How To Protect Your Roof From Mold Growth

Your roof protects you from anything. It shelters you from any natural disasters, rainstorms, or scorching heat of summer. But what can you do if the thing that protects your home has been ruined by mold growth? Here are some tips on how to protect your roof from mold growth.

What is Mold?

Mold, outdoors, is a vital microorganism that helps in breaking down dead organic materials like dried leaves or dead trees. However, indoors, is it is very harmful. It is one of the enemies that are difficult to conquer. You cannot beat them unless it shows in front of you. Mold grows in places with a lot of moisture. They can enter through open doors, windows, and vents. Mold starts to grow on a surface within 24 to 48 hours. Thus, it is crucial to act fast when dealing with mold growth inside your home.

Signs That There is Mold Growth on Your Roof

1. Roof damage. Roofs are supposedly made to protect you and your property against elements. But strong wind, rainstorms, and other severe weather can weaken your covering, pulling shingles out of their nails or causing other types of damage. Any of this damage allows mold to enter through your roof and eventually colonize the rest of your home. 

2. Roof leaks. A leaking roof is often a sign of poor insulation or damage to your roof. This condition allows moisture to seep through your roof and gives the perfect conditions for mold to grow inside your home. So, when you are dealing with a leaking roof, it is certain that your home has been infested by mold. 

3. Nasty smell. If you notice a musty odor in your home, it is an indication that there is mold present in your home, even if it is not visible. 

4. Visible mold. Some mold is hard to identify as it has manifested as dirt or stain. But, they may appear in many different colors, including gray, green, white, brown, and black. If you see visible mold in your home, you may be in a very difficult situation. Check your attic because it might be your roof that you have to blame.

1. Allergic reactions. Allergic reactions are common when you get exposed to mold. When you feel an itchy throat or possible health risks, there is a possibility that the mold has spread throughout your home.

How  to Protect Your Roof From Mold Growth

• Check Your Drainage System 

A clogged drainage system may cause mold growth because of the water that stays in the pipe coming from the rainstorm. Clear any debris or dirt in the system to make sure that the flow of the drainage is in good condition and will not go through your foundation.

• Regularly Maintain Your Roof

One of the most important ways to prevent your roof from possible mold growth is to have it maintained. Make sure to check and repair it regularly to prevent mold from growing and damaging your roof.

• Get Rid of Standing Water

Look for standing water, as sometimes it often causes mold growth on top of the roof. If you find any pooling water on your roof, it means that your drainage system is not working. It usually happens if you have a flat style roof.

• Install a Humidifier

Since the mold can travel, there is a possibility that it can risk your health. Installing humidifiers is one of the best options if you want to prevent mold growth on your roof Mold thrives in warm and moist environments, like in your attic. Dehumidifiers can remove the excess moisture from the air and prevent the mold from staying in the area.

• Regularly Inspect Your Roof 

Schedule a regular roof inspection to identify if there is a possible problem such as mold growth, weakening of materials, and even leaks. It is a good idea to check the temperature of your roof regularly to know how to assess the damage properly.

• Secure your Roof

Securing every corner of your roof is one of the best ways to prevent mold from entering your roof. If the water passes through the edges, it may develop moisture and possible mold growth. In some cases, unsecured roof edges may result in severe damage, like the parts of the roof may come off due to natural disaster. 

• Check the Ceiling

Make sure to inspect the ceiling area to identify if there is any water damage that can cause mold growth. Through this, you can prevent leaks and standing water on your roof.

• Ensure Working HVAC System

Prevent mold growth in your room by making sure that your HVAC system is in good condition. If mold happens to infest under your room, there is a possibility that your HVAC system is contaminated with mold spores and that it is spreading throughout your home. Have your HVAC system cleaned and inspected regularly. It may prevent mold from growing inside your air ducts.

• Trim Trees

One of the best options to prevent it from infesting your roof is to clean the area around your home. Sometimes, tree branches, leaves, and dirt may result in mold growth. Make sure to trim tree branches, clean debris, and upgrade shingles.

Contact A Professional Mold Removal Company

With proper roof maintenance, you can prevent mold from growing on your roof and penetrating inside your property. But, in case, mold has started invading your home, contact a mold removal company like Superior Restoration. 

Superior Restoration offers mold remediation and removal services to businesses and residential properties. We have trained and skilled technicians who can completely remove mold from your property. Call us today.

How To Protect Your Home From Winter Storm Damage

 As winter approaches, it is crucial to take ways to protect your home against winter storm damage. The freezing weather, accompanied by snow, ice, and wind can wreak havoc on your property. Winter can be the worst season for your home. Even homes or properties located in areas with mild winter, like in Southern California, can still become a victim of winter damage. To keep your home, as well as your family and personal belongings safe this winter, follow these preventative tips. 

