Recent Posts
Let Us Help You Build the Home or Business of Your Dreams | SERVPRO of Wilshire Center
8/28/2024 (Permalink)
We want to make your home remodeling dreams a reality. Contact SERVPRO of Wilshire Center today, we can’t wait to help!
Our community is full of vibrant buildings, eclectic homes and a lot of character. Whether you live in a condo or a single-family home or you run one of the amazing businesses in town, we are sure your space is full of character.
That doesn’t mean you don’t want to make improvements from time to time! Remodeling your business can give it a fresh face or create more room for patrons, or building that new room on your first level can finally give you the office space of your dreams.
However, tackling a large construction project like that on your own may be overwhelming or downright impossible. That’s where we come in! In addition to our top-notch restoration services, we are also a full-service construction and remodeling company.
What Our Construction Process Looks Like
Every home and property is different, which is why we take the time to meet with our customers before we start making plans and tearing down walls. We will assess the space, discuss your needs and wants, and then create a detailed plan that will take your initial dream and turn it into reality.
We have a project manager overseeing the entire process, so you can rest assured that we will stay on task and within budget and always communicate with you throughout the entire process.
One of the best things about working with us on your construction project is that we are a full-service team, meaning that you only get to work with us and only us! We will take care of everything from start to finish including working with other necessary contractors, working with your insurance company and tackling your construction with confidence. We will even work on pulling permits and making sure we are within code and the necessary regulations.
Finish Your Build With Confidence
Think your project is too large or too niche for us to handle? We love all of the classic architecture, the marble, brick and stucco that make up our community, and we are well-versed in working with all of these materials. We will adjust or adapt our plans based on whatever your space needs in order to give you the finished project you deserve.
If your space is historic or holds special meaning, working with us can set your mind at ease. We are highly trained and are constantly learning and incorporating new practices into our techniques to preserve and protect historic buildings and spaces. We will ensure your space is safe, secure and remodeled exactly how you imagined.
Let’s finish that remodel or construction project together. Contact SERVPRO of Wilshire Center today.
Responding to Flood Damage at Your Business | SERVPRO of Wilshire Center
5/28/2024 (Permalink)
If your business has been hit by an unexpected flashflood, SERVPRO of Wilshire center is Here to Help®. Call us today!
Wilshire Center and Koreatown are a hub for businesses ranging from delicious restaurants to hotels and entertainment venues, and we are so grateful for all of the amazing business owners who keep these places running smoothly on a daily basis.
We know that planning for disaster is an important part of running a business, but that doesn’t mean that certain disasters can’t still take you by surprise. For example, not many people would expect to come to work one day, open up doors and turn on the lights, and find water all over the floor!
Floods at your place of business are always an inconvenience, and they can even cause serious damage. Knowing what to do if a flood does occur at your work can help you stay in control and respond faster.
What to Do First
Floods can be large or small, but they are always overwhelming when they do occur. After all, you don’t want to be dealing with soaked possessions and soggy floors on any day of the week! Stay calm and focus on keeping yourself and your employees safe.
Close off the affected area to your employees and potential customers, and then assess the situation from higher, drier ground. Take as many photos as you can and then get us on the phone so we can start creating your recovery plan. The faster we work, the better chance you have of avoiding long-term damage issues and even mold infestations.
While you wait for us to arrive, locate the water valve that is causing the mess in the first place and shut it off. This will at least stop the flow of water so the problem doesn’t continue to get worse. If you can’t find out exactly what is causing your issue, shut off the main water valve to your building. You can deal with turning it back on later after we have secured the situation.
When SERVPRO® Shows Up
We will arrive quickly and get to work removing the standing water and ventilating the area. We will set up air movers, open windows and extract the excess water with precision. We even have technology that allows us to see hidden moisture behind your walls.
Once your space is dry, we will get started on any necessary repairs. Water can easily warp your structural supports or create soggy and dangerous floors, so we work carefully while keeping your safety in mind.
We know that every minute you are closed, your business and your employees are being affected. We are dedicated to working as quickly as we can in order to disrupt your daily life as much as possible.
When you are surprised by standing water, do the right thing by calling SERVPRO of Wilshire Center. We will help put your building back together in no time at all.
