Commercial Water Damage

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

COMMERCIAL Water Damage: Regardless of the cause, when catastrophe strikes a commercial property, the damages can be crippling to a business and even bring operations to a complete halt. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost productivity and revenue.  SERVPRO has highly trained technicians that are here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to mitigate the damages properly and efficiently. 

Ask about SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Plan (ERP), a useful tool to prepare a business for the "worst-case scenario".  The ERP is a data collection source, storing all your important and vital information such as where to find shut off valves for both water and gas, where electrical panels are located and who to contact in the event of an emergency.  This information is compiled into one neat folder and is ready for anyone in your business to use in one place at your fingertips.

Commercial Damage

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

Whatever may be the cause, when catastrophe strikes a Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande commercial business, the damages can be crippling and put the day-to-day operations to a halt. Every hour spent cleaning is an hour loss of productivity and revenue. Let SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande help you! We have highly trained professional technicians here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year available to mitigate the damages properly and efficiently. Our crews our certified and know the best techniques for restoration! 

SERVPRO also offers the Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) a useful tool used to prepare a business for the "worst case scenario." The ERP data is a collection source of all the most important phone numbers, and information you would need in the case of an emergency.

Fire Aftermath

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

A house fire can be one of the worst experiences someone could go through. After the flames are put out is when SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande can step in and help you! One major causes of damage is smoke and soot. Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allow 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.

Emergency Ready Profile

8/12/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial buildings and local schools can often face the risk of floods, and fires. One of our goals at SERVPRO is to prepare our local communities, in the case of a disaster! To do this we offer Emergency Ready Profiles (ERP's) for local schools, and commercial properties. 

For an ERP, a representative from SERVPRO will come out to your business, and tag the gas shut off, water shut off, electrical and alarm systems. We note directions to each location, so if there ever is a problem anyone in the building will be able to local these shut off locations! Once we physically do the ERP, we load the information into an app, which can be edited and accessed by the staff. 

This is a free service offered by SERVPRO, for more information call us today!  

Types of Smoke

8/12/2022 (Permalink)

Many people don't know this but there are 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 Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande 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. 

Water Damage? What Now?!

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

When water damage occurs, do you know what to do and what not to do?

Water damage can happen at any point for anyone, home or business, resulting in damaged property. These do's are only for clean water and do not’s pertain to sewage water. Sewage water is treated differently since it causes different damage and requires a different cleanup process. With the right tools and pieces of equipment, our professionals can safely dry out your home or business and the contents within it. Here are some things to always keep in mind.

• To minimize the damage, make sure to shut off the source of water and turn off the electricity. It is essential to remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and soaking up with towels. This is especially important for wood furniture. 
• To ensure that more damage isn't sustained by the furniture make sure to try and move it, if safe to do so. 
• Make sure to NOT enter a room with standing water since there could be a risk of electrical shock 
• Make sure to disconnect all power first. 
• It is recommended to NOT leave rugs and furniture upholstery wet against one another because the fabrics have the potential to bleed between each other. 
• It is important to note that you should not be utilizing your household vacuum to try and suck up any water. 

If these tips are followed, then damage can be minimized and you will be better prepared for help to arrive. Remember to stay safe and get excess water cleaned up professionally to minimize the chance of mold growth. Our Team at SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande is ready to assist at a moment's notice with any of your water mitigation emergencies. Give our team a call at 805-473-0772.

Don't Let Water Ruin Your Summer Fun!

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

With the temperatures quickly rising and the hot summer season headed straight towards us, our
the natural inclination is to turn up the A/C indoors!

However, the risk of water damage still poses
a threat even during the summer months.

The extended use of air conditioning units, if not properly maintained, can cause drainage issues. To avoid this, make sure to change your air filter regularly. Regular inspections and cleanings are also important to prevent and stop any issues in your unit from worsening. One thing to keep an eye on is the drainage pan. Check to make sure water isn’t leaking and accumulating in the pan. Especially in the hotter weather; mold, mildew, and fungus can easily grow and spread.

Another thing that keeps in mind is the potential for pipes to burst. Although burst pipes are more
common during the colder months, hot summer weather can still cause this headache for a home
or property owner. A good rule of thumb is to notice whenever there is a change in your water pressure. While it could be simply just an irritation, it could also be a sign that something bigger is on the verge of happening. This could be a result of corrosion build-up which leads to leaks and eventually, water getting into your home or office.

The risk for pipes bursting doesn’t stop there. If you notice cracks appearing on the walls, especially around the corner, it’d be safe to assume there have been changes in your foundation. An easy solution, however, is to consistently water the soil and even place plants around the perimeter of the foundation. The plants help moderate the temperature of the soil and can also serve to hold the ground together with their roots.

The last thing any home or property owner wants to deal with is water damage, no matter the
weather!

Where Is Your Emergency Storm Kit?

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

Do you know where your emergency storm kit is?

If a community is not prepared for a severe storm, the results can be devastating. Since the Birmingham Area is no stranger to severe storms, SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande wants to share some of the following tips to keep in mind while putting together an emergency kit in the event of a severe storm approaching. FEMA has stated that emergency kits should include some of the following:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Any medicine currently being taken
• Emergency food and water
• Extra change of clothes and shoes
• Pet supplies if you are taking care of an animal

These are just a few examples of what an emergency kit should contain. Residents can add whatever else they may need. There should be an emergency kit in every residential building as well as all commercial buildings if possible. Aside from having an emergency kit ready, a plan should also be in place. If there is a designated storm area inside the home or office, occupants should head there with the emergency kits. Severe storms cannot be avoided, but with the right tools and resources they can be easier to deal with.

What To Do If Your Water Heater Is Leaking?

3/31/2022 (Permalink)

However, before the help arrives, you can’t just let the water flood the property, right? After all, that can severely damage your property and adversely impact the wellbeing of people in it. 

Here are three steps you can take right away if your water heater is leaking:

1. Cut Off The Power Supply Right Away 

Switching off the power supply should be your first response. 

As long as the power stays on, it poses a serious safety risk. The hot water spraying out of the heater can potentially burn or scald your skin. If you have an electric water heater, then you also run the risk of electrocution. 

So, be very careful not to injure yourself as you try to cut off the power supply. If you cannot reach the switch, seal off the area as best as you can to avoid the leaking water spilling over into other areas and wait for the repair team. 

For gas water heaters, simply turn down the dial to the closed position.

2. Carefully Search For The Leakage Point 

If you managed to cut the power off, your next step is to search for the leakage point. 

You might need a flashlight to locate the damaged point if the leak is minor. Inspect the pipes and the valves to see if you can find water dripping from a busted pipe or a loose connection. 

In some cases, the cause might be a malfunctioning valve. If water keeps dripping after you close the valve, then ask the repair team to install a new one. 

3. Shut Off The Water Supply 

Finally, turn off the water supply to contain the spill before the leak turns into a puddle and water starts flowing everywhere. 

The water supply button or dial is usually located somewhere above the heater. Once you locate the dial, shut off the water supply so that water stops gushing everywhere. It might be tricky to do it if the damage is too extensive and you cannot reach the dial. In that case, switch off the main water supply for the entire house. 

At this point, we recommend that you reach out to experts to handle the repair process. 

Parting Thoughts 

Bad times don’t come calling, do they? That’s why it’s in your best interest to always remain prepared. 

Wondering how you can do just that? By having SERVPRO’s number on speed dial. 

From the water, fire, and mold damage to restoration, cleaning, and construction services, we specialize in them all.

Give us a call for your quote today at 805-473-0772

Flooding at Your Place of Business

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Preparing for a flood is one of the smartest things that a business owner can do, even if they are not in an area typically prone to flooding. Statistically, 90% of natural disasters involve flooding and commonly impact areas that are not usual flooding targets.

Increasing your emergency preparedness by planning for a flood is a great idea not only for the safety of yourself and your staff but also for the continuity of your business. By planning in advance and preserving documentation, you can be more prepared to reopen after the flooding passes.

How to Prepare

It is not uncommon for business owners to not know where to start on flood preparations, but thankfully there are many resources out there. Some things to do include:

• Use the FEMA Flood Map and locate your building in order to determine any geographical risks you might face.
• Place copies of important documents in a secure location you will be able to access following a flood.
• Educate employees on your official flooding action procedures, which will ensure everyone knows what their role is in a flood scenario.
• Identify evacuation routes from various locations around the building and host regular drills.
• Consider the idea of adding flood insurance to your business policy.
• Store non-perishable food and water in case you face wait times for emergency personnel to arrive.
• Raise up any valuable electronics out of the water’s path.

How to Decide What Documents to Copy

When it comes to copying documents, it is better to have anything you think you might need instead of failing to remember something. Some important things to include are:

• An outline of your business continuity tasks
• Means of contact for any staff members and third-party services you may need to contact
• Your insurance agent’s contact information
• Detailed steps for recovering computer files that have been backed up
• Financial documents such as bank account information

If your business has experienced a flood, we are always here to help. Call us at 805-473-0772 to get our team of professionals to your business quickly so you can get back on track.

SERVPRO Is the One-Stop Cleaning and Recovery Service | SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande is a one-stop service for a great many things. You may know us as the company that helped your neighbor with a sewage backup or the team that cleans your office. Or maybe you only know us as a set of big green vans you see around town occasionally.

But whatever you know SERVPRO for, there’s a good chance there’s much more about us that you don’t know. So today we want to spell out some more of our available services for you—because when you need help in any of these areas, we want you to know you can trust SERVPRO to take care of you.

Water damage recovery. Water damage is a major pain for millions of homeowners each year, and SERVPRO has custom solutions for all of them. No matter the nature or size of the damage, we can get your home back in the dry again.

Fire damage recovery. Fires in homes across the U.S. happen twice a minute or more, meaning a lot of homes are damaged every day. We’ve got the tools and training to take care of homeowners dealing with fire-related loss.

Mold removal. Mold is often an unfortunate side effect of water damage, and sometimes it’s a result of atmospheric conditions. Regardless, it can eat away at your home—and it’s not safe to remove major mold damage by yourself.

Storm recovery. We see everything from big thunderstorms to tornadoes in Lawrenceville, and they can leave major damage behind. When storms take a bite out of area homes, we help homeowners recover, restoring as much as we can along the way.

Commercial needs. Businesses need cleanup and recovery, too, and we offer all our services for commercial enterprise for that very reason. From full-size business parks to mom-and-pop shops, we take care of local businesses who need us.

General cleaning. We know what you’re thinking—do you have to wait until a storm floods your basement to get your carpet cleaned? No way! We can help you anytime, with any cleaning task you may need.

Specialty cleaning. There are a lot of different places that get dirty a lot of different ways, and we take care of all of them. If there’s an unusual cleaning need, rest assured we can handle it.

Construction. When the damage is more than surface-level, we can manage that too, even if it means remodeling, reconstruction and full-scale rebuilding.

Add 24-hour service and an easy insurance process to all this, and the picture becomes clear—when you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO to get the job done.

We Take Pride in Customer Service

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Why use SERVPRO of Santa Maria for your water, fire or mold disasters?  The main reason to use our company is the type of service we give.  We are committed to helping the homeowner or business understand the process of mitigation and to offer the highest quality of service.  Our technicians have many years of experience and have the knowledge of how to best apply the guidelines for the restoration process.

Our clients can rely on us to call before we come, to show up on time, to perform the needed mitigation work in a timely manner and to explain the process in extensive detail.  We value the confidence that our clients have with us.  Our technicians’ high standard of professionalism can turn an unfortunate water or fire damage into a more positive one by our extraordinary customer service.

Commercial Disaster? Call SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

When you're a business owner and you run into an unexpected commercial disaster, you should call our franchises SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande at 805-473-0772. We can immediately dispatch technicians to come assess any situation that is stopping your business from operating. SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande will do everything in our power to help you and your business when trouble arises. 

Tips until SERVPRO arrives:

• Shut off the water source, if identified.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
• DO NOT use regular vacuum to remove water
• Locate insurance information
• When we arrive we will do a very thorough dry out and complete it in a timely manner. We practice the science of drying...and we specialize in restoring your property. We are a "One Stop Shop" – Which means we are a company that can dry out your property, take care of your contents, and rebuild if necessary. Call our franchises SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande at 805-473-0772, we are available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all your commercial needs.

Why You Need Deodorization After a Fire

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke and Fire Deodorization

Strong smells often linger after having a fire.  The type of smells that develop are determined by the type of material that was on fire or smoldering.  A hot fire that burned natural building materials will smell different than that of a protein fire from frying or a slow smoldering fire that burned plastics and rubber.  These odors can cause years of problems if they are not handled by a professional.  At SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande we employ a multi-step approach to deodorization.

Source Removal

The first step in deodorization is to find the source.  In the case of a fire the area may be obvious, however there are many causes of odor that may not be easily noticed.  Once the source is found by our trained technicians we must remove it. 

Cleaning

The next step in the process is to clean the effected areas.  Many of the soot particles are deposited both on and often inside certain building materials depending on how hot the fire was.  Our technicians are trained on different cleaning strategies dependent on the surface to be cleaned and the soils deposited.

Deodorizing

We employ a combination of pairing and masking deodorization techniques depending on the situation.  Hot fires open the pores of building materials where foul smelling soot can be deposited.  When the fire is extinguished and the materials cool down, the pores of these material shrink, thus trapping odor molecules inside.  In such cases we will use a pairing agent along with a Hot Thermal Fogger to reopen the pores.  The pairing agent will attach to and change the odor molecule so that it no longer smells.

Sealing

While sealing of wood is not always required, we will often do this on studs and structural members.  One of the reasons for sealing is because these building components are often covered up by drywall, or they are located in hard to reach areas.  Summer brings hot weather and as building materials heat up, these materials are capable of releasing odors.  Sealing ensures that any soot not completely eliminated from cleaning remains trapped.

The Timeline of Your Water Damage Repair | SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

The annoyance and ruination of water damage happens to U.S. homeowners a troubling 14,000 times a day. Statistically speaking, it’s happening at least once somewhere in America while you read this paragraph. And there it goes again.

Obviously, we hope your home stays bone dry as long as you live there, but should the day arise when you need emergency assistance from SERVPRO, here’s how all that will go.

Emergency Contact. When you reach out in a panic, we’ll reassure you and walk you though some guiding questions to help us understand the situation and start putting a plan together. Then we’ll set a time to meet in person. All of this will happen quickly.

Inspection and Water Damage Assessment. Once we arrive on the scene, we can flesh out the plan and stop any water that may still be flowing. We’ll make sure you know if the encroaching water has created any hazards on your property, and we’ll also give you an idea of the items or materials that will likely need replacement.

Water Removal. You’ll never get all that water out with a bucket or a regular water vacuum. That’s why we bring our pumps to make quick work of it.

Damaged Material Removal. The items that are unable to be restored can now be hauled away, expediting the process of restoration for the items and materials that remain.

Cleaning, Sanitizing and Deodorization. Water damage can leave a yucky mess. We’ll use our tools and some old-fashioned elbow grease to rid your home of unwanted stains, smells and depending on the nature of your emergency, harmful contaminants.

Drying. It’s only a short while after water invades that mold begins to grow. Even after the water is pumped out, your home will need some dehumidifying and drying out.

Monitoring. We’ll be carefully watching the entire process, making sure every box is ticked and every surface is cleaned and dried. Don’t you worry about a thing.

Repairs and Construction. Now that everything is dry and in order, we can go about the finishing touches, which may range from replacing carpet to reconstructing entire rooms. Large or small, we’ll be there to oversee every aspect of your water damage restoration.

When water damage strikes, make the call to SERVPRO for A-to-Z cleanup and restoration. We’ll make your damaged property look “Like it never even happened.”

4 Easy Steps To Use a Fire Extinguisher

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

How Do You Use A Fire Extinguisher?

If you’re a responsible homeowner, you probably have at least one fire extinguisher in your house. Ideally, you should have one within easy access to all fire hazards (kitchens, furnace rooms and laundry rooms are all great places to keep them). While owning at least one extinguisher is an important step toward protecting your home from fire damage, it’s equally important to make sure you know how to use it when you need it. Here are four easy steps you should follow when using an extinguisher to put out a fire in your home.

1. Call the Fire Department

When there’s a fire in your home, your first reaction may be to pull out the closest fire extinguisher and put it out. However, if the fire is large, it’s important to call the fire department first. Then, if it’s safe to do so, you can attempt to put the fire out yourself while the fire truck is on the way.

2. Identify Your Evacuation Path

The next step you should take before pulling out the extinguisher is identifying a safe evacuation path. The last thing you want to do is focus so much on putting out the fire that you become trapped in the blaze. Take a moment to look around you and ensure you have a safe escape route to use as needed before pulling out the extinguisher.

3. Follow Instructions on Extinguisher

Fortunately, most extinguishers come with easy-to-read instructions printed directly on them. Follow the instructions and make sure you discharge the extinguisher within the effective range listed on the container.

4. Back Away From the Fire

It’s possible for a kitchen fire to flare up again even after you’ve put parts of it out, so make sure you back away from extinguished flames instead of moving toward them.

Let the experts of SERVPRO of Pismo Beach restore your home after a fire.

Fire, Smoke, AND Water Damages? Now What?

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

The progression of damages after a structure fire can happen very quickly and be very overwhelming for a property owner.  During the fire, the flames spread across flammable materials, damaging nearly everything in their path.  Along with the flames come soot residues and smoke odor, which spread even further than the flames, and linger long after the fire is extinguished.   With extinguishing the fire often comes water, and large amounts of it, which saturates your structure and contents.  Now you have fire, smoke, and water damage!  Where do you go from here?

Call SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande for Help!

Our team has the knowledge, experience, and equipment to handle both fire/smoke and water losses of all sizes.  We offer 24/7/365 emergency response to begin the remediation process as soon as possible, reducing the total amount of damage sustained by your property.  We also work with your insurance company, to help alleviate the stress of the claims process.  SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande is your “one stop shop” for property damage restoration, offering multiple services lines for both structure and contents, removing the need to deal with multiple companies for your loss.  Finally, SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande also has a reconstruction division, so after the remediation process has been completed, we can help you to rebuild “Like it never even happened.”   

Why SERVPRO?

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to companies offering clean up and restoration services in the Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande area, consumers have a variety of options to choose from, so why SERVPRO?  As a locally owned and operated organization, with the backing of over 1,700 franchises nationwide, SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande has the ability to respond to your property damage emergency quickly, no matter the size of the loss:

• We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
• Our technicians are highly trained restoration specialists, with multiple certifications from the IICRC.
• We work with a variety of insurance companies
• We offer a wide array of clean up and restoration services for both commercial and residential properties, including water, fire, mold, storm, and biohazard related damages.
• Our technicians utilize industry leading technology and equipment to provide the most efficient solution for your damages.

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande is Here to Help. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.  To learn more about the services we offer, please give us a call at 805-473-0772

Commercial Property Cleaning & Restoration Services

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande offers a variety of cleaning and restoration services for businesses both large and small. Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to respond to your emergency business damages, including sewage backups, water damages, and flooding occurrences.

When disaster strikes, our team responds as quickly as possible, working to mitigate the severity of damages, lessen the amount of time your business flow is interrupted, and begin getting your building back to its preloss condition.  Our top priority is to deliver the highest caliber of service, not only providing a full line of water, fire and mold damage remediation options, but also working with your insurance company to help alleviate the stress of the damage situation.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande Large Loss Response Team, along with the backing of over 1,700 franchises nationwide, has the training, equipment, and expertise to handle any size commercial loss.  We have worked with a variety of local business owners, from small restaurants to multi-unit condominiums, and are Here to Help you and your business in your time of need. 

Downtime = Lost Money

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande, our team understands that a quick and efficient response during a water damage emergency is extremely important.  During emergencies like these, not only must the building be back up and functioning, but the information, materials and equipment inside that are used daily need to be taken care of and restored.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande can save and restore nearly any office component, including sensitive information and paperwork, with our Document Restoration service. Our team always attempts to salvage anything damaged because we understand that it can keep the cost down for you and the insurance company as well the value it has to your company. If an item can be saved or restored it is worth the time to do so.  SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande works tirelessly to treat each of your items with special care as if they were our own. Our team is professionally trained to keep your items from damage while we do the work.

You can trust that SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande keeps in mind that time down for your business equals money lost. Our team will work around the clock to make sure your commercial damage seems “Like it never even happened,” and your business is back up and running as soon as possible.

Fire Extinguisher FAQs

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

It is widely known that having an in-date fire extinguisher on your property is imperative to fire safety, but did you know that there are different kinds of fire extinguishers, as well as a proper way in which to use one?  Keeping yourself, your family, and your property protected in the event of a structure fire is paramount, and the below information can help facilitate that process.

Q:  What are the different kinds of fire extinguishers, and what is each used for?

A:  The U.S. Fire Administration defines five primary types of fire extinguishers used to put out different kinds of fires:

1. A – used for ordinary material fires, such as wood, cloth, or paper.
2. B – for use with combustible or flammable liquids like grease, gasoline, or oil.
3. C – for use with electrical equipment like appliances and tools.
4. D – for use with flammable metals.
5. K – for use with animal oils, vegetable oils, and fats in cooking appliances.

Many fire extinguishers may also be multipurpose, in that they carry multiple letter definitions and can put out a variety of material fires.

Q:  What is the proper way to use a fire extinguisher?

A: The U.S. Fire Administration suggests the acronym “PASS” as a means of properly discharging a fire extinguisher:

     P - Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.

     A - Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.

     S - Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly

     S - Sweep the nozzle from side to side

To keep yourself safe, it is important to use extreme caution within a fire damaged structure, and always follow the guidance of local fire authorities.  SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande offers a full line of fire clean up and restoration services, and we are Here to Help when you need.

Fire Safety Tips

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure you and your family are safe from a fire by following these Fire Safety tips:

1. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home or business. Be sure they are inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.

2. Be sure to test your smoke alarms every month. If they are not working, make sure to change the batteries and test them again.
3. Put together a fire escape plan and practice with your family members twice each year so you are all prepared in the event of a fire.
4. If a fire occurs in your home or business, get out of your home, stay out of the building, and call for help.