Tips To Protect Your Home From Winter Damage

A snowstorm may seem peaceful, but it can greatly impact your home. In fact, a winter storm can leave billions of dollars in damage. Thus, as a homeowner, you want to make sure that your property can withstand the inclement weather of winter. 

1. Take care of your roof.

Aside from the hurricane season, the winter season can also damage roof elements due to strong wind storms. Strong winds can loosen, tear off, or break off shingles, siding, and roof flashing. When this happens, the damaged area can allow moisture from snow, sleet, and meltwater to seep inside your property. If not attended to immediately can lead to serious water damage. 

What to do: Before the first winter storm occurs, inspect your roof and do the necessary repairs. You may also consider trimming trees that are overhanging your home and removing any dead branches that could possibly break off and damage your roof.

2. Keep your gutters and drainage clear.

In winter, some areas in the U.S. experience increased rainfall, which will result in high cases of water damage. Thus, it is important to make sure that your gutters are ready for them. Gutters and drainage with accumulated debris can lead to blockage which can cause rainwater or meltwater to seep into your home. 

What To Do: Clean your gutters, as well as your drainage system, before the winter sets in. Use a shovel to remove dirt and debris and dispose of them properly. You can also use a garden hose to clear out your gutters. You may also need to consider extending your downspout to ensure that water is directed away from your home.

3. Prevent ice dam formation. 

Ice dams form when the meltwater runs down to the colder part of the roof and refreezes. As the ice continues to form, it causes blockage and prevents snowmelt from draining properly. This can result in water seepage and damage to your insulation, walls, ceilings, and other nearby areas. Worse is, ice tends to be very heavy and can damage your gutters which can present danger. 

What to do: Eliminate any heat sources under your roof, like heaters and lights, and keep your attic well ventilated and cool to prevent or slow down the refreezing cycle. Ask a roof professional for help if an ice dam begins to form. 

 

4. Prevent water damage.

The winter weather can bring an increased risk of water damage to your home. Aside from ice dams that can cause water to leak through your roof, uninsulated pipes may freeze and burst, and thawed snow can cause flooding to your basement, which can lead to water damage. Fortunately, there are many ways to help prevent it from happening this winter. 

• Insulate pipes that are located in unheated areas of your home like the basement, garage, attic, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets. 

• Insulate the attic floor and properly ventilate the attic itself to keep warm air from melting snow or ice on your roof. 

• Trickle water from faucets that are connected to the exposed pipes to prevent them from freezing. 

• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet door to allow the circulation of warm air around the pipes. 

• Caulk holes and cracks in the outer part of your home’s foundation and walls, including those holes used for cable installation. 

• Lastly, if you have to leave your home for a day or an extended period of time, make sure to turn off the main water valve, drain pipes, and water-related appliances, and turn the heat down to at least 10 degrees Celsius. 

 

For Professional Water Damage Restoration Services, Contact Superior Restoration!

These preventative measures can help you protect your home or property from winter storm damage. But, if your home sustains water damage this winter, the professionals at Superior Restoration are available and ready to provide you with high-quality water damage cleanup and restoration services. We are here to help you 24/7.  Call us anytime if you need us. 

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7 Essential Tips For Water Damage Repair

Water damage is indeed problematic for every homeowner. Not only it can cause damage to the structure of a home, but water damage can also harm the health environment of a property. If you don’t attend to it immediately, you will incur a great loss which might lead to irreparable damage and costly repairs and refurbishment. So, once water damage occurs in your home, it is essential to perform water clean up immediately to prevent further damage and accidents. Here are some emergency water damage restoration tips that you can do right after the water event occurs. 

What To Do First

The first and most important step to mitigate damage is to shut down the water source and electricity. This way you can stop the cause of water damage to your property and ensure your safety while doing the cleanup process. Then, move on to the assessment of the damage and repair. Remember to do it quickly because wet materials can develop more serious problems like mold growth 24 hours after a water event. 

Know The Different Types of Water

When it comes to water damage, it is also essential to know which type of water you are dealing with, because one type of water may pose no harm, but others can cause health hazards. 

Three types of water can occur in your home. The first one is the clean water that often occurs due to burst water supply lines, leaky pipes, rain, condensation, and others. This water is pure and harmless. You may clean up the damage on your own, but you can always seek help from a professional like Superior Restoration. 

The second one is gray water. It is slightly dirty water from a washing machine, dishwasher, or a clean toilet. The water may contain some contaminants, but with precaution and proper safety gear, you can clean it up yourself. The last and the dirtiest type of water is black water, like sewage water or overflowing water from nearby rivers and others. Blackwater may contain waste, bacteria, and other contaminants. You shouldn’t come in contact with this type of water as it can pose serious health issues. Cleaning it up should be handled by a professional. 