Flood situations can cause serious damage in a short amount of time. Contact SERVPRO of Wilshire Center for immediate assistance.
The Soggy Reality of Thunderstorms in the Koreatown Area | SERVPRO of Wilshire Center
2/28/2024 (Permalink)
The aftermath of home storm damage is not something you should have to deal with alone. That’s why SERVPRO of Wilshire center wants to help. Call us!
The state of California is known for its beautiful weather, sunny days and overall pleasant weather, and the Los Angeles area is no different. We are so blessed with the weather in our community and will never complain about all the sun!
However, when it does rain, it can certainly rain. If we are experiencing drought conditions, rain can become a serious weather hazard when it does fall and any accompanying wind can take a minor situation and make it worse.
We also aren’t strangers to experiencing hurricanes from time to time! Knowing what to do before, during and after a storm can help you stay safe and in control.
Preparation Is Key
Start getting your home ready as soon as a storm or rain is forecast. Clean up your yard and secure down anything you don’t want tossed about your yard due to any high wind.
Set up your downspouts to point away from your house, and make sure your gutters are in good working condition. Grab a weather radio or tune into the local weather forecast to better understand the direction and severity of the storm.
Stay inside and away from windows while the storm is in the area, and only go outside to look for potential damage when you are sure the storm has passed and there isn’t another wave on the horizon. Bring your phone and radio with you just in case you need to be alerted to any changing conditions.
Check in with other family members if they were not home when the storm passed through, and head over to check on your neighbors. Just because you and your home fared OK, it doesn’t mean that your neighbors did, too.
Once everyone is determined to be safe, take a survey of your home to discover any damage that you incurred right away. Get us on the phone so we can get started on your restoration faster.
Tips to Secure Your Home
We are proudly locally owned and operated, which means that we are watching the same forecast as you and experiencing the same weather. The only difference is that we start preparing our teams as soon as potentially dangerous weather is forecasted. We will be ready and waiting for your call as soon as you need us.
Once we make our connection with you and start getting our people and trucks ready, you can also help mitigate damage to your home while you wait for us to arrive. Lay down tarps to protect your belongings from further damage, open a window or run a fan to start drying out your space, or set out buckets to catch any drips from getting onto your floor.
Our team will get to work removing standing water while also securing your home from suffering more damage if it is exposed to the elements. We are proud to handle any sort of damage you experience, including minor water leaks all the way to severe impact damage if a tree falls on your home. We will be here for you from the very first phone call to the last walkthrough of your newly refurbished space.
Surprised by storm damage? Call SERVPRO of Wilshire Center today.
Let’s Take Care of Your Business | SERVPRO of Wilshire Center
11/29/2023 (Permalink)
Is your business facing the aftermath of unexpected damage? Your disaster is ours to fix. Call SERVPRO of Wilshire Center now!
Owning a business in our community can be a lot of work! The hustle and bustle of our area, alongside the sheer competition, can make your job seem like more of a lifestyle than anything. We appreciate all that you do for our community, which is why we are here to help take some of the load off.
Keeping your business clean, planning for disasters, addressing property damage and dealing with unexpected situations can derail your productivity and even hurt your long-term goals.
SERVPRO of Wilshire Center is Here to Help® with all of that! We offer our full restoration and cleaning services to all of the businesses in the Koreatown area and beyond.
We Can Handle Your Disaster
Disasters can happen in the blink of an eye, leaving you with serious damage and many unanswered questions. Manmade accidents like burst pipes or fires can happen quickly, while Mother Nature can be forceful and have a mind of her own at any point. No matter how your disaster occurs, our calm and collected team will take over to help you recover faster.
We have extensive training in large-loss recovery, so we don’t want you to hesitate to call us even if you think your project is too large or too destructive. We will identify a project manager and different teams to tackle different parts of your restoration to ensure we are always on task and working towards your end goal of a full restoration. We will remove debris, clean and sanitize, and then get started on any necessary repairs.
Staying Squeaky Clean
We are also a leading expert when it comes to commercial cleaning projects! We know that you don’t have much free time, so why would you spend that time on cleaning your business?
Let us do it instead! We can tackle all sorts of cleaning projects for you, including deep carpet cleaning, HVAC and vent cleaning, and even upholstery and drapery cleaning.
