Maintaining Clean and Efficient Air Ducts in your Commercial Warehouse or Shop

9/26/2024 (Permalink)

Maintaining clean and efficient air ducts in your commercial warehouse or shop is crucial for optimal air quality and energy efficiency. SERVPRO of Santa Maria offers expert air duct cleaning and leakage repair services to ensure your HVAC system operates smoothly. Over time, dust, debris, and contaminants can accumulate in ducts, affecting air quality and potentially increasing energy costs.

Our team specializes in thorough air duct cleaning, removing harmful particles and ensuring cleaner air for your employees and customers. If you're dealing with a duct leak, we can quickly locate and repair the issue, preventing energy loss and improving overall HVAC performance.

Don’t let dirty or leaking ducts impact your business. Trust SERVPRO of Santa Maria to keep your system in top shape with our professional air duct cleaning and leakage repair services. Call us (805) 922-5457 today to schedule an inspection!

Commercial Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

9/8/2023 (Permalink)

Commercial Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

We have compiled a checklist for evaluating the plumbing system within your commercial property. Whether your establishment is a corporate office or a warehouse building, maintaining all plumbing systems in optimal condition is crucial for creating a healthy and comfortable environment. If you are not personally performing the maintenance inspection, it is advisable to maintain a checklist of items for your professional plumber to review.

Check the Water Heater

It is smart to flush your water heater every year and replace the anode rod if needed. Be sure the water temperature is below 120° Fahrenheit. Be sure to check the outside of the water heater to ensure there are no signs of leaks or rusting.  

Check the Water Pressure

Using a pressure gauge verify that the water pressure within your building registers at a minimum of 40 psi. To do this you will connect the gauge to a faucet and fully open the nozzle to run the water. As the water flows through the gauge, it will indicate the water pressure level. In multiple story buildings, it is common for water pressure to fluctuate from floor to floor, but it should consistently fall within the range of 40 to 80 psi.

Inspect for Leaks

A thorough inspection for leaks should be part of your regular routine. Keep an eye out for water staining, puddled water near sink and toilet areas, as well as any discoloration to walls and flooring. If mold or mildew is located at the property this is a common indication of moisture and could potentially be caused by an undetected leak. This would call for immediate professional attention.

Test the Drains for Blockages

Be sure to check all sink and floor drains in the bathroom and kitchen. All drains should allow water to move through at a steady rate so there is no pooling causing excess moisture. If the drainage is slow that is an indication of a clogged pipe that will need to be cleared as soon as possible.  

Ensure Valves are Working Properly

It is important to ensure that all valves in your building are in good operating condition to guarantee safe usage. Damaged valves can lead to substantial water damage in the event of their failure. It is vital that your facilities emergency shut-off valve be in pristine condition, as it is the last line of defense in keeping your business safe from future hazards.

Being able to identify any of these issues and getting them addressed swiftly will be vital in ensuring the health and safety of your business environment. Using this checklist as a guide, you can do your part in ensuring the well-being of your commercial property. A little preventative action taken today can save you from significant headaches and expenses tomorrow.

Commercial Business Fire Damage

8/9/2022 (Permalink)

The premiums for a bar, garage or a conventional office building may vary widely based on the difference in fire risk levels. Businesses that use hazardous or flammable equipment may have higher insurance premiums. These operations may involve

• Alcohol
• Chemicals
• Cooking equipment
• Smoking
• Vehicles 

Structural Components - A building made of combustible materials such as wood may pose a greater fire risk than a structure that is built out of fire-resistant materials. Owners should consider the risk of fire in the primary structure in addition to any additions or modifications. The degree to which building materials may succumb to fire and the distance of a business from the nearest fire station may drive up the cost of a commercial insurance policy. Fire Safety Equipment - It is also crucial that a business be equipped with fire safety equipment. This may include

• Alarms and detectors
• Fire extinguishers
• Sprinklers

Some regional building codes require hardwired fire alarms. These systems should also have a battery backup in case of power failure. Battery-powered smoke detectors should also be regularly tested and the batteries should be changed. Have fire suppression systems and equipment such as extinguishers periodically inspected to ensure that critical components will function in the event of a fire. All of these factors may impact the costs of commercial insurance coverage for a business located in Santa Maria business owner may want to compare commercial policies to find the right level of coverage for fire damage.

