Learn About fires

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

• Fire is FAST! In less than 30 seconds a small flame can turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a house or for it to be engulfed in flames.
• Fire is HOT! Heat is more threatening than flames. Room temperatures in a fire can be 100 degrees at floor level and rise to 600 degrees at eye level. Inhaling this super-hot air will scorch your lungs and melt clothes to your skin.
• Fire is DARK! Fire starts bright, but quickly produces black smoke and complete darkness.
• Fire is DEADLY! Smoke and toxic gases kill more people than flames do. Fire produces poisonous gases that make you disoriented and drowsy.

Preparing a Fire Escape Plan

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

Some tips to consider when preparing this plan include:

• Find two ways to get out of each room in the event the primary way is blocked by fire or smoke.
• Make sure that windows are not stuck, screens can be taken out quickly and that security bars can be properly opened.
• Practice feeling your way out of the house in the dark or with your eyes closed.
• Teach children not to hide from firefighters.
• If you use a walker or wheelchair, check all exits to be sure you can get through the doorways.

Fire Damage

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is all too familiar with fires; we specialize in returning your property to its original form making it "Like it never even happened." . Aside from the fire itself, smoke and soot are nearly  impossible to completely get rid of the smell. SERVPRO has the ability through industry-leading equipment and technology stream mediate your smoke damage property right the first time. Each fire situation is unique, we tailor and treat your loss the same as any other loss. Depending on the scope of the damages, it is important to speak with your insurance agent about provisions available. 

Please call us at (415)479-2900

Emergency Ready Plan

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Is your building prepared for a catastrophe?

SERVPRO® of South San Rafael/Sausalito offers the emergency ready plan for such an occasion. We want you to know that we want you to be safe in the event of an accident. Therefore, we provide a free service to our clients so that they may be able to react quickly during a storm event, such as water or fire.

The ERP is accessed through a mobile app and is created by one of our Sales/Marketing Representatives to ensure that all the exits and shutoffs are located and accessible. 

Businesses big or small can benefit from the Emergency Ready Plan and we would like you all to stay safe and be prepared and, “ready for whatever happens.^TM”

Water Damage in a Commercial Building

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can strike at a commercial building at any time. Whether it's flooding, burst pipes or faucet leaks, water damage is one of the most common and destructive problems you can face in your business.  If not taken care of immediately, excess water in your business can promote electrical hazards, cause expensive damage to your business's structure and can even lead to the growth of hazardous mold.

If you are experiencing water damage emergency situation, give SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito a call.  Our experienced technicians are ready to restore your property to pre-water damage condition.   They can quickly extract the water and then dry your property using state-of-the-art equipment to ensure your property is dry.  

SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito is locally owned and operated so we’re always ready to help with any-sized flood or water damage emergencies.

Basic Information Regarding Mold

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

• Mold (and mildew) are common terms for fungi that can grow in damp locations in buildings, although molds are present everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Molds are important microorganisms because they help break down dead plant and animal material and recycle nutrients in the environment. There are many kinds of molds, and mold growth can have many forms and colors. To grow and reproduce, mold only needs food — any organic matter, such as leaves, wood, paper, or even dust — and moisture. Organic matter is almost always available, so whether mold grows depends mostly on whether there is moisture. By fixing moisture problems, you can keep mold from growing in your home or business.
• SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is always here to help.  Call us at (415)479-2900

Commercial Alarm System

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

No one likes to think that there are people who would intentionally start a fire on their property. Unfortunately, this is a scenario that you need to be prepared for. Invest in a security alarm system that will detect any suspicious activity in the evening hours when  the building is most at risk. Keeping the area well-lit at night, or installing motion sensor lights outside, can deter criminal activity.

You and your employees will appreciate the feeling of safety and security. Many companies also offer alarm monitoring services to ensure that your business is protected at all hours of the day and night. 

Here at SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito safety is our priority.  Call us at (415)479-2900

Be Winter Prepared

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Your home is one of the largest investments you can make in your life. Taking time every year to make sure your home is prepared for winter can save you from hardship, loss, and expense. SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito suggests that you perform the following simple checks around your home before the start of the winter season to make sure your home is prepared for whatever mother nature throws your way. These checks are easy to perform and don’t cost a thing to do. 

Perform the following every year before the start of Winter. 

1. Clear limbs and trim trees near your home and away from power lines. 
2. Check roof for damage. 
3. If you have a fireplace, make sure to check it for proper ventilation. 
4. Check windows and door seals to prevent water intrusion. 
5. Check gutters and down spouts for blockage. 
6. Check all exterior water lines to make sure they are properly insulated.  
7. Check all interior water lines for damage and ware. 

Storm Preparedness Tips During Storm

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Use the telephone ONLY for emergency needs and to report dangerous conditions. 

If flooding is likely, and time permits, move valuable household possessions from the floor. 

If water has entered a garage or basement, do not walk through it. 

Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Drive with caution; avoid driving or walking across flooded roads. Just 6-inches of moving water can knock down an individual and 24 inches of water can move a vehicle. 

If you are driving and your car stalls, abandon your vehicle immediately and seek higher ground if you can safely do so. 

If you are asked to leave your property, disconnect all electrical appliances prior to leaving. 

Avoid downed power lines and broken gas lines. 

Never use a generator inside the house, garage or near windows. Carbon dioxide can build up indoors and kill those inside.

Professional Crime Scene Cleanup

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Challenging Cleanup Requires a Professional

WHY A WATER DAMAGE PROFESSIONAL?

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Over the years many companies have dabbled in restoration services. This is done with little to no training in how to handle water damages. There is a lot more to applied structural drying than just moving air with a fan. Factors such as dry time, affected materials, layered materials, moisture penetration, psychometrics, temperature control and desired goals need to be factored and monitored to achieve drying goals. Therefore, it is important to rely on professionals that are specifically trained to provide such services.

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is one of the largest and most reliable remediation company available. We specialize in remediation/ restoration services. Our technicians are trained in structural drying techniques. They also employ the best equipment in the industry. 

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito can usually be on site from your first call within a few hours with trained professionals who know how to assess the situation and provide the best course to get you back to a state “Like it never even happened.”  

Call us at (415)479-2900

BE PREPARED FOR A STORM

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Northern California was hit with a record-setting winter storm that brought an unprecedented amount of snow and cut off the power for many people back in December.

Residents in the greater Bay Area with San Mateo, Santa Clara and Marin counties were the heaviest impacted by the storm and power outages.

It is very important to be aware and prepared before a storm happens.

In case of water and storm damage call your local SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito at (415)479-2900

Be Prepared for Severe Weather

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

At the Store

Every time someone goes to the store, they should buy a few canned goods and some batteries. Candles are not safe in any storm as wind can knock a lit candle down and possibly start a fire. The sturdier the flashlight is the longer it will last. Canned and bottled drinks are also good to store just in case. Packaged snacks will tide most anyone over until the power comes back on or in case someone is stuck inside a room. A weather radio or a regular radio with batteries keeps people informed. All of these can be stored in an inexpensive plastic storage box.

At Home or Work

A small room without windows in an interior part of the house or office is the best place to seek safety from a tornado. The room should have someplace to store supplies. At home, this could be a bathroom or a closet. A small container holding supplies fits nicely in to a cabinet. At the last minute, throw some pillows in so there is someplace soft to sit or lay a weary head. Office buildings have stairwells and these are the closest and safest places to be during a bad wind storm. It is important that no one pushes anyone else as people descend the stairs. And always be mindful of those who want to go back and get their cell phones accidentally left on a desk.

In a Vehicle on the Road

Cars are most likely to be tossed in to the air and thrown to the ground. The best bet is to pull the car over the side of the road, get out and lay down in a ditch or under an overpass. These are the safest places to be when a twister is either ahead of you or behind you. An overpass will protect you from falling debris. At the very least, a ditch is low enough to the ground where a tornado can't quite pick you up and toss you into the next county.

About Animals

Animals instinctively know when trouble lurks. They are closer to the ground than people and can feel the vibrations. If your pet is acting a little odd, check the weather. Bring all animals - outdoor and indoor ones - to the safe room in the house. Try to keep them as calm as possible. Family pets become family members and leaving them outside in severe weather is cruel. Everyone can be safe if they know what to do before a storm arrives. Make plans and make sure everyone knows what they are.

SERVPRO Ready to Help

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO^® of South San Rafael/Sausalito our main goal is to provide an outstanding experience for our clients. SERVPRO^® began in 1967 as a painting business and has grown into a leader in the restoration cleanup industry. As a locally owned franchise servicing our community, we have a responsibility to uphold this legacy as a premier cleaning and restoration company. Our team consists of people who live in your neighborhoods and with the training and experience to make your damage “Like it never even happened.”

We know choosing the right restoration service provider can be costly and bothersome, however, we want you to know that we take your feedback very seriously and for us to proudly represent the vision of the SERVPRO^® Corporation we would appreciate your input and experience.

Contact us at (707) 479-2900

Water Damage Services

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water can be destructive. When it meets the drywall that makes up your interior walls and ceilings it can damage wallboard enough that it collapses and falls apart, which can cause huge homeowner headaches. Don’t panic though. You can repair walls and ceilings that have water damage as long as you call the right company to get the needed repairs done. 

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is always ready to help.  Contact us at (415)479-2900

SERVPRO Helps Your Business

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito provides a plan to get back to work before the crisis occurs.
Should the unimaginable happen and a natural disaster strikes your business, it may be too late to effectively manage your recovery. SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito professionals can help you prepare an emergency response plan today.

We encourage our business customers to learn how to best protect their business for all types of emergency situations. Contact SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito at (415) 479-2900 for free resources, including:

• Disaster preparedness plan assistance
• Family and business communication plans
• Home and workplace emergency contact cards
• Emergency supply checklists

With just a little bit of time and minimal effort, SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito can help prepare and protect your employees and customers should an emergency occur. Don’t wait until it is too late—prepare now for what you can’t prevent.

Commercial Mold Remediation Services

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Molds 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 mold 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.

Call SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito at (415)479-2900

Do you Have Water Damage in your Property? Call Us

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito wants to remind you to stay alert during wet weather, getting water where it doesn't belong can lean to more problems then you think! Try keeping a eye on any full gutters or cracked windows, as they can lead to water damage on your property!

If you find water damage in your home or building give us a call and we will make your damages "Like it never even happened." 

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito can handle any size damage and is open twenty-four hours a day, so whenever disaster strikes we can respond!

Have questions? Call us at 415-479-2900 

Flood Water Prevention

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Anywhere it rains heavy for long periods of time, levees break, drainage systems are clogged or old and where there are hurricanes and tropical storms, flooding can result. Floods can happen anywhere and to any property. There are preparations that can help minimize the potential flood damage and speed up the damage recovery after a flood.

The first thing that needs to be done is to get flood insurance. After that, there are other preparations and preventive actions that you can do to lessen the losses in the home. Creating a file (flood file) with information on all of your possessions will help you and the insurance company if there is any flood damage. The insurance company can process the claim faster and you can get on with the damage recovery process. This "flood file" should contain; a copy of the insurance policy with the companies phone number and any other important documents. It should also have a room by room inventory sheet of all your possessions. Photographs and video would also greatly help with the documentation. Make sure the "flood file" is kept in a secure waterproof container.

As with any prevention process there are preventive actions that can be done around the house to prepare your home for a potential flood. If you have a sump pump ensure it is in working condition. Clean leaves and debris from downspouts and gutters. Make sure (especially if you are in a high risk zone) that the washer and dryer, furnace and water heater are on cement blocks. They should be at least one foot above the elevated flood projection. Also, the electrical components need to be at least a foot above the elevated flood projection.

Developing a family emergency plan is also a great idea to help prepare for the possibility of a potential flood. Prepare a safety kit with drinking water, blankets, first aid kit, batteries, flashlight and a radio. Plan and practice your family flood evacuation routes and safe routes when on the road. Everyone in the home needs to know emergency phone numbers and have an out of state emergency family contact. If you have pets, they have to be considered too.

Educating yourself on flooding and flood risks will give you an idea of what kind of flood insurance you will need, the extent of flood preparations that need to be done to your home and a better understanding of flood areas. Flood maps of all areas are made to show the high risk, moderate-to-low risk and the undetermined risk flood areas. High risk flood areas are most likely to flood with the right conditions. All this information will help you prepare, plan and make informed decisions on flood damage prevention and safety.

Be Prepared during the Holidays

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding or Fire can put a damper on your holiday plans. SERVPRO, a premier restoration and cleaning service is here for you regardless of the time and date. With over 1700 national franchises throughout the United States and Canada, you can expect to have highly trained restoration technicians handle your emergency if disaster strikes.   SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week - including all holidays.  From large loss environments to small residential homes, SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is ready and willing to respond to any disaster. Call us at (415)479-2900

SERVPRO Fire Restoration Services

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is experienced in fire mitigation to remediate your damages "Like it never even happened." Pack-outs are a vital component in the mitigation process as it allows for our team of highly trained technicians to restore your valuable belongs ratherthan relacing . While most mitigation work can happen on-site, SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito has the ability to take your precious belongings offsite, where we focus on specialized attention in cleaning each item, to restore it to its original form. Once your items have entered our facility, we assess the damages and choose which remediation approach. Disaster is unique, so our trained remediation technicians use a multitude of approaches such as ozone chamber, ultrasonic cleaning tank and many other methods.

Please call us at (415)479-2900

SERVPRO is Here to Help

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Kids spill drinks, pets have accidents and homes get dirty. You handle much of the maintenance of your home, but when it gets to be too much, you can rely on your local SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito Professionals. We specialize in cleaning and restoration and have highly trained technicians to help you manage and restore your home.

Some of the many services we provide are:

• Contents inventory and pack out
• Contents Disposal
• Deep Cleaning
• Paint
• Debris Removal
• Ceilings, Walls & Hard Floors
• Deodorization

You know SERVPRO as a leader in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration, but our expertise can also make any job "Like it never even happened." Call us today at (415) 479-2900 to schedule an appointment.

Have a Plan in Place

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Why having a plan in place can help your business?  Disasters are a part of life. It’s not a matter of if, but a matter or when disaster strikes! As many as 50% of businesses never recover from a disaster. This is where SERVPRO is instrumental. We help businesses quickly recover by helping them have a plan in place before disasters strike. SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito offers a free program called the “Emergency Ready Profile”. This free program has many advantages. See what the Emergency Ready Profile has for you… 

• A no cost assessment of your facility: This no cost assessment if performed by our team. We will centralize all emergency contact information, identify and tag all emergency shut offs, provide photo documentation, and provide all key team members with easy access to these materials.  
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency: You don’t need to do a thing. We will take care of it all. It only takes a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. 
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster: This will can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. 
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin: This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. 
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information: Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”

Not having a plan in place will only cost you. Call SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito  today at (415)479-2900 to get your free assessment and rest easy knowing you have a plan in place.

Top Causes of Fires in Your San Rafael Home

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

An accidental fire can spread uncontrollably in seconds and destroy property in minutes. House fires put everyone in danger, even tiny fires that are quickly extinguished can make your pockets hurt. Having the right insurance coverage in place can help lessen the financial burden caused by a house fire, but it's far preferable to avoid the situations that cause fires in the first place.

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito can help with cleanup and content storage after a fire in your home or business. We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to assist with any-sized disaster. The NFPA has listed the top five causes of house fires and how to prevent them. 

#1: Cooking Related Fires

The most common cause of a house fire is a cooking accident. But, according to the National Fire Protection Association, unsupervised cooking is the most significant cause of home fires. Home fires are frequently caused by grease that overheats on a stove or oven. This is because grease is highly combustible, and when it reaches a particular temperature, it spontaneously combusts. Unfortunately, once the oil has ignited, putting it out can be a difficult task. So, when you're cooking, stay in the kitchen.

#2: Heating Appliances

The use of HVAC systems increases dramatically during the winter months. Heating appliances are the second greatest cause of home fires. If curtains, clothes, blankets, fabrics, and furniture touch space heaters or baseboard heaters, they might spark a fire. Keep portable heaters at least three feet away from anything that could catch fire and avoid using them to dry shoes or garments.

#3: Electrical Fires

Faulty wiring is one risk that many homeowners ignore. Short circuits and overloading are standard in older electrical systems. The majority of modern, professionally installed electrical systems are safe and contain built-in safety mechanisms. It's a good idea to have your wiring checked out by a professional electrician, especially if you live in an older home. Never attempt electrical repairs or improvements unless you are familiar with the principles of electricity and have prior experience doing so.

#4: Smoking

When you smoke in your home, cigarette butts can create fires if they fall on carpeting, furniture, or other flammable materials. It's better to keep smoking out of the bedroom since a butt can be lit for hours. If you need to smoke, do so outside, or smoke over a sink with an ashtray to lessen the fire risk.

#5: Candles

In the United States, candles are another significant source of house fires. Most candle-related home fires are caused by negligence. It is never a good idea to leave a candle unattended. Candles powered by electricity or batteries can also help reduce the danger of house fires caused by candles.

If your home or business has been affected by smoke or fire damage, SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito has the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your property. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care. Give us a call at (415) 479-2900, and we can start making it "Like it never even happened."

Know the Drill: Practice Your Fire Escape Plan

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

Have an Escape Plan and Practice It

A fire escape plan can assist your family in evacuating your home quickly and safely using pre-planned, discussed, and practiced routes. Practicing a house fire escape plan can save lives and lower your chance of being injured in the event of a fire. When the smoke alarm goes off, you may only have three minutes to get out. SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is here to offer our local community tips about testing your home escape plan. 

Practice Your Home Escape Plan

Only if you test your home escape plans will they work. Everyone in the house should know your home's escape route and meeting spot. 

• Go over your escape plan with everyone in the household, including children.
• Set off the smoke detector.
• Practice crawling low beneath the smoke. 
• Is there anyone in the household who is young or physically disabled who needs assistance? An adult can go to their child's room and assist them in escaping.
• If a child does not wake up when the alarm goes off, an adult must wake them.
• Carry infants and toddlers to a safe location.
• Always check doors for heat with your palm before opening them; if a door is hot, do not open it. 

Conduct a Home Fire Drill

Fires can start anywhere in the house and at any moment, so rehearse multiple escape routes at different times of the day or night. Conduct fire drills regularly, at least twice a year, to ensure that actions become second nature.

• Be aware of your surroundings. Examine your meeting location for safety. Explain to your children that if the smoke alarm goes off, they must leave the house immediately and meet at the designated safe location.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working and that your children are familiar with the sound of smoke alarms.
• Do the drill. Allow the children to retire to their rooms and wait for the drill to begin. Adults should be assigned to assist small children. Assign one adult the responsibility of sounding the smoke alarm and running the drill. Next, activate the smoke alarm, set the time, and direct everyone to the designated safety area. Stop the timer once everyone has arrived at a safe meeting place. Give it another shot if you can't get it done in under two minutes. In an actual fire, arrive to a safe gathering spot, phone 911 and keep everyone together until firefighters arrive.

When a fire starts in your home, the first thing you should do is make sure everyone is safe. Then, you can begin the restoration process with the help of SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito. If your home has been affected by smoke or fire damage, give us a call at (415) 479-2900 so we can start making it "Like it never even happened."

The Dishwasher Flooded My Kitchen!

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

This leaking dishwasher in San Rafael caused extensive water damage to the floor of the kitchen and traveled to the dining room.

Protect Your San Rafael Home Against Dishwasher Water Damage

The dishwasher makes life much easier and allows you to spend more time doing things you enjoy, instead of painstakingly handwashing countless dishes. Although the dishwasher is one of the most efficient appliances in the kitchen, it can also be a primary source of significant water damage. Dishwashers face their fair share of usage and can cause water damage to cabinets, floors, and even walls. In addition, water stains on the floor around the unit and corroded or frayed water lines that become brittle can indicate a leak. Therefore, it is critical to address the problem as soon as possible.

Why Did My Dishwasher Flood?

1. Faulty Door Latch - Is there water gathering under the dishwasher door? Your problem is most likely due to a leak in the door itself. It's possible that your door latch is bent, loose, or not latching properly. If water still rushes out of the door after tightening the latch, it may be time to replace the gasket. This is a rubber seal on the door that keeps water from running out. Check your dishwasher for cracks or symptoms of potential damage frequently. Allow the pros to manage your situation if you are concerned about the worn-out gasket. 
2. Broken or Loose Lines - Dishwasher hoses and connections may become loose after an extended length of time. It's crucial to understand that a dishwasher has two types of connections. One line supplies clean water and connects to the kitchen faucet, while the other drains dirty water. Therefore, inspecting it at least once every six months is necessary because it can become loose. 
3. Leaky Dishwasher Tub - If your dishwasher has experienced a lot of us, a hole in the tub may have developed, causing a leak. In addition, detergents and minerals can corrode the bottom of the tub, allowing water to seep through and collect beneath the dishwasher. Some tubs may be repaired, but depending on how long you've had your dishwasher and the severity of the problem, you may need to replace it altogether.
4. Incorrect Dishwashing Detergent - In a dishwasher, always use the correct type of dishwasher soap. You may get a lot of suds buildup using dish soap or laundry detergent, which will force soap and water out the door. Only use dishwasher detergent to avoid this problem. 
5. Dishwasher Not Level - There's a good likelihood that water will pool underneath your dishwasher if it isn't level. All that extra pressure can eventually destroy the gasket, necessitating its replacement. A dishwasher that is uneven can cause substantial damage and warp your floors. 
6. Overfilled Machine - It is possible that your unit is absorbing more water than it should and isn't draining correctly. Water will be forced out of your dishwasher and onto your floor because of this action. It's possible that the drain isn't functioning efficiently, and this is an excellent opportunity to check the owner's manual or the manufacturer's website, depending on the type of dishwasher.
7. Drainage Issue - If the water doesn't drain properly during a dishwasher cycle, the water level may climb higher than anticipated. Check for a blockage in the filter at the bottom of the dishwashing tub that is blocking normal draining.

Prevent Water Damage from Your Dishwasher

Learn Everything There is to Know About Your Dishwasher

Each model is different, and it is critical to check over the manual once again because it will provide suggestions for the best usage. Knowing vital information can help you avoid problems that could lead to water damage. 

Make Sure Your Dishwasher Is up to Standard

Check your dishwasher regularly, just like the rest of your home's appliances, to ensure it's in good operating order. Begin with the rubber seals, then check for corrosion and unclog any nozzles that may be clogging up your dishwasher, causing flooding.

Only Use Parts Designed for Your Appliance

The hose and seals should be compatible with the kind of model of your dishwasher. Hoses and seals that aren't up to snuff can create a leak.

Make Monitoring Your Water Lines a Top Priority 

If you notice a problem with your water lines, call a professional right away. To avoid significant water damage to your property, this check should be completed every six months.

Only Run the Dishwasher When Someone is Present in Your Home

There is no warning sign when a dishwasher floods, and if you are not home when the appliance is turned on, and leaks, you may be in shock when you return home. Keeping the dishwasher running is the best way to detect a leak  before it causes too much damage when someone is at home. 

How to Repair Water Damaged Caused by Dishwasher

Make sure your dishwasher is turned off as soon as you notice it is leaking or has leaked. Using a towel or a mop, soak up any visible water on your floor. It may be necessary to remove the dishwasher from beneath the counter to drain any excess water. SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito can ensure that your floor is dry and free of moisture, contributing to mold growth. 

Need Help with Appliance Leaks and Water Damage in San Rafael? We Can Help! 

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is your locally owned and operated water damage restoration company. With years of experience, our team has restored countless homes and businesses after appliance water damage. 

Call Us Today for Immediate Assistance - (415) 479-2900 

Be Wary of Water Damage in Your San Rafael Business

8/4/2021 (Permalink)

At any time, water damage can occur. Water overflow can result from a variety of sources, including plumbing leaks and malfunctioning or broken appliances, and it can be extremely damaging if not addressed quickly. Understand the warning signs and be aware of the common reasons for water damage and what you can do about them to prevent common dangers including mold growth, foundational concerns, and flooding caused by water damage. The following are some of the most typical causes of water damage that can occur in your commercial property:

1. Damaged and Leaky Pipes

Water damage can be caused by pressure variations, freezing temperatures, and deteriorating water supply lines and sewer drains. Water stains, bulging walls, a musty odor, and cracked or missing tiles are all signs of water damage.

2. Damaged Windows

Water damage can be caused by broken windowpanes and damaged or fractured seals around windows.

3. Roof Leaks

Ceilings can be ruined by a leaking roof, which can also lead to mold and mildew growth. If exposed to water from a roof leak, attic wiring can become a fire hazard. A roof leak’s multidimensional nature makes immediate restoration and repair essential.

4. Issues with the Foundation

Water damage to the foundation can also be caused by clogged gutters and insufficient drainage systems.

5. Clogs in the Sewage System

Pungent odors, gurgling noises in sewer pipes, and overflowing toilets are all signs of a sewage obstruction. A sewage leak is extremely dangerous to your employees and customers health and requires prompt professional assistance.

6. Sprinkler system leaks

Commercial fire sprinkler leaks are common and necessitate constant monitoring. Standing water, bulging and warped drywall, saturated carpeting, a musty odor, and visible mold are all signs of sprinkler leaks.

7. Failures of the HVAC System

Water damage from an HVAC system might be caused by a clogged condensate drainpipe or a defective condensate pump.

Steps to Prevent a Commercial Water Damage Disaster

Taking the necessary measures to prevent water damage can save businesses from costly repairs and business interruption in the future.

1. Schedule facilities inspections on a regular basis.
2. Make a proactive, preventative maintenance investment.
3. Establish a reliable flood warning system and a flood-response plan.
4. Purchase enough property damage insurance, including flood insurance, before a disaster or emergency strikes.

Anyone experiencing or suspecting water damage can contact SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito, for an evaluation of the damage. SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the restoration of water damage. Our staff has the training, equipment, and expertise to handle all restoration and cleaning needs and provides 24-hour emergency service.

Prevent Smoke Odors from Invading Your Home

8/4/2021 (Permalink)

The bottom line is it’s difficult to get rid of smoke odor in a home after a fire. To eliminate smoke odors, the cleanup process must incorporate specific equipment and techniques that can only be provided by a professional restoration company. As a result, we don’t recommend people take on this project on their own. Look at the stages involved in repairing smoke damage.

The types of smoke odor

Smoke is made up of persistent particles (soot), oils, and gases that arise from incomplete combustion. The unpleasant smoke odor is caused by volatile molecules released by burning things.

Burning protein (meat), natural materials (wood, cotton, etc.), synthetic materials (e.g., plastic, nylon) and other substances can produce smoke odor.

How to remove smoke smell from properties

The most crucial step in removing smoke odor is to eliminate the source of the odor(s). Burned items, such as cabinets, furniture, walls, and non-salvageable contents, must be removed. Depending on their condition, the goods can be tossed or restored.

Cleaning the salvageable contents

Technicians use proper cleaning materials to clean the salvageable artifacts. Exterior surfaces such as walls, windows, and decks are pressure washed, scrubbed, and disinfected. Interior walls and hard surfaces can be easily cleaned with mild soap and water, then thoroughly rinsed. Cleaning inside cabinets, drawers, and closets, as well as washing household objects, will be done by professionals.

Cleaning the air ducts

A fire’s smoke, soot, and odors will permeate the duct system, as well as any dust or particles within it. As a result, cleaning the ducts early in the smoke odor removal process is critical to avoid the HVAC system recontamination of previously cleaned areas. Ductwork cleaning should only be done by professionals, as it calls for the use of specific equipment and processes.

Removing the smoke smell

The final stage is removing the lingering airborne odor. SERVPRO Professionals are trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors with industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment. This equipment can effectively treat serious and persistent odors that typical air fresheners and similar treatments can’t.

• Air scrubbers remove airborne particles and contaminants.
• Thermal foggers and deodorization agents control odors.

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito has the training and equipment to identify and eliminate harmful smoke odors. By identifying the cause of the odor and determining the conditions in which it contacts any surfaces, the odor can often be removed without a trace. The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito a call and leave the restoration to us.

How Do I Restore My San Rafael Home After a Grease Fire?

8/4/2021 (Permalink)

This San Rafael home had a grease fire, which caused smoke damage to the entire unit and needed heavy cleaning to walls, floors, and ceilings.

Watch What You Heat In Your San Rafael Home

Cooking can be a calming but dealing with a cooking fire is always a stressful experience. However, SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is here to help offer steps to take during and after a grease fire. When dealing with a grease fire stay calm and remember these dos and don’ts for dealing with this kind of event.

1. Don’t use water to extinguish a grease fire.

Pouring water on a grease fire, unlike most other flames, will exacerbate the situation. Water, rather than extinguishing the flame, will distribute the burning oil, spreading the fire.

2. Don’t use flour or sugar to extinguish grease fires.

Flour and sugar are also flammable, thus throwing them on a grease fire will simply add to the fire’s intensity.

3. Don’t Use a Water-Based Extinguisher

A fire extinguisher is required in every kitchen, but not just any extinguisher will suffice. Pouring water on a grease fire has the same negative results as a water-based fire extinguisher.

4. Don’t Take the Fire Outside with You

It is extremely risky to carry a pan with a grease fire outside. The hot grease could spill, causing injury to the carrier or spreading the fire to other parts of the house.

When confronted with a grease fire, what should you do?

1. Turn off the stove

Switch off the stove right away. Turn off your main gas or power source if the controls are unreachable due to flames.

2. Use a Metal Lid

A lid placed over a flaming pan will deprive it of oxygen, thereby extinguishing the fire. If you don’t have a metal cover, a metal baking sheet will do. If the lid doesn’t entirely cover the flames, the oxygen may still be available. To ensure the flames have extinguished, leave the lid on for at least a few minutes. Lids made of glass or plastic are not suited for putting out a grease fire.

3. Apply Salt or Baking Soda to Extinguish the Flames

A flame can be smothered by pouring salt or baking soda on it. Depending on the size of the flame, the amount of baking soda or salt required will vary. Baking soda should not be substituted with baking powder or flour.

4. Grab a Class B Flame Extinguisher

A grease fire is best put out with a class B dry fire extinguisher. Stand back when using the extinguisher to avoid getting burned by the hot grease or flames.

When Do You Call in a Professional?

Go outdoors and call the fire department if baking soda or a class B extinguisher fails to work. Call a water and fire damage restoration company to begin the clean-up process once the fire is out and the fire department have given you permission to enter the building.

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito can assist you in getting back to clean, whether you have a huge fire or an odor that won’t go away after a burning dinner. Give us a call today at (415) 479-2900.

Smoke Detector Going Off for No Reason? Here's Why

8/4/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms are critical for keeping you and your family safe in the event of a fire in your home. However, they don’t always go off when a real fire threatens to erupt in your home. Even though false alarms are standard, you shouldn’t dismiss the sound if you don’t see or smell smoke. Before you can, smoke detectors can detect fires that are not visible to the naked eye, such as electrical fires. Here are the leading reasons for smoke detector false alarms to help you better understand how they work.

