisture is present in your HVAC system, a potential for mold growth increases and when in operation, can cause mold spores to spread in your home’s entire living space. Mold can pose allergic reactions or respiratory problems to those who are exposed to it, or especially to older people and children.

Having your air duct cleaned can help maintain the clean air in your home and your ventilation to run smoothly. Moreover, availing this service can remove all harmful particles like dust mites, germs bacteria, and mold, all at once.

 

When To Have Your Ducts Cleaned

While the benefits of having your air ducts cleaned are not fully determined, EPA still recommends air duct cleaning if you notice these signs;

  • If a family member is experiencing unusual allergies or illness that you think has something to do with the environment of your home.
  • Visible mold growth near the area of your air ducts or inside hard surface like sheet metal.
  • If your air ducts are infested with vermin like rodents or insects.
  • If there is an excessive buildup of dust and debris that can cause your air ducts clogged.

Make sure to contact a professional air duct cleaning company to clean and sanitize your entire air duct system.

 

What Is The Process Involved in Air Duct Cleaning

The cleaning process begins with making a hole in the duct. This hole is used to allow the connection of the vacuum from the truck to the duct. Professionals then cover the register to prevent dust and dirt to escape in your home. After that, a skipper ball that is placed in every register is blown through the duct using a jet gun. When the ball starts bouncing in the entire system and hits the sides, debris becomes loosen. The vacuum will then automatically suck up the debris to clear out the inside of the duct.

When the ducts are completely cleaned, professionals may use a deodorizer for cleaner air. Some people might choose it and rather allow the air to blow their ducts for a few minutes while staying outside.

 

Call Us Now

Maintaining a home takes a lot of responsibilities and that includes keeping it clean and tidy. The one thing you may want your home is to keep the air clean and healthy. That is why Water Damage Rancho Cucamonga is here to help you. Our professional technicians provide excellent air duct cleaning services that ensure the cleanliness of the air you breathe inside your home. We are equipped with advanced technology and experience in dealing with air ducts problems. If you want to request an appointment, please contact  909-260-3680 or email us through info@shamrockrestore.com.

Moreover, we also perform water and fire damage restoration services. If you want to learn more about our other services, you may follow this link.

vacuum drying water damaged carpet

5 Steps In Drying Water Damaged Carpeting

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Even a small amount of water can cause your carpet to become soggy. Whatever the cause is, it is important to dry water damaged carpeting as quickly as possible to prevent mold growth and damage to walls and sub-flooring. Depending on the severity of the damage, fixing water damaged carpeting can be done on your own. However, water damage restoration experts recommend that you hire a professional team to repair wet carpeting to ensure proper drying and cleaning.

 

How To Dry Water Damaged Carpeting

Step 1: Assess the Situation

Before taking the step to dry out your carpeting, you have to assess the situation first. Does the water contain contaminants that might put you in danger? What is the extent of the damage? Is your carpeting new and has not been damaged in the past? Has mold started to colonize your carpeting?

If you want to repair your carpeting on your own, the water involved should be in category 1- or clean water. It means the water that has caused water damage is from the supply line, broken pipes, or rain. If the source of the water is contaminated, it is not safe for you to dry out your water damaged carpeting.   

In the case of the severity of the damage, it can be easy to dry out carpeting that has one or two inches of water. But when there is more water involved, the carpet would be difficult to save. The same goes for the carpet that has been damaged in the past or an old one. The backing of old carpeting can get deteriorated over time, and when once damaged in the past can cause it to fall apart.

Lastly, check the carpeting if mold has already started to grow on its surface. Moisture and the organic material on the carpet can be the perfect condition for mold to grow.

Once you know what situation you are going to deal with, you may begin the drying process. If you are not seeking the help of the professional team to restore your carpet, make sure to wear protective gear, like gloves, masks, and boots to protect yourself from things that might be on the carpet.

 

Step 2: Dry Out The Damaged Carpeting

Water damaged carpeting can be the best place for mold to grow, that is why you should take the process with speed. The damaged carpet will most likely be saved when the carpet is fully dry within 24 hours. You can use a wet/dry vacuum to pull out the water from the carpet. This method can be inexpensive but it is time-consuming. You may also set up blowers, fans, or dehumidifiers to help dry the carpet faster. Setting them up allows proper air circulation. If the weather permits, open windows or doors to give aide in the process of drying. You may also rent commercial equipment to help drying the carpet.

