The Importance of Removing Cabinets When Drywall is Wet Behind Them After Water Damage

11/6/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can be one of the most destructive and stressful situations a homeowner can face. Whether from a burst pipe, a leaky roof, or an appliance malfunction, water can infiltrate the home, affecting not just the visible areas but hidden spaces behind walls, cabinets, and floors. One of the most critical actions to take when dealing with water damage is properly assessing the impact on structural elements like drywall—and in many cases, that may include removing the cabinets.

Here’s why removing cabinets to access and dry out wet drywall is crucial to restoring your home effectively.

1. Preventing Mold Growth

When water saturates drywall, it creates an environment conducive to mold growth. Mold can begin to grow within 24-48 hours of exposure to moisture, potentially spreading to other areas of your home. If the drywall behind the cabinets is not dried out properly, it may become a breeding ground for mold that could affect your health and lead to costly remediation down the line.

By removing the cabinets, technicians can access and thoroughly dry the affected drywall, reducing the risk of mold growth and ensuring that your home is safe from long-term damage.

2. Thorough Drying of Hidden Areas

Water damage often affects areas that are not immediately visible, such as behind cabinets. If these hidden spaces are not adequately dried, the moisture can linger, causing further damage to the structural integrity of the home. Wet drywall can weaken over time, leading to the potential for further structural issues, such as sagging or collapse.

Removing the cabinets allows for proper inspection and drying of these areas, preventing future complications and ensuring that all affected materials are fully restored.

3. Ensuring Proper Remediation

The goal of water damage remediation is not just to clean up the visible damage, but to prevent further issues that may arise from unseen damage. If the drywall behind cabinets remains wet, there’s a good chance that the problem will persist, and the remediation will be incomplete. This can lead to the need for future repairs, additional costs, and ongoing issues.

By removing the cabinets and ensuring that the drywall is completely dry, you can rest assured that the restoration is done correctly the first time. This thoroughness will help minimize the chances of needing additional repairs down the road.

4. Protecting Your Cabinets

While it may seem counterintuitive to remove cabinets, doing so can actually protect them in the long run. Many cabinets are made from materials that can warp, swell, or deteriorate when exposed to water for extended periods. Even if the damage to the cabinets seems minimal, water behind them can cause hidden damage that compromises their integrity.

Removing the cabinets allows for proper drying of both the drywall and the cabinets themselves. By addressing the issue proactively, you may be able to salvage the cabinets and avoid the need for costly replacements.

5. Preserving Your Home's Value

Water damage that is not properly addressed can lead to long-term problems that diminish the value of your home. If mold, rot, or structural issues develop, it could affect the overall marketability of your property. Ensuring that all areas of the home, including those behind cabinets, are thoroughly dried and restored helps preserve your home’s value and prevents further complications from impacting your investment.

Conclusion

When dealing with water damage, it’s essential to be proactive in addressing all affected areas, including those hidden behind cabinets. Removing the cabinets allows for proper inspection, drying, and remediation of the drywall, helping to prevent mold growth, structural damage, and future repairs. Whether you're dealing with a small leak or significant water damage, taking these necessary steps will ensure a more complete restoration and protect your home for years to come.

If you’re facing water damage in your home, it’s always best to consult with professionals who can assess the situation and handle the necessary remediation steps—ensuring that your home is restored to its pre-damaged condition.

Steps to Take During a Brush Fire: Ensuring Safety and Preparedness

11/6/2024 (Permalink)

Brush fires, also known as wildfires, can spread rapidly, fueled by dry conditions, high winds, and an abundance of flammable vegetation. In California, where brush fires are a seasonal threat, understanding what to do during a fire can make a huge difference in your safety and the protection of your property. While preparation is key, it’s just as important to know the steps to take when a brush fire is actively threatening your area.

Here are some essential steps to take during a brush fire to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your home.

1. Stay Informed

The first step in handling a brush fire is to stay informed about the fire’s location, movement, and any evacuation orders. Use the following resources to get accurate and timely updates:

• Emergency Alerts: Sign up for local emergency alerts via text or app notifications to receive real-time information about fire warnings and evacuations.
• News Stations: Keep an eye on local TV stations or radio channels that provide continuous coverage of the situation.
• Social Media: Follow your local fire department, law enforcement, and emergency management agencies on social media for real-time updates.

