Spring Showers, Spring Floods: Protecting Your Property with Expert Water Damage Restoration.

3/10/2025 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO OF VANCOUVER EAST-WEST CLARK COUNTY This Spring for All Your Water Damage Restoration Needs (360) 254-0049

Spring's arrival brings warmer weather and blooming flowers, but it also signals the start of increased rainfall and potential flooding. After a long winter, melting snow and spring showers can quickly overwhelm drainage systems, leading to unexpected water damage. As the thaw begins, it's crucial to be prepared and understand the importance of prompt water removal, mitigation, and restoration. 

Spring's Hidden Dangers:

• Increased Rainfall: Spring showers can be intense, leading to roof leaks and overflowing gutters.
• Melting Snow: Snowmelt can saturate the ground, causing foundation leaks and basement flooding.
• Frozen Pipe Thaws: Pipes that froze during winter can crack and burst as they thaw, causing significant water damage.
• Overflowing Rivers and Streams: Spring runoff can cause rivers and streams to overflow, leading to widespread flooding.

Why Spring Demands Swift Action:

With warmer temperatures, mold growth accelerates. Prompt water removal and mitigation are critical to preventing this. Don't let spring's beauty be overshadowed by water damage.

Our Spring Water Damage Solutions:

• Rapid Response: We understand the urgency of spring water damage and offer 24/7 emergency services.
• Comprehensive Water Removal: Powerful pumps and extraction equipment to eliminate standing water quickly.
• Effective Water Mitigation: We'll address the source of the problem and prevent further damage.
• Thorough Restoration: From drying and sanitization to repairs and reconstruction, we'll restore your property to its pre-damaged condition.

Don't let spring's unpredictable weather catch you off guard. Contact SERVPRO Vancouver East-West Clark County today for expert water damage restoration services and protect your property from the risks of spring flooding.

Strengthening Our Community: SERVPRO of E. /W. Vancouver Celebrates Haven Treatment Center’s Ribbon Cutting

2/25/2025 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of E. /W. Vancouver Was Proud to Participate in Today's Ribbon Crossing for Haven Treatment Center

At SERVPRO of E. /W. Vancouver, we believe in more than just restoring homes and businesses. We believe in building a stronger and more resilient community. That’s why we were honored to participate in today’s ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Haven Treatment Center, a sanctuary for displaced foster care youth and at-risk individuals in our very own Clark County. The Haven Treatment Center is a testament to compassion and community support. Their goal is to provide support that helps young individuals transition successfully into adulthood.

Our presence at the Haven Treatment Center’s ribbon cutting wasn’t just about promoting our services. It was about demonstrating our unwavering commitment to the greater Vancouver area. At our booth, we had the opportunity to connect with attendees, sharing information about how SERVPRO of E. /W. Vancouver can help in times of crisis. Whether it's water damage, fire damage, mold remediation or storm damage, we’re here to provide fast, reliable and professional restoration services.

Why Community Ties Matter to SERVPRO

We’re not just a national brand; we’re your neighbors. We live and work in the same community as you do. We understand the unique challenges faced by residents of Vancouver. That’s why we are dedicated to:

• Supporting Local Initiatives: We actively seek opportunities to partner with organizations like Haven Treatment Center that have a positive impact on our community.
• Building Strong Relationships: We believe in fostering long-term relationships with our customers and community members.
• Providing Quick and Reliable Services: When disaster strikes, you need a team you can trust. We’re committed to providing prompt and efficient restoration services to get your life back to normal as soon as possible.
• Being a Resource: We want to be a resource for our community, offering valuable information and support during challenging times.

When you choose SERVPRO of E. /W. Vancouver, you’re not just choosing a restoration company; you’re choosing a partner who cares about your well-being and the well-being of our community.

If you are facing a disaster, don’t hesitate to contact SERVPRO of E. /W. Vancouver. We’re available 24/7 to help you restore your property “Like It Never Even Happened.”

What to Do When You Discover Water Damage in Your Home

2/21/2025 (Permalink)

For All Your Water Damage Restoration Needs, Call SERVPRO of E. /W. Vancouver at (360) 254-0049

Discovering water damage in your home can be stressful. Whether it comes from a burst pipe, a leaky roof or flooding, it is important to act quickly in order to minimize damage and prevent further problems such as mold growth. If you ever experience water damage, here are some immediate steps to take.

Safety First

• If there is an electrical danger nearby, turn off the power at the main breaker.
• Avoid walking through deep water where electrical hazards may be present.

Stop the Source

• If possible, identify the sources of the water damage. This may include turning the water valve off or patching a leak.

Remove Excess Water

• Use towels, mops or a wet vacuum to remove as much excess water as possible.

Documenting the Damages

• Take pictures and videos of the affected areas for insurance purposes.

Call the Professionals

• Contact SERVPRO of E. /W. Vancouver immediately. Prompt action from our professionals can prevent long-term damage. 

