Posts by Micah Somarriba

Grandson of a builder, Micah started Dry Express Restoration to continue his grandfather’s desire to help customers in need by improving their quality of life through home improvements.

How is containment done in mold remediation and why is it important? Why is it important to place plastic around an area with mold damage? Is it really necessary?

containment setup

Mold remediation is no joke.  The issues arises when a customer asks what is “overboard” and what is “needed.”  That is a very difficult question to answer…..consider the following examples: Example 1:  Empty commercial building with 9 SF of mold growth near an exterior roll up door.  Most individuals may say, well just clean it off the drywall and be done with it.  That could be the case.  But what needs to be first addressed outside of the cost is who is going to occupy that … [Read more...]

What standards are used for mold remediation and how is mold remediation completed correctly?

The US Federal Government does not have a standard for mold remediation.  The process and certification has been put up to the individual states and cities.  And as of March, 2013 the only states that have adopted a written regulations are in Texas (Mold assessment and Remediation Rules (May 16, 2004)), Florida (SB 2234: Mold Inspection and Remediation Licensing (2007)), Maryland (House Bill 107 (2008) Mold Remediation Services Licensing), and New York.  California (SB 732 – Toxic Mold … [Read more...]

Leaky bath tub or shower

We have a lot of customers that call about issues with wet ceiling drywall in San Diego County. This is a water damage remediation related issue. Many times it is a leaky bath tub, leaky  pipe, broken pipe, or a leaky drain pipe. Many other times we see it as an issue with tile on showers or an overflow drain of a bathtub or a drain connection at the bathtub. Similarly it can be an issue with leaky valve or a toilet drain seal. Issues with leaky bath tubs an other related issues can be … [Read more...]

IMMEDIATE drying equipment to your home – rain and wind damage

Water damage equipment rain water damage drywall damage roof damage drying

With the rain storms this winter in San Diego County there are many things you can do yourself to protect your home or business from flooding: Sandbags – use to block doorways from water entering Tarps – to cover your roof in case water enters in through shingles Wet / Dry Vacuums – to pick up excess water in case it does enter the home Floor squeegees & shop brooms -  to push excess water out Large towels – to soak up excess water Plastic bags & aluminum foil – … [Read more...]

FIRE DAMAGE – Easy steps to protect your home – 888-DRY-EXPRESS

An ounce of prevention can result in a ton of savings to your home and health……   What are the primary causes of residential fires?...... -          Sparks and open flames (e.g. wood burning, electronics) -          Fixtures and electrical wiring (e.g. lighting, switches / plugs) -          Smoking -          Cooking -          Ignition due to low temperature (e.g. lamps next to combustible material)   What are some … [Read more...]

Recent San Diego Wildfires Serve as a Fire Danger Reminder

Fire is an awesome force that cannot always be contained. A single spark can unleash fast moving fires that will engulf homes, businesses and anything else in its path. Residents around San Diego are currently struggling with fast moving wildfires that have already destroyed 20 homes, threaten hundreds more and killed at least one person. Gusting winds and dry conditions make the fires nearly impossible to contain as they consume hilly brushlands and rush across the area. Whether you live in the … [Read more...]

Fire Prevention Tips for the Desert Dweller

Desert Home Fire Prevention

The austere beauty of the desert holds a special allure for many people, but the dramatic landscape requires some accommodations from residents in order to co-exist peacefully with the landscape. With the low humidity, dry, sometimes fierce, winds, and extreme temperatures, wildfires are a major concern. The desert dweller has a number of ways to protect their home and help with fire damage prevention. Landscaping choices are perhaps the most important weapon in the fire prevention … [Read more...]

The Proper Course of Action to Take After a Small or Large House Fire

Fire Damage

Relief may be your first reaction after a small house fire. The home was saved and no one was hurt. It doesn't take long, however, for other emotions to come into play. Is the structure of the home safe? Can belongings be salvaged from fire damage? Will home insurance cover the expense of repairs? After a fire, it's critical to take proper precautionary steps to ensure your family's safety and to return your life to normalcy as quickly as possible. These six tips can help. 1. Call the Fire … [Read more...]

What to do if you have running water damage

Running Water Damage

Imagine for a moment what it would be like if you were to come home, late one evening, from a long day at work, only to discover the ominous sound of water running from somewhere in your house. Then, when you enter the kitchen, you notice that it is not only flooded, but that water is pouring down from the bathroom up above, soaking your floors and ruining your appliances and kitchen cabinets. When you run upstairs to the bathroom, the situation becomes even worse than you thought. A pipe has … [Read more...]

San Diego Real Estate Market recovery still slow but steady.

San Diego Real Estate

The real estate market in San Diego is continuing its slow recovery, which is evidenced by a 2 percent increase in recent sales prices. The Case-Shiller index shows prices trending upward through April this year in medium and high range homes. More recently, increased activity in low to moderate priced home sales is causing a slight price rise in some neighborhoods. This trend largely reflects excitement about perceived bargains on bank owned and other distressed properties. Housing stock is … [Read more...]