Maintenance With HVAC

9/14/2022 (Permalink)

Regular HVAC Maintenance: Water, steam and air flow metering and monitoring can measure HVAC system efficiency and identify “leaky” valves or other potential system inefficiencies.
2. Damper and Actuator Maintenance: When working properly, dampers and actuators enable free cooling controls/programs to do their job. Maintenance performed every 3-6 months can cause a 5 ton compressor to operate only 20 hours less, energy savings can equate to $0.10 per kWh.
3. Heat Exchange Coil Cleanliness: Dirty condenser and evaporator coils reduce cooling capacity and make compressors work harder. Supply and return air temperature measurements with outdoor air resets is one of the most cost-effective maintenance steps that can be done on HVAC systems.
4. Demand-controlled Ventilation: Too little outside air is a health concern … too much is an energy waster. Using a CO2 sensor and controller helps you get it just right.

Source: https://www.industrialcontrolsonline.com/informationcenter/10-energy-efficiency-tips-commercial-buildings/

Fixing that shag rug

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning a Shag Rug I love that shag rugs have a made a strong fashionable return in homes. We recently added a couple to our living room. They look great on our tile floor and warm the room.  They are a little different to care than a regular rug. I found some great tips on the Bob Vila website.  

Remember, if these tips don’t work and you need a professional, call SERVPRO of West Concord 925-681-9093.

How to clean a shag rug:

MATERIALS AND TOOLS

- Plain white vinegar

- Water

- White microfiber cloth

- Mop or broom

- Vacuum cleaner

- Vacuum cleaner upholstery attachment

- Dry carpet shampoo (optional)

STEP 1

Ideally, you’ll use this method to treat a spill before it has a chance to set in, but even if it’s dry before you get to it, there’s still hope. Combine equal parts plain white vinegar and room-temperature water, and pour directly onto the affected area. For a small stain caused by a few tablespoons of spilled liquid or food, start with ½ cup of each ingredient to form the mixture, making more if necessary.

Work the solution into the stain with a white microfiber cloth—better than a rag because it won’t stain or leave lint behind—using some elbow grease to release it from the fibers. Once you’ve eliminated the stain entirely, hang the clean shag rug in a well-ventilated area to dry completely.

STEP 2

Take the dry rug outside where you can shake it vigorously to release loose dirt and dust.

Next, if the shag rug is smaller than 3 or 4 feet wide, fold it in half, face-down, over a clean porch railing or the back of a chair and use a mop or broom handle (not its business end) to whack the rug from the back side to release stubborn dirt particles. Put enough muscle into it to shake spare dirt loose, but mind your aim and be careful not to damage the railing or chair in the process.

STEP 3

Cleaning professionals advise against vacuuming a shag rug, as suction could break the long fibers. However, it’s highly effective to turn the rug face down and vacuum its back side, keeping the pile safe while further removing deep-down dirt. This will also redistribute the tendrils from behind to fluff them up again. For an extra-deep clean, use an upholstery attachment, which offers stronger suction in a concentrated area.

STEP 4

If things are still looking dingy and you’re willing to take a risk, consider cleaning with dry carpet shampoo. Shake or spray a small amount onto the least-visible area of the shag rug, making sure to use a product safe for its content (some shampoos are better for wool while others suit synthetics) and following package instructions to the letter.

Carefully vacuum over the shampooed portion only; a handheld vacuum is ideal because it gives you complete control. If any pile breaks off, stop and take the shag rug to a carpet cleaning pro. If all is well, though, proceed with caution and repeat the process until your rug is as shagadelic as ever.

Why Are Mold Test Kits Bad?

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

Mold removal can be an expensive bill that no homeowner wants to take on. If there’s a way to cut costs, many are tempted to do it, and that’s often where DIY mold testing comes in. But while test kits are long on promises, they’re usually short on delivery. If you’re considering buying one to test your home or business, read these reasons test kits are a waste of time and money.

What Are Mold Kits

While there are many brands and variations, DIY mold test kits are all essentially petri dishes you set out for a while to figure out if mold is present. They claim to work in as little as five minutes, and help you bypass the need for

• mold inspection
• air sampling
• repeat appointment

While DIY mold test kits purport to save money, however, there pitfalls are numerous.

No Visual Inspection

A big part test kits leave out is the mold inspection – critical to mold remediation. By themselves, mold samples can provide wrong answers. Only a visual inspection by an experienced mold testing and removal pro can detect subtle signs of a true mold problem and even find its source.

Inaccuracy

Mold test kits are known for being inaccurate not only due to user error, but because mold is all around us. A handful of spores, however, doesn’t mean a true problem – but a test kit by itself doesn’t know that. The result can be detecting a mold “problem” that doesn’t really exist or isn’t where you think it is.

Shipping and Handling

DIY kits must be mailed in for lab analysis, a daunting process that can damage the sample. Humidity, volatile temperatures and even shipping lag time can contribute to false results.

While they purport to save you money, in the end, DIY mold kits can actually cost you big if a mold problem is allowed to get out of hand. Call a professional mold testing company instead to put a hold on your mold.

What Does A Shag Rug Mean?

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

Cleaning a Shag Rug I love that shag rugs have a made a strong fashionable return in homes. We recently added a couple to our living room. They look great on our tile floor and warm the room.  They are a little different to care than a regular rug. I found some great tips on the Bob Vila website.  

Remember, if these tips don’t work and you need a professional, call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 916-987-0400.

How to clean a shag rug:

MATERIALS AND TOOLS

- Plain white vinegar

- Water

- White microfiber cloth

- Mop or broom

- Vacuum cleaner

- Vacuum cleaner upholstery attachment

- Dry carpet shampoo (optional)

STEP 1

Ideally, you’ll use this method to treat a spill before it has a chance to set in, but even if it’s dry before you get to it, there’s still hope. Combine equal parts plain white vinegar and room-temperature water, and pour directly onto the affected area. For a small stain caused by a few tablespoons of spilled liquid or food, start with ½ cup of each ingredient to form the mixture, making more if necessary.

Work the solution into the stain with a white microfiber cloth—better than a rag because it won’t stain or leave lint behind—using some elbow grease to release it from the fibers. Once you’ve eliminated the stain entirely, hang the clean shag rug in a well-ventilated area to dry completely.

STEP 2

Take the dry rug outside where you can shake it vigorously to release loose dirt and dust.

Next, if the shag rug is smaller than 3 or 4 feet wide, fold it in half, face-down, over a clean porch railing or the back of a chair and use a mop or broom handle (not its business end) to whack the rug from the back side to release stubborn dirt particles. Put enough muscle into it to shake spare dirt loose, but mind your aim and be careful not to damage the railing or chair in the process.

STEP 3

Cleaning professionals advise against vacuuming a shag rug, as suction could break the long fibers. However, it’s highly effective to turn the rug face down and vacuum its back side, keeping the pile safe while further removing deep-down dirt. This will also redistribute the tendrils from behind to fluff them up again. For an extra-deep clean, use an upholstery attachment, which offers stronger suction in a concentrated area.

STEP 4

If things are still looking dingy and you’re willing to take a risk, consider cleaning with dry carpet shampoo. Shake or spray a small amount onto the least-visible area of the shag rug, making sure to use a product safe for its content (some shampoos are better for wool while others suit synthetics) and following package instructions to the letter.

Carefully vacuum over the shampooed portion only; a handheld vacuum is ideal because it gives you complete control. If any pile breaks off, stop and take the shag rug to a carpet cleaning pro. If all is well, though, proceed with caution and repeat the process until your rug is as shagadelic as ever.

Fridge Cleaning Time

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

Household cleaning is not exactly on our list of "fun things to do". Sometimes we don’t even know how often household items should be cleaned. If you’re like me, I clean when it looks dirty (or company is coming over!) There has got to be a better way. I am always looking for new tips or suggestions. 

I recently came across this article from Today.com in the Home section. Take a look at some of these tips:

Door shelves:

• Remove items from the door shelves.
• Wipe down all shelves as well as any sticky and drippy containers with baking soda and water solution. Dry and return items.

Gasket:

• Wipe the gasket/seal with a mild detergent solution. Dry with a clean cloth.
• Pro tip from Mr. Appliance President Doug Rogers: To test the seal of the gasket, shut the door on a dollar bill and if it slides out easily, the gasket isn’t sealing tightly. Replace it to save energy and wear and tear on the fridge.

Door:

• Wipe down the door, edges, handle and top of the refrigerator with mild detergent solution. Dry.
• For stainless steel refrigerators, apply coconut oil with a soft cloth. Buff to remove excess.

Water dispenser:

• Because yeast and mold can build up on the dispenser spout, it should be cleaned every month or as needed.
• Pro tip from Carl Major, owner of Major Appliance, AC and Heating in Slidell, Louisiana:Major recommends cleaning the spout with a pipe cleaner (or small brush) alternately dipped in warm water, vinegar and hydrogen peroxide (in that order).
• For added safety, make sure to replace external water filters as recommended by the manufacturer.