Cleaning Services Highlight: Vandalism & Graffiti

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a respected name in the restoration industry, but it can be easy to forget that we also provide a long list of different cleaning services. In today’s blog, we’re highlighting one of those cleaning services: Vandalism and Graffiti Cleanup. Obviously, it is our hope that your property never has to endure this kind of damage, but in the event that your home or business falls victim to acts of vandalism or graffiti, take comfort in the fact that SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team - Team Wall is standing by, ready to help. If vandalism and graffiti damage are not removed and restored in a timely manner, your property may be at risk of water and mold damage. Continue reading for more information about our Vandalism and Graffiti Cleanup Services.

Restoring Your Property Following Acts of Vandalism

Designed to serve commercial and residential properties alike, SERVPRO’s Vandalism and Graffiti Cleanup services are applicable to many different damage scenarios. While we usually think of the stereotypical external wall spray-paint graffiti when we think of vandalism situations, our crews are trained to clean various surface types, such as asphalt sidewalks and driveways, wood, glass, plastic, stone masonry, and metal. Whether brick, concrete, stone, or another material, trust SERVPRO to efficiently clean your affected surfaces. In addition to our Vandalism and Graffiti Cleanup, SERVPRO also provides restoration and supplemental cleaning services that can be helpful depending on the scope of your property’s vandalism or graffiti damage. Turn to us for contents cleaning serviceslike Debris Removal and Odor Removal and Deodorization, as well as larger restoration work, such as Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, and Mold Damage Restoration.  

Experience Vandalism? Call SERVPRO Right Away

No two vandalism or graffiti situations are exactly alike and as a result, SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team - Team Wall will focus on your property’s specific needs. Pick up your phone and call SERVPRO of Santa Maria  at (805)922-5457 at the first notice of vandalism or graffiti. We offer 24-Hour Emergency Service to ensure that one of our crews arrives onsite as soon as possible in order to avoid unnecessary additional damage. Trust SERVPRO to make it “Like it never even happened” and check out our website to view our expansive list of Cleaning Services.

Water Restoration Professionals

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Despite the magazines, television shows, and internet articles that may have you thinking otherwise, water damage restoration is a job that should only be performed by certified professionals. SERVPRO of Santa Maria technicians not only have the know-how to get the job done right, but they also have the specialized tools needed to thoroughly dry your home, preventing further damage.

Additional benefits of hiring a professional water damage restoration company:

1. Health Hazards: Depending on the source of the water damage, safety can become a concern. There are three varying degrees of water damage, ranging from clean water to black water, each more hazardous than the next. Blackwater, the most dangerous of the three, is water that has come into contact with fecal matter, a haven for harmful bacteria and disease-causing pathogens.
2. Hidden Damage: Water damage is not always obvious. Sometimes it is found inside walls and under flooring. If you attempt a DIY restoration and fail to diagnose hidden damage, the resulting issues could be extreme…and expensive.
3. Peace of Mind: Hiring a professional restoration company gives you peace of mind knowing you have done everything in your power to rectify the situation.

Flooding at Your Place of Business

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

How to Prepare

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

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

How to Decide What Documents to Copy

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

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

If your business has experienced a flood, we are always here to help. Call us at 805-922-5457 to get our team of professionals to your business quickly so you can get back on track.

Strongest Traits of a Water Damage Restoration Company

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Hope is one of the most important things for people to feel after their home or business is flooded or damaged by water in any other way. It’s important to find the right assistance to stimulate that hope after the water is under control and Mark Powers, owner of SERVPRO of Santa Maria, water damage specialist, has prepared a report to help people know the best traits of a water damage restoration company.

These important traits include:

· Fast response: A serious leak or burst pipe strikes anytime of the day or night. Choose a company with a reputation for being fast to the scene and quick to start the cleanup and restoration processes.

