SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin - Here to Help Your Business!

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

You never know when a water damage can affect your business - be prepared with SERVPRO!

A water damage can happen to anyone at any time. Though there are steps that can be taken as preventative maintenance to help reduce the chances of a water loss from occurring, it is always best to have a plan in place prior to being face-to-face with the damage.

For businesses in particular, experiencing a water damage can be detrimental if not handled correctly. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin understands that responding quickly and acting efficiently will help a business’s all-around bottom line. Minimizing business disruption is our number one goal when responding to commercial losses. Know that SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin specializes in creating the proper mitigation plan for your business that will help your production get right back on track. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is ready to assist day or night, call our office today 916.632.2250!

Your Business After A Fire

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

Presentation is important for any business, and doubly so in the service sector. If you own or manage a store or restaurant, your customers will likely be discouraged or even scared off by obvious signs of damage and visual blemishes on your property. SERVPRO knows first-hand that some of the most thorough visual damages to a building can come from fires, whether through the burn itself or any associated events and factors. These blemishes and issues are commonly cleaned up by our restoration teams, to ensure that once a company's doors get back open, they stay open. 

 
Burn Marks 
 
Burns and char easily rank among the most visible types of commercial fire damage immediately giving away to any observer the fact that a fire has burned in the area. Blackened or darkened materials, even if they have no other major damage beyond discoloration, can still be resource and time-intensive to cover up, often requiring a wide cleaning and repainting job to make sure colors blend well and no burn material remains. 
 
Smoke and Ash 
 
Smoke and ash leave a profound impact on a building, to both the sight and smell of anyone nearby. Smoke is a pervasive scent and easily noticeable in most cases but can also leave behind a great deal of smearing and coat surfaces. Depending on the type of smoke and conditions of this fire, this may be a relatively easy cleanup job, or a more thorough repainting may be in order. 
 
Structural Damage 
 
SERVPRO can also help to restore mild structural damage caused by a fire, rebuilding walls, floors, supports, and other elements of a building if they have been burned through or collapsed on. We always aim to restore before replacing, and in this way can potentially save you thousands in reconstruction costs where they are not necessary. 
 
SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin helps businesses to get back on track after a disaster. Give us a call at 916.632.2250!

How to Avoid a Disaster During a Power Outage

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

Use these best practices during power outages!

It’s important to prepare for and protect your homes, businesses and families during power outages in the winter months, as many hazards can go unnoticed.

Candles left unattended can quickly turn into a tragedy, possibly creating a structure fire. The safer option would be utilizing flashlights or other battery-operated lighting options that avoid the presence of an open flame. This means keep extra batteries on hand. If candles are your only option, it is vital to never leave the fire unattended and that the candle is placed in a fireproof holder stationed away from any flammable materials and or drafts.

Fire hazards are not the only disaster lurking during power outages. Carbon Monoxide poisoning from indoor grills or generators are also extremely dangerous. If these appliances are used in enclosed areas including homes, garages or sheds, the outcome could be lethal. Carbon Monoxide gas can go unnoticed as it cannot be seen, smelled, nor tasted. A person may not realize they are being poisoned until it’s too late. It is essential to use these items exclusively outside in a well ventilated area and operated according to manufacturer’s instructions.

If you have experienced any fire, soot or property damage to your home or business, rest assured our experienced technicians and customer services representatives are here to help 24/7. Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916.632.2250.

Keeping your family safe during a storm

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

A THUNDERSTORM WATCH means a thunderstorm is possible for your area.

A THUNDERSTORM WARNING means a thunderstorm is taking place in your area.

IF YOU’RE OUTDOORS:
•Keep an eye at the sky. Look for darkening skies, flashes of lightning, or increasing winds. Lightning often proceeds rain, so don’t wait for the rain to begin. If you hear the sound of thunder, go to a safe place immediately.
•The best place to go is a sturdy building or a car, but make sure the windows in the car are shut. Avoid sheds, picnic areas, baseball dugouts and bleachers.
•If there is no shelter around you, stay away from trees. Crouch down in the open area, keeping twice as far away from a tree as far as it is tall. Put your feet together and place your hands over your ears to minimize hearing damage from thunder.
•If you’re with a group of people stay about 15 feet from each other.
•Stay out of water. It’s a great conductor of electricity. Swimming, wading, snorkeling, and scuba diving are not safe. Also, don’t stand in puddles.
•Avoid metal. Stay away from clotheslines, fences, and drop your backpacks because they often have metal on them.
•If you’re playing an outdoor activity, wait at least 30 minutes after the last observed lightning strike or thunder.

IF YOU’RE INDOORS:
•Avoid water. It’s a great conductor of electricity, so do not take a shower, wash your hands, wash dishes, or do laundry.
•Do not use a corded telephone. Lightning may strike exterior phone lines.
•Do not use electric equipment like computers and appliances during a storm.
•Stay away from windows and doors and stay off porches.

Where is that Water coming from?

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

When hard rainfall hits, make it a habit to check on spaces in your home or place of business that may have potential for water damage.  This recommended practice can undoubtedly save you time, money, and the headache of uncontrollable damages down the line.

Once discovered, Water Intrusion can enter through:

• Roofs
• Cracks on the Exterior of your Building
• Window Sills
• The Ground Level or Foundation

After Discovery, it’s crucial to determine the Source, and repair it right away.  Waiting on this vital step causes severity in fixing it. Having the Source located, identified, and repaired promptly during the current storm will work in your favor that your water intrusion problem is no more.  

If you would like more information on hiring a team experienced in Water Damage Restoration call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916.632.2250. We are your 24/7 Emergency Service Providers.

Do You Need Water Removal Services?

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

After the removal of pooling water, what is left behind can be unpleasant to look at or even release bad smells. Getting rid of staining and soiling can go beyond the scope of household cleaning products, in which case you need professional help. We have built our reputation on the removal, remediation, and cleanup of water. We stick to a few simple principles that have served us well.

The infrastructure of the home usually takes on the immediate impact of water damage properties. Subfloor mats that become saturated with moisture can quickly become hotbeds for bacteria and fungi. Equally, wall cavities or furniture fittings can take on moisture undetected to the naked eye causing long-term problems. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin are experts at spotting potential problem areas that may have slipped your notice.

A professional solution is best left to the water damage experts. Contact SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916.632.2250 for assistance.

Escape Plan

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

Fire experts agree, people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late to get out. In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared and have an escape plan in place. A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows only 26 percent of families have developed and practiced a home fire escape plan. Once a plan is developed, it is critical everyone in the home understands the plan; the best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year. Increase your chance of surviving a fire by ensuring you have working smoke detectors in place, building an escape plan, and then practicing the escape plan. The following are a few suggestions to help you develop an emergency escape plan. 

Draw a map of each level of your home and show all doors and windows. Find two ways to get out of each room. Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily. 

Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second and third floors. Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory. Store them near the window where they will be used. 

Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they’ve escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting place on your escape plan. 

Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them. Plan for everyone in your home with special considerations for elderly or disabled individuals. 

Practice your fire escape plan? during the day and at nighttime. 

How Fire Damage Can Lead to Water Damage

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

When the first responders finish their job, ours begins.

When a fire occurs, many are concerned with the potential of catastrophic fire damage. But did you know that water damage can occur as a result of fire damage?

• Fire damages the integrity of a building's electrical system, resulting in leaks or ruptured pipes. 
• A fire will remove most or all insulation from walls which in turn causes condensation on interior surfaces like windows and ceilings. Condensation on windows and ceilings may drip down onto furniture and floors.
• Firefighting efforts can cause water damage to a structure during the firefighting process. Even if fire sprinkler systems are working correctly, they are designed to extinguish a fire - not to prevent water from entering your home.

At SERVPRO, we work diligently to help prevent water damage and to respond quickly when it occurs. We offer premier water damage fire cleanup and fire restoration services in the region. Contact SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916.632.2250.

Fire Damage

3/24/2022 (Permalink)

There has been a horrible disaster at your home or business property, a fire! In order to minimize business interruption and additional recovery costs, the restoration process must begin as soon as possible. The best way to do this is to count on the professionals to assess the damage and get to work quickly so that business can resume as normal.

5 ways to get rid of smoke smell

1. Air out the place as soon as is safe and possible
2. Make sure the area has positive air pressure, by bringing the outside air in and forcing in the inside air out.
3. Get rid of the all items that are not salvageable and clean the salvageable items with proper chemicals.
4. Wash all the items that are washable.
5. Call the professional restoration company SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin which have industrial cleaning equipment and the training how to deodorize and clean all the affected areas.

   Should the unexpected happen give SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin a call at 916.632.2250.

Fire Cleanup Steps

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Cleanup Steps

1. Inspection

Call your local SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin to come and inspect the damage to your property. Our highly trained Project Managers and Technicians thoroughly inspect your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. Hiring a professional restoration company will allow for a complete comprehensive review of the property damage. They will also record and document all damage for your insurer if needed.

1. Safety Work

Property damage can continue even after the fire has been extinguished. The priority should be to prevent further damage to your property. A restoration company will look at what needs to be protected and take the proper steps to do so. With a lot of your windows, walls, and roof potentially damaged, the restoration company will look at what needs boarding up or if your roof needs tarping. This helps to protect your property from further damage.

1. Water Removal

Water removal post firefighting efforts is top of the list. Hiring a professional team to investigate the possibility of leaks or places where mold can develop is very important.

1. Smoke and Soot Removal

Odors and staining left behind from smoke or soot damage go beyond surface level. With SERVPRO’s specialized techniques, the next step for SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is to remove the smoke and soot left behind on the ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

1. Cleanup

There are a variety of cleaning techniques that can be used to clean up these damaged items and structures, along with equipment such as industrial air scrubbers and foggers that will help remove smoke odors.

How Old is My Fire Extinguisher?

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers do not last forever.

Manufacturers prescribe most extinguishers with a lifespan of 5-15 years. What you may not know is how long ago you received yours. Any fire extinguisher with one or more of the following should be headed towards retirement:

• Hose or nozzle is broken, cracked, and or blocked with debris.
• Locking pin is missing or unsealed
• Handle is wobbly or broken
• Inspection sticker or hang tag (the record of checkups and maintenance) is missing

There are different types of fire extinguishers. Those with compressed gas can leak contents slowly as their seals weaken, while those with ammonium phosphate will solidify over the years, rendering the entire device unusable. You’re being proactive and putting your safety first and by asking this question because the answers can mean the difference between successfully responding to an emergency and being caught empty-handed.

Water Damage Emergency Tips

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

The majority of water damages are caused by a burst of pressurized water lines.

Water leaks can cause damage to properties. It is important to know what to do when faced with such incidents. Here are water damage emergency tips to help you avoid escalation of such an incident.

• Turn off the electricity

Ensure you follow safety measures by turning off all electrical appliances in the house or office. To prevent electric shock, turn off the circuit breakers and unplug all devices. Take all electrical devices away from the reach of the water. Take your children and pets away from the reach of water also.

• Stop the flow from the source

The majority of water damages are caused by a burst of pressurized water lines. The first thing to do during a burst is to close the inlet valve, immediately stopping the flow before the damage worsens.

In the case of a natural disaster like a flood that is impossible to stop, it is best to divert the water away from your property. This is not an easy task especially when the water comes from the backed-up sewer pipes.

• Take out your possessions

Take out all valuable things, your documents, furniture, TV and other appliances, mattresses, clothes, shoes, carpets, and the rest. If you have a very limited time, make sure you take all electrical appliances and furniture out as quickly as possible.

• Contact a water damage restoration company

Contact SERVPRO of Auburn Rocklin to help begin the drying process. Special equipment like air movers and humidifiers and pumps are used to extract the water. 

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is your trusted leader in the water restoration industry. We provide a 24/7 service with a team of highly trained personnel. Should you have water damage at your home or business, feel free to call us at 916.632.2250.

Untreated Water Damage Can Cause Extra Damage To Your House

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

• Water damage can ruin your electrical system—Electricity can short out and cause further damage with electrical appliances.
• Water damage lowers the value of your home—Untreated water damage can long term damage, dry rot, and mold.
• Water damaged ceilings—Ceilings that have water damage can cave in dropping sheet rock, insulation, and debris into your living space.
• Break down of carpet—Carpet fibers, glue and carpet pad can breakdown from water damage if left untreated. If you catch a water damage on your carpet quick enough it may be salvageable.
• Ruin Drywall—Water can soften and break down drywall. Untreated wet drywall may lead to mold damage.
• Health hazards--Toxins, chemicals, and contaminants remain on water damaged furniture long after they dry. Flood waters can contain harmful bacteria and microbes that can make you sick and linger on your belongings.

 If you have undergone a water damage do not wait. Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916.632.2250. We are experienced experts that will get you back to normal living fast.

Water Damage - What are some signs?

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

When water damage it’s your home it could be stressful and overwhelming. We at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin care about your property and belongings.

Water damage inside your home is very time-sensitive, the best way to mitigate damages is to find the water and source as soon as possible. Early signs of water damage can sometimes be overlooked. If you know what you are looking for, it will make it easier for you to spot the water damage you should be aware of in your home.

Visible stains and Discoloration  

Ceilings, walls, and floors may also show spots or stains in areas where water is present. Water spots cause discoloration in many different shades and shapes. These marks may appear darker and then fade. This is a common trait of water damage.

Strong Musty Odors

Pungent, earthy, and musty smells are almost always a giveaway that there is mold growth. Mold growth happens when excess water or moisture is present. Often mold growth and water damage are coupled. Mold can cause severe respiratory symptoms in those who are exposed to it. Whatever the source of water is, will need to be stopped prior to any remediation efforts for the mold damage.

If you are unsure if you have any water damage, give SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin a call today at 916.632.2250 – 24/7/365 Days a Year!!!  

Water Damage at your Commercial Building

12/31/2021 (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 Auburn/Rocklin 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 Auburn/Rocklin is locally owned and operated so we’re always ready to help with any-sized flood or water damage emergencies.

Vandalism Cleanup

12/31/2021 (Permalink)

It’s just a typical Monday morning. You arrive to work and have a surprise waiting for you. Someone you don’t know has entered your business, sprayed graffiti all over the walls, and sprayed fire extinguisher residue all over. After the initial shock wears off, you get to cleaning it up. Realizing that you don’t have the proper tools and equipment for this type of clean up, you call the experts at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin.

We are available to restore your business like new and “Like it never even happened.” We are experts in vandalism cleanup and restoration. Do not hesitate to contact us any time, day or night.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is here 24/7/365 at 916.632.2250. We are a preferred vendor for most insurance companies and will bill your insurance company directly.

One of the most common Commercial damage loss is water damage!

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

The Most Common Types of Water Damage

During regular inspections in your property, a commercial water damage event can occur anytime. The top five most common reasons your business can experience water damage and need restoration services are:

• Toilet backup
• Fire suppression system malfunction
• Plumbing or supply line break
• Leaking from a roof or around a window
• HVAC

SERVPRO technicians ascertain the scope of work and services needed if a business needs to close during a commercial water loss. Even if the water extraction and drying needs were minimal, the danger of slip and fall accidents or the need to remove stock or business furniture for water removal purposes could make it difficult to conduct normal daily activities. 

Some water damage loss, where the water within the structure contains sewage or other harmful elements, has our techs generally recommend closure of the building during the cleanup. The type of water is not only hazardous to come into contact with but it can cause issues if it is aspirated.

SERVPRO techs wear professional-quality protective gear that includes a respirator, so they do not breathe in bio-hazard materials. Air scrubbers or the creation of negative air chambers may be necessary to improve the air quality during the restoration services.     

Afterward, the techs clean the structure with antibacterial and antimicrobial cleaning agents to ensure that the surfaces get left sanitary and ready for safe reuse by both employees and clients.   

When you need expedited commercial water damage repair, contact SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916-632-2250 our trained, certified technicians are available 24/7 to take your call and perform any needed restoration services on your property to make the damage, "Like it never even happened."

Commercial Restoration

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial restoration cleaning is a special type of cleaning service that is offered to buildings that have been damaged by water, fire, or some sort of national disaster. It takes a lot of knowledge and expertise to be done right, and it is important to use after the event of a disaster has occurred. No matter how much damage or how much mess is left after a fire or flood, things can be salvaged, and the building or home can be cleaned. Here is more information on this type of cleaning service:

One way to use commercial restoration cleaning is to have all your carpet professionally dried, shampooed, and vacuumed. This will either salvage the carpet that has been damaged or dirtied, or it will make the decision to replace the flooring altogether more apparent. Any type of cloth or upholstered surface can be cleaned during this process. All the right methods and products will be used, and you can count on the fact that everything will be done in order to make your carpet look like new.

Another example of this type of service is removing any type of foul odor from a home or building. No matter what caused the odor, or how potent it is, there is always a way to clean it and get rid of it. No one likes to be at home or at a commercial property while putting up with an unbearable smell. You can also have your place of business or home completely disinfected from any type of chemical or bacteria. It takes real professionals to go in and make a building safe again in the event of an accident or emergency. This keeps the place healthy and everyone that goes inside healthy and free of harmful bacteria.

If your home has been severely flooded or burnt, the best thing to do is to call in this type of restoration cleaning service as soon as possible. The longer you wait the worst the damage becomes. As soon as you get the company in to inspect your home and to start cleaning it, you will then be able to see what is salvageable and what isn't. This also makes your case with your insurance company much easier to go through.

In any type of event that takes a real commercial grade cleaning company that specializes in restoration you should not hesitate to call and get a quote.

4 Tips For Preventing a Fire in Your Home

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Tips For Preventing a Fire in Your Home

No one likes to think about the possibility of having a fire in their home. Fires can be devastating physically, emotionally, and financially. Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent the likelihood of a home fire. Here are four tips for preventing a fire in your home.

1. Install Smoke Alarms
   Fire preparation begins with installing smoke alarms in every sleeping room of your home. You should also have smoke alarms placed in hallways, kitchens, and family rooms. Once you’ve ensured you have the right number of alarms, be sure to test them monthly and replace batteries annually.
2. Educate
   Education is key to increasing the safety of your loved ones. Teach children the following fire safety basics:

• Stop, drop and roll
• Fire crawl
• Checking doors for heat
• Escape routes
• The location and sound of smoke alarms
• Emergency phone numbers

3. Create an Escape Plan
   Everyone should create a fire escape plan. Creating a plan is one of the best fire preparation tips to keep your family safe. Draw a floor plan of your house and mark all possible exits, including doors and windows, in each room. Walk through your home and ensure that exits are free from clutter and that children know how to open and safely exit each window.
4. Practice Your Plan
   Once you have a plan in place, it’s wise to practice it. Choose at least two times a year to hold fire drills. These drills can either be planned or spontaneous. A good run-through of the plan will identify any areas that need to be adjusted or improved. Remember to emphasize that once you get outside, you should stay outside. Never go back inside a home that is on fire.
   Fire preparation is one of the best things you can do to keep your kids safe in the event of a fire. If you ever experience a fire in your home, there are restoration specialists that can help restore your home.

SERVPRO of … is a 1 Stop Shop

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin Is Here For You 24/7!

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is a 1 Stop Shop for all your emergency restoration and reconstruction.

We are here to help you with all your fire, water, mold, and biohazard needs. We provided services to your area. 

No more calling several companies to take care of emergency restoration and repairs.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is here for all your needs!

• Our goal is to provide start to finish services on any emergency structure damage that you are experiencing.
•  We are IICRC Certified in Fire, Water and Mold
• We provide 24/7 emergency services
• We work directly with your insurance company
• We are licensed general contractors
• We provide mitigation services for Commercial and Residential
• We provide repairs and remodels on Commercial and Residential

If you have any emergency service needs or questions.

Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916.632.2250.

 We are your 24/7 Emergency Service Providers

SERVPRO Tips for Home Owners to Help Identify Mold

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Mold is everywhere. It is a type of fungus that grows from tiny spores that float in the air. It can grow almost anywhere that spores land and find moisture and a comfortable temperature, between 40 and 100 degrees F. Typically that includes about every damp place in your home.

You can easily spot the most visible type of mold, called mildew, which begins as tiny, usually black spots but often grows into larger colonies. It is the black stuff you see in the grout lines in your shower, on damp walls, and outdoors on the surfaces of deck boards and painted siding, especially in damp and shady areas.  

Mildew is a surface type of mold that will not damage your home’s structure. But other types of mold cause rot.  If the wood is soft or crumbles, the fungi have taken hold and rot has begun.

If you have a high concentration of mold, you may smell it. If you detect the typical musty odor, check for mold on damp carpets, damp walls, damp crawlspaces and wet wood under your floors, wet roof sheathing and other damp areas. 

If your property has mold call the professionals at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916.632.2250 "Like it never even happened."

THE IMPORTANCE OF CONTAINMENT

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin building a containment is a critical part of our restoration, remediation, and abatement projects. These barriers, often made with poly-sheeting held in place by tape, are used for a range of jobs. This may include the abatement of mold, lead, and asbestos, the clean-up of damage caused by fire, smoke, or water, or to keep contaminants and even crime scenes contained. Containment systems are also useful in reconstruction projects, particularly where stone or wood cutting occurs and particles such as sawdust are released into the air. 

Building an airtight containment is paramount to protecting interiors during restoration projects and minimizing the risk of contact with hazardous materials during abatement. Containments serve to:

• Prevent potentially hazardous substances such as mold spores, asbestos, lead-based paint, and silica dust from spreading throughout the entire structure. These substances are very small and can easily hitch a ride on normal air currents found in most buildings.
• Address concerns for health and safety, especially where airborne hazardous materials are present. If not contained properly, these materials can cause health effects and affect the well-being of nearby tenants, workers, and others in the surrounding area.
• Function as a barrier to keep dust and other particles confined within a workspace, prevent further property damage, and make clean-up easier. Without proper containment, the cost of the loss can increase dramatically.

Containing the site remains not only a priority, but a necessity. A safer work site benefits all parties, and mold testing is more likely to pass the first time, reducing the cost of re-cleaning and re-testing. When you call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, you can rely on us to construct a proper containment and restore your home or business back to new.

The Pack-Out

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

One of the most challenging times you may experience, is when your home or business is affected by a water or fire damage. As difficult as it may be during a time like this, you can count on your local SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin to save the day. Depending on the size or extent of the damage caused by the water loss or fire, we may be obligated to remove all the contents from the affected area. The process begins by taking a detailed inventory of your items with photos to ensure that all your items are documented. After all your items are inventoried, it is then packed up brought back to our facilities where they are stored and cleaned. You can trust our professional staff to pack, inventory, clean and store your contents in our warehouse facility. If you have any questions call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916.632.2250.

FLOOD DAMAGE CAN OCCUR ANYWHERE

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Floods are a common and widespread natural disaster, often resulting from a storm damaging your area. Regardless of where you’re located.

It is important to remain mindful of the following safety tips:

• Avoid floodwaters if possible. Even 6 inches of quickly moving water can sweep you off your feet. If you are caught in an area where the water reaches above your ankles, find another path, or walk another way.
• The same rules apply when driving. If you reach a flooded road, find a way around, or follow the directions of safety personnel. Many vehicles can be carried away by as little as 2 feet of moving water. In extreme flooding, consider leaving your vehicle to find higher ground if rising waters do not subside.
• Be cautious of consuming or bathing in water found outside. Diseases can be carried by contaminated floodwaters resulting in prolonged sickness.

Floods have the potential to cause extensive damage to property when not treated quickly, and cleanup can be an overwhelming task. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin has the experience and knowledge to assist you when a flood strikes your home or business. We’re here 24/7 to help. Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916.632.2250.

Make sure smoke alarms are in good working order

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

It is important to remember that smoke alarms save lives. If they are maintained and in good working order, they can play an integral role in saving the lives of your family members. Smoke alarms afford you the opportunity to leave your home quickly.

Understanding simple facts about fires can help save lives:

• Have a fire evacuation plan for your family
• Keep doors closed. This can prevent smoke and fire from spreading quickly.
• Test your smoke alarms monthly. If they are older, replace them especially if they are 10 years or older. There have been so many advances that can help save lives.
• The alarms should be interconnected. If one alarm sounds, they all sound – alerting your family to potential dangers.
• When an alarm sounds, move quickly and safely outside your home. Treat every alarm as a serious matter.
• In the event of a fire emergency call 911, immediately and stay outside. 

Should there be an unfortunate disaster, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916.632.2250.

Call on SERVPRO to help with clean up from water damage

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

No matter the source of the water damage, it can be devastating. If your residential property exposed to water damage, it should be dealt with quickly and efficiently to prevent further harm. When water gets loose in your house, it can cause many types of structural damage and can ruin carpets, furniture, flooring and more. Water can also give rise to the development and spread of toxic molds. Mold occurs naturally in all home environments, but the trick is not to let your house get moist which would help the mold to grow. When you do find that water has found a way into your home, a call to SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin to help you avoid the unwanted aftereffects of water damage.

Our process begins with the arrival of our team of professionals. The technicians will use a wide range of equipment to begin the water extraction process including powerful pumps and wet-vacs to help off-set possible secondary water damage. Dehumidifiers and air-movers will be placed to begin the drying process.

Although water damage can be a taxing reality to deal with, it is helpful to know there are people you can call to prevent stress for you and preserve the structural integrity of your home. To ensure that you react to the results of water damage effectively, it is important that you call professionals who can handle the remediation and restoration processes with skill and speed. The team to trust is SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin We will work with a sense of urgency to restore your structure and property to its previous condition in the quickest time possible.

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

There are many ways rainstorms can cause excessive damage to your home. It is not only because of the great amount of water pouring down the sky but because of all the different types of damages that come with it.

• Water: Due to the massive amount of water that pours down during a rainstorm, water could not only leak through your roof, but your house could be in risk of experiences a major flood due to all the sewers and plumbing systems being over flooded.
• Lightning: Not only water can cause damage, but lightning strikes too. If a lightning strikes your house, it could damage every electronic that was plugged into an outlet, and even cause an electric failure, resulting in a fire.
• Wind: The rapid and strong winds coming from a rainstorm can easily knock trees out, shatter windows and even cause damage to your roof and ceiling.

Should you experience any of these issues give SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin a call at 916.632.2250.

Storm Emergency Restoration

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin we know what a difficult time this is for you and your family after a storm destroys your home. That is why we will do everything possible to get your property or business back to normal quickly. Our team has the experience to handle all kinds of storm cleanup, and our commitment to your total satisfaction means you can expect impressive results.

Getting your life back in order after a devastating storm takes time. From property repairs to storm debris cleanup, the process can be frustrating, physically taxing, and time-consuming. But we can help. At SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin we assist property owners with cleanup after damaging storms immediately. We are here to help you in your time of need. 

We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916.632.2250 we can always make it "Like it never even happened."

Fire Cleanup to a Commercial Building

6/1/2021 (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 Auburn/Rocklin 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 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. 

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin we are always here to help and are available 24 hours a day. Call us at 916.632.2250.

We will get the water out!

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Accidents happen, and regardless of the cause, it is how we respond to them that matters. Commercial water damage is no different, and your response can impact the result your business experiences, no matter what type of commerce you are involved in. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is experienced in helping business owners and managers bring their businesses back from disaster, no matter how large or small the business. 
 
Businesses affected by water damage can benefit from professional services in cleaning up, and the first step in getting everything back to normal. Professional services should be used instead of doing things yourself. Safety, thoroughness, and knowing which steps to take and when inherent benefits are that SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin offers. We do what we do so you can get back to your business operations fast. 
 
Inventory that has been damaged needs to be documented so you can be reimbursed by your insurance company. We can assist with this so that the process is smoother for you. However, our goal is to restore as much of your inventory as possible. In addition to reducing the losses you need to claim, it also reduces your wait time in purchasing and receiving replacement goods. This is especially important when seasonal or promotional items are involved. Not having the merchandise your customers want means they can go elsewhere, resulting in lost sales and plummeting profits. 
 

If your business experiences a water loss; you can count on the professionals at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin to help.

HOW A REFRIGERATOR LEAK CAN DAMAGE YOUR FLOOR

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Since your refrigerator is running 24/7, it can start leaking at the most inconvenient time, resulting in water damage throughout your kitchen. It is important to remain mindful of situations that can cause your refrigerator to leak and catch water damage as soon as it forms.

The Damage Begins Unnoticed

When you are around your refrigerator, you are probably not looking for leaks. Refrigerator leaks tend to start small and gradually grow to become a bigger problem. You might experience a leak coming from the ice maker, a leaky hose, or the water hookup. 

Generally, any leaks coming from an ice maker are the result of built-up condensation. This can block the draining system and end up leaking through the inside of your fridge and the seals. In addition, a leaky hose can be the result of having the refrigerator pushed up too close against the wall, bending the hose and causing a break and subsequent leak. When installing, make sure not to push it as far back as possible to avoid damaging the hose. The water hookup can sometimes spring a leak or may drip, which can go unseen for a while and eventually cause problems.

Damage Develops Overtime

Overtime, water leads to breakdown and if undiscovered, could lead to costly repairs. Depending on the type of leak, you can experience rotting floorboards, mold build up, or a flooded basement. A strong indicator of water damage is wood flooring that separates and warps, or tiles that become loose. It is important to repair or replace the floor quickly to prevent mold from growing in the area.

Contact a Professional Restoration Company Immediately

It is important to catch the leak quickly before severe damage occurs. If you suspect a water leak behind your refrigerator or mold growing in your kitchen, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916.632.2250. We offer 24/7 emergency response.

Places That Water Damage Can Hide

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Sustaining water damage is an unpredictable and inconvenient life event. An area prone to flooding might be more prepared, but flooding is far from the only thing that cause water damage.

Inconvenience aside, water damage is also costly. The typical insurance claim for water damage amounts to over $6,500, but insurance will often not accept water damage claims at all. Checking the common places water damage can hide is a wise practice for homeowners so they are not surprised later on.

Places That Water Damage Can Hide

• Under a sink. Because the area under the sink is hidden, it is easy to be unaware that there is a leak until there is a big problem. Check regularly for water buildup and mold.
• Around a tub. The caulk that seals a bathtub to the wall can become worn over time, allowing water to seep in.
• Under drywall. Drywall can hide severe water damage within the walls, which is especially common after flooding or a burst pipe.
• At roof intersections. Chimneys and exhaust fans that intersect with the roof should be checked regularly for leakage around their seals.
• In an HVAC unit. The air conditioning system’s drain line can become clogged, leading to water buildup within the unit.
• Behind appliances. Washing machines and dishwashers can have leaks that remain hidden for an extended period of time because they are in hidden areas.
• At an exterior faucet. Where an exterior faucet is connected to the water pipe is a prime spot for leaks to develop and is often hidden by siding.

If your home has suffered water damage (even in a hidden place like one of these), SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is happy to help! Give us a call at 916-632.2250.

Water Damage Can Cause Black Mold... We Can Help.

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

There are several reasons that harmful and toxic black mold can spread through your home. One of the most common factors that leads to this mold is improperly treated water damage. There are two separate types of water damage that can cause mold spores to spread inside your home. The first and most common is a slow, unnoticed leak. The second would be a large and sudden loss.

Slow, Unnoticed Leak: This damage is common when there is a leaky pipe that hidden underneath a sink, inside of the walls, near a windowsill, or under the floor. The affected areas are now filled with moisture and become a breeding ground for black mold to grow and spread.

Large, Sudden Loss: When a homeowner has a large leak, or a pipe burst that leaves standing water there are two routes normally taken. A DIYer will typically try to remove all the water themselves and then dry out the affected area with retail fans and opening a few windows. This is not recommended and can lead to more problems. If you are not properly trained to fight water damage it can be difficult if not next to impossible to locate all the moisture without the proper equipment. If any of the damaged area is left untreated it becomes a harbor for black mold. The second and recommended route is to call a water mitigation company that can properly identify all the affected areas and can get to work quickly.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin technicians are highly trained to identify and target water damage at the source. The best preventative measure to identify a slow, unnoticed leak would be to monitor your water usage bill. If you see an unexpected and noticeable spike in the amount of water being used it could be the sign of a leak. Calling a plumber to identify any potential problems is best. After a large, sudden loss, it is best to give a water damage restoration business a call so that your problem can be handled by professionals. As the best water damage restoration business out there, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is here to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Importance of Creating an Emergency Evacuation Plan for your Business

4/23/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

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

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

If your business has been affected by a fire, storm or water damage be sure to contact SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today at 916-632-2250.

Mold in your commercial building

4/23/2021 (Permalink)

Mold is one of those things that you do not give too much thought to in life except for when for some reason, an area of your commercial building starts to smell a little musty or you notice the tell-tale dark patch on your drywall.  The truth about mold is that it is everywhere.  Like dust or pollen, mold spores are just a part of our natural biosphere and they actually do serve a useful purpose.  Mold is nature's great decomposer and is valuable in recycling any organic waste.

Whether you like it or not, your commercial property is currently filled with microscopic mold spores. It doesn't pose any problem until the day that the mold spores are introduced to a little bit of moisture. With just a little introduction to moisture, that mold spore can grow into a colony.  That is when you might start to notice a musty odor or start to see the dark shadows.  First things first, you need to contact a plumber to find the source of the water.  Cleaning the mold without fixing the leak will just lead to more mold. 

And that is the time for you to call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin. We have the training and expertise to safely handle any mold situation you may come across.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is locally owned and operated.  Call us at 916-632-2250.

Calm Before and During the Storm

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

Storms are very unpredictable. In northern California storms are caused by heavy rain and can lead to flooding that could devastate your home or business. Water damage can be undetectable to the naked eye since water can spread quickly and deteriorate walls, floors, or upholstery which could eventually become mold since they thrive in dark moist environments.

During our stormy and wet season, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin has your back with the remediation of mold or removal of water through our highly trained technicians and our advanced equipment.

If you know someone or are you need our services for restoring damaged buildings, please feel free to contact us at any time. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916-632.2250. "Like it never even happened."

Problems Caused by Storms

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

Strong winds and strong rainwater can do the most damage to the interior and exterior of your home, which can be devastating. After your home is damaged by wind or other natural elements, the storm is not necessarily over, in fact it might be just the beginning.

Common types of damage after a storm include roof, window, and structural damage as well as exterior damage. You have seen it in the news. Extreme and some not so extreme weather events are leaving their mark on homes and properties across America. Storm and water damage affect not only the structure of your home but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin understands that your home is more than a structure, your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings help transform a house into a home. Immediate action is needed, and you need the company with storm damage experience.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin professionals have the credentials, expertise, and the resources to handle any size disaster and can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin has the equipment to quickly restore your property to pre-water damage condition. We use a scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup that emphasizes monitoring and documenting the drying process from beginning to end.

When an emergency arises in your home or business, give SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin a call at 916-632.2250.

Emergency Preparedness Planning for Your Business

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that 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. 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. Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water 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 could happen?” Give the professionals at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin a call today at 916.632.2250.

SERVPRO EXPERTS WILL BOARD UP AND TARP YOUR HOME

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

After a residential fire, an emergency board up or tarping is an important step in protecting your home and assisting with your insurance claim. Because of the nature of the job, we recommend seeking the help of our professionals to assist in the process. We will do a better job shielding your home from secondary damage, securing the correct locations, and using the proper materials. By knowing how to a navigate around cracked windows and doors, our trained workers can detect areas that appear undamaged to the naked eye but may present leakage and stability issues.

There are several reasons to perform a board up or tarp over.

• Helps your insurance claim: It is not uncommon for these services to be required by your insurance following a disaster. By not taking the appropriate actions on your end, insurance companies may find a reason to deny a claim.
• Prevents further damage: Openings in the wall or roof provides access to harmful elements such as wind, water, and debris. Human or animal invaders could cause even more damage, adding to your existing issues and increasing your repair bill.
• Reduces additional property loss and liability: Thieves may remove essential belongings or cause unnecessary destruction, and their injuries could become your liability.

Structures pose a strong hazard both during and after a fire. It is not recommended to re-enter your home until it has been deemed safe by the fire department or proper authority. Dangerous elements might be present including electrical hazards and harmful airborne particles.

If you find yourself in need of any of these services, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916.632.2250.

How to Prepare for a Storm

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

How to prepare for a storm:

Interior

- Stock up on food, water, first aid kit, flashlights, batteries, portable phone chargers, toiletries, food, and medication for your pets. It is best to over-prepare for a storm than run out of supplies. 

- Make a clear exit path in case of an emergency. 

- Organize all your important paperwork in a waterproof bag or safe. Make sure that you are prepared for any damages to your important belongings. 

Exterior 

- Bring in your outdoor furniture and contents. Move your contents into a shed or your garage. 

- Make sure that the trees near your home are trimmed and maintained. Branches can snap during a storm and cause your home of thousands of dollars in damage. 

- Have your roof inspected to make sure there is no damage. Even the smallest roof leak can cause your home a tremendous amount of damage. 

-  Have a professional board up your windows to prevent further damage and water to enter your house.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, we are here to help you in your time of need.  We are open 24/7.

Smoke Damage Restoration For Your Home

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke damage is a common side effect of fire damage, but it can happen on its own if a fire is contained. After a fire even a small one, it is important not to skip the important step of smoke damage restoration. A fire can devastate you and even affect your sense of security in your home or office. While fire damage tends to be obvious, smoke damage can be a bit more subtle. However, smoke damage also needs to be repaired to restore the beauty and stability in your building’s interior.

A fire is easier to contain than smoke damage and smoke damage can be destructive even if it does not seem that way. Smoke restoration requires special equipment and knowledge, it also takes a special knowledge of where smoke can penetrate, the sources of smoke odor, and the best cleaning and restoration method for specific surfaces and materials.

If the unexpected should happen to you call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916.632.2250.

How to Prevent Dryer Fires

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that according to the U.S Fire administration 2,900 home dryer fires are reported each year and cause an estimated 5 deaths, 100 injuries, and $35 million in property loss? The leading cause of home clothes dryer fires is a failure to clean them which causes lint to accumulate and cause a fire. Home fires happen more often during the fall and winter season. Here are some ways to avoid fires within your home:

• Clean the lint screen/filter before or after drying each load of clothes.
• Clean the dryer vent at least once a month to avoid lint accumulation.
• Use metal dryer ducts to help prevent dryer fires.
• No matter the kind of duct is installed in your dryer, make sure to regularly clean it.
• Occasionally wipe the sensor with a rag or cotton ball.

If the unexpected should happen to you call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916-632-2250.

COMMON CAUSES OF HOUSE FIRES

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage may result in ways you least expect. Take precautionary measures now to protect your home from the following fire instigators.

• Cooking equipment: Cooking equipment is the number one cause of house fires. Pots and pans can quickly overheat when left unattended or mishandled. Be sure to always turn your handles towards the middle of the stove to avoid children from accidentally grabbing it. When leaving the house, always remember to turn off stove and oven.
• Smoking in Bedrooms: Avoid smoking in bedrooms. A cigarette butt can stay lit for hours and cause a flame after coming into contact with clothes or furniture. Open flames such as candles can also pose a danger for many residents.
• Old electrical equipment: Older lampshades and light fittings may build up heat, and weak bases could pose a tipping hazard. Electrical equipment such as these should be checked for faulty cords, and the power point must not be overloaded with double adapter plugs.
• Flammable liquids: Liquids such as petrol, kerosene, or methylated spirits should be kept away from heat sources and stored properly according to their label.

When accidents happen, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is here to help and restore your home quickly and professionally. Give us a call at 916.632.2250.

Candle Safety!

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Candles are great for helping to create a warm and cozy feeling, but they could also pose a big threat. Many home fires occur due to candles left unattended or too close to flammable items and can a happen year round.

Here are a few tips to help prevent fire:

• Never leave a burning candle unattended.
• Never burn a candle without a votive or a container.
• Never burn a candle on or near anything that might catch fire.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
• Extinguish all candles when leaving the home or space.

If a fire or smoke damage should affect your home of office, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin are ready to help you make it “Like it never even happened.”

Our crews are ready to help 24/7, 365 when disaster strikes. Call us at 916.632.2250.

WASHING MACHINE WATER DAMAGE

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

Washing machines are one of the most common sources of water damage in the home, and the damage can be costly, reaching potentially thousands of dollars.

Since each washing machine has multiple ways of causing water damage with multiple components that break down, below are some things that most commonly cause leaks:

1. Plugged floor drain, before disassembling your washing machine, check that the floor drain is clear of debris like lint that can build up over time. Water on your floor may be the result of a clogged drain and not an issue with the washer itself.
2. External supply hoses, start a fill cycle on your machine and look for drips around the water supply connection hose. If the hoses themselves seem to be free of corrosion or rust but are still dripping, try replacing the internal washers to create a tighter seal.
3. Internal hoses, if the supply hoses are not leaking, check the internal hoses that connect the inlet valve to the tub by opening the washer cabinet. Cracked or perforated hoses may be the problem.
4. Seals, normal wear and tear can cause door boot seals to crack or rip. If your machine is leaking during either the fill or agitation portion of the wash cycle, damaged tub seals could be the cause and will need to be replaced.

If you experience water damage in your home because of a faulty washing machine, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916-632-2250.

Categories of Water Damage

1/3/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can be common in a home. Determining the category of water damage is important as well. Here at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, we determine the category of the water depending on if the water is considered sanitary or contaminated. Category 1 water is known as clean water. This water can come from an overflow from a sink, bathtub, or other appliances. Category 2 water is considered significantly contaminated. Also known as ‘greywater’. This water may contain bacteria or fungi, but typically no feces. The water damage may be discharged from your washing machine, dishwasher, toilet, etc. Category 3 water is considered grossly contaminated. This is also known as “Black Water”. This type of water damage most often comes from sewage backups which can be distributed through many sources in the home. This water does contain harmful bacteria and fungus, and even fecal matter. With these three categories, it helps us easily determine what kind of water damage we are dealing with and how to properly remediate it. Count on us here at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin to protect your home or your business.