Water damage can escalate rapidly, so don’t delay. Our team at SERVPRO of E. /W. Vancouver is available 24/7 and is here to provide fast and reliable water restoration services in Vancouver and Clark County. 

Is That Black Mold? Understanding the Risks and Importance of Remediation

2/21/2025 (Permalink)

Black Mold Appears as Dark, Slimy patches with a Fuzzy Texture, Often Exhibiting a Greenish-Black Color

Discovering mold in your house can be alarming, especially if it appears black. Many homeowners in Vancouver worry about black mold, and rightfully so. Although not all dark-colored mold is toxic, all mold can create health risks and damage your property. Here’s what you need to know

Identifying Potential Mold Issues

• Visible Growth: Dark spots, discoloration and a musty smell are often indicators of mold development.
• Water Damage: Past or present leaks, floods, or high humidity create an ideal environment for mold to grow.
• Health Symptoms: Unexplained allergies, respiratory issues, or headaches could be linked to mold exposure.

Why SERVPRO’s Professional Mold Remediation Matters

• Accurate Identification: Our technicians can identify if mold is present inside your home.
• Safe Removal: SERVPRO of E. /W. Vancouver has the specialized equipment and techniques to eliminate any mold present and prevent further spread.
• Protecting Your Health: Mold spores can trigger allergies and respiratory problems. SERVPRO’s remediation minimizes exposure to mold.

If you suspect mold in your Vancouver home, don’t wait. Contact SERVPRO of E. /W. Vancouver for a thorough mold inspection and professional remediation services. We understand the importance of a healthy home, and are committed to providing expert mold remediation services that effectively eliminate mold, returning your home to its pre-damaged state “Like it Never Even Happened.”

6 Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Winter Storm

2/19/2025 (Permalink)

For All Your Winter Storm Restoration needs, Call SERVPRO of E. /W. Vancouver at (360) 254-0049

Winter storms can wreak havoc on homes this time of year, but proactive homeowners can take measures that can minimize the damage. Here are six tips to keep your home safe this winter season.

1.) Protect Your Pipes

Frozen pipes are a massive headache and can lead to significant water damage in your home. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated places such as your garage and crawlspace. It’s also recommended that you let your faucets drip and leave the cabinet doors under your sink open to allow warm air to circulate.

2.) Clear Your Gutters

Cold gutters can lead to the development of ice dams, which can cause roof leaks and structural damage to your home. By cleaning your gutters and downspouts before a winter storm, you help ensure that your home has proper drainage.

3.) Trim Your Trees

Branches overhanging your home weighted down by snow may eventually snap and damage your roof or power lines. Trim any branches from trees or bushes near your home to prevent damage.

4.) Seal the Gaps

Cold air from the outside can enter through cracks around your windows and doors, which can drive up your heading cost and lead to frozen pipe. Seal up all gaps with weather stripping or caulk.

5.) Check Your Roof

Look for any loose shingles or signs of damage on your roof. Your roof is your first line of defense against the elements outside. Also, consider getting a roof rake to remove any excess snow sitting on top of your roof.

6.) Power Up

In case of any power outages caused by a storm, have flashlights, batteries and a generator ready. Make sure to test your generator beforehand to make sure it works and know how to use it safely.

By taking these precautions, you can help your home stay strong throughout the winter storm.

However, even with the best of preparation, winter storms can sometimes cause unexpected damage. If your home suffers from water damage and any other storm-related damage, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of E. /W. Vancouver. We’re here to help with all your cleanup and restoration needs to get your home back to its pre-storm conditions, quickly and efficiently, like if it never happened.

Fire Damage Protocol

8/7/2024 (Permalink)

A bedroom showing visible fire damage with soot coating the walls

If you’re dealing with fire damage, it’s important to address both the immediate and long-term impacts to ensure safety and facilitate recovery. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process:

Immediately After a Fire

1. Ensure Safety
• Do Not Enter: Only re-enter your property when authorities declare it safe.
• Check for Hazards: Look for structural damage, gas leaks, and electrical issues before re-entering.
2. Contact Authorities and Insurance
• Fire Department: Obtain a copy of the fire report.
• Insurance Company: Report the damage and start the claims process. Provide detailed information and documentation.

• Call SERVPRO Vancouver E./W.

• Dial (360)254-0049 to reach the office for assistance and information 
1. Document Damage
• Photographs and Videos: Capture all damage to help with insurance claims and recovery.
• Inventory: List damaged or destroyed items for insurance purposes.
2. Secure the Property
• Board Up: If windows and doors are damaged, board them up to prevent further entry and vandalism.
• Cover Roof and Walls: Use tarps or other protective coverings to prevent weather damage.

Cleanup and Restoration

1. Remove Debris
• Safety First: Wear protective gear (gloves, masks, etc.) to avoid injury from debris and exposure to hazardous materials.
• Salvage Items: Separate salvageable items from debris. Be cautious with items that may be contaminated or hazardous.
2. Address Smoke and Soot Damage
• Ventilation: Open windows and use fans to ventilate and reduce smoke odor.
• Clean Surfaces: Use specialized cleaners for soot and smoke residue. Avoid using regular cleaning products that can push soot deeper into surfaces.
3. Inspect for Water Damage
• Check for Leaks: Firefighting efforts can lead to water damage. Inspect for leaks, mold, and mildew.
• Dry Out: Use dehumidifiers and fans to dry out affected areas.