Damage caused by a fire is devastating for your family and your home. It’s a stressful and confusing time, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. Our professionals will always treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with great care.

Immediate action is crucial when dealing with water and fire damage. We’re dedicated to responding immediately when you need help. A fast response helps lessen the damage, limits secondary damage, and reduces cost.

Call SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande today at (805) 473-0772!

Power Outage Preparation

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

The conditions created by thunderstorms or hurricanes, such as damaging winds or flooding, can result in loss of power for your home or business.  Preparing for the possibility of a power outage before it occurs can help ensure safety for both you and your property.  Ready.gov suggests the following preparation strategies:

• Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity.
• Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.
• Plan for batteries and other alternatives to meet your needs when the power goes out.
• Be sure to read and follow all manufacturer directions if using a generator for electricity.
• Sign up for local alerts and warning systems. Monitor weather reports.
• Install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home.
• Review the supplies that are available in case of a power outage. Have flashlights with extra batteries for every household member. Have enough nonperishable food and water.
• Use a thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer so that you can know the temperature when the power is restored. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.

As with hurricane or flood preparation, power outage preparation is essential to take care of your home, business, and loved ones in the event of an emergency.   If recent storms have caused damage to your home or business, the professionals at SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande are Here to Help.  Give us a call at 805-473-0772, We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

As leaders in the storm and water damage industry, SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande has advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to pre-storm condition.

From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

Restoring storm- and flood-damaged properties is the cornerstone of our business. Our highly trained professionals use specialized equipment and advanced training to quickly restore your Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande property to pre-storm condition. We’re dedicated to responding immediately, which helps to minimize secondary damage.

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande is close by and ready to respond to your flood or storm damage emergency. We are proud to be an active member of the Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be.

Reducing the Risk of Residential Water Damages

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

Residential water damages can occur at any time of the day, and on any day of the week,  potentially causing both heightened stress and a financial burden for Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande  homeowners.  Although completely avoiding or eliminating the chance for water damages is impossible, there are strategies that can be following to help reduce the risk of experiencing a water damage in your home:

Clean Out Your Gutters Regularly:

Clogged rain gutters on the exterior of your home can prevent rainwater from flowing down.  This can result in standing water on your roof, increasing the risk of a leak.  Cleaning out your rain gutters on a regular basis reduces the possibility of water damages.

Regularly Check Appliances for Cracked or Leaking Hoses:

One of the leading causes of residential water damages is faulty appliance water supply lines.  Whether your dishwasher, refrigerator, washing machine, or other water-utilizing appliance, be sure to regularly check for any damages to your supply lines.  Water from these lines can often go unnoticed for longer periods of time, leading to more extensive damages to you home.

Know the Signs of Water Damage:

Water damages are often accompanied by staining on walls or ceilings, a musty odor, or standing water in unusual areas of your home.  If you notice any of these signs, thoroughly check your home for water intrusion.  The longer water has to soak into porous materials, the more extensive damages may become: limit your risk by recognizing water damages early!

If your property has sustained a water damage, trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande to help.  Our team holds multiple industry certifications and has the experience and equipment to take care of damages of all sizes. SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande is locally owned and operated, and offers 24 hour a day, 7 day a week emergency response.   To learn more or request service, give us a call at 805-473-0772!

There's Water Everywhere! What Do I Do?

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

Imagine coming home from work after a long, tiring day.  All you want to do is kick off your shoes and relax.  You step through the front door, and SQUISH!  You are met with the sound of your feet stepping onto wet carpet.  Immediately your mind starts racing, you ask yourself WHAT DO I DO?

Determine if it is safe to be in the residence!  Common hazards associated with water damages include sagging ceilings, slippery floors, and the risk of electric shock from the combination of water and electricity.  If you feel that the area is too heavily affected, do not remain indoors!  If you determine that you feel safe to proceed, you will want to turn off the water source.  When a large portion of the house is affected, it may be beneficial to turn off water supply to the entire structure.  If you can conclude that the water intrusion is isolated to one appliance or area (such as the dishwasher in the kitchen), you will want to turn off the water going to this area.

The water has stopped flowing, so now what?  Call SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande for help!  Our team of experienced professionals is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to respond to water damage emergencies.  The quicker that the mitigation process is started, the less likely you are to incur additional damages.  Upon arrival, our team will evaluate the affected areas, begin extracting standing water, and formulate a plan for drying your property.  We take great pride in treating our customer’s property as we would our own and understand how stressful of a situation this can be.

Throughout your mitigation process, your dedicated Project Manager will provide an open line of communication about the job progress.  You can expect daily equipment monitoring, detailed drying reporting, and assistance in communicating with your insurance company.  SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande mitigation team are IICRC Certified, and possess the equipment, knowledge, and experience to handle water damages of all sizes.

If you’re met with the dreaded SQUISH! after a long day of work, CALL us at 805-473-0772.  SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande is Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Tools of the Trade Help SERVPRO Do the Best Job

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

It’s important to have the right equipment to get the job done. That’s why SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande uses several types of equipment to address any fire, water, or mold remediation issues you might have. Learn more about the tools we use to get the job done right!

All the SERVPRO Tools for Our Work

At SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande, helping our customers who have experienced water, fire, or mold damage areas is our top priority. We know that using the proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing loss. When time matters, technology, and equipment must be counted on to perform. Here are some of the tools we use to help get your property to its preloss condition. Each machine and piece of equipment has a crucial role in the restoration process and every SERVPRO restoration technician is trained to use each piece of equipment to its highest potential.

Portable extractors for water removal – These are used for cleaning carpets, cleaning upholstery, and removing water from floors after water damage or flood. Restoration technicians use this machine for variable heat-controlled cleaning, including to heat the rinse solutions to clean more effectively. With this machine, we can expedite the removal of water and humidity from damaged materials and textiles to help restore it to preloss conditions.

Ozone generator for odors - These generators eliminate a variety of odors caused by animals, cigarette smoke, mold and mildew, fire, and water damage. It generates ozone which chemically reacts with odor-causing molecules to oxidize residues and remove the odors. Once the process is complete, ozone quickly reverts to the typical oxygen molecule, leaving no residue. Once the odor is gone, the results are permanent.

Dehumidification equipment for moisture - This increases the rate of evaporation by removing water vapor from the air. Our highly trained technicians position dehumidifiers strategically in a water-damaged structure, so the moist, humid air moves through the unit while dry, warm air is discharged. We use the dehumidifiers, primarily because it provides a constant source of dry air to enhance the restoration process.

Air movers to reduce drying time - Air movers are used in water damage restoration to enhance evaporation at the surface level and reduce drying time. They introduce airflow at the surface level and replace the highly saturated air with drier air to enhance dissipation. SERVPRO technicians operate air movers in different positions, offering flexibility in how to direct the airflow for the best possible outcome. 

Truck-mounted extraction units for the big jobs - These units consist of multiple smaller components, which work together to make one of the best pieces of cleaning equipment in the industry. Our technicians know the specific environment needed for this piece of machinery to work it’s best and how to maintain it appropriately for safety. 

Our equipment is tested

SERVPRO tests all equipment before putting the items in the product line. To provide the best service to our customers, we must know how the truck mount works, how to set up and maintain the unit, how to use it safely, how to clean the vehicle interior, unit, tools, and hoses needed, and how to inspect all equipment and accessories for any damage, leaks, or other wear. The use of these equipment options helps us get your water or fire disaster back to its preloss condition. SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande is always here to help! If you’ve suffered water, fire, or mold damage contact us immediately at 805-473-0772 to get the job done right with the right equipment!

How To Find Bathroom Leaks

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

If you see water pooling in your bathroom in Pismo Beach, it's important to find the water source right away. The longer the water sits, the more damage it can do. A bathtub leak is especially difficult to spot and often goes undetected until it becomes a huge problem. If you spot water damage, call a water restoration service as soon as possible. To catch the issue early, follow these tips.

How To Spot a Leaky Bathtub

Leaky bathtubs usually originate from one of two sources:

Faucet Leaks: A leaking faucet is fairly easy to fix. It's usually caused by worn rubber washers within the faucets assembly. Taking the faucet apart and replacing the washers may fix the problem. If you aren't sure what type of washers to buy, bring the old ones to your local hardware store. Sometimes replacing the washers won't fix the leak, though. In that case, you may need to replace the whole faucet assembly.

Drain Leaks: A bathtub leak can also originate in the drain. The easiest fix is when the seal around the drain becomes loose. In this situation, remove the drain and apply plumbers putty around the entire assembly. If that doesn't fix the leak, you may have an issue with the plumbing underneath the drain. A plumber can fix this problem.

How To Check the Shower Pan for Leaks
A shower pan leak can cause severe water damage. To identify such a leak, put enough duct tape over the drain to cover it completely. Make sure it is watertight. Pour enough water from a bucket into the shower pan to make at least an inch of standing water. Check for water at the base of the shower pan. Look for pooling that extends beyond the tile. If it occurs, contact a plumber to replace the pan so that it is installed properly.
A bathtub leak can become a serious problem. Make sure you address the issue right away.

What Can I Do After Flooding?

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

Tips in How to Remove Water in Your Home

Whether from storms or broken pipes, excess water can be a problem. It can cause immediate troubles, such as water damage to your belongings, but can also lead to issues such as mold. It’s key to clean up all water and moisture immediately and properly. Here are tips for removing excess water in your Pismo Beach, home.

Water Poses Threats

The most immediate threat posed by household flooding is waterlogged belongings. Even an inch of water can have a devastating impact on floors, furniture, electronics and more. But there can be other issues long term, including:

• Mold and mildew growth
• Insect infestation
• Odors
  
  

These things can be expensive to fix after the fact, so it’s best to take the steps to avoid their occurrence in the first place. Fortunately, that can be relatively easy.

Get Rid of Excess Water

You may need a professional cleaner to completely get rid of all of the water, but you can set yourself up for success by removing what you can immediately. Use mops and highly absorbent towels to blot out as much as possible and minimize water damage.

Remove Valuables

Unplug and remove electronics. Next, remove furniture and other portable items like lamps, artwork and even books. There are professionals that specialize in restoring these types of items, and the faster you remove them from the water, the higher the odds they can be restored.

Dry What You Can

Take cushions and upholstery items somewhere to dry. Hang wet fabrics such as rugs outside. If it’s summertime, turn on the air conditioning to help the room dry out as much as possible.
Even an inch of flooding in your home can cause major water damage. While contacting water removal pros is the best way to restore your home, you can take immediate steps to minimize damage. Use these water cleanup tips, and you’ll keep the worst flood damage at bay.

Hiring a Mold Cleanup Company

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

Mold can grow anytime there is excessive moisture in an area. If you have found mold contamination in your home, you will need to have it removed immediately. The remediation process is something you should hire a reputable company for, so they can do the cleanup for you.

Hiring a Professional

Each mold cleanup process is unique. Obviously, a small patch of mold on your kitchen counter is going to be handled differently than an outbreak that takes over your attic. While you may be able to scrub the counter yourself, you will need to hire a professional for the remediation in your attic. Here are the most common times you will want to hire a professional remediation company to take care of the mold in your home in Pismo Beach:

• When mold contamination is present in your HVAC system.
• When mold damage was caused by sewage.
• When a complete mold remediation is necessary.
• When you are unsure of the current EPA recommendations for cleanups.
• If you have health effects.

Techniques They Will Use
While you may wield a scrub brush for small jobs, the professionals won't do this. They will likely use a much more complicated process to ensure that your mold levels are returned to normal. Just keep in mind some of your belongings may have permanent stains. These items will likely not be returned to their original appearance, even by professionals.
The first thing the company you hire will do is dry all of your items. They will likely be forced to throw any porous materials away. Then, they will begin the remediation process for any hard surfaces. During this process, they will contain the mold so that the spores do not spread. After they have killed the excess mold spores, they will seal in any that remain with a special type of paint.
If there is excessive moisture in your home, you may experience mold contamination. When this occurs, the best course of action is to hire a cleanup company.

Top 5 Residential Mold Causes

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

Why Is Black Mold Growing In My Home?

There are several reasons why you might find black mold growing in your home. At the end of the day, the key factor contributing to this mold growth is excessive moisture. Taking care of a moisture problem is essential when it comes to protecting your home in Pismo Beach, from unwanted mold growth. Read on to see whether any of the following causes are the source of your issue.

1. Wet Clothes
Leaving wet clothes alone for long periods of time can result in mold growth. The moisture they release while air drying can cause mold to take root on other nearby surfaces in your home as well. Lastly, leaving wet clothes in the washing machine for extended periods of time can cause black mold to form in the machine itself.

2. Poor Ventilation
Improper ventilation is the most problematic in residential bathrooms. The steam and condensation that forms during long hot showers has nowhere to go and is forced to build up on mirrors and other bathroom surfaces, causing mold growth. Crack a window or activate your bathroom's ventilation fan while you shower to prevent this from happening.

3. Leaky Pipes
Leaky pipes can be dangerous since it might take a while for you to notice that anything is wrong. During this time, moisture and standing water continue to build up, inviting mold into your home. Make time to routinely check exposed water pipes in your basement and underneath your sinks for leaks.

4. Flooding
The water damage caused by flooding is often followed by secondary damage. It only takes 24 hours of continuous moisture for mold to form. Residential floods can dampen your property for days, or even weeks after the initial incident.

5. Humidity
Monitoring and maintaining indoor humidity levels are essential when it comes to preventing mold from forming. If you see condensation forming on your window panes, then chances are your indoor humidity levels are too high.
If you do discover black mold growing in your home, it's vital that you contact remediation experts immediately to assist in your mold cleanup efforts.

Our time-tested strategies can help your Pismo Beach business overcome any disaster.

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

Water-based disasters can create severe hazards around electronic devices. In a commercial environment with great quantities of electronic equipment, exceptional care must be taken to avoid harm.

As one of the premier water restoration companies for Pismo Beach electronics stores, SERVPRO trains extensively to handle the unique challenges that may present themselves in your business. After an incident, we impose several measures specifically intended to prevent further damage to your building and merchandise, such as:

• Extracting standing water with powerful pumps.
• Lowering humidity to a strict 25% threshold.
• Disconnecting batteries, breakers, and other potential hazards.
• Maintaining warm temperatures to prevent condensation.

After stabilizing the situation and drying out your sensitive merchandise, we contract a trusted specialist to evaluate individual items, determine the potential for restoration, and salvage all possible items. As a result, many of the damaged items may be sold for much of their original value. We keep detailed logs of all work we perform to help you receive the largest and fastest payouts from your insurance company.

Dealing With Fire Damage

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

One of the biggest issues we see stemming from properties affected by fires is the amount of smoke and soot that ultimately invades anything that's left of the building.

Often, the smoke and soot caused by these fires could be as damaging as the fire itself. The scent and contaminants can live within certain materials, rendering them tainted until they are cleaned properly.

A lot of items can be held hostage to these odors, too, like: upholstery, carpets, furniture, clothes, and much more. Luckily for you, we possess the tools to tackle all of the issues stemming from a fire — and we want to help!

You can rely on us to follow the proper cleaning procedures to ensure that your home or property is inhabitable! From start to finish, we strive to tackle each and every job with the steadfast commitment to get it done right — and in the first attempt!

We are available 24/7 for all of your fire restoration needs! (805)473-0772

SERVPRO Is Ready For ANY Fire Loss!

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

Large losses, due to unexpected fires, can be especially devastating to your home or business. You may even find yourself very distraught as the fire trucks leave, worrying about how much your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have specialized fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet. 

How are we ready for any fire loss, though?

SERVPRO provides 24/7 emergency services, giving us a certain edge in the restoration industry - we boast the fact that we are always faster to any size disaster! From the moment you call in, to the moment we arrive on location ... SERVPRO is here for you!

Storm outside? Here's what to do!

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

First and foremost, if you ever find yourself outside during a storm, it is in your best interest to get inside to ensure your safety! One thing you can always remember to help you out with this effort: When thunder roars, go indoors!

When there, though, the path to safety has only just begun! You are going to want to avoid a ton of problem areas to avoid injury, like windows, doors, porches, and gazebos.

You should also refrain from using the plumbing too much; showering, washing dishes, or doing the laundry should be considered a no-no during these times.

Another less-known tip is to avoid corded phones, electrical cords or equipment, or any device connected to an outlet.

And never, EVER hold metal objects while outside during a storm — if the movies ever taught you anything, its to definitely not do that!

Call SERVPRO for all of your storm damage needs; we got you covered!

Severe Weather Information

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

The following is an important message that was adapted from SERVPRO Corporate:

Severe weather can happen any time, anywhere. Each year, Americans cope with an average of the following intense storms:

- 10,000 severe thunderstorms

- 5,000 floods or flash floods

- 1,300 tornadoes

- 2 landfalling deadly hurricanes.

Approximately 98% of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 650 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage.

Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action, and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

For more information, contact your local SERVPRO professional today! We will be able to assist you and answer all of your questions as best we can!

Spring Cleaning Your Office Space

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

Daylight savings time has officially begun! And with the longer daylight hours we all start to get into Spring cleaning mode! If it’s your home or business everyone seems to kick it into high gear. Now is a great time to start planning your commercial spring cleaning.  Having your business professionally cleaned can rid your office building of winter dust, mud and all the grime that comes with colder weather. There are so many areas of a business that can be forgotten with general housekeeping– SERVPRO of Pismo Beach is there to help you get your office in tip top spring clean shape! Let’s face it – it’s been a hard year on us all. Our SERVPRO team has COVID cleaned many commercial office locations over the past year – helping our community stay safe has been a top priority and we are going to continue to be your best choice for commercial cleaning. Check out our photo gallery for some great before and after cleaning pics. Always here for you – always here to help! Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Encapsulation: Your Solution to Crawlspace Humidity

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Is there a crawlspace under your home? Whether it's full of random storage items or left empty during the year, it's also part of your home that plays an important role in supporting the structure of your home. Sadly, crawlspace humidity is a common problem that exposes the foundation to mold and rot unless you take preventative measures.

Encapsulation

What Benefits To Expect

Encapsulation is an effective method of protecting the open area below your home. Crawlspace humidity creates an inviting environment for mold but sealing the space or installing a vapor barrier of polyethylene keeps moisture out. While many Pismo Beach, homeowners still haven't heard of this protective step, there are several benefits:

• This airtight barrier is also resistant to insect infestations and other pest-related problems.
• Encapsulation may reduce the amount of energy by almost 20 percent.
• The sealed space improves your ability to maintain temperatures in your home, effectively reducing your utility bills.
• Your property value may increase.
• Combine this step with a dehumidifier and the right amount of ventilation to avoid expensive repairs related to moisture and mildew.

With the heavy-duty barrier in place, you can feel confident that your home is protected against expensive water damage.

How To Tell You Need Services

How do you know if your Pismo Beach, home needs this type of protection? There are several signs that the empty space below your home is causing trouble:

• Musty smells from the empty space
• Floors that feel squishy underfoot
• Constant pest problems you can't control
• High utility costs in spite of home improvements
• Visible evidence of moisture around windows or on ductwork

As humidity builds up below your home, the effects are easily recognized. It's best to take action before you need to call in water damage repair experts.

When To Get Started

Crawlspace humidity is a significant cause of home damage. Adding a polyethylene barrier prevents damage to the foundation and the rest of the home. If you haven't considered this solution, now is the time to give it some thought.

Difference between Blackwater and Greywater

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Every single day we use water, it is the most important thing for man and all living things to survive. Most water is collected as wastewater. Our daily activities and chores that involve using water, produce wastewater which is collected in tanks. Wastewater has two categories, blackwater and greywater. These two different kinds of wastewater must be kept in separate tanks because they each have different levels of contamination and are treated differently.

2 Different Categories of Wastewater

Blackwater

Blackwater is wastewater from toilets and bathrooms that include fecal matter and urine. Also known as sewage or brown water, it can carry disease causing bacteria that are harmful to anyone who encounters it. Blackwater can also be referred to as floodwater that generally comes from overflowing bodies of water as a result of heavy rain, hurricanes, tsunamis or typhoons that combine with sewage water that can be overloaded with bacteria. Recycled blackwater is only used as fertilizer, it must be processed and decomposed accurately to destroy the bacteria.

Greywater

Greywater is wastewater that comes from sinks, washing machines, and bathtubs. It doesn’t have as many contaminants as blackwater and is easier to treat. Recycled greywater can ne used for irrigation and in constructed wetlands. If the greywater is from the sink, food particles from it can help nourish plants. Recycled greywater is very useful when it comes to times of drought when water is scarce.

Never drink grey water or blackwater, if you have an issue with either one, you need to address it and fix it, right away. If greywater goes untreated, it can turn to black water within 48 to 72 hours.

Commercial Property Water Damage Challenges

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial property water damages present their own unique challenges, and can be very stressful. SERVPRO of Pismo Beach certified technicians understand the importance of getting your commercial property up and running as fast as possible.

Our trained technicians work quickly to assess the situation, communicate a cleanup and drying plan, isolate the damaged area, and start work immediately. We have the necessary resources to handle any job, large or small. Time is always of the essence to minimize damage, and to resume operations as soon as possible. SERVPRO has access to large loss teams specifically trained and ready to go in event of a large loss.

If your commercial property experiences a water damage event call SERVPRO so we can put our experience and resources to work for you. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, we are readily available to make your property “Like it never even happened.”