It’s crucial to have multiple sources of information, as conditions can change rapidly during a brush fire.

2. Evacuate When Ordered

If an evacuation order is issued, leave the area immediately. Your safety is the number one priority. Here are some tips to make your evacuation as smooth as possible:

• Have an Emergency Kit Ready: Keep a kit with essential items (medications, important documents, flashlight, water, snacks, and a change of clothes) in an easily accessible place.
• Follow Evacuation Routes: Do not take shortcuts or use unfamiliar roads. Follow the designated evacuation routes provided by local authorities to avoid roadblocks or unsafe conditions.
• Leave Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to evacuate. Fires can move quickly, and waiting could put you at greater risk. Evacuating early helps you avoid getting caught in traffic or the flames.

If you have pets, make sure they’re safely evacuated as well. Prepare carriers and have their food, medications, and identification with you.

3. Protect Your Home and Property (If Time Allows)

If there’s still time before an evacuation order or the fire reaches your area, take steps to protect your home. Even though your personal safety should always come first, these actions can help minimize the damage to your property:

• Close All Windows and Doors: Close all windows, doors, and vents to prevent embers from entering your home and starting fires inside. If possible, cover windows with fire-resistant materials.
• Move Flammable Items: Move anything flammable (such as firewood, lawn furniture, or propane tanks) away from your home and into an area that is clear of vegetation or away from structures.
• Turn Off Gas Lines and Electricity: If there’s time, turn off the gas supply to your home and shut down any non-essential electrical equipment to prevent fires from igniting due to sparks or gas leaks.
• Create Defensible Space: Clear leaves, branches, and other combustible debris from around your property, particularly near windows, doors, and rooftops. Raking up dry vegetation and trimming trees can make it harder for the fire to spread to your home.

4. Keep a Clear and Safe Escape Route

Make sure your escape route is clear of obstructions. If you're leaving by car, ensure your vehicle is fueled and ready to go. Avoid parking on dry vegetation or grass, as this could ignite during the fire. If you must leave on foot, have a clear path that avoids any flames, smoke, or falling debris.

When driving, keep the windows up, and turn on the air conditioning to keep smoke out. Avoid using the car's air circulation, as it can draw in more smoke from outside.

5. Don’t Re-enter the Area Too Soon

Once you’ve evacuated, do not return to your home until local authorities give the all-clear. Fires can reignite unexpectedly, and even if the fire appears to be under control, there may still be dangers such as embers or unstable structures. Your safety is most important, so wait for official word that it's safe to return.

6. Follow Safety Procedures in Smoke-Impacted Areas

If you’re in an area affected by smoke but not immediately at risk of the fire, take steps to protect your health:

• Limit Exposure: Stay indoors as much as possible. If you must go outside, wear a mask (N95 or similar) to reduce inhalation of smoke and ash particles.
• Seal Off Doors and Windows: Close doors and windows to keep smoke from entering your home. Use air purifiers if available.
• Monitor Air Quality: Keep an eye on air quality reports and follow guidance from health officials to avoid unnecessary exposure to harmful smoke.

7. Check on Neighbors and Vulnerable Individuals

If it's safe to do so, check on elderly neighbors, children, and those with mobility issues to ensure they are prepared or have evacuated. Many people may not have the resources or ability to leave on their own, so offering assistance could save lives.

Brush fires are unpredictable and often life-threatening, but with proper planning and swift action, you can help ensure your safety and minimize the damage to your property. Stay informed, follow evacuation orders, and take steps to protect your home when possible. Most importantly, always prioritize your safety and the safety of others, especially when time is of the essence.

Remember, fires can change direction rapidly, so it’s crucial to stay updated on local conditions and follow the guidance of emergency professionals. By remaining vigilant and prepared, you can greatly increase your chances of making it through a brush fire safely.

