How Different Water Damage Categories Affect Mold Growth

9/11/2024 (Permalink)

If you experience water & mold damage, contact SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas for professional and prompt mitigation services.

In Las Vegas, NV, dealing with water damage after storms or plumbing issues is a common challenge. It’s crucial to understand the different categories of water damage and how they impact mold growth to manage the situation effectively. Here's a detailed guide to help you navigate through this issue.

What Are the Categories of Water Damage?

Water damage is classified into three categories based on the source of water and its contamination level. Knowing these categories helps in taking the right actions to mitigate damage and prevent mold growth.

Category 1: Clean Water

Clean water comes from a sanitary source and poses no immediate health risks. This includes water from broken pipes, overflowing sinks, or rainwater. Although it is safe initially, it can become a breeding ground for mold if not addressed quickly.

Category 2: Gray Water

Gray water is slightly contaminated water from sources like washing machines, dishwashers, or toilet overflow (containing urine but no feces). This water contains microorganisms and can cause illness if ingested. It accelerates mold growth due to the organic material present.

Category 3: Black Water

Black water is highly contaminated and includes sewage, floodwater from rivers or streams, and water containing fecal matter. This category poses serious risk and requires immediate professional remediation due to the high level of contaminants.

How Each Category Impacts Mold Growth

Understanding the impact of each water damage category on mold growth is essential for effective remediation.

Category 1: Clean Water

Even though clean water is safe initially, mold can begin to grow within 24-48 hours after water damage occurs according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Mold spores thrive in damp environments, so it's crucial to dry the area promptly to prevent mold growth.

Category 2: Gray Water

Gray water promotes mold growth more rapidly due to its contamination level. The organic material in gray water provides nutrients for mold, making it easier for spores to spread. Quick cleanup and drying are vital to prevent extensive mold contamination.

Category 3: Black Water

Black water creates the highest risk for mold growth. The contaminants and organic materials present provide an ideal environment for mold. Immediate professional intervention is necessary to handle black water safely and effectively, as delaying cleanup can lead to severe mold infestations.

Keeping Your Home Safe Post-Water Damage

Understanding the different categories of water damage and their impact on mold growth is crucial for effective remediation. In Las Vegas, NV, being prepared and knowing how to respond to water damage can save you from expensive repairs. If you experience water damage, contact SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas for professional and prompt mitigation services. 

Storm damage

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's are individually owned franchises which makes us unique. In the Las Vegas area there are 6 franchises which gives us the advantage to handle any size of loss. We also have a storm team located in St. George in case Las Vegas gets hit with a large-scale disaster.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has been in the Las Vegas area for over 15 years and has the knowledge and skill to handle any kind of loss. 

With most of our team being Nevada/Las Vegas natives we understand Las Vegas is well known for its high temperatures and warm weather. Being a desert most people who move here are surprised about the storm seasons and the amount of water that can fall within a few minutes. During the rainy time of the year SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas is ready to handle these types of emergencies. Mainly these losses occur from flooding by the roof or from the ground in. SERVPRO specializes in storm damage, our crews are trained and skilled in knowing how to communicate with your insurance company to ensure that your storm damage loss is handled properly with no secondary damages. Our estimators can come out on site before you file a claim and provide a free estimate and advise on the steps taken to properly handle your loss that crazy storms that can hit in this area.

Storm damage

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

Storm damage

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,650 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas will make sure the work is done properly, efficiently and in a timely manner.

Storm damage

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas specializes in storm and flood damage. We have highly trained crews and workers that will help turn your home back to what it was. 

Being locally owned and operated, we always are able to respond as quickly and efficiently as possible to help stop further damage and reduce cost. We have specialized equipment that is meant for cleaning water and flood damage. 

Though storms are not that prevalent here in the Vegas valley, we are always prepared and have 1700 Franchises around the country and Disaster Recovery teams that are placed in certain locations across the country.  