Highly Trained Restoration Specialists

Our SERVPRO Professionals are highly trained in property restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, our Professionals are equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our SERVPRO training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training

Fire Damage Risks for Commercial Buildings

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage is a risk for any business. No matter what type of business you have, the problem is the same: A fire quickly decimates your building and puts your staff in danger. Flames can damage costly equipment and vital paperwork. Below are four top damage risks for local businesses:

• Outdated Fire Safety Equipment Up to date fire safety equipment is a must. Having the correct tools on hand means you can act faster in the event of a blaze. Every office needs a fire alarm system and appropriate fire extinguishers on every level. Different extinguishers are suited to different types of fire, so SERVPRO recommends contacting a local fire extinguisher company to come onsite and do an assessment of your facility. Remember to test fire alarms and sprinklers regularly.
• Electrical Equipment Offices have plenty of electrical equipment including computers, copy machines, phones, fax machines, and servers just to name a few. Electrical equipment is vital to the running of an office, but it is also a severe fire hazard. It does not take much for electronic items to spark and start a fire.
• Damaged or frayed cords, or worn out devices, are also a common fire source. It is a good system to all keep all electric devices in good working order.
• 3. Lack Of Training Your employees need to know how to avoid fire damage risks, for example by being careful with flammable liquids and not overloading sockets. Your staff also needs to know what to do in the event of a fire. SERVPRO of Pismo Beach recommends every local business have an Emergency Plan and we can provide you with our Emergency Ready Plan at no cost. Emergency Ready Plan is a free app that helps you plan what to do in the event of an emergency or disaster.
• 4. Combustible Materials Every office has combustible materials such as paper and cardboard. Paper waste and old boxes seem like harmless junk, but they quickly burn once alight. Put a protocol in place for regular emptying trash receptacles to outdoor trash bins.

Our SERVPRO Professionals are highly trained in property restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, our Professionals are equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. The SERVPRO training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• e-Learnings

Continuing Education Classes

Smoke Alarms

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

Fire prevention is one of the most important things for you and your family. Ensuring that your home has smoke alarms are one of the first steps in fire prevention. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 3 out of 5 home fire deaths were caused because of no smoke alarm or no working smoking alarm. Smoke alarm cut the risk of people dying. Hardwired fire alarms operated 94% of the time versus battery powered alarms. The battery may tend to fail because of missing, disconnected or dead batteries. Ionization smoke alarm is more responsive to flaming fires and can detect a fire faster during the night hours when you are sleeping to give you extra time to safety assist or waken others to evacuate from a fire.

Be Ready With the Emergency Ready Profile

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

Preparation is key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small leak, pipe break or an area flood. The best time to plan for such water events is not when it happens, but before it happens. Facility owners and maintenance staff never plan on a disaster, but now you can plan for it by calling SERVPRO  we can ensure you and your business are "Ready for whatever happens", with our Emergency Ready Profile (ERP).

The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including:

1. Emergency Contact Information
2. Shut-off Valve locations 
3. Priority Areas
4. Building layout

The ERP is also accessible online using your computer, tablet or smartphone.

Commercial Building Storm Damage

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

When preparing for an upcoming spring storm, protecting your home is the priority and something you should take seriously. As a business owner, you have to do double duty because it is crucial to ensure that your business is as secure as your home.

Here are a few ways to help you avoid storm damage to your commercial property:

1. Watch, Listen, or Read

By watching the local news channel, listening to the radio throughout your commute, or reading a weather app on your phone, you will know exactly what is coming your way as well as how to prepare for it. 

2. Protect the Property

Be knowledgeable about where your pipes are located. With a quick visit to the hardware store, you can gather insulation supplies for the pipes that are easy to reach. Hate the drip, drip, drip from a leaky faucet? In the event of a cold front that brings freezing weather, turning the faucet on to a drip can help you avoid a potential serious and costly pipe break. This is because the drip keeps the water moving in the pipe and does not allow it to sit and freeze. When left alone, the water can freeze and expand, and this pressure is what will break a pipe.

3. Ask for Help

Utilize others’ knowledge on how to keep your business safe. Know who you can call to help prevent damage or to fix an already broken pipe. Save the phone number of a cleanup and restoration company in your phone contacts for quick reference in case of an emergency.

No one wants to deal with the headache of storm damage or a pipe break. By being prepared and creating a plan for your business, you can ease the burden of an upcoming winter storm. Your business storm strategy can also be easily applied to your home so that you won’t have to worry if a storm hits while you’re at work.

Water Damage Timeline

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

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.

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.
• An 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.
• Bio-hazard 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 contaminants can pose serious risks to occupants.

Trust The Leading Company In The Restoration industry.

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

In your daily life, making a good first impression is crucial. Especially If you are trying to impress a client or customers  For example, if you want to build a good, long-term relationship with your customers, you'll need a clean business "setting."

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande is Here to Help

We here SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande want to be the Capital provider to assist the 5 cities community with any restoration needs. Our goal is to become the world's best cleaning and restoration company while building a team of high-quality employees who value outstanding service, fairness, and mutual respect.

Trust The Leading Company In The Restoration Industry. 

SERVPRO was named Entrepreneur Magazine’s  #1 Franchise in the cleaning and restoration industry for the 21st consecutive year! We offer residential and commercial facilities 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We are committed to being quicker to any size catastrophe as a locally owned and operated business. We have ample experience, preparation, and facilities to manage all of your restoration and cleaning needs.

Here For Your Emergency Needs

There no job too big or too small for SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande. We are here to assist in the aftermath of larger disasters and handle and clean the small useful things that have been damaged by the disaster. Carpets, upholstery, drapes, and blinds are all examples of this. We will breathe new life into your old tile and make your floors sparkle once more. We can also deodorize your property and eliminate residual odors.

Available 24/7/365

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to assist you with your emergency restoration and cleaning needs. We will assist  in maintaining and shining your residence or company while you continue to make numerous first impressions.

House Fires in American Homes

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

You may think that house fires increase in the winter months, and you’d be right, but only ever so slightly (about 1% more than warmer months). When house fires actually increase a noticeable amount its not during the colder months or because of the temperature outside, but during certain hours of any given day within the year.

What are the peak hours during the day that the most fires happen within American homes you may ask? The answer is from about 4:30pm-8:30pm. Why?  Most of us are home by that time and should be able to catch a fire if it happens, right?  But most fires caused between that 4 hour period, are caused by homeowners themselves…and they are caused, by cooking dinner.

Cooking fires make up almost 50% of all household fires. And while many homeowners catch the fires before they cause substantial damage, many can get out of control within minutes…seconds even.

We cook with highly flammable materials and substances. Butter, oil, and fatty substances can catch fire and create a toxic coat of soot within the area in minutes.

When you are cooking, never leave something unattended and keep a fire extinguisher handy and close by. Make sure you know how to operate the fire extinguisher as well. Seconds and minutes can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a few hours of a smoky smelling house, and an entire home that needs fire restoration cleaning. If you have suffered a cooking fire, call SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande. We can help you return your space to it’s preloss condition.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande is with you every step of the way

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO isn’t the only restoration service out there, and not even the only restoration service in Missoula. With a few options to choose from, you may ask “Why should I choose SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande in the event of water, fire, or mold damage in my home?”

The answer lies not only in our highly trained team and specialized technology, but also (and perhaps more so) in our commitment to our customers from the very first call all the way through to final repairs and cleaning. Our promise to make water, fire, and mold damage “Like it never even happened,” is not an empty one.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande technicians are on call to respond to emergencies 24/7, because we know emergencies rarely occur at a ‘convenient’ time. If you have a flood in your home, our team will be onsite that same day to extract water and begin drying out affected materials. Once your home reaches dry standard, we don’t just leave you to figure out the rest. SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande also works with your insurance company to make the process as easy for you as possible, and provides repair services as well as contents cleaning; our team’s collective experience ensures that we’ve covered all the small details, so you don’t have to

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande isn’t only a restoration company; it’s a residential and commercial mitigation, repair, and cleaning company ready to take on a project of any size; and in the event of a loss in your home or business, it’s also a support system. If you call SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande for water, fire, or mold damage, you can rest assured we’ll be with you every step of the way.

Training and Skill in Water Damage Migration Detection Are Why SERVPRO Delivers Success

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

We keep up with every bit of training to assist our Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande homes.

When a Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande homeowner tries to determine the extent of a water loss, both instincts and common sense can fall short. When water gets loose inside your home, it can migrate far from the original plumbing break, roof leak, or appliance breakdown. Without the tools to detect the path the water followed, significant damage can go unnoticed. Our investments in education and innovative moisture identification tools help avoid additional expense and secondary damage, why we offer our help. 

Water Detection is a Science and an Art

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) courses our managers and production technicians master covers the expected and unexpected behavior of water damage inside a Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande bungalow. The lathe and plaster and stucco construction of signature Arts and Crafts structures are both charming and capable of hiding water damage when it is minor and manageable. Our training and experience in tracing water meanderings behind walls and built-in fixtures explains why we are skilled in finding and solving water problems before the integrity of your historic home is compromised.

Aging Heating and Plumbing Plus Temperature Extremes Equal Water Damage Challenges

When your dining room oak floor develops cupping and crowning the search for a water source can be daunting. Bungalows often retain their 100-year-old gravity heating, with old radiators filled with hot water from the boiler in the basement warming spaces. Rusted pipes and failing valves can slowly saturate the floor, unnoticed at first as the issue begins and then spreads from behind the radiator at the wall. Mold development on a main level wall or ceiling can trace to ice dam development the previous winter, moisture seeping in the attic from clogged gutters eventually traveling downwards. Our familiarity with this type of insidious damage is why SERVPRO can respond quickly and reliably to your water damage challenges.

Sensitive Moisture Meters and Infrared Cameras

The availability of and skill in using water detection tools are why SERVPRO crews can outline water damage with accuracy and confidence. Infrared technology indicates the presence of water through temperature variations. Moisture meters establish relative levels of absorbed water in building materials. Periodic use of these tools throughout a water damage remediation project ensures we find and release liquids. Then our Applied Structural Drying (ASD)-certified technicians create an effective drying plan using the data, moving water out of structural components with temperature adjustments and air movement. Dehumidifiers capture the vaporized water for disposal. Moisture measurements continue until we reach designated levels, avoiding over or under drying.

Training and innovative equipment are two reasons why SERVPRO Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande efficiently mitigates and remediates hidden water damage. Call us at (805) 473-0772 if you suspect your bungalow harbors damaging moisture.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande is Here For Your Fire Restoration

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

When the firefighters leave, it may seem like the danger has passed and the home is safe from further destruction, but without professionals to help clean the smoke damage, the building may never return to normal. While the principles behind fire restoration are fairly simple, it requires a lot of experience and manpower to perform adequately, and this means that it shouldn’t be attempted by a homeowner on his or her own.  The trained professionals at SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande should be called on-site immediately.  We can clean smoke damage and restore items affected by a fire, but we must be brought to the site as soon as possible to halt the ongoing issues that ash residue can cause. 

The only way to properly clean smoke and fire damage is to be extremely thorough. Ash residue is easily disturbed and can spread through the building with ease, causing nearly everything to need restoration. The experts at SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande will identify what can and cannot be salvaged, and will remove any built-up ash residue that is coating surfaces. Over time, ash builds up in layers, and may eventually form into a lacquer-like consistency. Once this is done, the restorers will locate the source of the odor, and treat it with specialized detergents that are formulated for neutralizing this kind of odor. Once materials are treated, they may be sealed off to prevent any further odor from permeating the air in the future.

Is There a Best Way to Get Rid of Fire Odor in your Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande home?

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

The terror and disruption of a kitchen fire are overwhelming. Getting your family to a safe place is the highest priority. Once all are accounted for, then it is time to reach out to our professional fire restoration team to work together on recovery.

Why Should You Avoid Fire and Odor Cleanup Without Expert Help?
The fire and odor damage experienced by Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande homeowners, like yourself, is unlike typical dirt, grime, and smells. Clearing away charred debris and cleaning soot from surfaces usually is not recommended as a DIY project because:

    •    Structural components like ceilings, walls, and floors need professional assessment as they might be unstable
    •    Significant quantities of water and extinguishing chemicals nearly always need removal first, needing expert extraction
    •    Debris and residues can be highly toxic, requiring personal protective equipment (PPE) to manage
    •    Effective soot cleanup methods and products vary depending on the materials burned and surfaces affected, with training supporting appropriate matching of cleanup strategies
    •    Deodorization methods frequently need specialized products and unique equipment

What Makes a Kitchen Fire Smell So Bad?
When a fire starts in the kitchen, SERVPRO finds that foodstuffs, oils, and greases are the ignition fuel. High levels of fats and protein create an oily mist that covers everything. The heat produced causes the oils and grease to melt and dehydrate. They become rancid, creating a rotten stench clinging to appliances, cabinets, walls, and ceilings, air currents carrying the odor far from the kitchen as well.

How Do Technicians Remove the Smelly Protein-Based Residue?
SERVPRO technicians learn that “like dissolves like” when choosing products to break down fire residues. Because residues of a kitchen fire are oily, we turn to solvents to break the bonds between the soot and the surface.

What If Cleaning Alone Is Not Enough to Get Rid of the Smell?
The challenges of eliminating protein-based soot odors are many. In cases where deep cleaning still leaves a noticeable nasty smell, SERVPRO considers using the following options:

Thermal fogging
Deodorizers are combusted into a fine mist, paring with soot particles to neutralize the odor

Hydroxyl generators
Hydroxyl radicals destroy the molecular structure of odors

Sealants
Airtight products applied to surfaces, preventing the odor molecules from vaporizing

Rely on the crew at SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande to deliver fire residue cleanup and odor removal. Call (805)473-0772 to schedule an assessment.

We will walk you through every step for your Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande flood damage.

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding creates a frustrating situation for property owners. Fortunately, by taking the right steps, it is not hard to restore your Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande property after flood damage. If it is safe to enter your home, you can start the flood cleanup process by doing the following things: 

• Wear protective attire like watertight boots, rubber gloves, and safety glasses or goggles.
• Discard porous materials such as foam rubber and padded furniture.
• Throw out exposed food, medicine, and drinks.
• Document the damage by taking photos or videos.
• Wipe down wooden items.
• Clean hard surfaces with a solution of hot water and soap.

Cleaning up and drying a flood-damaged property is challenging. You may need special tools like air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the affected surfaces. Some parts of your home may also need to be rebuilt, or soaked materials like carpeting and drywall may need to be removed, discarded and replaced. The other items you may need to replace include drapery, clothing, and ductwork. Therefore, it is advisable to hire a flood damage restoration company like SERVPRO to assist you with the remediation process.

When we get to your residence, we can conduct a detailed inspection using devices like moisture meters, infrared cameras, and moisture sensors. These devices enable us to track moisture within a building. After assessing the destruction, we can come up with the appropriate restoration plan. Floodwater can bring all kinds of solids in your property. We can use a self-priming trash pump to extract the water mixed with solids. We can also use power washers to remove muck or mud on the exterior parts of your home.

After extracting the water, your walls and floors may look dry, but they are still wet. Porous building materials can hold moisture that can make them swell or warp. Our SERVPRO technicians can manipulate temperature and humidity using dehumidifiers and air movers so that drying occurs much faster.

Cleaning floors, walls, and other affected surfaces is also essential. During a flood, sewer lines can leak wastes that may end up in your property, threatening your health. Our team can clean your home using disinfectants that destroy 99 percent of microorganisms.

When you need flood cleanup services in Santa Maria call for help. Our 24-hour emergency helpline is (805) 473-0772. We can make the loss appear “Like it never even happened.”

When is a Flood Cut Needed?

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

When your home in Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande has water damage, the cleanup process is typically fairly easy. If the damage was caused by flooding, it unfortunately brings a few extra woes. As opposed to a pipe leak with clean water, flood waters can easily pick up extra bacteria and contaminants along its path.

Purpose of a Flood Cut

Since water wicks its way up, the visible damage seen at a few inches could actually have traveled a few feet up a wall. A flood cut allows for the assessment of damage further up the wall. Typically 12 to 18 inches above the visible damage, this cut can help determine how far the water has moved up as well as any other damage.

Are Flood Cuts Always Necessary?

Most professional mediation experts try to tear out as little drywall as possible. For clean water leaks, only the visibly damaged area may need to be removed to prevent further moisture damage. Unfortunately, flood waters require extra care, which will likely mean a flood cut for three main reasons:

After flooding, there is a good chance of contamination. Sewage, chemicals and other bacteria can easily picked up in the flowing waters.
The excess water that has likely worked its way up the walls can create a welcoming environment for mold growth. Even though it may not be visible, the moisture and organic materials in drywall and other materials create the nourishment the fungus needs to flourish.
Behind the drywall in many homes is insulation, which can’t be properly dried. If left as is, it will no longer provide its designated insulated properties.

If your home is damaged by flooding, the best bet is to use a flood cut. This will help you determine how much of the material needs to be removed, as well as will help the area dry out better. Luckily, helps is available that is faster to any size disaster to resolve the residual flood issues.

How To Handle Water Leaks Near Light Fixtures in 3 Steps

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

3 Easy Steps You Can Take To Control This Scenario

Water leaks are always concerning, as they can greatly damage your Santa Maria, home and property. The presence of water in light fixtures is especially dangerous since water and electricity together can harm you. You will need to handle these situations carefully. Continue reading to learn more about three easy steps you can take to control this scenario.

1. Shut Down Electricity
   Before conducting repair efforts, it is important to disable the danger of electricity immediately. If it is safe to do so, head straight to your house's service panel and shut down the main source of power. Even if the damage is limited to one specific area, it is better to turn off all power until the area is secure. Test the lack of electricity by using a non-contact voltage tester on a dry appliance.
2. Turn Off the Water Valve
   Another important step in mitigating the situation is cutting off the main supply if the water in the light fixtures comes from a leaking pipe. Water, alongside any chemicals in the water, can conduct electricity and endanger anyone in the area. Look above to detect any water drops, ceiling damage, mold or other signs of a plumbing failure. You will need to locate your house's main water valve and shut it down immediately.
3. Call the Appropriate Professionals
   Now that the affected appliances and location are free of danger, it is time to call the professionals who can resolve the problem. If there are broken pipes, a plumber can repair the system and stop further damage. Call an electrician to fix the light fixture or device in question and to ensure it is the right time to bring back power. After that, an emergency remediation specialist can help restore your home to its former state.
   Water damage can harm you and your loved ones and further destroy your home, especially when it comes to water in light fixtures and other electronic devices. Take the proper steps to minimize the hazards and keep your household safe.

Follow these Safety Tips if you suspect Mold

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Safety Tips - If you suspect mold, or you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.  

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Bay County for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services:

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (805) 473-0772

We are Cleaning Experts

6/2/2020 (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 Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande, 805-473-0772

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

Restoring Your Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at 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 Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande 

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande  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.

Property disaster? “We are always here to help.”

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Faster to any size disaster. This is not just another catchy tag line for SERVPRO. It is a commitment from each SERVPRO Franchise professional to be there when you need them most. 

Whether you are a small business or home owner facing minor fire or water damage, or property manager dealing with a widespread disaster, the SERVPRO system has the resources to respond quickly and efficiently. The sooner help arrives, the sooner restoration begins and the sooner you can resume life and business as usual. SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande is just the tip of the iceberg.

If a fire, water or mold damage strikes, no matter the time, call SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande. We will help make your property disaster "Like it never even happened." Call on a restoration system serving insurance companies and those they insure, as well as thousands of commercial property owners in North America. You can trust the SERVPRO brand, too! 

Coronavirus

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to respond to the novel Coronavirus outbreak. SERVPRO franchise professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. The CDC encourages cleaning of counters, tabletops, doorknobs, and other high-touch surfaces with a hospital-grade disinfectant.

For more information please call 805-473-0272

Why Choose SERVPRO When Faced with Water Cleanup Inside Your Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande Home?

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

A significant water loss incident is both stressful and challenging, especially if you wait too long before you reach out to trained professionals for restoration. When it comes to water cleanup of any kind, you can trust that our team at SERVPRO has your best interests in mind. We come armed with all of the best solutions for addressing your needs promptly.

When it comes to water clean up in PIsmo Beach/ Arroyo Grande, it can be challenging to bring down moisture levels throughout your home if flooring and carpets become saturated. The ability to reduce damage is a matter of the techniques and equipment used, which is where SERVPRO is on point.

Why Call SERVPRO First?
If you suffer from a water loss incident, we deploy Water Restoration Technicians (WRT) and Carpet Cleaning Technicians (CCT) to assess your needs. We use the latest technology and methods to preserve the appearance and integrity of your soiled, wet carpets from water infiltration.

On the surface, the carpeting may not show how severe the damage is. Most carpets absorb a magnitude of water before it shows on the surface. Our SERVPRO team has multiple extraction options at our disposal to help bring up water deep down in your carpeting and flooring. This includes the use of weighted, ride-on extractor units as well as handheld units to ensure no area is left where moisture can fester.

To further solidify that your home is free from leftover water, we have moisture sensors used to detect moisture left behind in both carpeting and the padding below. Our moisture sensor uses sharp probes that get down under the surface level to determine if moisture has gotten into the subfloor below. SERVPRO technicians also have infrared cameras, or thermal imaging cameras, that inspect and monitor moisture that might be left within your home’s building materials. These and other specialized tools help us make sure that your house is adequately dry.

Regardless of the scope or size of the water emergency, you are faced with, you can trust that our skilled technicians at SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande get to work fast to help with water cleanup. Give us a phone call at any time, day or night, at 805-473-0772 so that we can make it “Like it never even happened.”

Professional Results for Safe Fire Damage and Restoration in Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

A structure fire can start small and then turn into a significant catastrophe within minutes. The longer it takes to extinguish the fire, the more damage and debris is left behind. Working with a professional team for restoration, such as SERVPRO, helps you to ensure that the cleanup process gets underway promptly. After all, the more time that burnt materials sit around, the longer all of the pungent odors linger.

With any restoration process that we take on, SERVPRO technicians work quickly to ensure we return your home to the preloss condition. We are experts when it comes to fire damage in Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande, making sure that you can re-enter your home to get back to your daily life sooner.

Whenever something burns within a structure, soot residue, smoke, and burnt particles linger and create pungent, unpleasant odors. Even when moving quickly to remove burnt, charred materials, further deodorization might be necessary to rid your home of all foul odors.

SERVPRO technicians start by securing the building, inspecting your property thoroughly to rule out any potential safety hazards. Once the area is deemed safe, we remove all fire-damaged items and double-check to ensure no moisture is left behind from extinguishing the fire. Many materials and items may have to be removed and replaced, but there are times when our technicians can save items by cleaning and disinfecting.