We can even become your regular cleaning partner for routine deep-cleans of your property. We know you have a janitorial staff that handles your daily routine, but routine deep-cleans can ensure dust, dirt, grime and allergens are safely removed from your building and from the very air that you breathe.
Biohazards and Dangerous Situations
We never expect to encounter potentially dangerous substances at work, but life is unpredictable! If you come upon a sewage leak at the back of your building or an accident occurs and there is blood on the floor, having a trained biohazard team handle the situation is always recommended. We have the training and safety gear to tackle the cleanup quickly and efficiently.
We can also address any mold infestations that you discover on your property. Mold can grow quickly, and a few spores can turn into a colony in just a couple of days. Call us right away so we can contain the area, filter the air and tackle your mold remediation promptly.
We would love to work together to help make your business the best it can be. Contact us day or night for immediate assistance.
Need help with a restoration or cleaning project at your commercial property? Call SERVPRO of Wilshire Center today.
Why Partnering With Us Is the Right Choice for You | SERVPRO of Wilshire Center
11/29/2023 (Permalink)
When an unexpected disaster strikes your home or business, call SERVPRO of Wilshire Center. We will restore your place Like it never even happened.®
Life is unpredictable, and it can throw you curveballs at any time. One minute you are rushing out the door to get to soccer practice, and the next, you are coming home to a busted pipe or a house fire due to a forgotten candle. No one ever expects to be dealing with home or property damage, but it must be dealt with quickly to avoid long-term issues and structural problems.
Choosing a reliable restoration company will make all of the difference! SERVPRO of Wilshire is proudly a leading restoration expert in the Koreatown community, and we will help you overcome whatever sort of damage you suffer at home or at work.
Our Customer Service Is Top-Notch
When you suffer from a home disaster, it often can be overwhelming, frustrating and downright scary. We understand the sensitive nature of these types of situations, and we promise to work alongside you every step of the way. We are locally owned and operated, which means that we are your friends and neighbors!
We will listen to your concerns, validate your experience and make sure your home is put back together exactly how you want and need it to. Our project manager will work with you to create your restoration plan and to make sure all of your questions are answered along the way.
We Are Full-Service
One of the worst things about overcoming home damage is the potential for having to work with many different contractors to get the job done. You have to call one company for water restoration, another for cleaning and even another to help rebuild your walls!
That’s not the case when you use SERVPRO of Wilshire Center. We are a full-service construction and restoration company, which means that you will only ever be working with us on all of your repairs.
We are fully equipped to handle your entire restoration project, and we are also able to pull in different contractors if needed to get the job done. In any case, we will be your only point of contact so you don’t have to worry about your project getting too complicated or navigating multiple contracts.
We Make the Recovery Easier
Another benefit of working with us is that you don’t have to worry about dealing with your insurance company, because we do that for you! We will make contact with your insurance agent and process your claim for you to make sure you are getting the most out of the situation.
In addition, we are also dedicated to minimizing the disruption to your life, so we try to find ways to contain our projects so you can still live and work in your space while we are present. Our goal is to restore your property as quickly as we can, but as thoroughly as we can so that you are completely satisfied with the final product.
We are here for all of your restoration and cleaning needs. Contact SERVPRO of Wilshire Center today.
How We Can Help You Recover After a House Fire | SERVPRO of Wilshire Center
11/29/2023 (Permalink)
Home fire damage can feel irreversible. That’s why SERVPRO of Wilshire has a confident team of experts who can and will restore your house. Call us!
No homeowner ever wakes up one morning assuming that a house fire is going to start on his or her property. House fires are almost always unexpected and can take your family by surprise day or night. If a fire does break out, it can cause chaos in your household and can become a dangerous situation really quickly.
While suffering a house fire is certainly scary, dealing with the aftermath of a fire is another thing entirely. However, using the right restoration company can ensure a smooth transition into a full recovery.
That’s where SERVPRO of Wilshire Center comes in! Our team is dedicated to helping our community overcome house fires and we will be there for you from start to finish.
Our First Contact
We jump into action as soon as you call us. We will quickly identify the emergency contact for the project and then start asking questions about your fire. We will ask how it started, where it spread to and the extent of the damage you see.