Ice dispenser:

• The ice dispenser drawer actually can harbor mold and yeast, according to Allen Rathey, founder of Healthy House Institute.
• To clean the ice bin, turn the ice-maker off, remove the bin and discard the ice. Using lukewarm water and a mild dish detergent, wash the bin, rinse well and then dry.
• Cleaning option: Substitute distilled white vinegar for dish detergent.

Restoring your home or commercial property in Folsom and Fair Oaks area after a Water Event

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Folsom 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 Fair Oaks / Folsom

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 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.

Get That Shag Rug Cleaned!

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

Cleaning a Shag Rug I love that shag rugs have a made a strong fashionable return in homes. We recently added a couple to our living room. They look great on our tile floor and warm the room.  They are a little different to care than a regular rug. I found some great tips on the Bob Vila website.  

Remember, if these tips don’t work and you need a professional, call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 916-987-0400.

How to clean a shag rug:

MATERIALS AND TOOLS

- Plain white vinegar

- Water

- White microfiber cloth

- Mop or broom

- Vacuum cleaner

- Vacuum cleaner upholstery attachment

- Dry carpet shampoo (optional)

STEP 1

Ideally, you’ll use this method to treat a spill before it has a chance to set in, but even if it’s dry before you get to it, there’s still hope. Combine equal parts plain white vinegar and room-temperature water, and pour directly onto the affected area. For a small stain caused by a few tablespoons of spilled liquid or food, start with ½ cup of each ingredient to form the mixture, making more if necessary.

Work the solution into the stain with a white microfiber cloth—better than a rag because it won’t stain or leave lint behind—using some elbow grease to release it from the fibers. Once you’ve eliminated the stain entirely, hang the clean shag rug in a well-ventilated area to dry completely.

STEP 2

Take the dry rug outside where you can shake it vigorously to release loose dirt and dust.

Next, if the shag rug is smaller than 3 or 4 feet wide, fold it in half, face-down, over a clean porch railing or the back of a chair and use a mop or broom handle (not its business end) to whack the rug from the back side to release stubborn dirt particles. Put enough muscle into it to shake spare dirt loose, but mind your aim and be careful not to damage the railing or chair in the process.

STEP 3

Cleaning professionals advise against vacuuming a shag rug, as suction could break the long fibers. However, it’s highly effective to turn the rug face down and vacuum its back side, keeping the pile safe while further removing deep-down dirt. This will also redistribute the tendrils from behind to fluff them up again. For an extra-deep clean, use an upholstery attachment, which offers stronger suction in a concentrated area.

STEP 4

If things are still looking dingy and you’re willing to take a risk, consider cleaning with dry carpet shampoo. Shake or spray a small amount onto the least-visible area of the shag rug, making sure to use a product safe for its content (some shampoos are better for wool while others suit synthetics) and following package instructions to the letter.

Carefully vacuum over the shampooed portion only; a handheld vacuum is ideal because it gives you complete control. If any pile breaks off, stop and take the shag rug to a carpet cleaning pro. If all is well, though, proceed with caution and repeat the process until your rug is as shagadelic as ever.

Commercial Biohazard

7/24/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, we understand that any type of exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose some serious health threats and consequences. In a commercial setting, any type of sewage backup, blood cleanup or even chemical spill, can place YOU and all of the inhabitants of the area at risk. Upon recognizing the situation, your primary focus should be safety. After the area has been critically assessed, you should be well versed in the do’s and don’ts after a contamination.

What to Do After a Contamination

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening.
• Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
• Turn off the HVAC system if there is sewage damage.

What Not to Do After a Contamination

• Don’t leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don’t leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don’t use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don’t use television or other household appliances.
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Situations that contain any biohazardous material or spills, should not be handled lightly. At SERVPRO, we care about our local community, as well as all of those that live in the area. If you have any questions, or would like to contact one of our professionals

Importance of Creating an Emergency Evacuation Plan for your Business

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Office buildings are places where large numbers of people stay throughout their day at work. If emergencies occur management must ensure an ordered and timely evacuation. In order to do so, as management you should develop an emergency evacuation plan in which you post in key locations inside each floor of your building. Each employee in the building should be aware and familiar with escape routes. By being prepared your employees will not panic and will respond to an emergency as quickly as possible. 

As a business owner, you should observe each room of your building carefully. Find locations for an emergency phone, a fire hose, and an extinguisher.

You should always discuss the plan escape routes and aim to identify at least two routes for each room.

By doing this you & your employees will be prepared and ready for action & to get out safely!

If your business has been affected by a fire, storm or water damage be sure to contact SERVPRO 916-987-0400

What Does IICRC mean anyway for your commercial facility?

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• OCT - Odor Control Technician

SERVPRO Restores Commercial Damage to Businesses

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO® offers many commercial specialty cleaning services? Restaurants, sports clubs, schools, public buildings, apartment common areas and retail stores can all benefit from our specialty cleaning services, giving you more time to focus on your customers, and clients.

Damage to your business can occur at any time. Broken hot water heaters, faulty wiring or worn appliances, cracks in water or sewage pipes, or storms and other severe weather can disrupt business when you least expect it. When odor, grime, mold, or moisture challenges go beyond the routine duties of your janitorial staff, we can help. We can also help with our biohazard cleanup services when decontamination of a home or business is needed due to a trauma, a sewage backup, a chemical spill or for another reason. Specialty cleaning services we offer are:

• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

No matter what type of specialty cleaning service your home or business may need, SERVPRO wants to help.

Free Emergency Readiness Plan

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Would you be ready if an emergency struck your business today? It’s estimated that up to 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster never reopen. By preparing now, you demonstrate excellence in readiness planning by compiling a comprehensive information resource to use in case of a disaster.  Having a timely response in a crisis can minimize business interruption and associated lost revenue.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do, who to call and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation. Timely mitigation minimizes the affects of water and fire damage allowing your property and business to be restored at an advanced rate lessening downtime.  

This profile takes us about an hour to complete including detailed photographs of water shut offs, gas mains, building accessibility and with just a few simple questions we need you to answer including, building contact, maintenance personnel, plumber,  HVAC, phone company, etc.

This profile is also accessible through your cell phone using a mobile application. 

SERVPRO Provides:

• A no cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Facility details such as shut off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

To get an emergency readiness plan for your business today, call SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna at 916-525-1241. 

Restoring your Commercial Property

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Folsom 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 Fair Oaks / Folsom 
SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 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.

Follow us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom/ 
and online 
http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com.

Listen to what our customers have said: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/testimonials

Need help today? Call us at 916-987-0400. 

#SERVPROFairOaksFolsom #SERVPRO

Testing Your Business System for Commercial Disaster

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Disasters can wreck havocs on our homes and businesses. Testing your business system can ensure you are ready for a disaster large or small. On Preparemybusiness.org you can find suggestions and details around business continuity planning.

Testing is a critical component of business continuity planning. If your systems went down, how long would it take to get them up and running again, and what would be required to achieve that goal? Where are the gaps in your recovery plan and how can you close those gaps before a disaster strikes?

Testing your continuity plan is the best way to ensure that your business will remain in operation no matter what, or that it can be quickly restored under any circumstances. For many companies, testing is necessary for meeting compliance requirements. 

Through testing, you will reduce both recovery time and risks, ultimately protecting your business and the employees and customers who rely on you. 

What to test?

You should test all critical functions, particularly those that would be most vulnerable during an attack or disaster. This includes servers, PCs/workstations, network/Internet, building security, phones/communications, supply chain, workflow/staff procedures. Some managers phase their testing procedures, for instance, running a data recovery test one month and network/Internet recovery another month.

Where to test?

Testing can be done in one of three places: at your facility, at your backup center, or at an offsite testing site. You can choose to do a table-top-meeting-style run through or a full-scale hands-on test, using canned or live data. 

How often to test?

We recommend that you do a full-scale test annually for a wide range of critical functions, including electricity, water, gas, facilities/spacing, staffing, technology, telecommunications and more. A full-scale test will help ensure that your business not only survive but thrive in any unexpected situation.

Who should participate?

A testing team should include all the people on your disaster recovery team or who are in charge of critical areas within the company. These should include, but not be limited to Facilities manager, IT tech, HR manager, senior management, brand management, third-party support and a sampling of critical clients. 

Recovering from a disaster, call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We are here to help.

For more details about preparing your business, visit: http://www.preparemybusiness.org.

Follow us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom/ 
and online http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com.

Listen to what our customers have said: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/testimonials

3 Ways to Prepare Your Business for a Fire

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Three Useful Steps To Help You Plan Ahead

While no property owner enjoys thinking about the worst case scenario, it is necessary to have a plan of action for dealing with sudden disasters. Fire damage is one of the most unexpected and serious events that can occur to your commercial property in Fair Oaks / Folsom.  Therefore, it is important to develop a contingency plan in case of a fire. Here are three useful steps to help you plan ahead.