In a situation where building materials like wooden studs are charred less than ¼ of an inch, we fix it by removing the charred portion. We then seal the item, refinishing if necessary. Should the materials only be slightly charred, we can sand them, use steel scrub brushes to remove the burnt portion, or use dry ice blasting or soda blasting for effectively removing all the damage.

Regardless of the level of fire damage that you are faced with, our team of restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Pismo Beach Arroyo Grande makes it look, “Like it never even happened.” If you need immediate help to get your household back to normal after a fire, please give our experts a call at 805-473-0772, and we can send a team out as soon as possible.

Cleaning and Deodorization After a Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande Water Loss

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Many necessary steps make up the final cleaning and recovery of Concord homes after a substantial water loss incident. As much as our experienced team worked to dry and restore these affected areas and materials, lingering residues and odors can make returning your home to its original condition a challenge. Our professionals have premier products and equipment to manage these needs, and we follow specific steps following drying to make water losses “Like it never even happened.”  

Cleaning and deodorization are correlating tasks for the restoration of water damage in Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande homes. We have extensively trained cleaning professionals accredited through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) for water restoration and structural drying. These endorsements include an understanding of the values of proper cleanup and odor removal following these loss incidents to bring a property back to preloss condition.  

The cleaning of a house following the extraction and drying of water damage is vital for removing residues from surfaces. While many materials like drywall can become oversaturated and require removal, hardwood and tile flooring are more resilient when our SERVPRO team arrives quickly. In most cases, a residue film is all that gets left after even standing water threatens these materials. Waiting to secure professional restoration can often result in more widespread demolition to correct the damages, which in turn requires more post-construction cleaning.  

Many do not always think of the odor that pooling water can leave behind. The decay of affected materials and contents can often be enough to make comfortable living a challenge – even when the water damage itself did not require relocation. We have cutting-edge deodorization tools like thermal foggers and scented odor products that can neutralize odor compounds threatening your home and introduce a pleasant scent in its place.  

Cleaning up after a water loss incident can help to reduce present odors, and that is what makes these final steps of restoration so vital to the result. Our SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande team has strategies to meet the demands of your damaged home through both mitigation and the final steps of restoration. Give our experienced water restorers a call today at (805) 473-0772.  

Avoiding Problems That Can Occur After Water Removal in Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande Homes

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know the national average for water damage in homes shows that a water loss event is likely to occur at least once every eleven years? Commonly seen sources are from plumbing problems, appliance malfunctions, or structural issues such as hydrostatic pressure causing water in the basement.

Many issues can occur post-water removal in Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande homes, and SERVPRO technicians monitor the moisture levels in the room and look for signs of mold growth to halt infestations before they start. Inadequate drying has the potential to result in foul odors and weakening of building materials.

Why SERVPRO?

Each technician undergoes rigorous training in the restoration sciences, including hands-on situational experiences, so they learn the best practices for handling different types of loss. As advances happen in the restoration industry, the technicians engage in ongoing education to stay on top of the latest developments in both equipment and methods.

Water Removal Methods

When technicians extract water from a home, they have different equipment depending on the type of surfaces they are working on. Squeegees work great on tile and wood floors, while rovers and weighted extractor wands perform well for pushing the maximum amount of water out of carpet and padding.

Avoid Mold During Water Cleanup

It does not take much for mold spores to germinate, and SERVPRO technicians work proactively to inhibit any type of mold growth during and after water loss mitigation through the use of antimicrobial cleaning agents as well as sealants to avoid infestations.

Avoid Musty Water Odors

The lingering reminder of the water damage in the home may point to moisture remaining. To avoid this happening, SERVPRO technicians use different kinds of moisture detection equipment (dependent on the surface they are scoping) to confirm after drying, there is no residual moisture present. After drying, the surface wipe-down with their cleaning agents such as SERVPRO's own Orange cleaner leaves nothing but a fresh scent while it kills odor-causing bacteria.

How Flood Damage Affects Furnishings In Your Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande Home

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Water can cause several problems for both upholstered and wood furniture items found in your home. Many of which require professional attention to overcome correctly. After a flood, it helps to get your furniture off of the carpet as soon as possible, whether that means blocking the furniture with wood or moving it out of your home entirely. 

Facing Flood damage on your Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande area does not need to be a difficult or stressful task. A technician can perform your restoration and help qualify restoration versus replacement costs for each affected item. Remember, it is our goal to take the proper steps to limit your losses and prevent any secondary damages that may occur. Avoid settling for anything less.

When dealing with upholstered furniture, SERVPRO technicians understand how to address the adverse effects often associated with flooding. We are available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, year-round, and provide professional cleanup and restoration services you can count on to return furnishings to a quality pre-flood condition. 

Water affects on upholstered furniture often include:

• Swelling and cracking of furniture framing. 
• A weakening of the frame, due to glue break-down, often leading to additional damage.
• Fabrics listed as dry-clean only may spot, causing discoloration.
• Dust covers often bleed when wet and sag, staining carpets, rugs, and flooring.
• Metal backing on buttons can rust and stain.
• Wooden, metal, or plastic legs can stain carpeting or rugs. 
• Mildew growth may occur if not handled correctly.

SERVPRO teams use a variety of water removal equipment and rapid drying methods to reduce swelling and prevent cracking. Our quick response times make it possible to prevent glue break-down, stains, and rust. We even have specific spot removal procedures in place for preventing discoloration and use furniture blocking or move-out procedures to help limit any losses you might experience. 

SERVPRO technicians pay close attention to wood furniture, as well. We use specialized wood care products to help prevent spots, swelling, cracking, or weakening of joints. However, replacement is generally less expensive than restoration on items made of particleboard or laminates.

Give SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande a call for access to flood damage restorers with Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification in your area - today. (805) 473-0772

Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande Residents Call Upon SERVPRO for Rapid Water Removal

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Most of us think of flooding in rainy weather and burst pipes when people talk about water damage in Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande. However, homeowners often call in the team here at SERVPRO due to a malfunctioning clothes washer or dishwasher.

Water lines break, and hoses wear out. The result is standing water on kitchen and utility room floors, warped linoleum, and stains on the wall. How can you avoid these mishaps? Experts say homeowners who do regular inspections avoid many types of water damage causes issues Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande. A good rule of thumb is once every season and before you go on vacation. 
 
This inspection should include a look at pipes under the sink and around the outside of the dishwasher, including along the door and on the floor. Check the hoses on your clothes washer and the outside of your water heater. If you notice excess condensation, drops of water, and problems with the materials of your floor or wallboards, don’t hesitate to call in a plumber. 
 
If you already see signs of water damage, call the experts here at SERVPRO. We are trained to meet the standards and best practices of the Institude of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, respected throughout the cleaning and restoration field. We have years of hands-on experience, and cutting-edge machines and cleaning agents to return your home to its original condition. Our emphasis is always on restoring your possessions and furnishings, replacing them only if necessary. 
 
Drying is key to successful restoration work. After extracting as much water as possible, SERVPRO technicians use powerful air movers to speed drying and help moisture evaporate. We use the movers in conjunction with dehumidifiers, which remove moisture from the air. With our advanced training, we know how to calculate the right type and number of equipment to use to get rid of moisture in the affected space.

Document Drying

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

When you walk into a flooded room, your first concern may not be damp paper, but once you’ve cleared the room, you may find that to be one of the tricker problems you face. After all, a towel can dry your filing cabinet, but what do you do with all the files inside?

First Steps

The most important step to take is to freeze your documents immediately. Freezing halts the destruction of the paper—it won’t undo damage, but it prevents any further deterioration by the physical effects of water or the growth of bacteria and mold. This will work whether you have cabinets full of client files or just family photos that you’re trying to preserve.

At this stage, it is important to pack the documents as carefully as possible. If you throw them in the freezer while folded or rolled, they will remain in that shape even after drying and cleaning. Make sure that they’re flat enough to put in a file folder once you get them back.

When you call SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande and ask for help, we’ll transport the paper in its frozen state to our document restoration center. 

Safely Drying Documents

SERVPRO uses sublimation to dry water damaged documents. This is the physical process that happens when the water in an object goes from solid straight to gas without becoming liquid in between. This prevents paper from being re-damaged once it thaws.

This is the only method for document drying that is approved by both the National Archives and Records Administration and the General Services Administration

SERVPRO Document Restoration Services

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande can provide you with document restoration services beyond just drying. We can decontaminate papers that are exposed to hazardous conditions, such as a sewage spill. We can digitize documents if your office decides that you want a backup in case anything happens again. If you decide that you don’t need the documents back, we can securely destroy them and provide you with a certificate of destruction.

Most importantly, we and all members of the document restoration team are HIPPA Master Certified, which means that patient records and private information are in a secure chain of custody while they are being restored.

At SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande, we want to make it “Like it never even happened,” after an emergency. From the floors to files, we’re here to help.

Water, Water, Everywhere!

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

An Unwelcome Surprise

Imagine coming home from vacation, opening your front door, and seeing water on the floors and drywall scattered across your furniture and electronics as the ceiling is crumbling down. As you walk through your home, going up squishy stairs, you realize your whole home is flooded.

Your home is where you take refuge from the world. Home is where you're surrounded by memories. When your home is threatened by water damage, it can be a traumatic event. What do you do next? 

When we asked SERVPRO customers to describe our team, the one word that kept coming up was “hero.” We are here to help, with compassion, expertise and urgency.

About SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande is a full-service restoration company.  We provide emergency 24/7 mitigation services and complete reconstruction services. We make it “Like it never even happened.”  So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande 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. No matter what size disaster, from single story and a complete high-rise, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge and resources to restore your property.

The Do’s and Don’ts with Fire and Smoke Damage.

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be scary , until help arrives here are some tips to help minimize damage.

Do’s:

• 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.
• 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.
• Wash both sides of leaves on the house plants.
• 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’ts

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO.
• 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 secondary damage.
• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

Understanding Secondary Damage

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

When you have a flood in your commercial building in Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande, CA it's hard to know what the extent of the damage will be until you get a remediation team in there for an inspection. This crew can help you do the following:

• Assess the damage.
• Create a repair plan.
• Initiate cleanup.

As the professionals are assessing your damage, you may hear them talk about primary and secondary damage. Here's what you need to know about damage that's caused indirectly by the waters.

What It Doesn't Include

This secondary form of destruction can include a wide range of damage, but it doesn't include everything done to your building. The primary damage is anything done when the pipe burst or the roof leaked. For example, black mold growth wasn't caused directly by the flooding, but damaged walls and ceilings may have been.

How It's Formed

Because this type of damage only includes the harm done after the flooding has ceased, how is the damage done? Often slow reaction time, improper cleanup and hidden problems cause what the professionals consider to be non primary damage. For example, black mold growth does not happen the instant a flood starts. Instead, it takes 24 to 48 hours to begin. High humidity may also be a secondary type of damage because it takes place when the water is allowed to sit for too long or is not completely removed from the building.

What It Does Include

Because it's caused by slow reactions, this damage can include mold growth, unsalvageable furnishings, water contamination and the spread of the flood. If a pipe bursts on the second floor, the water may start to travel to lower levels if it is not caught soon enough. The path of the water may be considered secondary or primary damage depending on what caused the travel.

Mold growth, including black mold, is often considered a type of secondary damage. However, your commercial space could by affected by other types of secondary destruction if you don't properly address water issues right away.

Items You Should Throw Away After a Home Fire

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

Items You Should Throw Away After a Home Fire

A home fire in Pismo Beach, California is a frightening event that can change your life. Standing in your home among your damaged belongings, you probably ask yourself which items you need to throw away. The fact is that high heat and fire damage render some of your personal belongings useless and can even cause them to be dangerous if used.

Food

Food that got damaged by heat, smoke, water, toxic fumes or chemicals is not safe to use. Exercise caution and discard if in doubt.

It’s recommended to throw away these items:

Fresh food, such as produce, meat, poultry, cheese, eggs and milk
Food in cardboard boxes or foil wrap
Food in canisters, such as spices, flour, and seasonings
Canned food
Open packages

Check your refrigerator to see if it was able to keep your food cold and if soot was able to penetrate it. If your fridge was turned off for more than four hours or if you can detect soot, discard all food. Frozen food can be safe to use if it still has crystals on it; however, the safe bet is to toss it.

Medicine and Cosmetics

Inspect medicines and cosmetics that were near high heat for soot, dust, chemicals and signs of damage. If anything is warped due to the exposure to heat, don’t even think about keeping it. You’re on the safe side if you simply get rid of all medicine and cosmetic items.

Clothes and Textiles

Some of your clothes and textiles might be able to be cleaned and disinfected by an experienced fire restoration company that has the proper tools and knowledge. Anything that is burnt needs to be thrown away, though. Baby and children clothing need some extra care and attention as you don’t want to risk your little one’s health.

Exercise caution with the aforementioned items. It might be smart to just throw away food, medicine and cosmetics for the sake of your health. Always bear in mind that high heat and fire damage are dangerous, and even if any of these items seem to be in good condition, your eyes might be tricking you.
Visit https://www.SERVPROpismobeacharroyogrande.com/for more information on fire damage.

How to Minimize Flood Damage to your Business

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

Prepare Your Business From A Flood Damage

There is never a good time to deal with flood damage in Pismo Beach & Arroyo Grande. Different types of flooding include burst pipes, flash floods, and sewage backup. They can be hard to prepare for and even harder to predict. Here are a few tips to ensure that you are doing the most you can to protect your property from disaster.

Act Now

Sometimes you won't have time to prepare your business before a storm hits. If your property experiences flooding, remember not to panic. You can avoid most of the damage with these steps.

• Stop the flow of water and turn off circuit breakers to reduce risk of injury.
• Call your storm damage restoration company immediately.
• Remove small furniture items, books, papers, and breakables to a higher floor or a dry room.
• Put cinder wood blocks under the legs of furniture to raise them above water level.
• Lift all cushions, rugs, drapes and other fabric items away from water, and set them outside to dry if needed.
• Place sandbags around doors and windows to divert running water and soak up standing water.

Prepare for the Worst

While the forecast can be erratic, one of the best ways to avoid heavy damage is to be prepared before a storm descends. Perform routine maintenance on the building to prevent water from pooling in areas. Make sure to clean out storm drains and patch holes in parking lots. Regularly inspect doors, windows and drains, and bring them up to code.

Keep an Updated Flood Action Plan

Having a flood action plan can help you get your business running right after a disaster. Keep yourself and your employees updated on weather forecasts and storm warnings. Have the numbers of insurance providers and emergency services in one place. Make an evacuation plan and perform drills regularly. Know how to locate all utility taps and circuit breakers and how to safely shut them off in case of a flood.

When you have a well-constructed plan, you will feel much better about handling a disaster such as flooding. Just because the weather can be unpredictable doesn't mean you shouldn't be prepared.

What to do after Flooding if you don't have flood Insurance.

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

No Flood Insurance?

Homeowners insurance policies typically exclude damage caused by flooding. Residents of flood-prone areas should obtain a separate flood insurance policy, otherwise they will have to pay for damage restoration out of pocket or obtain relief through a federal program. Here are four types of assistance that may be available through the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

1. Transitional Sheltering and Temporary Housing

After the president declares a federal disaster area, Transitional Sheltering Assistance can lower the cost of staying in a hotel during the days or weeks immediately following a disaster. Homeowners can also seek Temporary Housing Assistance for a period of one month up to 18 months.

2. Grants for Cleanup and Restoration

A homeowner may want to apply for a grant to fund the restoration of a residence located on a flood plane. Grants can be used for repairing structural damage or replacing other losses.

3. Repair and Replacement Assistance

If the location of your home is declared a federal disaster area, you may be eligible for a one-time payment for Repair and Replacement Assistance. This option will not cover the costs of flood damage, and is intended to supplement a flood insurance policy.

4. Low-Interest Loans

It may be possible to obtain loans that have low-interest rates to finance residential flood damage repairs. These loans are usually capped at $200,000 for a primary residence and $40,000 for property including renters' losses. Annual interest rates may be as low as 1.75 percent for a 30-year period.

After a federal declaration of emergency, homeowners may benefit from these and other services administered by FEMA. If you obtain flood insurance, you should seek an estimate from storm and water damage restoration experts and make a claim. Professional cleanup and rebuilding services can reduce the likelihood that secondary damage will result from primary flood damage at a residence in Pismo Beach & Arroyo Grande, CA. 

When Storm Hits, SERVPRO is read!

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande 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 Pismo Beach & Arroyo Grande, 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 https://www.SERVPRO.com/disaster-recovery that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 805-473-0772

Preparing for Flood Damage

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

How To Prepare for Flood Damage

Flooding can happen throughout the year and can be devastating to a commercial building, leaving damage that takes a significant amount of time and expense to undo. There are several steps you can take to prepare your Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande, California building to survive and recover from storm damage. Preventative measures can reduce the amount of flood damage and make it easier to restore your building to operational use as soon as possible. 

1. Clean the Gutters

Flooding doesn’t always mean there are several feet of water in a building. Even a few inches of water inside a commercial building can cause substantial damage. Floodwaters can build slowly over several days or may rise extremely quickly in the event of a flash flood. 

No matter how much rain is falling, well-maintained gutter systems have a much better chance of diverting that water to proper drainage areas. If the gutters are clogged with leaves, dirt, and other debris, the water can overflow the sides and saturate the ground around the foundation, increasing the risk for damage. Make sure to check and clean the gutters on a regular schedule to ensure they work properly during a flood.

2. Maintain the Storm Drains

Like gutters, storm drains are designed to move water away from streets and buildings. While the local government or county is usually responsible for storm drain maintenance, you may be required to report issues with the drains on or near your property. If you see something amiss with a storm drain, report it to the authorities immediately.

3. Have a Response Plan

Make sure you’re ready to react quickly in the event of flooding. During a flood watch or warning, follow basic safety guidelines:

Listen to the TV or radio for weather updates
Gather an emergency preparedness kit
Move to higher ground
Avoid walking or driving through flood waters

Keep the number for restoration professionals handy so you can call them if your building sustains storm damage. You will want to do this as soon as possible to begin cleanup and repairs. Responding quickly to flood damage can help get your building back to normal operations. Visit http://www.SERVPROpismobeacharroyogrande.com for more information on flood damage.

Restoring Your Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande 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 Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande 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.

Going on Vacation? Make Sure to Do These Things to Minimize Chance of Water Damage.

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage occurring while a family is away from their home for long periods of time can be a devastating occurrence that can be quite costly. With this knowledge, SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande have released a report on things you can do to minimize water damage when you are away from your home.

SERVPRO has been helping clients in Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande for years when it comes to disaster restoration and cleaning. If you ever experience water damage in Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande, whether commercial or residential, SERVPRO should be your first call as they have been doing it for half a century, along with offering many other forms of cleaning and restoration. Check out their website for more information of call them at 805-922-5457 if you have any questions.

How to Prevent/Minimize Water Damage in Your Home While on Vacation
Water damage is one of the most common and horrific things that can happen to your house. There are many possible causes and catalysts for water damage, so it is always a good idea to keep an eye out for them. However, when you and your family are on a well-deserved vacation, it’s impossible to keep an eye out for them. With that in mind, here are some great ways to lessen the chance of your home suffering water damage while you are away.

The first and most obvious thing to do is check the house for leaks. Even a tiny leak can turn into something much worse over the few days you are gone, get them tightened up. Also, use this time to inspect any appliances to make sure all hoses are tight and nothing looks off. Make sure the sump pump is working too, or you could be in for a huge clean-up when you return.

Now that everything is in working order and there are no obvious signs of damage, the next thing you should do is find someone who wouldn’t mind checking on your house for you while you’re gone. This is important as they would be able to turn your water off to minimize the damage if a pipe bursts or a leak starts. If no one can check on your home for you, it is a good idea to turn the water off before you leave to ensure nothing horrific can take place.

Remember, SERVPRO should be your first call if you discover water damage in your Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande home. They can help you in a professional and timely manner to get your house back to 100%.

Mold can spread though a home in as little as 48 hours.

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise "mold removal" and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today at 805-922-5457

Mold Prevention Tips for Commercial Buildings

12/13/2019 (Permalink)

Any type of structure can get mold, so commercial buildings are the most critical because it has volumes of people walking in and out. Mold can affect the quality of air that runs through the structure, which why it is necessary for mold to be quickly re-mediated. Mold growth will depend on the amount of moisture that exists in the environment. Commercial buildings are recommended to use professional cleaning services like SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande, to properly clean and re-mediate the area.  Here are some tips to keep your commercial building mold free:

• Controlling humidity levels inside
• Fixing any source of water leak
• Cleaning and drying after any water damages

To find more information on mold you can visit:

https://www.cdc.gov/mold/dampness_facts.htm

Call SERVPRO when you see this at your commercial building.

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande, we get a lot of commercial projects. We understand how the property’s appearance can affect your current and future clients, which is why SERVPRO is always ready to help restore any size commercial building. There is no job too small or too big for SERVPRO.

Here are some scenarios of when you would need professional services like SERVPRO’s. Our professionals will help make it "Like it never even happened"

• Water Damages- even the smallest water damages can have secondary effects like bacterial growth.
• Fire Damages – the air we breathe can have major effects in our health, it is important to thoroughly clean and wipe any fire residue.
• Mold Remediation- mold can cause major health issues to anyone who comes in contact with the property.

You can check out our before and after pictures of our jobs at https://www.SERVPROpismobeacharroyogrande.com/before-after-photos

Any Commercial Emergency, SERVPRO Will Be There

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning and restoring commercial properties require a unique blend of training, experience, and equipment. SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande has the resources and expertise to give you excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients. We can help make it “Like it never even happened.”  No matter the size of the job, SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande has the knowledge to ensure that it is done completely and with the thoroughness that you have come to expect from the SERVPRO name.

