How SERVPRO of El Cajon can help with Storm Damage

5/6/2024 (Permalink)

Photos of clean up after a flood in El Cajon

After a storm floods a home, the aftermath can be quite challenging. Here's a general overview of what typically happens and how SERVPRO® can help.

1. Assessment: Once the storm has passed and it's safe to return, residents and homeowners assess the damage. They'll inspect the extent of the flooding, checking areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and ground floors.
2. Safety Measures: Safety is a priority. Homeowners should be cautious of electrical hazards, structural damage, and contaminated water. Turning off the electricity and gas supply may be necessary to prevent further damage and ensure safety.
3. Water Removal: The next step is to remove the water from the home. This may involve using pumps, wet/dry vacuums, or calling in professionals with specialized equipment for water extraction. Here at SERVPRO of El Cajon we have the equipment designed specifically for this.
4. Drying Out: After the standing water is removed, the affected areas need to be thoroughly dried out to prevent mold and mildew growth. This can be done using fans, dehumidifiers, and opening windows and doors to encourage airflow. Our highly trained technicians know how to do this to ensure that it is properly dried.
5. Cleanup and Sanitization: Once dry, the home needs to be cleaned and sanitized to remove any remaining dirt, debris, and contaminants carried in by the floodwater. This includes disinfecting surfaces and items that came into contact with the floodwater. SERVPRO of El Cajon has a warehouse that we can clean and store items until the home is ready to receive the contents back.
6. Repair and Restoration: Depending on the extent of the damage, repairs may be needed to restore the home to its pre-flood condition. This could involve replacing flooring, drywall, insulation, electrical wiring, appliances, and furniture that were damaged beyond repair.
7. Preventative Measures: After the immediate cleanup and restoration, homeowners may also take steps to prevent future flooding, such as installing flood barriers, sump pumps, or elevating electrical outlets and appliances.

Overall, recovering from a flood can be a lengthy and challenging process, but taking swift and thorough action can help minimize damage and restore the home as quickly as possible.  Our technicians and expertise can help get this process done quickly and professionally.