Grease Fire Safety Tips

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

Statistically there are 160,000 Home fires annually, 2/3 of these fires (66%) are caused by cooking and the majority starting from a grease fire. The following are a few SERVPRO tips for safety surrounding grease fires:

• NEVER TRY TO PUT OUT A GREASE FIRE WITH WATER
• Cover the fire with a large metal lid
• If there's no lid nearby, douse the fire with salt or baking soda
• Turn off the heat source if possible
• As a last resort, use a fire extinguisher

Always be careful and vigilant in the kitchen! If you do find yourself dealing with the aftermath of a kitchen fire call SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake ASAP and we will be there to help you every step of the way!

Are Your Alarms Ready?

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

Having functioning fire alarms in your house is one if the most important things you can do to stay prepared if a fire did happen. It is a small item that can tend to be overlooked but with just a few minutes of your time it could save yours and your families lives.

According to www.cpsc.gov, here is why smoke alarms are so important and where in your home they should be placed 

Why Are Smoke Alarms Important?

Every year in the United States, about 2,000 people lose their lives in residential fires. During a fire, smoke and deadly gases tend to spread further and faster than heat. This is one reason why most fire victims die from inhalation of smoke and toxic gases, not from burns. A majority of fatal fires happen when families are asleep because occupants are unaware of the fire until there is not adequate time to escape. A smoke alarm stands guard around the clock, and when it first senses smoke, it sounds a shrill alarm. This often allows a family the precious, but limited, time needed to escape. About two-thirds of home fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.  Properly installed and maintained smoke alarms are considered to be one of the best and least expensive means of providing an early warning of a potentially deadly fire and could reduce by almost half the risk of dying from a fire in your home. 

Where Should Smoke Alarms be Installed? 

Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home, outside sleeping areas, and inside bedrooms A smoke alarm should be installed and maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions. When installing a smoke alarm, many factors influence where you will place the alarm, including how many are to be installed.  Consider placing alarms along your escape path to assist in egress in limited-visibility conditions. In general, you should place alarms in the center of a ceiling or, if you place them on a wall, they should be near the ceiling.

3 Ways to Mitigate Roof Damage

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

When you live in Fresno NE/Shaver Lake roof damage may occur due to varying weather conditions. It's important to do what you can to mitigate any potential problems before they leave lasting damage to your home. Some things you can do include

1. Regularly Inspect your Roof

Performing a regular inspection of your roof can allow you to look for any water, storm or wind damage that may have occurred. Many experts recommend having an inspection performed biannually. You may also want to look a roof over after any severe storms or weather.

2. Take Care of Problems As they Occur

One important mitigation tip to keep in mind when dealing with roof damage is to take care of any problems as they occur. This may keep a small problem from turning into a larger issue down the road, and also keep you in compliance with your homeowner’s insurance policy. Additionally, making small repairs as necessary may help prevent a costly roof replacement down the road.

3. Contact a Professional

If you are unsure how to properly care for a roof, or what repair sets may be necessary for any damage you may find, then you may want to contact a storm damage restoration professional. A professional service often has the equipment, materials and tools necessary to perform any repairs as efficiently and safely as possible. They should also be able to answer any questions or concerns you may have about your roof.

If you're worried about roof damage to your Frenso NE/Shaver Lake home, you may want to consider taking some of these steps mitigate potential problems. Doing a regular roof inspection will it allow you to be aware of the condition of your roof and take care of any problems as they occur. If you have any doubt as to the severity of the damage or what steps may need to be taken, a professional may be able to help.

SERVPRO Can Dry Out Your Crawlspace

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

To dry out a crawlspace we first have to remove the water. Our SERVPRO technicians understand that can mean multiple, water-filled low spots. It can be difficult to bring in hoses even in a large crawl space to syphon out the pooling water. 
 
The next step is to lower the humidity as much as possible. Bringing in a dehumidifier is not usually an option, just like pump hoses. We can set up dehumidifiers with flexible plastic conduits to direct the moist air from the space to the exterior. We can also place containers with chemical desiccants in the crawlspace to absorb water from the air. If possible, we set up an air mover above the crawlspace and blow in warm, dry air to displace the damp air we attempt to draw out using an exhaust fan. 
 
Now that we removed the water, our technicians encapsulate the crawlspace once the moisture level and soil dampness have been reduced to normal levels. We cover the dirt floor with polyethylene sheets and a polyester mesh for reinforcement. This 12 mil plastic guard covering prevents moisture from leeching up from the ground. 
 
After a foundation expert finishes sealing the walls, the polyethylene sheets and polyester mesh floor are sealed to them with waterproof, foundation tape. 
 
Drying out a wet crawlspace is not an easy task. It takes a professional service to remove the water and prevent further intrusion from happening in the future. To see how we can protect your home, call SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake today at 559-797-4041

Water Category Affects Treatment Plans

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

Not all water damage is the same!

To most homeowners in the Fresno NE/Shaver Lake are, water damage is all the same. It is a nightmare situation that disrupts daily routines and makes life rather difficult. Depending on where the flooding or intruding water came from, treatment options can vary based off of contamination level.

The information below explains the main types of water damage and could help you identify the problem quickly if it ever happens to you.

Category One: Clear Water 

This water is the cleanest, most non-toxic form of water damage. It is potable water, perhaps directly from the tap. It is unlikely to cause you any harm, even if you are exposed for some time. Nevertheless, even clean flooding can lead to electrical and structural faults, so it is safer you to call in the experts for repairs. Clean water comes from things like a broken water supply line, tub or sink overflow with no contaminants, appliance malfunctions involving water-supply lines to name a few. However, once clean water leaves the exit point, it might not remain clean after contacting other surfaces or materials. Although it is considered the "safest" of the categories, it can degrade to category 2 or 3 if left untreated.

Category Two: Gray Water 

Water Damage Needs Immediate Response

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

When flooding and other water disasters affect your Fresno/Shaver Lake home and family, you don't want to wait hours or even days for regular business hours. You need solutions immediately. SERVPRO water damage mitigation professionals offer 24-hour emergency response services. This means that if a pipe bursts on a holiday, technicians are available to respond. If heavy storm damages leave your home exposed to flooding, a fast response could prevent further harm.

You Can't Wait a Single Day

The first hours after your home is affected by water damage, many things begin to happen.

• Furniture swells and breaks down.
• Metal items tarnish and rust.
• Fabric and paper items become stained.
• Mold or mildew take hold.
• Drywall weakens and swells.
  
  

An immediate response puts the progression of damage on hold while a corrective course of action is put into place.

It's Expensive To Delay

Many situations requiring cleaning and restoration must be addressed immediately. This is because water damage takes place within minutes. Within a short 60-second period, walls, floors, and upholstery absorb water. Finishes on tables and chairs begin to bleed. Cherished photographs start to warp and discolor. If you have to wait more than a 24-hour period for professionals to arrive, the damage becomes much harder to address.

If you have to wait just two days for services, mold may begin to spread. Important framing may warp. Metal fixtures begin to corrode. Paint blisters and wood flooring swells. As damage increases, the efforts and cost of restoring your home increase rapidly. In some cases, the structural safety of your home could be affected.

What a Quick Response Looks Like

SERVPRO franchises in the Fresno/Shaver Lake area, are always open, so technicians are ready to respond within a single hour. Before four hours pass, professionals will be at your home. Within eight hours, a plan of action will be in place, and you will be well on your way to getting back on track. A fast response to flooding is crucial; take advantage of 24-hour availability for the protection of your home.

SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

All of us at SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake have years of experience dealing with damaged property. After any size of disaster we respond quickly with professionalism and courtesy. Our technicians, crew chiefs, office personnel, marketing team, and ownership have banded together to give a customer experience that is top notch. We handle your insurance claim and adjusters throughout the process to ensure everything goes smoothly without causing you any undue stress. We have the most modern equipment in our industry and we use it to speed dry times and save materials like wood floors and carpet. So if you experience any water, fire, mold, or biohazard loss... Call the PROs! 

Destroy Odors With Deodorization

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

A Common Problem

We’ve all experienced it. You walk through the door and run right into a wall of odor. Sometimes, it’s when you’re returning to your building after a damaging event. Sometimes it’s when you’re moving into a facility with a pungent past. 

Don’t live with a smell that can turn away customers or guests. When SERVPRO® says that we make it “Like it never even happened,” that includes odors. 

Even a small fire or flood can leave odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard-to-reach places that could cause odors for years to come.

A Science-Based Solution

A prompt, professional cleaning will remove these residues and prevent permanent odor. SERVPRO® technicians don’t cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the source of the odor. Once the source is found, SERVPRO’s own proprietary line of cleaning products is used to treat and prevent the odor from returning.

Any restorable item in the affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts and more.