Know Where Your Water Shutoff Valve is

1/3/2021 (Permalink)

If a pipe or a water supply line suddenly bursts inside your home, there is not a lot of time before the water can travel from your kitchen to the hallway to the dining room and beyond.  Floors get wet, walls get wet, cabinets get wet and before you know it you have an official water damage that can be very expensive and time-consuming to deal with. 

Would you know what to do if this unfortunate situation ever happened in your house?

Well, if it does the first thing to do is to get the water to stop flowing.  If the situation is as we described above, you will need to shut off the water at the main water shutoff to your house.  The secret to success here is to know the location of the turn-off prior to the damage occurring.  You will typically find your water shutoff in the front of your home and it is usually located near an outside faucet.  Once you have found it, it is as easy as pulling a handle into the off position or turning a valve clockwise until the water stops flowing. 

Of course, the shutoff valve could be someplace else, so it is definitely worth your time to find out where yours is located before an emergency arises.  After things calm down and it comes time to clean up the mess, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin 916-632-2250. 

What employers should do to prevent mold

1/1/2021 (Permalink)

There are some important steps that employers can take to make sure that their employees are not exposed to mold. These preventative measures are some of the most important things that employers should know about mold. Following these tips can help save time, money, and the health of their employees.

• Have a reliable and certified building maintenance crew who are well-informed about mold and mold causes.
• Have all the plumbing checked regularly throughout the year.
• Check the building construction and design.
• Make sure there is proper ventilation in each area of the building.
• During summer months, open windows or run air conditioning regularly.
• Use mildew resistant paint in offices where workers spend most of their time.
• Consider replacing old carpets or wooden shelving that might have been exposed to moisture in the past.

Always let your employees know that you are doing everything possible to prevent mold from growing in your building. When workers feel like their employers understand their health risks and are taking proper precautions to keep them safe, they are less likely to file claims.

What to do if Mold is Found

If you find mold or you suspect mold is in your building, you can give SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin a call. The consequences of mold are too high to not take it seriously. Primarily, the health of your employees always come first. You never want to be responsible for the health effects that your workers can contract in a moldy environment. In addition, the structure of your building will be severely compromised if mold is found and if it is not remediated on time. Lastly, legal expenses from mold litigation can be overwhelming. Do not put yourself in a tough position when it comes to mold. Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916-632-2250.

Restore Your Business After A Water Loss

1/1/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage to commercial properties can be very complex, requiring a knowledgeable yet flexible response to solve the numerous issues that can quickly present themselves. 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 any and all areas affected. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we work diligently to restore the damaged areas.

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. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin understands that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there with the help you need.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can also help your business prepare for a disaster with an ERP (Emergency Response Preparedness Plan). Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916-632-2250 for more information.

What is air duct cleaning and why should we have it done?

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

Duct cleaning generally refers to the cleaning of various heating and cooling system components of forced air systems, including the supply and return air ducts and registers, grilles and diffusers, heat exchangers heating and cooling coils, condensate drain pans (drip pans), fan motor and fan housing, and the air handling unit housing.

If not properly installed, maintained, and operated, these components may become contaminated with particles of dust, pollen, or other debris. If moisture is present, the potential for microbiological growth (e.g., mold) is increased and spores from such growth may be released into the air of your commercial business. Some of these contaminants may cause health effects in people if they are exposed to them.

Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your business.

If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating one or more of the following:

• Dust
• Pollen
• Odors
• Dirt and debris
• Other contaminants

The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:

• Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
• May help to eliminate offensive odors.
• Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

For more information on air duct cleaning, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today, (916) 632-2250.

Space Heaters Need Their Space

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin reminds you that half of all home heating fires happen during the months of December, January, and February. The National Fire Protection Association Agency offer the following safety tips:

• Place the heater on a hard, level, and nonflammable surface. They are intended to sit on the floor and not a table.
• Establish a 3-foot kid- and pet-free zone around the heater, and never put a space heater in a child's room.
• Keep the space heater at least 3 feet away from such combustible materials as furniture, bedding, and curtains.
• Do not use a heater in a workshop or garage near paint, gas cans, or matches.
• Turn it off when you leave the room or go to bed.
• Unplug the heater when not in use by pulling the plug straight from the outlet. Check the cord for damage periodically, and do not use it if it’s frayed or worn.
• Do not plug another electrical device or an extension cord into the same outlet as a heater, which can cause overheating.
• Install working smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them monthly.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is always available 24/7/365 to service your needs!

Water Damage Repair Near Me

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

When you are frantically completing a google search for 'water damage repair near me' you are most likely in a dire situation and require a prepared team of water damage repair technicians to quickly arrive on the scene and manage the situation. This is why SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is the first and ONLY call you need to make. We are available 24/7 and will arrive quickly to stop the damage and restore your home or business as quickly as possible. Furthermore, we provide all phases of construction services. This way, if there is further damage to the home your single search for 'water damage near me' will give you a complete repair experience! Give SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin a call at 916-632-2250.

Who To Call For Fire And Water Damage Emergencies?

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Homeowners and business owners have many choices when they have a fire or water damage emergency. The choices can be overwhelming and sometimes confusing on who to call. Should you call a local company or take the recommendation of a friend or insurance agent. The choice comes down to ultimately who you feel confident in and comfortable having in your home and who will take care of your property. We here at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin try to be the best restoration company in the area with great communication, trust and being there when called upon. If you have questions about us or our services, please don't hesitate to call. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Having a company that can coordinate the whole process from start to finish to make your life easier and gets you back in your home or business faster. “Like it never even happened.”®

If you would like more information on hiring a team experienced in Water Damage Restoration call SERVPRO Auburn/Rocklin today at 916-632-2250.

We are disaster ready! We Are Available 24/7/365!

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

When your residence or commercial property is impacted by water, weather, flood, fire, or mold damage, it is crucial to respond quickly. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is available to our customers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You will always speak to one of our team members who will be able to guide you through the process. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin also works closely with many of the insurance agencies personally with the goal to make it "Like it never even happened."
Here are a few of the customer first things you can expect from our team.
A quick response. Time is money. We understand that the faster our response, there is the potential of a less costly restoration.
Prompt arrival at the damaged site; Our professionally trained technicians will be able to continue to offer support and guidance to you every step of the way.
A thorough inspection and one on one communication. We take on each project as if it were our property. It is important to us that we communicate with you every step of the way, providing the next steps.
Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin 916-632-2250 . Let our team help you the next time you are faced with a property disaster.

4 Tips for Winter Fire Safety

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

House fires spike when the weather gets colder. The leading cause of these house fires is the use of heating equipment. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the US Fire Department responds to an average of 50 thousand fires per year just from heating equipment.

Here are a few simple tips that you can follow to prevent house fires in your home this winter:

1.) Be mindful when using space heaters.

Space heaters account for more than two in five of house fires due to heating equipment (source: NFPA). Of these fires, 86% result in fatalities. The biggest cause of space heater fires is having them placed too close to flammable objects. To prevent this, you can follow the "3 feet" rule (see tip #2).

2.) Follow the "3 feet" rule.

A good rule of thumb is to keep anything that is flammable a minimum of three feet from any heating equipment, such as the furnace, fireplace, wood stove and portable space heaters. This will lessen the chance of anything accidentally catching fire. 

3.) Turn off all heating equipment before going to bed.

Most heating equipment fires do not occur overnight. However, the ones that do account for almost half of house fire fatalities from heating equipment. Make sure to turn off all heating equipment before going to bed. You are better off using an extra blanket or two than unnecessarily risking your life.

4.) Remember that ovens are not heaters.

Ovens should never be used for a source of heat. This is an inefficient way to heat your house, and it can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Stick to using your oven to make food as it is designed to do. 

Contact Information:

If you have any questions about wintertime fire safety or fire damage, please do not hesitate to call the SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin office at 916-632-2250

Are You Prepared for a Thunderstorm?

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

In recent days we have experienced large thunder and lightning storms. It is important to be prepared and have a plan in place. Talk with your family and create an emergency plan for thunderstorms, lightning, floods, and heavy winds. Think about an emergency shelter and evacuation plan. Below we have a few suggestions to make sure you and your family are ready for whatever happens.

Protect your electronics

Your electronics can get fried if they are not properly protected. Plug electronics into a surge protector to avoid damage during a storm. 

Prepare for power outages

Have battery-operated flashlights and lanterns in easy to get to places. Check on these items from time to time to make sure the batteries still work, replace them if necessary. Also, think about keeping the refrigerator and freezer doors shut to keep food from spoiling. Call your local power company to inform them of the outage and to get information regarding when the power should be restored. 

Stay away from power lines

Do not go near power lines should they fall to the ground; they can be very hazardous. Call 911 if you see downed power lines. 

Go inside when you hear thunder

If you hear thunder, it is likely that lightning is also occurring. Lightning can be dangerous, so make sure to go inside when thunder occurs. 

Keep an emergency kit ready

Consider putting together a kit of things you may want to have on hand during a storm. Items you may want to include would be water, non-perishable food, flashlights, blankets, extra batteries, a radio, and a first aid kit.

If an emergency does strike your home during a thunderstorm, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is ready to help get your life back to normal. Call us and we’ll be there for you! (916) 632-2250

The Water Cleanup Process After a Flood

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

It is crucial to remember that the most important step a property owner can take whenever they have noticed flood water in their business or water in their home is to immediately call in the professionals. Once the call is made, a water cleanup team will be dispatched to the home as soon as possible.

Once on scene, the water cleanup team will immediately start the assessment of the water in the business or water in the home, classifying the water according to its health hazard risk and moving quickly to stanch any existing leaks emanating from pipe breaks or supply line breaks. The team will also carefully examine the area around the original pipe break or supply line break, noting if any water has seeped into unseen or hard-to-reach places.

Once the damage to the flooded home or business has been assessed, the team will begin the water removal process.

Removing standing water from the flooded home or business:

Water will be removed through the use of heavy-duty extracting equipment. This should only take a few minutes, as the equipment used is capable of sucking out thousands of gallons of water per hour.

If you've found water in your home or business call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today (916) 632-2250

Understanding the Fire Damage Restoration Process

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

After a fire tragedy such as an electrical fire or a utility room fire, there's confusion among the afflicted parties, and it is hard to figure what to expect. In such a scenario, a professional commercial fire damage expert can ensure that the occupants of the building get back to their normal lives. It is crucial for every afflicted party to begin the process. Most people take a long time to start the fire restoration after the fire truck has left the premises for soot damage to take a toll on the building and its contents after firefighters have completed the fire suppression process.

Emergency Fire Damage Contacts:

Any company understands that the longer it takes to begin the fire restoration process, the harder it becomes to rectify soot and smoke damage. Most commercial building managers have the emergency contacts for a firetruck. Commercial fire damage experts and companies have emergency contacts, and they operate 24/7. They are prompt in their response, and it is vital that property owners and managers save their contacts.

Document Drying - Post Storm Damage

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

Concerned that your documents may be lost forever after a major storm? Have no fear! Here at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, we have state-of-the-art technology that can restore your damaged documents after a storm!

Inventory

We bar-code every box using the iCat system, allowing us to know the location of any box in our facility at any time. All documents are inventoried at the location of the loss prior to packaging.

Drying

Process in which an item containing moisture is frozen and dried using various vacuums and pressures to achieve sublimation.

Decontamination/Gamma

High-energy photons are emitted from an isotope source (Cobalt 60) producing ionization (electron disruptions) throughout a product. In living cells, these disruptions result in damage to the DNA and other cellular structures. These photon-induced changes at the molecular level cause the death of the organism or render the organism incapable of reproduction. The gamma process does not create residuals or impart radioactivity in processed products.

Gamma Irradiation is a process that is used for cleaning/disinfecting and decontaminating documents or other consumer goods.

In a Category 3 situation (sewage or flood water), documents are not only deteriorating but are also infected with all types of bacteria. As you all know in most storm situations you are dealing with CAT 3 water, therefore most of the affected documents that you will encounter will be contaminated; if this is the case than de-contamination is always a must.

Cleaning

We will go through each box page by page to wipe down and remove dirt, soot, or other contaminants. We have 3 levels of cleaning based on the type of soiling, and how heavy it is.

Deodorizing

Many times documents that have been affected will hold residual smells of contaminants, or mildew, and should be deodorized before being returned to your client.

Digitizing

With the new age of technology, digitizing records and documents has become a standard practice in most industries. This eliminates the need to have massive file storage rooms and allows us to access records at the click of a button. if your file room was damaged by water, or smoke, and needed to be cleaned, dried, or decontaminated, digitizing might be a good choice to eliminate the need to have 100's or even 1000's of documents and records in storage.

Certified Destruction

Often times facilities will have documents they no longer need to hold on to and would simply like to have them disposed of properly.

Feel free to give us a call anytime @ (916)632-2250

Prepare Your Home For A Wind Storm: Top 6 Ways To Protect Your Home!

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

Top 6 Ways To Protect Your Home From Wind Damage

Wind storms can be very damaging to your home or property if you are not prepared.  Unfortunately, we rarely get much warning before a large wind storm so it is critical to prepare your home ahead of time. Routinely checking, fixing or updating areas around your home can make the difference between a hundred dollars and thousands of dollars in damages.  

Here are six ways to prepare your home before the next storm hits:

1. Is your roof in good shape?
1. Your shingles should be nailed down properly and all secured together.
2. Replace any missing shingles immediately.
2. Make sure your garage door is secure.
1. Sometimes this means hiring a company to inspect your garage door to ensure it is properly secured and functioning well.
3. Secure all outdoor items.
1. Grills, patio furniture, trampolines, etc. These items can cause a lot of damage if the wind is strong enough to pick them up.
4. Ensure your gutters are properly secured and clean them out regularly.
1. Clogged cutters can create water damage to your house. They are also more likely to break in a high wind storm if they are weakened by heavy debris.
5. Are your windows storm proof?
1. Installing storm proof windows can make a big difference in protecting your home from high winds and hail from a storm.
2. If you don’t have storm proof windows, consider installing steel or aluminum shutters on your windows or sliding doors to protect them from flying debris.
6. Remove or trim/maintain trees around your home.
1. Trimming your trees of dead wood can help prevent large branches falling during a wind storm.

Be sure to routinely check and maintain your home so you are ready before the next storm hits.  However, if you do find yourself in need of help after a storm, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin we specialize in restoration and water damage repair in the Seattle Northwest area.  Call us after a storm and let us take the stress off of your family! We will make sure it's like it never even happened! 

We can be reached 24/7 @ (916)632-2250

Commercial Biohazard

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

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

What to Do After a Contamination

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

What Not to Do After a Contamination

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

Situations that contain any biohazardous material or spills, should not be handled lightly. At SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, we care about our local community, as well as all of those that live in the area. If you have any questions, or would like to contact one of our professionals, please call (916)632-2250

Water Damage Timeline

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin 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 Auburn/Rocklin 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 916-632-2250

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 Auburn/Rocklin

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin 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.

It’s the Water You Don't See

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. 

The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin has the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin will answer your call with rapid action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. Here are a few of the tools we use.

• Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls.
• Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO® of Northern Las Vegas to monitor the drying process.
• Thermohygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, we can calculate and create an environment most conducive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized.
• Ultra Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate.
• Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor causing particles.

The bottom line? SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin has the training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Call us at (916)632-2250

When Your Home Needs Water Damage Repair

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

How Water Damage Occurs

Water Damage occurs for any number of reasons and sometimes it goes on long before you notice it. The most common ways in which water damage occurs are the following:

• Pipes – Leaking, burst, or cracked pipes are common in homes, especially older homes where pipes might need replacing. Spots with prior repairs are more susceptible to future damage with time and use. Weather changes and weakened areas of pipe can all lead to water damage in your homes.
• Flooding – Flooding whether caused by heavy rain, plumbing failures, or groundwater exposure, causes extensive damage and affects many surfaces and items in your home from the floor to ceiling including electrical outlets, TV’s and appliances, and furniture.
• Basements and Crawlspaces - Accumulating water can sit and collect in damp and cool places like a basement or crawlspace. 

Results of Unrepaired Water Damage

Even the smallest amount of water damage can lead to deteriorating housing materials and fungal growth like mold. Mold loves to multiply in damp, moist, and dark locations. Areas in your home that were not properly cleaned and dried are perfect hosts for mold. Humid locations are especially susceptible to mold growth. Mold spores are also airborne, spread quickly, and can cause health effects.

Call your water damage professionals at (916) 632-2250

You Have Water Damage. Now What?

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

First, when assessing if you should attempt water damage repair before calling a professional also determine whether it is safe to remain in your home. The biggest concern is your electrical system and the potentials for injury from slipping. Then,

• The sooner you clean the better. If the water damage is manageable and your safety in check, begin the clean-up process right away.
• Water is heavy. Removing water logged and soaking wet items is a laborious task, therefore be aware of your own abilities and safety when removing wet items.
• Leave your vacuum in the closet. Your household vacuum is not equipped to handle water removal. Use a mop and bucket, or another absorbent cloth, to soak up and dispose of the water manually. Blot rugs and furniture with absorbent material to soak up the water.
• Hang up those wet fabrics. Leaving any fabric material soaking in water is a fungus breeding ground. Remove cushions, curtains, blankets, and throw rugs to dry elsewhere.
• Keep those appliances and electronics off. Your electronics could have water damage where you cannot see it.
• Clean up. Clean up and remove everything from the waterlogged area that isn’t bolted in place.

Leaving any water damaged areas unrepaired leads to further damage and toxic living situations.

Lastly, call SERVPRO Auburn/Rocklin with our industrial equipment we ensure water damage repairs happen immediately and properly. We  handle the entire repair process from removing the water to ensuring everything in your home is dry; preventing mold growth and further material damage, protecting your health and making your home safe again.

Emergency Ready Profile for Commercial Property Managers

4/26/2020 (Permalink)

Do you manage commercial property?  Does all your staff or on call personnel know where all the shutoffs are located?  Do you have a vendor ready selected who knows your building as well as your staff.  SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can help. 

You need to check our FREE Emergency Ready Profile app.  Free to you we will come out and set up your property using our mobile device app.  We will ask you lots of questions and then load all your preferences right into the app so it all can be shared with your entire staff and our personnel. 

Image you have a water loss on a Sunday afternoon.  You open the app and simply tap the icon and you are on the phone with our on call staff.  If you have a particular area for access our staff already know that.  They will also have a photo of the designated are for easy recognition. 

If you staff is busy and need assistance accessing areas to mitigate the loss our staff will be able to immediately start assisting with all the data that in mobile app. 

This is a FREE service to you for you and your people.  We can also set you up so you can add and modify all the data you want to put in the mobile application.  Call us today we come out and give you a live demonstration and did I mention it’s FREE.  Don't delay.  We can reached @ 916 632-2250

Restoring Commercial Property after Water Damage

4/26/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage at commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is 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.

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.

SERVPRO 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 the SERVPRO corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

When Storms or Floods Hit, SERVPRO is here!

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. 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 have traveled to many areas of the country to help those affected by storm damage. 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 at (916) 632-2250

We Are Ready For All Types of Weather

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin works to achieve preloss conditions for every disaster we encounter. It’s our vow to meet customer needs and make the customer feel at ease throughout the process. Our aim is to be quick yet efficient, so the customer can get back to day-to-day life. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin aims to do this by maintaining professionalism throughout the whole process. With our expertise, we can make the customer feel more at ease during such a stressful and overwhelming time. No matter what the weather brings know that SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is here to help. You have worked hard to make your house a home. At SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin we are here to help you restore your home and personal contents. We are diligent and hard working to get the client back into the home. The reason to hire a professional team when you are needing deep cleaning service is because of our precision and attention to detail.  Our trained staff brings with them the best materials, equipment, and chemicals in the business for any situation whether it is a fire, water, sewage, mold, post construction, or general cleaning job. We are prepared for any situation and we make sure that the homeowner or business owner is happy with the results when we leave.

For an estimate call our team at (916) 632-2250

WHY SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

When we talk about a fire, or any other disruptive disaster to strike your home, we always refer to SERVPRO’s amazing service and expertise making it "Like it never even happened."  We talk about drying and repairing, dehumidification and reconstruction.  What often gets looked over is the mental aspect of these events.

During and after a disaster it is natural to experience different and strong emotions.  Emotional reactions can often be strong, with young children at an increased risk of experiencing trauma from a disaster at home.

Talk with someone about your feelings - anger, sorrow and other emotions - even though it may be difficult.  You can also look for help from professionals who deal with post-disaster stress.

Whether your home has emergency flood damage or you need 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

The reason we stand above the others

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. 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

Residential Services

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

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

Commercial Services

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

• Commercial Water/Storm Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial reconstruction
• Mold Remediation

Stay Aware of the Weather to Help Avoid Water Damage to Your Business or Home

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

When a winter storm or unusually cold temperatures strikes your home or business, widespread damage can be expected. Among the worst type of damage is water damage, which can take a few forms, including

• Water and ice damage from clogged gutters
• Frozen outdoor hoses causing burst valves
• A pipe break in exposed plumbing

Businesses Should Clean the Gutters Just Like a Homeowner

Even if you rent the building you occupy, the gutters need to be regularly cleaned. Leaves and debris can cause ice dams during a winter storm, leading to serious water damage. It can force water under eaves and destroy a roof.

Once water gets into unprotected areas, it can cause tons of havoc inside. Plus, mold can grow from wet building materials, and if it gets bad enough, your operations might be shut down while it’s cleaned up. Gutter guards can also help prevent ice dams.

Rubber Hoses Can Cause a Plumbing Disaster
If your business uses hoses outside for cleanup or landscaping maintenance, make sure they are taken in if the weather is supposed to drop below 30 degrees. The water valve can take short excursions below freezing, but not long ones. If you expect a deep freeze, protect the valve with an outdoor foam faucet cover.

Exposed Plumbing Suffers During Unusual Cold
Virtually every winter in California comes with a prolonged cold wave that will cause burst pipes for many businesses. They tend to be more susceptible to a pipe break, possibly because landlords don’t take great care to protect your assets, but also because employees don’t either. If a winter storm happens late at night, it might not be caught for hours, causing massive destruction.

Once it gets this serious, you’ll need an experienced local storm damage cleanup company to evaluate your immediate needs and stop further damage.

Top restoration companies will assign you a personal representative to help review your insurance coverage and, if it’s a major event, help determine if you are eligible for disaster assistance.

For further assistance please call us at (916) 632-2250

NEVER...Walk Away From Your Stove!

4/5/2020 (Permalink)

In these challenging times it is easy to get to get sidetracked

It happens, especially now…… doing several things at once, spring cleaning, while you have soup on the stove. So you leave the stove, just for a quick minute. Only it’s just never as quick as you anticipate. Meanwhile back in the kitchen….a fire has erupted. It can happen so quickly.

Good Rule: never leave the stove or turn your back for any period of time.

Think fast!

1) Evaluate – call 911 if it is out of control while gathering family and get to safety

2) Put a metal lid on it

3) Turn off the heat

4) Dump baking soda

5) Chemical fire extinguisher is best as a last resort or if the above options are not available

6) Stop. Let the area sit, cool down, before you address the damage.

NO, NO, NO

1) Do not throw water

2) Do not use a hand towel

We hope you never need to remember these tips. But your SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is here to help with the clean-up should disaster strike. The photos are from a kitchen grease fire; just a second of “unattended”. The good news is the final repairs are beautiful; "Like it never even happened." No family members, or pets were injured in the event. Just frayed nerves and a bit of quilt. (Accidents happen and we should learn from them and move forward.)

Quick thinking allowed the structure damage to be contained to the kitchen. However soot and smoke damage occurred throughout the residence.

We are here to help, give us a call (916) 632-2250

Smoke Dangers in Your Home

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

Often, it’s the smoke that can do more harm than the flames when a fire occurs in a home.  If not properly taken care of, smoke can be left to damage the contents and surfaces of your property. 

Effects of Smoke

Smoke can cause discoloration as well as leave a lingering odor throughout the space.  If left untreated, the smoke can cause further damage to the home’s contents.  Electronics, furniture, clothing and even walls and ceilings can all be damaged.  Although the fire is gone, this substance creates a massive problem for you and your home.

Reducing Damages

To reduce the damages to your home after a fire, open a window to release the smoke from the property.  Turn off any ceiling fans, air conditioners or heating units to prevent the smoke from spreading throughout the home.  Do not attempt to clean the smoke off of surfaces as doing so can lead to more damage if improperly handled.

Smoke can lead to a large problem in your home, but SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can take care of the damage for you.  Our fire restoration professionals are equipped with the proper equipment and techniques to restore your home to preloss conditions. Call us today (916) 632-2250

Fire Prevention Tips

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

House fires are extremely dangerous and can cause expensive damages. The following are fire prevention tips.

1. Install and regularly test and maintain smoke alarms.  Monthly tests should be performed and replace the smoke detector every 10 years.
2. Clean the dryer.  Dryer lint is the perfect combustible material when combined with the heat from the dryer. The lint tray should be cleared after each load to avoid a build-up of lint.
3. Watch open flames.  Candles, cooking and fireplaces are just some of the reasons most people are exposed to open flames.  Never leave them unattended.
4. Maintain wiring.  Household wires and cables can become a fire hazard if they are used when frayed or otherwise compromised. Check them often and replace once they become worn.
5. Store household chemical in proper locations.  Keep these products protected from sunlight or heat to avoid combustion.

Contact SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin if your home or business has suffered fire damage.  We have certified fire and smoke restoration technicians on staff to help.  Call us at (916) 632-2250

Ozone Deodorizes without Chemicals

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Activated oxygen machines, otherwise known as ozone machines, work in your home to clean the air of odor.  One of the most common uses is for the decimation of smoke odor. These machines work by breaking down the oxygen we breath (O₂), and converting it into ozone (O₃). 

These machines have a wide range of uses and be used in one room of a house or the entire floor of a building.  Here at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, we use them quite often when there has been a fire. The activated oxygen machine allows us to clean a room that smells of smoke without using any chemicals.  These little machines are not limited to smoke odor cleaning! They can also be used for pet and food odors! 

 If you have any odors in your home, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remove odors in your home or business. Call us today at (916) 632-2250

Toilet Leak in Lincoln, CA

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen anytime and anywhere from things like dishwasher leaks or toilet clogs or wax ring failures on toilets. Sometimes you are not even aware of a leak inside a wall or in your crawlspace until there is a musty smell or discoloration on sheetrock.  We walk through the disaster with you, helping you to understand the sometimes complicated claims process and how to best advocate for yourself and your home. After all your house is probably the biggest investment you have ever made, it is not just a collection of rooms and things, it is your home; and we take care of it as if it was ours.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call us at (916) 632-2250

Mitigation vs. Restoration

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

If your businesses has been affected by severe flooding, the chances are that you have contacted a flood and water cleanup company to help get your building back to normal is pretty high. You will probably hear the words “mitigation” and “restoration” thrown around a lot, and you might not fully understand what they mean. Here’s a quick breakdown of what they mean.

Mitigation

Mitigation is the first line of defense when it comes to water damage. It also includes measures that are used to help stabilize the situation before any more damage can occur. Here are some examples of what happens during mitigation:

• Inspecting damage
• Making sure building is stable
• Window board up
• Setting tarps
• Removing furniture/other belongings
• Extracting water
• Setting drying equipment

Depending on if more work needs to be done, based on the damage, that is where restoration comes in to play.

Restoration or Reconstruction

Restoration means that we will bring your property back to the state it was in before the damage occurred. Once mitigation has been complete, the repairing of the structure can begin. This means replacing drywall, painting, and many other things depending on what is needed.

Whatever your needs may bay SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is here to help. We are your one-stop-shop for all mitigation and restoration/reconstruction needs! (916) 632-2250

Keep Your Eyes Opened for Water Damage

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

The longer that water sits after a pipe bursts or a roof leaks, the more damage you are actually causing to your home or business. When you notice a water emergency, the first thing to do is to shut off the water source that is causing the damage. If the water is coming from somewhere that you cannot get to shut it off, you might need to call a plumber. Once the water is shut off, you need to call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin. We can assess the problem. No job is too big or too small; we will be able to handle it all. Water damage can sometimes be difficult to spot, but here are some signs you can look for:

• Water rings on your ceiling or walls
• Soft or sagging in your ceilings or walls
• Wet or soggy carpets
• Warping in your wood floors

It is imperative that you call a professional right away to get the situation under control before it gets worse. Our trained technicians are on stand by and waiting for your call any time, day or night. Call us today at (916) 632-2250! We are always here for you.

5 Tips to Prevent Mold & Mildew in your Commercial Business

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Why should you worry about mold or mildew in your building? Over time some mold may cause structural damage to wood along with damage to furnishings and finishes. Use the following tips to help prevent mold or mildew growth in your business.

#1: Clean Out the Refrigerator

It can be difficult to keep track of shared refrigerators. Some people will always remember to clear out their leftovers, others won’t. Old food storage containers are a perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Over time, it can travel to the shelving and even outside the refrigerator. Consider instituting an office refrigerator policy. If something is left in the fridge by a certain time each week, it goes in the garbage.

#2: Look for and Repair Leaks

Leaks from plumbing, windows, roofs, and more can lead to significant water damage in your business as well as an increased risk of mold growth. If you aren’t regularly inspecting your property, it’s easy for these leaks to go unchecked until they create a larger, more costly problem. Watch for telltale signs of a leak such as lower water pressure; wet spots on the floors, ceilings, or walls; and condensation around window sills and in attic spaces.

#3: Keep It Clean

It’s easy for anyone to get caught up in work and let clutter take over his or her workspace. However, clutter creates lots of hiding spots for crumbs and dust, which are both great food sources for mold. Make sure to clear the clutter and wipe down hard surfaces regularly. Make sure to promptly clean all spills as well. Clean and sanitize break rooms and bathrooms frequently. Both rooms provide ample opportunity for mold and mildew growth. These rooms should be cleaned at least weekly depending on how regularly people use each room.

#4: Clean out Trash Cans

While you might switch out the liners regularly, can you remember the last time you washed out the trash cans? It’s easy for bits of food and condensation to sneak beneath liners into the can, which is all mold needs to grow. Try washing out office wastebaskets about once a month to prevent growth.

#5: Take Care of Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system can quickly distribute mold spores throughout your building if there is a problem. Make sure your HVAC system receives regular inspections. Sometimes moisture condenses inside air ducts or leaks drip onto ducts from ceiling tiles, which can lead to growth inside the ducts. Make sure to keep the HVAC drip pans clean and unobstructed. Additionally, replace your filters as needed.

If you find mold or mildew in your place of business, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at (916) 632-2250 today!

Smoke and Soot Damage to Neighboring Properties

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

A question I was once asked: Can my home be affected by a fire in the house next door? The answer is yes! Let SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin do an inspection of your home and find out if smoke and soot has penetrated the interior of your home. It is common for the houses on either side or behind a home that has had an extensive fire to have smoke and soot residue. It can get into the attic and even into the interior of the home by being drawn in through the HVAC system. Depending on the materials that were in the actual fire the soot and smoke residue can be very corrosive to different items in your home. Let SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin inspect the HVAC system and the interior and remove any smoke and soot therein. Call today (916) 632-2250

Emergency Ready Profile

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

Do you own or operate a small business?  You cannot always prevent disasters from happening, but you can always be prepared.  Let SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin help you be prepared for unplanned disasters by creating an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). By creating an Emergency Ready Profile with SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin you minimize interruptions in the daily operations of your business by having an immediate plan of action in place should disaster strike.  The Emergency Ready Profile provides immediate contact information and other important details that provide a guide to get your business back up and running after a disaster.  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.  Be ready and get a free Emergency Ready Profile with SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, give our office a call at (916)632-2250 to set up an appointment.

3 Services SERVPRO Provides After a Storm

11/13/2019 (Permalink)

Demand for damage mitigation and restoration services spikes after a severe storm. Insurance agents and adjusters need to be able to rely on a local mitigation and restoration company to provide timely storm response services. Here are three services that make a local SERVPRO franchise the right choice for storm restoration.

1. Disaster Response

No matter how many properties are affected by a storm, a Disaster Response Team can arrive on each location within a matter of hours. Independent mitigation and restoration services are more likely to be backlogged than a national corporation that can dispatch employees and equipment from nearby franchises to areas that have experienced large losses.

2. Mitigation and Cleanup

The initial stage of storm response involves mitigating damage. In the case of structural damage, this may involve boarding up broken windows or breaches in a building envelope or tarping over a damaged roof. Standing water resulting from flood damage should be extracted as soon as possible. A full-service company can ensure that these initial measures contribute toward complete storm restoration.

3. All-In-One Restoration

A company that offers mitigation and restoration services can reduce the workload on insurance agents and adjusters while simplifying the claim process for property owners. Relying on a one-stop shop may make miscommunication less likely, prevent scheduling conflicts and allow for a faster and more thorough restoration job. Depending on a single service also means that the initial estimate is likely to be more accurate.

These storm restoration services set SERVPRO franchises apart from independent companies. The business model means that each location has the backing of a national corporation and the ability to call on nearby locations for additional personnel and equipment. A single estimate from a service that can clean up damage and rebuild a commercial property can also be more convenient for insurance agents, adjusters, and clients. 

In need of services? Call us at (916) 632-2250 today!

SERVPRO Carefully Manages Restoration Services After a Fire

11/13/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning up a home after a fire is directed at the big items. First efforts are to examine the structural property and determine what is needed to restore floors, ceilings, and walls. That is where much of the restoration cost comes from, but it is not everything. 
 
To completely remediate the effects of fire damage in homes; a professional restoration company looks at every item in the home. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin understands that the items most important to a homeowner are rarely ever walls and ceilings. It is the personal touches like light fixtures in rooms like the kitchen or living area.
 
Kitchen cabinets are among the first personal choices made by a homeowner. The exteriors are usually covered with a clear varnish to emphasize the appearance of the wood, so we remove the handles and back plates to examine the entire surface and then use a mild cleaning agent to remove smoke and soot residues. 
 
Interiors are usually unfinished or exposed wood. Our first action is to wipe them down with a dry sponge. That normally removes the residue, but for thicker layers, we wipe down each panel and shelf with a wet sponge dipped in denatured alcohol. If the soot has penetrated the surface, we use sandpaper to remove it. 
 
Light fixtures throughout the house are not just personal, but can also be very expensive to replace. To clean them completely, we remove them from walls and ceilings and use as mild a cleaning agent as possible to prevent staining any metal finishes or etching glass covers. 
 
Restoring a home means more than just cleaning the carpets and wiping smoke damage from the walls and ceilings. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin understands that our customers want to return to their home, and not just a house. 

Choose SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin and here’s 5 Top Reasons Why!

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

You may be wondering why you should choose SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin instead of one of the other dozens of restorations companies, let us tell you why:

1. 40+ Years Experience in the Industry.

2. Respond immediately when you need us most.

• Home emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

3. Qualified Technicians and Team Members

• Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following: IICRC training, Employee Certification training, E-Learning programs, and Continuing Education Classes.

4. We are ready and equip to handle any loss whether it be small or large

• SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is ready to handle your loss whether it is a water loss caused from a leaky dishwasher in your home, or water loss in your commercial business caused by fire sprinklers throughout the entire structure.

5. We understand the stress of a loss in your home

• We at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin understands the stress a hardship in your home can cause and our staff is there to make it as easy as possible. Our technicians know it is your house but treat it with respect like their own.  Our hope is to take that stress from you and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Give SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin (916)632-2250 a call today.

Don't Turn Off the Drying Equipment

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

When you call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin to help restore your property after suffering a water damage, our professional technicians will place the appropriate equipment to dry out the area as quickly as possible. It is important to always following our instructions and keep the equipment running at all times. We realize that the equipment is noisy and can become bothersome if you remain in your home during the restoration process, however, turning off the air movers and/or dehumidifiers can delay the drying time and can cause further damage to your property such as microbial growth. It is also important to note that oftentimes your insurance coverage will only pay for the drying equipment for a specific length of time, depending on the category of damage. Your SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin project manager will monitor the moisture readings of the equipment daily to determine the appropriate time for removal. If you have any concerns or questions about the drying equipment, be sure to speak to any of our crew members.

Give SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin (916)632-2250 a call today!

Important things to know about Black Water

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

Immediately after experiencing life-altering flooding in Auburn/Rocklin, CA the first thing you probably want to do is start dealing with the water damage from the flood. Before diving in to the problem it is important to know about the associated dangers of black water. 

What is this water and why should it be avoided? 

Black water is liquid presumed to house multiple contaminants. It could contain: 

• Fecal matter 
• Urine 
• Used toilet paper 

Sewage systems frequently become compromised and leak after water damage, they can pose health threats to those who encounter the dirty liquid. 

It’s also important to be aware of gray water. That type often comes from washing machines, dishwashers, sinks and showers and is not immediately as dangerous as the black variety, but can become more hazardous after 48 hours of contact with building surfaces. 

How can you stay safe from contaminated water? 

The best way to limit your exposure to hazardous water from flooding is to limit your exposure to it. Instead of trying to handle the cleanup process yourself depend on our SERVPRO team to assess the damage and tackle the steps necessary for a thorough restoration of your home. 

Black water is a likely contaminant after a flood, and it’s a primary reason why you should not deal with the water damage on your own. Contacting a professional team to assist with damage from flooding gives you greater protection from possible risks and increases the likelihood of positive outcomes.

Call us at (916) 632-2250 for more information on mitigating storm damage and how you can be prepared.

Fire Hazards

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Home and commercial fires can happen quickly and always expectantly.  Here are some common causes of home fires and ways to reduce the risk:

• Electrical Equipment - Faulty or frayed cords can be the culprit to an electrical fire. Even seemingly harmless appliances like a toaster oven or blender can be dangerous if the cord is damaged.  Make sure all cords plugged in are in good condition.
• Candles - Approximately 37 percent of fires caused from candles start in a bedroom, because it is easy to forget about a candle or fall asleep with one lit. Make sure to blow out a candle when leaving the room and be sure to keep tissue boxes, books, and curtains away. 
• Heating Mechanisms - winter months can sometimes require extra heating devices. Portable heaters are useful but are dangerous.  Furniture, clothes, curtains, and other flammable objects can all catch fire if near a portable heater.  Be sure to keep those items away from the device and monitor regularly. 

There is always a risk of fire hazards so it’s important to know the potential sources and take precautions. If you suffer from fire damage, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin so we can get you bank in your home. (916) 632-2250

How Pack-Outs are a Part of Water Damage Restoration

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

Reduce the chaos of commercial water damage mitigation in Fayetteville by considering a pack-out of furnishings, electronics and other equipment, and documents. Choosing to clear the flooded areas of your commercial property makes planning for and implementation of water extraction strategies more efficient. The contents removed also receives the treatments needed to return to function and appearance. 

Heavy spring rains and overflow from higher elevations contribute to the need for professional water removal in your packing up and moving out contents is often a smart initial step. When commercial spaces are free of inventory, stored items, and other portable items the removal of excess water becomes more straightforward. Without the added humidity-load of saturated contents, it is easier and quicker to accomplish structural drying. 

SERVPRO uses a structured Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) protocol to ensure the items we pack out are inventoried thoroughly and tracked throughout the process. Lists of packed contents for each space, digital photographs of articles removed, and the option of barcoding for speed and accuracy provide safeguards for commercial clients. 

Insurance claims for water damage need documentation for certain payment. The SERVPRO CCIS establishes the condition of each item packed out, the planned cleaning and drying strategies we believe appropriate, and the results of the treatments completed at our climate-controlled production facility. If an article is not restorable, the need for a replacement is proven.

SERVPRO production facility technicians have innovative equipment and specialized training to bring even extensively damaged items back to preloss condition. The resources available to our employees include vacuum freeze-drying systems for documents, books, and photographs. Thermal chambers for electronics and small, easy to control drying spaces for furnishings pull moisture out of dozens of essential artifacts critical to the operation of your business. Industrial washers and dryers and access to dry cleaning services or specialized equipment that cleans and dries soft items set our company apart from traditional cleaning businesses. 

At your commercial building, our technicians use the freedom granted by cleared spaces to pump out and extract standing water fast. SERVPRO crews then use structural drying techniques taught at IICRC training to make it “Like it never even happened.” at your business property before welcoming back the restored packed out items.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, call for a quick evaluation at (916)632-2250

Protecting Your Property from Storm Water

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

Storm water runoff is rain that has not been soaked into the ground, so it flows over the ground until it finds somewhere to go. Ideally, the water would find a stream or river to flow into, but this is not always the case. Sometimes the water will flow straight into your house. Water damage is never fun, and trying to get rid of water as well as clean up the rest of the mess a storm has left behind can be a real hassle. The best way to handle storm water runoff is to make sure it doesn’t happen to begin with. If you are up for a bit of landscaping, you can optimize your yard to keep storm water away from your building.

• Swales: Simply put, a swale is just a type of trench meant to carry water and redirect it away from something important. If you decide to install swales in your yard, make sure they are redirecting somewhere that the water will not cause damage such as a stream or pond.

• Rain Gardens: These gardens are designed with plants that are able to take up excess water to keep it from flowing freely. They also help filter the water so that the water that does reach ponds and rivers tends to be cleaner than water that has just flowed over driveways and roads.

• Draining Driveways: Driveways are one of the largest contributors to storm water runoff. Installing drainage areas on the sides of the pavement or using gravel can help minimize the amount of water that becomes runoff.