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

Local Commercial Building In Need of SERVPRO Services

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

When we visit your business after any emergency loss, we will scope the effected areas to determine the extent of the loss. We will always pretest affected surfaces to determine the type of damages and which products will help us recover the area most effectively. We will walk you step by step of what will need to happen in order to restore your business. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore any size damage. If a fire/water/storm has damaged your business, call us right away at 805-473-0772. SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande will treat you with empathy and respect, and your property with care.

Resources for creating a home fire escape plan

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

Firefighter put out a house fire. All that is left of the home is Fire Damage that SERVPRO of Arroyo Grande will clean up and fix.

Prevention is one best defense against a fire and the other defense is a well thought-out and well-rehearsed home fire escape plan. Always ready to help restore fire damage, Arroyo Grande SERVPRO specialists also believe that keeping friends, family and our neighbors safe from loss due to fire is a priority.

In the event of a fire, the best defense is to get out of the house immediately! The best way for everyone to get out is to have an escape plan that the entire family has practiced over and over.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has provided the following tips for a home fire safety and escape plan:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home. Large homes may need more than one alarm per level. Include the garage. The NFPA recommends smoke alarms in every sleeping room as well as hallways.
• Involve every family member in making the plan. Walk through the home and identify all possible exits and escape routes.
• Draw a floor plan of the home and mark two ways out of each room, including windows and doors. Make sure escape routes are clear and doors and windows can be opened easily. Make sure security bars are equipped with an emergency release.
• Choose an outside meeting place that is a safe distance from the house and include the location in the escape plan.
• Make sure your street number is clearly visible from the road or street.
• Call 911 immediately to report the fire, either from a cell phone or a neighbor’s phone.
• Include infants, pets and family members with mobility issues in the plan.
• Make sure guests know the escape routes.
• Conduct fire drills to help everyone remember the plan.

Fire escape planning resources

The NFPA website provides a variety of free escape planning tools, including an escape grid to help you plan escape routes and a safety tip sheet.

Local resources include your local fire department. Most city and rural fire departments and forestry divisions have literature and programs to help the community prepare fire and emergency escape plans. Ask if your local fire department has a community outreach officer who can help you review your plan.

Homeowner and renters insurance companies may also have planning tools. Check with your agent or insurance company.

Prevention is the best defense. Ask your local fire department to help identify fire hazards and for advice for the best way to remove them.

How SERVPRO can help

SERVPRO of Arroyo Grande is a fire damage removal resource and we can also help with removing and disposing of hazardous materials that may be fire or health hazards. Call us today at (805) 473-0772 to discuss removing hazardous materials or restoring water, mold, or fire damage.

SERVPRO, Pismo Beach, Water Damage Specialists, Report ‘What To Do When Mold Is Discovered

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Mold discovered behind laundry room appliances

Mold might show up on kitchen or bathroom grout once in a while and this is generally safe to clean. It is the persistent mold on walls, under cabinets, and in damp places that the SERVPRO Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande  specialists want the public to be very cautious about.

Mold is usually green or black in color, and has a musty smell. Mold grows from spores that easily become airborne and the spores can be inhaled contributing to possible health problems. For this reasons, Mark Powers, owner of SERVPRO Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande recommends people use caution even when cleaning a small amount of mold.

“Use a good antimicrobial. Spray it onto the mold and surrounding area, but before doing that be sure to put on a facemask and rubber gloves. Scrub the mold away with a brush or disposable rag,” said Powers. “But, when there is a chronic mold problem, or mold is present in large amounts, there may be a water damage problem that needs professional attention.”

Mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. Professionals, trained in the science and effective removal and control of mold, are best equipped to locate the source of persistent mold and remove the moisture or water damage that is the breeding ground for mold growth.

Excessive moisture and standing water are common sources of mold growth in buildings. Mold growth can start within 48 hours. By the time mold appears, the moisture may have already soaked into the structure, even masonry, enough that industrial fans and other drying methods are required. Left long enough, water and moisture will cause structural damage, requiring comprehensive restoration or even expensive reconstruction. The SERVPRO Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande professionals are the experts locating the source of mold and water damage, and removing and repairing the damage.

A phone call to SERVPRO Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande is the first step to addressing mold in a home, business, or any other structure. Upon arrival, the technician carefully inspects the property for signs of mold. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view and various technologies are used to find the mold and hidden water sources.

The remaining mold and water damage removal process includes:

• Containing the spread of the mold using advanced containment procedures to isolate the contaminated area and keep mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.
• Filtering and “scrubbing” the air using specialized filtration equipment that captures mold spores out of the air.
• Removing the mold and mold-infected materials with antifungal and antimicrobial treatments and removing and properly disposing of mold infected materials. Removal is essential for preventing the mold from returning.
• Cleaning any items that may have become infested with mold such as carpets, curtains, clothing, furniture, and even collectibles.
• Restoring everything the mold infected to the original condition. Restoration can range from minor repairs to major reconstruction, depending on the degree of mold and water damage.  

Comprehensive mold remediation and water damage repair is not a task that home and property owners are equipped, or even trained, to undertake. The professionals from the Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande water damage company, SERVPRO, have the required training, safety gear, and equipment and supplies to safely and effectively remove mold and the sources of mold growth. Protect the health of family and other building occupants by calling the professionals to remove mold.

This press release is by Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande SEO company Access Publishing, 806 9th Street, #2D, Paso Robles, CA 93446. (805) 226-9890.

SERVPRO, Pismo Beach Fire Damage Specialists, Helps Clients Navigate Insurance Claims

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

fire damage pismo beach

When a disaster of any size hits the family home or business, working through insurance claims can seem like one more overwhelming task. The local specialists in restoring fire damage, Pismo Beach SERVPRO, is particularly prepared to help victims with both the insurance claim process and the property restoration process.

SERVPRO, as a national company, has gained a unique standing with the insurance industry by:

• The most extensive performance guidelines in the restoration industry
• A rigorous corporate training program that meets the stringent certification standards of the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).
• The SERVPRO national Claims Information Center (CIC) providing end-to-end insurance claim assistance. Clients have online access to the claim process and can monitor their claims from start to completion.

The insurance claim process is started at the time the local SERVPRO professional responds to the site of the damage. Even though the client can monitor the claim, the local SERVPRO staff remains informed and available to answer questions and follow-up when necessary. When it comes to repairing and restoring damage to home or business, the local SERVPRO Pismo Beach fire damage specialists have the advantages of national guidelines and IICRC certified training and the dedication to pass these advantages on to clients.

As a leader in water and fire damage cleanup and restoration, the SERVPRO goal is to restore the property owner’s peace of mind, the property to “Like it never happened,” condition, and offer the insurance company competitive advantages that result in trouble-free paid claims.

Adhering to the principle of timely mitigation and IICRC standards result in lower claims costs while delivering the best service possible to clients.

SERVPRO restoration professionals are specialists, trained to identify, repair, and restore a wide range of damage resulting from events like storms, flooding, sewage leaks, water or fire damage, mold, crime scenes, hoarding, and biohazard spills. The technicians have all of the industrial-level equipment, supplies, and technologies to safely clean and restore property and get the occupants back home as soon as possible.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande is a local specialist for restoring properties after floods, leaks, and any other event including fire damage in Pismo Beach or the entire California Central Coast.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach /Arroyo Grande

United States

(805) 473-0772

This press release is by Arroyo Grande SEO company Access Publishing, 806 9th Street, #2D, Paso Robles, CA 93446. (805) 226-9890.

SERVPRO, Arroyo Grande Fire Damage Specialists, Report ‘The Fire Dangers From Hoarding’

2/12/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage pismo beach

Hoarding not only creates stress for the family of the hoarder, it creates a long list of health and safety problems, including increased danger of fire. The Arroyo Grande fire damage specialists from SERVPRO have prepared the following report about fire and other dangers of hoarding.

Not only is hoarding unsafe and unhealthy, it against the law in most jurisdictions. One of the problems is that the activity can go undetected for years, and until the hoarding spills out into the yard, or emergency services has to enter the home, no one realizes how drastic the circumstances have become.

Hoarding was classified as a mental disorder in 2013 and is a difficult disorder to treat because most people who suffer from hoarding don’t realize they have a problem. Their behavior presents a difficult road for family and mental health professionals to navigate. Along with the heartbreak that comes with confronting the hoarder, there is the overwhelming sight of rooms and hallways clogged with piles of trash, clothing, rotted food, and even animal feces.

The first reaction is to put on rubber gloves, grab a mask and trash bag and start removing piles of trash, but this is the time to call the experts to clean the property, remove biohazards, and reduce the potential of fire damage. Arroyo Grande SERVPRO owner, Mark Powers, said, “The appropriate training, equipment, and safety gear is critical when cleaning up a home where hoarding has been going on. No one really knows what you are going to find and knowing how to handle a wide range of biohazardous material is a very important personal and public safety issue.”

The list of hazards is not limited to the danger of stacks of boxes falling and injuring someone. The potential hazards are beyond what can be safely handled with drugstore rubber gloves, masks, and rain boots. Hazards include:

• Air contaminated by mold spores, rat and other feces, and stenches arising from a variety of decaying material, including food.
• Flammable, caustic, and potential explosive substances. These materials are not always in the original containers and labels can be missing.
• Blood, vomit, and needles, and other bodily fluids can be disease-ridden and expose the unprepared handler to a variety of infectious diseases. Additionally, unattended bodily fluids attract bacteria and other health threats.
• Urine not only stinks, the ammonia exposure can cause upper respiratory problems and prolong exposure can cause a range of symptoms and health conditions.
• The piles of trash and garbage attract vermin, rodents, wild animals and insects. All of these have the potential of carrying bacteria, allergens and even viral infections.
• Pharmaceuticals, prescription or illegal, can cause health dangers. Some medications become more toxic over time and when past their expiration date, exposure to them is a health hazard.

Once the trash and debris is removed, the job of deep cleaning and restoring begins. Locating and removing the sources of odors, drying water damaged furniture, flooring and walls, detecting mold, especially the highly toxic black mold, and removing the mold damage and identifying wood rot are all tasks for which SERVPRO technicians are trained and equipped. The SERVPRO crew works quickly and efficiently to make the property clean and safe as soon as possible.

Anyone who suspects a family member or friend might be hoarding and living in an unsafe environment should contact the appropriate medical or mental health professional as soon as possible. No matter how tempted, do not try to sort through the trash and debris, or attempt to clean or remove anything. Limit exposure to the inside of the house to short intervals and wear protective gear.

When the occupants have been moved to safety, and any public safety officials who may be involved declare the home ready for debris removal and cleaning, call SERVPRO to get the home cleaned and restored.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach /Arroyo Grande

1279 W. Stowell Road, Suite C

Santa Maria, CA 93458

(805) 473-0772

This press release is by Arroyo Grande SEO company Access Publishing, 806 9th Street, #2D, Paso Robles, CA 93446. (805) 226-9890.

What does it mean to be a SERVPRO expert?

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO franchise owners and employees are trained to the rigorous standards of the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The SERVPRO Arroyo Grande fire damage professionals are proud to bring the quality of these standards to clients. Training is provided by the SERVPRO corporation, through the national training program. The training includes:

• Employee certification training that includes modules for: crew training, fire restoration, water restoration, and carpet and upholstery training. The comprehensive training prepares SERVPRO employees to identify and restore damage caused by fire, water and mold, sewage spills, and accidents, natural disasters, storms and floods that damage homes and buildings.
• Franchise training, designed primarily for new franchise owners, but available to every SERVPRO employee. The program covers all aspects of restoring water, fire, and mold damage and restoring carpets and upholstery to “like it never happened condition.”
• e-Learning is a web based program for ongoing self-paced continuing training. Ongoing training keeps SERVPRO professionals up-to-date on the latest restoration technologies and provides advanced training.

SERVPRO Industries, Inc. Has been refining the mitigation and restoration standards since 1967. SERVPRO has been operating a National Training Center since 1992 and teaching the highest standards of restoration and mitigation skills to Franchise Owners and insurance and industry employees.

The IICRC is an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) member and accredited standards developer. The ANSI standards followed by the IICRC are responsible for overseeing national standards. Many of the same standards followed by SERVPRO have also been adopted by as code or regulations by local, state and federal agencies. The standards are considered state-of-the-art in the area of contamination control.

All of this means, that when someone picks up the phone and calls their local SERVPRO, like the Arroyo Grande fire damage specialists, the client can be assured they will get the highest level of attention and restoration to their home or business.

The inspection, and cleaning and restoration processes are the latest state-of-the-art cleanup and restoration processes in the industry, while providing the highest level of protection for the consumer and safety standards for everyone.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande is the local company to call.

Cleaning up after a fire—hire experts or do it yourself?

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Pismo Beach

It’s one thing to clean and repaint part of a wall after a small kitchen fire that was put out quickly with no major damage. It’s entirely another thing to attempt to salvage personal belongings and cleanup after a major fire. SERVPRO, the experts in restoring belongings and properties after fire damage in Pismo Beach, have some experienced advice about restoring and repairing property after a fire.

• Safety first—always
• Surveying the damage
• Removing and saving personal items
• Cleaning up, repairing and rebuilding

Safety first—always

Get out away from a fire immediately. Get everyone, including your pets, away and to safety and call 911. If your attempts to put out a small fire are not working and the fire grows, get everyone to safety.

Every local fire and public safety department has fire safety tips available either online or by stopping by the nearest fire station. Get a copy of the tips and make sure everyone in your family or office knows and practices the procedures.

Do not attempt to enter the property until the fire marshal has said it is safe to do so.

Surveying the damage

Surveying the damage s is a traumatic experience. The urge to get inside to see what can be saved is a strong urge and this is where the experts come in. It is not a good idea to enter fire damaged structures alone, even after the fire department says the fire is out.

First of all, there can be structural damage that can put you in danger. Secondly, hard hats and other safety gear is is an absolute must, including masks to filter soot, smoke, and other airborne contaminants.

The experts from SERVPRO are trained to assess the damage and work with home and business owners, fire departments and insurance companies to accurately assess the damage, determine what can be saved, the best restoration methods, and to cleanup water and fire damage in Pismo Beach or anywhere on the Central Coast. 

Removing and saving personal items

A thorough survey of the damage with a SERVPRO expert is going to help you determine which items can be saved and restored, and how to safely remove them, or at least protect them until they can be removed.

There is a strong possibility that the urge to start cleaning can damage something that could have been professionally cleaned and restored. Items that to the inexperienced eye seem beyond saving, might be seen differently by an experienced SERVPRO professional and that family heirloom can be saved after all.

Cleaning up, repairing and rebuilding

Cleaning up the damage can involve everything from removing smoke damage, cleaning walls, carpets, drapes, removing and cleaning personal items, removing water and mold, to demolishing the structure or parts of the structure.

SERVPRO professionals can identify what can be saved, cleaned, and restored and what needs to be rebuilt.

SERVPRO focuses on restoring over replacing. Restoring is less costly that replacement, and certainly less costly than demolishing and rebuilding. The SERVPRO “restore first” standard also gets homes and businesses back to pre-fire conditions faster and with less disruption.

SERVPRO is with you every step of the way

“Like it never happened.” is more that the SERVPRO motto; it is the company’s top goal. Every SERVPRO professional is dedicated to restoring both property and the lives of customers like the fire never happened.

Contact SERVPRO for Pismo Beach, Arroyo Grande, or anywhere on the Central Coast for help restoring your life, home and possessions after a fire.

Removing Graffiti—So It’s "Like it never even happened."

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

graffiti cleanup

Arriving home or at work, to find walls and driveways spray-painted with graffiti, or some other form of vandalism is frustrating, and under some circumstances can be frightening. The fact that graffiti and other vandalism is against the law is not much comfort once it has happened. Even high-spirited pranks by your kid’s friends are frustrating, and cleaning up is just one more thing to do in a busy schedule. Malicious acts like broken windows, garbage or worse dumped on the property, and other physical damage to the property are even more stressful to deal with. But, don’t worry! SERVPRO, the Arroyo Grande water damage experts are also prepared to remove graffiti and clean up other kinds of vandalism.

Upon discovering vandalism, immediately take several photographs of the damage, report the damage to the police, and call SERVPRO. SERVPRO can also help with filing a claim with your insurance.

• Paint, especially, is not easy to remove and painting over graffiti can take several coats. Painted graffiti on some surfaces like pavement and masonry is even more difficult to remove, and there is not way to paint over a driveway or parking lot.
• Natural wood fences can appear to be ruined by graffiti.
• Broken and damaged windows and doors need immediate attention to prevent water or mold damage.
• Trash, debris, and other kinds of substances that may have been dumped and spread around the property need to be safely collected and hauled away.

The SERVPRO Arroyo Grande water damage and vandalism restoration specialists respond quickly to remove the evidence of vandalism and graffiti from home or business. Along with removing graffiti, the experts from SERVPRO can clean driveways, pathways, masonry of all types, wood, glass and plastic. Vandalism restoration services include:

• General cleaning and graffiti removal
• Brick, stone, and concrete cleaning
• Debris removal

Debris removal can be especially critical because there may be more than the contents of a trash can dumped and scattered about. Depending on the degree of maliciousness from the vandals, hazardous substances, feces, and even flammable and explosive solutions can be present.

Don’t make any attempt to clean up or pick up until the police arrive. Most officers will make a safety check of the damage for the public’s protection and will inform you if the trash and debris appears safe to clean up. If there is any doubt, call the SERVPRO experts who can respond in an emergency. Keep the area secured until it can be cleaned up.

Storms and the Challenges of Water Damage

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

Flood waters affecting a home

Storms bring badly needed water to the California, but they can also bring all kinds of damage. Heavy rain, winds and flooding create traffic hazards making getting to and from work, school, and necessary errands challenging and sometimes unsafe. Potential damage from floods and slides can run into hundreds of thousands for individual home and business owners and into the billions when a region is hit very hard.

The SERVPRO of Avila beach water damage professionals are the experts to call when the storm is over and it is time to assess and repair residential and commercial water damage.

Water damage from storms can be complicated depending on the force of the storm. The damage can range between standing water in crawl spaces, flooded basements, broken windows and damaged roofs letting water into the home or business, all the way up to water contaminated with sewage and other biohazards.

Storms in California, especially on the Central Coast, usually arrive with plenty of warning. The best way to prevent or minimize water and storm damage is to take precautions before the storm. Late spring and early summer is a good time to inspect buildings for and repair problems that could lead to leaks, standing water, and storm water getting in to the house.

When a storm is coming, known problems like cracked or broken windows, leaky roofs, wood rot, leaking pipes, and hills and slopes that allow water to run under buildings can be protected if there is not enough time to repair them. Securely fit tarps over leaking roofs, reinforce windows, and use erosion control measures to divert water runoff away from structures.

The Avila Beach water damage specialists from SERVPRO are trained to remove rainwater, storm water, water contaminated by biohazards, and to clean and sanitize the water soaked structures and personal property.

Removing storm water and restoring the property that has been damaged requires specialized equipment and cleaning products, protective safety gear, and specialized training to restore homes and businesses to a condition “like it never happened.”

Decontaminating a home or business due to a crime, sewage backups, chemical spills or other biohazards, or even hoarding, can be dangerous to someone without the appropriate training. The Avila Beach SERVPRO professionals work closely with insurance companies to make sure all repairs are made in the most effective manner so that claims are settled as trouble-free as possible.

For the best remediation and repairs to homes and businesses that have received storm damage, call SERVPRO of Avila beach. The company has a 24-hour emergency line and is available around the clock to assist with emergencies.

Solutions for unidentified odors in the home

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

remove bad odor from home

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach, the water damage experts, know that odors that linger in the house can come from any number of causes. Pets, pet odors clinging to upholstery and rugs, pet accidents, water damage creating mold or wood rot, clogged HVAC systems, musty odors when the house is closed up due to wet or cold weather, sewage leaks under the house and any variety of other contributing factors.

Urine is common source of lingering odors. Urine from accidents can soak through the carpet and stay in the pad and create a persistent odor. Pets, especially will revisit the same locations to relieve themselves, or even just mark. Even though the carpet is shampooed and rugs washed regularly, the odor is only reduced so that it is not detected by the human nose. The family dog or cat, or a visiting pet, can still smell it and will revisit those spots.

Water damage from slow leaks over time are a common source of mold and odor and might be concentrating inside walls where they can only be detected by special equipment, or when the damage is so great to become apparent. Mold and rotted wood can cause structural damage that is expensive to repair.

Clogged HVAC systems, sewage leaks, even leaks that were detected and repaired can contribute to odors. Repairing a leak without looking for wet or damp spots and repairing them can lead to continuing deterioration under cabinets and behind walls.

Some other sources not commonly thought of as contributors include:

• Chimneys with a damaged or missing cap lets in rain, leaves, and other organic material that can contribute to mold.
• The refrigerator drip pan collects condensation and is a breeding ground for mold.
• Washing machine leaks that can damage walls and floors.
• Repairing a roof leak without inspecting for and repairing moisture and water damage.
• Storing toys in the toy box without examining them for moisture first can contribute to mold, and damp stuffed toys that get musty and moldy.
• Old mattresses, old carpeting, even in a pet-free home, collect dust over time and can add a musty smell to the house.
• That favorite old sofa with all the soda spills and years of snacks that have been cleaned out of the cushions.

When you have been cleaning and deodorizing faithfully, and still can’t locate the source of the odor, call the SERVPRO Pismo Beach the water damage and odor detection specialists. SERVPRO specialists are experts in identifying and eliminating offensive odors.

Masking odors with the usual household cleaners delivers only temporary results, and for some odors, isn’t effective at all. Masking the odor is not the solution, but removing it is. SERVPRO specialists have the equipment and supplies to completely remove the odor.

Give SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande a call today.

SERVPRO, Pismo Beach, Water Damage Specialists, Report ‘What To Do When A Skunk Gets Under The House’

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

skunk smell

Skunks, like a lot of wildlife, have adapted to civilization and can be seen wandering through neighborhoods, usually at night. They are usually not a problem unless one becomes trapped under the house then “the smell can get into everything else in the house,” said Mark Powers, owner of the SERVPRO Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande water damage company.