· Specialist in water, mold and fire damage: Whenever there’s a fire, water damage is part of the scenario. Hundreds to thousands of gallons of water, and sometimes other fire retardant material, is used to put out the fire. Water spreads quickly, mixes with soot, chemical substances that may have been in the building and with fire retardant chemicals and seeps into everything. Water also stimulates mold spores to grow. The technicians need to be trained and certified in a wide range of technologies, including: Fire and Smoke Restoration, Odor Control, Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning and Water Damage Restoration. Make sure the company has all of the industrial-level equipment needed for removing water, soot, ash, and the odors. The water damage company serving Santa Maria has detailed information about east step of the restoration process on the website.

· The ability and commitment to restore instead of replace: Not everything that is touched by water needs to be lost. With the appropriate training, equipment, and technologies a surprising number of items can be saved. The best water damage companies have restoration methods at their disposal that include everything from items that simply need to be thoroughly dried down to dry cleaning and deep cleaning needed to remove every trace of stain, mold and odors. There are specialized drying techniques for delicate items such as books, photographs and art. Restoration services include advice regarding items, such as appliances, electronics or other equipment that may have been damaged but need to be cleaned and restored by qualified electronics technicians.

· Support from start to finish: So many emotions surface in the aftermath of any kind of damage to a home or business. Feeling overwhelmed, not knowing what to do first, the sadness upon discovering treasured items, dread about dealing with the insurance company all pile on top of the original shock. It’s important to work with a water damage company that provides support from the first phone call until the job is done. Support includes walking through the premises with the client as soon as it is safe and assessing both structural damage and personal property damage, creating a detailed inventory of damaged property, assistance with determining value of items, providing a detailed and accurate report and helping file the claim with the insurance company and monitoring the claim process. When any emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. The water damage company, SERVPRO of Santa Maria, understands how stressful and chaotic water damage can be. The company is locally owned and operated and has met the needs of the Central Coast community for repairing and restoring damage from fire, water and mold since the company was established. The company’s highly trained staff is available to respond quickly and professionally. SERVPRO works with their clients from the moment they receive the call until the job is done and the customer is satisfied. SERVPRO of Santa Maria

1279 W. Stowell Road, Suite C

Santa Maria, CA 93458

(805) 922-5457

How Can SERVPRO of Santa Maria Help Your Business?

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO® of Santa Maria we understand that it is important for your business to be operational. We pride ourselves in offering the best methods to ensure that your business can be back up and running in the event of a loss occurring.

Plan Ahead

We offer a FREE facility inspection and ERP (Emergency Response Plan) that is accessible through an app that you can download and pass along to the individuals in your company that would be most likely to be on the front lines after a damage. This plan includes shut off locations, information for your local police and fire departments, contact information for the individuals in your company that need to be kept up to date on situations that could occur. ERP’s are printable as well, and can be kept with your business contingency plan.

Take Action

Here at SERVPRO® of Santa Maria we take pride in the level of service that we offer to our customers. We know it is important to mitigate the damage and get your doors open as soon as possible. We are available 24/7 and have the resources necessary to mitigate your damage quickly and effectively.

If you would like to schedule for a FREE ERP to be completed on your business call our office and we would be happy to schedule an inspection. If you have damage and need assistance with mitigation, call our office and we will send someone to assess the damage and create a plan of action (805) 922-5457.

Commercial Losses

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

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

SERVPRO of Santa Maria has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. Whether your water emergency occurs in a small office building or big box store, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

SERVPRO of Santa Maria has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies. 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.

Mold and Your Business

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

Mold can spread quickly through a property if left untreated. SERVPRO of Santa Maria 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. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Learn more about SERVPRO of Santa Maria training and certifications.

• Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician

Re-open your Business Faster with Professional Restoration

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Helps Santa Maria  Businesses with Commercial Fire Damage Restoration All Year Round

A commercial fire can impact your bottom line. Restoring a business involves cleaning soot or soiling, tackling odor problems, and replacing damaged materials beyond repair. 

SERVPRO offers expert advice and assistance to businesses with commercial fire damage in Santa Maria. We tailor our approach to your business premises' unique requirements and design by communicating effectively and pre-testing materials. Pre-testing incorporates cleaning tests, acidity testing soils, and applying cleaning products to discrete areas of potentially sensitive materials. By conducting a thorough pre-test before engaging in restoration activities, our services can ensure commercial restoration efficiency. 