Sometimes there is so much runoff that no matter what you do, your house may suffer from some water damage. If that is the case, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at (916)632-2250.

SERVPRO Storm Response

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Storm Response

The team here at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is ready for whatever happens, no matter the time, night or day. When it comes to fire & water damage, our professionals work endlessly to make sure our customers are happy and that we walk them through each step of the cleaning process.

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

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

We're Quick to Any Size Disaster

When a storm hits your home or business, you need help immediately. Our quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs.

We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters

We can access the resources and personnel of 1,700 Franchises to handle major storms and disasters. We also have access to special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to catastrophic storms and events.

Locally Owned and Operated

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a storm event or flooding emergency, we are in the area and ready to help.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?

Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today (916)632-2250

How Our Team of Experts and the Steps They Take to Restore Your Water Damaged Home

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

When your home experiences a water loss, it is tempting to treat the cleanup as a simple matter. Mopping up the water or opening some windows while getting the fans going is a natural impulse and is recommended on some online sites. Homeowners who chose one tactic or the other might feel that their efforts take care of the problem. Water damage mitigation is more complicated than a few minutes of squeegeeing or airing out wet spaces. We can help.

Water cleanup becomes necessary because of a variety of ordinary reasons. The intensity of the problem also varies and can change if not resolved completely. For example, a leaky pipe under your sink can seep for an extended period without notice but eventually breaks, sending water spreading throughout your kitchen. The wisest response is to contact our team rather than manage it yourself.

SERVPRO’s experienced crew of water mitigation technicians deals with the kitchen flooding and then finds the damage under the cabinets from the original leaking as they move through all the steps to clean up the water. Removing the kickboard at the base of the cabinet reveals a hidden pool of water that collected underneath. The structure of the cabinet is deeply saturated and might be showing signs of warping or deterioration.

This kind of issue is more frequent than you think and is why is it essential to spend time exploring the dimensions of the water damage, including using moisture meters or infrared scanners to “see” beyond the obvious puddle on the kitchen floor. Once SERVPRO removes all the water, visible and hidden, we then plan for structural drying. Extractors and pumps switch to air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels to normal readings.

One unfortunate side effect of unresolved water damage can be mold. If we discern microbial growth during a job, our technicians are trained to adapt the plan to include remediation efforts. SERVPRO is a full-service restoration company, permitting us to react professionally and appropriately to any unforeseen issues during a project.

Reach out to SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin and call us at (916)632-2250

Water Damage Can Potentially Leave Noticeable Odors

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

Do you know when to be worried about a funny smell? Most new homeowners are not water damage specialists, but the human nose is an excellent tool for sniffing out trouble. Your nose is not the only way to spot water damage in your new home. SERVPRO technicians are IICRC certified and can help handle any moisture problems you may discover after moving in.

The sooner you notice a problem, the sooner you can call us to help mitigate ongoing damages. With spring coming in, some water damage will be easier to spot. When you notice a problem, a highly trained SERVPRO professional can assess the extent of your damages. We can use our specialized equipment to remedy the issue fast.

What should you keep an eye out for when you do your spring cleaning? Start at the top. When looking for roof damages, obvious water stains aren't the only problem. Swollen insulation is usually an indication of water retention. Check your flashing (where the roof meets the walls) for cracks and look for missing shingles as well as more obvious signs like holes. Look at door frames and molding. Unusual stains or dark spots on the walls can mean trouble.

Inside, make sure you check your appliances after you move in to be certain they are not leaking where you cannot see easily behind them. Cracked hoses and loose connections can be tricky. Ripples, buckling, and changes in texture can tell you the flooring has a water problem. Remember to trust your nose. If it smells wrong, it probably is.

Outside water damages and mold are often caused by improper drainage. Check your spouts to see that they are clear and make sure you do not have water pooling around the foundation of your new home. At the first sign of damage, you can call SERVPRO.

Reach out to SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin and give us a call (916)632-2250

The Hidden Home Wrecker: Water Supply Lines

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

Most people see that SERVPRO is a flood cleanup and disaster mitigation company think “That’ll never happen to me in sunny California.”

What most people don't realize is that most of the water damage caused by flooding calls we receive come from broken or leaking water supply lines. Supply lines are those thin hoses that run to appliances like refrigerators, dish washers, toilets, water heaters, clothes washers, etc. The quality and price of these hoses vary drastically. Most people opt for the least expensive option without knowing that cheap hoses need to be checked and replaced often. Sudden bursts and slow drips both can cause a substantial amount of damage which require flood mitigation and sometimes mold remediation. If you haven't checked you supply lines in a while, or ever, now would be a good time to do so.

When your home has water damage from flooding or leaks, we have the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property. Our experience and scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup enable us to properly dry and restore your property.

If you have water or flood damage, make sure you call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at (916)-632-2250

SERVPRO Assessing Damage After a Rainstorm

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

Heavy rainstorms around the winter in Auburn/Rocklin greater area have caused damage to homes, which can transport dangerous microorganisms into your residence. Unlike damage from a broken pipe or leaky appliance, floodwaters pick up bacteria and germs from outdoors and deposit them inside. Long after a storm has passed, leftover water and humidity lingers behind in absorbent and porous materials. Determining the source of water in your home is an important step in the restoration process.

Understanding the Three Categories of Water Damage

Each water category requires a different cleaning and restoration procedure. The most important thing to determine is whether the water originated from inside or outside the residence. All damage caused by flooding from rainstorms is considered category 3.

• Category 1 and 2: Water from a source inside the home, such as a leaky pipe or appliance. 

• Category 3: Water from an outside source that is brought into a residence and causes flood damage. This category can introduce a variety of contaminants into a home. Floodwaters have oftentimes been in contact with harmful elements, such as sewage, that may harbor dangerous microorganisms.

Starting the Cleaning and Restoration Process

After determining the category, the next step is contacting a qualified professional service that has the proper equipment and skills to handle water damage. 

• Cleaning Category 1 or 2: Using extractors, experts should remove any water from saturated areas. Affected walls and baseboards would be removed and vent holes drilled to allow airflow. Fans and dehumidifiers should be strategically placed throughout the area to decrease humidity. Any category 2 damage would also include carpet disinfection.

• Cleaning Category 3: Contaminated areas should be isolated, and all remaining water removed. Nonabsorbent materials should be disinfected. After the decontamination, the rest of the procedure follows the same steps as a category 1 or 2 cleaning.

With the help of qualified professionals of SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin (916)632-2250, your home can be decontaminated and restored safely, quickly and correctly.

Severe Rainstorms in the Winter and Spring

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

Here are some tips and advice of what to do before a severe storm. This is very helpful for the family to be prepared. I know outside it does not seem like much of a winter for our part of the country but we have had instances where we do need the info.

• Make a Family Communications Plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency.
• Make an emergency kit for at least three days of self-sufficiency.
• Keep space heater safety in mind: Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches and non-glowing elements. Remember to keep all heat sources at least three feet away from furniture and drapes.
• Prepare your home:
• Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and window sills to keep the warm air inside.
• Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector.
• Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.
• Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).
• Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
• Hire a contractor to check the structural ability of the roof to sustain unusually heavy weight from the accumulation of water, if drains on flat roofs do not work.
• If you have a wood burning fireplace, consider storing wood to keep you warm if winter weather knocks out your heat. Also, make sure you have your chimney cleaned and inspected every year.
• Have at least one of the following heat sources in case the power goes out:
• Extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm winter coats
• Prepare your vehicle:
• Keep an extra emergency kit specifically created for your car. In addition to the basic essentials, consider adding a portable cell phone charger, extra blanket, and jumper cables.
• Make sure you have a cell phone with an emergency charging option (car, solar, hand crank, etc.) in case of a power failure.
• People who depend on electricity to operate medical equipment should have alternate arrangements in place in case power is out for an extended period of time.
• Plan to check on elderly/disabled relatives and neighbors.
• Plan to bring pets inside.
• Know where the manual release lever of your electric garage door opener is located and how to operate it in case you lose power.
• Fill a gallon container with water and place them in the freezer to help keep food cold.

Call SERVPRO Auburn/Rocklin today at (916)632-2250

Commercial Water Damage Mitigation Procedures

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

If you have a water emergency at your Auburn, business such as a pipe burst cleanup or other flooding scenario, you'll need to call on the services of a professional water cleanup company to ensure that the job is done right. A restoration company will take the following steps to deal with the damage:

1. Inspect and Diagnose

Once you make the call, the water mitigation company will come to the scene to make an inspection and test the water in order to determine which specialized equipment and methods are best suited to fixing the damage. 


2. Haul Out Contents
As soon as the situation is assessed, any items in the affected area, such as office equipment, electronics, furniture and documents, will be removed to a safe, dry area. Items will be sorted to determine what can and cannot be saved. Whatever can be salvaged will be cleaned, dried, deodorized and sanitized using specialized equipment and cleaning agents.

3. Extract the Water
Once everything has been taken out of the area, the water removal can begin. Depending on the cause of the water damage, whether it's a pipe burst cleanup, a supply line cleanup or removal of sewer water, different high-efficiency equipment will be used to remove the mess. Specialized sump pumps and trash pumps, in addition to truck-mounted water extractors, will be used to suck out as much moisture as possible. Any contaminated surfaces will be thoroughly sanitized.

4. Dry and Dehumidify
After the bulk of the water is extracted, steps will be taken to remove excess humidity from the air and moisture from hard-to-reach places. Heavy-duty air movers and dehumidifiers will be brought in to make sure everything is completely dry.

5. Restore
When everything has been completely dried and disinfected, structural restoration can begin. This might entail only minor repairs and painting or require the complete rebuilding of entire rooms, depending on the severity of the damage. 

Whether you need a pipe burst cleanup or a building overhaul due to a major flood, a professional water mitigation company will be able to quickly take care of the problem and get your business back on track.

Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today (916)632-2250

Looking for Signs of Water Damage in Your Commercial Building

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

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

1. Bulging, spalling, and cracking

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

2. Rust staining

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

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

3. Mold and musty odors

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

4. Interior damage

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

Keep water from damaging your building

At SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin (916)632-2250, we help restore and rehabilitate the exterior of commercial buildings so you don’t have to worry about what happens when water leaks into your building. We can help you prevent it from happening and even if water damage does happen we can always make it "Like it never even happened."

Cleaning up Flood Damage

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

Restoring your home or business after a flood is a difficult job. Depending on the severity of the flood, you may have to deal with structural damage, electrical damage, and potential health hazards. Before you begin dealing with flood cleanup, ask yourself these questions:

Do you have the time?

Time is crucial factor in a flood damage restoration project. The longer your belongings stay in water, the worse the damage will be. Any area that is not dried thoroughly within 24 hours may have long-term mold problems. Can you afford to take several days or weeks off work to clean contaminated water and mud out your home? Once the water is removed, your belongings must be dried and restored. If you hire a professional flood restoration company, you can focus on getting your personal life back to normal faster as the flood damage in your home will be taken care of.

Do you have the expertise?

Flood damage cleanup is a multi-stage process. First, the floodwater must be pumped out and the area thoroughly dried. During this process, you will need to mitigate safety concerns due to the weakened structure of your home. There will also be health hazards as you will have to deal with bacteria and mold. You will have to decide which of your possessions can be saved and what must be thrown away. Only then can you begin the actual flood repair work to make your home livable again.

Do you want to do the work?

Flood damage cleanup is dirty, often hazardous work. After the flood incident is over, do you want to face the job of cleaning contaminated water and mud out of your home, then sort through your possessions to see what can be saved? The emotional impact of flood cleanup can be significant, and can interfere with other aspects of your life. Hiring a professional to do flood damage restoration is an investment in your mental and emotional health

Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today! (916)632-2250

Why SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin?

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a franchise system with 45 years of leadership in cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon.

We are quietly taking to the streets, every hour of every day, proving that whenever there is a house full of water or an office full of smoke, there is also a van full of clean and workers that are going to make it look like it never even happened.

So what services does SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin offer? We offer the following;

Restoration:

• Fire, Smoke and Soot
• Water removal and Dehumidification
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation
• Move Outs and Contents Restoration
• Contents Claim Inventory Service

Cleaning:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard, Crime Scene and Vandalism
• Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls and Hard Floors
• Deodorization

We also offer Reconstruction services. Give us a call today at (916) 632-2250 to get an estimate or learn more about what we do!

Why Does My Carpet Smell?

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Moisture or dampness

Sometimes, moisture can get underneath the carpet and carpet pad, leading to musty odors.

This moisture can come from humidity, spills or potted plants that drip onto the carpeting.

A flood can also cause carpet odor, such as when a finished basement floods during a rainstorm.

If not addressed properly, continued moisture exposure can cause mold and mildew to grow under the carpet padding. Not only will it increase the smell, it also creates a health risk.

Pet odor

When pets use the carpet as a bathroom, the smell can really linger.

Even after a carpet cleaning, the smell of pet urine may return. This is due to the gases released by the bacteria that are digesting the urine. If any of the urine remains in the rug fibers, it will continue to smell.

The same is true for vomit, another common problem associated with pets and carpeting.

These bacteria are activated by water, which is why the smell may intensify after a thorough cleaning.

Dry carpet cleaning treatments or treatments that use enzymatic odor removal products are the best solution for eliminating pet smells. Enzymes are particularly effective because they attack the bacteria, thus eliminating the source of the smell.

Cigarette smoke

If a smoker lives in the home, the carpet can collect the cigarette smoke odor.

While the homeowners may not notice the stench because they live with it, visitors or someone who purchases the home will definitely notice the smoke smell.

A professional carpet cleaner may be able to remove the smell, but if the smoking was excessive, a carpet deodorizer may not be enough, and the carpeting may need to be replaced.

Old age

Carpeting is made from fibers. Over time, those fibers break down. When the carpet begins to smell old, there is little that can be done.

Carpet cleaning cannot take the old, musty smell from carpet. This is when it simply needs to be replaced.

In addition to the smell, old carpet starts to release dust, which can contribute to indoor allergies.

Food and drink spills

Food and drinks that spill onto carpet can lead to odors.

Like pet smells, these organic products attract bacteria. As the bacteria break down, they release smelly gasses. Again, professional carpet cleaning is the best solution to remove the smell.

Once you find the source of your carpet odor, you can decide on the best treatment. For organic smells like pet odors or food spills, consider two professional cleanings to thoroughly remove the bacteria.

For other problems, like old age or mold, you may need to replace the carpet. Knowing where the odor is coming from will help you make the right decision for treatment.

Let us be the solution to Your Water Damage!

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

A pipe bursts. A water heater leaks. A bathtub overflows. Rain waters rush in. A sprinkler system malfunctions. Water damage can happen in any number of ways. But, if your business or home is under a few inches of water, everything else takes a backseat. Only one thing matters when your business can’t operate, and there is just one thing on the mind of the water-logged resident: A solution.

Your local SERVPRO Professionals are that solution. Equipped with the knowledge, the experience, and the training to help make your water damage “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO Professionals will start helping the moment you call. Backed by more than 40 years of experience, your SERVPRO Professionals will help put your worries at ease, because they understand the sciences of drying.

When water damage strikes, give SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin a call; they will help to make things right, make things dry, and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin (916)632-2250

Our Step by Step Process to Fire Damage Restoration by SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin

4/14/2019 (Permalink)

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action. 

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. 

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today – 916-632-2250

Additional Fire Services We Provide

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Board-ups 

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin provides board-up services. In some cases it may be important to secure openings to your home or structure using sturdy, durable materials designed to protect it from both weather intrusion and intrusion by outsiders. 

Inventory

Utilizing Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) technology, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can generate comprehensive room-by-room inventories. Contents are categorized as salvageable, non-salvageable and questionable - allowing for easier contents settlement.

Move-Outs

If prolonged exposure to the loss event could cause additional damage to your contents, your contractor requests relocation of the contents, or the safety of your contents is a concern, a move-out may be recommended. In these situations, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is trained to properly inventory, move out and control the contents from the structure during the cleaning, restoration and deodorization process.

Electronics Cleaning 

Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces when moisture is also present. If the residues are not removed, corrosion can eat away at the metal casing and can ultimately cause electronic failure in the device. We can clean the outside casing correctly, as well as refer your equipment to a qualified electronics vendor.

Artwork

Artwork ranges from inexpensive framed pictures to extremely valuable fine art. Restoration of valuable art requires the use of a trained art restorer (known as a conservator), while less expensive art may not warrant these costly specialized services. We will usually subcontract fine art restoration to a conservator. If desired, the we may attempt to remove smoke residues and odors, after qualifying with the customer that such cleaning procedures may affect the visible appearance of the item.

Commercial carpet and upholstery cleaning

3/17/2019 (Permalink)

Even the highest-quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling over time. Protect your investment by calling us to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin offers a number of cleaning options to match any type of upholstery or carpet.

Need Carpet or Upholstery Cleaning?
Call Today – 916-632-2250!

We also offer a range of specialized cleaning methods:

• Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short piled carpets.
• Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore deeply soiled areas.
• Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry.
• Dry Cleaning: When color-fastness is an issue.

Preventative Maintenance

Carpets act as a filter, trapping dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils. All carpet manufacturers agree on actions you can take between carpet cleanings to increase the life span of your carpet.

IICRC states that 79% of soil in carpet is dry soil. Vacuuming is a key component to proper care and maintenance of carpet.

Preventative maintenance actions include: 

• Regular vacuuming
• Spot removal
• Pilating the carpet to prevent matting
• Moving furniture to change traffic patterns
• Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet

Professional Cleaning

Our professional cleaning can address moderate and heavy soil conditions in your carpets. How often you’ll need professional cleaning depends on soil build-up, traffic, type and color of carpeting. A good rule of thumb would be to professionally clean your carpet every 12 months. The best advice is to clean carpets before they become totally saturated with soil. If you wait until carpets look really dirty, the carpets may never be restored to their former appearance. Dirt builds up in layers, and when a carpet looks dirty you are only seeing the dirt at the tips of the fibers. More dirt is hiding below the surface down near the base of the pile, causing damage to the carpet. When a carpet is saturated with dirt, the soil has penetrated crevices and has become firmly lodged.

We will get the job done right. For a cleaning backed by state-of-the-art equipment, over 40 years of experience and Professionals trained to the highest standards, call us today

When Storms or Floods Hit, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is Ready!

3/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin 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 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 916-632-2250

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays

Our Fire, Smoke and Soot Restoration Services

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

Structural Cleaning

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin will pretest to determine the extent of damage, and then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your structure. Depending on the amount of soot, we may even be able to reduce the cost of recovery by cleaning lighter soot deposits found on some surfaces, eliminating the expense incurred with repainting or refinishing. In other cases, we will clean to “prepare for painting”. This process deodorizes and ensures the new paint will adhere properly to the surface.

Contents Cleaning

All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. We can provide wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to pre loss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac and much more. Finally, we can provide an inventory list of all “to be claimed” items if requested.

Deodorization

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin provides specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. We do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out the sources of the odor and remove them. Ask us to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin Water Detection Equipment

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Detection Equipment

Scoping involves locating the areas of the structure affected by water and defining the extent to which the structure and contents have absorbed moisture. Moisture detection devices are also used to verify that an environment has been dried thoroughly.

Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls.

Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate moisture readings that enable the us to monitor the drying process.

Thermohygrometers measure both temperature and relative humidity. Capturing these two readings, a SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin professional using a psychrometric chart can calculate specific humidity, dew point and vapor pressure.

If you find your property experiencing water damage, make sure you call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916-632-2250!

What TO do and what NOT to do after a fire

2/27/2019 (Permalink)

What to do after A Fire

• 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.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

How SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin protects your contents after a water loss

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin specializes in restoring contents damaged by storms and other water damage events. Our expertise and our “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your contents to determine what items can be restored back to their condition before the water damage. We utilize several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned. 
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. A move-out will provide several benefits, including:

•  A quicker remodeling process
•  Protecting items from potential damage
•  Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

Electronic Cleanup

Water-damaged electronics can present a serious hazard. Do not attempt to turn on or operate any electrical device that you suspect has been damaged by water. We will coordinate the restoration of your electronics, including:

•  Television sets
•  DVD players
•  Computers
•  And more

The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. We start by cleaning the exterior of electronic devices to help stop further corrosion and damage. Electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician.

Document / Photograph Drying

When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the water damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-water damage condition, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. 

Depending on the type of documents and the level of water damage, we have five options for the restoration of documents:

• Air Drying
• Dehumidification
• Freezer Drying
• Vacuum Freeze Drying
• Vacuum Thermal Drying

Contents Claim Inventory Service

When a storm event happens, the damage can often feel overwhelming. We can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings. We take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding.

Our Contents Claim Inventory Service:

•  Preloss list and value of contents
•  Detailed and accurate report
•  Better information to settle claims quicker
•  Assistance with burden of proof for claims
•  Peace of mind when you need it most  

What to expect from SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin when you have a commercial water loss.

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

The pipe burst under the sink in the bathroom of your office building left a mess. The floors and walls are wet, and it appears that you may have to disrupt daily operations for awhile so that professionals can restore the office. It is wise to call us right away because excess water can cause damages to the structure of the building as well as to floor tiles and walls. Plus, if you allow water to stand inside the building for more than 48 hours, mold may start to grow, which can cause health effects.

Our commercial water damage SERVPRO technicians of Auburn/Rocklin are highly trained and understand the importance of mitigating moisture quickly. The team can use extractors, vacuums or pumps to remove water from the structure. After the migration phase, the team dries the area. Our crew may employ air movers or axial fans to dry the office. The team may also utilize dehumidifiers to reduce humidity and increase evaporation. We also may use dehumidifiers to pull in moisture and return dry, warm air inside the office environment. This step helps increase the drying phase.

We work fast to dry the area to prevent microbial growth and to reduce the chances of other secondary issues such as wood rot from occurring. The crew can also pack out materials and contents inside the office. We itemize, categorize and store each item in a dry and safe area on or off-site until the restoration process is complete. We know that it is essential to keep your office functioning on a daily basis, which is why you can expect our techs to work quickly and to strive to get the job done right.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin provides commercial water damage restoration services that can restore your office when possible. Call us at (916) 632-2250 any time of the day or night to schedule an appointment. We are here to help and can return your office to its preloss condition.

What to expect from SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin when you have a water loss.

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

When problems with plumbing cause excessive pooling it requires removal equipment that most homeowners just do not own. Whether it's a slow leak or a full-scale burst pipe, the after-effects of crawlspaces, sub floors and carpet pads that become saturated by water can cause lasting harm to a property's structure.

When it comes to removing water, we use pumps at first, before moving in with more precise wet/dry vacuums and extraction wands. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin technicians must pass a stringent training program before working in our franchises. Their training allows them to use advanced techniques to make sure moisture can be removed from even difficult to reach areas.

Floorboards can be notoriously difficult to dry, which is why we use flat lay drying techniques. A process by which a sheet is laid on the affected surface and air-circulation is applied. As the sheet inflates, water is drawn out and into the air. We have found this technique to be extremely useful in the removal of moisture from in between floorboards or gaps in your property's structure.

Carpets may be pulled up, pads replaced, and sub floors inspected to ensure every ounce of moisture has been removed. Once satisfied, we can place rapid air-movers into the affected area. These circulate hot air, evaporating moisture. It is part of a two-step process that guards against the risk of mold or mildew buildup after a leak. The second step is to place humidifiers into the affected area and remove the evaporated moisture from the air.

At the conclusion of service, our technician can remove all equipment as well as any materials that need discarding. We can then walk you through the affected area to show you where work has been carried out, where items have been restored and which need replacing. At SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin we know replacing items can get expensive, so we work toward restoration rather than a replacement to keep costs as low as possible for our customers.

If you need urgent water removal, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today! (916) 632-2250

Commercial Duct Cleaning

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin offers commercial duct cleaning and dryer vent cleaning.

We at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin have built a team of qualified individuals that focus on quality and customer relationships. We pride ourselves in our ever growing team and the community we are building here.  

Like a residential home, routine maintenance cleaning of your duct system and dryer vents will improve the air quality and will lower the risk of fire caused by lint build up. Duct cleaning will also assist in the efficiency of your system and potentially prolong the life of the system itself. 

If you're in need of duct cleaning for your commercial business, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today to schedule your commercial duct or dryer vent cleaning. 

Every Home Should Have an Air Purifier

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, we care about our communities health and safety. Are you one of the millions who suffer from asthma or allergies everyday? Do you own an air purifier? Do you think about the air quality of your home?

Maybe its time to invest in a air purifier for yourself. You can buy one these days under $80, the cost of a monthly cell phone service bill, to keep forever...

Most people who buy air purifiers do so in hopes of easing asthma, allergies or even dust in there homes... The very best portable air purifiers are very effective at cleaning the air, mold spores, smoke,dust, and pollen at their highest and lowest speed.

Mold spores range from 1-30 microns, and air purifiers remove mold as small as .003 microns. UV light is helpful but is not required for removing spores... Mold spores die inside the HEPA filter due to the fact that it's a dry sterile environment. A quality HEPA air purifier remove's airborne mold spores and keeps the air quality of your home at par.

If your kids or loved one's constantly suffers from asthma and allergies, try and test out a good quality air purifier to see if you notice a difference prior to buying one.

Kitchen Fire

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

Don't let this picture be your kitchen! Please always take care of any food left in the oven or on the stove top. Never stay too far from your work area and take care in preventing flammable objects from being near the hot surfaces. Remember not to place trivets or candles on top of a hot stove. This can be cause of a fire loss.  Teach your children how to be around appliances especially ones that can potentially cause fires. Have a preparedness plan for if they walk into a protein fire in the kitchen. Water is not the key in these situations! Make sure you have an up to date kitchen fire extinguisher and that everyone in your house knows how to you it. In any case, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin to help clean up the smoke damage and odors if your home does suffer from any size fire loss.

Water Damage Prevention

12/2/2018 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin we are Water Damage specialists, and we compiled a small list on how to prevent water damage from happening often in your home: 

1. Clean Gutters and Downspouts - Clean your gutters at least twice a year to avoid blockage. Standing water can cause damage to your gutters and roof. Don’t forget to clean downspouts to ensure water can flow through, and secure downspouts so that they point away from the home.
2. Know your Water Main - Know the location of your water main and shut it off if you leave for an extended amount of time.
3. Check Appliances Regularly - Check and maintain your appliances regularly for leaks according to manufacturer’s directions.
4. Investigate Leaks Right Away and Fix Promptly - If you choose to ignore any water damage, or postpone making the necessary repairs, be prepared to experience mold, mildew, dry rot, or even structural damage to your home.
5. Upgrade Washing Machine Hoses - Old, brittle or leaky washing machine hoses are among the most frequent causes of water loss for homeowners. Replace yours often throughout the year to avoid an expensive damage.
6. Check Your Water Pressure - If the water pressure to your home is too high, then your pipes and hoses may fail under the high pressure. Buy a water pressure gauge at a local hardware store, attach it to an outside faucet, and turn the faucet to full force. The gauge will give you a reading of the home’s water pressure. Typical homes water systems are designed for pressure of 40 – 70 psi. Anything above 70 psi will put your plumbing at risk.
7. Monitor Your Water Bill - Sometimes, the only way you know that water is leaking is taking a closer look at your water bill. If your usage jumps significantly from one month to the next, then there is probably a leak somewhere in the home.

Facts About Soot and Smoke - How SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can help

11/30/2018 (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 Auburn/Rocklin 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 SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today - (916) 632-2250 or (530) 885-2255

How can SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin help with Biohazard concerns?

11/25/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin does more than just fire and water restoration.  Our professionals can also help you with Biohazard, Vandalism and Crime Scene Cleanup.

Bloodborn pathogens can be scary.  Bodily fluids, tissues and other potentially risky substances can be removed and disposed of properly by our technicians who are trained in proper biohazard removal.

Crime scene residue can be overwhelming.  Once law enforcement is finished with the area, let our professional technicians come in and deal with the fingerprint powder, evidence-gathering chemicals and residues from tear gas or pepper spray.  

Arson and vandalism can leave a home or business owner feeling vulnerable, violated and unsafe.  Let SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin take care of the aftermath.  Our team can remove spray paint, clean up broken glass and clean up after a fire.

Sewage backups are the worst!  Black water carries with it a terrible odor as well as potentially harmful microorganisms into your home or business.  SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can remove the black water, contaminants and dry the area.  They will disinfect and clean the property and leave it "Like it never even happend." 

Fall Allergy Guide

11/18/2018 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, we are professionals when it comes to restoration and remediation. What we really care about is helping people. So, we have come up with a quick guide on how to get through this allergy season:

• Check the pollen count when you wake up.
• Try not to walk through leafs, they attract moisture that lets mold flourish.
• Make sure to drive to work with your windows up and the AC on.
• Wash your hands to clean out any remaining pollen from your hands.
• Keep your work station uncluttered and clean of any dust.
• Shower and change clothes as soon as you get home.
• Don't let the temperature get above 72 degrees overnight; mold grows in warmth.
• Wash your sheets to remove any lingering pollen.
• Keep your windows closed overnight.

Mold Remediation Specialists

11/13/2018 (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 Auburn/Rocklin 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 Auburn/Rocklin 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.

How to Stay Safe and Prepare Your Home for a Winter Storm

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is here for you if a winter storm causes any damage. Call today for a quote (916) 632-2250

Even though it just became officially Fall, we all know that winter will be here before we know it!  You can take preventative measures to help reduce damage if a severe storm hits. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for a storm and some things to keep in mind as the weather begins to get colder.

• Clear limbs and trim trees - during a storm, dead tree limbs can get loose and cause damage to a home’s exterior or break a window

• Secure fences - ensure that fences are properly secured to help prevent them from being lifted up and thrown against the house by heavy winds
• Secure furniture - heavy winds can cause items like patio furniture and large toys to damage the exterior of your home.  You should also move anything in your yard that can become flying debris inside your house or garage
• Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping
• Never use a generator, camp stove, or charcoal grill indoors as these can start fires, cause electric shock, and/or cause carbon monoxide poisoning
• Know your area's risk for winter storms
• Monitor local news and alerts for emergency information and instructions

Why to Board Up After a Fire

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

If your commercial property in Auburn, California, has experienced a fire, there are several reasons why you might want to board up structural damage or windows. In addition to keeping the external elements out of a building with fire damage, boarding up can also prevent additional losses due to looting and make the fire cleanup process easier. 

Most full-service restoration specialists offer boarding-up services. Here are four reasons to board-up after a fire.

1. There is still viable stock on the premises. If products that appear viable remain in the building, you should consider boarding up. These items may require assessment and cleaning and may not be fit for sale, but having them properly processed rather than stolen can be helpful for insurance purposes.

2. You want to protect electronics and other valuables. Depending on the extent of the fire damage, you may be able to restore some electronics or other valuable property to working condition. Loss can be far more expensive than restoration or covered replacement.

3. You need to keep out the elements. If the structure of your property has sustained extensive damage, you should try to keep the elements out. Exposure to additional water, wind, or sunlight can compound the damage caused by smoke residue and soot.

4. You want to limit soot damage. It is generally a good idea to reduce foot traffic on the scene of a recent fire. When soot gets embedded into carpeting or upholstery, it can be much more difficult to restore these materials to a pre-fire condition.

Talk to restoration experts at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, about whether boarding up is a good strategy for preventing loss and limiting damage after a fire. Your major concern is likely to be how to recover from fire damage as quickly and completely as possible. Preventing looting and exposure to the elements can make fire cleanup more successful. Don’t hesitate to call us (916) 632-2250.

Know the Facts about Business Fires

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, as many as one in four businesses that suffer some kind of major disaster do not reopen afterward. It’s true, overcoming a major loss is extremely difficult, but with the right restoration company and team on your side, working hand-in-hand with your insurance company, the chance of your Indianapolis-area company surviving is pretty high!

Depending on the size of the fire, and the amount of damage, some businesses that have come to SERVPRO for help have reopened just days after the fire happened. Thanks to innovations in smoke odor removal, fire damage restoration, and cleaning in general, it is possible for crews to start work nearly immediately after the fire department clears the scene, and have things back up and running in no time. Although, again, that all depends on the severity of the fire. But no matter the severity, recovery is possible!

According to the National Fire Prevention Association, U.S. fire departments responded to about 3,300 office property fires per year between 2007 and 2011. Those fires resulted in about $112 million in property damage each year, and most were in business offices – and happened during business hours. However, the good news is the number of business fires was down a whopping 71 percent from 1980 to 2011.

Different Causes of Commercial Water Damage

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

When business owners visualize water damage, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms. 
 
However, many entrepreneurs and business space renters forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings. 
 
1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems 
Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment 
This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency. 
 
3. Broken pipes and plumbing 
Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result. 
 
4. Backed up sewer lines 
This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings. 
 
If your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin will get you back up and running again.  Give us a call at (916) 632-2250.

Business Fire Facts

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

Time of Day

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

Cause of the Business Fires

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

Containment & Putting it Out

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

Industrial/Manufacturing Facility Fires

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

Planning for the Worst

As part of your emergency preparation plan, be sure to have a local, reputable restoration company – like SERVPRO– on speed dial. The sooner you get the professionals in cleaning up after the disaster, the sooner you can get back to business (916) 632-2250.

Staying Safe in the Summer

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

Each summer, families and friends across the country enjoy the summer months with barbecues, camping trips, or by cooling off in a pool or lake. In order to enjoy these occasions, it is important to keep safety top of mind to ensure you have fun in the sun.

According to the United States Fire administration, just under 8,600 Americans are injured by fireworks and almost 5,000 are injured by charcoal/wood burning and propane grill fires, annually. A barbecue grill should always be supervised when in use. Keep children and pets a safe distance from the grilling area to prevent accidental burns or tipping off the grill.

If you enjoy lounging by the pool or going for a boat ride to cool off from the summer sun, make sure you exercise caution, especially when children are present. Only swim in approved areas and supervise children at all times when near the water.

Summertime should be a time to make memories and enjoy the great outdoors. The following tips, provided by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), will help keep you safe all summer long.

• When using a charcoal grill, only use starter fluid designed for barbecue grills; do not add fluid after coals have been lit.
• When using a gas grill, ensure the hose connection is tight; check hoses for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks.
• Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD (personal floatation device) when boating, jet-skiing, tubing or water-skiing. Air-filled swimming aids, like water wings or inner tubes, are not substitutes for approved PFDs. An adult should always supervise children using these devices.
• Be sure to extinguish all smoking materials and shut down motors and heating devices before fueling a boat. In case of a spill, wipe up fuel and check for fuel leakage and odors.
• When camping, always use a flame retardant tent and setup camp far away from the campfire. Only use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns inside the tent, not liquid-filled heaters or lanterns.
• Always build a campfire down wind from the tent area. Clear vegetation and dig a pit before building your campfire. Always extinguish the fire before going to sleep or leaving the campsite. To extinguish, cover with dirt or pour water over the fire.
• Store liquid fire starter (not gasoline) away from your tent and campfire and only use dry kindling to freshen a campfire.
• Consider leaving firework use to trained professionals. Stay back at least 500 feet from professional fireworks displays.

Your local SERVPRO Franchise wishes you a safe and happy summer!

Steps to Take After a House Fire

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

A house fire is traumatic event that can certainly leave you with a mix of emotions. You’ll be nervous, worried, scared, upset, wondering what to do next, and just how to do it.  First things first…take a deep breath, try to relax, and know that everything will be more than fine. Ultimately you need to make sure that your family is safe and sound. Once you can confirm that, then you can tackle the recovery process of your home and belongings.

We’ve compiled a list of five things that you should do and be aware of after a fire.  This way, you can approach the rebuilding of your home in a cool, calm, and collected manner!

(1) Review with the authorities and the professionals as to when it is safe to enter the home after the fire.  The fire department will make sure that the fire is completely extinguished and then will go through their precautionary measures in order to deem the area ‘safe’.

(2) Know who to contact. First, contact any family members to let them know of the occurrence and the fact that you are safe. Review, and then contact your insurance company. A clean-up team, such as SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin should also be one of the first calls made.  We can efficiently and professionally get you back into your home – it will be as if nothing happened!

(3) Get the fire report. Typically coming to you from the fire department, this correspondence will review the facts of the fire – the home structure, the area of the fire, as well as the time and date. In some cities and towns, you may need to call the fire department directly in order to get a copy of this report.

(4) Make sure to secure your property.  If you are not securing the property, you could potentially be making a bad situation into a terrible one – your home could be robbed of its remaining property, or, in some cases, another individual could be injured on the property (becoming your responsibility). You can ask the authorities and emergency services on the best methods in securing what is yours.

(5) Begin the clean-up process. Interior and exterior clean-up will most certainly be required, and more often than not there is damage that you cannot locate with the naked eye.  That said, you should definitely hire a professional service like SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin to do a thorough cleaning of all areas and of all soot, smoke, and odor.

Call us (916) 632-2250.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

6/20/2018 (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 Auburn/Rocklin 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. Any questions or to schedule an inspection give SERVPRO Auburn/Rocklin a call (916) 632-2250.

Odors caused from Fire Damage

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

Odors from smoke and fire damage can be hard to remove.  At SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, we understand the process of contents restoration.  We take a restore vs. replace approach, saving our customers time and money.  Ozone is one method that we use to deodorize items after cleaning them.  When used properly, this is a very effective method.  Used improperly, it can be dangerous or ineffective.  Remember that who you choose to clean after a fire is one of the most important decisions you can make.

Preventing Bathroom Mold

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

What does mold need to grow?  In order for mold to grow, it needs oxygen, moisture, warmth and food.  The ideal spot for mold to grow would be a warm place (somewhere between 77 and 86 degrees), with a high amount of humidity or moisture, and organic matter, like cotton, paper or wood for the mold to feed upon.  This makes our bathrooms an ideal spot for mold growth.  Our bathrooms tend to be warm, they contain things like towels, toilet paper, and woodwork for the mold to feed upon, and they often have high levels of relative humidity from running water and steam from hot showers.  So what can you do to prevent mold from growing in your bathroom?  

First make sure that your bathroom is properly ventilated. Poor ventilation is one of the most common causes of bathroom mold.  Without proper ventilation, steam/moisture in the air from hot showers and running water, settles on bathroom surfaces and makes a perfect environment for mold growth.  Every bathroom should have a clean and properly functioning ventilation fan permanently mounted in the ceiling and it should be turned on every time someone showers.  They are inexpensive and can be purchased at most hardware and home improvement stores.  A properly installed and functioning, ventilation fan in your bathroom's ceiling will help move the air out of your bathroom and clear the humidity caused by hot showers and other running water.  It is important however to ensure that your ventilation fan has been properly installed and is venting the moist bathroom air outside of your home versus into your attic or some other room.  If it improperly vents into another area of your home, you are simply transferring your problem from one location to another. If your bathroom does not have a ventilation fan, instead of showering with the bathroom door closed, as most of us do, an alternative until a ventilation fan can be installed, would be to leave the bathroom door open while showering.  This will allow the steam/humidity to dissipate over a larger area reducing its impact.  Another alternative during warm weather months, or in warm climates, would be to open a bathroom window while showering or even putting a box fan in the window with the air blowing out of the bathroom versus in.  And of course, abstaining from very long, hot showers is always recommended when trying to prevent mold.   

Regularly cleaning your bathroom by wiping down all surfaces at least once a week will also help keep mold in check.  And when it comes to cleaning/preventing mold, wiping is always the best approach.  Molds are fungi that reproduce by releasing spores into the air.  Spraying bleach on mold may look like an easy fix.  When you spray bleach on mold it looks like it almost instantly disappears.  Unfortunately, when you spray bleach on mold, you are releasing the mold spores into the air.  Think of it like a mature dandelion that you have just gently blown upon and released the seeds floating into the air on their white dried flowers.  The mold spores that you have just released by spraying bleach upon them, float through the air and settle onto new surfaces, where they can begin to grow again if the conditions are right.  Wiping with soap and water, or another cleaner, and then throwing away any rags that may contain beginning mold spores is your best bet.

Also when it comes to mold in bathrooms, consider that caulk and grout are there to block or keep out water and moisture.  If you have missing or broken caulk or grout, water and moisture can get behind the tiles and mold can form behind the tiles where it's impossible for you to see or clean. It's important to regularly replace and/or maintain your bathroom caulk and grout.

Lastly, painting your bathroom with a mold resistant paint and/or primer will help you battle mold in your bathroom.  As indicated earlier, mold needs a food source of organic matter.  Drywall paper can be a source of food for mold.  Using a mold-resistant paint on bathroom walls can help stop mold before it starts by sealing off access to a food source.   

And as always, if you do develop a problem with mold, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is here to help. Call us at (916) 632-2250.

Preventing Attic Mold

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

Anywhere in your home with moist, warm air is an ideal environment for mold to grow.  For some of us, moist, warm air can be found in our attics.  And unfortunately, many of us rarely, if ever, go up in our attics, so any problems can go unchecked for long periods of time.  It’s important to check your attic periodically for common causes of attic mold.

Anything that introduces water or moisture to your attic can be a problem.  Things like:

1)       Leaking Roof - Sometimes a roof leak is bad enough that water leaks into the floors below and becomes immediately apparent.  However often the leak is small enough to cause attic mold, without being apparent in the living spaces of the home. 

2)      Dryer Vents, Plumbing Vents, and Kitchen or Bathroom Fans vented in to the attic -  This practice can pump warm, moist air into the attic where it can be trapped and begin the cycle of mold growth.  It is always best to vent these items outside of the home.