1. Craft an Evacuation Strategy

Make sure employees are trained on how to report a fire and evacuate safely. Escape routes should be clearly marked, and all workers should understand the building floor plan. It is also essential to include a method of notifying employees and customers of the emergency as quickly as possible. Moreover, workers who manage critical operations must understand their roles in the event of an emergency. Once you create an evacuation plan, practice drills routinely so that everyone knows what to do in the event of a real fire.

2. Get Insurance

Insurance plays a key role in any contingency plan. There are several helpful types of insurance for commercial buildings including property insurance, fire insurance, flood insurance, general liability insurance, business interruption insurance and more. It is always wise to carry coverage for certain types of unpredictable disasters such as fires. Beyond that, you may want to adjust your policies depending on your level of risk. For example, flood insurance might only be necessary if your building is located in a flood-prone area.

3. Hire Professional Fire Cleanup

Contact a reputable fire restoration company immediately. Restoration experts will utilize specialized knowledge and equipment to take care of smoke damage, water damage and all other issues caused by the fire. Never delay in calling for assistance. The longer you wait, the worse the damage becomes, and the longer your organization will remain closed.
Having a sound contingency plan helps protect your company from severe devastation after a fire, and most importantly, it keeps employees and customers safe. With preemptive planning and professional restoration help, your business can recover from a fire “Like it never even happened”.

Improve the Outcome of Your Business Interruption Claim

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

When your Fair Oaks / Folsom, property has been affected by flooding, you'll have to consider losses beyond the damage to your physical property. You'll face additional costs, including the loss of profits while your business is closed down for repairs. If you've prepared for this situation with a business interruption policy, there are some steps you can take to improve the results of your claim.

Choose a Reliable Adviser

An important first step is to contact an experienced consultant. This professional should

• Provide a reasonable explanation of what will happen
• Help you understand the legal scope of your claim
• Steer you toward policy requirements and restrictions
• Look after your interests
  
  

Your insurance agent is a valuable resource, but this professional tends to look out for the interests of the insurance company; make sure you have a knowledgeable adviser looking after yours.

Document and Record Damage and Communications

As soon as you notice the flooding, begin documenting everything. Keep written records of small and large water damage, listing equipment, furnishings, and inventory that has been affected. It's also a very good idea to take photographs of the damage. Every time you talk to a professional, such as your insurance agent, an assessor, or a water damage remediation professional, record the date and the content of your conversation. Keep all of this information in a safe place. The better you're able to organize your paperwork, the faster you can work through your claim.

Appoint a Contact Person for Your Business

Finally, appoint a single contact person to represent your business and properties. All communication from the insurance company and other professionals should be steered toward that person. If repair technicians, inspectors, or agents need to talk to someone else in your company, make sure that contact person is also present. This ensures a continuity of service.

Whether flooding was caused by a broken pipe or severe weather, you face many losses through damage and business interruption. Your quick and appropriate action can make a positive difference in the outcome of your claim.

Business Fire Facts

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Time of Day

• Peak time of day for office fires: Noon – 2p.m. (a.k.a. lunch time!)
• 69% happened between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
• The 31% that occurred between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. caused 67% of recorded property damage, because they went undetected longer. This also highlights the need for automatic detection equipment and working sprinkler systems.
• 19% of fires happened on weekends.

Cause of the Business Fires

• 29% were caused by cooking equipment. However, just 6% of these fires caused actual property damage.
• Intentionally-set fires caused the most direct property damage – 21%.
• Electrical equipment is the second leading cause of office fires.
• Just 2% of office fires start in a concealed space like an attic, in the ceiling, or in another conceals space. However, these fires accounted for 13% of the direct property damage.

Containment & Putting it Out

• 4 out of 5 fires were confined to the room of origin.
• 90% of fires were large enough to activate sprinklers, which were effective 88% of the time.
• Deaths per 1,000 stores were 62% lower in offices equipped with sprinklers compared to those without.

Industrial/Manufacturing Facility Fires

The NFPA also has statistics specific to manufacturing facilities. According to their research, there are about 37,000 fires at industrial or manufacturing facilities each year, resulting in 18 deaths, 279 injuries, and $1 billion in property damage. Heating equipment and stop tools were the leading cause – sparking 28 percent of the fires. Mechanical failure or malfunction caused 24 percent of the fires.

Planning for the Worst

As part of your emergency preparation plan, be sure to have a local, reputable restoration company – like SERVPRO– on speed dial. The sooner you get the professionals in cleaning up after the disaster, the sooner you can get back to business (916) 987-0400.

Workplace Fire Safety & Prevention Checklist

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

Most Fair Oaks / Folsom residents already have a fire plan for home, but does your employer have one? Do you know your part in keeping the workplace safe?

According to the National Fire Protection Association, U.S. fire departments respond to over 3,000 fire on office properties per year.

Like at home, it’s your responsibility to take the necessary steps to keep your office environment safe. While there are specific measures employers should take to protect their staff – every employee should do their part to prevent fires.

Some employers are required by law to have an emergency action plan in place; however, it’s smart for all companies to create and share a strategy with staff in the event of a fire.

Employers should:

• Teach employees about fire hazards in the workplace – provide proper training in fire prevention and protection
• Inform employees of office housekeeping procedures for storage and cleanup
• Go over rules for controlling ignition sources such as smoking
• Provide for proper cleaning and maintenance of heat-producing equipment
• Require fire safety plan review with all new employees
• Alert the entire staff when changes are made to the fire safety plan
• Inspect office equipment on a regular basis
• Keep fire equipment in plain sight
• Prohibit smoking at and around work areas
• Have an alarm system that consists of visual and audible signals
• Post reporting instructions and local Fire Department codes around the office
• Conduct regular fire drills
• Include disabled employees in the fire emergency planning process
• Appoint a fire safety leader

Employees should:

• Keep work areas clean and free from clutter including waste paper and trash
• Replace damaged electrical cords
• Help maintain machinery to prevent overheating
• Never overload circuits
• Make sure papers and books are not piled on top of computer monitors
• Always report malfunctioning electrical equipment
• Make sure heat-producing equipment is far away from anything that could burn including copiers, fax machines, coffee makers and computers
• Remember to get rid of trash regularly so it does not accumulate
• Keep dock areas neat and clean
• Know the location of fire alarm pull stations and extinguishers
• Smoke in designated areas only
• Become familiar with the proper exits and emergency procedures
• Follow building security measures to prevent arson fires – lock up and report suspicious individuals
• Never block sprinklers, firefighting equipment or emergency exits
• Keep emergency telephone numbers and the office address readily available
• Never run extension cords across doorways or where they can easily be stepped on or run over by chairs and other furniture
• Avoid plugging more than one extension cord into an outlet

Looking for Signs of Water Damage in Your Commercial Building

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

When water infiltrates your masonry, time is of the essence. The longer a leak lasts, the more damage it does. If you see any of these signs of a leak, you should get your masonry evaluated by a professional.

1. Bulging, spalling, and cracking

These are all exterior signs of a leak that is degrading the masonry. Once water has leaked past the mortar joints, it can wear away at the masonry. After water has begun corroding the steel beneath, this damage will become much worse as a result of rust jacking.

2. Rust staining

This is a late-stage sign of water infiltration. You’ll find this commonly in concrete structures, where the red rust stain is visible on a lighter surface. When you see rust staining, it’s a sign that water has penetrated not only the masonry but the steel structure beneath. Water is causing the corrosion of the steel, which leaves a stain on the masonry surface.

Steel will expand as it rusts, creating further damage to your building’s structure. We call that rust jacking.

3. Mold and musty odors

After water has made it past the exterior, you may notice signs of water damage inside the building. One of these signs could be a sign of mildew or mold. Mold is not always easy to detect.

4. Interior damage

Other interior signs that can tip you off to a water leak are staining on interior walls and ceilings. You may also see cracked drywall or peeling wallpaper as water begins to saturate your interior walls.

Keep water from damaging your building

At SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom (916) 987-0400, we help restore and rehabilitate the exterior of commercial buildings so you don’t have to worry about what happens when water leaks into your building. We can help you prevent it from happening and even if water damage does happen we can always make it "Like it never even happened."

Top seven safety tips for office workers

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

With their climate control, soft chairs and armrests, office environments don’t conjure up thoughts of workplace hazards like, say, construction sites.

It’s true, office workers are at lower risk for workplace injuries than most, but it’s still important to talk about safety with office employees.

Here are seven safety tips for office workers to prevent workplace injuries:

• Make sure your desk setup is ergonomic
  

  To maintain a neutral posture, your head should be centered over your neck and shoulders, wrists flat and elbows resting comfortably at your side. If your feet won’t touch the ground unless you lean forward, use a footrest. See our post on workplace ergonomics and neutral posture for more information on setting up an ergonomic workstation.

• Take regular breaks to get up and move around
  

  Sitting all day puts office workers at risk for numerous health problems. Our warm up and stretching guide  gives you easy exercises you can do at work, and you can find more resources on our Get up and Move page.