If your home or business has suffered a fire or some other accident, don’t live with the damage. Call SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake to find out what we can do for you. We’re here to help.

What You Can Do When a Storm Floods the Office Space of Your Fresno or Shaver Lake Home

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

Heavy rainfall can cause flood damage, especially during a particularly severe storm. There are many ways that water can get inside of your home or business during a storm, but one of the most common is debris. A storm with high winds can cause rocks, tree branches, and even lawn chairs to break the windows of your home or business, allowing floodwaters to seep inside. When the waters seep into your basement office space, it can seem like an utter nightmare. Your computer is there along with all of the electrical wiring to make your electronics function. Luckily, professional help is nearby to get your office back to its pre-storm state quickly.

Damaging flood water can seep into your Fort Worth home swiftly and soak into your belongings, such as the wood of your desk or the fibers of your carpet. Our technicians know how vital it is to respond to water damage as quickly as possible, as it worsens the longer it sits and can lead to mold growth. We strive to try and get to your home as soon as we possibly can after receiving your call so that we may begin the remediation process and remove the floodwaters causing damage.

SERVPRO can bring advanced tools like truck-operated pumps and powerful wet/dry vacuums to remove the water from your basement office space. We can use moisture meters to determine the level of moisture in the space and identify the most impacted areas. Afterward, we can employ the right tools to dry out your carpet, floors, the base of your walls, and the legs of your desk.

Floods can bring unsanitary water with them. SERVPRO can inspect and measure the safety of the water that has flooded your home. Should the water be toxic, we can rip up the carpets in your office and throw them out for you as they cannot be kept once contaminated. Afterward, SERVPRO can help you find a contractor to replace the carpeting in your office space. We strive to do whatever we can to return your home to its preloss stage.

When your home has been overrun with damaging floodwaters, do not wait. Call SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake at 559-797-4041. We can send our technicians to your home as soon as possible.

Managing Flood Damage

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

Here are some tips you can follow to manage flood damage in your Fort Worth business:

Safety First!

• Do not enter the building until a professional has cleared it if you believe that it has been structurally damaged or if there a flood risk remains.
• Do not go anywhere near downed power lines or any standing water or metal objects near these downed wires. Stay away from damaged trees, and do not wade into floodwaters.
• Avoid using open flames, especially indoors. Keep a fire extinguisher handy.
• Once the worst has passed, assess any and all damage that the building has received. Inspect every part of the property for possible destruction, including machinery, making sure to avoid standing water or using electricity. 
• Do not climb onto your roof unless the building has been deemed structurally sound, and practice precaution when climbing and working on ladders.
• If using a chainsaw to cut fallen or damaged trees or branches, take precautions to ensure they do not cause any more damage when they fall.
• Remove any wet material, such as rugs or carpets, and properly dry them out to prevent mold from establishing itself. Dry your premises by opening windows and doors; it can be helpful to have fans running if it can be done safely. 
• You are at risk for mold within the first 24-48 hours following a flood, so it is vital to remove the water as soon as possible and start remediation. Flooding poses a risk to drywall, support beams, and foundations, as well, and floodwater can also contain dangerous contaminants and sewage so it must be avoided.
• Keep track of everything that was destroyed or damaged in the storm by documenting it through photos or videos along with putting together a list of broken items. You will need this list for insurance purposes.

Cleaning Up After a Leaking Roof

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

Water stains in dropped ceilings, tracking down the wall or dripping in a hallway are all signs that your commercial building has a roof leak. Even minor exposure can be a major inconvenience.

What Causes Roofing Leaks

As water flows outward from the leak point, its exact location can be challenging to identify. Some common causes include:

• Age of the roof
• Debris building up and trapping water against the roof
• Gutter backup slowing water flows off the roof
• Missing shingles that may have been ripped off in high winds

Water Damage Cleanup

Once the location of roof leak has been identified and the damaged roof fixed, it’s time to begin water damage cleanup. Depending on the site and severity of the leak, this can be extensive. Although each situation may be a bit different, some common steps must be taken.

1. Remove water-damaged materials.
• From the exterior: Shingles, tarpaper, plywood, flashing, etc.
• From the interior: Fiberglass insulation, drywall, dropped ceilings, carpeting/flooring, etc.

2. Dry water affected areas.
• If appliances or equipment were exposed to water, unplug them and let them air dry.
• Open windows if it’s less humid outside than inside.
• Use fans to speed the drying process.
• Check for mold growth.

3. Disinfect areas exposed to the water
• Wash nonporous hard surfaces such as glass, plastic, and metal with hot water and a non-ammonia soap
• Disinfect all exposed surfaces including wood beams and studs with a bleach solution.
• Clean soft surfaces such as furniture, window coverings and carpeting with a disinfecting cleaner

Recovering from a roof leak and restoring roof and ceilings can be a time-consuming, complex process. Water damage restoration specialists in the Fresno NE/Shaver Lake area, can ensure the process is done quickly and thoroughly, allowing you to get back to business.

What to Know About Black Water

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to dealing with flood water in the Fresno NE/Shaver Lake area, it's important to know that this type of water often falls into the black category. This can become a factor in many cleanup operations. It is important to understand where the water comes from and what to do if flooding occurs in your home or business.

Where Black Water Comes From

Contaminated water, otherwise known as black water, is any water that may have come in contact with fecal matter. This may include

• Sewer water
• Water from fields
• Toilet backup
• River run-off
  
  

Flooding falls into the black category because often there is no way to tell what it has come into contact with. In most cases, it is best to assume it has been contaminated and follow the proper sanitation procedures.

What To Do If Flooding Occurs

If you're busy with storm damage or flood water, it’s important to conduct any repairs necessary as quickly as possible. Doing so can help prevent further damage and may also help when it comes time to talk to your insurance. Since flooding is considered to be contaminated water, it's important to remember to sanitize the damaged area as well as to clean the zone.

How Your Insurance May Help

Depending on your policy your commercial insurance may cover the costs of cleanup and repairs related to flooding. They may even recommend a flood restoration service who can help with every step of the process. If you have questions about what exactly is covered by your policy, it's important to talk to your insurance agent.

Understanding that flood water falls into the black category can help you take proper sanitation measures when it comes time to clean up. Most experts recommend thoroughly drying the area, and then following recommended sanitation practices. In many cases, your insurance may cover the cost of restoration. If you have any questions, a professional may be able to help.

The Necessity of Professional Water Damage Services

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

The Necessity of Professional Water Damage Services

Dealing with water in your home or business can be disconcerting and understandably so. The thought of luxury furnishings soaking water in a flooded home or destruction of costly office machines is more than any property owner can bear. Couple that with the stress of claiming damages from an insurance company and the need for professional restoration services is apparent. Recovering from water damage is tedious, expensive, and dangerous if the right procedures are not followed. Water cleanup exercises demand a particular dedication and specialty, which a regular property owner may not possess. Investing in a restoration company offers distinct benefits.

Skilled Flood Damage Restoration

Mitigation of water damage has its share of complexities which increase with the severity of the situation. If a pipe break or a supply line break led to the flooding, the water cleanup crew has to factor in the malfunctioning plumbing system during the repairs. In the case of rain or storm damage, a building may have to contend with clogged gutters and overflowing downspouts. These aspects determine the necessary mitigation efforts. Flood damage cleanup companies train their workers on how to deal with such problems. Their experience and expertise allow them to apply the correct measures for drying a flooded home as efficiently as possible without posing any more inconveniences than necessary.

Fast Restoration Exercise

Every water cleanup company understands the need for urgency when dealing with a flooded home. It is why these teams work at a speedy pace to ensure that the destruction doesn’t result in any more losses. Restoration services conduct mitigation using established techniques and advanced equipment when clearing water in home and water in business. Flood damage can derail operations in an enterprise and make a home habitable. However, timely drying and clean up can reduce the waiting period considerably.

Expert Advice

Helpful tips from a qualified water cleanup professional go a long way in instances of water in home or water in business. Some cases of flood damage spin out of control because people don’t know how to detect when something is wrong. If there is a pipe break, for example, how should one respond? After the mitigation, a property owner should know how to transition safely to recovery. Professionals will also offer their take on how far the damage has spread. After a supply line break, a homeowner can learn if there is a need for repair or complete replacement of certain components.

Prevent Mildew and Mold Growth

Besides extracting water and drying surfaces, a restoration company will check every inch of a residential or commercial building for mold and mildew growth. When water damage is left unattended, it creates the perfect environment for microorganism like fungi to breed. Restoration professionals use machines to remove moisture completely, which eliminates the threat of mold and mildew. If the mold has already set in, the water cleanup team will conduct professional mold remediation to remove and treat the affected regions.