3)      Missing or Improperly Installed Insulation -   Missing or improper installation of the wrong kind of insulation can cause problems in multiple ways.  Moisture from the lower levels of the home can rise and get trapped in the attic.  Additionally, it can create moisture or condensation in your attic.  Think of your attic like a cold glass of ice water outside on a hot summer day.  The water is a much lower temperature than the air around it and condensation develops on the glass.  If there is missing or improperly installed insulation, this same principle can apply when your home is air conditioned to 70 degrees, but your attic temperature is 99 degrees.  Lastly, missing or improperly installed insulation can lead to number four……

4)      Ice Damming – An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow (water) from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into your home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation, and create a perfect environment for mold growth. It’s important before winter to clean your gutters so that winter’s melting snow and rain can properly drain off your roof.  Additionally, improper insulation can contribute to ice damming by allowing warm air from inside your home to escape into the attic.

5)      Inadequate Ventilation - It seems counter-intuitive, but the basic ventilation principal for your attic is to keep it as cool as possible during the cold season.  Pay attention to your roof after snow storms.  If you look at your roof several days after a snow and you see an even distribution covering your roof, that’s a good sign that your attic is properly ventilated.  If on the other hand, you see sections where snow has melted, that suggests an area in the attic where warm air has been trapped instead of being properly vented to the exterior.  Make sure your soffit vents are clear and free of things like debris, bird’s nests and insulation.

6)      Water Heaters or Furnaces installed in the attic -  While not a common practice in Wisconsin, sometimes homes without a basement will have water heaters or furnaces in the attic. You may also see this practice in larger homes with several heating and cooling zones, as well as spa style bathrooms with a huge soaking tub, where it is common practice to have designated systems to support these luxuries.  Unfortunately, this practice can contribute to adding moisture to your attic and contribute to mold growth if there are any leaks from these items.  

Where Does Mold Hide?

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

Think your home is pristine? There is no way mold can be infesting your sanctuary, right? You may need to reevaluate your thinking. Mold may be hiding within your residence. Mold problems can occur anywhere if conditions are ideal for growth, and some portions of your home may be home to mold, as well. You may try to maintain a clean environment, constantly dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, organizing, and doing a thorough cleaning of your property, but you may have missed a spot…or a few. There may be some parts of your home you do not consider, and you are not alone in making this mistake.

Kitchen

The kitchen is a location that may have moisture issues which can contribute to mold growth.

• Check under your sink. A small pipe leak may go unnoticed, letting the moisture and water damage sit untreated. Leaks combined with dark spaces are the perfect environment for mold.
• The sponge dish may have a mold problem. You use your sponge to wash dishes every day, but when you put it back in its dish, moisture may begin to collect and mold begin to form.
• Under your fridge isn’t safe either. Yes, even your refrigerator may have moisture issues. The refrigerator can leak without you knowing. There is a drip pan under your refrigerator that can collect excess water, but if left untreated, mold can form. 

Laundry

Your washing machine may be a hot spot for mold. Check the door of the washing machine, inside the gasket. Dark, warm, moist areas are ideal for mold growth. Make sure to wipe under the door gasket after each wash to prevent mold growth. Also leave the door open to air-out the washing machine.

Bathroom

Your shower or tub may be hiding mold without your knowledge.

• Check under lids and bottoms of shower products. You may forget to pick these products up and clean underneath. Moisture can become trapped under the lids or under the products and mold can form.
• Bath toys may be fun for kids, but they may also be housing mold. Water may get inside the toys and be unable to get out. This is a difficult location to discover mold. You may need to open up one of the toys to see if mold is growing inside, and if there is mold, replace all of the toys, as there most-likely will be mold within them as well.

Mold does not discriminate and may develop in any property as long as ideal conditions are met. Mold can cause health issues with excess exposure, so it is important to remove any mold you discover. If you suspect mold may be in your property, contact SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin (916) 632-2250. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

Understanding Mold

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

It only takes a small water leak, or even excess humidity, for mold to form in your Madison home or business. Then, mold can spread quickly through the property in as little as 48 hours. Mold can produce allergens and irritants, and it has the potential to cause other health effects. If your home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

Learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives by reviewing these mold damage tips.

If You See Signs of Mold, 
Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today - (916) 632-2250

Confusion and misunderstanding surround the topic of mold and mold remediation. Some restoration businesses even make claims to remove all mold from a building. This is a fallacy. Mold spores occur naturally almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. These microscopic spores float along in the air and can enter a home or business through windows and HVAC systems. Consider these 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.

Steps To Take After Suffering Storm Damage

6/20/2018 (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.

Take Safety Precautions

Heavy winds and rain can create physical hazards such as collapsed roofing materials, window damage, collapsed walls or standing water in the basement or home interior. In addition, moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials making the perfect environment for mold growth that can cause health issues. Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. Contact SERVPRO to help do basic tasks to secure your property and make it safe to use. If necessary, arrange for an alternative place for you and your family to live while your property is being restored to safe living condition.

Photograph the Damage

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.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. The company will send out an adjustor to determine the extent of the damage so that payment for repairs can be made. In the meantime, give us a call at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin (916) 632-2250.

Signs of Storm Damage

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

1. Roof: Look for shingles that have discoloration, tearing, or even holes in them. These can all be signs that your roof has been damaged. Another sign is if there are leaks in your roof or your ceiling.
2. Gutters: After a hail storm, looking for dents or dings can also give you a better picture of what the storm did to the rest of your home. Your gutters can also give you insight to whether you have roof damage. Check to see if there are granules from the asphalt shingles in your gutter.
3. Windows: Look at each of the windows at your homes and note any signs of shattered or broken windows and frame damage. This is especially important after a hail storm or a strong wind storm.
4. Exterior: Not only is it important to look at the siding of your home to check for damage, it is also important that you check any appliances. Inspect your AC/HCAC unit as well as items such as a barbeque grill.

After your inspection, if you notice any signs of storm damage follow up by checking the area for signs of mold, mildew, pests or other secondary damage. If damage has occurred have it repaired immediately. Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at (916) 632-2250 for any restoration needs you may have.

Storm & Wind Damage

6/20/2018 (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 a home.  Wind damage and water damage are the most common results of a heavy storm and it is important to contact SERVPRO as soon as the storm is over to help limit and repair the damage.  Wind damage can happen to your home directly from the strong wind or indirectly from the wind blowing debris into your house.  These wind damage facts will help you better understand the potential for wind damage and how to prevent it.

Storm Damaged Roof

Wind Type Varies by Storm and Causes Different Degrees of Wind Damage

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 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.  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.

Characteristics of the Wind Affect the Wind Damage

The wind has many characteristics that differ depending on the situation.  Some characteristics to take into account include speed, direction, and duration of the gusts and recognizing them can help you protect your home and property effectively from wind damage.  Recognizing the characteristics of the wind can also help you determine how much potential damage to expect.

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.

Wind and Storm Damage Repair Costs

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.  Billions of dollars are spent on wind damage repair and storm damage restoration each year and understanding the nature of wind damage can help you limit the amount of damage to your home and save on restoration and repair costs.  The cost of wind damage repair generally ranges from about $880 almost $11,000 with most homeowners spending on average between $4,600 and $7,000 for repairs.  Make sure to contact SERVPRO for an estimate on the wind damage repair for your home.

Wind damage from different types of storms is a major cause of destruction to homes and by understanding the characteristics of wind damage, you can help keep your home protected during a storm.  Different types of storms bring different types of winds and the storm damage caused by the wind can range from minor damage to more costly structural damage.  If your home sustains wind damage during a storm, make sure to call SERVPRO immediately.  These qualified technicians can provide effective wind damage and storm damage repair. 

Call us today: (916) 632-2250

Sump Pumps: How they Work & Why they're Important

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

In-order to understand how a sump pump works and why it’s important, it’s helpful to first understand the home building process.  After a hole is dug by an excavator for a basement, the next step is to put in foundation footings.  Foundation footings in Wisconsin are typically a poured cement slab, often reinforced with rebar.  The footings are poured into the excavated trench essentially in an outline of the foundation walls.  The footings provide a foundation upon which the cement bricks of the foundation will be laid, or upon which the cement walls of the foundation will be poured, depending on the type of basement wall construction used.  The soil upon which these footings are poured needs to stay at a consistent moisture level to prevent settlement, heave, or differential movement.  That’s where the sump pump and it’s supporting system comes into play.

A drain system is installed around the perimeter of the foundation/footings.  This drain system is essentially a system of pipes (surrounded by crushed stone) with holes in the top that collect water that is heading towards the foundation walls.  The water that is collected in these pipes is redirected into a sump crock in the basement, where a pump then pumps the water up and out of the basement.  Proper installation and maintenance of this entire system is essential to keeping a basement dry and stable. 

Sump Pump Failure & Homeowner's Insurance

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

We recently talked about sump pumps; how they work and why they’re important.  Now imagine the potential damage to your home should your sump pump stop working for any reason; whether it be due to a power failure during a spring storm, or the simple mechanical failure of the pump itself.  Without a functioning pump to pump the water out of your sump crock, and up out of your home, the crock will overflow into your basement, soaking your carpet and drywall if your basement is finished, and possibly destroying furniture, important documents and anything else you may have stored in your basement.  And depending upon things like the water table and soil conditions in your area, the elevation of your home, and the amount of time the pump is out of order, the amount of water can be significant, causing havoc even in an unfinished basement.        

Many people may assume that their homeowner’s insurance will cover this type of damage.  But did you know that in most cases, a standard homeowner’s insurance policy does not provide coverage for water damage caused by sump pump failure.  However, this type of coverage can be very affordable and can easily be added on to your standard homeowner’s policy in the form of what’s called an endorsement.  When this type of endorsement is active, it provides for coverage of property damage caused by water that has managed to back up and into your home from pipes, sewer systems, drains, sump pumps, water-service, or any additional system that transfers fluids to and from your home.  Now is a perfect time of the year to check with your insurance agent to see if you have this important coverage.

IT DOESN’T TAKE A LOT OF WATER TO CAUSE PROBLEMS!

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

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, damage building components.

Water damage can be caused by many things:

• Sump pumps
• Water heater failures
• Broken pipes
• Washing machine
• Dishwasher leaks
• Ice maker problems
• Flooding due to heavy rain
• Ground water seeping into the basement
• Natural disasters

Even after the water seems to disappear, excess moisture can hide in your floor coverings, foundation, wood structures and walls—causing major damage to your property and creating the perfect environment for mold and other fungi growth.

That's Where the SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin comes in. If you catch it in time, you can ward off a lot of the damage and save money and headaches down the road. It’s important that water is quickly removed and the property dried, ventilated and disinfected to inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew and other microorganisms that are harmful. If you need us, we will be there. (916) 632-2250

Weather Alert and Safety

5/15/2018 (Permalink)

Weather can change dramatically and often quite suddenly, causing severe destruction, injuries, and even fatalities. In the last few years especially, we have witnessed increasingly violent weather phenomena. Fortunately, today's improved weather alert services are often able to warn us of impending natural disasters well before they occur. This advance warning allows people to prepare themselves and their homes to weather the storm.

A key part of disaster safety is having a sufficient amount of supplies, as well as an emergency kit. A disaster kit typically includes a bountiful supply of water for drinking and cleaning, along with non-perishable canned or packaged foods, a can opener, a first aid kit, flashlights and batteries, cell phones and chargers, emergency phone numbers, and a radio. Other useful items to have are prescription medications, supplies for infants and pets, cash, matches, and personal hygiene items.

By creating this kit and packing it ahead of time, emergency preparation becomes much easier and quicker when a natural disaster is announced. It’s equally important to have a predetermined emergency ready profile, so that each person in the house knows exactly what to do when a disaster strikes. Without a proper action plan, people often tend to first panic, acting illogically, which may put them directly in the path of danger. At SERVPRO, we can assist you in preparing your own Emergency Ready Profile for your home or business.

Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today and let us help you plan your Emergency Ready Profile. (916) 632-2250

How to Take Care of Smoke Damage in Your Commercial Building

5/15/2018 (Permalink)

A commercial fire is an unfortunate situation for any business owner to deal with, even if it isn’t your business. Another part of the building that is not insured under your policy, for example, can still cause severe smoke damage in your area. Some business owners assume this isn’t a covered loss, when, in reality, the majority of commercial fire policies often cover similar losses. If you happen to find yourself in a situation where you have smoke damage from a fire you didn’t cause, here are a few pointers to make sure the damage gets taken care of.

Contact Your Insurance Company

The first thing you should do if you aren’t sure about what your insurance policy covers is to contact your insurer. Scanning your policy can be frustrating, especially when trying to navigate complex insurance jargon. Ask your agent or broker what your policy coverage entails, specifically regarding smoke damage. With a better understanding of your insurance policy, you will have a firmer handle on how to move forward and on what is covered, for future reference. Your insurance company may also refer you to licensed disaster restoration professionals who can treat the affected area of your building.

Choose a Reputable Restoration Company

Disaster restoration companies are a dime a dozen, and it’s important to make sure you’re choosing one with a good reputation and ethical standards. As mentioned before, your insurance company may refer one to you, but most insurers will not require you to use their recommendation.

Let the Professionals Handle It

One of the biggest mistakes you could make with smoke cleaning is to do it yourself. Without a professional background in restoration, you could end up doing more harm than good. A licensed restoration professional will assess the affected area for soot damage with state-of-the-art, high-tech equipment that will help them to determine which areas and items are salvageable and which need to be completely replaced. Give us a call for more information on commercial fire damage. (916) 632-2250.

What To Expect From the Storm Damage Restoration Process

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

If a storm damaged your home you might be worried about the storm restoration process. You may wonder how anyone can fix all that water damage or what happens if they must tear out a wall.

It’s understandable that you would worry about this. After all, restoration can seem daunting to the uninitiated. Luckily, understanding the steps can help calm your nerves. While all projects are unique, these are the basic steps to expect:

1. Initial damage control

2. Removal of damaged materials

3. A drying period

4. Rebuilding

Each of these steps is important and should be done by experienced and trusted professionals. Below is a closer look at each stage:

Initial Damage Control

Before your restoration crew can do anything else, they must extract the water from your home. This is the first step in stopping further water damage and keeping needed repairs to a minimum. It’s essential to call a storm restoration company as soon as possible after a flood to get this process going.

Removal of Damaged Materials

Once the water is out of the way, the contractors can survey the damage and decide what they need to tear out. They may decide to make a flood cut, which prevents mold by removing a section of wall above the flood line. The professionals will properly dispose of damaged materials to keep your home safe.

A Drying Period

The third step can be the most difficult for anxious homeowners. The affected area must be allowed to dry out, which can take some time. Be patient; you’re almost done.

Rebuilding

After the area is dry, the professionals can start rebuilding the damaged structures. Great companies can make sure it looks as good as or better than before. If a flood damages your home, call a trusted storm restoration company immediately. They can get rid of the water, tear out damaged walls, and make it look like water damage never happened. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can help. (916) 632-2250

3 Circumstances that Require a Flood Cut

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

When flooding affects your home, having a professional cleanup and restoration company come to inspect and repair the damage can be an important step in preventing further problems and beginning the cleanup process. Flood technicians may perform a variety of repairs to restore your home, including a flood cut, which requires cutting out sections of drywall about a foot above the flood line to inspect the wall behind it. While this process is not always necessary, there are a few circumstances that may require it after a flood occurs.

1. Black Water Floods

When outdoor flooding invades your home from overflowing streams or rivers, it may contain sewage, chemicals or dead animal carcasses. This water can be considerably contaminated and is known as black water. A flood cut is usually necessary when this type of flooding occurs because your home’s drywall and any insulation behind it may be affected by the dirty water and may need replacing.

2. Wet Insulation

Flood technicians may perform a flood cut and tear out sections of drywall if they believe any insulation behind your home’s walls has water damage. Because insulation cannot be properly dried, a flood cut may be needed to remove any wet material. Once the interior wall is cleaned and dried, new insulation can be installed.

3. Mold Growth

After flooding, mold can begin to grow behind interior walls and spread quickly if it is not addressed. Flood technicians may perform a flood cut to check for mold and treat the area if any is found. Because mold does not need sunlight to grow, it can spread from interior walls to other areas and cause an unpleasant odor in your home. A flood cut can prevent this and keep mold at bay.

Flooding in your home can cause a variety of problems in your home long after the waters recede. Having flood cuts performed may resolve these issues and prevent costly repairs later on. Give us a call, (916) 632-2250.

When a Pipe Burst, Act Fast

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Bursting pipes can cause a lot of damage, especially when the water or the pipe is not dealt with quickly. To prevent significant water damage from ruining your structure, there are steps you need to take as soon as possible:

• Identify the source of the issue

• Turn off the main water valve

• Fix the broken pipe

• Look out for and remove safety hazards (if you can do so safely)

• Call SERVPRO of Auburn Rocklin water damage restoration team

Mitigate Damage Before Help Arrives

While your local water remediation team should arrive within hours of your phone call, a few hours can mean the difference between mold growth and a mildew-free building. In the meantime, act as your own handyman and get to work.

First, shut off the water supply to your building. Open up a faucet to relieve any pressure that may build up while the supply line is off. If you cannot fix the bursting pipes on your own, call a plumber. Fixing the source of the problem is key, as remediation efforts will be for naught if the same issue happens when you turn the water back on.

Turn up the heat in your building and start getting rid of water. Use towels, buckets, a sump pump, fans and any other moisture wicking methods at your disposal. If it’s nice outside, open a window. If the pipes burst inside a vanity or beneath a sink, open cabinet doors and let the warm air flow in there.

Depending on how bad the damage is, you may not be able to do much beyond the aforementioned steps. However, your Auburn/Rocklin water damage team should be arriving any minute, so sit back and wait for help. If you acted quickly, they should have to do nothing more than give you the OK to start cleaning and to provide advice on how to prevent broken pipes in the future. Visit http://www.SERVPROauburnrocklin.com/ for more information on commercial water damage

The Importance of Containment During Mold Removal

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

When mold starts to spread in your home or business after a flood or other types of water disaster, you may not be sure how to treat or remove it. Mold cleanup can be a complicated affair, and the mold may even reappear if it is not handled properly the first time. Having mold-damaged areas professionally inspected and contained is one way to ensure the problem is eradicated quickly.

Mold Can Grow Rapidly

If mold is not contained during the cleanup process, mold spores can travel through the air and into other areas, where they might find new breeding grounds. Some of the most common, unseen spaces usually include:

• Storage space in the basement

• Interior walls damaged by water

• Inside of your building’s heating and cooling system

Because these spores can travel so easily, bringing in a company that specializes in mold remediation can help prevent further growth. Since mold can begin to grow in its new environment as soon as 48 hours after attaching, calling in professional services right away can be an important step in cleanup.

Mold Can Break Free from Damaged Drywall and Carpeting

As mold-damaged substances like drywall and carpeting are removed from your business during mold cleanup, the spores can become airborne. Once this happens, the fungus can attack other porous materials, such as acoustic ceilings and tile flooring. Keeping mold-infested substances contained can prevent spores from finding a new foothold in other areas of your business.

Commercial Cleansers May Not Kill Mold Completely

Calling for professional mold containment can be an important step in preventing future issues. Mold contamination may not always respond to commercial cleansers, and the mold presence in your building may require more drastic treatment. Negative air pressure and specialized chambers can isolate areas that have been affected by mold and prevent it from reforming and spreading.

Mold cleanup can be a complicated process, especially when it comes to keeping affected areas contained. Leaving these areas closed off and calling in professional mold remediation services can help prevent the spread of mold and restore your home or business to its former glory. Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin for an inspection and estimate for mold remediation. (916) 632-2250.

Water Damage Timeline

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin 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 Auburn/Rocklin arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

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.

Need Emergency Service? You can call us 24/7 at 916-632-2250. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin. 

When you Notice Mold, Do you know what to do?

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

Auburn/Rocklin Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

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

 What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin 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.

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

 If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 916-632-2250

Use a Professional Water Restoration Company

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

Picture this: you come home from vacation only to find water in your home! Who can you call to help? Your initial response may be to call a contractor, but there are differences between contractors and professional Water Restoration Companies. As a professional Restoration Company, we try to restore, rather than replace, whenever possible.

 A contractor’s job is to replace everything that is affected. This will often will include all flooring, walls, cabinets and even furniture. SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin technicians are certified in drying and cleaning water damage to industry standards. We will not remove materials unless it is necessary. The average time to dry is 3 days, his prevents further interruption to your daily life and also saves you money. We try to mitigate the water damage, and restore when possible. Restoring your home is more cost efficient than replacing materials in your home.

 Call SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin.! We are available 24/7 for emergency water losses!

Water Damage, Sewage Cleanup and Contaminated Water

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 2 water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

• May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

 Category 3: "Black Water"

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

Sewage cleanup must not be taken lightly. Serious long term health issues to adults, children and even pets may occur due to bacteria, viruses and even parasites. Don't delay. Take immediate action. Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at (916) 632-2250 today for a free estimate.

Beware of Burn Ban and How to Protect Yourself

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

At home:

• Avoid cooking outdoors during a drought season. If you do cook, never leave barbeque grills unattended. Place your grill on concrete or your driveway away from your home or any structures. If using charcoal or wood, make sure that the fire has been extinguished by soaking it with a garden hose before disposing of the coals.
• During this time, do not burn household trash in barrels. Check lawnmowers and farm equipment for properly working spark arresters.
• Mow lawn at least 30-50 feet away from your house and water to create defensible space.
• Cut back or remove any dry and dead landscaping plants or bushes around your home. Clear leaves from your roof and gutters; rake them away from the sides of your home.
• Move anything that will burn far away from structures, items like firewood, compost piles, brush piles, etc.
• Notify the electric company when dead trees or overhanging limbs endanger the electric wires.

 Fire Safety for you:

• Practice fire safety with your family. If you see suspicious fire or smoke, call 911.
• Clearly mark driveway entrances with address and street names.
• Plan escape routes away from your home by car and foot. Have a meeting place with your family.

Fire Damage Restoration

4/12/2018 (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 Auburn/Rocklin 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 – SERVPRO Auburn/Rocklin 916-632-2250

Rain Damage and Flood Damage to your Home

3/6/2018 (Permalink)

Rain damage is caused by falling water. A leaky roof or window can cause rain to intrude into your home unexpectedly. Obstructed gutters and downspouts can also be a large contributor to rain damage. So, it is extremely important to thoroughly clean your gutters and downspouts and to keep the rain from entering your home and seeping into your walls.

 Rising water, improper grading, drainage fails, or rising creek water are all examples of how flood damage can occur in your dwelling. Another example that allows excess water to intrude into your home are cracks in your foundation, becoming yet another victim to flood damage.

 It is extremely important to professionally dry the structure as quickly as possible to prevent further damage to the residence. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin uses updated equipment and professionalism to treat your home as it is ours. We want to help you restore your home and make it “Like it never even happened.”

 Have Storm Damage? Call Us Today-- SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin 916-632-2250

When "What If?" becomes "What Now?".... Emergency Ready Profile

3/6/2018 (Permalink)

Being a property manager or landlord is not always an 8 to 5 job. Mishaps and problems do not care if you are on vacation or if you are out of the office; they can arise 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The key to being prepared before disaster strikes and dealing with these unforeseen circumstances is to implement our Emergency Ready Profile.

 A large percentage of businesses have to close down following a disaster. Majority of businesses that survive a disaster had some form of a preparation plan in place beforehand. SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile not only helps your business in having a plan in place but also assists to keep you and your staff members informed on exactly how to handle fire and water damage.

 To learn more about SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile you can visit http://ready.SERVPRO.com or call SERVPRO Rocklin/Auburn at 916-632-2250.

Make Sure You Are Keeping Your Commercial Air Ducts Clean!

1/16/2018 (Permalink)

Air Duct Cleaning refers to the removal of dust and contaminants within the ductwork.

According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) the rule of thumb for consumers is “If your air ducts look dirty, they probably are.” Although it is not necessary to clean your air ducts every year, it is not something that you should neglect to maintain. Regrettably, there are many businesses that tend to overlook certain aspects of their commercial buildings when they are going through their maintenance checklist. One item in particular that is often overlooked is air duct cleaning. Cleaning an air duct system that is not easily visible or causing any obvious problems can seem like an unnecessary expenditure of time and money. Provided below are five benefits to cleaning your air ducts:

1.Improved indoor air quality

2.Greater HVAC system efficiency

3.Longer HVAC component lifespan

4.Air duct cleaning conserves energy

5.Air duct cleaning will save you money in the long run

Are You Ready For Severe Weather?

10/6/2017 (Permalink)

Severe weather is unpredictable and SERVPRO wants you to be safe no matter the season! Below are some severe weather readiness tips to help guide you, no matter what type of disaster you may encounter.

Weather Radios: Weather radios are the most reliable way to receive notifications of severe weather in your area. Although cellular phones, weather apps, social media as well as wireless emergency alerts (WEA’s) are what the majority of us depend on to keep informed, the truth is those devices can have their limitation during severe weather and can be interrupted. Mobile devices rely on towers and those towers can be damaged and cease to function during sever weather. A weather radio, WITH CHARGED BATTERIES is the most reliable way to be informed of severe weather. Be sure to properly program your weather radio so you only receive the alerts you want for the counties you want.

Emergency Supply Kit: Having an emergency kit can be a life saver. Most emergency management agencies recommend supplies for up to three days. The following is a list you can use as a guideline:

• Water – 1 gallon per person per day
• Food – non-perishable
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a weather radio
• Flashlight
• Extra batteries for radio and flashlight
• Frist Aid kit
• Whistle to signal help
• Clothing, blankets
• Dust mask or bandanas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags, and duct tape
• Wrench or other tools to shit off utilities
• Hygiene items
• Important documents. (Copy of insurance policy, bank account info, identification, etc.)
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in waterproof case
• Cash

 Make family plan: Make sure all members in the household are aware where they are to go in the event of severe weather. If for some reason the family is separated in the event of a severe storm, have a meeting place established as to aid in finding each other amidst devastation.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/1/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot can be a lot more invasive than you’d think. It can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin’s 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 main types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin 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. 

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. If you have smoke or soot damage, call today – (916) 632-2250

Avoid Mold in the Heat

6/27/2017 (Permalink)

Temperatures have started to heat up, which means your home is at a greater risk for mold growth. Mold spores can grow in temperatures ranging from 32 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. The optimum temperature range for mold growth is between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, a common temperature range in our area.

As the winter weather falls further into the rear-view, it is time to be even more cautious of any possible moisture or water damage on your property. In order to reproduce, mold spores require moist or damp areas. Excess moisture in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms are prime areas for mold to grow. Also be on the lookout for flooding, leaky pipes/windows/roof, etc., and call a professional right away should any of these problems occur. 

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin has highly trained and experienced crew members ready to make it "Like it never even happened."

Call today (916) 632-2250 – we are available 24/7

Enjoy Your Summer Fires by Building a Safe Fire Pit

6/27/2017 (Permalink)

It's finally that time for outdoor BBQs, parties, and camp-outs and it's important to always keep safety at the forefront. Whatever type of pit you have in mind, make sure you follow all the rules for proper ignition. This will keep not only your family and friends safe but also those around you, like your neighbors.

Getting Started

Before you start digging to build your summer fire pit, think through the process. Where are you going to build your pit? How deep should you dig? What should you use to create the above ground wall? When selecting your spot, take care not to dig too near other items that would easily flame up. So place your pit at least ten feet from other structures and avoid overhanging branches. It's important that if you are installing a prefabricated pit, you need to ensure your ground is level. Using pavers is a great way to ensure that any burning embers that may escape won't spread to other structures or brush.

When digging your own summer pit, ensure you remove at least one foot of earth. Place large stones or landscaping bricks around the outside edge of your site and cover up at least one foot. Using concrete to secure your bricks will provide a safer, stronger pit. Once you have your pit completed, create a ten-foot circumference around it by clearing any brush, leaving only bare earth, or by using pavers to secure the area and help prevent drifting embers.

Enjoying Your Pit

Light your pit before the light is too dim. Twilight is a bit late, but with some skill, you should be able to get it lit. Make sure you have enough water stored near your pit to quickly douse flames. Finally, keep your wood well away from the pit. And it goes without saying; no horseplay should ever happen near the pit. While we would rather you enjoy your summer safely; the professionals at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can help you with any fire disaster--large or small.

What You Should Know About Commercial Fire Damage

6/27/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage is one of the most devastating experiences that a business owner can experience. In addition to doing severe damage to the structure of the building, fires can lead to excessive, standing water on the property as well as mold invasions. For these reasons and more, business leaders find it difficult to recover from a natural disasters or man-made accidents. However, learning more about commercial fires and how fire damage remediation specialists can assist you is the first step towards limiting damages and preserving your equilibrium in the face of the disaster. Below is some information to help you:

Fire Threats – There are several factors that can place a commercial property in harm’s way leading to burning and fire damage.  Some of these include:

• Lightning strike
• Electrical fire
• Blown fuse, overloaded circuits
• An adjoining business fire

Preventing Commercial Fire Damage and Strategies You Can Use:

In addition to purchasing business interruption insurance, there are several strategies you can implement to decrease the impact of fire damage to your business. Some of them include:

• Avoiding the storage of flammable items on site
• Check your smoke alarms regularly to ensure they are functioning properly
• Have your fire extinguishers in accessible areas
• Implement a fire evacuation plan
• Turn off appliances and machinery when no one is on site.
• Ensure all machinery is in good condition
• Have backup drives for computers
• Important paperwork should be kept in a fireproof safe
• Use a cloud for document back up storage
• Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today for any commercial needs.

Secondary Damage to Hardwood Flooring

6/27/2017 (Permalink)

There are many ways water damage in your home or business can occur. Some of the most common examples are broken or leaking pipes, appliances malfunctioning, or flooding. The key to keeping the extent of water damage to a minimum is a quick response to start drying. Otherwise secondary damage to the property will be inevitable. Secondary damage can be many things from, delaminated carpeting, discoloring of building materials, musty odors, mold, or warped flooring. In this case we are talking about hardwood flooring in particular and what happens. Wood is semi porous material that absorbs water slowly between the wood joints. If wood has been affected by water damage, and is caught in a short amount of time, there are drying mats that can extract the water out of the wood and bring it back to its original state. If a wood floor has absorbed a significant amount of water and has dwelled for an extended period of time, then the wood floor will begin to cup and stain. If the floors are left in this condition it will get worse to the point of no return and must be removed. If wood floors are treated as soon as you see cupping, there is still a chance of them being saved. Water will get extracted, and then once dry, the wood can be sanded and refinished to get a smooth surface again.

If you or someone you know ever experiences water damage, the first thing you should do is call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin and start the drying process to prevent unnecessary damage from occurring! If water damage occurs and has gone unnoticed, call us in and we will survey the damage. Our goal is to save as much as we can and assist in the replacement of materials if absolutely necessary.

Water in your Business?

6/23/2017 (Permalink)

Water leaks within a business can seep into carpet, flooring, baseboards, and walls while moving throughout the structure.  SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin understands how disruptive water damages can be for a business. Water leaks can not only disrupt the facility, but also can interrupt day to day business functions, which could possibly close the business and affect revenues. 

Timely mitigation is key to the restoration process.  Quick response time helps ensure that damage is contained and the restoration process begins promptly. This saves on the amount of damage, cost of claims, and assists in reducing losses from business interruption due to a loss.  Timely and proper water mitigation will also help keep mold from developing which could cause people to become ill!  SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin will be able to identify water regardless of where it hides. We offer 24-hour emergency response from our trained professionals to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Leak Prevention Tips

• Check roof for deterioration.  
• Check gutters and downspouts.
• Check basements and crawl spaces for moisture.
• Check appliances in kitchens, break rooms, and cafeterias.
• Check sinks and toilets in bathrooms.
• Check HVAC for leaks and blockages. 

Once The Smoke Clears

6/23/2017 (Permalink)

Once the fire is put out and the smoke clears, what is on your list of things to do to restore your home to its original state? Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin has been restoring homes and businesses in your area for over 14 years. 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. With the many years of experience, and our certified crews on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all you need to know is SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin will help make the damage “Like it never even happened.”

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today at (916) 632-2250.

Does Your Home Or Business Have A Mold Problem?

6/23/2017 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all the 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 of the 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 – (916)632-2250

What to Do After a Flood

6/23/2017 (Permalink)

Floods are one of the most common natural disasters in North America, but not all floods are alike. Some develop gradually after days of slow, steady rain while others are flash floods resulting from a deluge of rain or dam failure.

Storms can cause severe damage to your home—potentially even making them unsafe! SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, you can call us at (916) 632-2250 to get immediate help.

What You Should Do After a Flood

Even if you were properly prepared for the flood and weathered the storm until it passed, your home could still have sustained heavy damage. Now that the sky is blue once more, how do you proceed? Here’s a look at what to do after a flood:

Be Cautious

Just because the sun is shining and the flood waters have receded, that doesn’t mean all danger has passed. Exercise caution by doing the following:

Tune into local alerts and warning systems to stay up-to-date with current information and receive expert, informed advice about the flood. After all, additional flooding could still occur.

Stay away from rushing water. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you off your feet.

Avoid walking through large areas of standing water, which may be electrically charged by downed power lines. The water could also be hiding broken glass or dangerous animals.

Unless you are specifically asked for help by the police, fire department, or relief workers, keep out of damaged areas.

Help emergency workers by staying off the roads in and out of the damaged neighborhood or region.

If you’re caught in a stalled car during a flash flood, abandon the car and get to higher ground immediately.

Heed barricades and find an alternate route if you encounter one blocking your way. Crossing bridges even after the water has receded could be dangerous if the structural integrity has been jeopardized.

Return home only when the authorities permit it. Even then, stay out of the building if it’s surrounded by flood waters and exercise extreme caution when you do enter.

Stay Safe and Healthy

Take care of you and your family as cleanup efforts begin. To stay safe and healthy, remember the following:

Turn off the home’s electricity at the main breaker box, even if the power is out. Only turn the power on when your home is dry.

Avoid floodwater, which may be contaminated with sewage, gasoline, or oil.

Fix damaged sewer systems as soon as possible.

Don’t drink water from the tap. Listen to news reports to learn when the community’s water is safe to drink again.

Get Help After a Flood

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is prepared for the unpredictable—and you can call us day or night to get disaster relief and recovery. We’re here to help you get back on your feet and make it look like it never happened. Contact us today to start the cleanup process without delay.

Saving Personal Belongings from Water Damage

6/23/2017 (Permalink)

One of the most common topics after a client suffers water damage, is how and what they can save from water damage.  Unfortunately, there is no clear cut answer to this question. Every water damage is unique in some sense, so what can be saved is really on a case by case basis. However, here are some guidelines that you can use to make the best decision possible.

What Type of Water Damage

Determining whether the water that damaged your personal belongings is clean or contaminated will be a big factor in whether or not it can be salvaged. Obviously, if you are dealing with clean water, the chances of being able to save some of your belongings is higher.  Even though it may be possible to restore something that is damaged by contaminated water, it is more than likely not worth the health risk that it may bring.

Porous vs Non Porous Materials

Porous materials such as fabrics, wood, and paper are very good at retaining water. This also means it increases the chance of other dangers like mold growth, and damage beyond repair. This is not always the case and if handled quickly and properly, many times these items can be saved as well. On the other hand, non-porous materials like marble, metal, and porcelain - among others - usually have no problem being restored. Since there is really nothing for bacteria and mold to root itself in, a simple cleaning is usually no problem.

The Amount of Time the Water Saturated

Another factor that will come into the equation of determining what can and cannot be saved is how long the materials have been wet for. The longer an item sits in water, the deeper it can penetrate. As you can imagine, this makes it increasingly more difficult to bring it back to its normal state. The perfect example of this is wooden furniture. It takes quite a bit of time for it to really absorb and become completely water logged. If you get personal belongings out of the standing water and begin the drying process right away, you have a good chance of being able to save them.

Factor in the Replacement Cost

Water damage restoration of personal belongings is no different than any other type of repair. You will always want to evaluate how much it is going to cost to repair something versus simply replacing it. Is the item you want to save really worth paying a professional to do work on it? Sometimes it is, sometimes it is not.

You should also take into account that paying for restoration does not guarantee your item will be returned to its original state. If that’s the case, you’ll have to replace the item anyways.

If you are unsure about whether or not one of your items could be salvaged, it is best that you get it analyzed by a professional. If you hire a water damage restoration company to handle a dry out of your property, they will be able to assist you in assessing damage to your personal belongings as well. To speak to a professional water restoration representative at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, call them today (916) 632-2250.  We are always there to help.

Fire Restoration to a Commercial Building

6/23/2017 (Permalink)

Q: What will happen to my building if I do not quickly get fire damage restoration service after  being the victim of a fire, and how long should I wait to take action?

A: The quick answer is immediately! There are many reasons to act upon your fire damaged business with great speed. From the business standpoint, every day required to clean up, repair and restore your building and to re-open the doors is lost revenue. Immediately contact your insurance agent and then SERVPRO or Auburn/Rocklin. This commercial fire restoration company will promptly respond, and upon agreement, begin to mitigate the water and fire damage. Delaying the fire restoration process can also compound the damage caused by the water used to extinguish the flames. Below are some factoids that suggest an immediate response to a fire-damaged structure is paramount.

The ash residue left from the fire can lead to permanent damage. Ashes are highly acidic and can corrode materials made of metal or glass. Glass windows may be permanently etched, and your drywall may be damaged and discolored beyond repair. As metallic materials corrode, water leakage from plumbing may occur, and lead to increased water damage requiring further repairs.

Q: As the owner of a business, why should I consider hiring an experienced fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO or Auburn/Rocklin?

A: Our technicians have the training, tools, equipment and experience to handle any fire damage incident to a commercial building. We respond immediately to begin the work to get you back to work. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin experts are IICRC certified.

Q: How will your technicians perform fire damage restoration services for me?

A: SERVPRO or Auburn/Rocklin technicians will begin the building restoration process by inspecting the structure, assessing the damage and then determine the proper course of action beginning with the cleanup. They will do a comprehensive clean up and eliminate ashes, smoke, soot and debris. Because the odors caused by smoke may permeate walls and crevices, our professionals will use special machines called thermal foggers to release particulates into difficult to reach corners and voids to eliminate smoke odor.

Learn more about our commercial restoration services. Call us. (916) 632-2250

How to Inspect a Fire Extinguisher

6/23/2017 (Permalink)

When was the last time you took time to check the fire extinguisher that sits under your kitchen sink? Or the one hanging from a dusty hook in your garage? If you’re struggling to remember, it’s time to check it. Like any other piece of safety equipment, a home fire extinguisher should be inspected regularly to ensure it’s in proper working condition. A fire extinguisher in good working condition is your first line of defense when a home fire erupts.

Ideally, you should inspect your portable home fire extinguishers every month.

Tips for Performing a Monthly Fire Extinguisher Check

Check the label or tag.

Every fire extinguisher, whether disposable or rechargeable, has a manufacturer’s label or tag. Read the tag and follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance suggestions.

Check the tamper seal.

If the tamper seal has been broken or is cracked, a disposable fire extinguisher needs to be replaced. If it’s rechargeable, it needs to be serviced professionally. Check the locking or pull pin as well to make sure it’s in the correct position. If the pin missing, the fire extinguisher needs to be inspected or serviced by a professional.

Inspect for physical damage.

Physically inspect the fire extinguisher for obvious damage. This may include but is not limited to dents, corrosion, cracks and obvious leakage. If a fire extinguisher has leakage, it’s no longer under full pressure and may not work properly when you need it most. Check the fire extinguisher nozzle as well, to ensure it’s not clogged by grime, dust, bugs or leakage from the unit itself.

Check the pressure gauge.

Check that the pressure gauge needle indicates the fire extinguisher pressure is in the optimum operating range. Often the correct pressure range will be designated by green on the gauge.

Is the fire extinguisher full?

During your monthly check, lift the fire extinguisher and determine if it still feels full. If there has been a leak, it will feel light, and it won’t have the right amount of pressure to work correctly.

Shake it.

If you have a dry chemical fire extinguisher, it should be shaken once a month during your inspection. This helps prevent the chemical dousing agent from solidifying at the bottom of the unit.

Write inspection date on tag.

Keep track of every inspection date by writing it on the fire extinguisher tag.

Ensure easy access to your fire extinguisher.

Fire extinguishers should always be easy to access if there is an emergency. You don’t want to have to search for it once a fire breaks out. Don’t block fire extinguishers with furniture, boxes or any other items. Everyone who lives in the household should know where the closest fire extinguisher is located and how to use it in case of an emergency.

In the event of a fire emergency, first make sure to get people safely away, then call 911. A home fire extinguisher can be used to put out or control small fires, but it’s still safest to call professional fire fighters before you attempt to control a fire on your own. If you need professional fire, smoke and water damage cleanup and remediation after a fire, call the experts at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin.

Do I Need Professional Mold Removal?

6/23/2017 (Permalink)

Mold is a natural part of many environments. In outdoor conditions, it plays an important role in breaking down dead organic matter, but you want to avoid mold growth indoors. Here’s a look at how to tell if you need professional mold removal services.

Do I Need Professional Mold Removal Services?

Sometimes, it’s easy to tell that you have a mold problem. Other times, it’s less apparent. Signs that you need professional mold removal include:

Visible mold: It’s easy to see mold growing on windowsills, shower walls, or under bathroom sinks. With a little more effort, you can also check the attic and crawlspace for visible mold growth. Where there’s a little mold, there is always the possibility there could be more.

Signs of excessive water: Stains on the wall or ceiling could indicate a roof leak, which probably means the insulation in the attic is damp and harboring mold growth. Bubbling, peeling, or cracking paint on the walls and ceiling are other clues that excess water is coming from somewhere.

