Locally Owned With National Resources

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

Each SERVPRO location is locally owned and operated. Each franchise covers certain territories but that doesn’t mean that we can’t do work outside of those territories. When it comes to large disasters like severe storms, more than one SERVPRO franchise can assist in disaster relief. A few months ago, Texas was experiencing severe freezing weather. Many areas of the state were experiencing this so this called for the help of many SERVPRO franchises including ours. That is what we mean when we say we have national resources. Many SERVPRO locations will come together to help restore many properties from many communities. The homes in Texas mainly experienced frozen pipes that would burst and cause water damage. Our location travelled to Texas to help with the restoration of these homes.

Job at a Medical Clinic

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO we work on all kinds of commercial businesses. Recently, we had a job at a medical clinic. This medical clinic consists of many rooms and is located under an apartment complex. One of the apartments above the clinic experienced a small fire that set off sprinklers all over the apartment complex. The water from the apartments above affected the ceiling of the clinic as water was leaking through the ceiling. The ceiling tiles were falling apart and crumbling down and some of the walls were also being damaged by water and started cracking. Our team came and cleaned up the mess and is currently working on demolition. Once the demolition phase is complete, the team will reconstruct and replace the damaged materials. It will be a lot of work covering a large area, but the SERVPRO team is up for any challenge.

Theatre Job

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

The team here at SERVPRO of Monrovia/El Monte works in commercial buildings all the time. A recent job that the SERVPRO team had was in a theatre. Not a film movie theatre, but a live play kind of theatre. This theatre had a bit of a mold problem in its tech room where various disk drives and high voltage stuff was kept. There were some walls that had significant amounts of mold on them as well as the screen doors where the disk drives were kept. The theatre contacted us to help them out with the mold problem and of course we accepted. Some of the mold was in a tight spot in between high voltage electrical equipment that couldn’t be moved. Due to this, the team had to be extra careful and couldn’t open up the wall to check for mold within. The team was still able to get the job done.

Types of Commercial Businesses

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Monrovia/El Monte, we deal with all types of properties including commercial properties. These commercial properties include small office buildings, large office buildings, high-rise buildings, apartment buildings, restaurants, hotels/motels, small retail stores, large retail stores, high rise residential buildings, manufacturing/industrial, and government buildings. I know I just listed a lot, but this just goes to show the various types of commercial properties out there and how we are ready to respond to any type of fire/water loss in any property. Our team has plenty of experience working with commercial properties and we know how important it is to get businesses back up and running. That is why our team strives to do the work promptly and efficiently.

Winter is Coming

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Winter is approaching which means cold temperatures and rain is upon us. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but it can be. Many properties can experience water damage from storms or rain such as roof leaks or flooding. Here are some tips on how to avoid storm damage. It is important to make sure that gutters allow for proper drainage. This is an easy way to prevent flooding and mold growth. Another precaution to take is to inspect the shingles on your roof. Missing or damaged shingles will lead to leaks which will lead to water damage on the ceilings and walls of your property. It is important to follow these recommendations to ensure that your property is ready for storm conditions as we approach winter.

Home Appliances

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Fire losses are always intimidating and can happen in many different ways. Appliances in our homes can cause fires. Recently, our team went out for an inspection of a fire loss. What happened was that the tenant’s dryer caught on fire and the fire damaged the walls and ceilings of the laundry room. The dryer most likely caught on fire because of clogged vents. The smoke from the fire went all over the house and covered the walls in soot. A small dryer fire turned the situation into a big fire loss. Work would have to be done all over the house to fix the damages from the fire as well as remove the soot and smoke smell from the walls. Before the fixes can be made, the team would have to remove all belongings from the home. This goes to show how home appliances such as dryers, toasters, or heaters can cause fires if not cleaned or maintained properly. 

What Happens on a Fire Job

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Fire jobs require many steps because there are usually significant damages. It is important that all steps are done properly. After the fire is dealt with, our SERVPRO team comes out to the site and inspects the damages. All the damages are documented and pictures are taken. These documents and pictures are for the SERVPRO team to use as reference as well as any other parties involved. Then a pack-out would take place. This means that all belongings in the affected areas would be removed and taken to a storage facility. After the pack-out, the affected materials would be removed and a cleanup would take place. Once all affected material is removed, it would then be replaced in the reconstruction phase. Once everything is put back and replaced, then the team would start renovations such as painting and making sure the property is in pre-fire condition. Once that is done, all affected belongings would then be cleaned and treated to remove any unwanted smells or damages. Then a pack-in would take place to put all belongings back in the home.

Preventing Water Damage

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

The most common type of property damage that we deal with is water damage. Water damage is something that any property or home can experience because of the various appliances and piping that use water. Since there are many ways that someone can experience water damage, it is important to know how to avoid it. The most important way to prevent water damage is knowing where the water shut-off valve is located. This will stop water from causing further damage in the event of a leak. You can also periodically check for leaks underneath sinks, around appliances, and on the ceiling. It is also important to keep gutters clear of debris so that the area around your home doesn’t get flooded. Following these tips will decrease the chance that your home is affected by water damage.

We Work With Your Insurance

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

A reason why our clients choose to work with us is because of our established relationships with insurance companies. Whenever a client suffers a fire or water loss, their insurance will usually cover the loss and is involved throughout the whole process. The client is also under lots of stress and doesn't know what to do or how to handle the situation. That’s where we come in. Our team knows how to handle these situations and we work closely with the insurance providers. When a loss occurs, we get in touch with the insurance provider and work with them every step of the way. We document all the damages and communicate with the insurance to make sure that all the work we do gets approved. The only thing that the client has to worry about is paying their deductible. Nothing else. Here at SERVPRO, we make the restoration process as easy as can be. 

24/7 Emergency Service

9/23/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team offers 24/7 emergency service. This means that no matter the time or day, our team will respond to your emergency call. We always make sure to have team members available, even on weekends. Just recently, there was a homeowner that experienced a pipe burst in his home’s ceiling. This resulted in the ceiling collapsing and most of the home being flooded. Did I mention that this occurred at 3 in the morning? Our team still answered the call and made sure to assist the homeowner promptly. The homeowner was very appreciative and our team felt proud to have assisted a client during such a difficult time. Our team won’t back away from helping clients no matter the circumstances. This is a big reason why our clients choose to come to us and leave satisfied by our work.

Clean homes sell faster

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to selling property, it is necessary to make sure that the property is maintained and in proper condition. This leads to increased market value, reduced list to sale conversion times, and enhanced reputation for quality listings and quick sales. That is why whenever you are in the position to sell property, you should get in touch with SERVPRO since we offer a variety of services to help revive your listings. These include cleaning services for carpet, upholstery, drapery, blinds, ceilings, walls, hard floors, duct and HVAC. We also do deodorization as well as mold mitigation and remediation. Aside from these services, SERVPRO can handle restoration work related to fire and water damage to make sure your home is in top shape to be and pass inspections.

Tips to protect your home from storms

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

Although we don’t get many big storms in our area, it is still important to know how to protect your home from storm damage. Here are some tips to make sure your home is safe from storms. First you should make sure to replace any missing or damaged shingles to avoid further damage from wind and rain. Keeping your gutters clear is also important so that you avoid flooding and water can flow away from your home. Ensuring proper sealing of doors and windows will also help avoid damage. Proper sealing keeps water from seeping into your home and is a simple way to avoid damages. Lastly, walking around your property to check for any tools or debris that can damage your home in the event of a storm is another simple task to make sure you avoid storm damage.

SERVPRO Is ready for any storm

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to storm damage, SERVPRO of Monrovia should be your go-to restoration service provider for various reasons. First of all, our technicians are highly trained storm damage specialists. SERVPRO of Monrovia has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home and it’s damages to pre-storm condition. The restoration process focuses on scientific drying techniques so that we are as efficient as possible. We also focus on progress monitoring and documentation to make sure that our work always goes according to plan. Although we are a locally owned company, we have national storm resources for any size disaster. We can access resources from our network of 1,700 franchises and Disaster Recovery Teams that lets us be prepared for any storm disaster of any size.

SERVPRO can handle any size disaster

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to commercial restoration, SERVPRO of Monrovia will not shy away. Commercial jobs can seem overwhelming since they usually involve bigger spaces and disasters, but SERVPRO of Monrovia can handle commercial restoration involving water, fire, mold, and storm damage. We have the training, experience, and equipment required to handle water damage such as flooding or other emergencies. We can also handle fire damage restoration as well as remove smoke odor. Significant water damage can also occur from firefighting efforts. Commercial businesses may also experience mold which can spread quickly and affect a large number of people. We will respond quickly to this type of situation to contain the infestation and remediate. Commercial businesses can seem intimidating to some, but to us it is another opportunity to show our skills and determination.

Categories of Water

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

There are three categories of water that determine our technicians’ approach to the extraction or restoration process. Category 1 water comes from a sanitary source and does not pose a substantial risk from dermal, ingestion, or inhalation exposure. Examples of category 1 water sources include broken water supply lines, sink or tub overflow, melting ice or snow, and rain water. Category 2 water contains significant contamination. It also has the potential to cause sickness if contacted or consumed. Examples of category 2 water sources include discharge from dishwashers or washing machines, overflows from toilet bowls with contaminants, broken aquariums, and waterbeds. Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic or other harmful agents. Examples of category 3 water sources include sewage, flooding from sea water, rising waters from rivers or streams, and other contaminated water brought in from weather-related events.

Antimicrobials

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

Antimicrobials destroy or inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, protozoans, and fungi. You might find antimicrobials in your home, school, or workplace. A common type is a sanitizer. Sanitizers destroy 99.9% of bacteria in about 30 seconds. It is important to note that sanitizers are effective against bacteria and not other forms of microorganisms. A sanitizer is used to reduce, but not eliminate microorganisms. Sterilizers are another type of antimicrobial. Unlike sanitizers, sterilizers are used to destroy or eliminate all forms of microbial life such as fungi, viruses, spores, and bacteria. They are mostly used in a medical setting. Disinfectants are another type of antimicrobial. They are similar to sterilizers because they kill bacteria and fungi, but are only effective against certain viruses. They are typically used in household surfaces as well as medical settings.