• When it’s slippery due to ice and snow, walk like a penguin when entering and leaving your office
  

  Winter slips and falls in parking lots are extremely common. To avoid them, walk like a penguin by walking flat footed taking short, slow steps. It’s also important to wear sensible footwear and carry only what you can handle. For more information and downloadable resources, visit our winter slip-and-fall prevention page.

• Use a headset for prolonged or frequent phone use
  

  Cradling the phone between your shoulder and ear can cause neck and back pain.

• Keep your workplace tidy
  

  Clean up spills immediately, keep aisles free of clutter, and tie up or secure cords so they don’t pose a trip hazard.

• Don’t let electrical cords create a fire risk
  

  Avoid running electrical cords under carpet or through windows and doorways. Also, don’t fasten them with unapproved devices, such as staples.

• Know your office emergency procedures
  

  Make sure you know what to do in the event of a fire, storm, violent intruder, medical problem or other emergency.

Source: https://www.sfmic.com/safety-tips-for-office-workers/

Commercial Kitchen Safety Checklist

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

If you have a restaurant, deli, or food preparation kitchen, then read closely. We realize that restaurant insurance can be expensive. In fact, it can be quite expensive, especially when you have accidents in your kitchen.

But, here’s the thing: many commercial kitchen accidents and injuries can be avoided when safety procedures and policies are set up.

When safety is ignored, it’s only a matter of time before there are accidents. Remember that restaurant kitchen accidents only make insurance rates go up. So, doesn’t it make sense to implement these checklist points in your kitchen and food prep area?

Here are our kitchen safety tips to help you save on restaurant insurance

Preventing food preparation area accidents

• Do my employees use a stool or footrest to avoid prolonged standing?
• Do I make stools and footrests available to my kitchen workers?
• Do we rearrange food prep tasks to avoid overreaching?
• Do we use mechanical kitchen appliances for chopping, dicing, or mixing foods to avoid repetitive stress injuries?
• Do we provide approved uniforms, hairnets, and gloves for our employees?
• Do our employees wear uniforms, hairnets, and gloves?

Preventing lifting accidents

• Have my workers been trained to lift with their legs not with their backs, whether it is a light or heavy load?
• Are workers trained to bring heavy items close to their chest so they can stay balanced and eliminate straining?
• Are employees trained to use tilt containers or get help when lifting or pulling fluids or heavy items?
• Are my employees empowered to point out safe and proper lifting techniques to fellow employees?
• Do supervisors take the lead by setting the right example?

Preventing slips, trips, and falls

• Is the kitchen staff trained to mop up spills and wet areas immediately?
• Are kitchen, supply areas, freezer floors, and walkways kept free of clutter?
• Is proper ladder training provided?
• Do employees know how to use ladders correctly to avoid overreaching and overextending themselves?
• Are employees required to wear proper slip resistant footwear?
• Is the kitchen floor swept and mopped each night?

Preventing kitchen fires

• Are work areas kept clean?
• Are fire extinguishers handy and operational?
• Have employees been trained on using fire extinguishers?
• Are employees allowed to smoke in the building?
• Is a no smoking policy enforced?
• Do you have a fire evacuation plan?
• Do you have fire drills?
• Do all workers know how to sound the alarm and call 911?
• Is all fire suppression equipment regularly maintained and tested?

Creating a Fire Escape Plan at an Office

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Three Suggestions for Creating an Emergency Escape Plan

A fire at a commercial building in Fair Oaks / Folsom can be devastating for a business, and it is critical to be prepared in the event of an emergency. This is especially true if a blaze occurs during hours when employees are working, and it is incredibly important for a business to have a fire escape plan in place. Here are three suggestions for creating an emergency escape plan to evacuate an office building fire safely.

1. Create and Communicate a Plan With Employees

Creating a solid fire escape plan and communicating the strategy with employees is critical. In order to do this, a building owner may examine the office building and share information about all the building exits with workers. Knowing where individuals must go for safety is vital. Holding regular meetings and scheduling fire drills to familiarize employees with the location of the exits may be helpful. Discussing an emergency plan and practicing fire drills may also help to alleviate panic during an emergency, because workers will be more prepared, and they will know what to do and where to go in order to escape.

2. Provide Fire Educational Resources for Workers

In addition to exercising fire safety drills, it may be beneficial to provide employees with information about fire safety tips. This material might include educational resources about how to escape a room that is consumed with smoke from a fire by getting as low to the floor as possible, for instance. The more education that workers have regarding the evacuation of a burning structure, the better.

3. Have Safety Measures in Place at the Office

Items such as fire extinguishers and escape ladders may be life-saving objects in an emergency. It may be a good idea to consider placing these and other fire safety items in an office and alerting employees of where they are located.

The safety of employees is crucial and having a fire escape plan at an office can save lives. If fire damage does occur to the building, fire restoration professionals can help. So long as workers are safe, everything else can be repaired - “Like it never even happened.”

Mold Remediation to a Commercial Building

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. It is impossible to eliminate all molds and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture indoors.

Commercial property can quickly become infested with mold if a source of water is present. Mold can spread throughout a property in as little as 48 hours. Since mold can produce allergens and irritants, you should call us to inspect your building if you suspect you have a mold problem. If mold is found we have the training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

Have a Mold Problem? Call Us Today! (916) 987-0400

Consequences of Water Damage in Office Buildings

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

After water damage, office losses can arise from damage to office equipment and furniture, destruction of computer files and paper records and loss of income when the incident forces the operations to shut down. Any of these can have a serious impact on the finances of the company as well as create time-consuming tasks for some office personnel.

Financially, the cost of water damage includes repair or replacement of damaged items that are important to the operations of the office as well as the costs of water extraction, cleanup and renovation of the water-damaged building. If the company has proper and adequate insurance coverage, their plan will pay for the damage and restoration costs. Otherwise, the company will have to shoulder the burden of the financial loss.

Aside from financial consequences, secondary water damage in an office building such as poor indoor air quality and mold growth have also been known to have adverse effects on the health and well-being of employees, which can translate to more sick days or sluggish production.

One study done in the United States on occupational respiratory disease, which was published in April 2005 in a peer-reviewed journal, observed employees who were working in a building that experienced water damage from leaks over several years.

Compared with the general workforce, the subjected office workers were found to be two and three times more likely to develop respiratory symptoms like wheezing and adult-onset asthma, respectively. The authors of the study also calculated that about 12 percent of sick days that were taken by the said office workers were related to the heath effects of the water-damaged building.

Source: https://www.restorationsos.com/education/commercial/water-damage-in-office-buildings/consequences-of-water-damage-in-office-buildings.asp

We Are Here To Help After Your Commercial Property

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

When your Fair Oaks / Folsom business faces a water loss the treatment approach should not be “slow and steady.” No matter how the excess water intruded into your commercial property, you have no time to lose when responding. Moisture soaked into structural components or inches or feet of water threatening equipment, documents, and inventory are catastrophes necessitating immediate action. Your best bet is to line up our expert water abatement team.

Finding faster water removal in Fair Oaks/ Folsom is as straightforward as contacting our office. We incest in the highest efficiency commercial pumps and water extractors available, capable of moving even hundred of gallons of water out of your business property rapidly and completely. Premium water removal equipment is only as good as its operators. Our company has built a skilled workforce of IICRC technicians trained and experienced in substantial water loss remediation. Your business will greatly benefit from our proactive approach.

Water that lingers in a commercial space for more than 24 to 48 hours exposes your business to a heightened risk of mold damage. SERVPRO focus on the fastest route to water removal, arriving at your retail store, warehouse, hotel, restaurant, or other property with an experienced crew and fully stocked service vehicles. Our signature green trucks hold high-capacity submersible pumps, wanded and heated water extractors, and effective cleaners, tools, and EPA-registered disinfectants. If needed our equipment can operate using onboard generators or gas motors, so we do not need to wait for electricity temporarily disconnected to be reconnected. We also carry air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers on the trucks to move seamlessly from water removal to applied structural drying.

Expect us to promote faster water removal for your commercial building using all resources at our disposal. If your business water loss is more extensive than average, we access our nationwide network of affiliated SERVPRO professionals to increase our capacity. More personnel and a more extensive inventory of water extraction and drying equipment ensure your property returns to preloss condition with skill, thoroughness, and all deliberate speed.

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is available 24 hours a day-year round at (916) 987-0400 to schedule a timely assessment.

Energy Efficiency Tips for Commercial Buildings

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

1. Regular HVAC Maintenance: Water, steam and air flow metering and monitoring can measure HVAC system efficiency and identify “leaky” valves or other potential system inefficiencies.
2. Damper and Actuator Maintenance: When working properly, dampers and actuators enable free cooling controls/programs to do their job. Maintenance performed every 3-6 months can cause a 5 ton compressor to operate only 20 hours less, energy savings can equate to $0.10 per kWh.
3. Heat Exchange Coil Cleanliness: Dirty condenser and evaporator coils reduce cooling capacity and make compressors work harder. Supply and return air temperature measurements with outdoor air resets is one of the most cost-effective maintenance steps that can be done on HVAC systems.
4. Demand-controlled Ventilation: Too little outside air is a health concern … too much is an energy waster. Using a CO2 sensor and controller helps you get it just right.

