In January 2024, Oregon experienced one of its most severe winter storms in recent history. The storm, which lasted from January 11 to 19, brought widespread damage across the state, affecting hundreds of thousands of residents. Homes and businesses endured up to two inches of ice accumulation and deep, penetrating freezing temperatures, combined with strong winds that knocked down thousands of trees. This resulted in widespread power and heat outages, tens of thousands of broken pipes, and significant flooding. Amidst the chaos, Oregon Restoration, led by President Ryan Gilyeat and the leadership team of co-owners, Lourdes Zazueta, Ambrosio Estrada, and Gary Shaw, stepped in to help those affected.
Oregon Restoration’s team of certified technicians worked tirelessly through the storm and its aftermath, providing critical restoration services. For six consecutive weeks, the team was on-site 24/7, addressing the needs of homes and businesses that had suffered significant damage, particularly in the Portland metro area. The technicians faced hazardous conditions, including icy roads and power outages, providing every client the fastest possible attention. The company’s professionalism extended beyond mitigation and repairs—they also managed the complex insurance claims, easing the burden on their clients during a time of great stress.
Our focus on continuous learning and professional development is key to maintaining our industry-leading standards
“Our team worked hard to reassure clients and provide both practical solutions and emotional support,” says Gilyeat. “Even as the workload grew, every team member prioritized clear and compassionate communication with our clients.” This commitment to transparency and high-quality service has solidified Oregon Restoration as not just a service provider but a trusted partner in times of crisis.
Taking a Forward-Thinking Approach
Oregon Restoration’s approach to property restoration goes beyond quick fixes. Gilyeat emphasizes the importance of addressing foundational issues to prevent long-term damage.
“Our technicians are trained to be problem solvers. They approach property damage holistically, looking beyond immediate repairs to identify root causes and prevent potential future risks. This ensures that the repairs we perform are lasting solutions, not temporary patches,” he explains.
This forward-thinking approach sets Oregon Restoration apart in the restoration industry. The company’s technicians are highly trained, with certifications in a range of specialties from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), including applied microbial remediation, fire and smoke damage restoration, and commercial drying. These qualifications, plus their teamwork and experience, equip the team to handle various types of property damage, whether caused by water, fire, or other hazards.
“Our focus on continuous learning and professional development is key to maintaining our industry-leading standards,” Gilyeat notes.
Challenge Becomes Triumph
Oregon Restoration’s dedication to team development is reflected in their weekly internal training sessions, where senior staff lead workshops on technical and customer service skills. By investing in their people, Oregon Restoration ensures that clients receive the highest level of service. It’s no surprise the company has been named one of the “100 Best Companies to Work for in Oregon” for six consecutive years, ranking #2 among medium-sized businesses in 2023.
One of the company’s notable cases following the January storm involved homeowner Judy Kniss, whose crawlspace suffered severe water damage from a burst pipe that had gone undetected for months. By the time the issue was discovered, the Category 3 water had caused structural rot and extensive damage to the exterior siding and entire subflooring of her home. The challenge wasn’t limited to the physical repairs—it was demonstrating to the insurance carrier that the damage was directly caused by the storm.
Ricky Lovejoy, an Oregon Restoration project manager, took the lead in advocating for Judy with her insurer. He documented site conditions and organized a walkthrough with the insurance adjuster, using his expertise to prove that the pipe burst resulted from the storm’s freezing temperatures.
“Ricky’s knowledge and dedication were invaluable,” Judy recalls. “He handled everything with precision, from the technical aspects of the repair to ensuring my insurance claim was approved.” Thanks to Oregon Restoration’s advocacy, Judy’s home was fully restored.
Building Bonds through Shared Experiences
Beyond individual projects, Oregon Restoration prides itself on fostering a strong, positive work culture. The company organizes events like an annual whitewater rafting trip and family camping excursions, which strengthen team camaraderie and translate into better collaboration on the job.
“A strong team is essential to delivering the best possible service,” says Gilyeat. “We believe in building bonds through shared experiences and maintaining a work environment that supports both professional and personal growth.”
Oregon Restoration’s commitment to service and quality has earned them wide recognition, including the 2024 U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Portland District Director’s Award for Excellence. The award, presented to Ryan Gilyeat and Lourdes Zazueta, is a testament to the company’s outstanding contributions to the community and leadership in the restoration industry.
At the heart of Oregon Restoration’s success is a genuine care for clients. Whether responding to natural disasters or providing routine property maintenance, the team takes pride in being more than just a service provider. They are partners in recovery, committed to helping clients navigate the complexities of property restoration while building resilience for the future.
As weather patterns continue to change, the need for companies like Oregon Restoration will only grow. By staying at the forefront of industry standards, continuously developing their team, and maintaining an unwavering commitment to client satisfaction, the company is well-positioned to meet the challenges ahead. In times of crisis, their clients know they can count on a team that provides not only solutions but also peace of mind.
