3 Ways to Prepare Your Property for Rain

9/14/2023 (Permalink)

3 Ways to Prepare Your Property for Rain

As the summer season comes to an end in beautiful California, it is now time to take the initiative and get your home and business ready for the potential rainy season. Most of the year’s rainfall will take place from October to May, so there is no time like the present to begin taking precautions. Following these steps below will assist in the safety of you, your family, and your property at the time of a storm event.

Check for Leaks

Checking for leaks in your home or business is an essential task year-round. Detecting leaks in the early stages can save the integrity of your property and save you money in the long run. This is especially important to do moving into the rainy season as the potential for leaks will be significantly higher during a storm. To inspect your property is quite simple, by walking around the interior of your home you can do a visual inspection. Be sure to pay close attention to the ceiling, around exterior doors and windows, and the corners where walls adjoin. In addition to checking for leaks, you may want to check all door and window seals to assure they are working properly.

Cleaning out Gutters

Gutters play a crucial role in directing rainwater away from your home. It is important to conduct regular maintenance, especially in the fall season. By keeping your gutters free of debris water will be able to flow consistently, and you can avoid water pooling and damaging your roof.  However once rain fall has occurred, avoid cleaning out your gutters immediately after. Waiting until debris has dried out will make the removal process much easier. If you find your gutters have accumulation of finer debris and dirty you may need to invest in specialty tools to assist in the cleaning process. These tools are attachments that can be connected directly to your water hose, you can purchase these attachments at most home improvement stores or online.

Store Equipment and Outdoor Furniture

When a storm is approaching it is best to store lawn equipment and power tools in a dry place where they are not subject to the elements. Be sure to store equipment up off the ground to protect it in case of flooding. If you will be utilizing a shed for storage, be sure to check the roof for any damage or leaks. You may also consider bringing in any furniture or decor that may become damaged by the rain. If you cannot bring furniture in it is advised to cover and tie down any equipment that may be picked up and displaced by high gusts of wind.

A little preparation goes a long way in taking care of your property during the rainy season. The weather can be unpredictable so you must stay diligent in keeping your property safe. Taking precautionary measures can make all the difference in saving your time and resources in the long run.  

Smoke Detectors: The 411 on the Device Protecting Your Home

9/8/2023 (Permalink)

Smoke Detectors: The 411 on the Device Protecting Your Home

As you may know, California law requires that smoke detectors, also known as smoke alarms, are to be installed in every dwelling intended for human occupancy. This is a safety precaution that has saved countless lives and will continue to save the lives of countless others. But, do you know what a smoke detector does? How it works? Or if they expire? These are common questions you may find yourself asking, and we are here to help keep you informed on the devices that are saving lives every day!

What is a smoke detector?

According to Wikipedia, a smoke detector is “A device that senses smoke, typically as an indicator of fire. Household smoke detectors generally issue an audible or visual alarm from the detector itself.” Smoke detectors can be battery operated or wired directly into your home.   

How Do Smoke Detectors Work?

Smoke detectors are designed to sense the presence of smoke and alert you to the potential danger of a fire. Smoke detectors use a small sensitive sensor called an Ionization chamber. When smoke particles enter the chamber, they disrupt the flow of ions which trigger the alarm. Thus, causing the detector to give an audible or visual warning, such as consecutive beeping or consecutive flashing lights. However, these devices can malfunction, some detectors can be triggered by a variety of factors. A few examples of non-emergency triggers are dust, insects, steam, or sudden change of temperature.

What Can Falsely Set Off a Smoke Detector?

There are several things that can cause your smoke detector to go off by accident. A sudden change of temperature can disrupt the ionization process and trigger an alarm. This is common in homes with central heating and air conditioning where the temperature fluctuates suddenly.

Malfunctioning sensors or other components can also cause a false alarm. The age of the smoke detector plays a huge factor in its efficiency. Smoke detectors have a lifespan of 10 years and will need to be replaced by that time. The older your smoke detector is the more prone to false alarms they may be.

A smoke detector sensitivity can also be a contributing factor to an overly zealous alarm. Some models are designed to be extremely sensitive to smoke, which can be lifesaving in an emergency, but can also lead to frequent false alarms. Thankfully, sensitivity settings can be changed on most smoke detectors. However, if the problem persists you may consider replacing them with a less sensitive model.