Reasons Why Your Smoke & Fire Alarm Keep Going Off

1. Burnt Food on Stovetop

If you don’t keep an eye on the stove while you’re cooking, your meal may emit smoke, which will set off the smoke alarm. In other circumstances, smoke isn’t required; a whiff of cooked food can trigger the detector. Also, make sure your smoke alarm is in the hallway leading to the kitchen rather than in the kitchen itself.

2. Smoke Detector Placement

It only takes a small amount of smoke to set off the alarm. If your smoke detector is within 10 feet of a cooking appliance like a stove, toaster, or toaster oven, it may be setting off false alarms.

3. Steam or a High Humidity Environment

High humidity might cause thick moisture particles to be mistaken for smoke by your smoke detector. Steam follows the same logic. If your smoke detector is located directly outside a steamy bathroom, you may want to relocate it.

4. Insects

Because small bugs like to hide in dark crevices, they may creep into your smoke detectors, causing a false alarm. If you’re unsure why an alarm went off, open the device, and look for small insects. If insects are to blame, use pest control sprays near your smoke alarms.

5. Dust Collecting

A buildup of dust might potentially cause your smoke alarm to malfunction. So, it’s suggested that you clean your smoke detectors with a vacuum brush attachment at least once a year, if not more frequently.

6. Chemical Odors

Smoke detectors are also sensitive to particles in the air generated by chemicals with a strong odor. This could be the cause of your false alarms if you’re remodeling your home, deep cleaning, or utilizing powerful chemicals for another reason.

7. Low Battery Power

Smoke alarms generally emit little chirping noises when their batteries are low or aren’t adequately attached. While this isn’t the sound of smoke detection, it is a signal that you should check your device. Replace batteries twice a year, at the beginning and end of daylight savings time.

If there is heavy soot damage to the property, the smoke detector might not give an alarm. Professional Disaster restoration professionals will have to deal with the fire and smoke damage. SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito can help with this. Please find out more about our fire damage restoration services by contacting us today for any of your restoration needs.

In Your Novato Home, Leave the Water Cleanup to the Professionals

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

The flooded garage was caused by a malfunctioned sprinkler.

Never Hesitate When Your Novato Home Suffers Water Damage

Recently, SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito performed an emergency job in the city of Novato located within Marin County for a house built in 1990. The Novato Fire Department alerted us that a sprinkler system was triggered, affecting three stories and rooms of the customer's home. One of the most important fire prevention systems in a structure is an automatic fire sprinkler, but it has the potential to create a water disaster event. 

Locating the Source of Water Loss

Due to the size of the loss, Project Managers were dispatched to the site as soon as possible because it was prioritized as an emergency. Our techs used their moisture detection equipment and found that the water had run down to the first floor, impacting drywall, vinyl floor cabinets in the kitchen, and tile and drywall in the entry and foyer. The sprinkler located in the master closet on the third floor was the source of the water loss. The house was full of contents, including important personal belongings which were soaked through.

Drying the Property

Our technicians arrived on site and immediately performed content manipulation, water extraction, and set dehumidifiers in four rooms to perform emergency services. Most of the contents that were found damaged by the water loss were in the homes garage and family room. Immediate water extraction was necessary because it can remove much of the water from your home. The dehumidification equipment captures moisture and ports it away, which brings down the air moisture rapidly. The water extraction process helped reduce the drying time and helped to prevent mold and secondary damage. We carefully monitored the progress using moisture meters to ensure that the rooms and the materials returned to acceptable drying goals. We then packed up contents in an organized, efficient move-out to protect the customers belongings from further damage. After inspecting the carpet and pad to determine if we should remove them to protect the subfloor, we decided that it required removal.

Minor Repairs Needed

Minor repairs, such as drywall replacement and carpet installation, were completed. Removing the affected drywall as necessary to restore their home to its pre-water damage and condition. All vinyl and particle boards underneath were removed in the kitchen, and air mover equipment was placed accordingly. In the master closet, the drywall and ceiling were removed, and on the third floor, all baseboards were removed. The restoration was the final step in ensuring the property recovered from the significant water damage loss.

Final Touches

The drying was finished, and we packed and moved out all our equipment from the job. We brought the remaining contents for the garage and family room back to our warehouse, where they are kept safe and organized. We thoroughly completed the job and gained another happy SERVPRO customer.

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is ready for everything. We are here to  help 24/7, 265 days a year. Our certified technicians can turn back the clock on water damage and make it "Like it never even happened." When you call SERVPRO for help, we always prioritize getting to your home when you need us there.

Preparing for Storm and Flood Damage

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Nobody enjoys being caught in a storm, much less a flood. Mother nature, on the other hand, is uncontrollable. Because it is impossible to foresee when a flood will occur, the best course of action is to prepare as much as possible ahead of time and then pick up the pieces after the storm has passed. Here are some suggestions for what to do before the storm hits and what you should do once it hits.

Prepare Before the Storm Hits

• If a storm is forecasted, prepare your home by boarding up windows, bringing in outside furniture, sealing your basement against flooding, and elevating your appliances as much as possible.
• Make storm and emergency kits to ensure you have everything you will need to stay safe. In the event of floods, these kits should be stored in watertight containers that may float. Food and water for three days, a first-aid kit, batteries, flashlights, phone power banks, toiletries, clothing and emergency cash should all be included in your kits.
• Before the storm hits, prepare an evacuation plan. Do not delay evacuating after the call has been made. Take all necessary precautions to keep yourself and your family safe.

What To Do After the Storm

Do not panic if you return home to find it damaged by floodwaters, wind, and fallen debris after the storm has passed. You can get your home restored if you have homeowner's insurance, flood insurance, and water damage insurance.

Take images of the damage before you begin cleaning. This is to assist with your insurance claim. You should also contact your carrier immediately to report the damage and have an adjuster come out to examine the amount of damage. 

The next step is to contact SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito. We specialize in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition. Since we are locally owned and operated, we can respond quicker with proper resources, which is essential. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. 

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today at (415) 479-2900

Cause of Commercial Water Damage and How To Clean It Up

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Unchecked water can lead to disastrous consequences for any structure. Water damage is severe, and if you are not prepared or do not have a plan in place ahead of a disaster event, your business could be shut down for an extended period. Water intrusion into your commercial property poses a much greater danger of catastrophic damage to stored goods, equipment, and shipping materials. SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito responds quickly to water or flood damage to commercial facilities. Water damage is serious, and if you do not have a plan in place in advance of a disaster, your business may be forced to close for a lengthy period. You might be better prepared for the unthinkable if you are aware of the most typical causes of commercial water damage. 

Top 5 Causes of Commercial Water Damage

1. Extreme Weather: Flooding can occur swiftly during a storm event What begins as a minor storm can quickly escalate into something more serious, causing far more damage than anyone anticipated. There is a potential that water damage will occur if your commercial property is not in tip-top shape. A minor leak on the roof, for example, can quickly evolve into a large shower of water that floods an entire property section.

2. Damaged Appliances: Almost every office building has a kitchen or a break room, which usually includes a refrigerator and, in some cases, a dishwasher. When these appliances break down, they might leak a lot of water, filling the entire room or perhaps more.

3. Backed Up Sewer Lines: Bathrooms are another potential source of water damage. It is not uncommon for sewer lines to become clogged, allowing toxic water to enter the structure. Because the water is contaminated with toxic waste and other toxins, this form of water damage is hazardous. 

4. Malfunctioning Sprinklers: All businesses properties are required by law to have an overhead sprinkler system. This is used in conjunction with fire alarms and is usually triggered when the fire alarm goes off. There will undoubtedly be water damage if fire alarms, and sprinklers are activated. In addition, the sprinkler system can fail and activate on its own. Because a sprinkler system covers the entire building, this can result in considerable water damage.

5. Broken Pipes: Pipes that have broken or split are prevalent in business buildings, particularly as they age. When these pipes rupture, water rushes out and sprays throughout the building. This can harm the ceilings, walls, floors, and any furniture or electronics that contact the water.

Water-related issues can be avoided by doing routine maintenance on your commercial property. However, if water damage occurs anyplace on your property, you must respond quickly. After calling your insurance carrier, it is critical to contact a reputable water damage restoration company, such as SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito.

Water damage to your commercial property is something you do not want to happen. Nonetheless, if this happens, you will want to employ the best company to clean up the mess and get your business back to normal. Call Us Today at (415) 479-2900.

Prevent Wind and Storm Damage in Your Larkspur Home

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Preventing Storm and Wind Damage

Preventing Wind and Storm Damage

Taking the proper precautions are feasible steps you can take when strong winds are approaching. Your home is one of your most significant investments, so it is a good idea to take measures to prevent the dangers that high winds can inflict on your home and avoid any potential storm damage restoration. When events such as windstorms happen, there is added weight applied to structures, and if there are weak points in your home, they may break down and contribute to damage. Your roof, doors, and windows are direct points of weakness that are susceptible to damage. however,  by taking simple safety measures, you may be bale to save a bunch of time and money following a storm. Mother nature cannot be controlled, but you can follow steps to help keep  her from causing substantial damage during storm season.

Prepare a Home Maintenance Checklist

To prevent damage from high-speed winds, it is vital to regularly check the stability of your property and look for potential hazards to avoid costly wind and flood cleanup. To start, build a maintenance checklist of items that require fixing or replacement. 

Roof

• Inspect and replace any sign of loose and missing shingles.
• Check your chimneys, skylights, and vents for potential damage or cracks.
• Unblock and repair loose gutters.

Trees

• Be aware of rot and hidden damage to tree trunks and branches.
• Frequently prune and trim your trees.
• Hire a professional to get rid of any dead or unstable trees.
• Clear away dead branches from your property that may be on the ground.

Yard

• Secure items that can become loose during damage events like toys, pots, planters, and garden tools.
• Check that your fences are in stable condition.
• Make sure that your garden shed is appropriately secured.
• Ensure that water is being drained away from your property to prevent severe wind and flood damage restoration.

Home Exterior and Interior

• Ensure that windowpanes show no cracking and that windows and doors are properly secured in a close-right position.
• Make locks for your windows and doors work properly.
• Remove unconstrained screens from windows.
• Think about getting storm shutters installed.

Garage Door

• Check your garage door to make sure it can bear the brunt of heavy winds.
• Consider installing a bracing kit to assist in protecting your garage door and personal belongings within your garage.

What to Do After a Windstorm

1. Stay safe by avoiding any downed power lines or flooded areas.
2. Evaluate the damage caused to your home and take intensive photos if possible.
3. Contact your insurance provider for immediate guidance.
4. Call a restoration company like SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito to assess wind cleanup and restoration.
5. Contact SERVPRO to provide water or sewage damage cleanup caused by storms.

In the case of wind damage to your home or business, it is best to contact a storm damage restoration professional immediately when the storm ends. This will mitigate and repair the damage before it takes a turn for the worse, costing you more time and money. SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is ready for any sized disaster and responds instantly to storm and flooding events. Our rapid response time helps ward off secondary damage and helps reduce restoration costs.

Home Maintenance Tips to Prevent Flooding in Your Mill Valley Home

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Preventing Flooding and Water Damage

In the United States, floods are the most common disaster event. Heavy rainstorms can cause a great deal of flooding, responsible for flash floods, mudflows, or overflowing levees and dams. In California, heavy rains can take place during storm season, which can endanger your home. Home maintenance is serious hands-on work, but regularly checking on the disaster-prone areas in and outside your home is essential to avoid flooding. Check out the following four home maintenance tips from the experts at SERVPRO to help ward off flooding and water damage. 

Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters and downspouts perform the role of transporting water that falls off roofs, directing it away from the home rather than towards the structure. When inspecting, pay special attention to your gutters and downspouts. A backup can occur when water gets trapped in the gutters and downspouts. This, along with debris like leaves and sticks, can cause a blockage, which can be pricey for homeowners.

Check the Drainage System Outside

In your home, having proper drainage both inside and outside averts water buildup near the foundation of your home. It is essential to make sure the lawn or objects around the house are not preventing water from draining correctly.

Test the Sump Pump and Drainage Inside the Home

Be mindful that a home's internal drainage efficiency is crucial to preventing flooding. The sump pump is the primary key of flood prevention. It should be inspected at least once a year and perform checks during the storm season.

Check for Leaks

Significant damage can occur with leaky pipes and roofs, which can let water flow into your home. Look out for wet spots on the ceiling and even pooling water in the basement. Inspect pipes routinely and be aware of problems like rust, visible drops of water, and buckling. If a leak is present, repair it quickly as it can lead to severe water damage.

What to Do If You Experience Water Damage

When you encounter water in your home, it is imperative to contact experts in this type of situation. Our SERVPRO team arrives at your home, and we work to diligently assess the next steps to take to prevent more water from entering your home. Once the water is removed, we will completely dry your home and work to restore any water-damaged items and personal belongings.

If backed-up gutters, a leaky roof, or improper drainage causes flooding in your home, reach out to the experience professionals at SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito. Our team of restoration specialists can help you remove the water and return your home to its pre-water damage condition. We will make it "Like it never even happened."

Have Storm of Flood Damage? Call Us Today - (415) 479-2900

Cleaning Up Smoke Damage After a House Fire in Your San Rafael Home

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Tips For Smoke Damage in Your San Rafael Home

Smoke damage cleanup after a house fire may seem like a breeze, but cleaning smoke damage can be much more complicated than most think. The stubborn smell that smoke leaves in its wake on different surfaces found throughout the house is very tough to remove altogether. SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito has vast experience in this process and offers methods to clean up smoke damage following a house fire.

Smoke Damage Cleaning Tips

After a house fire, especially in warmer temperatures, the odor left by the fire doesn’t go altogether. It is common to believe that aerosols, air fresheners, and perfumes get the job done. They only serve to dilute the odor and are not capable of cleaning it thoroughly. Before beginning the smoke damage cleanup and restoration process, stop spreading soot by turning off the A/C and opening all the doors and windows to allow clean air to run throughout the entire house. Setting up an air purifier to run throughout the clean-up can protect you from inhaling harmful fumes.

If you have not already reached out to your local fire cleanup company, like SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito, give us a call at (415) 479-2900 and set up an appointment to address your needs. A good fire restoration company should have well-trained and IICRC-certified technicians that have a great deal of experience and can save you more time and money than doing it yourself.

Tips on Smoke Damage Cleanup

First, go through the house and lightly remove and vacuum any loose soot remaining after the house fire. Next, you will need a dry-cleaning sponge (chemical sponge) for any walls and other hard surfaces. This is a vital part of the cleanup process because the special chemicals within the sponge can remove the heavy smoke and soot stains from walls and other hard surfaces. Using single strokes in one direction, gently wipe the surface with a clean side of the sponge. When the sponge side is stained after use, you can use scissors to cut off a segment of the sponge to make it look brand new. Remember to not use water or soot cleaner before using the sponge because that only serves to spread the soot around and won’t allow you to utilize the chemicals in the sponge. White vinegar for fire damage cleanup is a very effective solvent. SERVPRO advises you to place bowls of white vinegar in all rooms that the fire affected.  

The next step is to add 1 to 3 tablespoons of a mild degreaser or dish soap to a gallon of water and use the same cleaning strategy as the cleaning sponge to wipe down all the affected hard surfaces. It might be necessary to repeat these cleaning steps a large fire produced a lot of smoke. Continually rinse the rag or sponge so that you do not enable the spread of soot and smoke damage. Additionally, use a new bucket of the solution once it appears darker in color. Then repeat the process with just a clean cloth soaked in solely pure water.

After completing all these steps correctly, there are instances where the odorous smell persists. This calls for using an ozone generator, which is available to rent, buy, or borrow, which is very effective in removing the odor left behind after a fire in your home. To make this process run smoothly, it might be more beneficial to have a fire restoration company provide ozone generators to complete this process for you.

Call the Smoke Damage Cleanup Experts

Cleaning up after a house fire can be a daunting task, requiring an immediate response. Do not let immobility, lack of experience, or a busy schedule prevent you from restoring your home. Fire-damaged homes require extensive cleanup and need to be treated immediately. SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito can help you do it all with their state-of-the-art equipment and advanced techniques; we get it done right the first time. Our highly skilled techs are sympathetic to the tragedy of a house fire and understand that communicating effectively with you is so important. We also work with your insurance company.

Why Do I Need a Professional to Handle Fire Restoration?

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Was your home recently damaged in a fire? DIY fire restoration may seem tempting to save a little cash in the recovery, but the bottom line is that fire and smoke restoration is jobs for the professionals. Here are four reasons why trying to fix the chaos yourself could be troublesome.

You Might Be Exposed to Hidden Health Effects

The harsh reality of a fire is that the hazards don’t go away after the flames go out. The smoke and soot residue left behind hold more weight than merely a reminder of a disaster. Soot exposure to fire-damaged objects and lingering residue can cause health effects. Soot exposure in a fire-damaged home is the highest during the cleanup process. Unless a thorough cleaning is performed, the adverse health effects of smoke can stick around for years. For that reason, you should bring in fire restoration professionals to complete the job with deep-cleaning techniques to restore your home to its pre-fire condition.

Special Equipment is Required

A dust mask and degreaser are not nearly enough to properly clean up fire and smoke damage. Surfaces must be deep cleaned to eliminate potential health effects and remove lingering odors. Professional equipment and proper cleaning techniques ensure a safe and thorough fire restoration process.

You Could Mistakenly Throw Away Salvageable Goods

After a fire, it may seem simple to toss belongings that many deem a lost cause. Yet, with advanced recovery techniques, a fire restoration professional can help to minimize your loss. Nonetheless, for contaminated items that genuinely are unsalvageable, proper disposal of such things helps to reduce fire hazards.

The Recovery Process Could Take Much Longer

It is not a complicated task to restore your home to its pre-fire condition. There are belongings to salvage, cleanup to complete, and the home’s structure to restore. The entire process is too much of a burden to carry alone. Your efforts to save money by taking fire restoration head-on yourself can easily backfire. Time is of the essence with fire damage, and if done yourself, can cause a domino effect. Working with a fire restoration company that is well versed in the disaster recovery process is a much more suitable option.

Schedule Professional Fire Restoration Services

The team at SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is here to deliver affordable, convenient fire and smoke damage restoration services. We make the recovery process as quick and painless as possible. Contact us today to learn more about our fire restoration services.

Got Smoke or Soot Damage? Call Us Today (415) 479-2900

Fire or Water Damage? We Can Handle It!

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in S. San Rafael/Sausalito and surrounding cities! We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

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

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Residential Services

Whether your San Rafael/Sausalito home needs emergency Fire Damage, Flood Damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

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

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your San Rafael/Sausalito commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for fast professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we has the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Fire Safety Tips for Commercial Buildings

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Fire safety is essential to prevent commercial fires and ensure you are protected in the event of one. 

Create Awareness About Fire Safety

Preparation is a critical element of fire safety, and an emphasis must be placed on creating an effective plan. Having open communicating in the event of fire ensures that the proper steps will be taken. During a crisis, having an emergency plan is essential to successfully prevent injuries, death, and property damage.

Solidify Emergency Evacuation Routes

Developing an emergency escape and maintaining it will provide the people occupying the commercial building with a functional fire exit, and should be kept clear of obstruction.

Ensure Your Equipment Is Up to Date

Smoke-sensitive sensors are essential in saving lives as well as saving a building's valuable property. Battery-operated smoke sensors and fire extinguishers should be checked periodically because if they are not functioning as they should, substantial damage can result. 

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals. 

Have Questions? Call Us Today - We're Ready To Help - (415) 479-2900

Addressing Mold Related Risks in Commercial Buildings

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

When mold begins to grow in your property, it is essential to know that it should not be taken lightly when it materializes. With mold exposure, it carries various health effects as certain species of mold may produce allergens and irritants. It is critical to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activities such as water, temperature, and moisture as even after you think it may be gone, mold can return to wreak havoc. If you suspect mold, take the following steps:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off HVAC systems and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of San Rafael/Sausalito for mold remediation services.  

The professionals here at SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito have the resources and take steps to ensure that your commercial property is not a prime target for additional mold growth. We are IICRC certified and work efficiently and effectively to remove every trace of mold in your building. We have the knowledge, tools, and proven track record of remediating mold in your business skillfully.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today - (415) 479-2900

Fire Cleanup to a Commercial Building

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a commercial building is a devastating experience.  After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts.  Therefore immediate action is crucial to minimize business interruption, reduce lost revenue and productivity.

But trying to clean up the aftermath may be the last thing you feel like doing on your own.  When fire, smoke and soot damage are left behind, it can create an unpleasant and permanent problems if not properly addressed.  Especially considering that smoke and soot from even a small fire can permanently damage contents throughout the building and may cause odors that resurface for years. 

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito  understands how disruptive fires can be for business owners, their tenants and even their customers.  So before you risk doing more damage to your most valuable business assets by attempting to clean it up yourself, you should consider hiring an experienced fire damage like SERVPRO.  Our technicians have the training, tools, equipment and experience to handle any fire damage incident to a commercial building.  They can respond immediately to begin the work to restore your business back and running. 

We are available 24 hours a day and are always Here to Help! Have Questions? Call Us Today – (415)479-2900

Commercial Storm Damage Restoration

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

Mother Nature can strike at anytime and at any place.  When a severe storm blows through, it can bring with it heavy rain, flooding, high winds, lightning, hail, and even tornadoes.  The damage that storms can inflict on buildings will vary depending on the type and severity of the storm.  Some of the potential kinds of damage that different storms can cause are cracked or shattered windows, roof damage from hail, damage from fallen branches/trees or even water damage from flooding.   If that damage isn’t repaired quickly, interior damage, mold, and damage to equipment and inventory can follow - not to mention the disruption caused for your employees and customers.  The costs of repairs to commercial buildings in particular are likely to be substantial due to the high concentration of glass used in these structures. Without the full and timely payment of insurance benefits, rebuilding and repairing can be prohibitively expensive.

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito understands that severe weather can happen without notice and cause water damage to your commercial property.  As a trusted restoration company, we’re dedicated to responding immediately to water and storm damage emergencies.  We have the experience and advanced training that enables us to restore your property quickly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete. 

Call us at (415)479-2900

Got Storm Damage? We Can Help

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

The storm weather can sometimes be unpredictable and dangerous.  Whether the storm was originally caused by a hurricane, heavy rain, or flooding, it can devastate a home or business in a matter of minutes.  Water can quickly spread throughout a property and is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings. If water damage is not handled quickly and properly, it can cause severe damage to your property's structure and can lead to potential harmful mold.

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is a trusted company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job. Our highly trained technicians are on standby, ready to respond quickly to a disaster, and can restore your home or business into preloss condition. 

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Please Call Us At (415) 479-2900.  We are always Here to Help!

When The Storm Comes

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home. Heavy rains can cause flooding and powerful winds can cause roof damage and downed trees on your property. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards as well, so having a strategy to deal with damage will help you to be ready to take steps immediately after the storm.

Dealing with wind or water damage to your home caused by severe storms can be both difficult and dangerous. Here are some tips on how to keep your family safe and begin to get your life back together after a storm hits.

Take Safety Precautions

Storm damaged homes are dangerous places; electrical hazards, sharp things and the real risk that something heavy could fall on you.  Stay away from damaged trees and dangling or broken limbs.  Here are other things to consider when your home is damaged:

• Do not venture outside until it has been declared safe to do so.

• Turn off your natural gas, electrical and water at their shutoff locations in your home.

• Do not touch any wiring or metal plumbing fixtures as they may be carrying electrical current.

Take pictures of the damage caused by the storm

If it is safe to move around your property, use your cellphone or a camera to photograph the damage so that you will have a record for your insurance company. This action will ensure that you are fully compensated.

• Photograph the outside of your home and any property that has been damaged during the storm, such as outbuildings or decks.

• Photograph the inside of your home and any interior property that has been damaged before you move anything.

• Interior and exterior pictures should be taken from multiple angles to ensure they accurately portray the extent of the damage.

• If trees or other debris, such as a neighbor's lawn ornaments, have damaged your home, photograph them as well.

• All pictures should be taken before any preliminary repair work begins.

Cleaning Up After a Storm

• If the roof has been damaged, cover the areas that could be exposed to the elements with a tarpaulin.

• Cover broken windows with plastic sheeting or plywood.

• Exterior walls that have sustained damage should be covered with plywood or plastic sheeting.

• Remove valuable items from the home prior to leaving for an extended period as the damage to your home may make it more easily accessible for thieves.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. The company will send out an adjuster to determine the extent of the damage so that payment for repairs can be made.

• Have the pictures you took of the damage printed, or transferred to a CD, and provide them to your claims adjuster.

• Obtain quotes for repair work to your home and replacement cost estimates on any items that were damaged during the storm and give them to your claims adjuster.

• If you buy replacement items, such as a television, computer, microwave, light fixtures, or carpet, be sure to keep a copy of the receipt. Photocopy your receipts before submitting them to your claims adjuster.

Look Into Federal Disaster Assistance

The federal government may have declared the area affected by the storm as a disaster area that is eligible for low-cost loans to help restore your property to back to pre-storm condition or better. You will be required to file documents to receive these loans.

When a storm-related disaster strikes, it may seem overwhelming, but these steps can help you to begin the process of restoring your home, and your life, back to normal.

 _______________________________________

STORM DAMAGE REPAIR - Storm & Flood Services:

• Fire Damage Restoration

• Water Mitigation

• Mold Remediation

• Sewage Cleanup

• Carpet Cleaning

• Odor Removal

• Commercial Storm Damage Cleanup

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster

A fast response is crucial to flooding and storm damage, because it reduces secondary damage and restoration costs. Storms don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. Our technicians will respond immediately, day or night to help Meriden business owners and residents.

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As water and storm damage specialists, we have the experience and advanced training that enables us to restore your property quickly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete.

As Water Damage Restoration Technician and Applied Structural Drying Technicians, SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (415) 479-2900

Why SERVPRO is a leader in the Restoration Industry

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

As leaders in the cleanup and restoration industry, you’ve probably seen or heard our national advertisements. However, you may not have heard of us here in Marin County where we would like to inform you about our best practices procedures to ensure that if disaster strikes, your business or home is taken care of.

Disasters involving water and mold are never easy to process and our goal is to make it easy on the clients to avoid any further frustration. In many cases, we inspect the damages and communicate our findings to all stakeholders by using an estimating software that is preferred by insurance companies due to its standardized pricing and fair approvals of estimates. This process can take days and we utilize this system to make sure that we gain your approval prior to proceeding with services. Disasters may arrive and destroy quickly. However, we at SERVPRO® like to take our time to assess the situation to do a good job in mitigation and restoration.

Here at SERVPRO® of South San Rafael/Sausalito we are committed to giving our clients a positive experience.

Be safe and thank you for choosing SERVPRO®

Call us at (415)479-2900

Storm Damage? We Can Help

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

The storm weather can sometimes be unpredictable and dangerous.  Whether the storm was originally caused by a hurricane, heavy rain, or flooding, it can devastate a home or business in a matter of minutes.  Water can quickly spread throughout a property and is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings. If water damage is not handled quickly and properly, it can cause severe damage to your property's structure and can lead to potential harmful mold.

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is a trusted company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job. Our highly trained technicians are on standby, ready to respond quickly to a disaster, and can restore your home or business into preloss condition. 

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Please Call Us At (415)479-2900.  We are always Here to Help!

Commercial Water Restoration Services

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito we know how to handle any and all water damages that you may encounter, but we want to give you a few pointers to help you prevent water damages from happening at your business. Unfortunately, disasters happen and even the most carefully operated and maintained building can experience a water damage event. Water damage tends to leave its mark on properties in the forms of rotting, warping, staining, and mold growth.

To help your property stay at its best here are these potential causes of water damage:

• Malfunctioning appliances – washing machines, dishwashers and refrigerators.

• AC and heating units leading to corrosion of HVAC systems and mold may growth from leakage.

• Windows - Inspect windows from the inside for glass and air seal integrity,  test all locks, cranks, and interior walls around windows for water damage.

• Bursting or leaking pipes.

If you experience water damage in your commercial building and need a restoration company that you can trust, SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is Here to Help restore your business back to pre-water damage condition.  We quickly extract the water and then dry your property using state-of-the-art equipment. 

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Safe Flood Clean up Tips

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Before entering a building where flood damage may have occurred, make sure it’s safe: check for electrical hazards and structural damage, and use proper protective gear like boots, gloves and respirators. Before you start any construction or repairs, check for common hazardous materials like lead paint and asbestos, which may require help from professional and State-licensed contractors.

Then, follow these tips:

• Act quickly
  The severity of damage escalates the longer water sits and building components and contents stay wet, so time is of the essence in the aftermath of a flood. In fact, mold will grow within 48-72 hours, so aim to start removing water and drying the environment within 48 hours. Have a list of professionals on hand to call, and understand your insurance policy, as some only cover mold damage up to a certain amount, while others don’t provide any reimbursement for mold.
• Ventilate affected areas to prevent mold growth
  Mold loves moisture and organic materials such as paper or particleboard. In order to mitigate or slow damage, open windows if weather permits and place fans inside of them to keep air moving and maintain moderate temperatures. Work toward the fan as you clean to minimize cross contamination.
• Assess damage to items and materials
  Assess the type of water absorbed by items, such as rainwater, water from broken pipes, contaminated river water or bacteria-filled sewage. There are ways to salvage specialty items but the decision on whether to save or trash an item will vary depending on the dollar and sentimental value to the owner. It may not be worthwhile to salvage drywall, carpets and pads, mattresses, pillows, box springs and particleboard. On the other hand, it might be worthwhile to restore costly Persian rugs, leather couches and antiques or heirlooms. Wet clothing and many household fabrics may be salvageable through machine washing, and a 10-minute soak in detergent and hot water, to remove contamination and stains. The IICRC strongly recommends that in water damages where there are contaminants present (e.g., bacteria, sewage, mold) or where small children or immune-compromised individuals are present that an inspection be conducted by an appropriately trained restorer and remediator.
• Expose pockets of saturation
  Hidden and concealed pockets of saturation need to be opened for cleaning and drying. Layers between building materials hold water that must be discovered and removed or dried. On walls, find the water line and inspect at least a foot beyond it to make sure all damage, wet materials and mold are discovered. Remove and discard the damaged drywall and wet wall insulation. Wet carpets can usually be dried by professionals with the right equipment, but carpet padding, which is like a big sponge, should be discarded. Wood base trim and hardwood can also be saved with the right equipment if they can be accessed and completely dried on both sides. Remember to investigate concealed cavities such as behind walls, in mechanical spaces, under cabinets and furniture, and in crawl spaces.
• Conduct a thorough cleaning
  Durable, non-porous or semi-porous materials, such as studs and joists, hardwood flooring and vinyl products, can be cleaned with common cleaning products or specialized products with detergents. During cleaning, take care to protect areas that are unaffected by the water or mold. After a thorough cleaning of salvageable materials, a disinfectant solution may need to be applied in case of harmful bacteria from sewage, river water debris or even standing water that has gone bad. Professionals like water restoration and mold remediation contractors and indoor environmental professionals can help you decide what is best for your situation. Once you’ve cleaned the wet materials, conduct another round of cleaning. If you choose to vacuum, use a HEPA-filter vacuum to remove allergens, fine dust and spores.
• Confirm drying before reconstruction
  In order to prevent dry rot and structural damage, it’s important not to reconstruct or cover wood and other wet materials until the moisture content has been adequately reduced. A water restoration professional can confirm proper drying before reconstruction.