Understanding the Importance of Subrogation in a Water Damage Situation

11/6/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can be one of the most costly and disruptive issues a homeowner or business owner can face. Whether it’s due to a burst pipe, a leaking roof, or a natural disaster, water damage can cause extensive harm to property, belongings, and structures. When dealing with such damage, many people turn to their insurance to help cover the costs of repairs and restoration.

However, insurance companies do not always bear the full cost of claims without seeking reimbursement. This is where subrogation comes into play. Understanding subrogation can help you better navigate the complexities of insurance claims after water damage and ensure that you're getting the coverage you're entitled to.

What is Subrogation?

Subrogation is the legal process by which an insurance company seeks reimbursement from the party that caused the damage after they have paid out a claim to the insured. In the context of water damage, subrogation typically occurs when your insurance company covers the costs of water damage to your property, but later attempts to recover those costs from the responsible party or their insurance.

For example, if the water damage was caused by a neighbor’s overflowing bathtub, your insurance company might pay for the repairs to your home. Then, your insurance company would pursue subrogation by either recovering the money from the neighbor’s insurance or directly from them.

Why is Subrogation Important in Water Damage Situations?

Here are a few key reasons why subrogation is essential in water damage cases:

1. Protects Your Financial Interests

Subrogation helps to ensure that the person or entity responsible for the water damage ultimately bears the financial burden, not you. Even if your insurance policy covers the damages initially, subrogation ensures that your insurance company attempts to recover the costs from the responsible party. This helps keep your premiums from rising unnecessarily due to the claim.

For example, if a contractor's mistake led to a plumbing failure that caused water damage in your home, subrogation gives your insurer the ability to seek recovery from the contractor or their insurance. This can help protect your long-term financial interests by preventing you from having to pay for the damages that were not your fault.

2. Keeps Insurance Premiums in Check

If you file a water damage claim, your insurance provider will likely increase your premiums in the future to recoup their costs. Subrogation helps insurance companies recover funds from the responsible party, which can help reduce the impact on your premiums. Essentially, it helps prevent the domino effect of premium hikes that would occur if the insurance company couldn't recover the funds.

By pursuing subrogation, insurance companies are able to offset the claims they pay out, which, in turn, helps keep rates more affordable for all policyholders.

3. Ensures Accountability

Subrogation holds the responsible party accountable for their actions. In water damage cases, this could mean the property owner whose faulty plumbing caused a flood, or a contractor who made an error during construction. By pursuing subrogation, insurance companies enforce the principle that if someone is at fault for damages, they should pay for the consequences.

This not only helps the insured recover their losses, but it also serves as a deterrent to prevent negligence or poor practices that could lead to water damage in the future.

4. Helps Expedite the Claims Process

Subrogation can also streamline the claims process for the insured. Once your insurance company has paid for the water damage repairs, they can begin the process of seeking reimbursement from the responsible party or their insurer. In cases where subrogation is successful, you may find that your insurance company settles the matter quickly, which can help you avoid any delays in your restoration process.

It’s a way for insurers to recover costs without dragging the insured into prolonged litigation, allowing you to focus on getting your home or business repaired.

5. Provides a Safety Net for Everyone Involved

Subrogation not only protects you as a policyholder, but it also creates a safety net for the responsible parties. By resolving the issue through subrogation, your insurance company can recover the costs without causing undue financial burden on the individual or business at fault. Instead of directly suing for damages, which can take time and resources, subrogation provides an alternative means to seek reimbursement through the appropriate channels (insurance companies).

This often helps speed up the process and reduces potential conflict, as it allows all parties to rely on the terms and coverage of their insurance policies.

6. Subrogation and Water Damage Lawsuits

In some cases, subrogation can lead to lawsuits if the responsible party is uncooperative or their insurance denies liability. For instance, if a neighbor's negligence causes significant water damage to your home, your insurer may try to settle the matter through subrogation, but if that doesn't work, legal action may follow. This can help ensure that justice is served and that the individual or company responsible for the damage pays their fair share.

However, it’s important to note that legal action may take time, and the process can be complex. Subrogation is often the first step to resolving these types of disputes, but it doesn't always eliminate the possibility of a lawsuit.