Moisture Sensor and Meter

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Monrovia, we make sure that all water restoration projects are done properly to exceed customer expectations. To make sure of that, it is important for us to use the proper equipment. Our technicians are trained and have lots of experience using water restoration equipment, but we think it would be helpful for you to have an understanding of some of these tools as well. This would let you gain a better understanding of the project and the steps that we take to inspect the area.

There are many pieces of equipment that we use in the water restoration process, but we will focus on two inspection tools since those are the most simple to use and are more readily available for someone like you to use. The first piece of equipment is the moisture sensor. The moisture sensor is used to detect moisture in carpets and padding. Since carpets and padding have fabric and cushioning, the moisture sensor makes it easy for us to check for moisture on the subfloor underneath the carpet because of the sharp probes that can penetrate through the padding. If the moisture sensor detects moisture, it will light up and beep. The more moisture there is, the faster the light will blink and the faster the beeping occurs. For items other than carpet and pads, a moisture meter will be used. The moisture meter measures the moisture levels in drywall, wood, or plaster. Since the moisture meter does not have sharp probes, it is simply placed on a surface to measure the level of moisture. It will show a number that, depending on the meter, could range from 0 to 100. That number is the measure of moisture and will also have a corresponding color such as green for little to no moisture, yellow for moderate moisture, and red for lots of moisture. This tool makes it simple to detect moisture and know how much moisture is present in an area. Both the moisture sensor and the moisture meter are tools that someone like you can use if you suspect moisture within your home. If the tools detect moisture within your home then it would be a good idea to get in contact with someone who can further diagnose the problem such as one of our technicians here at SERVPRO of Monrovia.

Spot and Stain Removal

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

Our technicians here at SERVPRO have many skills to handle all kinds of damages. One of those skills is spot and stain removal. The removal of spots and stains is made up of 8 steps. Step 1 requires that the excess soil be removed. This is an important step because removing the excess soil will lead to easier removal of the spot/stain. For Step 2, the technician will need to determine the type of soil. Determining the soil will let the technician know what to do and what not to do when removing the stain. Step 3 is knowing the fiber type. Knowing what kind of fiber is being dealt with is vital because the technician will know the advantages and disadvantages of that fiber. This will facilitate the removal process. Step 4 is to qualify with the customer. This means that the technician will document the results and go over the details with the customer. Step 5 is to select the spotting product. The technician's findings from the previous steps will let the technician know what product to use depending on the soil and the fiber. Step 6 is to apply the product. The technician will test the product and make sure to take his/her time while using minimal applications. Step 7 is to rinse, extract, and neutralize. The final step of the process is to simply dry the area.

Damages

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to damages you never know what to expect. How can you prepare for everything when you don't know what to prepare for. We are approaching a new year and we'll experience a lot of new things. The weather seems to change every year too. Have you noticed any changes in the weather lately? This year we did a lot more roof tarps than last year alone. We experienced heavier rain fall in a short span. There were less wild fires this year than last and less homes were affected. It's really important to know what kind of damage your area is exposed to. Here in southern California we are affected by rain, fires and earthquakes. We will experience flooding, leaks, smoke damage and damage from trees. 

Drying Process

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Monrovia, we take pride in the ability of trying to save our clients as much money as possible. To do this, we ensure that we are faster to any disaster that happens and will place equipment right away. By doing this, it allows for the affected materials after a water loss to already start drying. We call this providing emergency services or EMS for short. Sometimes we might even remove some baseboards or float the carpet and put air movers to dry underneath the carpet. This saves a lot of time and money for our clients in that if done successfully, will reduce the amount of demolition that will need to take place. This it is way it is very important for our clients to call us right away as soon as the accidents occurs.   

Technology

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Monrovia, we utilize the latest and greatest in technology. Just recently, we started using Matterport. Matterport is a 3D camera that allows for things like pictures, measurements and virtual tours. This allows us the ability to be on the project without having to actually be there. Since we can get measurements from this, we can get precise measurements on even the smallest things. We can also use this tool to send over to insurance adjusters so they can see everything that needs to take place as well as everything that we have already done. This allows for no stones to be left unturned. Technology like this is important to us and it is something we love to use in the modern day.   

Quality Control

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Monrovia, we understand that nobody wants to have to call us. However, we want our clients to know that if something ever does happen where you need to call us, we are going to be there for you and make sure we surpass their expectations. This approach can sometimes be tedious, but it is very necessary in order for a smooth process. We will ask questions like what are they hoping for in hiring us, when are they looking to get everything done and how they would like to be communicated with. These questions are a way to know exactly how we can deliver an excellent service to our clients. At the end of the project, we always ask if there anything we could have done so we know next to make sure we do an even better job. 

Monrovia Fires

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Back in September, the Monrovia mountains were set ablaze after a huge wildfire occurred and damaged a large amount of land. We let the firefighters do their job when it came to this, but the problems that many Monrovians faced were smoke damages. Many homes and businesses were faced with a large amount of smoke damages that ranged from ashes and soot to a horrible smoke odor. Luckily here at SERVPRO we have the tools and the know how to help with any of these situations. We can help by getting rid of that nasty smoke odor by placing equipment and cleaning and wiping down the interior. We also recommend getting the air ducts cleaned during this process to help filter out the air for more clean air in the home or business.    

Content Damage

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire loss occurs, contents in a home can sometimes have bad smoke damages to them. Here at SERVPRO, we are able to figure out what items can be saved and what items are a total loss. The items that can be saved will get wrapped up tight and taken into a storage pod. Once the fire mitigation has been completed, it is then time to clean the contents from the smoke damages. The nasty smoke will get inside of the items causing a horrible smoke odor to omit. We clean these items very thoroughly to ensure the smoke residue has been completely removed. Then we put it into an o-zone which will deodorize the items by taking away the oxygen from them. In the end we package them up and they are ready to be put back.  

Cat-3 Water

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

When we encounter water damages, it is important to know where the source of the water came from. Depending on the source, we will then know how to proceed with our mitigation work. The worst type is what is called category 3 water or in other terms sewage water. This is that nasty water that comes from the most nastiest places in a home. Once we encounter this type of water, we must then proceed as if everything that is affected is contaminated  water. We must then remove our air movers and place what is called an air scrubber which will help filter out the air. These projects can be tricky and just like anything else, it needs to be handled carefully and swiftly. It also just so happens that we have the knowledge and expertise to handle these very nasty accidents.     

San Antonio

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

We recently got called away to help out with the frozen pipes that were affecting Texas. We got the call to help out San Antonio. What ended up happening was, Texas have a severe storm of very cold weather resulting in pipes being frozen. After a certain amount of time, these frozen pipes will shatter causing the pipe to burst and all of this water to come out. While we were there, we helped both commercial and residential properties that were affected by this storm. We helped over 50 properties in under 3 weeks. It was a very extensive project, but we felt very satisfied we were able to make such a difference. Every year, we get called away to help out these large storms that affect the nation. We also feel so much pride to be a part of something so big. 

Home Tips

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Examining Roof Shingles

Inspect your roofing to see if any shingles were damaged or lost during the winter. A leak in your roof can often times go unnoticed before the water coming through has severely damaged your home's structure and possibly your belongings. A wet spot on the ceiling or dripping water from above sometimes indicates that there might be a leak in your roof. One way to deal with this situation is a service we provide called Roof Tarping and can temporarily be installed over the damaged area of the roof to prevent any further damage to your home while major repairs are being planned and executed.

Checking your Gutters

While you're up there, it is a great idea to inspect your gutters. Out of sight and out of mind, is not always a good thing especially when it comes to gutters. Be sure to inspect all your gutters and drainage systems to make sure they are properly directing water away from your home. This happens to be one of the most common causes for water damage around the home, mainly because people never inspect their home’s drainage systems. Preventative measures can save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars in home repairs. It is important to recognize a drainage problem and address it as soon as possible because it can lead water into the basement or crawl space.

Scary Bio

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

The United States Environmental Protection Agency says that if your home was built before 1978, there is a good chance it has lead-based paint. In 1978, the federal government banned consumer uses of lead-containing paint, but some states banned it even earlier. Lead from paint, including lead-contaminated dust, is one of the most common causes of lead poisoning.

Below are some helpful facts to keep you knowledgeable about paint in your home. 

• Lead paint is still present in millions of homes, sometimes under layers of newer paint. If the paint is in good shape, the lead paint is usually not a problem. Deteriorating lead-based paint (peeling, chipping, chalking, cracking, damaged, or damp) is a hazard and needs immediate attention.

• It may also be a hazard when found on surfaces that children can chew or that get a lot of wear-and-tear, such as:
  • Windows and window sills;
  • Doors and door frames; and
  • Stairs, railings, banisters, and porches.

• Be sure to keep all paint in excellent shape and clean up dust frequently.

• Lead in household dust results from indoor sources such as deteriorating lead-based paint.

• Lead dust can also be tracked into the home from soil outside that is contaminated by deteriorated exterior lead-based paint and other lead sources, such as industrial pollution and past use of leaded gasoline.

• Renovation, repair or painting activities can create toxic lead dust when painted surfaces are disturbed or demolished

• Pipes and solder - Lead is used in some water service lines and household plumbing materials. Lead can leach, or enter the water, as water flows through the plumbing. Lead pipes and lead solder were commonly used until 1986.

Commercial Properties

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring commercial properties can sometimes be a tricky thing to tackle. Anytime there is multiple people involved in a job, things can get lost in translation and can start to get very confusing. Here at SERVPRO we pride ourselves on having outstanding communication to keep all parties involved kept in the loop. This helps to keep things very clear and at the end of the job, no one is left out. Typically for something like this, we would use a text thread or email thread with updates and millstones along the way. We also use Google drive for everyone at the office to keep updated with job. This allows for a very smooth job process and a way to keep everything documented for all parties to see.     