Decrease Losses

The longer a home or place of work goes without clean up after a pipe break or supply line break, the higher the losses get. A wall that may have required a few repairs if the restoration was immediate may have to be brought down due to extensive water damage. Loss of valuables especially sentimental items like photo albums and family heirlooms is another concern for a household dealing with a flooded home. When the cleanup crew responds right away after a reported flooding, it is possible to salvage some items and restore them. The damage caused to hardwood floors and carpets can also be contained through fast water extraction and drying. Decreasing the water exposure to a building preserves its structural integrity.

A reputable restoration company offers a range of services for customers suffering from water in home and water in business. Whether the flooding was due to a supply line break, leaking roof, or pipe break, a professional clean up team will fix the source and restore the property. A restoration company can also do remodeling if necessary.

Preventing Water Damage During a Vacation: What You Can Do

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

If you are going on vacation soon, you may be worried about what could happen if your home floods while you are away due to a water leak. You should try not to get too stressed out about this concern - there are several things you can do both to defend yourself against a flood and understand what options for remediation you would have if water pipe repair was required.

Prepare Yourself

If you know you are going to be away for some time, there are several things that you can do to help protect your home from a water-related disaster. Some of these actions include:

• Asking a friend, neighbor or family member to watch your house.
• Insulating external pipes (if it is cold outside).
• Cleaning and inspecting your sump pump, water hoses and gutters before you leave.
• Checking for leaks in water-based areas around your home.
• Turning off your water right before you go.

Taking action by following the advice above can help you avoid a flood and water pipe repair when you get home from your getaway.

What Might Happen

If a broken pipe floods your house while you are away, you may come home to find structural damage to various parts of your home. These could include floors, bathrooms and furniture, to name a few. Depending on how long the water has been sitting, it may be contaminated and require speedy removal.

Help is Available

You will hopefully be able to avoid a flood issue completely by following the preventative measures above. However, if you do come home from a relaxing trip only to find a flooded mess that will require water pipe repair, you will likely need to seek help from a water damage company, especially if highly contaminated water is involved. They will be able to understand what happened and what needs to be done to get everything back to a normal state as soon as possible.

Mold Remediation: Are You Covered?

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

Mold spores are everywhere, and under normal circumstances, they don't pose much of a threat to your building. If spores find just the right combination of heat, oxygen, food and moisture, though, patches of mold may start to form in as little as 24 hours. Does your commercial insurance cover the damage?

Limitations and Exceptions

The insurance policy on your property in the Fresno NE/Shaver Lake, probably covers mold damage in most cases. Even if the policy has a fungus exclusion, there are typically exceptions to the exclusion that include specified causes of loss:

• Vandalism
• Windstorm
• Hailstorm
• Smoke
• Fire
• Lightning

It is unlikely that mold growth will result from any of these issues, but they are not the only circumstances that may be covered under your policy. Your commercial insurance may include Limited Fungus Coverage. This clause basically serves as mold insurance and covers testing, damage, cleanup and restoration. Your insurance carrier may cover up to $15,000 in mold damage under such a policy.

Responsibility and Timeliness

It's important to remember that fungus coverage may not apply if the mold growth is the result of your neglect. As soon as you detect a leak or excess moisture problem in your building, you have the responsibility to take care of it efficiently. Water damage specialists should be called in a timely manner. If the leak is extensive, they may not be able to fix it before mold sets in, but your quick action can lower your risk and minimize the damage, which increases the likelihood that your insurance company will be receptive to covering the cost.

Most commercial insurance packages include some kind of mold coverage. Your insurance agent can explain exactly how your policies protect you. As long as you can prove you did everything you could to avoid the mold problem, insurance will probably pay for the majority of the cleanup process.

Caring for Wet Items After a Flood

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

Follow These Steps So You Can Save The Materials In The Building

If you have recently suffered water damage in your Fresno NE/Shaver Lake, building, you need to act quickly to salvage your belongings. You have valuable, important items that need the right attention. There are some steps you can take to preserve furniture, carpet, documents, and electronics. If you follow these simple tips and call the professionals, water in a home doesn't have to put an end to these materials.

Carpet Care

There's a chance that you can still use soaked carpet after a flood. The key is cleaning it quickly so mold and mildew don't start to grow. If the water in home gets your carpet wet, do the following:

• Extract the water from the carpet.
• Pull up the carpet and padding and dry the floor beneath.
• Thoroughly dry and disinfect the area.
  
  

Furniture and Clothes

Dry cleaning can save these items from permanent damage. You should also allow furniture and clothes to air dry. Reducing the humidity in the room will also inhibit mold growth.
Documents
Items such as photographs, files, and books can become fragile when wet. If you are not careful when handling them, they can fall apart. The best thing to do is set them out to air dry until you can contact a professional water damage specialist to restore them. Keeping wet documents in the freezer can also preserve them.

Electronics

Water and electricity are not a good combination. To reduce the risk of shock or electrocution, never turn on a wet electronic device. Whether the flood started from a broken pipe, a sewer backup, or any other source, call a professional to help you dry and clean the electronics. You can start by gently wiping off the surfaces of these items with a cloth. A trained professional will get into the interior of the electronic to assess the damage.
If you discover water at home, follow these steps so you can save the materials in the building. A professional technician can restore even severely damaged items.

We Are Cleaning Experts

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake at 559-797-4041

Workplace Water Damage

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

When business owners visualize water damage, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. Though it is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms, many entrepreneurs and business space renters forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings.

1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems
Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment
This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency.

3. Broken pipes and plumbing
Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result.

4. Backed up sewer lines
This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings.

If your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake will get you back up and running again. Call us anytime 24/7 at 559-797-4041 for help.

Fire Damage: Do's and Don't Until Professional Help Arrives

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

If you experience fire or smoke damage in your home, here are a few Do's and Don'ts to keep in mind until a professional remediation team arrives.

Do:

• Limit movement throughout the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

Don't:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water (they may be contaminated).
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create a secondary damage.
• Send garments to dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

Fire Safety in Your Fresno/Shaver Lake Home

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Fall is quickly approaching! That means all of the fall activities are about to begin in the Fresno/Shaver Lake are, if they haven’t already! One popular item associated with the fall season is the candle. If a house smells like fall, it feels like home. SERVPRO® of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake knows that candle fires happen and even though candles are small, the damage of a residential fire by a candle can turn out to be larger than expected.

Here are some candle fire safety tips for the Boulder area:

• When lighting a candle in the home, keep the candle at least twelve inches away from anything that can burn
• Try to avoid keeping a lit candle in bedrooms, bathrooms or sleeping areas
• Do not leave a lit candle where a child or family pet can access or reach it

One more important candle safety tip will tie to one of the above tips about not leaving a lit candle in the bathroom. When cleaning a bathroom using aerosol chemicals, this becomes extremely dangerous if there is a lit candle nearby. Aerosols are highly flammable and this can cause an explosion of sorts – please practice safety first and share this tip with friends and family who may not be aware of it.

If a Fresno/SHaver Lake home catches fire for any reason, including a candle, please call the trained professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake so we can help clean up the fire mess and damage.

HEPA Vacuums and Mold

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

For those that have been adversely affected by mold effects, it is important that your living environment be maintained as a safe place where you will not be exposed to potentially harmful organisms such as mold spores which are small enough to float in the air indoors and out. One tool to help you in this goal is a HEPA vacuum. In an ideal world, we would all have built-in central vacuums that exhausted directly to the outside. Since this is not an option for many people, the next best thing is to find the best HEPA vacuum for their situation.

WHAT IS HEPA?

A HEPA or high efficiency particulate air filter is a filter that removes 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns or larger. This high degree of filtration is important since there are many more very small mold spore fragments found than whole mold spores. The use of HEPA filtration helps ensure that these small particulates or fragments as well as the larger intact spores can be safely removed from the indoor environment. Although many vacuums may claim to have HEPA-like filtration, very few vacuums actually meet the rigid criteria to be called a HEPA vacuum. True HEPA vacuums not only have a HEPA filter but are also specially sealed so that no air is able to escape before passing through the filter. This means that the particles you vacuum up actually remain in the vacuum rather than being dispersed into the air that you breathe. HEPA filtration is also important for people that suffer with allergies to dust mites, pets, pollen, or other environmental allergens.

Understanding Smoke and How it Interacts With Your Property

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior of smoke. There are two different types of smoke – wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire, SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake Professionals are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration process including the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake Professionals will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows our team to focus on saving your precious items.

SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake know smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following are additional facts you may not know about smoke.

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The types of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

Wet Smoke (Plastic and Rubber)

Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke (Paper and Wood)

Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue (Produced by evaporation of materials rather than from a fire)

Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace Puff Backs)

While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners

Other Types (Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue)

Special loss situations require special care.

The SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake team are trained to handle even the toughest losses. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact us, at 559-737-4041, to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

A/C Water Damage

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

With the temperatures reaching well over 100 degrees for the past week our air conditioners have been working over time in the Fresno NE/Shaver Lake area. If air conditioner units are not properly maintained then you may be at risk for a water damage incident, especially with the current temperatures. An air conditioning system can collect up to 10-20 gallons of water daily. If the system is not working properly, either due to a clog or a drain, the unit will produce too much water and potentially cause water damage.  

Units are not typically in easily accessed place, so water damage may be occurring unbeknownst to the owner. This can result in costly mold damage that can affect an entire home. Follow these tips to help maintain your unit and prevent water damages in your home:

1. Consider having a professional air conditioning repair service to clean the condensation line at least once a year or every six months if the AC system is used on a year-round basis. 
2. Make sure to change the air filter every month. By changing the air filter monthly, it gives you the opportunity to check whether there is excessive moisture collecting on the condensation line. 
3. It is important to regularly check to see that water is indeed flowing from the opening of the condensation line directly to the drain as it was designed to do, especially during periods of very high humidity.

If you experience a water damage at your home or business call SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake at 559-797-4041.

Category 3 Water Loss? This is What You Should Know

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

What You Should Know About Category 3 Water Cleanup

Not all water is the same. In fact, some are just outright disgusting. Blackwater, the third category of impact, is one form that you simply don't want to have anything to do with. It's a filthy mess, full of microbes that love to invade your home, taking up residence in anything porous. Residents in the Fresno NE/Shaver Lake area, should be aware of what it is and why it needs immediate attention.

1. It's Heavy in Bacteria
This liquid arrives in your space via an outside source. It's considered black, dirty, because it's contaminated from other places, picking up bacterial and fungal spores as it makes its way into your home. Therefore, this category may arise from rivers, streams, or oceans. This is common during a flash flood or severe weather system such as a hurricane where the water rises quickly. In addition, sewage cleanup also appears in this category. If the line backs up from outside or inside, you could see an overflow from a toilet or a pipe backup. All of these situations prove problematic, leaving you with a house full of growth.

2. It Is a Breeding Ground for Mold
Left alone, your space would not only begin to smell from lingering fluid, but the black water microbes find locations to reproduce. Breeding within 24 to 48 hours, homeowners don't have much time to waste. Very quickly a contamination can move to various spaces via the air ducts. Contact a water restoration company that can assist in establishing a border using negative air chambers, thus stopping the spread.

3. It Requires Drying and Extraction
Products such as bleach and vinegar are often used for cleaning; however, they aren't enough for category 3 flooding. These cleaners don't penetrate the objects. The best method is to dry up the impacted rooms and remove anything saturated. During this stage, the carpets, baseboards, and even drywall are torn out.
Don't mess with black water. When exposure occurs, seek aid from professionals, and be prepared to get rid of polluted items.

For help with any type of water damage give SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shave Lake a call at 559-797-4041.

Keep a Mold Free Building In 5 Easy Steps

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

5 Steps You Can Take to Keep Your Office Mold-Free

Mold growth in your Fresno/Shaver Lake, business can be a major hassle. Fortunately, it is possible to prevent many infestations. The following are five steps you can take to keep your office mold-free.

Keep humidity low. Because mold can survive on many surfaces and at most indoor temperatures, the best thing you can do is to keep the building dry. Even high humidity can lead to a mold infestation. Keep indoor humidity below 50% if possible, and do not let it exceed 60%. You may need to invest in a dehumidifier, especially if the building does not have air conditioning.

Routinely check for signs of mold growth. There are some common locations, like bathrooms, where mold is more likely to grow. Be sure to routinely check these areas and remove any mold as soon as possible. Additionally, do not forget to check in non-visible locations, such as behind shelves and in ductwork.

Address any water damage as soon as possible. If your business suffers water damage, make sure to dry out the property quickly. You may not have time to wait for an insurance adjuster to visit before beginning cleanup. Mold can start to grow within 24 hours, so act quickly to prevent an infestation.

Make sure items are completely dry before putting them away. Never put away items that are wet. Damp material can foster mold growth, which can then spread to nearby items.

Use an air purifier. Air purifiers can trap mold spores before they have a chance to grow. Not every business will need to invest in a filtration system, but it can be helpful for companies located in humid regions or that deal with a lot of water.

Mold growth can be difficult to remove fully, so it is best to prevent it whenever possible. However, if you do encounter a mold infestation, a certified restoration company can help you get your business back to normal quickly and safely.

Preventing Water Damage During Construction

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

The construction process is often an exciting time for business owners. However, having to worry about making a water pipe repair and the resulting water damage can make the process stressful. There are several ways businesses in Fresno/Shaverlake, CA, can avoid water damage during construction.

3 Steps to Avoid Water Damage During Construction

1. Prepare for Rain

Heavy rain can sometimes bring a building construction to a stop. Though you can't prevent rain from falling, there are steps you can take to protect your building from flooding. Throughout the construction process, it can be helpful to ensure that building materials remain covered. Additionally, keeping water drainage away from your building can help to prevent major water damage from affecting your property.

2. Use the Right Materials

Faulty or outdated equipment, such as a broken pipe or damaged appliance, can often cause major delays during the construction process. If major water damage occurs, it may be useful to contact water damage restoration experts. However, using materials that meet relevant building code standards can help to prevent the need for a water pipe repair or other costly and time-consuming repairs. If you are adding on to a property, it can be particularly helpful to check existing building materials prior to construction to ensure the original structure is sound.

3. Keep Contact With the Project Manager

Throughout the process of construction, you will likely have a variety of questions. A project manager can often help to guide you through the construction process. Asking your project manager, contractor and other important professionals who are taking part in the construction process what measurements they are taking to avoid water damage can bring you peace of mind. If active steps to prevent a flooded building are not being taken, you can request that measurements be put in place quickly.

Avoiding the need for a water pipe repair or a supply line repair during construction can help to make construction a less stressful process. Knowing how to avoid major water damage during construction can help to make the construction process quick and easy.

Customer Service Response Time and Your Business

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

A Shorter Response Time Means Reduced Interruption of Your Business!

Customer service is top priority for SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast/Shaver on any loss but especially on a commercial job.  We want to get your business back up and running as quickly as possible following a loss.  Our service response guidelines are as follows.

With in 1 hour of your initial call to us we will return your call and arrange a professional to provide service.

With in 4 hours of your initial call a professional will be on site to evaluate the loss and start mitigation services.

With in 8 hours of your initial call we will be able to give you a briefing of what we are doing and how we need to do it  and provide that scope to the appropriate people.

We are here to help you and we know that prompt service is needed when an emergency happens.  You can trust us.

Smoke Cleaning - Creek Fire

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Photo of Creek Fire

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Today 559-797-4041

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call the SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast/ Shaver Lake, which is staffed 24 hours a day. Our specialist will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us dispatch the nearest SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast/ Shaver Lake with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Our Professionals will carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, the SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast/ Shaver Lake can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. They will then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

The SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast/ Shaver Lake uses specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

They will clean all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. They’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast & Shaver Lake Handles Fire!

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

Creek Fire Map Of Affected Areas

The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the difference between restoring as opposed to replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast & Shaver Lake provides timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. These services help ensure your property, belongings and memories are restored to preloss condition when possible.

What You Can Do Until Help Arrives

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery
• Coat chrome faucets, trim and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carper
• Do no wash an walls or painted surfaces
• Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery
• Do not clean any electrical equipment
• Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor into the fabric

SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast & Shaver Lake is available 24-hours a day to help you regain control quickly. Give us a call at 559-797-4041.

Preventing Water Leaks in Commercial Properties

8/6/2020 (Permalink)

Water may be essential to life, but it can cause a great amount of damage to a commercial building if it ends up where it shouldn’t be and is undetected for a long period of time.  Here are a few of the most common types of leaks in commercial properties and how to fix them.

• Faucet Leaks – With frequent use, faucet parts can wear out over time and when the seal or other components begin to leak, it can lead to water loss. This can substantially increase your water bill as well as cause major damage to your building.  In order to avoid loss, prepare any dripping sinks as soon as you see them start to leak.
• Toilet Leaks – Like faucets, toilets have a number of parts that can deteriorate and lead to issues. One faulty or leaking part leads to other damage, so be sure to replace toilet components as soon as you see them begin to deteriorate. 
• Underground Leaks – These types of leaks can often go undetected, but there are tell-tail signs of their existence, such as areas of wet soil, areas where grass or plants are growing faster than surrounding areas (due to increased water supply from your leak), and a significant rise in your water bill.
• Hidden Leaks – These types of leaks are the most difficult to detect, but can cause the most damage because they remain undetected for long periods of time. If you notice water marks or swelling of walls, ceilings and floors, you likely have a hidden leak.  You can reach us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 559-797-4041

If any of these types of leaks are detected in your commercial building, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake.  We can help find where the water is coming from and help to “Like it never even happened.” 