Storm damage

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

Heavy rains caused water damage in this residential home located in Las Vegas, please remember the following:

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What happens after a storm

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

Storm damage

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day, or night.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas will make sure the work is done properly, efficiently and in a timely manner.

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we can 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 Las Vegas, 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.

Water damage in a storm

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage is not always the broken pipes or failed angle stop or overflowed toilet. Water damage also includes damage caused by storms. Although Las Vegas is known to be a desert where it is mostly hot and dry, most people that move here are surprised about the storm seasons and the amount of water that can fall within a few minutes, we do get our hit of the monsoon season which can cause higher levels of humidity and inches to feet of water. In some cases, the water will rise above the slab line allowing water to intrude into the structure causing small to large amounts of area damage. SERVPRO of Las Vegas is ready to handle these types of emergencies. Our crews are trained and skilled in knowing how to communicate with your insurance company to ensure that your storm damage loss is handled properly with no secondary damages. Our estimators can come out on site before you file a claim and provide a free estimate and advise you on the steps taken to properly handle your loss.

Storm damage

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies do not wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day, or night.

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,650 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas will make sure the work is done properly, efficiently and in a timely manner.

Large Loss Division

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster.

Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. Get the professionals, call SERVPRO.

Clients for the Commercial Large Loss program include the following:

• The Hospitality Industry
• Property Managers
• Universities
• Municipalities
• The Pentagon

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has experience restoring homes affected by storms and flooding. We can respond immediately with highly trained technicians who employ specialized equipment and techniques to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition.

Roof leaks during a rain storm

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

In Vegas, it isn’t very often that we have large rain storms but when they come, they can expose weak points in your roofing that may result in a leak. So, what can you look out for to help prevent these water leaks from happening on your roof? Here are a number of areas that may have weak spots on your roof.

• Shingles- Over time shingles can crack and become so worn out that they lose the ability to keep water out. It is important to keep an eye on this to see if it time to replace sections of shingles on the roof.
• Attic ventilation- If the attic is not properly ventilated, this can create high levels of condensation which will be worsened by heavy rainfall. Making the chances of a serious leak more likely.
• Skylights- Skylights are cool features to have in the home but if the framing is not sealed properly or corrosion has left little gaps in the framing, it can cause a big issue. Make sure to check the framing.
• Other Corrosion- There are other components on the roof that over time can corrode. Small metal fasteners and other metal components can rust and create space for small leaks. It is good to have these small pieces replaced every so often.

https://semetals.com/blog/6-causes-of-roof-leaks-during-heavy-rain

Las Vegas Monsoon?

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

What to expect from Las Vegas monsoon season?

Monsoon season is short and only lasts for about half of summer. This desert climate does receive rain and during monsoon season the rains can come down in short heavy spurts. It is important to know what to look for and what precautions to take when monsoon season comes again.

When do we have monsoon season?

Monsoon season can start around the middle part of summer and last till some time in September. So, the season usually lasts a couple months and can sometimes start slightly sooner and last a little longer than expected.

How to recognize when a monsoon might start?

Monsoon season can be identified with very hot and slightly more humid mornings with more than normal cloud coverage. Once we get into the afternoon evening the winds may pick up and the sky will most likely darken. The showers last only a few hours at the most and the same process will continue the next day.

Dangers of monsoon season

It is important to be able to identify these types of rainfall because they can cause flooding in homes and down busy streets. Cautious driving and home preparedness are essential to ensure that monsoon season is a breeze. It’s not very often we get good rainfall in Vegas so it’s best to enjoy the rain we get instead of stressing about not being prepared.

Storms pose a threat to your business over time

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO we have seen our fair share of collapsed sections of roofing due to standing water. Many of these incidents are a result of not staying updated with the buildings needs. Before entering another season of questionable weather, take the time to look at a few weak points in your building that might need some attention and upkeep. Get someone to check the roof and identify any spots that may have staining. This is a sign of repeated standing water on the roof. Check if there is any corrosion or warping on the flat roof as well. These issues can lead to big water issues down the road so it is important to spot them and fix them before it turns into a larger problem.