• Identifying wet and dry smoke stains in the property safeguards contents and structure against cleaning agents and chemicals' potentially damaging impact. 
• Using pH paper to test acidity levels of soiling guides technicians on cleaning agents' right composition for the beast results. 
• No two fires are the same. A multi-tiered, informed approach to restoring business premises' contents or structure is essential to a successful restoration. 

Bring your business to its preloss condition with the help of professional technicians. Contact SERVPRO of Santa Maria for commercial fire restoration at (805) 922-5457.

The Top 3 Commercial Plumbing Maintenance Tips

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Plumbing Maintenance Measures

Owners of commercial properties should maintain plumbing to reduce the likelihood of pipe breaks and major damage that requires making a business claim. While specific types of upkeep vary based on the use of a building located in Santa Maria, practically any commercial structure can benefit from the following plumbing maintenance measures.

1. Keep Sewer Lines Clear
Blocked sewer lines are the sources of some of the worst commercial water damage. Keeping these lines clear requires regular maintenance and good daily practices. Building owners or managers may want to post signage about only flushing toilet paper and disposing of all other waste products inconveniently located in trash bins. Commercial kitchens should also maintain grease traps and limit the number of fats and oils that go down the drain.

2. Get an Annual Inspection
An annual sewer line inspection can be helpful to monitor lines for the formation of blockages. It may be necessary to arrange to have sewer lines cleaned every 18 to 22 months to keep backups at bay. Most commercial insurance policies exclude sewer damage cleanup. Property owners should keep records of inspections and cleanings in the event of making a business claim.

3. Quickly Resolve Minor Issues
Commercial property owners and managers should take issues involving water pressure or leaking pipes seriously. A timely response to plumbing problems as they arise may help to prevent a leak from causing major water damage and increasing the likelihood that mold will flourish in a structure or prevent a pipe break.
Building owners that do regular plumbing maintenance tend to be less likely to have to make a business claim. Keeping detailed maintenance records can be helpful in the event of an emergency at commercial property in Santa Maria. The more documentation policyholders can provide to a commercial property insurer, the more likely a claim is to be covered.

Steps to Repair Water Damaged Electronics For Your Business

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

After investing heavily in the equipment and technology that keep your business in action, flooded electronics and the ensuing water damage can feel overwhelming. Is it possible to repair the damage on your own? 

Corrosion Damage

One of the most serious causes of damage is the corrosion caused by hidden moisture. The combination of metal, water, and oxygen creates an iron oxide or rust. This gradually breaks down the metals within your equipment. The damage may be apparent within a few hours, but it could also take days before you notice it. The damage to flooded electronics isn't limited to your equipment. Your outlets, circuit interrupters, light switches, timers, and other wired conveniences often experience electronic damage. 

Removing Corrosion

As you begin cleaning up after water damage, carefully consider the risks. It is possible and often very likely that you'll cause further damage to the equipment, and you could put yourself at risk of injury. Some solutions sold for rust removal aren't appropriate for all kinds of technology. 

• Unplug the device and remove batteries. Be aware of exposed connectors that may be fragile or affected by corrosion.
• Watch out for white or green buildup on charging ports or battery, SIM card, and metal connectors. These are areas of corrosion.
• Use cotton swabs or a soft cloth and a gentle cleaning solution to wash off the corrosion. The cleaning solution may be a mix of baking soda and water, vinegar, or isopropyl alcohol. If the corrosion doesn't come off with gently wiping, you may need to let the solution sit on the area and wipe it off later.
• Allow the electronics to dry completely before plugging it in or replacing batteries. Do not use a heated hair dryer on equipment. 

The best step for cleaning your electronics is to contact a professional,. You risk doing further damage to the equipment, suffering from injuries, and voiding insurance coverage or equipment warranties when you DIY this task. Keep these risks in mind before trying to clean corrosion from flooded electronics on your own.

Was Your Computer Equipment Exposed to Smoke Damage in Santa Maria?