Why is my Smoke Detector Chirping?  

There is no need to worry when you hear a single chirp from your smoke detector sounding off in your home. That is just your smoke detector alerting you that it’s time for a battery replacement. The smoke detector will emit a single high-pitched chirp every minute or so signaling that the batteries are running low. The solution is quite simple you will just need to bring the device down from the wall and change out the batteries.

Are there different types of Smoke Detectors?

The National Fire Protection Association, otherwise known as the NFPA, indicates there are six primary types of smoke detectors:

Ionization Detectors- This type of smoke detector is typically more responsive to flaming fires. This detector uses an electrical current created by ionized air molecules, that is triggered by smoke. The smoke will reduce the amount of electrical current in the alarm and cause it to sound. These are typically the least expensive option.

Photoelectric- This type of smoke detector uses a photosensitive cell. When smoke enters the chamber, light scatters and is picked up by the photosensitive cell causing the alarm to sound.  This kind of sensor is most responsive to smoldering fires.

Combination Ionization and Photoelectric- This type of alarm is equipped with dual sensors. It is equally effective in detecting actual flames as it is in detecting smoldering fires. These alarms have both ionization sensors as well as photoelectric sensors that will cause the alarm to sound. This sensor provides the best protection and is highly recommended.

Intelligent Multicriteria Alarms- This type of smoke detector uses multicriteria to detect fires, they are known as intelligent alarms.  This alarm uses ionization, photoelectric, and heat along with an algorithm to detect fire. The multiple sensors used make this alarm highly effective, allowing for a significantly lower number of false alarms. However, this does not mean that this alarm detects fires sooner.

Voice Smoke Alarms- This type of alarm produces two different audio signals to alert occupants of a fire. One signal is the temporal 3 pattern, known to many as the three loud consecutive beeps. The second signal is a voice announcement that can identify the location of the fire or if the alarm is experiencing issues or malfunctioning.  

Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm- This type of alarm is multifunctioning, it is equipped with multiple sensors, that can alert to the detection of both smoke and carbon monoxide. This alarm’s appearance is like a smoke detector and should be mounted on the ceiling or a wall near the ceiling in your home. If fuel burning equipment such as oil or gas water heaters, oil or gas furnaces, or oil or gas broilers are present in your home you should have a carbon monoxide detector.     

How Many Smoke Detectors Do I Need? 

The National Fire Protection Association requires that smoke detectors be installed outside of all sleeping areas, in every bedroom, and on every level in the home. For additional coverage it is recommended smoke detectors be placed in the basement where the temperature normally remains between 40° F and 100° F, in any storage areas, as well as finished attics.

These are just a few frequently asked questions pertaining to the smoke detectors protecting homes nationwide. These are essential tools used to protect not only your home, but your loved ones who reside within. It is of great importance to keep yourself informed on the safety precautions in place to keep you safe.

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.

Common Signs of Water Damage

9/7/2023 (Permalink)

Common Signs of Water Damage

Knowing how to spot water damage in your home can be vital to saving you money if you ever experience a leak or flood of any kind. Here are the most common signs of what water damage may look like in your home.

1. Soft spots and Paint Damage: Water damage can weaken materials like wood and cause them to become soft or warped. Peeling paint or warped floorboards are signs that water may have penetrated the surface. These issues are often more evident in areas with prolonged exposure to moisture.

2. Humidity and Dampness: Unexplained humidity or dampness can be a sign of underlying issues. Moisture may accumulate on surfaces where it should not, such as countertops and floors. You must investigate the source of the moisture to find the potential cause of the leak.

3. Dripping: During quiet times listen for unusual sounds like dripping, scratching, or rushing water. These sounds may not always be associated with water leaks, but paying close attention to any unusual noises in your home can help prevent potential damage.

4. Water Stains: These are unmistakable markers of water damage. Discoloration on walls, floors, or ceilings is often a result of concealed water leaks. Be sure to pay close attention not only to the wall areas but also the corners and joints as this is where discoloration is prone to occur.