Source: https://www.industrialcontrolsonline.com/informationcenter/10-energy-efficiency-tips-commercial-buildings/

Top 3 reasons for a commercial water loss

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

Extreme Weather

As many may know flooding can happen very quickly. What starts out as a small storm can suddenly turn into something larger, and cause a lot more damage than anyone expected. For example, during heavy rain a small leak on the roof can turn into a large downpour of water that floods an entire section of the property.

Damaged Appliances

Almost every office building has a kitchen or break room. And typically these rooms have a refrigerator, a sink disposer, and possibly a dishwasher. When these appliances fail, they can leak a significant amount of water, flooding the entire room or more.

Backed up Sewer Lines

Bathrooms are another source of possible problems. It is not uncommon for the sewer lines to get backed up, releasing contaminated water into the building. This type of water damage is extremely dangerous because the water is filled with hazardous waste and other contaminants. Bathroom toilet supply lines are also notorious culprits of water damage.

Water damage isn’t something that you want to happen on your commercial property. But when it does, you want to hire the right company to clean up the damage and get your business back to normal as quickly as possible. Call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom today at (916) 987-0400

Smoke Damage in Your Commercial Building

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

What YOU can do after a fire to reduce smoke odors and soot

• If the temperature is above 60 degrees, air out the facility to reduce smoke odor
• Change the air filter on the furnace if it uses forced hot air
• Tape damp cheesecloth over returns and supply registers to capture loose soot in the air
• Do not touch anything with bare hands. Oils from hands can permeate upholstery, walls and woodwork, causing additional damage
• Do not wash walls. Incorrect cleaning could compound the soot residue

When a fire impacts your place of business, burnt equipment and charred possessions are just the damages you can see on the surface. Even after the flames have been put out and the smoke has cleared, your business is still in trouble. Since smoke and soot are highly acidic, they can damage a wide range of materials they come in contact with.

This amount of smoke damage can easily overwhelm for any business owner. That's why it's important to call in a professional soot cleaning and smoke odor removal service to restore your building to a clean, healthy and safe condition for yourself and your employees. Soot cleanup is a specialized job that requires advanced tools, professional know-how and the steady guidance that you'll get from SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom. 

If you're experiencing smoke damage in your commercial building give SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom a call at (916) 987-0400. 

Commercial Building Fall Maintenance Tips

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

While each commercial building’s needs will be different according to the tenants it holds, its purpose, and its location, consider the following tips when preparing your property this season.

1. HVAC:  

   Before tenants start to crank up the heat to combat colder temps, make sure your building’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is running efficiently and effectively. Replace filters, inspect and repair broken parts, identify and respond to cracked ductwork, drain line clogs, and make sure your HVAC system is the proper size for your unit. While doing so, store or cover air-conditioning units that will go unused during the fall and winter seasons.

2. Fire:

   Service your fire prevention and safety equipment, making sure all sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and fire alarms are in working order. Also, update emergency fire procedures and schedule a fall or winter season drill so tenants can practice how best to respond.

3. Outdoors:

   Winterize your landscaping, including trimming trees and shrubs to reduce exterior damage. Ensure that vegetation and grass are properly graded to avoid water and ice sitting against your property’s foundation. This can lead to interior water damage. Also, inspect the exterior of your building for cracks, stains, and leaks, which could lead to potential for safety and security breaches.

4. Lighting:

   Decreased daylight means your tenants may be more at risk for falling should hazards not be easily identifiable. Install proper exterior lighting on your commercial property, and check bi-annually that light bulbs and fixtures are clean and in working order. If public walkways have cracks, potholes, or other trip hazards, repair and seal to reduce hazards, or install signage to make people aware.

5. Roof:

   Inspect and repair your commercial property’s roof for loose shingles or damage to existing flashing. To prevent the potential for ice dams to form, clean gutters and make sure they are properly secured to the building. Fall is also a good season to increase the insulation in existing attics. Doing this can decrease heat costs while also further reduce ice dam formation.

6. Windows:

   Inspect windows both inside and outside to ensure they are properly sealed. Doing so can reduce energy bills while simultaneously preventing excess moisture and mold risks. Replace windows that are showing signs of aging to avoid potential interior or exterior building damage.

7. Plumbing:

   Colder temperatures put pipes at higher risk for freezing and bursting. Leaving your commercial building at risk for  water damage. Avoid the wet mess by insulating and sealing cracks and openings around exposed pipes. Also, set internal thermostats (and instruct tenants to do the same) to keep interior temperatures at 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

8. Tenants:

   Check in with tenants regarding any maintenance requests or building concerns they may have. Living and/or working in your commercial property means they are on constant alert to their surroundings. If they see–or hear or smell–something, ask that they say something. 

Don’t leave your commercial property out in the cold as the fall and winter seasons move in. With the right precautionary measures, you can avoid costly damage to your building and unnecessary stress to your tenants. Work with your service team and call in skilled, professional vendors to keep your buildings running efficiently and effectively.

Source: https://ajrestores.com/prepare-commercial-building-cold-weather/

5 Tips To Prepare For a Commercial Fire

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

1. Employee training: One of the biggest concerns during a fire should be the safety of the people inside of your building. Make sure your employees or tenants know how to get out of the building safely by holding regular fire evacuation drills. You should post evacuation plans around the property and ensure everyone knows the best way out.

2. Restoration: Part of being prepared has to be centered on the potential fire damage your building may sustain. How are you going to take care of possible roof damage, or other structural damage (windows and doors may need to be boarded up or the cleaning and restoration of your contents that have been effected by heat and soot. Finding a quality fire restoration specialist prior to a fire loss can make your recovery process much simpler when an emergency strikes.

3. Contingency: Depending on what type of business you have and what it does, a fire could potentially shut down your company for an extended period of time. Part of your emergency recovery plan may be how you deal with a potential halt of work. You can get insurance to help cover financial losses or rent a temporary workspace to reduce the downtime.

4. Inventory: Your fire emergency recovery plan should also include a list and pictures of all the equipment, records and property you have in your commercial building. Knowing what's there before a disaster strikes can make creating a lost inventory list for your claim easier. Take pictures of your building in and out, figure out the cost of replacing your equipment annually and record your inventory.

5. Safety Equipment: install Smoke alarms, fire sprinklers and other safety equipment that can help mitigate the damage done by a fire. Installing these tools before a disaster is often a good idea.

Source: https://www.SERVPROsouthdaytonabeachportorange.com/blog/post/94903/fire-smoke-damage-restoration/5-tips-to-prepare-for-a-commercial-fire

Commercial Fire Sprinkler Systems

9/6/2019 (Permalink)

No business, wants to deal with the destruction caused by fire. One of the best ways to minimize potential damage and associated expenses is to maintain a commercial fire sprinkler system. A sprinkler system is a highly effective fire suppression strategy that can prevent many significant losses.  

1. They're Activated by Heat, Not Smoke

A sprinkler system is not activated by smoke Instead, the heat generated by a fire rises to the ceiling, where the sprinkler heads are located. Sensors recognize the change in temperature and trigger the release of water. Only sprinklers in the area of the fire will be activated. It is possible that only a single sprinkler head will deploy.

2. They Use High-Pressure Water

The pipes that feed the fire sprinkler system are filled with pressurized water at all times. There will be no delay between the activation of the system and the release of water. The volume of water from even a single sprinkler can help contain a fire, which reduces fire and water damage to the rest of the structure. By the time the fire department arrives, the fire will likely not have spread further. It may even be extinguished by the sprinkler system.

3. They Can Minimize Cleanup After a Fire

Minimal fire sprinkler cleanup is another key advantage of a sprinkler system. While there will still be fire and water damage, it is likely to be much less extensive than what you'd find in a building without a sprinkler system. The fire damage should be limited to the area where sprinklers activated. The water damage from sprinklers is far less intrusive than water damage caused by fire hoses.

Any fire will cause structural and water damage. The primary benefit of a fire sprinkler system is that inevitable damage will be kept to a minimum, resulting in saved dollars and saved lives.

Tips for Dealing with Water Damage at Your Commercial Property

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

Whether you’re dealing with a busted pipe, or toilet overflow, water damage in your commercial building is never fun. When this happens, there are so many things to think about and people often become overwhelmed and miss some important steps. Preparing your team and yourself ahead of time and having proper protocol in place can make a big difference. Be sure to follow these guidelines when dealing with this type of problems.

Identify the Source

One of the most common sources of leaks in a commercial building is broken pipes. Besides that, you may be looking at a flooded toilet or roof damage. Getting the problem fixed right away may help you avoid larger issues down the road.

Take Safety Measures

If you are dealing with contaminated water, you need to take the proper safety precautions. Sewage contains bacteria and viruses and should be dealt with accordingly. Clearly mark the area off and wear the right equipment when cleaning up.