 

Step 3: Check The Carpet Padding

Unfortunately, even padding that is made of urethane foam can be a victim of water damage. And, when water takes its toll on the padding, it is hard to completely dry out and at times water retains in the padding. If you have padding and it is wet, pull up the carpet and remove the padding under it. You should wear gloves in doing the process and when removed, throw it away. When done, place the carpet flat and continue with the drying process. You should keep the blowers and dehumidifiers on to fully dry the carpet.

 Moreover, you should also check the subfloor. If the subfloor has been affected by water damage, you should place fans and dehumidifiers to dry the floor. Check for signs of warping and buckling. If there are sections that have been damaged, replace them. Once the floor is fully dry, disinfect it with a disinfectant solution and wait for it to completely dry out.

 

Step 4: Reinstall The Carpet

Once the subfloor and the carpet are completely dry, you may get a new carpet pad and lay your carpet back to its place. A once wet carpeting can be difficult to deal with, so if necessary, hire a professional to ensure that the carpet is installed properly and securely to prevent unsightly bulges and bunching.

 

Step 5: Clean Water Damaged Carpeting

Now that you have completely dried out the carpet, you may want to make sure that there are no dirt, germs or contaminants that can linger on your once wet carpeting. You may use a steam cleaner or any carpet cleaning system and rent a machine to completely clean your carpet. You may also consider hiring a professional team to do all the cleaning. At the end of the cleaning process, you may apply an anti-microbial sanitizer to prevent mold growth.

 

The steps above can help you save your carpeting. But in most cases, fixing water damaged carpeting is best left to professionals who are experts in drying and cleaning carpets. They can do the work properly as they are equipped with proper equipment and knowledge. Leaving this job to professionals can give you more chances of saving your carpet and eliminate chances of mold growth. Our company, Water Damage Rancho Cucamonga, can handle all kinds of water damage including carpet cleaning and restoration. We also deal with all kinds of fire and flood damage, so you can contact us for any restoration services you may need.

What To Do And Not To Do After A House Fire

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Just a week ago, a home in the area was engulfed in a house fire. It was very devastating and recovering can be difficult.

Suffering from a fire can be terrifying, not to mention the water damage that is usually the immediate consequence of extinguishing the fire. Understanding what to do next, where to start, who to reach out, etc. can all be stressful and overwhelming. But, don’t worry. There is always hope in recovery. With a little help from the article you will be reading below and from the most trusted restoration companies, your life will be back on track and your home will be safe to live again.

Here is the list of things that you should do and NOT do after a house fire.

What TO DO After a House Fire

  • Make sure to protect the area from additional damage by theft, weather, and vandalism.
  • Coordinate with the Fire Department officials to know if your fire-damaged home is safe to enter.
  • Contact your insurance company to report the incident and begin the claim process. The sooner you contact them, the quicker the process will take.
  • Create an inventory of the damaged items. Take pictures or videos as proof of the damage. If possible, include the details of the damaged items.
  • Notify family members, relatives or friends about the incident.
  • Ensure the comfort and safety of your pets.  
  • Contact utility providers for gas, water, and electricity and inform them of the fire incident.
  • If you have to leave your property, make sure to keep valuable items and heirlooms in the area. If the area is unsafe, you may contact the local police department to keep an eye on your property.
  • Make sure to get a copy of the “fire report” issued by the responding fire department and carefully read the details. A fire report is a document that contains the details of the incident. Acquiring a copy of it depends on the area you live in. This is also an important document for insurance claims.
  • A fire can cause trauma and a lot of stress to the occupants. Make sure to take care of each and everyone’s emotional needs and seek counseling, if necessary.
  • Notify the following of the recent incident; your children’s school so teachers are informed of the stress they are dealing with; the local post office to hold or forward your mail; your employer and your banking and other financial institutions.
  • Start processing important documents damaged in fire such as passports, license, etc.
  • If you need assistance or disaster relief, you may contact your local Red Cross or The Salvation Army.
  • Contact a trusted fire damage restoration company, like Superior Restoration. 