Water Damage Repair Tips

1. Remove Excess Water and Dry The Affected Area

As soon as you finish assessing the damaged area, it is now time to remove excess water or moisture. You may use a mop to soak up the remaining water and blot the area with high saturation. Then, use fans around the damaged area to circulate air. In case the area is severely damaged, consider using a large-capacity dehumidifier to ensure proper drying of the surrounding wood and other materials. 

2. Remove and Discard Damaged Materials

If the damaged area has furniture, electronics, and other valuable items like paintings, move them to a safe place. Porous materials such as carpet, fabric, insulation, and others that have been soaked in water should be discarded. In most cases, water will cause further damage to these materials by warping and shrinking them and other times they become a breeding ground for mold growth. But if you want to try saving carpets or rugs, lay them outside under that sun so it can fully dry. 

3. Inspect For Mold Growth

Check the affected materials for mold growth. Mold begins to grow on wet materials in as little as 24 hours. In some cases, like attic mold, they might have been growing a long time ago. 

Mold-damaged materials should be discarded immediately. For serious mold issues, it is always best to hire a professional. Aside from it can be destructive to the materials it infests, exposing yourself to mold can be dangerous, as it can also pose health issues like allergies and shortness of breath. Professional mold removal specialists have the proper equipment to fully mitigate and remove mold from your home.  

 

4. Disinfect Affected Materials

Before you begin working on the repair, make sure to disinfect the affected materials. Even if you have dried them, there could be a chance that there are still bacteria and other fungi that remains. There are several household cleaners you can choose from, but the most common one is the bleach solution. Apply it gently on the affected area and allow the material to completely dry. 

5. Fix the Ceilings

If your ceilings are exposed to water damage, it is important to attend to them immediately before they could even collapse and cause accidents. Check the source of the leaking in your roof and ceilings and repair it as soon as possible. 

6. Replace Damaged Wood, Drywall, and Unsealed Floor

Wood, drywall, and unsealed floors are also porous materials that can deteriorate when exposed to water damage. In most cases, if these materials rot or have been soaked in water for long, you may have to replace them completely. 

7. Check Your Homeowner’s Insurance

If you are dealing with significant water damage, check your insurance coverage. Water damage that happens due to sudden events, such as burst pipes, are more likely included in your homeowner’s insurance coverage. Contact your insurance provider immediately to inform them of the damage to your property. Also, make sure to take photos and videos to show evidence of the water damage. 

Professional Water Damage Restoration 

Though there are some DIY techniques you can use to clean up water damage in your home, water damage repair and restoration is always best left to professionals. A professional water damage restoration company, like Superior Restoration, utilizes the best method and equipment to repair water damage. They also have skilled and experienced technicians ready to deal with any type of water damage. 

For professional water damage restoration services, contact Superior Restoration at 951-398-0237. 

How To Use A Dehumidifier In Drying Water Damage

The first and most crucial step of the restoration process is to remove the water. While this can be a complicated process, it is vital and has to be done in the fastest way possible. If not, you may end up dealing with irreparable damage and mold growth. You may need to mop and wipe down all surfaces to remove any standing water. Then, using a commercial dehumidifier should be your next step. 

 

What Is a Dehumidifier and Why Use It After Water Damage

Though using fans and opening windows and doors can be helpful in drying your water damaged property, using dehumidifiers is a better technique. A dehumidifier is an equipment specially designed for drying and restoration.

The dehumidifier works by removing moisture from the air in the area where it is placed. It absorbs air from the room and gathers all the moisture. After that, it releases clean and dry air back into the room. 

This machine helps not only in collecting and evaporating remaining moisture from your carpet, walls, and furniture, but it also helps in reducing the drying time. Without a dehumidifier, it can take days or even weeks to dry out these materials. And by that time, mold has already started setting in and some areas may have fallen apart, which may lead to more serious damage.

How To Use A Dehumidifier After Water Damage

Once you have completely removed any standing water, place the dehumidifier at the center of the affected area. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to set up a few more dehumidifiers. This can also help expedite the drying time. You should also consider using high-powered fans to help reduce the drying time. 

Furthermore, it is recommended that you use a moisture meter to determine if the surface is completely dry. Don’t rely on touch because it can be inaccurate, and leaving the areas even slightly damp can lead to additional problems like mold growth. 

How Long Should You Run A Dehumidifier After A Water Leak

Unfortunately, you cannot really predict how long you should run a dehumidifier because each case is different and varies on several factors. The recommended usage time is around 24-48 hours. There are two factors to consider when determining how long you should run a dehumidifier.

The size of the affected area

If the area affected by the water leak is just a small part of your walls or carpet, you should run your dehumidifier for a day. But, if the water leak affected the entire room, you may need to use a dehumidifier for two days. Note that a single dehumidifier can only handle one room. So, if there are more rooms affected by the water leak, you should consider setting one for each room. 