Most of the time, unless the family dog gets involved, skunks come and go with only a slight trace of their aromatic presence. A skunk living on the property, especially under the house, can leave an odor that just does not go away. A skunk that gets under the house and sprays is most likely going to create an odor that seems to invade everything in the house.

Skunk odor is not easy to get rid of—just ask anyone whose dog stuck its nose too close to a skunk! Skunk spray is produced by the animal’s anal glands and contains oily volatile chemical compounds. The stinky compounds are primarily thiols and thioacetates, both rich in sulphur. Sulphur atoms have a way of bonding to other atoms and this is what makes the smell so hard to eliminate.

The good news, if there is any, is that once sprayed, it can take up to a week for the skunk to replenish its spray. But that doesn’t always mean there are no concerns for another week. Male skunks, spray during the mating season from February to March. Apparently the guy skunks think the spray discourages other males while attracting females? Then, the female has 4 to 6 kits that stay with her for up to 8 months, reportedly spraying each other just for fun. So, there are a lot of reasons a skunk can stink up the property and contents of the house.

So, how to get the skunk smell out of the house? Tomato juice is pretty much a myth, plus no one wants tomato juice on the carpet on purpose. Powers, the Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande water damage expert with SERVPRO, said, “Getting the smell off the dog is one thing, completely deodorizing the contents of a house requires a completely different approach.”

SERVPRO specialists get the house smelling a fresh as new again. First, the company helps start a homeowner’s insurance claim and helps monitor that claim through the entire process. The entire deodorizing process includes:

• Identifying everything that needs to be treated, including furniture, carpet, curtains, clothing and anything else the skunk oil has landed on. Insulation and the space under the house may also have been affected.
• Treating the affected items. SERVPRO uses proven technology for deodorization that completely eliminates the smell instead of just masking it. The process is relatively quick, but may require the family be out of the home for a day or two.
• Fully ventilating the house after treatment to be sure the family returns to a fresh home.

Upon discovering a skunk or a family of skunks has invaded the property, SERVPRO recommends the following steps:

• Call SERVPRO to get the deodorization and insurance claim process started.
• Call animal control or wildlife rescue to get the skunks removed.
• Get any pets that have been sprayed cleaned up and deodorized. Veterinarians or groomers can get the smell off pets or recommend the appropriate solution for doing it yourself.
• If pets have not been sprayed, contain them so they don’t go skunk hunting.
• Consider a short family vacation if the smell is unbearable. Pack washable changes of clothes in plastic bags to be washed before wearing.

This press release is by Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande SEO company Access Publishing, 806 9th Street, #2D, Paso Robles, CA 93446. (805) 226-9890.

SERVPRO, Santa Maria, Water Damage Specialists, Report ‘What Not To Do When Mold Is Discovered

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage Santa Maria

Mold might show up on kitchen or bathroom grout once in a while and this is generally safe to clean. It is the persistent mold on walls, under cabinets, and in damp places that the SERVPRO Santa Maria water damage specialists want the public to be very cautious about.

Mold is usually green or black in color, and has a musty smell. Mold grows from spores that easily become airborne and the spores can be inhaled contributing to health problems from allergies to severe respiratory conditions, depending on the level of exposure. For these reasons, Mark Powers, owner of SERVPRO Santa Maria recommends people use caution even when cleaning a small amount of mold.

“Use a good antimicrobial. Spray it onto the mold and surrounding area, but before doing that be sure to put on a facemask and rubber gloves. Scrub the mold away with a brush or disposable rag,” said Powers. “But, when there is a chronic mold problem, or mold is present in large amounts, there may be a water damage problem that needs professional attention.”

Mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. Professionals, trained in the science and effective removal and control of mold, are best equipped to locate the source of persistent mold and remove the moisture or water damage that is the breeding ground for mold growth.

Excessive moisture and standing water are common sources of mold growth in buildings. Mold growth can start within 48 hours. By the time mold appears, the moisture may have already soaked into the structure, even masonry, enough that industrial fans and other drying methods are required. Left long enough, water and moisture will cause structural damage, requiring comprehensive restoration or even expensive reconstruction. The SERVPRO Santa Maria water damage professionals are the experts locating the source of mold and water damage, and removing and repairing the damage.

A phone call to SERVPRO Santa Maria is the first step to addressing mold in a home, business, or any other structure. Upon arrival, the technician carefully inspects the property for signs of mold. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view and various technologies are used to find the mold and hidden water sources.

The remaining mold and water damage removal process includes:

• Containing the spread of the mold using advanced containment procedures to isolate the contaminated area and keep mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.
• Filtering and “scrubbing” the air using specialized filtration equipment that captures mold spores out of the air.
• Removing the mold and mold-infected materials with antifungal and antimicrobial treatments and removing and properly disposing of mold infected materials. Removal is essential for preventing the mold from returning.
• Cleaning any items that may have become infested with mold such as carpets, curtains, clothing, furniture, and even collectibles.
• Restoring everything the mold infected to the original condition. Restoration can range from minor repairs to major reconstruction, depending on the degree of mold and water damage.  

Comprehensive mold remediation and water damage repair is not a task that home and property owners are equipped, or even trained, to undertake. The professionals from the Santa Maria water damage company, SERVPRO, have the required training, safety gear, and equipment and supplies to safely and effectively remove mold and the sources of mold growth. Protect the health of family and other building occupants by calling the professionals to remove mold.

SERVPRO of Santa Maria

1279 W. Stowell Road, Suite C

Santa Maria, CA 93458

(805) 473-0772

This press release is by Santa Maria SEO company Access Publishing, 806 9th Street, #2D, Paso Robles, CA 93446. (805) 226-9890.

SERVPRO, Santa Maria, Water Damage Specialists, Report ‘What To Do When A Skunk Gets Under The House’

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage Restoration Santa Maria

Skunks, like a lot of wildlife, have adapted to civilization and can be seen wandering through neighborhoods, usually at night. They are usually not a problem unless one becomes trapped under the house then “the smell can get into everything else in the house,” said Mark Powers, owner of the SERVPRO Santa Maria water damage company.

Most of the time, unless the family dog gets involved, skunks come and go with only a slight trace of their aromatic presence. A skunk living on the property, especially under the house, can leave an odor that just does not go away. A skunk that gets under the house and sprays is most likely going to create an odor that seems to invade everything in the house.

Skunk odor is not easy to get rid of—just ask anyone whose dog stuck its nose too close to a skunk! Skunk spray is produced by the animal’s anal glands and contains oily volatile chemical compounds. The stinky compounds are primarily thiols and thioacetates, both rich in sulphur. Sulphur atoms have a way of bonding to other atoms and this is what makes the smell so hard to eliminate.

The good news, if there is any, is that once sprayed, it can take up to a week for the skunk to replenish its spray. But that doesn’t always mean there are no concerns for another week. Male skunks, spray during the mating season from February to March. Apparently the guy skunks think the spray discourages other males while attracting females? Then, the female has 4 to 6 kits that stay with her for up to 8 months, reportedly spraying each other just for fun. So, there are a lot of reasons a skunk can stink up the property and contents of the house.

So, how to get the skunk smell out of the house? Tomato juice is pretty much a myth, plus no one wants tomato juice on the carpet on purpose. Powers, the Santa Maria water damage expert with SERVPRO, said, “Getting the smell off the dog is one thing, completely deodorizing the contents of a house requires a completely different approach.”

SERVPRO specialists get the house smelling a fresh as new again. First, the company helps start a homeowner’s insurance claim and helps monitor that claim through the entire process. The entire deodorizing process includes:

• Identifying everything that needs to be treated, including furniture, carpet, curtains, clothing and anything else the skunk oil has landed on. Insulation and the space under the house may also have been affected.
• Treating the affected items. SERVPRO uses proven technology for deodorization that completely eliminates the smell instead of just masking it. The process is relatively quick, but may require the family be out of the home for a day or two.
• Fully ventilating the house after treatment to be sure the family returns to a fresh home.

Upon discovering a skunk or a family of skunks has invaded the property, SERVPRO recommends the following steps:

• Call SERVPRO to get the deodorization and insurance claim process started.
• Call animal control or wildlife rescue to get the skunks removed.
• Get any pets that have been sprayed cleaned up and deodorized. Veterinarians or groomers can get the smell off pets or recommend the appropriate solution for doing it yourself.
• If pets have not been sprayed, contain them so they don’t go skunk hunting.
• Consider a short family vacation if the smell is unbearable. Pack washable changes of clothes in plastic bags to be washed before wearing.

SERVPRO of Santa Maria

1279 W. Stowell Road, Suite C

Santa Maria, CA 93458

(805) 473-0772

This press release is by Santa Maria SEO company Access Publishing, 806 9th Street, #2D, Paso Robles, CA 93446. (805) 226-9890.

The connection between water damage and fire hazards

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

Water can extinguish fire, right? So how can water damage be a fire hazard? Mark Powers, the owner of SERVPRO, specializing in restoring fire damage in Pismo Beach and Arroyo Grande, wants people to know there is a real connection between water damage and fire hazards.

Water that damages walls and other parts of buildings, whether from a slow leak or flooding, can also damage electrical wiring and other electrical components. Everyone knows water and electricity don’t mix. The results of combining water and electricity can be anything from sparks and short circuits, to electrocution, to electric wires breaking and igniting wood, drywall, furnishings or surrounding grass and other plants.

These dangers are the reason that one of the first things to do when water damage is detected is to shut off the power. When an event such as a leaking roof, or leaking pipes are discovered, it is usually fairly easy to cut off the power at the breaker box. But, sometimes a portion of the house floods too quickly and then the best thing to do is get everyone, including pets, out of the building and call emergency services.

By the time leaking roofs or pipes are discovered they have usually been leaking for some time, long enough to cause water damage. Electric wires that are exposed to leaks can develop mold and corrosion, shorting the circuit and cause sparks that can start a fire.

Powers recommends that homeowners and building maintenance managers periodically inspect for leaks.

• Some water meters have leak detectors and checking the water meter is one of the quickest ways to determine if there is a leak in the plumbing
• Check plumbing fixtures like faucets, toilets and under sink pipes for leaks
• Check under the house for any signs of standing water or moisture that indicate a leak
• Check the roof and ceiling crawl space for signs of water damage or mold
• Check ceiling light fixtures for signs of water damage or mold
• Check walls for signs of water damage, and electrical wall outlets for signs of water damage

Also perform regular fire prevention inspections of buildings and grounds. Water and electricity mixing are not the only combinations that can cause a fire. Faulty wiring to outbuildings or in landscape lighting can be just as likely to cause a fire whether water is present or not.

Prevention is always the best strategy but in the event of water, mold or fire damage, Pismo Beach’s local SERVPRO is ready to make all of the needed repairs and restorations. In the event of an emergency, call the company’s 24-hour emergency number to get recovery and repairs started. SERVPRO can also help you with insurance claims and work with the insurance company.

Water damage and mold

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

Wet walls, floors and furnishings and mold can go hand-in-hand and too much moisture is prime territory for mold. The Arroyo Grande water damage specialists at SERVPRO believe it is important for people to understand that taking care of water damage as soon as possible is not only important to prevent serious property damage.

The mold that is associated with water damage is known as black mold, or Stachyborys chartarum, if one wants to know the scientific name. Black mold releases spores as it feeds on wet and damp material. In a building with water damage from flooding, a long term leak, a broken water pipe black mold feeds on drywall, carpet, insulation, and sub-flooring.

There’s that old saying, “a best defense is a good offense,” and this goes for mold in the home or workplace. The team at SERVPRO, the Arroyo Grande water damage specialists, are the people to call to restore water damage and remove toxic mold. Mold can grow without visible water damage. Damp earth from rain or watering landscaping can build up in crawl spaces under buildings. A seeming small leak from a dripping faucet or a damaged water pipe can create a perfect situation for mold to grow and spread.

The technicians from SERVPRO have industrial-grade equipment for drying walls, carpets, even under buildings. Once the damaged materials have been removed, a thorough examination of surrounding material makes sure that signs of black mold have been removed, then the heavy duty equipment dries out everything that was wet or damp. SERVPRO technicians have special training and protective gear for dealing with black mold. Do not attempt to clean toxic black mold, or to removed mold damaged materials from a structure. Leave this job to the experts.

Controlling mold

Control mold inside the home or work place by:

• Controlling humidity levels
• Promptly fixing leaky roofs, windows, and pipes
• Ventilating shower, laundry, and cooking areas

In the event of flooding and water damage, call the experts from SERVPRO before attempting repairs and mold removal yourself.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach and Arroyo Grande has a 24-hour emergency line for flooding and water damage emergencies. The best thing to do about mold issues is to call the experts.

How is water damage removed?

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

water damage

When the emergency is over, the fire is out, the broken pipe has been repaired, there is that sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach when you survey the damage. Carpets are soaking wet, water has stained the drapes and furniture, there are puddles of water everywhere, and water is dripping from the ceiling. “How am I ever going to get this cleaned up?” Call SERVPRO, the company that cleans up water damage in Pismo Beach and the Central Coast.

Using state-of-the-art equipment and technologies, SERVPRO technicians can remove water damage from your home or business from the first step of removing standing water all the way through to drying and disinfecting everything.

The basic steps to removing water damage include the activities in the following list. Many of the activities actually take place at the same time so that the building and contents dry out as soon as possible.

1. Removing water and moisture
2. Removing and restoring water soaked items
3. Inspecting the building for water damage and mold
4. Final drying out

Removing water and moisture

The SERVPRO Pismo Beach water damage technicians use industrial quality dehumidifiers, extractors, fans and pumps to remove moisture from the air, standing water, and help dry carpets, floors, walls and any other structural component that is wet.

Dehumidifiers and fans are important for drying the air and preventing additional moisture being absorbed back in to the structure. As water evaporates, it adds moisture to the air and that moisture can be reabsorbed by already wet walls and floors. Not creating an air flow and dehumidified the air can just create a vicious cycle of dampness that prolongs the recovery.

Removing and restoring water soaked items

Furnishings, appliances, rugs, carpets, drapery, even clothing and linens are inspected to determine the extend of damage. Items that can be dried, washed or cleaned are sent to the appropriate professionals to clean them.

Electrical appliances that have been exposed to water are inspected and repaired by electrical and appliance specialists.

Depending on the extent of damage, carpets and padding may need to be removed so the floor and adjoining walls can be dried. If the water damage is severe, new carpet might be needed. Homeowners insurance probably covers that replacement SERVPRO works directly with your insurance company.

Inspecting for water damage and mold

The entire structure is inspected for water damage and mold so repairs and mold remediation can start as soon as possible.

Final drying out

The dehumidifiers, fans and other water removing equipment has been running all during these processes. Once personal items have been secured, the building may be left open so that circulating air can help dry things out. As soon as all of the water and moisture have been removed and everything is dry, the work of putting your home back together again begins.

Even though these jobs might involved carpenters, electricians and painters. SERVPRO can be with you every step of the way to make sure everything is completed to your satisfaction and so your family can get back home as quickly as possible.

Be easy with yourself

The first impulse is to start picking through the damage to see what you can save. If it is safe, remove valuables and important papers as soon as possible, but leave the clean up and restoration work to the experts. Call SERVPRO of Pismo Beach as soon as possible. The company is available 24-hours and will help you get everything taken care of, helping restore peace of mind to your family.

Blackwater, what it is and what to do about it

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

Blackwater

Blackwater is bacteria carrying wastewater from sewage and other contaminants that can cause diseases and pollute the environment, including drinking water. Blackwater can be caused by sewer leaks, damage to a sewer system, or a neglected sewage system. Technically, a toilet overflowing onto the bathroom floor could be considered blackwater but the typical toilet overflow can usually be cleaned up with a mop, rubber gloves and sanitized with some bleach.

Long-term toilet leaks, however, that seep into the floor and under the house are an entirely other thing and may cause damage requiring trained professionals. SERVPRO, the company that helps remediate water damage in Pismo Beach, is the 24-hour service to call to help remediate any kind of water damage, including blackwater.

A toilet that frequently overflows can be a sign of other problems that might be related to a failing sewage system, leading to blackwater contamination. Broken or leaking sewer pipes, a failed septic system, even severe earthquakes and storms can contribute to blackwater.

Regional emergency precautions are available for protecting you from blackwater after a major disaster, but when the emergency is over and the time comes for repairs to your property, the Pismo Beach water damage company will work with your insurance company.

Your family’s health and safety are important and SERVPRO is providing the following guidelines to help you reduce personal and property exposure to contaminants from blackwater.

If you see any signs of a sewage leak or sewage system damage, or even suspect at problem, call the 24-hour SERVPRO number (805) 473-0772 then take the following precautions:

• Clear the affected area and close it off if possible.
• Wear rubber boots and gloves, and a mask if you have to enter any contaminated area
• Turn off the power
• Turn off water connections
• Stop up all drain openings using plugs and hard solid material to prevent flow or backup. Extra weight might be required to fully plug drains.
• Plug toilets with wadded rags
• Turn off heating and air conditioning systems and block any floor vents to prevent the flow from reaching them
• Don’t move anything out of an affected area or attempt to clean anything, including furniture, rugs, walls or the floor
• Bathe or shower everyone and all pets that have come in contract with contaminated water as soon as possible
• Place any contaminated clothing in plastic bags to minimize spread of the contamination

How to identify affected areas

Analyzing an area for contamination is the job of the professionals. For safety, assume that any area associated with sewage that is wet is contaminated. If you have found a sewage leak or broken sewage pipe, close off the entire area and keep people and pets from entering. Signs of blackwater presence include:

• Any wet area from an overflow, a leaking or broken sewage pipe, or near a septic tank
• Sewage smell in a specific area
• Visible fecal material in a wet area
• Wet, damp, or moldy areas under the house where pipes may be leaking

Contact SERVPRO as soon as possible to get water damage and decontamination started. Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and every place else within minutes. SERVPRO of Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.

Arroyo Grande Fire Damage Company Announces tips for preparing and recovering from emergencies

9/13/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damage

Local Arroyo Grande fire damage restoration business owner, Mark Powers of SERVPRO of Pismo Beach and Arroyo Grande, reminds San Luis Obispo residents that September is National Preparedness Month. This annual event provides families and businesses with the information and resources they need to plan for, survive, and recover from an emergency.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) sponsors the annual National Preparedness Month and has prepared a week-by-week calendar of recommended actions, including videos that property owners can take to be ready if disaster does strike:

Week 1- Make and practice a plan. Create an emergency plan that includes signing up for emergency alerts and making contingency plans for shelter, evacuation, and family communication.

Week 2 - Learn life-saving skills. The focus of this week is learning how to mitigate home and business against flooding, earthquakes, and fire and tips for holding a preparedness event such as hosting a CPR class.

Week 3. Check your insurance coverage. Once the emergency is over, appropriate and sufficient insurance will be key to getting your life back to normal, or at least on track.

Week 4. Plan financially for the possibility of a disaster. This goes beyond having a “rainy day fund” for immediate needs. Gather and organize important home, business, insurance, financial, and personal documents and keep them up-to-date and stored in a secure, water-and-fire proof location.

“No one wants to think of the possibility of a disaster striking their family and friends,” said Powers from the Arroyo Grande fire damage business. “But planning ahead is crucial for first getting through any unexpected event and then recovering as quickly as possible.”

Powers encourages everyone to prepare by:

• Following the suggestions and tips that are on the FEMA website.
• Downloading the free SERVPRO Ready app that helps users create an emergency READY plan of action and store essential contact and property information where it can be accessed from a mobile device.

Families, businesses, and community leaders who take the time to prepare and plan ahead for the unexpected and the aftermath are better able to respond quickly to an emergency and help speed recovery and restoration after.

SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the restoration industry and has the training, equipment, and expertise to respond to emergencies. The locally owned and operated company provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to responding immediately to any size disaster. “We specialize in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, making it ‘Like it never even happened’ for both commercial and residential customers.”

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach and Arroyo Grande

1279 W. Stowell Road, Suite C

Santa Maria, CA 93458

(805) 473-0772

This press release is by San Luis Obispo SEO company, Access Publishing, 806 9th Street, Suite 2D, Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 226-9890.

Avila Beach Water Damage Repair, SERVPRO, Releases Tips For Being Prepared For Emergencies

9/13/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage

No one likes to think about an emergency, even what might seem like small water damage to an Avila Beach home can be disruptive to a family. The local SERVPRO professional, a trusted leader in the restoration industry, has a list of tips to help families get through some of the shock of an emergency.

No time is a good time for an emergency, but having a few things in order way ahead of time goes a long way towards getting life back on track as soon as possible.

1. The first thing, no matter how distasteful, is to plan for regional disaster like a fire or earthquake. Learn where evacuation centers are located and the best routes to get there. Make sure you have an emergency supply of food, water and medical supplies for all of the family including pets. Identify meeting locations where you can connect with family members.
2. Check with your veterinarian, local kennels and animal shelters to find out what kind of emergency lodging is available and what the process is for reuniting families and lost pets.
3. Determine the support services your insurance provides. Are you entitled to emergency lodging or rent for a temporary home? What about meals and clothing, and kenneling for pets? How soon do relief funds arrive?
4. Make sure to write down emergency contact phone numbers and addresses and keep them in a safe, easily accessible place. We too often rely on our cell phones to keep track of contact information, but what if the phone gets lost?
5. Check with the bank to find out how to get access to your money in the event of a regional disaster that temporarily shuts down power or if identification, bankcards and account information gets lost.
6. Don’t forget emotional support resources. A lot of support is usually available in the immediate aftermath of a disaster, but what about months later? Find out what kind of emotional support services medical insurance might cover. Is there counseling through the school to help children? Does your spiritual community provide emotional support? Identify the local nonprofits that have support services and check with local human services agencies as well.

The Avila Beach water damage recovery experts at SERVPRO want your family to safe and your life restored as quickly as possible. SERVPRO provides 24-hour highly trained restoration technicians for every stage of recovery. The local SERVPRO can also help manage the insurance paperwork and claims process.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande

1279 W. Stowell Road, Suite C

Santa Maria, CA 93458

(805) 473-0772

This Press release is by San Luis Obispo SEO company Access Publishing, 806 9th Street, #2D, Paso Robles, CA 93446, (805) 226-9890.