 

What NOT To Do After A Fire

  • Enter your property until it was announced as hazard-free.
  • Attempt to reconnect a utility such as gas, water or electricity by yourself unless checked by a professional trade person.
  • Leave your home unattended.
  • Refreeze thawed items in the refrigerator.
  • Attempt to clean or remove soot and smoke damaged items yourself. Let this job done by professionals who are skilled and equipped.

 

Hire A Fire Damage Restoration Company

A fire can cause a lot of damage to your home and dangers might be invisible to your naked eyes. Doing the job on your own might be risky and restoring a fire-damaged home requires a lot of time and effort. No matter how big the damage is, a repair should be done immediately to prevent further damage. Thus, hiring a professional fire damage restoration company is crucial in reclaiming your home from a house fire. A certified restoration company has the necessary equipment and skills in dealing with fire damage home.

 

What to Expect From a Professional Restoration Company

A fire damage restoration company follows the proper standard of restoring a home. These are the things you can expect from them.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

A trusted restoration company will offer an emergency service, which means they will be available at the moment you contacted them and will provide immediate relief to your property.

Step 2: Assessment

It is an important procedure for restoration. Professionals will assess the severity of the damage so they can create a course of action in repairing or restoring your home and will give you an accurate amount of how much it would cost.

Step 3: Tarp and Sealing

This step helps in mitigating the damage, preventing it from getting worse. They will immediately address the potential source of the damage. 

Step 4: Clean Up

Removing smoke, dust, and soot from different surfaces will be done during clean up. Also, standing water during the extinguishing of fire should be removed. You can also expect the removal and disposal of unsalvageable items during this step. If there is contamination, they sanitize the affected items.

Step 5: Repair and Renovation

The last step of the restoration procedure is restoring furniture and repairing fire-damaged items. For instance, they will repair or replace a cabinet damaged by fire.

House fire can happen to anyone. And, when this disaster hits you, make sure to be prepared. Keep in mind the things that you have to do and NOT to do after a fire. Moreover, having a list of trusted fire damage restoration companies, like Water Damage Rancho Cucamonga, can give you peace of mind. If you need help in restoring your home from fire damage or water damage, please contact us today.

Water in Air Duct

The Danger Of Water in Your Air Duct and How To Avoid It

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Have you noticed water droplets forming around your air duct? It could be the moisture build-up that occurs mostly in summer months when your AC unit works the hardest to cool down your home. Moisture can seem harmless, but when left untreated, it can lead to destructive problems and expensive repairs.

 

There are a few reasons why there is water in your air duct. A tiny amount of dew outside your duct is common when the air outside is hot and your AC is on. But, large water droplets that keep on occurring can mean something is wrong.

 

If there is insufficient insulation, moisture can appear in the air duct. Another culprit of having water in the air duct is the excess indoor humidity that is coming from your attic or crawlspace. Air leak can also cause moisture to collect in summer. It happens when the boot that connects the duct to the vent is not properly sealed.

 

Fortunately, this problem can easily be solved, yet it has to be taken seriously to keep you from facing serious problems.

 

The Danger Of Water In Your Air Duct

These droplets of water might look small, but they can cause negative effects on your health and home.

It Can Lead To Mold Growth 

Moisture build-up on your air duct can cause mold to grow. Giving mold enough time and condition to grow, it can spread in your entire home and cause hazards to your home’s structure. What is even worse is it can easily spread through your vents attacking your carpet, furniture and other materials prone to mold growth. Aside from that, mold spores spreading in your home can reduce your indoor air quality and promote health hazards such as asthma, rhinitis, allergies and other health issues.

 

It Can Affect Your Home’s Insulation 

The water that builds in your duct can drip into your home’s insulation, reducing your home’s insulation R-value. Gradually, the weight and moisture can compress your insulation and the more it gets compressed the lesser it becomes efficient.

Remember that your insulation helps you save up to 10% of your total annual energy bills. When the R-value of your home’s insulation decreases, you might be facing unwanted energy loss and higher utility bills.

 

Water Droplets Can Cause Severe Water Damage

Moisture build-up in your ductwork can be the source of water damage to your ceiling, roof, and walls. Little by little, they can cause corrosion or decay in those materials and if moisture stands for a longer time can compromise your home’s structure.

 

How To Prevent Moisture Build-up In your Ductwork

Now, that you understand the danger water in your ductwork can do, taking some preventative steps is crucial.