This will help us gather the right team and right materials for your project! We will also get your insurance information down so we can start the process of connecting with your insurance agent about your claim.
Once we arrive at your home, we will secure it to prevent further damage from occurring while we work. We can board up broken windows or secure tarps over your roof or damaged walls to keep out moisture and pests. Did you know that most homes that suffer fire damage also suffer water damage? The water used to put out the fire may stop the flames, but it can also cause another restoration issue to come into play.
The Repair Process
We will work quickly to remove damaged debris and any standing water or hidden moisture, and then we will get to work on the restoration plan for each affected space. Depending on the extent of the fire, we may need to tear down and rebuild entire sections of your home.
We will also take a full tour of your home to check for soot and smoke damage. Soot and smoke can travel to parts of your home that were never even touched by the fire.
Now that your space is ready for the next step, we move forward with a deep-clean and sanitization of your space. We will clean every surface as well as tackle smoke odors. This will include upholstery cleaning, carpet cleaning and any special deodorization processes that are necessary.
The Reconstruction
House fires can cause serious structural damage in a short amount of time, but not to worry! Our team will work methodically through your home to rebuild anything that was damaged.
We are a full-service construction company on top of being experts at restoration projects, so we will make sure your home is returned to its pre-fire condition as quickly and as thoroughly as possible.
Suffered a house fire? Contact SERVPRO of Wilshire Center immediately.
Top Steps to Take After Discovering a Leaking Appliance | SERVPRO of Wilshire Center
11/28/2023 (Permalink)
Has your home been impacted by water damage? Call SERVPRO of Wilshire Center today. We are here for the rescue!
So many of us rely on our appliances on a daily basis that we often don’t think twice about loading up the dishwasher or washing machine, hitting start and then heading out the door to tackle our busy day ahead.
While you are occupied with answering emails, attending meetings and thinking about what you are going to eat for lunch, all it takes for a mess to occur is a single faulty water line or an appliance malfunction.
Appliance leaks are one of the more common water damage situations that we help homeowners overcome, so we want to help you take control of the situation while you wait for us to arrive! Read on to learn more.
The Dangerous Effects of Water
Once water has leaked onto your floor, you can bet that it will flow and seep into every crack or crevice that it can. Minor puddles can usually be cleaned up on your own, but if the water was left to flow out of your machine for a long period of time, it could easily have made its way under your floors or behind your walls. Once it gets to these tricky locations, it can be hard to dry out on your own.
We can all mop up a simple mess on the floor, but most of us aren’t able to get under our floorboards or behind our walls without a little help. If you fail to dry out this hidden moisture, it can start to impact the structure of your home or even spark a massive mold infestation. Taking action quickly can prevent your situation from progressing to this state.
What to Do First
Your first reaction when you walk through the door will probably be a mix of shock and disgust as you enter the room and your feet get soaked or make that awful squelching sound.
Immediately take a step back and assess the situation from dry ground while trying to stay calm. Locate where the water is coming from and find the appropriate water valve to turn it off.
Close the valve and consider unplugging the appliance as well or shutting off electricity to the area for the time being. You don’t want the appliance to randomly turn back on and finish pouring what’s left in the pipes all over your floor! Once the flow of water has stopped, grab the phone and call SERVPRO of Wilshire Center.
Why a Professional Water Restoration Team Matters
While we all know that small puddles or a little water on your floor can be cleaned up with a rag and some ventilation, many times that is not enough to completely solve the situation. Once the water gets to a place that you can’t reach, that’s when a professional restoration company becomes necessary.
We will bring in air movers and blowers to remove the visible water, and our thermal imaging cameras will pinpoint exactly where the hidden moisture is located in your space.
Once everything is dry, we can assess any potential damage that needs to be repaired. Water has the innate ability to cause immediate damage to floors, walls and ceilings, so addressing this damage quickly is key to making a full recovery.
We will fix swelling in floors, replace soaked carpet, hang new drywall and even roll on a fresh coat of paint. We are here for you during the entire restoration and will keep working until you are completely satisfied with the finished product.
Addressing water damage right away is crucial. Call SERVPRO of Wilshire Center as soon as you discover the water.