Recent Fires

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

All along Southern California, there has been a recent surge in fires. The fires have been so bad that they have caused significant smoke damages to the valley between. These smoke damages range from smoke odor, ash and soot leftovers and content damages. This along with the recent COVID-19 virus has made things very difficult for people in the Southern California area. Here at SERVPRO we have helped as much as we can for both residential and commercial properties. We have done several jobs under these problems. Smoke damages can be hard thing to nail down but we can provide air duct cleaning, replacing insulation, pressure washing on the outside, and content cleaning of affected items. We can also place air scrubbers to help rid the air of the smoke odor.  

Condo Fires

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

We have recently been assigned to help out a fire that occurred at condo units. It happened in one unit and since it shares walls with the other units, it caused additional damages. These damages where both water and smoke damages. The other affected units suffered heavy water damages from pipes being burst while also having a very bad smoke odor damages. This affected not only the structure of the units but the contents inside as well. Our process worked as follows. We first did a pack out of all of the contents in the units. We then cleaned the contents to rid of that nasty smoke odor. Then mitigation took place to try stop the damages from going any further. We worked in conjunction with the insurance and the fire department as well. 

Storms

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

Here in Southern California, we really don't have what is typically called a storm. However, we do have very quick changing weather. We don't really have a winter, instead it rains quite often during this time. Whereas the summer will get very hot and dry. Here as SERVPRO we are aware of the different climate changes and adjust accordingly. For example, if it is in the middle of the summer and we need to work on a roof we might want to start the job really early or coordinate to start later on in the day once it has cooled down. We also basis this off of the winter when it rains and if there is open damages, we try to build things up to prevent any future damages. 

Handle Anything

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

We have been through some major changes here at SERVPRO of Monrovia! We are happy to welcome our new production manager and our new marketing manager. We are driven by production and success out on the field, and because of that we wanted to add two more people to help. Our marketing manager is determined to build new relationships with the community of Monrovia. We want our name to be the first thing people say whenever there's water or fire damage. Our marketing manager will be responsible for all of our social media content, and that's exciting because we are so new to the world of social media. We hope you'll keep following us on this great journey. We are also excited about our new production manager, he will help the team stay on track with all the steps required to execute a job. Production and marketing are two important roles in working as a team. Our team has grown just a bit bigger and we couldn't be happier!

Around the Corner

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

There's a really big building right on the corner of our street. We pass it everyday while heading to and from work. Little did we know that we would be called in to handle water damage. The building experienced water damage caused by a bathroom toilet. It overflowed and flooded the entire second floor We could have easily walked there but we decided to take our vehicles, plus we needed a lot of equipment. We extracted the water and removed all the affected carpet. We found some vinyl under the carpet and decided to have it tested for asbestos. The test came back negative and proceeded to remove the extra flooring. The building got brand new carpet and a better working toilet for the bathroom. We wave to the building every time we pass by! What an accomplishment! 

Business Break In

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Monrovia can board-up your or business for most any cause, like the ones listed below. Board-ups will help secure and protect your property.  Board-ups also will also assist in defending your property from more damage due to severe weather. Did you know, most insurance policies require that the Property Owners and Renters to protect their property against secondary damage?  This is damage that occurs because of a person not taking proper actions after the first damage occurs to secure the property.  If Owners or Renters are found to be negligent, the secondary damage might not be covered by insurance.

Board-Up Services may be necessary after...

• Smoke & Fire Damage
• Water Damage
• Flood Damage
• Extreme Weather Damage
• Natural Disasters
• Break-Ins
• Vandalism
• Auto Accidents

Having your property damaged in any circumstance can be a very stressful experience. SERVPRO of Monrovia specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Business Damage

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

We just completed a job for a chiropractor's office and it was fun to see all the skeletons hanging around. We were able to learn a lot about our postures and our bodies just by being there for three days. It was really an educational job. We were able to talk to the doctors there and they gave us great pointers for bending over and lifting heavy items. We will apply all things they taught us on the next job. We don't want our own skeletons to get hurt. Besides the skeletons in the offices, we were able to extract the water that damaged their floors. We removed the vinyl flooring in one office space and were able to clean and sanitize the carpet. 

Heavy Rain

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Any rain is heavy rain here in sunny California. We experienced a lot of rain fall during Thanksgiving week. Rainfall will let people know when it's time to get a new roof. There will be an abundance of leaks and floods caused by word down roof tops. We can count on two hands the amount of roof tarps we had to put up that week. A storm doesn't have to be devastating, but it will tell you a lot about your home. That was also the week that we had to buy extra equipment, we didn't know that we would need so much plastic. We put in a large order of materials in anticipation of January. The rainy season has arrived and we believe we'll be on roofs more than ever. 

Candle Danger

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

We just got a call about fire damage in a home. An elderly couple lit a candle while reading the bible and left it unattended for a long period of time. The candle fell over and burnt the table it was placed on. The home owners were not home when the candle fell over. They were so surprised and lucky that nothing else was burnt. The house did have a terrible lingering smell and they were having a hard time breathing. They rent the house they live and do not have renters insurance. The home owners also don't have home insurance on the property. We were able to create a payment plan and will go forward with cleaning of the contents inside the home. 

Nature Damaged

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

We were called to restore a floral shop after it experienced fire damage. The shop had bunches of dried flowers hanging from the ceiling and they caught fire. The ceiling was charred and the owners were devastated. They had those bunches of dried flowers hanging since they opened the shop 10 years ago. This was the first time anything like this ever happened to them. In 10 years they never had any kind of disaster. Their insurance company agent was even astonished. We were able to restore the shop and get it back to it's beautiful state. The owners will not be hanging up dried flowers ever again. They promised to keep all flowers in jars of water. They thanked us with a delightful smelling bouquet made entirely of Lily of the valley. 

Water damaged items

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning furniture is part of our job. When there's damage from water or a fire, your furniture is also affected. Our last job involved cleaning and tuning a piano. This home was affected by water and mold, and the owner didn't want to take a chance leaving his piano in the house. We had to hire a local team of professional piano movers to come in and store the piano while we reconstructed the home. After we completed the work, we had the piano moved back to the house and just to make sure we did everything right, we called another company to clean and tune it. The homeowner was so please by the extra attention we gave to his prized piano. He said he would use our services again. 

Properly Certified

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Monrovia is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep up to date.

Special Treatment

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

There's no way we can treat every job the same. Every experience we have is unique to the person and house we visit. We are lucky to have reliable technicians and equipment to take on all sorts of jobs because everyday brings in something new. Sometimes we have local jobs, and other days we are traveling across town. We load up our trucks with equipment and cleaning materials, and when we don't have enough of one thing we find local vendors to help us out. We will even rent trucks that are double the size of our trucks to help move equipment from job to job. There are times when we only need a limited amount of materials and there are times when we need multiples of every thing we carry in our warehouse. Sometimes our jobs last 3 days and sometimes they can last up to 3 months. We never know who's calling, and we don't know what kind of job is waiting for us. That's the great thing about SERVPRO of Monrovia, every day feels like a new day. We see every job with fresh eyes. 

Water leading to Mold

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

California has the best weather! It is always sunny and you can go to the beach any time of the year. Yet, on occasion we will get heavy rain. Most of us don’t know what to do when it rains here. We are not used to driving in the rain, walking in the rain, and we don’t know that rain can cause water damage. For example, we went to a house that was concerned about a leak coming from the ceiling. The leak was in a closet and they didn’t realize how wet the carpet was. They noticed how bad it smelled and thought the carpet needed cleaning. When we arrived we noticed some mold on the wall. We told the homeowners that the mold would need to be removed and the carpet would have to be replaced as well. We had to explain the process because the home owners never had any kind of water damage before. To repair the problem we would have to isolate the contaminated area first, remove all the contents in the closet, use dehumidifiers to suppress the dust, remove the carpet and drywall affected, and finally get the area tested. The home owners decided to get a second opinion from a different company. They called us back and had us start on the mold remediation the following day. They thanked us for being patient and understanding. Who knew that rain could cause mold? We did!

We love our clients

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

We really like servicing the community of Monrovia. We are always happy to meet the people who live in this great city. Not only do we get to meet our neighbors but they get to meet us too. It's especially cool when we see each other around town. Just recently we ran into a client a year after we removed the mold from her kitchen. She recognized us right away and we remembered that she had the cutest dog! If only we had a company dog we could take with us everywhere!  We spoke for a while and she was still very thankful for our services. We felt so good afterwards. This is what keeps us going. We enjoy getting to know our clients. They give us wings. 

Mother Nature

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to storm damage you never know what to expect. How can you prepare for everything when you don't know what to prepare for. We are approaching a new year and we'll experience a lot of new things. The weather seems to change every year too. Have you noticed any changes in the weather lately? This year we did a lot more roof tarps than last year alone. We experienced heavier rain fall in a short span. There were less wild fires this year than last and less homes were affected. It's really important to know what kind of damage your area is exposed to. Here in southern California we are affected by rain, fires and earthquakes. We will experience flooding, leaks, smoke damage and damage from trees. 

Foul Smell

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Is there a foul smell surrounding your home? If there is, don't wait to long to call your local SERVPRO. There is a mystery behind any smell, and you don't want to be surprised by the amount of sewage caused by a broken pipe. We responded to a call not too long ago and we were able to smell the sewage from across the way. We took one look under a house and saw a lake worth of sewage just sitting there. The home owners didn't know where the smell was coming from, to their surprise it was right underneath them! Luckily they called us, we were able to remove it immediately. Now the plumbers can get in there and replace the broken pipe.

Workplace

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage is slightly different than residential water damage. This is because there are about 20 or more people in a single floor and it takes a lot of planning to move people around. We had a big job not too long ago and we had to find extra space for the accountants to work in. We had to organize desks in the marketing department for the accountants. Due to the amount of water damage, we couldn't wait for after hours to start our work. We had to act quick and there was no other option but to work during normal business hours. We really had to think creatively and efficiently in order to please every one. Marketing and accounting actually had a good time together. 