 

Insulate Your Duct Work

Insulating your ductwork does not only help in saving energy, but it also prevents them from having condensation build-up. In the cold season, you can prevent moisture to form by allowing warm air to circulate through unused ductwork.

 

Seal Unused A/C Vents

Seal off unused A/C air ducts and supply and return vents if moisture is persistent, especially in winter. Remove the blockage to allow air flows properly and make sure not to airtight the dampers. Moreover, you can use foam-board insulation or plastic sheeting to close the duct.

 

Repair or Remove Underlying Issues

As mentioned, there could be a lot of sources of moisture build-up. It can be the water leak from your pipes or a leak that is coming from the roof. Or, maybe the clothes-dryer vent flows freely and leaks. It can also be your humidifier that is turned up too high or your furnace venting system, bathroom vents, and cook range vents are leaking.

A leak from any of these sources can lead to moisture problems and if not addressed properly and immediately will end up to extensive water damage. You can use a hydrometer to check the humidity level of your home.

 

Use a Dehumidifier

Set up a dehumidifier in the area where your air ducts are accumulating water. This helps in preventing condensation build-up in your ductwork and controlling moisture in the air.

 

Schedule a Regular Maintenance 

Nothing beats proper and timely maintenance. Human hair, dust, debris, pet dander, and dead insects can clog your air ducts. These blockages can restrict air to flow freely in your a/c and could even lead to dehumidifying problems.

However, cleaning your ductwork is not an easy thing to do because they are quite difficult to access. It is best to leave it to professionals. They have the necessary tools and equipment in removing clogs.

 

Don’t let Moisture Affect Your Home’s Structure and Indoor Quality

Now, that you understand the danger moisture in your ductwork can do, take steps to prevent them. Start by cleaning your air duct, even it seems not dirty on the outside, it might be dirty on the inside.

 

Let water damage Rancho Cucamonga help you. We provide air duct cleaning services and inspection to provide our homeowners peace of mind and a healthy home. Please get in touch with us today.

tile flooring water damage

How Can Excessive Water Damage Your Tile Flooring

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Water damage can sometimes occur in its most quiet way, and when you find it, you already have extensive damage that might require expensive repairs. The cost and the type of repairs may vary depending on the location. If it is the drywall that has water damage due to a leak, you might need a minor repair or replacement. But if excessive water damage to your tile flooring (in your bathroom, kitchen, basement, etc.), you might have to spend a lot of money on repairs and experience undesirable inconvenience.

Moreover, the moisture that was accumulated can become an invitation for mold and mildew, spreading in the entire area and causing harmful effects to your tiles and health.

Tile floors can add beauty to the interior of your home. However, they can also be at risk of water damage when excessive water stays on the surface.

What Happens When Water Damage Your Tile Flooring

Fortunately, the tiles that are often used in moisture-prone areas such as bathroom, kitchen, basement and other areas are waterproof. The tile itself doesn’t get damaged by excessive water. However, when water finds its way past to the tile or grout, it can start to create real damage and the most common one is loosening the tile from its subsurface. When under wet conditions, the mortar that holds the tile from its position will become loosen and deteriorated, causing the tile to lift away from the floor or wall.

A subsurface or subflooring that is not waterproof,  could create further damage. Water can cause the subsurface to swell and warp, and pushing the tile to lift even harder.

When excess moisture is present, it could cause mold and mildew growth, eating away the mortar even further.

 A clears sign that you have water damage to your flooring in your home is when tiles are starting to loosen up and lifting away from its subsurface. Fix the damage right after you notice it to prevent expensive repairs.

How Can Water Damage Your Tile Flooring

In any type of water damage, there is always a reason behind it. Luckily, tiles that are often used in our homes today are considered waterproof. However, they can still experience water damage due to the following;

Grout Doesn’t Last Forever

Any type of grout is not designed to last forever. The tile doesn’t allow moisture to penetrate to its subsurface, but the grout (or the thin lines between tiles) is prone to water damage. When the grout becomes deteriorated, it can cause moisture to penetrate to the tile subsurface. Unfortunately, any tiled surface, even in areas resistant to moisture or humid conditions, is not waterproof. When water is left standing on the surface, it can start to seep into the seal, loosening the tile and the grout and causing water to leak to its subsurface.