6/19/2020 (Permalink)

First Comes Smoke, Then Comes Computer Damage

According to the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), electronic equipment exposed to non-thermal damage, like smoke from a fire, can be repaired and returned to service rather than be replaced, saving businesses money in electrical equipment replacement costs when dealing with the aftermath of a commercial fire. 

Commercial Contents Restoration Services

Damage from smoke and soot can cling to computer and electrical equipment. Unfortunately, when it comes to electronic equipment, fire-damaged electronics can be very dangerous as smoke residues can contain acids that may corrode metal surfaces. We will coordinate the cleaning and restoration of your electronics with a qualified electronics technician to prevent further damage to:

• Computers
• DVD players
• Television sets
• And more

We also provide document and photograph cleaning, furniture cleaning and restoration, and offsite storage of your belongings should the repairs be more extensive and require a move out in the damaged area. We will also provide sanitization and deodorization services to remove the unpleasant smell of the smoke.

Call Us Today

From the moment you contact us we can be onsite within four hours to begin the cleanup and restoration process. SERVPRO^® of Santa Maria will clean and restore your homes and commercial businesses in Santa Maria “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 805-922-5457.

SERVPRO^® of Santa Maria is Independently Owned and Operated

Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Santa Maria 

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

Property disaster? "We are always here to help."

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Restoring Your Santa Maria Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Santa Maria 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 Santa Maria

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

Call SERVPRO when you see this at your commercial building.

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Restoring Your Santa Maria Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Local Santa Maria commercial property had an unexpected water damage. SERVPRO of Santa Maria was ready to help!

Flooding and water damage events at Santa Maria 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 Santa Maria

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

Water Is Out To Get Your Business

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

Toilet leak

Here Are a Few Water Problems That Can Ruin Your Workday

When water behaves, it is a thing of beauty. We drink it. It helps keep things clean. It flushes away waste. It makes life comfortable. It’s important to remember this the next time you have a broken pipe at your business in Santa Maria, CA.
In a commercial setting, water is exceptionally good at misbehaving. Its behavior can range from simply annoying to catastrophic. Here are a few water problems that can ruin your workday.

Bathroom Sink and Kitchen Area Leaks

Consider yourself lucky if these are your biggest water issues. The list includes leaky faucets, shutoffs, pipes and drains. Your maintenance crew can handle them. The impact to your operation should be minimal.

Toilet Leaks

This problem is a bit more serious if the leak occurs during the flush. This contaminated water from the toilet bowl may damage the subflooring and the floor below. The impact is usually minimal.

Broken Pipe on the Water Supply

The good news is that the water is clean. The bad news is that there is probably a lot of it. If shutting off the water main is the only way to handle this problem, the impact on your business may be severe. The water repair must happen quickly.

Fire Sprinkler

If one of your sprinkler heads put out a fire, you are happy. If it flooded your business for no good reason, that’s a different story. The area beneath the sprinkler probably experienced severe flooding. No work will take place there for the foreseeable future.

Toilet Overflows and Sewage Backups

These two problems have one thing in common. They both involve significant amounts of contaminated water. The sewage backup is worse because it may also contain large quantities of raw sewage. Decontamination will be a large part of the cleanup process. The health risks associated with the sewage could require your business to partially or completely shut down.
If your business experiences a broken pipe or other water problem, help is nearby. There are moisture and contamination removal experts ready to come in and clean up. They are Here to Help.

Commercial Water Restoration in Santa Maria, CA

4/21/2019 (Permalink)

Local disaster recovery specialist offers insight into the complexities of dealing with disaster and water damage in Santa Maria.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About SERVPRO®

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

What Gives Mold a Musty Smell?

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

If the mold growing in a structure is producing mycotoxins, containment measures may be necessary.

Mold is a type of fungus that requires moisture and food. The metabolisms of these living organisms release off-gases during the growth cycle. These odorous gases are chemical compounds known as microbial volatile organic compounds. Learn more about what MVOCs are and how these compounds differ from mycotoxin and spores.

MVOCs

MVOCs are gases released when mold is actively growing. There are more than 200 known MVOCs, including the following types of compounds:

• Aldehydes
  
• Esters
  
• Ethers
  
• Ketones
  
• Terpenes

An indoor environmental professional can perform a mold test to determine whether a musty odor indicates that mold is currently growing in a building. Test results may identify the species of mold and the types of compounds that are present.