Conclusion

Subrogation plays a crucial role in the aftermath of water damage, protecting both the insured and the insurer. By ensuring that the responsible party ultimately covers the costs of the damages, subrogation helps to safeguard your financial interests, keeps premiums from rising, and enforces accountability. If you ever face water damage, understanding how subrogation works—and how it can benefit you—is an important part of the claims process.

If you’re dealing with a water damage situation, consult with your insurance provider and consider working with a restoration company to ensure that all damages are properly documented, and subrogation is pursued if necessary. Understanding your rights and the steps involved in recovering from water damage can give you peace of mind during a stressful situation.

Understanding Mold: Risks, Causes, and How to Handle It

11/6/2024 (Permalink)

Mold is one of the most common problems that homeowners face, especially in areas with high humidity or after water damage. While it’s often seen as a nuisance, mold can pose serious risks to your health and the integrity of your home. Understanding the causes of mold growth, the potential risks it presents, and how to address it effectively can help you protect both your property and your well-being.

What Is Mold?

Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp, warm environments. It can grow on a variety of surfaces, including wood, drywall, carpet, and even fabric. Mold spores are microscopic and are always present in the air, but they only begin to grow into visible colonies when the conditions are right. These conditions typically include excess moisture, poor ventilation, and organic materials to feed on.

There are many different types of mold, but some of the most common found in homes are:

• Black Mold (Stachybotrys chartarum): Often associated with water damage, black mold can be toxic and cause serious health issues.
• Aspergillus: Common in areas with high humidity, this mold can cause respiratory issues.
• Cladosporium: Typically found in damp areas like basements, this mold can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.

Causes of Mold Growth

Mold growth usually occurs in places where water or moisture is present for extended periods of time. Common causes of mold growth in homes include:

• Water Leaks: Leaks from pipes, roofs, or windows are among the most common causes of mold growth. Even small leaks that are undetected for long periods can lead to significant mold issues.
• Flooding: After a flood, the moisture left behind creates the perfect environment for mold to thrive, often within 24-48 hours of water exposure.
• High Humidity: Areas with excessive humidity, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, are more prone to mold growth. Without proper ventilation, the moisture in the air can condense on surfaces and create a breeding ground for mold.
• Condensation: In colder climates or poorly ventilated areas, condensation can form on windows, walls, and ceilings, allowing mold to grow if not cleaned up quickly.
• Poor Ventilation: Inadequate airflow, especially in areas like bathrooms or laundry rooms, can contribute to mold growth as moisture builds up over time.

Health Risks of Mold Exposure

Mold exposure can lead to a variety of health problems, particularly for those with respiratory conditions or compromised immune systems. Here are some common health risks associated with mold:

• Allergic Reactions: Mold spores can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, including sneezing, coughing, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes.
• Respiratory Issues: Mold exposure can worsen asthma and other respiratory conditions. Inhalation of mold spores can lead to chronic coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
• Skin Irritation: Direct contact with mold or mold spores can cause skin rashes, irritation, or even infections in some cases.
• Toxic Effects: Certain types of mold, like black mold, produce mycotoxins, which can have more severe effects on health. These can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and neurological symptoms when exposure is prolonged.

For individuals with compromised immune systems, the elderly, or young children, mold exposure can be especially dangerous and should be addressed as soon as possible.

Signs of Mold in Your Home

Mold can be tricky to spot, especially when it’s hidden behind walls or under floors. However, there are several signs to watch for that could indicate mold growth:

• Musty Odor: A persistent, earthy or musty smell is often the first sign of mold growth. If you notice this smell, it's important to investigate further.
• Visible Mold: Mold can appear as black, green, white, or even yellow spots or patches on walls, ceilings, floors, and furniture. Mold can often be found in areas like bathrooms, basements, and under sinks.
• Water Damage: If you notice water stains, discoloration, or warping on walls, ceilings, or floors, it could be a sign of water damage that may lead to mold growth.
• Health Symptoms: If you or your family members start experiencing respiratory problems, allergic reactions, or skin irritation while spending time in certain areas of your home, mold may be the culprit.