Handling fire damage requires a careful approach to ensure safety, address immediate concerns, and plan for recovery. SERVPRO Vancouver E./W. is here to help you manage these steps!

Commercial Spring Cleaning!

5/1/2024 (Permalink)

Spring cleaning time is here, and that does not just include your home. As we head back to work, we know people will be spending more time at work than they do at home. Commercial properties deserve a thorough cleaning as well. This season brings allergies, coughing, sneezing and the buildup of dust is inevitable. From floor to ceiling we will clean your carpets, wipe down your fans, and disinfect during the process. We Are Here To Help! 

With the recent COVID-19 outbreak we understand that many employees are not comfortable going back to their place of employment as well as clients and customers coming in to shop. We are currently disinfecting and cleaning commercial properties to help you feel safe. We follow all of the CDC guidelines and we focus on wiping down touch points such as: 

• Phones
• Keypad
• Handsets
• Buttons on Equipment
• Desk-tops
• Knobs and Handles
• Light Switches
• Computer mouse and keypad

We also go around spraying with our top of the line electrostatic sprayer to make sure we hit points such as: 

• Windows
• Tops of cubicles
• File cabinets, desktops
• Behind furniture
• Around equipment
• Under desk

Commercial Services

5/1/2024 (Permalink)

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

Commercial Building Restoration Services

SERVPRO of W. Vancouver / Clark Co. responds quickly to your Vancouver fire, water, or mold damage emergency, 24 hours a day. Whether the damage occurs in a small business building or a big box store, we have the training, experience, and equipment to handle the situation. Our national network of 1,700 Franchises gives us access to personnel and resources to respond to any size restoration emergency. Learn more about our commercial restoration services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm Damage Cleanup
• Disaster Recovery Team

Commercial Building Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of W. Vancouver / Clark Co. offers professional cleaning and preventative maintenance for your carpet and upholstery that keeps your property looking its best. Our cleaning system offers a number of specialized cleaning options to match your needs. Whether your business needs a deep cleaning or a persistent odor removed, you can trust SERVPRO of W. Vancouver / Clark Co.. Learn more about our commercial cleaning services:

• Commercial Cleaning Services

What is Water Mitigation?

8/29/2023 (Permalink)

Water mitigation refers to the process of reducing or preventing the damage caused by water in a property. This can include water damage caused by floods, leaks, burst pipes, or other sources of water intrusion.

The first step in water mitigation is to identify the source of the water and stop it from entering the property. Once the source has been identified and stopped, the next step is to remove any standing water and dry out the affected areas.

This can involve using specialized equipment such as dehumidifiers, air movers, and moisture meters to ensure that all moisture has been removed from the property. It is important to act quickly in water mitigation to prevent further damage and the growth of mold and mildew.

In addition to drying out the property, water mitigation may also involve repairing any damage caused by the water, such as replacing damaged drywall or flooring.

Overall, water mitigation is an important process for protecting your property from the damaging effects of water. If you experience water damage in your home or business, it is important to contact a professional water mitigation company to help you with the cleanup and restoration process.

Top 3 Things to Throw Out After a Fire

8/29/2023 (Permalink)

Fire damage left in the aftermath of a residential kitchen fire

Items that Need to Be Thrown Out After a Fire
When a fire occurs in your home in Salmon Creek, WA, the process of cleaning up can be daunting. Often, people are unsure of what to throw away. There are several types of items that are often damaged in fires, and they commonly need to be thrown out.

1. Cosmetics

Cosmetics, even if they are packaged, generally need to be stored in clean, cool environments to remain in good condition. Unfortunately, high heat from a fire can cause the packaging of many items, and the items themselves, to melt. As a result, smoke and soot can easily damage the cosmetics, making them unsafe to use.

2. Food

After a fire, it’s often best to throw away the majority of food items in your home. Though some items may be visibly damaged, especially if the fire occurred in the kitchen, some pieces of food may appear to be unharmed. However, even if items are canned or wrapped up, smoke and soot can still affect the quality of food, and consuming food that has been harmed by soot or smoke damage can be hazardous. If you’re unsure whether or not food has been harmed, it’s generally best to discard the item.

3. Medication

Many medications need to be stored in relatively cool environments, and some medications may need to be stored in a refrigerator. During a fire, the temperature in a house can quickly rise. The high heat from a fire can damage the overall quality of the medication, which can ultimately make the medication ineffective and unsafe to consume. If you can document the medications that need to be replaced, you may be able to receive compensation from your insurance company.

Knowing that you may need to throw away cosmetics, food, and medication after a fire can help make the process of sorting through your belongings easier. Often, homeowners whose homes have sustained damage from fires find it useful to work with fire damage restoration experts.