Arroyo Grande Water Damage Company, SERVPRO, Releases Important Emergency Steps To Control Water Damage

9/13/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage

SERVPRO, a company specializing in remediating water damage in Arroyo Grande, California has released important emergency steps to help control water damage. The safety of everyone in the path of flooding or other kinds of water damage is first, followed by steps that can help control the amount of water damage that might happen.

Emergency steps to control water damage

Leaking faucets, leaky water pipes, a single roof leak, or catastrophic emergencies can all cause water damage. Regardless of the cause, water damage is serious. There are often health and safety concerns along with the stress and expense. These six emergency steps prepared by SERVPRO of Arroyo Grande can help control water damage as soon as it is detected.

1. Get everyone to safety
2. Shut off electricity
3. Shut off water supply
4. Protect possessions
5. Contact your insurance agent
6. Call the water damage professionals

Get everyone to safety

Catastrophic flooding, a tree crashing through the roof in a storm, black water flooding from sewage are all emergencies. Get everyone to a safe place immediately.

Have a flood safety plan ahead of time. It’s better to never have to use the plan than to wait until the last minute and not know what to do or where emergency shelters are located.

Shut off electricity

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Anyone touching or standing in water, even a wet carpet that is exposed to electrical wiring can be electrocuted. Get everyone out of the area immediately, including pets, then shut off the main breaker to the house.

Shut off the water supply

If flooding is from a burst hot water heater or broken water pipe, shut off the main water valve.

Flooding from storms can sometimes be controlled ahead of time by diverting water away from the house with sand bags or ditches.

Roof damage can sometimes be temporarily remedied with tarps. When high wind or torrential rain is present, the best choice is to get the family to a safe dry place or shelter in place in a safe dry room. Shut off the main electric breaker and water and gas valves if possible.

Black water flooding from sewage is very dangerous and a serious health threat. Get everyone, including family pets, away from the contamination and contact the professionals for water damage in Arroyo Grande as soon as possible.

Protect possessions

Remove valuables, boxes, and furniture from the flooded area. Water-soaked items begin to mold very quickly. Remove items that cannot be replaced first. Other items, like sofas, rugs and carpets can be replaced.

Contact your insurance agent

Call your insurance company as soon as possible to find out what the next steps are to for water removal and water damage restoration.

It is a good idea to review your homeowner’s insurance now to know what kind of water damage is covered. If the coverage doesn’t seem to be enough, consider adding the additional coverage that you feel is needed.

Call the water damage professionals

SERVPRO, the water damage professionals in Arroyo Grande are trained to remove water and begin the drying process. Water damage restoration professionals have the pumps, fans and dehumidifiers to extract water and get everything dried out. They also have moisture detectors and remote cameras to find trapped water. Undetected moisture remaining behind walls and other tight places this going to continue to cause mold and mildew and more damage over time.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach and Arroyo Grande

1279 W. Stowell Road, Suite C

Santa Maria, CA 93458

(805) 473-0772

Press release by San Luis Obispo SEO company Access Publishing, 806 9th Street, #2D, Paso Robles, CA 93446, (805) 226-9890.

How To Remove Large Amounts of Water From a Basement

1/11/2018 (Permalink)

storm damage pismo beach

Whether you live in an area that commonly receives flooding, or you’ve been the unlucky victim of a burst pipe, a large amount of water in your basement probably feels overwhelming. However, with the right equipment, you may be able to clean it up much easier than you think.

What You’ll Need

While small amounts of water are usually easier to clean with a wet vacuum or even mops, deeper water requires specialized equipment. Chances are you don't already own a sump pump, which means you'll need to rent one from a local business. These pumps have a waterproof outer layer that protects their electrical components while they remove the water from your basement. If possible, attach it to a larger hose that will remove the water more quickly. You will also need:

• Extension cord
• Rubber boots
• Nylon rope
• Access to a truck or storm drain

What To Do Before

Before using your rented trash pump — another name for the same items — you’ll need to wait until exterior floodwaters recede. Once your yard is no longer flooded, shut off your home's electricity and keep pets and children away from the basement. Before lowering the pump into the basement, plug it into an extension cord and ensure the connection won't become submerged in water by looping it around a heavy object, such as a ceiling joist. Attach the hose you'll use and tie a nylon rope to the top of the pump. Finally, ensure the hose is pointed away from your home and into a gutter, storm drain or pump truck.

Pumping the Water

After setting up, use the rope to slowly lower the pump into the basement. When you have it where you need it, start the generator and plug the other end of the extension cord into it. When the water is only a few inches deep, you can move the pump to the lowest level to complete the process.

Remember, working with electric-powered equipment near water is a dangerous task. If you feel uncomfortable doing it, consider hiring a professional in Pismo Beach, CA to help you instead.
Visit http://www.SERVPROpismobeacharroyogrande.com for more information on storm damage.

We are located at: 

1423 Raspberry AveArroyo Grande, CA 93420United States

Sewer Damage? Follow These Steps Toward Restoration

1/11/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage Pismo Beach

Facing the task of sewer cleanup after an unexpected disaster can be daunting for a homeowner. With the remediation that suddenly needs to be completed – and completed quickly – it’s difficult to know where to begin. Homeowners in Pismo Beach, CA can help themselves prioritize sewer-related concerns by following an easy-to-remember cleanup process.

1. Call a Professional

Water damage is especially difficult to manage. A homeowner may have taken great care of all visible signs of damage, but water in walls or underneath flooring can lead to mold issues later. To mitigate risk of ongoing problems, make sure you call a remediation specialist right away.

2. Drain Water

While waiting for the water removal professional to arrive, it’s best for homeowners to remove as much water as they can. Utilizing drains and pumps helps speed the sewer cleanup process. It will likely be necessary to lift carpet or flooring to the level that the water impacted. Homeowners may also wish to rent industrial-sized fans to help speed the draining and drying process.

3. Sanitize

Sewer backup can be terribly unsanitary, so it’s advisable to sanitize the spaces affected as soon as possible. Complete several rounds of sanitation via bleach and floor cleaners to ensure that no bacteria is left to cause more damage.

4. Dehumidify

Especially when homeowners are dealing with issues like a flooded toilet, it’s important to dehumidify after disinfecting. Bathrooms are often more humid than other rooms in the house. If humidity is left unchecked, it can further any spread of mold-producing bacteria.

In short, there are several important steps that homeowners can take while waiting for a water removal professional to arrive. Prompt solutions are crucial for sewer cleanup, but by knowing what to do should a crisis occur, homeowners can save themselves a lot of time and money on continued repairs. Visit http://www.SERVPROpismobeacharroyogrande.com for more information on water damage.

We are located at: 

1423 Raspberry AveArroyo Grande, CA 93420United States

Cleaning Up Sewer Damage at Your Commercial Facility

1/11/2018 (Permalink)

commercial help

Sewer backup and flooding present a more serious risk to a building and its occupants that simple water damage. Sewage contains bacteria, viruses and other organisms and contaminants that could cause illness. Sewer cleanup is extensive.

Causes

Although commercial sewage lines tend to be larger than residential ones, sewer backup can still occur. Employees and customers never treat restroom facilities with the same care they would at home. This can lead to clogged sewer lines and a flooded toilet. If this happens, you are dealing with gray water and possibly even black water.

Dealing With Sewage

Water contaminated with sewage should always be handled with care. Gray- and black-water flooding need immediate attention. The waste needs to be removed, the area needs to be dried and decontaminated and the air quality needs to be controlled.

If you are dealing with black-water damage, it is wise to call a professional biohazard and sewage cleaning service in City, State. It can make sure your commercial building is properly cleaned, disinfected and deodorized. As a commercial business owner, this sewer cleanup process is especially important because you are not just putting yourself at risk but your employees and customers as well. Special training and equipment are necessary to deal with this type of contamination.

Depending on the damage, a flood cut may be necessary. This is where the lower portion of walls are removed up to 12 inches above the water damage. Any contaminated insulation needs to be removed. The area behind walls also needs to be dried properly to prevent mold.

A sewer backup at a commercial facility is a problem that needs to be taken care of immediately. Since contaminated water can cause illness, employees and customers should not be invited back to the building until it has been properly disinfected. Professionals can get the job done right the first time so you can get your business back faster with an efficient sewer cleanup. Visit http://www.SERVPROpismobeacharroyogrande.com for more information on commercial water damage.

We are located at: 

1423 Raspberry AveArroyo Grande, CA 93420United States

Best Mold Prevention Tips

12/16/2017 (Permalink)

mold damage pismo beach

Best Mold Prevention Tips

One of the cheapest ways to deal with mold is to prevent it from showing up in your Pismo Beach, California home. Mold prevention can include fixing water damage promptly and creating an environment that does not encourage mold growth. As a homeowner, it is good for you to know what you can do to stop mold from taking over your house. If these tips come too late, consider getting professional help.

Control the moisture in your home. Mold growth is encouraged by damp environments. If you keep the humidity in your house relatively low, you will discourage the spread of spores.

Fix leaks quickly. If a dripping pipe or a leaky roof is left unchecked, the water damage can lead to a big mold issue. However, fixing the problem while it is still small could help prevent major growth of mold.

Use insulation all around your house. The proper insulation of exterior walls, piping, floors and windows can reduce the condensation of water. Too much condensation creates the perfect environment for mold spores to start growing.

Think before installing carpet. Carpet can trap moisture, which can create a good habitat for mold and fungus. If an area has a moisture problem, do not put down carpet. It’s usually not a good idea to install carpet in bathrooms, kitchens or laundry rooms.

Use exhaust fans and ventilation. Fans and vents can help suck moisture out of your house. Whenever you’re showering, cooking or washing dishes, you should consider running an exhaust fan or venting the moisture to the outside of your house.

Mold can grow without visible water damage, so it can be challenging for you to prevent the growth of this spore. Using your basic knowledge to prevent growth can help reduce the issues you have in the future in your Pismo Beach, California house. Connect with a professional restoration service for more mold prevention tips. Visit http://www.SERVPROpismobeacharroyogrande.com for more information on mold damage.

We are located at: 

1423 Raspberry AveArroyo Grande, CA 93420United States

Don’t Fry Your Kitchen: Cooking Tips for Reducing Fire Hazards

12/16/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Pismo Beach

Don’t Fry Your Kitchen: Cooking Tips for Reducing Fire Hazards

Unless you’re a professional chef in Pismo Beach, California with multiple Michelin stars, you’ve probably burned something while cooking at least once in your life. While a bit of burnt dessert won’t kill anyone, large kitchen fires could cause serious bodily harm and leave you with extensive fire damage. That’s why it’s always a good idea to follow a few key rules when you’re in the kitchen that are designed to reduce the likelihood of experiencing fire hazards while you’re making that perfect meal. Here are three tips to help you stay safe.

Stay in the Kitchen

Whether you’re boiling, frying or toasting, you should always stay in the kitchen while you’re cooking. Attending to your food helps you to prevent fires before they begin. If you need to leave the room for any reason while you’re cooking, turn the stove off and remove your food from the heat until you return.

Use a Timer

One of the best tips is also one of the easiest to follow. Sometimes, it’s hard to stay focused. That’s why it’s crucial to use a timer while you’re cooking. Thousands of fires are started each year simply because someone forgot they were making dinner, and the food sat in the heat for just a bit too long. Timers help to call attention to your food when necessary, and ensure it’s not left to burn.

Keep Your Cooking Space Clean

Keep curtains, pot holders, oven mitts, wooden/plastic spoons and everything else away from the stove while it’s being used. Having a cluttered workspace while you’re dealing with high heat or flames can only lead to disaster. You’ll also need to clean your cooking spaces regularly in order to prevent any grease buildup that could otherwise lead to a grease fire.

Following these tips can drastically reduce the likelihood of accidentally starting a fire while you’re cooking. Taking a little extra time in the kitchen goes a long way towards preventing fire damage and danger in your home. Visit http://www.SERVPROpismobeacharroyogrande.com for more information on fire damage.

We are located at: 

1423 Raspberry AveArroyo Grande, CA 93420United States

Tips for Preventing Kitchen Fires

12/16/2017 (Permalink)

fire damage

Tips for Preventing Kitchen Fires

Kitchen fires are all too common an occurrence, and because of all the appliances and possible gas hookups in a kitchen, a kitchen fire can go from bad to worse in a matter of seconds. Whether you’re an avid cook or a person who struggles to boil water, there are a few tips from your local fire remediation team that you should implement to prevent disaster from striking in your Pismo Beach, California kitchen.

Stay in the Kitchen

Don’t leave cooking food unattended. Most kitchen fires occur because a person has left the room with the stovetop on. If you do need to leave the kitchen at any point while you’re cooking, turn off the stovetop or oven temporarily and turn it back on when you come back.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Oven mitts, towels, paper products, matches, lighters, grease – there are so many items in kitchens that can catch fire when they come into contact with even the smallest of flames. Before you turn on your stove or oven, move all flammable objects safely out of reach.

Dispose of Grease Properly

Grease fires are probably the greatest risk to your kitchen. There are two tips you should always keep in order to prevent a grease fire:

Never subject oils with a low smoke point to high heat
Never throw hot grease into a trashcan. Even if the grease isn’t on fire, it can still ignite

Wear Proper Cooking Attire

Loose fitting clothing—especially tops with flowy sleeves—are one of the most common causes of accidental house fires. To prevent a sleeve from catching fire, or to keep articles away from hot burners, wear tight fitting clothing and, if possible, short sleeves.

Be Prepared

The best way to prevent a kitchen fire is to be prepared to prevent one at the first sign of flames. Keep a fire extinguisher handy, such as beneath the sink, in a nearby cabinet or next to the stove. Have a lid nearby to extinguish a flame that bursts out in a pot, and know where your nearest water source (usually the kitchen sink) is so you can react without hesitation.

It doesn’t take much to prevent a kitchen fire. To keep your family safe and your home free of fire damage, implement the tips above. Happy cooking! Visit http://www.SERVPROpismobeacharroyogrande.com for more information on fire damage.

We are located at: 

1423 Raspberry AveArroyo Grande, CA 93420United States

When Storms or Floods hit Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande SERVPRO is ready!

12/14/2017 (Permalink)

Residence that was deeply affected during Hurricane Harvey.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Five Cities 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 Pismo Beach/Five Cities, 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 805-922-5457

We are located at: 

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

12/14/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande 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 Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande 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.

We are located at: 

Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

12/14/2017 (Permalink)

mold damage arroyo grande

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (805)922-5457

We are located at: 

1423 Raspberry AveArroyo Grande, CA 93420United States

For Immediate Service in Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande, Call SERVPRO

12/14/2017 (Permalink)

24/7 service

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (805)922-5457

Residential Services

Whether your [[City or County Name]] home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

We are located at: 

1423 Raspberry AveArroyo Grande, CA 93420United States

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande Home

12/13/2017 (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 Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande 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 – (805)922-5457

We are located at: 

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande provides fire, soot and water damage restoration service in Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

The active wildfires here in Southern California are increasing their impact as growing Santa Ana winds add fuel to these devastating blazes that are encroaching in our area. According to the New York Times, new fires broke out in Malibu on December 7, with at least 96,000 acres already burned in the Ventura area and 116,000 acres in Los Angeles County. Evacuations have closed hundreds of schools and forced 200,000 of our neighbors to seek safety. The “Thomas Fire” in the Ventura area continues to burn with the aid of strong winds. This fire has caused the closure of the 101 freeway and a boil-water advisory was issued for Ventura County. Santa Ana winds The Santa Ana winds that are enabling the fires to rapidly increase their reach can have speeds in excess of 60 miles per hour. They are not expected to diminish until Friday into Saturday at the earliest. The National Weather Service has warned of “very rapid fire growth” in this area. SERVPRO Meteorologist Lela Davis said that the Santa Ana winds were already very dry when they reached the Southern California valley, allowing them to quickly pull moisture out of vegetation, increasing the risk for wildfires. For the first time ever, a purple wind warning was issued for today under the color-coded system used to advise about high winds. This purple warning pushed wind expectations from the “high” category to “extreme”. Ready to help Here at SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande we are monitoring this wildfire situation closely. Our thoughts are with those neighbors who may be put in harms’ way during this event. In many cases, a wildfire can result in a total loss for a home or business, but in others it may be a partial loss, or can result in mild smoke damage. If your home or business is affected by a wildfire, SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande is Here to Help®. 

About SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

Fire or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help

(805-922-5457)

We are located at: 

Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

8/4/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today -  805-922-5457

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration- in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/ Arroyo Grande specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

http://www.SERVPROpismobeacharroyogrande.com/employee-photos

We are located at: 

Does Your Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande Home Have A Mold Problem?

8/4/2017 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise "mold removal" and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today- 805-922-5457

We are located at: 

All Fires are Not Created Equally

5/12/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Damage

House fires are a scary thing for everyone in involved. They can decimate a home and can start from something as simple as an oven being left on or a candle being lit. However, there are many different types of fires, so knowing which one you are experiencing can save your life and property. With that in mind, the team at SERVPRO Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande have released a report on the different kinds of fires and how to deal with them.

SERVPRO has been helping those with fire damage in Pismo Beach for years and can also help with water damage, mold, storm damage and other types of restoration. If you want to learn more about them and their services, check out their website or call them at 805-473-0772.

All Fire Are Not Created Equally

When you see a fire in your house, it can be a shocking and disorienting thing. While many of us think to go right for the water, this won’t always work. So to make sure you know the different kinds of fires and how to stop them, we have created this handy little guide. There are 5 classes of fire, each with different ways to suppress them.

Class A – This class includes fires caused by combustible materials such as wood, paper and fabric. Most suppression techniques work on these fires as they are the easiest to deal with. Smothering or dousing with water are two of the most common.

Class B – This class includes fires that were caused by flammable gases or liquids and the way to stop these ones is to break the chemical chain reaction, which is easiest done by water, mist or a dry chemical.

Class C – This class includes electrical fires caused by outlets, cords or other types of electronics. These should not be put out using water, and should instead be supressed or by using another method. Anything but water.

Class D – This class includes flammable metals like titanium, potassium, and others. These are among the hardest to put out as most suppression techniques may not work. A dry powder agent can be successful against these kind of fires.

Class K – This classification includes fires caused by cooking oils and fats, so is one of the most common in many house fires. These can be disastrous, so make sure to either dump water on the fire, suppress it or use a fire extinguisher.

If you find your home having fire damage in Pismo Beach or a surrounding area, be sure to call SERVPRO to help you get your house back to normal!

Press release by San Luis Obispo SEO company Access Publishing, 806 9th Street, #2D, Paso Robles, CA 93446. (805) 226-9890.

We are located at: 

Warning Signs of Water Damage in your Home

5/12/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage

Water damage can be very subtle as it destroys your home. Unlike fire damage, water damage can slowly and quietly deteriorate your home without you even knowing. Because of this, the team at SERVPRO of Pismo Beach/Arroyo Grande has released a report of the warning signs to look for.

If you ever have a home or business with water damage in Avila Beach or any of the other communities nearby, SERVPRO will be able to help. In addition to water damage, they can help with fire damage, problems with mold, storm damage and more. Feel free to check out their website or call them at 805-473-0772.

Warning Signs of Water Damage in Your Home

Water damage can be hard to spot in your home, so with that in mind, here are some possible warning signs to look out for. One of the biggest tells of water damage in your home are stains on walls and ceilings. Water can also cause the shape of flooring and walls to change.

Also, if you start to see mold appear throughout your home (and smell an unpleasant odor throughout the home), this can also be a sign that you have yourself some water damage. Also, if your pipes are old and damaged, that can also make it easier for them to leak and lead to massive water damage.

Another warning sign of possible water damage is if your water bill is unnaturally high. If it is very high, that usually means there is a leak somewhere in your home. This is why it’s good to keep track of how much each utility costs each month, as the water damage isn’t always visible, so this is one of the only ways to know about hidden damage.

Checking the exterior walls can also be a fruitful place to check as it can also show signs of water damage. Cracking or discoloration of the interior and exterior walls can also be a sign that water damage is present.

If you find yourself with water damage in Avila Beach or other towns nearby, SERVPRO is ready and willing to help you get your home back in tip top shape.

Press release by San Luis Obispo SEO company Access Publishing, 806 9th Street, #2D, Paso Robles, CA 93446. (805) 226-9890.

We are located at: 

SERVPRO Releases Prevention Report for Homeowners Experiencing Los Osos Water Damage

10/20/2016 (Permalink)

Water Damage

Professional fire and water damage experts, SERVPRO, this week outline five ways homeowners can prevent water damage during the upcoming rainy season.

Los Osos, CA —The cleanup and restoration specialists at SERVPRO have released a recent report detailing five ways to prevent Los Osos water damage to flooring, appliances, and fixtures during the upcoming rainy season. Homeowners can prevent damage to their home by following these five simple tips.

To view the report, click here (link), or see below:

5 Ways Homeowners Can Prevent Water Damage During the Rainy Season

The rainy season is arriving soon. Proper preparation can save a home from water damage if excessive rain or flooding occur. Here’s five simple precautions homeowners can take to avoid damage to their property in anticipation of heavy rainfall this coming winter:

Inspect the roof

A leaky roof can cause major water damage to a home. Have a professional inspect the roof and patch any holes or cracks before the rainy season begins. Replace any missing or loose shingles and look for cracks in the ridge where shingles fold over to form the cap.

Clear gutters

Remove debris from gutters to avoid pooling and allow for proper draining of water. This save the gutters from damage and prevent flooding during heavy rains.

Inspect inside the home

Survey the interior of the home, checking the ceilings, walls and crevices for water rings, mold or discoloration. Make necessary repairs to prevent water damage when rains begin.

Purchase sand bags

If the home is located in a area prone to flooding, stock up on sandbags before they become a dire need. Having sand bags on hand if heavy rains occur will prevent water from seeping into the home. Place bags in areas where water could penetrate, including the garage and front door areas.

Move furniture and valuables to the highest room in the house

If flooding is imminent, consider moving all furniture, precious art, personal documents, and jewelry to the highest room in the house. If flooding does happen, these items will hopefully be saved from damage.