We are prepared for flood and storm damage whenever!

7/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas specializes in storm and flood damage. We have highly trained crews and workers that will help turn your home back to what it was. 

Being locally owned and operated, we always are able to respond as quickly and efficiently as possible to help stop further damage and reduce cost. We have specialized equipment that is meant for cleaning water and flood damage. 

Though storms are not that prevalent here in the Vegas valley, we are always prepared and have 1700 Franchises around the country and Disaster Recovery teams that are placed in certain locations across the country.  

Solar Panel Storm Damage

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

In the Las Vegas valley, the use of solar panels is becoming increasingly popular.  They can provide homeowners the ability to decrease their utility bills and are environmentally friendly.  However, some local homeowners may question their durability especially when it comes to severe storm type weather such as floods, high winds, hail damage, and monsoons. Here are some things you may want to consider.

Solar panels are durable but much like any building material, they are also vulnerable to storm damage which can flood and damage other parts of your home as well. Homeowners who have sustained storm damage in Las Vegas may find it helpful to contact us, especially if they have a flood at (702) 436-2555.

Common types of damage from a storm may include:

• Roof leaks as a result of improper installation and/or directly from storm damage.
• Scratches from large tree limbs or wind blown particles which can effect the panel's ability to function.
• Lightning strikes can also damage solar panels.

What Las Vegans Consider To Be The Biggest Threat

Most homeowners local to Las Vegas, Nevada consider hail storm damage to be the biggest concern when installing roof mounted solar panels. Today, these panels are constructed to withstand the impact of hail. However, there are several different manufacturers of solar panels. So it is advisable to research the brand you plan to install and their durability to withstand hail storms.

As a homeowner you can seek the advice of your solar panel installer on the best way to care for your new panels. With their help you should be able to position the panels to help them work as efficiently as possible while avoiding possible damage from trees and shrubs. Reach out to us at SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas if you need help with structural damage to your property.

Monsoon season, storm damage cleanup in Las Vegas

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has been in the cleanup industry for over 15 years in the Las Vegas area.  We have seen almost everything in this area.  This year we are preparing for a worse monsoon season (monsoon seasons have been lasting longer each year). Our technicians are trained weekly and daily on what to look for so we can properly cleanup and mitigate the area and give the homeowner or business owner a peace of mind.  One thing about monsoon season is that it could hit at any time and in any location around the Las Vegas area so without warning your driveway, your backyard or your older roof could be hit with heavy winds and heavy rain which can cause a significant amount of damage to a structure.  So, if your structure has a storm related disaster, make sure to contact someone you know has the knowledge and skill to cleanup your damage needs.

Call us Now: (702) 436-2555

Water Cleanup from a Big Storm

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

Our water restoration technician restoring damage from a storm.

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has been in the Las Vegas area for more than 15 years.  SERVPRO has been providing services for storm damages for over 50 years.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has the latest technology and most up to date knowledge on how to properly handle a storm damage cleanup. We also handle water, fire and mold cleanup and restoration to insure your business or residential structure is back the way it was before.  For any commercial building and residential building, our team can set up an emergency ready plan.  These emergency ready plans can help commercial buildings minimize damages since they are primarily made to speed up the cleanup process.  These profiles are free to set up and can be accessed through the latest technology and also through files which can be stored in a safe place.