Air Water

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that air holds water?! Yes, it does! Cool right! Do you know what we call water that lives in the air? Yep, that's right, Relative humidity. 

Relative humidity is the amount of moisture the air is currently holding at a given temperature. 

Whenever we encounter water damage we measure the relative humidity. We have to make sure that we are setting up the correct equipment to dry materials and the air it is exposed to. 

Not only are we measuring the amount of moisture in walls, base boards, ceilings and flooring materials, we also measure the humidity in the air. We have a special formula for assessing the amount of equipment we will use as well as how long it will take to dry. 

Trained in Fire

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage requires experienced technicians who can clean and clear away all traces of smoke and damage caused by a fire. That's why we send all of our technicians to IICRC training. We expect the best from our team. There is no easy fix to remove smoke stains and odors caused by fire. SERVPRO has created some really special cleaning agents that actually remove all traces of smoke damage. There are many reasons why we're the best in the industry. We create our own unique products to complete all our jobs. We wouldn't trust any other product to complete the cleaning process. If only we could take a picture of the before and after SMELL of fire damage!  You have to smell it to believe it! 

What Water Damages can cause

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

Damage caused by water can be minimal or it could be overwhelming. We get calls at every hour of the day or night regarding water damage. It’s a shock to see your floors, ceilings, and walls affected by water spilling, leaking or flooding. There's never a quick fix when it comes to water. You can’t mop it, or pick it up, it’s a job that only professionals can do. You have to call the guys with the heavy duty equipment to come in and help. This is where we come in. We are the guys with all the appropriate tools and resources to solve your water issue. The first thing we do is pay you a visit. We take a good look at the situation and then start solving the problem. It’ll take us less than a couple of hours to get the job going. Once we have extracted water, we bring in the air movers and dehumidifiers. We monitor the amount of moisture in all affected areas and carefully place all of our equipment where it’s needed. Water damage can cause a lot of stress and worry when it happens, and we try our best to alleviate all bad feelings that arise after experiencing water damage. We’ve been doing this for a long time and we want you to know that our main priority is to solve the problem as fast and as safely as possible.  

Water damage is no joke

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

Damage caused by water can be minimal or it could be overwhelming. We get calls at every hour of the day or night regarding water damage. It’s a shock to see your floors, ceilings, and walls affected by water spilling, leaking or flooding. There's never a quick fix when it comes to water. You can’t mop it, or pick it up, it’s a job that only professionals can do. You have to call the guys with the heavy duty equipment to come in and help. This is where we come in. We are the guys with all the appropriate tools and resources to solve your water issue. The first thing we do is pay you a visit. We take a good look at the situation and then start solving the problem. It’ll take us less than a couple of hours to get the job going.Once we have extracted water, we bring in the air movers and dehumidifiers. We monitor the amount of moisture in all affected areas and carefully place all of our equipment where it’s needed. Water damage can cause a lot of stress and worry when it happens, and we try our best to alleviate all bad feelings that arise after experiencing water damage. We’ve been doing this for a long time and we want you to know that our main priority is to solve the problem as fast and as safely as possible.

SERVPRO is here

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

There are many companies out there that provide water and fire restoration. There are so many options to choose from. It can be a bit confusing to choose the right company for you. We can tell you in just a few words why you’ll be making the right choice when you call us. We have a great support system! Our franchise is backed up by hundreds of other franchises. There’s a SERVPRO in just about every city. That’s why we are always so confident when we show up. We are not alone in any project. The SERVPRO family extends all along the country. No matter where we go, what disasters happen, you can always count on us to be there. We are always rated with 5 stars because of our eagerness to help. The other great thing about us is that we are also open 24 hours a day / 7 days a week. We are not a regular 9 to 5 business. We actually answer the phone at any hour of the day. We will show up at any hour of the day and we will start the job at any hour too! We could give you hundreds of reasons why you should choose SERVPRO of Monrovia but we will give you only one. There’s no one better and we would like the opportunity to showcase how great we are. 

What to expect when you call us

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

When you decide to call SERVPRO of El Monte you will reach our front desk first. You'll tell us the situation you are in and we will ask a few more follow up questions. First, we want to make sure you're safe, second we want to know when we can come out to see the damage. When we come out, we are already prepared with measuring tape, moisture readers and a camera. We will take a tour around the area that has damage and look at all the surrounding rooms. Sometimes water leaks in more than one concentrated area and can easily affect non visible places. Mold can start to grow very quickly and not all materials withstand water moisture. We will give you details of what we assess and an approximate cost. After our visit we will begin creating an estimate for you. Within a day you will know the source of damage and the cost. From there we can coordinate with you and the insurance to make sure everyone is on the same page. 

Different colors of fire

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

We are always heartbroken when we get calls about fire damage. We know how heartbreaking fire damage can be. The color of fire damage is black. Fire kills everything it touches with aggression. Just like fire, smoke damage leaves a black film around everything it touches. People usually assume that fires are red, orange and yellow, but in reality the only color you see is black. We use very special sponges to wipe away the color of smoke. These special sponges even reduce the smell of smoke. They are small but very powerful. They almost act like erasers. The small sponges remove all the smoke damage from walls, doors, windows and even portraits. Our clients are always pleased when we can use these sponges as they very easy to apply and the clean up is simple. 

Black and fire

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

We are always heartbroken when we get calls about fire damage. We know how heartbreaking fire damage can be. The color of fire damage is black. Fire kills everything it touches with aggression. Just like fire, smoke damage leaves a black film around everything it touches. People usually assume that fires are red, orange and yellow, but in reality the only color you see is black. We use very special sponges to wipe away the color of smoke. These special sponges even reduce the smell of smoke. They are small but very powerful. They almost act like erasers. The small sponges remove all the smoke damage from walls, doors, windows and even portraits. 

We can handle any and all storms

5/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Monrovia specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Monrovia, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams http://www.SERVPROmonrovia.com/disaster-recovery that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (626)358-9200

Home Insurance

5/8/2020 (Permalink)

As a homeowner, it's really important to understand your insurance policy. We get a lot of calls from people who don't know whether or not their insurance companies cover damages caused by water. We never know when a disaster will happen, but it helps to be prepared and knowledgeable. Sometimes, we get heavy rain that causes leaks and flooding. It can even be a frozen pipe that suddenly bursts and creates damage. We have seen it all and there are many ways that water can damage your home. It's important to know what your insurance covers, and it's great to have that information at hand. It will actually make the process easier for you. There's a lot of reconstruction that comes with water damage, and you shouldn't worry about costs. You can reduce the amount of stress by calling your insurance company every six months to go over your policy. They will be more than happy to speak with you, it helps to have an on going relationship with your insurance carrier. We know this because we deal with insurance agents for every job. We have to make sure we do what is necessary and also what's covered. We try to minimize out of pocket expenses for you too! 

Routine environmental cleaning

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

We are always here to help.

We now have two new Procleaning services to offer residential and business properties. 

Routine environmental cleaning

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

We now have two new Procleaning services to offer residential and business properties. 

How SERVPRO handles commercial restoration

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the tools and expertise to handle a wide array of different issues that can arise in commercial buildings. We handle the following but not limited to

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

In these instances we can handle water, fire and storm damage restoration. We can also deal with mold remediation and disaster recovery. Another service we can provide is expert deep cleaning and odor removal. We provide all of these services at 24/7 and are ready to respond to your needs. 

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

What makes SERVPRO stand out

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO are among an assortment of restoration companies working in the U.S, but what makes SERVPRO so much better than the rest? It all stems from our training and our customer focused mentality. Our techs have access to a huge array of e-learnings that allow the techs to access this information wherever they are. We also make every tech go through a thorough training course that gives them all the proper certificates needed to perform their jobs. We also require all techs to keep up to date with their training by our continuing education programs. Not only do our techs go through extensive training, but they are also taught the importance of customer satisfaction. They are taught that it is more than just a job and more of a relationship builder. 

Asbestos in Buildings

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Asbestos can be found in pretty much every building built before the 1980s. It was used in commercial buildings as fireproof material for steel beams and columns. It was also added to concrete, asphalt, wall boards, floor tiles and adhesives. Essentially, because of its strength and thermal insulation it was added to every aspect of a building. It was later found out that when broken apart, can cause serious health risk when a human was exposed to it. The EPA now requires all the buildings built before the 1980s be tested for asbestos and be removed from the property. Here at SERVPRO, we specialize in testing for asbestos and removing asbestos in a safe and timely matter. We make this process very smooth and swift and ensure the safety of those around.  

Winter Holiday Fires

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Even though it is cold outside, a fire can happen when you least expect it. Crowded areas tend to be the most dangerous. Take a look at these stats regarding fires so you can be on the lookout this holiday season.

• More than 1/3 of home fires are started by open flame candles
• Keep candles at least 8 inches away from anything that burns
• Before burning the candle, make sure to trim the wick down about 1/4 inches
• More than half home decoration fires in December are started by candles
• Be on the lookout for candles that have been recalled recently

Candles are a huge symbol for the holiday season, but pay close attention so that this huge symbol does not ruin the holiday sprit. 

Monrovia Chamber Holiday Mixer

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

Huge Christmas Tree to honor the Chamber of Monrovia.

Taking place December 19th at the Courtyard Marriott, Monrovia Chamber held their holiday mixer and spark of love toy drive. SERVPRO of Monrovia attended the event and brought a Hello Kitty plush, a large Pez dispenser and a T-shirt to share with the community.

At the event, we met with several other members of the chamber including MartPlan Insurance, Century 21 Adams and Barns and Federal Credit Union. During the event, we helped spread the word of SERVPRO in the area and that we are ready to service. We went over some of the different ways SERVPRO can help the community and shared some past stories. It was a huge turnout and an amazing display of relationship building. SERVPRO of Monrovia will look forward to attending more mixers in the future.  

Christmas Safety

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

When setting up your Christmas decorations it is important to keep these things in mind when it comes to the placement of the decorations and the surrounding area around them.