Here For you Through Any Disaster

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Life happens. Kids spill drinks, pets have accidents and homes get dirty. You handle much of the maintenance of your home, but when it gets to be too much, you can rely on your local SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito Professionals. We specialize in cleaning and restoration and have highly trained technicians to help you manage and restore your home.

Some of the many services we provide are:

• Air Ducts & HVAC
• Contents Cleaning
• Contents Inventory
• Contents Disposal
• Deep Cleaning
• Debris Removal
• Ceilings, Walls & Hard Floors
• Deodorization
• Mold Remediation

You know SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito as a leader in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration, and our expertise can make any disaster "Like it never even happened." Call us today at (415) 479-2900
to schedule an appointment.

Fire Water Clean up at a Commercial Building

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a commercial building is a devastating experience.  After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts.  Therefore immediate action is crucial to minimize business interruption, reduce lost revenue and productivity.

But trying to clean up the aftermath may be the last thing you feel like doing on your own.  When fire, smoke and soot damage are left behind, it can create an unpleasant and permanent problems if not properly addressed.  Especially considering that smoke and soot from even a small fire can permanently damage contents throughout the building and may cause odors that resurface for years. 

SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito  understands how disruptive fires can be for business owners, their tenants and even their customers.  So before you risk doing more damage to your most valuable business assets by attempting to clean it up yourself, you should consider hiring an experienced fire damage like SERVPRO.  Our technicians have the training, tools, equipment and experience to handle any fire damage incident to a commercial building.  They can respond immediately to begin the work to restore your business back and running. 

We are available 24 hours a day and are always Here to Help! Have Questions? Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

What Not To Do When You Have Water Damage

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Sometimes when we have a water damage situation going we want to do something in order to minimize losses. Check our other posts for more information on how to prevent and act fast. We also know it's very important to know what not to do and that's why we are bringing you this list:

• Do not use a household vacuum to remove standing water.
• Do not leave furniture directly on wet carpeting.
• Do not begin to repair or repaint any damage surfaces until they are completely
  dry.
• Do not turn ceiling fans on when the ceiling is wet.

We also want to remind you that we are here to help. SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is here to make it "Like it never even happened." Call us at (415)479-2900

SERVPRO 24 Hours Emergency Service

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Choosing the right company if you have experienced a water, fire, or mold damage can be one of the most important choices you make. After helping many disaster victims, SERVPRO of Napa County has the expertise, facilities, and equipment to help you resolve your emergency fast. Our team of professionals technicians are certified, bonded and insured -- not to mentioned trained to help you get your property back to its original state as soon as possible.

As the trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO provides 24-hour emergency help and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Call SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito today for more information (415)479-2900.

Mold Remediation to a Commercial Building

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Molds 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 mold 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.

Commercial Mold Remediation Presents Unique Challenges

Mold can spread quickly through a property if left untreated. SERVPRO of Petaluma / Rohnert Park can respond quickly, working to first contain the infestation to help prevent its spread to other parts of the building. Next, we will begin the remediation process, working safely and effectively to manage the situation. We have the training, experience, and equipment to contain the mold infestation and remediate it to preloss condition.

Have a Mold Problem? Call SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito today at (415)479-2900

Water Damage? Call SERVPRO

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito we know  how to make water damage "Like it never even happened."  When disaster strikes unexpectedly  our SERVPRO professionals are able to handle your water emergency quickly and effectively. We handle black and gray water extraction and restoration at your residential or commercial property.

 
Give us a call anytime! at (415)479-2900 We are here 24/7 for any loss you may have.  Remember at SERVPRO we are always #‎HeretoHelp

Maintain and Understand your Indoor Plumbing Systems

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

• Inspect appliance hoses and faucets. Make it a practice every year to check hoses leading to water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines and refrigerator ice makers. You may also want to invest in a water leak monitoring and shut-off system that can alert you to any leakage issues. Immediately replace any hoses that have cracks or leaks, and replace them all every five to seven years.
• Inspect showers and tubs. Check the seal and caulking around showers and tubs to make sure they are watertight and reseal if necessary.
• When away on vacation, shut off the water supply to the washing machine and never leave the house while the washer or dishwasher is running.
• Know the location of the main water shut-off valve in your home. A damaged hose or a burst pipe can send water racing into your home. Being able to locate and shut off the main water supply quickly will save stress, money and time.
• Install an emergency pressure release valve in your plumbing system. This will protect against the increased pressure caused by freezing pipes and can help prevent your pipes from bursting.
• Check plumbing and heating pipes. Look closely for cracks and leaks and have any necessary repairs made immediately.

These are some tips to prevent water damage.  If you need assistance with water damage please call SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito at (415)479-2900

Fire or Water Damage? We can handle It

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in S. San Rafael/Sausalito and surrounding cities! We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

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

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Residential Services

Whether your San Rafael/Sausalito home needs emergency Fire Damage, Flood Damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

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

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your San Rafael/Sausalito commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for fast professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we has the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Life Happens

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Life happens. Kids spill drinks, pets have accidents and homes get dirty. You handle much of the maintenance of your home, but when it gets to be too much, you can rely on your local SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito Professionals. We specialize in cleaning and restoration and have highly trained technicians to help you manage and restore your home.

Some of the many services we provide are:

• Air Ducts & HVAC
• Carpet & Upholstery
• Drapes & Blinds
• Plumbing
• Tree Removal
• Sewage and Gutter
• Contents Disposal
• Deep Cleaning
• Paint
• Debris Removal
• Ceilings, Walls & Hard Floors
• Deodorization

You know SERVPRO as a leader in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration, but our expertise can also make a dirty carpet "Like it never even happened." Call us today at (415) 479-2900
to schedule an appointment.

How You Can Help Us Provide a Better Service

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO^® of South San Rafael/Sausalito our main goal is to provide an outstanding experience for our clients. SERVPRO^® began in 1967 as a painting business and has grown into a leader in the restoration cleanup industry. As a locally owned franchise servicing our community, we have a responsibility to uphold this legacy as a premier cleaning and restoration company. Our team consists of people who live in your neighborhoods and with the training and experience to make your damage “Like it never even happened.”

We know choosing the right restoration service provider can be costly and bothersome, however, we want you to know that we take your feedback very seriously and for us to proudly represent the vision of the SERVPRO^® Corporation we would appreciate your input and experience.

Contact us either by phone: (707) 479-2900

Or by visiting our social media pages (links below).

https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROssanrafaelsausalito/?ref=bookmarks

SERVPRO Serving Adjusters and Their Clients

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Serving Adjusters and Their Clients

A SERVPRO franchise professional's job is to reassure the customer, perform quality service and to report to you quickly. We know your job is to interpret the policy and adjust the claim... and not to deal with problems from vendors! Working together we strive to save you time so you can focus on priority files, while having complete control of every loss you are assigned. 24-hour emergency response, damage mitigation, loss assessment, and an electronic file are available to you within hours. SERVPRO franchise professionals’ documented, measured performance increases value to you and your shareholders, managers and customers.

Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO leaders in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry. The SERVPRO System is geared to achieve customer satisfaction and mitigation results, adding to your company’s competitive advantage.

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is locally owned and operated so we’re always ready to help with any-sized flood or water damage emergencies.

 Call us 24/7 at (415)479-2900

Safety Tips for your Fire Escape Plan

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

October is Fire Prevention Month and our team at SERVPRO San Rafael/Sausalito have followed these safety tips shared by the National Fire Protection Association through this year’s National Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!”

Please be safe and follow these tips so that you and your family can escape the fire safely.

1. It is important to know the layout of your home. Make an escape plan by drawing a map that shows all your windows and doors, which could potentially be your exit strategy.

Fact: One-third of American households who made an estimate thought they would have at least 6 minutes before a fire becomes life threatening. Unfortunately, the time available could be as little as one to two minutes, according to Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of Outreach and Advocacy.

2. Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows leading outside can be easily opened.

Fact: A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Make sure to close all doors behind you when exiting a room. Also, check to make sure a door is not hot, that can be an indicator of a fire on the other side.

3. Have an outside meeting place (like a tree, light pole or mailbox) a safe distance from the home where everyone should meet.

Fact: Escape planning and practice can help reduce the time to get everyone out. It is best to call the Fire Department when outside your home.

4. Practice your escape plan during the day and night with everyone in your home at least twice a year using different ways out. Be extra mindful to teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.

Fact: While 71% of Americans have an escape plan in case of a fire, only 47% of those have practiced it.

5. If the smoke alarm sounds, your first thought should be to get out. Never go back inside for people or pets.

Fact: Only 8% said that their first thought on hearing a smoke alarm would be to get out. Smoke inhalation is also very dangerous. If you need to go through smoke, get low and go under the smoke till you reach your way out.

For more information or resources regarding fire, electrical, or related hazards, please feel free to visit the National Fire Protection Association at https://www.nfpa.org/.

Test Your Escape Plan Often

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

• Practice your home fire escape plan twice a year, making the drill as realistic as possible.
• Make arrangements in your plan for anyone in your home who has a disability.
• Allow children to master fire escape planning and practice before holding a fire drill at night when they are sleeping. The objective is to practice, not to frighten, so telling children there will be a drill before they go to bed can be as effective as a surprise drill.
• It's important to determine during the drill whether children and others can readily waken to the sound of the smoke alarm. If they fail to awaken, make sure that someone is assigned to wake them up as part of the drill and in a real emergency situation.
• If your home has two floors, every family member (including children) must be able to escape from the second floor rooms. Escape ladders can be placed in or near windows to provide an additional escape route. Review the manufacturer's instructions carefully so you'll be able to use a safety ladder in an emergency. Practice setting up the ladder from a first floor window to make sure you can do it correctly and quickly. Children should only practice with a grown-up, and only from a first-story window. Store the ladder near the window, in an easily accessible location. You don't want to have to search for it during a fire.
• Always choose the escape route that is safest – the one with the least amount of smoke and heat – but be prepared to escape under toxic smoke if necessary. When you do your fire drill, everyone in the family should practice getting low and going under the smoke to your exit.
• Closing doors on your way out slows the spread of fire, giving you more time to safely escape.
• In some cases, smoke or fire may prevent you from exiting your home or apartment building. To prepare for an emergency like this, practice "sealing yourself in for safety" as part of your home fire escape plan. Close all doors between you and the fire. Use duct tape or towels to seal the door cracks and cover air vents to keep smoke from coming in. If possible, open your windows at the top and bottom so fresh air can get in. Call the fire department to report your exact location. Wave a flashlight or light-colored cloth at the window to let the fire department know where you are located.

http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/escape-planning/basic-fire-escape-planning

The Water You Don't See

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage caused the hardwood floor to buckle.

The water you don't see can originate from many sources including foundation leaks, burst pipes, leaky roof or poor drainage around the home.  When you suspect that you might have a water damage, it’s important to know what the common causes are so that you know how to prevent minor water damage from turning into a huge problem.  But if you're already experiencing water damage, SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito Franchise Professionals are here to help!  Our technicians are highly trained and can safely clean, disinfect, deodorize and restore your home.  A mop and common cleaning products may not be enough for serious water intrusions, especially when the water you don't see can contain bacteria, cause mold or rot and other unseen damage.

If you have any water damages to your property give SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito a call and we can answer any questions you have, schedule an inspection of the property and begin the remediation process. We are specialists on Fire, Water, Smoke, and Mold damages, you can rely on us to help restore your property.

We're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us anytime at 415-479-2900

Wildfire Prevention and Healthy Tips

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Vegetation fire next to the road

Wildfires can occur at anytime and anywhere throughout the year.  Late summer and early fall is typically the peak time for wildfires in California.  People that live or work in an area prone to wildfires are at greater risk.  Wildfires sometimes start naturally by heat ignited from sun light or lightning strikes.  However, majority of the wildfires in the U.S. are caused by humans.  Some human-caused fires result from campfires left unattended, negligently discarded cigarettes or intentional acts of arson.  A wildfire can move as fast as 6.5 miles per hour in forest and 14 miles an hour in grassland, consuming trees, homes, natural resources, humans and everything in its path.  

By working together, we can make our residents and neighborhood safer from wildfires by taking safety precautions.  Here are some wildfire safety tips to help prevent wildfire from occurring.

Wildfire Safety Tips

• Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves, porches and decks. Remove dead vegetation from under your deck and within 10  feet  of the  house.  This prevents embers from igniting your home.
• Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches. Screen or box-in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris from accumulating.
• Ensure flammable materials (firewood stacks, propane tanks, dry vegetation) are more than 30 feet from your home or business's foundation and outbuildings.
• Wildfire can spread to tree tops. If you have trees on your property, prune so the lowest branches are 6 to 10 feet from the ground.
• Keep your lawn hydrated and maintained. If it is brown, cut it down to reduce fire intensity. Dry grass and shrubs are fuel for wildfire.
• Inspect shingles or roof tiles. Replace or repair shingles that are loose or missing to prevent ember penetration.
• Cover exterior attic vents with metal wire mesh no larger than 1/8 inch to prevent sparks from entering the home.
• Enclose eaves and screen soffit vents using 1/8 mesh metal screening to prevent ember entry.

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.  Call us today 415-479-2900.

What not to do when you have water damage

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

Never use a household vacuum to remove standing water

Sometimes when we have a water damage situation going we want to do something in order to minimize losses. Check our other posts for more information on how to prevent and act fast. We also know it's very important to know what not to do and that's why we are bringing you this list:

• Do not use a household vacuum to remove standing water.
• Do not leave furniture directly on wet carpeting.
• Do not begin to repair or repaint any damage surfaces until they are completely
  dry.
• Do not turn ceiling fans on when the ceiling is wet.

We also want to remind you that we are here to help. SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito is here to make it "Like it never even happened." Call us at (415)479-2900

Summer Fire Safety, BBQ Preparation

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

The sun is out and it's time to barbecue, whether you plan to resurrect your old BBQ from the shed or purchase a shiny new one. However, it is important to remember the risk that fire can pose; so before you start grilling, take note of this important BBQ fire safety advice.

Fire Safety is Key

Before you even light the flames on your BBQ you need to think about a number of factors. Where are you going to place it? Which fuel are you using (natural gas, charcoal or propane)? How will you extinguish the flames in an emergency?

Where you place your BBQ is really important. Ideally it has to be in a clear space, with no overhanging branches or nearby debris which could potentially catch fire. You should also try and place it out of the wind so there's no danger of flames being blown on to the chef. It's also key to ensure that the unit is on solid ground with no risk of tipping or rolling.

Which fuel are you using in your BBQ? Charcoal fires are the most common to cook on during the summer and are located in fire pits, barbecue units and disposable barbecues. Make sure that you only use enough charcoal to cover the base of the BBQ and that you only light it when the coals are cold. Keep excess charcoal in a safe place away from the fire.

If you use a natural gas or propane fuel source there are a number of other factors to consider. Always use a new gas cylinder every summer as cold temperatures during the winter months can damage the casing and remember to change the gas fuel source outdoors or in a very well-ventilated area. Before you light your BBQ for the first time take some time to check the gas set-up for leaks - you can do this by brushing soapy water around the joints of the pipe work, if you see any bubbles this indicates a gas leak.

Prepare a bucket of cold water or sand and keep this close to the barbecue during its use. If the flames are out of control (and you can't simply turn off the gas supply) don't hesitate to douse the flames - even if it means your food will be ruined - as fire safety is always paramount. Enjoy having fun in the sun and remember to stay safe when using fire outside to cook delicious food.

SERVPRO Can Handle your Fire Damages

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito franchise professionals can take care of your fire damage. By providing timely response with our services, ranging from FIRE, SMOKE, and SOOT removal, to contents claims inventory, and document restoration, and so much more. At SERVPRO of S. San rafael/Sausalito we know the first 48 hours after a fire can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property. We are always faster to any size disaster and will strive to make your damages "Like it never even happened," always.

We are available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year!

If you have Fire Damage, or any questions call 415-479-2900 now!

When Water Damage Strikes

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito, we specialize in water damage restoration. If you have recently experienced a water damage loss due to a recent storm or flood, we can help. We understand the stress that comes when your home or business has been affected by a flood or storm.

Here are some top reasons why you should choose SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito to restore your property when tragedies strike your home or business.

Prevent further structural damage or mold

• We have a 24-hour emergency service that allows us to respond to your needs immediately.
• Immediate action can prevent mold

We have the right tools

• Specialize equipment to get the job done
• Experience technicians

Fixing water damages yourself can be dangerous and time consuming

• Please remember that water damages should be left to professionals. Without the proper tools and expertise, you can hurt yourself or someone else.
• We can have our professional water damage experts to clean and restore you home, so you can rest at ease.
• Our crews can have the job done quickly.

Prevent water damages to your home and belonging

• Avoid permanent damage by contacting us right away
• Procrastination can cost you a lot of money

Get rid of bad odors

• Our reliable team of experts can eliminate the bad odors from your property
• We can deodorize your home to ensure it smells clean and fresh

Call Today -SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito at 415-479-2900

Basic Tips for Storm Preparedness

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Hurricane happening.

Even if you do not live in an area that can be directly impacted by a hurricane, you may be affected by the severe weather conditions that result from the storm. Because we are all affected by severe weather activity, we should be prepared when events take place.

One important area of concern during a severe storm is our ability to keep our food safe. When severe weather strikes we are often left with no electricity. It is very possible that you will have a power outage to occur. Because we need to be prepared during bad weather, we need to follow a few safety tips such as:

• You should ensure that you have enough water for you and your family to drink. Store plenty of water in clean plastic or glass containers. It is recommended that at a minimum you should store at least one gallon of water per person per day. If the weather conditions are hot, then you may need to double this amount per person. Additional water will be needed for cooking, bathing and other household needs.
• Prepare water for storage and later use by adding four drops of chlorine bleach per quart of water (about 16 drops of chlorine per gallon), then stir the water to thoroughly mix.
• Seal water containers and label them as purified drinking water. Place the date on the water container and store them in a cool, dark place. Purified water stored in this way should be safe for long periods of time such as five years or longer.
• Prepare to have a three-day supply of food for your family to carry you through a short-term disaster situation. Choose foods that do not require refrigeration and if possible, require little water for preparation.
• Some ready-to-eat foods that should be considered are: canned meats, canned vegetables, canned fruit, juices, and soup. Some high-energy foods that should be considered are: peanut butter, jelly, crackers dried fruits, and jerky. Children will also enjoy having some hard candy and cereal bars available.

There are additional items that your family may need to have on hand during a short-term weather related disaster situation. Some of these items are:

• Radio - battery powered with extra batteries
• Flashlight - with extra batteries
• Candles
• Manual can opener
• Utility knife
• Plastic plates, cups, utensils
• Paper towels
• Plastic trash bags with ties
• Moist towelettes
• Chlorine bleach, cleaning supplies
• Personal hygiene items
• Blanket for each family member
• First aide kit
• Camp stove, fuel, lighter

There may be other special needs that your family may need to have available, such as diapers, baby formula, and medications.

For more information on individual, family and community preparedness, see the FEMA website at fema.gov/areyouready giving you a step-by-step guide to citizen preparedness.

Commercial Losses - Fire Control and Suppression Systems Can Prevent Financial Loss

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Suppression System installed in a commercial building.

Fire alarm systems are required by law in almost every commercial and industrial place of business. There are few exceptions to this rule. Deciding which type of fire alarm system and suppression system is rarely left up to the business owner or property owner. Specific alarm systems and monitoring panels will be determined by the local authorities.

Even though building codes and fire codes will dictate the type of system needing to be installed, these requirements are strictly the bare minimum that the local jurisdictions and state government mandate. Frequently the bare minimum will still result in vast amounts of property damage. For this reason it is always important to inquire of the fire alarm installation company how best to improve on the fire codes with regards to the installed fire suppression system.

If the building or facility is being erected, going the extra mile by installing additional fire prevention measures will lower the chances of extensive property loss when a fire does occur. For proper installation of a new fire alarm and suppression system or improving a current fire control system, contracting with a professional and competent installation company will need to be arranged. With new construction, this is taken care of by the general contractor overseeing the entire construction project. If the building is already established and occupied, then any improvements to the fire alarm system will most likely be set into motion by the property owner or property manager.

Fortunately fire codes do not change drastically or frequently, but if the codes do change, occasionally those structures currently established may not need to upgrade the current fire suppression system due to being grandfathered. One exception to this rule may be when the property is sold.

Local or state law may dictate that in order to complete the real estate transaction the existing fire suppression system, including the control panel, may need to be updated. Should this be the case, the cost can be surprising. The expense of upgrading or modernizing the fire control components will need to be taken into account along with the details of the real estate transaction. Many real estate agencies and service will not always be aware of specifics of this type.

It is recommended that the sale of the commercial property be contingent upon a fire inspection. Many professional and experienced fire alarm installation firms can be utilized in this manner. Without a satisfactory inspection, the new property owner may be fined and ordered to improve or bring the current suppression system up to date which can easily reach into the thousands.

Storm Damage Cleanup

5/16/2020 (Permalink)

Storm

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito has experience restoring homes affected by storms and flooding. Our highly trained staff knows the complexity and urgency of storm damage and is always ready to respond immediately. Our emergency vehicles are stocked full of equipment that is specific to the environment we live in, allowing us to not only respond quickly but also have the know-how and tools to repair most of the damage that happens in Central Oregon.

With an on-call rotation of certified technicians  available 24/7, SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito prides ourselves on being ready and able to repair whatever property damage you experience.

Call us 24/7 at (415)479-2900

Tips for Preparing for Severe Weather

5/16/2020 (Permalink)

At the Store

Every time someone goes to the store, they should buy a few canned goods and some batteries. Candles are not safe in any storm as wind can knock a lit candle down and possibly start a fire. The sturdier the flashlight is the longer it will last. Canned and bottled drinks are also good to store just in case. Packaged snacks will tide most anyone over until the power comes back on or in case someone is stuck inside a room. A weather radio or a regular radio with batteries keeps people informed. All of these can be stored in an inexpensive plastic storage box.

At Home or Work

A small room without windows in an interior part of the house or office is the best place to seek safety from a tornado. The room should have someplace to store supplies. At home, this could be a bathroom or a closet. A small container holding supplies fits nicely in to a cabinet. At the last minute, throw some pillows in so there is someplace soft to sit or lay a weary head. Office buildings have stairwells and these are the closest and safest places to be during a bad wind storm. It is important that no one pushes anyone else as people descend the stairs. And always be mindful of those who want to go back and get their cell phones accidentally left on a desk.

In a Vehicle on the Road

Cars are most likely to be tossed in to the air and thrown to the ground. The best bet is to pull the car over the side of the road, get out and lay down in a ditch or under an overpass. These are the safest places to be when a twister is either ahead of you or behind you. An overpass will protect you from falling debris. At the very least, a ditch is low enough to the ground where a tornado can't quite pick you up and toss you into the next county.

About Animals

Animals instinctively know when trouble lurks. They are closer to the ground than people and can feel the vibrations. If your pet is acting a little odd, check the weather. Bring all animals - outdoor and indoor ones - to the safe room in the house. Try to keep them as calm as possible. Family pets become family members and leaving them outside in severe weather is cruel. Everyone can be safe if they know what to do before a storm arrives. Make plans and make sure everyone knows what they are.

When you need help with water or fire damage please call SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito at (707)479-2900

Tips for Residential Fire Safety

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

It is very important to have an emergency plan.

We all want to keep our family and property safe from dangerous, deadly fires. But do many of us take time to ensure that we, in fact, are safe? Take time to employ these 8 tips for residential fire safety to keep your loved ones and pets out of harm's way.

Avoid Hazards - One of the best ways to prevent residential fires is to avoid certain habits and practices that can lead to blazes. A tried and true rule to always follow is to place all lighters and matches in high areas away from a child's reach. Also use caution when burning candles in the home and teach your children that both matches and lighters are not toys to be played with.

Have a Plan - Have a plan for you and your family on what to do if a fire does occur. Make sure to vary the plan based on where the fire occurs and what type of fire it is. When you have your strategy in place purchase the needed safety tools (IE. fire ladder, fire extinguisher) and place them in the designated areas. You will also want a plan on how to practice your skills to maintain your fire tools such as when to perform a fire extinguisher inspection.

Practice Your Plan - Having a plan in place in the event of a fire is only half of the job. In order for your family to be safe, they must feel comfortable on executing the plan. Take time to practice a fake fire in the home so every family member can rehearse the plan. It may be beneficial to do varying scenarios so that different approaches can be made.

Inspect Your Equipment - Make sure to perform a fire extinguisher inspection on a regular basis to ensure it is in proper working order.

Hire a Chimney Sweep - Have your chimney swept by a professional on a yearly basis preferable before the heating season. Creosote can build up in the flue leaving your chimney vulnerable to a fire.

Educate Yourself - Educate you and your family on basic fire safety skills. There are many educational books geared to children that cover the topic empowering them to make wise choices in the event of a fire in the home.

Alarm Your Home - Always have both a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector on each floor of the home. Test both regularly and replace batteries as needed. Carbon monoxide detectors often have an expiration date. To help me remember when the date is approaching, I used a black permanent marker to write the date on the bottom of the unit facing the floor so anytime I look up I can clearly see if the unit is near expiration.

Be Smart - Common sense can go a long way in overall fire safety in the home. Make sure you know the basics of how to protect you and your family from home fires. Also teach your children how to approach fire hazards using good judgment and practical knowledge.

Follow these residential fire prevention tips to keep your family and home safe from a dangerous blaze. Performing a fire extinguisher inspection, sweeping your flue, and the other six tips are all important to maintaining a nontoxic environment for those you love to work and play in.

Tips for Residential Fire Safety

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

We all want to keep our family and property safe from dangerous, deadly fires. But do many of us take time to ensure that we, in fact, are safe? Take time to employ these 8 tips for residential fire safety to keep your loved ones and pets out of harm's way.

Avoid Hazards - One of the best ways to prevent residential fires is to avoid certain habits and practices that can lead to blazes. A tried and true rule to always follow is to place all lighters and matches in high areas away from a child's reach. Also use caution when burning candles in the home and teach your children that both matches and lighters are not toys to be played with.

Have a Plan - Have a plan for you and your family on what to do if a fire does occur. Make sure to vary the plan based on where the fire occurs and what type of fire it is. When you have your strategy in place purchase the needed safety tools (IE. fire ladder, fire extinguisher) and place them in the designated areas. You will also want a plan on how to practice your skills to maintain your fire tools such as when to perform a fire extinguisher inspection.

Practice Your Plan - Having a plan in place in the event of a fire is only half of the job. In order for your family to be safe, they must feel comfortable on executing the plan. Take time to practice a fake fire in the home so every family member can rehearse the plan. It may be beneficial to do varying scenarios so that different approaches can be made.

Inspect Your Equipment - Make sure to perform a fire extinguisher inspection on a regular basis to ensure it is in proper working order.

Hire a Chimney Sweep - Have your chimney swept by a professional on a yearly basis preferable before the heating season. Creosote can build up in the flue leaving your chimney vulnerable to a fire.

Educate Yourself - Educate you and your family on basic fire safety skills. There are many educational books geared to children that cover the topic empowering them to make wise choices in the event of a fire in the home.

Alarm Your Home - Always have both a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector on each floor of the home. Test both regularly and replace batteries as needed. Carbon monoxide detectors often have an expiration date. To help me remember when the date is approaching, I used a black permanent marker to write the date on the bottom of the unit facing the floor so anytime I look up I can clearly see if the unit is near expiration.

Be Smart - Common sense can go a long way in overall fire safety in the home. Make sure you know the basics of how to protect you and your family from home fires. Also teach your children how to approach fire hazards using good judgment and practical knowledge.

Follow these residential fire prevention tips to keep your family and home safe from a dangerous blaze. Performing a fire extinguisher inspection, sweeping your flue, and the other six tips are all important to maintaining a nontoxic environment for those you love to work and play in.

Proactive Cleaning Services for Commercial Buildings

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

The last shot we took after the job ended for a huge commercial property.

With the news of COVID-19 arriving to the United States and to the Bay Area, we are all on high alert and taking preventative measures to ensure the safety of our community. Over the weekend we were called in to clean up and disinfect a huge commercial space. We brought our whole crew to work on all surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables (to name a few) inside of every building before Monday when people would arrive again to the area. Our cleanup procedure generally includes the cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment or tools. The CDC recommends using a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar type organisms to COVID-19. SERVPRO’s® proprietary disinfectant is hospital-grade named SERVPROXIDE^TM which currently has a dozen of EPA-approved claims for cleaning Feline coronavirus, Canine coronavirus, Staphylococcus (MRSA, E. coli, Salmonella Rotavirus, and Swine flu (H1N1). SERVPRO® professionals are trained in adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

If you own a commercial building and would like to inquire about our services. Please feel free to give us a call or check out our website. https://www.SERVPROnovatosanrafaelsausalito.com/

Please be safe and remember, prevention is key!

SERVPRO® of Novato/San Rafael/Sausalito

(415) 479-2900

Fire at C&H Sugar Refinery in Crockett, CA

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

C&H Building in Crockett, CA

At 9 a.m. this morning, a fire ignited inside of the C&H Sugar refinery located in Crockett, CA. The fire began on the sixth floor of the building on a conveyor belt that is used to carry raw sugar. Fortunately, due to the intensity of labor and quick response of the 65 firefighters who responded, there are no reported injuries. The damage of the fire is still under investigation, however, there was reported smoke found only on the fifth, sixth, and seventh floors.

Fires can ignite at any time and do massive damage to your property. Make sure to follow the guidelines of the National Fire Protection Association located on their website: https://www.nfpa.org/.

Please be safe and if your structure suffers damage due to a fire. Contact our professionals here at SERVPRO® of Novato/San Rafael/Sausalito to make it look, “Like it never even happened.”

Call Us: (415) 479-2900

Property Managers, Call SERVPRO® for Mold Removal

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

Visible mold on a ceiling. Our team went to go remove and restore it back to normal.

Mold.