The type of materials

If the damaged area is made of linoleum, concrete, bricks, and other less absorbent materials, then, you do not need to run the dehumidifier for a long time. But, if it has affected wood furniture, carpeting, drywall, and other absorbent materials, you may need to run your dehumidifier for 2 to 3 days. 

Important reminders: Never use a regular household dehumidifier. While these machines are cheaper and can also work, they are not designed to work for a large scale job. These machines can only hold 4-9 gallons of water. It is way different from commercial dehumidifiers which can hold up to 50 gallons of water. Furthermore, when using a dehumidifier, you should contain the affected area. Keeping the doors and windows closed allows your machine to do its job properly. 

How To Prevent Water Damage in Homes

While a dehumidifier can do well in preventing serious water damage to your property and personal belongings, taking preventative measures can help stop these issues from happening. You may not be able to control damage caused by nature, there are still many problems you can stop before they can even begin. 

• Clean gutters regularly and install downspout extensions.

• Inspect and maintain your roof. 

• Install a sump pump and a french drain.

• Use braided stainless steel hoses for washing machines, faucets, and other water-using appliances.

• Have your plumbing system serviced annually.

• Install water leak detectors and alarms.

• Shut-off the main water valve whenever you leave your home for an extended time. 

Need help drying your home after water damage?

Drying your home after a water leak or a flood is truly complicated. Thus, it is best to have professionals around. A professional water damage restoration company, such as Superior Restoration, uses advanced methods and equipment such as commercial-grade dehumidifiers, to properly repair and restore your home. Contact our office today to get a free quote for water damage cleanup and restoration services.

What You Need to Know About Water Damage

Water damage is one of the most common indoor problems. It is also the worst problem you may encounter after a flood or water leakage inside your home. For some instances, it is also one of the leading causes of home insurance claims and is responsible for millions of damages every year. When talking about the effects, water damage contributes to the structural and foundation problems which can actually destroy your personal belongings and decorative finishes. Worst, water damages lead to another problem for it creates a perfect environment for mold growth.

 

What to do in case of water damage?

Water damage can be in the form of water leakage due to broken pipes or water lines, sump pump failures, wall leakages, or a weak structural foundation. Before these things ruin your property, it is better if you know the things you need to do when any of these occur.

1. Know where the problem is coming from. 

Before you start your water damage restoration, you have to look for the source of the problem. Mostly water leak sources can be identified depending on its classification:

a. Clean water: This classification of water comes mostly from rain or leaky pipes. It does not contain any harmful chemicals, if this is the source of your growing problem with water, it is safe to handle yourself.

b. Gray water: This is the water leak from home fixtures like your dishwasher, toilet, or washing machine. Unlike clean water, this water can be slightly contaminated. If you wish to clean this by yourself, you would have to know proper precautions.

c. Blackwater: Lastly, the most harmful type of water, blackwater. This comes from the sewer or flooding from nearby bodies of water such as rivers. The important thing to know about this water is that it often contains health hazards. It is unsafe, so you might need help handling this.

2. Disconnect outlets. 

The next thing you need to know when handling water damage is to unplug all necessary electronic appliances immediately.  Even when you still haven’t checked the damage it has caused or may cause, it is very important to be careful with the electronics and gas lines. This could prevent possible electric accidents and explosions from your property.

3. Remove damaged belongings. 

Materials, such as carpets, insulations, and the like, can cause mildew when exposed with water. Hence they should be disposed of. It is important to focus on the floor and ceiling materials first.  They are possibly made of wood and other materials that need to be addressed and replaced immediately to not affect the structural integrity of the property.

4. Dry the affected areas. 

Before the water damages a larger portion of your property, eliminate all moisture and dry out the affected areas. This won’t guarantee a hundred percent prevention of mold growth in the areas affected, but a proper drying out of the area will help lessen the damage and its cost.

5. Disinfect and restore. 

The worst part of dealing with water damage is its power to encourage the growth of mold in your property. In line with this, it is advised to sanitize and disinfect the remaining areas immediately before you begin the restoration process. Dealing with water damages unproperly could lead to health problems, so, if you are taking on your own restoration, it’s important to properly assess the situation first.

 

For a safer restoration process, or if your assessment reveals that the damage is beyond what you can handle, it’s always a good idea to look for guidance and leave water damage restoration to a trusted restoration company.

Connect today to inquire and learn more about dealing with water damage remediation.

How To Clean Up A Home After A Fire

Dealing with the aftermath of a fire in your home can be a daunting and emotional process. Not only you will need to ensure that your property is safe and to keep a record of all damage to your property but also you have to deal with the clean-up and repair work. But with so many things you have on your to-do list, including the array of emotions you are going through, you might not know where and how to start. This guide will help you deal with the cleanup process after a fire.