Coronavirus Pathogen Disinfecting

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO stands ready to assist those in need of Coronavirus (COVID19) pathogen disinfecting. SERVPRO has the cleaning products, personal protective equipment, protocol, and trained personnel to provide emergency and scheduled service. If you are a property manager, building owner, school district, airport, medical facility, retail business, or homeowner give our office a call now at 559-797-4041.

SERVPRO is sensitive to our customers' unique needs and circumstances, no matter the job. Let us know what we can do to work around your schedule to meet your needs.

We can provide you with professional guidance and service. For more information and the latest news, visit the World Health Organization website at the link below.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html

SERVPRO can handle your fire damage

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Just hours after a fire occurs, metal fixtures, including faucets and handles on doors can be permanently ruined by fire damage in your Fresno home or business if it is not immediately treated properly. Our technicians at SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake have both the compassion and knowledge needed to perform your fire damage restoration the right way the first time. Our team of technicians are licensed, fully trained and certified in smoke and fire damage restoration. We realize that these times are stressful and emotional, and treat you accordingly, guiding you through each step of the restoration. We understand what each fire emergency needs.

Timing is critical once the fire is out. Your repairs for fire damage need to be started fast to maximize their effectiveness. We will answer your call and move into action right away, 24/7. We recognize the trauma and emotional upset which occupants suffer, and work fast and considerately to mitigate any damage to property that is salvageable, like fixtures, household items, metals and other items. Our techniques are state-of-the-art, and our cleaning processes will many times stop you from having additional costs of replacement. Smoke and fire damage restoration needs special skill and knowledge, our technicians at SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake are professionals and have the expertise that is needed to do the job correctly.

SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake expertise mitigates smoke damage

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage can be very destructive even in your home? In such an event, your home or work property is likely to sustain damages. It is advisable to hire experts to restore your home rather than do it on your own. Take a look at the benefits you get when you hire professionals.  

Experts like us at SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake have numerous years of field experience. Over the years, we have seen various types of fire damage in Shaver Lake, Fresno, and surrounding areas.  This gives us ample knowledge to tackle unique problems. We work with expediency to get your business or residence back to normal. "Like it never even happened."

When dealing with the expense in a fire and smoke damage restoration process, you often have to deal with the insurance company. In most cases, the company may not be congenial of the situation you are in and rather than being helpful, they can bury you with loads of paperwork. As a result, the process becomes long and frustrating. When you hire us, we can work with your insurance adjuster to lessen the burden on you by helping with the claims process.

What to do After a Fire

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

A house fire is one of the most frightening and disruptive events that can impact a family. After surviving a fire, it is crucial to remain calm and take the steps that will help you recover from this traumatic event. Enlisting the prompt support of family and emergency service professionals, like SERVPRO of Clovis can really make a difference in the recovery process.  Here are a few things you can do until help arrives:

Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.

Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork,

What you don’t want to do:

Attempt to clean walls or any painted surfaces

Turn on A/C or heater, ceiling fans.

Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake make it "Like it never even happened.”

Fire Damage to Your Business

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Many businesses and homes are at risk for a fire, especially when they lease older buildings in need of repairs. We know how costly and devastating a fire can be to a business or home, so it is always our goal to get you back up and running right away. SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake is committed to working around the clock to get your business or home restored as quickly and seamlessly as possible. 

What to Expect When We Arrive After a Fire Loss:

1. Detailed scope of the effected areas to determine the extent of the loss.

2. Pretest affected surfaces is always performed to determine the type of smoke and which products will help us recover the area most effectively.

3. Equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.

If a fire has damaged your business or home, call us right away at 559-797-4041. SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake will treat you with empathy, respect and care for your property.

Commercial Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

Fire damage is especially devastating for a business or commercial property. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, significant water damage from firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies. Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, motel, office building or your personal home, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

We at SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake are available 24/7/365. 

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

• Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

  Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

  Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
  Call Us Today – 559-797-4041

Call The Professionals

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

After a fire, your house is left with lingering smoke that can be harmful to your health and property. The best thing to do in such a situation is to clean the smoke immediately because if you ignore it, the smoke will cause massive damage on your property which will require more money to clean than if you had cleaned it sooner. If the smoke is not cleaned as soon as possible, the items that will be mostly affected by smoke includes drapes, carpets, upholstery and walls because they will become permanently discolored. Glass will become extremely etched, and metals will tarnish which will result in having to replace these items.

You might think that you can do a good job at cleaning smoke by yourself without any basic knowledge and skills on how to go about it, but this can lead to you causing further damage on the items. The best thing to do will be to hire experienced professionals from a reputable company to do the cleaning and restore the home to the state it was in before the fire disaster struck. That is where SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake comes into play.

One of the advantages of using experts to clean soot is that they have specialized tools which are crucial in eliminating smoke. These are tools such as extractors, rotary scrubbers, and wet cleaning tools. Another advantage is that we have a lot of experience in doing such work; therefore, we will know the right steps to take in cleaning your home and preventing further damage on the property.

When we come to your home, the first thing we will do is to assess the extent of the damage and determine where the odors are coming from. We will then vacuum the whole house to remove any traces of soot. Soot is dangerous because it can cause breathing complications besides damaging property. After we finish vacuuming, we will cover the carpets and furniture to prevent more dirt from settling on them. We will also identify what can and cannot be replaced and advise you accordingly. Once we find the source of the odor we will use specialized detergents to treat it and eliminate the smell completely.

Indeed, bringing in a professional on site will save you a lot of headaches and ensure that you get rid of the smoke efficiently. If you live in Fresno, Shaver Lake or surrounding cities, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake for reliable smoke removal services at an affordable cost. For more information call us at (559) 797-4041.

Avoiding Electrical Fires

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

We all know that installing and maintaining a smoke detector is the best way to stay safe in case of a fire in your home, but you may be surprised to learn about the most common causes of electrical fires.  Here they are:

Faulty outlets, appliances - Most electrical fires are caused by faulty electrical outlets and old, outdated appliances. Never use an appliance with a worn or frayed cord which can send heat onto combustible surfaces like floors, curtains, and rugs that can start a fire.

Light fixtures- Light fixtures, lamps and light bulbs are another common reason for electrical fires. Installing a bulb with a wattage that is too high for the lamps and light fixtures is a leading cause of electrical fires. Always check the maximum recommended bulb wattage on any lighting fixture or lamp and never go over the recommended amount. Extension cords - Misuse of extension cords are another electrical fire cause. Appliances should be plugged directly into an outlet and not plugged into an extension cord for any length of time. Only use extension cords as a temporary measure.

Space heaters- Because space heaters are portable, many times people put them too close to combustible surfaces such as curtains, beds, clothing, chairs, couches and rugs. Coil space heaters are especially dangerous because the coils become so hot, they will almost instantaneously ignite any nearby flammable surface.

Wiring- Outdated wiring often causes electrical fires. If a home is over 20 years old, it may not have the wiring capacity to handle the increased amounts of electrical appliances in today’s average home.

Be sure to check today and make sure none of these dangers are in your home. In the unfortunate case of a fire, the professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake are on-call 24 hours a day to help.

Call us at 559-797-4041.

Simple Step to Prevent Commercial Electrical Fires

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

As industry experts know, commercial electrical fires can be very dangerous and costly. When a commercial fire occurs, it can lead to the injury or death of the employees or customers present. Additionally, electrical fires can result in major property loss. SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake, a premier fire damage restoration company, will respond immediately to get you back in business. Luckily, most of these fires are preventable and can also be contained through maintenance of fixtures, employee training, and the facilitation of greater awareness regarding work hazards. Learn more about how to identify electrical hazards and reduce the incidence of a commercial fire by reading the following information: 

Recognizing the Warning Signs 

Electrical distribution systems contain several complex elements. These elements are capable of exposing commercial buildings to fire risks. Some of the areas of concern are:

• Corroded Wiring: Wiring that is old or defective can cause electrical fires. Although all wiring can start to break down at some point, the wiring exposed to corrosive substances or the outdoor environment is subject to faster degradation. Industrial facilities, multi-tenant warehouses, and farms should be attentive to their wiring given that it can be subject to extreme exposure to the elements.
• Circuits and Fuses: Tripped circuits and blown fuses are signs of overloaded outlets or circuits. These circuits and outlets can generate overheating and result in combustion leading to commercial electrical fires. 
• Hot Spots: Overloaded circuits, corroded wires or connectors, loose connections, faulty fuses, imbalanced electrical loading, short circuits, switches, and breakers can generate "hot spots". This is the result of the excessive heat that builds up within the electrical panels. If there is any sense that these "hot spots" could cause a commercial flare up, here is an option. Infrared thermal imaging can be operated to locate these hot spots, repairs can then be done preventing electrical shortages or breakdowns that lead to fires. Small business owners can hire licensed electricians to complete the inspection. 