Document the Damage

Do not try to leave the water damage in place for the insurance company to come look at. Instead, you should take photographs from every angle before you begin the water cleanup. Leaving it can actually lead to more problems, which the insurance agents may view as neglect. Be sure to call them as soon as possible to get the ball rolling.

If you’re dealing with water damage at your commercial property call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

SERVPRO Can Assist with Your Commercial Property Water Damage

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can strike your commercial property at any time. Water damage can sideline your business, regardless if the damage occurs from a major storm event or a broken water line. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when you have an emergency water event, SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom Professionals offer fast, 24 hour emergency services, 365 days per year.

Our professionals have the training, experience, and equipment to manage water and flooding damage. Whether you have a large water emergency or a small water damage event, they will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

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.

We are available 24 hours a day to get your Folsom business back up and running. Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying. We are also your business’s best resource for mold remediation. Learn more about our commercial restoration services:

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 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. Call us at 916-987-0400.

Free SERVPRO Emergency Readiness Plan For Your Business!

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

If an emergency strikes, will you be ready? It’s estimated that up to 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster never reopen. By preparing now, you demonstrate excellence in readiness planning by compiling a comprehensive information resource to use in case of a disaster.  Having a timely response in a crisis can minimize business interruption and associated lost revenue.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do, who to call and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation. Timely mitigation minimizes the affects of water and fire damage allowing your property and business to be restored at an advanced rate lessening downtime.  

SERVPRO Provides:

• A no cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Facility details such as shut off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

To get an emergency readiness plan for your business today, call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400.

Commercial Water Loss

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

When we talk to local business owners regarding potential water damage events, they often visualize a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms. However storms and severe weather aren’t the only causes of floods and water damage.
 
Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings: 

1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems 

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

2. Damaged appliances and equipment 

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

Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result. If you question the stoutness of your building's pipes, contact SERVPRO for a thorough inspection and assessment. 
 
4. Backed up sewer lines 

This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings. SERVPRO has certified IICRC technicians to deal with this type of water damage.
 
If your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom will get you back up and running again. Call us anytime 24/7 at (916) 525-1241 for fast help.

Experience Commercial Fire Damage? SERVPRO Has Got Your Back!

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

There’s never a good time to have a fire, but if you are prepared, you can swiftly deal with the aftermath. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, significant water damage from firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. Every hour spent restoring your business back to pre-fire condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom can respond immediately to your commercial fire damage emergency regardless of the size or scope of the damage. Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, studio, or office building, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion. 

If you’re experiencing commercial fire damage remember that SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here for you! Call us at your earliest convenience at (916) 987-0400.

Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom and online https://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com

Testing Your Business System to Prepare for a Commercial Disaster

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

Disasters can wreck havocs on our homes and businesses. Testing your business system can ensure you are ready for a disaster large or small. On Preparemybusiness.org you can find suggestions and details around business continuity planning.

Testing is a critical component of business continuity planning. If your systems went down, how long would it take to get them up and running again, and what would be required to achieve that goal? Where are the gaps in your recovery plan and how can you close those gaps before a disaster strikes?

Testing your continuity plan is the best way to ensure that your business will remain in operation no matter what, or that it can be quickly restored under any circumstances. For many companies, testing is necessary for meeting compliance requirements.

Through testing, you will reduce both recovery time and risks, ultimately protecting your business and the employees and customers who rely on you.

What to test?

You should test all critical functions, particularly those that would be most vulnerable during an attack or disaster. This includes servers, PCs/workstations, network/Internet, building security, phones/communications, supply chain, workflow/staff procedures. Some managers phase their testing procedures, for instance, running a data recovery test one month and network/Internet recovery another month.

Where to test?

Testing can be done in one of three places: at your facility, at your backup center, or at an offsite testing site. You can choose to do a table-top-meeting-style run through or a full-scale hands-on test, using canned or live data.

How often to test?

We recommend that you do a full-scale test annually for a wide range of critical functions, including electricity, water, gas, facilities/spacing, staffing, technology, telecommunications and more. A full-scale test will help ensure that your business not only survive but thrive in any unexpected situation.

Who should participate?

A testing team should include all the people on your disaster recovery team or who are in charge of critical areas within the company. These should include, but not be limited to Facilities manager, IT tech, HR manager, senior management, brand management, third-party support and a sampling of critical clients.

Recovering from a disaster, call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We are here to help.

For more details about preparing your business, visit: http://www.preparemybusiness.org

Commercial Disasters Happen. Is Your Business Ready for a Disaster?

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

Fires can be devastating. We often prepare for this at our homes, but forget about our businesses. Is your business prepared for an emergency? The Small Business Administration’s website has suggestions for disaster preparedness and recovery.

SBA's Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Plan

To view the complete Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Plan, please click here.

Executive Summary

At no time do communities, small businesses, and individuals more need access to the Small Business Administration’s (SBA’s) “3 C’s” of capital, counseling, and contracts more than in the wake of disaster.  SBA’s Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Plan (DPRP) ensures that all available agency resources are both provided and integrated into the federal government’s overall support to disaster survivors.

Recovery Cycle:  When focused on recovery, the 3 C’s are sequenced as capital, contracts, counseling, and capital again.  SBA’s immediate effort begins with the deployment of Disaster Assistance staff from one of its two Field Operations Centers (FOCs) to make disaster loans available to homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes, and private nonprofits.  These physical and economic injury disaster loans are critical to repairing damage and sustaining cash flow in a community.  Almost as quickly, the Office of Government Contracting and Business Development (GCBD), often in concert with the local District Office, reaches out to other federal agencies to offer waivers and other contracting flexibilities to ensure the engagement of small businesses – especially ones in impacted communities – in the process of rebuilding and recovering.  Through counseling and technical assistance, small businesses are able to adjust their plans to account for the “new normal” after a disaster. 

Ultimately, this is at the heart of successful recovery:  Small businesses, in combination, are sometimes the local economic engine, but they are almost always critical to a community’s character.  The recovery process can be said to have resolved into the business cycle when the final steps in small business recovery are financed with SBA Offices of Capital Access (OCA) and Investment and Innovation (OII) programs investing in that same “new normal.”

For more details visit: https://www.sba.gov/managing-business/running-business/emergency-preparedness/sbas-disaster-preparedness-and-recovery-plan 

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.

If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

Disasters Can Wreck Havoc on Your Business. Are You Ready for a Commercial Disaster?

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

Disasters can wreck havocs on our homes and businesses. Testing your business system can ensure you are ready for a disaster large or small. On Preparemybusiness.org you can find suggestions and details around business continuity planning.

Testing is a critical component of business continuity planning. If your systems went down, how long would it take to get them up and running again, and what would be required to achieve that goal? Where are the gaps in your recovery plan and how can you close those gaps before a disaster strikes?

Testing your continuity plan is the best way to ensure that your business will remain in operation no matter what, or that it can be quickly restored under any circumstances. For many companies, testing is necessary for meeting compliance requirements. 

Through testing, you will reduce both recovery time and risks, ultimately protecting your business and the employees and customers who rely on you. 

What to test?

You should test all critical functions, particularly those that would be most vulnerable during an attack or disaster. This includes servers, PCs/workstations, network/Internet, building security, phones/communications, supply chain, workflow/staff procedures. Some managers phase their testing procedures, for instance, running a data recovery test one month and network/Internet recovery another month.

Where to test?

Testing can be done in one of three places: at your facility, at your backup center, or at an offsite testing site. You can choose to do a table-top-meeting-style run through or a full-scale hands-on test, using canned or live data. 

How often to test?

We recommend that you do a full-scale test annually for a wide range of critical functions, including electricity, water, gas, facilities/spacing, staffing, technology, telecommunications and more. A full-scale test will help ensure that your business not only survive but thrive in any unexpected situation.

Who should participate?

A testing team should include all the people on your disaster recovery team or who are in charge of critical areas within the company. These should include, but not be limited to Facilities manager, IT tech, HR manager, senior management, brand management, third-party support and a sampling of critical clients. 

Recovering from a disaster, call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We are here to help.

For more details about preparing your business, visit: http://www.preparemybusiness.org.

Follow us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom/ 
and online http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com.

Listen to what our customers have said: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/testimonials

Cleaning the Fridge. Here are Some Easy Tips

9/27/2018 (Permalink)

clean fridge, cleaning tips

Household cleaning is not exactly on our list of "fun things to do". Sometimes we don’t even know how often household items should be cleaned. If you’re like me, I clean when it looks dirty (or company is coming over!) There has got to be a better way. I am always looking for new tips or suggestions. 

I recently came across this article from Today.com in the Home section. Take a look at some of these tips:

Door shelves:

• Remove items from the door shelves.
• Wipe down all shelves as well as any sticky and drippy containers with baking soda and water solution. Dry and return items.