Follow this guide to help you recover faster and to know how to clean up a home after a fire.

How To Clean up After A Fire

First off, Inspect Before You Enter

It is important to inspect your property first before entering your home. Fire can wreak havoc your home. Electrical wiring might have been damaged, ceilings may be unstable or show some signs of sagging because of water collection, and walls and flooring might have been weakened. Talk to the responding officials to know if it is safe to enter or you may ask a fire marshal or a representative from your insurance company to have your property inspected.

If the damage is severe, it is best to leave the restoration process with the professionals. They are experienced in removing any excess water and repairing severely damaged wood and building materials.

Document The Damage

Take as many photos and videos as you can of all fire damaged personal belongings and make a list of all your valuables with their monetary value. Your insurance company will ask for proof of the damage to your property. These documents will help with your insurance claim.

Cleaning The Exterior After A Fire

It is best to start cleaning up the exterior of your home to ensure that foundations, entrance, and support of your roof deck are in good condition before cleaning the inside. Start from top to bottom and follow these tips;

• Check the roof gutters and clean them to remove any debris or ash that is blocking the system and may cause additional damage.
• Check foundation walls and remove as much ash, soot, or chemical retardants as possible. You can use a power washer to do it. Alternately, if the surface damage is not too big, you can use a stiff brush and a water/borax solution to remove smoke and soot.
• Clean windows with glass cleaner.
• Remove any solid debris, soot, and grime on the walkways and driveways through power washing. 

Cleaning The Interior After A Fire

Soot, smoke, and even water that was used to extinguish the fire can quickly damage the surfaces of your home. Do the cleanup process as quickly as you can to prevent further damage.

Once your property is deemed safe to enter, you still have to be extra cautious. You should wear some protective gear like a face mask, safety glasses, work gloves, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants. Also, protect your feet with close-toed shoes. It is also best to keep small children away from the damaged area.

Removing Smoke and Soot From Walls And Ceilings

• To remove soot and smoke from your home’s walls, ceilings, and flooring, use a mild soap, detergent, or a mixture of trisodium phosphate and a cup of household cleaner to one gallon of warm water. Make sure to wear gloves when using tri-sodium phosphate (TSP) as it is acidic.
• Start from the top of the area that needs to be cleaned then rinse it with clean warm water. Dry it thoroughly then work on the other sections of the damaged area.
• Sanitize the damaged area using a bleach and water solution. Wipe down all the surfaces that got wet with bleach solution. This also helps reduce the chance of having mold growth.

Removing Smoke and Soot From Fabric

Make sure to test items first before using any treatment.

• For soot-damaged fabrics that can be washed, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use heavy-duty detergent and an oxygen-based bleach.
• If the smoke odor is persistent, dissolve 1 cup of a household dishwasher detergent with 1 gallon of warm water and soak the clothes overnight. Wash the items, as usual, the next day.
• For other fabrics that cannot be thrown in the wash, get advice from your local dry cleaners. They can give you recommendations on what to do best.

Water Damage After A Fire

• Remove any standing water using a shop vac or some old mops and towels. Some building materials of your home are porous and can absorb water. This will then lead to water damage that may require costly repairs.
• Pull out all wet materials including furniture, electronics, and others. Place them in areas dry and safe from water damage.
• Dry wet items like drapes, furniture and carpet as soon as possible to prevent mold and mildew growth. Or, use aluminum foil or plastic wrap under the furniture legs to protect them against water intrusion.
• Open windows to increase air circulation and set fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the affected area.

Contact Professional Fire Damage Restoration Company

While there are many ways you can take to clean up your home after a fire, keep in mind that hiring a professional restoration company is your best option for certain tasks. A professional restoration company, like Superior Restoration, is skilled and equipped in getting your home back to its pre-damaged condition.

For fire damage and water damage restoration services, contact Superior Restoration today.

The Difference Between Water Damage Mitigation And Restoration

Every homeowner may have to deal with water damage. A pipe can burst while you are away. Rainwater can seep into your basement which can lead to flooding. Whatever the cause of water damage is, repairing your home both requires water damage mitigation and restoration. Water mitigation should come first, followed by water damage restoration.

Understanding Categories of Water Damage

Before you move on to the definition of water damage mitigation and restoration, let us first identify what type and class of water damage you are dealing with. Knowing this helps you understand the severity of the damage and the hazard you might have to encounter.

There are three categories of water damage;

Category 1 or Clean Water – This type of water damage does not contain any contaminants and is not harmful. The common source of category 1 water damage is a burst or broken pipe.

Category 2 or Grey Water – Unlike category 1 water damage, “grey” water damage is slightly serious as the water contains some contaminants that can pose health risks when you come in contact with it. The source of the damage can be the overflowing water from a sink.