Electrical Distribution Equipment

Periodically, electrical distribution equipment needs to be physically inspected. The equipment should also periodically undergo thermal imaging. This work should be completed by a licensed professional. Some of the equipment requiring inspection includes:

• electrical panels, switchboards, and switchgear    
• fuses
• circuit breakers
• relays and contactors
• disconnect switches
• motors
• motor controls
• transformers

The Fire Marshall periodically visits commercial buildings checking the fire extinguishers' expiration dates. The overhead sprinkler system, fire exit lighted signs and safe egress from the commercial building are all inspected. Prevention is the key.

Conclusion

Fire damage can be especially devastating for a business or commercial property. Significant water damage can be an unintended result of extinguishing a commercial fire. The fire suppression system of a commercial building(overhead fire sprinkler system) can also cause a large amount of water damage. Commercial business owners know that electrical fires negatively affect their property, the operation of the business, and the loss of revenue. However, the information above can help you take strides towards preventing these fires from happening. In the event that you find your commercial space affected by a fire, electrical or otherwise, you should know who to call to help facilitate the remediation process. As a company with extensive experience in restoring property affected by electrical fires, the professionals of SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake can provide you with the detailed assistance necessary to get your business space in working order. Contact us today for professional, personalized service. 

Commercial Building Restoration Services

SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake responds quickly to your Fresno or Clovis water, fire 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.

Commercial Business

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Fire engulfs an automotive supply shop, destroying inventory consisting of mainly shocks, struts, starters, alternators, and batteries. The fire ignited due to a chemical container failure affecting surrounding items. 
 
You may think that fire damage like this would put them out of business, but you'd be wrong. Replacing inventory is relatively easy, the hard decision here is locating a quality company to perform the services you need to restore the structure of your building. There are several unique challenges faced during different fire situations, and we have experience dealing with all of them.
 
SERVPRO technicians overcome various cleaning challenges, daily. A burning building consists of several complex reactions between different elements. We learn that fire damage presents different cleaning and restoration situations that depend greatly on how these different elements interact during the progress of a fire. When dealing with the removal of smoke residues, we consider several factors. 
 
Type - More porous surfaces allow particles and odors to penetrate further and are harder to clean. Non-porous surfaces such as those covered in enamel paint are easier to clean than a flat latex paint would be. While synthetic fibers attract more residue than natural fibers, synthetics are easier to clean. 
 
Age - As time progresses, old paint, fabrics, and carpeting become more porous, and adhesion to surfaces become weaker, making old surfaces harder to clean. 
 
Heat - Generally, hotter fires make surfaces expand, allowing residue and odors to penetrate more efficiently. While heat also chars materials or melts the finish on a surface, making refinishing required to restore the surface properly. 
 
Moisture - The right conditions help residues set faster and permanently stain surfaces. Fire suppression systems and Firefighting efforts, along with damp weather and normal condensation on various surfaces combine with smoke residues, causing surfaces to become discolored. 
 
Material - Different materials produce different kinds of residues. Synthetic materials such as plastics and rubber create a wet, smeary residue that stains surfaces. Wood and other natural materials leave behind a dry residue that is easier to clean. 
 
Air Pressure - As the temperature of fire increases, air expands, creating pressure systems that force smoke and soot into cracks and crevices. 
 
Impingement - During a fire, the surrounding air becomes hotter, causing increased movement. This fast moving air collides with surfaces throughout the structure, causing residues to collide with vertical surfaces, leaving behind more difficult stains. 
 
With knowledge of these different factors that cause changes during a fire event, SERVPRO technicians work hard to deliver the services you need to restore your business to a quality preloss condition. 
 
Contact SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake 559-797-4041

Restoring Commercial property

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Flooding and water damage events in Clovis' commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake

SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Please contact SERVPRO Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake  at (559) 797-4041 for your commercial property needs.

What To Do If Your Office Floods

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Imagine you had a great weekend. You & your family went on a quick getaway trip, maybe up to Bass Lake or Shaver Lake. Come Monday morning you walk into the office, and squish squish is what you hear under your feet. Oh no….. there is water EVERYWHERE! It appears a pipe busted, & by the amount of water, it didn’t just happen. No fear SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake to the rescue. Our team of highly trained professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake has the expertise that is needed to restore small, midsize, and large commercial size buildings to their pre-flood waters condition. The training that our team receives, and the equipment that we use can get these jobs done effectively and efficiently so that there will be no unnecessary delays.  

SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake: A Certified Firm Benefiting Commercial Clients

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SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake has been an IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified firm for almost a decade. This is very important for our commercial clients because it means that we meet the highest standards available in the industry.

The IICRC sets the gold standards for the Cleaning and Remediation industry, of which SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake is an industry leader. 

In order to achieve IICRC-certified status, firms must meet a rigorous list of standards in business ethics and expertise.

IICRC Certified Firms must:

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.  

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake is honored to be  counted among the select organizations to receive this certification. We will continue to offer the same standard of excellence that you have come to expect.  We can be reached at 559-797-4041 day or night!

Emergency Preparedness Planning for Your Business

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As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business. Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever could happen?” Give the professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake a call today for a No-cost Assessment on your building 559-797-4041.

Why SERVPRO Should Be the Only Company You Call for Water Damage

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Water is a devastating force that can affect your Fresno residence or office. Moisture quickly infiltrates and begins to disintegrate porous building materials including drywall, ceiling tiles, and some types of flooring. It can migrate from the original damaged space into other rooms, levels, and hidden cavities between walls, under floors, and above ceilings. In just 24 to 48 hours secondary damage such as mold growth begins. Homeowners need to reach out to professional restoration experts right away.

When an overflowing tub or sink becomes a waterfall, your Fresno home requires a comprehensive water damage recovery plan. Unfortunately, it is rarely enough to mop up the water you see, as moisture is notorious for moving into any absorbent material or flowing into neighboring spaces. Intensive training in moisture metering and infrared scanning is useful to trace the path of water. The typical homeowner lacks that skill, which is why working with a trustworthy water restoration company is so important.

SERVPRO can arrive as soon as practical after your call, ready to assess the extent of the damage and to devise a plan to remove the water and dry all affected spaces. Our service vehicles carry an equipment stock that anticipates a range of water removal and drying tasks. The submersible pumps, extractors, air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers are set to manage the challenges, clearly supporting why SERVPRO delivers fast and effective services when water damages your home.

Our technicians cover a broad range of water damage scenarios during the time they spend on IICRC training. This background helps speed the process of restoration. Why SERVPRO is an industry leader is our expectation that every project we accept stands on its own. We carefully evaluate the specific circumstances of your water damage crisis so that we miss nothing, including unexpected seepage or harm to vulnerable building materials or contents others might not consider. When we respond our mission is to leave your property “Like it never even happened.” Working with you and your insurance company to achieve this end is always our goal.

Why SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake should rank first in your search for reputable water damage restorers is clear -- we have the trained technicians and appropriate equipment to get the job done. Contact us at (559) 797-4041 when water flows outside of its lane for a fast and efficient response.

We Care

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Yes we are a part of a major corporation, however we here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake feel it's important to not forget where we've come from and that in order to be successful we need to remember it's all about you our client and the personal touch. Why do people often go back to the same small business or refer their friends and family to it? It's simple the quality of service that you receive and the time they take to make sure YOU the client are taken care of and that they don't just meet but exceed your expectations and needs! We here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake go that extra mile as it is our goal to not just meet but exceed your expectations in every way possible. From making sure your questions and concerns are addressed from the first time we arrive on site to making sure your home or business is put back together in every way that matters to you. No matter how big or small the job, SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake is here to help every step of the way! Whether assisting you with your home, or your large commercial building SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake is here with a level of care and customer service you normally find in a small business.

We like to say Small business attitude and personal touch at a corporate level. Give us a call at 559-797-4041 today to see the difference

Why SERVPRO?

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

When looking at companies who can provide you with water mitigation, mold remediation and fire restoration services you might ask yourself, why SERVPRO?

Let me tell you some things about SERVPRO:

1. SERVPRO has been around since 1967 when Ted and Doris Isaacson founded the company which started as a painting business. Today, more than 1,700 SERVPRO franchises exist nationwide. Therefore, SERVPRO has proved to be an outstanding company. SERVPRO is actually one of the top 10 franchises today.

2. All of our technicians are trained and specialists in the work that they do. 

3. We work with your insurance company to make sure you are covered for the work that we complete. If your insurance company does not cover a service we recommend, we will let you know the price before the work is done.