MVOCs vs. Mycotoxin

All fungus in an active growth cycle releases MVOCs, but not every species of mold produces mycotoxins. Some species that do produce toxins generate more than one toxin. Here are a few of the most common mycotoxins:

• Aflatoxin
  
• Fumonisins
  
• Ochratoxin A
  
• Patulin
  
• Zearalenone

If the mold growing in a structure is producing mycotoxins, containment measures may be necessary. Building owners or managers should arrange for remediation as soon as possible.

MVOCs vs. Spores

Mold reproduces by making spores. Spores do not produce a musty odor, but do cause mold to spread. A spore that lands on a damp surface with an available food source may start to grow within a matter of hours. Spores are particles that range from three microns up to 100 microns in size.

Active mold growth will emit MVOCs and spores. Certain species of toxigenic mold also release mycotoxin. If a musty smell is detectable at a building in Santa Maria, CA, it is possible that some form of fungus is growing. An indoor environmental professional can perform accurate mold testing and a mold remediation service can eliminate any colonies of fungi found on the premises.

3 Ways To Protect a Business From Fire

1/10/2019 (Permalink)

Every commercial business in Santa Maria,CA should have smoke detectors

3 Ways To Protect a Business From Fire

Fires can swiftly destroy property and pose a threat to occupants in a commercial building. Here are three fire preparation measures that building owners and occupants can take to protect any business from fire.

1. Arrange For a Fire Hazard Analysis

A disaster preparation expert can perform an analysis of fire hazards in a structure. Risks may include combustible building materials, improper handling of flammable contents, or a lack of functional alarm and suppression systems. A hazard analysis can help building and business owners develop more practical fire safety and evacuation plans.

2. Test Alarm and Fire Suppression Systems

Every commercial structure should be equipped with operational fire detection and suppression equipment. For fire preparation purposes, smoke or fire detectors should be tested monthly and sprinkler system inspections should occur at least once a year or as needed.

Make sure that detection devices have a reliable primary and backup power source and are designed to function in the most useful ways for the purpose of the structure. Sprinklers should be functional and arranged to correspond to the current usage of a facility.

3. Perform Drills and Post Emergency Information

Occupants will need to practice evacuating from a structure at least twice a year. Be sure to inform new employees about fire safety policies, and post emergency information throughout the structure for the benefit of guests. Ensure that every occupant is aware of primary and secondary evacuation routes and knows not to use elevators in the event of a fire.

These measures can help to protect a commercial property and the occupants of a structure from fire. Fire preparation should be a consistent effort to ensure that building occupants will know what to do when a fire breaks out. A building owner or manager should maintain access to contact information for insurers and a fire damage mitigation company in Santa Maria, CA.

3 Common Commercial Building Water Concerns

12/31/2018 (Permalink)

Over time, sewer and water lines may deteriorate, making your commercial facility vulnerable to leaking pipes. Sometimes external conditions may also pose a threat. Understanding common water issues that can plague any Santa Maria, CA, business may help you evaluate your risks and address areas of concern before significant damage occurs.

1. Broken Pipes

Your building’s aging water infrastructure may be susceptible to cracks and leaks. Although a pipe break may sometimes be unavoidable, you can help reduce the risk by planting trees and shrubs away from exterior water lines.

Pipes are also susceptible to bursts during the winter. To help prevent freezing and alleviate this concern, you should insulate exposed supply lines, especially ones located against external walls or in colder areas of your building.

Since many plumbing structures are hidden behind walls and under flooring, leaking pipes may be difficult to detect. Because of this, it’s essential to recognize potential symptoms of water seepage, such as damp, bubbled or stained walls and ceilings, and promptly investigate any suspicious areas.

2. Condensation Buildup

Condensation buildup can also be a problematic moisture concern that may cause mold growth. To rectify this issue, you can employ dehumidifiers and use fans to enhance air circulation. You can also keep excessive condensation at bay by warming colder zones of your building, ensuring there is adequate insulation and addressing drafty windows and doors.