Hearing the word just makes me nauseous. However, not all mold is bad, some mold even contributed to saving lives (like the discovery of penicillin). However, as a property manager suffering from water damage. The last thing you’d want to see or hear is mold growing and manifesting in your units. Unfortunately, mold can grow on many surfaces such as: wood, carpet, insulation, dust, fabric, and wallpaper. So long as moisture, oxygen, and darkness are present, mold can continue to thrive.

However, the professionals here at SERVPRO^® of Novato/San Rafael/Sausalito are IICRC certified and we work efficiently and effectively to remove every trace of mold in your building. We begin by removing moisture from your indoor property, then we isolate the contaminated area, we suppress the dust, remove any materials and put them in bags, and we clean the affected area. We are molds worst nightmare and we do it quickly to lower the time your business is interrupted by this unwanted guest.

Have a Mold Problem? Call Us Today (415) 479-2900

Restoration from Storm Damage

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

This locker room was one of many rooms in the building that needed water removal.

This winter season, we did not experience that much rain. However, the weather channel is predicting that beginning in March, we will experience rain in the bay area. Therefore, we must make sure that our properties are protected. Recently, our team got a call about a flood in their building and we went to go remove the water with our industrial size pump. We then had to monitor and remove any trace of water to avoid further damage done to the floor of this building. During this process, as you can see in our photo, we used dehumidifiers and other machines to make sure that the area is completely dried. Eventually the job took a few days to complete given the size of the damage. But we made also made sure that the property was restored, “Like it never even happened.” However, we also would like to state that prevention is key and that having your best interests in mind. We would like it if a disaster of this scale does not occur to your property. But if it does, then contact us and we will minimize the interruption in your life.

SERVPRO^® representatives are faster to any size disaster.  

5 Tips for Employee Safety for Small Businesses

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Small businesses, especially start-ups need to make sure that before operations occur, safety should be of upmost importance. Although this may seem like a given, there are instances when businesses do not follow certain requirements set by OSHA, get an employee injured and set themselves up the legal repercussions.  Therefore, here are 5 steps that we take here at SERVPRO of Novato/San Rafael/Sausalito that can protect you and avoid most accidents in the workplace.

Easy Access to your Safety Rules

Every job site or office needs to make their rules visible or easily accessible by their employees instead of just containing them within a rule book. This can work as a friendly reminder for your team members in case a situation arises.

Involve Your Employees

If you give a damn, your employees will too. Make sure that you are sincere and mindful of your employee needs and that their safety is not just for your protection but because you would not want any accident to befall them.

Communication

Although it is important to effectively communicate safety rules. It is even more important to emphasis that other employees should communicate quickly if they see something potentially unsafe or a hostile work environment. Communication is key!

Avoid Making Shortcuts

Getting things done quickly may look attractive with productivity, however, these conditions and work environment can increase the likelihood of workplace injuries. Therefore, productivity should not be at the expense of your employees.

Practice an Emergency Ready Plan

Make sure you have a plan for your employees that follows federal protocol about any situation that might arise. In the event of a natural disaster, contact your local SERVPRO and we can get you started on one of our own Emergency Ready Profiles (ERP). This complimentary plan would be easily accessible through an app on your mobile device that would contain the necessary information in the event of a disaster.

Safety should be the priority of every business. Prevention is key, and we have your back.  

High Chance of Storms this Year 2020

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

Damage from a storm? Contact us!

According to an article written by Reuters, an international team of scientists forecast that there is an 80% that El Niño will make its way across the Pacific. Which means we might in for a chaotic winter season here in the bay area. There is a high probability that if El Niño will flood our streets which could lead to water damage to our properties.

Prevention is Key

At SERVPRO® of Novato/San Rafael/Sausalito we provide services such as our Emergency Ready Profile, an app from SERVPRO® that enables you to list out critical information needed in the event of an emergency. If you are interested, please feel free to contact us through the number provided below. Through this free of charge service, we want you to know that we have your best interest in mind, and we can equip you with the tools needed in the event of intense weather conditions. Also be sure to follow this blog which will be updated at least weekly and follow us on social media so that way in case you need restoration services, we are only a click away.

SERVPRO® professionals are known to be faster to any size disaster, we take pride into making your damaged property look, “Like it never even happened.”

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Six Ways to Protect Your Home Before A Storm

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

A roof that needs repairs.

1. Reduce flying debris

If you see any tree branches near or hanging over your structure, the best solution may be to cut them off. You can also secure weak and loose fencing and anchor any heavy objects around your yard into the ground.

2. Replacing windows and exterior doors

If possible, consider replacing your windows and outside doors with pressure and impact resistance improvements so that you can have better protection from the outside force of a storm.

3. Inspect and repair your roof

Inspect your roof and overhang to look for signs of wear or damage. This is crucial to prevent water from entering through the cracks and damages your ceilings, causing mold.

4. Check caulking

Make sure the caulking around your windows and doors are in good shape and not cracked or broken. If there are any gaps, make sure to get a caulk gun to fill up holes around pipes or wires that enter your building. This will reduce the risk of leaks from wind-driven rain.

5. Inspect carports and other attached structures

Have porches, carports, entryway canopies, and storage sheds inspected to make sure they are firmly attached and in good condition.

6. Create an inventory list

This can help you out when filing an insurance claim.

Taking these preventative measures can help you before a storm hits. However, if your property does suffer damage from a storm. Our SERVPRO® of Novato/San Rafael/Sausalito team of professionals are either a click or call away.

Learn more: disastersafety.org

Do you Have a Plan In Case of Emergency?

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

Download the SERVPRO® App today!

According to FEMA, 40% of Businesses do not reopen after sustaining a disaster. Although, we do not plan for disasters to occur, the unfortunate truth is that they could. Therefore, as a nationwide company we have an app that is available for download to help you create a plan in case an emergency occurs.

Introducing the SERVPRO® Emergency Ready Profile.

This is a free resource that we recommend each business takes advantage of. We make a detailed report of your facility with critical information such as emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations, emergency exits, emergency locations for staff, and much more. Information that only you have access to and for your usage in the event of an emergency. The ERP also provides a guide to help you back into your building, which minimizes the amount of time your business could stay inactive.

SERVPRO® of Novato/San Rafael/Sausalito

Contact Us To Get Started!

(415) 479-2900

This Home Was Destroyed During a Wildfire

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

Home visited that was destroyed by fire.

We speak a lot about fire prevention but there are times where natural disasters occur and a storm can devastate your property. Recently, we experienced the destruction of Kincade, which destroyed many homes and businesses. Fortunately, there are no reported casualties due to quick decision making and mass evacuation of people north of Santa Rosa, CA.

Many surrounding counties, such as Marin, suffered blackouts and even we had to undergo a week with no power. However, we at SERVPRO are always prepared and were there along with teams from other counties and states to lend a hand and help businesses and homeowners restore their property or protect them from harmful air pollution.

Although, there are times when our representatives arrive to a location that has been completely decimated by a fire. In this case, an entire home was destroyed leaving a family with the decision of relocating while the repairing process began.

Prevention and planning are key for ones' safety during a storm that is out of our control. 

The Restoration of an Educational Facility

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

A school needed our help and we came in with the equipment needed to get the job done

Recently, we were contacted by a school that needed our services due to a minor flood that damaged a huge portion of their floor. We came in and inspected the damage and found that although there were many rooms that were affected, we had the tools and resources to get the job done quickly and efficiently so that we could make it look, “Like it never even happened.” To get this done we sent in our best team to investigate the flooring, check for mold, and begin the drying process using our specialized equipment. After drying, we use a device to check for any moisture or mold again to make sure that no additional damage would ensue.

If you need experts in the restoration industry, contact your neighborly

SERVPRO® of South San Rafael/Sausalito

Why SERVPRO is a Leader in the Restoration Industry

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

As leaders in the cleanup and restoration industry, you’ve probably seen or heard our national advertisements. However, you may not have heard of us here in Marin County where we would like to inform you about our best practices procedures to ensure that if disaster strikes, your business or home is taken care of.

Disasters involving water and mold are never easy to process and our goal is to make it easy on the clients to avoid any further frustration. In many cases, we inspect the damages and communicate our findings to all stakeholders by using an estimating software that is preferred by insurance companies due to its standardized pricing and fair approvals of estimates. This process can take days and we utilize this system to make sure that we gain your approval prior to proceeding with services. Disasters may arrive and destroy quickly. However, we at SERVPRO® like to take our time to assess the situation to do a good job in mitigation and restoration.

Here at SERVPRO® of South San Rafael/Sausalito we are committed to giving our clients a positive experience.

Be safe and thank you for choosing SERVPRO®

How We Protect your Belongings During Storm Damage

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

December is on average the wettest season in the north bay. However, we are not in the clear skies yet, as the rain will persist during the month of January. Therefore, I would like to discuss the process of contents or item restoration. When a storm hits your home, the devastation may leave numerous locations in need of restoration or repairing. That is why we also conduct organized and efficient pack-outs for all belongings in your property. This ensures a quicker remodeling process and protects your items from any potential damage from a coming storm or from on-site work. We take your belongings to our warehouse where we will cleanup and remove any water damaged using our Esporta IS4000. This machine can restore up to level 4 water damaged items. We remove any water and leave it to dry with our specialize heaters and dehumidifiers.

For any storm related situations, feel free to contact us and our service professionals will help you through the process.

SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito

(415) 479-2900

Enroll in the Emergency Ready Plan

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

We come to your building and help you create the Ready Plan.

Is your building prepared for a catastrophe?

SERVPRO® of South San Rafael/Sausalito offers the emergency ready plan for such an occasion. We want you to know that we want you to be safe in the event of an accident. Therefore, we provide a free service to our clients so that they may be able to react quickly during a storm event, such as water or fire.

The ERP is accessed through a mobile app and is created by one of our Sales/Marketing Representatives to ensure that all the exits and shutoffs are located and accessible. 

Businesses big or small can benefit from the Emergency Ready Plan and we would like you all to stay safe and be prepared and, “ready for whatever happens.^TM”

Do's and Don'ts When Water Strikes Your Home

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage at an office.

Here are a few tips you should do and not do in the event that water strikes your home.

DO:

• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible with by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

 DON’T:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water.  Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining.
• Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
• Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

When you want a superb water removal service. Trust the trained technicians here at SERVPRO^® of South San Rafael/Sausalito. We work to get your home looking, "Like it never even happened."

 Call 24/7: (415) 479-2900

Choose SERVPRO®

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO® Logo

Choosing a restoration company when a disaster strikes your home is a difficult choice to make. Trust is one of the biggest decision makers and we work hard to establish that trust to you and our communities. That is why we are at your service 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, because disasters never stop and we are always prepared. When fire, flood, or mold attacks your home, we at SERVPRO^® of South San Rafael/Sausalito restore by mitigating the damage created by unpredictable natural disasters. When it comes to these services, we want your office or home to look, “Like it never even happened.”

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry with more than 1300 Franchises Nationwide, 79 Large Loss Response Team, and a team of professionals who are highly trained and certified in IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification). Which sets the standards for best practices in the cleaning and restoration industries.

Need Service?

Call us here at SERVPRO^® of South San Rafael/Sausalito . (415) 479-2900

Clean your Gutters to Prevent Leaks

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Water leaks are the worst. This rainy season, prepare yourself by cleaning out the gunk in your gutters. Here at SERVPRO® of South San Rafael/Sausalito, we are in the business of prevention and mitigation. Therefore, here are some steps you can take to DIY gutter cleaning. 

What you'll need:

• Ladder
• Buckets or a tarp
• Trowel or gutter scoop
• Garden hose
• Spray nozzle
• Wire hooks
• Work gloves or latex gloves
• Gutter hardware

First thing you’d want to do is place the ladder squarely and safely on the floor. Then place a tarp or buckets underneath for collecting debris. Put on your latex gloves and then your work gloves to keep your hands dry. Afterwards, grab the debris you can clogging the gutters and throw them to the tarp below or place them in a bucket. The next step would be to use the garden hose with the spray nozzle attached to flush any remaining debris in the gutters. If you don’t see the same amount of water is releasing from the drain, it might mean that you have a clog. In this case you’d want to place the hose at full power from the bottom of your gutter to shoot water in the opposite direction.  The last thing would be to check the gutter and see if it is sloped correctly to remove the possibility of standing water.  

Taking these steps will assure that you have a nice clean flow of water when the rain falls.

If you need restoration services from a leader in the industry with nationwide support. Then call us at (415) 479-2900. Call us anytime!

We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

No Job is too Big

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Here to Help®

Disasters are unpredictable and can bring in huge losses. However, here at SERVPRO® of South San Rafael/Sausalito, no job is too big for us to handle. Recently, we experienced the devastation of the Kincade fire, my duty involved assisting out technicians install air purifiers in huge commercial buildings such as hospitals, retailers, or banks. In one of those jobs I helped in setting up 15 industrial sized purifiers in different floors so that the hospital staff and patients were protected from the harmful air pollutants that were released due to the fires. With a corporate backing, SERVPRO® Industries LLC, we have the resources of 79 Large Loss Teams Nationwide and 1300+ franchises with qualified mitigation and restoration professionals who are, Here to Help®.

Need restoration services for a commercial building? Call us at (415) 479-2900 and a representative will help you through the process. 

How to Prevent Water Damage

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

Winter is coming. And with it, the rainy season begins. Therefore, it is crucial to take preventative measures to avoid any water damage done to your home. Even in California your pipes can freeze which doesn’t only prevent hot water or any water, but also leaves your pipes vulnerable for rupture which means more damage done to your entire house. How is this prevented?

Check your pipes and keep them insulated by either surrounding them with either foam or any other insulator material. Use electrical tape to wrap the insulator around your pipe. For pipes that are hard to reach, use hot water to run through the pipes which assist in warming up the pipes.

Another preventative measure you can take is by caulking and sealing your windows in your home.

Inspect your home and count the windows that need to be caulked. Having a caulking gun that you can buy at your local hardware store is needed. However, determining what type of caulk you use will determine on your specific home needs. I would recommend asking a professional. Things to consider as well, your timing of the project and the weather conditions. Caulk may take 24 hours to dry and a rainstorm could ruin your progress. Then make sure you clean and remove any old caulk before applying the new caulk. Smooth it out with a popsicle stick or plastic spoon. Then wait for 24 hours and your home becomes better insulated.

Consider how long it has been when someone has inspected your roof.

This is very important and dangerous if not handled carefully. I would advise hiring a professional to inspect and make any necessary changes to keep water from leaking through your roof. Also note the condition your gutter is in. Remove any clutter to allow the proper drainage of water.

There are many more preventative measures but taking these steps will secure your home a little more than just riding the season out.

For any professional restoration services, contact us here at (415) 479-2900.

SERVPRO^® of South San Rafael/Sausalito

Introducing our Esporta iS4000

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

Esporta iS4000

The SERVPRO^® tagline used in our national advertising is “Like it never even happened.” As a locally owned franchise here at SERVPRO^® of South San Rafael/Sausalito we strive to do business this way to ensure your satisfaction. To do this we must invest in technology that helps us as leaders in the restoration industry. That is why I would like to present our Esporta iS4000 Wash System.

Introducing

The Esporta iS4000 is a premium washing machine. It is unlike any tradition commercial washing machine in the market due to its unique patented hydraulic spin system that keeps your items safe during the washing process. This machine has the power to restore items that have been damaged by water. From Category 1-3, which consists of minor unsanitary to the most unsanitary agents including harmful bacteria or fungi. It can even clean damage due to heavy smoke/soot or mold. It can handle even delicate items such as leather and porcelain.

Contact Us!

Do any of your items/contents need to be restored? Call us at (415) 479-2900 and one of our professionals will be happy to help!

Ten Things I Needed During a Power Outage

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Top Ten!

What I Needed During a Power Outage

October was full of unpredictable circumstances. The Kincade fire grew at an exponential rate and endangered our neighborhoods. PG&E had to take drastic precautionary measures by shutting off the power lines to around a million residents of both Sonoma, Napa, and Marin county. Fortunately, we had government support through a declaration of National Emergency which led to the dispatching of firefighters from neighboring cities, counties, and states. These brave people contained the fire and prevented major catastrophe.

The outage was an unfortunate circumstance and there were specific items that I wish I had in my possession to make the experience easier. The next time an outage occurs I want to be prepared and share with you the top ten essential items I needed during a power outage.

Top Ten List:

1. First Aid Kit: Safety first!
2. Powered Portable Charger(s): Cell phones or laptops are essential for daily living. Having a communication device during an emergency can be a lifesaver. Also, passing the time online when there is no power can make the process easier.
3. Batteries: AA, AAA, or a backup battery are useful to power items that require them. Such as a flashlight or have in case you possess items that require batteries. Such as a flashlight, clocks, or radios.
4. Flashlight: A flashlight is important for visibility at night. During a power outage, it can be difficult to move around. While I recommend having a LED flashlight, any normal light is useful to have.
5. Gas: During the outage, many people had informed me that they were low on gas and therefore confined to their area until the power came back on or until someone can help them get to a gas station with power to be able to transfer gas back to their vehicles. Having a car filled with gas can also be essential for rapidly evacuating during an emergency.
6. Cooler: The first thing I thought about during the outage was whether my food was going to spoil since our refrigerator was no longer running. Having a cooler could have erased this worry by transferring the food that would’ve spoiled without refrigeration. Of course, having a cooler alone won’t work in the preservation of your food.
7. Manual Can opener: Can openers can be a huge aid when you need to open your non-perishable foods.
8. Ice: This is the trickiest item on the list to have since a fire and outage are unpredictable. Ice does not have a long-life span as it melts easily and without refrigeration or a permanent cold environment, ice is a valuable resource that one needs to get an upper-hand when buying since it is the first thing to go at the grocery stores.
9. Canned Food or Non-perishables: Being that food is a necessity for survival. Having food that does not perish without electricity can determine life or death. Well at least, that you don’t spend the days starving at least. Food includes: bars, nuts, candies, peanut butter, chips, beef jerky and much more.
10. Bottled Water: The most important resource to have access to during a crisis. Preferably not stored in plastic but only if needed. Just make sure you don’t leave the bottles unattended in the car with sunlight directly hitting them.

Disclaimer:

This list is intended for short term emergencies and everyone has different needs therefore different priorities. That was my list of ten things I needed during the power outage. Hopefully, it helps. 

Brought to you by SERVPRO^® of South San Rafael/Sausalito.

How You Can Help Us Provide A Better Service

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® Tagline "Like it never even happened."

At SERVPRO^® of South San Rafael/Sausalito our main goal is to provide an outstanding experience for our clients. SERVPRO^® began in 1967 as a painting business and has grown into a leader in the restoration cleanup industry. As a locally owned franchise servicing our community, we have a responsibility to uphold this legacy as a premier cleaning and restoration company. Our team consists of people who live in your neighborhoods and with the training and experience to make your damage “Like it never even happened.”

We know choosing the right restoration service provider can be costly and bothersome, however, we want you to know that we take your feedback very seriously and for us to proudly represent the vision of the SERVPRO^® Corporation we would appreciate your input and experience.

Contact us either by phone: (707) 479-2900

Or by visiting our social media pages (links below).

https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROssanrafaelsausalito/?ref=bookmarks

https://www.instagram.com/SERVPROsomarin/

https://twitter.com/SERVPROSomarin

A SERVPRO Story

11/12/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Corporate Headquarters Building

SERVPRO has had a long history dating back to 1967. Where it was a small painting business located in Sacramento, CA. The owners, Ted and Doris Isaacson decided in 1969 to transform the company into a franchisor of cleanup and restoration specialists leading to the sale of their first franchise. SERVPRO would grow exponentially and in 1979 they acquired 175 Franchises from the Bristol-Meyers Domesticare Division. During this time the owners moved to Gallatin, Tennessee where the headquarters is located today. SERVPRO has grown to around 1,500 franchises nationwide and has been ranked #1 consecutively in the Restoration Services category by Entrepreneur Magazine since 2005.

As a local owned franchise at SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito, we have a long history of being a leader and pioneer of the restoration industry. Which means that we have a responsibility to the consumers to carry this legacy by helping you with minimizing or mitigating any damage done to your home or workplace. For services, contact us at the local level by phone: (415) 479-2900.

Stay Strong Marin!

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

This is an extremely stressful time. Once again, we are experiencing the horror of a massive fire. The Kincade fire began its destruction five days ago and has expanded to 75,000 acres of land. We are fortunate and thankful to the Firefighters and other first responder teams who have been working tirelessly to contain the fire and keep us from harms way. Their efforts have prevented fatalities as of this moment. Preparation has also come with a cost however I live in Marin County and the majority of us have had our power shut off for four days now without any notification as to when the power may turn on. PG&E is working to restore the power by monitoring the wind patterns to see if we may be at risk by faulty power lines. Without power our food storage was the first thing to go. Ice was scarce and many people that relied on refrigeration have had to eat out. Businesses outside of Marin have been busy with people, locals and evacuees from Geyserville and Windsor. Businesses have also had to shut down due to the lack of power leaving those without work as well.

We are being kept in the dark and we can only hope that this fire is extinguished as soon and safely as possible. When this happens, we will need to restore and rebuild what we lost. If you need assistance during that process of getting back into everyday life, then contact a professional here at SERVPRO South San Rafael/Sausalito and we will be glad to help. Until then, take care, be safe, and avoid long outside exposure for the time being.  

Tel: (415) 479-2900

5 Safety Tips for your Fire Escape Plan

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

Be safe and prepared with an exit strategy.

October is Fire Prevention Month and our team at SERVPRO San Rafael/Sausalito have followed these safety tips shared by the National Fire Protection Association through this year’s National Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!”

Please be safe and follow these tips so that you and your family can escape the fire safely.

1. It is important to know the layout of your home. Make an escape plan by drawing a map that shows all your windows and doors, which could potentially be your exit strategy.

Fact: One-third of American households who made an estimate thought they would have at least 6 minutes before a fire becomes life threatening. Unfortunately, the time available could be as little as one to two minutes, according to Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of Outreach and Advocacy.

2. Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows leading outside can be easily opened.

Fact: A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Make sure to close all doors behind you when exiting a room. Also, check to make sure a door is not hot, that can be an indicator of a fire on the other side.

3. Have an outside meeting place (like a tree, light pole or mailbox) a safe distance from the home where everyone should meet.

Fact: Escape planning and practice can help reduce the time to get everyone out. It is best to call the Fire Department when outside your home.

4. Practice your escape plan during the day and night with everyone in your home at least twice a year using different ways out. Be extra mindful to teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.

Fact: While 71% of Americans have an escape plan in case of a fire, only 47% of those have practiced it.

5. If the smoke alarm sounds, your first thought should be to get out. Never go back inside for people or pets.

Fact: Only 8% said that their first thought on hearing a smoke alarm would be to get out. Smoke inhalation is also very dangerous. If you need to go through smoke, get low and go under the smoke till you reach your way out.

For more information or resources regarding fire, electrical, or related hazards, please feel free to visit the National Fire Protection Association at https://www.nfpa.org/.

5 Steps to Water Damage Prevention

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage is one of the toughest problems anyone can face. No matter what the quantity of water it can cause major damage to your home, your wallet and even your health. Water is one of the most powerful elements in nature and its effects can be felt long after the water is removed. It also can encourage mold growth in carpets, baseboard and even walls which can put your family's health in danger. The following five tips can help save your family and your home from this serious problem.

1. Protect your home. One of the most common causes of water damage is Mother Nature. Severe storms and high winds can compromise a home's structure and allow water to seep in. Check the outside of your home for places where water can get in. These areas include places such as the roof, gutters and foundation. Make it a point to regularly check all of these areas and address any cracks, warps or suspicious areas immediately.

2. Check your pipes. Another common source of water damage is the plumbing in and outside your home. Visually inspect taps, faucets, pipes and hoses for cracks, leaks and other problems. Don't forget to pay special attention to appliances that are plumbed into your water system such as dishwashers and refrigerators with ice makers. It only takes a few minutes to check these connections and those few minutes could save you a lot of time down the road.

3. Inspect your bathroom. Bathrooms are, by their very nature, a place where water needs to be checked. The grout, caulking and sealant around sinks and tubs can deteriorate over time. Replacing these sealants takes very little time and costs only a few dollars but this small chore can help you keep on top of any potential problems and allows you t nip them in the bud.

4. Ventilation is the key. Many homes are now fitted with ventilation fans in rooms like the kitchen and bathroom This helps keep steam, humidity and water in general from building up and causing a problem. If your home already has these fans, then don't forget to use them regularly. If not, many home improvement stores offer kits for installation and many even offer to have professionals come out to fit it for a reasonable price.

5. Keep an eye on tiles. Tiles floors and walls are coming throughout many homes. They can also provide a way for water to get in and trapped between the tile and the wall or floor those tiles are meant to protect. Inspect the tiles around dishwashers, washing machines, sinks, tubs and other appliances or fixtures where there is a lot of water. If you see any warping or discoloration, replace the tiles and check the floor or wall beneath them for damage.

By completing these routine inspections and tasks, you can help to prevent serious water damage inside your home.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Mitchell_Baines/1108290 

Fixing Flood Damage

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

Floods are caused by heavy rains caused by strong storms and downpours. But flood damage left behind after the heavy downpour is great and very expensive to mitigate. At a moments notice, floods can cause extreme damage to buildings and objects. It is a terrifying disaster which results into loss of of lives and destruction of property amounting to millions. Fixing flood damage is problematic and expensive. Damages resulting from natural occurrences can be restored by an insurance company. Only if you have got special flood insurance coverage that is insured separately from a home owners insurance policy.

How do we fix flood damage? There are various methods and options that are helpful when executed correctly. Firstly, flood damage may lead to development of mold spores and mildew. These molds are dangerous and toxic to our respiratory system and it needs the services from a well regarded flood company. It is not advisable to deal with molds by yourself because of health risks they are attached with. Ensure that all wetted areas of your room are cleaned up to dryness. Disinfect all the affected areas to prevent the rapture of water and air borne diseases. This is because flood water contains pathogens and harmful disease causing bacteria.

Secondly, household items can be damaged completely by floods and it needs quick response in drying them up. The most affected parts are the kitchen items, bedding, crouches and the carpets among others. This should be left to the professionals since most of these wetted items are contaminated with pathogens and mud. Let the experts fix the damage by cleaning up the upholstery and removing mud off the households. All books and anything materialistic must be dried properly to avoid crumpling. In case of carpets, let the experts measure the level of damage and if it is critical then buying new one is the best resolution.

Thirdly, upholding the safety of your health above anything is essential. The essence of the flood experts is to offer the optimal solutions to problems caused by floods. Destruction of electrical appliances is another flood damage that should never be handled carelessly. Flood damage is diverse and vehicles are not left behind. Anything electrical should be left to the technicians for servicing so as to avoid electrocution. If you have special flood insurance coverage, then flood-damaged vehicles can be compensated. Never handle flood damaged electrical devices on your own.

Fourthly, flood damage leaves at least everything in your house wet and what results is the development of bacteria and other harmful viruses. Make sure that you have dried the items well including the floor. The floor should be thoroughly cleaned. For concrete floors, it is a good idea to scrub it with bleach before coating with an oil-based paint. The same applies to plywood floors where the paint is used to destroy all bacteria existence. In addition to this, you can crank up air conditioning with enough house ventilation. A dehumidifier is also helpful in cases of extremely humid air. All affected walls must be replaced to seal out the development of molds.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Frank_A_Black/1039882 

Summer Fire Safety: How to Have a Controlled Camp Fire

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

Whether it is at a festival or other tourist event, camping can be a cheap way to enjoy a relaxing holiday in the summer time. Normally most camping sites don't allow camp fires due to health and safety, however if you can show you are prepared and will have a controlled camp fire, many camping site operators when asked may allow you to have a one in a fire pit.

If a camp site already has a pit make sure you clear out all of the debris before lighting your own one, left over debris can be dangerous as plastics or other toxic materials could be in the debris. A safe pit should be at least 3-4 meters of bare ground surrounded with stones. Having such a large bare area massively reduces the risk of grass fires and makes the whole process much more controlled.

Before even lighting or collecting wood, you must make sure you are correctly prepared with a fire proof bar or stick; A bucket of water or extinguisher and a clear plan of action is needed in case it becomes out of control.

Things you need to think about before lighting are, where a phone is in case you require the fire department, are all exits away from the fire clear, is there any object located around the pit at risk of being ignited. If you ever have any doubt about the proximity of surrounding objects check beforehand. It is not uncommon for trees or plastic structures around fires to become damaged and in some cases ignite during large camp fires.

Only when you are 100% sure that you have negated all potential risks can you light the kindling. After it is ignited you must always keep watch for pieces that fallout. These should either be pushed back into the middle of the pit, with a fire proof bar or doused in water if it is too close to the to get near. A high number of grass and forest fires around the world are caused by ignited wood falling onto dry grass or leaves.

After you are finished with the pit, you should make sure all embers are away from the pit edge. This stops any risk of the embers igniting the grass or leaves surrounding the fire pit. If you have a bucket of water dousing the fire is a good idea. You should supervise until it is cool, normally this can take 1-2 hours to cool down, during this time it is a good idea to check the fire every 5-10 minutes to make sure it does not reignite.

If you treat camp fires with the respect they deserve they are a really nice way to spend a cool summer's night, above all make sure you are prepared and follow all instructions made by the camp site operators.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Darren_Drogan/1360550

Summer Fire Safety - BBQ Preparation

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

The sun is out and it's time to barbecue, whether you plan to resurrect your old BBQ from the shed or purchase a shiny new one. However, it is important to remember the risk that fire can pose; so before you start grilling, take note of this important BBQ fire safety advice.

Fire Safety is Key

Before you even light the flames on your BBQ you need to think about a number of factors. Where are you going to place it? Which fuel are you using (natural gas, charcoal or propane)? How will you extinguish the flames in an emergency?

Where you place your BBQ is really important. Ideally it has to be in a clear space, with no overhanging branches or nearby debris which could potentially catch fire. You should also try and place it out of the wind so there's no danger of flames being blown on to the chef. It's also key to ensure that the unit is on solid ground with no risk of tipping or rolling.

Which fuel are you using in your BBQ? Charcoal fires are the most common to cook on during the summer and are located in fire pits, barbecue units and disposable barbecues. Make sure that you only use enough charcoal to cover the base of the BBQ and that you only light it when the coals are cold. Keep excess charcoal in a safe place away from the fire.

If you use a natural gas or propane fuel source there are a number of other factors to consider. Always use a new gas cylinder every summer as cold temperatures during the winter months can damage the casing and remember to change the gas fuel source outdoors or in a very well-ventilated area. Before you light your BBQ for the first time take some time to check the gas set-up for leaks - you can do this by brushing soapy water around the joints of the pipe work, if you see any bubbles this indicates a gas leak.