The Hidden Danger of Mold in Your Property
10/18/2023 (Permalink)
Mold is a sneaky problem that can harm your property and your health. Most people don't realize how serious it can be. In this essay, we'll look at why mold is a big issue for your property. It can make your home weaker, lower its value, and cause legal and financial troubles.
Property Damage
Mold likes damp and humid places, which are common in many areas. It can get into the structure of your home, like walls, wood, and insulation. When it grows there, it makes these materials weak and can even damage your property's structure. It's like a silent attacker.
When mold takes over the structure of your property, it can lead to big problems. Things like wood rotting, metal rusting, and the support beams getting weaker can happen. If you don't deal with it, it can be costly and even dangerous for the people living there. This shows that the physical health of your property is tied to how well it can resist mold.
Property Value Decrease
Mold can ruin the way your property looks. It leaves ugly stains on walls and ceilings, making your home less attractive to buyers or renters. People are not likely to choose a place with mold problems.
But it's not just about looks. Mold can also make people think your property is not safe or healthy. So, you might have trouble getting the price you want when selling or renting it. This means you could lose money in the long run because of mold.
Health and Legal Risks
Apart from damaging your property, mold can also harm your health and lead to legal problems. Mold releases tiny particles into the air that you can breathe in. These particles can cause problems like trouble breathing, allergies, skin issues, and even infections for people with weak immune systems.
From a legal point of view, if you don't deal with mold properly and it makes people sick, you could end up in trouble. You might have to pay fines or face legal battles. Plus, most insurance doesn't cover mold damage, so you'll have to pay for fixing it yourself.
Mold is a big problem for your property. It can make your home weaker, less valuable, and cause health issues and legal troubles. To keep your property safe, you need to be careful. Make sure your property doesn't get too humid, has good airflow, and gets regular check-ups. If you find mold, deal with it quickly to avoid damage and health problems. Staying up to date with local rules about mold is also important.
In short, mold is a threat that you should take seriously. Ignoring it can cause big problems for your property and the people who live in it.
Staying Vigilant: Navigating Natural Disasters in Los Angeles During the Fall
9/17/2023 (Permalink)
Staying alert and prepared for natural disasters is essential for the safety and well-being of residents.
The vibrant city of Los Angeles, nestled on the Pacific coast of Southern California, is known for its sunny skies, picturesque beaches, and a thriving entertainment industry. However, life in the City of Angels also comes with the potential threat of natural disasters, particularly during the fall season. As September ushers in autumn, residents must remain vigilant and prepared for the various challenges posed by wildfires, earthquakes, and other environmental hazards.
1. The Wildfire Season:
September often marks the peak of wildfire season in Southern California. The combination of high temperatures, dry Santa Ana winds, and an accumulation of dry vegetation creates the perfect storm for devastating wildfires. These fires can spread rapidly, threatening homes, communities, and even lives.
What to Do:
- Create a Defensible Space: Maintain a defensible space around your property by clearing away dead vegetation and creating a buffer zone to reduce the risk of your home catching fire.
- Stay Informed: Pay close attention to local authorities and follow evacuation orders if issued. Sign up for emergency alerts and monitor news updates during fire incidents.
- Prepare a Go-Bag: Have an emergency kit ready with essential supplies like water, non-perishable food, first-aid items, and important documents. Include face masks and hand sanitizer to protect against smoke and COVID-19.
2. Earthquake Preparedness:
Los Angeles sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it susceptible to seismic activity year-round. Earthquakes can strike with little warning, and their magnitude can range from minor tremors to major events.
What to Do:
- Secure Your Space: Secure heavy furniture and appliances to prevent them from toppling during an earthquake. Use earthquake-resistant brackets to secure shelves and cabinets.
- Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Familiarize yourself with the "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" technique, which can help protect you during an earthquake. Take part in earthquake drills with your family.
- Prepare an Earthquake Kit: Assemble an earthquake preparedness kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, and a first-aid kit.
3. Extreme Heat and Drought:
Fall in Los Angeles often brings high temperatures, which can lead to heatwaves and exacerbate drought conditions. Prolonged heat can strain energy resources and pose health risks.
What to Do:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid heat-related illnesses. Check on vulnerable neighbors, including the elderly and young children.
- Reduce Energy Consumption: During peak heat, reduce energy consumption to prevent blackouts. Use fans, close blinds to block out the sun, and avoid unnecessary appliance use during peak hours.