How to Prevent Mold Growth

While mold is nearly impossible to eliminate completely, there are several ways to reduce the likelihood of mold growth in your home:

• Fix Leaks Quickly: If you discover a leak in your roof, pipes, or windows, repair it immediately. Mold can begin growing in just 24-48 hours, so it’s essential to prevent water from accumulating.
• Control Humidity: Use dehumidifiers in areas prone to high humidity (such as basements or bathrooms) to keep moisture levels in check. Aim to keep indoor humidity levels below 60%.
• Ventilate Properly: Ensure that your home is properly ventilated, especially in areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens. Use exhaust fans or open windows to help reduce moisture in the air.
• Clean and Dry Wet Areas: After cleaning up water from spills or leaks, make sure the area is thoroughly dried within 24-48 hours. This will prevent mold from taking root.
• Install Vapor Barriers: In basements or crawl spaces, vapor barriers can help reduce moisture from the ground and prevent it from entering your living spaces.

How to Deal with Mold in Your Home

If you find mold in your home, it’s essential to take action quickly to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage. Here’s how to handle mold removal:

• Contain the Area: If possible, isolate the affected area to prevent mold spores from spreading to other parts of the home.
• Remove Moldy Materials: For extensive mold growth, materials like drywall, insulation, and carpet may need to be removed and replaced.
• Clean Small Areas: For small mold patches, you can often clean them yourself using mold-killing solutions like diluted bleach, vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide. Be sure to wear protective gear, including gloves, a mask, and goggles, when cleaning mold.
• Professional Mold Remediation: If the mold growth is extensive, or if it’s in hard-to-reach areas like behind walls or under floors, it’s best to hire a professional mold remediation company. Professionals have the expertise, equipment, and cleaning agents necessary to remove mold safely and thoroughly.

Conclusion

Mold is more than just a cosmetic issue—it’s a health and safety concern that should be taken seriously. Whether caused by water damage, high humidity, or leaks, mold can quickly become a problem if not addressed. By understanding the causes and risks of mold growth, as well as taking preventive measures, you can protect your home and health.

If you discover mold in your home, hire a professional mold remediation company like SERVPRO. It’s crucial to act quickly to avoid further damage and potential health risks.

Restoring Peace of Mind: 5 Compelling Reasons to Choose Our Restoration Company

11/14/2023 (Permalink)

Introduction:

In times of crisis, whether it's due to water damage, fire, or mold, choosing the right restoration company is crucial for a swift and effective recovery. At SERVPRO of Lake Forest S./Laguna Woods, we understand the emotional and financial toll these situations can take on individuals and businesses. In this blog post, we'll explore five compelling reasons why customers should entrust us with their restoration needs.

Expertise and Experience:

With years of experience in the restoration industry, our team at SERVPRO of Lake Forest S./Laguna Woods boasts unparalleled expertise. Our skilled professionals are trained to handle a wide range of restoration challenges, from water extraction and fire damage cleanup to mold remediation. We stay abreast of the latest industry standards and technologies to ensure that our methods are cutting-edge and effective.

Rapid Response Time:

Time is of the essence when it comes to restoration. The longer damage sits unaddressed, the more extensive and costly the repairs become. At SERVPRO of Lake Forest S./Laguna Woods, we take pride in our rapid response times. Our dedicated team is on standby 24/7, ready to mobilize and start the restoration process immediately. We understand the urgency of the situation and are committed to minimizing further damage.

Comprehensive Services:

Our restoration services go beyond mere cleanup. We offer a comprehensive suite of solutions to address every aspect of the restoration process. From assessing the initial damage to restoring and rebuilding your property, we handle it all. This holistic approach ensures that our customers experience a seamless transition from disaster to recovery without the need to juggle multiple service providers.

Cutting-Edge Technology:

Technology plays a pivotal role in effective restoration. At SERVPRO of Lake Forest S./Laguna Woods, we leverage state-of-the-art equipment and advanced technologies to expedite the restoration process and enhance its efficiency. From high-tech moisture detection devices to industrial-strength drying equipment, we invest in the best tools to deliver optimal results.