Gasket:

• Wipe the gasket/seal with a mild detergent solution. Dry with a clean cloth.
• Pro tip from Mr. Appliance President Doug Rogers: To test the seal of the gasket, shut the door on a dollar bill and if it slides out easily, the gasket isn’t sealing tightly. Replace it to save energy and wear and tear on the fridge.

Door:

• Wipe down the door, edges, handle and top of the refrigerator with mild detergent solution. Dry.
• For stainless steel refrigerators, apply coconut oil with a soft cloth. Buff to remove excess.

Water dispenser:

• Because yeast and mold can build up on the dispenser spout, it should be cleaned every month or as needed.
• Pro tip from Carl Major, owner of Major Appliance, AC and Heating in Slidell, Louisiana: Major recommends cleaning the spout with a pipe cleaner (or small brush) alternately dipped in warm water, vinegar and hydrogen peroxide (in that order).
• For added safety, make sure to replace external water filters as recommended by the manufacturer.

Ice dispenser:

• The ice dispenser drawer actually can harbor mold and yeast, according to Allen Rathey, founder of Healthy House Institute.
• To clean the ice bin, turn the ice-maker off, remove the bin and discard the ice. Using lukewarm water and a mild dish detergent, wash the bin, rinse well and then dry.
• Cleaning option: Substitute distilled white vinegar for dish detergent.

For the complete article, visit:

HTTP://WWW.TODAY.COM/HOME/HOW-OFTEN-YOU-SHOULD-CLEAN-YOUR-REFRIGERATOR-RIGHT-WAY-DO-T103284?CID=PUBLIC-RSS_20160927

If you need help with your emergency visit: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/. 

If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks/Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom

Getting a Shag Rug Clean the Right Way

9/27/2018 (Permalink)

clean carpet, carpet cleaning

Cleaning a Shag Rug I love that shag rugs have a made a strong fashionable return in homes. We recently added a couple to our living room. They look great on our tile floor and warm the room.  They are a little different to care than a regular rug. I found some great tips on the Bob Vila website.  

Remember, if these tips don’t work and you need a professional, call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 916-987-0400.

How to clean a shag rug:

MATERIALS AND TOOLS

- Plain white vinegar

- Water

- White microfiber cloth

- Mop or broom

- Vacuum cleaner

- Vacuum cleaner upholstery attachment

- Dry carpet shampoo (optional)

STEP 1

Ideally, you’ll use this method to treat a spill before it has a chance to set in, but even if it’s dry before you get to it, there’s still hope. Combine equal parts plain white vinegar and room-temperature water, and pour directly onto the affected area. For a small stain caused by a few tablespoons of spilled liquid or food, start with ½ cup of each ingredient to form the mixture, making more if necessary.

Work the solution into the stain with a white microfiber cloth—better than a rag because it won’t stain or leave lint behind—using some elbow grease to release it from the fibers. Once you’ve eliminated the stain entirely, hang the clean shag rug in a well-ventilated area to dry completely.

STEP 2

Take the dry rug outside where you can shake it vigorously to release loose dirt and dust.

Next, if the shag rug is smaller than 3 or 4 feet wide, fold it in half, face-down, over a clean porch railing or the back of a chair and use a mop or broom handle (not its business end) to whack the rug from the back side to release stubborn dirt particles. Put enough muscle into it to shake spare dirt loose, but mind your aim and be careful not to damage the railing or chair in the process.

STEP 3

Cleaning professionals advise against vacuuming a shag rug, as suction could break the long fibers. However, it’s highly effective to turn the rug face down and vacuum its back side, keeping the pile safe while further removing deep-down dirt. This will also redistribute the tendrils from behind to fluff them up again. For an extra-deep clean, use an upholstery attachment, which offers stronger suction in a concentrated area.

STEP 4

If things are still looking dingy and you’re willing to take a risk, consider cleaning with dry carpet shampoo. Shake or spray a small amount onto the least-visible area of the shag rug, making sure to use a product safe for its content (some shampoos are better for wool while others suit synthetics) and following package instructions to the letter.

Carefully vacuum over the shampooed portion only; a handheld vacuum is ideal because it gives you complete control. If any pile breaks off, stop and take the shag rug to a carpet cleaning pro. If all is well, though, proceed with caution and repeat the process until your rug is as shagadelic as ever.

For the complete article, visit Bobvila.com

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.

If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom Can Assist With Your Commercial Property Water or Fire Damage

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events in Fair Oaks and Folsom 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.

Commercial Building Restoration Services

We are available 24 hours a day to get your Folsom business back up and running. Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying. We are also your business’s best resource for mold remediation. Learn more about our commercial restoration services:

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

About SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 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. Call us at 916-987-0400.

Follow us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom/ 
and online 
http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com.

Listen to what our customers have said: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/testimonials

#SERVPROFairOaksFolsom #heretohelp

Water Damage? Restoring Your Fair Oaks, Orangevale or Folsom Commercial Property

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Folsom 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 Fair Oaks / Folsom 
SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 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.

Follow us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom/ 
and online 
http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com.

Listen to what our customers have said: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/testimonials

Need help today? Call us at 916-987-0400. 

#SERVPROFairOaksFolsom #SERVPRO

Is your business ready for a major fire?

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

Fires can be devastating. We often prepare for this at our homes, but forget about our businesses. Is your business prepared for an emergency? The Small Business Administration’s website has suggestions for disaster preparedness and recovery.

SBA's Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Plan

To view the complete Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Plan, please click here.

Executive Summary

At no time do communities, small businesses, and individuals more need access to the Small Business Administration’s (SBA’s) “3 C’s” of capital, counseling, and contracts more than in the wake of disaster.  SBA’s Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Plan (DPRP) ensures that all available agency resources are both provided and integrated into the federal government’s overall support to disaster survivors.

Recovery Cycle:  When focused on recovery, the 3 C’s are sequenced as capital, contracts, counseling, and capital again.  SBA’s immediate effort begins with the deployment of Disaster Assistance staff from one of its two Field Operations Centers (FOCs) to make disaster loans available to homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes, and private nonprofits.  These physical and economic injury disaster loans are critical to repairing damage and sustaining cash flow in a community.  Almost as quickly, the Office of Government Contracting and Business Development (GCBD), often in concert with the local District Office, reaches out to other federal agencies to offer waivers and other contracting flexibilities to ensure the engagement of small businesses – especially ones in impacted communities – in the process of rebuilding and recovering.  Through counseling and technical assistance, small businesses are able to adjust their plans to account for the “new normal” after a disaster.  Ultimately, this is at the heart of successful recovery:  Small businesses, in combination, are sometimes the local economic engine, but they are almost always critical to a community’s character.  The recovery process can be said to have resolved into the business cycle when the final steps in small business recovery are financed with SBA Offices of Capital Access (OCA) and Investment and Innovation (OII) programs investing in that same “new normal.”

For more details visit: https://www.sba.gov/managing-business/running-business/emergency-preparedness/sbas-disaster-preparedness-and-recovery-plan 

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.

If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

Testing Your Business System to Prepare for a Commercial Disaster

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

Disasters can wreck havocs on our homes and businesses. Testing your business system can ensure you are ready for a disaster large or small. On Preparemybusiness.org you can find suggestions and details around business continuity planning.

Testing is a critical component of business continuity planning. If your systems went down, how long would it take to get them up and running again, and what would be required to achieve that goal? Where are the gaps in your recovery plan and how can you close those gaps before a disaster strikes?

Testing your continuity plan is the best way to ensure that your business will remain in operation no matter what, or that it can be quickly restored under any circumstances. For many companies, testing is necessary for meeting compliance requirements. 

Through testing, you will reduce both recovery time and risks, ultimately protecting your business and the employees and customers who rely on you. 

What to test?

You should test all critical functions, particularly those that would be most vulnerable during an attack or disaster. This includes servers, PCs/workstations, network/Internet, building security, phones/communications, supply chain, workflow/staff procedures. Some managers phase their testing procedures, for instance, running a data recovery test one month and network/Internet recovery another month.

Where to test?

Testing can be done in one of three places: at your facility, at your backup center, or at an offsite testing site. You can choose to do a table-top-meeting-style run through or a full-scale hands-on test, using canned or live data. 

How often to test?

We recommend that you do a full-scale test annually for a wide range of critical functions, including electricity, water, gas, facilities/spacing, staffing, technology, telecommunications and more. A full-scale test will help ensure that your business not only survive but thrive in any unexpected situation.

Who should participate?

A testing team should include all the people on your disaster recovery team or who are in charge of critical areas within the company. These should include, but not be limited to Facilities manager, IT tech, HR manager, senior management, brand management, third-party support and a sampling of critical clients. 

Recovering from a disaster, call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We are here to help.

For more details about preparing your business, visit: http://www.preparemybusiness.org.

Follow us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom/ 
and online http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com.

Listen to what our customers have said: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/testimonials

Getting a Shag Rug Cleaned the Right Way

9/28/2017 (Permalink)

Cleaning a Shag Rug I love that shag rugs have a made a strong fashionable return in homes. We recently added a couple to our living room. They look great on our tile floor and warm the room.  They are a little different to care than a regular rug. I found some great tips on the Bob Vila website.  