Category 3 or Black Water – This is the most dangerous type of water damage. The water involved has different kinds of contaminants like microorganisms, human waste, sewage, and chemical waste which can pose serious health issues like allergies, infections, and difficulty of breathing when exposed to it. The most common sources of this damage are floodwater and sewage backups.

Classes of Water Damage

Class 1 water damage involves a minimal amount of water. Only a part of a room is affected and will just require simple repairs. An example of class 1 water damage is a toilet or sink overflow in a toilet.

Class 2 water damage involves a significant amount of water. The entire room might have been affected, including the carpet or the cushion. In some cases, water has already seeped into building materials and has wicked-up some parts of the walls. The most common cause of class 2 water damage is a burst pipe.

Class 3 water damage has the fastest evaporation rate. Usually, the source of the damage comes from above and may have saturated the ceiling, drywall, insulation, carpet, furniture, and flooring.

Class 4 water damage requires professional water damage removal and restoration procedures. The water may have seeped into the bricks, stones, and hardwood floors.

What Is The Difference Between Water Damage Mitigation And Restoration

Water damage mitigation is an emergency service that is designed to prevent further damage to your property and protect your belongings. Water, when stays longer in your property can cause more destruction to the materials that absorb it. For instance, wood can rot, laminate floors can get damaged, and mold will eventually thrive. Water damage mitigation contractors will try to salvage belongings as much as they can in the fastest way possible. Though the mitigation process prevents more consequences after a water event, know that it is only a temporary repair.


On the other hand, water damage restoration is a service that is designed to repair and restore everything that has been damaged by water and bringing things back to its normal condition. The length of the process and the applications may vary depending on the severity of the damage. For instance, if category 3 water damage is involved, all affected areas need to be fully disinfected. Furthermore, though water restoration is the process of rebuilding your home, it can’t be done until all water damage issues are properly addressed.

Examples Of Water Damage Mitigation Services

During the mitigation process, contractors will need to use specialized equipment like air scrubbers, dehumidifiers, and air movers and advanced techniques to reduce the consequences of water damage. Here are some examples of the mitigation process;

• Remove all objects or items from the affected area, including furniture, drywall, and flooring.
• Clean and disinfect all materials that can be salvaged.
• Ensure that the structure of your home is stable.
• Extract standing water and dry out the home using professional-grade equipment
• Install tarp, board up windows and other necessary precautions to protect the property.

Examples Of Water Damage Restoration Services

When everything is completely dried out and disinfected, restorers will then proceed to repairing damaged materials. Here are a few steps of the restoration process;

• Replace damaged walls and roofs.
• Repair damaged roof.
• Eliminate mold colonies.
• Perform humidity and moisture testing to ensure that all issues are completely fixed.

Contact Superior Restoration For Professional Water Damage Mitigation and Restoration Services

When water damage strikes, trust Superior Restoration. We provide both water damage mitigation and restoration services. Our technicians are available 24/7 and equipped with proper knowledge and equipment to help you get your home back to its pre-damaged condition. Contact us today to know more about our water damage services.

What To Do When Your Basement Floods

Basement flooding can happen anytime. Flooding in a basement mostly occurs in spring, when it rains heavily or snow starts to melt. It can also occur during dry weather because of unexpected blockages in the sewer system. Basements can be prone to flooding because they are, by its definition, located at the lowest part of a building, commonly partly or entirely below ground level.

As a king or queen of home maintenance, meaning you are in charge of cleaning and maintaining your home, you may get panic with this unexpected event in your home. But fear not, we are here to help. We have outlined the things that you should do when you notice flooding in your basement and some preventative tips for future flooding.

If your basement has flooded, keep reading to know these restoration tips.

What To Do First?

First, shut off power supply. Basement flooding can do more than property damage. It can pose a threat to you and your family. Electrical wires, including electrical appliances and devices, can become dangerous when they come in contact with water. Thus, before entering your basement make sure to turn off any power sources associated in your basement. Or, you may contact an electrician if you are unsure how to turn off the power supply in your basement.

Then, find the source of the water. If flooding is caused by heavy rain or storm water, wait until it has passed before getting started. But, if the cause of the flooding is something else, like a burst water pipe in your home, shut off the main water supply valve.

How To Clean Up Flooded Basement

Remove The Water From Your Basement

Once your basement poses no harm like electrocution, you can start removing the water. Use a sump pump, a pool pump or a wet/dry vacuum to suck up the water and a mop or towels to clean up the remaining water.

It is important to remove the water as quickly as you can. Damp environment, like a flooded basement, can be a perfect place for mold to grow and thrive.

Move Your Damaged Items Out Of Your Basement

To effectively dry your basement, remove everything that got wet, and place them in a well-ventilated area. If it is sunny outside, you may place them somewhere they can easily be dried out. Remove them as soon as possible and allow your items to dry out for about 24 hours. If they remain wet after that, it may be best to discard them to prevent mold and mildew growth. Cardboard boxes should be discarded immediately as they are especially susceptible to bacterial infestation.