•  Place the Christmas tree away from any heat source
• Pay attention to UL-listed indoor/outdoor Christmas lights
• Check that the decorations are still intact and that no damages have been done
• If there are any damages make sure to replace the decorations instead of leaving them in the area
• Don't overload sockets, no more than three light strands in a row

Make a checklist of these things to look at when setting up your decorations to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable Christmas atmosphere. Christmas can already be an expensive time, no need to make it more expensive.

Christmas Tree Hazards

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur they can cause serious damage. Keep these things in mind when setting up your Christmas tree.

• One quarter of Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems-A heat source too close to the tree causes roughly one in every four of the fires-
• If not watered properly can cause dryness of the tree to catch on fire within minutes
• Be sure to spread out lights along tree and pay close attention to when the lights go out

Christmas Tree's are a staple for the holiday season, but don't let it ruin the holidays by staying vigilant and taking proper care of your tree. Think of the Christmas tree as a another member of the family.  

Winter Strom Prep

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

As we dive deeper into the winter season, the temperatures are starting to drop to freezing and unbearable for anyone. Take these extra steps to ensure your home is ready for the winter temperatures.

• Consider storing heating fuel. Regular heating sources may get cut off, but be cautious when storing the fuel for fire hazards
• If you have a fire place, keep a strong supply of firewood or coal and make sure it is properly vented and kept clean
• Plug a heater directly into a wall socket and make sure the area is properly vented and refuel unit outside when it is cool

Create a checklist during this winter season to avoid any costly damages as the storms get stronger. It is better to be safe than sorry during the this time of the year.

Frozen over Pipes 12/18/19

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

Over 250,000 homes in the U.S. experience frozen over pipes during the cold season. Even in areas where it does not reach freezing point, can still suffer pipe damage.

• pipes freeze in conditions 20 degrees or lower
• letting faucets drip can help keep pipes from freezing over
• when the water is turned on and pipes are frozen the build up of pressure causes it to burst
• burst pipes can than take away from the warm water you receive and cause even more issues
• you suspect your pipes are frozen, it is important to turn off water

Be on the lookout for frozen pipes as the temperature drops deeper into the winter months. If not taken care of in the correct way, it can cause an assortment of issues not only to the pipes but to the property itself. 

Smoke on furniture

11/30/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to fire damage you need to consider the furniture you have in your home. Smoke can damage every corner and inch of a room. Materials to consider cleaning as soon as possible are : 

Fiberglass & appliance exteriors 

Curtains & Upholstery 

Metallic Surfaces 

Clothes & Bedding 

Plastic & Porcelain 

Hard flooring 

Porous surfaces (drywall, exposed wood, paint, wallpaper) 

It's always a good idea to have us come out to prepare the cleaning estimate and begin the process. It's crucial to get these items cleaned, smoke particles get into crevices and cracks, and can make the damage worse. Heat can really damage furniture and only time can save them. The longer you wait, the more severe the damage will be. We can even clean them on site if you don't want any furniture removed. 

A sprinkler story

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

This little sprinkler can cause big damage.

The most common type of water damage for commercial buildings comes from the sprinkler system in place. The sprinkler system is connected to every room and floor. If there's any sign of smoke or fire, the entire building will be flushed with water by the sprinkler system. We see this kind of situation often enough, and it takes some serious man power to extract all that water. We have what it takes to complete these kinds of jobs. Our equipment and cleaning agents are the best in the industry. We also have great teams we partner up with to get the job done as fast as possible. We will even help with replacing the carpets and wooden floors. From A to Z we get the job done. 

Be your own advocate.

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

You have to be your own advocate after experiencing sever storm damage. Your home will require a lot of reconstruction to restore.  Storm damage is not a simple leak, or a minor fire. Don't wait until your insurance agent comes out to take a look, have everything ready for them. Take pictures of all the damage. From the inside to the outside, the furniture, the windows, walls and floors. They will have a better idea of what really happened if they see a first hand account. Pictures also help us assess the kind of reconstruction that will be needed. It's better if we don't miss anything, and having pictures ready really helps us out. You have to be your own advocate when it comes to your home. Prepare your insurance company and SERVPRO with everything you can. 

Things get old.

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Let's have a real conversation about time. When was the last time you inspected the plumbing, roof and storm drains? Commercial buildings need routinely inspections, to avoid costly repairs. Maintenance is so important in a commercial building. Do you know who does the routine maintenance in your building? Is there a chart, or an email reminder that get's sent out? Did you know that we come out and create a plan for you? Yep! It's called an ERP. We create a digital book that gives you all the useful information about your building. It has emergency contacts and a map of the building. It even has a step by step guide to shutting off the main water source. It's something that we would love to provide for you if you don't have one. Call us and we will come set that up for you!  

Did you know

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Here's a real interesting and safe tip to consider when it comes to fire damage. A Fire Marshall needs to tell you that it is safe to enter your home. The fire department will tell you what restrictions you're limited to. For example, you won't be able to use the electricity, there can be hot spots and dangerous wooden beams. This is why it's also crucial for you to call SERVPRO, you shouldn't be in a space that has been destroyed by a fire. We are trained to look out for specific dangers. We have to follow all regulations for safety and cleaning up. When it comes to fire damage, we can't just dump trash in your regular trash bins. Fire departments love to work with us for many reasons. Especially because we do follow their rules and make the restoration process very safe for everyone. 

Critters and jitters

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

This blog is going to give the creeps! Especially if you don't like things that crawl and have tails...! Yuck. When you have a commercial building, you have things that go bump in the dark. It's unavoidable, you have the space and people to keep these rodents happy. Yup, I said it, RODENTS. They live under your building, create a road withing your walls, and make a home for themselves anywhere they can. They live and die in your building, and the worse part is that they poop and pee everywhere too. Once you discover that you have a pest problem, you'll need to call us. We will partner up with a pest control company and do the necessary clean up. Our cleaning agents are made for heavy duty sanitation. Our cleaning services are not just for water and fire damages, we can handle pest damage too! 

After the water damages are removed we build a containment.

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

This is a well executed containment.

After we take out all the wet stuff, we build a great big containment. Why do we build a containment? To protect the exposed wood! We don't want more damage to occur after removing wet materials. We use special materials to cover and protect all the areas that were exposed to water. It also helps us when we proceed with the reconstruction phase. We like to work as neatly as possible and the containment makes the work space look and feel organized. It also helps keep dust out! It makes the area look neat and organized. That's exactly how we like our jobs to look. Most customers appreciate when we leave the containment up, it helps the construction phase run smoothly. Containments are effective for us to finish a job quicker. 

We like when you call us!

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

Things we enjoy about our day 

1. Getting calls 

2. Answering questions about smoke/water damage

3. Making appointments 

4. Starting a new job 

We really enjoy answering all questions regarding water or fire damages. There are endless questions about damages and you will have plenty of questions for us. We enjoy explaining our services and how we help with the process of restoring your home or business. We enjoy talking to your insurance company and helping them save as much of your home or business as possible. We actually really enjoy talking about what we do! We can't speak enough! We hope you don't hesitate to call us, we are always here to answer all your questions. That's the reason we are available 24 hours, 7 days a week. 

It's really a simple answer.

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

There are numerous billboards and commercials that do a great job at marketing restoration companies. We see them all the time. One of the great things about SERVPRO is that we don't need gimmicks. Our work speaks for itself. You can't hire a marketing team to prove why our customer service is the best. There is no billboard or commercial that can prove how efficient we are. Nothing on paper or TV will give you the peace of mind you get when we arrive. We really take pride in our customer service. We make it an obligation to take care of all our customer's concerns. We are the only ones who make customer service a priority. When we get a call about damage, we make sure that the customer is out of harms way. Houses and buildings can be easily fixed, but people need patience and time. 

Do you know that you can categorize water?

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

This is a great description of the 3 categories.

Yes, it's true! Water is categorized when it has created little to major damage. We need to categorize water in order to understand how to clean up and dispose of all affected materials. Here is a brief description of how we categorize water. 

Category 1 : Sanitary Water 

This is the kind of water that you can still consider drinking. Usually it is water that comes through your sinks, toilets, and showers. Although once it hits a material it could easily change to category 2. Once water touches another material it can easily be contaminated. 

Category 2 : Significantly contaminated water

This is the water that you don't want to consider drinking. This water can potentially make you sick.  

Category 3 : Harmful and grossly contaminated water. 

This is the dangerous kind of water. Anyone dealing with category 3 water needs to be wearing protective gear. Anything that has been touched by this kind of water has to be removed and disposed of. 

Categorizing water is very important to us and it should be important to you as well. Always consider the categories when you realize you have a leak or when there is any kind of flooding. You never want to be in harms way. 

Our reviews say the most.

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

We love getting reviews from our customers!

Have you taken a look at our reviews? You can find them on our website! It's pretty obvious that we are quick to respond and quick to start. We appreciate all the feedback we get. Without it, we wouldn't know how to improve. It's very important for us to keep growing. We want to be the very best in our industry. All of the reviews we get are beneficial to us, it's what keeps us going. It also helps with all the competition out there. We know you can choose anyone and we understand why customer service is so important. People are not just dollar signs, we want to treat you better than that. This is why our reviews say the most about us!

Hurricane Dorian

9/6/2019 (Permalink)

Driving out of Arizona and into New Mexico

We always gear up for storm season. We enjoy taking the trailer out and packing it equipment and materials. This time we were called out to the east coast to meet with Hurricane Dorian. Luckily, the storm didn't make much of an impact as it did in the Bahamas. We didn't know what to expect knowing that it was a Cat 5 hurricane. That seemed like a monster of a storm. We packed up our trailer and hit the road. We made it to Texas and decided to stop and hear the news after the hurricane hit. The Carolina's are still expecting water to damage most of the coastline. This is the start of storm season. This is the time you see what SERVPRO is all about. 