Prepare a bucket of cold water or sand and keep this close to the barbecue during its use. If the flames are out of control (and you can't simply turn off the gas supply) don't hesitate to douse the flames - even if it means your food will be ruined - as fire safety is always paramount. Enjoy having fun in the sun and remember to stay safe when using fire outside to cook delicious food.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Darren_B_Drogan/1112444

We Specialize in Water Damage!

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito, we specialize in water damage restoration. If you have recently experienced a water damage loss due to a recent storm or flood, we can help. We understand the stress that comes when your home or business has been affected by a flood or storm.

Here is some top reason why you should choose SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito to restore your property when tragedies strike your home or business.

• Prevent further structural damage or mold
• We have the right tools
• Fixing water damages yourself can be dangerous and exhausting
• Prevent water damages to your home and belonging
• We can get rid of bad odors
• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Experience and certified technicians

A water damage can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

Call us today 415-479-2900!

Basic Tips For Storm Preparedness

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane season has proven to be an active 2008 season. Even if you do not live in an area that can be directly impacted by a hurricane, you may be affected by the severe weather conditions that result from the storm. Because we are all affected by severe weather activity, we should be prepared when events take place.

One important area of concern during a severe storm is our ability to keep our food safe. When severe weather strikes we are often left with no electricity. It is very possible that you will have a power outage to occur. Because we need to be prepared during bad weather, we need to follow a few safety tips such as:

• You should ensure that you have enough water for you and your family to drink. Store plenty of water in clean plastic or glass containers. It is recommended that at a minimum you should store at least one gallon of water per person per day. If the weather conditions are hot, then you may need to double this amount per person. Additional water will be needed for cooking, bathing and other household needs.
• Prepare water for storage and later use by adding four drops of chlorine bleach per quart of water (about 16 drops of chlorine per gallon), then stir the water to thoroughly mix.
• Seal water containers and label them as purified drinking water. Place the date on the water container and store them in a cool, dark place. Purified water stored in this way should be safe for long periods of time such as five years or longer.
• Prepare to have a three-day supply of food for your family to carry you through a short-term disaster situation. Choose foods that do not require refrigeration and if possible, require little water for preparation.
• Some ready-to-eat foods that should be considered are: canned meats, canned vegetables, canned fruit, juices, and soup. Some high-energy foods that should be considered are: peanut butter, jelly, crackers dried fruits, and jerky. Children will also enjoy having some hard candy and cereal bars available.

There are additional items that your family may need to have on hand during a short-term weather related disaster situation. Some of these items are:

• Radio - battery powered with extra batteries
• Flashlight - with extra batteries
• Candles
• Manual can opener
• Utility knife
• Plastic plates, cups, utensils
• Paper towels
• Plastic trash bags with ties
• Moist towelettes
• Chlorine bleach, cleaning supplies
• Personal hygiene items
• Blanket for each family member
• First aide kit
• Camp stove, fuel, lighter

There may be other special needs that your family may need to have available, such as diapers, baby formula, and medications.

For more information on individual, family and community preparedness, see the FEMA website at fema.gov/areyouready giving you a step-by-step guide to citizen preparedness.

Article Source:

https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Shirley_McNeal/214788

Commercial Losses - Fire Control and Suppression Systems Can Prevent Financial Loss

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

ire alarm systems are required by law in almost every commercial and industrial place of business. There are few exceptions to this rule. Deciding which type of fire alarm system and suppression system is rarely left up to the business owner or property owner. Specific alarm systems and monitoring panels will be determined by the local authorities.

Even though building codes and fire codes will dictate the type of system needing to be installed, these requirements are strictly the bare minimum that the local jurisdictions and state government mandate. Frequently the bare minimum will still result in vast amounts of property damage. For this reason it is always important to inquire of the fire alarm installation company how best to improve on the fire codes with regards to the installed fire suppression system.

If the building or facility is being erected, going the extra mile by installing additional fire prevention measures will lower the chances of extensive property loss when a fire does occur. For proper installation of a new fire alarm and suppression system or improving a current fire control system, contracting with a professional and competent installation company will need to be arranged. With new construction, this is taken care of by the general contractor overseeing the entire construction project. If the building is already established and occupied, then any improvements to the fire alarm system will most likely be set into motion by the property owner or property manager.

Fortunately fire codes do not change drastically or frequently, but if the codes do change, occasionally those structures currently established may not need to upgrade the current fire suppression system due to being grandfathered. One exception to this rule may be when the property is sold.

Local or state law may dictate that in order to complete the real estate transaction the existing fire suppression system, including the control panel, may need to be updated. Should this be the case, the cost can be surprising. The expense of upgrading or modernizing the fire control components will need to be taken into account along with the details of the real estate transaction. Many real estate agencies and service will not always be aware of specifics of this type.

It is recommended that the sale of the commercial property be contingent upon a fire inspection. Many professional and experienced fire alarm installation firms can be utilized in this manner. Without a satisfactory inspection, the new property owner may be fined and ordered to improve or bring the current suppression system up to date which can easily reach into the thousands.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Daniel_P_Elliott/209996 

Tips for Preparing for Severe Weather

5/20/2019 (Permalink)

At the Store

Every time someone goes to the store, they should buy a few canned goods and some batteries. Candles are not safe in any storm as wind can knock a lit candle down and possibly start a fire. The sturdier the flashlight is the longer it will last. Canned and bottled drinks are also good to store just in case. Packaged snacks will tide most anyone over until the power comes back on or in case someone is stuck inside a room. A weather radio or a regular radio with batteries keeps people informed. All of these can be stored in an inexpensive plastic storage box.

At Home or Work

A small room without windows in an interior part of the house or office is the best place to seek safety from a tornado. The room should have someplace to store supplies. At home, this could be a bathroom or a closet. A small container holding supplies fits nicely in to a cabinet. At the last minute, throw some pillows in so there is someplace soft to sit or lay a weary head. Office buildings have stairwells and these are the closest and safest places to be during a bad wind storm. It is important that no one pushes anyone else as people descend the stairs. And always be mindful of those who want to go back and get their cell phones accidentally left on a desk.

In a Vehicle on the Road

Cars are most likely to be tossed in to the air and thrown to the ground. The best bet is to pull the car over the side of the road, get out and lay down in a ditch or under an overpass. These are the safest places to be when a twister is either ahead of you or behind you. An overpass will protect you from falling debris. At the very least, a ditch is low enough to the ground where a tornado can't quite pick you up and toss you into the next county.

About Animals

Animals instinctively know when trouble lurks. They are closer to the ground than people and can feel the vibrations. If your pet is acting a little odd, check the weather. Bring all animals - outdoor and indoor ones - to the safe room in the house. Try to keep them as calm as possible. Family pets become family members and leaving them outside in severe weather is cruel. Everyone can be safe if they know what to do before a storm arrives. Make plans and make sure everyone knows what they are.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Rachel_Bryan/1455791

Prepare for Spring Storms - Tips for Business Owners and Home Owners

5/17/2019 (Permalink)

Spring is a great time of the year. Brown grass turns green. Trees and bushes burst with buds. Flowers poke up through the soil. But not all is this serene. Spring also brings lightning storms, tornadoes, floods and hurricanes.

Are you prepared for the losses that could occur in your home? If you are a business owner, have you taken precautions to help keep your employees from being at risk? Taking that one step further, are you prepared so you don't have to shut down your business for a few days, weeks or even possibly permanently?

For your business: 

• Review your Evacuation and Take Cover procedures with your employees.
• Review your Business Continuity Plan so this information is fresh in your mind.
• Determine if your asset inventory is up to date.
• Check the exterior of your building. Secure loose siding, shutters and shingles.
• Inspect trees and trim branches that are brushing against the building or could fall and take down a power line.
• Inspect the interior of your facility for structural integrity. If you discover any problems areas, contact a general contractor.
• When a severe storm is imminent, ensure that you have plenty of plywood, nails, tarps and any other supplies appropriate for your area of the country and the type of storm developing.
• Purchase a generator if you don't already have one.

These easy steps will help you ensure everyone's safety and reduce the amount of damage you'll experience. Additionally, you'll most likely be able to be back in business much faster since you were properly prepared for the worst when it finally does happen.

For your home:

Purchase a generator. This may seem like a frivolous expense, but it can be used for so many different disasters. When there is a severe hurricane or tornado, you could be without power for weeks. Think of all the items in your house that require electricity: appliances, electronics, power tools, lights and heaters. Imagine not having a refrigerator or television for more than a couple hours. Now think of how your life will be if you are without them for days or even longer.

Other items to consider when preparing your residence for the spring storm season: 

• Talk to your family about your Take Cover and Fire Escape plans. Be sure to include even the youngest child. Talking about it when calm and not "in the moment" will give them a sense of security. Assign someone the responsibility of the family pet.
• Review your personal property, or home, inventory to ensure that all recently purchased items have been added. If they haven't, contact your inventory service provider to update your file.
• Call our insurance agent if you have made any major updates to your home in the past year. The worst time to find you are underinsured is when you're filing a claim.
• Inspect the exterior of your home and tack down any loose shingles, shutters or siding.
• Look at all of your trees and shrubs. Cut back any branches that are up against the house. Cut off or trim branches of trees that could fall on power lines.
• When you are facing a storm that requires extra reinforcement, purchase the supplies appropriate for your geographic area and the type of storm you are facing.

Home owner or business owner - or both - being prepared before the storm is bearing down will help you in many ways. You'll be at ease financially, emotionally and have a comfort level from knowing that you're ready.

Article Source:

https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Cindy_Hartman/199627

Fire Safety and You - Top 10 Fire Safety Habits to Live By

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Live a fire safe life-this is the constant tip of many firefighters and fire experts in this country. The only problem is that some people are just not aware on how to practice fire safety habits and how to avoid fire accidents that cause damages to properties and loss of lives.

The good news is that fire safety habits are simple and easy that anyone can make them a part of his daily life. To know the top habits to live by, here are the things that you should bear in mind:

1. Be careful in handling flammable and combustible materials.

You should always take the necessary precautions when handling anything that is flammable. Make sure you store them in a secure storage far from any combustible material.

2. Practice cautious cooking in the kitchen.

When cooking in the kitchen, it is advisable that you avoid wearing loose fitting clothing and that you always have a fire blanket or fire extinguisher ready in case of a grease fire. Never let children be involved with cooking tasks that involve the use of fire.

3. Keep fire starters and anything flammable out of children's and pets' reach.

Matches, lighters, and candles should be kept in places that children and pets cannot reach. Children are typically curious and if you are not careful, they can end up creating a big fire that can result in a tragedy.

4. Maintain electrical equipment properly.

As for electrical equipment, fire hazards include damaged electrical conductors, overloaded sockets and extension cords, faulty wirings, blown fuses, low quality electrical equipment, malfunction of electrical devices, and loose electrical connections.

Use only high quality electrical equipment and inspect them regularly to see any signs of defect or damage. If there is something wrong, have this repaired by a professional immediately. Avoid overloading sockets as well.

5. Use heating devices with care.

Heating devices especially space heaters that use gas and kerosene can start a fire if not used with proper precaution. Make sure you place them in a location that cannot be reached by children and that is far away from heat sources like furnace, stove or fireplace.

6. Know how to use fire safety devices.

It is essential to know how to use fire safety devices such as fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and fire hose so that when the time comes that there is a fire outbreak, you would know how to tackle a small incipient fire before it gets worse.

7. Learn what to do in case of fire.

Know the basic fire emergency procedures and share this knowledge with the rest of the family.

8. Do not leave burning candles unattended.

Candles should be put out before you leave or sleep. Place them in a location that is not near the window, sheets or curtains.

9. Douse cigarettes in water before disposal.

Smoking is another major cause of fires so it is necessary that you properly extinguish your cigarette before you dispose of it. Moreover, avoid smoking in bed and before you sleep.

10. Formulate a fire escape route for your home.

An escape route plan should easy and simple to understand and should be placed in every level of your home.

It is not that complicated to practice fire safety habits as long as you have the presence of mind and the determination to keep your family and home safe from a fire accident.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Ben_Griston/324634

8 Tips For Residential Fire Safety

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

We all want to keep our family and property safe from dangerous, deadly fires. But do many of us take time to ensure that we, in fact, are safe? Take time to employ these 8 tips for residential fire safety to keep your loved ones and pets out of harm's way.

Avoid Hazards - One of the best ways to prevent residential fires is to avoid certain habits and practices that can lead to blazes. A tried and true rule to always follow is to place all lighters and matches in high areas away from a child's reach. Also use caution when burning candles in the home and teach your children that both matches and lighters are not toys to be played with.

Have a Plan - Have a plan for you and your family on what to do if a fire does occur. Make sure to vary the plan based on where the fire occurs and what type of fire it is. When you have your strategy in place purchase the needed safety tools (IE. fire ladder, fire extinguisher) and place them in the designated areas. You will also want a plan on how to practice your skills to maintain your fire tools such as when to perform a fire extinguisher inspection.

Practice Your Plan - Having a plan in place in the event of a fire is only half of the job. In order for your family to be safe, they must feel comfortable on executing the plan. Take time to practice a fake fire in the home so every family member can rehearse the plan. It may be beneficial to do varying scenarios so that different approaches can be made.

Inspect Your Equipment - Make sure to perform a fire extinguisher inspection on a regular basis to ensure it is in proper working order.

Hire a Chimney Sweep - Have your chimney swept by a professional on a yearly basis preferable before the heating season. Creosote can build up in the flue leaving your chimney vulnerable to a fire.

Educate Yourself - Educate you and your family on basic fire safety skills. There are many educational books geared to children that cover the topic empowering them to make wise choices in the event of a fire in the home.

Alarm Your Home - Always have both a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector on each floor of the home. Test both regularly and replace batteries as needed. Carbon monoxide detectors often have an expiration date. To help me remember when the date is approaching, I used a black permanent marker to write the date on the bottom of the unit facing the floor so anytime I look up I can clearly see if the unit is near expiration.

Be Smart - Common sense can go a long way in overall fire safety in the home. Make sure you know the basics of how to protect you and your family from home fires. Also teach your children how to approach fire hazards using good judgment and practical knowledge.

Follow these residential fire prevention tips to keep your family and home safe from a dangerous blaze. Performing a fire extinguisher inspection, sweeping your flue, and the other six tips are all important to maintaining a nontoxic environment for those you love to work and play in.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Ximena_Duncan/1742319

Here To Help

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Choosing the right company if you have experienced a water, fire, or mold damage can be one of the most important choices you make. After helping many disaster victims, SERVPRO South San Rafael/Sausalito has the expertise, facilities, and equipment to help you resolve your emergency fast. Our team of professionals technicians are certified, bonded and insured -- not to mentioned trained to help you get your property back to its original state as soon as possible.

As the trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO provides 24-hour emergency help and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Call us SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito today for more information (415) 479-2900.

Quick Emergency Response Matters

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your business. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When an emergency arises in your business, give us a call and we'll be there fast with the help you need. The first step to reopening your doors is just a telephone call away.

SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito professionals are available 24-hours a day and have the expertise, training, and equipment required to put you back in business. Our technicians are highly trained and are ready for dispatch to restore your business. Whether you need your business cleaned up or dried out, SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito Professional will be there to help make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today (415) 479-2900.

We Have The Expertise

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

After a loss or damage, we understand you don't have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your home. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your expertise, call us. Whether it's removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito to make your home look it's very best.

We have highly trained technicians ready to restore the damages to your home, so you can rest at ease. SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito will get the job done right and get it done quickly because the SERVPRO Advantage includes:

• Award-winning training
• 40 years' experience in the industry
• 24-hour emergency service
• More than 100 exclusive cleaning products

For a prompt response, quality cleaning and restoration, give us a call at (415) 479-2900 and leave the dirty work to us.

We Are Ready For Any Size Job

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any sized disaster.

Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

At SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and manage to cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. Get the professionals, call SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito.

Clients for the Commercial Large Loss program include:

• The Hospitality Industry
• Property Managers
• Universities
• Resorts
• Recreations
• Church
• Arena
• Shopping Centers

Our elite large-loss specialists are standing by, prepared for immediate response should a disaster strike. If your business suffers a major loss, call (415) 479-2900, and we’ll help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Helping Your Business Prepare For The Worst

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Most companies protect their personnel and computer data from an emergency, but what about getting the facility back in business? SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito provides a plan to get back to work when you're most prepared to plan... before the crisis occurs.
Should the unimaginable happen and a natural disaster strikes your business, it may be too late to effectively manage your recovery. SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito Professional can help you prepare an emergency response plan today.

We encourage our business customers to learn how to best protect their business for all types of emergency situations. Contact SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito at (415) 479-2900 for free resources, including:

• Disaster preparedness plan assistance
• Family and business communication plans
• Home and workplace emergency contact cards
• Emergency supply checklists

With just a little bit of time and minimal effort, SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito can help prepare and protect your employees and customers should an emergency occur. Don’t wait until it is too late—prepare now for what you can’t prevent.

Here For You Through Any Disaster

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Life happens. Kids spill drinks, pets have accidents and homes get dirty. You handle much of the maintenance of your home, but when it gets to be too much, you can rely on your local SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito Professionals. We specialize in cleaning and restoration and have highly trained technicians to help you manage and restore your home.

Some of the many services we provide are:

• Air Ducts & HVAC
• Carpet & Upholstery
• Drapes & Blinds
• Plumbing
• Tree Removal
• Sewage and Gutter
• Contents Disposal
• Deep Cleaning
• Paint
• Debris Removal
• Ceilings, Walls & Hard Floors
• Deodorization

You know SERVPRO as a leader in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration, but our expertise can also make a dirty carpet "Like it never even happened." Call us today at (415) 479-2900
to schedule an appointment.

When Storm Hits Properties

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Mother Nature can strike at anytime and at any place.  When a severe storm blows through, it can bring with it heavy rain, flooding, high winds, lightning, hail, and even tornadoes.  The damage that storms can inflict on buildings will vary depending on the type and severity of the storm.  Some of the potential kinds of damage that different storms can cause are cracked or shattered windows, roof damage from hail, damage from fallen branches/trees or even water damage from flooding.   If that damage isn’t repaired quickly, interior damage, mold, and damage to equipment and inventory can follow - not to mention the disruption caused for your employees and customers.  The costs of repairs to commercial buildings in particular are likely to be substantial due to the high concentration of glass used in these structures. Without the full and timely payment of insurance benefits, rebuilding and repairing can be prohibitively expensive.

SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito understands that severe weather can happen without notice and cause water damage to your commercial property.  As a trusted restoration company, we’re dedicated to responding immediately to water and storm damage emergencies.  We have the experience and advanced training that enables us to restore your property quickly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete. 

Commercial Mold Remediation in San Rafael / Sausalito

2/27/2019 (Permalink)

Molds 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 mold 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.

Commercial Mold Remediation Presents Unique Challenges

Mold can spread quickly through a property if left untreated. SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito can respond quickly, working to first contain the infestation to help prevent its spread to other parts of the building. Next, we will begin the remediation process, working safely and effectively to manage the situation. We have the training, experience, and equipment to contain the mold infestation and remediate it to preloss condition.

Have a Mold Problem? Call Us Today (415) 479-2900

Fire, water Cleanups and Restoration to a Commercial Building

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a commercial building is a devastating experience.  After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts.  Therefore immediate action is crucial to minimize business interruption, reduce lost revenue and productivity.

But trying to clean up the aftermath may be the last thing you feel like doing on your own.  When fire, smoke and soot damage are left behind, it can create an unpleasant and permanent problems if not properly addressed.  Especially considering that smoke and soot from even a small fire can permanently damage contents throughout the building and may cause odors that resurface for years. 

SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito  understands how disruptive fires can be for business owners, their tenants and even their customers.  So before you risk doing more damage to your most valuable business assets by attempting to clean it up yourself, you should consider hiring an experienced fire damage like SERVPRO.  Our technicians have the training, tools, equipment and experience to handle any fire damage incident to a commercial building.  They can respond immediately to begin the work to restore your business back and running. 

We are available 24 hours a day and are always Here to Help! Have Questions? Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Have you got Storm Damage? We are ready to help!

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

The storm weather can sometimes be unpredictable and dangerous.  Whether the storm was originally caused by a hurricane, heavy rain, or flooding, it can devastate a home or business in a matter of minutes.  Water can quickly spread throughout a property and is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings. If water damage is not handled quickly and properly, it can cause severe damage to your property's structure and can lead to potential harmful mold.

SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito is a trusted company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job. Our highly trained technicians are on standby, ready to respond quickly to a disaster, and can restore your home or business into preloss condition. 

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Please Call Us At (415) 479-2900.  We are always Here to Help!

How to prevent from storms and hails

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Preparing your home for storm damage is important. we at SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito have some tips and will focus on Hail damage and thunderstorm winds.

Not only cars suffer from hail causing dents, After a hail storm, make sure no water is leaking through the roof because hail damage can weaken a roof to the point that leaks develop

Thunderstorm winds can also cause significant damage: make sure you don't have loose objects in the yard. they can be thrown at the house and cause damage. significant damage is also caused by fallen tree branches so try to keep the trees close to your home pruned and the branches removed. cars in the garage may be a good idea too, nobody wants dents right? 

SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito (415) 479-2900

Ways to Help Prevent Wind Damage to Your Home

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

There are many areas of the United States that have experienced heavy winds and storms this season and the strong powerful winds can cause significant damage to your home.  Wind damage can cause a range of destruction to your property from broken windows and fallen tree branches to more severe damage to the roof, garage, or car.  It can happen to your home directly from the strong wind or indirectly from the wind blowing debris into your house. 

Wind Damage from Different Types of Storms

Thunderstorms are the most common source of wind and storm damage but winds from hurricanes or tornadoes are stronger and can cause more severe damage.  It can produce many types of damaging weather such as lightning, hail, tornadoes, straight-line winds, flooding and more. Thunderstorms are responsible for over half of all wind damage cases in the U.S. but the storm damage repair may be more costly for hurricane or tornado wind damage.  Billions of dollars are spent on wind damage repair and storm damage restoration each year; understanding the nature of wind damage can help you limit the amount of damage to your property and save on restoration and repair costs. 

It is important to know when a storm is approaching your area and what type of storm it is so you know the potential and level of damage to expect.   These wind damage facts will help you better understand the potential for wind damage and how to prevent it.  Here are some steps you can take to minimize the risk of damage to your home when severe weather strikes.

Preventing Wind and Storm Damage

Most wind damage is caused by flying debris either from plants or other structures and objects that are not secured.  If a storm is approaching your area, make sure any potential debris around your home such as patio furniture, toys, garbage cans, and other objects are either secured or brought inside.  Your doors and windows should also be secured to help minimize the potential storm damage to the home.

Roof damage can be reduced during the construction phase when the roof deck and the shingles or membrane is applied over the decking. A well-designed roofing system will firmly anchor the trusses and decking to the walls and foundation to keep the entire roof from lifting off the building in a strong wind. Roofing material must be properly fastened to the deck. Weakly connected shingles will lift easily from the deck.

Siding damage can be reduced at the construction phase as well. Properly fastened siding is less likely to lift off a structure in strong wind. Building codes will likely direct the minimum standards for connections. You, your architect, or your contractor may decide to exceed these minimums for a stronger and more storm resistant structure.

 Falling trees and tree limbs are another significant type of damage to structures in a windstorm. Tree maintenance to remove dead limbs or identify and remove weakened trees will reduce the likelihood of the structure being damaged.

Mitigating Damage after a Storm

Close any openings made in the structure by the wind. Roof openings and broken windows are the most common problem. Keep a roll of plastic sheeting that can be quickly cut to size and nailed over the opening.

Keep your personal safety in mind and attempt such a closure yourself only if it can be done with little or no risk. Your insurance policy will likely cover the cost of emergency close up. Contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

Falling trees and tree limbs can open a structure with sudden violence. A tree on a structure is a very serious personal and structural safety issue. A tree may look as if it will not shift position. But it can shift and cause serious injury to the unwary. A fallen tree may also mask other very serious safety issues, such as downed electrical wires. The wires may still be live and the tree itself energized. Contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

If your home or business sustains wind damage during a storm, it is important to contact a storm damage restoration professional as soon as the storm is over to help limit and repair the damage.  SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. Our quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (415) 479-2900

Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

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

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

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

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.  SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito has the experience and training to make your home safe and livable again. Call us at 415-479-2900 to learn more about our professional cleanup services.

Help prevent fire damages (Commercial)

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

Fire statistics show that in 2012, 7 years ago, there were more than 98,000 non-residential building fires and we at SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito want to help prevent fires in your business.

Here are some valuable prevention tips for you and your company:

29% of commercial blazes were caused by cooking equipment so you should follow manufacturers’ recommendations for maximum volt/wattage for each equipment you have in your kitchen area.

You can always ask your electrician to periodically inspect the item and outlets for potential overload in you kitchen or anywhere in your office area.

on the same topic, replace appliances that feel hot when you touch.

Most of the appliances and other equipment don't need to be plugged in when they aren't being used so unplugging them at the end of the day and weekends is a good wait to prevent fires out of business hours.

We at SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito  can provide you with a FREE ERP - Emergency Ready Plan - that will help you be prepared for anything that occurs making your life easier and damages reduced.

What to do when you can't see mold

1/10/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can be found both indoor and outdoor. It can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, and heating and air conditioning systems.  But sometimes you simply can’t find it by ordinary means, even when you nearly tear your house apart.  Mold can hide in attic insulation, in the wall cavity between drywall sheets, or between a finished basement ceiling and the floor upstairs.  If your home has a musty odor or anyone with allergies to mold seem to have more symptoms in your home, you probably have a mold problem. 

Here's What to Do When You Can't See Mold:

• Mold Testing -  If you have a mold problem somewhere in your home, you should hire a professional mold tester.  Mold tests can help you narrow down the location of hidden mold by telling you the places in your home with the highest amount of mold spores. 
• Identifying Mold Species - Simply have it identified so you know whether it’s a toxic mold or not.  This is important for toxic molds since extra caution needs to be taken to safely remove toxic mold from the home.
• Mold Testing for Indoor Air Quality - You should have mold testing done to tell you the amount of mold spores in the air.  By testing for mold you can tell if there is an unhealthy level of spores in your house and find out if any allergies you might have are from mold.

Since mold can produce allergens and irritants, you should call SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito to inspect your home if you suspect you have a mold problem.  We have the training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

Have Questions? Call Us Today at 415-479-2900

What to do before a flash flood

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

Flash floods can occur after a heavy rainfall and it takes minutes for the water to damage houses, roads, cars or anything that it can touch. It can be very dangerous because of the volume and speed associated with rocks and other debris the water brings. but don't worry, here are some tips us at SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito  are glad to provide you with.

Counties usually have a planning department that can first help you find out if your home is located in a Flash flood zone.

Have an evacuation plan and practice it with your family. There's a high chance that you community has an emergency plan and it shouldn't be hard to find it so you can be in the same page as your community.

after securing that you and your family is safe next step is calling SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito (415) 479-2900

When Water Damage Occur at your Commercial Building

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage can strike at a commercial building at any time. Whether it's flooding, burst pipes or faucet leaks, water damage is one of the most common and destructive problems you can face in your business.  If not taken care of immediately, excess water in your business can promote electrical hazards, cause expensive damage to your business's structure and can even lead to the growth of hazardous mold.

If you are experiencing water damage emergency situation, give SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito a call.  Our experienced technicians are ready to restore your property to pre-water damage condition.   They can quickly extract the water and then dry your property using state-of-the-art equipment to ensure your property is dry.  

SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito is locally owned and operated so we’re always ready to help with any-sized flood or water damage emergencies.

Mold around the house and tips on controlling it

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

We care about your home too much to let it go full of mold. That's why SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito brought you tips to controlling and preventing growth of undesirable mold.

In the kitchen:

• Use exhaust fans to move moisture outside (not into the attic) whenever you are cooking, washing dishes, or cleaning.
• Turn off certain appliances if you notice moisture on windows and other surfaces.
• Check for leaks around the kitchen sink, refrigerator ice makers, and other sources of water. Repair if necessary.
• Empty and clean refrigerator drip pans if necessary.

In basements and crawl spaces:

• Put a plastic cover over dirt in crawl spaces to prevent moisture from coming in from the ground. If there is standing water or the soil is wet, dry it out with fans before covering the floor.
• Be sure crawl spaces are well ventilated by using fans and having vents installed in outside walls if necessary.
• Consider painting concrete floors and using area rugs instead of wall-to-wall carpet in basements. If you plan to install carpet over a concrete floor, it may be necessary to use a vapor barrier (plastic sheeting) over the concrete and cover that with sub-flooring (insulation covered with plywood) to prevent a moisture problem.
• Have your basement floor checked for leaks and have them repaired if necessary. Water can enter your home by leaking or by seeping through basement floors or walls.
• Make sure gutters are working properly and that outdoor landscaping causes water to run away from -- not toward -- the house.
• Do not finish basement walls with insulation and wall board unless your basement is very dry.

In the laundry room:

• Vent your clothes dryer to the outside.
• Make sure the vent is clear of obstructions, such as lint, and that there are no holes that leak air. If the vent duct is damaged, replace it with a metal duct. Have the duct cleaned at least once a year.
• Avoid leaving damp clothes in the laundry basket or dryer. Wash and dry them promptly.

In bathrooms:

• Use exhaust fans to remove moisture to the outside (not into the attic).
• Use area rugs, which can be taken up and washed often instead of wall-to-wall carpeting.
• Check for leaks around basins and tubs and have them repaired if necessary.
• Open a window when showering.
• Avoid leaving damp towels on the floor or in laundry hamper.

Content Source:

https://www.webmd.com/women/mold-mildew#3

What not to do when you have water damage

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Sometimes when we have a water damage situation going we want to do something in order to minimize losses. Check our other posts for more information on how to prevent and act fast. We also know it's very important to know what not to do and that's why we are bringing you this list:

• Do not use a household vacuum to remove standing water.
• Do not leave furniture directly on wet carpeting.
• Do not begin to repair or repaint any damage surfaces until they are completely
  dry.
• Do not turn ceiling fans on when the ceiling is wet.

We also want to remind you that we are here to help. SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito is here to make it "Like it never even happened."

Spotting Water Damage

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Some times it's the water you don't see that causes most of the damage. SERVPRO of S. San Rafael / Sausalito knows it and because we care about you we brought information on how to see signs of water damage in your basement of foundation. Evidence of water damage isn’t always obvious and sometimes it’s not even visible so make sure you pay attention to these signs:

• CHANGES IN COLOR/TEXTURE OF SURFACES -  Both walls and floors can show signs of water damage.
• CRACKING – This will usually occur in the foundation and/or floor and can happen both inside and outside the home.
• ODOR – While basements and crawl spaces usually have a certain smell, it doesn’t necessarily mean there is a water problem. Pay attention to a strong damp, musty odor that doesn’t go away (even after a storm or wet weather). In most cases, it is mold or mildew that you smell, which means you’ve got moisture or water damage on your hands.
• MOLD – If you can’t spot mold, you can sometimes smell it, so that’s why it’s important to pay attention to distinctive odors in the basement. Mold will appear on furniture, wood and other organic materials, walls and other surfaces either as dark green or black in color or sometimes a white powdery substance.