Condensation: If condensation forms on the inside of windows or other smooth, cold surfaces, that’s a sign the humidity is too high indoors. Excess humidity creates an environment for mold to thrive.

Past water trouble: If you know you had a leaky roof, burst pipe, or flooding in the past, fixing the problem is just the first step. If you didn’t perform mold removal when you fixed the source of excess water, some may have been left behind. Remember, even if no mold is visible from your vantage point, that doesn’t mean mold couldn’t be growing behind the wall where water seeped through.

Musty smell: Mold gives off a certain smell that even those without allergies can detect. Don’t ignore the presence of a musty odor; you may not be able to see any mold, but it could still be growing under the carpet padding, around the foundation, or behind the bathroom tiles.

Don’t ignore these signs. Contact SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin to have your home inspected for mold growth and begin the removal process today.

Hail Protection for Your Home

6/23/2017 (Permalink)

Hail storms can strike without much warning, leaving you with little time to react. Being prepared in advance — and knowing what to do — can help you stay safe and keep damage to a minimum. Consider signing up for local weather alerts, which deliver warnings when hail storms are approaching your area.

What Is Hail?

Hail is a type of solid precipitation, distinct from, but often confused with sleet. Sleet generally falls in colder temperatures while hail growth is inhibited at very cold temperatures. Hail creation is possible within thunderstorms and is formed when water vapor in updrafts reaches a freezing point. Ice then forms and is suspended in the air by updrafts and falls down to be coated by water again. This process can occur over and over adding many layers to the hailstone. Hailstones can be as small as peas or as large as softballs, and the larger ones can cause injury and serious damage.* The average hailstorm lasts only five minutes, but the damage hailstorms cause totals about $1 billion a year, according to the National Weather Service.

How to Minimize Hail Damage

Large hail can shatter windows. Closing the drapes, blinds or window shades can help prevent the wind from blowing broken glass into your home or buildings.

Whenever possible, park your vehicles inside a garage or under a carport.

Patio and lawn furniture can be dented, broken or even shattered by hail. Move these items indoors or under a covered area when not in use.

If you have plans to replace the roof covering on your home or business, consider using impact-resistant material if you live in a hail-prone area.

If you are ever affected by hailstones or any other type of natural disaster, Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today! (916) 632-2250

How to Clean Up Water Damage

6/23/2017 (Permalink)

Whether you’ve had a leak from an overflowing toilet or you had a pipe burst in the basement, it’s important to know how to clean up water damage properly to reduce the long-term effects. Let the experts at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin help you with your water damage clean-up by giving you a list of do’s and don’ts!

How to Clean Up Water Damage: Do’s & Don’ts

Do:

Call a professional – this is especially important for larger floods since they have the ability to cause serious damage to your home, including mold. At SERVPRO, we have helped your friends and neighbors with all their water damage restoration services since 1967, so you can trust us to get the job done right.

Dry standing water – whenever possible, dry as much standing water as you can by soaking it up with sponges and towels. It’s also smart to use a box fan on the affected area to speed up your drying time—but be sure not to plug in or set the fan on any of the wet areas.

Remove saturated items – you should remove any saturated rugs or carpets, especially on hardwood, to an area where they can dry out thoroughly.

Ventilate the area – if you have a flood during the summer, use your air conditioning to accelerate drying.

Remove sensitive materials – whenever you can, remove any sensitive materials from the area, including computers, artwork, rugs, books, and anything else that can be easily transported and dried in another area.

Call your insurance company – it’s incredibly important to check with your insurance company to see what is covered for your home as soon as possible.

Don’t:

DON’T operate electronics – do not operate TVs, vacuums, or any other electric appliances when standing on wet flooring, especially concrete—it could result in a serious injury.

DON’T use heat to dry – in a closed-off interior space, you shouldn’t use heat to dry any affected areas because it can increase the mildew growth.

DON’T leave wet fabric together – whenever possible, separate wet fabrics and give them space to dry apart as soon as you can.

DON’T wait to call SERVPRO – Don’t wait—call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin right away when you have water damage in your home.

Summer Safety

6/23/2017 (Permalink)

Summer is a time to enjoy the great outdoors, but it is important to also keep safety in mind.  Consider the following tips, provided by the National Fire Protection Association, to keep your family safe all summer long.

• When using a charcoal grill, only use starter fluids designed for barbeque grills; DO NOT add fluid after the coals have been lit.
• When using a gas grill, ensure the hose connection is tight and check the hoses for leaks.  Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks.
• When camping, always use a flame retardant tent and set up camp far away from the camp fire.
• Always build a campfire downwind from the tent area.  Clear vegetation and dig a pit before building your fire.  Extinguish the fire before going to sleep or leaving the campsite.
• Store liquid fire starter (not gasoline) away from your tent and campfire.  Only use dry kindling to freshen a campfire.

Where Can Mold Damage Spread To?

6/23/2017 (Permalink)

If you have discovered a colony of mold growing in your home, you may be alarmed that it will spread to other materials and regions of the house. Mold reproduces relatively quickly, and can easily spread out across a home and create additional colonies. Sometimes, mold spores may remain dormant until they find the perfect growing conditions in your home, and so there may still be problems days or weeks after you thought the problem was stamped out. To prevent this, SERVPRO or Auburn/Rocklin does a thorough analysis of wetness and causative factors in the home, but you should also understand where mold is most likely to spread in your home. Carpets

Carpeting across your home has a relatively high chance of incurring additional mold damage. Carpets often absorb the same moisture as higher-elevation spots of damage, and thus can easily develop mold growth even if they were not the original focal point in your damages. Furthermore, carpets in different rooms can easily transfer mold spores between each other when a human or pet steps on a developing mold patch, carrying a large mass of microscopic mold spores without ever realizing it.

Curtains, Towels, and Fabrics in Bathrooms

No matter where the mold damage is in your home, fabrics in your bathroom may be at an elevated risk simply because they are constantly in a warm, moist environment. Mold spores spread through the air across your home, and there is little to be done about this, but reducing the amount of moisture affecting fabrics and organic materials in the bathroom can help prevent mold.

Behind Walls and in Attics

The materials behind walls and in attics are commonly made of wood and perhaps paper, two highly absorbent, organic substances which are highly favored by mold. If any kind of moisture reaches these regions, mold will grow quickly in them. We use advanced detection equipment to measure humidity and risk in these areas for further mold growth.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is a locally-owned company with national assets to help stamp out even the toughest mold cases in the community. Call us 24/7 at (916) 632-2250 for mold remediation or services.

Lightning Safety Tips

6/23/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know that lightning is the third largest storm-related killer in the U.S., causing nearly one billion dollars in damage per year¹? Those are some sobering statistics you may want to keep in mind the next time you are trying to decide whether to play one more hole of golf or hike an extra mile when a potential storm may be brewing.

While summer is commonly known as the peak season for thunderstorms and lightning, such storms can strike any time and in almost any location year-round. The following guide and tips can help you and your loved ones stay safe and secure should you be caught in a lightning storm.

How Should I Protect Myself?

It is important to understand that there is no safe place outside during a lightning storm. If thunderstorms are expected, you should stop any outdoor activities quickly — even if you are still mowing the lawn or enjoying a picnic. Many lightning casualties occur because people fail to seek shelter soon enough. Keep an eye on local weather conditions and have a plan if thunderstorms are expected.

What if I am Outside During a Storm?

As soon as you hear thunder, stop all outdoor activities and get into a building or a hard-topped vehicle for safety. It may be tempting to get into a golf cart or a lean-to, but those will not provide adequate protection. If you absolutely cannot get to safety, try to stay away from open fields, hilltops, tall trees or other tall objects. Go to the lowest place possible, such as a ravine or valley, and squat in a baseball catcher’s position — with your heels touching, ears covered, and head between your knees. Minimize contact with the ground and do NOT lie flat. You should avoid water and anything metal, such as golf clubs or bicycles.

What if I am Driving?

Exit the road or highway you are on and park in a safe location. Stay in the vehicle and turn on emergency flashers until the storm subsides. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that can conduct electricity.

What if I am Indoors?

You may think that watching television or shopping on-line are good ways to pass the time during a storm, but your best bet is to unplug televisions, computers and any other high-value electronics well before the storm hits. Once the storm begins, do not touch any electrical equipment or cords, including corded phones. It is OK to use cellular or cordless phones during the storm. Be sure to stay away from windows and doors and do not go on porches. Also avoid taking baths or showers during storms.² Water is a conductor of electricity so if a lightning strike hits your house during a storm, it may travel through water and shock you in the bath or shower.

What if My House is Hit by Lightning?

If you think your home has been struck by lightning call 911 immediately and evacuate if you see fire or smoke. You may want to ask your local fire department to check for hot spots in your walls. If you use gas for heating and cooking, contact your gas company or a licensed contractor to conduct a leak test before re-entering your home. Gas system components have been known to sustain punctures as a result of direct or nearby lightning strikes.

Sources:  ¹ NOAA, http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/resources/Lightning_your_home.pdf  ² NOAA's National Weather Service,http://www.srh.noaa.gov/jetstream/lightning/lightning_safety.htm

Severe Weather and the Toll it Takes on Your Home

5/31/2017 (Permalink)

When a storm strikes, it’s important to be aware of the potential problems that can develop. You can’t control the weather, but you can control how you respond in the immediate aftermath. Here are three of the issues that could afflict your home after a storm hits:

Roof Damage: Roofs are susceptible to damage during any major storm, from heavy winds and torrential rains to snowstorms. Moisture can weaken already vulnerable areas of the roof, and strong winds can knock down loose shingles or cause visible damage to them. You may notice a leak in your attic or ceiling if a storm damages your roof.

Windows Are Vulnerable: A thoroughly sealed and weather-stripped window is unlikely to suffer severe storm damage, but old windows that haven’t been catered to recently could develop problems if it rains. For example, the moisture can seep into openings around the window, causing a leak inside the house. Rain can also cause wood to rot and mold to develop in the window’s vicinity. Rugs and carpets in the area could also be susceptible to water damage. Windows in the basement are extremely vulnerable if they aren’t protected, which leads to flooded basements and potentially damaged property.

Gutters Can Become Clogged: Gutters aren’t immediately obvious problems because you have to inspect them to see if they’ve become clogged after the storm. Rain can wash all kinds of debris into them, and once they become congested, they no longer filter water away from your home. The result could be water damage to your property, and the gutters could also suffer damage later since the excess weight of debris can cause them to sag.

Storm damage affects more than just the trees around the house. It can also have an impact on your home’s foundation. After a major storm, take a close look at your home and investigate for problematic signs. If you discover anything, call the restoration service team at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at (916) 632-2250. We’ll manage the situation and restore your home back to preloss condition.

It's The Water You Don't See

5/26/2017 (Permalink)

Even small water damages in your business have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time.  The key to avoid costly future restoration and loss of business is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property.  SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin has the equipment, training and experience to find and dry the unseen water before secondary damages occur.  The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss.  When time matters technology and equipment must be counted on to perform.  We will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment.

Here are just some of the tools we use:

• Moisture Sensors which are used to detect moisture in carpets baseboards or walls.
• Moisture Meters which are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials.  This allows us to monitor the drying process with accuracy.
• Thermohygrometers which are used to measure the temperature and relative humidity of a structure.  This allows us to create an environment most conducive for drying.

There are many other tools and equipment used to make sure we can discover the water you don’t see and make sure it does not become a problem for you in the future.  The bottom line is the professionals at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin have the equipment, technology, training, and experience to help make any fire, water and mold problems in your business seem “Like it never even happened.”

Mold Damage in Your Home

5/16/2017 (Permalink)

Mold is an element of the natural environment. When outdoors it plays an important part in nature by breaking down any dead, organic material like trees and fallen leaves. Indoors, however, you will want to avoid mold growth. Mold expands by means of tiny spores which are invisible to the naked eye and float through the air. When spores land on surfaces which are moist, mold can start growing indoors.

Since common building materials are capable of sustaining the growth of mold and mold spores, leaky roofs, flooding and general maintenance or problems with indoor plumbing can lead to mold damage. Mold can be virtually present anywhere and it can grow on just about any surface where there is moisture present. Many times, mold growth can go unseen, so if you suspect you have a problem contacting our professional staff at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is a must. Water vapor condenses on surfaces which are cooler than the air, letting mold grow. This moisture vapor will pass through walls and ceilings, condensing as temperatures fluctuate. With our special equipment, moisture sensors, infrared cameras, and traps we can find the mold so that we may begin remediation of affected zones.

Mold growth that is significant will require food and moisture sources and a substrate to sustain growth. Building materials that are common like drywall, plywood, furring strips, carpet padding, and carpets give food to mold. With carpeting, invisible dust and cellulose are also sources of food.

Hidden Mold

Our technicians at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can help you find this hidden mold behind paneling or wallpaper, inside ceiling tiles, the back of drywall or underneath carpeting. Plumbing lines in walls could also be a source of moisture since they could leak.

Three things are needed for mold spores to grow and proliferate:

• Nutrients – a common food source for indoor spores is cellulose.
• Moisture – this starts the decaying process caused by mold.
• Time – mold growth starts between twenty-four hours to ten days after the right growth conditions are present. These fungi also prefer secreted areas away from direct sunlight.

Assessment

Our first step in assessing your mold damage is to non-intrusively determine if you have mold present in your home by examining the building visually. Mold patches can readily be treated. Sometimes, intrusive observation will be needed to assess the level of mold. This can include raising or removing carpeting, shifting furniture, checking behind paneling or wallpaper, inspecting ductwork and opening wall cavities. A detailed visual inspection will be used to find any problems and efforts will be focused on areas where any signs of water vapor or moisture are present.

If you suspect you have mold damage in your home, call us right away at (916) 632-2250. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin will get you a quick response and visit to your property.

Steps Taken in the Cleanup of Water Damage

5/16/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Handles the Entire Remediation Process

Water damage can come from many different sources, with varying intensities, danger levels, and reach of damage. Ultimately, many different objects, surfaces, and materials in a home can suffer water damage from the same event, and many homeowners question how a company such as SERVPRO handles a comprehensive water damage cleanup job. Here you'll learn about some of the ways our technicians control and repair water damage in local residences.

Identifying the Source and Water Type

Water damage must be correctly defined by water type and source. Did it come from a storm or flood, or was it a pipe burst? There are also different types of water, typically categorized as either clean, gray, or black, 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 to your home.

Surveying Damage and Mold

After we understand 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, and furniture is brought back into the home or rooms affected.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin employs certified and well-trained technicians who are experienced with all kinds of water damage restoration and cleanup jobs. If you need our services for any type or volume of water damage to your home, call us at (916) 632-2250 for 24/7 emergency service.

Flood Damage and Worse can be Caused by Water in Your Home's Basement

5/5/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding in your basement might not seem like it can affect your entire home but it can cause problems even in your attic space. Humidity that starts with a flooded basement can be carried through the air, and also through the very fibers of your home's structures. Gravity isn't enough to keep water down below when it can find its way upwards by wicking through microscopic channels in drywall, wood, and concrete.

For homes with standing water in the basement, the first step in warding off flood damage and subsequent secondary water damage is to have the water pumped out. After the standing water has been eliminated, we can begin to work on the drying process. Returning your home to a dry state is vital to ensuring that all repairs will be long-lasting ones. It also helps ensure that mold and secondary water damage won't be a problem later on.

In addition to secondary water damage, the possibility of mold growths taking over your home will remain higher than normal as long as humidity levels are allowed to be raised. Where mold exists, there is also the possibility of higher than normal levels of bacterial and pathogenic activity. With sewer back-ups and flooded basements, this is especially true. This can lead to dangerous contamination in your home, but we're trained to combat this type of problem. At SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, we know what to do when things go awry in your home.

From mitigating walls, floors, and ceilings, and everything in between, we also know how to get things returned to a sanitary state that won't make you and your family ill. While we're drying out your home, we'll also disinfect it. Some of these methods, such as using ozone machines, not only remove airborne pathogens, but they can also deodorize your home.

When you've found your home flooded, even if it's not in the basement, call us. The professionals at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at (916) 632-2250 are available 24/7 to get your home back to normal fast.

Is Your Business Ready for Whatever Happens?

5/5/2017 (Permalink)

The best way to reduce interruption to your business following a disaster is to plan for it now! It is estimated that as many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster. Of the ones that do, an overwhelming majority of them had preparedness plans in place.

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.

Most contingency plans are made up of three main components: incident response, disaster recovery, and business continuity. The SERVPRO® ERP addresses incident response and disaster recovery. Think about potential disasters that could affect your facility. Now ask yourself: Are you ready?

Our SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile is a start-up approach that provides important information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services.

Why the SERVPRO® ERP?

• A no cost assessment of your facility
  • This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
  • It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  • This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
• Establishes SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
  • You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
• 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.”

If you're interested in having an ERP done for your business (at no cost to you!), OR if you have more questions about the Emergency READY Profile, give SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin a call! (916)632-2250

Storm Damage Emergency Cleanup in Your Home

5/5/2017 (Permalink)

Your home can fall victim to unexpected storm devastation. As soon as your home is disturbed by wind, water and debris, its effects can be devastating. Our top priority is to improve direct hazards as quickly as possible.

What You Can Expect from Storm Damage

Whatever storms are thrown at you, there is a likelihood that your home will have damage. Damage can be very destructive or not as serious.

Storms throughout the country can cause hazardous damage that will need to be fixed – from tornadoes to severe thunderstorms. With these kinds of storms comes strong wind bursts, torrential rain, and electrical disturbances that affect your property.

Being unable to repair damage inflicted on the outside of your home can be unnerving, which is why rainstorms and high winds are equally as damaging. Heavy rain and intense winds are strong enough to break trees and utility poles, jeopardizing your roof and home exterior.

Emergency Repairs

We at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin offer 24/7 emergency services because we realize that hazardous weather can appear at any moment. When you’re looking for urgent service, we will work with you anytime, day or night.

We are able to perform any needed emergency board up services after you’ve experienced storm damage. Broken windows, exposed siding and other sections of your property with direct outside access can be boarded up to keep out excess water. Tarps are an option to temporarily protect your roof to prevent additional water leakage if dangerous stormy conditions continue.

Your home needs to be safe again. In addition to these emergency services, the professionals at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can do a damage assessment and give you recommendations for all of the recovery services that we have available.

The Dangers of a Leaky Roof on your Home

4/25/2017 (Permalink)

There are several dangers that come along with a leaky roof. The water entering the home not only causes damage to interior and structure, but can also become a health and fire hazard as well. Although it can be expensive and time consuming to repair or replace a roof, it’s important to take immediate action when a leak is noticed. Angie's List gives us some insight on the dangers that occur from a leak in your home.

• Attic and ceiling damage

The first place that a roof leak hits is the attic or internal ceiling of the home, causing ceiling plaster to expand, bubble and darken. The water can also damage ceiling fans and light fixtures.

• Interior mold

One of the more serious issues that occur from a roof leak is mold growth. The consequences of letting the water settle without repairing the leak immediately can be harmful to your health. Mold damage can spread throughout the home’s structure, HVAC system and into personal belongings

• Fire hazard from water damage

Water isn’t aware of the material that it’s landing on when a leak occurs. If and when water gets exposed to shorted wires (such as some wires that could be placed across your attic), this can pose as a serious fire hazard.

• High utility bills/wasted energy

As water leaks in through the roof, it causes damage to the insulation in the attic. Over time, this damage can cause your home to lose a large amount of hot and cold air, resulting in higher bills and the use of more energy.

• Compromised structure

Water can be a powerful force of nature, especially when exposed to the same area over time. When water causes a roof to leak, it can also damage other areas of the home’s structure such as rafters, ceiling joists, wall framing and exterior trim. 

If you suspect a roof leak, call us today for a FREE inspection. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is here for you. (916) 632-2250.

Repairing Your Fire Damaged Property

4/25/2017 (Permalink)

A residential fire can be difficult for a homeowner to deal with, causing significant property damage throughout the home. The fire may have caused damage to several rooms or even to the entire home. Perhaps the fire was localized to one room, but the smoke and water damage from the firefighting effort may have spread to other areas of the property. With fire, smoke and water damage spread throughout the building, you may be worried about the amount of time and effort it will take to restore your home to its former condition. 

Taking the Right Initial Steps

You can begin the repair process after a fire almost immediately after the flames have been extinguished. Initially, take the time to survey the damage and determine the type and location of the damage in the home. If you have water present in the home, the smart idea is to use professional water extraction services to remove the water and dry out the home. This will help prevent mold growth from developing because of the moisture in the space. Then, you can move forward with the cleaning and repair process. 

Cleaning the Space

If your home has been damaged by a residential fire, you may need to clean the smoke damage away. Smoke can cause odors and stain inside the home. Some areas may need to be professionally cleaned. For example, carpeting and upholstered surfaces can be professionally steam cleaned to remove the stains and odors left behind by smoke. Professionals at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin know how to remove the smoke damage from different surfaces in the home for the best results. 

Repairing the Fire Damage

The next step to take after a fire is to fix the damage. Removing charred materials is necessary, and these will need to be replaced with new materials. Construction efforts may be required in some cases. In other cases, the fire damage may only be superficial or cosmetic, but with all cases, fire-damaged surfaces will need to be replaced or repaired. This process can take time and effort, so many homeowners choose to outsource the work to a professional team. 

A residential fire can be difficult to deal with, causing destruction to your home and can even sometimes cause you to relocate temporarily until the damage is repaired. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is the skilled team you want working for you when you have fire damage to contend with. Our locally owned company is available to respond to your request for assistance quickly, so call our office today at (916) 632-2250

The Purpose of Primers and Sealers after Fire Damage in Your Home

4/25/2017 (Permalink)

In recent years, fire damage repair teams have started to use primers and sealers more frequently. They provide an effective form of ‘contamination isolation’ for stubborn stains and lingering odors. While they are not suitable for use in lieu of other, more powerful restoration techniques (like deodorization and surface cleaning); they can be very valuable when used in combination with a full repair program.

Primers and sealers repair fire damage in homes by trapping smoke residues and stains beneath an impervious coating. They are particularly useful for surfaces which are damaged far beyond routine cleaning. For instance, if left to burn long enough, house fires produce soot which blackens walls and ceilings. When these residues are too deeply embedded to remove with pressurized water, the only option is for SERVPRO is to seal them.

The Difference Between Primers and Sealers

While primers and sealers do a similar job, they are different. Paint primers are designed to stick to a substrate and provide a smooth surface for an overlying topcoat. Sealers, on the other hand, are used before the primer. In some cases, SERVPRO may apply them as a substitute for primers.

Sealers are an effective way to close off surface porosity and trap stains beneath an impenetrable finish so that they do not bleed through a new coating of paint. As soot has the potential to be a very oily, greasy substance, standard paint on its own is not sufficient.

These formulations are used increasingly for the purposes of odor control after a fire. Once applied to a damaged surface, they isolate, and bond settled combustion particles, stop smoky odors from emanating, and conceal discoloration. Sometimes, sealers contain a white pigment which helps to amplify its stain-concealing properties.

The Limitations of Primers and Sealers

SERVPRO often turns to primers and sealers in situations where full removal of the stains, odors, and residues is not possible. They do have limitations, however, so we try a range of restoration techniques before deciding to seal areas of fire damage. As the dimensional stability of materials like wood changes over time, reapplication may be necessary.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is always ready to assist homeowners with professional, dependable fire damage repairs. We have the expertise you need to rid your property of stains, residues, odors, and damaged materials. Call us 24/7 at (916) 632-2250.

Remediate the Mold and Reduce the Effects of Mycotoxins

4/21/2017 (Permalink)

Mold or Microfungi produce secondary metabolites called Mycotoxins. Some of these toxins become airborne and have a chance to affect the health of loved ones. Among them, Aflatoxin, Citrinin, Ergot, Fumonisin B1, and Ochratoxin A, are known to exist. Unless you have experience dealing with these types of fungi specifically, you should get professional help.

We have many technicians who specialize in mold damage remediation living near you. We are a single phone call away, easily arriving at your property within hours of your initial call. We can go to work immediately providing you the services to help provide a safe, healthy environment for you and your family. We can inspect, use negative pressure equipment, air scrubbers, and a product specific inventory to combat mold proliferation in your home or place of business.

Aflatoxin - A chemical produced by certain molds that grow in soils, decaying vegetation, hay, and grains such as chili peppers, corn, peanuts, rice, sesame and sunflower seeds, tree nuts, and wheat, along with a variety of spices.

Citrinin - A secondary metabolite often produced by fungi that develop in long-stored foods, generally grain, and grain-based products. However, it can grow in fruits and other plant products as well.

Ergot - A fungus that grows on rye and rye-related products. Various versions of this fungi develop in different land grasses such as moist forests, marsh grasses, and mountain habitats.

Fumonisin B1 - A toxin produced by mold found in maize (corn), wheat and cereal products. Slowly affecting areas where corn products are a dietary staple.

Ochratoxin A - One of the most abundant food-contaminating mycotoxins in existence. Frequently found in water-damage houses and heating ducts, normally affecting grain and pork products, as well as, coffee and grapes.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin technicians can help to educate you on the seriousness of properly handling a mold infestation found in your home. While these microscopic spores may play a significant role in our environment, they have no place in our living spaces, and any growth found, no matter how large or small, should be handled immediately.

The primary purpose of SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin's mold remediation or cleaning services when dealing with mold damage is to remove the conditions that exist in your home that is allowing the infestation to spread. We can help you learn how to prevent these types of events from happening at all. Contact SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today, for more information. (916) 632-2250

The Accepted Standard for Water Damage Restoration

4/21/2017 (Permalink)

Licensed Restoration Companies Have the Experience to Deal with Your Water Problems

Currently, there are no government regulations outlining procedures for water damage cleanup. There are two certifying standard bodies that provide the rules of care procedures: Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (“IICRC”) and the Restoration Industry Association (“RIA”). The restoration companies are regulated by Maryland's Department of Consumer Affairs.

If your home experiences water damage, contact a restoration company. The IICRC is a non-profit organization that offers certification programs and standards used by the restoration industry. An IICRC company must demonstrate proof of insurance and provide education and training, leading to a certification for technicians.

The RIA is a trade association for cleaning and restoration professionals. They offer education, training, technical support and certification for technicians. Restoration companies are generally the first responders after significant damage to a home from floods, water, fires, mold, and other major events.

The job of a restoration company is to clean, preserve, and protect the home and its contents so that additional damage will not occur. Not all restoration companies are certified to repair your home unless they are licensed.

Most California insurance adjusters and claim representatives are familiar with SERVPRO as a quality restoration company in your community that can begin the clean-up, restoration and repair process quickly. When contacted, our restoration technicians will arrive and evaluate the work to be done and the equipment needed to restore you to a pre-damage condition.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is nearby because we are locally owned and operated. Our technicians are the best in the industry with IICRC certification and training. If your home or business receives damage from fire, water, mold, or a storm, call us at (916) 632-2250 and let us safely restore you back to normal.

Commercial Bio-hazard Damage

3/30/2017 (Permalink)

A bio-hazard is defined as any biological or chemical substance that is dangerous to humans, animals or the environment. This includes body fluids (blood, human waste) and human tissue (skin and other organs) among other threats. What makes a bio-hazard so dangerous is that it has the potential to infect any person who is exposed to it, not merely someone who comes into physical contact with it.

Because of this potential, a bio-hazard requires a professional response team to rapidly begin and complete the cleanup process. Technicians at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin are trained according to strict IICRC standards and CDC safety requirements. They understand that every hour is valuable and the faster they can get you back into your business is one less hour that you have to pay them and lose customers.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin provides an extensive number of bio-hazard cleanup services. Our customer services include animal waste removal and helping individuals and families deal with the potential health threats that come when a person develops a hoarding disorder.

Some of the key services include the following:

• Accidental Death Cleanup
• Advanced Odor Reduction
• Body Fluid Remediation
• Crime Scene Cleanup (Homicide and Suicide)
• Gross (Large Amount) Filth Cleanup
• H1N1 Decontamination
• Hoarder Cleanup
• MRSA Decontamination

Sewage Cleanup And Sanitization

Another service that we provide which has, unfortunately, become very popular is cleaning up after a drug lab arrest. The chemicals used to create methamphetamine and other illegal substances can quickly render a home or commercial structure uninhabitable. Prolonged exposure can even force county or state officials to condemn a structure, leaving the cost of demolition to a property owner that has no opportunity to restore the building or recover any costs.

Regardless of the bio-hazard, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin will handle it with a professional attitude. Call today (916) 632-2250

Plumbing Problems Can Cause Water Damage

3/30/2017 (Permalink)

If your dishwasher or garbage disposal springs a leak, you can be looking at water damage within cabinets and across your flooring in addition to compromised plumbing. Areas below your kitchen or wet bar can also sustain soaked walls and ceilings. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin began the recovery effort within hours of contacting us – any time of the day or night. When you place your water damage problem in our hands, we act fast, assessing the situation and making a plan that will have you back in the kitchen enjoying good times with friends and family, rather than mopping and dealing with unpleasant odors.

Dirty dishwater or food debris can swiftly change clean water to a contaminated condition. Our fast response often can contain water damage to a moisture problem only, a straightforward issue we can resolve quickly. If the affected areas are saturated with gray water, full of decaying food, microbial growth can begin within a very short time. Our technicians are trained to follow the water trail, evaluating where the water may have migrated so that you are not surprised by additional damage after the obvious problem seems to have been solved. Once we have completed our detective work, we will devise a plan that repairs, cleans and dries out all affected areas, ready for the final touches that will bring your house back to its preloss condition.

We will extract any standing water and then use proper techniques to clean and dry out cabinetry, essential to curb any mold or mildew growth. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin staff is trained to remove moisture without harming hardwood or laminated under sink cupboards. The tile, wood or laminate flooring in your kitchen will also need attention, inspected carefully for leakage into the subfloor or ceiling below. Airflow and gentle application of heat as the humidity reduces will be used to dry out flooring and the structures underneath with as little residual damage as possible. Effectively completing these steps is dependent upon the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) training that each of our technicians completes before entering your home. Reversing the effects of water damage is not a do-it-yourself proposition, and we are ready to lend our expertise to make sure it is done correctly.

When your kitchen appliances fail, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is the first call you should make. Our locally based water damage restoration team is available for appointments 24/7 at (916) 632-2250.

SERVPRO: Your Experts in Commercial Water Damage

1/19/2017 (Permalink)

If you have recently become a victim of commercial water damage, you may be wondering what you can do to mitigate your damages. There is a critical period in which certain actions must be taken to preserve as much of your property as possible and to decrease any health risks when water damage has occurred in a commercial space. Preparing a Space for Water Damage Restoration before you enter your commercial space, or any flooded building, you will need to make sure the electrical power to the structure is shut off. You should also be aware that during a flooding event, small animals or reptiles tend to seek shelter inside of buildings. Be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space. Protect yourself from entering any flooded building by wearing an organic vapor respirator. You can purchase these at any local paint and building supply stores. You also want to have rubber gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. The first thing you should do is ventilate the affected areas by opening the windows and placing fans where possible. Unfortunately, there likely will be items that you need to throw away. Any items that are porous and have absorbed contaminated floodwater cannot be restored. If your commercial space has drywall, mattresses, pillows, box springs, particle board, carpets or carpet pads, these will need to be discarded if they have become saturated. However, there is good news: If you have clothing or household fabrics that can be machine-washed, you may be able to salvage them. Use your washing machine to clean these items with a 10-minute soak at minimum in hot water with detergent. The soap and normal wash should remove most of the contamination and any staining that is present. Be aware that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection, cleaning and possibly restructuring. Water damaged walls and installation must be removed and repaired, and pockets of saturation should be exposed for drying and sanitizing. Always remember that mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particle board and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep good airflow throughout the interior environment, and maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of any mold growth. It is also important that you let your space dry out before any rebuilding occurs.

Services You Can Count On from SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin

You can depend on SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin to provide reasonable prices for commercial water damage and other services in your area. Our restoration services include cleanup after water damage, fire damage, sewage damage, and storm damage. We also assist with mold remediation, and we're qualified to provide cleaning and building services. Our trained and certified IICRC technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to begin your restoration. Whether you require cleanup after a commercial water damage or simply need a carpet cleaning, call us at (916) 632-2250.

What Contaminants Can be Found in Black/Flood Water?

10/21/2016 (Permalink)

Contaminated Flood Waters Contain Pathogens and Dangerous Debris

When we respond to a case of flood damage due to a storm, one of the most frequent questions our technicians get is, "What is black water?", Black water is heavily contaminated water which is not only unsafe to drink but can also be hazardous simply to be around. It can be difficult to judge conditions in black water due to its typical gray, brown, or black coloration, with small particles often hiding potentially far greater hazards lying within. Here are a few things that can be found in a typical sample of black flood water.

Dirt and Soil: Typically, most of the coloration in black water comes from dirt and soil trapped within. Many cases of flood damage result from heavy storms and rain, and these floodwaters more often than not pick up significant amounts of soil before they ever reach a home. Although this dirt may sound harmless, it, in reality, makes the water much heavier and more difficult to navigate if you get caught in it.

Microorganisms in Black Water: Although the amount and type of organisms in flood can vary depending on its causes and specifics, almost all samples of black water contain very high levels of microorganisms. These may be parasites, bacteria, viruses, mold, or many other types of organism, and they may be able to cause health effects if ingested or absorbed through the skin. This is why it is never advised to drink flood waters and to seek medical attention immediately if you have.

Sharp Metal and Glass: It can be very difficult to see sharp objects in a mass of floodwater, but even if you feel you are confident that such materials are not in the water, it is best always to assume they are. Sharp materials, even if they are tiny, often constitute one of the water's greatest risks. If they open up a small cut or wound, this spot may go unnoticed by you but later on can possibly develop a bad infection. If you have been cut or had black water touch an open wound, immediately disinfect the wound and apply medical aid as needed.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin deals with flood damage so that you don't have to. If your home has been caught in a flood, call us at (916) 632-2250 for mitigation and restoration services.

Understanding Mold

8/29/2016 (Permalink)

Mold can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation. Molds reproduce by making spores that usually cannot be seen without magnification. Mold spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. Molds gradually destroy the things they grow on. Bacteria can start to grow within hours and mold can start to grow within days. Mold spores can lay dormant for years until an ideal growing condition develops, in which they start to flourish. Especially during the summer, the warm humid conditions are a perfect microenvironment for mold growth.

When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will often occur—particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. It is impossible to eliminate all molds and mold spores in an indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling the moisture. Many types of molds exist. All molds have the potential to cause serious health effects. Molds can produce allergens that can trigger allergic reactions or even asthma attacks in people allergic to it. Others are known to produce potent toxins and/or irritants. Potential health concerns are an important reason to prevent mold growth and to remediate and clean any existing mold growth indoors. The purpose of mold remediation is to remove the mold to prevent human exposure and damage to building materials and furnishings. It is necessary to clean up mold contamination, not just kill it. Dead mold is still allergenic, and some dead molds are still potentially toxic! Applying the appropriate restoration procedures within the first few hours of a water loss can save thousands of dollars in secondary damage.

Before the growth of mold becomes visible, there will be a faint musty or earthy smell. In time, mold will appear on the outside of the wall as a stain or discoloration. In a standard situation, SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin will examine the structure for any visible signs of mold and remove the mold growth and excess spores returning the area back to normal levels. Some situations require the assistance of an Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional (IEP) with specialized equipment and services needed to assess and/or repair the structure. IEPs can test and clear a structure for mold by collecting air and surface samples. Then they can determine whether the mold has been successfully decontaminated. We encourage you to call us today if you suspect a mold problem in your home or business. We handle mold remediation work on a daily basis and know when prompt action is required to prevent further mold growth. SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin technicians are trained to control microbial problems in structures by promptly drying wet or damp materials according to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards and removing or replacing wet or damp porous materials, like drywall, that have visible mold growth. Call today for an immediate response. We are here to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Help Save California from Burning

8/8/2016 (Permalink)

With all the wildfires ravaging California we’d like to offer some helpful tips to assist in keeping our great state safe.

• If you see a wildfire and haven't received evacuation orders yet, call 9-1-1. Don't assume someone else has 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.

• Many communities have text or email alerting systems for emergency notifications. To find out what alerts are available in your area, search the Internet with your town, city, or county name and the word “alerts.”

• 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.

• Regularly clean the roof and gutters.

• Maintain an area approximately 30’ away from you home that is free of anything that will burn, such as wood piles, dried leaves, newspapers and other brush.

• Connect garden hoses long enough to reach any area of the home and fill garbage cans, tubs, or other large containers with water.

• Review your homeowner's insurance policy and also prepare/update a list of your home's contents.

• Before Wildfire season – Make a Wildfire plan

  • Know your wildfire risk.

  • Make a wildfire emergency plan.

  • Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit, including a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.

  • Familiarize yourself with local emergency plans. Know where to go and how to get there should you need to evacuate.

  • Stay tuned to your phone alerts, TV, or radio, for weather updates, emergency instructions or evacuation orders.

For more tips and other helpful information visit https://www.ready.gov/wildfires. If you or your community is affected by a wildfire, or any other type of emergency, call SERPVRO of Auburn/Rocklin today for an immediate response.

Did You Know Water Categories Can Change

7/19/2016 (Permalink)

Water damage can be deceptive. When water sits, time and temperature will affect the Category of the water. According to IICRC Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration (IICRC S500), there are three categories of water that cause damage. They are summarized as follows:

Category 1 Water – That which is clean at the releasing source and does not pose a hazard if consumed by humans. Category 1 water may become progressively contaminated as it mixes with soils on or within floor coverings or building assemblies (walls, decking, and subflooring). Time and temperature, which promote the growth and amplification of microorganisms in water, can cause Category 1 water to degrade. Examples: burst water pipes, failed supply lines on appliances, vertically falling rainwater.

Category 2 Water – That which begins with some degree of contamination and could cause sickness or discomfort if consumed by humans. As with Category 1 water, time and temperature can cause Category 2 water to become progressively more contaminated.

Category 3 Water – That which is highly contaminated and could cause death or serious illness if consumed by humans. Examples: sewage, rising flood water from rivers and streams, ground surface water flowing horizontally into homes.

As shown in the photo, the Category 1 water looks good enough to drink. The Category 2 water, taken only a few days later, has already started to grow bacteria. If you have a water loss, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin right away. We can help get you dry quickly!

Source: http://www.iicrc.org/registrants/industry-perspective/

Keep your hard surface flooring shining bright year round in your business

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

We’ve got commercial properties covered. Although many people view hard flooring as an easier cleanup, it still takes the proper care and maintenance year round to keep it looking presentable and clean. According to the Institute of Inspection of Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the first step to maintaining your hard surface flooring is identifying the type you have. The IICRC states that there are primarily six different categories of hard flooring such as, natural stone, concrete, ceramic, wood, resilient and specialty. Each category may take a different method of cleaning to ensure that it lasts a long lifetime.

Using a walk off mat is critical to keeping dirt and extra contaminants from entering your building and sticking to your flooring. Just as dirt wears down carpet, it also can damage and cause erosion on hard surface flooring. According to the IICRC, five feet of walk off mat will reduce dirt from entering the building by 33% and 25 feet of walk off mat will reduce almost all dirt by time the person has entered your business.

Make sure to clean up spills right upon discovering them. This is not only extremely important for your customers’ safety, but it will also stop a stain or water from causing damage on your flooring. Find the proper cleaning product for the type of flooring you have, mark off the area, clean the spill up and dry the area fully before letting people walk back over the surface.

Vacuuming carpet regularly will help to eliminate dirt build up on carpet and although there is isn’t much material for dirt to build up on with hard surface flooring, the dirt will cause erosion, breaking down the flooring and possibly causing visible damage. Make sure to provide daily maintenance to the surface by mopping, scrubbing and cleaning the area thoroughly after the commercial traffic is done for the day. This will lead to a longer lifespan and will help eliminate replacing the flooring early on.

Last but not least, sometimes it’s nice to treat your flooring to some special treatment. If there are stains or tough to clean spots that have developed over time, this doesn’t always mean that the floor needs to be replaced. Contact SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin to help clean the surface with their specialty equipment.

Source - http://www.iicrc.org/consumers/care/hard-surface-cleaning/

Home & building owners can take steps to prevent mold

7/1/2016 (Permalink)

Intrusion of water into your building can result in mold growth. Water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth.

If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin handles water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time. If your property has sustained recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly. If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, 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.

To control mold growth in your business, I offer you the following tips:

• Repair leaky plumbing and leaks in the foundation of your building

• Reduce moisture with increased surface temperatures or reduced humidity levels in the air. To increase surface temperatures, insulate or increase air circulation. To reduce humidity, repair leaks, increase ventilation if outside air is cold and dry or use a dehumidifier.

• Keep heating, ventilation and air conditioning drip pans clean, flowing properly and unobstructed

• Maintain indoor humidity below 50 percent

• Perform regular inspections and maintenance on buildings and heating and air conditioning equipment

• Clean and dry wet or damp spots within 1-2 days

• Provide adequate drainage around the foundation of your building.  Regularly maintain roof gutters, and ensure that water does not collect near the foundation

• Insulate windows, walls, pipes, roofs, exterior, floors and other cold surfaces to reduce condensation

• Watch your utility bills; an unusually high water bill could signal an interior leaking problem 

If you are sure or suspect that there is mold in your building, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin immediately at (916) 632-2250. The longer you wait to call, the mold growth with continue to spread, resulting in a greater chance of unrecoverable property. SERVPRO professionals have the expertise to prevent or mitigate the devastating effects of mold damage.