Customer-Centric Approach:

We understand that dealing with restoration can be a stressful experience. That's why we prioritize a customer-centric approach in everything we do. From clear communication and transparent pricing to empathy and understanding, our team is committed to making the restoration process as smooth and stress-free as possible for our clients. We work closely with you, keeping you informed at every step and ensuring that your concerns are addressed promptly.

Conclusion:

Choosing a restoration company is a decision that should not be taken lightly. At SERVPRO of Lake Forest S./Laguna Woods, we aim to be more than just a service provider; we strive to be a partner in your journey to recovery. With our expertise, rapid response times, comprehensive services, cutting-edge technology, and customer-centric approach, we stand out as a trusted ally in times of crisis. When disaster strikes, choose SERVPRO of Lake Forest S./Laguna Woods for a restoration experience that goes beyond expectations.

How To Prepare Your Home For Hurricane Hillary

8/18/2023 (Permalink)

1. Stay Informed: Monitor reliable sources of weather information, such as the National Hurricane Center (NHC) or your local meteorological agencies. They will provide updates and forecasts on the storm's track, intensity, and potential impacts.

2. Emergency Kit: Create an emergency kit that includes essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, medications, first aid supplies, flashlight, batteries, a battery-operated radio, and personal hygiene items. Plan for at least three days' worth of supplies.

3. Evacuation Plan: Know your evacuation routes and have a plan in place for where you'll go if you need to evacuate. Stay informed about evacuation orders from local authorities.

4. Secure Your Property: Trim trees and shrubs around your property to minimize the risk of flying debris. Secure loose outdoor items that could become projectiles in strong winds.

5. Protect Windows and Doors: If you're in an area prone to hurricanes, consider installing storm shutters or boarding up windows and doors with plywood to protect against flying debris.

6. Important Documents: Keep important documents, such as identification, insurance policies, medical records, and financial documents, in a waterproof container.

7. Communication Plan: Ensure that you have a way to communicate with family members in case you get separated. Have a designated point of contact outside the affected area who everyone can check in with.

8. Fuel and Transportation: Keep your vehicles fueled up and in good condition. Gas stations might be closed or busy during an emergency.

9. Medication and Medical Supplies: If you have prescription medications or medical equipment, ensure you have a sufficient supply on hand. Keep a list of your medications and dosages.

10. Pets and Livestock: If you have pets or livestock, make sure you have a plan for their care, including food, water, and shelter.

11. Secure Important Items: Move valuable or sentimental items to higher ground or a safer location in case of flooding.

12. Stay Put if Safe: If you're not in a designated evacuation zone and your home is well-built and sturdy, it might be safer to stay put. But always follow local authorities' advice.

Why Clean Up That Water?

8/18/2023 (Permalink)

Excess moisture in your home can lead to a range of problems, both structural and health-related. It's important to manage moisture levels to maintain a healthy and safe living environment. Here are some of the potential issues that moisture can cause in your home:

1. Mold and Mildew Growth: High moisture levels provide an ideal environment for mold and mildew to thrive. Mold growth can damage surfaces, produce unpleasant odors, and pose health risks, especially to individuals with allergies, asthma, or respiratory issues.

2. Structural Damage: Moisture can weaken the structural integrity of your home over time. It can cause wood to rot, weaken foundations, corrode metal components, and deteriorate materials like drywall and insulation.

3. Dampness and Discomfort: Excess moisture can lead to a feeling of dampness and discomfort within your living spaces. This can make your home less inviting and affect your overall quality of life.

4. Peeling Paint and Wallpaper: Moisture can cause paint and wallpaper to peel or blister, leading to unsightly and deteriorating surfaces.

5. Water Stains: Water stains on ceilings, walls, and floors are not only unsightly but can also indicate ongoing leaks or moisture issues.

6. Pest Infestations: Moist environments attract pests such as cockroaches, termites, and silverfish. These pests can cause additional damage to your home and pose health risks.

7. Allergens and Health Risks: Mold spores and dust mites, both commonly found in moist environments, can trigger allergies and worsen respiratory conditions like asthma.