Content Source: https://www.resolvebylowes.com/guidance/flood/how-to-spot-water-damage-in-your-basement-or-foundation/115005754828

Preventing Water Damage

12/14/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael / Sausalito is always here to help with you have water damage in your home or business but we also  strongly believe in prevention. Water can damage important things and make you lose valued items we nobody wants that. that's why we are bringing you some tips to help you be safe from water damage:

• Ensure Good Drainage

Poor drainage weakens your foundation, causing cracks, uneven settling, and pathways for water to enter your home.

• Test Your Sump Pump Regularly

Sump pumps come to life during storms. That’s not when you want to realize yours isn’t working properly. You should check it at least once a year, and ideally perform several checks during heavy storm seasons.

• Check for Water Leaks and Fix Them

Persistent leaks lead to mold and mildew, rot, and even termites and carpenter ants (they like chewing soggy wood, since it’s soft). Yet if you fix a leak soon after it starts, there may be no long-term damage at all.

Facts about Holiday Fires

12/12/2018 (Permalink)

Holidays are here and the U.S Fire Administration has some facts we at SERVPRO of S. San Rafael / Sausalito find really import to share:

• One of every four home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.
• Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious. On average, one of every 32 reported home Christmas tree fires results in a death compared to an average of one death per 143 total reported home fires.
• A heat source too close to the tree causes one in every four Christmas tree fires.
• The top three days for home candle fires are Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Christmas Eve.
• Candles start two out of five home decoration structure fires.

Content Source:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/holiday.html

Causes for mold in homes

12/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is a type of fungus that consists of small organisms that grow but in order for it to grow it needs some conditions and we at SERVPRO of S. San Rafael / Sausalito want you to be aware of it:

• Mold spores
• A food source (eg wood, drywall, cotton)
• Darkness (mold can't grow under ultraviolet light)
• Warmth (mold can't grow in freezing temperatures)
• Oxygen
• Moisture (eg water leaks, humidity)
• Enough time (most molds can begin to grow in 24-48 hours if the conditions are right)

Your home has almost all the conditions for mold to grow, the only one of the list you can help control is moisture. In other words, the difference between whether mold grows in your home or not comes down to whether you have a moisture problem.

Content Source:

https://moldpedia.com/what-causes-mold-grow

Scenarios where mold can grow in your home

12/12/2018 (Permalink)

Last blog post we talked a little bit about the conditions mold needs to grow. If you haven't seen it yet you can click right here and check "Causes for mold in homes".

In this post we are going to be focusing on Scenarios where the factor Moisture is found and may be key for a mold problem:

• Leaking Pipes
• Leaks in Roof
• Condensation
• Poor Ventilation
• Wet Clothes
• Flooding
• Damp Basement
• Water at the House's Foundation

If you have any of these situations above, don't hesitate to call us. As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of S. San Rafael / Sausalito provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs

How to Prevent Mold issues

12/6/2018 (Permalink)

Winter is here and we at SERVPRO of S. San Rafael / Sausalito care about your home. here are some tips to prevent mold issues:

• Keep humidity levels as low as you can—no higher than 50%–all day long.
• Be sure your home has enough ventilation.
• Fix any leaks in your home’s roof, walls, or plumbing so mold does not have moisture to grow.
• Clean up and dry out your home thoroughly and quickly (within 24–48 hours) after flooding.
• Clean bathrooms with mold-killing products.
• Remove or replace carpets and upholstery that have been soaked and cannot be dried promptly.

If you want to know more about how to prevent Mold issues at your home you can go Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Content Source:

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

Is Cooking Dangerous?

12/6/2018 (Permalink)

The answer is NO! But cooking is the number 1 cause of fires in homes.

We all love a good meal and with the Holidays coming we hope you all have great meals coming out safe of your kitchens. We brought you information about how to be even safer.

First most fires in the kitchen are man-made, so keep an eye while in the kitchen. here are some safety tips:

House fires happen most during dinner hours—between 5:00 and 8:00 p.m.

• For grease fires, only use a fire extinguisher (class B) or baking soda. Do not use water! It will spread the oil/grease and make your fire worse.
• Never leave your food unattended. Fires only need 30 seconds to go from a small flame to an out-of-control blaze, so even going to the bathroom could endanger your home.
• Turn off the stove and all appliances once you’re done cooking.
• Keep everything off hot surfaces. For instance, don’t throw a dish towel on top of the stove, because it could still be hot!
• Don’t wear baggy clothing. It could catch fire accidentally.
• Keep the grill at least 10 feet from vegetation and the house.

And remember, we at SERVPRO of S. San Rafael / Sausalito are here to help in case of emergency to make it Like it Never Even Happened.

Content source: 

https://www.safewise.com/blog/the-most-common-places-that-fires-occur-in-the-home/

America's next eclipse is in 2024

10/11/2018 (Permalink)

If you weren't able to see one of the most anticipated and unifying events this country has witnessed in nearly a hundred years, don't worry. You won't have to wait an entire century until the next one -- just seven years. Another total solar eclipse will be visible in the United States on April 8, 2024.

Although the last eclipse was peaking over two minutes in the path of totality, the 2024 eclipse will have peaks of 4½ minutes. In the United States, it will be visible in a diagonal path crossing from Texas to Maine, according to NASA.

• 2019: South Pacific, Chile, Argentina
• 2020: South Pacific, Chile, Argentina, South Atlantic
• 2021: Antarctica
• 2026: the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, Spain
• 2027: Morocco, Spain, Algeria, Libya, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Somalia
• 2028: Australia, New Zealand
• 2030: Botswana, South Africa, Australia

for more information go to CNN.com

House Cleaning

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

The days of a house cleaner with a mop, bucket and vacuum are over.  Today a professional is entrusted with the care of a home, its furnishings and the health of its occupants.  With the many new materials and surfaces being used in home décor, a professional house cleaner has a much broader range of knowledge than in the past as many of these newer surfaces require specialized care.

In addition to caring for the home and its contents, a professional house cleaning technician helps care for health.  This includes hygienic cleaning, effective sanitizing of surfaces, use of appropriate cleaning agents, and procedures to prevent cross contamination.  A thorough vacuuming with a high-efficiency filtration vacuum is an important contributor to improved indoor air quality.

An IICRC-certified House Cleaning Technician is trained to properly care for homes and health. A consumer who uses a certified professional can confidently trust the cleaning and relax in a clean and healthy home.

You know SERVPRO as a leader in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration, but our professional residential cleaning services can also make a dirty carpet "Like it never even happened."

Need Cleaning Services?
Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

http://www.IICRC.org/consumers/care/house-cleaning/

SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito

SERVPRO Franchise Offers Local Businesses Free Emergency Ready Profile

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

When Disaster Strikes, You Can be Ruined or You Can BE READY!

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services.  It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information.

Did you know that as many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster?  Of the businesses that do survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.  Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind.  And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.  Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

No one plans on a disaster, but you can plan to be, "Ready for whatever happens".

Preparation is key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it's a small leak, a large fire or an area flood.  The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens.  No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it.  Now is the time to ask yourself, "Are you Ready for whatever happens?"

SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito offers a complimentary assessment of your facility that can minimize business interruption in the event of a disaster. This assessment provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services and serves as a quick reference for important building and contact information. We would like to offer you this FREE service at your place of business. It's called SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP), and here are some advantages of the program:

• Includes a concise Profile Document that contains the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• Offers a guide to help you get back into your building safely following a disaster.
• Provides facility details such a shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
• Identifies the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider

Call us Today to Get Started (415) 479-2900.

Test your escape plan often

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

• Practice your home fire escape plan twice a year, making the drill as realistic as possible.
• Make arrangements in your plan for anyone in your home who has a disability.
• Allow children to master fire escape planning and practice before holding a fire drill at night when they are sleeping. The objective is to practice, not to frighten, so telling children there will be a drill before they go to bed can be as effective as a surprise drill.
• It's important to determine during the drill whether children and others can readily waken to the sound of the smoke alarm. If they fail to awaken, make sure that someone is assigned to wake them up as part of the drill and in a real emergency situation.
• If your home has two floors, every family member (including children) must be able to escape from the second floor rooms. Escape ladders can be placed in or near windows to provide an additional escape route. Review the manufacturer's instructions carefully so you'll be able to use a safety ladder in an emergency. Practice setting up the ladder from a first floor window to make sure you can do it correctly and quickly. Children should only practice with a grown-up, and only from a first-story window. Store the ladder near the window, in an easily accessible location. You don't want to have to search for it during a fire.
• Always choose the escape route that is safest – the one with the least amount of smoke and heat – but be prepared to escape under toxic smoke if necessary. When you do your fire drill, everyone in the family should practice getting low and going under the smoke to your exit.
• Closing doors on your way out slows the spread of fire, giving you more time to safely escape.
• In some cases, smoke or fire may prevent you from exiting your home or apartment building. To prepare for an emergency like this, practice "sealing yourself in for safety" as part of your home fire escape plan. Close all doors between you and the fire. Use duct tape or towels to seal the door cracks and cover air vents to keep smoke from coming in. If possible, open your windows at the top and bottom so fresh air can get in. Call the fire department to report your exact location. Wave a flashlight or light-colored cloth at the window to let the fire department know where you are located.

http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/escape-planning/basic-fire-escape-planning

Flooding and Water Damage

9/10/2018 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito we know a basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Because basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Scarsdale basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface Water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-Water tank failure

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Please Call Us At  - (415) 479-2900

If Water damage is handled quickly and properly, it can cause severe damage to your home’s structure not to mention the potential harmful health effects of mold. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

At SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito we are Flooding Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Experiencing Flooding? Call Us Today – We’re Always Here To Help - (415) 479-2900

IICRC Certified Firm

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito 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.

About SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito

SERVPRO of South San Rafael Sausalito specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration 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.

Helpful tips to Prepare for a Water Damage

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

1. Know your insurance coverage. Most renter’s or homeowners insurance policies don’t cover flooding, or even a sewer backup. Find out what coverage you have.
2. Keep a record of all of your belongings. Take photos and keep copies of a receipts or other documents for your valuable items. Store a copy of these records online or at another location.
3. To limit the risk of water damage within your home check your pipes frequently and pay attention to any indicators of water damage, such as dripping sounds in the walls, dark spots on the ceiling, or significant change in your water bill.
4. Inspect your roof and foundation often. Make sure there are no cracks in the foundation or shingles missing. Check that the landscaping around your home is sloped to direct water away from your foundation, rather than toward it.
5.  Water damage can be overwhelming. If a water damage should strike find an expert you can count on. SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito is Always Here to Help! –Call (415) 479-2900

FIRE SAFETY IN MANUFACTURED HOMES

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

About manufactured homes
Manufactured homes (sometimes called "mobile" homes) are transportable structures that are fixed to a chassis and specifically designed to be towed to a residential site. They are not the same as modular or prefabricated homes, which are factory-built and then towed in sections to be installed at a permanent location.

In order to distinguish between modular, prefabricated and recreational trailer homes, the following definition for a manufactured home from NFPA 501, Standard on Manufactured Housing, applies:

A structure, transportable in one or more sections that in the traveling mode is 8 body-ft (2.4 m) or more in width or 40 body-ft (12.2 m) or more in length or that on site is 320 ft2 (29.7m2) or more, is built on a permanent chassis, is designed to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent foundation, whether or not connected to the utilities, and includes plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and electrical systems contained therein. Such terms shall include any structure that meets all the requirements of this paragraph except the size requirements and with respect to which the manufacturer voluntarily files a certification required by the regulatory agency. Calculations used to determine the number of square feet in a structure are based on the structure’s exterior dimensions, include all expandable rooms, cabinets, and other projections containing interior space, but do not include bay windows.

The federal government regulates the construction of manufactured housing. Since 1976, manufactured homes have been required to comply with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) manufactured housing construction and safety standards, which cover a wide range of safety requirements, including fire safety. Post-1976 manufactured homes bear a label certifying compliance with these standards.

The HUD standard has been enhanced over the years and the HUD "Final Rule" for smoke alarms in manufactured homes is largely based upon NFPA 501. Today, new construction of manufactured housing is required to contain, among other provisions:

• factory installed hard wired or 10 year battery source, interconnected smoke alarms with battery back-up (including alarms inside or immediately adjacent to all rooms designated as sleeping areas, top of the stairs and on the basement ceiling near the stairs)
• provisions for special devices for hearing and visually impaired persons.

NFPA's national fire data indicate that manufactured homes built to HUD standards (post-1976 construction) have a much lower risk of death if fire occurs compared to pre-standard manufactured homes. The latest data (2007-2011) also shows that the overall fire death rate per 100,000 housing units is roughly the same for manufactured homes and for other one- or two-family homes.

Despite the federal requirements for factory-installed smoke alarms and the fact that eight out of ten manufactured homes now are and seven out of ten manufactured home fires now involve post-HUD-Standard units (based on 2007-2011 data), 51 percent of fires in manufactured homes were reported as having no smoke alarms present. This suggests a problem with detection devices being removed by occupants.

Safety tips
To increase fire safety in manufactured homes, NFPA offers the following guidelines:

• Choose a HUD-certified manufactured home
  If you are in the market to purchase or rent a manufactured home, select a home built after 1976 that bears the HUD label certifying compliance with safety standards.
• Keep smoke alarms working
  Never remove or disable a smoke alarm. If you experience frequent nuisance alarms, consider relocating the alarm further away from kitchen cooking fumes or bathroom steam. Selecting a photoelectric smoke alarm for the areas nearest kitchens and baths may reduce the number of nuisance alarms experienced. As an alternative, NFPA 501 permits a smoke alarm with a silencing means to be installed if it is within 20 feet of a cooking appliance. Test all smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the "test" button. It is not necessary to use smoke or a real flame to test the smoke alarm's operability, and it is risky to do so. Replace batteries at least once a year, and when the alarm "chirps," signaling low battery power. Occasionally dust or lightly vacuum smoke alarms.
• Make sure you have enough smoke alarms
  If your older manufactured home does not have smoke alarms in or near every sleeping room and in or near the family/living area(s), immediately install new alarms and fresh batteries to protect these rooms.  For the best protection, interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.
• Plan your escape
  Know ahead of time how you will get out if you have a fire. Develop an escape plan which includes having an alternate exit out of every room. Make sure you can open and get out of windows and doors. All post-HUD Standard manufactured homes are required to provide windows designed for use as secondary escape routes for the bedroom. Familiarize yourself with their operation and don't block access to them.  Immediately fix any windows that have been painted or nailed shut, doors that are stubborn or "stuck," and locks that are difficult to operate. Security bars or grates over windows or doors should have quick-release devices installed inside, which allow you to open them in an emergency. Hold a fire drill twice a year to rehearse how you will react if the smoke alarm sounds.
• Electrical
  Hire a licensed electrician if you notice flickering lights, frequent blown circuits, or a "hot" smell when using electricity. Use extension cords for temporary convenience, not as a permanent solution. Avoid overloading electrical receptacles (outlets). Electrical cords should not be run under carpets or rugs, as the wires can be damaged by foot traffic, then overheat and ignite the carpet or rug over them. Ground-fault circuit interrupters reduce the risk of electrical shock and should be installed by electricians in kitchens and baths. Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters monitor electric circuits for arcing and should be installed by electricians on bedroom circuits.
• Cooking
  Unattended cooking is the leading cause of cooking fires in U.S. homes. Supervise older children who cook and stay in the kitchen when heating anything on the stove. Keep cooking surfaces clean and place anything that can burn well away from the range. Heat oil slowly and know how to slide a lid over a pan if you experience a grease fire. Read more cooking safety tips.
• Heating
  Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn. When purchasing new space heaters, select appliances with automatic shut-off switches. Kerosene heaters are illegal for home use in some jurisdictions. Check with your local fire department before purchasing a kerosene heater. Turn off portable space heaters before falling asleep or when leaving the room. Refill kerosene heaters outdoors, after the heater has cooled down. Supervise children and pets when space heaters are operating. Read more heating safety tips.
• Walls
  All post-HUD Standard manufactured homes are required to have wall linings that do not promote rapid flame spread, with special protection around primary heating and cooking equipment, such as the furnace and cooking range. Presently, gypsum wallboard has replaced plywood wall paneling and wood based ceiling panels in the fabrication of manufactured housing walls and ceilings. This action has dramatically reduced the impact of fires in manufactured homes. Do not mount anything on the walls – such as paneling, drapery, or wall hangings – that would reduce this protection, especially near major heat sources.
• Smoking
  If you have smokers in your home, ask them to smoke outside. Wherever people smoke, set out large, non-tip ashtrays on level surfaces and empty them frequently. Thoroughly douse butts with water before discarding. Check around and under cushions for smoldering butts. Read more smoking safety tips.
• Protect yourself from intruders
  Install outdoor lighting to deter intruders, including would-be arsonists. Keep gasoline, charcoal lighter and other flammable liquids locked in an outdoor shed. Don't store items underneath your home. Store firewood away from your home and keep trash and other flammable debris cleaned up. Report any suspicious activity in your neighborhood.

http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/escape-planning/fire-safety-in-manufactured-homes

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/13/2018 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Grill Safety

8/10/2018 (Permalink)

With the weather growing warmer and grilling becoming the cooking method of choice for many people it becomes crucial to remember grilling on Charcoal grills and or gas grills can present a variety of safety hazards. So before you heat up your grill, here's a few tips on grilling safely.

Grill Placement

Never use your grill indoors, in a garage, or under anything that could catch fire.

Place your grill at least ten feet away from your home, or any other structures or buildings.

Keep a spray bottle and fire extinguisher nearby at all times.

Charcoal Grill Safety

Make sure you use your grill in an open space. Charcoal grills burn off dangerous carbon monoxide gas that builds up in closed areas.

Never use any flammable or combustible liquid to start the fire. These starter fluids could cause an uncontrollable flash fire; add more charcoal or use kindling instead.

After grilling, allow charcoals to cool completely, soak them in water, and then store or dispose them in a metal container so they don't reignite.

Gas Grill Safety

DO

1. Follow the grill manufacturer’s instructions and keep written materials handy.
2. If the igniter no longer works, replace it in accordance with the grill manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Keep the top of the grill open until you are sure the grill is lit, even if you have an electronic ignition. 4. Cover disconnected hose-end fittings with plastic bags or protective caps to keep them clean when the grill is not in use.
4. Store propane cylinders outdoors in an upright (vertical) position.
5. If you smell gas, and it is safe to do so, turn off the cylinder valve, turning it to the right (clockwise). If you are unable to turn off the valve, immediately leave the area and dial 911 or call your local fire department. Before you use the grill again, have a qualified service technician inspect your grill and cylinder.
6. Consult a qualified service technician if you are having grill or propane cylinder problems.
7. Keep your grill clean to prevent flare-ups.
8. Check for knots or kinks in gas hoses.
9. Make sure the area around the grill is free of leaves or anything else that could ignite.

DON’T

1. Smoke while handling a propane cylinder.
2. Use matches or lighters to check for propane leaks.
3. Pour an accelerant such as lighter fluid or gasoline on the grill.
4. Allow children to tamper with the cylinder or grill.
5. Use, store, or transport propane cylinders near high temperatures (this includes storing spare cylinders near the grill).
6. Transport propane cylinders in your trunk. Instead, keep in a cool place, such as an air-conditioned car.
7. Move a lit grill.
8. Leave a lit grill unattended.
9. Attempt to adjust any gas containers or hoses while the grill is lit.
10. Grill in a covered patio or garage, even with the doors open, because gases can build up.

Maintenance and Personal Safety

Check your grill frequently for cleanliness. Make sure no animals or bugs have crawled inside.

Don't allow fat and grease to buildup. A hot grill can ignite fat and grease and start a fire.

Common Biohazard Scenarios

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

We provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. These include the following:

Sewage backups, Crime scene residues, Suicide/death accidents, Homicide cleanups, Blood cleanup Accident cleanup, Hoarding scenes, Animal waste/remains, Chemical spills/Tear gas cleanup and Meth lab cleanups.

The most common Biohazard scenarios that we

Sewage Backups

Sewage backups and dark water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits – these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. We remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture, and help ensure the structure is properly cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized.

Bloodborne Pathogens

We remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Trained SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito Professionals clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.

Methamphetamine Labs

SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito realizes many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. We follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

We help you with your mold issue

7/17/2018 (Permalink)

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

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

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today –(415) 479-2900

Water Damage During the Rainy Season

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Spring calls for rain and storms, and for many people that can lead to wet floors or even flooding. Intrusion of water into your home can result in mold growth if left unattended. The best way to control mold growth is to control the moisture. Getting rid of mold completely in a household environment is nearly impossible.

If you find yourself with a soggy or soaked carpet, give SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito a call!

We know how to handle your small water damages as well as your large water damages. If you have any questions or need assistance at any hour of the day just dial (415) 479-2900 and we will answer 24/7! We are here to make it Like it never even happened!

Does your Home have Mold Problems?

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

Call us at (415) 479-2900

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

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

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

Restoration In Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage

6/5/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at San Rafael and Sausalito. 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 South San Rafael / Sausalito

We specialize 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 to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Common Causes of Kitchen Fires

5/24/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito (415) 479-2900

The kitchen is the source of many fire hazards because it's where heat, electricity, water and grease come together.  The most common type of fire is the grease fire.  A grease fire is extremely dangerous as it can get out of control quickly and spread from the stove throughout the kitchen and into other rooms of the house.

Common Causes of Kitchen Fires

• Too high temperature in the fryer
• Vegetable, more flammable, oils
• Old, more flammable oil, in the deep fryer
• Fat deposits in the flue and ventilation ducts
• Misalignment sprinklers due to equipment moved around
• Clogged melting links of the sprinklers leading to impaired function

Other types of kitchen fires include oven fire or the microwave.  When a fire starts, keep the door closed and turn off the oven.   The lack of oxygen will suffocate the flames. If continues to smoke like a fire use a fire extinguisher or call fire department.

At SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito we are available 24 hours and 7 days a week.  Give us a call at (415) 479-2900.  We can help make any fire damage you are facing and make it, "Like it never even happened!"

Pet fire safety tips

5/24/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito (415) 479-2900

• Pets are curious. They may bump into, turn on, or knock over cooking equipment. Keep pets away from stoves and counter tops
• Keep pets away from candles, lamps, and space heaters.
• Always use a metal or heat-tempered glass screen on a fireplace and keep it in place.
• Keep pets away from a chimney’s outside vents. Have a “pet-free zone” of at least 3 feet (1 meter) away from the fireplace. Glass doors and screens can stay dangerously hot for several hours after the fire goes out.
• Consider battery-operated, flameless candles. They can look and smell like real candles.
• Some pets are chewers. Watch pets to make sure they don’t chew through electrical cords. Have any problems checked by a professional.
• Have working smoke alarms on every level of the home. Test your smoke alarms at least once a month.
• If the smoke alarm sounds, get out and stay out.
• Never go back inside for pets in a fire. Tell firefighters if your pet is trapped.

At SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito we are available 24 hours and 7 days a week.  Give us a call at (415) 479-2900.  We can help make any fire damage you are facing and make it, "Like it never even happened!"

Helpful Tips in Storms and Hurricanes

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito (415) 479-2900

Fortunately with today's advance technology, meteorologist has the ability to use scientific principles to explain, understand and observe the forecast through computer programs, Doppler radar and satellite.  Knowing where storms are now can help forecasters predict where storms will be tomorrow and the next day. Though storms or hurricanes may not always be predictable, it should be taken seriously and this required that we be prepared. 

Here are some useful tips to help you and your family prepare for the storm or hurricane:

• Tune In - Pay attention to local weather reports on radio, television, or the internet.
• Create an Emergency Plan - Discuss with your family or household members on preparing escape routes from your home.  Make sure to have means of communication (e-mail, phone and cell phone) and set places to meet.  Plan for your pets should you need to evacuate.  Most shelters will accept service animals.
• Stock Up on Emergency Supplies - Stock non-perishable food supplies, a first-aid kit, a battery-powered radio, flashlights, and extra batteries in air-tight containers.
• Prepare your Home - Check your roof regularly to make sure it’s in good condition.  Keep gutters, down pipes and drains clear.  Remove tree branches that are close to your house.  Fix any corrosion, loose fittings and rotting or termite-affected timber and secure loose items around your property.
• Fill up Car & Get Cash - Fill up as soon as a storm looks like a possible threat. Similarly, don't wait to get cash because you might need to purchase supplies after the storm.

If you are experiencing the unfortunate storm damage to your home or business, give SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito a call at (415) 479-2900. We can help restore your property to preloss condition and make it, "Like it never even happened."

In Case of Mold

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito (415) 479-2900

Mold can be dangerous so if you find mold in your home or business give SERVPRO of S San Rafael/Sausalito a call! As a Large Loss Team we service S. San Rafael, Sausalito and all of Marin County! We can handle any size disaster! 

Mold can be found all environments, both indoors and outdoors, year round! Mold growth is encouraged by warm and humid conditions, like what our Northern California spring and summer time.  

Lookout for mold in unsuspecting areas! Outdoor mold can be found in shady, damp areas or places where leaves or other vegetation is decomposing. Indoors they can be found where humidity levels are high, like basements and showers! 

If you have any questions, give our 24 hour line a call at SERVPRO of South San Rafael / Sausalito (415) 479-2900

Water damage prevention for your business

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito (415) 479-2900

Water damage happens a lot because of rainfalls and storms but it can also occur because of leaks and other situations. here are some tips we at SERVPRO of Petaluma/Rohnert Park Park want to give your company so you can be prepared.

First and most important, water spreads quickly so always have our number ready in case of emergency

 SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito (415) 479-2900

It's also a good idea to know the location of your water main, and shut it off as fast as you find a leak.

another good thing to do is installing water detection devices: A water detector is a small electronic device that sounds an alarm when its sensor comes in contact with moisture. Its main benefit is that it detects slow leaks that often go unnoticed and also low moisture levels. you should install it near water heaters, sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers and toilets. 

When Storms or Floods hit, SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito is ready!

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito will be there to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today! (415) 479-2900

No matter what degree of storm damage you might have to deal with, you can trust us at SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito to make it like it very happened. Call us 24/7 at (415) 479-2900.

Water Damage From a Burst Pipe Should be Promptly Addressed

12/14/2017 (Permalink)

A small undetected leak can lead to great water damage.

A burst pipe can cause significant water damage in a home.  Water leakage can also be terribly expensive, disruptive to your personal schedule, and result in unwanted insurance claims. Additionally, mildew and mold can become a problem long after the initial damage. Thankfully, there are experts in water damage that can help the problems from a burst pipe be much more manageable.

Leaking Pipes

Pay attention to leaking pipes! Diligence can minimize the collateral damage from a burst pipe. Pay attention to where water has leaked. The water and moisture may have already caused a small amount of damage. Call a professional to determine what is the best course of action. An inexperienced homeowner attempting to fix the problem may just make it worse.

Preventing Structural Damage

The possibility of structural damage is the key reason homeowners should be extra vigilant regarding the plumbing in their homes. Structural damage may be difficult to spot. You should always contact an experienced contractor such as SERVPRO to assess possible structural damage from leaky or burst pipes.

Mold Hazards

Mold is another serious problem that stems from water damage. Mold can be particularly vexing to homeowners. Because mold is living, it can grow and fill large portions of a home without the homeowner being aware. Eventually, mold can lead to structural damage. Mold can be in basements, laundry rooms, and kitchens. Mold removal can be a very difficult task once a foothold has been secured. A concerned homeowner should order a mold inspection after any plumbing problems to ensure that this issue does not expand into an expensive and potentially dangerous situation.

Additional Considerations

The above factors illustrate how complicated the ramifications of a burst pipe can be. A homeowner should not attempt to deal with any of these issues without the assistance of an expert well versed in water damage repair and mold remediation. The skills needed to deal effectively with mold, structural damage, and leaking pipes are beyond the average homeowner. Homeowners that attempt these tasks quite often worsen the existing problems. It is always best to hire an expert to inspect the damage after experiencing a burst pipe.   SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito has the experience as a full-service water restoration company to rectify and repair all the problems related to a burst pipe.  Solving the problem of a burst pipe correctly will protect the investment of your home for years to come.

Locally Owned and Operated

SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito is locally owned and operated so we’re already nearby and ready to help residents and business owners with any-sized water and flood damage emergencies.

When your home has water damage, we have the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property.  Call us so that we may help at (415) 479-2900.

SERVPRO’s Tips to Prevent Fire Damage in Your Home

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO recommends never leaving a portable heater unattended in your home.

Space heaters can be a great way to warm up the coldest areas of your house throughout the harshest of winter months. They are not without their potential threats, however. Monitoring them carefully and not leaving these heaters running unattended can help prevent unnecessary damage to your home, let alone those who live inside of it.

Electric and gas space heaters offer a great deal of warmth and can completely transform the coldest areas of your house into the most comfortable. They also put out lots of concentrated heat, and many of them feature grills or open flames that burn hot enough to scald a person or to catch loosely hanging fabrics or drapes on fire. There are some words of caution about these heaters if you want to virtually eliminate the possibility of fire damages to your residence.

The first step is to consider the placement of your heater very wisely. While it might require being close enough to an outlet to plug in, you should be mindful of the furniture and other objects in the room that could inadvertently make contact with the heater. With the excessive heat and open design of many of the small room heaters, something left too close to the heat could catch on fire (even without directly touching).

As many of our experienced SERVPRO team would tell you, preventing fire damage is often as simple as walking yourself through all of the scenarios that might happen. People do not intend to set their homes on fire, but these accidents can happen with a lack of foresight. As an added precaution, you should not leave these types of heaters on unattended in a room that you are not currently occupying.

While regrettable, house fires and small incidents do occur when using space heaters. While it might not be significant enough to force you to leave the house, sometimes the remains of the soot or the lingering odor of burned materials can be more than you can repair or remedy on your own. Our fire restoration team is equipped with deodorizing equipment to neutralize smoke and foul odors, and our commitment to mitigating your loss ensures that we restore the damage promptly.

No matter what degree of fire damage you might have to deal with, you can trust us at SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito to make it right. Call us 24/7 at (415) 479-2900.

Dangers of Frying A Turkey

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

A turkey should never be fried in an enclosed space

In recent years deep-frying turkeys has become increasingly popular. The cooking method requires placing the turkey in 3 gallons or more of oil, heated by propane. 

The SERVPRO warns that cooking with deep-fat turkey fryers can be very dangerous as they have a high risk of tipping over, overheating, or spilling hot oil and could lead to fires, burns, or other injuries.