3. Leaking Toilets

An overflowing or leaking toilet can cause both unsanitary contamination and water damage. Routine inspections can help you evaluate internal components and detect drainage issues before a toilet backup occurs. You can also help reduce the risks of clogs and leaks by reminding staff and customers to refrain from flushing pads, tampons, diapers and paper towels.

Overflowing toilets, leaking pipes and significant condensation can wreak havoc on any business. Taking the time to address specific issues inside your building can help preserve the facility’s structural integrity and spare you from a messy water cleanup.

3 Easy Ways To Mitigate Wind Damage

10/18/2018 (Permalink)

Roof leak in garage due to storm in Santa Maria,CA

Some of the most extensive storm damage can come from wind. Many insurance policies covering commercial businesses require you, the business owner, to mitigate damage to your property from a storm. That means you are on the hook for stopping further damage to your business in the wake of storm winds. Fortunately, there are many ways to do this, from tarping your building against a roof leak to securing loose debris. Here are few quick and easy ways you can mitigate wind damage in Santa Maria,CA before it’s a problem.

1. Reinforce Vulnerable Areas

Your roof can be especially vulnerable to wind damage, with fierce gusts blowing shingles loose. Those missing shingles can damage your roof’s integrity, resulting in a roof leak down the road. Investing in a tarp to cover your roof when a hurricane or other catastrophic storm approaches can mitigate some of this risk.

2. Replace Landscaping

Gravel tossed around by hurricane-force winds can wreak havoc on your building, shredding siding and even damaging windows. Prevent such damage by replacing gravel or rock landscaping walkways with softer materials. Mulch, pine straw or dirt is a great choice to provide an attractive appearance while minimizing storm-damage risks.

3. Trim Trees

Tree limbs can easily break off and fall onto buildings during a storm. The result can be a damaged roof and a high repair bill. Take steps to prevent such damage by trimming trees and shrubs away from your building. Talk to your local utility company to have limbs near utility lines trimmed as well, protecting your roof from falling lines or poles.

Severe storms with high winds can strike in any region at any time of year, bringing a roof leak or worse. Take some of these steps to mitigate damage or talk with a storm damage remediation specialist to learn more about how you can keep your business secure.

Tips for Preventing and Repairing Frozen Pipes

9/28/2018 (Permalink)

Broken pipe in Santa Maria, CA

Sweaters, snowfall and skating in Santa Maria, CA, are some of the best parts of the winter season. Running a business in a cold weather climate, however, has its unique challenges. As a commercial property owner, one of your biggest worries specific to cold weather is the possibility of water damage from frozen pipes.

How To Prevent Frozen Pipes

When water freezes, it expands and increases pressure in pipes. This pressure is what often leads to broken pipes in the colder months. Reduce the risk of water damage by implementing preventative measures:

• Drain and disconnect outdoor hoses and supply lines. Close all inside valves leading to outside lines, but leave outside valves open to release pressure due to expansion.
• Insulate all areas of your commercial property that have pipes running through the space. This includes basements, garages and attics.
• Insulate exposed plumbing, especially water supply lines, in areas that tend to receive less heat or air circulation.
• If you shut your business down during the cold weather, leave the heat on a low temperature (minimum 50 degrees) and turn off the water main.

How To Repair Broken Pipes

Sometimes a pipe freezes and thaws without serious implications. Other times a pipe breaks and water cleanup is unavoidable. In these cases, take the following actions to lessen the potential damage from water:

• To thaw a frozen pipe, leave the faucet on to encourage the flow of water. Apply gentle heat to the frozen area of the pipe if accessible.
• After a pipe breaks, turn off the water main to the building. Call your insurance agent to see if the damage is covered under your policy. Contact a water restoration specialist to dry, clean and restore your property.

When possible, prevent and thaw frozen pipes at your commercial property in Santa Maria, CA. If broken pipes ensue, act fast to reduce water damage to the structure and contents of your business.

Understanding Secondary Damage

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in a Santa Maria building.

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

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

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

What It Doesn't Include

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

How It's Formed

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

What It Does Include

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

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

Restoring Your Santa Maria Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

7/24/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Santa Maria 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 Santa Maria

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