Following these suggestions can save time, money and stress about water damage during the upcoming rainy season. If water damage does occur, the professionals at SERVPRO regularly repair and restore Los Osos water damage and are available 24/7 to lend a helping hand.

SERVPRO in Los Osos

1741 8th St., Los Osos, CA 93402

(805) 528-2289

SERVPRO Releases Report for Homeowners Experiencing Arroyo Grande Water Damage

10/20/2016 (Permalink)

Water Damage

Professional water damage experts, SERVPRO, this week outline five measures homeowners can take to prevent further damage after an Arroyo Grande water damage incident.

Arroyo Grande, CA —The cleanup and restoration specialists at SERVPRO have released a recent report detailing five ways to salvage flooring, appliances, and fixtures after water damage has occurred. Homeowners can avoid excessive water damage by following these five simple tips.

To view the report, click here (link), or see below:

5 Things Homeowners Should Do To Salvage Their Property After Water Damage

Once water damage has occurred and a professional, like SERVPRO, has assessed and repaired the damage, here’s five tips for getting one’s property back into tip top shape:

Remove excess water from flooring

It is important to remove excess water as soon as possible to avoid the growth of mold and damage to flooring. Use a mop or towels to blot the area dry. Remove wet materials, such as clothing or towels, from the area and hang dry.

Wipe excess water from wood furniture

After lamps and tabletop items have been removed, use a dry cloth to wipe excess water from any wooden furniture to prevent damage and avoid the growth of mold.

Place wet upholstery and cushions in a dry area

Anything which has been soaked by water needs to dry as soon as possible, especially couch cushions and pillows. Place items in a sunny, dry area away from the water damaged location.

Use air conditioning for maximum drying during summer months

Warm air will hold more moisture than cooler air so air conditioning helps remove moisture from air in the area. Close all doors and windows, then run the air-conditioning on high to help dry the house after water damage has occurred.

Remove art from water damaged area

Water can damage art pieces very quickly, even just excessive moisture in the air can have a negative effect on prized pieces. It is best to remove anything valuable from a water damaged area as soon as possible. Once the area has been thoroughly dried items can be returned to the area.

Following these suggestions can mean the difference between minimal water damage and a total loss. The professionals at SERVPRO have repaired and restored Arroyo Grande water damage and are available 24/7 to lend a helping hand.

We are located at: 

SERVPRO Releases Report for Homeowners Experiencing Arroyo Grande Fire Damage

10/20/2016 (Permalink)

Fire Damage

Professional fire damage experts, SERVPRO, this week outline the five things homeowners should do after a fire damage has occurred.

Arroyo Grande, CA —The cleanup and restoration specialists at SERVPRO have released a recent report detailing five things one should do if their home has seen Arroyo Grande fire damage to prevent further damage. Homeowners can avoid excessive fire damage by following damage prevention tips listed in the report.

To view the report, click here (link), or see below:

5 Things Homeowners Should Do if Fire Damage Occurs

If fire damaged has occurred in the home there’s still hope for avoiding a total loss of one’s property. Here’s five things to do to prevent further fire damage to the property:

Call a repair and restoration professional immediately

If left to sit for several hours, the acids in smoke and soot can permanently damage appliances, walls, and fixtures, leaving a yellow hue behind. The longer fire damage is left to sit, the more expensive it will be to repair and restore.

Limit movement and wind inside the home

Try to limit the amount of movement around the fire damaged area. This will help avoid soot particles from embedding, and permanently damaging, upholstery and carpeting. Close any windows if possible to avoid wind from entering the area and blowing these particles onto undamaged items.

Empty the refrigerator and freezer if electricity is off

One commonly overlooked task is to remove all food items from the refrigerator to salvage and items not affected by the fire. If the electricity has to be turned off for an extended period of time, food items not kept under refrigeration will spoil.

Clean off houseplants

If houseplants were able to be salvaged, thoroughly clean both sides of all leaves to remove soot particles from hurting the plants. Take household plants outside if necessary.

Change HVAC filter

If smoke affected the home, be sure to replace the HVAC air filter as soon as possible. This will prevent left over toxins from being circulated around the home after fire damage has been repaired.

Following these suggestions can save time, money and stress after fire damage has occurred in the home. The professionals at SERVPRO regularly repair and restore Arroyo Grande fire damage and are available 24/7 to lend a helping hand.

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande

1423 Raspberry Ave, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

(805) 473-0772

Fire and Smoke Damage Santa Maria-based company releases report on Smoke Damage Tips

10/11/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke Damage

SANTA MARIA, Ca. – Today, fire and smoke damage Santa Maria-based Company, SERVPRO, have released a report detailing tips to prevent fires.

Fire and smoke can cause severe damage to a home or business. Even a small fire can produce large volumes of smoke and cause unwanted and often unseen damage. Here are some tips to keep in mind when dealing with smoke damage.

1. After a fire, one may be anxious to begin cleaning one’s house and attempting to restore it. The very first thing to be done is contact an insurance agency to check for coverage, and then contact a restoration company, like SERVPRO, to begin restoration
2. Make sure to gain permission from the Fire Marshall before reentering the property. It’s critical to make sure that the property in question is safe to enter before setting foot inside. If entering, be sure to wear a protective device over the mouth and nose to prevent inhaling toxins left from the fire. If a professional restoration company has yet to be contacted, who knows what kinds of toxins may be in the air?
3. Do not attempt to clean any household carpets, textiles, draperies, or upholstered furniture. Smoke is oily and must be cleaned in a very specific way, so attempting to clean may cause additional and possibly irreparable damage.
4. Remember to change the furnace filter at least once a day. If the property has an operating filter, replace daily until no soot is visible.
5. Smoke odors can remain in clothing, furniture, draperies, and carpets after any retail sprays evaporate. To eliminate the odor entirely, it is crucial to deodorize it with a highly-effective ozone treatment. Without one, the odor may never be diminished.
6. Smoke will enter and remain in and between walls of the living space. If not properly removed, during damp periods the odor will return.
7. Cover clean items with plastic. While repairs are being carried out in the property, cover unaffected items to prevent additional tarnishing.
8. Carpets should be dealt with by professional cleaners. It may take a few cleaning, or may need to be replaced entirely.
9. Do not attempt to wipe down walls. Professionals use chemical sponges to effectively clean smoke and soot from varied surfaces, attempting to wipe walls down may only result in further damage.

Fire and Smoke Damage Santa Maria

SERVPRO offers 24/7 restoration services to customers experiencing difficulties with water, fire, smoke, or mold damage! They’re always readily available to take care of any emergency restoration needs in a timely and professional manner possible to restore any property to pre-damage conditions and quickly make it “Like it never even happened.” Give them a call at (805) 922-5457.

Fire and Smoke Damage Santa Maria-based company releases report on Smoke Damage Tips

10/5/2016 (Permalink)

Fire Damage

SANTA MARIA, Ca. – When a fire hits, there’s not much that can be done to prevent damage. However, today, fire and smoke damage Santa Maria-based Company, SERVPRO, have released a report detailing tips to prevent fires.

Fire and smoke can cause severe damage to a home or business. Even a small fire can produce large volumes of smoke and cause unwanted and often unseen damage. Here are some tips to keep in mind when dealing with smoke damage.

1. After a fire, one may be anxious to begin cleaning one’s house and attempting to restore it. The very first thing to be done is contact an insurance agency to check for coverage, and then contact a restoration company, like SERVPRO, to begin restoration
2. Make sure to gain permission from the Fire Marshall before reentering the property. It’s critical to make sure that the property in question is safe to enter before setting foot inside. If entering, be sure to wear a protective device over the mouth and nose to prevent inhaling toxins left from the fire. If a professional restoration company has yet to be contacted, who knows what kinds of toxins may be in the air?
3. Do not attempt to clean any household carpets, textiles, draperies, or upholstered furniture. Smoke is oily and must be cleaned in a very specific way, so attempting to clean may cause additional and possibly irreparable damage.
4. Remember to change the furnace filter at least once a day. If the property has an operating filter, replace daily until no soot is visible.
5. Smoke odors can remain in clothing, furniture, draperies, and carpets after any retail sprays evaporate. To eliminate the odor entirely, it is crucial to deodorize it with a highly-effective ozone treatment. Without one, the odor may never be diminished.
6. Smoke will enter and remain in and between walls of the living space. If not properly removed, during damp periods the odor will return.
7. Cover clean items with plastic. While repairs are being carried out in the property, cover unaffected items to prevent additional tarnishing.
8. Carpets should be dealt with by professional cleaners. It may take a few cleaning, or may need to be replaced entirely.
9. Do not attempt to wipe down walls. Professionals use chemical sponges to effectively clean smoke and soot from varied surfaces, attempting to wipe walls down may only result in further damage.

Fire and Smoke Damage Santa Maria

SERVPRO offers 24/7 restoration services to customers experiencing difficulties with water, fire, smoke, or mold damage! They’re always readily available to take care of any emergency restoration needs in a timely and professional manner possible to restore any property to pre-damage conditions and quickly make it “Like it never happened.” Give them a call at (805)922-5457.

SERVPRO of Santa Maria

260 N. Blosser Road

Santa Maria, CA 93458

(805)922-5457

SERVPRO® Pledges Ongoing Support to the American Red Cross Disaster

9/23/2016 (Permalink)

American Red Cross

Responder Program

Red Cross recognizes SERVPRO for their contribution to disaster 

preparedness and recovery efforts

The American Red Cross recently recognized SERVPRO®, a cleanup and restoration company, for participation in its Disaster Responder Program1.  As a Disaster Responder Program member, SERVPRO pledges a donation to the Red Cross in advance of disasters, allowing the organization to respond quickly and effectively to nearly 66,000 disasters annually, most of which are home fires. SERVPRO is entering their third year of partnership with the Red Cross; their donations to the organization to date exceed one million dollars.

According to statistics cited by the Red Cross, seven people die in a home fire each day in the U.S. Aiming to reduce deaths and injuries caused by home fires by 25 percent by the end of 2019, the Red Cross launched a Home Fire Campaign in October of 2014. The support of SERVPRO and other Disaster Responder Program members allows the Red Cross to pursue their home fire prevention goals while they continue to provide critical services to disaster victims.

One of the reasons home fires account for the majority of the disasters the Red Cross responds to annually is that the risk for home fires exists all year long, said Joseph Powers, owner of SERVPRO of San Luis Obispo. Statistics compiled by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)2 show the majority of home fires are related to unattended cooking accidents and cooking is something most people do every day.

Although SERVPROs business is helping business and home owners recover from fire, flood and other disasters, the company and its franchisees actively support disaster preparedness education, including fire prevention efforts. When disaster does strike, their relationships with major insurance companies combined with industry-leading job-management technology help smooth the path to rebuilding and restoration for home and business owners affected by the unexpected.

SERVPROs commitment to the Red Cross Disaster Responder Program means that, when disaster strikes, homeowners can count on the Red Cross to address their immediate needs and supply essential services, said Powers. 

Once the immediate emergency is under control, homeowners can count on the expertise of restoration specialists at SERVPRO of San Luis Obispo to help them restore their property and move forward with their lives.

1 

http://www.redcross.org/news/article/local/tennessee/SERVPRO-Recognized-for-Contribution-to-the-American-Red-Cross

2 

http://www.nfpa.org/research/reports-and-statistics/fires-by-property-type/residential/home-structure-fires

About SERVPRO®

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO's professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and 

Canada, the SERVPRO® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

We are located at: 

Property Restoration Can Be a Messy Business

7/25/2016 (Permalink)

Water Damage

Local disaster recovery specialist offers insight into the complexities of dealing with disaster and water damage in Pismo Beach and Arroyo Grande.

When disaster strikes, property owners need to make a lot of decisions quickly and under pressure. Effective disaster remediation involves a lot of moving parts: remediation specialists, insurance companies, local codes, state codes, documentation and more—and all of this has to happen in an atmosphere charged with emotion and stress.

Mark Powers of SERVPRO of Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande says, “Efficiency is key when you are dealing with disaster remediation; it saves our customers money and it makes our work more effective. SERVPRO is an industry leader in work efficiency technology—continually innovating to help both our customers and our business control costs.”

SERVPRO’s proprietary DryBook™ tool is one example of the company’s focus on efficiency and cost control. Remediation projects must be managed to both industry and insurance company standards, and Joseph says that tools like DryBook™ help SERVPRO Franchise technicians track and document progress on restoration, cleanup and repair services. “The DryBook™ tool helps us deliver on every detail of every water damage job, every time,” says Powers.

To help avoid regulatory headaches and paperwork pitfalls, Powers suggests property owners consider the following criteria when choosing a remediation company to deal with the aftermath of a disaster.

Industry standards: Does your remediation company deliver a product that meets the standards set by

• The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)?
• Most major insurance companies, including cycle times and deadline requirements?

Recordkeeping: Does your remediation company have a system in place to ensure accurate, complete and convenient benchmarking of each step of the remediation process, including

• Capturing and updating data, including job diary notes, electronically and real-time on the jobsite, with simultaneous updates saved at the central office?
• Using e-signatures to help eliminate lost paperwork and the need to scan documents?
• Providing a complete record of the damage and remediation efforts in images, with descriptions, start-to-finish?

Equipment selection: Does your contractor have the ability, on-the-spot, to

• Identify the right equipment for the job, based on the damage description?
• Validate the use of each piece of equipment, automatically, as part of the remediation records?

About SERVPRO®

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of nearly 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar losses. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

We are located at: 

Holiday Fire Risk Increases After Christmas Day

7/25/2016 (Permalink)

Christmas tree fire

Homeowners Take Note! Holiday Fire Risk Increases After Christmas Day

Local SERVPRO® restoration specialist cautions Pismo Beach and Arroyo Grande homeowners to take common sense precautions throughout the holiday season Pismo Beach and Arroyo Grande, CA (Grassroots Newswire). Most homeowners are aware holiday decorations should be used with care. Each year, statistics tell the story of the fire danger resulting from frayed wires, proximity to heat sources, and lights left on unattended. But Mark Powers of SERVPRO of Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande wants local homeowners to know that the danger of fire caused by holiday decorating, and by Christmas trees specifically, actually increases after the holiday. Citing research from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)*, Powers says while four out of five Christmas tree fires happen in December and January, the 10 days with the highest average number of fires were all after Christmas Day.

“For many families, preparing for the holiday season is a very busy time,” said Powers. “Come December 26, it’s tempting to relax and stop watering the Christmas tree, replacing bulbs in outdoor lights and tucking indoor garlands back into place. Dry greens, open sockets and decorations that slip dangerously close to light sockets or fireplaces can all increase the risk of fire in the days after the Christmas holiday.”

The American Christmas Tree Association** quotes Nielsen research that says Americans purchased 21.6 million live Christmas trees in 2011. That number is significant because, according to the NFPA, Christmas trees remain the number one culprit in holiday fires. Forty-three percent of Christmas tree fires happen in December, but January is close behind, claiming 39 percent—numbers that demonstrate the danger of allowing Christmas trees to dry out during and after the holiday season. Tragically, Christmas tree fires are particularly deadly, claiming on average one life in every 40 fires compared to an average of one death per 142 total reported home fires.

Powers encourages Pismo Beach and Arroyo Grande homeowners who choose to decorate with live Christmas trees to be diligent about watering their trees both before and after the holidays. “When a Christmas tree dries out, it takes only a single spark from the fireplace, a draft that blows a candle flame too near, or a carelessly held cigarette to turn your holiday celebration into a tragedy,” says Powers. “Beyond the damage from the fire itself, a Christmas tree fire, like any fire, can result in extensive smoke and water damage throughout your home, and can even be deadly.”

As the holiday season moves into full swing, Powers reminds homeowners to take common sense precautions based on a clear understanding of the potential danger to help prevent holiday traditions from turning into a holiday nightmare. For more fire prevention tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit http://www.SERVPROpismobeacharroyogrande.com/

Christmas Tree Fact Sheet
Christmas Tree Tips

About SERVPRO®

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network ofnearly 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi million dollar losses. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

We are located at: 

1423 Raspberry Ave Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 United States

SERVPRO® Celebrates 6th Consecutive Year on Entrepreneur's Top 10 Franchise List

7/25/2016 (Permalink)

Water and Fire Restoration

Cleanup and restoration franchisor stands strong in the #7 position in the 2015 Franchise 500 rankings.

Water Damage Pismo Beach and Arroyo Grande

SERVPRO®, a cleanup and restoration franchise company, maintains its hold on the No. 7 spot overall, out of a group of 927 franchises that qualified for inclusion in the list in the recently announced 2015 Franchise 500 rankings, from Entrepreneur magazine. This recognition marks the sixth consecutive year Entrepreneur has included the company in its Top 10 list and the 12th consecutive year SERVPRO has earned the top spot on the magazine's list in its own industry, Restoration Services.

Entrepreneur magazine's Franchise 500 selection process uses objective, quantifiable measures of a franchise operation, to help would-be entrepreneurs identify franchise investment opportunities. Some of the most important factors considered by Entrepreneur in developing the list each year are financial strength and stability, growth rate and size of the system.

It's very satisfying to represent the ongoing brand leadership of SERVPRO® for disaster cleanup and restoration services in the Pismo Beach and Arroyo Grande area, said Mark Powers, owner of SERVPRO® of Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande. As a SERVPRO franchisee, we have the tools and knowledge, and the responsibility, to provide the best possible service to every customer.

According to Powers, SERVPRO of Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande continues to innovate with systems, processes and training designed to deliver faster, more consistent results to their customers. In the past year, SERVPRO customers benefited from the introduction of the following advanced features:

* The company's DryBook proprietary software, which provides franchisees with tools to capture and track the steps of a restoration project according to industry best practices and standards.
* The Here to Help® Connection, which provides homeowners with 24/7 access to real-time data, allowing them to track progress toward project completion.
* The Drying Chamber, which uses vacuum freeze-drying technology to vaporize water in water-damaged documents, a technique recommended by the Library of Congress. The process can recover and restore even the most delicate items and preserve the integrity of a variety of media including irreplaceable files, medical files, books, x-rays, photographs and more.

* http://www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500/index.html
** http://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises/franchise500/about.html

About SERVPRO®
Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO's professional services network of nearly 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar losses. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

We are located at: 

Why choose SERVPRO of Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande water damage restoration specialists?

7/25/2016 (Permalink)

Water Damage

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande water damage, fire damage and disaster restoration specialists are the best choice when dealing with any type or size of disaster.

From small leaks to major damage, their franchise professionals have the edge over the competition because of their quick response time, professionalism, and extensive knowledge of the trade. They possess the proper equipment to get the job done quickly and thoroughly.

• Speed

 SERVPRO is faster when dealing with disaster than other restoration services. Especially when dealing with water damage and flooding, timing is critical. Within minutes water can spread throughout the property, and quickly absorb into walls, carpet, floors and your belongings.

Within 24 hours, surfaces will begin to tarnish and furniture can begin to bend, swell and crack, and mold spores begin to settle. After a week, mold and property damage will worsen, even to the point of total contamination. SERVPRO is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Their quick response time will help to minimize any damage and help save money on restoration costs.

• Professionalism

SERVPRO is a franchised company, which means their franchise professionals go though an extensive, company-wide training process that guarantees that they are at the top of their field. All of the SERVPRO of Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande professionals are versed in the standards set by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, or IICRC. They have extensive water damage restoration training, and will monitor the entire restoration process to completion.

• Advanced equipment and techniques

SERVPRO of Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande water damage professionals have the expertise and the top of the line equipment to deal with your restoration needs. Because each restoration project requires different solutions, SERVPRO of Pismo Beach / Arroyo Grande carries a wide variety of professional equipment. They will take you through the process of: initial contact, damage assessment, water removal/extraction, dehumidification, sanitizing/cleaning and into restoration.

We are located at: 

1423 Raspberry AveArroyo Grande, CA 93420United States

SERVPRO® Pledges Ongoing Support to the American Red Cross Disaster Responder Program Red Cross recognizes SERVPRO for their contribution to disaster

7/25/2016 (Permalink)

American Red Cross

The American Red Cross recently recognized SERVPRO®, a cleanup and restoration company, for participation in its Disaster Responder Program1. As a Disaster Responder Program member, SERVPRO pledges a donation to the Red Cross in advance of disasters, allowing the organization to respond quickly and effectively to nearly 66,000 disasters annually, most of which are home fires. SERVPRO is entering their third year of partnership with the Red Cross; their donations to the organization to date exceed one million dollars.

According to statistics cited by the Red Cross, seven people die in a home fire each day in the U.S. Aiming to reduce deaths and injuries caused by home fires by 25 percent by the end of 2019, the Red Cross launched a Home Fire Campaign in October of 2014. The support of SERVPRO and other Disaster Responder Program members allows the Red Cross to pursue their home fire prevention goals while they continue to provide critical services to disaster victims.

One of the reasons home fires account for the majority of the disasters the Red Cross responds to annually is that the risk for home fires exists all year long, said Mark Powers, owner of SERVPRO of San Luis Obispo. Statistics compiled by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)2 show the majority of home fires are related to unattended cooking accidents and cooking is something most people do every day.

Although SERVPROs business is helping business and home owners recover from fire, flood and other disasters, the company and its franchisees actively support disaster preparedness education, including fire prevention efforts. When disaster does strike, their relationships with major insurance companies combined with industry-leading job-management technology help smooth the path to rebuilding and restoration for home and business owners affected by the unexpected. 

SERVPROs commitment to the Red Cross Disaster Responder Program means that, when disaster strikes, homeowners can count on the Red Cross to address their immediate needs and supply essential services, said Powers. Once the immediate emergency is under control, homeowners can count on the expertise of restoration specialists at SERVPRO of San Luis Obispo to help them restore their property and move forward with their lives.

http://www.redcross.org/news/article/local/tennessee/SERVPRO-Recognized-for-Contribution-to-the-American-Red-Cross 2 http://www.nfpa.org/research/reports-and-statistics/fires-by-property-type/residential/home-structure-fires.

About SERVPRO® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO's professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.