If you have carpet in your basement, make sure to rip it out immediately to properly dry out the floor underneath. If the carpet has been soaked up from the water for more than 24 hours, it should be thrown away.

Dry Out Your Basement

Allow your basement to dry for several days. Open doors and windows for proper ventilation and set up fans or industrial blowers inside your basement to increase air circulation and speed up the drying process. You can also place dehumidifiers to remove excess moisture and prevent mold growth.

Clean and Disinfect The Area

After you have completely dried out everything, clean and disinfect basement contents and structure like walls, drywall, foundation floor, and others. Do not use bleach as bleach only kills live mold, not mold spores. Instead, use regular detergent. Remove and replace damaged drywall, wood, and insulation to prevent existing mold from spreading.

How To Prevent Basement Flooding

Take some steps to prevent future basement flooding.

• Make sure that your gutter and downspouts are clean and free from any debris.
• Direct downspouts at least five feet away from your home to prevent water pooling around the edges.
• Regularly check the landscaping surrounding your property. Make sure the ground slopes away from your foundation.
• Install a sump pump that automatically redirects the water from your basement.
• Inspect trees that are close to your home as the roots can cause basement flooding if they break the foundation of your property and crack.
• Seal cracks and openings in the foundation, floors, walls, and windows of your house.
• Make sure that the drainage system in your basement is clear and unclogged.
• Regularly check plumbing pipes to ensure they are in good condition.

Ask Help From Temecula Water Damage Restoration Experts

When flood cleanup seems difficult to tackle, it is best to ask help from a water damage specialist.

Water Damage Temecula of Superior Restoration provides cleanup and water damage restoration services in the entire area of Temecula. We are available 24/7 and our team of trusted and certified professionals are ready to provide the best cleanup and restoration in any kind of basement flooding situation. Call 951-221-8265 today to get started.

How To Handle Water Damage From A Toilet Overflow

Whether it is a malfunctioned pipe or a clog in a bowl, a toilet overflow can cause massive destruction and inconvenience in a home, especially if the water contains waste or contaminants.

There is no need to panic, yet it is important to take necessary actions immediately to prevent further damage and danger to your home and health.

What To Do If My Toilet Overflows

1. Turn Off The Water

The first thing you have to do to lessen the potential for more severe damage is to stop the water from overflowing. Look for a shut-off valve, which is usually located underneath the toilet tank and near the floor and turn off the valve. If the valve is not available on the supply line, you can stop the flow of the water by pulling up the float inside your toilet tank.


Once the flow of the water stops, drain the water from the toilet bowl completely and slowly release the float. However, if there the water continues to overflow, you may need to turn off the main water supply line and consider that the problem may be a backup from either the main sewer line or a drain pipe.

2. Use A Plunger To Remove The Clog

In most cases, a toilet clog occurs in a toilet bowl or trap. A plunger is the most effective tool in fixing a clogged toilet. The up and down movement of a plunger can create pressure that forces the clog to get out of the bowl and pass through the trap to go into the drain pipe.


Avoid using a basic plunger because it might lack the seal necessary in producing the required pressure. Instead, use a bell plunger that can create a more suitable seal for a toilet bowl. Furthermore, apply some layer of petroleum jelly to the plunger to help it create more pressure.


Still, if the water continues to overflow even using a plunger, you should stop plunging. Remember that a plunger works efficiently only in clearing out a clogged drainpipe or toilet bowl. Other than that, a plunger may just make a bigger mess.

3. Use An Auger or A Drain Snake

If using a plunger did not unclog your toilet, you should consider using an auger or a drain snake. Both of them work similarly. Toilet augers are designed to work accordingly with the shape of the toilet and the s-shaped trap. They crawl through the drain pipe and snag the clog. However, in some cases, an auger can break the clog. The clog then directs to the sewer from the toilet.

4. Remove Excess Water And Waste

In the event of a toilet overflow, acting fast is crucial. The longer water and waste sit on the floor the more damage they can cause. Water can seep through the surrounding cabinets and walls and allow bacteria to flourish.

Use a wet/dry shop vac to remove standing water and waste. You can also towels and blankets to remove water. Just make sure to wash them properly after use.

4. Call a professional plumber to fix the problem.

5. Call a professional water damage restoration company to safely and thoroughly clean toilet water damage.

Is Toilet Water Dangerous

Potentially. The water from a toilet overflow may contain microbial or contaminants that can be harmful to you. If the water involved contains some amount of urine, it may be somewhat contaminated. On the other hand, if the water has some solid waste, the contains a significant level of contaminants and that you should wear proper protective gear when attempting to clean up the damage.