5 Dangers of Frying a Turkey
Here are 5 dangers associated with deep frying a turkey, according to SERVPRO:

• A small amount of cooking oil coming into contact with the burner can cause a large fire.
• An overfilled cooking pot or partially frozen turkey will cause cooking oil to spill when the turkey is inserted.
• The sides of the cooking pot, lid and pot handles can get dangerously hot, creating severe burn hazards.
• Units can easily tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.
• Without thermostat controls, deep fryers have the potential to overheat the oil to the point of combustion.

Turkey Frying Safety Tips
SERVPRO advises against using a turkey fryer. If you decide to do it anyway, these precautions should be followed. Please follow these tips to stay safe: 

• Do not overfill the fryer.
• Fryers should always be used outdoors, on a solid level surface a safe distance from buildings and flammable materials.
• If a turkey fryer fire occurs, call 911 immediately.
• Keep all-purpose fire extinguishers nearby.
• Make sure the turkey is completely thawed before it is placed in a fryer.
• Never leave the fryer unattended because, without thermostat controls, the oil will continue to heat until it catches fire.
• Never let children or pets near the fryer when in use or after use as the oil can remain hot for hours.
• Never use a fryer on a wooden deck, under a patio cover, in a garage or enclosed space.
• Use well-insulated potholders or oven mitts and wear long sleeves and safety goggles to protect from splatter.

About SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito

SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.  SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito has the experience and training to make your home safe and livable again. Call us at 415-479-2900 to learn more about our professional cleanup services.

Home Have A Mold Problem?

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

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

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

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

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 415-479-2900

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Marin.

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

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 415-479-2900

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito

SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.  SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito has the experience and training to make your home safe and livable again. Call us at 415-479-2900 to learn more about our professional cleanup services.

Faster to your Water Damage Event

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 415-479-2900

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito

SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.  SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito has the experience and training to make your home safe and livable again. Call us at 415-479-2900 to learn more about our professional cleanup services.

How You Can Help People Affected by the North Bay Fire

10/12/2017 (Permalink)

Our prime purpose in life is to help others. - Dalai Lama

While dozens of fire crews go from house to house to save lives, killer wildfires continue to menace North Bay California with 26 dead and hundreds missing. The 21 fires currently burning across the northern part of the state have also destroyed more than 3,500 buildings and torched more than 191,000 acres — a collective area nearly the size of New York City. These wildfires collectively are the deadliest in California’s modern history. 

RECOMMENDED ACTIONS:

• If there is a wildfire in the area, be ready to evacuate on short notice.
• If you see a wildfire and haven't received evacuation orders yet, call 9-1-1. Don't assume that someone else has already called.
• If ordered to evacuate during a wildfire, do it immediately- make sure and tell someone where you are going and when you have arrived.
• If you or someone you are with has been burned, call 9-1-1 or seek help immediately; cool and cover burns to reduce chance of further injury or infection.

HOW TO HELP RIGHT NOW:

• Santa Rosa has currently met its immediate requirement for volunteers, but they ask that people interested in volunteering or donating as-needed sign up with the Red Cross. The Red Cross has a sign-in sheet here. For Sonoma County, you may call 707-573-3399 if you're hoping to volunteer.

• The Center for Volunteer and Nonprofit Leadership has also been called in to help. If you wish to donate or volunteer, you can register on their website.

“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” ... “The best way to not feel hopeless is to get up and do something.

Biohazard and Hoarding Clean Up

9/28/2017 (Permalink)

If someone you know or even yourself needs hoarding cleanup, it is best to call in the professionals at 415-479-2900.

Hoarders typically collect excessive amount of items such as newspaper, magazines, books, clothing, containers, cardboard, garbage or even rotten food.  Often times, people that hoard has difficulty discarding or parting with their possessions because they believe that an item will be useful or valuable in the future.  These objects will cover the living areas of the home and cause significant distress.  Hoarding can prevent typical use of space and limit activities such as cooking, cleaning, moving through the house, and sleeping.  It could potentially put the individual and others at risk of causing fires, falling hazards, poor sanitation, and/or mold growth.  Failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. 

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito’s technicians always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and are trained to assist in removing and disposing of unsalvageable materials and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.  Our job is to clean and sanitize in the most efficient and effective way possible to make the living conditions safe and sanitary.

If you or someone you know needs hoarding cleanup, it is best to call in a professional remediation company. SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito has the experience and training to make your home safe and livable again. Call us at 415-479-2900 to learn more about our professional cleanup services.

What to Do Before, During and After an Earthquake

9/22/2017 (Permalink)

Preparation is the key component for making it through an unexpected disaster.

We all know that earthquakes are a common occurrence in California and other parts of the West Coast regions.  But earthquakes can happen at any time of the year and occur without warning.  After the initial earthquake, the aftershock may follow.  Most are smaller than the initial earthquake but larger magnitude aftershocks also occur.   Earthquakes may cause household items to become dangerous projectiles; cause buildings to move off foundations or collapse, damage utilities, roads and structures such as bridges and dams, or cause fires and explosions. They may also trigger landslides, avalanches, and tsunamis.

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito wants to emphasize the importance of preparation before an earthquake strike.  By making an effort to be prepared and having a plan of action in place, you can lessen the impact a disaster might have on you, your home and your family.  

Learn and follow these steps now to PREPARE before, during, and after an earthquake.

What to Do Before an Earthquake:

• Make sure you have a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, and extra batteries at home.
• Secure items that could fall or move and cause injuries or damage such as; bookshelves, picture frames, mirrors, light fixtures, televisions, computers, hot water heaters, etc.
• Learn how to turn off the gas, water, and electricity.
• Make up a plan of where to meet your family after an earthquake.
• Don’t leave heavy objects on shelves as they can fall during an earthquake.
• Learn the earthquake plan at your school or workplace.

What to Do During an Earthquake:

• Stay calm and stay put.
• If you’re indoors, DROP to the ground; take COVER by crawling under a sturdy table or stand in a doorway. If under a desk or heavy table, cover your head and neck with your arms and HOLD ON until the shaking stops.
• If there isn’t a desk or sturdy table nearby, crawl away from windows, next to an interior wall. Stay away from glass, windows
• If you’re outdoors, stay away from building, trees, power lines or anything that might fall.
• If you’re driving, move away from overpasses, stop slowly in a safe area and stay in your vehicle.
• Don’t use elevators (they’ll probably get stuck anyway). Don’t run out of the building during the shaking as objects may be falling off the building and cause serious injuries or death.

What to Do After an Earthquake:

• When the shaking stops, check yourself and others for injuries.
• If the building is damaged, safely evacuate, go to an open space away from damaged areas.
• Check water, gas, and electric lines for damage. If any are damaged, shut off the valves to avoid fire and hazardous leaks.
• Be careful of around broken glass and debris
• Inspect your chimneys for unnoticed damaged that could lead to fires.
• Stay away from beaches. Tsunamis and seiches sometimes hit after the ground has stopped shaking.
• If you’re at school or work, follow the emergency plan or the instructions of the person in charge.

If your home or business suffers from earthquake damage, call our professionals at SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito.  We can respond quickly and make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

Any Questions - Call Us Today (415) 479-2900

Flood Facts and Safety Tips

9/13/2017 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO System is prepared to handle any size disaster and help make it, "Like it never even happened."

Floods rank as one of the most common, costly, and deadly natural disasters in the United States. No matter where you live, flooding happens in many ways due to overflow of streams, rivers, lakes or oceans or as a result of excessive rain.  Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often an overwhelming tasks.  A flooding event may occur over a long period and could last days, weeks or longer.

 Here are a few Flood Facts provided by FEMA:

• Flash floods can bring walls of water from 10 to 20 feet high.
• Flooding can be caused by spring thawing (snow and frozen grounds melting in the spring), heavy rains, snow melt runoffs, flash floods, and mudflows.
• Floods are the most widespread natural disaster aside from wildfires. 
• A 2,000-square foot home undergoing 12 feet of water damage could cost more than $50,000 to repair.

Here are a few supplies you need to prepare for a flood:

• Stock up on First Aid items
• Non-perishable foods 
• Three gallons of water per person for 3 days
• Battery operated radio for weather reports
• Extra batteries
• Personal hygiene necessities

Understanding the common types of Floods

Flash Floods - are the most dangerous kind of flood, combining the nearly unstoppable force of flood waters with deadly unpredictability and speed. Just six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock a grown man off his feet, and just two feet of water can cause a car to begin floating.

Coastal Flooding - is the result of strong onshore winds pushing on water from the ocean or bay. These can be classified as storm surges and greatly affect homes along the coast. Raising a home may help prevent flooding.

Urban flooding is specific in the fact that the cause is a lack of drainage in an urban area. As there is little open soil that can be used for water storage nearly all the precipitation needs to be transport to surface water or the sewage system.

River Flood - occurs when a river overflows its banks. This happens for a few different reasons. One, lots of rain. Whether it’s tropical systems (tropical storms, hurricanes, etc.) reaching land.

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event.  If your home or business suffers from flood damage, our trained technicians has the expertise, resources and equipment to handle the job.  

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (707) 588-8226

Help People by Donating to Hurricane Irma

9/13/2017 (Permalink)

Together we can make a difference. You can help by making a donation to the American Red Cross.

After Hurricane Harvey caused devastation along the Texas coast few weeks ago, Hurricane Irma made landfall in Southwest Florida over the weekend. Hurricane Irma was the longest-lasting powerful hurricane or typhoon ever recorded, worldwide. Widespread flooding and wind damage have been reported across most of the Florida Peninsula and Southern Georgia.  

With over 180 mph gust of winds and the longest cyclone around the globe, Hurricane Irma caused many lives, destroyed homes, government buildings, and businesses.   As the rain continues, many people are in danger with flooding across the Southeast U.S. The amount of people injured and dead is still unknown, as death toll rises. The estimate overall cost of property damages and lost businesses may well rise up to hundreds of billions of dollars. 

You Can Help By Making a Donation Today!

The American Red Cross is working around the clock to help the thousands of people whose lives have been devastated by these recent catastrophic hurricanes.

Click HERE to make a donation.

SERVPRO Board Up and Other Services

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

When fire has finally been put out or the storm has passed, the aftermath can be a traumatic experience.  Often times, the damages resulting from busted doors, broken windows, cracked walls or a damaged roof will require emergency board up and tarp to secure the property from further damage.  Whether the damage occurred from a fire, wind damage, fallen tree or forced of entry, your primary focus should be safety and to take action immediately to protect your property and valuable asset.  By leaving your doors or windows unattended, it can lead to further damage from weather, exposure, vandalism, and theft.

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito, we specialize in cleaning, remediating and rebuilding properties.  If your structure is damaged, our trained and experienced technicians can effectively board up doors, garage, windows, wall openings, roofs, etc. We have the equipment and resources to board up residential and commercial needs.  As a locally owned and trusted restoration company, we can provide 24-hour emergency service and are dedicated to responding immediately to emergency conditions.  Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it, “Like it never even happened!”

SERVPRO of  S. San Rafael/Sausalito professionals can also perform other restoration services to secure your home or business and restore it to its preloss condition in a quick and professional manner. 

• Board Up
• Biohazard Cleanup
• Carpet and Installation
• Content Move-outs
• Content Storage
• Deodorization
• Document Restoration
• Dry Cleaning
• Drywall Installation
• Drywall Removal
• Electronics Restoration
• Emergency Fencing
• Fallen Tree Removal
• Fine Art Restoration
• Furniture Restoration
• General Cleaning
• Hardwood Floor Repair
• HVAC Cleaning Services
• Inventory
• Painting
• Portable Power
• Post Construction Cleaning
• Roof Tarp
• Temporary Power

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Fast Water Extraction Mitigates Water Damage

8/25/2017 (Permalink)

When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial.

Water damage can originate by different sources such as floods, broken pipes, leaky faucet or toilet overflow.  If left untreated, water damage can lead to mold or other bacterial growth.  Water damage can be challenging depending on the severity of the damage and the amount of water that caused the damage.  Whether it is from a clean or outside source, water can soak your carpet, padding, and surrounding walls and can cause costly damage that can be difficult to repair without complete replacement if not handled right away.   If you find yourself in a situation that involves standing water in your home, it is imperative that standing water is removed completely to help lessen the damage and/or limits a secondary damage.  Hiring a water restoration company like SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito can make the cleanup process easier to handle.  Our technicians has the training, equipment, and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs.  

Water damage can do so much harm in a short period of time.  Whether you have an inch, a foot of water or more, the quicker you respond to water damage, the less damage your property will endure.  SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito can quickly respond to water damage emergencies.  Our technicians use powerful extraction pumps to remove the standing water.  We also use special moisture readers to detect moisture that has made its way behind walls and below flooring.  After we removed all the water, our technicians will use powerful fans and dehumidifier to dry out all affected areas.  

As a locally owned and operated business, we can provide 24-hour emergency service and are dedicated to responding to any size disaster.  Our goal is to help minimize the interruption in your life and restore your home to its pre-water damage state.  We make disasters, “Like it never even happened.”

Have Water or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today - (415) 479-2900

Understanding the Different Types of Smoke Damage

8/21/2017 (Permalink)

Knowing the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns are vital to proper cleanup and restoration.

After the fire truck leaves, your Sausalito home likely suffers from a serious smoke and soot damage.  Smoke damage can exist in many forms and each type can have different levels of impact on your property and require different method for restoration.  Since smoke and soot is very invasive, they can penetrate into materials causing discoloration and odors, and can leave behind residue buildup.  SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito professionals are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration.  Our technicians know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns, which is vital to proper restoration.

Smoke and Soot Facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

• Dry Smoke Residue– Dry smoke residue occurs during fast burning fires that burn at a high temperature. Dry smoke residue is generally dry, powdery, and does not smear much.
• Wet Smoke Residue-Wet smoke residue occurs from smoldering fires with low heat. Dry smoke residue is sticky with strong smoke odors. During cleaning, wet smoke residue can smear, making cleanup more difficult.
• Protein Residue– Protein residue is essentially invisible and it can discolor paints, varnishes, and other finishes. Although this residue is not very visible, it has a very strong smell.
• Fuel / Oil Residue– Fuel oil residue rarely comes from fires unless petroleum products were being stores on site. More commonly fuel and oil residue restoration comes from furnace puff backs that cause a fuel oil soot. This can be relatively sticky and difficult to clean.
• Other Types – Tear gas, fingerprinting powder and fire extinguisher residue.

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Wildfire Prevention and Safety Tips

8/15/2017 (Permalink)

If your home or business is damaged by wildfires, SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito can help restore your property to preloss condition.

Wildfires can occur at anytime and anywhere throughout the year.  Late summer and early fall is typically the peak time for wildfires in California.  People that live or work in an area prone to wildfires are at greater risk.  Wildfires sometimes start naturally by heat ignited from sun light or lightning strikes.  However, majority of the wildfires in the U.S. are caused by humans.  Some human-caused fires result from campfires left unattended, negligently discarded cigarettes or intentional acts of arson.  A wildfire can move as fast as 6.5 miles per hour in forest and 14 miles an hour in grassland, consuming trees, homes, natural resources, humans and everything in its path.  

By working together, we can make our residents and neighborhood safer from wildfires by taking safety precautions.  Here are some wildfire safety tips to help prevent wildfire from occurring.

Wildfire Safety Tips

• Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves, porches and decks. Remove dead vegetation from under your deck and within 10  feet  of the  house.  This prevents embers from igniting your home.
• Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches. Screen or box-in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris from accumulating.
• Ensure flammable materials (firewood stacks, propane tanks, dry vegetation) are more than 30 feet from your home or business's foundation and outbuildings.
• Wildfire can spread to tree tops. If you have trees on your property, prune so the lowest branches are 6 to 10 feet from the ground.
• Keep your lawn hydrated and maintained. If it is brown, cut it down to reduce fire intensity. Dry grass and shrubs are fuel for wildfire.
• Inspect shingles or roof tiles. Replace or repair shingles that are loose or missing to prevent ember penetration.
• Cover exterior attic vents with metal wire mesh no larger than 1/8 inch to prevent sparks from entering the home.
• Enclose eaves and screen soffit vents using 1/8 mesh metal screening to prevent ember entry.

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.  Call us today 415-479-2900.

Crime Scene, Biohazard and Vandalism Cleanup Services

8/3/2017 (Permalink)

Need Biohazard cleanup? Call SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito for 24-hour emergency service at (415) 479-2900. We're always Here to Help!

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies, SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito also offers fast, reliable biohazard, crime scene cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers, and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.  Our professionals help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices.  Here are cleanup services we can help with:

Bloodborne Pathogens

SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito will remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue, and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime, or death. Our trained SERVPRO Franchise technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect, and deodorize the structure.

Methamphetamine Labs

Many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure.  SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito professionals follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

Crime Scene Residues

From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito professionals can clean and restore your property and contents.

Arson and Vandalism

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. We also provide general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods, and human or animal waste.

Sewage Backup

Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits- these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito professionals remove the sewage, contaminants and moisture, disinfecting as they clean. Our professionals help ensure the structure is properly cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized.

Dealing with a crime, trauma or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. 

Need Biohazard Cleanup Services?
Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

The Effects of Black Mold in your Home

7/18/2017 (Permalink)

If you suspect that your home has a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Petaluma / Rohnert Park at (415) 479-2900.

In as little as 48 hours mold can quickly become a problem in your home when there’s excessive moisture on building materials.  Mold can be found both indoor and outdoor. It can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, and heating and air conditioning systems.  Outdoor mold can be found in shady, damp areas or places where leaves or other vegetation is decomposing. They come in all shapes, sizes and colors but the most common types of mold include Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Penicillium and Stachybotrys, also known as black mold.

Stachybotrys is extremely toxic which produces mycotoxins and is most likely to appear in areas of the home that are particularly warm, humid and damp.  If left unattended, black mold may cause a variety of health effects associated with respiratory response. Chronic coughing and sneezing, irritation to the eyes, mucus membranes of the nose and throat, rashes, chronic fatigue and persistent headaches can all be symptomatic of black mold exposure.

Since mold can produce allergens and irritants, you should call SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito immediately to inspect, assess and remediate your property.  Our technicians has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.  We make disasters, "Like it never even happened."  Call us today (415) 479-2900.

Water Damage Restoration Process

7/13/2017 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Suasalito for excellent, effective water removal services at (415) 479-2900.

Water damage can originate from many different sources of heavy storm, floods, broken pipes or leaky roof.  The damage to your building materials can range from mild to severe depending how long it has been exposed to wet condition.  Standing water and moisture create the perfect environment for bacteria and mold.  Mold can start to grow in as little in 24 hours and if left unattended, it can be harmful to people especially those with compromised immune system.   In an event of water damage, safety is always the primary concern on any water damage job.  If you try to do this on your own, you’ll end up spending countless hours trying to figure it all out and still not come close to solving the problem.  SERVPRO Franchise professionals are highly trained and equipped with knowledge to restore your property.  Below are some steps our technicians performs during a water damage restoration.

Identifying the Source and Water Type 

We will check for the source of moisture and check for contaminated water in your home or business. The source must be stopped before any restoration or drying of the building can be successful. There are different types of water, typically categorized as either Clean, Gray, or Black and each one with different safety and cleanup protocols. If necessary, our crew will work to stop the water flow as quickly as possible to avert further damage. 

Surveying Damage and Mold 
 
Once we have determined what type of damage we're dealing with, our technicians search the home visually and with moisture detection equipment to find out what objects have been affected, and what else needs to be done. Additionally, we look for signs of mold growth, which often takes priority in a cleanup operation. 
 
Furniture and Water Removal 
 
The next step is to remove all furniture from affected areas, and then pump out water if necessary. We use industrial-grade machinery to pump water from the interior to the exterior of the home, with either a portable or a truck-mounted pump. 
 
Drying and Odor Treatments 
 
At this point, we bring out more heavy machinery to begin drying and deodorizing the affected area, to make sure no more damage or mold growth occurs and any bad smells are removed. 
 
Carpet Removal and Final Cleaning 
 
In many cases, some or all of the carpeting in a room will need replacing. We make sure to evaluate carpeting carefully for moisture so as not to incur extra expenses. Sometimes, a cleaning may only be necessary, particularly when water damage is contained early on. After that is done, final cleanup and sanitization are done on walls and objects, then furniture is brought back into the home or rooms affected. 

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Suasalito is locally owned and operated so we’re always ready to help with any-sized flood or water damage emergencies.  Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."  Call us today at (415) 479-2900.

Steps to Take When a Tree Falls on your Property

7/12/2017 (Permalink)

If a tree falls on your home, SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito can help with removal and restore your property, "Like it never even happened."

Wind, rain, hail, snow, and other natural weather events can cause more damage to your home than you might realize. Any time a storm strikes, it’s worthwhile to check your home for any damage afterwards, particularly your roof. Roof damage, if left un-repaired, can evolve into greater problems with your home’s interior, from leaks and mold to weakened ceilings. Catching the damage and repairing it right away is your best bet for extending the life of your roof and avoiding a total overhaul.

A common occurrence during tropical storms is trees falling on and damaging your property. Don’t wait until it happens. Be prepared for this type of storm emergency. Here are steps to take for emergency tree removal at your home or business.

• Trees that are old or diseased can easily succumb to flooding and windy storms. Go ahead and remove hazardous trees before a storm approaches.

• In the event a tree does fall on your property, first make sure everyone is okay. Leave your home if you feel unsafe inside the property.

• Look to see if there are any wires or power lines hanging and if they are call the police and the power company.

• Call your insurance company and if you can, safely take pictures of the damages.

• Contact your local mitigation and emergency storm cleanup provider in Rohnert Park.

If your property was damaged by a fallen tree, SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito can help restore your home in to pre-storm condition. 

We’re Here to Help! Call us today  (415) 479-2900.

Emergency Water Damage Tips

6/14/2017 (Permalink)

If you experience water damage emergency at your home, SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito is Here to Help. We're just a phone call away (415) 479-2900.

Water damage is the most serious emergencies that can happen to your home.  Your primary focus should be safety first. Water damage can come from many different sources such as; roof leaks, broken pipes, leaky dishwashers, toilet backups, or flooding due to heavy rains.  No matter where the leaks or flooding originated from, it doesn’t take a lot of water to cause tremendous damage.  Just an inch or two can destroy carpets and dry wall, warp wood floors, building components, electronics and personal items.  Not to mention, it can lead to possible mold growth if not addressed immediately.  Water damage can be a traumatic experience for homeowners. Being informed about the causes, consequences, and ways to handle water damage can help you overcome the problem more efficiently.  Here are some useful emergency water damage tips that will assist you in taking proper action in case of water damage to your home.

What to DO After Flooding

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other sensitive valuables to a dry place.

What NOT to Do After Flooding

• Don't enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water.  Always avoid electrical shock hazards
• Don't use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water; this could cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
• Don't use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.

Water damageis best left to professional emergency restoration technicians. Hiring a water damage restoration company like SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito can quickly extract the water and then dry your home using state-of-the-art equipment.  Our staff are 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.

Have a water damage emergency? Call us today at (415) 479-2900.  We are always Here to Help!

The Most Common Causes of Commercial Fires

6/8/2017 (Permalink)

If you experience commercial fire, SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito has the training and expertise to make disasters “Like it never even happened.”

Commercial fire can be devastating, harming both human and property.  Every year, there are as many as 75,000 commercial building fires in the United States.  U.S. fire departments responded to about 3,300 office property fires per year.  These fires caused an annual average of 85 civilian deaths, 1,325 civilian fire injuries and $3.2 billion in direct property damage, according to the (NFPA) National Fire Prevention Association.  Though some are small and cause relatively little harm, many others pose a great risk to life and property.   Fortunately, many fires can be prevented if you’re aware of the potential hazards. Here are several of the most common causes of commercial building fires.

Human Error 

Many commercial fires can be attributed to human error and are not meant to be malicious. For example, spilling liquids on electrical equipment, leaving a coffee pot on, or burning food in the kitchen can easily cause a fire to break out. To decrease the chances of this happening in your commercial building, perform risk assessments to determine if any changes need to be implemented, provide proper staff training, and ensure fire extinguishers are easily accessible throughout the building. 
 
Negligence 

Negligence fires are the result of someone not following proper procedures and can usually be easily avoided by proper staff training. For example, storing or handling flammable items improperly or covering electrical equipment that must have air can result in a fire that causes significant commercial fire damage. 
  
Arson 

Unfortunately, arson is a frequent cause of commercial fires, particularly in industrial buildings and factories. This may be an act of vandalism, an attempt to collect insurance money or even the work of an unhappy employee. To minimize the damage associated with arson, you may want to consider installing an automatic sprinkler system. 
 
Faulty Wiring/ Electrics 

Electrical issues are another frequent cause of commercial fires. For example, outdated equipment, loose or frayed wires, and overloaded plugins can spark a fire with little to no advance warning. This is why it is so important to make certain your electrical equipment, including boilers, hot water heaters, and furnaces are in good working order and able to handle their workload. To ensure your equipment/ appliances are functioning properly, you may want to invest in a portable appliance tester (PAT). 

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito 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, motel or office building, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Mold Removal and Remediation in your Home or Business

6/8/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito can help mitigate your mold infestation. Call us today (415) 479-2900.

Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. No one knows how many species of fungi exist but estimates range from tens of thousands to perhaps three hundred thousand or more.  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 can occur, particularly if the moisture problem goes unaddressed for some time.  It is impossible to eliminate mold and mold spores outdoors. But indoor mold can be effectively controlled.  By deploying proven mold removal and prevention strategies, indoor mold can be managed.  To fully assess your mold situation, it is best to hire highly trained restoration specialists like SERVPRO that can conduct mold tests to determine the exact type of mold you are dealing with.

Mold Removal and Remediation

Many homeowners feel they can address mold issues on their own utilizing bleach or other products.  This can be a dangerous choice if you are not aware of the type of mold you are dealing with.  If mold is improperly handled, it can easily spread, multiplying the problem many times over. 

You have probably heard a lot about the health risks associated with mold.  Mold can be a health problem but more often it is more of a nuisance than a toxicity problem.  If you have occupants in the home that suffer from allergies, compromised immune systems, or other health disorders mold can be an increased, and very serious problem.

At SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito, our highly trained restoration specialists are Here to Help! We’re a trusted company that specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage. SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito can also mitigate mold and mildew. Should you have mold problem in your home or business, call us today (415) 479-2900.

Grilling Safety Tips

5/26/2017 (Permalink)

Follow these simple grilling safety tips to keep your family and friend safe during the cookout season.

When the weather gets warmer, there’s nothing better than the smell of food on the grill. Grilling and cookouts are the most popular activities outdoor. It’s a great way to relax and have fun with family and friends. Weather the barbecuing takes place at the beach, picnic area, camping site or just out in the backyard, grilling can poses risk of fire if not handled properly. According to a (NFPA) National Fire Protection Association report, nearly 9,000 homes fires are caused by grilling in the US and close to half of all injuries involving grills are due to thermal burns. 

Causes of Grill Fires: 

The leading causes of grill fires were a failure to clean, having the grill too close to something that could catch fire and leaving the grill unattended. 

A leak or break was the leading cause for outside or unclassified grill fires. Leaks or break were primarily a problem with gas grills.

General Grilling Tips:

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.

If you encounter fire damage during this cookout season, give SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito a call.  We're dedicated to being faster to any size disaster, has the training, equipment and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. We’re close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Call us today at (415) 479-2900.

Fire Safety Tips When Cooking

5/26/2017 (Permalink)

Follow these fire safety tips, be alert and watch what you are cooking at all times.

As we look forward to the upcoming holiday season of Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor day (to name a few) many of us will invite our family and friends to celebrate these major holidays.  These can be exciting especially preparing some delicious dishes for the party.  Whether you’re cooking indoor or outdoor, there is always a potential for fire hazard in the kitchen or in the backyard.  Did you know that U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 166,100 home structure fires that involved cooking equipment per year? The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking.  So before you turn on your stove, here are some fire safety tips prevention. 

Here's What You Need to Know:

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stove top.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire—oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains—away from the stovetop.

What to Do During a Fire:

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.

If you have the unfortunate experience of fire or smoke damage in your home or business call SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito!

We are available 24 hours a day and are always Here to Help! Have Questions? Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Commercial Storm Damage Restoration

2/28/2017 (Permalink)

Storm Damage? No problem. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your business and quickly restore your property to pre-storm condition.

Mother Nature can strike at anytime and at any place.  When a severe storm blows through, it can bring with it heavy rain, flooding, high winds, lightning, hail, and even tornadoes.  The damage that storms can inflict on buildings will vary depending on the type and severity of the storm.  Some of the potential kinds of damage that different storms can cause are cracked or shattered windows, roof damage from hail, damage from fallen branches/trees or even water damage from flooding.   If that damage isn’t repaired quickly, interior damage, mold, and damage to equipment and inventory can follow - not to mention the disruption caused for your employees and customers.  The costs of repairs to commercial buildings in particular are likely to be substantial due to the high concentration of glass used in these structures. Without the full and timely payment of insurance benefits, rebuilding and repairing can be prohibitively expensive.

SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito understands that severe weather can happen without notice and cause water damage to your commercial property.  As a trusted restoration company, we’re dedicated to responding immediately to water and storm damage emergencies.  We have the experience and advanced training that enables us to restore your property quickly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete. 

We are Here to Help!  Have Questions? Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Mold Remediation to a Commercial Building

2/22/2017 (Permalink)

Got Mold? No Problem. SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito is here to help with remediation process and to prevent mold growth in your business.

Molds 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 mold 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.

Commercial Mold Remediation Presents Unique Challenges

Mold can spread quickly through a property if left untreated. SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito Park can respond quickly, working to first contain the infestation to help prevent its spread to other parts of the building. Next, we will begin the remediation process, working safely and effectively to manage the situation. We have the training, experience, and equipment to contain the mold infestation and remediate it to preloss condition.

Have a Mold Problem? Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Flooding and Flash Floods Can Strike Anywhere

2/22/2017 (Permalink)

Flood or Storm Damage? SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito is Here to Help! Call us today 415-479-2900.

Flooding and flash floods can happen almost everywhere, and at any time during heavy rains, when ocean waves come on shore, when snow melts too fast, or when dams or levees break.  Floods rank as one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States.  According to National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) more than 20% of all flood insurance claims come from areas in low to moderate risk flood zones.  On average, floods cost $6 billion in annual losses in the U.S. 

Flash floods are the most dangerous kind of floods, because they combine the destructive power of a flood with incredible speed and unpredictability. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away.  Flash floods occur when excessive water fills normally dry creeks or river beds along with currently flowing creeks and rivers, causing rapid rises of water in a short amount of time. They can happen with little or no warning.