5. Mold: Mold thrives in environments containing moisture. It is a hazardous sign of untreated water damage and can signify either high humidity levels or an ongoing water leak. Mold can appear as discolored patches or cottony, fuzzy, growths that can appear on multiple surfaces. If mold is present professional intervention is essential as mold can lead to major health issues if left untreated.

6. Health Issues: If you or your family members experience sudden respiratory problems, asthma, severe allergies, or similar health issues, consider the possibility of mold-related problems. Mold is known to release spores into the air, which may cause various health concerns. Be sure to identify and address the root of the cause as soon as possible.

It is important to regularly inspect your home for potential signs of water damage. Early detection can not only save you money on repairs, but also protect yourself and your loved ones from potential health risks. Taking the initiative as a homeowner and understanding how to spot these signs of water damage can be a valuable skill in protecting the health of your home.

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.

Should You Restore or Replace During a Loss?

8/9/2022 (Permalink)

When your commercial or residential property has been damaged by fire or water, SERVPRO of Santa Maria's mission always has been to provide the best customer service possible, to support your business or home during the mitigation process, and to make it "Like it never even happened". Our team works to provide this service as quickly as possible and at the lowest possible cost to you. We understand that time is money and our team makes it their job to help you get life back to normal. Part of recovering the belongings in your home or business includes identifying which items and structures can be preserved. Our team strives to restore the items in your life that may have more meaning. Sometimes it is actually more of cost savings to restore something than it is to completely replace it. This also allows our team to maintain those items which have sentimental value. Did you know that according to research conducted by the insurance and repair industries, restoring property after fire and water damage is less expensive than replacing it? Restoring is also less disruptive to your home or business, allowing you to stay in their homes or continue conducting your business throughout the process and rapidly return to normal.  Our team is trained to identify when restoring can be performed with the high-quality outcomes that our clients deserve as a preferred mitigation and restoration partner for most major insurance companies. This "repair" rather than "replace" mindset can help you save money while keeping family treasures, keepsakes, and other impossible or prohibitively expensive items to replace. If your home or business has been impacted by water or fire damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Santa Maria.

Fire Tips for your Santa Maria, CA Home

8/9/2022 (Permalink)

Our team knows what it feels like to lose a home.

It can leave someone with so many emotions and just the thought can be scary. Our team wants you to understand that there is a lot you can do to prevent fires from starting. Accidents can happen, but you can learn how to avoid a fire from starting and spreading through your home. Before the Fire

• Install smoke alarms that combine flashing lights on every level of your home. Test them monthly and change the batteries every six months.
• Keep grills, cookers, and fryers at least 3 feet away from your house and shrubs or bushes.
• Always turn off heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Service your chimneys, fireplaces, wood stoves, and central furnace once a year.
• Store a fire extinguisher on every level of your home.
• If an electric appliance smokes or has an unusual smell, unplug it immediately, then have it serviced before using it again.
• Never smoke in bed
• Always stay near cooking to monitor it closely. Keep cooking areas clear of combustibles, and wear clothes with short, rolled-up, or tight-fitting sleeves when you cook.
• Use only child-resistant lighters and store all matches and lighters up high, where kids can't see or reach them, preferably in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave burning candles unattended
• Look for frayed wires and damaged cords. If you see any exposed wires, unplug the electronics, and replace them immediately.

Make sure you talk with your family, talk through situations and what you can to prevent these tips we have listed. Always remember it is the best practice to create an escape plan and practice them with your family. Do it together!

How Should I Handle Hail Damage?

8/9/2022 (Permalink)

What Exactly is Hail?

The NOAA defines hail as a form of precipitation consisting of solid ice that forms inside thunderstorm updrafts. Hail can damage aircraft, homes, and cars, and can be deadly to livestock and people. Creating what is called "Hailstones". Hailstones are formed when raindrops are carried upward by thunderstorm updrafts into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere and freeze. Hailstones then grow by colliding with liquid water drops that freeze onto the hailstone’s surface. If the water freezes instantaneously when colliding with the hailstone, cloudy ice will form as air bubbles will be trapped in the newly formed ice. However, if the water freezes slowly, the air bubbles can escape and the new ice will be clear. The hail falls when the thunderstorm's updraft can no longer support the weight of the hailstone, which can occur if the stone becomes large enough or the updraft weakens.