SERVPRO Handles Both Big and Small Jobs

8/20/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO trucks moving home items from one location to the desired

Serious damage caused to your home such as fire or flooding doesn't have to be caused by a natural occurrence for Team SERVPRO to respond. It could've been a simple leaky pipe left unattended to or a drying machine caught fire. Team SERVPRO responds to many scenarios such as post mortem clean up, frozen over pipes, and even air duct cleaning. Those are just some of the many jobs that we have undertaken that we might not be very well known for. With our emergency services we are always quick to the job. Though we do emergency responses you can call SERVPRO for other jobs such as pack out, cleaning maintenance, content removal and other work that does not require repair work to be done. Ones situation does not have to consist of damage to your property to be able to contact your local SERVPRO.

Team SERVPRO On The Go

8/20/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded house caused by over flow of near by river

The SERVPRO Team is well known for our emergency response services. When a disaster occurs many SERVPRO branches come in to help with the damage caused to properties in its area. We’ve been all over the country, to OVER 20 STATES. We’ve even been as far as up to Maine, and considering we are in sunny California that was quite a ways for us to travel. Since we do many different types of work we’ve responded to varied occurrences all over America. SERVPRO has been in areas below freezing, hot humid weather, and after big wildfires. For the Malibu fires that had happened in 2018 we had removed fire debris, taken care of fire caused damage and cleaned homes of smoke damage. In New York we had worked on buildings that were in water as deep as seven feet. With other SERVPRO's along side with us we spent about 2 months in the area till our services were finished. About 4 times a year we head out on storm. and even as many times as 6 times. We start our trek to the affected location as soon as its safe to respond.

Why we like to say thank you to our customers.

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

We like to say thank you to our customers as often as we can. It's a simple and polite gesture. It's very important for us to acknowledge our customers even after we have completed a job. We like to send out thank you cards and remind them that they gave us an opportunity to serve them. We also make it a point to reach out to them a few weeks after we finish our job and make sure they're not having any more issues. Our customers need to know that we are a great support team. We want our customers to know that we value them. A simple thank you card makes all the difference. Which is why we love sending them. 

Like it never happened.

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage requires experienced technicians who can clean and clear away all traces of smoke and damage caused by a fire. That's why we send all of our technicians to IICRC training. We expect the best from our team. There is no easy fix to remove smoke stains and odors caused by fire. SERVPRO has created some really special cleaning agents that actually remove all traces of smoke damage. There are many reasons why we're the best in the industry. We create our own unique products to complete all our jobs. We wouldn't trust any other product to complete the cleaning process. If only we could take a picture of the before and after SMELL of fire damage!  You have to smell it to believe it! 

Act Fast to Water Damage

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Walls were gutted then air movers and dehumidifiers placed

SERVPRO of Monrovia is here to help 24/7 and with our quick emergency response services we can get a team over to your homes and businesses right away. When a water damage problem is detected it should not be ignored. Always acknowledge the problem at hand and call up your local SERVPRO for fast acting. In most cases the affected area caused by the water will worsen or invade other parts of the building. This carelessness can lead to mold, which as known, can cause one to have health problems not to mention the smell of mildew is not one sought out by many. Health problems caused by mold include coughing or wheezing, stuffiness among others. Do keep in mind some people may be less effected by mold and you don’t have to show these symptoms to be sure there is mold that is caused by potential water damage. This is why you should call SERVPRO before the damage worsens.

Using Machinery to get Things Done

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Air mover and dehumidifier placed on job site for moister removal

We use many different types of machines to help us get the job done. For water damage and mold jobs we typically use equipment such as air movers and dehumidifiers. These are placed around the areas that were affected by water or mold. Air movers are great for drying large areas in short periods of time, in addition they use low amounts of power for such effective machines. While air movers speed up evaporation, dehumidifiers get the mold spores and mildew out of the air making the air less moister full. For jobs such as in the illustration it is important that we use the right equipment. As seen in the job the air movers and dehumidifiers normally make a great duo for water and mold jobs.

The hardest jobs.

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

We are always filled with grief when we get a call for a biohazard job. This week we were called to a veterans home after an older gentleman passed away in his home. It took about two days for his neighbors to call and report the death. We were called soon after to clean the affected areas and remove all affected materials. It took us two days to sanitize the entire home. We put in new floors, cabinets and applied fresh new paint. The area was safe and livable again. There was no foul smell and the area looked brand new. We offered to pack up picture frames and decorations for his family to pick up. We offered our condolences and made sure they were able to safely take his belongings away. T

SERVPRO Convention!

7/11/2019 (Permalink)

California's Capitol

SERVPRO just had its annual convention and we were there to participate in all the fun and informative workshops. This year, convention was held in Sacramento, CA. The weather and the scenery were beautiful! Convention was a week long, we attended all the discussions that focused on customer service and creating a great team! We are very excited to implement everything we learned. Convention will be held in Boston next year. We know it will be great time. We will get to explore the history of the city and enjoy new sights. I'm sure we will eat amazing lobster too. Did you know that convention is held in a different city every year? They tell us at the end of the last day where we will be headed the next year. It keeps us on out toes! 

Removal vs Remediation

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy.

A qualified restoration company understands the science behind mold and mold growth. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business. Mold remediation focuses on getting mold levels back to normal, natural levels.

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. We are always happy to answer your questions. Please call us and ask us anything. We are here to help and to give you the best possible answers and solutions to your questions. 

How Much Work Will Be Done?

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

As a reputable franchise, we only perform services which are completely necessary. Documentation before, during, and after is a standard for our company. You don't need to worry about other companies over inflating the issue which can potentially cost hundreds or thousands of dollars more! Here at SERVPRO of Monrovia, fairness is a priority. We wish to treat this not as a transaction, but as a working, evolving relationship with our clients. Your satisfaction and trust is extremely valuable to us. We never start work without giving you the scope first. We can also go at your pace. Moving furniture and items from your home can be overwhelming. We don't just come in and tear things apart. We are very careful with the process. 

Returning Better Than Ever!

6/7/2019 (Permalink)

Remodeled kitchen after disaster struck. Better than ever!

Once the initial damage has been mitigated, it's time to get everything back to normal. Our franchise here in Monrovia, can also handle all of your reconstruction needs. This can vary from replacing damaged drywall to a full on kitchen remodel. Discuss with us how we can turn your negative into a positive and we will do our very best to accommodate. Most customers actually get really excited when we discuss remodeling options. Some clients get brand new kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms and even out door patios. When sever damages occur, it's difficult to simply replace and old aesthetic. Sometimes it's necessary for home owners to upgrade their home. It always turns out great and customers are happy to get a new appliances. 

The Dangers of Mold

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

Mold remediation is process!

Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture and can grow as quickly as 48 hours! Mold causes many respiratory and health issues such as nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, eye irritation, or, in some cases, skin irritation. People with mold allergies may have more severe reactions. People can end up in the emergency room. Immune-compromised people and people with chronic lung illnesses, may get serious infections in their lungs when they are exposed to mold.

Luckily, we at SERVPRO are here to help. We understand that water damage requires immediate attention in order to prevent mold altogether. The sooner we are called after a leak, spill, flood, etc. the less likely you are to develop mold. Nobody wants that health damaging, gross smelling, expensive problem!

A small bathroom leak is not a small problem

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

Towels and buckets don't solve water damage problems

There are times when we ignore a small drip from a faucet because it doesn't seem like a big deal. We ignore them because they are visible and we can always close the faucet to stop the dripping. What if the dripping water is coming from under the sink? What if we don't catch it until there's a small pool in the next room? That's exactly what happened to our most recent customer. The bathroom in the guest bedroom created a pool of water in the bedroom. He didn't notice the water because he hasn't had a guest stay in the bedroom for over a year! He noticed a small stream of water heading to the hallway and followed it to the guest bedroom. Once he realized he had a water problem, he called us. We took a look under the sink in the bathroom and there it was, a small consistent dripping of water. We had to remove all the water and cut carpet and tile. We currently have air movers and a dehumidifier running until the base boards and walls dry up. 

How Much Will It Be?

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Our pricing system is incredibly detailed and fair!

One of the most common questions asked to us when we arrive to a disaster site is, "Ok I understand there is a problem here, but how much will it be?". Unfortunately, due to the nature of water and mold, doing the work is inevitable. As a franchise with a very great reputation, we want to make sure that both sides are treated fairly.

Xactimate is the estimating software that SERVPRO and our insurance partners use. It is the most trusted software in the industry. We calculate the cost of the project by sketching the area on site, and then inputting very detailed line items and descriptions of the charges. We do not select the price. It is an industry standard which ensures fairness to our clients. 

What's a crawl space?

5/17/2019 (Permalink)

Taking pictures of your crawl space is very helpful

What’s a crawl space? Here’s what you need to know! There will be an area in your home dedicated to the wiring and plumbing for your house. These spaces can be very small or very big. It’s important to know how many crawl spaces you have. When was the last time you checked your crawl space? Your crawl space is a perfect place for a leak or a pipe to burst. It is a perfect place for mold and mildew to spread. Make a note to check your crawl space and take some pictures. Make sure that you don’t see any leaks, take note of any spots around the walls and beams. It’s also important to know the kind of insulation you have because there are a variety of materials to choose from. Water damage can start in a crawl space and it can become a costly project to fix. The best way to prevent any kind of damage is to do a routine visit about twice a year. Also, make sure you don't use your crawl space as storage, things can get ruined real fast if a pipe does burst. We've seen it all, and it's very common to loose valuables that were stored away in a crawl space. 

Why SERVPRO?

5/17/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO loves helping the community

Accidents can occur at anytime, and that can be frightening. Water damage may seem harmless and  easily fixed with a vacuum or mop. However, there are many effects which cannot be visibly seen until they surface as a larger problem. Mold can grow as quickly as 48 hours. We understand how overwhelming damages can be. We don't want you to worry about the process. You can trust our experience, knowledge and expertise. We don't treat all water damages the same. Every situation is unique. 

For this reason, SERVPRO offers a 24/7 emergency line for customer service. Once we are contacted we are on site within the hour. Just because the situation is hectic don't allow your life to be! Let SERVPRO help. 

Kitchen Fire Damage

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

The table where the candle was place.