Storm Damage Las Vegas, Monsoon

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

When an individual thinks of storm damage they usually relate it to something on the east coast such as a tornado or hurricane which can cause massive amounts of damage to a community, city or town.  SERVPRO of Southwest has helped before in these types of situations but we also help with storm damages here in Las Vegas.  Although the storms here are nothing compared to what you’ll find out east they still do happen.  People who have live in the Vegas area know that rains can seem like buckets of water pouring down from above and that we do get the monsoon season and each year seems to get worse and worse.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas is prepared for all types of water intrusion, fire by lightning and mold created by these situations.  When a storm hits call SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas to handle your storm damage needs

Storm damage cleanup Las Vegas

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Las Vegas is well known for its high temperatures and warm weather.  Being a desert most people who move here are surprised about the storm seasons and the amount of water that can fall within a few minutes.  During the rainy time of the year SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas is ready to handle these types of emergencies.  Mainly these losses occur from flooding by the roof or from the ground in.  SERVPRO specializes in storm damage, our crews are trained and skilled in knowing how to communicate with your insurance company to ensure that your storm damage loss is handled properly with no secondary damages.   Our estimators can come out on site before you file a claim and provide a free estimate and advise on the steps taken to properly handle your loss.

Water Damage Las Vegas, storm

1/13/2019 (Permalink)

Strong winds and rain caused damage to this ceiling

SERVPRO has been in the Water and Fire cleanup industry for over 50 years. SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has been in the Las Vegas area for over 15 years and its owner is a Nevada native. We know that Las Vegas doesn’t always perfect weather and when its tsunami season homes are more susceptible for water damage. In this photo it shows a home where some tiles blew off from a strong wind/rain storm. Water intruded through the roof, affecting the ceiling of the dwelling. SERVPRO was able to safely remove the damaged drywall and expose the framing and dry down the structure in preparation for the build back. The homeowner was extremely happy with the fast response from our crew and most importantly that SERVPRO was able to get the property back to where it was before.

Storm Damage Cleanup, Protecting your home

1/13/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has been helping homeowners with a variety of different storm damage cleanups for over 15 years in the Las Vegas area and SERVPRO as a brand has been helping nationwide for over 50 years. It is important, when handling any type of cleanup, to also focus on the little things. In this photo is shown a SERVPRO crew chief taking care and protecting laminated flooring. Although the flooring was not damaged nor was it located in the area, he was aware that the location would be used for a walking path during demo. With that being said, the crew chief wanted to make sure that we did not damage an unaffected area. The homeowner was very impressed that our SERVPRO team took the time and care to think of everything being done.

Water damage, Las Vegas

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

Penetrating water moisture readers

SERVPRO has been in the water cleanup industry for over 50 years and SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has been in the Las Vegas area for 18 years, which means that SERVPRO knows what equipment to use and most importantly how and when to use this equipment so your residential or commercial building can be mitigated and restored properly. SERVPRO also has moisture reading tools that we use to help us record the dry down evaluations and show that proper dry out was done correctly. SERVPRO has three main tools we use to find these reading: Infrared, non-penetrating moisture reader and penetrating moisture reader. In the photo is show the penetrating moisture reader. The penetrating moisture reader is the one we like to use the most because its pins allow for the best and most accurate reading. The only downfall to this reader is when we need to find moisture behind a hard surface like tile. For tile we use the non-penetrating moisture reader. For more information read about the non-penetrating moisture reader on our website.

Water Damage cleanup, Las Vegas

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas Warehouse. Crates for storage during a water loss

In some cases, during a water damage, a pack out is required. Pack out includes profession boxing, bubble wrapping and inventory of all items in the affected areas. This usually happens when SERVPRO needs to remove damaged flooring throughout a large portion of the house. When large areas of flooring are removed, they must be put back which means items such as couches, tables, china cabinets, TV stands, coffee tables, pianos and other large items need to be placed somewhere safe to help minimize damage and help the contractor properly lay the flooring. SERVPRO has trained technicians and a warehouse able to hold multiple pack outs at a time. After the project is complete SERVPRO will bring these items and place them back in the areas they belong. These pack outs are helpful when a storm damages your dwelling because of a flood.