- Conserve Water: Given California's history of droughts, continue water conservation efforts. Fix leaks, use drought-resistant plants, and limit outdoor watering.
4. Landslide Awareness:
While less common than wildfires or earthquakes, heavy rains during fall thunderstorms can trigger landslides, particularly in hilly or mountainous areas surrounding Los Angeles.
What to Do:
- Know Your Risk: If you live in a hilly or mountainous area, understand the risk of landslides. Pay attention to weather forecasts and advisories.
- Monitor Your Property: Keep an eye on your property for signs of soil erosion or instability, such as cracks in the ground or shifting foundations.
- Stay Informed: In case of heavy rainfall, stay informed about potential landslide risks and evacuation orders from local authorities.
In Los Angeles, fall is a season of beauty and potential peril. Staying alert and prepared for natural disasters is essential for the safety and well-being of residents. By taking proactive measures, staying informed, and having a well-thought-out emergency plan, Angelenos can navigate the challenges posed by wildfires, earthquakes, extreme heat, and other environmental hazards with resilience and readiness.
<a href="https://www.vecteezy.com/free-photos">Free Stock photos by Vecteezy</a>
The Silent Menace: How Dishwasher Leaks Can Damage Your Property
9/10/2023 (Permalink)
Homeowners should understand the causes of dishwasher leaks and take proactive steps to prevent them.
Image by zinkevych on Freepik
Modern dishwashers are a convenience that most of us can't imagine living without. They save time, effort, and ensure squeaky-clean dishes after every meal. However, amidst the convenience lies a potential threat that homeowners should be wary of: water leakage from dishwashers. While it might seem like a minor inconvenience, dishwasher leaks can lead to significant property damage if left unchecked. In this article, we'll delve into the causes of water leakage from dishwashers, the potential harm it can cause to your property, and the steps you can take to prevent such disasters.
The Culprits Behind Dishwasher Leaks
Faulty Door Seal/Gasket: Over time, the rubber seal or gasket around the dishwasher door can deteriorate, causing water to seep out during cycles.
Blocked Drain Hose: Accumulated debris and clogs in the drain hose can result in water backing up and leaking out of the dishwasher.
Water Supply Line Issues: Loose or damaged water supply lines can lead to leaks, causing water to escape during operation.
Malfunctioning Pump or Pump Seal: Leaks may occur if the dishwasher's pump or its seals are defective or compromised.
Tub Cracks: Wear and tear or impacts from heavy items can lead to cracks in the dishwasher's internal tub, causing water leakage.
Improper Installation: Incorrect installation can cause misalignment of parts, leading to leaks during operation.
Devastation Wrought by Dishwasher Leaks
Structural Damage: Prolonged leaks can weaken flooring, subfloors, and adjacent walls, causing warping, rot, and compromising structural integrity.
Mold and Mildew Growth: Excess moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, damaging property and potentially impacting occupants' health.
Electrical Hazards: Leaked water can reach electrical components, increasing the risk of short circuits, shocks, or even fires.
Damage to Adjacent Appliances: Water spreading to neighboring appliances or systems can cause damage to them as well.
Increased Utility Costs: Persistent leaks lead to higher water and energy bills due to continuous appliance operation.
Mastering Dishwasher Leak Prevention
To prevent property damage from dishwasher leaks:
Regular Inspection: Routinely inspect your dishwasher for leaks, unusual noises, or signs of moisture accumulation.
Maintenance: Clean filters, drain hoses, and seals regularly, ensuring they're free from debris and in good condition.
Prompt Action: If you notice leaks, turn off the dishwasher, investigate the issue, and seek professional help if needed.
Proper Installation: Ensure your dishwasher is correctly installed to avoid misalignment or installation-related issues.
While dishwashers offer unmatched convenience, they can also pose a significant risk if not properly maintained. Water leakage might seem trivial, but its potential to damage property, encourage mold growth, and create electrical hazards is substantial. By understanding the causes of dishwasher leaks and taking proactive steps to prevent them, homeowners can continue to enjoy the convenience of their dishwashers without the fear of property damage looming overhead. Regular maintenance and vigilance are the keys to keeping this silent menace at bay.