A small fire can create a lot of damage. We've been doing some major construction on a house that was damaged by a fire that was created by a candle. It's so important to blow out any candles even when you're leaving a room. No fire should be left unattended. The home owner was not home when her home suddenly went up in flames. A neighbor noticed smoke coming out of her dinning room window and immediately called the fire department. The home owner came home after work and realized that she left a candle on before leaving that morning. She was so lucky that the neighbor saw smoke when he did, the fire only affected the kitchen and dinning area. The rest of the house only had smoke stains. We had to remove all the furniture from the house and it was sad to see the loss of so many nice things. Her refrigerator and stove were melted, the dinning table was black with fire damage. We removed all the walls and now the house is ready for a brand new look. The homeowner is still in shock but is ready to start the designing process. She guaranteed us that she will never light another candle again! 

The City of Monrovia

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

Monrovia will put a smile on your face

We are so fortunate to have an office in Monrovia, especially in the heart of the downtown area. We get to walk to so many great cafe's and restaurants everyday. It's difficult for us to bring lunch to work because we always choose an eatery for lunch instead. We wanted to make a list of our favorite places here on Myrtle and hope that you visit them too. 

1. The Peach Cafe 

2. Myrtle Tree Cafe 

3.Grey & Cash 

4. The Diplomat 

5. Merengue Bakery & Cafe 

These are the places where we hold company meetings, celebrate birthdays or go for our everyday cup of coffee. They are all less than a 3 minute walk, which make them so convenient. The city of Monrovia is a great place for families and community. We appreciate representing SERVPRO for this neighborhood. They also have a farmers market every Friday night, with some amazing vendors. We make it a point to take a stroll after work. 

Chicago Frozen Pipes

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Pipes will start freeze when temperatures fall below zero and will cause damage.

Chicago was hit with a real icy situation from January to February of this year. We knew we had to be a part of it and help the local SERVPRO’s out in Chicago! We packed up our giant trailer with equipment and hauled across 1,987 miles. Our adventure started as we drove through Nevada, Colorado, Nebraska and Iowa. We could see the changes in the weather with every mile we crossed. We knew we were about to experience something extraordinary in Chicago. We read that temperatures would reach about 51 degrees below zero! That meant that we were going to see a lot of frozen pipes and it would mean a lot of serious water damage. What exactly happens when pipes freeze? Glad you asked! When water gets frozen inside of a pipe, the frozen water starts to expand, creating damage to the pipes. The frozen water can expand so much that it will push against the closed faucet. Once the temperature starts to change the water inside the pipes will burst, creating leaks and spews

Essential Homeowner Tips

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

Examining Roof Shingles

Inspect your roofing to see if any shingles were damaged or lost during the winter. A leak in your roof can often times go unnoticed before the water coming through has severely damaged your home's structure and possibly your belongings. A wet spot on the ceiling or dripping water from above sometimes indicates that there might be a leak in your roof. One way to deal with this situation is a service we provide called Roof Tarping and can temporarily be installed over the damaged area of the roof to prevent any further damage to your home while major repairs are being planned and executed.

Checking your Gutters

While you're up there, it is a great idea to inspect your gutters. Out of sight and out of mind, is not always a good thing especially when it comes to gutters. Be sure to inspect all your gutters and drainage systems to make sure they are properly directing water away from your home. This happens to be one of the most common causes for water damage around the home, mainly because people never inspect their home’s drainage systems. Preventative measures can save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars in home repairs. It is important to recognize a drainage problem and address it as soon as possible because it can lead water into the basement or crawl space.

SERVPRO of Monrovia

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• We have advanced inspection and extraction equipment

Have Questions? Call Us Today – We’re Here To Help - (626) 358-9200

Taking Care of Your Monrovia Home

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

Using Compacted Soil Around Your Home

Lower areas in your yard or next to your home’s foundation should be filled with compacted soil. During the rainy seasons, water can cause yard flooding, which in turn can lead to foundation flooding and damage. Signs to look for such as pooling water or run off going into your crawl spaces are often signs your yard needs some additional attention to help prevent from flooding and damage to your property.

Inspecting the Concrete

Inspect the concrete slabs around your home for signs of movement or cracks. Every exterior slab, except for pool decks, should drain away from your home’s foundation. It is a good idea to fill any cracks with a concrete crack filler or silicone caulk. Also when the weather permits, like most days here in Southern California, power washing and then sealing your concrete is a great way to prevent any damage due to water.

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (626) 358-9200

Residential Services

Whether your Monrovia home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Monrovia commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Prevent Mold Growth in your Monrovia Home

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

Mold containment prevents spores from spreading while the air is filtered.

Get Ahead of the Game

1. If deciding to paint your home, add mold inhibitors to your paint.
2. When cleaning areas inside your home that see the most moisture such as your kitchen and bathrooms, always clean with a mold-killing product.
3. Carpet often helps trap moisture underneath and can be the perfect environment for mold growth if in an area that is always moist, such as a basement or sunroom.
4. The area surrounding your home should always be sloping away from the house to prevent any pooling or water flow underneath your house.

Light Maintenance

1. Make sure drip pans underneath appliances such as an air conditioning unit, dishwasher or refrigerator are not overflowing or spilling onto the floor.
2. Check your indoor plants to see if water is gathering and possibly leaking onto the floor as well.
3. A visual inspection under your sinks and toilets can also help to identify if there is a broken seal or a pipe that may be leaking.

Clean Up!

1. Whenever there is a spill, water leak, overflowing sink or tub be sure to always clean it up immediately.
2. Always remove or replace any carpet that is not able to properly dry, this will help prevent any mold growth that may occur due to saturation.
3. Any piping that remains cold often creates condensation, this can easily be fixed by insulating those pipes.
4. Have you noticed moisture or water seeping through your windows after a heavy rain? If so it may be time to inspect those windows and make sure there are no gaps and that a weather proof sealant or strip is properly installed.

Turn Up the Air Flow and Increase the Ventilation

1. Whenever it’s nice out, be sure to open those windows and doors to easily help ventilate and move air around your home.
2. Same thing goes for when you are showering, cooking, running the dishwasher or let’s say cleaning your laundry; make sure you have those windows open to bring air flow into those rooms. An even better idea is to use an exhaust fan while you are cleaning in your kitchen or cleaning up in your bathroom.

Storm Disaster Information

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

Storm facts from the United States Environmental Protection Agency:

California’s most destructive wildfire in history. Puerto Rico’s devastating hurricane. Oklahoma’s terrifying tornadoes. According to the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), in 2017 the U.S. experienced 16 weather disasters each with losses totaling $306 billion, a new U.S. record shattering the previous 2005 record of $215 billion.

Based on the EPA’s information the cumulative damage of these 16 events in 2017 is $306.2 billion shattering the previous U.S. annual record cost of $214.8 billion (CPI-adjusted) in 2005 due to the impacts of Hurricanes Dennis, Katrina, Rita and Wilma

The United States Environmental Protection Agency states that mold growth may be a problem after flooding. Excess moisture in the home is cause for concern about indoor air quality primarily because it provides breeding conditions for pests, molds and other microorganisms.

During a flood cleanup, the indoor air quality in your home or office may appear to be the least of your problems. However, failure to remove contaminated materials and to reduce moisture and humidity can present serious long-term health risks. 

If you are repairing your home or building after flood or hurricane, to prevent mold growth you should be sure your foundation is dry before you replace the flooring.

Do not paint or caulk moldy surfaces. Clean up the mold and dry the surfaces before painting. Paint applied over moldy surfaces is likely to peel.

If you find mold in your home always be sure to avoid breathing in mold or mold spores by wearing protective gear such as masks, gloves, and goggles when cleaning it yourself.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Los Angeles, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (626) 358-9200

What is Asbestos?

4/26/2018 (Permalink)

What is Asbestos?

The United States Environmental Protection Agency states that Asbestos is a mineral that is mined from the earth. It has natural properties that make it an excellent and inexpensive fire retardant. As such, it was added to many building products to make them perform better with peak use between the 1940s through the 1970s. Common building materials that contain asbestos include but are not limited to:

• Vermiculite insulation
• 9”x9” floor tiles
• Acoustic ceiling tiles
• White tape on heating ducts
• Insulation on boiler pipes and boilers
• Old asbestos cement siding
• Popcorn ceiling texture
• Glues used under flooring

Why is Asbestos Bad?

Asbestos is bad for human health when the tiny abrasive fibers are inhaled into the lungs where they can damage the lung tissue. This seems to be exacerbated by cigarette smoking and the resulting diseases are mesothelioma and lung cancer.

In general, if you are buying a house older than 1980, you can assume it probably contains at least some asbestos.

Lead in the Home

4/26/2018 (Permalink)

The United States Environmental Protection Agency says that if your home was built before 1978, there is a good chance it has lead-based paint. In 1978, the federal government banned consumer uses of lead-containing paint, but some states banned it even earlier. Lead from paint, including lead-contaminated dust, is one of the most common causes of lead poisoning.

Below are some helpful facts to keep you knowledgeable about paint in your home. 

• Lead paint is still present in millions of homes, sometimes under layers of newer paint. If the paint is in good shape, the lead paint is usually not a problem. Deteriorating lead-based paint (peeling, chipping, chalking, cracking, damaged, or damp) is a hazard and needs immediate attention.

• It may also be a hazard when found on surfaces that children can chew or that get a lot of wear-and-tear, such as:
  • Windows and window sills;
  • Doors and door frames; and
  • Stairs, railings, banisters, and porches.

• Be sure to keep all paint in excellent shape and clean up dust frequently.

• Lead in household dust results from indoor sources such as deteriorating lead-based paint.

• Lead dust can also be tracked into the home from soil outside that is contaminated by deteriorated exterior lead-based paint and other lead sources, such as industrial pollution and past use of leaded gasoline.

• Renovation, repair or painting activities can create toxic lead dust when painted surfaces are disturbed or demolished

• Pipes and solder - Lead is used in some water service lines and household plumbing materials. Lead can leach, or enter the water, as water flows through the plumbing. Lead pipes and lead solder were commonly used until 1986.