8. Foul Odors: Moisture can create musty and unpleasant odors that linger in your home, making it less comfortable for occupants and visitors.

9. Electrical Hazards: Moisture can damage electrical systems, leading to short circuits, power outages, and potential electrical hazards.

10. Decreased Energy Efficiency: Moisture can affect the insulation properties of materials, leading to decreased energy efficiency as heating and cooling systems work harder to maintain desired temperatures.

Worried about flooding during heavy rains? Sandbag! Sandbag! Sandbag!

8/18/2023 (Permalink)

Sandbagging is a technique used to create barriers and protect buildings from flooding. If you're facing a potential flood threat and want to sandbag your house, here's how you can do it:

Materials You'll Need:

• Sandbags (available at hardware stores or you can make your own with sand and suitable bags)
• Sand (for filling the bags)
• Shovels
• Plastic sheeting (to help waterproof the sandbags)
• Work gloves
• Stakes or weights (to hold the sandbags in place)

1. Get Sandbags: Purchase sandbags from a hardware store or contact your local emergency management agency for information on obtaining sandbags. If you can't find pre-filled bags, you can buy bags and fill them with sand.

2. Fill Sandbags: Fill the sandbags about half to two-thirds full with sand. Overfilled bags will be difficult to manage and won't stack properly.

3. Seal and Stack: Fold the open end of the sandbag and place it on the ground with the folded end facing up and the sealed end down. When stacking the bags, stagger the layers like you would in bricklaying. This creates a more stable barrier.

4. Form a Barrier: Place the sandbags to form a barrier around the areas vulnerable to flooding, such as doorways, windows, and low-lying parts of your property. If you're building a wall, make sure it's at least two bags wide to provide stability.

5. Tamp and Mold: Gently tamp down the bags in each layer to create a firm and stable barrier. Use the weight of the bags to create a tight seal.

6. Anchor the Barrier: Depending on the situation, you might need to anchor the sandbag barrier with stakes or other weights to prevent shifting.

7. Create a Slope: If the water is approaching your house, create a gentle slope with the sandbags to redirect the water away from your home.

8. Protect Doorways: If you're protecting doorways, consider using plastic sheeting in addition to sandbags to create a waterproof seal. Attach the plastic sheeting to the doorframe and drape it over the sandbags.

9. Monitor and Maintain: Regularly check the sandbags for signs of wear or displacement. Replace damaged bags promptly and adjust the barrier as needed.

How Storms Can Affect Your Residential Property in Southern California

2/24/2023 (Permalink)

Storm surge

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) describes a storm surge as a rise in seawater level that's caused by a storm. It occurs when powerful winds from a hurricane, tropical storm or even a winter storm push ocean water ashore. This creates a rise in seawater level that's greater than the predicted tide.

A storm surge can create a dangerous situation for you and your family, so it's important to be prepared. Consider creating an evacuation plan and packing an emergency "go bag" ahead of time so you can quickly depart if a storm surge forces you to evacuate.

Regardless of what's predicted, it's important not to underestimate the potential danger of a storm surge. The NHC says storm surges can cause water levels to rise in a matter of minutes, leaving you little time to seek higher ground. Extreme flooding stemming from a storm surge can force major evacuations and may leave behind damage at your home. This damage may include foundation cracks, punctured gas lines, flooded appliances and electrical issues, says Ready.gov.

Wind

Early in the season, the high-pressure air in the Great Basin starts out warmer, so the addition of compressional heating can make for winds that feel hot like a hair dryer. Later in the season — late fall and winter — the jet stream comes farther down out of Canada and feeds much colder Arctic air into the interior West. That colder, denser air can generate stronger winds, even though they may not be as oven-hot as in the early fall. These later-season winds are more likely to have upper-level support — meaning winds higher in the troposphere may influence the winds at the surface through a sort of chain reaction. The cooler, denser air helps drive those winds aloft to the surface because of subsidence or sinking, Miller adds.