Water Damage mitigation, Las Vegas

10/15/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage caused by heavy amounts of rain

Water damage isn’t always the busted pipe or failed angle stop or overflowed toilet. Water damage also includes damage caused by storms. Although Las Vegas is known to be hot and dry we do get our hit of the monsoon season which can cause higher levels of humidity and inches to feet of water. Some cases the water will rise above the slab line allowing water to intrude into the structure causing small to large amounts of areas damage. In this photo is shown the aftermath of one of these storms. SERVPRO needed to cut and expose the outside walls and dry the framing properly. Also, SERVPRO placed a small containment to seal a window which might allow the humidity from the outside to affect and slow down the dry out of the inside. SERVPRO was still able to dry out the structure in 3 days which allowed for a quicker build back and a happier customer.

Water Damage, Las Vegas

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Framing exposed and properly dried.

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has been in the water damage cleanup industry for over 50 years and has been in the Las Vegas Valley for over 18. During the rainy season SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas is ready for any size of water damage, whether the cause of loss was due to a faulty roof, improperly installed window or unsealed door SERVPRO has the knowledge and skill to properly mitigate the affected area(s). In this photo is shown the removed damaged drywall. The cause of loss was because of missing tiles from heavy winds and followed by heavy rain. Almost the entire wall needed to be removed to expose the framing and remove the wet insulation. After the framing was properly dried, drywall wall placed and textured and painted.

Storm Damage Las Vegas

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

Last year it seemed like Las Vegas received a lot more rain than normal.  Not only did it seem like we got more rain but when it rained it seemed to rain from every angle.  Sometimes it's hard to see where the water ends or even begins.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has advanced technology to help find and dry the areas before they receive secondary damages.  In this photo a SERVPRO project manager is using an infrared on his phone to help identify the affected areas.  Once these areas are identified SERVPRO will double verify they are wet with a moisture reader, either penetrating or non-penetrating.  Infrareds are helpful but must be double check only because infrareds will identify cold areas only so there could be false readings.  The homeowner was captivated with the technology SERVPRO provided and was impressed with the knowledge portrayed.

Storm Damage Cleanup Las Vegas

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

This year Las Vegas had a lot of wind which usually was followed by rain.  As many of you know when it rains in Vegas it usually will pour!  It's very important to know who to contact when this happens.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has been in the area for over 15 years and SERVPRO has been in the industry for over 50 years.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has the knowledge and proper training to handle all kinds of losses no matter the size.  In this photo is shown a technician working to remove damages ceiling caused by a faulty roof which was hit with this wind/rain storm.  SERVPRO found mold in a few areas and was prepared with our personal protective equipment, PPE, to keep our technicians safe.

Mold Cleanup Las Vegas Complex

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can be hard to find.  In most cases mold is hidden and found when another loss happens.  In this photo it shows an air scrubber used to collect mold spores while doing demo on a job site.  The dwelling complex owner had multiple company's out to bid the project and although SERVPRO came out higher SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas, according to the homeowner SERVPRO "had the most knowledge and felt to be the most trustworthy" in regards to the situation.  While on site SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas identified the affected areas, next they set containments in the appropriate areas and protected items no affect with plastic.  SERVPRO then set the equipment needed which in this case was a couple small air scrubbers in two separate areas on site and then demo with proper cleanup was performed.  After SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas completed the final clean a post testing was done to insure proper remediation was performed. 

Storm Damage Las Vegas

10/17/2017 (Permalink)

For the past few years Las Vegas has been receiving a lot more rain than usual.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has the right people and most importantly the skill and knowledge to handle any king of storm damage.  In this photo multiple storms passed through the area in a matter of days causing damage to this commercial building.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas professionals where able to get on site to stop further damages and after the roofer fixed the damaged roof SERVPRO was able to finish the mitigation and the business was ready sooner than expected.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas knows how important it is to get your dwelling back to where it was before.  We take every job seriously and put it back the way it was before "Like it never even happened."