Affected by Smoke Damage?

6/23/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke damage can be very destructive to your health and your property. The smoke can leave discoloration, corrosion, and odor all over your household items. It also can affect your health and you should stay away from the damaged area until professionals have cleared it out and it is safe to go back inside. Smoke damage can happen to your property even when it’s not the one affected by the fire. If a neighbor has a fire and your windows were open, or if there is a wild fire in a nearby field; you can still get smoke damage. Our team of experts at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin has the training and equipment to clean and restore your home from any type of smoke damage. We'll treat you and your property with the respect and care it deserves! Call us today!

Protecting your Home from Storm Damage

6/17/2016 (Permalink)

Rain isn’t the only thing leaving its mark on our homes. Springtime may have just passed, but storms are still whipping through cities causing power outages and home damage. According to the National Storm Damage Center (NSDC), damage caused by trees during severe weather account for over $1 billion in property damage. Broken limbs or trees can cause mass amounts of damage to your property if they make contact. Such damage can be done to roofing, siding, windows and even structure to the home, causing lots of expensive repairs. Unfortunately there is no way to stop the unpredictable weather, but there are ways to prevent damage from happening to your home.

Assessing your tree

The National Storm Damage Center insists on trying to keep trees healthy and surviving as long as they’re not posing an immediate threat, but how do we know if the tree is ready to be taken down or not? There are different ways that a tree can be assessed to give you a better answer to that question.

Broken limbs – the larger amount of large limbs that are broken on a tree, the less likely it is to survive or recover from storm damage. This tree is unfortunately probably ready to be taken down.

Amount of limbs broken – A tree showing more than 50% of its limbs broken or damaged means that it will most likely have a difficult time producing leaves in the upcoming season, therefor making it harder for it to survive.

Leader branch – Is the upward-trending branch at the top of the tree broken? Without this branch being intact, it is likely that the tree’s growth will be stunted, making it less likely to survive.

Location – Last, but not least is location. Saving trees is important for our environment, but keeping lives safe is obviously more important to us. The biggest decision on whether to keep a tree in your yard or not is purely the location of the tree. Is it in a location that could cause damage or injury to your home, car or family if it were to break? If so, it is better to be safe than sorry and get it removed before a storm comes through.

If the unthinkable happens and you have a tree or storm damage, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today!

What to Do If You See or Smell Mold Damage in Your Home

6/17/2016 (Permalink)

For the vast majority of homeowners mold damage does appear, at some point, in or around their property. And, a little spot of mold around the bathtub or the shower screen is nothing to be too concerned about. If it can be easily wiped away and does not produce a nasty smell, it is likely to be a good problem. 

However, if you have spotted creeping patches of mold, which has an unpleasant odor, and makes the room feel clammy and uncomfortable, it is time to call in the experts. It could indicate a serious problem with mold damage. If this is the case, it needs to be handled by a professional team who can make sure that the unhealthy material is completely removed. 

Understanding Containment 

The first thing that will happen, after you have consulted a professional mold damage restoration service, is a discussion about containment. This may mean a number of different things, depending on how extensive the mold is and what type of spores you have in your home. If the problem is severe, containment may have to involve you temporarily moving out of the property. 

However, this is quite a rare situation. Most homeowners take action early enough for it to be avoided. Partial containment helps restoration experts limit the mold damage in properties. They seal off the problem area so that movement cannot dislodge and carry mold spores to other parts of the home. It is where heavy duty equipment will be set up to dry, repair, and treat the affected space. 

Getting to Grips with Remediation 

The primary goal of mold remediation is to restore the property to its pre-mold damage condition. In some cases, this will not be possible. If the damage is very extensive, there may be some parts of the building which cannot be saved. This is extremely rare, however, and a skilled mold restoration team is almost always able to bring a home back to full health. 

The thing to remember is that the quicker you address the issue, the better the chance of a full recovery for your property. If you ignore what appears to be chronic mold, you risk the chance of it moving into walls and floors. This is much harder (and much more expensive) to repair, so invest your money in affordable prevention, rather than a costly cure. 

If you would like more information on hiring a mold damage restoration team, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at (916) 632-2250 today. 

How Electrical Sparks Can Trigger a Fire Disaster

6/17/2016 (Permalink)

In 2013, electricity consumption in the United States totaled nearly 3,831 billion kilowatt-hours.

According to the US Department of Energy, people use electricity to charge their cell phones and laptops, wash and dry their clothes, cook meals, brew their morning cup of coffee and heat their businesses. Electrical power keeps people connected and allows people to do what they need to do. Even though most Americans recognize the benefits that come with electrical power, they must also understand that there is a responsibility that needs to be taken seriously to avoid injury or possible disaster.

According to Electrical Safety Foundation International, more than 50,000 fires in the home are attributed to electrical fires. These have resulted in almost 500 deaths and more than 1,400 injuries. The damage that has been done has totaled to more than $1.3 billion. Obviously, being careless with electrical power has very serious consequences.

The experts at SERVPRO recommend that individuals follow these safety measures in their business and home to reduce the risk of electrical fires: 

• Inspect your home and business for loose wires, faulty wiring, and shorts. If there are any issues, contact a qualified electrician. Also, use safety covers on outlets to protect children. 

• Make sure there are smoke detectors on each level of your home or business. Test them each month to make sure they are working properly.

• If electrical equipment is making strange sounds or has a weird odor, turn them off. If there is water damage on your property, make sure that an expert inspects all electrical appliances. Do not plug them in or turn them on until they are safe. When water has damaged electrical appliances, they can be very dangerous.

• Use safe cord practices. When cords are loose, frayed or cracked, repair them or replace them. Never place cords in high traffic areas, under rugs, or stapled to surfaces. Additional outlets can be installed by an electrician if necessary. Extension cords should only be utilized temporarily.

• Light bulb wattage should be correct for the appliance being used.

• During spring cleaning and while working near service meters or electrical lines, use caution. Consider hiring a professional to do the work if it is dangerous.

• Flammable items should be kept away from electrical appliances.

• Consider installing an arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) to reduce the chances of electrical fire in your home.

• Avoid using electrical power tools outside after it has rained, or the area is wet. Never operate electrical equipment while barefoot.

• Do not allow children to climb trees near power lines. Reduce the risk of electrical-related injuries by keeping balloons, kites, and other items away from overhead lines.

Prevention is the best method to keep your family and property safe. If you have experienced property damage because of fire, you can rely on SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin.

Protecting Your Commercial Property From A Fire

6/17/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial fires are often the most devastating reality that a property owner will have to oversee. In addition to wreaking havoc on your property, fires can sometimes force you to relocate temporarily so you can maintain running your business while the restoration process is completed. However, property owners who access and implement high-quality safety practices can often avoid the devastation and destruction that results from commercial fires. Read the brief outline provided below to learn how you can protect your property: 

1. Install Automatic Fire Sprinklers.

As many authorities know, having an automatic fire sprinkler on your property can reduce the risk of fire by up to 71%. Additionally, sprinklers can decrease your insurance premium. To keep your sprinkler in excellent condition, be sure that it is not blocked by dirt or paint. Also, be sure to inspect regularly your main control valve so that it is not left off. Finally, be sure that you take the precautions necessary to prevent the pipe from freezing. 

2. Conduct Fire Emergency Training.

Each of your employees should undergo fire safely training. The training can help prevent your staff members from being victimized. Here are a few subjects that should be covered in the emergency training: 

Hazard Recognition

Keep all combustible chemicals and materials away from heat-generating and electrical equipment. 

Prevention

Inspect your power sources regularly and don't overload your extension cords and outlets. 

Response

Teach your employees how to respond when a fire breaks out. Some subjects that should be covered include how to perform an organized evacuation, operate the fire extinguisher, and set the fire alarm. 

Other issues that could be involved in the training include:

• Breathing Apparatus Training

• Fire Extinguisher Training

• Confined Space Entry Training

• First Aid Training

• General Staff Emergency Awareness Training

• Evacuation Exercise 

Also, be sure that your employee team officials undergo the following fire emergency response training:

• Fire Safety Officer Training

• Fire Safety Adviser Training

• Chief and Deputy Chief Warden Training

• Emergency Control Organization Warden Training

• Spill Response Training

• Lay Flat Hose Training 

Call SERVPRO Immediately

Although accessing, and utilizing, fire prevention measures is crucial and advantageous, there is still a chance that a fire could break out on your commercial property. If this happens, you need to know who to call for fast, efficient restoration services. The company to trust is SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin. We have extensive industry experience and a passion for restoring offices to their original condition. We're ready to assist you immediately, so contact us now at (916) 632-2250.

How to Handle Water Damage

6/17/2016 (Permalink)

You never want to discover water damage in your home, but the unfortunate reality is that many homeowners will have to deal with this problem at some point. Flooding and water damage are the most common because of everything from ruptured pipes to major storms. How you handle the issue is important, and this is because a fast response may minimize the chance of mold growth in your home. There are a few steps that you can take when you discover standing water in your home.

Stop the Flow of Water

In some instances, you will not be able to stop the flow of water into the property. For example, if there is a major flood related to a severe thunderstorm, floodwaters may rise all around the property, and you may not have any way to stop the flow of water. On the other hand, if the flood is related to a damaged pipe in the home, you may be able to turn off the main water valve so that the flow of water has stopped. You can also call a plumber so that the repair work on the pipe can be completed. This is one of the first steps that you should take when you spot the signs of a flood in your property.

Dry Out the Property

If you have water damage in your home, your next step should be to remove the water and dry out the property. These are separate steps that must be taken quickly if you want to prevent the possibility of mold growth in the home. Professional remediation services are available to help you dry out the property faster than a homeowner could on their own. Professionals will use extraction equipment and powerful fans that will suction away water and will remove humidity from the air. These two steps will dry out the property so that the possibility of mold growth is kept to a minimum.

Call for Professional Assistance

Nobody wants to deal with water damage in their home because the moisture can easily lead to mold growth. This can complicate matters and add to the time and expense associated with the repair work. Professional assistance is available to help you overcome the water damage in your home quickly. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is the company to contact when you discover standing water in your home. We are a local company that offers an immediate response to requests for service in the community. Call us today at (916) 632-2250 for 24-hour assistance with your residential water damage issue.

Make sure to Prepare

6/16/2016 (Permalink)

In recent years, many different types of disasters have affected the United States. Flooding, tornados, hurricanes, wildfires and blizzards are natural disasters that can threaten your home, business and community. Your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals want you and your customers to be aware of the steps to take to help prepare for Mother Nature's worst. 

Right now is the perfect opportunity to review your emergency plan. Emergencies can happen unexpectedly in communities just like yours, to people just like you. Tornado outbreaks, river floods, flash floods, historic earthquakes, and even water main breaks and power outages in U.S. cities affecting millions of people for days at a time. 

The more you know about what to do in an emergency, the more confident and secure you will feel in your abilities to manage through a disaster. Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. The best time to plan for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can plan for it. Contact your local SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin for more information and tools to help you be "Ready for whatever happens." 

Professional Mold Testing and Cleanup Services

6/16/2016 (Permalink)

Studies have indicated that there are over 100,000 varieties of mold that can affect a house and the people who live in it. Mold is detrimental to both property and the people living in the property. It can result in rotting away of organic construction material such as walls and ceilings and it can also make people sick.

Thus, mold damage removal or a professional mold cleanup is very important. However, before a mold removal is carried out, the property will first have to be analyzed with mold testing that will determine the extent of mold damage and the type of mold damage.

Only professional mold testing and mold removal contractors will have the right equipment to carry out proper mold spore testing. First, they will conduct a walk through in your property. Mold damage removal contractors usually have a lot of years of experience and they will know exactly where to look for potential mold problems. Common areas that come under attack in a house are ceilings, walls, wall papers and spaces close to wet areas such as sinks or bathtubs. Mold detection can be a little tricky because it can grow in concealed spaces as well. For example, it can grow profusely in the spaces between the walls and an untrained eye could easily miss this mold infestation.

Coming back to mold testing, the contractor will follow up the visual inspection or walk through with an airborne mold checker which will require specialized equipment. Every house will usually have a certain level of mold in the air although it will become a problem once it starts to exceed a certain level. If the airborne tests come up positively, the contractor will further analyze your property to look for areas that will require mold cleanup.

Once the testing has been done, the mold contractor will take up the removal process. He may use chemicals to clean up your property although he may also remove construction material from your home if the mold damage is heavy. It is recommended that you only let a professional carry out the cleanup process as they will know exactly what they are doing. If you were to carry out the cleanup on your own, you run the risk of not cleaning up some areas in your home that will continue to breed mold. Self-restoration and cleanup efforts are also potentially risky as mold can easily affect a person's health if they do not know how to handle mold or if they do not use protective clothing.

Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today if you think you have mold. We are here to help you. 

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Gary_E_Smith/426120

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6017474

Why Do It Yourself Fire Restoration and Water Restoration Is Not Recommended

6/14/2016 (Permalink)

Many homeowners who are confronted with water or fire damage often try to take up restoration efforts on their own. Though it might seem like a great idea at the beginning, one will often find that fire restoration and water restoration is actually quite difficult once they have begun.

Homeowners will often find themselves lacking in two different aspects. They will be found wanting in terms of technical expertise and will secondly be shorthanded when it comes to quality equipment that will be necessary to carry out fire restoration and water restoration. This is explained in more detail below.

Technical aspects of fire and water restoration that might not be common knowledge,

When it comes to fire damage, parts of the house that never came in contact with the fire can still be affected by the smoke emitted from the fire. There are different types of smoke such as fuel oil smoke, protein smoke and a few others. Each type of smoke will have to be treated with different compositions of chemicals if the odor has to be removed. A homeowner might carry out an incomplete restoration process where the odor of smoke will be temporarily eliminated. It can however come back after a few weeks and will require another restoration effort to be carried out.

Water restoration is also equally tricky in the sense that parts of the house untouched by water can still be damaged from the moisture released by the stagnated water. If there is standing water, the water will start to evaporate and turn into moisture that will start to be absorbed by porous construction materials such as ceilings, carpets etc. A water restoration company will use hygrometers to detect moisture levels. They will then use a range of equipment such as water pumps, dehumidifiers and blowers that will rid the property of potentially damaging moisture.

Fire restoration will need the use of various EPA approved chemicals. For example, ozone and other chemicals will have to be used to treat smoke odor. Ozone has to be handled properly and safely and the affected area will have to be isolated before fire restoration with ozone is carried out.

When it comes to water restoration, it is not enough if the water is merely removed and the area just dried up. The source of the water leak will have to be identified and stopped. In some cases, this source might be hard to find and only a contractor will be able to use an infrared camera to find a hidden broken pipe that cannot be seen by the naked eye.

In addition to the above points, hiring a water and fire restoration company is always a good idea as they can also do a very good job in assisting you with the insurance claims process.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Gary_E_Smith/426120

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5964616

We Congratulate The Rocklin Leadership Graduates

6/10/2016 (Permalink)

The Rocklin Chamber is pleased to honor the graduates of this year’s Leadership Rocklin class. This is one of the Chamber’s premier programs, Leadership Rocklin provides individuals and future community leaders with the opportunity to learn in-depth what makes Rocklin such and exceptional city. The program is recognized by businesses, employers and decision-makers as an important part of a leader’s preparation to serve in our community. At a breakfast, in their honor, the graduating members of this year’s leadership program shared what they have gained from participation.

Among the graduates is our very own Ruth Griffith, owner of SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin. She has been truly moved by her participation and can be quoted as saying “I highly recommend the Leadership Rocklin Class. Learning about our community and meeting the leaders who help make Rocklin a great place to live has inspired me to be more involved in our community.”

Enrollment is now open for 2016-2017 Leadership Rocklin, which begins in September. Those interested in participating should contact the Chamber as soon as possible. Ruth is honored to be joining the steering committee for the upcoming class. Ask now for more information.

We Have A Winner To Our Monthly Newsletter Trivia Contest

6/8/2016 (Permalink)

Congratulations David LeClair with Gladding Ridge Assisted Living and Memory Care! You won our Newsletter Trivia Contest! You and a guest will be attending a River Cats Game. Have fun!

Are you prepared for a power outage?

6/8/2016 (Permalink)

You may need to survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours or it might take days. Depending on the nature of the disaster, road conditions may prevent help from arriving in a timely manner.

Additionally, basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment and telephones may be cut off for days or even a week, or longer. Your supplies kit should contain items to help you manage during these outages.  If the power goes out keep your pipes from freezing by shutting off the valve that allows water to come into your home. Then, open any drain valves and all faucets and let them run until the pipes are empty (it's helpful to identify these valves in advance). Next, flush all toilets and pour denatured alcohol into toilets and sinks to prevent water in the traps from freezing. Do NOT use automotive antifreeze in case there's trouble with your water system; you don't want the antifreeze to contaminate your drinking water. You may, however, use nontoxic antifreeze that's made for winterizing motor homes.

Be prepared for a power outage by keeping necessary items centrally located in your home. Take the time to ensure that everyone in your family is aware of the "kit." Periodically check your kit to see that batteries operate properly. The following is a list of items that are suggested to keep on hand:

1. Flashlights for each family member

2. Battery-operated radio and clock

3. Extra batteries

4. Containers of bottled water

5. Canned, freeze-dried or dehydrated food, powdered milk, baby supplies for infants

6. Non-electric can opener

7. List of important phone numbers

8. First-aid kit

Following a disaster, there may be power outages that could last for several days. Stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils. The following items are suggested when selecting emergency food supplies. You may already have many of these on hand.

• Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

• Choose foods your family will eat.

• Remember any special dietary needs.

• Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.

• Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.

• Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and a can opener

• Protein or fruit bars

• Dry cereal or granola

• Peanut butter

• Dried fruit

• Nuts

• Crackers

• Canned juices

• Non-perishable pasteurized milk

• High energy foods

• Vitamins

• Food for infants

• Comfort/stress foods

When bad weather strikes your area, knowing what to do until help arrives will make a difference!

SERVPRO Treats Your Home With The Utmost Respect And Care

6/6/2016 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, we make it our mission to always treat your home and belongings with the utmost respect and care. Whether you have water, mold, or fire damage, know that you can count on us to quickly clean and restore your precious home in a timely manner. We won't stop working until you feel at ease. It's what we do! Call today (916) 632-2250

Commercial Services Disaster Clean Up and Restoration

6/2/2016 (Permalink)

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

• Small Office Buildings

• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings

• Apartment Buildings

• Restaurants

• Hotel/Motels

• Small Retail Stores

• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores

• High-Rise Residential

• Manufacturing & Industrial

• Government/Military

• Universities

• Schools

• Restaurants

• Commercial Disaster Recovery Services 

We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to get your business back up and running. Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying. We are also your business’s best resource for mold remediation. Learn more about our commercial restoration services by calling SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at 916-632-2250.

Flood Restoration Services: A Brief Overview

5/31/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding can result in extensive water damage; it is one of the most debilitating disasters that can transpire in your home. Although water is deemed one of our primary needs, it can also function as a destructive force that presents serious threats to your property and life. Water damage can take on many forms, and you will always need a professional to determine accurately the extent of the water damage to your property. For this reason, it is important and advantageous for homeowners affected by flooding to obtain professional flood restoration services. To learn more about flood damage and how restoration specialists can assist you, refer to the following guide:

Preventing Mold and Mildew Growth

As SERVPRO experts know, one of the most profound problems that can result from flood damage is the growth and proliferation of mold. Mold thrives in humid, damp conditions, and this is why homes that have been subjected to flooding can quickly become a breeding ground for the fungus. Flood restoration specialists are effective in eradicating mold issues by offering detail-oriented, results-centered cleanup services.

Preventing Damage to Electrical Systems

In addition to preventing mold growth, flood restoration specialists can help preclude extensive damage to your home's electrical systems. Unfortunately, electrical systems exposed to water can begin to malfunction. The malfunctions can lead to fire or electrocution. Additionally, electrical systems that have been subjected to flood damage can generate house fires. Professional flood restoration specialists utilize advanced remediation skills to prevent these destructive cycles from gaining traction.

Contact SERVPRO Today

When a flood has damaged your residential property, attaining professional flood restoration services is a must. When you begin searching for the ideal company to assist you, be sure to contact the experts of SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin. Our company utilizes contemporary methodologies and cutting edge equipment to get your home back in absolutely amazing shape. Contact us now to learn more about how we can help you restore your home! 

Preventing Water Damage in Your Home

5/27/2016 (Permalink)

When you think about residential water damage, you might dream up images of torrential rain or other natural catastrophes. However, the reality, unfortunately, is that damage which is caused when regular appliances in your home stop working properly, this can be just as destructive as a weather event which is severe. Water damage makes up for losses to renters and homeowners in the billions of dollars each year. It is responsible as well for around twenty-five percent of all insurance claims. Water is ten times more likely to damage your home than a fire.

There are fortunately steps you can make to help avoid water damage from appliances and keep your home protected. Understanding some of the common causes of water damage is helpful, and these can include leaking air condition condensation drains, baseboard heating, and failed washing machine hoses, water heaters, and plumbing.

There are not always warning signs offered by these household appliances until the damage has happened already. This is why it is important to check them regularly. The steps below are simple and can help protect your home from the causes of water damage which are most common.

-Know first where your main water supply is in case of an emergency
-If you’re going away for an extended amount of time, shut the water supply off and drain the pipes. If your house has a fire sprinkler system, however, do not turn the water off, and keep enough heat in the home to avoid any freezing up.
-Think about getting your air conditioning system regularly inspected by a professional. The drain lines should be checked annually and clean them out if they get clogged.
-Inspect showers, water heaters, toilets, tubs, dishwashers and sinks annually, and get them repaired if there are any signs of corrosion or leaks. Install water heaters when possible in areas with floor drains to lower damage if leaks do occur.
-Check the caulking around bathtubs, showers, toilet bases and sinks, and if needed make repairs.
-If there is an ice machine or water dispenser on your refrigerator, the hose between the refrigerator and wall should be constructed of braided copper, since this has a greater resistance to corrosion and cracking.
-Check your pipes for leaks and cracks. Have any damage to pipes, have them immediately fixed to avoid repairs in the future that are even more costly.
-Check plumbing fittings and appliance hoses for crimping, breakage or bending.

Sometimes, even after all your precaution, residential water damage can still occur. If this happens to you, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today (916) 632-2250!

A Water Leak Can Turn Into A Mold Issue Very Fast

5/25/2016 (Permalink)

This is what happens when you try to clean up a water loss on your own. Our client had a water pipe leak in her finished basement. Since she didn’t go down there very often she thought she had cleaned up all the water and everything that had gotten wet. However because she didn’t know how deep the water had spread she didn’t realize drying was necessary. When we arrived it had been two weeks after the original water disaster – as you can see the mold spread and grew very fast and our client didn’t even know it had happened. Call the experts at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin to get immediate service that is done right the first time and avoid the mold growth seen here. We work to make it “Like it never even happened”

Emergency Ready Plan for Your Commercial Business? We Can Help You

5/23/2016 (Permalink)

If you run a small or big business, your number one priority is protecting the physical structure of your property to ensure that the doors remain open. While there are many things that you'll need to protect your business against, commercial fire damage can be your most formidable foe. If you want to make a fire or water emergency preparedness plan for your business, you need to add a restoration company that you know and trust. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin will work day and night to get your business back up and running quickly and efficiently. We don't mess around when it comes to your business. We'll immediately respond to your emergency needs and work around the clock to get your property back in order! Call us for information. (916) 632-2250

We Are Leaders In The Storm Industry - Call Today!

5/20/2016 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, we are leaders in the storm and water damage industry. We have a tremendous amount of hands-on experience, training, and expertise to quickly restore your property back to its pre-storm condition. Whether you have experienced a tree falling on your property or severe water damage from heavy rains, we have the knowledge to take care of it quickly and efficiently. We are available 24 hours a day, so even in the middle of the night we are here for you and your home. We'll treat you and your property with the respect and care it deserves. So if your property has sustained water or storm damage, you already know who to call – SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin (916) 632-2250. No property or damage is too big or small for us!

Skunk Spray You? Here's a Tip To Help

5/19/2016 (Permalink)

Skunks are cute, but not the unbearable scent they give off! If ever you find yourself (or your pet) sprayed by one, combine Coca-Cola with the bath water to help remove the stench.

Indoor Pests: Dust Mites & How To Deal With Them

5/18/2016 (Permalink)

Get to know this pesky pest and learn how you can have a healthier home.

You may not know it but chances are your home is filled with dust mites. Dust mites are small, microscopic creatures that live inside our homes and can be the source of allergies for some people. Although you cannot see them with the naked eye, they are literally everywhere: it is estimated that 80% of household dust is comprised of dust mites (alive or dead) and their waste. For many people dust mites are quite harmless. But for some people with allergies or asthma, dust mites (technically their feces) can make symptoms worse, especially when sleeping. Here are some facts about dust mites and how to keep them under control in your home.

Facts about dust mites

Dust mites have eight legs and are part of the arthropod family. They prefer warm temperatures (ideally 68-77 degrees Fahrenheit) and slightly humid conditions (ideally 70-80 percent). Dust mites primarily feed off of the dead flakes of skin that humans shed every day and can create up to 20 droppings (feces) per mite per day. Skin flakes can be found everywhere in our homes like our beds, carpeting, furniture and our ventilation system. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), a human sheds about 1.5 grams of skin a day, enough to fees one million dust mites. Children, those suffering from respiratory issues, people suffering from eczema, asthma or allergies can be more prone to the negative effects of dust mites. Even dogs and cats can suffer!

Managing the dust mite problem in your home

It’s nearly impossible to completely rid your home of dust mites, and many, if not most, homes have them. But there are ways to combat and control the situation.

1. Be rigorous in your cleaning and vacuuming; dust and clean regularly and thoroughly

2. Reduce humidity levels to about 50% to discourage dust mite population

3. Treat affected areas with an anti-dust mite application

Studies have shown that more skin is shed in the bedrooms of your home. Combine this food source with the amount of sweat and fluids left in the mattress while you sleep and you could have the perfect conditions for a dust mite population in your mattress. So if you were to pick one room in your home to attack, start with the bedroom and more specifically, start with your mattress. If you have severe dust mite allergies consider wearing a mask while doing the below tasks as moving the dust around can exacerbate allergies. Here are some ways you can help keep dust mites under control:

Anti-dust mite formulas: Also known as a miticide or acaricides (a pesticide that kills members of the arachnid subclass Acari, which includes ticks and mites). Some acaricides are toxic to humans, like the synthetic benzylbenzoate and tannic acid, and caution is advised. The use of non-toxic, plant-based acaricides has been studied and one study in particular showed that the essential oil of clove was as effective at killing mites as benzylbenzoate. These miticides are usually sprayed on surfaces (like mattresses or upholstery); be sure to fully read the directions before application.

Beds and bed linens: It is recommended to wash your bed linens once a week in hot water (at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit) to kill any dust mites. While the sheets are off the bed, spray the mattress with a dust mite spray. After, use the upholstery attachment to your vacuum cleaner to clean up the mattress. Pillows that cannot be washed can be placed in the freezer for an hour. Purchase mattress and pillow covers designed to prohibit dust mites from entering and settling inside (they should have a thread count of 246 per square inch and a pore size of between 2-10 microns). You may also want to look into alternate mattress and pillow protectors. A Belgium-based company have tested and devised a mattress pad that utilizes microcapsules that release probiotics. These probiotics feed on the feces of the dust mite, essentially removing the allergens.

Flooring: Although carpeting makes our home cozy, it can be a huge source of allergens for some people. Regularly vacuuming the carpeting and rugs with a HEPA filter-type vacuum will help control indoor allergens like pet dander, pollen dirt and dust mites. Wear a mask while vacuuming if bothered by dust. Hard flooring doesn’t allow dust mites to penetrate under the surface, however dust, pollen and lint can easily float up from the surface and into the air (compared with carpeting that can hold on to debris). The key to keeping dust mites in control is to regularly clean all flooring surfaces.

Furniture: Like your carpeting, vacuuming your upholstered furniture and removing dust and debris will help make your indoor air quality better. The AAFA reminds us that dust mites can settle deep into cushions so you will most likely not be able to remove them completely. Regularly dusting wood or other solid surfaces with a wet microfiber cloth is the best way to trap dust in the cloth and not just spread dust around.

Dust mites and indoor air quality

People can have reactions, like an allergic reaction, to the bodies of dust mites but also their waste. Sneezing, stuffy nose, itchy eyes and post nasal drip can all be symptoms of a dust mite allergy. As these dust mite bodies are lightweight, they can easily be disturbed while vacuuming or moving furniture around. Becoming airborne means they can easily travel throughout the home, including the ventilation system.

Why you need to be concerned about indoor air quality

Allergies and asthma can all be triggered by poor indoor air quality like dust mites, pollen, and other issues like pet dander. In America, 22.9 million people are affected by asthma and 6.8 million of these are children. Each year over 2 million people end up in the emergency room due to an asthma attack. It is known that asthma attacks can be triggered by waste from dust mites, cockroaches or other pests as well as environmental triggers like pollution and smoking.

Dust mites contribute to an unhealthy environment, just like lead paint, mold, mice droppings, cockroaches, carbon monoxide, and other toxic or biological factors. Knowing how to address these unhealthy issues, like indoor air quality, is incredibly important.

By Anne Reagan published 5/17/16 in porch.com

Something Social This Way Comes!

5/17/2016 (Permalink)

"First and foremost, 'THANK YOU!' and 'GREAT JOB!' goes out to the April Education Seminar presenter Ruth Griffith, of SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin."

"Ruth addressed the difficult subject of mold in the insurance industry and educated the group on its origins, removal, remediation, and possible prevention. In fact, Ruth's presentation was so mesmerizing, several attendees actually drank an organic cleaner and claimed it tasted like pizza! Thank you again to Ruth and to all the SCA folks in attendance."

Written by Steve Moore, PE, CASp, 2016 SCA President published in the Sacramento Claims Association News Network May 2016 newsletter

Grilling? Watch Out For Fires

5/17/2016 (Permalink)

Warmer weather usually signals the start of grilling season. But did you know that each year almost 9,000 home fires are started by grilling accidents? Be safe out there folks!

Old-Fashioned Housekeeping Tips That Still Work – and Why

5/16/2016 (Permalink)

Home styles and trends have certainly changed over the decades, and unless you actually enjoy washing clothes and dishes by hand, improvements in home technology have made housekeeping tasks faster and less time consuming.  But did you know that many of our best, most trusted, most effective housekeeping tips are over a century (or more) old? Here are some tried and true old-fashioned housekeeping tips that you’ll want to try in your own home.

1. Baking soda

History: For baking, gentle cleaning and odor removal, nothing beats baking soda. This water soluble powder, usually found in the baking or cleaning section of your grocery store, is inexpensive and versatile. Baking soda’s chemical makeup is sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) and in nature it is found as nahcolite, a derivative of natron. The history of this mineral is lengthy: Ancient Egyptians used this mineral to create the paste for hieroglyphics. In 1846 two bakers in New York, Dr. Austin Church and John Dwight, started manufacturing and selling sodium bicarbonate. Their partnership eventually became the company we now know as Arm & Hammer. Although it was originally promoted for its uses in baking, baking soda was quickly adapted for money-saving personal care and other uses, like gently removing stains and odors, and became a trusted member of the household. In 1986 the copper-lined inside of the Statue of Liberty, which was covered in 100 years’ worth of coal tar, was cleaned with baking soda!

Uses: You probably already use baking soda when baking cookies, muffins or cakes. You can easily make cleaning solutions with baking soda and apply it to your sink, bathtub or oven to remove spots and stains. Baking soda easily removes coffee stains from your daily mug and can make glassware brighter. Many find that a bit of baking soda in the laundry helps remove odors and stains. Baking soda is really good at removing odors so sprinkle it on your carpeting or inside your dishwasher, or place an open jar inside the refrigerator, freezer or closet. You can even use baking soda as a toothpaste and denture cleaner.

2. Lemons

History: The exact origin of the lemon plant isn’t exactly known but it’s thought to have originated in northern India or southern China. As world trade expanded so did the lemon, and became prized for its use in medicines, like the treatment of scurvy, and is an important plant in Ayurvedic medicine. The pH of a lemon is low, making it acidic, and the flavor is sour. This fruit quickly adapted to various culinary regions, becoming a feature on the tables of Europe, the Middle East, the Mediterranean, and the New World.

Uses: Lemons are an incredibly versatile fruit and you probably already use it in your cooking and baking. After squeezing out the juice of a lemon, toss that leftover peel down the garbage disposal for a quick, refreshing scent. Sprinkle salt on half a lemon and use it to clean and brighten your copper pots. Rub a lemon half over stainless steel or brass to remove spots. Toss part of a lemon in a bowl of water and heat it in the microwave to remove caked on spills and deodorize the inside. The juice of a lemon (one lemon has about 3 tablespoons of juice) can help dissolve grease and grime. The essential oils of a lemon are considered to be antibacterial, can be used as an insecticide, can be used as a wood furniture polish, and the scent can help make any room smell fresh and clean.

3. Vinegar

History: Vinegar has been used throughout history. Traces of vinegar have been found in Egypt dating back to 3000 BCE and may have been used to fight bacteria. Many ancient cultures used vinegar for food preservation, medicinal purposes, as cleaning agents, and as a food enhancer. There are all sorts of colors and flavors of vinegar, from the dark, thick balsamic to the cloudy, orange apple cider. There is malt vinegar, fruit vinegar, rice vinegar, cane vinegar, wine vinegar, and many other varieties. Essentially vinegar is the result of fermentation of ethanol, and consists of acetic acid, water and sometimes flavoring.

Uses: Vinegar has long been used for good health, preservation of food and for cleaning and today many homeowners rely upon vinegar to perform a host of jobs around the house. Vinegar is acidic and can easily etch or leave marks on natural stone like marble. For cleaning around the home try using distilled white vinegar.  Simply pour it on a dry cloth and rub it on stainless steel to remove fingerprints or spots. You can use this same method to clean the inside of your washing machine and dishwasher, particularly the rubber gaskets and seals. Mixed with water it makes an excellent cleaning liquid for flooring or other surfaces like glass. Use it as a rinse in your coffee maker to remove oily coffee residue. Vinegar can remove odors too. Try boiling a tablespoon in a pot of water to remove household smells or place an open bowl of vinegar in a stinky cupboard or fridge. Vinegar can remove sticky residue, like a sticker or tag that won’t come off.  You probably remember this from science class: mixing vinegar with baking soda will produce an effervescent effect and can be a great combination to battle dirty dishes and also works well as a drain un-clogger (follow this up with some boiling hot water down the drain).

4. Salt

History: Salt is comprised of sodium and chloride (NaCl) and in the days before refrigeration, salt became the leading method to preserving foods. Historically and economically, salt was a prized possession throughout many cultures. Salt was so valuable in ancient Rome that soldiers were sometimes paid in salt (the Latin word for salt is sal, which is where we get the word “salary”). Dozens of expressions have derived from this mineral. “Worth his weight in salt,” “salt of the earth,” “take it with a grain of salt,” and “to sit above the salt” are all recognizable phrases we still use today.  Salt would have been a featured object on a table, but only placed closest to the head of the table. And salt was a common gift to bring someone to their new home. Whole geographic areas in Europe were named after salt mining, like Saltzburg, Austria, the salt road in Italy (via Salaria), and in Britain the suffix “wich” means a place of salt or brine.

Uses: Salt is abrasive and is a perfect weapon against caked on, baked on grime or grease. Sprinkle it on a cutting board to thoroughly remove debris, or sprinkle in your mugs to remove coffee or tea stains. Salt is absorbent and can help soak up wine spills or other stains on fabrics or fibers. Use salt to melt ice, use it in the wash load to remove perspiration stains, or remove lime buildup in the sink. Sprinkle salt on a lemon half and use it to scrub and polish copper. Sprinkle salt on the windowsill to deter ants.

5. Leftovers: Recycling & Reusing

History: You might think that composting and recycling is a new idea however it wasn’t that long ago that households reused or recycled nearly everything. If you lived on a farm, or had property, you’d most likely feed your leftover food scraps to the animals or place them in the ground. City dwellers in England would rely upon the rag and bone man to buy leftover goods that weren’t reused or recycled. Victorian households had a surprising lack of waste – much of this can be attributed to lack of food waste (no food was ever wasted), reusable packaging (no plastic), buying only what the household needed (no electronics replaced every few years), and lack of sanitary department to pick up rubbish (higher motivation to reuse). Mending was both economical and earth friendly and belongings tended to have a longer life cycle.  Ancient Greece actually had a ruling about dumping waste outside the city limits as far back as 500 BC and Londoners regularly needed to revisit public dumping laws due to outbreaks of cholera and concerns for public health. New York City was among the first cities in America to create a formalized garbage management system in 1895, but other cities took longer to organize sanitation departments. Fortunately for households today we have opportunities to turn leftovers and garbage into useful products both outside and inside the home.

Uses: It’s a smart idea to get to know your city’s policies on rubbish and recycling; your yard waste bin, for example, might also collect food scraps. And your recycling bin may accept more types of plastic than you think. There are many leftovers in your home that you might already be reusing like glass jars, egg cartons or newspaper, which can be used for all sorts of ways in the home. Don’t forget the more “old fashioned” ways of using leftovers, like saving old linens, towels and clothing for cleaning rags or polishing projects. Try using old toothbrushes for cleaning hard-to-reach areas of the home or car. Soot or ashes from the fireplace can be spread in the yard as a nutritious additive, so can your used coffee grounds or eggshells. Seashells make excellent scraping tools, lemon rinds can be used to deodorize your kitchen sink, and newspapers can be used to clean your windows.

6. Oil & fats

History: Using all parts of the animal was how our ancestors lived, and it was common practice to use the hide, bones and fat for all sorts of household uses. Animal fat helped illuminate homes until natural gas, then electricity, became common. Animal fat was also used to make soap, protect the skin, seal containers, protect clothing from water and many other uses. Technological advancements may have replaced our animal fat usage however our homes still need, from time to time, the coating and lubrication that oil provides. Olive oil, made from the fruit of the olive tree, was thought to have been produced in the Mediterranean as far back as 6000 BC. Coconuts have long been used by the peoples of Asia and the Pacific for thousands of years. Both oils were historically used for a multitude of purposes: food, medicinal, personal health, beauty, fuel, and in religious ceremonies. Today we don’t have to rely upon animal fat to illuminate our home, and it’s easier than ever to purchase olive and coconut oils.

Uses: You can use both types of oils around the home for many purposes (other than cooking or baking). A thin coating of olive oil over your stainless steel refrigerator can help keep off fingerprints. Coconut oil does a great job seasoning your cast iron skillets or BBQ grates. A bit of oil or fat can help unstick a zipper, take the squeak out of a door hinge and makes drawers roll smoothly. A small amount of olive oil on a dry cloth can help polish wood furniture (add some lemon essential oil and it will smell better than Pledge). Rub your garden tools (like shovels) with oil to keep them in good condition. Your shoes will look a bit shinier with a homemade oil polish.  Coat your measuring cup with oil to prevent sticky substances, like molasses, from sticking. Both of these oils work well for the body as well. Use them as moisturizers for the hair or skin, use them for treating irritated or cracked skin, or use it to remove makeup. Sticky bandaids come off much easier when the adhesive is rubbed with oil.

By Anne Regan published 5/10/16 on porch.com

Have A Disaster? Call Us Today

5/13/2016 (Permalink)

24-Hour Emergency Service; is our business, you need us fast! Professionals are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Our trained mitigation specialists are equipped to restore your property to pre-loss condition whenever possible and will walk you through the process until the work and your satisfaction are complete.

From large commercial environments to small residential losses, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin understands your loss is the job that matters most!

It’s best to call us directly at (916) 632-2250

How to Get Rid of Water Rings on Wood With Mayo

5/12/2016 (Permalink)

Your fine wood coffee table now has a water ring from somebody setting down an icy-cold drink without a coaster, or your cedar chest has a water mark from over-watering a plant. Mayonnaise is a traditional remedy for getting rid of water rings on wood. The sooner you apply the mayo, the easier time you'll have getting the water mark off, but this substance works even on long-time water rings on wood.

By Shelley Moore published in ehow.com

Do you know what to do if your cooking oil catches fire?

5/11/2016 (Permalink)

A grease fire happens when your cooking oil becomes too hot. When heating, oils first start to boil, then they'll start smoking, and then they'll catch on fire. Most vegetable oils have a smoking point around 450°F, while animal fats like lard or goose fat will start smoking around 375°F.

If the worst happens and your oil does catch on fire, do the following:

• Turn the Heat Off - Don't try to move the pot. You might accidentally splash yourself or your kitchen with burning oil. And that would be bad.
• Cover the Pot with a Metal Lid - Fire cannot exist in the absence of oxygen. With the lid on (and the heat off), the fire should quickly consume all the oxygen and put itself out. Use a metal lid since glass will shatter.
• Pour on Baking Soda - Baking soda will extinguish grease fires, but only if they're small. It takes a lot of baking soda to do the job.
• Spray the Pot with a Class B Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher - This is your last resort, as fire extinguishers will contaminate your kitchen. Still, it's better than the alternative if the fire is getting out of control.
• Get Out and Call 911 - If the fire does break out of control, don't try to be a hero. Get out and find a phone to call 911.