How To Prevent Future Toilet Overflows

The most effective way of preventing toilet overflows is the proper use of your toilet. Avoid flushing things like flushable wipes, paper towels, tissue, fabric, soap and sanitary products in your toilet bowl. Do not flush fatty and oily liquids like lotion and cream down your toilet. Oils and fats can accumulate in your drain pipe and eventually cause a blockage.

Furthermore, make sure to perform regular maintenance of your toilet. Check the valves, chains, fill and other components of your toilet to ensure that they are in good condition.

Need Help With Water Damage From A Toilet Overflow?

In the event of a toilet overflow, it is necessary to take immediate action. Even it is possible for you to clean up the damage on your own, at times, it is best to leave it to professionals. The water may contain contaminants that can pose harm to you and your family. The damage may require a safe and thorough cleanup procedure.


The experts at Superior Restoration have proper sanitation procedures and equipment to ensure that your home is back to its original condition and free from any harmful bacteria. Contact our professionals and get a free quote today.

How Can Water Cause Structural Damage To Your Home?

Your home should be the safest place you can have where you and your family can rest well. But any kind of intruder can leave damage to your home, just like water damage to the structure of your home.

What Is Structural Damage?

Structural damage is any type of damage that weakens the integrity and safety of your home, both interior and exterior. Any type of disaster can cause structural damage to your home, but the most common culprits of this type of damage are high winds and water. In case of water damage, any sorts of water events like flooding, burst pipes, and others can all damage your home’s structure. Knowing how water can cause structural damage to your home can prevent you from dealing with severe damage and can keep you and your family safe by taking action immediately.

Here are the types of structural damage water can do.


Roof Decking – Your roof should be made sturdy but overtime roof shingles and flashing become weak and broken. Any missing or broken shingles and flashing can cause water to seep into your home through your roof and into your ceiling. Water leak from your roof can deteriorate roof decking, joists, and beams. When water continues to seep into your home, wood can crack and even warp, eventually causing your roof to collapse.


Ceilings and Walls – Most ceilings and walls in homes are made of either gypsum drywall boards or lathe and plaster. Both of them are made for long-lasting and solid coverings. However, both of them can become soften and crumble when wet. While metal studs won’t be a problem because they are resistant to water damage, wood studs can swell and warp when they stay wet. As a result, walls crack and crumble faster, and ceilings eventually break down because of the force of gravity that causes water to move downward.


Subfloors and Floorings – Floorings are usually built with different materials. Some of them are water-resistant, but any kind of floorings eventually becomes damaged by water. For instance, carpeting easily gets deteriorated if the water stays on the surface for a long time. Moreover, vinyl tiles usually pop out of the floor, laminated flooring and hardwood swell, warp and even crack.


Support Beams, Joists and Columns – These support systems of your home are very important to keep it standing. The beams, joists, and columns of your home are the ones holding the majority of your home’s weight. While beams and joists are placed horizontally across your home to and from as the base of your ceilings and floors, support columns are placed in basements and crawlspaces to hold the weight of your first floor. Any of them can become deteriorated and can even cause ceilings and floors to sag or collapse when they remain wet for a longer time.


Home’s Foundation – This can be the most important structure of your home, yet it can experience water damage in many ways. Over time, when water is uninterruptedly seeping into the foundation of your home, it can become weak. Water can seep through cracks and gaps and if left unaddressed can cause your foundation to crumble and even collapse.

Repairing Structural Damage Due To Water

Any type of structural damage due to water should be addressed immediately. Thus, it is necessary to remove any standing water and dry out the affected area right after flooding or water damage.

If you choose to do the cleanup on your own, you may rent professional pumps to remove the water. Then, place dehumidifiers or air movers to dry up the area. Moreover, even clean water can become contaminated when coming in contact with contaminated materials or when left standing for some period of time. That is why you should wear protective gear like gloves, boots, and masks to protect yourself during the cleanup procedure.

When water is completely extracted, remove the water-damaged materials and dry the area using fans or dehumidifiers.

Hiring A Water Damage Restoration Contractor

In some cases, fixing structural damage due to water can be complicated. Repairing on your own sometimes does more harm than good. Sometimes, you might put yourself in danger while doing the cleanup and repair. Thus, hiring a professional water damage restoration contractor is highly recommended.

They are experts in dealing with water removal and structural drying. A professional water damage contractor, like Superior Restoration, is well equipped with advanced tools and techniques that ensure complete restoration. They will make sure to eliminate any potential issues and prevent mold growth, which is the usual aftermath of water damage. You can rest assured that your home will be back in its same condition before the water damage occurred.





If you are now dealing with structural damage because of flood or any type of water event, don’t hesitate to call us. We respond quickly to any type of disaster. If you want to know more about our emergency water extraction services, you may contact 951-221-4695.