Sealing grout regularly, for about every six months, can help in repelling water. If not, the grout will start absorbing water causing severe water damage to your tile flooring.

Cracks and Gaps

Aside from deteriorated grout, cracks and gaps can cause extensive water damage to your subflooring that is especially when it is made of wood. The crack doesn’t have to be big to create considerable damage to your flooring. Cracks and gaps can allow water to penetrate and seep underneath or behind your subflooring.

Repairing any tile, grout, cracks, and gaps can prevent you from having excessive water damage.

How to Control Water Damage in Your Tile Flooring

Water damage is a serious business. Whether the damage begins from undetected water leaks and eventually becomes destructive or that damage that occurs accidentally like flooding, water damage can cause major property to lose and health hazards. That is why preventing causes of water damage is vital.

Give your tile flooring regular maintenance and check-up. Make sure that you limit water to get in contact with your tile surface. In case of flooding, remove the standing water immediately. You can use a squeegee and a cloth to remove and wipe off standing water. Reseal the grout regularly, especially in areas where water contact cannot be avoided, like shower floors and walls. When you see caulk started to dry or crack, (edges of sinks and showers), replace it immediately.

What if water has already damaged my tile flooring?

If you see one or two of tiles have started to lose, pull them up to see what damage has occurred. If the subflooring has started to rot, it’s an indication of severe damage. Find the source of the water leak and take care of the affected area. It is also best to inspect the surrounding areas. They might not have been damaged yet, but checking them thoroughly can prevent you from having further damage.

Make sure to perform proper tile care to prevent water damage to your tile flooring. But if you are in situations that you need someone to help you with your tile restoration, consider working with us. Our services include tile and grout cleaning and restoration. We, at Superior Restoration, can help you deal with your water damage tile flooring. Call us today!

Leaking water heater

How To Fix A Leaking Water Heater

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A water heater is an essential equipment in your home that provides comfort. Thanks to the one who made it, we won’t freeze from the cold water in winter. Though a water heater can last long, it can get broken and will start to leak.

A leak from your water heater might seem little and in most cases, the leak is normally ignored.  But your leaking water heater can cause water damage to your wall, flooring, and sub-flooring. Don’t wait for the water heater to cause catastrophe to your home. Act fast.

Why Is There A Leak From Your Water Heater

There are many reasons why your water heater starts leaking, and knowing what is causing your water heater to leak can help you resolve the issue right away. A water heater can leak for several reasons.

1. Loose Drain Valve

A loose drain valve is the most common reason why your water heater is leaking. This problem can be fixed by tightening the valve with a wrench. Be careful not to overtighten the drain and not to force it to get tightened.

2. High Pressure

When the tank builds up high pressure inside, your water heater might start to leak. To lessen the pressure inside the tank, the excess pressure will drive the water to leak out. This happens when you set a high temperature on hot water. Fixing this problem can be very risky. So, call a professional to properly check and resolve the issue.

3. Aging Tank

A water heater, when it comes to the end of its life cycle, can become rusted and corroded. When corrosion takes its toll, the water will begin to leak from the tank. In this case, your water heater needs to be replaced immediately, or else you will end up seeing water flooding through your home.

4. Storage Tank is Cracked

The minerals from the water can get hardened and become accumulated inside the storage tank. This is the reason why the glass lining (inside your storage tank) gets cracked and causing a water leak. Another reason that your storage tank gets cracked is the expansion in the glass lining. Glass lining expanded when water is heated.

Unfortunately, the glass lining inside your tank cannot be repaired. Your only solution is to replace your water heater. 

Now, What To Do When Your Water Heater Starts Leaking?

It is important to take immediate action with a leaking water heater. Doing so can help you save money from excessive water damage repairs and can keep you and your family safe from all the damage water can bring to your home, including mold and mildew growth.

1. Turn off the water supply valve

If you notice a leak from your water heater, the first thing that you have to do is to turn off the water supply valve. In most water heaters, the valve is located above the water heater.

If the leak is extreme, then you might need to turn off the main shut off valve. Turning off the main water valve will stop the water from coming in your entire home.

If you are still unsure of the location of the leak, you should turn on the water supply again. 

2. Turn off the Power supply of your Water Heater

A water heater comes in two forms, an electric water heater, and a gas water heater.