Whatever you do, DO NOT do the following:

• Do Not Use Water - Pouring water can cause the oil to splash and spread the fire. The vaporizing water can also carry grease particles in it, also spreading the fire.
• Do Not Move the Pot or Carry It Outside - Throwing the pot outside might seem logical in the frenzy of the moment. But trying to move the pot might splash burning oil on you, your home, and anything outside.
• Do Not Throw Any Other Baking Product On the Fire - Flour might look like baking soda, but it won't react the same. Only baking soda can help put out a grease fire.

Phew, now that we're clear on all of that, hopefully you'll never be in a situation where you have to actually use this advice. Be safe, fellow cooks!  In case you were wondering, this is a real photo of a home after someone used water to try and put out a grease fire.  Be safe, and make sure you also pass this news on to teenagers who might be cooking as well.  In case you are in need of restoration services, we are always on call to help you.  Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin at (916) 632-2250.

After the Firemen have left, What are you to do with the mess?

5/10/2016 (Permalink)

The cost of smoke and fire damage restoration depends on a few variables even after the source is subdued.

Soot, when left on surfaces can corrode and permanently discolor in the span of a few hours. If left for days, the issues can become irreparable and require the replacement of furniture, floor coverings, counter tops, and much more.

Beyond the soot; Burnt smells frequently linger, which make odor neutralization another important part of the process.

What many people don’t consider until they’ve experienced a fire first hand is the effects of the water used to put the fire out.  Parts of the structure and the contents that weren’t damaged by the fire itself may be adversely affected by the water and if not cleaned and dried quickly will need to be discarded and run the risk of mold growth.

In order for smoke damage restoration to be most effective, the job should be approached as soon as possible by a professional in mitigation. Trained technicians can remove and neutralize odors, and quickly identify which items may be able to be restored.

Smoke, ash, and water all contribute to the devastation, so having someone with the proper training is crucial. SERVPRO technicians with certifications in Fire and Smoke Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Fabric and Upholstery Cleaning, Odor Control, Mold Remediation and Prevention, and Applied Structural Drying will have all the skills necessary to salvage and return rooms to a previous state. The more we restore the less that needs to be replaced. This helps our clients save millions of dollars each year!

We Attended The Hooked On Fishing Event

5/9/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin had the opportunity to attend a wonderful event to help local under privileged children. Owners Ruth Griffith and Dan Allen were among the volunteers at the Hooked On Fishing event. Ruth and Dan helped to show the children how to bait a hook, cast the line and bring in the fish. They spent the morning and afternoon talking and working with the children. They enjoyed lunch together that was all donated. The event took place at a wonderful location, Ride-to-Walk in Lincoln, CA, which is an organization that works with children and young adults with disabilities through therapeutic horseback riding activities. Participating in local events like this one is what owners of SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin Ruth and Dan really look forward to. They love to volunteer for their community and be involved in helping to shape the future leaders from our area.

SERVPRO’s Document Restoration Services After A Water Damage

5/9/2016 (Permalink)

When faced with a fire or flood, much more than the structure becomes affected. Everything, including furniture, electronics, and even important documents may need attention. A couple of years ago while thinking of ways to help serve our customers better, SERVPRO® decided to invest in a vacuum freeze-drying chamber that can recover important documents and other media. This allows Franchises, like SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin, to offer an additional restoration service to our clients, while also “Keeping it Green.” Since conception, SERVPRO® has performed a tremendous amount of work, drying out everything from financial records and engineering drawings to photo albums and vintage Barbie doll boxes.

Wet documents can be found on any jobsite; whether it’s a family bible or pictures at a residential water loss or legal documents, medical files, or government papers at a commercial water loss. SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin offers cleaning, digitizing, sterilization (through gamma irradiation), deodorizing, trimming, refile jacketing, and certified destruction services. Even on category 3 losses or items affected by microbial growth, the drying chamber can help recover those items.

The drying chamber can dry almost 800 cubic feet of documents in each cycle. The standard run time for that size of a load is about 4-8 days depending on the nature of the items and the amount of moisture that is in them. The drying chamber team is available 24/7, 365 days a year to assist with customer concerns, HIPAA certifications, proper shipping, and the drying process. SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin looks forward to helping you, and our communities.

Build Shutter Planters And Add A Colorful Accent To Your Patio

5/6/2016 (Permalink)

Build shutter planters to add a burst of glorious color to your patio or porch. We used ordinary window shutters and terra cotta pots, but you can recycle old shutters and planter pots you might have lying around. Here’s a step-by-step tutorial creating your own colorful shutter planters.

Step 1

Using scissors cut the tape into ¼-in. strips.

Tape a strip around the flower pot half way down the pot.

Measure a distance then tape another strip around the pot.

Step 2

Paint the top part of the flower pot with two coats of the first paint color. Take the tape off after you finish painting.

*Let the paint dry completely between coats.

Step 3

Paint the bottom of the flower pot with one coat of another paint color. Take the tape off after you finish painting.

*Let the paint dry completely.

Step 4

Paint the shutters with two coats of three new colors.

*Let the paint dry completely.

Optional

Add a personal touch to your hanging pots by braiding twine or thin rope and attach to the pot!

By Plaid Paint published 3/29/16 in homedepot.com

Extension Cords Improperly Used Can Be A Major Fire Hazard

5/5/2016 (Permalink)

Did you know that unrestricted use of extension cords is a major fire hazard? The risk of fire increases when multiple appliances are all plugged into a single extension cord, which creates excessive power load on a single socket. Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin if you experience fire damage in your home or business. We are here to Help!

We Have A Winner To Our Monthly Newsletter Trivia Contest

5/4/2016 (Permalink)

Congratulations Anna Calio with State Farm! You won our Newsletter Trivia Contest! You and your guest will be attending the Rocklin Brew Fest on June 4th! All proceeds benefit the South Placer Rotary Charitable Foundation.

Have A Cast Iron Pan? Here Are Some Do’s and Don’ts of Cleaning It

5/3/2016 (Permalink)

Discover the few simple secrets that can help you clean and care for your cast-iron cookware. So, what are you waiting for? Break out that old skillet and get cooking! Use a well-seasoned cast-iron cookware once, and chances are that you’re hooked for life. More than simply a nontoxic, nonstick, durable, and long lasting material, cast iron also boasts even larger advantages that at-home chefs adore, such as even heating and flavor enhancement. While that long list of benefits may make switching to cast iron seem like the obvious choice, a few downsides slow homeowners from doing so—namely the confusion surrounding its care and cleaning. But don’t let that scare you off from investing in kitchen mainstays that can last years—even generations—to come. We’ve simplified its maintenance into a series of crucial do’s and don’ts to ensure that you get the longest, most productive use from your cast-iron cookware

DO season your new cast-iron cookware before you use it.

Even if a new pan is advertised as nonstick or preseasoned, you should give it a good seasoning before its first use. This process involves baking oil into the pan or skillet at a high temperature to seal the cast iron, ultimately protecting the pan from moisture and rendering it nonstick. In the words of the Lodge Cast Iron website, “The more you cook, the better it gets.”

To season your cookware, preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven warms, wash and thoroughly dry the skillet. Then, using a paper towel, apply a thin coating of vegetable oil to the inside and outside of the skillet. But beware: Too much oil will make the pan sticky, so keep your coating light. Place the skillet upside down in the oven on the middle rack, and lay a sheet of aluminum foil over the bottom rack to catch any drips. Bake for one hour, then turn off the oven and allow the skillet to cool completely before removing it.

DON’T send cast-iron cookware through the dishwasher.

Putting your cookware in the dishwasher or using harsh detergents or abrasive scrubs will break down the seasoning, removing the nonstick coating and flavor-enhancing properties of your cast iron.

DO clean your skillet as soon as you’re done cooking.

If you’re a “leave it in the sink to soak overnight” kind of cook, cast-iron cookware isn’t for you. Rinse your pan while it’s still warm (not too hot) as soon as you’re done cooking. If you need to dislodge cooked-on food, try using a credit card instead of a store-bought scraper to gently remove the residue. A handful of sea salt, a touch of vegetable oil, and a plastic scouring pad or poly dish scrubber will scrub off what’s left. Rinse the pan with water and dry immediately.

DON’T let it stay wet.

Cast iron is still, after all, iron, and iron rusts when exposed to water for too long. For that reason, leave wet tasks like boiling water to your other cookware, and let your cast iron tackle the searing, baking, frying, and other non-water-based cooking. When it’s time to wash your wares, dry cast iron immediately after in order to prevent rust and to preserve the nonstick surface.

DO reseason if your pan feels sticky, loses its nonstick properties, or looks gray.

Cast iron needs to be reseasoned on occasion, and the signs that the time has come are easy to spot. To reseason your pan, scrub it thoroughly with a touch of dish soap and a plastic scrub brush, dry it completely, then season it just as you would before a first use. Because it can remove the seasoned nonstick coating, soap is not recommended as a regular cleaner, but it can be used to prepare cast iron just prior to reseasoning.

DON’T throw out your pan if it develops rust.

Clean off all rust with a metal scouring pad or fine steel wool, then wash the pan thoroughly using water, a soft brush, and a small amount of soap—if you feel you must use soap at all. Rinse and dry the pan immediately then reseason the pan as if you’re seasoning it before a first use.

With proper care, cast-iron cookware can last 100 years or more. If you haven’t fallen in love with your cast-iron cookware yet, forget about the seasoning and cleaning challenges and just start cooking. It’s really hard to mess up a cast-iron skillet for good. Scrubbing and reseasoning can almost always give cast-iron cookware a new life and provide a second chance for cooks who are just getting to know their cookware.

By Cara Stevens published 3/28/16 in bobvila.com

Did Lightning Cause Damage? We Are Here To Help!

5/2/2016 (Permalink)

Lightning strikes are no different from other natural disasters. If your home or business is hit, you will experience fire damage. Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin if you experience fire damage caused by lightning in your home or business. We are here to help!

If You Need Us...We Are Here!

4/29/2016 (Permalink)

Disasters don't wait for regular business hours and neither does SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin. That's why we're available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year to better serve you! We're faster to any disaster and ready for whatever happens.

Sewage Damage Tips

4/28/2016 (Permalink)

Sewage is one of the most dangerous substances to enter homes or buildings. It contains fungi, bacteria and viruses, many of which are disease-causing. Unfortunately, many people fail to understand the hazards that sewage presents, particularly for the very young or very old, or for those with compromised immune systems or respiratory problems.  Keep SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin in mind when dealing with these situations.  We are on call to serve you 24/7 at (916) 632-2250.

Here are the key principles homeowners should know about sewage back-ups:

• Sewage contains a variety of pathogenic – disease causing – fungi, bacteria, viruses and parasites. Anyone who works on sewage losses must have updated vaccinations, including one for Hepatitis B.

• Sewage exposure is particularly dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, including anyone under two or over 60, those who are pregnant, ill, recovering from surgery, on prescription drugs or chemotherapy, or are AIDS victims.

• It is not safe to stay in a building that’s flooded with sewage unless the contaminated area can be completely sealed off and placed under controlled air flow so that there will be no cross contamination of unaffected areas.

• Highly absorbent sewage-saturated materials, such as carpet, pad, upholstery, bedding, wicker, paper or even fabrics that can’t be washed in hot water (130°F/54°C) for at least 10 minutes, must be contained and disposed of properly. This goes for sewage-saturated drywall, insulation and several other structural materials too.

• There’s simply too great a health risk involved if any of these materials are dried in place and cleaned only.

• Only the most highly trained professionals should attempt sewage remediation work. Then, a “third party” indoor environmental professional can provide post-remediation verification or “clearance testing” to ensure that the home or building is safe to re-occupy.

7 Things Everyone Should Have In Their Kitchen

4/28/2016 (Permalink)

1. A seriously cushioned gel mat in front of the sink.

Sure you have beautiful hardwood floors and nobody wants their kitchen to look schlocky. Who remembers their grandmother standing on a towel when they washed dishes, hoping to avoid any splashes and drips from the sink? But then along came absorbent sink mats, somewhat kitsch, somewhat practical. More recently, the ante got upped on those as well and now we have gel mats. As you get older, you will come to regard a nice padded gel mat in front of the sink as a lifesaver. OK, it’s at least a leg and foot saver.

2. Nomex Burn Guard oven mitts.

No, this is not just any old oven mitt. Nomex is the material that firefighters clothing is made from. It’s also the material of choice for uniforms worn by workers in petrochemical and gas refineries. The folks who climb up on poles to fix downed power wires are also big fans.

Everyone knows what dangerous places kitchens can be. Yet when it comes to moving the hot stuff, too many of us grab the nearest dish towel as burn protection. Just don’t. You are, literally, playing with fire.  And FYI, not all oven mitts are created equal. Many are more decorative than functional. For safety’s sake, get yourself a Nomex Burn Guard pair of oven mitts. They protect your hands against up to 450-degrees Fahrenheit of either wet or dry heat. It’s what chefs in commercial restaurants use and who knows better than them?

3. A non-electric can opener.

For decades, fancy electric can openers have been a staple on wedding registries. And for what, we ask? Truth is: They take up valuable counter space, are harder to clean, and they fail you big-time during power outages. Treat yourself to a space-saving, inexpensive, rinse-it-off-and-you’re-done can opener. Not all high-end, high-tech kitchen gadgets are worth it, electric can openers among them.

4. Chafing dishes.

Nothing says “party” like chafing dishes. Chafing dishes are those fancy tray-pans you see in restaurant buffet lines that keep the food hot. You use them when you have a lot of people coming over. They are the kind of thing that you will curse at every time you walk past them taking up storage space in your garage 363 days of the year. And on the other two days, you will be thrilled at how they enable you to have so many dinner guests at once and tell everybody how they need to get them and you don’t know how you ever lived without them. Yes, chafing dishes do that to you.

5. Backup corkscrews.

While there are many compelling reasons not to have two of everything in your kitchen, there is no good reason not to have multiple corkscrews. Corkscrews have a way of disappearing, much the way left socks do. It’s there one weekend and then gone the very next. Even fancy corkscrews don’t stick around very long. Throw one big party and you’ll never see it again. Or it’ll show up some place weird like inside your boots. Who knows why?

6. A knowledge of cookware and materials.

Some may not be able to fully distinguish a crockpot from a Dutch oven. Both are big and heavy and both were likely castoffs from your mom. But if you spend any time at all in the kitchen, it behooves you to educate yourself not just about pots but also about what they are made of. Start with learning which is best for you: reactive vs. nonreactive. 

7. A window box of fresh herbs.

Technically, it’s fine for you to grow herbs outside your kitchen if you have the space and live in a climate where they will grow. But everyone should have ready access to fresh basil, rosemary, chives and oregano. The ability to grab and cut, changes you as a cook for the better.

By Ann Brenoff published 3/21/16 in The Huffington Post

How Prepared Are You For A Storm?

4/27/2016 (Permalink)

Being prepared in advance can affect how much of your property can be restored versus replaced. Here’s a tip from SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin after a storm has hit your area.

Today's Tip: Vinegar Can Help Clean Your Washer

4/27/2016 (Permalink)

Because clothes are often laundered in cold or warm water and without bleach, germs can multiply in the washer. These germs are also transferred when clothes are moved into the dryer. To thoroughly clean the washer, start a warm wash cycle (with no clothes) and add 5 cups of white vinegar. Run the cycle as normal. Repeat every six months.

Water Damage And Mold Damage - What To Do

4/26/2016 (Permalink)

When your home is impacted by a pipe rupture, flood, or any type of inundation, it’s important for you to attain professional restoration services. Learn more about these important matters by considering the following information:

Water Damage 101

Water damage is an issue that can impact both residential and commercial properties. Once the water gets moving through your home, there are no limits to where it can flow and which possessions and structures can be damaged. In addition to starting as a result of natural disasters like floods and fires, water damage can transpire as a result of the following:

• Leaking pipes  • Damp basements   • Roof leakages   • Poor ventilation   • Excessive humidity or condensation   • Damp carpets

Mold Damage 101

Mold damage typically exists in conjunction with water damage. This is the case because the fungus loves to thrive in the moist environment created by excess standing water on your property. Identifying and eliminating mold is important for many reasons, including the fact that it can cause unwanted health symptoms if you are continually exposed to it.

Unfortunately, mold growth can take place within just a few hours of a water damage incident. The growth can even continue throughout the extraction and drying procedures completed by professional restoration experts.

Attaining Professional Restoration Services

When your business or home is subjected to water damage and mold damage, attaining professional restoration services is a must. The best remediation firms will utilize powerful water extraction methods in conjunction with high-tech drying modalities to restore your property to its original sanitary condition. Restoration professionals will also utilize cutting-edge anti-microbial and disinfection techniques to optimize and expedite the restoration process.

Call The Experts Immediately

When you’re in need of both water damage and mold damage restoration services, call the professionals. IICRC-certified technicians possess advanced knowledge in the field of restoration. They offer comprehensive services to ensure that each of your property issues is addressed and resolved with lightning speed.

Fire and Smoke Damage Can be Devastating For Your Business

4/26/2016 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be devastating for a business. In addition to fire, smoke damage is likely to happen. If you have a fire and smoke emergency, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin. We are here to help!

7 Ways to Keep Your Towels Fresher Longer

4/25/2016 (Permalink)

Here are seven top tips on making sure your towels are always fresh and fluffy.

Avoid fabric softeners. As much as we love that fresh laundry smell, softeners actually coat the natural fibers of a towel and make them less soft over time.

Keep them away from skin-care products. More specifically, keep away anything with benzoyl peroxide or alpha hydroxy acids (commonly found in zit creams and exfoliators), which can cause discoloration.

Wash after every third use. You just showered. Do you really want to dry off with something moldy?

In cold water use less detergent. Cold water keeps the colors vibrant longer. And overdoing the soap can lead to buildup on the fibers, which inhibits drying.

Shake and tumble dry, then promptly remove. Before putting them in the dryer, give your towels a shake to fluff up the fabric. Then, tumble dry them on low and pull them out as soon as they’re dry to the touch.

Drape used towels over a bar. Piling them on the floor or hanging them on hooks traps moisture between the folds. Gross.

Replace them every two years. C’mon. You use them every day. (We hope.)

By PureWow published 3/28/16 in The Huffington Post

Today's Tip: Need to get Gum Out Of Clothing or Furniture?

4/25/2016 (Permalink)

If you have young children (or teenagers) getting gum stuck on clothing or furniture is simply inevitable. Now you can remove that sticky mess! Pour a bit of Coca Cola directly on the gum, let it sit, and then scrape away the remaining spot with a blunt knife. Voila!

How to Make Your Bed Cozier

4/22/2016 (Permalink)

There are few pleasures in life that top hanging out in bed on a rainy weekend, wiling away the day by reading magazines and watching TV. Sound nice? Below is a quick anatomy to help achieve the ultimate cozy bed.

1 - Mattress

Latex mattresses are a good place to start. It feels soft with a lot of give, but still manages to provide support. Even if it gets kind of crowded and you’re pushed to the edge you’ll find that the edge on a latex bed is just as supported as anywhere else.

2 - Feather Bed

If you have never used a feather bed, be prepared for it to change your life. This little addition will make you feel like you’re floating on a cloud. Be sure to air it out every few weeks to keep its loft, but the extra work is worth it.

3 - Hot Water Bottle

If you keep your room cold a hot water bottle provides just enough warmth to avoid that initial chill of a fresh bed but not enough to give you night sweats.

4 - Flannel Sheets

Feel like a child again and swap out your light cotton sheets with soft flannel ones.

5 - Goose Down

The finishing touch is the comforter. Goose down is a nice way to go. To some it feels like it has better loft. Big, light and fluffy = cozy!

6 - Blankets

Now some will disagree on the comforter and instead look for the weight and substance of blankets – it’s all personal. If you do, try using another top sheet on top of the blankets to avoid pilling and dust.

By NousDecor published 3/30/16 on nousdecor.com

Did the Rain Cause Water Damage?

4/22/2016 (Permalink)

Have water damage? Anything can be the cause of water damage; from rain to floods to storms to broken pipes and even overflowed toilets. No matter the cause SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is there for you in any emergency. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Water damage, if not taken care of quickly, can lead to further damage like mold. Water damage is typically larger than what you can see. Water can spread under carpet and affect multiple rooms. Water can even spread up walls in the drywall. Having an expert in water damage restoration can mean the difference from a large loss to a few days of mitigation. We can help. Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin for an immediate response! (916) 632-2250

What To Do When Unexpected Mold Is Found? Call SERVPRO!

4/21/2016 (Permalink)

We can all agree that mold is something no homeowner wants to deal with. Fortunately, our crews at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin have been highly trained to handle residential or commercial mold infestation. We have the training, expertise, and equipment to make it "Like it never even happened." Call us today!

Today's Tip: Remember To Keep The Vacuum Clean To Prevent Bacteria From Growing

4/21/2016 (Permalink)

Vacuum brushes, bags and filters make great hiding places for germs like E. coli. Because food is sucked into the vacuum, bacteria can survive for a long time inside. Change the bags often, and remove the brushes and filters for a quick cleaning monthly. Clean the cavity of a bag less vacuum with all-purpose cleaner and let it air dry.

Even Simple Acts Of Vandalism Can Be Devastating

4/20/2016 (Permalink)

Graffiti and vandalism can be very frustrating. It can either be a small prank or large destruction to your property. What people don't realize is that even simple acts of vandalism such as breaking a window can lead to water or mold damage if it's not taken care of in a timely manner. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin will respond quickly to your emergency needs and remove any vandalism that your property may have. We will make it "Like it never even happened."

Water Damage Restoration: Assessing Damages to Your Home

4/20/2016 (Permalink)

Water damage can occur in a home or business for a variety of reasons such as a leaky roof, burst pipes, a flood, or even as part of an effort to put out a fire. Once your home or business incurs water damage however, regardless of the source, you must act quickly to control and contain the damage.

Water damage restoration is done by professional companies with the goal of restoring property back to its original, non-damaged condition. The company will come in, assess the damage and what was affected and place a value on your loss and their service to restore your property.

Your water restoration company will determine what category of water damage you have from a scale of one to four. Level one damage is light water damage to one area or one room where the carpet is not saturated. Level two damage usually involves at least one entire room with saturated carpet and wicking up the wall 12 to 24 inches. Level three water damage generally involves overhead damage such as from a leaky ceiling and a saturated room. Level four is the highest damage number and is reserved for deep saturation such as from a flood.

In addition to determining the level of damages to your home, the water damage restoration team will also need to determine the level of water contamination. Level one water contamination, for example, is classified as clean water such as from a broken water pipe. Level two water contamination may contain some contaminants that may cause illness if ingested and is considered grey water. This can be from a washing machine overflow, a dishwasher overflow or a toilet bowl overflow that does not contain feces but may contain urine, for example. Level three is considered black water and is considered the most unsanitary. This can come from a toilet overflowing with feces, sewage spillage or flood waters from a river or canal for example. Black water is considered unsanitary and has the potential to cause illness or death if ingested. Standing water can also fall into this category regardless of the source.

Once these assessments are made, your water damage restoration team will work to get the water out. This may require pumping standing water out of the home and sucking the water out of the carpet and flooring. The next step will be to remove any dry wall that has wicking and potentially removing and replacing insulation and structural beams if damaged. Flooring may have to be removed to be dried out or replaced depending on the type of water contamination that has occurred.

Once the company dries, deodorizes and sanitizes they will leave their equipment in place for a few days to continue drying the home and returning the temperature and moisture levels to normal. After two to three days they will reassess the home. If it has reached pre-water damage dryness, the equipment is removed and your home is restored.

We sponsored a hole at the 2016 Sunset Ranch Golf Tournament

4/19/2016 (Permalink)

Owner Ruth and employees Suzie and Michelle attended this wonderful event to support Rocklin, CA Unified School District. Our booth served as a stopping point at hole 10 for drinks and snacks.

Storm Damaged Your Home? We Are Here For You

4/19/2016 (Permalink)

When a severe storm strikes your residential home, it can affect your life in ways you couldn't even have imagined. It is very overwhelming on what to do or who to call. Our experts at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin are available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have or respond to your storm damage emergency needs. We have the equipment and experience to get your home back in order!

*TIP: The nature of emergency situations does not allow you to check licenses or BBB reports. It’s best to have a trusted restoration and storm cleanup company in mind before things like this happen. Contact SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin to receive a free Emergency Readiness Plan. This plan will organize all the necessary steps and information you will need in the event of storm damage, water damage, fire damage, and cleanup.

Today's Tip: Coca Cola Can Help Clean The Garage

4/19/2016 (Permalink)

Those sticky, icky oil spots on your garage floor can be SUCH an eye sore. Well now you can kiss them goodbye! Simply soak those spots with a bit of Coke, rinse with water, and admire the sparkle!

Want To Bring A Little Natural Beauty Indoors??

4/18/2016 (Permalink)

Plants are a great way to bring a little natural beauty indoors. They clean the air in your home and add color to every room. Your bathroom, however, can be a tough environment to keep plants happy, but here are some plants that will thrive in the humidity.

Generally, tropical plants do well in your bathroom since they’re used to the humidity and lack of sunlight. Try considering pothos, air plants (no soil needed!), and ferns. If your bathroom has lots of sunlight but is still humid, opt for succulents that can tolerate humidity, like aloe. Oh, and remember even though these plants will be surrounded by the steam from your shower, you still need to water them from time to time.

By Heather Yamada-Hosley published 4/12/16 in lifehacker.com

What To Do When Your Little One "Helps" Clean The Floor

4/18/2016 (Permalink)

When your little one “helps” clean the floor, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is here to make it “Like it never even happened.”

When Fire Damage Happens, Who Do You Call? SERVPRO!

4/15/2016 (Permalink)

Every 18 seconds a fire occurs somewhere in the U.S.! SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is here to help put your family’s life back together, "Like it never even happened.”

Today's Tip: Create A Family Escape Plan

4/15/2016 (Permalink)

The first step to being prepared in any situation is to have a plan. And there's no place where that plan matters more than at home with the ones you love most. Do you have a family emergency plan?

Today's Tip: Keeping Your Wood Floors Looking Nice Longer

4/14/2016 (Permalink)

Instead of mopping your wood floors weekly, you should wet-clean them no more than every 1-2 months to keep them looking good.

10 DIY Home Decor Projects You'll Love For Spring

4/14/2016 (Permalink)

If your home has been stuck in the winter doldrums, it’s time to shake things up and bring new energy to the space where you live.  Decorating, organizing and cleaning your house for the spring will inspire and motivate you to make your home shine. Start with one of these DIY home decor projects and schedule others for when you need a little extra spring pick-me-up!

Here are ten tips you’ll love for spring.

1. Bring in spring patterns.

Those cozy fabrics you’ve enjoyed all winter might feel too heavy or dark for spring. Wake up your house by covering your pillows with fabric in fun patterns. Take down heavier curtain panels and replace them with sheers or lighter fabric panels. Change up your bedding to give your room a spring refresh. See what a difference a small change in fabrics will make in your room!

2. Restyle your coffee table.

Clear the clutter. Toss out old magazines or remove anything that doesn’t belong. Dust the table from top to bottom. Set up a stack of favorite spring books, a potted plant and an interesting accessory.

3. Refresh your laundry room.

Clean up your laundry detergent container and clear off the machines. Put dirty laundry in to the wash, add baskets to conceal and contain products, or hang a door organizer to corral necessities. Add a new curtain or framed spring print to inspire you.

4. Decorate your porch.

Find a unique container, like an antique metal bucket or old crate, to hold a green plant on your front porch or add a hanging basket on your door for a bouquet. Show off your personality! Add a sign, a bench, updated door numbers or a welcome sign.

5. Lighten up your dinner table.

Decorate your table with a touch of whimsy to usher in the new season. Set the table with colorful linens, spring dishes and seasonal floral arrangements. Put a serving bowl or attractive container in the center of the table and use it for a vibrant centerpiece to fill with fresh blooms or fruit.

6. Organize the mudroom.

Transform your entry into a functional and attractive spring mudroom. Gather a boot tray, an umbrella stand with colorful umbrellas, and a new doormat to tidy your entryway during rainy spring days.

7. Gather your gardening supplies.

Get inspired to garden or plant spring pots outside! Find an easy-to-carry bucket or gardening bag with handles to organize small yard supplies. Have your garden shovels, trimming tools, protective gloves and a yard debris bag handy for going outside when the sun shines through.

8. Change out throw rugs.

Clean or replace old winter throw rugs by the door or in the kitchen and bathroom. Find an inexpensive indoor/outdoor rug or any small rug in a colorful spring print to liven up your decor. Try stripes, floral or whatever pattern inspires you.

9. Restyle bookshelves.

It’s time to freshen up your bookcases. First remove all the books and dust both the shelves and the books. Replace books in a fresh or interesting new way. Group spines by spring colors or organize by subjects. Mix in some lighter accessories to brighten and create the look of space on the shelves.

10. Prepare spring activities.

What are the crafts or spring activities you look forward to? Get organized so you’ll be able to find everything you need to enjoy your favorite ways to spend the time. Set up a grab-and-go pack for outdoor activities (walking shoes, water bottle, small snacks). Post a list of local farmers markets where you might shop for fresh produce or flower fields you’d like to tour. Set up a small dresser with spring craft supplies to make your own cards or other projects.

By Melissa Michaels published 3/30/16 on unclebobs.com

Today's Tip: Steps To Help Clean Up Red Wine Stains

4/13/2016 (Permalink)

Red wine spills can leave a nasty stain, but if you know how to handle them, they don't have to be so bad. Follow these easy steps from our friends at Real Simple.

Why Water Damage Needs Repairing Within 48 Hours

4/13/2016 (Permalink)

You will hear constantly that when it comes to water damage, everything will need to be dried within 48 hours. The problem is, you may not know why this is.

The main reason why the water damage needs to be dried within 48 hours is to prevent the growth of mold. Mold is extremely damaging and will start to form quickly. Once it does form, you will find that it grows quickly. However, you will hardly notice that the mold is there until it is too late.

Mold like dark and warm places, which is usually in the carpet or in the corner of a room, behind something. You could even find that severe damage has caused the growth of mold in the drywall.

There are many different types of mold that can occur in your home and not all of them will be from damage caused by water. Different types of water damage will also cause different types of mold.
 
While mold removal is possible, it is usually best to prevent it from occurring in the first place. This is done by ensuring that the water damage is dried within the first 48 hours.

Call the experts at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today for immediate response!

Published in ezinearticles.com

Toilet Backed Up? Call Today For Help

4/12/2016 (Permalink)

Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. Our Professionals have specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is here to HELP.

SERVPRO Partners With The American Red Cross

4/12/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® began a two-year national partnership with the American Red Cross in March of 2013 as the largest corporate sponsor for their Ready Rating™ Program. In January of 2016, SERVPRO® renewed our commitment to the American Red Cross, but the strategy shifted from the Ready Rating™ Program to now focusing on their Home Fire Preparedness Campaign by supporting Disaster Responders. The Home Fire Preparedness Campaign aligns very well with SERVPRO®’s residential market, and is aimed at reducing home fire deaths and injuries across the country. Our support of Disaster Responders makes it possible for them to assist affected families with swift relief; providing trained volunteers, supplies, emergency response vehicles, and resources to transform community sites into shelters. We are proud to support the American Red Cross to ensure that families and communities are prepared for disasters – especially home fires. As a proud supporter, SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin has the opportunity to get involved with local home fire canvassing and installation events while continuing to build awareness about steps families can take to be prepared in their own homes. SERVPRO®’s overall priority for the partnership has not changed. We have simply chosen to focus on a non-disaster partnership of preparedness in an effort to better align with our Brand’s residential fire focus.

Need Help Cleaning Up After A Storm?

4/11/2016 (Permalink)

Need storm cleanup service? Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, our highly trained technicians will restore your home back to pre-storm condition. “Like it never even happened”! We are here to HELP!

Today's Tip: Coca Cola Can Help Some Plants Grow Better

4/11/2016 (Permalink)

Did you know that there are a variety of plants and herbs that flourish in soil with a low pH level? Well, now you do! Simply add some Coca Cola to your dirt to up the acidity, as well as the height of your plants!

Did The Rain Flood Your Home? We Are Here To Help

4/8/2016 (Permalink)

When the rain just won't stop and a flood of emotion starts to take over, you know who to turn to for help. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can make it "Like it never even happened."

We Are Here To Help When Dealing With Fire Damage

4/8/2016 (Permalink)

As a homeowner, you know that one of the most difficult things to have to go through is a house fire. Unfortunately, we know a fire can destroy the interior structure of the property as well as your personal belongings. This creates an emotional trauma that no one should ever go through. Our team of experts at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin deeply understands how hard this process can be and that's why we are the right professionals for the job. We will treat you and your home with the respect and care it deserves. We will work non stop to get it back to pre-fire condition. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is nearby and ready to help! We are here to make it "Like it never even happened."

Today's Tip: Roseville, CA Police Warn Women Where Not To Leave Purses

4/7/2016 (Permalink)

A woman's purse is the gateway to all personal belongings, but can sometimes be a hassle while dinning.

Every year, Roseville police said there are thieves willing to go out of the way to get what's inside your purse.

"Leaving your purse on the back of a chair where you can't see it can be a vulnerability," Roseville Police Officer Scott Miszkewycz said.

The most recent case involved three people, where police said they're a part of a traveling ring of thieves from South America. Officers said they snatched a purse at a Roseville restaurant. Minutes later, thousands of dollars’ worth of merchandise was purchased with the stolen credit cards.

A similar situation happened to Wendy Bushmire. "I had put my purse on the arm of my chair and we were all leaning in to have a conversation and someone just walked by and stole my purse in a split second and nobody saw it," Bushmire said.

Roseville police sent KCRA surveillance video showing just how easy it was for one man to steal a wallet from a woman, even though she's sitting with other people.

Police said another bad habit to break is leaving your purse in a shopping cart and then turning your back.

Try to make your purse least attractive to thieves, police said. If you have to set your bag down, keep it at your feet or in your lap, not behind you.

Sacramento Claims Association - FREE Continuing Education Class

4/7/2016 (Permalink)

UNDERSTANDING MOLD IN THE RESTORATION INDUSTRY

DATE: Thursday April 14, 2016

TIME: 12:30PM - 2:30PM

LOCATION: Lion Gate Hotel

3410 Westover St, Sacramento, CA 95652

Lunch will be served prior to the class

COURSE NUMBERS: 126438-Agents & 230937-Adjusters & 10115-Texas Course Number

PRESENTED BY: Ruth Griffith, President SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN:

This course has been speciafically designed to teach and explain the special procedures used by professionals in mitigating mold danage claims for the insured. The purpose of the course is to provide you, the insurance professional, with a better understanding of the work performed by the mitigation vendor at mold damage work sites. You will learn remediation process which can help control the cost of the clain if performe4d in a timely manner. We will demonstrate examples of work performed to mitigate mold damage. This course will help you better understand what your insured is going through when they have mold damage.

FOR RESERVATIONS

 Sacramento Claims Association

www.sacramentoclaims.org

or

Rob Sedgwick (916) 826-2417

We Have A Winner To Our Monthly Newsletter Trivia Contest

4/6/2016 (Permalink)

Congratulations Gregory Wright! You won our Newsletter Trivia Contest! You and your guest will be attending the River Cats home opening game on April 15TH!

We Can Take Care Of That Smelly Odor In Your House!

4/6/2016 (Permalink)

Smelly odor? No problem, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can make it "Like it never even happened."

Today's Tip: Deep Cleaning Your Carpet Can Help Set A Good Foundation For Spring Cleaning

4/6/2016 (Permalink)

Don't forget while you’re doing Spring Cleaning to get your carpet done. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin can help you today!

SERVPRO Has The Equipment To Get The Job Done

4/5/2016 (Permalink)

Choose the team with the technology and equipment to restore your property quickly, reliably and more effectively.

Fire Damage At Your Commercial Property? We Can Help

4/5/2016 (Permalink)

If your commercial property has experienced a fire loss, call the water and fire damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin and we’ll quickly respond to get you back in order. We are always ready to help!

Today's Tip: Coca Cola Can Be Used To Reduce An Itch

4/4/2016 (Permalink)

The next time you find yourself with a mosquito bite (and there will be a next time), simply pour a bit of Coca Cola on the bite to reduce the itch!

Breathe Cleaner & Remove Allergens - Here's Our Process

4/4/2016 (Permalink)

When a homeowner calls asking about our duct cleaning process it gives us the opportunity to talk about what we do and how we do it. Below we've listed some steps SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin uses to help clean the air and remove allergens.

Duct Cleaning Process
•Patented equipment includes a roto-scraper which automatically adapts to the duct shape while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins
•A powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the duct to a 16-gallon container
•Clean air is filtered through a HEPA filtration, removing 99.97% of particles before it returns to air-wash the duct
•A sealant can be sprayed to eliminate fall-out
•Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove any odor and dirt

Bring Your Deck Back To Life With These Helpful Steps

4/1/2016 (Permalink)

Article Posted By: Rust-Oleum published March 22, 2016

Your deck might look tired after a long winter, but deck restoration can be pretty easy! All it takes is a weekend and little bit of elbow grease.

For a heavily-worn deck, Restore 10x Advanced products can be used for maximum durability. This product works great for wooden decks or concrete patios that need a little extra reviving. There’s no need for sanding or sealing, too.

If you’re thinking of reviving the look of your patio, these steps will help guide the way.

Before You Start

Before you start applying your product, check the weather. There should be no rain expected in your area for at least 48 hours, and the temperature should not drop below 50 degrees, even overnight.

Note: If your deck is new or has been previously painted, stained, or sealed, you must let it weather for at least six months before using Restore.

Step 1 – Wash Deck

Use a deck/concrete cleaner to wash your deck following the label’s instructions of the product you picked.

Step 2 – Replace Screws and Nails

Once your deck is clean and dry, check for any loose screws or raised nails that need to be replaced. Also check for broken or loose boards and replace them as needed.

Before You Paint

Tape and mask off any siding or portions of your deck that you want to protect from paint. Always stir your paint and primer according to the label’s instructions.

Step 3 – Apply Primer

To start priming, pour your product into a paint tray. Use a paint brush to apply a generous, even coat of the primer to the railings, posts, and balusters. Then, use a roller to roll a thick coat onto the entire deck floor.

The primer will go on milky, but dry clear. Let the primer dry completely. That will take at least two hours.

Step 4 – Paint Posts, Railings ad Balusters

Once your primer is dry, use a paint brush to apply two even coats of your paint product to the railings, posts, and balusters.

Let the first coat dry for 4-6 hours (it should not be tacky), and then apply a second coat.

Step 5 – Apply First Coat

First, pour a generous amount of your paint product into a clean paint tray. Then, use a roller to apply an even coat to the deck, working on 1-2 boards at a time.

While you’re applying, roll in one direction with slight downward pressure to push the product into cracks and voids.

Step 6 – Remove Excess Coating

As you apply the product, use a paint scraper to remove the excess coating in between the boards.

Step 7- Apply Second Coat

Let your first coat of product dry for at least 4-6 hours. If your deck is still tacky after six hours, extend the drying time.

Once it’s dry to the touch, apply your second coat using the same technique you used to apply the first.

Step 8 – Let Your Second Coat Dry

Let your second coat dry completely for 48 hours before replacing your furniture.

Now, put your furniture back in place and enjoy your newly restored deck. Bring on the barbecues!

Today's Tip: Time To Clean The Pet Toys

4/1/2016 (Permalink)

Pet toys can harbor yeasts and molds!

When your pets are your family, cleaning up after them can make you feel almost parent-like. So as a parent your main concern is the safety of your four legged children. Did you know 23% of pet toys were found to harbor potentially dangerous staph bacteria – the highest staph percentage of any household item studied…Yikes! Yeasts and molds infest 55% of pet toys, and 14% also harbored coliform bacteria. So to keep everyone safe and healthy try scrubbing hard pet toys with soap, water and a mild bleach solution. Do you have soft toys? Chuck them in the washer. As your pet licks and loves on you, remember doing the little things will help keep mold and bacteria growth to a minimum and help keep everyone happy.

Smoke Damage Cleanup - A Daunting Task Without Professional Help

3/31/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke damage cleanup can be a harder task than most people realize. Unless you have had a fire in your home before, you may not realize the time and effort that smoke clean up actually takes. We all know that when we go camping and sit next to a camp fire everything we own smells like smoke. The tent will trap that smoke smell and a year later you unwrap the tent and it smells even stronger than it did a year ago. Now think about having that camp fire in your house. Everything the smoke touches will hold the smell, and the sooner it is properly cleaned the better.

The second problem with smoke damage cleanup is the water that is used to put out the fire. So on top of having smoke penetrate every fiber and material in your home, you also have water damage to deal with. It's like having two disasters hit at once. When it first happens the problem seems overwhelming. The first thing you have to do is dry out the water, to prevent further damage from water and mold. So as soon as you are allowed back in the home safely, think of drying out the home as fast as possible. If it's warm out opening the windows may bring in too much heat and cause humidity so a dehumidifier will be the best option. If it is cool out, getting the windows open and air flow to the damp areas would help dry them out fast. To dry a home efficiently, it is highly recommended to enlist a professional service; SERVPRO Auburn/Rocklin specialists are available 24 hours a day to get the process started as soon as possible.

SERVPRO Auburn/Rocklin is able to deal with the damage from the very beginning. We also keep up on the latest tools and techniques to get the job done correctly and efficiently. We all know that the longer it takes to get your life and home back to normal the more damage to the sanity it causes, so act fast and call SERVPRO Auburn/Rocklin right away. Making it “Like it never even happened”

Today's Tip: Soda Can Help Make Your Meat Tender

3/31/2016 (Permalink)

The carbonation in soda helps in the tenderizing process of meat. So the next time you begin preparing your world famous marinade, add a bit of your favorite soda and reduce the cooking time needed for those juicy steaks!