Remember, if these tips don’t work and you need a professional, call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 916-987-0400.

How to clean a shag rug:

MATERIALS AND TOOLS

- Plain white vinegar

- Water

- White microfiber cloth

- Mop or broom

- Vacuum cleaner

- Vacuum cleaner upholstery attachment

- Dry carpet shampoo (optional)

STEP 1

Ideally, you’ll use this method to treat a spill before it has a chance to set in, but even if it’s dry before you get to it, there’s still hope. Combine equal parts plain white vinegar and room-temperature water, and pour directly onto the affected area. For a small stain caused by a few tablespoons of spilled liquid or food, start with ½ cup of each ingredient to form the mixture, making more if necessary.

Work the solution into the stain with a white microfiber cloth—better than a rag because it won’t stain or leave lint behind—using some elbow grease to release it from the fibers. Once you’ve eliminated the stain entirely, hang the clean shag rug in a well-ventilated area to dry completely.

STEP 2

Take the dry rug outside where you can shake it vigorously to release loose dirt and dust.

Next, if the shag rug is smaller than 3 or 4 feet wide, fold it in half, face-down, over a clean porch railing or the back of a chair and use a mop or broom handle (not its business end) to whack the rug from the back side to release stubborn dirt particles. Put enough muscle into it to shake spare dirt loose, but mind your aim and be careful not to damage the railing or chair in the process.

STEP 3

Cleaning professionals advise against vacuuming a shag rug, as suction could break the long fibers. However, it’s highly effective to turn the rug face down and vacuum its back side, keeping the pile safe while further removing deep-down dirt. This will also redistribute the tendrils from behind to fluff them up again. For an extra-deep clean, use an upholstery attachment, which offers stronger suction in a concentrated area.

STEP 4

If things are still looking dingy and you’re willing to take a risk, consider cleaning with dry carpet shampoo. Shake or spray a small amount onto the least-visible area of the shag rug, making sure to use a product safe for its content (some shampoos are better for wool while others suit synthetics) and following package instructions to the letter.

Carefully vacuum over the shampooed portion only; a handheld vacuum is ideal because it gives you complete control. If any pile breaks off, stop and take the shag rug to a carpet cleaning pro. If all is well, though, proceed with caution and repeat the process until your rug is as shagadelic as ever.

For the complete article, visit Bobvila.com

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.

If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks/Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

Cleaning the Fridge - Easy Tips

9/28/2017 (Permalink)

Household cleaning is not exactly on our list of "fun things to do". Sometimes we don’t even know how often household items should be cleaned. If you’re like me, I clean when it looks dirty (or company is coming over!) There has got to be a better way. I am always looking for new tips or suggestions. 

I recently came across this article from Today.com in the Home section. Take a look at some of these tips:

Door shelves:

• Remove items from the door shelves.
• Wipe down all shelves as well as any sticky and drippy containers with baking soda and water solution. Dry and return items.

Gasket:

• Wipe the gasket/seal with a mild detergent solution. Dry with a clean cloth.
• Pro tip from Mr. Appliance President Doug Rogers: To test the seal of the gasket, shut the door on a dollar bill and if it slides out easily, the gasket isn’t sealing tightly. Replace it to save energy and wear and tear on the fridge.

Door:

• Wipe down the door, edges, handle and top of the refrigerator with mild detergent solution. Dry.
• For stainless steel refrigerators, apply coconut oil with a soft cloth. Buff to remove excess.

Water dispenser:

• Because yeast and mold can build up on the dispenser spout, it should be cleaned every month or as needed.
• Pro tip from Carl Major, owner of Major Appliance, AC and Heating in Slidell, Louisiana: Major recommends cleaning the spout with a pipe cleaner (or small brush) alternately dipped in warm water, vinegar and hydrogen peroxide (in that order).
• For added safety, make sure to replace external water filters as recommended by the manufacturer.

Ice dispenser:

• The ice dispenser drawer actually can harbor mold and yeast, according to Allen Rathey, founder of Healthy House Institute.
• To clean the ice bin, turn the ice-maker off, remove the bin and discard the ice. Using lukewarm water and a mild dish detergent, wash the bin, rinse well and then dry.
• Cleaning option: Substitute distilled white vinegar for dish detergent.

For the complete article, visit:

HTTP://WWW.TODAY.COM/HOME/HOW-OFTEN-YOU-SHOULD-CLEAN-YOUR-REFRIGERATOR-RIGHT-WAY-DO-T103284?CID=PUBLIC-RSS_20160927

If you need help with your emergency visit: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/. If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks/Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom Can Assist With Your Commercial Property Water or Fire Damage

8/24/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events in Fair Oaks and Folsom 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.

Commercial Building Restoration Services

We are available 24 hours a day to get your Folsom business back up and running. Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying. We are also your business’s best resource for mold remediation. Learn more about our commercial restoration services:

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

About SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 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. Call us at 916-987-0400.

Follow us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom/ 
and online 
http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com.

Listen to what our customers have said: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/testimonials

Restoring Your Fair Oaks, Orangevale or Folsom Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

7/31/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Folsom 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 Fair Oaks / Folsom 
SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 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.

Follow us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom/ 
and online 
http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com.

Listen to what our customers have said: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/testimonials

Testing Your Business System to Prepare for a Commercial Disaster

10/12/2016 (Permalink)

Disasters can wreck havocs on our homes and businesses. Testing your business system can ensure you are ready for a disaster large or small. On Preparemybusiness.org you can find suggestions and details around business continuity planning.

Testing is a critical component of business continuity planning. If your systems went down, how long would it take to get them up and running again, and what would be required to achieve that goal? Where are the gaps in your recovery plan and how can you close those gaps before a disaster strikes?

Testing your continuity plan is the best way to ensure that your business will remain in operation no matter what, or that it can be quickly restored under any circumstances. For many companies, testing is necessary for meeting compliance requirements.

Through testing, you will reduce both recovery time and risks, ultimately protecting your business and the employees and customers who rely on you.

What to test?

You should test all critical functions, particularly those that would be most vulnerable during an attack or disaster. This includes servers, PCs/workstations, network/Internet, building security, phones/communications, supply chain, workflow/staff procedures. Some managers phase their testing procedures, for instance, running a data recovery test one month and network/Internet recovery another month.

Where to test?

Testing can be done in one of three places: at your facility, at your backup center, or at an offsite testing site. You can choose to do a table-top-meeting-style run through or a full-scale hands-on test, using canned or live data.

How often to test?

We recommend that you do a full-scale test annually for a wide range of critical functions, including electricity, water, gas, facilities/spacing, staffing, technology, telecommunications and more. A full-scale test will help ensure that your business not only survive but thrive in any unexpected situation.

Who should participate?

A testing team should include all the people on your disaster recovery team or who are in charge of critical areas within the company. These should include, but not be limited to Facilities manager, IT tech, HR manager, senior management, brand management, third-party support and a sampling of critical clients.

Recovering from a disaster, call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We are here to help.

For more details about preparing your business, visit: http://www.preparemybusiness.org.

Preparing Your Business For A Serious Disaster

10/12/2016 (Permalink)

Is your business prepared for an emergency? The Small Business Administration’s website has suggestions for disaster preparedness and recovery.

SBA's Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Plan

To view the complete Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Plan, please click here.

Executive Summary

At no time do communities, small businesses, and individuals more need access to the Small Business Administration’s (SBA’s) “3 C’s” of capital, counseling, and contracts more than in the wake of disaster.  SBA’s Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Plan (DPRP) ensures that all available agency resources are both provided and integrated into the federal government’s overall support to disaster survivors.

Recovery Cycle:  When focused on recovery, the 3 C’s are sequenced as capital, contracts, counseling, and capital again.  SBA’s immediate effort begins with the deployment of Disaster Assistance staff from one of its two Field Operations Centers (FOCs) to make disaster loans available to homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes, and private nonprofits.  These physical and economic injury disaster loans are critical to repairing damage and sustaining cash flow in a community.  Almost as quickly, the Office of Government Contracting and Business Development (GCBD), often in concert with the local District Office, reaches out to other federal agencies to offer waivers and other contracting flexibilities to ensure the engagement of small businesses – especially ones in impacted communities – in the process of rebuilding and recovering.  Through counseling and technical assistance, small businesses are able to adjust their plans to account for the “new normal” after a disaster.  Ultimately, this is at the heart of successful recovery:  Small businesses, in combination, are sometimes the local economic engine, but they are almost always critical to a community’s character.  The recovery process can be said to have resolved into the business cycle when the final steps in small business recovery are financed with SBA Offices of Capital Access (OCA) and Investment and Innovation (OII) programs investing in that same “new normal.”

For more details visit: https://www.sba.gov/managing-business/running-business/emergency-preparedness/sbas-disaster-preparedness-and-recovery-plan 

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to help you during your business' disaster. Call 916-987-0400 24/7 for our help!