Downslope Winds?occur when warm/dry air descends rapidly down a mountain side. These are common on the east side of the Rocky Mountains, called Chinook Winds. These winds can blow over 40 mph, and can occur in sudden gusts that are even stronger, which can make driving hazardous. In addition, their dry conditions increase the risk of wildfires in the area.

Downslope Winds occur when warm/dry air descends rapidly down a mountain side. These are common on the east side of the Rocky Mountains, called Chinook Winds. These winds can blow over 40 mph, and can occur in sudden gusts that are even stronger, which can make driving hazardous. In addition, their dry conditions increase the risk of wildfires in the area.

Rain

For the first time since October, drought-plagued California was doused with heavy rain and snowfall from Dec. 12-15. Even Southern California got to join in the party, with Santa Barbara and the rest of the South Coast averaging 2 inches of rain at the water’s edge and upwards of 5 inches in the mountains. San Marcos Pass, traversed by Highway 154, received more than 8 inches of rain from the storm.

A vigorous storm system moved into the Southland on Monday, delivering much-needed rain and high-elevation snow to the drought-stricken region — along with lightning, flash floods and road hazards — but it wasn’t enough to make more than a dent in the ongoing drought.

These bands occur globally and are responsible for moving much of the water vapor that flows outside of the tropics, especially on the west coast of the U.S. and in northern Europe. When they come into contact with a landmass, atmospheric rivers will often release their vapor, resulting in rainfall and snowfall at higher elevations.

What to do when you get a warning about a storm.

Practice Your Plan: Conduct a family severe thunderstorm drill regularly so everyone knows what to do if a damaging wind or large hail is approaching. Make sure all members of your family know to go there when severe thunderstorm warnings are issued. Don't forget pets if time allows.

A storm warning indicates that meteorologists have already observed severe conditions. If you hear that a storm warning has been issued, it means potentially dangerous weather is imminent in or near your location. Depending on the type of weather warning, take appropriate action as quickly and safely as possible.

Also check your furnace and change your filter. While this won’t mitigate storm damage, it can make weathering the storm more comfortable. Also take this opportunity to service your garage door opener by lubricating the chain or screw drive and checking the tension on the chain. Change the batteries in the electronic opener, too, to minimize the chances that your loved ones will have to operate the door manually during a storm.

What to do if a storm hits.

Start by discussing what could happen and what you should do at home, at school or at work if a severe storm strikes. To be prepared, make a list of what needs to be done ahead of time. Store important family documents, such as birth certificates, passports, wills, financial documents, insurance policies, etc. in waterproof container(s). Identify an appropriate out-of-town contact that can act as a central point of contact in an emergency.

When a winter storm hits, stay indoors. If you must go outside, dress for the weather. Outer clothing should be tightly woven and water-repellent. The jacket should have a hood. Wear mittens – they are warmer than gloves – and a hat, as significant body heat is lost through the head.

After the Storm

1. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.

2. Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded and watch out for debris. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways.

3. Do not attempt to drive through areas that are still flooded.

4. Avoid standing water as it may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.

5. Photograph damage to your property for insurance purposes.

What to Know Before Water Damage Strikes

1/11/2023 (Permalink)

Evaluate the risk of potential water damage.

Homeowners undoubtedly have a responsibility to try and protect against the next loss. More carriers are seeing similar trends regarding water damage recidivism. As a result, some are not renewing homes with multiple water losses, or are requiring the installation of mitigation devices. In a study by the California Department of Insurance, 25% of the companies (surveyed) refused to renew the policies of customers who made one or two non-water damage claims in the past three years. And 32% refused to renew policies for people who made one or two water-loss claims in the past three years2.

Understand your insurance policy. Does it include a flood rider? Most policies need this to be specifically added by the policy holder. If it does, know your coverage. Oftentimes, flood and water damage are not a “total restore” under the policy, meaning that the loss may be covered only up to a percentage. If this is the case, it may be worth speaking with your provider about extending your coverage.

Between hour 2 and the end of the first week, the damage will compound. Your home will experience growth and spread of mold and mildew. The doors, windows, and wood flooring may swell and warp, and metal may begin to rust and corrode. At the same time, there is a possibility of serious biohazard contamination.