4. We work quickly to ensure that your home is back to normal ASAP.

5. We appreciate your feedback! We would like to know if your happy with our services. We also are interested in knowing if your unhappy with our services. We want to make it right, and fix anything that may have gone wrong.

Water Damage Timeline

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 

559-797-4041

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.

It's the Water You Don't See

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake has the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. Your local SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. From evasive & non-evasive moisture meters, air movers and dehumidifiers,too  Ultra Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers that  atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas.

Water Restoration Process

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

When your home or commercial property has water damage from flooding or leaks, we have the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property. Our experience and scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup enable us to properly dry and restore your property.

Water or Flood Damage?
Call Today – (559) 797-4041
Every water damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. You can click on any of the steps below to learn more about that process.

Step 1 - Emergency Contact
The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand the equipment and resources.

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment
We determine the scope of your water damage at this stage. We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction
The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification
We use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing
We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. We are adept at cleaning contents using a number of techniques. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.

Step 6 - Restoration
Restoration is the process of restoring your home or business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Vacations Could Mean Unexpected Water!

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Looking forward to your getaway trip?

• Dog Walker Scheduled         
• Mail On Hold 
• Neighbor Watching The House 

But, have you ever thought to turn off your water?  Should you?  The answer is YES.  A simple drip of water will add $ to your water bill and a minor pipe leak has the potential of flooding your home while you are away.

Be safe, not sorry where water is concerned.  An unexpected flood can cause hundreds (or thousands) of dollars in damages to your home.

If you have ever experienced the nightmare of water-soaked belongings, quick immediate action is needed to get to the problem, rid your home of the water and restore your house “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake also proudly serves the following communities:

• Clovis
• Bakersfield
• Madera
• Merced
• Shaver Lake
• Visalia
• Huntington
• Bass Lake
• Coarsegold
• Sanger
• Selma
• Kingsburg
• Tulare

Water Saving Tips For This Summer

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Every state is experiencing the effects of drought, and saving water is on everyone’s mind these days. We waste a lot of water; our showers are too long, and we are often obsessed with an emerald green lawn. We need to change the way we handle and view water and leave behind the outdated and inefficient water management systems of the past.

Here are some tips that will help you save water this summer. Your water bill will be reduced, and you can save yourself some time into the bargain as well as doing some good for the Earth.

1. Water your yard in the cool parts of the day. Water evaporates more quickly when it’s hot, so run your irrigation system while it’s most likely to stay with your lawn. Make sure you are not watering your sidewalk or your driveway, too. A drip system works quite well in this respect. Replacing your thirsty lawn with a drought tolerant garden would be a great way to save water, and it won’t have to be mowed every week!
2. Check for leaky toilets. Put a few drops of food coloring into the tank. If the color shows up in the bowl, your tank is leaking, and could be wasting up to 100 gallons of water a day!
3. Take shorter showers. Trimming just two minutes off of your showers can save up to 1700 gallons of water a year. One way to do this is to turn off the shower while you shave or soap up. Install water-efficient shower heads, toilets, and faucets for a savings of thousands of gallons per year as well.
4. Cover the pool. Make sure the water in your pool stays there by covering it when you are not using it. This will prevent water loss by evaporation.
5. Use a car wash. When you are washing your car by hand can easily use 100 gallons of water, and takes a lot of time and effort, as well. Commercial car washes average 40 gallons or less!
6. Trap rain water. Collect the water from summer rain storms by getting a water barrel. You can reuse this water for your garden. Green roofs, rain gardens, and other water-saving techniques are called green infrastructure and go a long way towards saving this most precious resource. More and more landowners and city governments are choosing to invest in these and other innovative strategies as ways to save water, reduce pollution, and save millions, and even billions, in costs for new water tanks, tunnels, and other traditional water infrastructures.

Category 3 Water Damage

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

There are many water sources that contribute to your water damage, and they are classified as Category 1 (Clean Water), Category 2 (Gray Water), and Category 3 (Black Water). Out of the three categories, category 3 is the most unsanitary type of water damage. 

Flood water is one source of unsanitary water in a home or business.  This is something to be aware of as we enter hurricane season.  But the most common source of category 3 water is a sewer back up. Any porous materials that come in contact with the contaminated water should be removed and disposed. This includes carpet, carpet pad, and drywall.

Our water technicians are all IICRC certified and trained and know what to do, and the steps to take, in cleaning up category 3 water.  We know how stressful water damage can be, and they are there to help guide you through any water situation that you encounter.

Remember, the sooner you mitigate your water damage, the less chance you have of major repairs.  Give us a call at 559-797-4041 – we’re here to help!

Thunderstorm Time

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

A thunderstorm is considered severe if it produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter or has wind gusts of at least 58 miles per hour. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding, and high winds can damage homes and blow down trees and utility poles, causing widespread power outages.

Know the Difference

Severe Thunderstorm Watch - Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property.

Every year people are killed or seriously injured by severe thunderstorms despite advance warning. While some did not hear the warning, others heard the warning and did not pay attention to it. The information in this section, combined with timely watches and warnings about severe weather, may help save lives.

Winter Storms

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states, while others affect only a single community. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

Regardless of the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared in order to remain safe during these events.

Know the Difference
Winter Storm Outlook - Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.
Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening.

Winter Storm Watch - Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions.

Winter Storm Warning - Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. People in a warning area should take precautions immediately.

Trust SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake for your restoration needs.

What you can do to help!

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

• Increase grade:  The earth around the home should be sloped away from the house to divert water away. Very simply, borrow earth from three feet away from the structure, and toss it against the side of the house thus creating the slope.
• Clean rain gutters:  Schedule a licensed professional to clean gutters annually. A clogged rain gutter can send water cascading down the exterior wall, which can result in water entering the interior walls.
• Divert down spouts: In a quick run to the local hardware store, homeowners can find a black, plastic corrugated 6-inch hose that fits around the base of the downspout. This device carries water away from the house, preventing it from seeping down into the foundation.
• Roof maintenance: Where rain is concerned, the roof is the first line of defense. One small tear in a rubber membrane or crack in a tin roof, or compromise in the plywood structure of the roof can prove disastrous for the entire interior of the home. But regular maintenance can preserve the life of the roof. Have a roofer check out your home every five years.
• Window repairs:  Proper window installation and maintenance is imperative. Modern windows are fitted with wells and drains designed to help direct water outside the house. Improper caulking can prove disastrous by sending water into the house that should be draining away from the window.
• Sweep away debris:  Especially during spring and fall seasons, when the area’s great trees emit pollen in tumble weed fashion and drop their leaves in mass, it is critical to diligently sweep outdoor surfaces weekly, especially patios and door wells to prevent the collection of debris clogging exterior drains.

When Storms Hit!

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake 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.

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 weather your in Fresno and Clovis, or in the mountains of Shaver Lake and Bass Lake, 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 are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake, 559-797-4041

How to Prepare for a Storm!

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Things to do:

• Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
• Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake can handle storm damage to your business or home. Storm are unpredictable and so scary when your home is being affected. You can count on us help help get your home back and feel safe knowing when storms hit we can make it look "Like it never even happened."

If a Flood or Storm Hit SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake is Ready!

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake 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.

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 or Handle Floods and Storms

If storms hit Shaver Lake, 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.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today at 559-797-4041

Water Damage Timeline

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 

559-797-4041

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.

Covid-19 and businesses get back to business!

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

With Covid-19 all over the world and with nearing one million cases in the U.S. alone, it is understandable why there is such pressure for businesses to remained closed.  But fortunately for those small businesses they are able to start opening.  But along comes new rules and standards for cleaning and sanitizing as these businesses start to come back. 

SERVPRO can help in cleaning your commercial property or business if you are in need.  We can help prevent the spread of viruses by using commercial-grade cleaning products and processes.  Our teams will follow all protocols as far as social distancing applies, along with extra precautions such as Personal Protective Equipment.  We take this uncertain time as serious as those around us and that's why we understand where you are coming from as a small business.  We want you to get back up and running as soon as possible and if a deep cleaning of your business is what helps for ease of mind for employees or customers, we are here to help!

Give us a call if you would like your commercial property cleaned at 559-797-4041!

We can be cleaning experts for your place of business in Fresno County

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO Of Fresno Northeast/ Shaver Lake at 559-797-4041

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Pros Know Best

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

When water damage resulting from sewage issues or some other problem affects your property, you need to take effective action immediately. Although the water issue may seem minor, it can cause substantive damage to your house if it is not eliminated quickly and correctly. And while you may be inclined to start the water removal process on your own, it is important always to have this work completed by a team of professionals from SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast/ Shaver Lake.

Here are several reasons why:

Water Damage Is Progressive

Water damage can worsen with each passing moment. The longer you postpone calling water damage restoration experts to fix the problems, the greater the damages will be. Apart from obvious damage to contents and building materials, you may also be victimized by a mold infestation if the water is not removed promptly. Exposure to fungi may cause health effects as well as increase restoration costs.