Board-Up Services

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

We performed our Board-Up Service after a major fire in Monrovia.

SERVPRO of Monrovia can board-up your home or business for most any cause, like the ones listed below. Board-ups will help secure and protect your property.  Board-ups also will also assist in defending your property from more damage due to severe weather. Did you know, most insurance policies require that the Property Owners and Renters to protect their property against secondary damage?  This is damage that occurs because of a person not taking proper actions after the first damage occurs to secure the property.  If Owners or Renters are found to be negligent, the secondary damage might not be covered by insurance.

Board-Up Services may be necessary after...

• Smoke & Fire Damage
• Water Damage
• Flood Damage
• Extreme Weather Damage
• Natural Disasters
• Break-Ins
• Vandalism
• Auto Accidents

Having your property damaged in any circumstance can be a very stressful experience. SERVPRO of Monrovia specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (626) 358-9200

Wildfire Damage Event

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

The wildfires here in Southern California increase their impact because the Santa Ana winds add fuel to the devastating blazes that have encroached upon our area. According to the New York Times, fires broke out in Malibu on December 7, with at least 96,000 acres already burned in the Ventura area and 116,000 acres in Los Angeles County. Evacuations closed hundreds of schools and forced 200,000 of our neighbors to seek safety. The “Thomas Fire” in the Ventura area continued to burn with the aid of strong winds. This fire caused the closure of the 101 freeway and a boil-water advisory was issued for Ventura County. The Santa Ana winds that enabled the fires to rapidly increase their reach can have speeds more than 60 miles per hour. The National Weather Service had warned of “very rapid-fire growth” in this area. SERVPRO Meteorologist Lela Davis said that the Santa Ana winds were already very dry when they reached the Southern California valley, allowing them to quickly pull moisture out of vegetation, increasing the risk for wildfires. For the first time ever, a purple wind warning was issued under the color-coded system used to advise about high winds. This purple warning pushed wind expectations from the “high” category to “extreme”. Ready to help here at SERVPRO of Monrovia we monitored this wildfire situation closely. Our thoughts are with those neighbors who were put in harms’ way during this event. In many cases, a wildfire can result in a total loss for a home or business, but in others it may be a partial loss, or can result in mild smoke damage. If your home or business is affected by a wildfire, SERVPRO of Monrovia is Here to Help®. 

About SERVPRO of Monrovia

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

Smoke Residues

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

We have extensive experience handling the complexities of repairing the damage. SERVPRO of Monrovia will check for water damage that may occur because of firefighting equipment, and residue left and ensure that there’s no odor left behind. Below are examples and a little definition of what kind of residues you might encounter after a fire.

Dry Smoke

Dry smoke residue results from a fast burning and high-temperature fire. Dry smoke will create smoke damage that is thin, dry, and powdery. Dry smoke damage is often times easier to clean.

Wet Smoke

Wet smoke residue results from a lower temperature or smoldering fire; it has a pungent odor and a sticky, smeary texture. These types of fires produce fewer flames but create a great deal of smoke.

Protein Smoke

Protein smoke residue is essentially invisible and can discolor paints, varnishes, and other finishes. Although protein smoke residue is invisible, it has an extremely strong and pungent odor.

Fuel Oil Smoke

Results from furnace smoke from duct returns in ventilation system and causes dangerous oily soot. Fuel oil smoke damage creates a very strong odor and can completely destroy upholstered items such as couches and mattresses. This residue can be relatively sticky and difficult to clean.

Fire Extinguisher Residue

Fire extinguisher residue mainly come from chemical fire extinguishers. Clean up is generally an easy but can vary.

SERVPRO of Monrovia uses specialized equipment to handle the job. This includes chemical disinfectants, odor removers, bacteria treatments, moisture drying tools, air cleaners, and other products designed to target issues like soot and smoke.

IICRC Certified Firm

4/5/2018 (Permalink)

We are an IICRC Certified Firm

SERVPRO of Monrovia is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Monrovia

SERVPRO of Monrovia specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Earthquake Preparedness – Tips for the Homeowner

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

Making your Home earthquake ready can greatly reduce the risk of further damages caused by an earthquake such as fire and water damage. These preventative measures can mean saving huge amounts of money in repairs but more importantly the safety and protection of family, personal belongings and property.

Consider this…

Since most water and gas lines are rigid, they can be ripped from their connection points during an earthquake. The outcome could not only be serious damage to your property but also injury to you and others.

A common method to prevent broken water and gas lines is to have flexible connection pipes installed between appliances and their supply lines. The same technique can be used for other appliances, such as a water heater, clothes dryer, stove or gas furnace. Typically, a licensed contractor can perform this service without much difficulty.

Benefits of Using This Mitigation Strategy

• Helps to prevent tearing of water and gas lines from their connections

• Helps to prevent serious damage to a structure

• Helps to prevent explosions or fires

• Helps to prevent personal injuries 

Tips

Keep these points in mind when you have flexible connections installed:

• It is important to know where your gas, power, and water line shut offs are located and how to turn them off. A gas leak could create an explosion which could cause more damage than the earthquake itself. 

• Modifications to the plumbing and gas lines in your property must be done by a licensed contractor, who will ensure that the work is done properly and in compliance with all applicable codes. This is key for your safety.

• A flexible connection will help protect against a small amount of movement but is not designed to function when the appliance it is connected to moves extensively or falls. Consider anchoring the appliance to the floor or wall.

When a disaster strikes SERVPRO of Monrovia has the training, experience, and equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Monrovia is a 24hr Emergency Water and Fire Damage Service

5/3/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Monrovia is available 24 hours a day for water and fire emergencies, large or small.

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

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today – 626-358-9200

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO of Monrovia

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

When Storms or Floods hit Monrovia, SERVPRO is ready!

5/3/2017 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Los Angeles County

SERVPRO of Monrovia specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Monrovia, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams http://www.SERVPROmonrovia.com/disaster-recovery that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (626)358-9200

Restoring Your Monrovia Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

5/3/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at Los Angeles County commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Monrovia

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

UNDERSTANDING MOLD

10/7/2016 (Permalink)

Monrovia, CA Here is a shot of some mold growth climbing up a stairwell. The mold extended across the hall into the laundry room and other areas.

Take Precautions

SERVPRO® of Monrovia Professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when moisture has been affecting an environment for a long period of time. If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to have water removed and the structure dried promptly.

If you have experienced an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert to the following factors:

• The presence of visible mold.
• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.
•  Any evidence of past moisture problems that might indicate previous mold growth.
• excessive humidity.

These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems.

Help Has Arrived 

The SERVPRO of Monrovia professional will arrive on-site alert for any visible signs of mold. In the event mold is found. a technician Monrovia, CAd you leave the affected area while the mold cleanup and associated containment process is being safely completed. You will also be asked to approve and sign a work authorization form prior to any mold cleanup or related work being performed. 

Responding to Water Damage

6/13/2016 (Permalink)

This is a water damage job in Monrovia that migrated from the kitchen sink into the garage. A dry out was needed and done by SERVPRO of Monrovia.

When Water Damages Occur, the wrong response can cost you plenty. 

Water damages in your home or workplace can be frustrating. The potential risk of handling the clean up yourself can be avoided by hiring SERVPRO of Monrovia. Our professional staff will respond quickly, with the right equipment to dry and help protect your property.

 (These tips are for clean water situations only)

Experience Counts

5/11/2016 (Permalink)

Hire SERVPRO Professionals for a           Solution.                 

One out of every ten water incidents in a home is caused by a water heater or washing machine. If preventive maintenance has been overlooked, Call SERVPRO of Monrovia professionals to begin the cleanup and restoration process. 

Trained in the cleanup and restoration of your property, SERVPRO professionals utilize the knowledge and experience of 38 years of business to properly clean up damage caused by a leaking water heater or washing machine.     

Water Heater Maintenance Tips

• Before doing any maintenance on your water heater, shut off the power at the service panel.
• Once every three months, drain one gallon of water from the tank. If you have hard water, do this every month to reduce sediment collecting in the bottom of the tank.
• Once every two years, have your water heater inspected by a service technician.
• Once every five years, have a service technician replace the anode rod.       

 Working to make it "Like it never even happened"

What You Can Do Until Help Arrives

3/7/2016 (Permalink)

DO:

• LIMIT MOVEMENT IN THE FACILITY TO PREVENT SOOT PARTICLES FROM SPREADING AND ADDITIONAL DAMAGE FROM OCCURRING.
• PLACE CLEAN TOWELS OR OLD LINENS ON RUGS AND HIGH TRAFFIC AREAS.
• COAT CHROME FAUCETS, TRIM AND APPLIANCES WITH PETROKEUM JELLY OR OIL.
• PLACE ALUMINUM FOIL OR WOOD BLOCKS BETWEEN FURNITURE LEGS AND WET CARPET.

DO NOT:

• WASH ANY WALLS OR PAINTED SURFACES.
• SHAMPOO CARPET OR UPHOLSTERY.
• CLEAN ANY ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT.
• SEND CLOTHING TO DRY CLEANER SINCE IMPROPER CLEANING MAY SET SMOKE ODOR.  

Water Damage Response Tips for Property Owners

3/3/2016 (Permalink)

   When Water Damages Occur, the wrong response can cost you plenty.

Water damages in your home or workplace can be frustrating. The potential risk of handling the clean up yourself can be avoided by hiring SERVPRO of Monrovia. Our professional staff will respond quickly, with the right equipmentto dry and help protect your property.

(These tips are for clean water situations only)

• Shut off the water source if possible, and if it can be done safely. 
• Remove excess water by mopping and blottng.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying. Do not put cushion covers in washing machine.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
• Hang furs and leather goods seperately at room temerature.
• Remove Oreintal or other colored rugs from wet capeting.
• Do not use a regular vacuum to remove water.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
• Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpeting. 

        Componets of Proper Water                        Damage Restoration

• Fast Action
• Thorough Drying 

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structeral and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. If you have any questions or need help to ensure your property is drying properly, contact SERVPRO of Monrovia. 626-358-9200