How Does Hail Damage Your Roof?

Hail can cause significant damage to the structural integrity of your home, no matter how sturdy your roof may seem. One of the most common types of hail damage is denting of aluminum and metal roofing. A dented, misshapen roof is a malfunctioning roof. If you notice such damages to your metal roof after a hailstorm, it’s important to contact the experts at SERVPRO of Santa Maria as soon as possible. Asphalt shingle roofs can also be damaged by hail, but in the form of punctures, tears, fractures, and granular displacement. Repairing your asphalt shingle roof after hail damage is vital. Holes in the protective layers of your shingles could mean instantaneous or gradual leaks, which eventually lead to water damage. Additionally, the granules on your asphalt shingles provide a protective layer from the sun, so when there is a loss of granules, the shingles are more susceptible to UV light degradation, eventually causing cracks, blisters, leaks, and more. A swift response to hail damage is crucial to the safety of your home and health.

Repair Hail Damage with SERVPRO of Santa Maria

As a locally operated business here in Santa Maria our team is able to respond quickly to your hail storm damage emergencies. When you call SERVPRO of Santa Maria, our disaster recovery team will immediately tend to your needs, as a fast response is important to prevent further damage. The faster the response, the better. If you think you might have roof damage, it is safest to avoid going up on your roof to check for damages, because it might not be sturdy. Our professionals have the experience and tools necessary to safely inspect your roof after damage occurs. No matter the size of the project, the professionals at SERVPRO of Santa Maria will arrive quickly, prepared to repair your roof damages.

Water Heaters Tips for the Home

8/9/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that in a home, the water heater accounts for about 18% of the energy used?

As a result, a water heater is one of your home's most critical and costly appliances. Proper water heater maintenance is necessary to guarantee that it continues to function properly and does not cost you too much. Checking on your water heater in the spring is an excellent idea. Water damage can occur quickly, so it's crucial to ensure sure it's in good operating order. Our team has put together a few tips to keep your water heater running at peak performance.

• To determine if your anode rod needs to be replaced, inspect it every two years or if the warranty has ended every year.
• Attach a garden hose to the valve at the base of the water heater tank every six months to remove sediment. Please turn off the electricity and run the hot water until it cools down for safety.
• A plumbing specialist should perform a yearly check of the shut-off valve and all piping. Broken valves, loose or moist joints, and rust are signs that more severe harm is on the way.
• Turn the temperature down to one. There is no reason to keep your water heater above it. At that temperature, you can do everything you need. But, of course, keeping your water heater hotter can cause it to break down much faster.

If you experience water damage, SERVPRO of Santa Maria has a team of highly trained professionals to help you 24 hours a day!

Where Should Home Fire Alarms Go?

8/9/2022 (Permalink)

While many homes in Santa Maria come already installed with all the smoke alarms you need to make sure you are keeping your family safe. As more research has been conducted over the years on fires and how they spread, requirements have changed. Many older homes do not meet these standards which can be dangerous in the case a fire does occur. Keep your family safe by ensuring a fire alarm is located in the following four locations! Bedrooms - The National Fire Protection Association suggests the placement of a fire alarm in every bedroom of the house. This ensures that if a fire occurs while your family is asleep, the alarms will wake quickly wake up everyone. Outside Every Sleeping Area - Not only should alarms be inside every bedroom, but there should also be a smoke alarm right outside the room or any other sleeping areas as well. This is so you can react and start to escape before any fire or smoke even enters your room. 10 Feet From Your Kitchen - Kitchen fires result in approximately 50 percent of all home fires, many of which result in serious fire damage to your home. Make sure a fire alarm is located 10 feet from your kitchen rather than inside it since smoke or steam from cooking can easily trigger it. Every Level of Your Home - Ensure that there is as least one smoke alarm on every level of your home. Don’t forget your basement! Serious fire and smoke damage can occur from an undetected fire that starts in the basement. It doesn’t take long for a house fire to quickly get out of hand! That’s why it is so important to have all the required fire alarms installed so you can quickly get everyone out of your house and get in contact with the fire department and a fire restoration company to minimize the fire damage to your home.