Many residents and business owners are unaware that they qualify for flood insurance. You can take steps to reduce the financial impact of flooding before a disaster strikes.

Preparing for a Flood

Residents and business owners need to prepare for flood conditions. Before the threat of flooding becomes imminent, residents and business owners should:

• Purchase a flood insurance policy if they do not already have one. 

• Review their current insurance policy, become familiar with what is covered, and ensure the limits are adequate for their building and personal belongings.

• Make an emergency kit, plan evacuation routes, and keep important papers in a safe, waterproof place.

• Itemize and take pictures of possessions.

If you are experiencing water damage due to flood, give SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito a call 415-479-2900  We're Here to Help restore your home or business back to pre-water damage condition.  We can quickly extract the water and then dry your property using state-of-the-art equipment.

Mold Infestation? We Can Help!

2/14/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito is Here to Help with your mold problem. Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Mold can be found just about almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors.  Molds grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores.  Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.   Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water.  These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.  Some people are sensitive to molds. For these people, exposure to molds can cause symptoms such as nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, or skin irritation.

If there is an ongoing moisture problem in your home or business, it is important to be alert for:

• The presence of visible mold.

• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.

• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.

• Excessive humidity.

If you suspect that your home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito can inspect, assess, remediate your mold infestation and make it, "Like it never even happened!"

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

What to Do After Your Property is Damaged by a Storm

2/14/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito is ready to Help restore your property and make it, "Like it never even happened!"

Storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home. Heavy rains can cause flooding and powerful winds can cause roof damage and downed trees on your property. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards as well, so having a strategy to deal with damage will help you to be ready to take steps immediately after the storm.

Dealing with wind or water damage to your home caused by severe storms can be both difficult and dangerous. Here are some tips on how to keep your family safe and begin to get your life back together after a storm hits.

Take Safety Precautions

Storm damaged homes are dangerous places; electrical hazards, sharp things and the real risk that something heavy could fall on you.  Stay away from damaged trees and dangling or broken limbs.  Here are other things to consider when your home is damaged:

• Do not venture outside until it has been declared safe to do so.


• Turn off your natural gas, electrical and water at their shutoff locations in your home.


• Do not touch any wiring or metal plumbing fixtures as they may be carrying electrical current.

Take pictures of the damage caused by the storm

If it is safe to move around your property, use your cellphone or a camera to photograph the damage so that you will have a record for your insurance company. This action will ensure that you are fully compensated.

• Photograph the outside of your home and any property that has been damaged during the storm, such as outbuildings or decks.


• Photograph the inside of your home and any interior property that has been damaged before you move anything.


• Interior and exterior pictures should be taken from multiple angles to ensure they accurately portray the extent of the damage.


• If trees or other debris, such as a neighbor's lawn ornaments, have damaged your home, photograph them as well.


• All pictures should be taken before any preliminary repair work begins.

Cleaning Up After a Storm

• If the roof has been damaged, cover the areas that could be exposed to the elements with a tarpaulin.


• Cover broken windows with plastic sheeting or plywood.


• Exterior walls that have sustained damage should be covered with plywood or plastic sheeting.


• Remove valuable items from the home prior to leaving for an extended period as the damage to your home may make it more easily accessible for thieves.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. The company will send out an adjuster to determine the extent of the damage so that payment for repairs can be made.

• Have the pictures you took of the damage printed, or transferred to a CD, and provide them to your claims adjuster.


• Obtain quotes for repair work to your home and replacement cost estimates on any items that were damaged during the storm and give them to your claims adjuster.


• If you buy replacement items, such as a television, computer, microwave, light fixtures, or carpet, be sure to keep a copy of the receipt. Photocopy your receipts before submitting them to your claims adjuster.

Look Into Federal Disaster Assistance

The federal government may have declared the area affected by the storm as a disaster area that is eligible for low-cost loans to help restore your property to back to pre-storm condition or better. You will be required to file documents to receive these loans.

When a storm-related disaster strikes, it may seem overwhelming, but these steps can help you to begin the process of restoring your home, and your life, back to normal.

 _______________________________________

STORM DAMAGE REPAIR - Storm & Flood Services:

• Fire Damage Restoration


• Water Mitigation


• Mold Remediation


• Sewage Cleanup


• Carpet Cleaning


• Odor Removal


• Commercial Storm Damage Cleanup

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster

A fast response is crucial to flooding and storm damage, because it reduces secondary damage and restoration costs. Storms don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. Our technicians will respond immediately, day or night to help Meriden business owners and residents.

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As water and storm damage specialists, we have the experience and advanced training that enables us to restore your property quickly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete.

As Water Damage Restoration Technician and Applied Structural Drying Technicians, SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (415) 479-2900

Fire Cleanup and Restoration to a Commercial Building

1/3/2017 (Permalink)

As your local cleanup and restoration specialist we can help restore the fire and smoke damages to your business, 'Like it never even happened!"

Fire damage to a commercial building is a devastating experience.  After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts.  Therefore immediate action is crucial to minimize business interruption, reduce lost revenue and productivity.

But trying to clean up the aftermath may be the last thing you feel like doing on your own.  When fire, smoke and soot damage are left behind, it can create an unpleasant and permanent problems if not properly addressed.  Especially considering that smoke and soot from even a small fire can permanently damage contents throughout the building and may cause odors that resurface for years. 

SERVPRO of So San Rafael/Sausalito understands how disruptive fires can be for business owners, their tenants and even their customers.  So before you risk doing more damage to your most valuable business assets by attempting to clean it up yourself, you should consider hiring an experienced fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO.  Our technicians have the training, tools, equipment and experience to handle any fire damage incident to a commercial building.  They can respond immediately to begin the work to restore your business back and running. 

We are available 24 hours a day and are always Here to Help! Have Questions? Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Mold Damage Emergency Tips

12/20/2016 (Permalink)

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today (415) 479-2900

What you can do until help arrives

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do:

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

What NOT to Do:

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

If you suspect mold growth in your home or business give SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito a call at (415) 479-2900.

Got Storm Damage? We Can Help

12/20/2016 (Permalink)

Storm can strike at any business. If you experience the unfortunate storm damage, give SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito a call at (415) 479-2900

The storm weather can sometimes be unpredictable and dangerous.  Whether the storm was originally caused by a hurricane, heavy rain, or flooding, it can devastate a home or business in a matter of minutes.  Water can quickly spread throughout a property and is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings. If water damage is not handled quickly and properly, it can cause severe damage to your property's structure and can lead to potential harmful mold.

SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito is a trusted company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job. Our highly trained technicians are on standby, ready to respond quickly to a disaster, and can restore your home or business into pre-loss condition. 

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Please Call Us At (415) 479-2900.  We are always Here to Help!

Common Types of Mold in Homes

12/20/2016 (Permalink)

If you find mold in your home give SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito a call (925) 299-1323. We are always ready to help.

Mold is a fungus that can be found almost anywhere, indoor and outdoor.  They come in all shapes, sizes and colors but the most common types of mold include Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Penicillium and Stachybotrys, also known as black mold. 

Common Types of Mold in Homes

• Aspergillus – is found in warm, extremely damp climates, and a common occupant of house dust.  This mold produces mycotoxins which is a poisonous chemical compound.
• Cladosporium – is a very common outdoor fungus that can find its way indoors and grow on textiles, wood and other damp, porous materials. 
• Penicillium - is a very common species found on wallpaper, decaying fabrics, carpet, and fiberglass duct insulation. It is known for causing allergies and asthma. 
• Stachybotrys - is extremely toxic “black mold” that produces mycotoxins is most likely to appear in areas of the home that are particularly warm, humid and damp.

Since many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants, you should contact a qualified mold remediation company regardless of the color or type of mold.  If you find mold in your home or business give SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito a call at (415) 479-2900.  We have the training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

Water Damage Prevention Tips

11/29/2016 (Permalink)

The best way to prevent water damage from rainwater is to ensure the exterior materials of your home are properly constructed and maintained.

Water damage tends to leave its mark in the forms of wood rot, peeling paint,  wall stains, and mold growth. The best way to prevent water damage from rainwater and snow melt is to ensure the exterior materials of your home are properly constructed and maintained. Follow these tips to avoid costly future repairs.

• Repair doors & windows - check for old and worn out doors or windows to ensure that your caulking isn't cracked.
• Gutters  - clean and inspect your gutters regularly to ensure they are free from debris that can clog and cause water damage.
• Downspouts -  clean and check your downspouts at least twice a year.  If you live in a extremely rainy climate, you should check them more frequently.
• Sump pump - check it at least once a year and make sure that it is working properly.
• Plants & Trees - some plants and trees around your home can be a problem if not properly maintained.  Make sure to trim the extended roots to prevent blockages from your drainage system.
• Use a drainage snake, not chemical - chemical can eat away at your pipes.  Try your luck using a drain snake to avoid potential damage to your pipes.

If you are experiencing water damage at your home and need a restoration specialist, give SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito a call at (415) 479-2900.  We will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and restore your home, "Like it never even happened!"

What to Do and Don't Do After a Water Damage

11/29/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito have the expertise and equipment to quickly restore your property to pre-water damage condition.

If you have the unfortunate experience of water damage from clean water, SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito trained professionals can handle your water emergency quickly and effectively.  Here are some tips of what you can do and don' do after a water damage.

DO:

• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible with by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

 DON’T:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water.  Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining.
• Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
• Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

Call SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito for excellent, effective water removal services. Trust the trained technicians of SERVPRO. We work to get your home looking, "Like it never even happened!"

 Call us 24/7 at (415) 479-2900

The Water You Don't See

11/29/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito uses advanced equipment and techniques to extract water quickly and closely monitor and document the drying process.

The water you don't see can originate from many sources including foundation leaks, burst pipes, leaky roof or poor drainage around the home.  When you suspect that you might have a water damage, it’s important to know what the common causes are so that you know how to prevent minor water damage from turning into a huge problem.  But if you're already experiencing water damage, SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito Franchise Professionals are here to help!  Our technicians are highly trained and can safely clean, disinfect, deodorize and restore your home.  A mop and common cleaning products may not be enough for serious water intrusions, especially when the water you don't see can contain bacteria, cause mold or rot and other unseen damage.

If you have any water damages to your property give SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito a call and we can answer any questions you have, schedule an inspection of the property and begin the remediation process. We are specialists on Fire, Water, Smoke, and Mold damages, you can rely on us to help restore your property.

We're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us anytime at 415-479-2900

The Effects of Water Damage

11/29/2016 (Permalink)

If the laminate floor has been flooded in your home, give SERVPRO of Petaluma / Rohnert Park a call. We are ready to restore damage to your property.

Water damage can come from natural disasters, plumbing failure, and a range of other sources.  Floods, heavy snow, and heavy rain are other possible causes of this type of damage and can lead to having water in basements.  When it rains heavily or snow melts quickly, the risk of this type of damage increases.  Standing water presents a breeding ground for bacteria, fungi and even black mold.  If left untreated, your wet floor can severely hinder your indoor air quality and spread a variety of different contaminants.  Once a home or business sustains water damage, it is important to start the water damage cleanup immediately.  Starting water damage cleanup as soon as possible increases the likelihood of saving water-soaked furniture, carpets, rugs, clothing, and other items.

If you experience a water damage and looking for a trusted restoration company,  SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito is Here to Help restore your home back to pre-water damage condition.  We quickly extract the water and then dry your property using state-of-the-art equipment.  

Call us anytime at 415-479-2900

Winter Fire Safety Tips

11/1/2016 (Permalink)

Practicing the best fire safety is how you can be most prepared for unexpected disaster in the winter.

The winter season is just around the corner which means that home fires occur more often by unattended candles, space heaters, wood stoves and fireplaces.  

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito, we want to remind everyone to take simple steps to protect their homes and family from the danger of household hazards and heating equipment. Practicing the best fire safety is how you can be most prepared for unexpected disaster in the winter.

Here are some fire safety tips to prevent most heating related fires from happening:

• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.
• Have your chimneys and vents checked. If you light fires frequently, you need a chimney sweep service once a year. 
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. 
• Test smoke alarms. Make sure batteries are fresh. Place smoke alarms in the kitchen, laundry room and in bedrooms.
• Beware of lit candles. Candles can set the mood for relaxation, and that's how they get forgotten or knocked over by kids or pets.
• Beware of space heaters. Like fireplaces, people and pets should not be allowed to sit any closer than three feet.
• Don't put space heaters near curtains, tablecloths or other fluttering fabrics.
• Make sure the space heaters you buy have automatic shut-offs before reaching dangerous temperatures.

If you have the unfortunate experience of fire or smoke damage in your home or business call SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito!

We are available 24 hours a day and are always Here to Help! Have Questions? Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

What to Do and Don't Do After a Fire

11/1/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito have specialized fire and smoke damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up & restore your home.

What You Can Do Until Help Arrives

The most important thing is to understand the risk to your safety and health even after the fire is out. The soot and dirty water left behind may contain things that could make you sick.

Here's What to Do and Don't Do After a Fire.

DO:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers

DON'T:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professionals.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Franchise Professionals.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV, sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair services.
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water.  They may be contaminated.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet.  The wiring may be wet or damaged and can cause electrical shock.
• Send garments to the dry cleaner.  Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

If your home or business has been damaged by the fire, you may not know where to turn.  SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is here to help restore your property to preloss condition and make it, "Like it never even happened!" We are available 24 hours a day and can have a team of technicians out to your property in no time!

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Safety Tips in Case of a Fire at Home

11/1/2016 (Permalink)

Important fire safety tips to help you and your family in case of a fire at home.

Important and useful safety tips in case of a fire at home

In case of a fire at your home, your priority is to get yourself and your family members out as quickly as possible.  There is no time to gather valuables.  Fire can spread out within seconds and in just a few minutes, it can become life-threatening.  

Don't attempt to extinguish any fire if there is a threat to your safety.  If you're unable to exit your home safely because of smoke or fire, remain in your room until it is safe to do so.  Keep door closed and await assistance from the fire department.

After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire, smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. At SERVPRO of  S. San Rafael/Sausalito, we have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.  

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Give us a call at 415-479-2900. 

Common Causes of Kitchen Fires

11/1/2016 (Permalink)

When a fire starts inside your oven, keep the door closed and turn it off immediately. The lack of oxygen will suffocate the flames.

The kitchen is the source of many fire hazards because it's where heat, electricity, water and grease come together.  The most common type of fire is the grease fire.  A grease fire is extremely dangerous as it can get out of control quickly and spread from the stove throughout the kitchen and into other rooms of the house.

Common Causes of Kitchen Fires

• Too high temperature in the fryer
• Vegetable, more flammable, oils
• Old, more flammable oil, in the deep fryer
• Fat deposits in the flue and ventilation ducts
• Misalignment sprinklers due to equipment moved around
• Clogged melting links of the sprinklers leading to impaired function

Other types of kitchen fires include oven fire or the microwave.  When a fire starts, keep the door closed and turn off the oven.   The lack of oxygen will suffocate the flames. If continues to smoke like a fire use a fire extinguisher or call fire department.

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito we are available 24 hours and 7 days a week.  Give us a call at 415-479-2900.  We can help make any damage you are facing, "Like it never even happened!"

Mold specialists

7/14/2016 (Permalink)

Servpro of S. San Rafael/Sausalito (415) 479-2900

 At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito we are a 24/7 emergency service, offering trained professionals to remediate and restore your home or office! If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety.

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem as soon as there’s water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line from appliances or plumbing. If you notice a strong, musty odor, this may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting; mold isn’t always visible but odor can help identify it.

Make sure you stay out of the affected areas; turn off any HVAC system and fans and then contact SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito for mold remediation services. 

You can reach us any time at our 24/7 line, we're always reasy to help!  Just dial (415) 479-2900 

Prepare for a fire emergency

7/7/2016 (Permalink)

Servpro of S. San Rafael/Sausalito (415) 479-2900

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito knows the first 48 hours after a fire can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property. We want to make your damages “Like it never even happened” and get your home or business up and running again.

It is important to know who to call when an emergency happens because you never know when disaster will strike! One of the most common causes of fires is cooking equipment, followed by heating equipment, being aware and prepared for emergency situations can be the difference in saving and salvaging your property. Make sure to have smoke alarms up in each room and check them regularly to ensure they’re properly working.

We are a 24-Hour Emergency Service that can respond immediately to your emergency with the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs!

Give us a call at (415) 479-2900 

Commercial water damages

6/29/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito 24/7/365 415-479-2900

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito we know how to handle any and all water damages that you may encounter, but we want to give you a few pointers to help you prevent water damages from happening at your business. Unfortunately, disasters happen and even the most carefully operated and maintained building can experience a water damage event. Water damage tends to leave its mark on properties in the forms of rotting, warping, staining, and mold growth.

To help your property stay at its best here are these potential causes of water damage:

·         Malfunctioning appliances – washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators,

·         AC and heating units leading to corrosion of HVAC systems and mold may growth from leakage

·         Windows - Inspect windows from the inside for glass and air seal integrity,  test all locks, cranks, and interior walls around windows for water damage

·         Leaking pipes

Call and ask your local SERVPRO representative to help prepare your Emergency Readiness Plan today! Remember a great way to prevent damage from getting worse is to have all staff be well-practiced and ready to handle an emergency, most importantlyhave a response plan ready!

Call 34/7/365! 

415-479-2900

Summer heat waves

6/23/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito 415-479-2900

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito we're here to help you get ready for this Summer Heat! 

Stay safe during the heat waves waiting to hit the North Bay by remembering these tips:

·Get the trained in first aid to learn how to treat heat-related emergencies.

·Have a emergency kit handy

·To reduce 80 percent of the heat that enters your home by covering windows that receives morning and afternoon sun

·Weather strip your doors

· Stay aware of upcoming temperature changes. Listen to local weather forecasts.

·Window air conditioners snugly; insulate if necessary.

 Stay safe this summer and if you need us remember to give us a call for all your fire, water, and smoke emergencies at 415-479-2900! We are faster to any size damage.  Our SERVPRO Franchise professionals is ready for whatever happens.  Should a disaster strike at your home or business, we are here to help!

Fire Safety

6/3/2016 (Permalink)

Servpro of S. San Rafael/Sausalito 415-479-2900

Its time to Fire up your grill! Not your home.

With the heat of summer just begining we at SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito are thinking about bbq's and relaxing weekends like the rest of you. 

Summer means fun under the sun and for us here in Northern California, you might beat the Beach, at the Russian River, or at home with your grill. Your local SERVPRO wants to remind you to be safe with your grills! 

At SERVPRO of S. San rafael/Sausalito we can handle any size Fire, Smoke, Water damage you may incounter. But that doesnt mean we want  you to have to call us for sudden fire or smoke damage.

Be safe with your grill or bon fires, and remember your local SERVPRO is always Here to Help if you need it! 

Contact our 24/7 line at 415-479-2900 ANY TIME! 

A Healthier Clean

4/28/2016 (Permalink)

Servpro of S. San Rafael/Sausalito 415-479-2900

Cleaning can mean using harsh cleaning products, but with SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito you can choose to not use them in your environment. We have three Green Cleaning Products that allow us to finish any cleaning project in an environmentally sound way! 

We have designed products to clean carpet and upholstery, a surface clearner, and glass cleaner all of which are environmentally friendly and ready for use on any size mess!

If you need some serious Spring cleaning done in your home or office SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is ready to help!

 Give us a call for any green Spring Cleaning you need!

Any questions can be directad to our 24/7 line 415-479-2900

Spring Showers

4/1/2016 (Permalink)

Servpro of S. San Rafael/Sausalito 415-479-2900

Spring calls for rain and storms, and for many people that can lead to wet floors. If you find yourself with a soggy carpet, give SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito a call!

We know how to handle your small water damages as well as your large water damages. If you have any questions or need assistance at any hour of the day just dial 415-479-2900 and we will answer 24/7!

Fire or smoke damages

4/1/2016 (Permalink)

CALL SERVPRO OF S SAN RAFAEL/SAUSALITO 415-479-2900

If you have the unfortunate experience of fire or smoke damage in your home or business call SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito with any questions or concerns! We are available 24hours a day and can have a team of technicians out to your property in no time!

Winter happens to be the most common time of the year for fires in a residence, and having smoke from a fire can be just as damaging as a pot left on a hot stove. Make sure you are taking preventative measure in your home or business!

If you have fire or smoke damages to your property give SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito a call and we can answer any questions you have. We are specialists on Fire, Water, Smoke, and Mold damages, you can rely on us to help restore your property.  

Call SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito today!  415-479-2900

Unexpected water damages

3/11/2016 (Permalink)

Servpro of S. San Rafael/Sausalito 415-479-2900

If you have the unfortunate experience of having water damage in your home or business call SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito with any questions or concerns! We are available 24hours a day and can have a team of technicians out to your property in no time!

Having a wet winter means water getting into unexpected places. Make sure you are taking preventative measure in your home or business!

If you have any water damages to your property give SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito a call and we can answer any questions you have, schedule an inspection of the property and begin the remediation process.

We are specialists on Fire, Water, Smoke, and Mold damages, you can rely on us to help restore your property.

Call us anytime at 415-479-2900

Found water damage on your property? Call us!

2/17/2016 (Permalink)

Servpro of S. San Rafael/Sausalito 415-479-2900

SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito wants to remind you to stay alert during wet weather, getting water where it doesnt beloing can lean to more problems then you think! Try keeping a eye on any full gutters or cracked windows, as they can lead to water damage on your property!

If you find water damage in your home or building give us a call and we will make your damages "Like it Never Even Happened". 

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito can handle any size damage and is open twenty-four hours a day, so whenever disaster strikes we can respond!

Have questions? Call us at 415-479-2900 

Movie Night

1/29/2016 (Permalink)

Servpro of SSanRafael/Sausalito 415-299-1323

SERVPRO of S. San Rafaeal/Sausalito would like to thank everyone that made it out to out movie night on Wednesday! 

We had a great time watching Creed, we brough snacks, candy and soda for eveyone and had a great time. We love being out in our community with our clients, friends, and family! 

Hope to see you all at our next event! And remember, SERVPRO is Always Here to Help! 

SERVPRO can handle your Fire Damages

1/13/2016 (Permalink)

Servpro of South San Rafael/ Sausalito is always here to help

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito franchise professionals can take care of your fire damage. By providing timely response with our services, ranging from FIRE, SMOKE, and SOOT removal, to contents claims inventory, and document restoration, and so much more. At SERVPRO of S. San rafael/Sausalito we know the first 48 hours after a fire can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property. We are always faster to any size disaster and will strive to make your damages "Like it never even happened" always.

We are available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year!

If you have Fire Damage, or any questions call 415-479-2900 now!

What to do with Water damage?

12/24/2015 (Permalink)

"Like it never even happened"

Call SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito we are faster to any size disaster, your water damage or flooding is no problem for us to handle!

Standing or slowly dripping water attracts microorganisms. Moisture is the driving force allowing for growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria. SERVPRO utilizes a proprietary software technology called CCIS to inventory each room. We will assist to "restore before replace" to control costs and expedite to completion the entire service. 

Call SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito for excellent, effective, water removal services. Trust the trained technicians of SERVPRO. We work to get your home looking "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito is locally owned and operated so we’re always ready to help Santa Rosa and surrounding communities with any-sized flood or water damage emergencies. 

 Call 24/7 at (415) 479-2900.

Free Courses!

12/10/2015 (Permalink)

Free courses are available!

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito we offer both credit and non-credit courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters and Real Estate professionals. The Continuing Education (CE) Courses provide you with information to better service your customers.

These programs are designed to improve your knowledge regarding emergency mitigation. 

Here are some of the CE courses that are offered by SERVPRO

• Fire Damage Restoration

• Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry

• Restorative Drying for Water Damage

• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar

• Biohazard Cleanup

Continuing Education (CE) Courses are available every few months, yearly. If you are interested in attending a free course call and reserve your seat! 

Questions? Call us today at 415-479-2900

Dirty Air Ducts? We can help!

12/10/2015 (Permalink)

50% of illness is either caused or aggravated by polluted indoor air

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito we know the importance of indoor air quality and the potential dangers of having dirt, dust and other contaminates in your HVAC system. Breathe easier after we clean out your air ducts.

Cleaning your HVAC unit can potentially extend the lifespan of the equipment by removing bacteria/fungi/mold, reducing potential for mold growth, restoring peak energy efficiency, and eliminating odors! At SERVPRO we can clean HVAC systems for residential and commercial properties, at any time! 

We offer:

24-Hour Emergency Service

Highly Trained Restoration Technicians

Use of Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

A trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry

Have Questions? Call Us Today at 415-479-2900

We can handle your water damage!

11/30/2015 (Permalink)

For your water cleanup and restoration

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito we know disaster strikes unexpectedly, but our SERVPRO professionals are prepared and ready to handle your water emergency quickly and effectively. We handle black water and gray water restoration. 

We are available 24/7 for any loss you may have! Just give us a call so we can make it "Like it never even happened."

Call us today at 415-479-2900

SERVPRO services include Restoration and Cleaning for:

·         fire, smoke, and soot

·         water removal and dehumidification

·         mold mitigation and remediation

·         catastrophic storm response

·         move outs and contents restoration

·         electronic and equipment

·         documentation drying

·         contents claim inventory service

·         clean air ducts and HVAC

·         biohazard, crime scene and vandalism

·         carpet, walls and hard floors

·         deodorization

 Remember at SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito we are always Here to Help!

Flooding and Water Damage

11/24/2015 (Permalink)

Water damage? Call Servpro, we can help!

At SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito we are water damage specialists, and we know a basement can flood at any time; although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Scarsdale basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-Water tank failure 

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Please Call Us At  - (415) 479-2900 

If water damage is not handled quickly and properly, it can cause severe damage to your home’s structure not to mention the potential harmful health effects of mold. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito we are Flooding Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Experiencing Flooding? Call Us Today – We’re Always Here To Help - (415) 479-2900

Fire or Water Damage! We can handle it!

11/18/2015 (Permalink)

"Like it never even happened"

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in S. San Rafael/Sausalito and surrounding cities! We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

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

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (415) 479-2900

Residential Services

Whether your San Rafael/Sausalito home needs emergency Fire Damage, Flood Damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

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

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your San Rafael/Sausalito commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for fast professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we has the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Whats lurking behind your walls?

11/18/2015 (Permalink)

The damage you cant always see.

At SERVPRO of S.San Rafael/Sausalito we know Mold. It is not always visible or easy to recognize; it can hide under your floors and behind your walls. Don't put your health at risk by inhaling spores and mildew!

If you suspect mold growth, or need Mold Remediation call SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito and get your home or office tested and cleaned! Nothing is worth compromising your health.

 At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito we are a 24/7 emergency service, offering trained professionals to remediate and restore your home or office!

Questions? Call us anytime at 415-479-2900  

Here for your Water Damage, Fire Damage, or Mold Damage!

11/18/2015 (Permalink)

Any hour disaster strikes, we can to!

SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster in San Rafael, Sausalito! We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

We offer:

24-Hour Emergency Service

Faster to Any-sized Disaster

Highly Trained Restoration Technicians

Use of Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

A trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry

Locally Owned and Operated

Have Questions? Call Us Today at 415-479-2900   

Rain water damage or a broken pipe, call SERVPRO!

11/3/2015 (Permalink)

Servpro, because we are Faster to Any Size Disaster!

At SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito we know water how to make water damage "Like it never even happened." Disaster strikes unexpectedly but our SERVPRO professionals are able to handle your water emergency quickly and effectively. We handle black and gray water extraction and restoration at your residential or commercial property. 
Give us a call anytime! We are here 24/7 for any loss you may have.Remember at SERVPRO we are Always #‎HeretoHelp

Sausalito Disaster Preparedness Day

10/9/2015 (Permalink)

Always Here to Help!

The Sausalito Disaster Preparedness Day on October 3rd was a great even to get informed on how to handle an emergency. The City of Sausalito’s Disaster Preparedness Committee along with the Sausalito Police Department, Southern Marin Fire Protection District, and several other organizations conducted the Disaster Preparedness Awareness Day event.

Great tips for your everyday life, home, office, and community involvement. SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito representative Josh met and explained how at SERVPRO we help get your life back in order after an emergency. We are a 24hour emergency response service who is here to help whenever disaster strikes. 

Our professional techs have the experience and tools to make your emergency "Like it never even happened."  

Dont Wait, Communicate!

9/8/2015 (Permalink)

National Preparedness 2015!

September is National Preparedness Month and here at SERVPRO we are always ready for any emergency and are faster to any size disaster! Make sure you have your emergency plan ready!

When we say we are always Here to Help we mean we are available to you 24hrs a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Next time you or someone you know has an emergency call your local SERVPRO professionals! 

Fire Knowledge

8/3/2015 (Permalink)

Northern California has had to face many wildfires and the damage they cause. Thre has been over a dozen homes destroyed by the #Rockyfire alone. When facing a fire in your home it is important to know the first 48 hours after fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your belongings. SERVPRO franchise professionals provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire smoke and soot removal to document restoration. These services help ensure your belongings are restored to preloss condition when possible.

When facing a redidential or comercial fire it is best to limit movement to prevent spreading soot and causing further damage; do not wash any walls or painted surfaces; do not shampoo carpet or upholstery; and do not clean any electrical equiptment. We understand your belongings and memories have more value than at first glance, and will do our best to restore them whenever possible.

SERVPRO services include Restoration and Cleaning for:

• fire, smoke, and soot
• water removal and dehumidification
• mold mitigation and remediation
• catastrophic storm response
• move outs and contents restoration
• electronic and equip[ment
• documentation drying
• contents claim inventory service
• clean air ducts and HVAC
• biohazard, crime scene and vandalism
• carpet, walls and hard floors
• deodorization

 Remember we are always Here to Help!

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/news/4292763-181/containment-of-roaring-rocky-fire#.Vb-gyR1dvik.facebook

Happy 4th of July!!

7/2/2015 (Permalink)

Firework fun

Everyone at SERVPRO wishes you a safe and fun weekend. Remember to respect the firework laws in your area and be aware of your sorroundings when setting off fireworks.

SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito is on Facebook.

5/27/2015 (Permalink)

You can like our page by clicking on the link facebook.com/SERVPROsonomarin Find out what we are up to and get updates, tips, and news about our company. Its a great way to learn a little bit more about what we do in our community and keep up with events that we have done, or those coming up. 

Tell us about your experience with SERVPRO on Yelp. We want to know what we can do to continue providing our customers with the best care we can.

http://www.yelp.com/biz/SERVPRO-of-south-san-rafael-sausalito-san-rafael

Planning for a fire

5/26/2015 (Permalink)

Tips

Always be prepared! Know what to do in case there is a fire and have a plan in place.