Storm Damage Las Vegas

10/12/2017 (Permalink)

When it rains in Las Vegas it RAINS.  SERVPRO of Las Vegas is owned and ran by Nevada natives and they know the amounts of water that can drop in this area.  SERVPRO of Las Vegas has the professionals and the equipment to handle any size of storm that hits the Las Vegas valley.  In this photo is shown our penetrating water moister reader and it can be used to detect how wet a material is.  In this photo it is being used on drywall to determine the amount of moister. SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas was able to mark the correct areas using the right tool for the job.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas will always come out to do a free assessment because we want to make sure your home is a safe environment for your family, friends and loved ones.

Storm Damage Las Vegas NV

10/12/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's are individually owned franchises which makes us unique.  In the Las Vegas area there are 6 franchises which gives us the advantage to handle any size of loss.  We also have a storm team located in St. George in case Las Vegas gets hit with a large scale disaster.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has been in the Las Vegas area for over 15 years and has the knowledge and skill to handle any kind of loss.  With most of our team being Nevada/Las Vegas natives we understand that crazy storms that can hit in this area.  In this photo is a garage that had extensive roof damage which caused a large part of the ceiling to get affected.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas was on site immediately after the roofer to open the ceiling and clean and dry the structure in preparation for build back.  

Storm Damage Las Vegas

10/11/2017 (Permalink)

Nobody's home is built perfect, especially in Las Vegas.  Lately extreme storms have been hitting the Las Vegas area.  During the months of July, August and September we have been seeing a huge amount of water land in the Las Vegas area and towns around.  With our non-perfect homes water seems to find its way through every little crack.  In this photo James, a crew chief for SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas, is making a cut above the baseboard line to help detach the baseboard easier. SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas was able to remove the drywall and dry down the structure before mold formed. The homeowner was happy that the loss wasn't as bad as he thought and complimented James for his knowledge and understanding about the situation.

Storm Damage Cleanup, Las Vegas

12/30/2016 (Permalink)

James inspecting the affected areas

High winds and rain is a mix for damage in multiple homes located in Las Vegas.  This is one of the many calls we received during a massive storm in Las Vegas.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas is always prepared and ready for any kind of storm.  This home had a great amount of roof problems caused by high winds and when it rained the rain came through hitting multiple areas within the home.  James is inspecting every part of the home and opening the wet affected areas to allow air flow and prevent secondary damages (mold).  The homeowner was very impressed with the professionalism and thorough inspection that took place.  We were able to find and fix the issue and the homeowner was dry and ready for build back in 3 days.   

Storm Damage, Las Vegas

12/30/2016 (Permalink)

James using the infrared to point out cold (possible wet) areas

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas 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.

In the photo James is showing off our infrared.  Because infrared's are used to find cold spots we use this to help point out areas that possibly could be wet.  We then use our water moisture reader to go over these areas and confirm they are wet.

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 Las Vegas, 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.

Residential Storm Damage Las Vegas NV

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Sam is checking and making sure everything is safe. He is also marking all effected areas

Heavy rains caused water damage in this residential home located in Las Vegas, please remember the following:

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

Commercial Storm Damage Las Vegas NV

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Rafael is detaching and moving baseboard to an unaffected area.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,650 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas will make sure the work is done properly, efficiently and in a timely manner.

Commercial Storm Damage Las Vegas NV

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Pepe removed baseboard and drilled small cavity holes to allow air flow to pass through the walls. He is vacuuming the area from the holes he drilled

No Job Is Too Large

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster.

Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. Get the professionals, call SERVPRO.

Clients for the Commercial Large Loss program include the following:

• The Hospitality Industry
• Property Managers
• Universities
• Municipalities
• The Pentagon

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has experience restoring homes affected by storms and flooding. We can respond immediately with highly trained technicians who employ specialized equipment and techniques to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition.

Commercial Storm Damage Las Vegas NV

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Andres is using a wand and an extractor to remove water caused by heavy rains in Las Vegas NV

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.