Sewage Water is Dangerous

If the excessive water on your property contains sewage, it is very dangerous. In fact, sewage water contains pathogens, pesticides, and waste matter. Black water causes health implications if you come in contact with this type of water. Contact professionals who can remove the sewage water quickly and safely. Don't attempt to do it yourself. Training, specialized equipment, and hazmat clothing are required for a return of safety to your property.

Electrical Hazards

Water, being a conductor of electricity, can send shocks powerful enough to cause electrocution under some circumstances. Whether you're dealing with black, gray or clean water, the extraction process brings with it electrical hazards. Don't subject yourself to the risk of electrocution. Instead, allow the experienced professionals from SERVPRO Fresno Northeast/ Shaver Lake to complete the process for you. These individuals possess the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to complete the process in a safe manner that precludes you and them from experiencing illness or injury.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast/ Shaver Lake now at (559) 797-4041.

Although water damage can disrupt your well-being and cause inconveniences within your daily life, it doesn't have to drain all your energy and assets. To restore your property and resume your way of life, contact the water damage restoration experts of SERVPRO Fresno Northeast/ Shaver Lake. Our certified technicians will clean and dry your property with remarkable speed, and we'll also provide you with complete customer service that keeps you calm throughout the remediation process. We will document, invite you for a final walk-through,  and guarantee that your home is dry and safe. "Like it never even happened."

Highly-Trained Water Restoration Specialists

As water damage specialists, SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast/ Shaver Lake has the experience, expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property dried quickly and thoroughly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete. Learn about our water damage training and certificates. Call us 24/7 for help. (559) 797-4041

Saving Materials

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

This photo was taken after a water damage occurred in a customers house that had flooded their kitchen including the cabinets, ceiling, and wall. As shown above, this is an image of black granite that was carefully taken off of a customers kitchen counter top. Although most of the kitchen was affected with water the granite is waterproof and able to be saved. In order to achieve this we had to shimmy a wire carefully through the under section because it only attached by glue on specific corners. Using four technicians we then gently laid the granite down and wrapped it in bubble wrap, paying special attention to the corners. We always try to salvage as much materials and personal belongings as possible. In fact, this is one of our main goals as a water mitigation and restoration company; we want to restore the items to a like new state. 

Dry Rot from Water Damage

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

Rotted framing from a water damage

Here is a close up photo of a drain line and a bunch of rotted framing. A slow leak caused water damage and microbial growth on the framing of a home. We arrived on site and assessed the damage then removed all the sheet rock to expose the damaged framing and all of the affected sheet rock was then bagged and properly deposed of. We then disinfected the framing or replaced where it was needed. The insulation that was in the affected wall will always be removed and replaced due to the fact that it can hold mold spores and trap moisture in the walls. All of the work was done inside of a negative pressure containment area that was set up on site the first day.

Why SERVPRO: Cleaning Done the Right Way.

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning supplies used in our jobs

Shown in this photo is just one of our many walls of cleaning supplies. We use up to date IICRC standard chemical cleaning products to not damage the customers surfaces while still getting rid of the mold, smoke damage, dirt, grime, urine and any other hazardous materials. We have urine odor and stain remover, a multi purpose spray and wipe cleaner primarily used for mud and dirt. A Citrus Solvent adhesive remover, an EPA registered disinfectant and deodorizer used for nonporous surfaces, a liquid emulsifier, mold cleaning products, a highly alkaline cleaning agent designed for use on heavy smoke and soot damage as well as metal and painted surfaces, and a biocide to be used in black water damages where the potential presence of biological waste is present. We also have a precabonate based oxidizing agent commonly used for carpet and upholstery stains. 

Fire Damage in Home

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire 6/26/19

This fire damage happened in June of 2019 in a new two month old home. Fire damages are more common than people think and often start in the kitchen. In this particular case, the customers over caught on fire and the food that was wrapped in plastic exploded. The fire quickly spread and the homeowner put water on it thinking it would contain the fire. Many people don't realize that if the fire is a grease fire you need to smoother the fire by eliminating oxygen. This can be done through a large heavy blanket or in throwing flour on the item on fire. If you put water on the grease that is on fire it will actually spread and become unmanageable. Sadly, this was the case for this customer. All of his belongings were damaged either by fire or smoke damage.

Here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast/Shaver lake we work hard to make this traumatic experience the best it can be. We have vendors that specializes in restoring damaged items, including sentimental photographs. If ever this happens to you, please give us a call at any time. We are always here to help!

Roof Leak in Clovis CA

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

Employee working at Mold Mitigation job

This shows a standard procedure for our employees to get rid of heavy mold appropriately. The affected area was from a roof that leaked in from the bathroom and ran down the walls which had affected the corner of one of the office closet ceiling and walls. Heavy rains will cause this to happen but it can also happen from a pipe leaking slowly. SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast/Shaver Lake was called in and we immediately got to work. We cleanly cut the affected ceiling and drywall after testing the areas. It was very wet outside so we carefully laid plastic on the floor to track in more water and dirt. Containment is also done so that mold is not spread from area to area. 

Water Damage

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

lifting baseboards after water damage

The picture shown here is indicative of what happens when a water damage happens in the kitchen. Water often spreads into rooms and we have to dispatch a couple of trained employees to immediately remove the water and baseboards so further damage doesn't occur.The kitchen had a pipe break and it flooded the majority of the first floor of the house. Although there was not standing water, meaning it clearly went up the walls, it still got the baseboards and wall wet. Because of this it is very important to get baseboards off very quickly and use perforate the walls to make sure when we put fans up against the wall it gets behind the wall and drys it completely. Mold can grow and spread rather quickly so we take every step as directed by the IICRC standards to get the job done correctly. 

Example of Smoke Damage Repair

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

cleaning a fire and smoke damage

This is an example of some of our wonderful employees doing a cleaning job for a customer that had smoke damage outside of his home. The affected area was a white outside pergola that contained a grill that was used often by the family. We explained to the customer that could try to remove the soot and smoke damage using our cleaning supplies that are specific to fire damages. We explained that this would leave the pergola looking much better but not perfect. For those desired results we needed to first do an overall clean then repaint the pergola. We did this within the customers budget and time frame and they were very pleased with our work. They appreciated our communication and said they would use us for other work. 

How We Do The Job

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Our Warehouse And Equipment

Here at SERVPRO Fresno Northeast/Shaver Lake we use the most qualified people. However you can't do an amazing job without the best equipment. Some of the equipment we have are dehumidifiers, air movers, air scrubbers, injection kits and fans. We always keep our shop and equipment clean and up to date to ensure that the customer has the best outcome possible. Our warehouse can house several homes worth of furniture and belongings of a customers' home in case of a water or fire damage. In order to do the best job possible you need the best equipment possible and we've got it. We take pride in keeping our equipment organized and up to date so the customer has their house cleaned and restored quickly and with the best possible results. 

Mold Mitigation

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Mold in Kitchen Fresno, CA

Here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast/Shaver Lake we deal with a lot of mold mitigation. Our staff is highly trained in removing mold safely and has been trained and IICRC certified. Mold is very dangerous and we want to ensure that we appropriately remove it all. In this situation, we went out to a customer's house that had a dishwater flow over the course of a day. This resulted in water moving up the wall, damaging the floors, and mold growing behind the counters. We tested floor to ceiling and surrounding walls for traces of mold. Our professional staff removed the affected areas and even did the reconstruction including restoring. Their kitchen looked amazing after and they were very happy with the results. The customer even contacted their insurance company to let them know.

Our Shop

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Picture of our Warehouse

At SERVPRO Fresno Northeast/Shaver Lake we have the capacity to house a couple different homeowners' contents at once safely and securely. We always take our time to move and pack the contents out of a customer's home. First we carefully box up the customer's smaller contents then we move the larger items using several people who have experience moving. Secondly, we clean the contents using the appropriate methods. For fire and smoke damages, for example, we would have clothing items professionally cleaned. Often items need to be thrown away and replaced by the insurance company. We understand people have valuables that have sentimental meaning and we always take our time to move them, store them, clean them and then return them carefully. 

Example Of Our Mold Job

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage in bathroom wall

Water damage from a cooper pipe that broke in the wall and due to the length of time that it sat without the home owners knowledge it caused major dry rot and mold damage. This is an exterior wall so we had to remove the dry rot paneling and studs then replace them with new ones. Once that was finished, we were able to put the shingles to the outside of the house back on. 

The homeowners were very appreciative of our timeliness and professionalism. They personally thanked up for our hard work and even work a personal letter thanking everyone involved including the Operations Manager and two crew members. We explained everything we were doing prior to starting work and got out of there "Like it never even happened."