If you are using an electric water heater, you can turn off its power supply by shutting down the power at the breaker. Flip off the breaker.

If you are dealing with a gas water heater, you should find an on/off switch or a dial on the gas line leading to the tank. Set it off. If you are having difficulty finding the button, you may check the manuals for its visual illustration of a gas water heater shut off valve.

3. Determine the location of the leak

Now that you have turned off the water and power supply, you can now assess the location of the leak. Here are some of the locations you can check in your water heater

  • Inlet and Outlet connections – check whether the fittings are loose or not. If they are, tighten it with a pipe wrench.
  • Check the pressure relief valve
  • Inspect the bottom of your water heater
  • Check the drain valve

4. Repair or replace

A leak from a water heater is a serious problem and needs to be resolved immediately. Remember that your water heater comes with pressure and hot water, which are extremely dangerous.  You may opt to repair or replace the problem on your own, but it is still best to call a professional in fixing the problem. 

What if Water Heater Has Damaged Your Home?

In this case, it is highly recommended to seek a certified water damage restoration company.

We, at Superior Restoration, can help you with this problem. A team of well-trained and experienced professionals will help you with your needs. We understand the danger water damage can bring to you, your family and your home. You can trust us. Call us now.

water damaged carpet

Salvaging Water Damaged Carpet

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Water damage leads to other damages in the home including the carpet. Carpet is one of the most common and trendy floorings we can see in many homes. It also provides safety to the people living in the house most especially to children. However, water damage in the carpet is also difficult to handle.  Cleaning and drying water damaged carpet takes a lot of work and effort. It can be done by homeowners provided they have the proper tools and equipment to do it. 

Is the Water Damaged Carpet Salvageable or Not?

Here are some things to consider before drying a carpet after water damage

1. Age of the Carpet

If the carpet is already old, water weakens it. Old carpet is difficult to save because the water will most likely damage the backings. When the carpet is old, usually the backing deteriorates or even pull away from the carpeting. If the carpet is old, it is better to replace it with a new one. 

2. The degree of the damage

Salvaging carpet depends on the degree of damage involved. It is difficult to dry carpet when it already absorbed much water. If the water sat for a long time, it might be difficult to handle.

3. The source of the water

There are three types of water that may damage the carpet. Clean water sources such as tap water and broken water line do not pose any harm. But don’t let the water sit on the carpet for a long time. On the other hand, flood water contains contaminants and you need help from a professional to salvage your carpet. They not only dry your carpet but clean it thoroughly using special equipment. 

Drying a Water Damaged Carpet

Here are some things we need to do to dry the carpet. 

1. Remove the Standing Water

It is better to remove the standing water as soon as you can to avoid the growth of mold and other damages. You may need to use a pump to extract the water. You can easily rent pump equipment and rental companies usually recommend which pump is best depending on your situation. 

2. Extract the excess water 

You can use a wet vacuum to extract the excess water from the carpet. It takes time to remove the excess water using this method so it also requires your patience and hard work. 

3. Move the wet carpet from the floor. 

Moving the wet carpet from the floor will prevent more damage. To remove the carpet, carefully pull it away. Avoid using too much force to keep the carpet intact. 

4. Replace carpet padding with a new one. 

Carpet padding is like a sponge that absorbs a lot of water. If you will use it again, it will be damp and develop mildew and molds. Once you remove the carpet padding, dispose of it immediately. 

5. Dry the carpet and the flooring. 

Completely drying the carpet takes time. It depends on your tools and the temperature. Use a high powered blower, fans, and dehumidifier to help in the drying process. 

6. Sanitize your carpet.

Bacteria thrive in the wet and damp areas. It is necessary to sanitize an area to remove germs and bacteria and to stop their growth. Use antimicrobial and antibacterial carpet cleaner to sanitize your carpet. 

7. Dry your carpet completely.

After sanitizing your carpet, it is important to dry it one more time. Once completely dry, you should not see any sign of mold. 

 

Call a Water Damage Professional 

Drying a carpet is doable but requires effort and time. If your carpet has severe damage, it is necessary to let a professional handle the situation so that they can assess the extent of the damage and do appropriate steps to fully remove all the water and let your carpet gets back to normal. Trust Superior Restoration & Shamrock Cleaning for all your water damaged carpet needs!