We Can Help With Water Damage!

3/31/2016 (Permalink)

WATER DAMAGE? Our professionals at SERVPRO Auburn/Rocklin have the expertise and equipment to quickly restore your property to pre-water damage condition

Restoration VS Replacement

3/30/2016 (Permalink)

We prefer restoration over replacement. But no matter what you need, you can count on us to get the job done right!

Spring Time Is Here - Is Your Home Ready?

3/30/2016 (Permalink)

By Thumbtack Editors published March 20, 2016

Spring cleaning gets a bad rap. Yes, it entails work (unless you hire someone—which is totally legit, or you force your kids to work for free like you did for your parents), but the results are soooo satisfying that you won’t even mind. We promise. Tackle these 15 indoor and outdoor projects and you’ll be loving life come sunny days.

Indoors

Super House Clean

You’ve got two options: deputize the family to be deep clean mavericks, or hire a team of spring cleaning specialists to rock the job out. We’re not talking basic mopping here, this calls for wall scrubbing, ceiling dusting, oven cleaning, and curtain washing. It’s business time.

Take Care of Tile

If your tile grout has a mild case of wear and tear, use a DIY sealer painted on with a toothbrush to look as good as new. If mildew has set in, or large areas need to be redone, hire a tile pro to solve it in one fell swoop.

Clean the Carpets

Get the mud and dog and red wine out from a long winter spent cooped up. Either rent a steamer from your local grocery store, or hire a carpet cleaning specialists to bring their big vans and fancy machines to breathe new life into your rug.

Wax or Restain Wood Floors

Life looking a little dull? Put new shine under your soles by having wood floors waxed or restained. It will look amazing.

Organize Your Life

Every home mag in the world tells you spring is the time to clear clutter and organize your closet, home desk, and garage. We understand that saying is easier than doing. If this herculean task of handling your stuff is beyond your powers, call in an organization pro to save your sanity.

Clean Screens

Spring and summer mean letting in fresh air, not showing off the grubby screen door that’s been neglected for decades. Remove all the screen windows and doors in the house, wipe them down, hose them off, then replace them. The fresh air will smell all the sweeter.

Deep Clean the Mudroom

If you live in a snowy, rainy, or mucky area, your mudroom is coated in gunk. Get the space ready for spring! Clean and store winter wear in the garage. Wipe down the walls and scrub the floor. Put in a brightly colored rug. Hurray!

Ready the AC

Just check that it’s in working order before the first 100° day, that way you’ll get top-notch service when you need it.

Outdoors

Wash Outdoor Furniture

Wipe off the chairs, wash outdoor cushion fabric as needed, scrub down the picnic table, and restring the bistro lights. It’s patio party time!

Ready the Lawn

It’s probably looking pretty bad in your lawn right now. Piles of decayed leaves are showing under the melting snow. Get out there with a rake and elbow grease, or call in a lawn specialist to clean out the muck, fertilize, and get you ready for spring.

Pressure Wash the House

Professional washers get exterior paint looking as good as new after a winter—or, let’s face it, decades—of rain, dirt, and snow. This is also an easy curb appeal boost if you’re putting your house on the market.

Clean the Deck

Clean the cobwebs, swab the deck, reseal as needed—get ready for sunny days outdoors! If you have a massive deck, or major repairs to be done, call in a pro to get you set safely.

Repair the Driveway

Cracks in the concrete and weeds growing in make the place look janky. Patch holes with concrete resurfacer, reseal asphalt driveways to look smooth, and reclaim your position as best looking house on the block. All that sound like a hassle? Hire a driveway specialist and sip lemonade on the back porch while it gets handled.

Wash the Exterior Windows

Yes, even the windows on the second floor. If you’re not comfortable on a ladder, or have crazy angles on your house, have a pro window washer come so you don’t spend all spring in a cast.

Prep the Pool

Have the algae and debris cleaned off the bottom of the pool, make sure the filter is in working order, and safety check your ladders and diving board. If you’re hiring a pool pro to handle the chemicals, many companies offer lower rates for early spring visits when they’re slower than during the summer rush.

Good luck, have fun, and enjoy the spring!

Commercial Damage? SERVPRO Responds Immediately

3/29/2016 (Permalink)

When the need arises for professional restoration services on your commercial property, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin will immediately respond with the necessary team and equipment. As with any type of property damage, leaving your damage unattended could potentially cause it to get worse. Our highly trained crews have the knowledge and experience to handle any type of emergency. From water to fire damage and even crime scene clean up and bio hazard mitigation. No job is too small! We understand that with every working day you are closed due to damage, the more money you lose. When it comes to your business or commercial property, we don't mess around. You can count on us to get you back in order – we will work to make it “Like it never even happened.”

FREE CE CLASS FOR AGENTS AND ADJUSTERS

3/29/2016 (Permalink)

FREE

Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry

C.E. CREDIT COURSE

COURSE CREDIT:    2 Hours

COURSE NUMBER:  126438 Agents & 230937 Adjusters

DATE:   April 5, 2016 - Tuesday

TIME:    9 to 11 am

LOCATION: SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin

                   2320 Sierra Meadows Drive

                    Rocklin, CA. 95677

FOR RESERVATIONS:      

SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin

916-632-2250 or 530-885-2255                                           marketing@SERVPROauburnrocklin.com

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN: This course has been specifically designed to teach and explain the special procedures used by professionals in mitigation mold danage claims for the insured. The purpose of the course is to provide you, the insurance professional, with a better understanding of the work performed by the mitigation vendor at mold damage work sites. You will learn remediation processes which can help control the cost of the claim if performed in a timely manner. We will demonstrate examples of work performed to mitigate mold damge. This course will help you better understand what your insured is going through when they have mold damage.

Did The Easter Bunny Leave A Mess? Our Professional Cleaning Crew Can Help

3/28/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's cleaning crew can make it "Like it never even happened."

Did the Easter bunny make a mess on your carpet? Don't stress, SERVPRO can save the day! Our professional cleaning can address moderate and heavy soil conditions in your carpets. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin will make it "Like it never even happened."

Today's Tip: 7 Genius Ways To Use Old Coffee Grounds

3/28/2016 (Permalink)

Old Coffee Grounds Are Still Good To Use - Here Are 7 Genius Ways

By Sara Schwartz published 3/20/16 in Grandparents.com

Deodorize your fridge 

After your coffee is brewed, put the grounds to work again—this time as a powerful odor absorber inside your fridge. Leaving a bowlful of used grounds in the fridge overnight will rid your icebox of icky odors. Repeat as often as you’d like. If you’re battling particularly potent odors, feel free to leave the grounds in the fridge until the job is done.

Scour pans, tools, etc.

Eliminate stubborn, stuck-on grime by scrubbing with a couple spoonfuls of coffee grounds. The gentle abrasion provides extra scouring power to clean the dirtiest of dishes and pans. You don’t need to mix in soap, just use a thin cloth to get the abrasive action working. However, before scouring the whole pan, test a small area to make sure the grounds don’t stain the surface—and never use on delicate ceramic or non-stick surfaces.

Attract earthworms to your garden

Just like sleep-starved teachers and long-haul truckers, earthworms L-O-V-E coffee. And you know what happy earthworms do to soil? Make it a whole lot richer! Earthworms are attracted to organic material like coffee grounds, and they help distribute it through the soil. A healthy worm population enhances the quality of garden soil by stimulating microbial activity, churning the soil, improve water-holding capacity and water filtration, providing channels for root growth, and burying plant residue. For optimal results, sprinkle your soil with a 1/2-inch-thick layer of coffee grounds.

Clean smelly hands

Rub hands with a scoopful of spent grounds to eliminate odors from fish, garlic, and other strong-smelling foods. There’s no need to mix with soap however your hands may have a coffee smell, but it will remove the more unpleasant odor, and you can wash with soap after rinsing the grounds off your hands.

Cover scratches in wood

The rustic look is all the rage, but not everyone appreciates scratches on their wood floors or furniture. While buffing with a shelled walnut works best for repairing light-stained woods, experts agree that coffee grounds are a better match for darker woods. First, mix used coffee grounds with a few drops of water to create a thick paste. Then rub the paste into the scratches, and let sit for 10 minutes before wiping away the excess.

Exfoliate your skin

Coffee grounds make a great body scrub. They’re the perfect size and shape for exfoliating rough elbows, knees and feet — you get a lot of scrubbing action, but they’re still fairly gentle. Application method: Combine equal parts coffee grounds and coconut oil (for added hydration and easier application), and rub onto rough skin in a circular motion. Rinse away grounds and pat dry. Note, this treatment is not recommended for your face!

Tame fireplace ashes

Sprinkling damp coffee grounds onto fireplace embers can help you sweep up ash without kicking up dust. The damp grounds act as a binder on cool ashes to help contain the dust and particles. Two things to remember: Always let the fire go out completely and don’t dump the grounds from a high distance.

Today's Tip: Installing A Backflow Valve On Sewer Pipes Can Really Help

3/25/2016 (Permalink)

Installing A Backflow Valve Can Really Help

Prepare your home by installing a backflow valve on all sewer pipes. It's relatively easy and inexpensive and can save you from dealing with a whole lot of you know what.

Acting Quickly After A Fire Damage Can Make All The Difference

3/25/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin Can Help With A Fire Damage

The first 48 hours after fire damage can make the difference between restoring vs replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO's 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin provides timely response with mitigation services ranging from Fire, Smoke, and Soot removal to contents claims, inventory and document restoration. These services help ensure your property, belongings and memories are restored to pre-loss condition when possible. We value your home and belongings and understand the sentimental attachment to any heirloom items. We know replacement isn’t always the answer and will always exhaust all avenues to restore your belongings to pre-loss condition. Call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin today if you need any help after any type of fire damage has affected you. (916) 632-2250

Storm Damage? What To Do First

3/25/2016 (Permalink)

Step To Take When Storm Damages Your Home

When a storm damages your home, what are the first steps you should take? Here are a few tips to point you in the right direction.

Understanding Water Types

3/24/2016 (Permalink)

Understanding Water Types

When your home or business suffers a water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensuring proper cleanup. There are three types of water. Clean water is water from a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean. The term gray water is used to classify slightly contaminated water. Clean water becomes gray when it is left untreated allowing bacteria and other contaminants to begin growing, making the water hazardous. Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals and more. Black water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster. Black water should always be handled by trained professional. When you have a water damage, don't leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO Auburn/Rocklin. Consider taking the following precautions to help minimize damage or prevent further damage while waiting for help to arrive.

Damage from Clean Water:

1. Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.

2. Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock. Do not enter rooms with standing water, as electrical shock hazards may exist.

3. Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.

4. Remove and pop up wet upholstery cushions to allow more even drying.

5. Move any painting, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture to a safe place.

6. Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining.

7. Do not use your household vacuum cleaners to remove water as there is potential for electrical shock or causing damage to the vacuum cleaner.

8. Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet; do not enter rooms where ceiling are sagging from retained water.

Damage from Contaminated Water:

1. Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated items.

2. Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas. 

3. Do not turn on HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.

4. Do not use household fans to dry the structure; airflow could spread contaminants.

5. Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

Why take the RISK? Call SERVPRO Auburn/Rocklin today! Working to make it "Like it never even happened."

Today's Tip: Bee Sting? Coca-Cola Can Help

3/24/2016 (Permalink)

Coca-Cola Can Help A Bee Or Wasp Sting

The next time your child is stung by a bee or a wasp, simply dab the area with Coca Cola to reduce the pain. The acidity in Coca Cola will help dissolve the venom, as well as the hurt!

High Traffic Areas Need Cleaning? Call Us Today

3/24/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Cleans High Traffic Areas

Have a few "high traffic areas" in your home that need a little extra attention? Call us today to learn how we can help with all your spring-cleaning needs!

Water Emergency At Your Business?

3/23/2016 (Permalink)

Extractor - Making it "Like it never even happened"

Our SERVPRO trucks are commonly equipped with extraction units when we are called out to handle a flood damage emergency situation. These commercial extractors, such as the one pictured, are designed to remove the maximum amount of water damage in the shortest time possible. So when your business has been affected by large water damage making sure your restoration company is using the best and most efficient equipment will help you get your doors back open sooner. Our goal is to get your property back to pre-loss condition as quickly as possible. When you have any kind of water emergency, commercial or residential, you already know who to call. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year! Call today (916) 632-2250

Are Streaks On The Windows Blurring Your View?

3/23/2016 (Permalink)

Vinegar Can Be Used To Clean

Streaks are caused by residue left on the glass by commercial products. The answer? Use vinegar! Vinegar is one of many miracles from nature. Vinegar is actually beneficial to any surface it touches because it’s completely non-toxic and anti-bacterial. It kills germs safely and is more economical than chemical cleaning products. When accidentally inhaled or ingested it’s not even harmful, and if you have kids I’m sure you’ll love that.

The acidic composition of vinegar acts quickly to break down the kind of film that frequently collects on glass surfaces. When you wash a window using a solution that contains vinegar, the results will almost always be free from streaks and sparkling clean. Below are some recipes to help you achieve the look you desire.

First Vinegar Wash

Forever After Vinegar Wash

 Vinegar Wash For Horribly Grimy Windows

Today's Tip: Going On A Road Trip? Help Ensure Your Home Is Safe While You Are Gone

3/23/2016 (Permalink)

4 Tips to help secure your home

Before you hit the road; read these tips to help ensure your home is safe should severe weather arise while you are gone.

1) Keep all trees and shrubs well-trimmed.

2) Bring all outdoor furniture inside.

3) Cover windows with shutters.

4) Place important items and papers in a waterproof case and place it in an elevated location inside your home.

Upgrading Your Lighting Is A Simple Way To Upgrade A Room

3/22/2016 (Permalink)

Kitchen with upgraded lights

By Kaitlin Madden published March 19, 2016 in Decorating Ideas

If there’s one place the worlds of form and function seamlessly meet it’s in the kitchen. And upgrading the lighting is a way to add a fresh dose of style and substance to the space. Even if you don’t have a major remodel in your future, a simple lighting swap — from adding some architectural track lighting to installing a dramatic chandelier — might be all it takes to upgrade the entire area. Lighting is a lot like painting in that way: it can be an inexpensive, but impressive way to transform the room in a single afternoon.

If your room lighting needs an upgrade, consider these 9 easy ideas:

Under-Cabinet LED Light Bars

These long, narrow lights are installed directly onto the underside of your cabinetry, making them ideal for illuminating countertops and prep areas. LED light bars come in a wide variety of lengths and they’re linkable, so even long countertops can be fully and evenly illuminated. They can be either hardwired into the wall for a seamless look, or plugged in for easy installation.

Under-Cabinet Rope Lights

Like LED light bars, rope lights are best used for countertop task lighting. Rope lights are also easy to install: they can be discreetly hung underneath a row of cabinets with a set of rope mounts that screw directly into the cabinetry.

Decorative Flush Mount

One of the fastest ways to give a spec kitchen new style is to swap out the standard ceiling fixture for something with a little more personality. A flush-mount fixture with decorative details is a dramatic addition that only requires a few twists of a screwdriver.

Pendant Lights

If you kitchen has an island or breakfast bar, consider hanging pendant lights above it. Pendant lighting not only adds style to the space, it can also help anchor a kitchen island so it feels more deliberate in an open-concept home.

Puck Lights

Small, disc-like puck lights are easy to install almost anywhere you need added illumination, from under cabinets to inside deep drawers or in dark corners. There are hardwired and plug in puck lights, but for the simplest installation opt for battery-operated LED pucks, which can last up to 30,000 hours and can be hung with Velcro.

In-Cabinet Lighting

Cabinet lighting can be extremely practical for deep or dark cabinets, but added to glass-front cabinetry it adds a cozy, romantic vibe and highlights your best cake stands and wine glasses.

Cabinet Up Lighting

While installing rope or bar lights underneath your cabinetry can be a practical choice, installing them on top of your cabinets can create an ethereal, up-lit effect on the ceiling that’s purely aesthetic.

Track Lighting

If a single ceiling light isn’t cutting it in your home, track lighting is an excellent solution. With a single ceiling junction box, you can install a track light system that will allow you to direct light wherever you need it most.

Dramatic Chandelier

There are few lighting options that have a more dramatic, unexpected impact on your home than swapping out a simple ceiling lamp for a chandelier. Don’t be afraid to go with something fancy, even in the kitchen. The simple, functional elements of your kitchen will easily balance out an elaborate chandelier.

Today's Tip: Using the Fireplace Still?

3/22/2016 (Permalink)

Fireplace tips to keep you safe

Stay warm and stay safe while the brisk weather lingers. If you are planning on using a fireplace, take a quick look at some tips we've put together.

MOLD? We Can Help

3/21/2016 (Permalink)

We can help with mold!

Found MOLD in your home? Did you know that in the first 24 hours of dealing with mold, time is critical? A mold infestation can arise and spread throughout a home in just 24 - 48 hours. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin specializes in mold and water damage restoration. Since mold damage typically exists in conjunction with water damage acting quickly when there is a water disaster can mean the difference in the extent of the damage. We have the experience and expertise to handle any emergency situation – big or small we understand your concerns and have the means to take care of them. Our highly trained team can examine, evaluate, and remediate your property with efficiency and accuracy. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin is always working to make it "Like it never even happened." Call us today! (916) 632-2250

Today's Tip: Leaving Town For Spring Break??

3/21/2016 (Permalink)

Tips to keep your home safe while out of town

Are you or your family headed out of town for Spring Break? Remember these quick tips to keep your home safe.

Simple Seasonal Tips to Keep Plumbing Operating Smoothly

3/18/2016 (Permalink)

Keep your Plumbing Running Smoothly

With proper seasonal maintenance, you can keep your plumbing running smoothly. Even those with no experience can inspect for issues and perform little tasks to prevent costly repairs.

Here are some key plumbing tips:

Kitchens and Bathrooms

• Ensure drains have strainers to prevent debris from clogging drain lines. Check faucets for drips and leaks.

• Inspect the toilet tank and bowl for visible cracks. Check for hidden leaks by adding six drops of food coloring to the tank. If the toilet is leaking, color will appear in the bowl within 30 minutes.

• Ensure toilets flush properly. If the handle must be held down to flush, or jiggled to stop water from running, you may need to replace parts.

• Clean mineral deposits from the shower head. Unscrew it and soak in vinegar overnight. Then gently scrub with an old toothbrush.

Water Heater 

• Carefully drain several gallons from the tank to flush out corrosion-causing sediment, which reduces heating efficiency and shortens the life of the heater. Consider replacing those older than 15 years with a new, energy-efficient model.

Appliances 

• Check your dishwasher, washing machine and ice maker’s supply hoses for bulges or leaks. Replace hoses showing signs of weakness or those older than ten years. Use stainless steel hoses, which are more reliable and less prone to bursting.

• Clean your washing machine lint trap, and place a wire trap or a piece of pantyhose over the end of the hose that drains the washer.

General 

• Pour water into infrequently used drains to fill traps and prevent odors. Slow floor drains should be snaked to ensure they’ll carry water away during flooding.

• Take a reading on your water meter before bedtime. The next morning, without using any water overnight, take another reading. If it’s changed, you have a leak that should be repaired.

Outside

• Free yard drains, gutters and downspouts of debris. Check for bird nests in plumbing vent pipes. Check faucets and hose bibs to ensure water flows freely. If an outdoor faucet drips, or if there is leakage inside your home the first time the hose is turned on, you may have had a frozen pipe that cracked and needs to be replaced.

A few minutes of maintenance could save you tens of thousands of dollars in costly repairs.

Bad Allergies?? We Can Handle That

3/18/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help with bad allergies

Springtime bringing bad allergies? There are many possible causes. Give us a call, and we'll be here to help!

Reconstruction After Water Damage

3/17/2016 (Permalink)

Water Reconstruction Before and After

The source of the water was found after we cut a hole in the ceiling. The leak made its way into the bathroom where we removed damaged sheetrock and replaced the tile in the shower and tub.  "Like it never even happened."

Today's Tip: Coca-Cola Can Be Used To CLEAN!

3/17/2016 (Permalink)

Clean your pots and pans with Coca-Cola

Removing burned food from pots and pans can be a nightmare. Not anymore! Simply give them a soak overnight in Coca-Cola and scrub them in the morning.

St. Patrick’s Day

3/17/2016 (Permalink)

St. Patrick's Day

Every year on March 17, the Irish and the Irish-at-heart across the globe observe St. Patrick’s Day. What began as a religious feast day for the patron saint of Ireland has become an international festival celebrating Irish culture with parades, dancing, special foods and a whole lot of green.

Some fun facts about the Holiday are:

• Chicago dies its river green for the festivities, and many bars serve green-dyed beer. The White House fountain is also dyed green!
• Since many Catholics are Irish-American, some may be required to fast from drinking during Lent. However, they are allowed to break this fast during the St. Patrick's Day celebrations. This is one cause for the day's association with drinking heavily.
• The symbol of the shamrock used for St. Patrick's Day comes from the story of St. Patrick using the shamrock to illustrate the Holy Trinity. The three-leafed plant coincided with the Pagan religion's sanctity of the number three and is the root of the green color theme.
• St. Patrick's Day parades started in New York in 1762 by a group of Irish soldiers in the British military who marched down Broadway. This began the tradition of a military theme in the parade, as they often feature marching military unites.

May your troubles be less and your blessings be more, and nothing but happiness come through your door.  – Irish Proverb

The Commercial Priority Response Program

3/16/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Priority Response

According to Kanye West’s song, Stronger, he states, “Work it, make it, do it, Makes us harder, better, faster, stronger!” One of the ways SERVPRO® is getting better, faster and stronger is through the Commercial Priority Response Program. The Priority Response (PR) Program includes developing a national team of locally-based SERVPRO® Priority Responders that are willing to respond immediately to stabilize and mitigate commercial losses, utilizing the support of the SERVPRO® Extreme and Commercial Advisors.

The goal of the PR Program is for SERVPRO® to shift our focus away from chasing and towards priority responding. While one might argue that these are the same, the term ‘chasing’ has gained negative undertones within the industry. This shift of focus is a strategic move for SERVPRO® to continue building Brand awareness in the commercial market. It’s not just about getting the job and putting money in the bank—it’s about ensuring the consistency and quality of our Brand performance on every single commercial restoration loss.

Today's Tip: Address Books Are Still Handy

3/16/2016 (Permalink)

Keeping an address book up to date can come in handy when the power goes out!

Remember when you actually had to keep up with people's digits? If a disaster kills the power, you'll have to rely on memory to get in touch. Or keep a physical address book handy. You'll be glad you did.

GREEN MEANS CLEAN!

3/15/2016 (Permalink)

Green Cleaning Products

SERVPRO® Industries, Inc. is a member of the EPA’s Design for Environment (DfE) program. DfE evaluates human health and environmental concerns associated with traditional and alternative chemicals and processes in a range of industries. These evaluations and analyses empower hundreds of businesses to select safer chemicals and technologies. The EPA/DfE has established a set of criteria for formulating environmentally friendly cleaning products, and has put together a listing of safe cleaning components that can be used in Green cleaning formulations. As a member company, SERVPRO® can access this listing known as CleanGredients. From the listing, a formulation can be derived that incorporates “green” chemistry. SERVPRO® has formulated three Green Cleaning Products: Carpet & Upholstery Green Clean #251, All Surface Green Clean #250, and Window Green Clean #249. Spring is a popular season for Spring cleaning, and our green products will allow you to complete almost all of your cleaning tasks.

Today's Tip: DIY Cleaning Wipes

3/15/2016 (Permalink)

DYI Cleaning Wipes

Cleaning wipes have endless possibilities. They work wonders for the quick cleaning job or for the more thorough sanitization jobs. They are easily portable too, which is a plus! But with the cost averaging around $12 a box, this convenient product can burn a hole in your pocket. So if you're a cleaning wipe addict, follow this simple recipe for a homemade version of the same great product.

What You'll Need:
Paper towel roll (Tip: Thicker quilted half-sheet paper towels will be easier to use and less likely to shred and rip.)
Large zip-lock bag
Plastic food storage container
Drill with 1/2-inch drill bit (optional, for creating the wipe container)
Choice of the following cleaning solutions:
Favorite store-brand cleaner
2 Tbs. of pure castile soap and 1-cup water
Equal parts rubbing alcohol and baby lotion
1½ -cups white vinegar and 1½-cups water

How To Make It:
1. (Optional) Drill a hole through the lid of your food container.
2. Add paper towels (without ripping them apart) and choice of cleaning solution into the zip-lock bag.
3. Gently swish around and let towels absorb for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
4. Remove from bag and place into food container.
5. (Optional) Thread first paper towel through the hole on the lid for easier access. If you opt not to do this step, you can simply open the lid to access your homemade cleaning wipes.
6. Wipe to your heart's content!

Getting to know our other Owner!

3/15/2016 (Permalink)

Dan Allen and Hines Ward

GETTING TO KNOW OUR OWNERS

Dan Allen

WHERE DID YOU GROW UP?...
Upstate New York. I was born and raised in Saugerties.
WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND IN BUSINESS?
I owned a drywall company and then a SERVPRO in New York for seven years before buying into SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU OWNED THIS SERVPRO?
Two and a half years. I moved to California April of 2013. I answered the call to "Go West, Young Man."
WHAT IS YOUR JOB TITLE?
Vice President.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF YOUR JOB?
I oversee the Production and Reconstruction departments. (And anything else that Ruth assigns me.) I also do my best to annoy everyone in the office.
WHY DO YOU BELIEVE YOU’VE BEEN SUCCESSFUL?
SERVPRO is a proven franchise system with excellent brand recognition. We have hundreds of national accounts through our corporate office. SERVPRO corporate does all that they can to help us succeed. Not to mention, I have an excellent business partner in Ruth Griffith!
WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER YOUR GREATEST CHALLENGE?
Employees; ie, recruiting, training, and retaining good ones. We are in a great place with our crew right now, but it’s constant work.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING?
Golf, Steelers' football, and I love to travel and have fun. I’m a fun-loving person.
FAMILY?
I have three children; Damon, Olivia, and Jason.
FAVORITE PLACES?
Lake Tahoe, New York, and San Francisco. Those are great places to spend time and have fun. There are great Steelers’ bars in San Francisco!

Get To Know Our Owners

3/2/2016 (Permalink)

Ruth Griffith, Majority Owner/President and her daughter, Olivia.

RUTH GRIFFITH

Where did you grow up? I was born in Southern California, lived in Northern Nevada for most of my life with a short stint in Arizona. I moved to Northern California 12 years ago when we bought SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin.

Where did you work prior to SERVPRO? I worked for John Ascuaga’s Nugget in Sparks, NV. I was a convention services coordinator, banquet secretary, and banquet server.

How long have you been an owner? For 12 years.

What is your job title? President/Majority Owner

What are some responsibilities of your job? Everything! I’m the majority owner….therefore I’m responsible for the oversight of all areas of the company.

Why do you believe you’ve been successful? I have a wonderful team of people who surround me and a mighty God who loves and cares for me and this business. I love the community I live in and have made many friends and relationships that have helped me grow and succeed in this business.

What do you consider your greatest challenge? My attitude. Learning how to let go of the things that are not important and not overreacting when things don’t go well.

Hobbies/interests? I love to read, write, travel, and I really like to kayak! I want to be able to get out on the water…no phone…just enjoying the beauty of the day. I used to love to run but not anymore….my knees hurt too much.

Family? I have a beautiful 13 year old daughter who is in competitive gymnastics.

Pet? I have a beautiful 13 year old daughter; between her and the business, I don’t have time for anything else.

Favorite Restaurants?  Carpe Vino in Auburn and Starbucks. Wine and coffee….what else do I need?

CONTINUING EDUCATION ETHICS COURSE

2/24/2016 (Permalink)

DATE: Tuesday

March 8, 2016

TIME: 9AM - 12PM

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

The premises for this ethics course is that though we may have solid ethical foundations and are capable of making rational ethical decisions, our ethical lapses are likely to come when we are stressed, angry, upset, worried, or otherwise disengaged.

Each and every day we are faced with decisions that we make that could cause harm to others, or ourselves. Facing ethical decisions can be very difficult, especially with the types of decisions that may seem correct at first, but we later find out were not so great. As we explore what ethics is, I will also challenge you to be prepared to become involved in hourly group activities. The group activities will help reinforce what we have learned, and also give us the ability to better deal with ethical decisions making in our own lives.

FOR RESERVATIONS

 SERVPRO^® of

 Auburn/Rocklin

Or Email Us at:

marketing@SERVPROauburnrocklin.com

ALLSTATE CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY

2/12/2016 (Permalink)

Michelle Morandi, Marketing Representative ready to speak to clients.

February 10th; We had a wonderful time at Rick and Julie Domenick's Lincoln ALLSTATE Customer Appreciation Day. It was held in conjunction with the SPCA, who brought some adorable dogs that need a home. There was wonderful food provided by Safelite Auto Glass, Caliber Collision, along with the beverages we brought. We so appreciate being able to help out Rick and Julie's customers whenever they call us with a loss.

SERVPRO® Named to Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Franchise List for 7th Consecutive Year

1/28/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO^®Named to Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Franchise List

for 7^th Consecutive Year

Cleanup and restoration franchisor retains top ranking in restoration services category and climbs to #4 ranking overall in the 2016 Franchise 500 rankings

Rocklin, CA (Grassroots Newswire) January 19, 2016 - SERVPRO^®, a cleanup and restoration franchise company, maintains its hold on the top ranking in the Restoration Services industry for the 13^th consecutive year and moves up to the number four spot overall in the 2016 Franchise 500 rankings from Entrepreneur magazine.* This is the seventh consecutive year SERVPRO has been included in the magazine’s Top 10 list, standing out in a group of more than 951 franchises that qualified for inclusion in the list.

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

“It’s exciting to be part of a dynamic organization that continues to grow and strives to always provide superior support for its franchisees, and by extension its customers,” said Ruth Griffith, owner of SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin. “The recognition that the company earns year after year in this prestigious list is confirmation of a commitment to excellence that starts at the top and is evident in the service that each franchisee provides to each and every customer.”

According to Griffith, a number of differentiators set SERVPRO apart from the competition and fuel the attractiveness of the company to both existing franchisees and would-be entrepreneurs looking for a strong business opportunity. Key among these are:

·         SERVPRO’s strength as a brand with a national footprint, wide-spread market penetration, laser-focused brand messaging, and the ability to create national partnerships with organizations such as the PGA TOUR and the American Red Cross.

·         SERVPRO’s commitment to being a learning organization, which keeps training and support at the forefront of the company’s culture and philosophy of success and helps franchisees plan, track, and deliver best-in-class services to consumers.

·         SERVPRO’s focus on continued development and support for proprietary software and systems to allow the company’s operational capacity to keep pace with an aggressive growth strategy.

Sue Steen, SERVPRO Industries, Inc., chief executive officer, adds, “One of the potential pitfalls of growing too quickly is outpacing your capacity to train and support the franchisees. SERVPRO^® is a conservative company, and early on we took the time to build a strong system and put the building blocks in place to support growth without sacrificing support to our franchisees.”

“Today,” Steen continues, “as a mature franchise organization with more than 1,700 locations under a single brand, recognition like this makes it clear we are reaping the rewards of having laid a solid foundation and a framework to handle quick growth. As our brand continues to grow, we will continue our winning strategy of supporting and improving upon our infrastructure and investing resources in training and support.” 

SERVPRO^® specializes in fire and water cleanup and restoration services, helping both commercial and residential customers recover from property damage emergencies “Like it never even happened.” For more information about SERVPRO^® of Auburn/Rocklin, contact Ruth Griffith at (916) 632-2250 or m.morandi@SERVPROauburnrocklin.com. For more information about SERVPRO^®, please visit www.SERVPRO.com.

*http://www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500

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 more than 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.

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE RECOGNITION

1/21/2016 (Permalink)

Michelle and Ron attending Chamber event

Rocklin Area Chamber of Commerce conducted their 2015/2016 Business Excellence Awards Banquet last night, January 20th at the Rocklin Events Center. SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin was nominated as a Certified Smile Maker, for providing excellent customer service and care to the community. Michelle Morandi and Ron Denton, our Marketing Representatives, attended the event. "It was wonderful to see so many members of the community out to support the Rocklin community.", Michelle said.

FREE CE CLASS FOR AGENTS AND ADJUSTERS

1/4/2016 (Permalink)

FREE

Restorative Drying for Water Damage

C.E. CREDIT COURSE

COURSE CREDIT:    2 Hours

COURSE NUMBER:  217584 Agents

  Texas only 80902 Adjusters

DATE:   February 9, 2016

TIME:    9 to 11 am

LOCATION: SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin

                   2320 Sierra Meadows Drive

                    Rocklin, CA. 95677

FOR RESERVATIONS:      

SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin             

   916-632-2250 or 530-885-2255

                                                marketing@SERVPROauburnrocklin.com

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN:  This course is designed to teach and explain the special procedures used by professionals in drying buildings and contents. You will learn what takes place during each of the 4 phases of service, as well as the 5 fundamental principles of water damage restoration, according to the Clean Trust S500 Water Damage Restoration Standard. We will cover key questions a restorer asks when inspecting a wet building and when checking on the drying process.

LEADERSHIP ROCKLIN

12/2/2015 (Permalink)

Ruth Anne Griffith introducing Stephanie Ulmer, tour guide at WPWMA.

LEADERSHIP ROCKLIN
Our owner and president, Ruth Anne Griffith is participating in Leadership Rocklin class of 2015-2016. 
The mission of Leadership Rocklin is to educate, develop and motivate emerging leaders to be involved and committed to the Rocklin Area. The Leadership Rocklin class encourages active community involvement in leadership positions.

It also gives participants the opportunity to meet local government, business and civic leaders. It is an excellent opportunity to get connected with leaders in the community and to develop leadership skills.

During the 9-month program, members will work together to solve a community problem and/or make positive changes in an area of their community. This group community project is an exercise in collaboration and leadership while members are working closely together toward a common goal.

As homework, four different civic meetings must be attended and a written summary turned in with what was learned from attending these meetings.

On November 19th, Ruth attended the Regional Issues/Economic Development at the Board Chambers in Auburn, CA. Afterward; they toured the West Placer Waste Management Authority, where Ruth introduced the tour leader, Stephanie Ulmer. They toured the recycling sorting area, as well as the rest of the facility. From there, they toured Thunder Valley and met with Dawn Clayton who is the GM, and Gabor Eller, VP of Food and Beverage. After being treated to a wonderful lunch and tour, the leadership group toured Oracle. It was an informative and impactful experience. 

Home Fire Danger Peaks During Holiday Season

11/23/2015 (Permalink)

Home Fire Danger Peaks During Holiday Season 

Local SERVPRO restoration specialist cites statistics on escalated cooking and candle fire risk that can turn festivities into a fire drill

Rocklin, CA (Grassroots Newswire) November 16, 2015 -- As the holiday season approaches and families gear up for decorating their homes and hosting large gatherings of friends and family, Ruth Griffith of SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin reminds homeowners to take note of some sobering statistics about home fire safety from the National Fire Prevention Association: 

“These statistics are a serious reminder of how the excitement of holiday entertaining can quickly turn into a life-altering fire or even a tragic injury or death,” says Griffith. “While glowing candles and elaborate meals set the stage for a great holiday get-together, homeowners need to exercise extra care in controlling the dangerous potential for fires.” 

According to the NFPA³, unattended cooking is by far the leading cause of home cooking fires, with frying posing the greatest fire risk and electric ranges posing a higher risk than gas ranges. Range top cooking in general started the majority of home cooking fires and caused 86 percent of related civilian deaths for the reporting period.

While incidents of candle fires peaked in 2001 and have been falling since, candles are still one of the top 10 causes of U.S. home fires, according to the NFPA. As with cooking fires, unattended or abandoned candles account for a large portion of candle fires–almost 20 percent–but the most frequent cause of candle fires is placing the candle too close to something that can burn, like curtains, decorations or furniture. 

“It’s easy to see why cooking and candle fires both peak during the holiday season,” says Griffith, “and it’s also easy to see why homeowners need to take extra care when decorating their homes or entertaining. A moment’s inattention at the stove or a guest repositioning a candle on a tabletop may be all it takes to turn the festivities into a fight to save property and lives. While our business is fire and water damage restoration and we stand ready to help at a moment’s notice if disaster does strike, our sincere hope is that our friends and neighbors will enjoy a fire-free and festive holiday season.” 

For more fire prevention tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit www.SERVPRO.com. For more information on SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, please contact Ruth Griffith at (916) 632-2250 or m.morandi@SERVPROauburnrocklin.com. 

¹ http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/causes/cooking 

² http://www.nfpa.org/research/reports-and-statistics/fire-causes/candles 

³ http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/holidays/put-a-freeze-on-winter-fires 

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.

Rocklin Chamber of Commerce Mixer

10/22/2015 (Permalink)

Ruth Griffith, Dan Allen, and our Red Cross Representatives

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin hosted the Chamber of Commerce Mixer October 21st.  This well-attended event was not just to mingle with others in the business community, although we enjoyed the company of many local business owners. It was also for worthy cause.

SERVPRO invited our local representatives from the American Red Cross to discuss the Ready Rating Program and to raise money for our local chapter. We offered to match up to $500 in donations that evening.

Since it was so late in the month, we decided to have a Halloween themed event. Decorations reflecting the season were abundant as well as costumes by a few brave souls. The food was plentiful as well as the libations.

All -in-all, it was a fun evening.

SERVPRO® Honors Local Business for Outstanding Revenue Performance

8/10/2015 (Permalink)

Ruth Anne Griffith and Daniel Allen receiving award

Rocklin, CA (Grassroots Newswire) July 23, 2015 - SERVPRO^®, an industry leader in disaster cleanup, restoration and remediation services, recognized Ruth Anne Griffith and Daniel V. Allen of SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin with the MILLIONAIRE'S Gold award for outstanding revenue performance. The Awards event took place at the company’s 46^th Annual Convention, held July 6 to July 10 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. The event attracted a record-setting group of more than 2,700 Franchise owners and key employees.

“Winning this award requires a partnership between the dedicated team at SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin and our franchisor SERVPRO,” said Ruth Anne Griffith, SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin owner. “We contribute by working hard to earn the trust and respect of home and business owners in our community. SERVPRO backs us up by providing us with the tools, training and knowledge to help us maintain our leadership position in our industry. Together, we are ready at a moment’s notice to step in with the highest level of professional assistance when disaster strikes.”

SERVPRO is an industry leader in disaster cleanup, restoration and remediation services.  Their convention program this year featured 54 workshop sessions covering 29 different topics along with a motivational Keynote address by Jon Gordon. The focus of the program was to bring SERVPRO owners and key staff up-to-date on the most advanced disaster mitigation solutions available and to provide them with insights on building and maintaining successful businesses.

“On behalf of SERVPRO Industries, Inc., I congratulate all of our award winners on a successful year,” said SERVPRO Industries, Inc., Chief Executive Officer Sue Steen. “SERVPRO^’sreputation as an industry leader in disaster cleanup is earned and enhanced each day by individuals like these. We are proud of both their contributions to their communities and their success as business people. Through events like our annual Convention, we will continue to provide our dedicated business owners and team members with the latest industry and peer group knowledge, innovative tools and corporate updates to help them build their businesses and provide world-class service to their customers.”

For more information about SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin, please contact franchise owner Ruth Anne Griffith at (916) 632-2250 or sp9089@SERVPROauburnrocklin.com or visit www.SERVPRO.com.

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.

ETHICS COURSE - CENTRAL COAST CLAIMS ASSOC

7/28/2015 (Permalink)

Ruth Griffith and Shelly Lefore

Thursday, June 18th Ruth Griffith taught a CE Ethics  Course for the Central Coast Claims Association in San Jose, CA. Ruth has become a sought-after speaker in Northern California. Her expertise in the mitigation industry is well-known, but it is her passion for integrity and ethics in business practices that has catapulted her to a new level of prominance in this field. Several agents and adjusters in the insurance industry have stated that this is by far one of the best courses they have taken.

AMERICAN CENTURY CELEBRITY GOLF TOURNAMENT

7/22/2015 (Permalink)

Willie Robertson of "Duck Dynasty" teeing off.

July 18, 2015 was a spectacular day at the Edgewood Golf Course, Sourth Lake Tahoe, CA! We enjoyed a day of mingeling with celebrities and hosting the winners of our "Trivia Contest".

Casey Campbell of Whitney Oaks Insurance and his friend Aaron Reyes; Tamara Bells-Shaw of Allstate Insurance, Witzke Family Insurance Agency, Grass Valley and her husband Dan; and Victor Estevez of Nationwide Insurance and his children.

SERVPRO® is a national sponsor of the PGA and sponsored the 8th Tee for this event.

Hardwood Floor Installation

3/11/2015 (Permalink)

We installed this beautiful hardwood flooring for a customer who wished to upgrade her home.

Many people do not realize that SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin has a construction department that can help with reconstruction or remodeling needs, whether after a disaster or not! We work on kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and much more. We are fully licensed and insured, and our employees undergo background checks annually. You can expect the same quality work as we always perform on our water and fire losses.

Check out our photo gallery as well as our before and after photos!

Contracting Services

2/9/2015 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO® of Auburn/Rocklin is a fully licensed and bonded contractor? Our background-checked, professional reconstruction employees can perform many building high-quality services such as installing tile and wood flooring, kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, rebuilding after a disaster, and more. Contact us today for more information. 916-632-2250